The vanes in a turbine are SINTERED. Actually, they can actually "sinter forge" parts. So process is critical.

Alloy is critical as is grain or powder size.

As for the design here is where some have made errors (maybe): since the MIM part will have porosity (10 percent less dense than, say, milled from bar stock) two identical alloys compared the MIM is weaker from an tensile strength and durability perspective.

So what must one do?

Use larger bearing surfaces (sigma = Pressure/AREA); more generous radii and chamfers (lower stress concentration).

Do that and you're fine. I had a conversation with one of the HK Engineers at the NRA Convention and we were speaking about that. We were speaking of Gen4 Glocks and Apex Tactical's success and my anecdotal observations and trials.

He agrees (as I knew he would). Look at the MIM parts that exist. The "good" applications are low stress (1911 grip safety) or the parts are designed with the mechanical/molecular limitations in mind.


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"One cannot awaken a man who pretends to be asleep."