What is Powder Metal?

Step 1

The Basics

Powder Production

Powder Metal can be created from different processes: Such as water/gas atomization, reduction, electrolysis, and mechanical milling. During the production process of the powder, characteristics like the particle size, shape, and distribution can be affected which will have a significant impact later on the final product.

Powder Blending & Mixing

Step 2

Metal powders are blended together to make the required elemental makeup desired. A wax/lubricant must also be added into the blend to aid during the molding process.

Step 3

Compaction (Pressing)

The powder undergoes a high pressure/tonnage and is compacted into a "green" compact which is either at or near net shape.

Step 4

Sintering

Sintering is the process of heating the "green" compact below the melting point of the primary metal, but high enough to allow atomic diffusion.
During this process, the lubricant will be removed and the metal powder will being to diffuse into one another.

Step 5

Secondary Operations (Optional)

Depending on the application, additional processes may be applied:

• Heat Treatment

• Machining

• Infiltration

• Impregnation

• Surface Treatments

Quality Control & Inspection

Step 6

Customer requirements can be checked throughout each step, but also normally have a final inspection.

Things such as:

• Density & Porosity

• Mechanical Testing

• Microstructural Analysis

• Dimensional Inspections

• Etc...