Characterization of FeCoV Alloy Processed by PIM/MIM Route

In this study the characterization of FeCo-2V alloys toroidal samples produced by PIM/MIM technology was presented. The feedstock for metal injection molding (MIM) was prepared by mixing starting FeCoV powder with a low viscosity binder. Green samples were subjected to solvent debinding and subsequent thermal debinding followed by sintering. Sintering was performed during 3.5 hours from 1370 degrees C to 1460 degrees C in hydrogen atmosphere in order to attain the appropriate mechanical and magnetic properties. Microstructure, hardness HV10 and magnetic hysteresis B(H) were investigated as a function of sintering temperature. Optimum combination of functional properties was observed after sintering at temperature of 1370 degrees C. In addition, magnetic properties were analyzed as frequency dependent and successfully simulated in operating frequency range from 5 Hz to 60 Hz