China’s Iron and Steel Research Institute has announced the release of HIPEX1850, the nation’s first ultra-large hot isostatic pressing (HIP) machine.
Hot isostatic pressing is a manufacturing technique that eliminates porosity in materials, thus increasing their density and strength.
Manufactured by HIPEX, a subsidiary of CISRI Group and headquartered in Beijing, the HIPEX1850 has a working zone size of Φ1690×3500 mm.
The machine utilizes ultra-high temperatures, reaching up to 3,632 degrees Fahrenheit (2,000 degrees Celsius). This, in combination with high “isostatic” gas pressure, allows the machine to compress materials from all directions in any desired shape. The pressurizing gas— typically an inert gas such as Argon— prevents the material from chemically reacting.
Remarkably, the process enhances the density and strength of metals and ceramics, making them suitable for demanding applications in industries, such as aerospace, oil and gas operations, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing.
Materials typically processed by HIP include ceramics, plastics, hard metals, glass, low-carbon steels, Tungsten Carbide, and Nickel-based superalloys.
Speaking to Chinese national television broadcaster CCTV, Qi Wen, the project leader of the ultra-large HIP equipment at the institute’s affiliated company Gangyan Haopu Technology, highlighted HIP’s suitability for extreme conditions.
“In simpler terms, this equipment can make ordinary metals, ceramics, and other materials stronger and capable of superior performance,” Qi highlighted.
“After undergoing the HIP process, the performance of the material will be greatly improved, and the fatigue life of the material can be increased by at least 10 times on average, which can meet the use requirements under extreme working conditions.”
Implications and strategic advancements
According to South China Morning Post, the HIPEX1850 is more than a technological marvel and marks China’s intention to advance manufacturing and technological innovation amid growing global tech rivalries. The new machine will enable larger, more complex materials to be processed.
Although HIP technology was first developed in the United States in the 1950s, it has since evolved and become crucial for creating uniformly high-density materials free from defects like micropores and cracks. This translates to improved wear and corrosion resistance.
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Global impact and prospects
The largest HIP machine in the world— owned by the British company Bodycote— is located in the United States. The HIPEX1850, while not as large, will nevertheless be a critical asset to China and open up new avenues for innovation and industrial applications.
Industries that rely on materials with superior mechanical properties and are highly resistant to extreme conditions, such as aerospace applications and the oil and gas sector, stand to benefit immensely.
The HIPEX1850 boasts advanced features, such as a modular design, intelligent control, and equipment stability.
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Amal Jos Chacko Amal writes code on a typical business day and dreams of clicking pictures of cool buildings and reading a book curled by the fire. He loves anything tech, consumer electronics, photography, cars, chess, football, and F1.
