| Abstract Scope |
One benefit of powdered metal (PM) is its net shape capability. However, a majority of PM parts still require secondary machining operations for more demanding dimensional requirements. Due to the porosity of PM, machining can be challenging; and for better machinability, machining enhancers are often used. Manganese sulfide (MnS) has been the industry standard machining additive for over 30 years. While MnS provides an improvement in machinability it also promotes staining and rust formation in certain conditions. For that reason, this investigation was done to study the effect of new additives, recently introduced by North American Höganäs (NAH), on the corrosion, microstructure, mechanical properties, and machinability of 316L Stainless Steel. All green materials were supplied by NAH, and consisted of the base (316L), and parts enhanced with additives: Mix1, Mix2, Mix3, Mix4, and Mix5. Sintering was done by GKN Sinter Metals at 2300°F in a 100% H2 atmosphere. |