Abstract: Apparatus providing samples for evaluating the sensitivity of bulk particulate solids to segregation when permeated by a gas. A plurality of stacked discs are rotatably mounted on a vertical shaft. Each disc has a bore, the bores being alignable to form a columnar sample chamber. A gas is introduced under pressure at the bottom of the chamber to fluidize the solids, inducing segregation. Apertures in the discs are adapted to support sample jars. The discs are independently and sequentially rotatable to cause the portion of the segregated sample within each bore to be separately deposited in a sample jar.

Abstract: A system and method for continuous casting involves performing low-head casting within a highly electrically conductive shield/mold to block out an electromagnetic field that exists below the shield/mold. In this respect, the shield/mold and the electromagnetic field primarily cooperate to provide an environment in which low-head continuous casting can be safely carried out under controlled conditions. In one embodiment, the shield/mold is constructed of aluminum and a molten metal meniscus extends 1/2-to-11/2 inches above the bottom of the shield/mold. The shield/mold is normally not in contact with the ingot being cast.

Abstract: A non-turbulent, level pour feeding of molten metal into a continuous-casting mold is provided through inlets formed in heat insulated blocks positioned at opposite shorter sides of the mold for casting large rectangular aluminum ingots. The heights of inlet passages are designed to clean impurities from molten metal. The longer sides of the mold are cooled to a higher level than the shorter sides.