Abstract: An apparatus for providing uniform axial load distribution for laminate layers of multilayer ceramic chip carriers includes a base plate configured to support a plurality of green sheet layers thereon, the base plate having at least one resiliently mounted load support bar disposed adjacent outer edges of the base plate. The load support bar is mounted on one or more biasing members such that the top surface of the support bar extends above the top surface of the base plate by a selected distance.

Abstract: An apparatus for flattening sintered ceramic electronic packaging substrates having opposing faces with undesired camber interleaves the substrates with spacers. At least one heating zone includes a heat transfer medium movable toward and away from the stack of interleaved ceramic substrates and spacers to apply a desired rate of heat by direct contact with or close proximity to sides of the stack. A plunger applies pressure to the stack in a direction normal to the faces of the substrates. At least one cooling zone includes a heat transfer medium movable toward and away from the stack to remove heat introduced in the heating zone by direct contact with or close proximity to sides of the stack. A reducing gas supply is operatively connected to the at least one heating zone and at least one cooling zone to supply gas to maintain a controlled reducing atmosphere within the apparatus.