MIM metal injection molding process
Basic concept
MIM (Metal Injection Molding) : By combining metal powder and binder, complex-shaped metal parts are produced through injection molding, degreasing and sintering.
Technological process
Granulation: Mix metal powder and binder to form injectable granules.
Injection: Granular raw materials are injected into the mold to form a green body.
Degreasing: Removing adhesives from the green body.
Sintering: High-temperature sintering transforms the green body into a dense metal part.
The advantages of MIM
Complex shape forming: Capable of manufacturing highly complex geometric shapes.
High material utilization rate: near-net molding, reducing material waste.
Uniform microstructure: high density and good performance.
High efficiency: Suitable for large-scale and mass production.
Wide range of applicable materials: including stainless steel, iron-based alloys, magnetic materials, etc.
Characteristics of applicable parts
Weight: Usually between 10 and 15 grams, with a maximum not exceeding 300 grams.
Size: Typical size 25mm, maximum no more than 150mm.
Thickness: 1.0-3.0mm.
Shape: Complex three-dimensional geometric shape.
Batch size: Annual batch size of over 100,000.
Application field
Consumer electronics: mobile phones, tablet computers, etc.
Automotive parts: turbocharged parts, fuel injectors, etc.
Medical devices: surgical handles, dental parts, etc.
Power tools: milling cutters, fasteners, etc.
Surface treatment process
Polishing, electroplating, PVD, blackening, phosphating, spraying, etc.
The difficulties of MIM
The material states vary greatly and the forming conditions are unstable.
If the viscosity of the resin is too high, the injection pressure is prone to rise.
Future Outlook
Feeding and mixing technology: Extended to fields such as magnetic materials and ceramic powders.
The importance of heat treatment has increased: meeting higher performance requirements.
Cost reduction strategy: Merge multiple parts, reduce material waste, and improve precision.
Environmental Protection and Urban Mining
Utilizing leftover materials for MIM production to achieve a green closed-loop system and save energy and reduce carbon emissions.
Key points
Technology cross-border: Combining powder metallurgy and plastic injection molding.
High precision and complexity: Suitable for parts with complex shapes and high precision requirements.
Widely applied: It is used in multiple fields, especially suitable for small and fine parts.
Environmental protection potential: Urban mining models reduce resource waste.
By mastering the MIM process, engineers can optimize product design, reduce costs, enhance product performance, and meet the high standards of modern manufacturing.
