Powder pressing method involves altering applied pressure during compaction stroke to reduce explosion risk

摘要

Air is evacuated from the forming tool cavity and then the compaction tool is pressed against the powder inside the cavity. The applied pressure is immediately altered in order to counter any backpressure. A method for forming an article from a powder comprises the following steps: (a) providing a first tool with a cavity; (b) providing a second tool which can be moved inside the first tool cavity; (c) placing powder in the first tool cavity; (d) removing air from the first tool cavity; (e) applying a pressure to the second tool in order to apply a percussive force to the powder; and (f) immediately altering the applied pressure in order to counter any backpressure. An independent claim is also included for the process apparatus, which includes a means connected to the power supply for the second tool for altering the pressure applied to it during a compaction stroke when a pre-determined requirement is met.