Metallurgy refers to the metal extraction and shaping operation for different applications. It has a more commercial connotation than lab-based. Engineers and technicians consider metal structures and their diverse property types, including atomic, physical, and chemical. They also refer to the principles that help combine various metals to produce alloys. Earlier, you had access to silver, gold, and copper in their metallic form. However, as time progressed, more choices, such as bronze, iron, brass, nickel, and steel, expanded the scope of metalworking and created a distinct industry. Today, it helps other facilities run and grow.
Of the numerous metalworking or metallurgy manufacturing processes, powder metallurgy (PM) is the most recognized. It is the foundation of many advanced PM techniques and technologies that are used nowadays. Some early products obtained from PM include electrical contacts and porous bearings. Over the years, PM has evolved to add refinement, new alloys, and atomization solutions to produce fine powders. These helps build intricate and complex parts successfully for other industries.
- Growth prospect for PM parts
The PM product market will likely become nearly 34 billion worth by 2028, clocking a 6.2% compounded annual jump. Such a prediction is made based on its increasing demand in the electric vehicle, aerospace, healthcare, and other industries. According to experts, electric cars have witnessed huge demand in the market. These vehicles run on electric engines or electric power, requiring carmakers to source magnetic parts to lower lamination risks. Hence, powder metallurgy parts will also grow as the electric car market sees a boom. A similar logic applies to the aerospace sector, which deals with spacecraft, aircraft, and other systems. All these need lightweight and efficient parts for smooth flying and maneuvering. Since PM components fulfill the need for complex geometric designs, precision, and material efficiency, the aerospace industry also relies on them for their manufacturing units.
- Regional scope for PM parts
North America is one of the largest consumers of powdered metallic parts. Countries like China, Germany, France, Japan, Russia, Italy, Spain, Australia, and Indonesia also depend on this process to source structural parts, bushings, gears, engine components, electromagnetic assemblies, etc.
- Overview of powder metal manufacturing basics
As a consumer, you want to know how PM processes work and produce the sought-after parts. Typically, the components are built through three main steps – pulverization, compaction, and sintering. Other steps can also be included depending on the product density, shape, size, finishing, and other requirements. In the pulverization stage, metal powders are obtained from crushing, grinding, atomization, and other techniques. Parts are put under a pre-determined pressure level at a suitable temperature before exposure to extreme temperatures during sintering.
After compression and sintering, PM parts receive the desired shape and form from fine metal particles. These components’ quality starkly differs from forged or cast parts. Plus, processes like casting and forging cannot provide complex designs. Even if they do, the manufacturing expenses are enormous. PM parts can incorporate all the intricacies without compromising the economics and quality standards. That’s why they are gaining a lot of popularity.