MIM titanium parts typically cost 4-8x more than equivalent 316L stainless steel parts. Here is exactly where the money goes:
Cost comparison: MIM 316L vs MIM Ti6Al4V (10 g part, 50k/yr)| Cost Component | 316L Stainless | Ti6Al4V Titanium | Titanium Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powder cost per part | $0.15-0.25 | $0.80-1.50 | 5-6x |
| Processing (molding + debinding) | $0.12-0.20 | $0.20-0.35 | 1.7x |
| Sintering (furnace + atmosphere) | $0.08-0.15 | $0.25-0.50 | 3x (vacuum furnace, longer cycle) |
| Secondary operations & inspection | $0.05-0.10 | $0.10-0.20 | 2x |
| Yield loss allowance (scrap factor) | $0.04-0.08 | $0.15-0.40 | 4x (lower yield: 85-92% vs 95-98%) |
| Total per-part cost | $0.44-0.78 | $1.50-2.95 | 3.4-3.8x |
- Powder: Titanium powder requires gas or plasma atomization ($80-150/kg vs $15-25/kg for 316L). The fine fraction yield is lower, and quality control (oxygen content <0.15%) is more demanding
- Sintering: Requires vacuum furnace (<10⁻⁴ mbar) with longer cycles (120-240 min soak vs 90-180 min). Each batch run costs more and produces fewer parts per cycle
- Yield: Titanium's oxygen sensitivity means tighter process windows. Production yields typically run 85-92% vs 95-98% for 316L
- Optional HIP: Many titanium applications require hot isostatic pressing after sintering, adding $3-10 per part
- When the part requires titanium-specific properties (biocompatibility, highest specific strength, corrosion resistance in chlorides)
- When the alternative (CNC machining from titanium bar) would cost even more — which it does for complex geometries
- For medical implants, aerospace components, and premium consumer goods where the material performance justifies the price
For complex geometries at volumes above 2,000-5,000 parts/year, yes — MIM titanium is typically 30-50% cheaper than CNC machining from bar stock. The savings come from near-net-shape production eliminating material waste and multiple machining setups.