Abstract: A ceramic material is prepared which has a favorable combination of high density, and elevated modulus of elasticity and thermal shock resistance as measured by the ability to withstand temperature changes of at least 300° C. The ceramic material is prepared by subjecting a ceramic structure to at least one heat treatment providing the formation in the structure of controlled macro- and micro-cracks, and subjecting the structure processed in this fashion to further heating under static pressure to form the final ceramic material having the favorable combination of properties enumerated herein. The invention extends to the material, the method of its preparation and to a variety of products having predetermined properties that can be fabricated therefrom. For example, cylinder inserts for the manufacture of internal combustion engines, and packaging for integrated circuit devices may be prepared from the present ceramic material.

Abstract: A lined shot sleeve for use in injection die casting molten metal is disclosed. The lined shot sleeve comprises an elongated main body portion including a first continuous inner wall surface defining a receptacle bore axially extending between a first end and a second end of the main body portion A first ingress port opens onto the continuous inner wall surface and adapted to provide for passage of the molten metal into the receptacle bore There is an elongated ceramic liner adapted for secure placement within the receptacle bore, the liner including a second continuous inner wall surface defining a cylinder bore axially extending between a first end and a second end of the liner and an exterior wall surface adapted for frictional contact with the first continuous inner wall surface. The first and second ends of the ceramic liner are generally coincident with the first and second ends of the main body portion.