Abstract: A vehicle fluid heating system is provided for achieving an elevated pre-determined fluid temperature for at least one fluid of a first and second vehicle during an idle period having a duration defined by a start point and an end point. The heating system includes a first vehicle fluid heater that is configured for being coupled to the first vehicle in thermal communication with the first fluid of the first vehicle. A second vehicle fluid heater is provided that is configured for being coupled to the second vehicle in thermal communication with the first fluid of the second vehicle. At least one temperature sensor is provided for sensing a temperature of a temperature source that has a correlative relationship to the first fluid of the first and second vehicles. A settable timer is provided for enabling the user to establish a start point and an end point of the idle period of the first and second vehicles.

Abstract: A transfer pipe for molten metal includes a pipe wall comprised of graphite or ceramic. The graphite ceramic pipe wall can be surrounded by a pipe wall comprising a low thermally conductive material. Both the graphite or ceramic pipe wall and the low thermally conductive pipe wall can be encased in a rigid wall, for example steel. The transfer pipe can communicate with a molten metal pump to provide a system for moving molten metal.

Abstract: A filter cartridge for a molten metal filtering system is provided with a modular construction in which the filter elements are adapted to be removably mounted to an end plate. The filter elements may be removed separately from the filter and replaced with new filter elements without removing the entire cartridge assembly. According to another aspect of the invention, the filter elements are provided with an elliptical cross-section.

Abstract: A molten metal filter includes a refractory plate having an opening therethrough. A refractory filter element is attached to the refractory plate and projects therefrom, the exterior surfaces of the filter element generally defining a rectangular prism. The filter element is hollow so as to define an interior cavity. The filter element includes an opening in that portion of the filter element that is attached to the refractory plate, the opening surrounding the opening in the refractory plate such that fluid communication is established between the cavity and the opening in the refractory plate. In the preferred embodiment, a plurality of filter elements are provided, which filter elements are connected to the refractory plate such that adjacent sides of the filter elements are oriented vertically and are disposed generally parallel to each other.

Abstract: Apparatus for injecting gas into molten metal includes a porous ceramic body having a first surface through which gas can be introduced into the body, and a second surface through which gas can flow from the body. A refractory member is attached to the body and surrounds at least the first surface, while leaving the second surface exposed. The refractory member is impervious to gas, while having a coefficient of thermal expansion approximating that of the body. Preferably, a refractory sealant securely attaches the refractory member to the body. By use of the present invention, the refractory member and the body remain tightly connected to each other at all times. Accordingly, gas leaks are prevented and all gas flowing into the body is discharged through the second surface, as desired.

Abstract: A molten metal pump includes a filter that prevents ingestion of foreign material such as dross from molten metal within which the pump is immersed. The filter is a large structure that is secured to the base of the pump surrounding the pump's inlet. The filter forms a cavity adjacent the pump's inlet. The ratio of the surface area of the filter to the inlet area of the pump is very large; the filter has a low porosity while maintaining a high flow rate for the pump.