Conventional powder metallurgy relies on the combined effect of pressure and temperature, applied sequentially or simultaneously, to impart a desired level of mechanical strength to powder compacts. Sinteringof the powder particles takes place during the high temperature treatment. The properties of the final product,i.e., strength, conductivity and resistance to wear, depend on the density attained during sintering. The conditions prevailing during processing prior to sintering,such as powder preparation, lubrication and the methodof compaction, determine the “green strength” of thecompacted material. The green strength correlates withthe apparent density of the pre-sintered compact, and inmost cases is significantly lower than that of the bodyafter sintering.