Guidelines for Metal Injection Molding (MIM) Process

1. What is MIM technology?

MIM is a manufacturing technology that combines plastic injection molding and powder metallurgy of elastic materials.

2.How does MIM work?

Fine metal powder is bonded with thermoplastic and wax adhesive to form a raw material substance. When heated, this substance will become a viscous paddle like substance, which will then be high-pressure pressed into an engineering mold to form the desired model. After cooling, it is removed from the mold and processed to remove the adhesive components (known as degreasing). The final step (sintering) is to place it in a controlled high-temperature environment, where the metal powder melts and condenses into a compact solid.

3.Did the metal melt during the molding process?

No, only when the adhesive melts can the powder flow like plastic material. Cooling adhesive is a component that has a certain strength. The components are then sintered to a high density to meet their mechanical performance requirements.

4.What is the difference between # MIM metal powder injection molding and conventional # PM powder metallurgy processes?

The traditional #PM process uses unidirectional high pressure to press rough #metal powder into a fixed position to manufacture moderately complex equipment. Especially, there was no further improvement in its density during the sintering process. The density value generated by this method is between 80-90%, which limits its physical properties as an alloy. Due to the elasticity of MIM, the production of products with #complex structures is not restricted. The combination of fine metal powder and high-temperature sintering enables the final product of # MIM workpiece # to achieve a high density. This makes # MIM products and precision materials have similar characteristics.

5. Will component shrink during the process of removing adhesive?

No, the volume of the components will not change during the degreasing process. However, during sintering, the zero part will undergo up to 20% deformation.

6. What will be the density and strength of the MIIM section?

The density of a typical MIM is theoretically higher than 96%. The specific density characteristics depend on the choice of alloy, but regardless, it is close to precision materials.

7. Why use MIM?

MIM has advantages in manufacturing fine and complex components that are difficult or cannot be produced using traditional machining or casting techniques due to cost issues.

8. What materials can be used for production?

Almost all gold alloys can be used in the # MIM process , typical alloys include # high-strength steel , nickel added stainless steel, and superalloys. Its material processing includes refractory alloys, titanium and copper alloys, and low melting point alloys such as brass, bronze, and zinc aluminum, but it is not economical to use in MIIM technology. You can view the #material selection table for the entire process of #Shenzhen Yujiaxin Tech. Co., Ltd.

9. What is the best way to achieve MIM benefits?

In the early design stage of the product production cycle, applying MIM technology is the best way to achieve MIM benefits. Shenzhen Yujiaxin Tech. Co., Ltd. will assist you in applying MIIM technology, whether it is new products or existing traditional metal forming technology.

10. Delivery cycle?

The typical lead time for processing and submitting samples is 5-6 weeks. But according to specific engineering requirements, the corresponding delivery cycle can be shortened.

11. What is the average annual production?

Generally speaking, the average annual output of a typical product should exceed 2000K. However, Shenzhen Yujiaxin Tech. Co., Ltd. will consider any annual output that is beneficial to customers.

12. Is there a criterion for defining complexity?

There is no right or wrong here. According to the thumb rule, if a drawing has dimensions exceeding 20mm, it is suitable as a good # MIM component .

13. Are there any restrictions?

Like any other technology, # MIIM technology also has limitations, with a maximum weight limit of 240 grams (economically speaking, the weight is generally limited to no more than 50 grams). Some geometric characteristics may also have issues (such as ultra thick or ultra-thin cross-sections). Shenzhen Yujiaxin Tech. Co., Ltd. will provide you with the best design solution that meets your needs.

14. What kind of tolerance will be achieved?

The typical MIM tolerance is 0.2% to 0.5%. However, the tolerance largely depends on the geometric characteristics of the product. Exceeding the tolerance of MIIM technology can be achieved through # machining . Shenzhen Yujiaxin Tech. Co., Ltd. will assist you in analyzing and providing a comprehensive selection of on-site equipment to provide products that meet your needs.

15. What equipment is used in the process?

The MIM process utilizes typical high-performance frameless machines. Shenzhen Yujiaxin Technology Co., Ltd. utilizes advanced equipment with the latest controllers to ensure advanced processing output. Shenzhen Yujiaxin Tech. Co., Ltd. has established strategic relationships with many equipment suppliers from European and American countries, and we have customized many special equipment needs.

16. Can MIM be # heat-treated or gold-plated?

Yes, # MIM components can undergo heat treatment, gold plating, processing, or forging, just like traditional machined products. Shenzhen Yujiaxin Tech. Co., Ltd. has a fixed cooperative surface treatment manufacturer to provide complete finished components.