Abstract: There is provided an ion exchange membrane electrolyzer, wherein at least one electrode is energized by coming into contact with plate spring bodies formed on the electrode side of an electrode holding member forming a space with an electrode chamber partition bonded to a plate-like electrode chamber partition by a strip-like bonded portion, the electrode has a connected portion extending from a plane parallel to the ion exchange membrane toward the electrode holding member side in a direction perpendicular to the electrode plane, the connected portion is provided with an engaging opening extending in a direction perpendicular to the electrode plane, and the engaging opening engages with an engaging member, permitting the electrode to move in a direction perpendicular to the electrode plane within the displacement range of the plate spring bodies.

Abstract: An ion exchange membrane electrolyzer comprises electrodes at least either of which is held in contact with leaf springs formed integrally with a leaf spring holding member arranged in an electrode chamber so as to extend toward the electrode and remain electrically energized at the respective electrode touching sections thereof, each of the leaf springs having a crooked section arranged at a position separated from its connecting section connecting itself to the leaf spring holding member and adapted to be bent toward the leaf spring holding member when the electrode touching section is pressed toward the leaf spring holding member side.

Abstract: An electrolysis prevention device, for preventing corrosion caused by electrolysis, includes a sacrificial anode made of an active metal and an anode holder supporting the sacrificial anode. The holder is adapted to fit around the inlet connection of an engine heat exchange component, such as a radiator or heater core, in such a way as to allow for a hose to be attached overtop the device. The device may be included in an originally-manufactured engine heat exchange component or may be installed later.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a sacrificial anode for cathodic corrosion protection that comprises an anode body (1), a mounting component (8) for mounting the sacrificial anode on the device to be protected, an insulating component (4) that in certain areas surrounds the anode body (1) and electrically insulates the anode body (1) from the mounting component (8), and a resistive element (9) that is inserted between the anode body (1) and the mounting component (8), where the insulating component (4) is fixed on the mounting component (8). According to the disclosure, a securing component (6) is fixed on the anode body (1) and prevents the anode body (1) from moving out of the insulating component (4). This results in a sacrificial anode of this type that can be reliably operated over its entire service life.

Abstract: An insulating spacer 30 comprises a plurality of unit spacers 40, and a flexible coupling portion 41 for coupling the unit spacers 40 along the axial direction thereof, wherein the unit spacer 40 comprises a plurality of annular plates 42 and 43 each having an insertion hole 44 for inserting the auxiliary anode 11, and a coupling frame 45 for coupling the annular plates 42 and 43 in the axial direction of the auxiliary anode 11 while opening the outer circumference side thereof. The auxiliary anode unit 10 is constituted by inserting the insulating spacer 30 into the auxiliary anode 11, and since each unit spacer 40 is coupled, the distal end of the auxiliary anode 11 is naturally located in proximity to the insertion hole 44 provided in the next unit spacer 40 when the auxiliary anode 11 penetrates one unit spacer 40. Accordingly, the auxiliary anode 11 can be inserted into the insulating spacer 30 by series of works, and as a result, the auxiliary anode unit 10 can be manufactured with good workability.

Abstract: An anode assembly for aluminum electrolysis cells includes carbon anodes with stubholes and an anode hanger having stubs, in which the anodes are fixed to the anode hanger by cast iron and the stubholes are fully or partially lined with an expanded graphite lining. The anode assembly provides a reduced voltage drop across an interface between the cast iron and the carbon anode and thus increases cell productivity significantly. Mechanical stresses in the stubhole area are reduced. A collar formed from the lining prevents spilling of cast iron over the anode surface and a protective shot plug or a protective collar optionally prevent direct contact of a hot electrolyte bath with the stub and the cast iron. A method of manufacturing anode assemblies and an aluminum electrolysis cell, are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention describes an electrochemical half-cell, comprising a gas space, an electrolyte space and a gas diffusion electrode in the form of a cathode or anode. The gas diffusion electrode separates the gas space from the electrolyte space and comprises an electrically conductive substrate and an electrochemically active coating. The gas diffusion electrode includes a coating-free edge region and is connected to a support structure in the coating-free edge region via an electrically conductive plate, which covers at least the coating-free edge region as well as a coated edge region.

Abstract: The electrode cartridge for measuring an internal stress of a film of plating includes a cathode support, an anode support, a shield plate and an anode shell. The anode support supports an anode plate so that the anode plate is opposite to the cathode plate with a predetermined spacing. The shield plate is interposed between the cathode and anode plates. A through hole is made in the shield plate in such a manner that the through hole confronts a plating section and has a geometry which is reduced by a first predetermined scale factor relative to a geometry of the plating section. An opening is made in the anode shell in such a manner that the opening confronts the plating section and has a geometry which is magnified by a second predetermined scale factor relative to the geometry of the plating section.

Abstract: The purpose of this invention is a leak limiter (20) of an electrolytic cell (1) for the production of aluminum, fitted with confinement means comprising passage openings for the insertion of anode stems (3), characterized in that it comprises at least one support (21), capable of surrounding all or part of an anode stem, and at least one flexible sealing body (30, 30a, 30b, 30c) arranged around all or part of the periphery (23) of the support (21) and designed to close off all or some of the free space between the inside edge of an opening and an anode stem (3). This invention improves the leak tightness of covering means used in electrolytic cells.

Abstract: An ionically conductive ceramic element (20) comprises a plurality of tubes (30) each having interior (24) and exterior (38) surfaces and closed (48) and open (50) ends. A tube support (14) receives open tube ends (50). A first electrically conductive coating (36) is formed on the exterior tube surfaces (38). A second coating (22) is formed on the interior tube surfaces (24). A bottom electrically conductive stripe (16) makes electrical connections between second coatings (22) on the interior tube surfaces (24). A top electrically conductive stripe (40) creates electrical connections between first coatings (36) on the exterior tube surfaces (38). The top and bottom stripes are connected such that at least one stripe (40) on the top is electrically connected to at least one stripe (16) on the bottom.

Abstract: The invention relates to a transfer and insulation device (1) for electrically insulating electrodes, particularly anodes (2) and cathodes (3), used in the electrolytic cleaning of metals, from each other in an electrolytic tank (4), for distributing the electrodes as they are hanging in the electrolytic tank and for enabling the electrodes to be transferred, said transfer and insulation device (1) being made of one single piece.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for supporting electrodes in an electrolysis installation, said support comprising a busbar having electrodes fastened thereto, said electrodes being disposed on either side of the busbar and extending vertically below said busbar, the busbar and said electrodes being designed to be immersed at least in part in an electrolyte that gives off one or more gaseous species of a corrosive nature. The device further comprises a protective element of carbon/carbon material placed under the busbar, the protective element being of length and width that are not less than the length and the width of the busbar.

Abstract: This invention relates to an anode assembly (1) to be used in a fused bath electrolysis aluminium production cell. This assembly comprises one inert anode (2) in the shape of a ladle, one connection conductor (3, 4, 5), mechanical connection means capable of cooperating so as to set up a mechanical link between the conductor and the anode, one metallic joint (31) that is or could be formed by brazing being located between all or part of at least one surface (20, 20?, 20?) of the open end (22) of the anode (2) and all or part of at least one surface (40, 40?, 40?) of the connection end (42) of the conductor (3, 4, 5). The invention simplifies manufacturing of anode assemblies comprising one inert anode.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for electrical impedance tomography comprising a plurality of different electrode modules, each containing a support strap made of a flexible material that presents a reduced longitudinal deformability and carrying a predetermined number of electrodes, each support strap being dimensioned to be seated and retained onto a respective extension portion of a body segment of a patient. Each electrode module presents the number of electrodes and a distance ‘De’ between each two consecutive electrodes predetermined as a function of a specific operational pattern to be obtained from each electrode module. The assembly can further comprise an electrical conducting cable having an end connected to a monitoring apparatus and a free end provided with a connector to be coupled to a respective electrode of an electrode module.

Abstract: An anode holder is used to hold an anode in a plating tank. The anode holder includes a bar having a conductive portion connected to a power source, a conductive anode shaft attached to the bar, and an anode connected to the conductive anode shaft. The conductive anode shaft includes an external thread portion provided at an end of the conductive anode shaft, an O-ring, and a step portion provided between the O-ring and the external thread portion. The step portion has a diameter larger than a diameter of the external thread portion but smaller than a diameter of the O-ring. The anode includes an internal thread hole to which the external thread portion of the conductive anode shaft is screwed. The anode also includes a receiving portion for receiving the step portion of the conductive anode shaft in a state such that the O-ring of the conductive anode shaft is brought into contact with an inner surface of the receiving portion.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for achieving a good contact surface on an aluminium electrode support bar used in electrolysis. In the method the support bar is fabricated as a continuous bar and a highly electroconductive layer is formed on its end. The highly electroconductive layer forms a metallic bond with the support bar and can be achieved for example with thermal spray coating. The invention also relates to an electrode support bar, the end of which is coated with a highly electroconductive material.

Abstract: Apparatus for electroplating a workpiece includes an unassembled electroplating anode assembly having weldable first and second structural anode members. The first structural anode member includes a positioning slot. The second structural anode member includes a positioning tab disposable in the positioning slot. A method for making an electroplating anode assembly includes obtaining an electroplating-anode-assembly first structural anode member having a positioning slot and obtaining an electroplating-anode-assembly second structural anode member having a positioning tab. The method also includes locating the positioning tab in the positioning slot and welding together the first and second structural anode members.

Abstract: A disposable salt chlorine generator for use in conjunction with a swimming pool, spa, hot tub or large vessel of water includes a bracket for mounting a housing on a wall of a swimming pool, spa, hot tub or large vessel of water. The housing is releasable mounted relative to said bracket and contains a compartment wherein a halogen-producing electrode configuration is removably mounted relative to the compartment. An electrical cable is operatively connected to the halogen producing electrode configuration for providing electrical power thereto.

Abstract: An arrangement for installing and sealing an anode within a fluorine generating electrolytic cell is described, the arrangement comprising: an anode connection member, said anode connection member (32) passing through an aperture (70) in a skirt wall (20) and being in electrical connection with a skirt wall closure member (72) wherein the skirt wall closure member is sealingly engaged with said skirt wall and is electrically insulated therefrom.

Abstract: Production of pure metals through electro-winning and electro-deposition is accomplished by electrolytic deposition of metal over a reusable stainless-steel plate (cathode). Metal is deposited on both faces of the cathode, as well as on its edges, creating problems when removing the deposited metal. Breaking the deposited edges to remove the metal deposited on both faces produces irregular edges, folding and damages to the surface of the cathode, requiring re-processing, increasing costs of the deposited metal, as well as repairs or replacement of the cathodes. This invention includes a structure made of insulating material to which are fixed electrically energizable cathode guidance profiles with a cross-section similar to an omega and which house the edges of the cathodes, holding them in position during the process.

Abstract: Electroplating systems that include a plurality of electrodes, a power supply operably coupled to the plurality of electrodes, a platen for bearing a substrate on which metal features are to be formed, and an electrode support are disclosed. The electrode support may be configured for suspending the electrode assembly over an upper surface of the substrate disposed on the platen in spaced relation to and in alignment with the substrate or for supporting the electrode assembly in a stationary position over the substrate when the voltage is applied across the plurality of electrodes. The electrodes may be adjacent, mutually spaced and electrically isolated and connected in series so as to be oppositely polarized when the voltage is applied thereacross or may be connected so as to have alternating polarities when the voltage is applied thereacross.

Abstract: A system for producing metal particles using a discrete particle electrolyzer cathode, a discrete particle electrolyzer cathode, and methods for manufacturing the cathode. The cathode has a plurality of active zones on a surface thereof at least partially immersed in a reaction solution. The active zones are spaced from one another by between about 0.1 mm and about 10 mm, and each has a surface area no less than about 0.02 square mm. The cathode is spaced from an anode also at least partially immersed in the reaction solution. A voltage potential is applied between the anode and cathode. Metal particles form on the active zones of the cathode. The particles may be dislodged from the cathode after they have achieved a desired size. The geometry and composition of the active zones are specified to promote the growth of high quality particles suitable for use in metal/air fuel cells. Cathodes may be formed from bundled wire, machined metal, chemical etching, or chemical vapor deposition techniques.

Abstract: The assay devices, assay systems and device components of this invention comprise at least two opposing surfaces disposed a capillary distance apart, at least one of which is capable of immobilizing at least one target ligand or a conjugate in an amount related to the presence or amount of target ligand in the sample from a fluid sample in a zone for controlled fluid movement to, through or away the zone. The inventive device components may be incorporated into conventional assay devices with membranes or may be used in the inventive membrane-less devices herein described and claimed. These components include flow control elements, measurement elements, time gates, elements for the elimination of pipetting steps, and generally, elements for the controlled flow, timing, delivery, incubation, separation, washing and other steps of the assay process.

Abstract: A salt chlorine generator for use in conjunction with a swimming pool, spa, hot tub or large vessel of water includes a bracket for mounting a housing on a wall of a swimming pool, spa, hot tub or large vessel of water. The housing is releasable mounted relative to said bracket and contains a compartment wherein a halogen-producing electrode configuration is removably mounted relative to the compartment. A predetermined length of electrical cable is stored within the compartment for enabling the halogen producing electrode configuration to be selectively removed from said compartment for replacing, servicing or winterizing.

Abstract: The invention describes an improved anode suitable for being installed in chlor-alkali electrolysis cells intercalated to cathode elements provided with a diaphragm. In operation, the anode of the invention is in direct contact with the diaphragm so as to form mutually equivalent vertical channels defined by the surfaces of the plates, of the supporting sheets and of the diaphragm, allowing a predefined and controlled upward motion of the chlorine-brine biphasic mixture.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method of obtaining a good current contact on the support bar of a cathode used in electrolysis. In this method a highly electroconductive layer is formed on the contact piece on the end of the support bar of the cathode, especially at the point that comes into contact with the electrolysis cell busbar. The electroconductive layer forms a metallic bond with the contact piece of the support bar. The disclosure also relates to the cathode support bar, wherein a highly electroconductive layer is formed to the contact piece on the end of said bar, in particular the area that touches the electrolysis cell busbar.

Abstract: An ionically conductive ceramic element includes a central unit (703). The central unit (703) is composed of a plurality of integrated manifold and tube modules (IMAT) (22) joined end to end along a central axis (A). Each IMAT module (22) has a tube support portion (804) and a plurality of tubes (802) extending from the first surface (803). The tubes (802) each have a closed end (805) and an open end. The second surface (807) is at least partially open to the atmosphere. The open ends of the tubes (802) are open to the atmosphere through the second surface (807). An interior space (830) is formed in the interior of the IMAT (22) for collecting a desired product gas. A collection tube (710) is operable joined with a first end (714) of the central unit (703) for transporting the desired product gas collected in the interior space (730) of the connected IMAT modules (22).

Abstract: An oxygen emitter which is an electrolytic cell is disclosed. When the anode and cathode are separated by a critical distance, very small microbubbles and nanobubbles of oxygen are generated. The very small oxygen bubbles remain in suspension, forming a solution supersaturated in oxygen. A flow-through model for oxygenating flowing water is disclosed. The use of supersaturated water for enhancing the growth of plants is disclosed. Methods for applying supersaturated water to plants manually, by drip irrigation or in hydroponic culture are described. The treatment of waste water by raising the dissolved oxygen with the use of an oxygen emitter is disclosed.

Abstract: Tools having mounting modules with registration systems are disclosed. The mounting module includes positioning elements for precisely locating a processing chamber and a transport system that moves workpieces to and from the processing chamber. The relative positions between positioning elements of the module are fixed so that the transport system does not need to be recalibrated when the processing chamber is removed and replaced with another processing chamber. The processing chamber includes a paddle device for agitating processing liquid at a process surface of the workpiece. The paddle device, the processing chamber, and electrodes within the processing chamber are configured to reduce the likelihood for electrical shadowing created by the paddles at the surface of the workpiece, and to account for three-dimensional effects on the electrical field as the paddles reciprocate relative to the workpiece.

Abstract: A loading apparatus for use in electroplating processes includes a container designed to sealingly receive a plurality of airfoil blades fitted with gaskets. Each fitted airfoil blade is disposed in contact with a plurality of electrical contact assemblies having a spring-like design which ensures an adequate connection is made and complete plating of the airfoil blades occurs.

Abstract: The invention relates to a structure of a cathodic finger for diaphragm electrolysis cells consisting of an external mesh and an internal reinforcing and current-distributing structure provided with protrusions suitable for maximising the contact points with the external mesh.

Abstract: An adjustable anode assembly for a wet processing apparatus to allow selective tuning of the electrical field density distribution within a wet process chemical of the apparatus, which in turn allows the process specification or specifications to be selectively varied across the process surface of a wafer when processed by the apparatus. The adjustable anode assembly includes an anode which may be divided into several plates, at least one of which is capable of being moved from a first plane to at least a second plane.

Abstract: A compression sealable electrolysis cell that is easily and reliably manufactured, maintained and repaired comprises two insulating end pieces which can position and seal two electrode tubes with electrical contacts separated by a ceramic membrane tube where fluid can be introduced at one end piece and removed at the other end piece in the spaces between the electrode tubes and the ceramic membrane tube. The design permits the compression of the entire assembly via the fixing of nuts on one or more threaded rods extending through both end pieces without the use of an adhesive or cement and without the imposition of torque or compressive stress on the ceramic membrane tube. The water or other fluid to be electrolyzed can be introduced tangentially to spaces between the electrode tubes and the ceramic membrane tube at a angle of 0 to 15 degrees to optimize flow and contact with the electrode tubes.

Abstract: Embodiments of a ball assembly are provided. In one embodiment, a ball assembly includes a housing, a ball, a conductive adapter and a contact element. The housing has an annular seat extending into a first end of an interior passage. The conductive adapter is coupled to a second end of the housing. The contact element electrically couples the adapter and the ball with is retained in the housing between seat and the adapter.

Abstract: An electroplating apparatus includes a reactor vessel having a segmented anode array positioned therein for effecting electroplating of an associated workpiece such as a semiconductor wafer. The anode array includes a plurality of ring-like anode segments which are preferably positioned in concentric, coplanar relationship with each other. The anode segments can be independently operated to create varying electrical potentials with the associated workpiece to promote uniform deposition of electroplated metal on the surface of the workpiece.

Abstract: A method of protecting an inert anode assembly (16) operating in an electrolysis cell (10) for producing metal when an adjacent assembly (16?) is removed exposing remaining assemblies to low ambient temperatures (40) by utilizing heat radiation shields (24) which can circumscribe every inert anode assembly (16), where the shields (24) remain intact and in place in the cell (10) while operating in molten electrolyte (15) at about 850° C.

Abstract: A system and method are described for radially positioning a workpiece for electrochemical machining. In one embodiment, a pressurized air chamber is configured to contain pressurized air. In addition, an expandable diaphragm is configured to position the workpiece radially relative to an electrode assembly in response to the pressurized air being released into the pressurized air chamber.

Abstract: A cathode plate and method for electro-refining or electro-winning of metal. The cathode includes a cathode blade and hanger bar. A quantity of electrically conductive material is wrapped around the hanger bar and along the cathode blade to a position, in use, proximate the level of electrolyte in the electrolytic bath. The provision of a deeper and preferably thicker coating of electrically conductive material, as compared with conventional cathode plates, reduces power consumption in the electrolytic circuit.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a handling device for an anode connector provided with at least two side trunnions and a tightening screw. The connector is generally capable of cooperating with attachment hooks of an aluminum production cell used in fused bath electrolysis production operations so as to enable connection of anodes onto the cell. The handling device has a tightening device capable of tightening the connector screw and affecting the tightness of the connector. The present invention also has a locking system that can lock the connector in a desired position in the handling device, by loosening the connector using the tightening device. The handling device also has at least one mobile member which typically has a support to support the connector in a closed position. The support can also displace the mobile member from its closed position to an open position, and vice versa.

Abstract: A hydrolytic cell consists of upper and lower chambers sealed from each other by a divider, with one or more openings in the divider for the passage of gas into the upper chamber. Liquid is prevented from entering the upper chamber by gas-permeable filters such as Hastelloy™ metal filters. Also disclosed is an electrode consisting either of a generally vertical stack of spaced apart perforated disks or porous metal filters such as Hastelloy filters, mounted to a conductive rod. A level sensing system us disclosed, consisting of a light source and detector which directs light into the lower chamber which is reflected off of a reflector within the chamber, such that the liquid level is detected at the level of the detector by a reduced light intensity.

Abstract: A hangar bar for a cathode plate and a method of producing a cathode for electrolytic recovery of metal. The hanger bar comprises a support element which is preferably stainless steel and hollow. An electrically conductive metal cladding is affixed the stainless steel bar by any appropriate mechanism, eg interference fit, welding, chemical or mechanical fastening or coextrusion or roll forming. Affixing the cladding to the stainless steel support element has significant advantages over conventional electroplating techniques including that a more precise engineering specification can be applied to the cladding thickness. This is important to maintain vertical alignment of the cathode plate in the electrolytic cell.

Abstract: A device that supports a remote identifier for permanent cathodes in the electro-winning process. A preferred embodiment of the invention provides a support for a proximity identification device for petmanent cathodes that, when interconnected with a remote system, provides for a record of its behavior and position in time of each cathode during its useful life in an electro-winning process.

Abstract: An anode holder is used to hold an anode in a plating tank. The anode holder includes a bar having a conductive portion connected to a power source, a conductive anode shaft attached to the bar, and an anode connected to the conductive anode shaft. The conductive anode shaft includes an external thread portion provided at an end of the conductive anode shaft, an O-ring, and a step portion provided between the O-ring and the external thread portion. The step portion has a diameter larger than a diameter of the external thread portion but smaller than a diameter of the O-ring. The anode includes an internal thread hole to which the external thread portion of the conductive anode shaft is screwed. The anode also includes a receiving portion for receiving the step portion of the conductive anode shaft in a state such that the O-ring of the conductive anode shaft is brought into contact with an inner surface of the receiving portion.

Abstract: An integrated tool is provided including at least one workpiece processing station having a paddle assembly. In accordance with another independent aspect of the present invention, the workpiece processing station is adapted for adjusting the level of the processing fluid relative to a workpiece, wherein the portion of the workpiece to be processed and possibly the paddle is selectively immersed within the processing fluid. In accordance with a further independent aspect of the present invention, a paddle is provided for use proximate to a workpiece in a workpiece processing station. The paddle includes a one or more sets of delivery ports and one or more sets of fluid recovery ports. In at least one embodiment, the paddle provides for agitation of a processing fluid proximate to the surface of the workpiece. In at least another embodiment, the paddle provides for the delivery and/or recovery of one or more fluids to the portion of the workpiece to be processed.

Abstract: Contact assemblies for electrochemical processing of microelectronic workpieces. The contact assembly (400) can comprise a support member (410) that includes an inner wall (412) which defines an opening (414) configured to receive the workpiece and a plurality of contacts (420). The individual contacts (420) include a conductor (440) and a cover (430). The conductor (440) can comprise a proximal section (435) projecting inwardly into the opening (414) relative to the support member (410), a distal section (436) extending from the proximal section (435), and an inert exterior (444) at least at the distal section (436). The cover (430) comprises a dielectric element that covers at least the proximal section of the conductor, but does not cover at least a portion of the distal section of the core. The exposed portion of the distal section of the core, accordingly, defines a conductive contact site for contacting a conductive layer (e.g., a seed layer) on the workpiece.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for an electrochemical processing cell that is configured to minimize bevel and backside deposition. The apparatus includes a contact ring assembly for supporting a substrate, a thrust plate movably positioned to engage a substrate positioned on the contact pins, and a lip seal member positioned to contact the thrust plate and the contact ring to prevent fluid flow therebetween. The lip seal includes at least one bubble release channel formed therethrough. The method includes positioning an electric field barrier between a backside substrate engaging member and a frontside substrate supporting member to prevent electric field from traveling to the bevel and backside of the substrate. The electric field barrier including at least one bubble release channel formed therethrough.

Abstract: A cathode for use in the refining or winning of metals, typically used in the electro-refining or winning of copper, comprising a substantially flat deposition plate fixedly attached along an upper edge thereof to an elongate hanger bar thereby defining a connection. A protective cladding is attached to the deposition plate and at least partially surrounding the hanger bar such that a cavity is defined in the region of the connection. A corrosion resistant material fills the cavity. In this manner the corrosion resistant material prevents corrosive substances from penetrating the connection. The corrosion resistant material prevents corrosive electrolytic solution and other liquids from corroding the conductive connection between the deposition plate and the hanger bar which would otherwise reduce efficiency of the cathode.

Abstract: A method of protecting an inert anode assembly (16) operating in an electrolysis cell (10) for producing metal when an adjacent assembly (16?) is removed exposing remaining assemblies to low ambient temperatures (40) by utilizing heat radiation shields (24) which can circumscribe every inert anode assembly (16), where the shields (24) remain intact and in place in the cell (10) while operating in molten electrolyte (15) at about 850° C.

Abstract: An inexpensive workpiece holder having high reliability and a processing apparatus equipped with the workpiece holder are provided, in which damage caused by oxygen in the air is prevented. The holder comprises: a ceramic body which has an electrode and a heater circuit and which can holds a workpiece; a tubular member having an end portion connected to the ceramic body; a sealing member which is disposed inside the tubular member and which isolates a space inside the tubular member into two regions: a region on the first end portion (“sealed portion”) and a region on the opposite side (“opposite region”); and power supply conductive members which extend from the opposite region side, penetrating the sealing member to the sealed region side, and which are electrically connected to the electrode and the heater circuit.

Abstract: Disclosed in a capping board for use to support hanging legs of anodes and cathodes within adjacent electrolytic cells. This capping board has a main body having a bottom surface shaped to fit onto upper edges of the adjacent cells, and a top surface. A first set of spaced part insulating blocks project from the top surface. This first set of blocks extends in line all over the length of the capping board on one side of the main body. A second set of spaced part insulating blocks also projects from the top surface. This second set of blocks also extends in line all over the length of the capping board at a given lateral distance from the first set of blocks. Thus, the two sets of blocks form two rows that together define a central path on the top surface. Each of the blocks has a recess forming an upwardly and laterally opening compartment to receive and support one of the hanging legs of the anodes and cathodes.