Abstract
The effect of debinding conditions on the mechanical properties of martensitic stainless steel fabricated by metal injection molding process was investigated. The specimens were made by injecting the mixture of water-atomized powder and polyamide binder into a metallic mold. The compacts were debound in air at a temperature between 533 K and 593 K for 7.2 ks, and then sintered in vacuum at 1573 K and 1623 K for 7.2 ks. The carbon content of the sintered compacts decreased linearly with elevating debinding temperature. This means that the carbon content of sintered compacts can be successfully controlled by the debinding temperature. The mechanical properties of the sintered compacts were strongly affected by strengthening of matrix by carbon and formation of NbC. The sintered compact of 5 μm powder showed ductility, while the sintered compact of 10 μm powder showed high strength.
