This article provides information on the microstructure of powder metal alloys and the special handling requirements of porous materials. It covers selection, sectioning, mounting, grinding, and polishing, and describes procedures, such as washing, liquid removal, and impregnation, meant to preserve pore structures and keep them open for analysis. The article compares and contrasts the microstructures of nearly 50 powder metal alloys, using them to illustrate the effect of consolidation and compaction methods as well as particle size, composition, and shape. It discusses imaging equipment and techniques and provides data on etchants and etching procedures.

Certain metal products can be produced only by powder metallurgy; among these products are materials whose porosity is controlled. Successful production by powder metallurgy depends on the proper selection and control of process variables: powder characteristics; powder preparation; type of compacting press; design of compacting tools and dies; type of sintering furnace; composition of the sintering atmosphere; choice of production cycle, including sintering time and temperature; and secondary operations and heat treatment. When the application of a powder metallurgy part requires high levels of strength, toughness, or hardness, the mechanical properties can be improved or modified by infiltration, heat treatment, or a secondary mechanical forming operation such as cold re-pressing or powder forging. The article also discusses the effect of the secondary processes on P/M mechanical properties.