Powder metallurgy

Powder metallurgy consists of a number of actions that together represent one production technology. The technique is not only suitable for the use of metallic powder, but is also very suitable for processing ceramic materials.

A mold that is resistant to the applied forces is used to form products using powder metallurgy (PM). One should think of a pressure between 300 and 1000 MPa (N / mm2). The powder is applied in measured quantity and formed into a 'solid' product with a punch in the cavity of the mold. In order to allow the powders to adhere, binders are often used, which are subsequently removed during the process.

The now "" green product "" is very fragile and must be annealed at a high temperature. This process, also known as sintering, ensures that the binder virtually disappears and the powder melts. Sintering is accompanied by significant shrinkage, one can assume that the entire amount of binder, and therefore volume, will disappear.

PM delivers highly accurate products with exceptional qualities. The processed metal powders often produce wear resistant, hard products that require little post-processing. Post-processing of these materials is possible, for example by grinding. These wear resistant precision parts are often found in engines, transmissions and fine mechanical products, but also as tools (drill bits, inserts, etc.).

Ceramic material is often processed into products that have to endure high temperature influences. Think of aerospace (rocket nozzles). Ceramics are ideally suited for smooth wear-resistant surfaces such as bearing applications or very luxurious telephones.