VACUUM FURNACES NEWS

Vacuum Brazing Added for Circuit Breaker Production

/ BRAZING NEWS, ENERGY HEAT TREAT NEWS, VACUUM FURNACES NEWS

A manufacturer of vacuum circuit breakers has added vacuum brazing capability for producing electrical power components utilized in modern power distribution systems. The thermal processing technology joins metal parts used in vacuum interrupters, helping ensure consistent performance in circuit breakers used across industrial and utility power networks.

Image Credit: SECO/WARWICK
Maciej Korecki
Vice President of Vacuum Business Segment
SECO/WARWICK

The manufacturer, based in China and specializing in multiple types of vacuum circuit breakers, ordered two vacuum furnaces from SECO/WARWICK, a global manufacturer of industrial heat treatment equipment with operations in North America. The client has previously installed multiple systems from SECO/WARWICK. “We have [clients] who operate more than a dozen of our systems,” said Maciej Korecki, vice president of the Vacuum Furnace Segment at SECO/WARWICK Group.

The furnaces will be used primarily for vacuum brazing and related thermal processing of interrupter assemblies and other circuit breaker components that require strict control of mechanical strength, hermetic sealing, and dimensional stability.

The systems use a pumping configuration with a turbomolecular pump designed to achieve ultra-high vacuum conditions. High temperature uniformity and rapid heating — enabled by seven control zones, including a central heating element — allow for consistent processing of loads. The furnaces are also equipped with a horizontal gas-cooling system and an external cooling unit.

As a critical component in circuit breakers, vacuum interrupters play a key role in safely interrupting electrical current during switching operations. The addition of vacuum brazing capability and controlled vacuum furnace processing allows the manufacturer to produce the sealed assemblies required for reliable performance in power distribution equipment.

Press release is available in its original form here.

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Firearm Manufacturer Increases Carburizing Heat Treat

/ CARBURIZING NEWS, HARDENING NEWS, MANUFACTURING HEAT TREAT NEWS, VACUUM FURNACES NEWS

A defense sector manufacturer has selected a vacuum furnace solution to support carburizing and heat treatment of steels used in firearm production. The equipment will be used to improve process efficiency and meet the technological requirements associated with modern weapons manufacturing.

The system will be supplied to a client in the European defense sector by SECO/WARWICK, a global manufacturer of industrial heat treatment equipment with operations in North America, and consists of a single-chamber vacuum furnace to maximize versatility across a range of heat treatment applications for firearm steels. The equipment enables the manufacturer to transition from traditional gas carburizing to low-pressure carburizing (LPC), improving process control, and reducing gas consumption.

Lukasz Chwialkowski
Sales Manager
SECO/WARWICK

According to Lukasz Chwialkowski, sales manager at SECO/WARWICK, the furnace features a round heating chamber capable of processing oversized components, LPC technology, and a high-pressure gas quenching (HPGQ) system. High temperature uniformity throughout the working space supports repeatable results, while a convection heating system improves efficiency at lower temperatures. Directional cooling is designed to accommodate complex part geometries. A graphite chamber supports durability and multi-shift hardening operations.

This order is the first collaboration between the European defense sector manufacturer and SECO/WARWICK. The contract holds strategic and technological significance — both for the client, who is modernizing their infrastructure, and for SECO/WARWICK, who is strengthening its position as a key solutions provider for the defense sector.

Press release is available in its original form here.

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New Vacuum Heat Treat at Grace Manufacturing Enhances Medical Component Production

/ MEDICAL HEAT TREAT NEWS, VACUUM FURNACES NEWS

Grace Manufacturing is expanding its vacuum heat treating capabilities to support growing demand for thin martensitic stainless steel components used in the medical industry. The Arkansas-based precision metal manufacturer has invested in a new vacuum furnace to strengthen process control, reduce downtime, and maintain stringent metallurgical and quality standards required for medical component production.

Located in Russellville, Arkansas, Grace Manufacturing selected a TITAN H2 2-bar vacuum furnace following third-party testing at a Midwest commercial heat treater. The evaluation confirmed the system met application requirements for thin martensitic stainless steel medical components. The new furnace will replace an aging unit from another manufacturer that has experienced increasing downtime and service challenges in recent years.

Image Credit: Ipsen

Supplied by Ipsen, the TITAN H2 includes a work zone measuring 18 x 18 x 24 inches deep, a 1,000-pound load capacity, and a maximum operating temperature of 2400°F. The system provides temperature uniformity of ±10°F, supporting the repeatability and precision required in medical manufacturing environments.

Established in 1966, Grace Manufacturing specializes in precision metal services primarily serving the medical industry. The upgrade in equipment supports Grace Manufacturing’s continued growth in medical component production.

Press release is available in its original form here.

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Vacuum Tempering Furnace Strengthens Aerospace Capacity

/ AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT NEWS, TEMPERING NEWS, VACUUM FURNACES NEWS

An international aircraft motion-control manufacturer is expanding its heat treat process capacity by ordering an additional low-temperature vacuum tempering furnace to support tempering, aging, and other sub-critical heat treating of precision components. The equipment will be used to maintain consistent thermal processing standards for aerospace applications.

The repeat order will be supplied by SECO/WARWICK‘s U.S. subsidiary. The furnace is a low-temperature vacuum tempering unit capable of operating up to 1380°F (750°C) within a 24 × 24 × 36 in (600 × 600 × 900 mm) work zone and supports a 1750-lb (~800 kg) load capacity. Designed to meet AMS2750F Class 2 temperature-uniformity-survey (TUS) requirements (±10°F/±5.6°C), it uses nitrogen convection for both heating and cooling, with final cooling provided by an internal recirculation blower and water-cooled heat exchanger for stable, efficient cycles.

Piotr Zawistowski
Managing Director
SECO/WARWICK USA

This additional furnace joins an existing suite of heat treat equipment at the manufacturer’s facilities, which already includes multi-chamber CaseMaster Evolution models and a Vector single-chamber high-pressure gas-quench vacuum furnace from SECO/WARWICK. These installations reflect long-standing collaboration on thermal processing solutions for aerospace components.

According to Piotr Zawistowski, managing director of SECO/WARWICK USA, the ongoing investments by this aerospace partner reflect confidence in the technical expertise and support provided by SECO/WARWICK and the performance consistency of its vacuum tempering solutions.

Press release is available in its original form here.

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Mold Manufacturer Moves Heat Treatment In-House

/ HARDENING NEWS, MANUFACTURING HEAT TREAT NEWS, VACUUM FURNACES NEWS

BTOMEC Ferramentaria e Usinagem de Precisão Ltda. has invested in a vacuum furnace to establish its own in-house hardening capability. The decision reflects the company’s growing production scale and its desire to gain greater control over the heat treatment process and associated costs.

The manufacturer, which supplies multi-cavity injection molds to the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, food, and packaging sectors, previously relied on external hardening services. Establishing an internal heat treatment facility allows BTOMEC to reduce dependence on outside providers while maintaining oversight of production timelines and quality.

BTOMEC selected a single-chamber Vector vacuum furnace equipped with 15-bar high-pressure gas quenching for hardening dies and precision tooling. The system is equipped with a 400 x 400 x 600mm heating chamber, inverter-controlled blower operation for energy optimization, and a partial pressure system that enables processing in inert gas atmospheres to reduce the risk of contamination or alloying element loss during heat treatment.

Maciej Korecki
Vice President of Vacuum Business Segment
SECO/WARWICK

The furnace was supplied by SECO/WARWICK, a global heat treatment equipment manufacturer with operations in North America. According to Maciej Korecki, the investment aligns with a pattern seen among manufacturers reaching certain production volumes. “This is a trend we see more and more frequently. At a certain production scale, many industrial partners begin to consider creating their own small hardening facility. Such an investment means independence from external entities and, above all, full control over the production process and its costs,” he said.

The addition of vacuum heat treatment capability marks an important step in BTOMEC’s ongoing development strategy, strengthening internal production control while supporting further internationalization of its operations.

Press release is available in its original form here.

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Urschel Furnace Upgrade Reinforces Food Processing Industry

/ MANUFACTURING HEAT TREAT NEWS, VACUUM FURNACES NEWS

Urschel Laboratories, a global manufacturer of precision food-cutting equipment based in Chesterton, Indiana, has placed an order for a new high-capacity vacuum furnace to support its in-house heat treating operations and safeguard production of critical stainless steel components used in its machines. The new equipment is expected to strengthen Urschel’s manufacturing capabilities, reinforcing the performance and reliability of its cutting systems used throughout the food processing industry.

Urschel is replacing an Ipsen MetalMaster furnace originally commissioned in 1986. | Image Credit: Ipsen USA
Urschel operates another Ipsen MetalMaster furnace purchased in 2014. | Image Credit: Ipsen USA

The order includes a MetalMaster® HR 54×48 2-bar vacuum furnace, which features 2-bar quench capability and maximum load dimensions of 36x36x48 inches. The system will replace a legacy vacuum furnace that has been in continuous operation since 1986. It is designed to accommodate Urschel’s processing requirements for 400-series stainless steel knife systems.

Supplying the system is Ipsen USA, a long-time partner in thermal processing equipment. This latest order marks Urschel’s sixth vacuum furnace from the supplier, building on a relationship that spans four decades and reflects consistent performance and support. The company currently operates two TITAN® LT6 2-bar furnaces and another MetalMaster HR 54×48 2-bar furnace purchased in 2014, all supporting essential processes such as annealing, tempering, hardening, and brazing of precision components within Urschel’s in-house heat treating facility.

The investment reflects Urschel’s continued focus on operational efficiency and product quality as it serves clients in more than 130 countries worldwide.

Press release is available in its original form here.

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PROENERGY Expands Heat Treatment Capacity

/ ENERGY HEAT TREAT NEWS, VACUUM FURNACES NEWS

PROENERGY, a manufacturer of power-generation equipment and services, has ordered four vacuum furnaces to support operations at its new Houston Center for Excellence in Lifecycle Care. The 455,000-square-foot facility will serve fast-start gas turbine overhauls, maintenance, and onsite repair services, expanding capacity for the power industry.

TITAN vacuum furnaces | Source: Ipsen USA
PE6000 LPC Case | Source: PROENERGY
PE6000 | Source: PROENERGY
John Spilker
Senior Vice President of Operations
PROENERGY

PROENERGY has selected three TITAN series vacuum furnaces and one TurboTreater system supplied by Ipsen USA to equip the Houston operation. “As we expand production of the PE6000 aeroderivative engine, we also needed additional vacuum furnace capacity,” said John Spilker, senior vice president of Operations at PROENERGY.

Ipsen USA will deliver and install one TITAN H2 2-bar vacuum furnace with an 18 x 18 x 24-inch work zone and a 1,000-pound capacity, two TITAN H6 2-bar vacuum furnaces, each with a 36 x 36 x 48-inch work zone and a 3,000-pound capacity, and one TurboTreater model H6672 featuring a 48 x 48 x 72-inch work zone and a 3,500-pound capacity. “Ipsen furnaces have served us well for years in both manufacturing and repairing turbine parts. Based on the accuracy and reliability of these furnaces, we worked closely with the Ipsen team to meet operational requirements, optimize cost, and minimize lead time,” said Spilker.

Press release is available in its original form here.

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Spectrum Thermal Processing Expands Aerospace Reach

/ AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT NEWS, NITRIDING NEWS, VACUUM FURNACES NEWS

Spectrum Thermal Processing, a heat treatment provider based in Cranston, Rhode Island, has joined a broader thermal processing network through a strategic acquisition that will bolster regional capacity and enhance service for precision aerospace and defense component manufacturing. The transaction strengthens Spectrum’s ability to deliver Nadcap-accredited and ITAR-compliant vacuum heat treatment, low-pressure carburizing, and gas nitriding services to clients in one of the nation’s most dense aerospace and defense corridors. It positions the company to provide improved proximity, shorter lead times, and greater supply chain resilience for critical component suppliers.

Jim Fairbairn
CEO of Bodycote plc
Source: Bodycote

Under the terms of agreement, Spectrum Thermal Processing becomes part of the Aerospace, Defence & Energy division of Bodycote plc, a global provider of specialist thermal processing services, in a deal that closed on January 14, 2026. The facility in Cranston brings an experienced team, strong technical reputation, and strategic position within one of the nation’s most dense aerospace and defense corridors, making it a natural fit for Bodycote’s growing U.S. network.

Jim Fairbairn, chief executive officer of Bodycote plc, said the acquisition reflects a commitment to investing in high-growth, high-value sectors and expanding capability where clients need it most, adding that Spectrum’s technical expertise and strong local relationships enhance service offerings for advanced heat treating needs.

Existing clients will continue to work with the same team and maintain current service levels, while gaining access over time to Bodycote’s broader global network and specialist technologies.

Press release is available in its original form here.

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Marle Group Expands Orthopedic Heat Treat Capacity

/ HARDENING NEWS, MEDICAL HEAT TREAT NEWS, VACUUM FURNACES NEWS

Marle Group, a global manufacturer of orthopedic prosthetics, has purchased and will install an additional vacuum furnace at its Marle Nowak facility, expanding in-house processing capacity for cobalt-alloy orthopedic implants and surgical instruments. The new system responds to the company’s need for rapid cooling of large loads — capable of handling full 800 kg workloads — and supports efforts to improve production control and delivery times for medical device manufacturing, including serving demand in the North American market.

The facility in Pancé, France, specializes in the production of orthopedic implants, surgical instruments, spinal devices, and OEM manufacturing for the medical sector. This third vacuum furnace from SECO/WARWICK operating at Marle Group facilities will enable Marle Nowak to perform hardening processes internally rather than relying on external services.

Maciej Korecki
Vice President of Vacuum Furnace Segment
SECO/WARWICK

“Hardening cobalt alloys requires processes that achieve extremely high temperatures, and the heating processes for these materials demand high purity, temperature uniformity, and very fast, efficient cooling,” said Maciej Korecki, vice president of the Vacuum Furnace Segment at SECO/WARWICK Group. “Our equipment will allow our partner to become independent from external hardening services, providing greater control over the entire production process.”

The vacuum furnace features a 600 × 600 × 900 mm working area with a round heating chamber, convection heating, directional cooling, and isothermal hardening for controlled cooling of complex components. It includes partial-pressure argon to protect alloy surfaces, dew point sensors to reduce oxidation risk, and a rapid-cooling blower capable of quenching at up to 15 bar abs.

SECO/WARWICK secured the contract following successful reference trials conducted in its research and development department, where the furnace demonstrated cooling performance that met Marle Nowak’s process requirements. The addition of this vacuum furnace is expected to support certification of heat treatment processes in line with ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 standards, which are important for medical device production.

Press release is available in its original form here.

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Major U.S. Bearing Manufacturer Invests in 2 LPC Furnaces

/ AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT NEWS, CARBURIZING NEWS, VACUUM FURNACES NEWS

A major U.S. bearing manufacturer has ordered two advanced vacuum heat treat furnaces, reinforcing its commitment to precision manufacturing and capacity growth. The investment supports rising demand across the bearing industry, where consistent metallurgical performance is critical for industrial and aerospace applications.

The manufacturer purchased two identical Vector single-chamber vacuum furnaces equipped for low-pressure carburizing (LPC). One system will be installed at an established aerospace-grade production facility, while the second will support a newly acquired plant transitioning from legacy heat treat equipment to LPC technology for production and potential R&D use.

Piotr Zawistowski
Managing Director
SECO/WARWICK USA

Each furnace features a 36″ × 36″ × 48″ hot zone, horizontal loading configuration and 15-bar high-pressure gas quench (HPGQ), providing process flexibility and repeatable results for demanding applications. Standard options include a sound enclosure, automatic door, maintenance platform and customer-specified instrumentation to meet internal quality requirements.

SECO/WARWICK USA is supplying both systems. “These contracts demonstrate how manufacturers continue to invest in advanced LPC technology to enhance throughput, improve metallurgical performance, and ensure long-term processing reliability,” said Piotr Zawistowski, managing director of SECO/WARWICK USA.

Press release is available in its original form here.

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