Multi-objective parameter optimization for stacking and sintering of screen-printed magnetic sheets

Screen printing enables the production of very thin magnetic sheet laminations in near net shape geometry. This minimizes material waste in production and simultaneously reduces losses during machine operation and in-creases geometric design freedom. The subsequent sintering process step is particularly relevant, since the geometrical and magnetic properties are defined, and relevant process costs are caused by the heat treatment. This paper presents the requirements of the debinding and sintering process for magnetic sheets and identifies relevant influencing factors to achieve defined product specifications in multiple iterations, using design of experiments. It focuses on the influencing factors furnace atmosphere, sintering temperature, holding time and stacking height and their impact on the magnetic and geometric properties of sintered magnetic sheets.