Hot pressing has a limited field of application for such materials which do not sinter to high densities due to low diffusion coefficients or for cases where a pore-free state is required (for optimum mechanical, thermal or optical properties).
With this process only parts with simple shapes like plates, blocks, cylinders can be manufactured easily. With a highly sophisticated design of pressing dies also more complex shapes can be produced.
Available pressing force: 50 kN to 9000 kN at max. 2500°C, applicable for components of max. Ø 700mm.

Application of hot pressing in the field of ceramics include:

Silicon nitride, mixed ceramics of Al2O3, TiC/TiN and sialon for cutting tools, components of heavy-duty valves, bearings, wear parts for process technology.
PLZT (lead-lanthan-zircon-titanate) and other high developed functional ceramic (O2 atmosphere)
Boron carbide (B4C) for extremely wear resistant parts and armors.
SiC whisker reinforced Al2O3 for cutting tools
MMC and CMC materials, composite materials
Sputter targets

Hotpressing technology is applied variously in fundamental research and production.