Induction sintering of powder components
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Swerea KIMAB AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 500 000 |
| Project duration | October 2012 - September 2013 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | FFI - Sustainable Production |
| End-of-project report | 2012-02513sv.pdf(pdf, 539 kB) (In Swedish) |
Purpose and goal
The aim of the project was to investigate the possibility and limitations of sintering with induction. The results of the project show that induction-sintering is possible. The only potential limitation that appeared is the production capacity. This can however be balanced by a more flexible production technique than conventional furnace-sintering that requires a production flow that is as constant as possible. No other limitations were noticed during the project concerning temperature homogeneity, quality of sintering, oxidation.
Results and expected effects
The results obtained on induction-sintered components surpass our expectations. The microstructure of the samples shows no sign of oxidation and appeared to be homogeneous across the sample. Mechanical testing of the induction-sintered samples show a 10% increase in bending resistance and 20% increase in impact toughness compared to furnace-sintered samples. The examination of fracture surface show signs of very strong sintering necks with trans-granular brittle fracture.
Approach and implementation
The focus during the project was to sinter with induction and evaluate the sintered components regarding microstructure and mechanical properties. Starting the sintering tests with very small components appeared to be the right approach. It showed that there is a difference in the temperature measured with infrared pyrometer and the actual temperature in the component. This difference could be evaluated and the sintering of ´real´ samples for mechanical testing could be performed taking into account this difference.