DefinePK

Abstract

Metal injection molding (MIM) is a net shaping process in order to achieve the desired molded part via mass production using metal or ceramic powder. MIM is drawing much attention as a promising technique which is leads to a large scale production of metalworking with precision and complex in geometry. It is an elegant blend of metal injection molding, based on the use of fine metal powder particles mixed with binder to form a feedstock that can be molded. The granulated feedstock is then given a shape using an injection molding machine. Stainless Steel 316L (SS316L ) and Natural hydroxyapatite (NHAP) powder derived from tilapia fish bones has been chosen as a model materials mixed with an established binders. Polyethylene glycol (PEG), Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and Stearic Acid (SA) were acted as binder systems. Moreover, the optimum powder loading that have been used are 63 vol. % and 64 vol. %. The feedstock was mixed by using Platograph brabinder at 70°C within 95 minutes duration. The feedstock completely filled the injection mold cavity at 155°C of molding temperature in order to produce a green part. The density and strength of the green part was determined. Green Part with 64 vol. % powder loading has higher density which is equal to 4.7159 g/cm3 while 63 vol. % powders loading are 4.6462 g/cm3. In terms of green strength, feedstock with 64 vol. % powder loading has higher maximum stress with the value 14.8415 Mpa compared to 63 vol. % powders loading has 12.1714 Mpa maximum stress.