SSAB launches armour-grade steel powder for 3D printing

Armox 500 AM Powder brings armour-level protection to additive manufacturing, enabling new designs for vulnerable vehicle components and defence systems.

By Dino Skodo

June 15, 2026 11:32 AM

Sweden’s SSAB has launched what it describes as the world’s first steel powder developed specifically for protective applications.

Marketed as Armox 500 AM Powder, the material is designed for additive manufacturing and enables the production of 3D-printed components with protective properties comparable to those of the company’s conventional Armox armour steel, according to SSAB.

- Demand for protection steel is increasing globally, and SSAB’s unique offering gives us a strong position with customers in the defence industry. At the same time, demand for high-performance metal powders for 3D printing is growing, said Per Elfgren, head of SSAB Special Steels.

The protective performance of armour steel is based on its ability to absorb and disperse energy from projectiles, explosions and other threats.

According to SSAB, components produced using Armox 500 AM Powder can provide similar levels of protection while benefiting from the greater design flexibility offered by additive manufacturing.

The company sees particular potential in protecting vulnerable components on armoured vehicles, including cameras, antenna mounts, sights, radar systems, hydraulic couplings and cable assemblies.

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