Single press/single sinter solutions to high density

Abstract

The main asset of the powder metallurgy route is its ability to produce structural components that meet functional requirements in a cost efficient manner. Many PM parts are produced at densities lower than 7·1 g cm⁻³ because achieving higher densities often requires additional processing steps, which result in increased part cost. Although warm powder warm die processing is not new, new methods that employ die heating only have been introduced that enable high green density via single press/single sinter. This simplified processing will potentially lead to greater market acceptance of high density PM parts. However, drawbacks of die heat only are part size restrictions and higher compaction loads. Both processes are useful in the production of high density PM components. This paper will detail the advantages and disadvantages of both processes. Practical part production will be discussed with mechanical properties achievable via high density processing.