Markets Served

Automotive

In automotive applications, powder metal manufacturing is frequently used to produce large volumes of small to miniature parts like gears, cams, and pinions. We build precision dies for each application, which allows for high repeatability and accuracy batch after batch. Common applications include parts for:

• Brake systems
• Actuator applications for a variety of motorized components
• Motorized components in sunroofs, car seats, windows, windshield wipers, and more
• Four wheel drive shifting
• Electronics
• Powertrain
• Thermal management systems

Motion Control Systems

Vehicles, drones, robotics, automation and other applications need motion control systems, actuators, and servos to maintain their efficiency more consistently. Specifically, motion control systems help optimize fuel efficiency with lightweight parts, encourage compact designs, and mitigate noise vibration harshness (NVH), all of which contribute to an overall eco-friendly and energy-efficient vehicle or system.

Powder metallurgy is a good fit for manufacturing components that are small and intricate, and the sintering process imparts additional strength and durability. Custom powder metal blends can also be formulated to enhance physical properties such as magnetism, corrosion resistance, and thermal conductivity.

Robots and Automation

Applications in the robotics and automation industries require parts that withstand high-speed motion, repetitive movements, and intense duty cycles. Components that move arms, grippers, and tooling are subject to heavy payloads, vibrations, and, frequently, high temperature operating conditions. Powder metal materials can be customized to enhance properties that improve wear resistance, tensile strength, and resistance to damage from high temperatures and corrosive substances.

Here are some applications in robotics and automation that are well-suited to powdered metal components:

• Hydraulic assemblies
• Industrial tools and machinery
• Security hardware and interlocking safety systems
• Surgical robots
• Manufacturing processes (assembly, painting, welding)
• Material handling
• Quality control

Semiconductors & Electronics

Powder metallurgy is an excellent choice for the semiconductor and electronics industries due to its unique combination of advantages for manufacturing small, intricate components. The process offers high precision and repeatability, capable of achieving tolerances as tight as 0.001 inches, which is critical for complex electronic assemblies. PM is highly compatible with miniaturization, allowing for the cost-effective mass production of tiny parts like pins, contacts, and specialized gearing, often with minimal material waste (near-net shaping).

Additionally, it supports material diversity. Stainless steel and copper-infiltrated materials are essential for achieving the specific electrical and thermal conductivity properties required by advanced electronic devices.