Abstract: An improved molten metal spray forming atomization ring converter adapted for the spray forming of a refined molten metal from a molten metal refining or melting chamber wherein the molten metal is atomized into tiny molten droplets by gas impingement in a stream of molten metal and to the structure by which the molten metal droplets are preferentially directed to and deposited on a target surface. The molten metal spray forming atomization ring converter is adapted to control the flow of liquid metal droplets and to avoid a backflow of such droplets during the gas atomization by providing structure, such as small apertures to the inner diameter of the ring, by providing large holes through the inner diameter and adding a porous metal filter to cover the large holes or by providing a gas supply system independent from the atomization system gas supply, such that a pressure or diffused source of gas is provided at the inner bore.

Abstract: A regulating gas flow valve is operatively connected to an oscillating molten metal spray forming ring converter through which a molten metal stream passes. The passing metal stream is impacted by gas jets from the converter which breaks up the metal stream into a spray pattern of small molten metal droplets. The valve regulates the flow of gas into the converter as a function of the converter oscillation which also operates the valve.

Abstract: A molten metal atomization ring structure has an elongated or oval aperture therethrough through which a molten metal stream passes and is broken up into a molten metal spray pattern. The structure may be angularly adjusted about a transverse axis of the aperture at a greater angle without engaging the passing metal stream.

Abstract: A method of electroslag refining of metal is taught. The method starts with the introduction of unrefined metal into an electroslag refining process in which the unrefined metal is first melted at the upper surface of the refining slag. The molten metal in the form if droplets is refined as it passes through the molten slag. The refined metal droplets are collected in a cold hearth apparatus having a skull of refined metal formed on the surface of the cold hearth and protecting the cold hearth from the leaching action of the refined molten metal. A cold finger bottom pour spout is formed at the bottom of the cold hearth to permit dispensing of molten refined metal from the cold hearth.