Modeling of Powder Metallurgy Processes

Power metallurgy (PM) is a process of shaping metal powders into near-net or net shape parts combined with densification or consolidation processes for the development of final material and design properties. This article introduces the general considerations, models, and applications in the modeling of PM processes. It describes the PM process in terms of powder compaction and sintering. The article schematically illustrates powder injection molding for the production of plastic parts and describes PM process models such as discrete-element model (DEM), linear continuum model, and nonlinear continuum model. It concludes with information on the application of press and sinter modeling to practical problems in PM.