STEP BY STEP
How our product is manufactured
Drawing CAD design
Our experienced CAD Engineers can design to customers’ requirements using the latest 3D modeling software solutions.
Fabrication
Canisters will be manufactured using techniques to match customers’ requirements; TIG, MIG, and laser processes are available from manufacturing Solid Blocks & Bars to specific complex shapes using complex cores, through holes, and tapers.
Leak test hermetically tight canister
Using the latest technologies, the fabricated canisters are tested for leaks using helium detection. Canisters can be checked to a leak rate of less than 5X10-12 .
Filling canister with metal powder
Metal powders are added to the canister to create the required part. The materials are vibrated to ensure compaction and reduce air pockets and voids.
Vacuum to remove contaminants
Canisters are attached to Vacuum pumps to remove any unwanted atmospheric contaminants that may cause contamination.
Crimp (Hermetically seal container)
The filling tubes are closed and sealed while under vacuum to create a hermetically sealed canister full of powder with atmospheric contaminates removed.
Apply pressure and heat
Heat and pressure are applied to the canister to consolidate the powder using Hot Isostatic pressing. An inert gas is used to apply pressure evenly in all directions to create isotropic properties
Finished product
Near-net-shape finished product, exhibiting superior properties, and using less CO2 in comparison to traditional manufacturing methods.
WHY CHOOSE HIP
Process comparison
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- Near-net shape PM-HIP uses far less material to produce components than conventional casting and forging
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- PM parts have ~ 85% lower associated CO2 emissions than conventionally produced parts
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- With fine isotropic grain structure imparting higher mechanical strength
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- Having better thermal stability and providing improved high-temperature performance
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- The market is trending towards near-net shape manufacturing to take advantage of the benefits
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- The process can use advanced materials that are difficult to manufacture via traditional methods which is a key demand from Large OEMs and the growth in nuclear power. Renewable energy also has a need for complex and more demanding materials.
