A technology recognized through the ages

Archaeological evidence indicates that the use of metal powder dates as far back as ancient Egypt, where iron ore was heated and used to strengthen swords. Powdered metal was also used by the Incan civilization to produce jewelery. The first known modern use of powdered metal was by early German manufacturers, who used metal powder to create decorative items.

Early steps towards todays PM industry

The first movement toward today's ever-advancing PM technology is believed to have taken place in north central Pennsylvania, the home of Atlas Pressed Metals. Local individuals were inspired by porous carbon bearings displayed at the 1932 World's Fair in Chicago and` started investigating the possibilities of powder metallurgy in earnest.

Response to wartime needs boosts advancement of the PM industry

The added industrial production needs that arose during World War II gave increased incentive to the development of PM technology, which grew by leaps and bounds in both capability and acceptance.

Today industries of all types, from automotive to recreation, appliances, computing, electronics, aircraft production, and many, many more, have discovered that the PM technology offers the quality, flexibility, and value they need.