Metal and ceramic injection molding
Metal injection molding (MIM) and ceramic injection molding (CIM) are advanced manufacturing technologies used in the manufacturing of complex, precision, net shape components from metal and ceramic powder respectively. Together these two technologies are popularly known as powder injection molding (PIM). Metal and ceramic injection molding technology offers design flexibility for an unlimited choice of material offered by powder metallurgy (powdered metal and ceramic).
Metal and ceramic injection molding provide better dimensional and productivity limits of isostatic pressing and slip casting. It improves lenience capacity of investment casting, mechanical strength, and the shape limitation of the products. The low cost, complex designing capabilities of MIM and CIS technology offer higher economies of scale and lessen manufacturing time by eradicating production steps such as machining and finishing.
There are four steps involved in metal and ceramic injection molding process; feedstock preparation, injection modelling, debinding and sintering.
Metal injection molding holds a larger market share compared to ceramic injection molding. This is attributed to its increased use in automobiles and consumers market (such as watches and eyeglasses).
The ceramic injection molding is widely used in manufacturing of medical and health care equipment. Metal injection molding leaves a lower carbon foot print compared to some other injection technique such as ceramic casting and other injection molding techniques.
Featured articles and news
C20 Society; Buildings at Risk List 2025
10 more buildings published with updates on the past decade of buildings featured.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme and certifications consultation
Summary of government consultation, closing 11 June 2025.
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
From project managers to rising stars, sustainability pioneers and more.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.
The emancipation of women in art.
Call for independent National Grenfell oversight mechanism
MHCLG share findings of Building Safety Inquiry in letter to Secretary of State and Minister for Building Safety.
The Architectural Technology Awards
AT Awards now open for this the sixth decade of CIAT.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson awards
Deadline for submissions Friday 30 May 2025.
The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems
Top ten benefits of this notable innovation.
Encouraging individuals to take action saving water at home, work, and in their communities.
Takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing
The why of becoming a Mental Health Instructor explained.
Mental health awareness week 13-18 May
The theme is communities, they can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and a sense purpose.
Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling
CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 shows.
Design and construction material libraries
Material, sample, product or detail libraries a key component of any architectural design practice.