FAQ

Can MIM parts be heat treated or plated?

Yes, MIM parts can be heat treated and plated just like conventionally machined, cast or forged products. Precision Tech has in-house heat treating and plating facilities to provide fully finished parts.

What are Metal Injection Molding (MIM) tolerances?

Typical MIM tolerances range from ± 0.3% to 0.5% of dimension. However, tolerances are highly dependent on product geometry. Tolerances beyond MIM capabilities are achieved through post-machining operations. Precision Tech will help you with this analysis and can provide a full range of in-house machining options to deliver a product that meets your requirements.

How long does MIM take?

Typical lead time for parts from design to tooling and sample submission is 5-8 weeks. However, lead time may be shorter depending on specific project requirements.

What materials can be manufactured?

Almost all types of metal alloys can be used in the MIM process. Typical alloys include high-strength steels, stainless steels, and nickel and cobalt superalloys, high-speed steels, bearing steels, etc. Other materials that can be machined include refractory metals, titanium, and copper alloys. Please view the Precision Tech material selection chart for a complete list of materials that can be machined for MIM (see Materials and Applications).

Will the part shrink when the binder is removed?

No, the part will not change size during the debinding stage. However, because sintering brings the powder to near full density, the part will change size by up to 20%.

What is the density and strength of MIM parts?

Typical MIM density is >97% of theoretical. Properties vary depending on the alloy selected, but they are similar to wrought materials.

Why use MIM?

MIM excels at producing small, highly complex parts that are difficult or cost-prohibitive to produce using traditional techniques such as machining or casting. Parts produced using MIM have a smooth and flat surface, free of surface sand holes and internal hollows.

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