Powder injection Molding Research at Rensselaer: An update

Binder-assisted powder injection molding is the subject of extensive research at Rensselaer, principally within the two-year-old multicompany-sponsored, multiyear Advanced Powder Processing Program within the Center for Manufacturing Productivity. This research program is uniquely multidisciplinary, involving materials science, powder processing, polymer processing, computer-aided design and analysis, and process and quality control. The effort intends to provide a foundation for the affordable fabrication of metallic, intermetallic, and ceramic monolithic and composite components with complex geometries, close tolerances, unique microstructures and improved properties … near-net shape. The goal is to assure broader application of PIM through both innovative technology and new technologists.