What is the main difference between impregnation and infiltration in powder metallurgy?

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The correct choice highlights the fundamental distinction in the processes of impregnation and infiltration within the realm of powder metallurgy. Impregnation primarily involves the saturation of a porous material with fluids, aiming to improve properties such as wear resistance or corrosion resistance. This process utilizes various liquids, often resins or oils, which permeate through the microscopic voids present in the metallic matrix.

In contrast, infiltration involves the introduction of molten metal into these pores. This technique is primarily used to enhance the structural integrity and mechanical properties of the material. The molten metal flows into the empty spaces and solidifies upon cooling, which bonds the particles together more effectively than impregnation.

This distinction clarifies that impregnation focuses on fluid absorption to enhance surface qualities, while infiltration is specifically about filling voids with metal for structural enhancement, reflecting their different purposes and methods in the field of powder metallurgy.

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