Abstract
Metal Injection Molding (MIM) is a technology by which metal products of high density and complex shape can be mass produced in a cost-effective manner. The density and particle size of metal-powder throughout the compound must be monitored if uniform products are to be obtained. In this report, we examine the applicability of eddy-current techniques to in-process monitoring of powder density and particle size. An eddy-current based monitoring system developed by the authors to measure metal-powder density is expanded for monitoring of metal-powder diameter in metal compounds. Experimental sensor readings were gathered using three different metal powders with known particle sizes: aluminum-lithium alloy (AA8090), nickel-iron magnetic alloy (PB-47) and stainless steel (SUS316L). Analysis of the data showed that the sensor output was proportional to the powder diameter under wet conditions with thermoplastic binder of constant density, and that the sensitivity of the sensor differed with the type of metal powder. The merit of this technique is its reliance on a simple and inexpensive sensor probe.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
