Next-generation PowTReX system aims to boost productivity, safety, and powder reuse in metal additive manufacturing.
Bristol, Pennsylvania, 30 January 2026 – Volkmann USA has unveiled the next generation of its PowTReX automated metal powder conveying system, designed to support metal additive manufacturing companies that are scaling up production. Based in Bristol, Pennsylvania, the company has upgraded the system to meet the growing demand for high-volume, high-quality metal 3D printing.
First launched in 2018, the PowTReX system has already been installed in more than 100 additive manufacturing facilities worldwide. The latest version further improves how metal powders are transferred, cleaned, and reused across multiple AM machines, helping manufacturers maintain consistent part quality while reducing manual work.
In simple terms, the PowTReX system automatically moves metal powder from storage containers to metal 3D printers and back again after use. The system uses vacuum conveying to draw powder into a buffer, then passes it through an ultrasonic screening unit. This step removes oversized particles and agglomerates, allowing only usable powder to return to the machine for reuse. This process helps extend powder life and reduces material waste.
Safety and cleanliness are key features of the updated PowTReX. The fully enclosed, explosion-proof design prevents contamination of sensitive metal powders and protects workers from direct exposure. By eliminating manual powder handling, the system also reduces health risks and improves overall shop-floor efficiency.
Another advantage of the portable PowTReX is its broad compatibility. It works with metal additive manufacturing machines from all major manufacturers and can handle a wide range of materials, including titanium, stainless steel, tungsten, cobalt, copper, nickel chrome, iron, alumina, carbide dust, corundum, and precious metal powders such as silver. For operations that require controlled environments, an optional inert gas version is also available.
As metal additive manufacturing continues to move toward industrial-scale production, automated powder handling solutions like PowTReX are becoming essential. With its focus on productivity, powder reuse, and worker safety, the next-generation PowTReX positions itself as a practical solution for manufacturers looking to scale metal 3D printing operations efficiently.
