19.06.2002 Pressing & Sintering

Efficient P/M Part Production through bonded mixes having unique powder properties

PM²TEC 2002, in Orlando, USA. Authors: Hilmar Vidarsson, Jeanette Lewenhagen, Björn Johansson. Several key factors dictate the quality and economical outcome of the pressing operation in P/M parts production. Among these, productivity, filling performance and dusting are influenced by the properties of the powder mix. The concept of Starmix powders makes it possible to improve all these key factors by utilization of organic binders and high quality lubricants. The versatility of these powders is demonstrated in this paper through case studies, where improvements in parameters such as weight scatter and dimensional tolerances are shown. Examples are also given of filling behavior and productivity of bonded mixes as compared with plain powder mixes.