A New Application for Powder Metals: Cast-in-Place Bushings for Diecast Magnesium Steering Wheels

A bushing manufactured by the powder metal process is cast-in-place inside a magnesium diecast steering wheel frame. Research was performed in an effort to improve quality and reduce cost by replacing the low carbon steel bushing, manufactured on a screw machine, with a nickel steel powdered metal bushing. The performance of both bushings is compared in the application of a cast-in-place insert with respect to their strength, surface roughness, dimensional repeatability and cost. The powder metal bushing outperforms the screw machine bushing in all areas.