Cold-isostatic pressing of metal powders: a review of the technology and recent developments

Cold-isostatic pressing (CIP) is a powder-based, near-net-shape technology for the production of metal and ceramic components. CIP has been commonly used for processing ceramics, but not as widely used for metals. Recent developments in process capability and powder metallurgy, however, have allowed CIP to be increasingly used in the manufacture of high-performance metal parts. Advantages such as solid-state processing, uniform microstructure, shape complexity, low tooling cost and process scalability have made CIP a viable processing route for metals. In addition, the potential to produce near-net-shape parts with minimal material waste has made the process more widely acceptable in niche applications, such as aerospace and automotive. This review assesses the state of the technology in terms of capabilities and limitations, materials, tool design and fabrication, process modeling, post processing and assessment. The review also highlights challenges and research gaps in using CIP for producing metal parts, with a focus on potential areas of improvement and recent developments that address these challenges.