UFP is answering the call for more performance and economy in fine powders - from a wide range of industries and applications. Among these are surgical instruments and components produced by MIM (metal injection molding), and special alloys for defense applications.

In metal injection molding, UFP powders maintain edge integrity, corrosion resistance, and strength in medical and surgical devices where dimensional specifications are among the tightest. In dentistry, MIM has replaced expensive investment casting in the production of orthodontia parts which rely on essential detail.

With UFP as a partner, "Near Net Shape" MIM technology is closer to achieving even greater economies by eliminating secondary machining. Because UFP's MIM powders have minimal variation in particle size, close tolerances and edge integrity are more easily attainable.

In other demanding surface coating applications such as High Velocity Oxy-Fuel (HVOF), U1traFine Powder Technology has stimulated market growth. UFP's economical iron, nickel, and cobalt-based fine powders have allowed the latest generation of HVOF equipment to realize its full potential. This equipment relies on the smallest, most uniform particles to achieve the required density.

Other markets which benefit from UFP's unique processes include sputtering targets, rapid prototyping, electronic inks, pastes, and adhesives.

Powders with special magnetic properties find application in
stealth technology.

Electronic inks and pastes are
a major market for fine powders.

UFP serves niche markets where specialized needs require flexibility in a powder supplier. From alloy composition to final particle size, UFP can design powders with a full range of properties. To meet increasing needs of specialization and customers' raw materials differentiation, UFP has multiple melting units and secondary powder processing capabilities. Proprietary production processes and a sophisticated metallurgical lab support UFP's ability to respond to customers' unique requirements.

To support its "application-specific" flexibility, UFP produces the following powders:

These powders are available in -10, -15, -20, and -30 micron size range. UFP's inventoried, standard product line includes such grades as 17-4 PH, 316L, low alloy and tool steels, and magnetic alloys.

Medical devices depend on fine powders
for precise shape.
Photo courtesy of Advanced Forming Technology, Inc.

Metal Injection Molded (MIM) parts utilize
UFP powders for critical details.
Clockwise from upper right: fastener,
turbine wheel, and nozzle.
Photo courtesy of Parmatech Corporation