MIM technology application material system is expanding

Metal Injection Molding (MIM) technology is expanding its application material system in recent years. It is mainly developing in two directions: the expansion of the material system and the development of high reliability production equipment to meet unique binder and degreasing technology requirements.

MIM is an ideal near-net forming technology that can economically produce shapes close to the final product without the need for extensive post-processing after sintering. This is particularly important in industrialized production and the application of ceramics. In precision ceramic production, MIM is mainly applied to carbides, metal ceramics, inorganic non-metal ceramics, intermetallic compounds, and other materials. For example, the use of injection molding technology in producing green bodies of zirconia ceramic fiber pins (ferrules) significantly reduces subsequent processing time. The accuracy of the formed cavity eliminates the need for extensive grinding, improving production efficiency, and reducing costs.

MIM technology is also applied to the development of wearproof tool materials such as cobalt-based alloys, tungsten alloys, carbides, ceramic cutting tools, and various composites. Additionally, MIM is used in the production of SiC/Al composite materials, tool steel, titanium alloys, non-magnetic cemented carbides, W/Cu alloys, rare earth permanent magnet materials, KOVAR alloys, and more.

The development of MIM technology is also evident in the diversity of binders and the use of various defatting techniques. Different binder systems, such as acetate ester, polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymer, acrylic polymer, and AGAR, have been further developed and applied. Various defatting techniques, including computer-aided control thermal degreasing, solvent degreasing, catalytic defatting, freeze drying, and microwave auxiliary drying, have been used to control the degreasing process. These techniques have significantly reduced degreasing time and improved the control of polymer decomposition reactions, eliminating defects in the process.

With further research, development, and application, MIM technology is expected to become an attractive net shaping preparation technology, alongside machining, precision casting, and pressing/sintering processes. It will become increasingly known and accepted by workpiece designers.