Using microwave-absorbing plasma, Dana Corp.'s AtmosPlas(tm) process rapidly heats metal parts up to 1200 C (2190 F) in a matter of seconds and controls arcing. It operates at atmospheric pressure, which opens the door for microwave processing to many other processes and applications. In addition to shortening heat-treating cycle times and eliminating the need for vacuum equipment, the technology reduces energy-95% of the energy created is absorbed-and maintenance costs. The process can be used not only with metals, but also with advanced ceramics and hard material coatings. Dana's method for producing the plasma enables a variety of metal-processing techniques including brazing, sintering, carburizing, annealing, tempering and nitriding. The even, reliable distribution of heat provided by the AtmosPlas technology is also extremely useful in processes such as ceramic sintering.

Links