Mixing
In performing the MIM process, it is necessary to decide
on the composition of the powder-binder mixture for the
feedstock. Once a powder and binder have been selected,
the next concern is to mix these ingredients
Granulation A homogeneously mixed MIM feedstock should be cooled
and formed into pellets for storage and transport, also
granulation is used to prepare a uniform sized material
for the molding operation.
Molding
The blend of appropriate powder and polymeric binder
is granulated, and is then fed into an injection molding
machine. Under moderate temperature and pressures, the
feedstock achieves a consistency like that of a tooth
paste and can be injected into mold cavities to form
precision components.
Debinding
The blend and additives used in the molding steps are
removed by a process that has come to be known as debinderizing.
This is consists of the solvent extraction and the thermal
treatment to break down and vaporize the polymers.
Sintering
Sintering is the bonding together of particles. When
heated to high temperature, debinded parts are sintered
in high temperature sintering furnace of gas or vacuum
atmosphere.
Inspection
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