Abstract: A high-pressure press is disclosed which includes a high-pressure vessel enclosing a high-pressure chamber and a high-pressure medium; a housing, separating a volume from the high-pressure press chamber, arranged for holding a fluid; a fan arranged in the high-pressure press chamber outside the housing for circulating the high pressure medium in the high-pressure press chamber; a motor, arranged in the housing and operatively connected to the fan for driving the fan; a cooling device for cooling a portion of the housing wall; and a pumping device arranged for circulating the fluid, the fluid providing a transfer of cold from the portion of the housing wall to the motor, the cooled circulation of the fluid being separated from the high-pressure press chamber by the housing.

Abstract: A solution to some of the problems related to manufacturing of fiber-reinforced composite panels is to provide a vacuum bag frame assembly for use in the production of fiber-reinforced composite panels, where the vacuum bag frame assembly comprises a tubular center frame, a first vacuum bag frame holding an integrated first vacuum bag and arranged for closing against a first side of the center frame, and a second vacuum bag frame holding a second integrated vacuum bag and arranged for closing against an opposite, second side of the tubular center frame. The tubular center frame is provided with a peripherally arranged vacuum outlet external relative to the space formed between the vacuum bags, and one or more vacuum apertures directed internally relative to the space formed between the first and second vacuum bags and the tubular center frame.

Abstract: This invention relates to a mould assembly for a hot isostatic pressing, HIP, process for fabricating a component, comprising: a first part which includes a shaped surface for forming a first surface of the component, the shaped surface having at least one recess; a second part arranged to move relative to the first part during the HIP process so as to compress a powder in-fill held therebetween, wherein the second part includes a formation configured to focus pressure toward the recess so as to aid consolidation of the powder in-fill at a distal end thereof.

Abstract: A molding apparatus for making a cutting tool includes a cylindrically shaped elastic bag having an internal cavity for receiving a granulated material, such as a mixture of cobalt and carbide. The profile of the interior cavity substantially corresponds to the shape of the cutting tool being produced. The ends of the bag are open to provide access to the interior cavity of the bag. A substantially rigid tubular-shaped pressure sleeve encloses an outer circumference of the elastic bag. A pair of end caps operate to seal the open ends of the elastic bag and are engageable with the ends of the pressure sleeve. The granulated material can be formed into a solid coherent structure by placing the assembled mold containing the granulated material into a hydrostatic press for applying a substantially uniform compressive load to the outer periphery of the elastic bag.

Abstract: A vacuum set-up to pressurize a component part during its production is provided. The set-up includes a base with a contact surface for component part, and a casing that is airtight to contact surface that can be sealed to cover component part to effect pressurization of component part by evacuating an internal space of casing. To also effect a defined pressurization of component part on at least one component part edge in lateral direction, on at least this component part edge together with component part, a pressure strip system that can be mounted in the interior space is provided that is formed by at least two pressure strips extending along the component part edge and over inclined planes, that work together in such a way that pressure exerted on pressure strip system by the evacuation of the interior space, generates pressure acting laterally on component part edge.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for regulating the temperature of a hot isostatic press and to a hot isostatic press, consisting of a pressure vessel (1) having an interior loading space (19) and insulation (8) arranged in between, wherein heating elements (4) and a loading space (19) having a load (18) are arranged inside the insulation (8), wherein at least the loading space (19) is surrounded by a convection sleeve (27) to form a convection gap (28). Fluid is sprayed through at least one nozzle (13) in the interior of the pressure vessel (1) and/or the loading space (19) to generate a rotational flow (23) so that said fluid mixes with the fluid held therein, and said fluid simultaneously forms a circulation (29) around the convection sleeve (27) and enters the loading space (19) via the convection gap (28).

Abstract: The invention relates to a pressing device, respectively to a corresponding pressing method, for isostatic pressing of a body (8) from powdery and/or granulated material (3), comprising a die (1) with a die wall (6) forming a forming space (2) and with a die opening (5) from outside the die through the die wall into the forming space (2) for filling the forming space (2) with the material and for removing the body pressed therein after pressing, with the die wall being made from elastic material, for compacting the material (3) by an isostatic compacting pressure (p) applied to the outside of the die wall, and a punch (4) for closing the die opening during pressing, with the punch (4) being constituted by a metallic insert (13) in longitudinal direction and an elastic jacket (14) surrounding the metallic insert (13), with an front end section (7) of the insert (13) penetrating into the forming space while closing the die opening.

Abstract: A thermoforming apparatus for forming a blank into a composite article. The thermoforming apparatus includes a forming tool. A forming member forms the blank over the forming tool. A first chamber is arranged for containing the blank. A second chamber is separated from the first chamber by the forming member. A first air circulator is configured to circulate air in the first chamber for achieving a heat distribution to the blank. The first air circulator includes a controllable valve member. The apparatus also includes a second air circulator. A method for forming a blank during circulation of air in a first chamber.

Abstract: A pressure compensating molding system with die faces of thin sheets. A thin die sheet separates a mold cavity from a heating/cooling cavity. A heating system causes a heated fluid to flow through the heating/cooling cavity, thereby preheating the thin sheet. The injection material is forced through a sprue into the mold cavity. Pressure sensors monitor the pressure of the injection material in the mold cavity and in the heating/cooling cavity. A controller varies the pressure in the heating/cooling cavity to equalize a pressure differential across the thin die sheet. A cooling system causes a cooling fluid to flow through the heating/cooling cavity to cool the molded component.

Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention, an assembly for HPHT processing comprises a can with an opening. A powder mixture is disposed within the opening. A substrate is disposed within the opening adjacent the powder mixture. Paint is coated on a surface within the opening and opposite the powder mixture with respect to the substrate. A meltable sealant is disposed within the opening and opposite the substrate with respect to the surface and a cap is covering the opening.

Abstract: A molding die is mainly constituted of a die surface shell layer (15) having a die surface (32) responsive to the shape of a composite item and a support (16) supporting the die surface shell layer (15). The die surface shell layer (15) is made of a material having air permeability, and a prepreg material (34) is placed on a die-shaped surface (32) thereof. Then, the prepreg material (34) is covered with a nonpermeable vacuum bag film (35), and a cavity portion (30) of the support (16) is evacuated. The die surface shell layer (15) has air permeability, whereby it follows that air present on the die-shaped surface (32) is also discharged into the cavity portion (30) through the die surface shell layer (15). Consequently, the prepreg material (34) is pressed against the die-shaped surface (32) by the atmospheric pressure outside the vacuum bag film (35), and strongly adheres.

Abstract: A hot isostatic pressing device according to the present invention includes an inner casing, an outer casing, and a heating means which are provided inside a high-pressure container.

Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention, an assembly for HPHT processing comprises a can with an opening. A powder mixture is disposed within the opening. A substrate is disposed within the opening adjacent the powder mixture. Paint is coated on a surface within the opening and opposite the powder mixture with respect to the substrate. A meltable sealant is disposed within the opening and opposite the substrate with respect to the surface and a cap is covering the opening. In another embodiment of the present invention, an assembly for HPHT processing comprises a can with an opening, a powder mixture is disposed within the opening, a substrate disposed within the opening adjacent and above the powder mixture, a formable sealant barrier is disposed within the opening above the substrate, a meltable sealant is disposed within the opening above the formable sealant barrier, and a cap covers the opening.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for forming a semi-spherical polishing pad for polishing semiconductor surfaces, provide for: placing a polishing pad pre-form on a dome-shaped forming surface, the polishing pad pre-form including a circular body having a center and an outer peripheral edge, and a plurality of slots extending from the outer peripheral edge towards the center; disposing a bladder opposite to the dome-shaped forming surface and the polishing pad pre-form; inflating the bladder with a fluid such that the dome-shaped forming surface of the bonnet form presses against the polishing pad pre-form from one side and the bladder presses against the polishing pad pre-form from an opposite side; and maintaining the pressing step for a predetermined period of time to achieve the semi-spherical polishing pad.

Abstract: A press includes a pressure chamber filled with a substantially incompressible medium that at least partially encloses an elastomeric vessel filled with a substantially incompressible fluid that is in fluid communication with a pressurized source of the same fluid. Method and systems employing the press are also disclosed.

Abstract: A press includes a pressure chamber filled with a substantially incompressible medium that at least partially encloses an elastomeric vessel filled with a substantially incompressible fluid that is in fluid communication with a pressurized source of the same fluid. Method and systems employing the press are also disclosed.

Abstract: A tool for curing a composite layup comprises a tool body having a surface adapted to support a composite layup thereon. The tool includes an integrated breather for allowing removal of air from the layup during curing.

Abstract: The present invention provides an outer frame for cubic hinge press and the cubic hinge press with this outer frame, said outer frame encloses an accommodation space; The supporting planes used for supporting and fixing the back cover plates of hinge sleeve cylinder are set around the inner walls of the outer frame and on the inner walls of upper and lower surfaces of outer frame; A window for the assembly, disassembly and maintenance of press is correspondingly set between two adjacent supporting planes on the outer frame. According to different needs, the outer frame may be designed as square frame, butterfly frame, basket type frame or spherical frame. The hinge press formed by connecting six hinge sleeve piston components through reinforcing plate or through hinge ears and pins is installed in the accommodation space enclosed by the outer frame, thus forming a cubic hinge press.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, an imprinting apparatus includes a first mold configured to hold a disk-shaped stamper on which patterns of recesses and protrusions are formed, a second mold configured to hold a disk-shaped substrate to which a resist is applied so that the substrate faces the stamper held by the first mold, and a suction ring which is disposed around the first mold and in which an inner groove and an outer groove are formed to correspond to an outer periphery portion of the stamper held by the first mold, the inner groove being opened to atmosphere and the outer groove being vacuum-suctioned.

Abstract: An apparatus for forming a flange on a component is provided. The apparatus comprises a mold disposed for placement of the component thereon, a forming element configured to hold the component on the mold to facilitate formation of the flange, and a pressure element configured to cooperate with the mold to define a space therebetween. The apparatus further comprises a bladder disposed in the space and configured to impart a forming force to a portion of the component to form the flange on the component when the bladder is inflated. A method for forming a flange on a component is also presented.

Abstract: A manufacturing process that comprises placing an article within a particulate medium (4), the article being provided with a molded body (8) of small ceramic particles. On application of heat and pressure the small ceramic particles are pushed between the particulate medium (4) to permit localized deformation of the article (2).

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for making PMC's and composites include an infusing step wherein the resin reservoir and the preform are maintained under substantially the same vacuum pressure during the infusing step or the associated structure associated with the maintenance. Substantially the same vacuum pressure may be accomplished using a collapsible resin reservoir that is enclosed within or external to the vacuum bagging assembly of the fiber preform. This method results in a maximum achievable vacuum compaction pressure and simplified resin infusion process. This process may be used to manufacture prepregs and aerospace grade fiber reinforced resin composites, also disclosed herein, that have fiber volume, void content and laminate quality that meets or exceeds those made using an autoclave.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mold for the manufacture of holders, comprising at least two mold halves moveable relatively to each other in a first direction of movement and a mold cavity, the mold cavity, the mold being substantially defined by a female part and a matching male part, while at least the female part and/or the male part is arranged so as to be moveable such that within the mold, the male part and/or the female part can be brought into a first position wherein between a forward end, facing, in a first direction of movement, towards the mold cavity, and an opposite bottom part of the female part, there is a relatively large, first distance, and a second position wherein between said forward end and said bottom part there is relatively small second distance.

Abstract: A press includes a pressure chamber filled with a substantially incompressible medium that at least partially encloses an elastomeric vessel filled with a substantially incompressible fluid that is in fluid communication with a pressurized source of the same fluid. Method and systems employing the press are also disclosed.

Abstract: A press includes a pressure chamber filled with a substantially incompressible medium that at least partially encloses an elastomeric vessel filled with a substantially incompressible fluid that is in fluid communication with a pressurized source of the same fluid. Method and systems employing the press are also disclosed.

Abstract: An isostatic press includes a heat insulator that forms a working zone which contains a workpiece, a high pressure vessel that covers the heat insulator, a heating unit that heats the high pressure vessel, and a pressure medium supplying device that can supply an interior of the high pressure vessel with the pressure medium A pressure medium introducing space communicates with the working zone via a communication hole formed on a top portion of the heat insulator. The pressure medium supplying device communicates with the pressure medium introducing space via a pressure medium introducing opening formed on a bottom portion of the high pressure vessel.

Abstract: An improved assembly for HPHT processing having a can with an opening and a mixture disposed within the opening. A sealant barrier is positioned atop the mixture. First and second lids are positioned atop the mixture. A meltable sealant positioned intermediate the second lid and a cap covering the opening.

Abstract: A tooling assembly for preforming a CMC composite component includes: a female tool having a substantially flat base and a pair of upstanding sides; a substantially rigid breather frame adapted to surround a preform seated in said female tool; release sheets adapted for placement above and below the preform; a breather mat adapted to overlie the release sheet placed above the preform; and a vacuum bag adapted to enclose the female tool and preform for compaction of the preform and extraction of solvents and excess air from the preform.

Abstract: An isostatic die for tile forming comprising a metal body (2) and an elastically deformable membrane (6, 6?, 6?) which is solidly gripped to the metal body (2) in a plurality of distinct predetermined fixing zones (25, 28, 290, 21, 22, 24?, 24?), such that an intermediate hermetically sealed chamber is delimited between the elastic membrane (6, 6?, 6?) and the metal body (2), which chamber is destined to contain an incompressible fluid.

Abstract: A defoaming method for removing air bubbles from a curable resin material and a contact portion of the resin material with an irregular structure of a flat metallic mold. The mold includes a fine structural region having a fine irregular structure and a flat region in the periphery of the fine structural region. The curable resin material is applied to the irregular structure of the fine structural region, filling the irregular structure with the resin material.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for producing a solid product such as orthopedic appliances, dental splint mouthpieces, dentures, lined dentures and the like from flowable materials such as silicones, acrylics, polyurethanes and dental casting investments. The container in which an article is treated will develop 80-100 psi and has opposed curved surfaces between which a seal is formed without leakage.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of producing a shell member of fibre composite material by means of vacuum infusion, where the fibre material is impregnated with liquid polymer, and applying a mould (18) with a mould cavity. In the mould cavity a lower distribution layer (11) is placed. A fibre insertion (1) including a plurality of fibre layers is placed above the lower distribution layer (11). A first upper distribution layer (9) and a second upper distribution layer (10) are placed at a transverse distance of each other above the fibre insertion, so that at least a part of the first distribution layer overlaps a first zone (2) of the fibre insertion (1), and at least a part of the second distribution layer overlaps a second zone (3) of the fibre insertion (1), the first zone (2) and the second zone (3) being separated by an intermediate zone (6) neither overlapping the first nor the second distribution layer (9, 10).

Abstract: Disclosed are fluid transfer and evacuation structures formed in a vacuum bag operable for use in vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding, debulking, compaction, or similar processes. A reusable vacuum bag can be provided including an elastomeric membrane having a preform-contact surface and at least one textured surface formed in the elastomeric membrane. The textured surface can define a fluid transfer channel. At least one fluid extraction port can be provided in communication with the fluid transfer channel, the fluid extraction port being adapted for engagement to a vacuum pump to remove fluids from the fluid transfer channel. The textured surface defining the fluid transfer channel can be adapted to permit the flow of fluids between the elastomeric membrane and a base mold in communication with the elastomeric membrane when the fluid extraction port is engaged to a vacuum pump.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards an uniaxial pressing and heating apparatus for the production of ceramic materials comprising a heater (4), a mould (5) and a die (3), wherein a mould (5) is arranged inside a heater (4) and the mould (5) receives a die (3) at at least one opening and wherein the die (3) is actuated under pressure into the mould (5), wherein the ratio of the length of the heater (4) and the length of the mould (5) is from ?1.5 to ?4. The invention is further directed towards a process for the production of ceramics and towards a ceramic material.

Abstract: The invention makes possible the one-step production of molded bodies (1) of different types out of thermoplastic material with or without reinforcing fibers. For this purpose, a tool with a lower and an upper shell mold (10a, 10b), which form defined surfaces on both sides, is utilized. The shell molds have thin walls and are made out of metal and comprise a centered portion on both shell molds, a displacement compensating, air-tight edge seal (16) and tempering means (13) for the controlled heating and cooling on both shell molds. For production, thermoplastic material (2) with reinforcing fibers (3) is inserted into the shell molds in a locally defined manner, the shell molds are subsequently evacuated (p1) and in doing so pressed together (ds), then heated up to above the melting point and maintained at a temperature (Ts) for the consolidation and flowing of the thermoplastic material under pressure (dp).

Abstract: A mould (2) for preparing of large structures, such as wind turbine blades, is provided. Furthermore, methods of manufacturing and use of such a mould (2) are provided. The mould (2) comprises a support structure (4), an air-drainage structure (6) and an air-permeable surface member (8). Ile mould is particularly suitable for preparing of moulded items with an in-mould coating.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for impregnating a layer of fibre material with a curable liquid so as to obtain a product of composite material, in particular an upright such as a lamppost or light mast or a post for a traffic light, a road sign, or for a direction sign. The method includes providing a mould, arranging a layer of the fibre material against a surface of the mould, arranging a covering layer over the fibre material in order to enclose the layer of fibre material between the mould and the covering layer, providing the curable liquid, and applying an underpressure to the space defined by the mould and the covering layer in order to enhance distribution of the liquid through the layer of fibre material wherein the mould is formed by a flexible element. The method further includes deploying the flexible element in a desired form.

Abstract: An isostatic die for tile forming comprising a metal body (2) and an elastically deformable membrane (6, 6?, 6?) which is solidly gripped to the metal body (2) in a plurality of distinct predetermined fixing zones (25, 28, 290, 21, 22, 24?, 24?), such that an intermediate hermetically sealed chamber is delimited between the elastic membrane (6, 6?, 6?) and the metal body (2), which chamber is destined to contain an incompressible fluid.

Abstract: A hot isostatic pressing method is disclosed wherein workpieces are accommodated within a high pressure vessel and the interior of the high pressure vessel is filled with an inert gas of a high temperature and a high pressure to treat the workpieces. The method includes a cooling step which is performed after maintaining the interior of the high pressure vessel at a high temperature and a high pressure for a predetermined time and in which a liquid inert gas is fed into the high pressure vessel. According to this method it is possible to shorten the cycle time of an HIP apparatus.

Abstract: A reconfigurable tool and/or die geometry and methods of use generally comprise forming at least a portion of a shape defining surface with a shape memory material. In response to an activation signal, the shape memory material changes geometry of the shape defining surface to provide a means for forming parts with different geometries from the same tool and/or die. In an alternative embodiment, an insert for a tool and/or die can be used, wherein the insert has at least a portion of its shape defining surface formed of a shape memory material. Also disclosed are processes for forming a first part with a defined geometry and a second part with a defined geometry different from the first part defined geometry using a reconfigurable tool and/or die as well as a reconfigurable insert with a standard tool and/or die.

Abstract: An improved method of imprint lithography involves using direct fluid pressure to press the mold into a substrate-supported film. Advantageously the mold and/or substrate are sufficiently flexible to provide wide area contact under the fluid pressure. Fluid pressing can be accomplished by sealing the mold against the film and disposing the resulting assembly in a pressurized chamber. It can also be accomplished by subjecting the mold to jets of pressurized fluid. The result of this fluid pressing is enhanced resolution and high uniformity over an enlarged area.

Abstract: A treatment chamber for heating and pressing workpieces and a heat insulating structure which covers the treatment chamber sideways and from above are provided within a high-pressure vessel. Below the treatment chamber are disposed a base heater for heating a pressure medium gas and a fan for supplying the pressure medium gas in a heated state into the treatment chamber and stirring the heated gas. The workpieces can be held on the heat insulating structure side, and the heat insulating structure and the workpieces can be taken out from the interior of the high-pressure vessel and can be conveyed together separately from a lower lid of the high-pressure vessel. A hot isostatic pressing apparatus is provided less expensively which can heat and press workpieces at a relatively low temperature of not higher than 600° C. Besides, it is possible to shorten the cycle time in HIP.

Abstract: A linear drive for an injection molding machine includes a housing defining a sealed interior space containing a gas volume. The housing has two housing portions constructed for telescopic movement within one another. A spindle drive is accommodated in the housing and operated by the electric motor. The spindle drive includes a spindle shaft, which is axially securely fixed to one of the housing portions, and a spindle nut, which is arranged on the spindle shaft and axially securely fixed to the other one of the housing portions. Acting on the spindle drive is an energy accumulator which is constructed for discharge in a first operating cycle which is energy-intensive and for recharging in a second operating cycle which is opposite to the first operating cycle and requires little energy.

Abstract: A method and system of forming a fire door core are provided. Hydraulic binder and resin are supplied from raw material bins and mixed to provide a submixture. Exfoliated vermiculite is then mixed with the submixture to provide a mixture that is deposited into a plurality of compression molds. Each of the filled molds are pressed in a press at a predetermined temperature at a predetermined pressure for a predetermined period of time sufficient to harden the mixture into a hardened slab. The hardened slabs are then removed from the molds, impregnated with water or steam in a water impregnation assembly and dried in a drying assembly.

Abstract: Long carbonaceous moldings and long carbonaceous products as well as methods of production thereof by which carbonaceous products can be obtained without allowing twisting or curving and with less frequent occurrence of cracking etc. even when subjecting the heat treatment and which are excellent in mass productivity are provided. The long carbonaceous moldings have an aspect ratio of 3 to 20 and showing fluctuations in the density thereof of not more than 0.05 Mg/m3 throughout the whole moldings.

Abstract: An isostatic press and the process of using same is disclosed and claimed. The isostatic press includes a yoke; a bottom cover affixed to the yoke; a top cover affixed to the yoke; and, a body moveable between a first position and a second position. A process for isostatically pressing a workpiece in the isostatic press is also disclosed and claimed. The process includes the steps of: placing the workpiece on the bottom cover; moving the body from the first position to the second position; pressurizing the chamber; depressurizing the chamber; removing the workpiece; and, moving the chamber from the second position to the first position.

Abstract: A cold isopressing method and mold for compacting a granular ceramic material in which the granular ceramic material is introduced into a cylindrical pressure bearing element of an isopressing mold. The cylindrical pressure bearing element is sufficiently rigid so as to maintain its shape during the introducing of the granular ceramic material. Such element is also sufficiently resilient in a radial direction thereof to deform and bear against the granular ceramic material upon the application of the hydrostatic pressure and to substantially return to its original shape upon the relaxation of the hydrostatic pressure, thereby to allow retraction of the cylindrical pressure bearing element from the granular ceramic material after compaction. In a further aspect, an isopressing method and mold is provided in which the cylindrical pressure bearing element thereof is provided with an enlarged end bore to form an enlarged end section in the finished ceramic tube for sealing purposes.

Abstract: A method and system of forming a fire door core. Hydraulic binder and resin are supplied from raw material bins and mixed to provide a submixture. Exfoliated vermiculite is then mixed with the submixture to provide a mixture that is deposited into a plurality of compression molds. Each of the filled molds are pressed in a press at a predetermined temperature at a predetermined pressure for a predetermined period of time sufficient to harden the mixture into a hardened slab. The hardened slabs are then removed from the molds, impregnated with water or steam in a water impregnation assembly and dried in a drying assembly.

Abstract: An isostatic press configured to form wax-like raw materials, such as milk chocolate, into a variety of interchangeable molds. The press includes a raw material hopper and complementary indexer for feeding raw material into an injection chamber. A piston blade configured to press raw material from the injection chamber through an injection channel and into a mold cavity. A handle operatively connected to the piston blade by moving it reciprocally between a retracted position where raw material is fed into the injection chamber and an extended position where raw material is pressed through the injection channel into the mold cavity.

Abstract: A device for impregnating a conductor bar for a stator winding of an electrical machine, which includes an impregnating device with a hose-like flexible casing for receiving and encasing a conductor bar over an entire length thereof, and wherein the conductor bar is formed with a rectilinear region and angled regions adjoining the rectilinear region and is provided with an insulation. The device further includes a device which communicates with the casing for filling the casing with pressurized impregnating fluid, and a pressing device with a stationary pressing device having a plurality of clamping jaws surrounding on all sides at least the rectilinear region of the conductor bar, and movable sleeve-like pressing devices surrounding and pressing the angled regions of the conductor bar adjoining the rectilinear region.