Issues and trends in powder injection molding ressearch and applications

Powder injection molding (PIM) is one of the most important manufacturing processes. PIM is a net-shape fabrication technology that combines the complex shapeforming ability of plastic injection molding, the precision of die-casting, and the material selection flexibility of powder metallurgy. This paper discusses about many ongoing issues and trends of increasing attentions and interests on PIM research and applications. Furthermore, future research directions on simulation, optimization and informatics are discussed.