Common Problems and Precautions of Graphite Rods in vacuum sintering furnaces

• Selection and performance of graphite rods

    Uniformity: The uniformity of the graphite rods is directly related to the uniformity of the temperature distribution inside the furnace. Therefore, when purchasing graphite rods, it is necessary to ensure that the product has high purity and uniform texture to reduce the possibility of uneven temperature distribution.

    Antioxidant property: Although graphite rods form a protective silica film when heated, this film may be damaged in a vacuum environment. Therefore, when using graphite rods, it is necessary to avoid long-term exposure to the air. During intermittent use, the stability of the furnace environment should be ensured to minimize the impact on the oxidation resistance of the graphite rods.

    Coefficient of thermal expansion: The coefficient of thermal expansion of graphite rods is closely related to their carbon content. When choosing graphite rods, the appropriate ones should be selected based on the working temperature range of the vacuum sintering furnace to ensure that they do not exert excessive stress on the furnace wall due to thermal expansion during operation.

• Installation and use of graphite rods

    Surface flatness: The surface of the graphite rod should be smooth without obvious roughness to reduce the friction between furnace walls and the potential risk of ablation.

    Gap control: An appropriate gap should be maintained between the graphite rod and the furnace wall, which not only prevents direct contact between the graphite rod and the furnace wall but also ensures uniform heat transfer.

    Regular inspection and replacement: Graphite rods will wear out and age during use, so their condition should be inspected regularly. Once obvious damage or performance degradation of the graphite rod is found, it should be replaced in time.

• Other preventive measures

    Current control: During the heating process, the current passing through the graphite rod should be reasonably controlled to avoid excessive current causing the graphite rod to overheat or burn out.

    Vacuum degree maintenance: The vacuum degree of the vacuum sintering furnace has a significant impact on the working effect of the graphite rods. During the usage process, it is necessary to ensure that the vacuum degree inside the furnace meets the requirements, and promptly address any factors that may cause a decrease in vacuum degree.

    Safe operation: When replacing or maintaining graphite rods, ensure safe operation to avoid safety accidents such as burns.

    In conclusion, through measures such as the rational selection of graphite rods, correct installation and use, regular inspection and replacement, as well as paying attention to operational safety, the application of graphite rods in vacuum sintering furnaces can be effectively enhanced, ensuring the quality of sintered parts and production safety.