The deformation under radial pressure of rectangular dies for metal powder compaction has been investigated by FEM. The explored variables have been: aspect ratio of die profile, ratio between diagonal of the profile and die height, insert and ring thickness, radius at die corners, interference, different insert materials, i. e. conventional HSS, HSS from powders, cemented carbide (10% Co). The analyses have ascertained the unwanted appearance of tensile normal stress on brittle materials, also "at rest", and even some dramatic changes of stress patterns as the die height increases with respect to the rectangular profile dimensions. Different materials behave differently, mainly due to difference of thermal expansion coefficients. Profile changes occur when the dies are heated up to the temperature required for warm compaction. The deformation patterns depend on compaction temperature and thermal expansion coefficients.

The aim of this work was to establish an optimal condition for determination of apparent density and flow rate for warm compacting powder. For this purpose it was evaluated uncertainty on them according to ISO Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement. This evaluation example would be useful even in powder fluidity measurement at room temperature.