SIMULATION OF SINTERING IN POWDER METALLURGY APPLICATION FOR FERROUS MATERIALS

This research project is an insight of the computer simulation of sintering process used
in developing parts through Powder Metallurgy. Sintering process depends on the
particle size, shape, and distribution of particle size. Different types of powders will
result in different packing on compaction and porosity on sintering. The objective of this
research is to identify the mathematical equations that can be used for monitoring
sintering process. These equations were used to generate the computer simulation to
identify suitable time and temperature for sintering process.
This study was divided into two parts. First part deals with monosized particles where
porosity on compaction was evaluated. Sintering parameters such as temperature and
time were considered affecting on the grain growth or particle diffusion as a result of
these parameters. At various temperatures, porosity was recorded and the simulation
data showed that the porosity was reduced with increased in time and temperature.
In the second part, metal powders of two different sized or bimodal packing were
considered. The effects of parameters such as the particle size ratio and the presence of
the composition of the large particle size powder on the fractional density of the
powders were investigated. The porosity of the powders was also evaluated and the data
showed that the fractional porosity was reduced in less time compared to monosized
particle.