Metal powders are the primary raw materials used in powder metallurgy and come in various forms, including elemental powders, pre-alloyed powders, and master alloys. The powders are mixed with lubricants and binders to improve flowability and compressibility, and then compacted into a green part using a hydraulic press or an isostatic press. The green part is then sintered in a furnace where it undergoes a metallurgical transformation resulting in a fully dense part with mechanical properties comparable to wrought materials. 

ATO Lab Plus ultrasonic metal powder atomizers produce fine and uniform powders with high flowability and compressibility, making them ideal for PM applications. ATO metal powders have a narrow particle size distribution, resulting in high packing density and good green strength. The powders also have excellent sintering properties, resulting in fully dense parts with high mechanical properties. In addition, ATO Lab Plus atomizers enable the production of high-purity powders, which are essential for certain PM applications, such as the manufacture of medical implants. 

The PM industry uses a wide range of alloys, including low alloy steels, stainless steels, tool steels, copper and copper alloys, nickel and nickel alloys, titanium and titanium alloys, and refractory metals. The choice of alloy depends on the desired mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and thermal properties of the final part.