Powder mixing is the first step in the actual production process.

The main elements of powder mixing are the addition of alloying elements to the base powder (usually Fe with additions of C, Cu, Ni, Mo, Cr, P, Mn and S) and the addition of lubricants to facilitate compaction of the powder during compaction.

During mixing and subsequent processing there is intense focus on ensuring the homogenety of the powder mixture, as this is a prerequisite if there is to be as little variation as possible during the subsequent processes.

To reduce variations we generally recommend the use of standard alloys wherever possible, as here effective precautions can be taken against segregation and other undesirable effects.