Abstract: The present invention relates to an improvement in the method and the apparatus for reducing tungsten oxide powder to tungsten metal powder. The method produces more uniform particle size distribution by decreasing the variability of temperature and inconsistency of reductant gas flow during the reduction process. The method includes the steps of: providing powder particles of WOx in a unique reaction boat with a low aspect ratio to a multi-tube furnace; (a) contacting particles of WOx, wherein x is at least 2.

Abstract: An atmospheric seal assembly for sealing the junction between a rotating tube kiln and a stationary hood comprises a multiplicity of spring-loaded cam follower clamping devices pressing a stationary graphite ring, extending from the hood, against a flange on the rotating tube kiln to provide a rotary seal by slidable contact between the rotating flange and the graphite ring and a second, flexible, seal extending from the hood to the first seal.

Abstract: A multi-axis rotary seal system to provide a gas-tight seal between a stationary hood and the end of a rotating tube kiln comprises a stationary hood positioned at the end of the rotary tube and having extended therefrom, a fully flexible bellows attached at the other end to a structural ring which, in turn, is attached to a graphite ring, slidably pressed against a flange on the rotary tube to form an atmospheric seal. The structural ring is held to the stationary hood by multi-axis supports that allow movement of the ring in three axial directions. In operation, during expansion and contraction of the rotating tube and eccentricities of motion, the integrity of the slidable seal formed by the graphite ring against the mating surface of the tube flange, is maintained by a biasing device pressing the graphite ring and the tube flange together in slidable engagement.

Abstract: An atmospheric seal assembly for sealing the junction between a rotating tube kiln and a stationary hood comprises a multiplicity of spring-loaded cam follower clamping devices pressing a stationary graphite ring, extending from the hood, against a flange on the rotating tube kiln to provide a rotary seal by slidable contact between the rotating flange and the graphite ring and a second, flexible, seal extending from the hood to the first seal.

Abstract: A multi-axis rotary seal system to provide a gas-tight seal between a stationary hood and the end of a rotating tube kiln comprises a stationary hood positioned at the end of the rotary tube and having extended therefrom, a fully flexible bellows attached at the other end to a structural ring which, in turn, is attached to a graphite ring, slidably pressed against a flange on the rotary tube to form an atmospheric seal. The structural ring is held to the stationary hood by multi-axis supports that allow movement of the ring in three axial directions. In operation, during expansion and contraction of the rotating tube and eccentricities of motion, the integrity of the slidable seal formed by the graphite ring against the mating surface of the tube flange, is maintained by a biasing device pressing the graphite ring and the tube flange together in slidable engagement.

Abstract: A punch press, of the type capable of producing a piece from a sheet of material, the piece being attached to the sheet by a tab, is provided with a separation assembly that fits into a standard tool station. The invention provides for parting of the piece from the sheet, and automatic transport of the parted piece to a position overlying a hinged drop door provided as part of a removal assembly. The invention eliminates the need for manual parting and removal of the piece from the punch press.

Abstract: A strip of packets containing bulk material which may be powdered, granular, beaded, or the like, the strip being formed from a heat-fusible material, each of the packets including a wall and fused end portions for confining the bulk material, and a fused seam extending longitudinally of the strip of packets and being located in a wall of each packet and extending through the fused end portions of the packets, and perforations extending through the end portions and the portion of the fused seam thereon, with each of the perforations being bounded by a fused section of material which is grommet-like in form.