Abstract: This invention relates to biomechanical devices comprising a liquid sinterable metallic alloy, characterized by a multiphase, composite microstructure of isolated spherical grains approximately 50 microns in diameter distributed in an essentially nonporous matrix. The dental prosthetic devices include full-cast crowns, copings, pontics, inlays, onlays, and bridges. Other devices include reconstructive and orthopedic pieces. A method for fabricating a dental prosthetic device is also recited.

Abstract: A high strength porcelain dental prosthetic device, such as an infrastructure, inlay or onlay is formed directly from a dental porcelain fired at elevated temperatures of about 1000.degree. F. and above, under a pressure of about 10 to 1000 microns of Hg. A special furnace is devised which will achieve this pressure range in a rapid efficient manner. The resultant porcelain dental infrastructure has a high density, and the strength approaching that found in commercial cast ceramic restorations.

Abstract: An alloyed metal dental prosthetic device, such as a coping, of an alloy dental reconstructive element, is formed from a liquid phase sintered powdered metal alloy at elevated temperatures of about 1000.degree.-1300.degree. C. under a high level of vacuum of about 10 to 1000 microns of Hg. A special oven is devised which will achieve this high level of vacuum in a rapid efficient manner. The resultant metal prosthetic device has the density of at least that found in commercial cast prosthetic devices.

Abstract: A rotatable supporting structure adapted to withstand substantial intense heat and provide for the rotation of a workpiece without lateral displacement thereof during the heating of the workpiece within a furnace, including a base having a substantially planar upper surface, and a pin located on the upper surface of the base extending upwardly therefrom. The supporting structure also includes an upper member having an opening at substantially the center thereof, and of a diameter slightly larger than that of the cross sectional size of the pin. The upper member is provided with a plurality of holes or slots into which a plurality of supporting dowels may be disposed, in a variety of positions, thereby varying the space therebetween so as to support a workpiece without engaging the upper surface of the upper member and provide for the rotation thereof.