This paper uses a multi-state Potts model to simulate the sintering of nano-particles by boundary migration and evaporation-condensation. The variables in this simulation are the reduced temperature, a next-nearest neighbour weighting and the ratio of interfacial to surface energy. The effect of these parameters on simulation of sintering of two and three-particle clusters is systematically explored as a basis for the study of more complex aggregates. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.