Process Comparison

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Property Name   Metal Injection Molding
ShapesThin-walled: Cylindrical, Thin-walled: Cubic, Thin-walled: Complex
(Flat)
 
Part sizeWeight: Typically < 9 oz. 
MaterialsMetals, Alloy Steel, Carbon Steel, Cast Iron, Stainless Steel, Copper, Nickel, Titanium
(Ceramics, Composites)
 
Surface finish - Ra (μin)25 - 35
(16 - 80)
 
Tolerance (in.)± 0.005
(± 0.0015)
 
Max wall thickness0.04 - 0.25
(0.01 - 1.2)
 
Quantity10000 - 1000000
(1000 - 1000000)
 
Lead timeWeeks 
AdvantagesCan form complex shapes and fine details, Good surface finish, Good mechanical properties, High production rate 
DisadvantagesLimited part size, Limited to thin walled parts, High tooling and equipment cost, Long lead time possible 
ApplicationsMetal components in electronics, surgical instruments, consumer products 
Typical values shown first (Feasible values in parentheses)

Disclaimer: All process specifications reflect the approximate range of a process's capabilities and should be viewed only as a guide. Actual capabilities are dependent upon the manufacturer, equipment, material, and part requirements.