AM-Powder Provider 6K Inc. Receives MA Grant to Fund New UniMelt System

The Massachusetts Manufacturing Innovation Initiative (M2I2) recently awarded a $1.5 million grant to 6K Inc., which is expected to boost the manufacturer’s production of additive manufacturing (AM) materials as well as batteries for electric vehicles, grid storage, and consumer electronics. 6K’s UniMelt technology recycles scrap materials or used metal powder or parts, and transforms them into metal-AM powder. 6K plans to build a 33,000-sq.-ft. battery center of excellence pre-production facility in North Andover, MA, and the grant will fund the purchase of one new UniMelt system.

“6K is honored to be the recipient of the M2I2 grant,” says Mary Cronin, the company’s vice president of government affairs. “Our UniMelt production platform transforms the way performance materials are produced and we can use this system for training a local workforce for the future of manufacturing.” 

The M2I2 program, co-managed by the Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CAM) at the MassTech Collaborative and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development, aims to spur innovation and job growth within Massachusetts through cross-collaboration among companies, universities, national labs, government, incubators, accelerators, and other academic and training institutions. To date, the program has invested more than $80 million in direct grants to companies, universities and research labs across the state.

“The use of emerging technologies such as AM helps create an ecosystem where both innovation and manufacturing can thrive,” said Ben Linville-Engler, chief investment strategist at the MassTech Collaborative. “Through its innovative processes and technologies, 6K will help unlock the potential of the high-value metals and materials left unused in discarded stockpiles. 6K’s products will have a positive impact on industries ranging from 3D metal printing, semiconductors, battery storage and electrification, lasers, and beyond, areas which play to the Commonwealth’s strengths.”

See also: 6K Additive

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