Feedstock Formulation of Open-Pore Cell Copper Foam via Metal Injection Molding

Feedstock preparation is one of the most crucial steps that will influence the metal injection molding process. In this study, the properties of Cu and space holder powder were determined. Powder morphology was captured using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Three different ratios of feedstocks were premixed with potassium carbonate as space holder using Turbulence Shaker mixer prior to mixing with constant binder system consist of waste rubber (WR). Mixes of three feedstocks with from 40, 50 and 60 wt. % were carried out in Brabender Plasticoder. All feedstocks were mixed at constant powder loading. The feedstocks were successfully injection molded using Vertical Injection Molding machine at 200°C.