Sintering
Sintering is a manufacturing process that bonds powdered material into a solid part by heating it to a temperature below its melting point. The heat allows atoms to diffuse across particle surfaces so the particles fuse together, increasing strength and density while reducing porosity. Sintering is most commonly associated with powder metallurgy, but it is also used for ceramics and some advanced materials.
In metal powder parts, sintering is usually done in a controlled atmosphere furnace to prevent oxidation and to achieve consistent properties. After sintering, parts may be further processed by sizing for tighter tolerances, heat treating for added strength, or infiltrating with another metal to increase density. The exact time, temperature, and atmosphere are chosen based on the material and the performance requirements of the finished part.
In metal powder parts, sintering is usually done in a controlled atmosphere furnace to prevent oxidation and to achieve consistent properties. After sintering, parts may be further processed by sizing for tighter tolerances, heat treating for added strength, or infiltrating with another metal to increase density. The exact time, temperature, and atmosphere are chosen based on the material and the performance requirements of the finished part.
