Abstract: A method of forming an immersion nozzle for continuous metal casting. The method includes the step of forming a porous refractory nozzle having channels formed in the outer surface thereof. The channels are jacketed with a positionally stable barrier. A metallic housing is formed to have an inner surface dimensioned to conform to the outer profile of the refractory nozzle and an orifice through one side. The refractory nozzle is inserted into the metallic housing with a cementitious mortar disposed therebetween and with the orifice aligned with one of the channels. The mortar then is dried to secure the refractory nozzle to the metallic housing.

Abstract: An immersion nozzle for containuous metal casting having an elongated nozzle body formed from a porous, gas permeable refractory material. The nozzle body has a conduit extending longitudinally therethrough and an inner surface which defines the conduit. The nozzle body also includes an outer surface defining a predetermined body profile and channels formed in the outer surface of the nozzle body. A metallic housing encases the nozzle body and has an inner surface dimensioned to substantially conform to the profile of the nozzle body. The housing is secured to the nozzle body by a refractory mortar which forms a rigid, relative air-tight layer between the housing and the nozzle body, wherein the channel means form internal passages in the nozzle. A port is provided on the housing in registry with the channels in the nozzle body. The port is connectable to a source of inert gas, which is operable to force the gas into the passages and into the porous refractory material.

Abstract: A linear slope peak detector is disclosed in which the output of an integrator is compared to an input signal and a low impedance path is provided for quickly capturing peaks while at the same time minimizing droop between peak refreshes. The peak detector is well suited for determining DC offsets.

Abstract: A highly accurate signal conditioning circuit for use with a linear/rotary variable differential transformer (L/R VDT) operating in a unipolar mode is disclosed. The circuit may be utilized for ratiometric comparison of L/R VDT primary coil peak excitation and L/R VDT secondary coil peak response. Unique peak detectors are used for detecting both primary and secondary peak values. The circuit may include an oscillator having R and C elements in a tank circuit which also includes the L/R VDT primary coil. Offset errors may be determined externally by providing for a momentary shutdown of the oscillator to permit the measurement of DC components to the signal conditioner and excitation DC outputs, by external means.