The future of ferrous PM in Europe

I believe that the competitive advantage of ferrous PM will in the future be enhanced by several factors. Among the technical ones are the achievement of much improved precision by effectively eliminating segregation. This will result in more precise composition of the components which in turn gives less dimensional scatter as well as closer control of mechanical properties. By using computer modelling and digitally controlled multi-axis presses it will further be possible to eliminate defects such as cracks - which have haunted the PM industry for generations. New applications will be developed - among the most interesting are the soft magnetic components for motors and other electric equipment. Finally the growth of the PM industry as such will result in improved economy - lower cost - simply by the economy of scale and by improvements in the manufacturing methods.