SINTERING

Sintering is a manufacturing process for producing solid materials by heating powders to temperatures below their melting point, enabling partial fusion of the particles without completely melting them. This process, used mainly in the ceramic and metallurgical industries (e.g. tungsten carbide), aims to densify a material, impart improved mechanical properties, and make it more resistant.

Sintering generally begins with the preparation of fine powders, which may be metallic, ceramic, or polymer-based. These powders are then compacted in a mould. The mixture is heated to a specific temperature, usually below the melting point of the base material but high enough to cause partial fusion of the particles. This phenomenon creates contact points between the grains, thus forming a solid structure. Depending on the temperature, pressure, and duration applied, a wide variety of materials can be obtained with high dimensional accuracy and optimal homogeneity.

Useful link:

– Ceramics