6K Additive will receive spent nickel alloy powder from Siemens Energy's additive manufacturing facilities for use as feedstock after the two companies signed a global long-term supply agreement.
The used material will be put through 6K Additive proprietary UniMelt microwave plasma production system and later offered as recycled product.
To date, 6K Additive is said to have processed close to 20 tons of nickel superalloy powder originating from Siemens Energy, with the resulting material supplied into the broader additive manufacturing market. Their long-term agreement will see this workflow continue, with 6K Additive keen to ensure the supply of metal AM materials is more resilient and sustainable.
In 2022, sustainability and energy firm Foresight Management carried out an independent Life Cycle Assessment of 6K's nickel powder offering, reporting a 91% reduction in energy use and 92% reduction in carbon emissions.
“At Siemens Energy, sustainability and responsible resource use are integral to how we approach advanced manufacturing,” said Steve Sarcander, Head of Finance, Additive Manufacturing of Siemens Energy. “By supplying our revert material into 6K Additive’s production process, we are supporting circular material flows while helping to reduce waste and emissions associated with metal powder production. Partnerships like this play an important role in strengthening the overall additive manufacturing value chain.”
Frank Roberts, CEO of 6K Additive, added: “Siemens Energy is a strong example of an industrial partner committed to advancing circularity. Their consistent and high‑quality feedstock enables us to produce premium nickel alloy powders using our UniMelt process, delivering meaningful reductions in energy use and carbon emissions while supporting the growing demand for sustainable AM materials.”
