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HKPC Develops Semi-Solid Metal Forming Technology to Enhance the Capabilities of Local Metals Industry

To enhance the capabilities of local manufacturers in the production of high-end light-weight metal products, the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) and the Hong Kong Diecasting Association have jointly developed the Semi-Solid Metal Forming (SSM) technology, with funding support from the Innovation and Technology Fund of the HKSAR Government.

Introducing the features of the SSM technology, Dr L K Yeung, General Manager (Materials Technology) of HKPC, said, "As a whole, this technology largely resembles the traditional high-pressure diecasting process, except that the forming of materials during diecasting is done in semi-solid state, instead of fully liquid state."

"SSM has many advantages over liquid metal forming, including smoother surfaces, finer texture and higher precision for the diecast products, higher durability for the mould, as well as shorter production time," he said.

SSM can be used in a wide range of industries, such as automotive components, telecommunications equipment, electrical household appliances, computers and peripherals.

"With the addition of appropriate devices, traditional diecasting equipment can be converted to support SSM. To facilitate the adoption of SSM technology by local manufacturers, a machine for SSM has been installed at HKPC for trial use," Dr Yeung added.

For further information about the technology, please contact Mr Raymond Chan of HKPC at tel. (852) 2788 5506 or e-mail: mkchan@hkpc.org.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Ms Betty Lee
General Manager
Corporate Communications and Events
Tel: (852) 2788 5036
Fax: (852) 2788 5056
E-mail: emilyc@hkpc.org
Website: www.hkpc.org

HKPC
7 July 2006