2.6.1
Introduction
Powder metallurgy (P/M) is a mass production manufacturing technology utilizing metal powders with compaction and sintering technology that enables the production of net or near net shape parts. Advantages of the P/M process include a high level of material utilization (little or no scrap), flexibility of design, and high production rates. The consequence of these advantages is parts with lower final unit cost relative to other manufacturing techniques.This section will review the P/M process, including part production techniques, structural P/M material, and the magnetic properties of iron-based P/M materials for both dc and ac applications.