The Art of Reclamation and how APS perfected it ✨
When one of the most advanced 3D printing companies in the industry needed a reliable, repeatable way to blend high-value metal powders, they turned to our affiliate company, Advanced Powder Solutions (APS). And not just once.
This innovative manufacturer—known for both building binder jet 3D printers and offering contract printing services—has come back to APS multiple times for one simple reason:
The ability to deliver ultra-uniform powder blends, even when combining raw and reclaimed materials.
The Challenge: Reclaiming Powder Without Compromising Performance
In binder jet 3D printing, a significant portion of metal powder doesn’t fuse into the final part. This excess powder is still usable—but only if it can be properly reconditioned.
Traditionally, many manufacturers discard leftover material every few cycles, leading to unnecessary waste and higher costs in restocking. But this customer believed in a better way forward:
Reclaim the leftover material and blend it seamlessly with the original, raw metal—without sacrificing quality, strength, or print consistency.
After struggling with in-house trials and experiencing powder degradation, they met APS and GEMCO at a major powder show. Impressed by our approach to material handling, they asked us to help tackle their blending challenge.
The APS Difference: Precision Blending for Demanding Applications
What sets APS apart is the ability to deliver repeatable, high-performance blends, even with dense and flow-resistant materials like 316 and 304 stainless steel.
While paddle or ribbon mixers often fall short for heavier material, GEMCO’s tumble blending technology ensures complete homogenization—perfect for aerospace and defense parts where consistency and mechanical integrity are non-negotiable.
The results?
- Up to 75% reclaimed powder used per batch—seamlessly blended with raw material
- Dramatically reduced waste and lower material costs
- No detectable drop in print quality, strength, or surface finish
A Proven Solution They Keep Coming Back To
This wasn’t a one-off success. After testing other systems—including internal mixing setups—the company has returned to APS for multiple projects, with more planned as they scale up production.
From test components to contract part runs, they continue to rely on APS’s expertise and GEMCO’s technology to keep their powder process clean, consistent, and cost-efficient.
Looking Ahead
As additive manufacturing advances across aerospace and defense, material efficiency will be mission-critical. APS is proud to be part of that future—helping innovators recover more powder, reduce waste, and maintain top-tier quality from blend to build.
Want to learn how APS can improve your powder process?
Let’s talk.
732.752.7900
apsadmin@advancedpowdersolutions.com
Available Monday – Friday, 8:00AM – 4:30 PM
