MIM2020 Concludes

MIM2020, International Conference on Injection Molding of Metals, Ceramics and Carbides, concluded in Irvine, California, last week. This year’s conference attracted 113 attendees representing 65 companies from 7 countries. This year, 23 presentations provided attendees with technology transfer on topics from MIM sintering to metal additive manufacturing, materials, and more. An additional 19 presentations were provided by representatives from exhibiting companies throughout the day, leading up to the Tabletop Exhibition and Reception.

This year’s keynote speaker was Randall M. German, FAPMI, German Materials Technology. German’s presentation covered the foundation of metal injection molding from its development to its rapid expansion. The industry veteran discussed historical key points in terms of who, what, why, when, and where. It was recently announced that German will be the recipient of the Kempton H. Roll PM Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s WorldPM2020 conference.

For the fourth year in a row, the Metal Injection Molding Association provided seven students with a grant to attend the conference and present a technical presentation. Grant recipients had the opportunity to hear innovative presentations, network with industry professionals, and gain exposure to the MIM industry.

This year’s grant-winning students were:

• Tejesh Dube, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis
• Edem Dugbenoo, McGill University
• David Handl, Monatnuniversität Leoben
• Philipp Arno Franz Huber, Montanuniversität Leoben
• Hyeok Jun Kwon, Pohang University of Science & Technology
• Da Seul Shin, Pohang University of Science & Technology
• Luke Spenlau, University of Louisville

Prior to the MIM2020 conference, the annual Powder Injection Molding (PIM) Tutorial was presented by Rand German, FAPMI. This year’s tutorial attracted over 30 students. The PIM Tutorial is an excellent way for individuals who are looking for a solid grounding in PIM technology to obtain a comprehensive foundation in a short period of time.

The Metal Powder Industries Federation (MPIF) enacted several health and safety measures: hand sanitizer stations were placed throughout the conference; a “no handshake policy” was encouraged; and cleaning and disinfection practices for high-volume touchpoints was increased. These protocols will continue for all MPIF events throughout 2020.

If you missed MIM2020 and would like to attend next year, MIM2021 will be held February 22–24, 2021, in West Palm Beach, Florida, at the Marriott West Palm Beach. We hope to see you there.