The Metal Powder Industries Federation issues standards to provide the design and materials engineer with the information necessary for specifying PM materials which have been developed by the PM and MIM parts, powder, and equipment producers. MPIF standards are intended to present and clarify PM technology so as to aid in the conduct of business. PM materials specifications and test standards relate to those activities that concern designers and users of PM parts as well as the manufacturer.

The use of any MPIF standard is entirely voluntary. Existence of an MPIF standard does not in any respect preclude any member of MPIF or non-members from manufacturing or selling products not included in the standards. Suppliers are at liberty to supply products or to use procedures other than those identified in any standard.

The standards fall into three basic classifications:

1. Materials Specifications for components

2. Methods of test (for powders and components)

3. Powder Metallurgy Press Safety standards (developed in cooperation with the American National Standards Institute)