Effects of processing parameters in P/M steel forging on part properties: A review part II forging of sintered compact

In the last decade, powder metallurgy (P/M) technology has made marked advances in competitive manufacturing. P/M offers design opportunities that are not possible with other methods, as well as significant cost savings. The processing parameters, material characteristics, individual stages of parts production, deformation and densification mechanics and tooling, and preform design influence the properties of the P/M part and related economics. Therefore, a review of the various parameters involved in the different stages of P/M steel forging in net-shape manufacturing and their implications on resulting properties of the P/M parts is presented in a three-part review. Part I discussed the issues of powder preparation, compaction, and sintering in the stages of preparing a sintered compact. This review (Part II) identifies key parameters in forging the sintered compact that influence the properties of the powder forged part. Part III reviews currently available analysis methods for studying the powder forging process.