Abstract: A process is claimed for the manufacture of an insert. The process includes the steps of filling a die cavity defined by a die mold with powdered metal, the die cavity conforming to the required shape of the insert. The powdered metal is compressed within the die cavity such that a compact of the insert is formed within the die cavity. The compact is sintered within a sintering furnace so that a first porton of the compact is in the solid phase and a second portion of the compact is in the liquid phase. The compact is rapidly cooled within the sintering furnace to a temperature below the melting point of the powdered metal. Such temperature is maintained so that densification of the first portion to substantially full density is achieved. The arrangement is such that the profile integrity of the compact is retained. the resltant insert is then subsequently cooled.