SSAB unveiled Armox® 500 AM Powder at the Eurosatory Defense and Security tradeshow held from June 14–19, 2026. The company said the powder has been developed to deliver the same protective characteristics as its Armox armor steel plates while enabling 3D printing.
According to SSAB, the powder was developed in response to growing demand for protective steel and advanced materials suitable for additive manufacturing. The technology allows manufacturers to produce complex geometries that can improve protection while reducing weight compared with conventional armor solutions.
The powder can be used to manufacture a range of components, including hinges, housings, and multilayered structures featuring lattice or honeycomb designs. These components are intended to protect vulnerable systems such as sensors, cameras, antenna mounts, and radar equipment.
SSAB said Armox® 500 AM Powder has undergone testing for flowability, particle shape, and size distribution. Initial printed components have also been tested for ballistic and blast resistance.
Production is currently based at SSAB’s powder facility in Oxelösund, Sweden. The company plans to expand the site to support commercial-scale production, with a gradual ramp-up expected from the first quarter of 2028 and a target annual capacity of approximately 350 tonnes.
Why it matters for green steel: The launch of Armox® 500 AM Powder highlights the growing role of additive manufacturing in advanced steel applications. The technology enables the production of lightweight and complex protective components while potentially reducing material use and manufacturing waste. The development also reflects continued innovation in high-performance steel products and advanced manufacturing processes.