Abstract: A system for manufacturing metal matrix composites, each including a porous preform infiltrated with molten metal, includes a programmable, automated arrangement for handling preforms for sequential introduction into a die caster of the system. A preform loader includes a reciprocable loading head which receives each preform from an associated stack, and delivers each preform to a horizontally reciprocable carrier of a preform shuttle. The preform shuttle effects indexed movement of each preform along a substantially horizontal path, through a preheating furnace, and into the die caster. Efficient operation of the system is promoted, while undesirable damage to the relatively brittle porous preforms is avoided.

Abstract: A continuous salt-based process is provided for melting and reclaiming aluminum from aluminum scrap containing impurities including heating a molten salt in a heat bay, mixing the heated salt with aluminum scrap or skim in a charge bay to form a molten charge mixture, separating aluminum from impurities in the charge bay by coalescing aluminum to form a molten aluminum metal pad, chlorinating a portion of the charge mixture from the charge bay to form a chlorinated salt mixture and metal chlorides, removing metal chlorides from the salt mixture, and feeding the salt mixture back to the heat bay. In one aspect, the chlorinating step of the present invention includes introducing carbon monoxide or, preferably, solid carbon to control oxide concentration. The process further comprises adding fluorides and removing metal chlorides from the salt to maintain a preferred salt composition.

Abstract: An improved electrolytic cell and process are provided wherein metals and metal alloys are formed from oxides or nitrides in a molten salt, without the evolution of halogen or halogen compounds, with less corrosion and reduced power consumption by the use of an electrode having an extended or substantially increased surface area effective for the evolution of oxygen and carbon oxide, and a molten salt electrolyte effective at low temperature.

Abstract: A varistor element is press-fitted into a recess formed in one surface of a metal electrode and protrudes a preselected distance out from the electrode surface. A second metal electrode is positioned in line with but spaced from the varistor by a TEFLON washer of selected thickness to fix the length of the air gap between the varistor and second electrode. The length of the copositioned air gap between the metal electrodes is similarly fixed by the washer and the protruding portion of the varistor. The assembly is held by a central rivet with a spring cup washer positioned under its peened end to hold elements in contact while absorbing some of the discharge force. The rivet is insulated by a nylon tube integral with an open-end cover for the assembly held at the closed end by the rivet head. When a high voltage surge is applied across the arrester assembly, the varistor-to-metal gap ionizes quickly to initiate discharge.

Abstract: A varistor disc is press-fitted into recesses formed in opposite surfaces of two metal electrodes, its length selected so that a predetermined air gap remains between the electrode surfaces in parallel to the varistor path. The assembly is held by a rivet inserted through the three elements with a spring cup washer under the peened rivet end to absorb dynamic discharge forces. The rivet is insulated by a nylon tube integral with a dust and moisture cover, held at one end by the rivet head and open at its other end for release of gas and particles upon discharge. The varistor dissipates static voltage buildup and low voltage surges. High voltage causes arcing between varistor and electrodes within the air gap, which creates a surge discharge across the air gap between electrodes to dissipate surge energy and protect the varistor element.