The debinding process refers to the removal of the primary binding material from a molded component before the sintering process. This step is crucial to ensure the final part's sturdiness and prevent clogging of furnaces, which can lead to additional expenses in manufacturing.
There are several methods of debinding, but the choice depends on the type of binder used. One common method is thermal debinding, which involves subjecting the component to controlled temperatures to decompose and evaporate the binder. This method is cost-effective but has a longer processing cycle and may result in poor "brown" strength.
Another method is supercritical fluids (SFC) debinding, which occurs in a gaseous acid environment. This method offers good "brown part" strength and is environmentally friendly but has limited suppliers and materials due to its patented process.
The most commonly used debinding method in powder metallurgy, including Metal Injection Molding (MIM), is solvent debinding. This process utilizes solvents such as acetone, heptane, trichloroethylene, and water. It results in good "brown part" strength and employs a closed-loop system for consistency. However, solvent debinding is not as environmentally friendly as other methods.
The debinding process is essential to remove binders that are necessary for shaping the part during the production process. If not properly removed, even trace amounts of binder can contaminate the sintering phase. Multiple passes through the furnace may be required to ensure complete removal of the binder.
During debinding, components can become more fragile and prone to breakage. To mitigate this, a presintering stage in the debinding furnace can help strengthen the parts before further handling.
It is crucial to maintain a clean process throughout debinding and sintering to prevent contaminants from interacting with the sintering chamber. Proper processes, such as separating the binders from sintering powders, can be followed to ensure a clean and efficient debinding process.
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