Desktop Metal Qualifies Continuum’s Recycled Superalloy

Desktop Metal has qualified a 100% recycled nickel-based superalloy processed with technology from Continuum Powders, a producer of sustainable metal powders.

The nickel-based superalloy, Mar-M247, is used for applications requiring high strength at elevated temperatures of up to about 1000°C, according to Desktop Metal.

Continuum’s 100% re-atomized Mar-M247 powder is now listed as R&D Qualified in Desktop Metal’s binder jet 3D printing portfolio, which includes about 40 metals and ceramics.

“We see a bright future for high-quality, sustainable powder options for our additive manufacturing technologies,” says Ric Fulop, CEO of Desktop Metal. “Having a qualified 100% reclaimed metal powder from Continuum Powders is just a first step in what we hope is a long line of recycled, eco-conscious materials that offer a significant return on investment.”

As with all of Desktop Metal’s R&D qualified materials, Continuum’s recycled Mar-M247 received thorough evaluation and rigorous testing to determine that it met all of the material property requirements of the same alloy from conventional metal powder production, according to Desktop Metal. The new material is qualified for use on Desktop Metal’s X25Pro binder jet 3D printer platform, which uses Triple Advanced Compaction Technology (ACT).

“The fact that we’re seeing reclaimed metal powders validated by Desktop Metal, along with other leading AM OEMs, signals that these materials are now a proven resource for manufacturers,” says Continuum Powders’ CEO Rob Higby. “Use of recycled powders can shorten supply chains, reduce costs and support corporate goals for carbon footprint reduction.”

Continuum Powders is a portfolio company of Ara Partners, a private equity firm specializing in industrial decarbonization investments. Desktop Metal joins Velo3D, Renishaw, and other leaders in the additive manufacturing space who are qualifying 100% reclaimed materials with Continuum Powders.

Material Qualification Process

Because Desktop Metal binder jet technology can 3D print most powders, the company reports that it has a tiered material qualification system for metals to signify the varying levels of material property results produced by itsr technology:

• DM Qualified: Printing and sintering profiles developed by DM, with material and mechanical properties. 
• R&D Materials: Initial testing completed by DM demonstrating binder and process compatibility. Printing and sintering profiles are under final development.

Learn more at desktopmetal.com/materials.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.