Analysis and Optimization of Metal Injection Molding Feedstock SS 316L for Rheological Properties

Abstract

Metal injection molding (MIM) is considered as a novel technology for producing metal parts with complex geometry. The present work is focused on producing a homogeneous SS 316L feedstock for MIM process by optimizing mixing process parameters viz mixing temperature, mixing time and mixing speed. A horizontal mixing machine of capacity 4500 cc is indigenously designed and fabricated. Taguchi technique of L9 orthogonal array has been used for optimizing the process parameters to produce a homogeneous feedstock of SS 316L. Homogeneity of the feedstock was evaluated by binder burnout test. The results reveal that mixing temperature has highest influence and mixing speed has the least influence on the homogeneity of the feedstock. The rheological test on the developed feedstock indicates that it is suitable for injection molding process.