A metalworking process used to fabricate parts of simple or complex shape from a wide variety of metals and alloys in the form of powders. The process involves shaping of the powder and subsequent bonding of its individual particles by heating or mechanical working. Powder metallurgy is a highly flexible and automated process that is environmentally friendly, with a low relative energy consumption and a high level of materials utilization. Thus it is possible to fabricate high-quality parts to close tolerance at low cost. Powder metallurgy processing encompasses an extensive range of ferrous and nonferrous alloy powders, ceramic powders, and mixes of metallic and ceramic powders (composite powders).