Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming hollow extrusions. Specifically, a method and apparatus for imparting one or more bends and/or twists in a hollow extrusion under stretch. The apparatus may perform all of these formation and stretch functions as the result of one single physical or mechanical force imparted on the apparatus from either an internal or an external source. The forming apparatus and method may provide an easy way to mount and/or dismount the hollow extrusion form the machine by way of separate or integral gripper mounts. The single-force stretch-bend-twist apparatus may be used in a mass production manufacturing environment where the machine and method can perform complex formation steps and may automatically reset itself back to a starting position after formation.

Abstract: A continuous block caster is provided with a mold block assembly having an internal anchor pin which is insulated. One end of a support pin, many of which are used to support each block, is threaded into the anchor pin, the other end is demountably secured in a fastening member in turn fastened to a carriage block. All the fastening members except only one at the center, are y- or x-y slides, so termed because they permit lateral movement of the support pin. A stepped lock-down key which provides a camming means, allows an entire mold block assembly and supporting pin assembly to be connected and disconnected quickly from the carriage block by rotating the key. Insulating the support pin in this manner allows the planarity of a casting face to be maintained in a lateral plane within 5 mils (127 micrometers) of vertical movement. Such limited distortion does not adversely affect the planarity of the upper and lower faces of the cast slab.