Cambridge Engineered Solutions introduced Knuckleback™ Platinum, a new woven T314 stainless steel conveyor belt used in the final sintering stage in powdered metal production lines that produce parts for automobiles, home appliances and other industries. Knuckleback Platinum’s belt life is significantly extended through a pre-oxidation process that provides surface protection to prevent carbon build up in the furnace and along the edges of the belt.
The belt was developed in collaboration with Abbott Furnace Company, the leading manufacturer of continuous belt furnaces in North America. Field tests performed by the two companies have shown that the pre-treating process increases belt life by 25% and reduces operational down time for belt replacement by more than 18%. The belt is now available to other OEMs and powdered metal manufacturers.
Photo courtesy of Cambridge Engineered Solutions
Metal belts are an ongoing cost associated with the operation of a continuous powder metal sintering furnace. Typically, their service life, depending on workload, is measured in months. Closely associated are issues with excess lubrication on powdered metal products. Tom Perdue, Cambridge Product Development Engineer, said the company’s engineering team worked on and tested a solution for more than a year. The process effectively replaces the desired break-in period that is not practical for most companies operating a powdered metal sintering furnace.
