Products most appropriate for MIM usually have the following characteristics:

Complexity:

MIM allows the same design freedom as plastic injection molding, which gives almost limitless shape capability. Because MIM is a molding process, additional product features do not add cost, which makes MIM ideal for combining individual parts into multi-functional products.

Precision:

The general guideline for MIM precision of net shape features. As with any technology, higher precision equates to higher cost, so relaxation of tolerances is encouraged wherever possible. Tolerances that are not capable of being met by MIM alone can be achieved through various finishing processes.

Weight and Size:

MIM is best suited for parts weighing less in weight. However, parts with higher weights have also been processed. Raw material is a key cost driver for the MIM process. MIM promotes creative ways to reduce part weight wherever possible. Similar to plastics, coring and ribs can be used to reduce weight without compromising product integrity. MIM excels at extremely small and micro-sized parts.

Section Thickness:

Smaller wall sections are a good fit for the MIM process. While thicker sections are possible, this also drives up cost due to longer processing times and additional material.

Production Volumes: MIM is a highly scalable process. Low volume of several thousand parts annually up to millions of parts can be economically achieved. A tooling and engineering investment is necessary for the MIM process similar to casting or plastics, which will normally drive the decision process for low volume products.

Materials: MIM can process a wide array of materials including Ferrous alloys, Nickel and Cobalt base Super alloys, and Titanium alloys. While non-ferrous alloys are technically possible, they are more economically processed by other means, such as die casting or machining. Please check our materials section for more information.