Material Selection

Almost any fine particle metal that can be sintered is suitable for Metal Injection Moulding, the main exceptions being aluminium and zinc. Metallurgical properties are similar to castings and mechanical strengths and ductility are superior to conventionally sintered parts.

Conventional sintering/powder metallurgy results in numerous large interconnected voids, which are angular in shape, leading to weaker, brittle parts. MIM components are more dense and any remaining pores are small, spherical and not connected, resulting in superior tensile strength, impact strength and elongation.

Heat treatment can be carried out on metal Injection mouldings in a conventional manner, including surface hardening, whilst other secondary operations such as polishing, grinding, plating, bending and even welding can be undertaken in the normal way. As may be expected, specifications of materials for MIM parts are slightly different to wrought materials, but may be adjusted to meet the mechanical properties required.

A selection of metal Injection moulding materials is given below, but others can be supplied and we would be pleased to discuss your requirements.