Technology
By pressing powder in a rigid tool and subsequent heat treatment (sintering), a solid, net shape (or near net shape) component is produced.
The powder particles are mechanically locked and deformed in the pressed (green) state. During heat treatment (sintering) the particles fuse together by diffusion and create a solid material.
The type of alloy and powder mix sets the limitations for the process and product performance. Alloys can be designed for zero dimensional change during heat treatment, maximum strength or any other property like machinability, stroke rate etc.