![Sample our Engineering & Technology journals, sign in here to start your access, latest two full volumes FREE to you for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5933/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Engineering-Tech.jpg"})
Abstract
The isostatic pressing of calcium-reduced thorium powder into round bars and tubes, prior to vacuum sintering and swaging, is described. The simple equipment allows powder filling to be carried out in an enclosed system, thus avoiding fire and health hazards at this stage. A number of bars or tubes, of varying length and diameter, can be pressed simultaneously. The technique has certain advantages over conventional die compacting.
The effect of pressure on density and hardness through the bar section before and after sintering at various temperatures has been studied, and the optimum conditions determined for the manufacture of dense bars with high metal efficiencies (98%). Details are given of the microstructure and mechanical properties of thorium bars in the sintered, swaged, and annealed conditions.
Notes
* Manuscript received 14 July 1960.