Advanced Processing of SinterHardening （先进的处理SinterHardening）.pdf

Advanced Processing of Sinter-Hardening Materials Thomas Haberberger, Alpha Sintered Metals, Ridgway, PA Francis Hanejko and Michael Baran, Hoeganaes Corporation, Cinnaminson, NJ ABSTRACT The sinter-hardening process has been shown to provide excellent mechanical properties and part-to-part size control. Previous work has indicated that exceptional mechanical properties and high apparent hardness values can be achieved by sinter hardening in a high temperature furnace with standard cooling. This work focuses on combinations of advanced techniques intended to optimize mechanical properties for stringent applications. While warm compaction is utilized to increase density, various material alloy combinations are blended together in an effort to study green density variables. Where applicable, specific market opportunities are identified. INTRODUCTION Production experience with the sinter-hardening process has demonstrated numerous advantages to the P/M parts fabricator and end-users when compared to conventional quenching and tempering. These documented advantages include lower processing costs, reduced production time, and superior dimensional stability. The improved dimensional stability translates into reduced distortion, tighter concentricity, and improved geometric tolerances; enabling net shape P/M components in the hardened condition. Previous work illustrated that sinter-hardening can be accomplished with alloyed P/M steels 0 and relative slow cooling rates combined with sintering at elevated temperatures, above 2200 F (1). Through the use of admixed elemental powders such as copper and ni