SSAB to install a gas atomization plant for the production of metal powder for additive manufacturing

The new plant will enable industrial-scale, high-quality metal powder output to meet growing market demand. Advanced melting and atomization technology helps to produce clean, spherical powders suitable for reliable 3D printing.

SSAB, an advanced high-strength steel producer, has awarded SMS a contract for a new gas atomization plant at its Oxelösund site in Sweden. This strategic investment allows SSAB to meet the rising global demand for high-strength powders and to scale up the production of SSAB’s high-performance metal powder developed for 3D-printing, such as SSAB AM Engineering’s steel powder, SMS says.
The atomization plant was designed by SMS to minimize particle collisions within the atomization process through targeted gas recirculation. This reduces the formation of undesirable particle morphologies. Combined with the advanced induction furnace, inert gas atomization, and sophisticated powder handling, the system enables the production of high-quality powders with precise chemical compositions.
“With this powder atomization plant, we will be able to provide the market with advanced high-strength steel powders at industrial scale, specifically tailored for the demanding requirements of additive manufacturing,” says Jesper Vang, Head of Powder Technology at SSAB.
By mastering the complete process chain—from melting and atomization to grading—SSAB can now serve high-end industries such as defense, industrial, and mobility with specialized materials. According to SMS, the new plant does not only secure a competitive edge for SSAB in a rapidly growing market but also sets new standards for the industrial-scale production of high-performance metal powders.
Source: SMS group