What is the Minimum Achievable Hole Diameter Limit in MIM?

Date：2025-07-25   Views：1001

Answer:

The minimum hole diameter achievable with MIM technology typically ranges down to 0.1mm under optimal conditions, while 0.4mm is more common in standard production.

The actual performance depends on various factors, such as material properties, process control, and design.

Key Factors Affecting Minimum Hole Diameter:

• Powder Particle Size: MIM requires metal powders with particle size ≤20μm (ideal range: 2–8μm).

• Feedstock Rheology: The binder must ensure high fluidity to fully fill micro-cavities in the mold.

• Debinding & Sintering Control: Smaller pores increase the risk of binder residue, which can clog pores or cause deformation.

Examples of Material-Specific Design Rules (of Minimum Hole Diameter):

• 17-4PH Stainless: 0.6mm

• Ti-6AI-4V: 0.8mm

• MIM-2200: 0.5mm