Founded in 1992 by Micky Bradican, Robert Gunow Jr., and Charles Zichichi, Applied Thermal Technologies began with a clear goal: to succeed in the orthopedic capital of the world. Drawing on their shared experience at VacMet, the founders launched operations with a single VFS HL36EQ2, 2-bar vacuum furnace, which is still in operation today with more than 48,000 cycles. Expanding its facility five times, the company has built a steady trajectory of growth rooted in consistency and technical expertise.
Employing 52 people, the organization currently serves a diverse range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, and medical manufacturing, with a focus on delivering high-quality results with responsiveness and a collaborative mindset.
At its core, Applied Thermal Technologies is a metal processing company specializing in the bright vacuum heat treating and brazing of stainless steel, titanium, copper, nickel, and a range of exotic alloys. Its operation is anchored by twelve vacuum furnaces, six of which feature large work zones measuring 36″ wide by 48″ deep by up to 36″ high. This capacity allows for both flexibility and redundancy, ensuring that throughput remains consistent even during maintenance cycles. Supporting this reliability is a dedicated, full-time maintenance team that maintains furnace leak rates at 10 microns per hour or better. This level of control not only protects equipment longevity but also ensures that processed materials remain bright, reducing the need for additional finishing and saving time for clients downstream.
In addition to vacuum heat treating, the company offers air heat treating capabilities for materials up to 12 feet in length. Its brazing department further expands its capabilities, handling everything from small, intricate batches to high-volume production runs. With more than 60 years of combined brazing experience, the team often works directly with clients during the blueprint stage to improve joint design and maximize success rates.
Bright vacuum heat treating is the most critical process in the company’s portfolio, as it enables superior surface finishes that support subsequent manufacturing steps. However, its capabilities extend into hot forming of titanium parts, nitriding of titanium, titanium water quenching, and aging of long bar stock up to 12 feet in length.
Equipment across the facility includes vacuum furnaces with both metal and graphite hot zones, quenching capabilities up to 6 bar, multiple air units, a freezer, and a large air aging furnace capable of reaching 1450°F with a 10,000-pound capacity.
Precision and process control are defining characteristics of Applied Thermal Technologies. The company maintains tight control over temperature, vacuum levels, and inert gas environments, and has fully transitioned from type K to more accurate type N thermocouples.
Much of the company’s work centers on medical applications, including implants and surgical instruments, where precision is critical. In recent years, it has also expanded into heat treating 3D-printed components, such as spinal, shoulder, and ankle implants.
Looking ahead, Applied Thermal Technologies is focused on steady, sustainable growth over the next five to ten years. Central to that vision is its culture of accountability, which is reflected in strong client retention, consistent growth, and low employee turnover, positioning the company for continued success in a demanding and evolving industry.
For more information:
Applied Thermal Technologies Inc.
2169 N 100 E
Warsaw, IN 46582
sales@appliedthermaltechnologies.com
https://appliedthermaltechnologies.com
Main image: 12-foot air aging furnace capable of reaching 1450°F with a 10,000-pound capacity | Image Credit: Applied Thermal Technologies Inc.
