Elmet Technologies to use 3D Systems printer for hypersonic parts

Elmet Technologies, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Elmet Group (Nasdaq: ELMT), is deploying a DMP Flex 350 Triple metal additive manufacturing machine from 3D Systems (NYSE: DDD) to produce aerospace parts for hypersonic vehicles, according to a press release from 3D Systems.

The machine uses laser powder bed fusion technology and will process C103, a niobium-based alloy containing hafnium and titanium designed for high-temperature aerospace applications. Elmet Technologies worked with 3D Systems' Application Innovation Group over eight years to develop processing parameters for the C103 material.

The DMP Flex 350 Triple supports a 350 x 350 x 350 mm build volume and uses three lasers. The system maintains an oxygen environment of under 25 parts per million, typically between 0 and 6 parts per million, which the companies say supports the use of refractory metals.

Elmet Technologies plans to use the system to produce large heat exchangers for hypersonic vehicles. The company expects to qualify the machine and material within a couple of months, followed by NASA 6030 certification a few months after that, with production targeted to begin in 2026.

"This machine, material and process should achieve qualification within a couple of months," said Scott Ohm, R&D Manager at Elmet Technologies. "We anticipate NASA 6030 certification a few months after that."

The deployment is intended to support a domestic supply chain for the U.S. defense industrial base, reducing reliance on extended supply chains for the production of advanced aerospace components.

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