Category: News Articles

Researchers from the National Engineering Research Center for Instrument Functional Materials and Chongqing University, both in Chongqing, China, have highlighted the pivotal role of zirconium alloys in nuclear power systems. Their latest paper reviews the significant advancements in coating technologies for zirconium alloy fuel cladding, a crucial component in nuclear reactors. The study discusses various preparation methods, types of coatings, and their efficacy in resisting high-temperature oxidation—a key challenge for fuel cladding materials. This comprehensive

EvergreenKilnTechnologies, LLC, based in Niagara Falls, USA, together with Suzhou Kilnpartner Mechanical Technology Co., Ltd., based in China, have announced a strategic partnership aimed at addressing the burgeoning needs of the North American Lithium-ion battery market. This alliance is poised to offer battery material producers advanced Kiln System solutions tailored for the production of cathode (LFP, NMC) and anode active materials. As part of the arrangement, EvergreenKilnTechnologies LLC will function as a subsidiary under Can-Eng

Seco/Vacuum, Meadville, Pa., announced it has secured a record-breaking contract for nine furnaces in June. The order includes three Vector vacuum Furnaces and six tempering furnaces, along with necessary auxiliary systems, marking a significant expansion for a returning heat-treat partner that already operates twelve Seco/Vacuum furnaces across North America. The new furnaces are part of the heat-treater’s strategic shift from atmospheric heat treatment to vacuum processes. This transition aims to modernize their facilities, offering cleaner,

Steel Dynamics Inc., Fort Wayne, Ind., announced leadership appointments for James Anderson and Chad Bickford. Mark D. Millett, Chairman and CEO, expressed his excitement, praising their leadership qualities and positive influence within the company. Millett highlighted their commitment to the company’s core values of safety, performance, and innovation, and their focus on prioritizing personnel. James Anderson has been named Senior Vice President of the Long Products Steel Group, effective May 1, 2024. Anderson, who will

Gas nitriding and nitrocarburizing can be processed in horizontal or vertical chamber furnaces with refractory insulation. However, to allow a quick change of the atmosphere and to avoid influences resulting from previous processes in the same furnace, retort furnaces are preferred. To enable an acceptable production capacity, large vertical retort furnaces are used. Figure 23 shows a schematic sketch of a vertical retort furnace with a compensator for sealing against atmosphere. Nowadays large horizontal retort

Nitrex, Quebec, announced that an automotive company in South America has placed a follow-up order for a second EndoFlex generator from UPC-Marathon, a Nitrex company. Following the successful installation of a 200 m³/h EndoFlex unit last year, the new generator, with a similar capacity, aims to enhance stability, ensure consistent composition and gas flows, and prioritize top-tier quality in automotive gear boxes while achieving efficiencies in heat treatment operations. Before adopting the EndoFlex solution, the