Sintered Alnico materials offer slightly lower magnetic properties but better mechanical characteristics than the cast Alnico materials. Sintered Alnico magnets are most suitable in small size (less than 1oz.) in this process. The desired mix of metal powder is pressed to shape and size in a die, than sintered at 1250°C in a hydrogen atmosphere. The sintering process is well suited to large volume production, and results in parts which are structurally stronger than cast magnets. Relatively close tolerances can be achieved without grinding.