Thermal Technology received an order from a European company for a large, laboratory-scale spark plasma sintering (SPS) system with 25 tons of force and a 10,000-amp power supply. The SPS system is designed with highly rigid four-post press frames, an extra-large working chamber and large access doors. The flexible footprint accommodates users’ spatial limitations, while the advanced power supply provides adjustability and heat rates greater than 1500°C per minute.

The system can process conductive, non-conductive or composite materials to any level of density, including full density, with high homogeneity and strong bonds between particles. Digital servo-valve-controlled hydraulics ensure ultra-fine force control, while programming and data acquisition are accomplished using an on- or off-line PC system.