Production of High Alloy Powders by Water Atomization

Abstract

The production of high alloy powders suitable for cold pressing presents certain specific technical problems. This is because, in general, to produce correct hardening response and full mechanical properties, these powders must be fully prealloyed. Fully prealloyed powders are often of high yield strength and therefore low compressibility. Further- more, powder surface oxides must be minimized so that sintering may proceed to completion and finished parts can be of minimal porosity. This paper describes the methods which Powdrex has developed for the production of such powders, together with the production and experimental atomizer facilities, and also includes a general review of the main parameters in water atomization processes for these materials. PM/0388