Hot Isostatic Presses, Laboratory/Pilot Plant - Avure Technologies Inc. - #1

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Mini-HIPper® Hot Isostatic Presses T he HIP Process Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) is a forming and densification process achieved through the application of heated highpressure gas uniformly on all sides of an object. HIPping can virtually eliminate porosity, and is widely used to improve the properties and service life of a broad range of products and parts. It can be applied to both containerized powder shapes and preformed metal, ceramic or plastic components. Related functions include near net-shape forming, diffusion bonding of dissimilar materials, and the elimination of voids in castings. The Mini-HIPper Line Avure Mini-HIPpers are compact presses designed for HIP research and prototyping studies, and for small batch production runs. Most models are housed in a single, space-saving cabinet. On the two largest models (QIH-15L and QIH-21), the major subsystems are delivered as free-standing modules. Capacities. Work zone diameters range from 3” through 10”, with heights from 5” through 30”. The standard maximum operating pressure is 30,000 psi, with higher or lower pressures available. Standard temperatures range from ambient to 2000°C, with higher temperatures available for certain applications. Operation. Parts to be HIPped are loaded into a cylindrical pressure vessel which contains a modular electric furnace. A thermal barrier is placed around the furnace to direct the heat load toward the parts and away from the watercooled vessel wall. Argon or other gases are used as the pressure medium. Cycles are automatic, with a computer and PLC controlling independent ramping of pressure and temperature to setpoint, hold time, and decompression. Designed for safety. Mini-HIPpers feature the Quintus® pressure containment system, consisting of a forged pressure vessel with non-threaded upper and lower end closures, and a movable yoke frame which holds the end closures in place during the pressure cycle. Both the vessel and frame are prestressed and wire-wound to eliminate stress concentrations and tensile loads. The prestressing causes these components to remain in residual compression, even at maximum operating pressure, thus preventing crack propogation and brittle failure. The vessel meets “leak-ratherthan- break” criteria, and has a calculated fatigue life of more than 30,000 cycles. After more than 50 years, this design is still regarded as the safest in the world. Models QIH-9 and QIH-15 Models QIH-15L and QIH-21