MIM and Sintered parts: certified quality and operational cost savings of up to 30%

It is a matter of geometry and density. Traditional Sintering (PM) is unbeatable for simple shapes (flat gears, bushings) and very high volumes (>50,000 pieces), but it leaves internal porosity (80-90% density). MIM (Metal Injection Molding), on the other hand, is the only choice if you have complex 3D geometries, thin walls, threads, or undercuts that would require expensive CNC machining. With MIM, we achieve a density of 96-99%, practically identical to solid metal. Send us the 3D file: our engineers will indicate the correct technology in a free feasibility analysis.

It is an old myth related to poor-quality sintering. MIM uses ultra-fine powders (2-15 microns) that fuse almost completely. A heat-treated 17-4PH MIM component reaches hardness (40-45 HRC) and tensile strength (>1100 MPa) comparable to forged steel. For critical structural applications, we perform tensile tests and density checks in the laboratory to certify that mechanical performance meets specifications.

MIM typically guarantees tolerances of ±0.3% – ±0.5% on the nominal dimension. Since there is a dimensional shrinkage of about 20% during the process, we do not leave critical dimensions (e.g., H7 bearing seats) to chance: we plan for a coining phase post-sintering or a light CNC grinding operation to guarantee the hundredth of a millimeter. You receive the finished part according to the drawing; how we achieve the tolerance is our responsibility.

Pitting emerges if the debinding or sintering process is not controlled and leaves residual micro-bubbles. We use the MIM Silica Sol process and sintering cycles in a controlled atmosphere specific to 316L Stainless Steel intended for polishing. Furthermore, for the luxury or marine sectors, we can apply HIP (Hot Isostatic Pressing), a treatment that compacts the material at very high pressure, eliminating any residual microporosity and ensuring a perfect mirror surface.

MIM requires a mold, so there is an initial setup cost. However, molds in Asia cost approximately 50% less than in Europe. This drastically lowers the Break-Even Point. Often, MIM becomes more cost-effective than CNC starting from as few as 500-1,000 pieces. If you have a complex component that costs you €15 to mill, with MIM you could pay €3: the mold pays for itself with the first order.

Absolutely, yes; it is the greatest economic advantage of MIM. If you currently weld a flange onto a tube or assemble three machined parts, we can redesign everything as a single monolithic component. You eliminate assembly costs and the risk of breakage at welds, and you manage only one SKU in stock instead of three. Our technicians assist you in co-design to achieve this result.

We provide the finished component, ready for the assembly line or sale. We internally manage heat treatments (such as quenching or T6 solution treatment), galvanic treatments (Nickel, Zinc, Chrome plating), and aesthetic finishes (Painting, Cataphoresis, PVD). You won’t have to manage subcontractors: the responsibility for final quality lies entirely with EDR.

The molds are your exclusive property 100%. Unlike plastic molds that wear out, MIM molds are made of special hardened steels and last for hundreds of thousands of cycles. EDR guarantees free routine maintenance at our production partners for the entire life of the project.

We do not rely on paper certificates. Chemical compliance is verified via spectrometer both during production and, on a sample basis, in our Genoa laboratory or at certified third-party bodies. Furthermore, our Allianz Product Liability Policy protects you legally and economically in case of damage resulting from hidden material defects—a guarantee that a trader or direct importer cannot provide.