P M ON THE REBOUND

Developments and important trends in the P/M industry are reviewed, ba sed on information provided by member companies of the Metal Powder In dustries Federation. This annual assessment focuses on new powders exh ibiting unique properties, automation and control in compacting presse s, sintering developments including atmosphere control and high temper ature sintering, and new P/M parts and product applications such as sp ecialty alloys, composite materials, and coated carbides. Overall, the P/M industry in North America appears poised for a new round of growt h.