Abstract: Method and apparatus for removal of nonelectrically-conducting gaseous, liquid, and particulate contaminants from molten metal compositions by applying a force thereto. The force (commonly referred to as the Lorentz Force) exerted by simultaneous application of an electric field and a magnetic field on a molten conductor causes an increase, in the same direction as the force, in the apparent specific gravity thereof, but does not affect the nonconducting materials. This difference in apparent densities cause the nonconducting materials to "float" in the opposite direction from the Lorentz Force at a rapid rate. Means are further provided for removal of the contaminants and prevention of stirring due to rotational forces generated by the applied fields.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 10, 1987
Date of Patent:
November 22, 1988
Assignee:
The United States of America as represented by the Deprtment of Energy
Inventors:
David O. Hobson, Igor Alexeff, Vinod K. Sikka