Economic comparison of continuous and batch sintering of silicon nitride

It is generally agreed that Si[sub 3]N[sub 4]-based compositions can be produced with reliable properties that are suitable for some automotive components. The major barrier to extensive application of Si[sub 3]N[sub 4] components is cost. Continuous sintering has recently been investigated as a means for cost-effective sintering of selected Si[sub 3]N[sub 4] compositions. Factors related to the cost of sintering in both belt furnaces and batch furnaces of increasing capacity - to allow sintering of the large number of parts required by the automotive industry - have been considered.