Powdered metal parts have become popular across the markets, mainly driven by rising demands in the automotive and aerospace industries. Due to this, the press and sintered materials industry is expected to grow steadily at a compounded rate of 6.3% from 2022 to 2030. These components are consumed mainly in the US and China. After them, other countries come onto the scene. How do you get powdered metal parts? The niche companies use powder metallurgical methods to produce them. Metal powders are compressed under heat or other suitable conditions to give them desired shapes and sizes. Everyone relies on this system to reduce industrial waste, manufacturing costs, etc. Plus, these robust and greener solutions align well with the evolving needs of prominent aerospace and automobile sectors. Hence, learning about the role of metal powder components in these two areas can be interesting.
- Aerospace
This industry deals with high-end spacecraft, aircraft, and other systems. Since all these systems operate in extreme environments, aerospace companies need lightweight, strong, and corrosion-resistant materials to ensure they fly smoothly and safely. Most powder metallurgy components perform well when exposed to UV light, chemicals, and radiation. Narrow particles of the metal powders create consistent and harmonious designs during compaction. Their fluidity ensures even density. They also contain less oxygen. Due to this, their temperature-fighting abilities tend to be higher. That’s why you can see widespread application of this specific material in the industry.
Metal powder parts are used in different sections of aircraft engines, including turbine disks, combustion chambers, compressor blades, etc. Bolts, nuts, screws, and other fasteners can also be of powdered metal. Other areas where powder metal parts are used include wing spars, fuselage frames, electrical contacts, and more.
- Automobile
Another significant market for powder metallurgical components is the automotive manufacturing sector. Studies show that nearly 80% of these products are used in this industry, and 75% are used in engines and transmission systems alone. Large car manufacturers are exploring automation opportunities for enhanced mobility and safety reasons. Fortunately, powder metallurgy parts work with both manual and automatic transmissions. Nevertheless, two significant areas where powdered metal components are heavily used include transmission and engines. These can be applied in gear shifts, clutch hubs, turbine hubs, valve guides, balancer gears, pulleys, sensor rings, etc.
- The future of the metal powder components in the two leading sectors
The use of powdered metal components is only expected to increase in the coming time due to cost efficiency. This process consumes less energy than traditional metalworking processes, so these industries find them more affordable. The precision and consistency of the components is another critical aspect. Whether cars or aircraft, makers need safe vehicle parts for smooth and successful operations. Since they also require different sizes of complex geometric components in large batches, faster and more consistent production methods guarantee hassle-free supply.
Earlier, these manufacturing companies depended on components produced through traditional methods. Inconsistent designs and late supplies were some common challenges. However, new and cost-effective technologies have alleviated many of their concerns, allowing them to expand their plans without burdening the planet. Plus, they can expect better production margins.
