Abstract: In one embodiment, a compact for tools, such as cutting, drilling, wire drawing and shaping tools, consists essentially of a porous mass of self-bonded, boron-doped diamond particles and a catalyst-solvent material. The method for making such a compact comprises the steps of bonding a mass of boron-doped diamond particles, aided by a catalyst-solvent material, under high temperatures and high pressures (HP/HT).In another embodiment, a composite compact, which is made in a similar manner to the first embodiment, consists essentially of (i) a layer of a porous mass of self-bonded, boron-doped diamond particles and catalyst-solvent material; and (ii) a substrate layer of cemented carbide bonded to the diamond layer.

Abstract: One or more masses of bonded particles of diamond, cubic boron nitride (CBN), and wurtzite boron nitride (WBN) are sandwiched between or encapsulated by two masses of cemented carbide bonded to the particle masses. In the preferred embodiment, the particle masses are comprised of (1) at least 70% by volume of said particles, and (2) a metallic phase comprised of the cementing agent of the carbide mass. The composite compacts find utility in drill bit, mining tool and wear part applications.A method for making such a composite compact comprises (1) placing within a reaction cell masses of abrasive particles and at least two carbide masses interleaved with the abrasive particle masses, (2) the masses are placed in the cell in such a manner to allow for the accommodation of pressure and (3) simultaneously subjecting the cell and the contents thereof to temperature and pressure conditions at which the particles are stable.

Abstract: A rotary drill bit for rock drilling comprising a plurality of cutting elements mounted by interference-fit in recesses in the crown of the drill bit. Each cutting element comprises an elongated pin with a thin layer of polycrystalline diamond bonded to the free end of the pin.

Abstract: A sintered porous plaque battery plate comprises an elongated substrate and a sintered porous plaque on both major surfaces thereof. One longitudinal edge of the substrate has a region substantially free of porous plaque for welding a current collector thereto and the other opposed longitudinal edge of the substrate has a transversely tapered porous plaque region on both major surfaces of the plate adjacent and extending longitudinally of the opposed edge for preventing the plaque from chipping along the opposed edge. The method for forming such plates includes the steps of (1) coating a substrate with double and single plate width strips of powdered metal slurry, (2) forming a V-shaped groove longitudinally of each of said double width strips to define a tapered porous plaque region along one edge of each plate, and (3) severing the substrate into strips of plate each with a tapered edge region after the slurry has been sintered into a porous plate.

Abstract: A charging system for alternatively charging cells having different physical sizes and/or electrical characteristics comprising a charge current source, a plurality of cellholder modules and interconnection means on said charger and said modules for selective alternative connection of each of said modules to the charger. Each module has an electrical circuit including a discharge prevention means for preventing inadvertent discharge of cells disposed in the module.

Abstract: A controlled battery charger system is provided wherein a rechargeable battery is charged at a high charge rate and the voltage and temperature of the battery are both monitored by sensing means which are coupled to switching means to shut off the high charge-rate current when either the temperature or the voltage of the battery reaches a predetermined level.

Abstract: An improved system for electrochemical impregnation of active material into an electrode for a galvanic cell comprises utilizing a constant potential during the impregnation as well as a screen or barrier interposed, in the bath, around the electrode while it is impregnated to mitigate the deposition of active material on the outside of the electrode surfaces. A more densely packed electrode having a higher charge rating per unit volume results. In a preferred embodiment the active material comprises a minor amount of a second ion and the ratio of the two ions in the bath is maintained by use of a consumable electrode in the bath having the desired ratio of ions therein.