Improved powder compaction by multifunctional design of powder properties and processing aids
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | CHALMERS TEKNISKA HÖGSKOLA AKTIEBOLAG - Institutionen för material- och tillverkningsteknik |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 2 000 000 |
| Project duration | November 2011 - April 2014 |
| Status | Completed |
Important results from the project
The aim has been to develop multifunctional steering of powder properties to improve the compressibility of metal powder for sintered steel manufacture. Four different factors have been addressed. The results show that systematic use of three of these can lead to significantly improved compaction. Primarily this is about materials election, geometrical properties of powder and its internal structure. Important achievements are the realization of a new empirical model for assessment of powder compressibility and new findings regarding the internal structure of metal powder.
Expected long term effects
The work has included a systematic approach for development and assessment of metal powder compressibilty. The work has revealed powder characteristics and factors of most importance and how these can be used for tailor powder compaction. Tools for assessment has been established like a new empirical model for compressibility analysis and a new characterization strategy for assessment of inner structure of metal powder. These are no available for development work. Concerning alternative approaches for lubrication during compaction, further work is still needed.
Approach and implementation
The project has been run by Chalmers and Höganäs in close cooperation. Chalmers has oden materials characterisation and theoretical assistent. Höganäs has been responsible for experimentell studies including compaction tests, general powder characterisation and demonstration. The work has also included newly developed powder where its compressibility has been studied and explained.