MetalBizz
Powder Metallurgy

Powder Metallurgy

Cost-effective powder metallurgy for complex sintered metal components

Overview

Powder metallurgy (PM) compacts metal powders in precision tooling and sinters them at high temperature to form solid, net-shape parts. Our PM process is ideal for gears, bearings, sprockets, and structural components — especially where complex geometries make machining cost-prohibitive.

We also offer metal injection molding (MIM) for smaller, high-complexity parts requiring superior mechanical properties. Production volumes from 5,000 to millions of parts per year.

Capabilities

Max Press Tonnage

200 tons

Max Part Size

150 mm diameter, 100 mm height

Tolerance

±0.05 mm (standard)

Density

6.6–7.4 g/cm³ (ferrous), up to 95% relative density

Lead Time

Tooling: 3–5 weeks, Production: 2–3 weeks

Inspection

Density measurement, hardness tester, CMM, tensile testing

Supported Materials

Iron-based: FC-0208, FN-0208, F-0008
Stainless steel: 316L, 304L
Copper-based: bronze, brass
Soft magnetic alloys

Surface Finishes

Steam Treatment — seals porosity, improves corrosion resistance
Zinc Plating — sacrificial corrosion protection
Oil Impregnation — self-lubricating bearings
Black Oxide — aesthetic finish, mild corrosion resistance
Resin Impregnation — seals porosity for pressure-tight parts

Why Choose Us

Net-shape manufacturing — minimal material waste
Self-lubricating bearing capability (oil-impregnated)
Controlled porosity for filtration applications
Heat treatment, steam treatment, plating secondary ops
MIM available for small, complex parts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is powder metallurgy (PM)?

Powder metallurgy is a manufacturing process that compacts metal powders in precision tooling and sinters them at high temperature to form solid, net-shape parts. It is ideal for high-volume production of complex components.

What materials are available for powder metallurgy?

We offer iron-based alloys (FC-0208, FN-0208, F-0008), stainless steel (316L, 304L), copper-based alloys (bronze, brass), and soft magnetic alloys.

What tolerances can powder metallurgy achieve?

Standard PM tolerances are ±0.05 mm. Secondary operations like sizing and machining can achieve tighter tolerances as needed.

What is the typical lead time for PM parts?

Tooling fabrication takes 3–5 weeks, and production runs typically ship within 2–3 weeks after tooling approval.

Can PM parts be heat treated or plated?

Yes. PM parts can undergo heat treatment, steam treatment, plating, and other secondary operations to improve mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.

What is metal injection molding (MIM)?

MIM is a variant of powder metallurgy for small, complex parts requiring superior mechanical properties. It combines the design freedom of plastic injection molding with the strength of metal.

What is the minimum and maximum production volume?

PM is most cost-effective for volumes from 5,000 to millions of parts per year. For lower volumes, we recommend evaluating alternative processes like CNC machining.