Improvements in P/M Green Strength using Micronized Cellulose Particles (MCP)

New P/M lubricant formulations implement micron-sized (“micronized”) cellulose particles (MCP) to create MCP-enhanced lubricants. Surprising increases in green strength, up to 70% for iron and even higher for stainless steel are obtained with standard transverse rupture bars shapes made with 0.75 wt-% additive concentrations in iron (MPIF F-0000) and 316L stainless steel powders in comparison with the same parts made under the same conditions with industry standard lubricantbinders of zinc stearate, ethylene-bis-stearamide (EBS), and oxidized polyolefin (OP) wax. Two specific forms of new MCP materials are used in these tests: micronized cotton fibers (MCF), and micronized starch particles (MSP). The findings support expectations of significantly increased process yields for green parts and related production cost savings.