Metal Injection Molding (MIM) Manufacturing

Metal Injection Molding represents the convergence of two proven manufacturing technologies: plastic injection molding and powder metallurgy. This advanced process enables the cost-effective production of complex metal components with exceptional precision, making it the preferred choice for industries requiring intricate geometries and superior mechanical properties.

What is Metal Injection Molding?

Metal injection molding is a specialized manufacturing process that combines fine metal powders with polymer binders to create a moldable feedstock. This material is then injected into precision molds under high pressure, forming complex three-dimensional shapes that would be difficult or cost-prohibitive to produce through traditional metalworking methods. After molding, the components undergo debinding and sintering to achieve final properties comparable to wrought metals.

Metal Injection Molding Process

1. Firstly, metal powder particles and a binding agent are mixed to create a homogenised mixture. This is known as the Feedstock.
2. Next, the Feedstock is injected into a mold cavity to form a Green Part, which is defined as a part made of powdered material that is compressed and held together with binding material. It then undergoes a binder removal process, through either heat or chemical treatment, to produce a Brown Part.
3. After debinding, the Brown Part undergoes a sintering process at a specific temperature/atmosphere profile, until it hits the targeted density. It is then left to shrink up to 15%.

MIM Materials

In mixing, different metal powders are blended to form the alloy composite mix according to the customers' specific requirement. The Metal/ceramic powder is then mixed with wax and/or plastic materials (commonly known as a binder system) to form feedstock.

Our latest material list available here.

MIM Applications

Metal Injection molded parts have applications in various industries, due to their ability to be shaped in complex geometries.

Automotive

MIM is widely used in Automotive, Medical, Industrial & Consumer sectors, Semiconductor, Energy and in 5G Applications.  

In the Automotive sector, MIM components are used to build sensors, engines, gearboxes, and many others systems requiring high strength and complexity. 

Medical

In Medical applications, MIM is used mainly to manufacture surgical instruments as well as end effectors. A common material used is stainless steel due to this alloy having good strength, hardness, corrosion resistance, and good hygiene (i.e. easy to sterilise).

Consumer Electronics

In Consumer applications, MIM components need to be small-sized and complex with high volumes. Examples are components like SIM card Tray, connectors, hinges & camera mount frames.

MIM Design Guidelines

General Guidelines 

Dimension Tolerances 

Part Thickness Guidelines 

MIM Advantages