Benefits_from_bonded_mixes_for_complex_powder_metallurgy_parts_production.pdf

Presented at EURO PM2007 in Toulouse, on October 15, 2007 1 Benefits from bonded mixes for complex Powder Metallurgy parts production Sigurd Berg1, Luigi Alzati2, Giovanni Pozzi3, Stefano Fontana*** 1 H?gan?s AB S-26383 H?gan?s, Sweden 2 Hoganas Italia srl, Via Marsala 55/216035 Rapallo (GE) Italy 3 Metalsinter srl, 9, via Messina, 20038 Seregno (MI) Italy Abstract Precision parts tend to get more and more complex in geometry. For the production of P/M parts, cost efficiency is essential to remain viable and continue to be the process of choice versus other competing metal forming techniques. Production cost in combination with dimensional consistency play major roles in the design of the P/M process. Even with advanced equipment and controlled powder handling system the influence from filling characteristic for the material as such play an important role. In this paper the influence of enhanced filling characteristic and segregation behavior by organically bonding of fine additives using the StarmixTM technique during a production period of more than 1 year for production parts are presented. Introduction Consistency of dimensional properties is an important factor to consider when designing processes for the P/M industry. There are many ways to improve the dimensional consistency. Two popular methods are changing the material handling system to produce mass flow and changing to a mix with bonded constituents. Keeping this in mind, the bonding method plays an important role in the consistency of the mix One of the main causes of poor flowability in iron powder mixes is the nature and the amount of micronised additives that are used. In relatively large amounts graphite and lubricants in particular may have detrimental effects and leads to formation of powder bridges that can cause erratic flow. In powder handling system for production presses, these disturbances are often experienced in the hoppers and filling shoes, and