SAFE OPERATION OF WIRE-MESH-BELT FURNACES WITH COMBUSTIBLE ATMOSPHERES

The wire-mesh-belt furnace is the most widely used type of furnace in the powder metal (PM) industry. Although safety standards for the use of combustible atmospheres exist, other considerations with regard to atmosphere safety are equally important to the safe day-to-day operations of these systems. Atmosphere-flow rates within the furnace, maintenance, as well as the environment around the furnace play a major role in the safe operation of the furnace. These issues are analyzed and "rule of thumb" are given in relation to safe furnace operation during sintering.