The Rise of Metal Injection Molding for Complex Gear Systems
Jan de Vries
Technical Director
Metal Injection Molding (MIM) is transforming the production of high-quality, complex metal components. At Tarsus Toner Dolum, we combine advanced metal powders with precision sintering techniques.
The MIM Process in Detail
The process begins with carefully mixing fine metal powders – our 'toner' – with a special binder. This mixture is then injected under high pressure into a mold, similar to plastic injection molding. After shaping, the binder is removed, followed by sintering in controlled ovens.
"Sintering at temperatures up to 1400°C provides the final metal properties, with a density approaching 96-99% of the solid material."
Key Material Properties
- Stainless Steel 316L: Excellent corrosion resistance for medical and chemical applications.
- Tool Steel: High hardness and wear resistance for tool components.
- Copper Alloys: Excellent thermal and electrical conductivity.
This technique offers significant advantages over traditional machining, especially for components with complex geometries, internal channels, or thin walls. Material efficiency is considerably higher, and production speed can be scaled for large series.
Examples of precision components produced via our MIM process.
Future Perspective
The development of new metal powder compositions and improved sintering ovens continues to expand the possibilities of MIM. At Tarsus Toner Dolum, we continuously invest in research into innovative materials and process optimization.