ULTRA INFILTRANT GOES GLOBAL

The PM parts industry is always on the look-out for ways to improve part performance, eliminate waste and reduce manufacturing costs. One of the latest developments is the switch from pressed powder preforms for copper infiltration to wrought/wire copper alloy for densifying and strengthening ferrous PM parts. This patented infiltration alloy system was introduced in 2005 by Ultra Infiltrant of Carmel, Indiana, and has met growing success among manufacturers of high-performance PM components. At the PowderMet 2007 conference in Denver, Colorado, results were given for the use of Ultra Infiltrant in combination with PM low-alloy steels for the production of high strength parts by sinter-hardening. Ultra Infiltrant alloy, frequently supplied in ready-to-use coil form, enables a sinter-hardened structure to be achieved with no extra equipment and without the need for a furnace with accelerated cooling. Among numerous advantages, Ultra Infiltrant leaves no residue, and the need to prepare customized infiltrant powder compacts is eliminated, reducing costs and potential waste. Ultra Infiltrant is especially useful in improving the density and strength in PM parts such as spur, helical and bevel gears, as well as power tools and other highly-loaded consumer product applications.

Now, the makers of Ultra Infiltrant have announced the formation of a global alliance for the manufacture, marketing, and sales of its patented wrought/wire infiltration alloy system to the worldwide PM industry. The three companies joining forces with Ultra Infiltrant are: ACuPowder International, LLC, based in Union, New Jersey; Luvata, of Kimberly, Wisconsin; and Prince & Izant, Cleveland, Ohio. ACuPowder International LLC (www.acupowder.com), is a leading global supplier of copper-based powder products, in operation for over ninety years. ACuPowder will be the primary sales agent of the patented wire system.

Luvata (www.luvata.com) is one of the world’s largest copper-based fabricated metal products producers, with 37 production facilities in 18 countries. Luvata will be the manufacturer and sales agent in selected territories.

Prince & Izant (www.princeizant.com) will be a logistics co-ordinator, preform/parts fabricator and sales agent in selected territories.

These companies will bring their international knowledge and expertise to the UI partnership in serving the global PM industry.