Quintus introduces new QIH 200 URC Hot Isostatic Press with post-processing ability
At Formnext 2024, Quintus Technologies, based in Vasterås, Sweden, introduced its large-format QIH 200 URC Hot Isostatic Press (HIP). The new press integrates Quintus’ High Pressure Heat Treatment (HPHT), a proprietary process that combines stress-relief (SR), HIP, high-temperature solution annealing (SA), high-pressure gas quenching (HPGQ), and subsequent ageing or precipitation hardening (PH) into one integrated furnace cycle.
Production of wrought, cast, Powder Metallurgy, and additively manufactured components has traditionally involved several heat treatment steps post HIP, often outsourced to a third party. The QIH 200 URC’s additional capabilities allow multiple functions to be performed at a single location.
“Our new press model QIH 200 URC produces faster throughput and higher workpiece quality,” stated Peter Henning, Director Marketing and Sales, Quintus Technologies. “Having fewer pieces of equipment on the production line also enhances efficiency and dramatically reduces per-unit processing costs while generating significant savings in space, energy, and infrastructure. We expect this press to become a cornerstone of lean production lines for AM, casting, and PM HIP industries.”
The hot zone of the model QIH 200 URC measures 880 mm in diameter and 2,150 mm in height. With an operating pressure up to 207 MPa (30,000 psi) and temperature up to 1,400°C, the press can reportedly achieve 100% of maximum theoretical density and improve the ductility and fatigue resistance of critical, high-performance materials. It is suited for components produced through a variety of Additive Manufacturing and Powder Metallurgy processes as well as casting.
The press also featuresQuintus’s exclusive Uniform Rapid Cooling (URC) and control systems offer full digital connectivity to enable the repeated performance of customised heating, densification, and cooling regimes.
Alongside its equipment, the company offers a Quintus Care, a customised service programme that works to ensure customers receive operational reliability, maximum performance, controlled annual cost and long-term partnership. Participants in the programme have access to Quintus’ application centres, where they can receive assistance on technical challenges and process parameters from materials science experts.
“As the industry leader in advanced Hot Isostatic Pressing technology for over seventy years, we have noted exceptional interest in new manufacturing approaches that improve quality, lower operational cost, and significantly reduce both lead times and environmental impact,” added Johan Hjärne, recently appointed CEO of Quintus Technologies. “Our new QIH 200 URC press is the result of our strong focus on materials science and materials processing research, and we are very pleased to support our customers’ goals for innovation, productivity, and sustainability.”
Those interested in Quintus’ HIP capabilities can visit its Formnext stand in Hall 11.0, Booth A11.
www.quintustechnologies.com
