Abstract: A convection diffuser and charge support system for an annealing furnace utilizes a diffuser base assembly that includes a vane-carrying center casting which underlies a charge support plate, and which is perimetrically surrounded by a pair of outer and inner cooling rings. The components of the diffuser base assembly cooperate to define an array of horizontally extending gas circulation passages that are shielded from above by the charge support plate. The horizontal passages extend among a plurality of upstanding heat exchange fins that are carried by the inner cooling ring, and terminate in upwardly extending outer end regions that are defined by grooves formed in the outer cooling ring. A centrifugal fan draws hot gases through a central opening in the charge support plate and conveys the gases radially outwardly through the horizontally extending gas flow passages.

Abstract: A convection diffuser and charge support system for an annealing furnace utilizes a diffuser base, a base-encircling ring, and convector plates which are preferably formed as castings of nodular iron. The diffuser base defines an array of horizontally-extending gas circulation passages which are shielded from above by an integrally-formed, overlying top wall. The top wall prevents debris and other undesirable substances from dropping into and accumulating within the primary flow passages. Vane extension formations project above the top wall and have their upper edges arranged to engage and support a charge of material to be annealed. The ring structure extends perimetrically about the base structure and defines an array of curved, upwardly opening grooves which cooperate with the primary flow passages to direct gases which discharge from the base structure so that the gases flow upwardly, along a generally helical flow paths about a charge of material being annealed.