Abstract:The flow properties, sintering densification and mechanical properties of water atomized,water-gas joint atomized and gas atomized 316L stainless steel powder were discussed. The feasibility of water-gas joint atomized powder used in powder injection molding was also studied. The results show that the MFI (melting flow index) of water-gas joint atomized powder can be reached up to 1108.5 g/10 min. The sintering experiment results indicate that the sintering activity of water-gas joint atomized powder is much higher than conventional water atomized powder. The sintered density, tensile strength, yield strength, elongation and hardness of the water-gas joint atomized powder attained at 98.13 ，, 505 MPa,193 MPa, 55， and HRB78, respectively, the values of which are also superior to the MPIF standard. Taking into account the properties and cost comprehensively, water-gas joint atomized 316 stainless steel powder can be widely used in the practical production of the metal injection molding.
