Study of warm compaction of Alumix 123 L

Although powder metallurgy (PM) material is dominated by ferrous alloys, there is a growing interest in Al PM. The usage of Al PM in automotive applications depends on the development of higher density and improved dynamic properties. Several approaches have been proposed to increase density of sintered parts. Warm compaction process of Al powder was used to achieve high density. In this study the authors focused on the effect of warm compaction on Alumix 123 L (ECKA Granules) powder blend. It has been found that warm compaction at 110 degrees C led to a reduction in the ejection force by 27.9%, increased green density to 94% of theoretical density and increased sintered strength to 315 MPa as compared to those pressed at room temperature.