Equispheres partners with Aconity3D and Granutools to develop high performance metal powder

OTTAWA — On Mar. 3, Equispheres announced that they had awarded contracts to both Aconity3D and Granutools as part of the Equispheres’ lab expansion project. Mid last year, Equispheres closed a $30 Million (CDN) fundraising round to help support the lab expansion, increase powder production, and continue research and product development of high-performance metal powders for additive manufacturing.

Equispheres selected an Aconity3D printer equipped with a 1000W laser to further research processes and techniques for faster-printed part production. Additionally, the company acquired the Granutools’ GranuCharge system, which measures the electrostatic charge created within flowing powder.

Evan Butler-Jones, Director of Applications Engineering at Equispheres, explains the rationale behind each investment, “Normally the GranuCharge system is used to conduct basic research at academic institutions. However, we use the tool as part of our QA process. Quality parts require quality powder and that requires precise instrumentation and measurement systems.” He adds, “The Aconity3D printer was chosen because of its increased precision, high configurability, and powerful 1000W laser. This printer enables us to conduct high-speed production parameter optimization research and testing.”

“We pride ourselves on our innovative metal powder solutions,” says Kevin Nicholds, CEO of Equispheres, “and continued innovation relies on research, testing and data. We are providing our team of skilled engineers, materials scientists and metallurgists with the best tools and systems to ensure Equispheres and our customers are set for success.”