Powder metallurgy laboratory
Overview
Powder Metallurgy Laboratory (PMLab) is one of the oldest and most distinguished laboratories at Tallinn University of Technology. Research in powder metallurgy (PM) began in 1959 at the Department of Metal Technology of the Tallinn Polytechnic Institute. By 1962, PM had become the department’s main research direction. In 1967, the Powder Metallurgy Production Laboratory was established, which during the Soviet era served both local and union industries, combining scientific research with production functions. After Estonia regained independence, PMLab has focused primarily on research and development, conducting projects with both public and private sector partners.
Equipment
The laboratory is equipped with modern devices that enable powder metallurgy and heat treatment processes:
Vacuum Furnace “Red Devil” – Sintering and heat treatment up to 2000 °C in vacuum or inert gas atmosphere.
KCE-FCT HP D 10-GB Spark Plasma Sintering Furnace – Rapid sintering of powder materials up to 2200 °C by combining temperature and mechanical pressure.
AIP6-30H Hot Isostatic Press – Manufacturing and densification of materials at high temperatures (up to 1500 °C) under isostatic inert gas pressure to eliminate defects and improve mechanical properties.
FPW 300/400-2-1600 100KS/SP “Sinter-HIP” Furnace – Semi-industrial furnace for sintering and heat treatment at high temperatures (up to 1500 °C) using isostatic gas pressure.
Vacuum Hardening Furnace – High cooling rate vacuum gas quenching furnace, also capable of performing other metal heat treatment processes.
Horizontal and Planetary Mills, Attritors – For powder grinding and homogenization.
10 and 500 Ton Hydraulic Presses – Pressing, compacting, and forming of powder and laminate composites.
Eltra CS 800 and ONH 2000 Elemental Analyzers – Determination of C, S, O, N, and H content in various materials.
PMLab Virtual Tour
Services
Main Areas of Activity
Powder Metallurgy – The lab’s primary R&D focus is powder metallurgy. We work on the processing, mixing, forming, and sintering of powders. We have the capability to develop and produce functional materials (e.g., hardmetals, cermets, composites) based on application-specific needs.
Heat Treatment – Another core area is the heat treatment of metals and composites, including specific processes such as treatment in inert or vacuum environments, gas quenching, and combined pressure sintering (Sinter-HIP). Special focus is placed on special alloys (e.g., tool steels) and post-welding or 3D printing (AM) heat treatment to achieve the desired microstructure and mechanical properties.
Collaboration and Projects
PMLab collaborates with both public and private sector partners in Estonia and abroad. The lab’s projects have been related to the development of wear-resistant special materials (hardmetals and cermets), powder technology, and heat treatment.
Team and Contact
Contact: Marek Tarraste
Email: marek.tarraste@taltech.ee
Phone: +372 620 3356
For visits and collaboration, please contact us!