Rheological properties analysis of WC-Co injection feedstock

Abstract

In order to produce a defect-free component, the feedstock composition plays as a critical factor. The feedstock needs to meet the following criteria; high solid loading with excellent flowability. The flowability of the feedstock is greatly determined by the rheological response. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to investigate the rheological behaviour of MIM feedstock comprising of WC-Co powder, with a binder system of Palm Stearin (PS) and Polyethylene (PE), by means of a capillary rheometry. The viscosity and shear rate of various feedstocks at powder loading ranging from 59, 61 and 63% were measured at L/D = 10 die. The rheological properties such as flow behaviour index, activation energy and moldability parameter of each feedstock were calculated and from the analysis, it was concluded that they show a good pseudo-plastic behaviour within acceptable ranges in MIM.