Abstract: An apparatus and method for high-temperature precision sintering applications are disclosed wherein a flowable bed of a refractory particulate material is used to support an article during sintering to minimize distortions caused by shrinkage.

Abstract: High-temperature belt-type furnace apparatus utilizing a silicon carbide continuous belt design is disclosed.

Abstract: In a materials treating furnace, a belt is provided for transporting articles to be treated through a high temperature treatment zone. The belt comprises a succession of interwoven links, each of which is made up of a length of tungsten wire which has been heated and wound around an elliptical mandrel to provide a link which is in the form of a slightly flattened helix having no sharp bends. The interweaving of the helical links provides a large number of interlocking contact points between successive links.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of removing binder material which is non-sublimable at room temperature and pressures greater than 1 Torr from a binder and particulate mixture. The binder and particulate mixture is formed into a shaped article and placed in a closed furnace. The closed furnace is then adjusted to a pressure and temperature sufficient to effect transformation of the binder material from a solid to a vapor and diffusion of the binder material as a vapor through, and from, the binder and particulate mixture without formation of a liquid phase of binder material on the binder and particulate mixture surface. The shaped article is held under these processing conditions until substantially all of the binder material transforms to its vapor state and diffuses through, and from, the mixture into the closed furnace. The binder material vapor is then evacuated from the furnace through conventional means.

Abstract: In the high pressure furnace disclosed herein, convection currents in the furnace hot zone are minimized by bringing electrical feedthroughs for the heating element through a horizontal spacer ring which separates a pressure body and cover. A heat zone defining chamber base has an annular flange which extends to the pressure vessel body and a hot zone cover has a corresponding flange which extends to the pressure vessel cover. The feedthroughs pass in spaced relation between these flanges. As the feedthroughs enter the hot zone through the space between the flanges, a relatively small volume of unheated atmosphere is available to support convection currents stemming from necessary clearances around the feedthroughs where they enter the hot zone.