Recycled drums protect critical metal powders
Marc Martens
The challenge
A manufacturer of alloy powders for metal additive manufacturing needed reliable packaging for quantities of up to 10 kilograms. The dense, free-flowing powders required robust protection against shock loads and moisture vapor ingress, as powder caking or changes in flowability could affect processing performance.
Cleanliness was equally important. Even small amounts of foreign particles or impurities can weaken critical components produced for demanding applications. As some metal powders are classified as hazardous, the packaging also had to provide suitable UN-certified protection for storage and transport.
The solution
CurTec supplies Wide Neck Drums combining robust construction, clean handling and ultra-low moisture vapor transmission rates. Their wide opening and manageable format simplify filling, transport and dispensing, while the available design options support the premium positioning of the manufacturer’s high-quality powders.
To reduce the environmental impact of the supply chain, the manufacturer subsequently introduced Wide Neck Drums made with recycled plastic. This provided a more sustainable packaging option without changing the performance requirements of the application.
The benefits
The drums help preserve powder quality, flowability and packing density throughout storage and shipment. They reduce exposure to moisture-related caking, foreign particles and transport damage while supporting safe handling and compliant transport of hazardous materials.
Because packaging reuse is currently restricted by the risk of cross-contamination, recycled-content drums offer a practical way to lower the packaging carbon footprint while maintaining the cleanliness and protection required for critical metal powders.
Every critical material brings its own handling, protection and logistics challenges. Talk to CurTec about a packaging solution designed around your product, process and supply chain.
