Ceramic center pin for compaction tooling and method for making same
OwnerLuka Gakovicinventor
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Abstract
The present invention is a method and apparatus for the production of compacted powder elements. More specifically, the present invention is directed to the improvement of tooling for powder compaction equipment, and the processes for making such tooling. The improvement comprises the use of a ceramic tip or similar component in high wear areas of the tooling, particularly center pins. Moreover, the use of such ceramic components enables reworking and replacement of the worn tool components.
Claims34
An apparatus for forming a powder material into a solid form through the application of pressure, comprising:
- a die;
- a lower compression punch insertable into a lower end of said die, said compression punch having a ceramic-tipped center pin passing therethrough where the ceramic reduces the wear of said outer surface of said center pin;
- powder material for filling at least a portion of the cavity defined by said die, said lower compression punch and said center pin;
- and
- an upper compression punch, insertable into an upper end of said die to compact the powder material.
A method of manufacturing a compression center pin for use in a punch and die powder compaction apparatus, comprising the steps of:
- forming a center pin base of a rigid material);
- forming a center pin tip of a ceramic material;
- and
- affixing the center pin tip to the center pin base.
A method of repairing a compression center pin, having a center pin tip and a center pin base, for use in a punch and die powder compaction apparatus, comprising the steps of:
- removing a center pin tip from a center pin base;
- replacing the center pin tip with a ceramic material and
- affixing the center pin tip to the center pin base.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.