Which Manufacturing Processes Benefit From HIP?

The Kittyhawk team has been in the business of Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) for more than 40 years, delivering material solutions for countless industries and critical manufacturers. Our versatile HIP services involve heating materials and components to high temperatures while simultaneously applying high pressure to improve the properties of various metals. This cost-effective process can be used across a wide range of metal manufacturing applications to improve the properties of the final product, regardless of the production method used.

Additive Manufacturing

Additive Manufacturing (also known as 3D Printing) is a process that creates a product by building it up layer by layer. Hot Isostatic Pressing can be used to improve the properties of metal materials used in Additive Manufacturing, even when components are complex. Printed metals may contain voids that can compromise strength and integrity. Expert HIP services can help eliminate porosity and other defects in the material with ease, resulting in a stronger and more reliable final product.

Casting

Casting is a manufacturing process that creates a product by pouring a liquid material into a mold and allowing it to solidify. Metal parts and components produced by casting can benefit from Hot Isostatic Pressing treatment to densify the material and reduce rejection rates. The high temperatures and pressures used in the process reduce variation in mechanical properties and improve component consistency. Defects and voids can be eliminated with a cost-effective HIP solution, increasing overall strength and durability.

Metal Injection Molding

Metal Injection Molding is a manufacturing process that creates a product by injecting a metal-based material into a mold. When Hot Isostatic Pressing applies heat and high pressure to Metal Injection Molded parts, the results can include improved density, strength, and toughness. The process removes voids in the microstructure and is an important part of creating a consistent and reliable final product. Hot Isostatic Pressing can also help in increasing the fatigue strength of a Metal Injection Molded component.

Near Net Shape

Near Net Shape is a manufacturing process that creates a product that is close to its final shape, but still requires some additional processing to achieve the desired results. The pressure applied during Hot Isostatic Pressing compacts the material and removes any voids that may be present in the Near Net Shape components. This helps eliminate porosity and can maximize properties including hardness, tensile strength, ductility, and density. For complex components, the overall process can reduce material costs and machining.

Sputtering

Sputtering metal is a manufacturing process that creates a product by depositing a thin layer of metal onto a substrate. The high pressure and temperature applied during the Hot Isostatic Pressing process can increase the density and uniformity, resulting in a more consistent and reliable final product. The uniform application and inert gas medium ensures homogeneous and quality composition. The final material is close to fully dense and mechanically robust, increasing the durability and performance of components.

Hot Isostatic Pressing is a versatile manufacturing process that can be used to improve the properties of materials in a wide range of manufacturing processes. At Kittyhawk, we specialize in Hot Isostatic Pressing and have built a reputation for delivering high-quality HIP solutions for a wide range of manufacturing applications. With decades of experience in the field, we have established ourselves as the go-to source for Hot Isostatic Pressing services and have worked with countless reputable manufacturers across industries.

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About Kittyhawk

Kittyhawk Inc. is a premier provider of Hot Isostatic Pressing services, established in 1981. We cater to various industries such as aerospace, defense, automotive, oil & gas, firearms, medical, and commercial, delivering quality parts with quick turnaround times. Adhering to AS9100 and NADCAP standards, we also comply with ITAR and EAR import and export regulations and hold a CLASS 07 FFL. Visit www.kittyhawkinc.com to learn more.