MIM 2016 - Linde Features 'Best Practice' in Sintering for Improving the Quality of MIM Parts
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Murray Hill New Providence, N.J., U.S. – Linde LLC will feature the SINTERFLEX® Atmosphere Control System (ACS) during tabletop sessions at MIM 2016 in Irvine, CA (March 7-9). The advanced system of carbon control in sintering of metal injection-molded (MIM) parts has effectively doubled the number of parts in-spec, resulting in significant improvements in quality, productivity and profitability.
When used as a "Best Practice" in the sintering process, SINTERFLEX ACS can improve the quality and productivity of MIM parts. With high-accuracy carbon control, SINTERFLEX ACS has been field proven to:
Increase productivity: Improve the number of in-spec parts, reduce scrap and rework, faster startupÂ
Improve quality: Consistent carbon content; minimize destructive parts testing; remote monitoring and control, data logging and tracking of process parameters; enables the sintering of highly alloyed powders (Cr)
Reduce operating costs: Reduce material costs (less scrap); reduce need for post treatment, optimize N2/H2 atmosphere, rapid troubleshooting of process problems, support continuous improvement programs
“In the past few years, we have made significant strides in carbon control of the sintering furnace atmosphere and improving parts quality and consistency with advanced SINTERFLEX technology,” said Grzegorz Moroz, Program Manager, Heat Treatment Atmospheres, Linde LLC.
Details on the state-of-the-art system were reported in two presentations:
1) “Cost Savings and Quality Improvement by Controlling Furnace C-Potential Leading to In-spec Part Carbon Content,” published in the Proceedings of the PM2015 World Congress, and 2) “An Approach to Carbon Control of Sintering Furnace Atmosphere: Theory and Practice,” published in Part 5 of the Proceedings of the PM2014 World Congress. Both are available for purchase through the Metal Powder Industry Federation (MPIF). The papers also review the causes of decarburization and the dynamics of measuring atmosphere carbon potential.
MIM is the International Conference on Metal Injection Molding of Metals, Ceramics and Carbides, sponsored by the Metal Injection Molding Association (MIMA), a trade association of MPIF, and its affiliate APMI International.Â
MIM offers a low-cost alternative to CNC machining, casting and other manufacturing processes, and can produce high-quality parts in volume, as well as for low-volume prototyping. The ability to produce complex shapes with superior strength and excellent surface finish make it ideal for many parts used in medical devices, electronics, tools and machines, and aerospace and automotive components.
The powder metal process combines the precision shape-forming advantages of plastic-injection molding with the strength and durability of metals. The final step in MIM is sintering, the high-temperature hardening process that fuses the high-density alloyed powders by applying heat below the melting point in a controlled atmosphere. By establishing a carbon-neutral atmosphere during sintering, MIM parts avoid decarburization, a frequent problem that prevents the carbon content from being in specification.
Linde provides industry-leading portfolio solutions for heat treatment and the ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy industries, ranging from gases and equipment to process consulting and services. For more information, contact Linde (www.lindeus.com), 800-755-9277.
About Linde in North America
Linde North America, Inc. is a member of The Linde Group. In the 2014 financial year, The Linde Group generated revenue of USD 17.9 bn (EUR 17.047 bn), making it the largest gases and engineering company in the world with approximately 65,500 employees working in more than 100 countries worldwide. The strategy of The Linde Group is geared towards long-term profitable growth and focuses on the expansion of its international business with forward-looking products and services. Linde acts responsibly towards its shareholders, business partners, employees, society and the environment – in every one of its business areas, regions and locations across the globe. The company is committed to technologies and products that unite the goals of customer value and sustainable development.
For more information, visit www.lindeus.com
