Status of powder metallurgy in Korea

Since 1993 the Korean powder metallurgy industry has grown at an annual rate of about 15%. The primary source of this growth has been the demand for structural powder metallurgy parts by the automotive industry in Korea. Other growth areas include parts for the electrical and electronic industries, consumer products, cemented carbides and diamond cutting tools. All ferrous powders are imported. Non-ferrous powders including copper, tungsten and tungsten carbide are produced domesfically. Since its incorporation in 1993, the Korean Powder Metallurgy Institute has grown rapidly. The country boasts an active program for research and development performed by industry research institutes and within the academic community. The need for a viable trade association is identified.