AP&T North America Inc., Monroe, N.C., has introduced a new energy-efficient modular furnace with automation for press hardening. The Multilayer Feeder Furnace reduces heat loss by two thirds compared to conventional roller hearth furnaces. It features several modules stacked on top of each other. Blanks are added and removed using SpeedFeeders, and stay completely motionless during the heating process. This enables a less sensitive process, making it easier to ensure a consistently high level of quality.
“In order to achieve a high level of reliability and low maintenance costs, we have simple and robust furnace modules that can be used independently of each other,” says Dr. Martin Skrikerud, Vice Chief Technical Officer. “Thus, production can continue even if one of the furnace modules is not in operation.”
Since the furnace does not require a roller conveyor, it only needs a third of the floor space required by a conventional solution. It is also primarily thanks to the compact dimensions that heat loss is so low. The furnace modules can be delivered with an airtight controlled atmosphere that allows several types of material and steel grades to be heated without the risk of scaling. The furnace is electric, which means simpler installation, and the disadvantages associated with combustion can be avoided entirely.
