Sintering is a process of making 3-D samples by compaction of powders. Powders are heated below their melting point so that bonding takes place by diffusion of atoms. In this way, the individual powder particles are adhering to each other in a dense compact.
By using SPARK PLASMA SINTERING technique the tool and the component are directly heated by DC current pulses to reduce heating times to a few minutes. The use of DC current pulses causes an additional increase in sintering activity, as compared to conventional sintering, in various materials due to the processes that occur at the points of contact of the powder particles (Joule heating, generation of plasma, electro migration etc.). Therefore, a significantly lower temperature as well as significantly lower mould pressure is needed.
Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) equipment - Model FCT-(FAST) HPD5 - is used for preparation of the 3-D compacted samples.
Description:
SPARK PLASMA SINTERING - Model FCT-(FAST) HPD5 is a complex equipment used for preparation of the bulk-shaped samples, with large density, obtained by hot compaction of powders of various materials. SPS equipment allows very high heating or cooling speeds of up to 600 K/min. The SPS process is performed in a short time, for a few minutes, and takes place at lower temperatures and lower mould pressure than are used for conventional hot pressing and sintering.
Spark Plasma Sintering - Model FCT-(FAST) HPD5
Technical specifications:
- Maximum current: Imax.= 20 kA
- Working temperature: T= Room temperature - 2,200°C (Max. temperature: 2,400°C)
- Pressing force: F = 2-50 kN
- Normal working pressure: 0 - 1,100 mbar
- Pressure: Min.= 5 bar; Max.: 6 bar
- Vacuum working facilities (Final vacuum in cold furnace: 5x10-1 mbar).
Services: Manufacturing 3-D samples by compacting powders from different materials (metals, ceramics, and mixture of polymers with metallic powders, etc.).