Relationship between fractional porosity and tensile strength for high-porosity sintered ferrous powder compacts

The current study examines the mechanical properties of pressed and sintered ferrous powder metallurgy compacts with low relative densities, between 0.6-0.8. Three different powder particles compositions were investigated: eutectoid steel, stainless steel, and stainless tool steel compacts. To obtain information concerning the tensile properties of these low-density compacts, simple tensile tests were performed. In addition, Vickers microhardness tests were performed on metallographic sections of the tensile bars. The results from these tests are used to compare the measured relative strength values with estimates generated by previously published models. Also, the fracture surfaces of selected compacts were examined in the scanning electron microscope to obtain information concerning the fracture process. Starting powders were Anchorsteel 1000, 409 stainless steel, and HC sub x .