Forming metal foams by simpler methods for cheaper solutions

The advantages advanced pore morphology (APM) and a reduction in production complexity are discussed. These two aspects are key to low-cost PM manufacturing of aluminum foam parts. APM approach is based on the separation of the two main steps of the powder metallurgical process for production of metal foam parts, namely foam expansion and part shaping. APM metal foam parts consist of small-volume foam elements joined to each other in a separate process step. It is pointed that with a reduced part price, existing markets could be served with low-cost but high-quality metal foam parts.