MIM technology, or metal injection molding, is primarily used for producing small, complex products and components in large quantities. Similar to other injection molding processes, heated material is injected into a mold to create a new object with the same shape as the mold. However, while other injection molding methods mainly use rubber or plastic, MIM is characterized by using metal powder mixed with a binder—processed into granules—as the molding material. A major advantage of the method is that any alloy can be produced if a company has its own compounding facility. In our latest article, we’ve collected 3 interesting facts about MIM technology.
1. Dynamic growth of 11% per year
The global market for metal injection molding reached a value of USD 3.37 billion in 2021. Forecasts suggest that the market will almost double by 2027, reaching USD 6.41 billion, which corresponds to an annual growth rate of 11.31% between 2021 and 2027. What drives this dynamic growth? Primarily the fact that MIM is an extremely efficient and effective method, and demand for it is increasing worldwide. Since MIM technology is especially advantageous for the mass production of small, complex precision components, both the automotive and medical industries are increasingly using parts manufactured with this process.
2. It has existed for more than 70 years
Metal injection molding only became widely known and used in the 1990s, but the process itself originated in the 1950s. Russian scientists were the first to publish a study describing a similar method—though their process used heated ceramic instead of metal. In the following decades, ceramic was replaced with metal powder, leading to the development of the MIM technology we know today.
3. Achieves up to 99% density
Several factors can influence the density of components produced through metal injection molding. However, for steel parts, densities as high as 99% can be achieved—much higher than those reached with other metalworking methods. This is important because density affects the strength and durability of objects: denser parts are stronger and have a longer lifespan than those with lower density.