AFT World Wide - Tech Talk

   
 

MIM Technology — Hydraulic System Connectors

Metal Injection Molding (MIM) technology takes advantage of unique process capabilities such as combining components into one complex co-molding and bonding of dissimilar materials. MIM is utilized for relatively small, complex components that require high strength and cost viability. Components such as hydraulic system connectors for high-pressure fluid power systems in automobiles and trucks are just a few components that benefit from MIM technology.

The Process

The MIM process involves several steps: design, mold making, compounding, molding, debinding and sinter.

  • The design phase has engineers who utilize computer aided design technology to prepare the product concepts and make the mold.
  • During compounding, fine metal powders, thermoplastics, and other proprietary ingredients are mixed to form a pelletized molding compound at a typical volume ratio of 60% metal to 40% binder.
  • Conventional injection molding machines are used to mold green parts during the actual molding process.
  • Using heat, the binding material is removed during debinding. The brown parts are sintered in vacuum type furnaces during the final phase of the MIM process.

MIM Advantages

MIM has many advantages over other forming processes. Its application for complex parts, high volume and a variety of materials is superior to other methods such as die cast and screw machine. Typical densities for MIM range from 95% - 99%, which yield properties close to cast or wrought products. MIM Components range in size from 0.1 grams to over 150 grams in weight.

Mold construction may consist of either single or multiple cavities depending upon the estimated annual volume. In most cases, quantities average 20,000 pieces per year minimum. Common materials for MIM include alloy and stainless steels, and other non-ferrous alloys such as titanium.

For more information on the MIM process, contact our experienced MIM engineering staff at http://www.pcc-aft.com/contact/contact3.html or 303-833-6000.
 

 

(If your operating system does not support using a Print button,
simply use your Web browser's "Print" command instead.)


©2005 AFT, all rights reserved.