Powder Metallurgy Process

The powder metallurgy (PM) process involves converting metal to powder, then forming it to make a solid product. It is extremely cost effective due to lower energy consumption, virtually no waste, and reduced number of steps compared to stamping or forging. The basic PM steps generally involve:

Metal Powder

•       Start with pure PM and additives specific to the customers’ needs

Mixing

•       PM is mixed with lubricants

Compacting

•       Forces steel to realign causing it to reduce to half of its original volume

Sintering

•       Heats the material at a temperature below melting point creating metallurgical bonds

Finishing

•       Sizing or coining occurs to achieve specific needs

In addition to being cost effective, this method also allows for extreme precision and greater ability to customize because of the sintering process. Because of this, the process is widely used in a variety of industries, but is exceptionally popular in the automotive and industrial markets. Learn more about Powder Metallurgy Advantages and how it can help you.