Powder metallurgy (PM) parts are widely used in the military industry due to their precision, strength, and cost-effectiveness, especially for producing complex components. The process involves compacting metal powders into desired shapes and then sintering them to form solid parts. PM technology is highly valued in military applications for producing high-performance components that need to withstand extreme conditions.
Here are some of the common powder metallurgy parts used in the military industry:
1. Ammunition Components
Casings: PM is used to manufacture durable, lightweight casings for bullets, shells, and other types of ammunition.
Projectile parts: Powder metallurgy allows the precise control of material properties, which is essential for the reliability and performance of projectiles.

2. Armor and Protection Systems
Lightweight body armor: Advanced materials such as tungsten, titanium, and ceramic-based metal matrix composites produced via powder metallurgy provide high-strength, lightweight body armor for soldiers.
Vehicle armor: PM parts are used in the production of vehicle armor that provides high resistance to ballistic impacts without adding excessive weight to military vehicles.
Helicopter and aircraft armor: PM components contribute to the development of lighter armor for aircraft, enhancing protection while maintaining flight efficiency.
3. Weapon Components
Gun barrels and frames: Powder metallurgy is used to create high-strength, wear-resistant gun barrels and structural parts for firearms, ensuring long-lasting performance under high-stress conditions.
Trigger mechanisms: PM can produce intricate parts like trigger mechanisms with excellent dimensional accuracy, strength, and reliability.
Bolt and firing pin assemblies: The ability to make small, durable components with precise tolerances makes PM ideal for these critical parts in firearms.
4. Missile and Rocket Parts
Nozzles: PM materials are used for producing high-temperature-resistant nozzles in missiles and rockets.
Warhead components: Key components of warheads, such as liners for shaped charges, are often made using powder metallurgy to ensure precise shaping and optimal performance.
Control system components: PM is used in producing parts for the guidance and control systems of missiles and rockets due to its ability to create parts with complex geometries.
5. Gears, Bearings, and Bushings
Precision gears: Powder metallurgy gears are widely used in military vehicles and weapon systems because of their durability and reduced weight.
Bearings: Sintered bearings made from powdered metals are used in various military equipment to ensure smooth and efficient movement under high loads.
Bushings and other wear parts: Self-lubricating bushings and wear-resistant components are used in military applications to extend the lifespan of machinery and vehicles.