The Radial Constriction Consolidation (RCC) process can be considered a powder metallurgical technique that allows for the fabrication of components with complex geometries, near-net-shape and full density at low production costs when compared to the traditional process. In some aspects, the RCC process is similar to the hot isostatic pressing process, but it uses a ceramic mold confectioned by investment casting and a powder as a secondary pressing media, all of which are confined in a metallic container. In this paper, a RCC experimental system was developed aiming to produce iron billets with the characteristics of near-net-shape and high density. Clay powder was used as a secondary pressing media. The obtained billets were characterized in terms of density, microstructure and hardness. It was observed that the configuration of the metallic container/ secondary pressing media/ceramic mold has an important influence on the characteristic of density and near-netshape of the billets. The billets presented satisfactory powder consolidation as shown in their microstructure, high density, elevated hardness, little oxide formation and a direct correlation between the values of density and hardness.
Radial constriction consolidation; iron powder; investment casting; powder metallurgy
