Metal Powder Works Sells Expeditionary DirectPowder Unit To the US Navy

Source: Metal Powder Works

Metal Powder Works, a leader in advanced metal powder production technology, has entered  into a contract valued at approximately $1M AUD for a unique, mobile and containerized version of its patented DirectPowder system with the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School (NPS). This capability will provide the U.S. Navy and its allies with the ability to produce high-quality metal powders in remote, austere or contested environments — directly supporting fleet activities, readiness and operational flexibility.

This first-of-its-kind capability will be used to feed additive systems, such as cold spray, where MPW premium powders have been shown to double the deposition efficiency and prove out new strategies in forward-deployed manufacturing. The U.S. Navy also uses laser powder bed fusion printers, where MPW’s powders have been successfully demonstrated across a range of brands. MPW's copper alloy powders have been shown to use less energy and significantly reduce spatter. 

Under the terms of the agreement, Metal Powder Works will deliver an expeditionary version of its patented DirectPowder process. This advanced, portable system is designed to enable rapid, on-site production of high-quality metal powders in challenging and remote environments, supporting the Navy’s operational and maintenance needs. The contract scope includes design, assembly and delivery of the expeditionary DirectPowder system, with the project expected to be completed within 12 weeks. Delivery is scheduled before the end of the 2025 calendar year.

Metal Powder Works will receive payments on the achievement of key milestones. The contract contains standard clauses for an agreement of this nature and is binding on both parties. This MPW DirectPowder system enables the conversion of standard metal bar stock into uniform, precise metal powders. This unique solution is containerized and designed for rapid deployment and easy integration into expeditionary manufacturing, allowing sailors and marines to manufacture replacement parts or conduct repairs via additive manufacturing and cold spray technologies without reliance on reach back to land based supply chains.