Why sintered stainless steel parts matter for powder metallurgy technology

The sintering process explained

Sintered stainless steel parts are made using Powder Metallurgy. The process involves compacting metal powder and then heating it. According to technical definitions, sintering is when particles under pressure chemically bond to form a coherent shape when exposed to high temperature. The temperature is most commonly below the melting point of the main component in the powder. If the temperature exceeds the melting point of a component, the liquid fills the pores. This is known as liquid-state sintering.

Industry capacity and forming methods

Production relies on advanced industrial capability. The world's largest capacity of high temperature sintering supports high volume manufacturing. This capacity is applied through three primary forming technologies. These are traditional powder metallurgy press and sinter, metal injection molding, and metal binder jetting. The method chosen depends on the part's complexity and volume requirements.

Current shifts in the North American market

The industry is not static. Recent company news illustrates ongoing changes. American Fine Sinter in Tiffin, Ohio, announced plans to gradually wind down its PM operations. Its parent company in Japan reported the targeted closure is set for March 2028. Meanwhile, other firms are consolidating leadership roles. Rob Hayes, vice president of engineering at one Pennsylvania manufacturer, recently added the role of general manager at a related industrial services company in St. Marys, Pennsylvania.

Research focuses on future applications

Innovation efforts are targeting new markets. Research and development teams are actively identifying new applications for PM technology that result from the HEV & EV transition. The mission extends to other electrified applications beyond the automotive sector. This direction was highlighted by Dr. Nils Bornemann of a major PM firm in January 2018. The goal is to adapt the technology for evolving demands in sectors like energy, aerospace, and construction.

The role of sintered stainless steel

Within this context, sintered stainless steel parts offer specific advantages. They combine corrosion resistance with the design flexibility and material efficiency inherent to powder metallurgy. The process creates parts with controlled porosity, which can be an asset for filtration or self-lubricating bearings. It is a practical manufacturing solution for complex geometries that would be wasteful or impossible to machine from solid bar stock.

We provide sintered stainless steel components and related powder metallurgy products for various industrial applications.