Fabrication

The copper-infiltrated powder metallurgy steel part has seven functional levels that are pressed using three upper punches, two separate shelf levels, and two lower punches, with a proprietary triple upper actuating mechanism used to achieve extensive powder transfers and fill compensation. The adapter is pressed to net shape with plating as the only secondary operation performed. Properties include 7.7 g/cm³ density, 95,000 psi ultimate tensile strength, 8% elongation, 100 ft. per lb., unnotched Charpy impact energy, and 90 HRB hardness.

Results

Aggressive PM part design yielded 40% savings over alternative fabrication methods.