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Abstract
Argon gas is normally used as a pressure medium in the hot isostatic pressing (HIP) process and, in special cases, for powder atomisation. Argon is a noble gas and does not react with other elements. However, if argon content exceeds a critical level during densification of parts it can have an adverse effect on subsequent heat treatment, properties and welding processes. Capsule leaks before and during HIP allow the infiltration of argon. Possible countermeasures to eliminate the risk of argon in HIP parts are presented. It is important to recognise that the detection of argon in parts is not a standard process. Different argon levels will be compared with metallographic samples and the influence of heat treatment will be described.
This paper is based on a presentation at Euro PM 2012 organised by EPMA in Basel, Switzerland on 16–19 September 2012.