Powder metallurgy has advantages and disadvantages, just like any other manufacturing method. However, it has advanced for the better in the last few years, backed by the rising demands from automobile, aviation, industrial equipment, medical, recreation, and household appliance sectors. Other manufacturing companies rely on power metallurgy to speed up their production processes while providing the best outcomes. One of the advantages of this metalworking technique that has genuinely increased its popularity is the ability to create part-to-part precision. Engineers can control the structures at the micro level to meet product specifications for different applications. If everything goes right, one can skip the secondary machining process required to add a finishing touch to the products. As a result, you can notice the direct impact on costs, energy, and time.

The powder metallurgy process

The methods are adjusted and adapted based on the type of product that is manufactured. Still, reliable powder metallurgy parts are obtained after four main stages: powder preparation, mixing and blending, pressing, and sintering. PM components acquire the traits of the metal powder utilized in their production. Experts apply heat to the powdered metal for solidification and compaction. However, they check the quality of the powder before doing anything else. Expect them to study the metal powder’s flow rate, strength, compressibility, and density. During mixing and blending, powders are added with binders, lubes, and other powders to create the final part. Depending on the product's requirement, it can be wet or dry process. Again, various techniques are employed to blend powders. Compacting involves applying a die or shape to the powder mixture. It can also help provide adequate density to the product by reducing voids.

Finally, the sintering stage strengthens metal particles. Engineers ensure that all the steps are taken within a controlled atmosphere to give the finished material the desired properties. Consider the oil pump rotor, for instance. Where is it used?

Oil pumps and rotors

Oil pumps are heavily used in car engines to increase their operability through oil circulation. Engines can work longer if the oil pump is reliable. You can find this feature in the internal combustion chamber. An oil pump contains many fundamental parts, such as a suction tube, outer casing, pressure relief valve, mounting points, oil passages, and rotors or gears. A rotor oil pump or rotary vane pump features a rotor and various vanes to spread oil in the internal chambers. During the rotation, vanes absorb and trap oil to send it to the pressure side. These parts are created after an extensive PM manufacturing process - selection of metal powder, sintering, forming, finishing, surface enhancement, coating, etc.

If you need oil pump parts for your motorcycle, car, or industrial equipment manufacturing company, choosing a trustworthy partner with ISO certification is crucial. These components must offer precise balance to the systems while tackling vibrations and other issues without hampering the operation. Engineers can design rotors that meet the balancing, noise control, and wear-resistance needs through the powder metallurgy process. By choosing a certified partner, you can be confident that you are sourcing a high-quality product that will ensure the smooth operation of your engine.