Eurobalt: Metal Injection Molding technology

MIM technology, is an efficient production method for detailed components which require exact dimensions and error-free tolerances.

Metal Injection Molding (MIM) is an advanced metalworking process that combines the versatility of plastic injection molding with the durability of metal materials. This innovative technique involves creating a dedicated feedstock by blending finely powdered metals with a binder material.

The resulting mixture is injected into precision moulds to form complex metal components. MIM technology is ideal for producing intricate metal components with tight size tolerances and flawless surface finishes.

Eurobalt has utilized MIM to produce high-quality parts with intricate shapes and flawless surfaces. MIM manufacturing stands out for its ability to maintain high precision while keeping production costs low.

Our MIM process guarantees precision, surface quality, and cost-effectiveness.
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MIM manufacturing process

Feedstock preparation
In the metal injection molding process, we use two main raw materials: metal powders and a binder. At Eurobalt, we use a thermoplastic binder sourced from trusted suppliers, and all incoming raw materials undergo mandatory quality control. Our facilities mix the raw materials to create feedstock. The thermoplastic binder serves as a processing aid that will be removed during product manufacturing. The powder characteristics determine the final properties of the moulded metal parts. A kneader or shear roll extruder processes the blended powder mixture into a plasticized binder at high temperatures.
Injection molding
MIM parts undergo an injection molding process that resembles the forming of plastic parts. The range of geometric shapes achievable through MIM technology matches that of plastic components.
De-binding
The binder removal process is used to obtain metal parts with a network of interconnected pores without breaking the component’s structure. The process of binder extraction still leaves behind some binder in the parts holding the metal powder particles together, however, the pore network allows the residual binder to evaporate quickly in the initial stage of sintering.
Sintering
Consequently, MIM parts undergo shrinkage during sintering. Subsequently, sintering results in complete elimination of the pore volume previously occupied by the binder. Sintered MIM components can be subjected to various metalworking techniques, such as machining or heat treatment, just like wrought or cast parts.

Advantages of Metal injection molding

Time & Cost-efficient

Metal injection molding (MIM) is a highly efficient and cost-effective metalworking process when compared to traditional manufacturing methods like die casting, investment casting, pressing, and sintering. This technology reduces product development cycles in every manufacturing step and eliminates the need for expensive multistage machining operations, which further decreases the manufacturing time for ready-made components. This process could eliminate several product finishing steps. Furthermore, MIM technology enables the production of diverse intricately shaped parts with high precision at negligible costs.

Complex product design

MIM design for complex product design eradicates limitations on the design and technical requisites of metal parts. Additionally, the MIM manufacturing process ensures the attainment of utmost precision in the finished product, regardless of its design’s complexity. MIM technology enables the production of components with exceptional precision. MIM design offers greater flexibility and creative freedom to product designers than traditional metalworking techniques. Typically, MIM technology is selected for manufacturing complex-shaped metal components weighing less than 100g. Nevertheless, it is feasible to produce larger MIM parts, weighing up to 453g, as well. Practically any structure or shape that can be achieved using plastic injection molding can also be produced using metal injection molding.

High Density for Maximum Strength & Accuracy

MIM technology ensures metal components with near complete density, reaching as high as 99.5%. Compared to other similar technologies, MIM produces components with the least surface roughness. MIM parts can be plated and heat-treated similarly to wrought alloys. Components produced via MIM exhibit exceptional strength and integrity, making them ideal for high-vacuum applications.

Surface treatment and branding

Eurobalt offers a diverse range of surface treatment solutions that are energy-efficient, cost-effective, environmentally-friendly, and safe for operators. According to our customers’ requirements, we provide components with surfaces that are prepared for finishing via various treatment methods, including electroplating, painting, and powder coating. The primary objective of surface treatment is to enhance the durability and resilience of the final product and protect it against corrosion and wear. Additionally, we can imprint a logo onto metal components during the manufacturing process upon request.

Eurobalt production precision standard

Weight Precision

Our MIM expertise extends to crafting components with meticulous weight control, allowing us to produce parts with a maximum weight of up to 0.5kg. This precision ensures the exacting specifications required for various applications.

Tolerance Mastery

Precision is our hallmark, and we boast tolerances of up to +- 0.5% (depending on the dimensions of the component). This level of accuracy is a testament to our dedication to meeting the stringent demands of industries that rely on precision-engineered components.

Surface Perfection

The surface finish of our components reaches up to 2.5 Ra, reflecting a commitment to excellence in every detail. Our meticulous approach ensures that the surfaces of our iron-based and stainless steel components meet the highest standards of quality and aesthetics.

Materials Expertise

Specializing in iron-based materials and stainless steels, we bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to every project. Whether it’s the strength of iron or the corrosion resistance of stainless steel, our materials are chosen and processed with precision to meet the unique requirements of diverse industries.

Eurobalt is a manufacturer of metal parts of various shapes and sizes through the use of MIM manufacturing technology. Parts with defined physical properties and any level of complexity can be produced using this technology. We will promptly provide you with a competitive price if you send us your part drawings.

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