Vacuum Hot Pressing

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Vacuum Hot Pressing

Technology Category: Material Processing

Description: PNNL has the capability to conduct experiments utilizing high temperature vacuum hot pressing of materials that are used for many applications. Low pressure forging, compaction, degassing, heat treatment and sintering of ceramic and/or intermetallic powders and diffusion bonding are typical uses of the vacuum hot press.

The AVS hot press has graphite heating elements with a maximum operating temperature of 1700oC. The hot press has an even temperature heated zone that is 8-inches wide x 8-inches high x 8-inches deep. The vacuum system is achieved by a dual pumping system with the highest vacuum achieved by a diffusion pump. The vacuum system routinely operates at 1x10-6 Torr. Maximum compressive or tensile force of the hydraulic press is 30 tons. The hydraulic power unit operates at pressures from 100 to 2000 psig. The upper and lower rams operate

independently, enabling ejection of post-formed components. The rams are 3.5 inches in diameter.

Net Shape Forging of Complex MMC Geometries Components with tight angles, complex shapes and high tolerances have been forged at low pressures to net shape.

Aluminum/silicon carbide metal matrix composite parts photo

Aluminum/silicon carbide metal matrix composite parts are shown here. Pistons with back-extrusions and gears that require material to flow into high strain regions have been formed. Little machining or forming is required to finish parts produced by this method.

Powder Compaction and Sintering Many tests have been conducted using ceramic or intermetallic powders. Typical applications involve forming continuous solids from discontinuous starting materials. A programmable controller enables complex heating cycles. This is important for sintering materials that require high control of the amount of time at prescribed temperatures and pressures. The capability of operating under vacuum or inert atmosphere is also important for most sintering applications.

Diffusion Bonding The vacuum hot press has been used to form complex components that are diffusion bonded under vacuum requiring precise temperature and pressure profiles. These components are prototypes for micro-heat exchange systems and dental implants.

Point of Contact: Eric Nyberg (509) 372-2510 or Mark Smith (509) 376-2847