2 March 2017

Advantages of powder metallurgy

Powder metallurgy is the process like in the name given metallic powders are heated below their melting temperatures to achieve bonding. Let us have a deep insight into the advantages of powder metallurgy to know more about it. 

Advantages of powder metallurgy :

  • The powder metallurgy parts can be produced to the net-shape requiring very little surface finishing operation.
  • If we want higher dimensional accuracy coning or sizing operation can be used.
  • It is possible to achieve a surface finish between 0.80 to 1.20 micron.
  • It does not cause any waste products during the processing.
  • It is very economical just some complex shapes which can not be economically machined.
  • It is possible to produce parts with a combination of materials that is not possible by another process. Example - metals and ceramics can be mixed.
  • Automation of this process can be easily accomplished.
  • Due to automation reducing labour requirements and so low labour cost.
  • This process provides controlled porosity.
  • Tungsten and tungsten carbide can also be acquired by a powder metallurgy process while not acquired by other processes.
  • Huge potential savings in production so it is also used for mass production.
  • Raw materials are easily obtainable and relatively inexpensive.
  • By using powder metallurgy very little scrap is generated.
  • Parts that are produced by this process have sound and vibration damping properties.
  • Parts that are produced by this process have good chemical homogeneity.
  • It can produce complicated forms with a uniform microstructure.