Iron powder explained

Iron powder has several uses; for example production of magnetic alloys and certain types of steels.

Iron powder is formed as a whole from several other iron particles. The particle sizes vary anywhere from 20-200 μm. The iron properties differ depending on the production method and history of a specific iron powder. There are three types of iron powder classifications: reduced iron powder, atomized powder,^[1] and electrolytic iron powder. Each type is used in various applications depending on their properties. There is very little difference in the visual appearances of reduced iron powder and atomized iron powder.^[2]

Applications

Automobiles

Most iron powders are used for automobile parts.

Engine parts

• Cam shaft pulley
• Cam shaft sprocket
• Crank shaft pulley
• Crank shaft sprocket
• Cap crank bearing
• Valve guide
• Valve seat
• Rocker arm chip
• Oil pump inner rotor
• Oil pump outer rotor

Steering parts, suspension, and brake parts

• Power steering rotor cam ring
• Pressure plate
• Rack guide
• Shock absorber
  • Ball joint ABS sensor

Seats and door parts

• Seat lifter cam set
• Door mirror plate clutch
• Striker
• Slider

Transmission parts

• M/T Synchronizer hub
• A/T Hub clutch
  • Synchronizer ring Retaining plate
  • Synchronizer key Pressure plate
  • Shift fork Turbine hub
• Weight governor
• Cam stater T. C.
• Outer race

Other

Iron powder is also used for the following:

• Bearings and filter parts
• Machine parts
• Hand Warmers
• High strength/wear-resistant parts
• Magnetic materials
• Friction parts (mainly automobile parts)^[3]
• As a fuel^{[4] [5]}
• Oxygen scavengers

See also

• Metal powder

Notes and References

1. By spraying high-pressure water against liquid iron.
2. Web site: What is iron powder?. JFE Steel Corporation. 8 January 2014. 24 April 2006. https://web.archive.org/web/20060424085400/http://www.jfe-steel.co.jp/en/products/ironpowders/about.html. dead.
3. Web site: Applications of Iron Powder. JFE Steel Corporation. 8 January 2014. 25 October 2006. https://web.archive.org/web/20061025171543/http://www.jfe-steel.co.jp/en/products/ironpowders/youto.html. dead.
4. https://www.teamsolid.org/ Team SOLID
5. National Geographic Magazine, nr 12, 2018