Effect of particle size in feedstock properties in micro powder injection molding

Micro powder metal injection molding has received attention as a manufacturing technology for microparts. Small powder size is very useful in achieving detailed structures. STS nanopowders with an average diameter of 100 nm and STS micropowders with an average diameter of 5 micron were utilized to produce feedstock. The mixing behavior of the feedstock was indicated that the nanoparticle feedstock produce highest mixing torque at various powder_loading than the micropowder feedstock. Ares rheometer was utilized to examine visco-elatic flow behavior. The nanoparticles feedstocks showed that elastic properties are dominant in flow behavior and high viscosity. Whereas the micropowders feedstocks, viscous properties are dominant in flow behavior and less viscosity.