Centorr/Vacuum Industries has sold a vacuum hot press to the Jing De Zhen Institute of Fine Ceramics (JIFC) in China for the processing of advanced ceramics. The hot press can operate in vacuum and partial pressures, as well as positive pressures of inert gas. It is rated for operation to 2300C, a force of 300 tons and is designed to press 10-in. diameter compacts. The unit is outfitted with interchangeable press platens to also allow for diffusion bonding operation. Temperature control is handled by a Honeywell DCP-550 programmable controller, with both force control and position control using UDC-3300 controllers for independent ramp/soak profiles. The chamber-mounted fan cooling system offers quick turnaround of the process cycle with cooling times under 8 hours with a full load, allowing JIFC to process a single pressing every 24 hours.

For more information, call (603) 595-7233 ext. 263.