PM when axial compaction works
Press-and-sinter is attractive when the gear can be formed around a practical pressing direction, required density and tooth geometry, with secondary sizing or machining reserved for critical surfaces.
Custom spur and straight-tooth gears are reviewed from the drawing rather than treated as a standard catalog item. Tooth form, bore fit, load, material, heat treatment and production volume determine whether PM, MIM or a machined route is the better fit.
Straight-tooth gears can look simple, but manufacturing choice depends on much more than the tooth profile. For a repeat-volume OEM program, SINTS reviews the gear blank, tooth geometry, bore and hub features, required density, load direction, wear surfaces, noise/backlash targets and any post-sinter sizing or machining before recommending a route.
Press-and-sinter is attractive when the gear can be formed around a practical pressing direction, required density and tooth geometry, with secondary sizing or machining reserved for critical surfaces.
MIM may be evaluated for smaller gears or integrated gear-like parts with cross features, undercuts or geometry that is difficult to compact conventionally.
Low volumes, large gears, very tight datums or tooth requirements outside practical sintered capability may be better left machined or finished by gear cutting/grinding.
SINTS does not quote a gear from the image alone. Before quotation, engineering confirms whether the geometry is compatible with the intended powder route, where density or shrinkage may affect function, which dimensions need secondary control, and what inspection data should be agreed for first articles and production.
For a useful first review, send the drawing or 3D model, material target, annual volume, mating-part information, critical dimensions, load or wear conditions, heat-treatment requirements and any surfaces that must be machined or ground.
Request an Initial DFM Review →
