Conveying specialist Volkmann offers a metal 3D printer powder-recovery system

Conveying equipment manufacturer Volkmann USA’s PowTReX system automatically transfers metal 3D printing powders from a container or supply hopper to one or more printers, then unloads, screens, and recirculates unused material. The explosion-proof powder-transfer system is suitable for hazardous and nonhazardous materials having bulk densities up to 400 lbs./ft.³.

Developed to offer a safe, fast, and efficient method of powdered metal transfer and recovery, the system features the company’s patented vacuum technology, which generates a gentle, reliable conveying action capable of achieving throughputs as high as 1,100 lbs./hr. while safeguarding particle integrity. The fully enclosed system eliminates the potential for powder spillage and contamination and protects workers from exposure to and contact with toxic materials, the manufacturer says.

PowTReX handles a wide range of materials, including tungsten, cobalt, iron, stainless steel, alumina, nickel chrome, and copper.