6K Additive Acquires Atomiser to Expand Nickel Powder Production

6K Additive has acquired a metal powder atomiser from the now-defunct Uniformity Labs, a move that significantly bolsters its production capabilities for nickel-based alloy powders. This acquisition provides a dedicated source of feedstock, complementing 6K Additive's existing capacity for reactive materials like titanium, tantalum, niobium, and C103 alloys, which are processed using a hydrogen thermal embrittlement method.

While 6K Additive's UniMelt process can handle recycled and off-sized feedstock, nickel's properties at high temperatures previously presented challenges for scaling its supply. The newly acquired atomiser can produce approximately 50% prime cut yield within the desired particle size distribution. Combined with 6K Additive's recycling capabilities, this allows for nearly 100% yield.

The acquisition also included a sieving machine and a classifier, which have been integrated into 6K Additive's operations. This acquired equipment is slated to play a crucial role in the company's expansion, with plans to transition the atomiser to its Burgettstown, Pennsylvania facility. This site will become a central hub, consolidating operations from six existing US facilities into two, alongside a specialized aerospace manufacturing partner facility.

By the end of 2026, 6K Additive aims to increase its annual production capacity from 200 metric tons to 800 metric tons. Further expansion is planned with a refractory production facility expected to be completed by 2028, adding another 200 metric tons of capacity. This increased output is anticipated to drive more application qualifications and incremental revenue growth, with the company projecting over $130 million in annual revenue run rate by 2028.