Norsk Titanium AS has announced a partnership with SUNY Polytechnic Institute for 20 Norsk Titanium MERKE IV Rapid Plasma Deposition machines to launch futuristic aerospace factory of the future. The order is in accordance with an approved state budget allocation to facilitate Norsk Titaniums US subsidiary building and operating the worlds first industrial-scale metal additive manufacturing plant in Plattsburgh, New York. The first 20 MERKE IV RPD machines establish a baseline production level of 400 metric tons per year of aerospace-grade, structural titanium components. The facility is meant to be operational by the end of 2017
The New York program envisions a capacity ramp-up to a total of 40 MERKE IV RPD machines capable of up to 800 metric tons per year, which will be consumed to meet increasing demand from the aviation industry
New York State investment advances Norsk Titaniums production of the first 20 machines
New York has released an additional $4.0 million in planning funds for the Norsk Titanium US industrial-scale Plattsburgh factory.
We are proud to be a part of the unwavering vision and leadership of Governor Cuomo and are moving forward in support of his efforts to revitalize upstate New York with jobs, technology and community pride, said Norsk Titanium Chairman of the Board John Andersen, Jr. Our researchers have spent ten years pioneering the Rapid Plasma Deposition process that is now ready to cut millions of dollars in cost from the worlds premier commercial and military aircraft, and with the foresight displayed in other sectors, the State of New York is the ideal place to launch this manufacturing revolution.
Under the terms of the deal, Norsk Titanium US will provide additional investment into the Plattsburgh operation that is expected to bring the total program commitment to the $1 billion dollar level over the initial 10-year period of operations. A $125 million New York investment in the Norsk Titanium US Plattsburgh factory was approved in the 2016-2017 State budget and first highlighted by Governor Cuomo on April 1, 2016 during the North County Highlights budget address in Albany.