1 Blending
We manufacturing process begins with strict control of raw materials and precise blending to unique in-house recipes.
2 Testing
Samples of our grade powders are sintered and tested extensively in our Quality Control Lab prior to use in production. Tests are performed using state-of-the-art equipment by our experienced metallurgical quality control team.
3 Engineering
Our engineering team develops an accurate, computerized model of your specified carbide preform with our detailed CAD/CAM systems. Once engineered, the drawing can be linked to our CNC equipment for product consistency from start to finish. Repeat orders are quickly retrieved from the computer system.
4 Pressing
Powders are hydrostatically pressed, reducing billets and rounds by approximately 25%. Shrink factor is determined and the materials are tagged for shaping.
5 Shaping
We experienced machinists use diamond-tipped tooling to bore, grind, drill and turn to exact specified dimensions and tolerances. CNC equipment can be controlled through the CAD/CAM system.
6 Sintering
Precision carbide preforms are sintered in our programmable sinter hip and vacuum furnaces at temperatures from 2400˚F up to 2700˚F. Once sintered, invar plugs can be brazed in place if tapping is required.
7 Inspection
A dimensional & metallurgical inspection is performed before shipping.
8 Packaging
All carbide preforms are visually checked and packaged to specification.