Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Advanced Materials IFAMMetal injection molding (MIM) is the key process when it comes to the economical series production of high-precision, complex metal components. MIM combines the design freedom of plastic injection molding with the mechanical properties of metallic materials. Fraunhofer IFAM has been one of the leading research institutions in this field for over 30 years and supports industry partners in implementing innovative material and component solutions in new products.
Why metal injection molding?
The MIM process enables completely new possibilities in the manufacture of complex metal components – especially when conventional manufacturing processes reach their limits. The result:
- Complex geometries without cost-intensive post-processing
- High quantities with consistently high quality
- Economical production even materials that are difficult to machine
- Material diversity: stainless steels, low-alloy steels, titanium, nickel alloys, copper, aluminum, and more
Our range of services at Fraunhofer IFAM
With our comprehensive plant technology, we cover the entire MIM process chain – from the initial idea to the production-ready component:
- Material development – customized alloy development
- Feedstock development – optimized compositions for maximum process reliability
- Injection molding & parameter development – from components <1 g to 200 g
- Debinding & sintering – precisely coordinated process control for low-distortion components and optimal material properties
- Simulation of the injection molding process – prediction and optimization even before the actual tool is built
- Quality analysis & troubleshooting – comprehensive monitoring and troubleshooting
In addition to classic MIM, we also offer:
- Support for the industrialization of your MIM projects
- 2-component metal powder injection molding (e.g., for functional integration or material combinations)
- Development of complex geometries using new developments in sinter joining and freeform MIM
Your project in focus – feel free to contact us!
If you need complex metal components or are looking for support in developing new MIM processes, we are your point of contact. Take advantage of our expertise to efficiently bring your product ideas into series production.