Metal Injection Molding
AFP’s metal injection molding (MIM) is a high-quality process for manufacturing complex, biocompatible, and durable medical device components in large quantities. It can achieve cost savings and material efficiencies compared to traditional machining. AFP’s capabilities include component prototypes for scale up to commercialization, then transition to full production volumes.
MIM parts achieve 95% to 99% of wrought material density—suitable for load-bearing or high-fatigue components. Once tooling is created, MIM is economical for medium to high production runs, especially for parts too expensive for CNC due to geometry.
AFP’s MIM Advantages
End-to-end control ensures consistency, quality, and traceability
In-house tooling — with skilled tool designers and tooling and metrology machines. Molds are available in various sizes and specifications. Soft tooling enables low-volume production. Internal tooling allows faster lead times, reduces long-term tooling expense, and achieves superior quality control.
Material utilization: achieves 95% material usage, minimizing waste versus 10%–60% in machining
Complex geometries: enables intricate features, miniaturized parts, and tolerances of ±0.2 mm.
Biocompatibility: uses medical-grade metals like stainless steel, titanium, and cobalt-chrome alloys that meet strict regulatory standards
Class ISO 7- and ISO 8-certified facilities — dedicated to MIM in cleanroom environments.
Our processes utilize a comprehensive range of medical-grade materials and alloys such as:
- Low alloy
- Stainless steels
- Tool steels
- Special alloys (FN50)
- Soft magnetics
