ASM is enhancing its metallisation capability at the KMP to meet the growing demand for high-tech metals and alloys.
Establishing NdPr and NdFeB production capability at the KMP first has enabled ASM to position itself at the forefront of an alternative rare earth supply chain, capable of supplying a growing number of permanent magnet manufacturers
outside China.
ASM continues to progress ramp-up of the KMP with the objective of establishing the facility as a globally recognised source of critical metals and alloys. ASM is ultimately targeting the production of light and heavy rare earth metals and alloys, titanium alloys, zirconium metal, and hafnium metal.
Product development
Technology developments in the production of heavy rare earth metals, terbium (Tb) and dysprosium (Dy), have produced positive results. Equipment upgrades have been undertaken and larger scale trials took place in 2024. ASM is currently focussed on preparing the facility for commercial production of Tb and Dy metals in 2025.
Copper titanium (CuTi) metallisation using ASM’s proprietary LK Process, has successfully produced samples and will continue to enhance equipment to deliver commercial production levels.