The effect of particle shape on the mechanical properties of a powder bed was examined. Angular stainless steel powder was processed in several steps toward sphericity by a hybridizer. Various tests were carried out with the prepared powder. The coefficients of internal friction and cohesive shear strength decreased as the particle increased in sphericity owing to decrease in the interlocking effect. It was also found that flowability is improved with increasing sphericity by measuring compressibility under tapping and in a poured angle of repose.
