Metal Injection Molding (MIM) Manufacturing

Metal Injection Molding is the combination of two previously established technologies: Plastic Injection Molding and Powder Metallurgy. The MIM process results in complex shaped metal components that can help meet the varied needs of businesses.

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