Solar Atmospheres of Western PA commenced operation of a new custom-built horizontal 20-bar vacuum furnace at its Hermitage, Pa., facility.

Solar Atmospheres of Western PA commenced operation of a new custom-built horizontal 20-bar vacuum furnace (40 inches wide x 50 inches deep x 36 inches high) at its Hermitage, Pa., facility. Designed and built by sister company Solar Manufacturing, it is the fastest cooling furnace in the Solar fleet. It will also enable the company to process a wider range of materials. The excessive pressure and high-speed gas velocities of the 20-bar furnace simulate oil quenching. However, using inert gas as an alternative to oil minimizes distortion and provides a cleaner process. Solar can also increase core hardnesses of large cross-sections. The furnace will be commissioned to process to stringent pyrometry specifications for aerospace customers.