Abstract: Sintering method which comprises two principal stages, which are a first stage wherein green compacts are sintered in a regular manner, and a second stage which immediately follows the first stage and wherein sintered compacts are held for a set time at a temperature which is elevated but is below sintering temperature and in carburizing gas, thereby diffusing required component into the compacts, for example carbon in the case of ferro-carbide compacts for use as sliding elements. Also according to the invention a sintering box may have formed therein holes of set size and distribution density thereby to permit efficient removal of lubricant if initially added to compacts.