Abstract: The mold riding shot blocker comprises an apparatus and method for blocking the spillage of molten metal between adjacent molds in a conveyable string of closely juxtaposed molds as the mold string is advanced in a stepwise cycle in a metal casting process. The invention comprises a solid object having a configuration suitable for placement on the top surface of a mold string to cover at least one downsprue extending from the top surface, and a means for lowering the solid object onto the top surface of a mold string to cover at least one downsprue and raising the solid object from the top surface to uncover at least one downsprue. The method comprises the steps of positioning a solid object for placement on the top surface of a mold string, lowering the solid object into a protective position on a top surface of the mold and indexing the conveyable mold string with the solid object riding on the mold string in a protective position covering at least one downsprue.

Abstract: A formed element trimming apparatus includes a base member, a nesting member connected to a ram cylinder mounted on one end of the base member, a clamping member connected to a clamping cylinder mounted to a second end of the base member, and a cutting plate attached to the base member between the nesting member and the clamping member. The cutting plate has a cutting aperture to engage any undesired attachments on the periphery of the formed element. The formed element is securely placed in the nesting member, which is designed to integrally receive the formed element. The clamping member, propelled by the clamping cylinder, traverses the cutting aperture to engage the nesting member and secure the position of the formed element between the nesting member and the clamping member.

Abstract: A materials handling apparatus and method utilizing flotation pads to inject a thin fluid film to produce a near frictionless surface for easily positioning and finishing foundry castings. The present invention further relates to a material handling apparatus and method utilizing a vacuum lock to serve as a vice for securing foundry castings or other work pieces during finishing stages. The invention further incorporates an apparatus and method for protecting the vacuum lock components from damage or interference with material movement during positioning.

Abstract: A deburring drill bit having a shank, an elongated shaft, a drill bit head having forward drilling surfaces formed in the head, and rearward deburring surfaces formed behind said forward drilling surfaces, whereby drilling and deburring can be performed in a single operation, the drilling surfaces having a first longitudinal axis and the deburring surfaces having a second longitudinal axis not coincident with said first longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A ductile iron molded pipe joint gland used to create an effective and lasting seal between interfitting pipe sections allows considerable deflection of the joint in any direction from the axis of the pipeline without loss of seal integrity. The interfitting pipe sections are mechanically joined securely by the gland and compressible seal in a follower gland embodiment and also by angled set screws in a retainer gland embodiment. The pipe joint gland utilizes a minimum of material for reduced weight and savings of energy in its manufacture and transportation without sacrifice of strength. The construction and shallow angle of the sealing gasket engaging face of the gland prevents gasket creep under high pressure.