‘Best practice’ in sintering zone boosts quality of metal-injection-molded parts

‘Best practice’ in sintering zone boosts quality of metal-injection-molded parts

“Homogeneity and consistency in the furnace atmosphere are pivotal to the success of MIM manufacturing,” said Bruce G. Dionne, who co-chaired MIM 2014. “The highest accuracy carbon control is achieved by regulating the carbon potential at the sintering temperature to the value that will lead to the desired final surface carbon concentration in the sinter body upon cooling. The SINTERFLEX atmosphere supply system maintains the low CO+H2 concentration atmosphere necessary to stabilize carbon potential,” he explained.
MIM vacuum sintering furnace offers a low-cost alternative to CNC machining, casting and other manufacturing processes, and can produce high-quality parts in volume, as well as for low-volume prototyping. The ability to produce complex shapes with superior strength and excellent surface finish make it ideal for many parts used in medical devices, electronics, tools and machines, and aerospace and automotive components.
The powder metal process combines the precision shape-forming advantages of plastic-injection molding with the strength and durability of metals. The final step in MIM is sintering, the high-temperature hardening process that fuses the high-density alloyed powders by applying heat below the melting point in a controlled atmosphere. By establishing a carbon-neutral atmosphere during sintering, MIM parts avoid decarburization, a frequent problem that prevents the carbon content from being in specification.
Edited by simuwu
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