Bodycote is the world’s largest provider of thermal pressing services, specializing in techniques that enhance the durability, strength, and performance of metals and other materials. With a network of over 165 locations worldwide, the company provides various industries with advanced heat treatment services to produce ever stronger and harder materials.
One of Bodycote’s latest technologies, hot isostatic pressing (HIP), made big waves in the industry, as it can remove internal voids in metal components, making them denser and more reliable. The process includes heating to temperatures between 900° C and 2,000° C (1,650° F and 3,600° F) in a highly pressurized chamber filled with an inert gas, typically argon.
The chamber is usually kept at levels between 7,350 and 45,000 psi (500 and 3,100 bar). Crucially, the pressure is isostatic, i.e., it’s applied uniformly in all directions, forcing the material to fuse. As a result, the finished part will have higher strength and fatigue resistance. HIP is commonly applied in industries where material strength and reliability are critical, such as aerospace, automotive, medical implants, and tooling.
Recently, Bodycote announced it would expand its HIP services in Greenville, South Carolina, in a Nadcap-accredited production site. At the plant, Bodycote installed vacuum furnaces, EDM, and aluminum heat treatment services, aiming to provide additive manufacturing customers in various sectors with high-quality materials.
The new production site is also situated near key North American customers, allowing Bodycote to deliver HIP services at speed and lower cost. According to Bodycote, parts that are between 2 meters (6.5 feet) in diameter and 3.65 meters (12 feet) tall can be produced at the site, weighing north of 30,000 kg (66,000 pounds).
Globally, Bodycote currently runs over 50 HIP vessels, though they vary in size and capability. Using these vessels, the company can accommodate large volumes of small products as economically as large individual components.
Article & Image Source: Bodycote
