Abstract: A method for creating a metallurgic component comprises creating a thin-walled container corresponding to a shape of the metallurgic component from a metal. If powder metal is not already in the container (depending on a method of creating the container), the thin-walled container is filled with powder metal. A quick-can device is fixed to the thin-walled container, and the powder metal is consolidated inside the thin-walled container (e.g., in a hot isostatic press). During consolidation, pressure within the thin-walled container is monitored and a desired pressure differential between an inside of the thin-walled container and an outside of the thin-walled container is maintained by the quick-can device.

Abstract: A method for creating a metallurgic component comprises creating a thin-walled container corresponding to a shape of the metallurgic component from a metal. If powder metal is not already in the container (depending on a method of creating the container), the thin-walled container is filled with powder metal. A quick-can device is fixed to the thin-walled container, and the powder metal is consolidated inside the thin-walled container (e.g., in a hot isostatic press). During consolidation, pressure within the thin-walled container is monitored and a desired pressure differential between an inside of the thin-walled container and an outside of the thin-walled container is maintained by the quick-can device.

Abstract: A container for the high temperature, high pressure processing of workpieces is disclosed. Such container has a removable plug with a deformable seal permitting rapid access to the interior of the container following processing. The removable plug contains various access ports allowing continuous monitoring of the interior of the container, continuous evacuation of gases, and introduction of controlled processing gases as may be required for various workpieces.

Abstract: The present invention describes a process for the compaction and densification of materials using heat and high pressure in which pressure is applied isostatically to the workpiece to be compacted, heat is applied to the pressurized workpiece as rapidly as feasible, effecting thereby full compaction and densification. Heating is terminated and the workpiece cooled while the workpiece is still pressurized. This process effects hot-isostatic-processing of workpieces while reducing the time such workpieces spend at elevated temperatures. The resulting parts can have novel structures, properties or compositions not obtained with other processing procedures.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for the rapid generation of high hydrostatic pressures and the concurrent delivery of said pressures to a workpiece. The apparatus and methods comprise the rapid thermal expansion and vaporization of a volatile fluid. The volatile fluid is typically liquid argon and heated typically by means of a controllable electric heater, delivered to the workpiece typically by means of a pressure-rupturable membrane. The disclosed apparatus and methods permit the application of high hydrostatic pressures to commercial-scale workpieces, in an economic manner and with reduced cycle times.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for the rapid generation of high hydrostatic pressures and the concurrent delivery of said pressures to a workpiece. The apparatus and methods comprise the rapid thermal expansion and vaporization of a volatile fluid. The volatile fluid is typically liquid argon and heated typically by way of a controllable electric heater, delivered to the workpiece typically by way of a pressure-rupturable membrane. The disclosed apparatus and methods permit the application of high hydrostatic pressures to commercial-scale workpieces, in an economic manner and with reduced cycle times.

Abstract: A method for preserving biological material is disclosed in which the biological material is stored at cryogenic temperatures for long periods of time without incurring fatal damage to cells, tissues or organs. The process comprises freezing the biological material under conditions of temperature and pressure to avoid the formation of crystalline ice I at all times during the freezing process. Rather, metastable phases of ice are exploited to reduce damage to the biological material upon freezing, storage or subsequent thawing.

Abstract: A furnace for heating work material comprises an outer wall defining a space therein. A first upright cylindrical shell is disposed within the space and defines a work chamber for receiving work material to be heated. A second upright cylindrical shell surrounds and is spaced outwardly of the first shell to form a heater space therebetween. A heater assembly comprises support pins disposed across and supported atop the first and second shells. A generally vertically extending electrical heating element is supported from the support means, is disposed within the heating space, and extends around at least a portion of the periphery of the first shell. The heating element is unconstrained against free thermal expansion and contraction in vertical directions relative to the first and second shells.