Abstract: Apparatus for inspecting strip including metal strip includes inspection elements for monitoring a plurality of properties of the strip, a transport unit for passing the strip by the inspection elements and signal generators on the inspection elements for emitting a signal to a strip processing unit which emits a signal to a strip marking unit when one or more properties departs from predetermined limits. The strip marking system provides markings in one or more of a plurality of longitudinal zones on the strip responsive to signals indicating that one or more properties have departed from the desired limits with the particular zone identifying the particular property. A strip edge detector determines the edge of the strip and an actuator positions the marking unit in the desired transverse position relative to the strip so as to establish the zones where desired. The system may provide a printout identifying undesired properties and the particular longitudinal section of the strip where these appear.

Abstract: Apparatus for inspecting strip including metal strip includes inspection elements for monitoring a plurality of properties of the strip, a transport unit for passing the strip by the inspection elements and signal generators on the inspection elements for emitting a signal to a strip processing unit which emits a signal to a strip marking unit when one or more properties departs from predetermined limits. The strip marking system provides markings in one or more of a plurality of longitudinal zones on the strip responsive to signals indicating that one or more properties have departed from the desired limits with the particular zone identifying the particular property. A strip edge detector determines the edge of the strip and an actuator positions the marking unit in the desired transverse position relative to the strip so as to establish the zones where desired. The system may provide a printout identifying undesired properties and the particular longitudinal section of the strip where these appear.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of hot-dip coating a ferrous strand. The strand is passed through a furnace in which the strand is heated, passed through a second furnace in which the strand is subjected to a reducing atmosphere and then passed through a protective hood and into the molten bath of aluminum-zinc alloy. A preheated reducing gas is introduced into the protective hood so as to sweep across and cover the surface of the molten bath within such hood prior to passing upwardly through it and the second furnace countercurrent to the movement of the strand. The preheated reducing gas has a temperature of at least 750.degree. F, a dew point no greater then 0.degree. F and is composed of at least 20% by volume of hydrogen, balance essentially nitrogen.

Abstract: Heating apparatus for a continuous moving strand characterized by a plurality of pairs of opposed spaced apart heating panels between which said strand is caused to move, where at least one of said panels consists of a single burner recessed from the panel wall adjacent the moving strand.