Abstract: In a hot isostatic pressing process or hot uniaxial pressing process for producing a net or near net shape product, a diffusion filter comprising boron nitride is provided between a graphite former and metal powder to be pressed thereagainst. The diffusion filter allows a controlled amount of carbon to diffuse into the surface of the pressed component. The boron nitride is conveniently applied as an aqueous slurry by spraying. In order to obtain adherence between the coating and the surfaces of the former, one or more thin ghost coat layers of slurry are applied to the surface of the graphite former before one or more layers of normal strength slurry are applied. Each layer of coating is allowed to dry before the next layer is applied, and the former may be heated to dry each layer. Pressed components of length greater than 2m can be processed, relative contraction of the component and former during cooling of the component being accommodated by the boron nitride coating on the former.

Abstract: A forklift assembly is mounted to a robotic bomb disposal vehicle. The forklift assembly includes at least one fork, and may be coupled via a receiver hitch to the vehicle. In one embodiment, the receiver hitch is positioned between articulating arms located on the vehicle, permitting vertical movement of the forks. An explosive countermeasure is positioned on the forks. With the countermeasure so positioned, the vehicle may be caused to travel proximate a vehicle suspected of having an explosive device therein. The countermeasure may then be lowered onto the ground at a desired position proximate the suspect vehicle, and the robotic bomb disposal vehicle withdrawn from the site.