Heat Treat Industry News
July 09, 2008
Q1 may be a mixed bag for steel sector
The first quarter of the current fiscal is likely to be a mixed bag for the steel industry, which was asked to cut prices by the government as part of the steps to contain inflation. more...
July 08, 2008
Purging of Furnaces – How Do We Know When It’s Safe?
The generic and practical information presented here is not intended to replace or supplement federal, state and local codes, government standards, insurance requirements, company policies and procedures or common sense. Nor is it intended to replace or supplement the equipment manufacturers’ instructions and operating and maintenance manuals that should always be thoroughly read, understood and followed. Comprehensive personnel training should be provided by the equipment manufacturer and their sub-suppliers unequivocally to everyone who will be associated with and operating heat-treating equipment. more...
July 07, 2008
United Process Controls Upgrades Bodycote Operations
Bodycote Thermal Processing (Huntington Park, Calif.) has acquired three gas nitriding installations based on the UPC Protherm 500 programmable controller and the H2Smart hydrogen analyzer from United Process Controls. These include two pit-type NP-1020 turnkey systems complete with furnaces and one upgrade for an existing furnace. All three systems will be used primarily for nitriding stainless steels. In addition, an IN-500 exhaust-gas neutralizer will ensure the furnaces’ environmental friendliness. more...
July 04, 2008
New Steel Plant to Rise in Pittsburg
PITTSBURG — The curtain will soon rise on a new era in steel production in this Delta city, as a multimillion-dollar pipe factory takes shape.more...
July 03, 2008
TECH TIP of the WEEK: Cold work Tool steel D2
The tool steel known as D2 is considered to be a High Carbon High Chromium Cold Work tool steel.
The steel is high in both carbon and chromium for the purpose of forming large volumes of secondary chromium carbides as a result of the precipitation of the carbides during the tempering procedure. This gave rise to a high wear resistance steel.more...
July 02, 2008
What Causes Hardness Variation From Heat to Heat?
We heat treat a great deal of AISI 4140 for harden and temper. Our austenitize temperature is 1570°F (855°C) and temper at 450°F (235°C). We always check the “as-quenched” hardness, and more often than not, we have hardness variances from heat to heat. Why is this? more...
July 01, 2008
U.S. Steel Stays Strong
With the 2008 iron ore price negotiations between BHP Billiton and Chinese steel mills still up in the air as of Monday U.S. steel producers see dollar signs in their future. more...
June 30, 2008
IH Economic Indicators: All Four Indices Over 52, Three Improve from May
Industrial Heating’s monthly economic indicators for June 2008 showed continued growth in the thermal-processing industry. All four indices were over 52 for the first time since February, and all four were over 50 for the 15th time in the past 16 months. The numbers for request for quotes, number of orders and backlog all experienced increases from May. June 2008’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their May 2008 business levels to their April 2008 levels.more...
June 27, 2008
Industrial Competitiveness and Productivity
Americans may not be inclined to believe or accept it, but a Georgia Institute of Technology study released four months ago indicates that China has equaled and surpassed the United States as the worldwide technological competitiveness leader and driver of the world’s economy. more...
June 26, 2008
Metal formers see little change in business conditions in next three months
According to the June 2008 Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) Business Conditions Report, metal forming companies do not anticipate improvement in business conditions in the next three months. Conducted monthly, the report is an economic indicator for manufacturing, sampling 143 metal forming companies in the United States and Canada. more...
June 25, 2008
CEC Sells Integral Quench Furnace System
A leading manufacturer of business-jet aircraft has contracted with Consolidated Engineering Company (CEC) to design and manufacture an integral quench furnace system for their new heat-treat facility in Mexico. The system will be treating a broad range of aerospace steels, so it was of importance that the system be versatile. It can heat treat low to medium carbon tool steels, precipitation hardening steels, and martensitic, austenitic and stainless steels. more...
June 24, 2008
National Energy Technology Laboratory
The pros and cons of government assistance to industry have been debated forever. In the words of Thomas Jefferson, a wise government is one that shall leave men “free to regulate their own pursuits of industry and improvement, and shall not take from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned.” more...
June 23, 2008
Danieli Corus to Design Blast Furnace
Danieli Corus will design and supply the first new blast furnace commissioned in North America in 30 years for Nucor Corp.’s new iron-making facility. Nucor has applied for a permit to build the greenfield plant on the banks of the Mississippi River in St. James Parish, La. The facility – Nucor Steel Louisiana – would produce 3 million tons of pig iron per year, giving Nucor control over their raw-material supplies. more...
June 20, 2008
Bush, McCain Call for End to Oil Drilling Ban
Yesterday President Bush at a press conference and Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) on the campaign trail called for an end to the 27 year moratorium on oil drilling in the Outer Continental Shelf, including East and West Coasts and Eastern Gulf of Mexico. more...
June 19, 2008
Hardness and Hardenability - Part One: Tips and Techniques for Hardness Testing
For the heat treater, the concept of hardness is well known and the act of hardness testing routine. In fact, it is so repetitive that at times it is taken for granted, leading to sloppy procedures and false readings. Today, the ability to test that the heat-treating processes have achieved the proper hardness is more important than ever. Let’s learn more. more...
June 18, 2008
Green Energy Options
June begins our two-month (August) “Energy Summit in Print.” Energy costs being what they are, we want to provide you with good energy-saving ideas and technology. To that end, this column is devoted to increasing our energy awareness. With all there is to talk about, we will wrap up the discussion in the August editorial. more...
June 17, 2008
Hardness and Hardenability - Part One: Tips and Techniques for Hardness Testing
For the heat treater, the concept of hardness is well known and the act of hardness testing routine. In fact, it is so repetitive that at times it is taken for granted, leading to sloppy procedures and false readings. Today, the ability to test that the heat-treating processes have achieved the proper hardness is more important than ever. Let’s learn more. more...
June 16, 2008
Forging Ahead - Steelmaker's footprint to grow in DeKalb
The Charlotte, N.C.-based steelmaker, which operates plants in St. Joe and Waterloo, was the training ground for the three co-founders of Fort Wayne-based Steel Dynamics. more...
June 13, 2008
Current Status of Energy Markets
Both electricity and natural gas prices will continue to show upward trends through March 2009. Natural gas prices for July 2008 – March 2009 are solidly in the $11-$12 range. Prices drop in April 2009 to the $10.50 range, and stay at this lower level for two years. Electricity prices closely track natural gas prices and show the same price scenarios. more...
June 12, 2008
Simple Methods to Reduce Energy Costs
Energy conservation can significantly affect the bottom line of organizations. Soaring energy prices and expensive capital equipment are a dual challenge today. more...
June 11, 2008
Starting Your Job Shop on its “Lean Journey”
For a number of reasons, the heralded Toyota Production System – designed for a low-variety, high-volume shop – does not work equally well for a high-variety, low-volume operation, i.e. a job shop. Implementing a JobshopLean program in a smaller shop can improve performance significantly.more...
June 10, 2008
In These Uncertain Times, MTI Bringing Strategic Planning Workshop to 7 Major Cities
When you look at the landscape of business in the future, there are many uncertainties looming: The unrest of the political process, what laws will change that will impact our bottom lines, volatile energy markets, rising healthcare costs, overseas competition and the challenge of finding qualified workers, just to name a few. more...
June 09, 2008
Bell Helicopter to Expand
Bell Helicopter is set to begin a $55 million expansion project at its Grand Prairie manufacturing plant. The expansion is part of the company’s plan to boost production of helicopter components and spare parts. more...
June 06, 2008
GM to Close Four Plants
General Motors announced plans to shut four truck and SUV plants that employ over 8,300 workers. The plants to be closed include two U.S. facilities – more...
June 05, 2008
NSTT – A Promising Tool for Properties Enhancement of Heat-Treated Steels
Most industrial processes of continuous making, shaping and treating of steels involve high temperatures in essentially an open-air surrounding. This causes surface and penetrating oxidation, decarburization, scaling, bubbling, grain growth, etc., resulting in degradation of microstructure, intended properties, premature failure of parts and product recalls. more...
June 04, 2008
Fuels of the Future
This month’s annual automotive heat-treatment issue and the high price of gasoline prompted thoughts of what is currently happening on the fuel front. Since it’s hard to keep up with it all, let’s see if we can provide a review in one page or less. more...
June 03, 2008
Union Chicanery
In this election year, some important issues fly below the radar but do deserve attention. Such an item is resurgent union efforts to reverse private-sector member declines under way since 1983 – today down to 7.4% of eligible workers. more...
June 02, 2008
A Second Growing Issue on Labor Talks With Unions
In its partnership with the National Association of Manufacturers, the Metal Treating Institute likes to ensure it is keeping members up to speed on issues that could have a major impact (positive or negative) on your businesses so you can respond to your legislators in a timely fashion. Within Congress, the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) was introduced and passed the House and now awaits the Senate for action. more...
May 30, 2008
The Heat Is On
Better temperature control delivers higher productivity and quality as well as significant raw material and energy savings. more...
May 29, 2008
When was Martensite First Discovered?
This is a very interesting question.
People have been aware of and worked iron for approximately 4,000 years. However, its usage only became recognized around 1200 BC. This is because it was extremely difficult to smelt, melt, cast or forge because of temperature required. more...
May 28, 2008
Secrets to Controlling the Carburizing Process
A wise man once said that anything worth doing is worth doing right. In the case of carburizing, this is especially true since, from both an engineering and a heat-treating perspective, we often take the process for granted – a dangerous precedent that can get us in big trouble. It’s time to review the basics. Let’s learn more. more...
May 27, 2008
Economists' Recession Fears Receding
Reported by the National Association of Manufacturers
In a front-page story, the Wall Street Journal (5/14, A1, Evans, Lahart, subscription required) reports that a "funny thing happened to the economy on its way to recession: It's taken a detour." That "is the view of a growing number of economists -- more...
May 26, 2008
NSTT – A Promising Tool for Properties Enhancement of Heat-Treated Steels
Most industrial processes of continuous making, shaping and treating of steels involve high temperatures in essentially an open-air surrounding. This causes surface and penetrating oxidation, decarburization, scaling, bubbling, grain growth, etc., resulting in degradation of microstructure, more...
May 23, 2008
Essar may revise offer for Esmark
Move aimed at keeping Severstal from the race.
Ruias-controlled Essar Steel Holdings may raise its bid for US-based Esmark after OAO Severstal, Russia's largest steel maker, matched the Indian steel maker's $17 a share offer, which valued the company at $668 million, sources said. The winning bidder will also have to take on a debt of $400 million, taking the total exposure to $1.1 billion. more...
May 22, 2008
Praxair Signs Heat-Treat Joint Marketing Agreements
Praxair has signed joint marketing agreements with Super Systems Inc. and Atmosphere Engineering Company in order to combine the core competencies of each company into a superior comprehensive solution for heat-treat customers. more...
May 21, 2008
Flat-Rolled Steel Prices Increase in US Market, but Pace Slows
Flat-rolled steel prices continued to gain Tuesday in the US market for product from domestic mills. more...
May 20, 2008
Nucor "Outperform," Target Price Raised
NEW YORK, May 19 (newratings.com) - Analysts at Credit Suisse maintain their "outperform" rating on Nucor Corp (NUE), while raising their estimates for the company. The target price has been raised from $85 to $95. more...
May 19, 2008
Innovative Induction Heating of Oil Country Tubular Goods
Tubular products manufactured for use in oilfield applications are in demand, and it is a demanding application. A newly developed and patented technology improves the induction-heating process used to produce consistent properties in these products. more...
May 16, 2008
FORMER OWNER OF STEEL PLANT FILES LAWSUIT - Mittal claims bidder lacked enough money
The now former owners of the Sparrows Point steel mill, ArcelorMittal, filed a lawsuit against one of the original bidders for the plant, the Luxembourg-based company announced last Thursday, according to a company press release.more...
May 15, 2008
The FireBox Oven Furnace Provides a Higher Temperature Design
Charles A. Hones Inc. manufactures a wide range of all types and sizes of melters, furnaces and burners. Because we build each furnace in house and to order, we can easily customize dimensions, BTU outputs, and accessories. Hones now enlarges its oven furnace offerings. The FireBox-HT oven furnace has a new upgrade in temperature applications.more...
May 14, 2008
Vallourec Acquires Tubular Businesses
Vallourec has acquired three tubular business units – Atlas Bradford, TCA and Tube-Alloy – from Grant Pideco. Atlas Bradford is a North American supplier of premium oil country tubular goods connection technology. more...
May 13, 2008
Automated Vacuum Heat-Treat Systems in the Powertrain Industry - by William Gornicki ande Dr. Klaus Löser
Gears and gear shafts are typically subjected to the highest dynamic stresses of all powertrain components. Today comprehensive production experience is available with heat-treat systems, especially regarding high-volume, continuous production of powertrain components. The following article describes the present state of this technology and relays experiences in large-batch drivetrain-component production.more...
May 12, 2008
Bodycote Gets Second Ultra-Large HIP
Bodycote has taken delivery of a high-capacity hot isostatic press (HIP) at its Camas, Wash., facility. The unit was supplied by Avure Technologies and is identical in size to a HIP unit installed at Camas in 1998.more...
May 9, 2008
Severstal Completes Acquisition of Sparrows Point
OAO Severstal has completed its acquisition of the Sparrows Point integrated steel mill from ArcelorMittal for $810 million. Sparrows Point has a capacity of 3.6 million metric tons of crude steel and shipped 2.3 million metric tons of finished steel products in 2007. more...
May 08, 2008
Secrets to Controlling the Carburizing Process
A wise man once said that anything worth doing is worth doing right. In the case of carburizing, this is especially true since, from both an engineering and a heat-treating perspective, we often take the process for granted – a dangerous precedent that can get us in big trouble. It’s time to review the basics. Let’s learn more. more...
May 07, 2008
Industrial Recycling Pays Enlarge this picture
The time might be right for your business to embark on a recycling program. Why? The obvious answer is because it’s the right thing to do. The less known reason is that it may actually pay dividends. Before discussing the “payback,” let’s consider the good-steward reasons. more...
May 06, 2008
New Steel Plant in Mississippi County
ARMOREL (KAIT) - In the production of steel there is waste product such as steel dust from arc furnaces. But the new Pizo plant intends to recycle this waste. more...
May 05, 2008
NAM Reports Rising Costs Force Some U.S. Manufacturing Firms to Leave China, Survey Finds
The AFP (4/28) reported that "China is losing some of its attractiveness to foreign investors as rising costs are forcing some U.S. manufacturing firms to leave the country," according to a survey by the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham). more...
May 02, 2008
Steel Caucus cites failure rate of Chinese products
Testimony before the Congressional Steel Caucus on Wednesday indicated that some imported Chinese steel may be of sub-standard quality.more...
May 01, 2008
Who Is Lance Miller...A Few Things You May Not Know
What you’re about to read is a thrilling story of a West Virginia boy done good – a story about one of the industry's more colorful personalities who has played a significant role in making the industry better. Within this month's Commercial Heat Treaters and Commercial Heat Treating Capabilities Directories, you'll notice a large number of stars indicating MTI membership for those companies.more...
April 30, 2008
Group is Critical of China's Policies
Apr. 29--The Alliance for American Manufacturing contends China cheats on its trade policies, and U.S. presidential candidates need to let voters know how they would make that nation play fair. more...
April 29, 2008
Metal Treaters Report 3.0% Increase for First Quarter of 2008
The Metal Treating Institute reported sales of $221.2 million for the first quarter of 2008, a gain of 3.0% over the first quarter of 2007 when sales reached $214.8 million. March billings amounted to $75.2 million, down slightly (2.1%) from March 2007 billings which totaled $76.8 million. One third of the nine MTI districts reported higher sales in March, 2008. Seven districts topped their 2007 first quarter sales.more...
April 28, 2008
2008 Consultants Roundtable
The 2008 Consultants Roundtable is a discussion that investigates important issues affecting the heat-treating industry. The participants in this dialogue are some of the leading consultants in their respective fields. Industrial Heating editor Reed Miller moderated the conversation. What follows is an edited transcript.more...
April 25, 2008
The Importance of Normalizing
“Why bother normalizing?” is a question frequently asked of The Doctor. Why indeed? Let’s learn more.
Why Normalize? more...
April 24, 2008
Nucor ranked as America?s largest steelmaker
No company produces more steel in the United States than Nucor Corp. (NYSE: NUE), according to rankings published in the May issue of American Metal Market.more...
April 23, 2008
March 2008 Energy Market Update From APPI
While 2008 has seen a significant upwards trend in natural gas prices, recently natural gas and electricity prices have begun to decline. This drop is expected to continue in the short term making now the ideal time to contact MTI's Endorsed energy consultants APPI & Legacy Energy Group.more...
April 22, 2008
Unifrax Announces Expansion
The Board of Directors of Unifrax I LLC has approved a $20 million expansion of its Tonawanda, N.Y., manufacturing facility. Work on the project will begin in early 2008, with an anticipated completion by the end of 2009. more...
April 21, 2008
February Steel Shipments Up 9.9% from 2007
U.S. steel mills shipped 9, 174,000 net tons in February 2008, according to the latest report from the American Iron and Steel Institute. The report shows that the February total represents a 9.9% increase from the 8,350,000 net tons shipped in February 2007. U.S. steel mills shipped 9,246,000 net tons in January 2008. more...
April 18, 2008
BeaverMatic Installs Internal Quench Furnaces
BeaverMatic has installed two internal quench furnaces (IQFs), two tempers, a spray and dunk washer, and a power transfer cart at Brunner Manufacturing’s captive heat-treating department. Brunner, located in Mauston, Wis., manufactures cold-headed CNC machines and wire form components and is a global supplier of special steel components and assemblies. The IQFs have workload dimensions of 36 inches long x 48 inches wide x 32 inches high with 4,000-pound load capacities. more...
April 17, 2008
Pyrometry for Global Aerospace and Commercial Heat-Treating Industries
Pyrometry per AMS 2750D has struck fear in the hearts of many a stalwart heat treater. This article provides clarity to what can be a challenging subject. Additional training is also a consideration for those who feel they need a greater understanding. more...
April 16, 2008
Repeatable, Reproducible Preparation and Hardness Depth Measurement of Surface-Hardened Steels - by Peter Bucan
Accuracy and repeatability are key when measuring the microhardnesses of surface-hardened steels. What are the problems, and what can be done to assure accuracy? more...
April 15, 2008
SECO/WARWICK Announces JV with Indian Company
SECO/WARWICK S.A. announced that as of April 1, 2008, Allied Consulting Engineers Pvt. Ltd. of India has joined the SECO/WARWICK Group of companies and will assume the name SECO WARWICK Allied Pvt. Ltd. Allied Consulting Engineers, which was founded in 1971 and has over 180 employees, is a producer of industrial furnaces and incineration systems. As a member of the SECO/WARWICK Group, the company will share engineering expertise and provide local manufacturing services in India. more...
April 14, 2008
SMS Demag to Supply Ladle Furnace
Nucor Steel has ordered a second ladle furnace and automation package from SMS Demag. The new unit, which will be installed at Nucor’s Tuscaloosa, Ala., plant, will have a single treatment position to process 150-ton heats. The project also includes an upgrade to the Level 1, 1.5 and 2 systems for the existing ladle furnace, which was also installed by SMS Demag. more...
April 11, 2008
ALD to Deliver Three Heat-Treatment Lines
Fiat Powertrain Technologies (FPT) has assigned ALD Vacuum Technologies GmbH, in joint venture ownership of ALD-Holcroft, to deliver three complete heat-treatment lines. more...
April 10, 2008
Pulse-Firing Technology: Combustion System Retrofit at Superior Forge
Hauck Manufacturing Company has been providing pulse-fired combustion systems in North America for more than 20 years with many successful installations. Pulse firing was first introduced in Europe more than 30 years ago. more...
April 09, 2008
Wheeling-Pittsburgh to Close Facility
Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel Corp. announced plans to close its Allenport, Pa., cold-rolled production facility and idle two of the three galvanizing lines at its Martins Ferry, Ohio, steel processing plant. more...
April 08, 2008
Associate Member Conrad Kacsik Establishes New Division
Conrad Kacsik Instrument Systems, Inc. is proud to announce the establishment of a Division dedicated specifically to assisting customers with their Nadcap and CQI–9 compliance processes.more...
April 07, 2008
Nucor town hall meeting: National event will be held in Decatur
Like Nucor? Not thrilled with China? Interested in foreign trade? Like barbecue?
If you answered yes to any of the above, be at the Point Mallard Pavilion on Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30. Attendance is free, but you must RSVP to 560-2054. more...
April 04, 2008
Treasury's Steel Says Fed Deserves Praise for Bear Stearns Response
14:06 04/03 (CEP News) Washington – The Federal Reserve deserves praise for its response to the liquidity problems at Bear Stearns, which was necessary and appropriate to maintain stability in the U.S. financial system, a Treasury official said Thursday.more...
April 03, 2008
New Flamer Boasts Greater Efficiency and Safety
EAST DORSET, Vt. - Pad Print Machinery of Vermont has revolutionized its flame treater, adding a Piezo electric starter and a UV flame sensor for fuel savings and greater safety.more...
April 02, 2008
Unique, Heavy Duty, Gas Fired or Electrically Heated Hot Air Convection Walk-In Batch Oven Systems
David Weisman, L.L.C. is pleased to introduce its latest Heavy Duty Gas Fired or Electrically Heated Batch Oven Systems designed for customers to heat, dry and/or cure liquid and powder coatings on small, medium and large 3-dimensional products. more...
April 01, 2008
Solar Atmospheres to Open Plant in California
Solar Atmospheres Inc. announced plans to open a heat-treating and brazing plant in the Los Angeles area.more...
March 31, 2008
On the cutting edge
Nucor upgrades cut-to-length steel line to meet changing demand
With the mild weather and the first breaths of spring blowing over the city, most people wouldn't mind a week off from their job - especially if that job is dirty, dangerous and at times backbreaking.more...
March 28, 2008
New Flamer Boasts Greater Efficiency and Safety
EAST DORSET, Vt. - Pad Print Machinery of Vermont has revolutionized its flame treater, adding a Piezo electric starter and a UV flame sensor for fuel savings and greater safety.more...
March 27, 2008
Buy U.S. Steel
About 32 U.S. steel companies filed for bankruptcy between 1999 and 2003, but not the U.S. Steel. No wonder it’s Cramer’s favorite stock in the sector.more...
March 26, 2008
Unusual Ore Deal Gains City Nod
SAULT STE. MARIE - Another unusual proposal from Algoma Steel may transform the essentially unused Carbide Dock into a money-maker for the city, according to a report from City Manager Spencer Nebel, circulated earlier this week. more...
March 25, 2008
AK Steel Board Approves Long-Term Agreement for Coke and Electrical Power Says SunCoke Energy, Inc. Project Is Subject To Certain Contingencies
WEST CHESTER, Ohio, March 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- AK Steel NYSE: AKS said today that its board of directors has approved a 20-year supply contract with SunCoke Energy, Inc. (SunCoke) to provide AK Steel with metallurgical-grade coke and electrical power. The coke and power will come from a new facility to be constructed, owned and operated by SunCoke adjacent to AK Steel's Middletown (OH) Works.more...
March 24, 2008
IH Economic Indicators: All Four Indices Remain Over 50
Industrial Heating’s monthly economic indicators for March 2008 showed growth in the thermal-processing industry. All four indices remained over 50 for the second straight month and 12th out of the past 13. The change in the number of request for quotes was the highest figure at 55.2. March 2008’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their February 2008 business levels to their January 2008 levels. more...
March 21, 2008
Can-Eng Installs Heat-Treatment System
Can-Eng Furnaces International Ltd. of Niagara Falls, N.Y., has installed and commissioned a high-volume T-6 basketless heat-treatment system (BHTS). This BHTS will process aluminum-intensive engine components for an automotive manufacturing company in the southeastern United States. more...
March 20, 2008
Eastham Forge to Build Heat-Treatment Plant - March 19, 2008
Eastham Forge Inc. of Beaumont, Texas, won approval from the Beaumont Planning and Zoning Commission to build a $5 million heat-treatment plant. more...
March 19, 2008
Nucor companies give more than $1M to scholarship fund
BLYTHEVILLE, Ark. - Two steel firms will provide more than $1 million in scholarships to students wanting to attend Arkansas Northeastern College, officials announced Tuesday.more...
March 18, 2008
Alcoa aquires two manufacturing companies
Alcoa has acquired Republic Fastener Manufacturing Corporation and Van Petty Manufacturing from The Wood Family Trust. more...
March 17, 2008
Furnace Hot Zones and Charging Equipment for Metal Injection Molding (MIM) Process
The fast-growing metal injection molding (MIM) industry produces diverse parts for a wide variety of industries. The ability to create intricate detail on very small parts is one of the reasons for the popularity of the process. more...
March 14, 2008
The Top 10 Green Things About Steel
St. Patrick's Day is known as the green holiday, when parades fill the streets, people fill the pubs, rivers are dyed green and shamrocks abound. more...
March 13, 2008
City seeking $3 million grant; project would create 68 jobs
LIMA — The city and advanced manufacturing partners are pinning their hopes for a new $3 million state economic development grant on selling a new “magnetic” technology.more...
March 12, 2008
Electrically Heated Solution Treat System
Wisconsin Oven designed and manufactured an Electrically Heated Solution Treat System for sheets of aluminum in a lab environment. The furnace has a 1'6" wide x 1'0" long x 1'0" high basket size and a 1,200º F maximum operating temperature.more...
March 11, 2008
Electrically Heated Conveyor Oven Designed for Stress Relief on Locking Wheel Hubs
Wisconsin Oven designed and manufactured an Electrically Heated Conveyor oven to perform stress relief on locking wheel hubs at a maximum production rate of 600 pounds of parts per hour. The oven is designed to heat parts from 70° F to 1,100° F. The oven has a 30" wide x 9' long x 1' high heating chamber and a 1,250°F maximum operating temperature.more...
March 10, 2008
Conveyor Oven Preheats Tubes for the Oil Industry
Wisconsin Oven designed and manufactured a gas fired bottom flow conveyor oven to preheat tubes for the oil industry, ranging in length from 6' to 46' at 350º F. The oven has a 47'0" wide x 12'0" long x 9" high chamber rated for 500º F maximum.more...
March 07, 2008
Update: AmeriChip International Inc. Becomes ISO/TS16949:2002 Compliant
AmeriChip International Inc. (OTCBB: ACII) announced today that it is now ISO/TS16949:2002 compliant.
Marc Walther, President & CEO, announced today that the Company is now ISO/TS16949:2002 compliant one month ahead of schedule. In the fall of 2007 the Company undertook to secure ISO/TS16949:2002 certification for the automotive industry and AS9100 for the military and aircraft certification by April 2008.more...
March 06, 2008
New Stainless Steel 700 Series Worm Gear Speed Reducer
Quincy, MA - Boston Gear, an Altra Industrial Motion Company, announces the availability of the new Stainless Steel 700 Series Worm Gear Speed Reducer. more...
March 05, 2008
America’s Forgotten Manufacturing Sector - By Bernard Rosselli
The Hartford Business Journal Jan. 28 article, “Questioning China’s Steel Industry,” highlights the challenges facing U.S. manufacturers, but unfortunately chose to highlight one of the few manufacturing sectors that has done relatively well over the past several years — the U.S. steel industry. more...
March 04, 2008
NAFTA Could be Election Key
Trade agreement bigger concern in Ohio than in previous contests and probably will play instrumental role in determining how Ohioans choose Democratic nominee for president - By Dennis J. Willard - Beacon Journal Columbus Bureau - Published on Sunday, Mar 02, 2008 more...
March 03, 2008
U.S. Christens '9/11 Steel Warship
New York. March 02, 2008. Kazinform. Thousands of people have watched the christening in Louisana of a U.S. warship built partly from steel salvaged from the World Trade Center. more...
February 29, 2008
China Iron and Steel Association Urges Chinese Government to Challenge Arbitrary Canadian Ruling
BEIJING, Feb. 28 /CNW Telbec/ - The China Iron and Steel Association (CISA), on behalf of its members, has advised the Government of China of its serious concerns and objections to an unfair and unjust ruling by the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA).more...
February 28, 2008
SMS Demag to Supply Annealing Line for ThyssenKrupp
ThyssenKrupp Stainless USA placed an order with SMS Demag for the complete supply of a hot-strip annealing and pickling line for its facility in Calvert, Ala. This line is an integral part of a new cold-rolling mill for stainless steel that is being erected by ThyssenKrupp. more...
February 27, 2008
China Drives Steel, Non-Ferrous Demand
Purchasing’s Commodities Councilassess economic outlook for steel, zinc, aluminum, semiconductors and connectorsmore...
February 26, 2008
Despatch Sells Custom Furnaces
Despatch Industries announced the sale of two drop-bottom solution heat-treat furnaces to the Goodrich Corporation’s Aerostructures business unit.more...
February 25, 2008
U.S. Steel's '03 iron ore mines decision to pay off
U.S. Steel Corp.'s decision five years ago not to sell its massive iron-ore mine in Minnesota and, instead, to acquire another mine, likely will pay dividends as its European and Chinese competitors face huge price increases for iron ore used in steelmaking. more...
February 22, 2008
IH Economic Indicators: All Four Indices Experience Substantial Growth
Industrial Heating’s monthly economic indicators for February 2008 showed growth in the thermal-processing industry and a considerable increase over last month’s numbers. more...
February 21, 2008
Anglo American profit up 6%, delays Tarmac sale - Anglo posts 6% rise in profit
Miner Anglo American plc posted a 6% rise in full-year profit on Wednesday, in line with forecasts, and said a global credit crisis would delay the disposal of its road surface business Tarmac.more...
February 20, 2008
Selas Completes Capital Projects
Selas Heat Technology Co. LLC completed two major projects at its Montgomeryville, Pa., headquarters. Selas added a new kiln, which was completed in December 2007, to add capacity to the existing production of ceramic burners for its customers’ installed base of furnaces.more...
February 19, 2008
ABP, Pillar Combine Operations
ABP Induction and Pillar Induction Company have combined their operations into ABP Induction, LLC. Both companies are owned by CM Acquisitions, a Chicago-based investor. Pillar and ABP have been working closely together for the past two years since ABP Induction was formed through the acquisition of ABB’s Foundry Systems Business Unit in November 2005.more...
February 18, 2008
Is Your World Too Small?
As you are reading this, the news of presidential-primary victories (or defeats) is likely to still be resounding. Sometimes it’s hard to step out of our work-a-day world and consider the implications of things happening around us. For this reason we will look at a few key “economic” issues that may affect our industry. As the candidates – and their campaign promises – become better known, consider how their views might shape future policy in these key areas. more...
February 15, 2008
Kaiser Aluminum to Invest $14 Million
Kaiser Aluminum Corporation announced that its Board of Directors has approved $14 million in additional investments to enhance and expand extrusion capabilities at its Tulsa, Okla., and Sherman, Texas, facilities and deploy “future state” upgrades to the casting complex at its Trentwood (Spokane, Wash.) facility.more...
February 14, 2008
G-M Starts Up Bottom-Loading Vacuum Furnace
G-M Enterprises of Corona, Calif., announced the successful installation and start up of a G-M Model VVF 602-SFQ 6-bar vertical bottom-loading vacuum furnace. more...
February 13, 2008
Braddock Metallurgical Acquires Suncoast Heat Treat
Braddock Metallurgical, Inc. of Jacksonville, Fla., has completed the purchase of certain assets of Suncoast Heat Treat Inc. of Boynton Beach, Fla.more...
February 12, 2008
American Titanium Works to Build New Facility
American Titanium Works LLC (ATW) of Chicago, Ill., is planning on building a new, integrated, world-class titanium manufacturing facility in the United States. more...
February 11, 2008
The Heat Treatment of Light Metals
When we deal with applications where strength-to-weight ratio is a critical consideration, we often turn to solutions involving the so-called “light metals.” Aluminum, magnesium, titanium and in some cases beryllium enhance engineering performance while minimizing the weight of components and structures. Most of us involved in heat treating these materials know how we do it, but it is equally important to understand why we do it. Let’s learn more. more...
February 08, 2008
Braddock Metallurgical Acquires Suncoast Heat Treat
Braddock Metallurgical, Inc. of Jacksonville, Fla., has completed the purchase of certain assets of Suncoast Heat Treat Inc. of Boynton Beach, Fla. Among the assets purchased are Suncoast’s Boynton Beach Aerospace Division and the Daytona Beach facility. more...
February 07, 2008
CHS-Asia Earns ISO9001:2000 Status
(February 5 - morning update) - Big news from David Pickup's and Randy Simmons' controls & furnaces company, CHS-ASIA. Their team has been growing by leaps and bounds and has achieved ISO9001 certification. Here's their PR:more...
February 06, 2008
Solar Atmospheres Heat Treats 11,000-Pound Weldments
Solar Atmospheres of Souderton, Pa., recently heat treated two 4140 (chromium molybdenum) steel weldments – each weighing 11,000 pounds.more...
February 05, 2008
U.S. Steel plans $300 million expanion for Keewatin ore plant
MINNEAPOLIS -- United States Steel Corp. plans to spend $300 million expanding its iron-ore processing plant in Keewatin, the company announced on Friday. more...
February 04, 2008
Key to 2008... Get Your Company Out to VOTE
Given we are in a global economy, any national election can set the tone for our businesses for years to come. 2008 is a tidewater year for our U.S.Members. Many in the U.S. today take for granted the power that is entrusted in us as citizens.more...
February 01, 2008
UCRUSAL boosted aluminium output by 6% to 4.20Mt last year after launching a new smelter and upgrading other plants
United Company RUSAL, the Russian firm that produces 12% of the world`s aluminium, boosted output of the metal by 6% to 4.20Mt last year after launching a new smelter and upgrading other plants. more...
January 31, 2008
Philippine military offers to help mining firms - Philippines army to help secure mining projects
The Philippines has offered to provide security assistance to foreign mining companies after communist guerrillas attacked two sites in the last three months, the head of the military said. more...
January 30, 2008
Carbonitriding ....
Carbonitriding is a modification of gas carburizing, as opposed to a form of nitriding. This modification describes the addition of ammonia molecules into the gas carburizing atmosphere, and will therefore add nitrogen to the carburized case. Atomic Nitrogen is formed at the surface which thereafter diffuses into the steel with the carbon. Carbonitriding is carried out at lower temperatures and for shorter times than carburizing, which not only is more economical, but also reduces distortion during quenching. The lower temperature allows oil quenching, or even gas quenching with a protective atmosphere. The carbonitriding also allows the use of low carbon steels, which are more economical and easier to machine.more...
January 29, 2008
European zinc smelters seeking large TC/RC rises
European zinc smelters are seeking a big rise in 2008 concentrate treatment and refining charges (TC/RCs) because of large volumes of concentrates available globally, industry and trade sources said.more...
January 28, 2008
SAfrica Power Crisis Halts Gold, Platinum, Mining
South Africa`s gold and platinum producers cease mining
South Africa`s three top gold producers and the world`s biggest platinum miner suspended production at all their mines in the country on Friday owing to a power crisis, helping send precious metal prices to new highs. more...
January 25, 2008
Intelligent Optimization Tool Makes Design Perfection An Achievable Reality For All Electromagnetic Equipment
Aurora, IL, January 7, 2008 --- A new intelligent design optimization tool for Vector Fields' electromagnetic modeling and simulation software will automatically find the best solution to a design problem, even if a user specifies several or even competing objectives. more...
January 24, 2008
Propane Forklift Users Can Take U.S. Tax Credit
The following article was presented by Eastern Lift Truck Co, Inc in August 2007
Operators of propane forklifts can claim a U.S. tax credit of 50 cents per gallon, but industry awareness of the law and use of its provisions appear to be low. The U.S. Congress enacted Public Law 109-59 to encourage use of alternative fuels including liquefied petroleum gas, or propane, for an initial three-year period starting October 1, 2006. Forklifts qualify under the law's definition of an off-highway business motor vehicle.more...
January 23, 2008
Rio Tinto shares fall after BHP doesn`t make improved offer
Rio Tinto shares fell the most in five months in London trading after BHP didn`t make an improved offer more...
January 22, 2008
It’s Time to Clean Up Our Act!
As heat treaters, one of our New Year’s resolutions should be to clean up our act! Cleaning parts before and after heat treatment is a critical part of what we do. Most of us feel we clean parts “good enough” and feel we know what cleaning is, but few actually do. Let’s learn more. more...
January 21, 2008
Two New Solar Car Bottoms Ordered
(January 17) - We've heard from many customers that the US recession is for real and people are starting to worry...that didn't stop Solar Manufacturing from landing a very nice order from V.S.M.P.O Salda in Russia. Nice work! Here's the PR:more...
January 18, 2008
The Future of Steel in 2008 - By: Reed Miller (01/09/08)
As we begin a new year, it’s natural to wonder how our industry and its segments will fare in 2008. As an indicator, we will look at steelmaking only. While there are some signs that raise a red flag, it appears as though the upcoming year will be a good one for steelmakers globally. more...
January 17, 2008
Westinghouse to Expand Specialty Metals Plant
Westinghouse Electric Company announced that its Specialty Metals Plant in Blairsville, Pa., will be fitted with new equipment to accommodate the company’s new projects in China ... more...
January 16, 2008
Junkins Engineering Regulation Alert!
EPA has proposed new requirements for those companies covered under Stormwater General Permits for Industrial Activities (i.e. most heat treaters). Once EPA adopts the new regulation, companies will be required to resubmit a Notice of Intent (NOI) form to receive a new stormwater discharge permit. more...
January 15, 2008
Tempering - A Heat Treatment Technique for Metals and Alloys
In steels, tempering is done to "toughen" the metal by transforming brittle martensite into bainite or a combination of ferrite and cementite. Precipitation hardened alloys, like many grades of aluminum and superalloys, are tempered to precipitate intermetallic particles which strengthen the metal. more...
January 14, 2008
Trends in Furnace Patents - by Richard J. Martin
January greetings from a new guest columnist! I am a mechanical engineer with 27 years of experience designing, troubleshooting and inspecting industrial combustion and heat-transfer equipment. As a consultant, I specialize in combustion safety (NFPA 86 “Ovens and Furnaces” committee) and air pollution control (19 U.S. Patents). more...
January 11, 2008
2008 Steelmaking Costs Rise Steeply - Posted Sunday, January 06, 2008
As discussions centre on crude oil prices hitting $100 a barrel this week, steel portal www.steelonthenet.com has recalculated current steelmaking costs with the latest inputs prices for scrap, electricity, coal etc.more...
January 10, 2008
Palladium: An Investable Metal That Defies Physics
posted on: November 25, 2007
Frank McAllister, CEO of Stillwater Mining (SWC), would call palladium a Cinderella Metal. I agree with him not only on the reasons he cited but more importantly because palladium (Pd) really is a very romantic fairy tale metal that breaks several known physics laws, literally. I am not a crackpot theorist trying to overthrow modern science. Let me explain why palladium defied several physics laws.more...
January 09, 2008
MetalWatch - December 2007 Edition
Comments by: Tom Stundza - Executive Editor of Purchasing Magazine and Purchasing.com
Tom Stundza's Comments:
Except for non-residential construction and the energy complex, many major markets for carbon steel products have been weak all year—and non-res now may be weakening this quarter. Steel users have contributed to the weakness in shipments as they worked down their inventories and reduced their steel purchases.more...
January 08, 2008
Aluminium castings - Small Business
Using an aluminium casting to replace an iron casting will result in reducing component weight by half. That is why auto producers are searching the areas where they may replace iron parts with aluminium parts. Most auto manufacturers prefer alloys of aluminium specially the A 300 series which have a mix of silicon + a minor amount of magnesium.more...
January 07, 2008
New Explosion-Relief Standard Affects Furnaces
With the recent publication of NFPA 68 “Standard on Explosion Protection by Deflagration Venting” (approved in December 2006 as an American National Standard), furnace operators and builders are faced with a dilemma regarding the sizing of explosion relief for their equipment. more...
January 4, 2008
Carpenter Technology to Sell Ceramics Businesses To UK-based Morgan Crucible
WYOMISSING, Pa - Carpenter Technology Corporation (NYSE:CRS) today announced it has agreed to sell its ceramic operations to The Morgan Crucible Company plc ("Morgan Crucible") (LSE:MGCR), a UK-based advanced materials company. more...
January 3, 2008
Calcarb Constructing New Headquarters
BELLSHILL, Scotland - Calcarb Ltd., the Bellshill, Scotland-based manufacturer and international supplier of premium high purity Carbon Bonded Carbon Fiber (CBCF) based rigid insulation and precursor materials, has announced that construction on the new Calcarb global headquarters and expanded manufacturing plant is well underway and on schedule for completion by mid 2008. The purpose-built facility represents a $25M investment that will include state-of-the-art equipment and a threefold increase in production capacity. more...
January 1, 2007
Steel prices may bite in New Year
MUMBAI: Domestic steel producers are likely to announce a hike in steel prices with effect from Tuesday as galloping raw material costs including coal and iron ore eat into their margins. Domestic mining giant National Mineral Development (NMDC) has raised long-term contract prices of iron ore fines by 47.5%, bringing the price to Rs 1,783 per ton. more...
December 30. 2007
Fire at Caterpillar Inc.'s Building KK
East Peoria Caterpillar officials say a Saturday fire that began in heat treat furnace and sent four people to the hospital...is still under investigation. more...
December 28, 2007
IH Economic Indicators: All Indices Over 50, Drop Slightly
Industrial Heating’s monthly economic indicators for December 2007 showed continued growth in the thermal-processing industry. All four indices were above 50 for the 13th consecutive month. All four figures, however, dropped slightly from November. December 2007’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their November 2007 business levels to their October 2007 levels. more...
December 27. 2007
November Billings for Commercial Heat Treaters Rise 3.1%
November billings were $68.6 million, a 3.1% increase over November 2006 when the total reached $66.5 mllion. The year to date sales amounted to $793.2 million, a growth of 1.7% over 2006 sales of $779.9 million. Seven of the nine MTI districts out performed their November sales relative to the previous year. Five of the districts are ahead of 2006 for year-to-date sales. more...
December 25, 2007
The Houston Chapter of ASM International joint Meeting with NACE January 8, 2008 at Brady's Landing
5:30 Social Hour
6:30 - 7:30 Dinner
7:30 - Speaker : Igor Kosacki
ADVANCED NANOSCALED ION CONDUCTORS FOR ENERGY APPLICATION
Igor Kosacki - Shell Exploration & Production, Westhollow Technology Center, Houston, TX 77082 more...
December 20, 2007
ArcelorMittal to Build Greenfield Facility
ArcelorMittal signed an agreement with the administration of the Tver region in Russia for the eventual creation of a greenfield long carbon steel production unit. The agreement is to make land available to ArcelorMittal for the construction of a 1,000,000-metric-ton/year steel production complex comprising an electric arc furnace (EAF) melt shop and two bar mills. The facility is to be built in two phases, beginning with a 600,000-metric-ton/year bar mill for the production of rebars and merchant bars. Work is scheduled to start during the second quarter of 2008. more...
December 21, 2007
Luce Is Metroplex's Most Valuable Asset for Bodycote
Bodycote/Metroplex Dallas Fort Worth
Metroplex was founded in 1982 by Jerry Luce with one small batch line and an
alarm clock. Jerry worked a day time job and heat treated at night using
the alarm clock to wake him up when it was time to move the load. Over
the years Jerry has grown Metroplex to the largest shop I have ever been
inside and I have been in shops all over the world. more...
December 20, 2007
ArcelorMittal to Build Greenfield Facility
ArcelorMittal signed an agreement with the administration of the Tver region in Russia for the eventual creation of a greenfield long carbon steel production unit. The agreement is to make land available to ArcelorMittal for the construction of a 1,000,000-metric-ton/year steel production complex comprising an electric arc furnace (EAF) melt shop and two bar mills. The facility is to be built in two phases, beginning with a 600,000-metric-ton/year bar mill for the production of rebars and merchant bars. Work is scheduled to start during the second quarter of 2008. more...
December 19, 2007
High-risk chemical facilities required to complete security vulnerability assessments, develop site security plans.
REGULATORY ALERT - Please Read to See if You Must Comply by Jan. 20, 2007
If you are required to comply, you need to act before January 20, 2008. Failure to comply may lead to fines up to $25,000 a day and possible shut down. Important links are included at the bottom of this article after you completely read the article. more...
December 17, 2007
New Aluminum billet Manufacturing Facility Will Locate in Bluffton, Indiana
Alexin LLC says it will locate a new manufacturing facility in Bluffton, creating 50 new jobs. The aluminum billet manufacturer will invest more than $56 million to equip and finance its new production facility. more...
December 14, 2007
Can-Eng Installs T-5 Basketless Heat-Treatment System
Can-Eng Furnaces International Limited of Niagara Falls, N.Y., has installed and commissioned a high-volume T-5 basketless heat-treatment system (BHTS) for an automobile manufacturer located in the southeastern United States. Can-Eng’s BHTS provides this engine manufacturer with a significant reduction in energy consumption and floor-space requirements over conventional roller hearth or batch heat-treatment systems. more...
December 13, 2007
Bodycote – Kitchener, Ontario Receives AS9100 Accreditation
Kitchener, Ont. – Bodycote Thermal Processing Canada, Inc. is pleased to announce that Bodycote – Kitchener, Ontario. has obtained the accreditation of AS9100. more...
December 12, 2007
Evraz to Acquire Claymont Steel
Following its acquisition of Oregon Steel earlier in 2007, Evraz Group SA has announced plans to expand its North American presence with the acquisition of Delaware-based Claymont Steel for approximately $565 million. Upon completion of the transaction, Claymont Steel will become a subsidiary of Evraz. The offer, which is expected to commence during the week of Dec. 17, will be subject to customary conditions, including antitrust clearance. more...
December 5, 2007
Latrobe Specialty Steel Licenses Corrosion-Resistant Landing Gear Alloy
Evanston, IL,QuesTek Innovations licensed the production and distribution of their Ferrium S53® alloy to Latrobe Specialty Steel. Ferrium S53® is a high strength, high toughness, corrosion-resistant alloy. Most importantly, landing gears made of Ferrium S53 no longer need cadmium coating. “This gives our customers one more way to succeed by using engineered, vacuum remelted steels from Latrobe,” stated Hans J. Sack, President and CEO of Latrobe Specialty Steel. more...
December 10, 2007
Japanese Company Wins Order for Annealing Furnace
Chugai Ro Co. of Osaka, Japan, received an order from Shanghai Baosteel Group Corp. for what will be the largest annealing furnace in China for steel plate, capable of processing 57,600 tons a year. The order, worth an estimated $18-27 million, is for an annealing furnace that introduces hydrogen to prevent scale formation throughout the annealing process. Chugai Ro will make the components and ship them to China for local assembly. The furnace is scheduled to become operational in the autumn of 2009. more...
December 7, 2007
ArcelorMittal to Increase Q&T Plate Output in U.S.
ArcelorMittal has announced plans to increase its output of quenched and tempered plate across its U.S. plate mills in order to meet high military and commercial demand. The company said its investments will focus on updating equipment and material-handling facilities at all of its U.S. plate mills – Coatesville and Conshohocken, Pa., and Burns Harbor and Gary, Ind. The upgrades will be completed in phases during 2008 without disruptions to existing operations. more...
December 6, 2007
Siemens to Build World’s Largest Slab Caster
Siemens Metal Technologies has received an order from Korean steel producer Posco to install a slab caster capable of casting 400-mm-thick slabs at its Pohang Steelworks. The machine – a twin-strand ultra-thick slab caster – will be the largest of its kind ever supplied worldwide. Siemens will provide engineering, key equipment, technological packages and advisory services for start-up and commissioning. The first slab is scheduled to be cast on the new caster in February 2010. more...
December 4, 2007
Benefits from the Use of Precast-Shape Technology in Refractory Linings
Precast-refractory-shape technology has become a specialized field within the refractory industry in recent years. As demands increase for greater refractory-lining performance and lower maintenance costs, refractory users are finding that one effective way to achieve those goals is to incorporate a broader use of precast refractory shapes into their lining systems. more...
December 3, 2007
Eurotherm Supplies Temperature Controllers
Eurotherm has supplied 250 PID temperature controllers and 460 single-phase thyristor units to Supermax Corp. of India, the world’s second-largest manufacturer of disposable razor blades. The temperature controllers will be used to precisely control temperature during the blade manufacturing process, specifically within heat-treatment furnaces used for processing the steel, which in turn is used to make the razor blades. Eurotherm’s controllers will also be used in the injection molding proce more...
November 29, 2007
US Steel challenges steel trade ruling
U.S. Steel Corporation (USS) has announced its intention to challenge a recent determination of the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) that revoking an anti-dumping duty on large-diameter weld line pipe from Mexico would not likely cause material injury to domestic pipe producers. more...
November 28, 2007
Nucleus LLC Providing a New Manufacturing Execution System to Carpenter Technology Corporation
Pittsburgh, PA – November 16, 2007 – Nucleus LLC is providing a Primary Melting Manufacturing Execution System (MES) to Carpenter Technology Corporation (NYSE: CRS) of Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. According to Brian Livermore, Nucleus LLC Partner and Project Technical Director, the MES will replace several legacy systems related to execution, control, and data acquisition with one integrated system across the primary melting activities at Carpenter Technology’s Reading, PA facility. more...
November 26, 2007
Gerdau to Acquire MacSteel from Quanex
Gerdau Group has signed a definitive agreement for the acquisition of Quanex Corp.’s MacSteel business for $1.458 billion in cash. MacSteel is the second-largest long specialty-steel producer in North America, with an annual production capacity of 1.2 million metric tons of steel and 1.1 million metric tons of rolled products. It operates three steel mills in Jackson, Mich., Monroe, Mich., and Fort Smith, Ark., plus six downstream mills. more...
November 24, 2007
IH Economic Indicators: All Indices Over 52 for Tenth Straight Month
Industrial Heating’s monthly economic indicators for November 2007 showed continued growth in the thermal-processing industry. All four indices were above 52.0 for the 10th consecutive month, and the change in the number of orders was at its highest since June. November 2007’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their October 2007 business levels to their September 2007 levels. more...
November 23, 2007
Global Heat Treat Summit & MTI Fall Meeting a Huge Success
This past week, over 200 people attended the MTI Fall Meeting and the Global Heat Treat Summit in Chicago, Illinois. Every segment of the heat treating industry was represented with suppliers, commercial heat treaters and captive manufacturers. Members came from as far away as the UK and Australia to take part in this first of its kind event. Each of the 12 speakers delivered presentations that were very relevant to today's heat treating and business operations to help members strategically plan for the next 3 to 5 years. Photos of the event will be released in next week's news. Comments made by many attendees were: more...
November 20, 2007
VAC AERO Receives Multiple Furnace Orders
VAC AERO’s North American furnace manufacturing operations have received furnace orders from six customers. Deliveries will be completed in the next six months to various sites in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, India and Korea. Some of the contracts involve new VAC AERO products, including an ultra-clean, all-stainless-steel high-vacuum system with cryo-pump to achieve operating vacuum levels in the 10-7torr range.
more...
August 22, 2007
Unique, Durable, Fast Response Electric Infrared Boost Oven System David Weisman, L.L.C. is pleased to introduce its latest Fast Response Electric Infrared Boost Oven System design for customers to quickly boost the temperatures of liquid or powder coated on small, medium and large 3-dimensional products prior to entrance to a hot air/convection oven. The system features superior, fast response electric infrared heaters and controls, and modular design for addition of more heated height and/or addition of an air recirculation system. System can be used as a stand-alone complete cure oven or as a boost system in conjunction with an existing hot air/convection oven. The boost system will provide significant energy savings, allow increased line speeds and product throughput utilizing minimal floor space, dry or cure problem areas on particular parts, and/or reduce or eliminate cross-color contamination on powder coated parts. Product bulletin attached.
For more information on our services, please contact us via e-mail
Robert Gutierrez - RGutierrez@HoustonHeatTreat.com
Mark Tate - Sales or Technical assistance - MTate@HoustonHeattreat.com
or call us at 281-590-9600.
