Finite element simulations for metal powder compaction of a clutch plate were performed to examine the stresses during compaction, unloading, and ejection. To describe the mechanical behavior of compacted green body, a modified density-dependent Drucker–Prager Cap model was utilized to predict the stress and density distribution of the compacted clutch plate during loading and ejection stages. The results indicate that maximum tensile principal stress was a main driving force for the tensile crack initiation during ejection stage, and shear stress may be another driving force in both compaction and ejection stages for shear crack initiation. There were peak value of the stresses during ejection stage, and the stresses are in compressive state only during compaction stage. Therefore, the tensile crack initiation is not possible during compaction except shear crack. Hoop stress in the clutch plate is of less contribution to the crack initiation during compaction, unloading and ejection. Study of criteria of the crack initiation and fracture is necessary in order to obtain uniform density and crack-free components in the manufacturing of metal powder compaction.