Chile's Molymet, a leading global supplier of rhenium, is set to begin producing highly spherical rhenium and molybdenum powders this month, targeting advanced industries such as aerospace and medical sectors.
Molymet announced that it will start the production of spherical refractory powders, which are crucial in additive manufacturing processes like 3D printing. These powders are particularly valuable for industries that require high precision and specialized materials, including aerospace and medical applications.
The production will be facilitated by a plasma spheroidization system, which successfully completed its trial phase in July. This advanced system is capable of producing 1-1.2 tons of powder annually. Given that the global rhenium market is estimated at 45-70 tons per year, including secondary materials, Molymet's contribution is significant.
Molybdenum powder, which will also be produced, plays a vital role in alloying, electronics, coatings, welding, and the fabrication of specialty metals. Rhenium powder, on the other hand, is a key additive in tungsten alloys and nickel-based super-alloys. It is also critical in the production of semi-finished products like anode plates used in medical equipment.
Molymet, which controls 70% of the global rhenium supply, highlighted the increasing application of rhenium in new fields. Rhenium's biocompatibility and resistance to corrosion make it suitable for use in medical implants, pacemakers, joint prostheses, and X-ray machines. Despite these expanding applications, 70% of rhenium production remains dedicated to the aerospace industry, particularly for jet engines and gas turbines.
The rising demand from the aerospace and medical sectors, coupled with tight supply, has driven a sharp increase in rhenium prices since June.
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