Volkmann GmbH, a Germany-based manufacturer of metal powder conveying equipment, has introduced the vPort, a semi-automated, contained powder handling system developed in partnership with HP Additive Manufacturing Solutions. Announced on April 7, 2026, the system is designed specifically for the HP Metal Jet S100 series of binder jet 3D printers and is now available in the United States, Canada, and Europe.
The vPort integrates parts cleaning, powder recovery, and powder refilling into a single unit, enabling a controlled workflow for post-processing metal binder jet components. It’s fully enclosed and operated via a glove box interface, allowing users to handle printed parts and metal powders while maintaining containment and reducing operator exposure.
Contained powder handling for Metal Jet workflows
Developed as part of a global collaboration between Volkmann and HP, the vPort marks the first equipment release stemming from the partnership. The system is intended to streamline powder handling operations by consolidating multiple steps into a single station.
To operate it, the user docks the HP build unit into the vPort and accesses the printed part through the glove box. Excess powder is removed using a vacuum nozzle, followed by fine cleaning with pressurized air. The build unit is then emptied, cleaned, and refilled using powder from an integrated supply hopper. Recovered powder is sieved and prepared for reuse within the same workflow.
According to Volkmann, this approach enables a more efficient handling process while maintaining full containment to prevent contamination and ensure safe operation when working with metal powders.
Entry-level alternative to fully automated systems
Volkmann positions the vPort as an entry-level solution for metal binder jet users, offering a lower-cost alternative to fully automated powder handling systems available for the Metal Jet platform. By combining semi-automated operation with integrated containment, the system targets users seeking to balance operational efficiency with reduced capital investment.
The vPort is available directly through Volkmann, with technical support, service, and replacement parts provided by the company.
Powder handling constraints shape Metal Jet workflows
Volkmann’s latest system builds on its existing collaboration with HP to develop contained powder handling solutions for the Metal Jet platform. Earlier work between the two companies focused on integrating safe and controlled powder management into binder jet workflows. The introduction of the vPort extends this approach to a semi-automated configuration, positioning it alongside fully automated alternatives.
Powder removal and handling remain key operational constraints in metal additive manufacturing, particularly in processes where large volumes of loose material must be recovered and reused. At Formnext 2025, companies such as Solukon demonstrated enclosed depowdering systems designed to improve safety and process consistency while reducing manual intervention, highlighting ongoing efforts to contain and streamline post-processing workflows.
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Featured image shows the vPort contained metal powder handling solution. Image via Volkmann GmbH.
