Abstract: A liquid tank level indicator device for use with a tank having an exterior surface and an interior surface surrounding a cavity shaped to contain a volume of the liquid. In some embodiments, the device may include a float which is configured to be positioned within the tank cavity. The float may include a buoyancy element and a magnetic material. The device may also include a level indicator which is configured to be positioned on the exterior surface of the tank. The level indicator may include a second magnetic material. The float may be placed within the tank cavity in contact with the liquid and the level indicator may be placed on the exterior of the tank in magnetic communication with the float so that movement of the liquid results in movement of the float and in movement of the level indicator on the exterior surface of the tank.

Abstract: The invention provides a chilled casting wheel. An annular wheel core member has axially extending channels formed about a circumferential, outer peripheral surface thereof and is adapted to rotate about a concentric axis of rotation. A cylindrical, axially extending wheel rim member concentrically connected to the core peripheral surface has a preselected interference fit therewith to provide a preselected residual, circumferential stress within the rim. A coolant mechanism directs a fluid coolant to the interior surface of the rim and through the channels.

Abstract: A non-contact, optical method is provided for controlling a gap between a crucible orifice and a rapidly moving chill surface during casting of metal strip. The method comprises setting a desired value for the gap; measuring the gap by continually scanning it with a light beam; generating a deviation signal that indicates whether there is a difference between the measured and desired values; and using the deviation signal to adjust the crucible position so as to minimize the difference. In a preferred embodiment, the light beam is provided by a laser.

Abstract: A high temperature pressure transducer for measuring the total pressure adjacent the exit orifice of a crucible containing molten metal used in a continuous casting operation is disclosed. The pressure sensed includes a pressure head of the molten metal as well as the gas gauge pressure in the crucible above the metal. The transducer includes a sensor rod assembly having an immersible sensor rod fabricated of fused quartz and having a sensing surface, a sensor rod extension, an intermediate shaft, and a load cell connected to the intermediate shaft. A bellows provides a gas tight seal for the internal gas pressure in the crucible. The bellows is characterized by folds projecting inwardly and outwardly and providing equal volume in the two directions.

Abstract: A casting wheel cooling apparatus and method for rapid quenching of molten metal is provided. The cooling apparatus provides a multiplicity of axial conduits around the periphery of the wheel, close to the chill surface. In operation, molten metal deposits on the chill surface of the rapidly rotating casting wheel. The molten metal cools and solidifies, transferring heat to the casting wheel. By flowing coolant, preferably water, through the conduits at a sufficient rate, the heat transfer is generally radial. The molten metal cools uniformly across its width and the resulting metallic strip has substantially uniform properties.

Abstract: Improvement in apparatus for making metal filament by depositing molten metal onto the flat peripheral surface of a rotating annular chill roll includes provision of an elastomeric flexible belt supported by at least three guide wheels, carried in frictional engagement with said surface for urging the filament into prolonged contact with said surface.