Ceralink Inc., Thermex Thermatron, LP and Harrop Industries have completed a cooperative effort to design, build and successfully operate a full-scale, 30 ft3, 1600°C microwave assist technology (MAT) elevator kiln. Located at Touchstone Research Laboratories in Triadelphia, W.V., this full-scale MAT kiln has successfully reduced the firing time of a strategic carbon foam product and a ceramic composite used in the power generation industry.

MAT is the combination and simultaneous application of radiant (gas or electric) heat with microwave energy, and as such it offers microwave heating enhancement to traditional kiln technology. Processes that benefit from MAT include sintering, binder burnout and calcining. Significant time savings (up to 80%), energy reductions (up to 60%), reduced calcining temperatures, and improved properties are demonstrated benefits of MAT. Target industries include electronic and structural ceramics, rapid manufacturing, and new product development.

Additional information, products and licenses are available from Ceralink by calling (518) 283-7733 or e-mailing morgana@ceralink.com. The companies’ websites are located at www.ceralink.com, www.thermex-thermatron.com and www. harropusa.com.