Authors:
Gopinath N (Fluidtherm Technology, India),
Vladislav Kruzhanov (PM-MIM-Consulting, Germany)
Abstract:
Product transport in a RHF (parts on graphite trays on driven rollers) differs from mesh belt furnaces (MBF) where parts are placed directly on the belt or on trays on the belt.Trays in the RHF eliminate the mesh belt and allow the use of entry & exit lock chamber doors which reduces gas consumption compared to two end open mesh belt furnaces.This article examines the consequent cost of processing in a RHF compared to a similar capacity MBF, both operating at 1130°C, the high temperature sintering capability of the RHF not considered.Also examined are effects of higher cooling rates on the mechanical properties of two PM parts with lower alloy content that are sinter hardened in a RHF where cooling fan speeds are higher than in MBFs due to doors enclosing the cooling chamber and in addition, increased cooling chamber pressure for increased heat extraction.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59499/WP225371466