Abstract: The present invention pertains to an apparatus to hot triaxially compact powder. The apparatus includes a device for hydrostatically stressing the powder. The apparatus also includes a device for applying a shear stress to the powder simultaneously with the hydrostatic stress. Additionally, there is a device for heating the powder while the powder is hydrostatically in shear stress. The presence of the shear stress during the compaction of the powder has three primary effects. It can increase the final density and the densification rate of the compacted powder. It can cause microstructural changes in the compacted powder, and it can disrupt heterogeneities.

Abstract: An apparatus for heating powders or powder compacts for consolidation in a pressure vessel having a chamber. There is a device for directly induction heating the powder or powder compact. Additionally, the apparatus is comprised of a device for compacting a powder or powder compact. The device for directly induction heating the powder essentially provides uniform heating to the powder while the compacting device compacts the powder or powder compact in the chamber of the pressure vessel. A method for consolidation of powders or powder compacts which has the steps of heating directly by induction the powder or powder compact, and applying an isostatic stress to the powder or powder compact.