6K Additive, a division of 6K Inc. and leader in the sustainable production of metals, has initiated a significant investment program, involving the US Department of Defense, that will expand its current capacity and add to its growing capabilities for metal processing. The more than $50 million program is being supported by a $23.4 million grant award through the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Industrial Base Policy, through its Manufacturing Capability Expansion and Investment Prioritization (MCEIP) directorate.
The agreement, entered into under Defense Production Act (DPA) Title III authorities, will help 6K Additive increase capabilities to upcycle high-grade metals, including titanium, nickel and refractory metals, used in alloys for aircraft structural components, turbine engine blades, rocket engines, radar systems, and many other critical defense applications. In addition to doubling capacity, the program will enable expansion in scrap sorting, segregating, and processing, as well as the production of powder and remelt ingot to increase domestic mill product capacity capability. The investment will support 6K Additive’s effort in facility renovation, talent acquisition, equipment installation, and engineering which are core to this overall program.
6K’s proprietary upscaling processes leverage abundant domestic sources of metal feedstock to include end-of-life components, machine shop swarf, and scrap from manufacturing processes such as casting and forging. With MCEIP’s help, 6K expects to expand its capabilities and achieve full-rate production at its Burgettstown, PA facility by the end of 2026.
Frank Roberts, President of 6K Additive commented, “Our country’s national security relies heavily on materials used across numerous applications and controlling the supply chain from within the borders of the United States is paramount. We are excited to announce this important expansion program which enhances our capabilities to support our defense and commercial customer base. The $23.4 million award from the DoD is a testament to the capabilities of 6K Additive for upcycling the most critical metals and alloys. No organization has the history, experience, infrastructure or potential 6K Additive has in upcycling materials like titanium, nickel superalloys and refractory metals. We’re honored to be selected for the award and recognize the DoD’s trust in our organization.”
