Rheological Characterizations of Copper - Palm Stearin Based Binder System for Metal Injection Moulding

This research paper reports the findings of feedstock establishment works for Metal Injection Moulding (MIM) of copper parts employing palm stearin based binder system. The main objective of this study is to explore an appropriate formulation of palm stearin-polyethylene (PSPE) binder system of copper feedstock that enabling the MIM process. Two formulations; 60%wt PS and 70%wt PS with constant powder loading of 60 vol. % Cu has been prepared. The mixing process of copper powder and binders was performed at the speed of 50 rpm at 160°C. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) has been used for the microstructural study of starting materials and mixtures. The rheological characterizarions for both formulations that were carried out using Rosand RH2000 Capillary Rheometer exhibited the pseudo plastic flow and in good agreement with previous findings.