IperionX Boosted Titanium Production Throughput
The company achieved a sixfold increase in volume by shifting to a continuous manufacturing process.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Materials Science
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IperionX successfully scaled its titanium production, achieving a sixfold increase in throughput volume. This advancement represents a significant shift from traditional batch manufacturing to a continuous production model.
Why it matters
The transition to continuous manufacturing aims to lower titanium production costs and energy usage. This development offers a more efficient alternative to the energy-intensive Kroll process that has long dominated the industry.
The process uses continuous production to eliminate time-consuming cooling and recharging steps required by batch methods. It achieves a 75 percent reduction in energy intensity compared to previous production techniques.
The players
IperionX
This company focuses on producing high-performance titanium alloys using advanced, cost-effective manufacturing methods.
Dr. Z. Zak Fang
He is a researcher at the University of Utah who developed the continuous titanium production process.
University of Utah
This public research university served as the site where the innovative titanium production process was created.
ARPA-E
This U.S. Department of Energy program sponsors high-potential, high-impact energy technologies.
The details
Developed at the University of Utah by Dr. Z. Zak Fang, the new method uses continuous production to manufacture high-performance titanium alloys from scrap or minerals. By removing the need for discharging and recharging, the process aims to reduce both magnesium dependency and total operating costs.
The Big Picture
This development marks a departure from the traditional Kroll process, which has served as the industry standard for decades. By replacing batch-based manufacturing with continuous systems, this shift potentially revolutionizes how high-strength materials are produced at scale.
Increased throughput and reduced production costs could make corrosion-resistant, high-strength titanium more accessible for consumer products. This shift potentially accelerates the commercial availability of lightweight materials in sectors like aerospace and automotive manufacturing.
The takeaway
Continuous manufacturing represents a scalable path toward cheaper, more efficient production of critical industrial materials. This breakthrough illustrates how engineering improvements can drastically lower the energy intensity of heavy manufacturing.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Materials Science.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Miningdigital.
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