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NASA NTRS1989

The gravitational effects on liquid phase sintering

The liquid-phase sintering of heavy-metal PM alloys containing 78, 83, 88, 93, or 98 wt pct W plus Ni and Fe in a 7:3 ratio is investigated experimentally. The focus is on the potential role of gravity in phenomena such as specimen slumping and distortion, liquid migration, and microstructural coarsening. The results are presented in extensive graphs and micrographs and discussed in detail, and a preliminary grain-growth model is developed which accounts for the effects of contiguity and the volume fraction of solid.

Kipphut, C. M.↗

NASA NTRS1987

Gravitational contributions to microstructural coarsening in liquid phase sintering

Preliminary experiments for determining the role of gravity in liquid phase sintering have been carried out. Tungsten heavy alloys were selected for this investigation because of the large density difference between solid and liquid, extensive interest in the alloys and considerable data on these alloys. By identifying and isolating the role that gravity plays in shape distortion and microstructural coarsening, further insight into the mechanisms of coarsening kinetics may be realized. Improvements in mechanical properties, shape complexity, and dimensional stability may be realized in the future from low gravity sintering.

Kipphut, C. M.↗