LPW Tech metal powder.
LPW Technology and Airbus APWORKS GmbH have formed a partnership to supply the high-performance Scalmalloy aluminium-magnesium-scandium alloy to the additive manufacturing industry.
Scalmalloy is an AM-specific material, and possesses a unique microstructure which remains stable at high temperatures due to its high cooling rates and rapid solidification. Additionally, it is said to offer high fatigue properties, weldability, strength and ductility in comparison to other aluminium alloy powders. These properties make the material highly suitable to demanding applications, like those required in aerospace, transportation and defence.
LPW and APWORKS have come together as the metal powder manufacturer seeks to support the global requirements for high-strength aluminium with the Scalmalloy material. The Runcorn-based company is accredited to AS 9120A for aerospace, implementing robust quality management processes that assure the integrity of metal powders and supplying safety critical sectors, but recognising the repute of APWORKS and has sought to partner with the company.
APWORKS is confident the partnership will help to accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing in aerospace, as well as other vertical markets.
“Partnering strategically with an AM metal powder specialist such as LPW further strengthens the Scalmalloy supply chain, supporting APWORKS’ vision to expand the industrial application of AM technologies and solutions across the sectors,” said Sven Lauxmann, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, APWORKS. “With LPW Technology we have found a reliable and strongly AM focused partner to create an excellent synergy between their significant expertise in the production and global marketing of materials and APWORKS’ intensive experience in processing Scalmalloy in 3D printing.”
“Compared to all other aerospace aluminium alloys, Scalmalloy offers a unique level of corrosion resistance. Its high strength to weight ratio makes it perfect for light-weighting applications, crucial to optimising the build to use ratio in competent design,” added Ben Ferrar, LPW’s Chief Operating Officer. “Scalmalloy enables the lowest buy-to-fly ratio compared to conventionally designed and manufactured parts.”
Both companies will be exhibiting at the upcoming formnext powered by TCT. LPW will be located in Hall 3.1, D48, while APWORKS will be based in Hall 3.1, E69.
