APWorks and Equispheres Collaborate on Scalmalloy Production for Additive Manufacturing in North America!

APWorks and Equispheres have joined forces to address the growing demand for high-performance aluminum alloys in additive manufacturing (AM) by establishing a secure North American supply chain for Scalmalloy. This high-strength alloy, optimized specifically for metal additive manufacturing (AM), is expected to revolutionize industries like aerospace, where lightweight, durable components are essential.

Scalmalloy, a proprietary aluminum alloy, is engineered to achieve mechanical properties comparable to the 7000 series aluminum but tailored for optimal performance in laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), a prevalent 3D printing technique. The alloy’s performance is further bolstered by its corrosion resistance, which mirrors that of 5000 series aluminum alloys, making it a perfect candidate for demanding applications in environments requiring both durability and strength.

In addition to its mechanical strength, Scalmalloy allows for welding, enabling manufacturers to assemble larger, more complex parts for various industries. This capability gives manufacturers the flexibility to create custom structures without compromising on material properties, making it ideal for aerospace, automotive, and other high-performance sectors.

Currently, Scalmalloy has been licensed to producers in Europe and Asia. However, Equispheres will be the first company to establish a North American supply chain for the alloy, with a strong focus on locally sourced raw materials. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the development of domestic sources for critical materials in the additive manufacturing ecosystem, reducing reliance on international supply chains and improving supply chain resilience.

As Equispheres takes on the responsibility of scaling Scalmalloy production, the partnership with APWorks, known for its expertise in advanced 3D printing technologies, will ensure that the alloy meets the high standards required for serial production and large-scale industrial applications.

Kevin Nicholds, CEO of Equispheres, expressed excitement about the partnership, emphasizing that Scalmalloy will be a valuable addition to the company’s range of high-performance materials for serial additive manufacturing. “Scalmalloy is an ideal choice for aluminum parts and will support the creation of high-strength, lightweight components for industries such as aerospace. The ability to source these critical materials domestically is key to securing the aerospace supply chain,” he remarked.

As the demand for additive manufacturing continues to surge, especially in industries that require advanced material properties and precision engineering, the collaboration between APWorks and Equispheres will help ensure the steady availability of Scalmalloy in the North American market. This development not only supports the aerospace sector but also positions North America as a key player in the growing global additive manufacturing industry.

This collaboration represents a pivotal moment for the additive manufacturing community, as it bridges the gap between material innovation and manufacturing infrastructure, paving the way for the future of high-performance, sustainable production technologies.