Powder handling equipment manufacturer, Volkmann, has introduced its next-generation of PowTReX metal powder conveying system.

First introduced in 2018, the latest iteration of PowTReX is designed to support metal additive manufacturers produce large volumes of high-quality parts using multiple 3D printers at scale.

The PowTReX system automatically transfers 3D printing powders from a container or supply hopper, extracts and sieves used powder after a completed build to remove oversized particles, and returns the sieved powder for reuse. Its proprietary material handling technology that been proven in more than 100 additive manufacturing installations worldwide.

The latest PowTReX works by drawing metal powder from storage via vacuum conveying into a powder buffer. It then feeds the powder to an ultrasonic screener, and collects any agglomerates, and allows the on-spec material to be transferred to the printers. The enclosed, explosion-proof system has been designed to prevent contamination and protect workers from contact with the powder, eliminating the need for manual handling.

The portable PowTReX is said to be compatible with machines from all printer manufacturers and is suitable for metallic powders including tungsten, cobalt, silver powder, iron, stainless steel, alumina, nickel chrome, copper, titanium, carbide dust, corundum, and others. Volkmann also offers an optional inert gas model.