Nitrex Vacuum shipped a new large vertical vacuum furnace to a major engine MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) shop/repair company in South America. It repairs jet engines, components, and integrated systems for commercial and military aircraft. The vacuum system was ordered to expand production capacity. Moreover, it shall modernize the company’s plant, and meet quality standards and accreditations.
The customer ordered the furnace from Nitrex’s GM Enterprises division. It was acquired by Nitrex in 2020. Today, it operates under the Nitrex Vacuum Furnaces name. COVID delayed delivery of a number of systems in the aerospace sector. Thus, Nitrex is happy to see the industry beginning a strong rebound.
“Shipment of this furnace system, after a number of COVID-related delays, was a milestone for Nitrex,” comments Mark Hemsath. He is Vice President of Sales and acting General Manager, Nitrex Heat Treating Services, Americas. “It was an interesting project that was affected by the pandemic. We are excited to continue to collaborate with and support our many aerospace customers as the industry rebounds to pre-pandemic strength.”
About the Vertical Vacuum Furnace
The vertical vacuum furnace (VVF series) is designed for vertical bottom-loading applications, and is ideal for processing high-stacked loads, as well as larger and taller workpieces like aircraft engine components. The VVF measures 84″ (diameter) x 84″ (height) (2,134 mm x 2,134 mm), possesses a 6,000-lb maximum capacity (2,727 kg), and operates at temperatures ranging from 1,000 °F to 2,500 °F (540 °C – 1,371 °C). It uses a circular hot zone with 360° gas cooling nozzles that ensure even gas distribution for optimal cooling. For heavy and large cross-section parts, an optional bottom cooling system helps to direct gas over the area for fast and more uniform cooling.
You can read more about the vertical vacuum furnace here.
The present customer will use the furnace to treat many aerospace components, including annealing and stress relief processes.
