Powder injection moulding PIM of feedstock based on hydrosoluble binder and submicronic powder to manufacture parts having micro-details

Small and complex-shaped parts can be manufactured with powder injection moulding PIM process at a low cost in comparison to other traditional powder technologies. A variant of PIM process denoted as micropowder injection moulding (mu-PIM) has been recently developed in order to manufacture components having sub-millimeter dimensions or micrometer range structural details. PIM and mu-PIM are used for numerous applications in the field of electronics, defence and aerospace, medical industry. This contribution displays preliminary study on the feasibility to manufacture parts having micro-details by powder injection moulding from partially water soluble self-made feedstock. All process steps are investigated from feedstock preparation to sintering. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.