1. Bodycote enters production for increased HIP capacity in Southeastern US; “Bodycote, the world’s largest thermal processing services provider, has begun production for its previously reported expansion of Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) services in Greenville, South Carolina, USA. In recognition of the growing market for additive manufacturing and the associated need for high-quality HIP processing, Bodycote commissioned additional HIP capacity to service the development and processing of advanced materials. Bodycote’s Greenville, SC plant is a Nadcap-accredited site and holds several core OEM approvals.

 

The site consists of numerous vacuum furnaces, aluminum heat treatment, EDM, and other capabilities well suited to support additive manufacturing customers. The Greenville site serves the aerospace, defense, power generation, medical and general industrial customers throughout the Southeastern region. With Greenville’s additional HIP capacity now in full production, Bodycote addresses the rising customer demand for highly reliable additive manufacturing post-processing.

 

The capacity is well situated near key customers and other Bodycote locations to simplify the supply chain and reduce transportation. This continued investment is part of Bodycote’s commitment to align resources to serve the North American market. Bodycote operates the world’s largest network of HIP equipment. Having established industry expertise over decades, Bodycote has more than 50 HIP vessels of varying sizes in multiple locations. Processing capability can accommodate components nominally up to 6.5ft in diameter by 12ft high, and weighing over 30,000kg.” https://themonty.com/bodycote-enters-production-for-increased-hip-capacity-in-southeastern-us/

 

2. Piston Ring Manufacturer Adds Third Nitriding System; “Nitrex continues to set the standard in stainless steel nitriding with the successful installation of a third advanced system at Asimco Shuanghuan Piston Ring (Yizheng) Co., Ltd. This latest addition highlights Asimco’s commitment to enhancing production capabilities and reinforcing their leadership in producing piston rings that maximize engine performance and durability across a range of applications, including automotive, commercial vehicles, construction machinery, and marine sectors. The company is renowned for supplying piston rings to leading OEMs worldwide, including Cummins and its joint venture companies.

 

With an annual production capacity of 180 million pieces and over 4,800 different varieties and specifications, Asimco leverages Nitrex’s NITREG®-S technology to achieve an unparalleled engine matching surface rate. This advanced stainless steel nitriding technology ensures optimal fit and performance of piston rings within engine components, which is crucial for maximizing engine efficiency and longevity. A high engine matching surface rate indicates precise alignment with engine cylinder surfaces, leading to improved performance, efficiency, and durability.

 

Last fall, Asimco strategically planned to expand its production capacity by integrating a third Nitrex compact furnace, the NXK-812 model, with a 1,200 kg (2,600 lbs.) load capacity and NITREG®-S technology. This new system, identical to those installed in 2018 and 2021, will further enhance their nitriding capabilities. NITREG®-S technology augments wear resistance, corrosion resistance, fatigue strength, surface hardness, and dimensional stability of piston rings, while reducing friction. These improvements result in better sealing, lower oil consumption, and overall enhanced engine efficiency and durability.

 

Installation of the latest system commenced on June 24, 2024, with production starting in July 2024. Tao Liu, Sales Manager at Nitrex China, commented, “The addition of the NXK-812 furnace aligns with Asimco Shuanghuan’s objectives to boost production volume and ensure precision and reliability in high-volume manufacturing. This move reflects Asimco’s ongoing trust in Nitrex’s advanced technology and consistent performance. During the startup phase, the Nitrex team effectively managed all on-site adjustments, ensuring a seamless and successful operation for piston ring nitriding. Asimco’s feedback has been highly positive, highlighting their satisfaction with the furnace’s performance and Nitrex’s technical support.” https://themonty.com/piston-ring-manufacturer-adds-third-nitriding-system/

 

3. Aalberts Surface Technologies UK Adds Another Plasma Nitrider; “Aalberts Surface Technologies UK is continuing it’s investment with another plasma nitrider, we are thrilled to announce the addition of a further Plasma Nitriding furnace at our Telford site. The furnace significantly enhances our overall capacity and capability, representing further growth within our UK operations. One standout feature of this particular furnace is its size, making it perfect for treating large/ very large press tool dies. In fact, at Aalberts Telford, we are now capable to process parts up to 2m long in Plasma Nitriding and 4m long in Gas Nitriding – Thomas Varley

 

Plasma Nitriding significantly enhances wear resistance, fatigue strength, and corrosion resistance of the treated parts. This translates to longer tool life, reduced maintenance costs, and improved performance in demanding applications. Our customers can expect a noticeable improvement in the durability and efficiency of their press tools. Plasma Nitriding can also be applied as an environmentally friendlier alternative to Chrome Plating, offering a superior end result performance.” https://themonty.com/aalberts-surface-technologies-uk-adds-another-plasma-nitrider/

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