Abstract: A method of forming a turbine blade or vane is provided and includes forming a wax pattern in a turbine blade or vane shape and additively forming a positive witness band around a tip portion of the wax pattern.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method for selectively vapor-coating an extrusion die to extrude honeycombs with desired distributions of web thicknesses, wherein at least one perforated impedance or preferential coating plate with a desired pattern of holes is positioned adjacent to, but spaced apart from, a face of the extrusion die to be coated, whereby a coating gas passed through the coating plate and into the die imparts a desired coating distribution to the extrusion die slots that is effective to closely control the web thickness distribution in honeycombs extruded therefrom.

Abstract: The present invention features a process and apparatus for fabricating ceramic substrates. The apparatus comprises an extruder of the ram or screw type for forcing the ceramic materials through a die to form a log. After leaving the extrusion die, the log enters a conveyor apparatus. The log is conveyed over, and supported upon, a gaseous fluid (air) bearing surface of the conveyor apparatus, until it reaches a dryer carrier. The conveyor apparatus features a support surface for carrying the ceramic materials. The support surface has a plurality of apertures through which the gaseous fluid (air) is directed for supporting the moving log. About the support surface is disposed a mantle for confining the gaseous fluid (air) about the rapidly drying ceramic log. The gaseous fluid (air) is maintained at a relative humidity of approximately between 85 to 97%, and preferably within an approximate range of between 90 and 95%.