Small Precision Thin Wall Metal Injection Moulding for Complex Parts

For small metal parts with thin walls, complex geometry and high annual volumes, CNC machining can become expensive and inefficient.

XY-GLOBAL provides small precision thin wall metal injection moulding services for customers who need compact metal components with repeatable dimensions, integrated features and reliable mass production.

We support the complete process from DFM and tooling to moulding, debinding, sintering, secondary CNC machining and inspection.

Precision MIM Capability

Our MIM process is suitable for small components that are difficult or costly to manufacture through conventional machining.

Actual capability depends on part size, material, wall thickness and tolerance requirements.

Thin Wall MIM Needs Good DFM

Thin-wall parts can be sensitive to filling, shrinkage and deformation.

Before tooling, our engineering team reviews:

• wall thickness consistency

• thin ribs and narrow sections

• gate location

• draft angles

• parting lines

• undercuts

• critical tolerances

• sintering deformation risks

The purpose is to identify manufacturing risks before the mould is built.

Small design changes at the DFM stage can often reduce tooling modifications and improve production stability.

Shrinkage Compensation Is Critical

MIM parts shrink during debinding and sintering, typically by around 15%–20%, depending on the material and feedstock system.

For simple parts, shrinkage may be relatively predictable.

For thin-wall or asymmetric components, different areas may shrink differently.

Our tooling and process development therefore consider:

• material shrinkage

• local wall thickness

• feature position

• moulding direction

• sintering orientation

• critical datum relationships

Initial samples are measured after sintering, and tooling can be adjusted according to actual dimensional results.

MIM + CNC for Tight-Tolerance Features

Not every feature needs to be achieved directly through MIM.

For many precision components, the most economical approach is to mould the complex geometry first and machine only the critical areas afterward.

This helps maintain the cost advantage of MIM while still meeting demanding assembly requirements.

Materials for Small Precision MIM Parts

We commonly support:

• 17-4PH stainless steel

• 316L stainless steel

• 304 stainless steel

• 420 stainless steel

• 440C stainless steel

• low-alloy steels

• other project-specific MIM materials

Material selection should consider strength, hardness, corrosion resistance, heat treatment and final surface requirements.

Quality Control for Small MIM Components

Small parts often contain multiple functional dimensions within a limited area.

Depending on the project, we use:

For repeat production, dedicated gauges or inspection fixtures can also be developed for key dimensions.

When Should You Consider MIM?

MIM is especially suitable when a component has:

• small overall size

• thin walls

• complex 3D geometry

• multiple integrated features

• stainless steel or high-strength material requirements

• high annual production volume

For low quantities or simple geometry, CNC machining may still be more economical.

But when a small stainless steel part requires several machining setups and annual demand reaches tens of thousands of pieces, MIM can significantly reduce the unit manufacturing cost.

XY-GLOBAL MIM Manufacturing Support

XY-GLOBAL has supported custom manufacturing projects since 2011.

Our capabilities include MIM as well as CNC machining, grinding, EDM, die casting, CIM and assembly.

Because we also provide precision CNC machining, critical MIM features can be completed in-house as part of the same project.

This reduces the need to coordinate separate MIM and machining suppliers.

Send Us Your Thin Wall MIM Part

If you are developing a small precision thin wall metal injection moulding component, send us your 2D drawing and 3D model.

Our engineering team can review:

• whether the design is suitable for MIM

• achievable wall thickness

• tolerance risks

• tooling requirements

• secondary machining requirements

• estimated production approach

For quotation, please provide the material, annual quantity, critical tolerances and surface requirements.

XY-GLOBAL can support the project from tooling development and sample validation through stable mass production.

FAQ

How thin can a MIM wall be?

Around 0.5 mm is practical for many parts. Thinner features may be possible after reviewing the material, flow length and geometry.

What tolerance can MIM achieve?

Typical MIM tolerances are around ±0.3% to ±0.5%. Critical dimensions can be improved through secondary CNC machining or grinding.

Is MIM suitable for small stainless steel parts?

Yes. Small stainless steel components with complex geometry and high production volumes are a common application for MIM.

Can XY-GLOBAL provide secondary CNC machining?

Yes. We can combine MIM with CNC machining, grinding, heat treatment and other secondary processes within the same project.