Powder Metallurgy — Challenges and Prospects of Current Development

Abstract

A brief overview of the current state of powder metallurgy presented at the annual European Congress on Powder Metallurgy in September 2012 (Basel) is provided. Particular attention is paid to the technologies that have proven their benefits during the economic crisis. They include hot isostatic pressing and injection molding of powders. Great attention is focused on the production of precision articles. This area is expected to actively employ three-dimensional automated design and fabrication systems as well as controlled sintering and testing at all stages of production in future. There are potential options for the so-called additive production, including metal laser deposition, selective laser melting, electron beam melting, and arc deposition.