Metal Powder Works Advances Nuclear Ambitions with Westinghouse Deal
Metal Powder Works has secured a strategic contract with Westinghouse Electric Company to supply metal powders for additive manufacturing in nuclear applications, marking a key step in its growth trajectory.
- Contract signed with Westinghouse for nuclear additive manufacturing powders
- Utilization of patented DirectPowder™ process for high-quality metal powders
- Agreement follows successful initial testing of powders
- Nuclear additive manufacturing market projected to grow over 20% CAGR through 2030
- Contract is strategically material despite limited immediate financial impact
A Strategic Milestone in Nuclear Manufacturing
Metal Powder Works Limited (ASX: MPW), a specialist in producing high-grade metal powders for additive manufacturing, has announced a significant contract with Westinghouse Electric Company, a global leader in nuclear energy. This agreement enables Westinghouse to assess MPW’s powders for use in additively manufactured components within the nuclear sector, following promising initial testing phases.
Co-Founder and Managing Director John Barnes highlighted the importance of this contract, noting the nuclear industry's stringent material quality requirements. He emphasized that MPW’s innovative DirectPowder™ process, which converts premium bar stock into metal powders without thermal degradation, is well suited to meet these demands. This process represents a breakthrough in powder manufacturing, the first major innovation in over half a century.
Tapping into a Growing Market
The nuclear sector is undergoing a transformation driven by the global push for carbon-free energy and the deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs). According to market research by Coherent Market Insights, the nuclear additive manufacturing market alone is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate exceeding 20% through 2030, reaching a valuation well beyond USD 36 billion in 2025.
MPW’s contract with Westinghouse positions the company to capitalize on this expanding opportunity. While the current agreement is not financially material, it validates MPW’s technology and opens doors to further commercial engagements within nuclear energy and other advanced sectors such as aerospace and defense.
Building Momentum Across Industries
This deal builds on MPW’s ongoing collaborations with industrial and government partners, reflecting a broader strategic rollout of its metal powders. The company currently produces over 16 powder types, including high-strength aluminum, copper alloys, and specialty materials like titanium and Zircaloy, which are critical for demanding applications.
Recognition of MPW’s innovation came in 2024 when it was named Material Company of the Year by the 3D Printing Industry Awards, underscoring its leadership in additive manufacturing materials.
Looking ahead, the company aims to convert these strategic partnerships into commercial contracts, leveraging its patented DirectPowder™ technology to meet the evolving needs of high-value manufacturing sectors.
Bottom Line?
MPW’s Westinghouse contract signals a promising foothold in nuclear additive manufacturing, with broader commercial potential on the horizon.
Questions in the middle?
- What are the next steps and timelines for Westinghouse’s evaluation of MPW powders?
- How soon might MPW convert this strategic relationship into financially material contracts?
- What other sectors could MPW’s DirectPowder™ technology disrupt beyond nuclear and aerospace?
