Abstract: An insulator having a universal configuration can be placed around many different types of steam traps. The insulator comprises a housing having suitable openings for water drainage and testing of the trap by an ultrasonic probe, and thermal insulation. Use of the insulator results in more efficient operation of the trap and saves energy. One of the outstanding features of the insulator is its ease of installation.

Abstract: A method for forming high carbon hard alloys using powdered metal techniques wherein the carbon content of the atomized powdered metal particles is minimized and the carbon content to achieve the desired composition is provided by blending carbon or carbon containing powder with the powdered metal particles prior to compaction and sintering. The compact may be sintered just above the solidus temperature of the alloy.

Abstract: Powdered metal is continuously introduced into a die cavity in discrete quantities and compacted into bar segments to form a bar. The cavity has a fixed cross-sectional area and is open at both ends, except during the initial compaction when one end is closed. After formation of a length of the bar, the frictional resistance between the bar and the cavity wall is relied on so that the bar remaining in the cavity serves as a stopper for subsequent compactions of the discrete quantities of powdered metal to form the continuous bar. The bar is forced out of the cavity and may be passed through an induction furnace for sintering, and through a swager, all preferably in a continuous operation. Also provided is means for varying the compaction so that the bar lengths formed from the discrete quantities of powdered metal are compacted and bonded into a bar of substantially uniform physical characteristics along its length.