ABSTRACT
Pascal's law is the basic principle of isostatic pressing. The isostatic pressing was considered for one step in the manufacture of billets for the rolling and drawing of wires or filaments from refractory metals such as tungsten and molybdenum. In spite of the fact that a few large companies were involved with isostatic pressing, its application has advanced rather slowly. The chapter attempts to review those factors which are peculiar to the mechanics of isostatic compaction. Interest in isostatic compaction under moderate temperatures, referred to as "Warm Isostatic Pressing". Isostatic pressing must be considered as a complement to conventional manufacturing methods. Isostatic pressing techniques are applied in the following industrial branches, some of them at laboratory stage, many however for production purpose: ceramic and clay industries; powder metallurgy industry; and plastics. Isostatic techniques are very useful for the manufacture of shaped refractory blocks.
