By Stirring Or Mixing Molten Metal Patents (Class 266/233)
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Patent number: 7645418Abstract: A gas purge device for a metallurgical melting vessel includes a conically shaped ceramic body (2) in contact at its top side with heat contained in the melting vessel. The ceramic body has a static external element and an internal element axially movable therein. A pneumatic drive axially moves the internal element to and fro relative to the external element between a closed position and an open position. The spring force of a spring retains the internal element in the closed position. The device furthermore includes a gas-tight enclosed volume arranged at the bottom side of the ceramic body the volume being connected to a gas supply duct for introduction of purge gas. A deformable membrane is connected to the internal element with the pressure difference between the purge gas pressure prevailing in the gas-tight enclosed volume and the ambient pressure acting upon the membrane.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2005Date of Patent: January 12, 2010Inventors: Stefan Munding, Germann Munding
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Patent number: 7531126Abstract: The present invention relates to a powder fabricating apparatus. It is an object of the present invention to provide the powder fabricating apparatus, which is capable of obtaining metal powder in a rapid and continuous fashion, various kinds of oxide, or alloy powder. The powder fabricating apparatus for achieving the object of the present invention comprises a barrel wherein an inlet and an outlet are formed at both opposite ends thereof, respectively; a screw which is rotationally mounted in the barrel and by which reactant supplied from the inlet moves toward the outlet; a driving portion for causing a relative rotational motion between the screw and the barrel; reaction control means for controlling reaction conditions of the reactant which moves in the barrel; and a controller for controlling the driving portion and the reaction control means.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2003Date of Patent: May 12, 2009Inventor: Jae-Wan Oh
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Patent number: 7297238Abstract: An acoustic system for applying vibratory energy including a horn connected to an ultrasonic energy source. The horn defines an overall length and wavelength, and at least a leading section thereof is comprised of a ceramic material. The leading section has a length of at least ? the horn wavelength. In one preferred embodiment, an entirety of the horn is a ceramic material, and is mounted to a separate component, such as a waveguide, via an interference fit. Regardless, by utilizing a ceramic material for at least a significant portion of the horn, the ultrasonic system of the present invention facilitates long-term operation in extreme environments such as high temperature and/or corrosive fluid mediums. The present invention is useful for fabrication of metal matrix composite wires.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2003Date of Patent: November 20, 2007Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Satinder K. Nayar, Ronald W. Gerdes, Michael W. Carpenter, Kamal E. Amin
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Patent number: 7010941Abstract: A structural component for a device for the treatment of melts, especially of glass melts, having a base body of metal or of a metal alloy and a cooling system in which a cooling medium is led through the structural component for the leading-off of heat. The base body is provided with a coating of a material the decomposition temperature of which lies below the temperature of the melt, and the cooling system is designed and arranged in such manner that the temperature of the boundary layer of the melt that immediately surrounds the structural component lies below the decomposition temperature of the coating material.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2001Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Assignee: Schott AGInventors: Christian Kunert, Uwe Kolberg, Werner Kiefer, Hildegard Römer, Volker Ohmstede
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Patent number: 6893607Abstract: A metal melting closed furnace which includes a main chamber, a circulation well connected to the main chamber by a communications passageway and a vortex well having a exit outlet for molten metal into the main chamber. A cover is emplaced over the vortex well. An inert gas bubble activated molten metal pump is provided in which there is an entry port in the circulation well and exit port into the vortex well. The exit port is positioned to lie at least partially or entirely above the maximum level of molten metal in the vortex well. This exit port will typically be at or near the top of the vortex well. In order to reduce oxidation, inert gas bubbles are captured from this molten metal pump and creating an inert gas atmosphere or blanket above the molten metal vortex.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2003Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Inventors: Larry D. Areaux, Edward S. Jackson
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Patent number: 6843959Abstract: A mixer (10) for mixing molten metal in a kettle is disclosed. The mixer (10) broadly includes a housing (12), a drive train assembly (14) supported on the housing (12), and an impeller assembly (16) rotatably coupled to the drive train assembly (14). The drive train assembly (14) broadly includes a power source (18), a rotatable shaft (20), and a transmission (22) drivingly connecting the power source (18) and the shaft (20). The housing (12) is a self-contained unit that supports the mixer (10) and includes an upper housing section (24) that is shiftable relative to a lower housing section (26) between a raised position and a lowered positioned. The transmission (22) includes an endless belt (118) than entrains a fan (122) fixed to the shaft (20). The fan (122) forces a stream of air over bearings (106,108) that support the shaft (20) and over the power source (18) when the shaft (20) is rotated.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2002Date of Patent: January 18, 2005Assignee: Quality Machine Works, Inc.Inventor: Edward E. Anderson
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Patent number: 6824702Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and a process for the preparation of salt melts, and mixtures thereof, by means of a stirred reactor and a tubular reactor, in which the starting materials are melted and brought to reaction, and the reaction products are subsequently passed through columns or towers for purification.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2001Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Assignee: BASF AktiengesellschaftInventors: Hans Leonhard Ohrem, Susanne Brzezinski
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Patent number: 6723276Abstract: A device for submerging scrap metal includes: (a) a drive source, (b) a drive shaft having a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the drive source, and (d) an impeller connected to the second end of the drive shaft, the impeller preferably having two or more outwardly-extending blades. Preferably, each of the blades has a portion that directs molten metal at least partially downward. The impeller design leads to lower operating speeds, lower vibration, longer component life and less maintenance. Additionally, the impeller preferably has a connective portion. The connective portion is used to connect the impeller to the shaft and preferably comprises a nonthreaded, tapered bore extending through the impeller.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2000Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Inventor: Paul V. Cooper
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Publication number: 20040050211Abstract: An apparatus for separating molten aluminium from a mixture of molten aluminium and aluminium dross includes a table for supporting an insulated crucible containing the mixture of molten aluminium and aluminium dross. A rotatable frame supports a plurality of tines which can be lowered into the mixture in the crucible for stirring the mixture. Vibration means are provided enabling simultaneous vibration of the crucible and stirring of the mixture. The tines cuts through the dross in a shearing action gently rolling the dross, mixing and tumbling it and causing the droplets of aluminium to coalesce. The aluminium droplets and particles in the dross coalesce to form larger droplets and gradually sink to the base of the crucible. A screening means is disposed to substantially surround the crucible when it is supported by the table, which includes a door to both allow and prevent access to the crucible.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2003Publication date: March 18, 2004Inventors: Andreas Stratigos, Brendan O'Neill
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Patent number: 6645270Abstract: A method of heating molten aluminum in a container utilizing gas stirring means.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Inventor: C. Edward Eckert
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Publication number: 20030110894Abstract: A method of heating molten aluminum in a container utilizing gas stirring means.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2002Publication date: June 19, 2003Inventor: C. Edward Eckert
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Publication number: 20030111779Abstract: Self-aligning bearings are used for supporting a roll in molten zinc or zinc/aluminum, to permit the roll's shaft to align with the bearing axis between the pair of holding arms supporting the roll, and a pump for delivering metal under pressure to the bearing surfaces interface force a hydrodynamic film to lubricate the bearing components.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2001Publication date: June 19, 2003Inventor: Jorge A. Morando
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Publication number: 20020148328Abstract: An apparatus for treating, in particular purifying or degassing, molten metal (40), comprising a component (10) exposable to molten metal to be treated and means (13) for imparting a rotary motion to the molten metal (40) about a substantially vertical axis. The apparatus is so arranged that during use at least part of a wear-exposed surface of the component (10) is temporarily or permanently in contact with molten metal (40), the contacting molten metal being in motion relative to the wear-exposed surface. The wear-exposed surface is coated with a slurry-applied protective coating (18A,18B) of refractory material in a heat stable binder, in particular an inorganic colloidal and/or polymeric binder, protecting the wear-exposed surface against erosion, oxidation and corrosion.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2001Publication date: October 17, 2002Inventors: K. Jaqueline Holz, Jean-Jacques Duruz
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Patent number: 6461404Abstract: A ladle is equipped with properly positioned side and bottom injectors for enhanced steel decarburization in a vacuum tank degasser. To facilitate the circulation of liquid steel in the tank the bottom injectors are positioned in a common segment in order to create a single loop of liquid flow. To enlarge the surface area exposed to vacuum, and to increase the active surface area, supplementary gas flow is provided by side injectors located at the upper sidewall. The active surface area is enhanced by breaking bubbles released from side injectors.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: McMaster UniversityInventors: Gordon Irons, Diancai Guo
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Patent number: 6357264Abstract: This apparatus is a furnace for heating molten material which employs oxygen-fuel burner assemblies. Preferably, the assemblies are submerged in the molten material. They are water cooled top down units with burner nozzles being off-set from the supply column. The apparatus utilizes one or more burners for each top down supply column. The supply column and attached burners can be rotated or moved in a manner to avoid the open chimney effect seen with fixed air-fuel burners of the prior art. These burners with an off-set nozzle like the letter L are rotated at high speed or oscillated to distribute the combustion in the form of gas bubbles or a gas curtain. In another embodiment, the oxy-fuel burners are not submerged. The nozzles are aimed at unmelted batch or the upper surface of the molten material for controlled splashing.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2000Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Inventor: Raymond S. Richards
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Publication number: 20020030308Abstract: A furnace system for recovering a non-ferrous metal from a charge of material containing the metal. The furnace system having a furnace chamber having walls defining a refractory chamber, the refractory chamber receiving the charge of material and the metal contained in the charge of material being heated into a flowable mode in the refractory chamber. The furnace system having at least one paddle radially projecting from an interior surface of the furnace chamber toward a longitudinal axis of the furnace chamber. Other features of the invention include a door having a closed position adjacent an inlet passage to the furnace chamber, the door having rollers and a suspension. Other features of the invention include a motor and a control unit which monitors torque to rotate the furnace chamber as an indication of viscosity of the charge of material. Methods of operating a furnace system for recovering non-ferrous metal from a charge of material containing the metal are also discussed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2001Publication date: March 14, 2002Inventor: Moshe Yerushalmi
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Patent number: 6303074Abstract: A molten metal pumping device is disclosed that comprises a pump base including at least one input port, a pump chamber, a chamber wall, and a discharge leading to an output port. A rotor is retained within the chamber and is connected to a rotor shaft. The device further includes a superstructure attached to and positioned above the pump housing, a motor on the superstructure, a drive shaft connected to the motor and a coupling connecting the drive shaft to the rotor shaft. The rotor is a dual-flow (or mixed-flow) rotor, directing molten metal both into the chamber and towards the chamber wall, where it ultimately exits the chamber through the discharge. The dual-flow rotor can also be used with a scrap melter.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1999Date of Patent: October 16, 2001Inventor: Paul V. Cooper
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Publication number: 20010017434Abstract: A device in connection with a rotor (9) for the treatment of a liquid such as molten metal in a reactor (20) or similar. Gas and/or particulate material is supplied to the liquid, preferably via the rotor shaft (8) and through openings (18) from a cavity (16) in the rotor. The rotor shaft (8) extends up through the base of the reactor (20) and is arranged so that it may rotate inside a stator pipe (3) which extends up from the base of the reactor. The rotor shaft and the stator pipe extend through an opening (21) in the lower side of the rotor (9) and into the cavity (16) in the rotor. Expediently, the rotor shaft (8) is connected to the rotor (9) via a fixing device (13) inside the rotor cavity, while the stator pipe (3) ends in the cavity (16).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2001Publication date: August 30, 2001Inventors: Bjarne Heggseth, John Olav Fagerli, Eddy Steinar Dale, Per Gunnar Strand, Karl Venas
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Patent number: 6224648Abstract: In order to separate metals and/or metal alloys of different melting points from one another, a mixture of these metals and/or metal alloys is brought to a temperature at which the metal or the metal alloy of relatively low melting point is molten and the metal or the metal alloy of relatively high melting point is in the solid state. The solid constituents are separated from the melt, use being made of washing column with at least one filter which withstands the temperature of molten metal. Each of the filters is arranged in the wall of a separate pipe which extends through the washing column. The mixture is fed to one end of the washing column and moves along the pipe or pipes, towards means arranged at the opposite side of the washing column for removing solid crystalline material. The melt passes via the filter or filters into the pipe or pipes, and flows in countercurrent to the mixture situated on the outside of the pipe or pipes, towards a melt discharge.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 1999Date of Patent: May 1, 2001Assignee: Nederlandse Organisatie voor Toegepast-Natuurwetenschappelijk Onderzoek TNOInventors: Dirk Verdoes, Hendrik Visscher
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Patent number: 6168753Abstract: A graphite support leg for positioning an object, such as a pump, in a bath of molten metal. The leg is enclosed in a ceramic sleeve, and an inert material is disposed in a clearance between the leg and the sleeve to protect the leg from the heat of the molten metal.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1998Date of Patent: January 2, 2001Assignee: Alphatech, Inc.Inventor: Jorge A. Morando
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Patent number: 6068812Abstract: An inert gas bubble-actuated molten metal pump, for the movement of molten metal in a molten-metal bath, which obviates the necessity of a heatproof and flameproof cover to counteract splashing and spattering at the surface of the molten metal bath above the pump, comprising an inert gas diffusion means at an upper end thereof, the diffusion means having an upper surface containing a multiplicity of small upwardly-opening apertures for the breaking up of large bubbles and the diffusion of small bubbles of inert gas upwardly therethrough. The pump includes a refractory block which comprises a conveying conduit which is preferably elongated in width and a spreader cavity in communication with both a passageway in the block for providing a source of inert gas and a lower end of the conveying conduit.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1999Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Assignee: Premelt Pump, Inc.Inventors: Larry D. Areaux, Anthony D. Scowden, Peter J. Corio
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Patent number: 6060013Abstract: A rotary gas dispersion device for use in a liquid aluminium treatment vessel is disclosed. The device is useful for reducing surface disturbance, splashing and vortices while maintaining the effectiveness of the treatment. Said device includes a rotor (1) consisting of a set of blades (5) and a substantially flat disc (4) thereabove. Gas is injected through the central hub and side ports (10) between the blades. The ratio of the outer diameter of the rotor to the diameter of the central hub thereof is of 1.5-4.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1999Date of Patent: May 9, 2000Assignees: Pechiney Rhenalu, Aluminium PechineyInventors: Pierre Le Brun, Catherine Xuereb, Joel Bertrand
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Patent number: 6039917Abstract: Apparatus for moving and degassing molten metal in a conduit by delivering a gas jet into the conduit in the same direction as the metal is moving, so the momentum of the gas jet pushes the metal along its path of motion.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 1998Date of Patent: March 21, 2000Inventor: Jorge A. Morando
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Patent number: 6036745Abstract: In a charge well for adding scrap metal pieces or particles to a molten metal bath, a stationary diverter is provided within a charge well for diverting the circular flow of molten metal, caused by the orientation of the inlet port, in a downward direction, thereby creating a downward flow of molten metal which results in quick and efficient submergence of incoming lightweight scrap metal pieces or particles. Preferably, the diverter includes a leading edge which extends in a generally radial direction within the charge well and a flat top surface which tapers from the leading edge to a point or narrowed trailing edge. A downward curved surface extends from the leading edge to facilitate the downward flow of molten metal. The diverter may be mounted on a support member extending above the charge well.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1997Date of Patent: March 14, 2000Assignee: Metaullics Systems Co., L.P.Inventors: Ronald E. Gilbert, Chris T. Vild, Richard S. Henderson, Mark A. Bright
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Patent number: 6027685Abstract: A system and device for introducing gas into molten metal comprises: 1) a pump having a pump chamber and a discharge, 2) a gas-release device for releasing gas into the discharge, and 3) a flow-directing device to substantially reduce or eliminate the low-pressure zone behind the gas-release device. The pump creates a stream of molten metal through the discharge. The gas-release device, which is preferably a graphite tube, has an end extending into the discharge. Gas is introduced through the gas-release device into the discharge where it escapes into the molten metal stream passing therethrough. The flow-directing device is positioned behind the end of the gas-release device to eliminate the low pressure zone that normally forms there. During operation, the molten metal is diverted around the sides and bottom of the flow-directing device and the gas is dispersed within the molten metal, rather than being trapped in a low-pressure zone.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1997Date of Patent: February 22, 2000Inventor: Paul V. Cooper
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Patent number: 5984999Abstract: The charge well of a metal melting furnace is provided with an internal cavity having a circular cross section when viewed from the top, preferably a cavity of cylindrical or conical configuration, and with a peripheral exit port located tangentially with respect to said cavity at a lower level thereof for exit of molten metal into the main chamber of the furnace. An inert gas bubble-actuated molten metal pump brings molten metal from a hotter section of the furnace, advantageously directly from the main chamber, and has its exit port located tangentially to the periphery of the cavity at an upper level thereof, thereby creating vortical flow of molten metal within the charge well for the more rapid and efficient melting of metal chips and scraps into the molten metal therein and for circulation of hotter molten metal throughout the furnace.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 1998Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Assignee: Premelt Pump, Inc.Inventor: Larry D. Areaux
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Patent number: 5904894Abstract: A rotating injector for use in the treatment of molten metal to remove impurities. Inert gas is flowed through a hollow rotary shaft having a lower gas port opening to a gas chamber surrounded by an outlet of porous material for creating micronized bubbles in the molten metal. A rotating mixer disperses the inert gas issuing from the outlet.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 1997Date of Patent: May 18, 1999Assignee: Pechiney JaponInventor: Takaaki Mukohda
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Patent number: 5772320Abstract: An method and apparatus is described for mixing solid particulates in a molten metal matrix to form a metal matrix composite product flow. The apparatus a refractory vessel to hold the metal matrix; a refractory conduit in communication with both the inlet and outlet of the refractory vessel so as to define a closed loop flow path. The inlet and outlet is spaced so as to encourage mixing within the vessel. A pump is provided to circulate the metal matrix to effect mixing. The apparatus and method further includes the metal matrix having a head with a vertical dimension in the excess of four times the cross sectional width of the conduit.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 1996Date of Patent: June 30, 1998Assignee: EA Technology LimitedInventor: Patrick James Hayes
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Patent number: 5678807Abstract: A rotary degasser for removing impurities from molten metal is disclosed that includes a degasser shaft, an impeller block and a coupling. The shaft is preferably hollow to allow for the passage of gas therethrough. The impeller block is connected to the degasser shaft, is formed of heat resistant material and has at least one metal-transfer recess, which displaces molten metal when the block is rotated. The block preferably includes at least one gas inlet in communication with the hollow portion of the degasser shaft and a gas-release opening formed in each metal-transfer recess. Each gas-release opening communicates with one of the gas inlets. The coupling connects the degasser shaft to a drive shaft and is formed of two or more coupling members. The coupling has a closed position in which it retains the degasser shaft and an open position in which it does not retain the degasser shaft.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1995Date of Patent: October 21, 1997Inventor: Paul V. Cooper
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Patent number: 5650120Abstract: A bubble-operated pump for recirculating molten metal in a bath of such metal.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 1995Date of Patent: July 22, 1997Assignee: Alphatech, Inc.Inventor: Jorge A. Morando
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Patent number: 5585067Abstract: An aluminum alloy containing at least one alloying metal selected from the group consisting of bismuth, cadmium, indium and lead in a quantity greater than the maximum solubility of the metal in solid aluminum. More than 80% by weight of the alloying metals are finely dispersed in a solid aluminum matrix in the form of globules or crystals with a size of less than 5 micrometers. The alloy can be obtained by means of mechanical or electromagnetic agitation of the alloy in the course of solidifying, and in the case of continuously casting a liquid alloy, the agitation can be accomplished by means of an alternating magnetic field which is coaxial to the continuous casting axis.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1995Date of Patent: December 17, 1996Assignee: Aluminium PechineyInventors: Michel Leroy, Marc Marticou
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Patent number: 5516081Abstract: An apparatus for producing a molten metal flow comprises a refining hearth having a water-cooled wall, and an entry flow channel through the wall of the hearth disposed tangentially to the wall such that a flow of molten metal introduced into the hearth through the entry flow channel flows tangentially to the wall of the hearth. The hearth further has an exit flow channel through the wall of the hearth disposed tangentially to the wall. The molten metal entering the refining hearth flows in a vortex pattern, aiding in the removal of solid particulate matter from the metal. The refining hearth may be agitated by an induction coil placed adjacent to the hearth. The exit flow may be through a number of adjacent exit flow channels to reduce its local velocity.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 1994Date of Patent: May 14, 1996Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: David P. Mourer
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Patent number: 5435527Abstract: Apparatus for the late introduction of a particulate alloy when casting liquid metal, disposed between a casting ladle or an apparatus for the automatic feed of said metal and a series of moulds to be filled, characterised in that it comprises a jet of liquid metal of sufficient thickness, which is confined and in motion in a mixing chamber, for example a vortex, and a non-immersed introduction means (8) for the introduction of particles of alloy, imparting to said particles a speed and an energy sufficient for them to penetrate deeply into the interior of the liquid metal in the zone (4) of sufficient thickness, said zone being disposed in the vicinity of a casting orifice (5).Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1994Date of Patent: July 25, 1995Assignee: Pechiney ElectrometallurgieInventor: Thomas Margaria
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Patent number: 5395094Abstract: A method, for the conveyance of molten metal from one place to another, in a high-temperature molten metal pool in a metal-melting furnace or out of said molten metal pool, employing an at least partially-inclined elongated conveying conduit and gas feed means for feeding inert gas into the lower end of the conveying conduit and thereby inducing a flow of molten metal in and through said conveying conduit, is disclosed, along with suitable apparatus for carrying out the said method wherein the parts or elements coming into contact with the high-temperature molten metal pool are of a suitable refractory material. According to the present invention, the molten metal is alloyed simultaneously with its conveyance, the same inert gas being employed for both conveying the molten metal and for entrainment of the alloying metal.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1994Date of Patent: March 7, 1995Assignee: Premelt Pump, Inc.Inventor: Larry D. Areaux
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Patent number: 5364078Abstract: The maximum useful rate of aluminum refining is increased by baffle means positioned across the refining chamber under the rotor of a spinning nozzle in the refining chamber, with open spaces to facilitate cleaning being provided in the vicinity of the side wall of the refining chamber.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1993Date of Patent: November 15, 1994Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventor: John F. Pelton
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Patent number: 5350440Abstract: A furnace (1) has a main holding (2) and a charging well (4) into which molten metal from the holding portion is circulated by means of an electromagnetic pump (7). Metal enters the well as a tangential flow and a stationary turbulator (10) is located in the path of the flow so as to upwardly and transversely deflect the flow. Resulting turbulence within the well enhances the rate of assimilation of solids into the melt without resulting in excessive oxidation. The method is suitable for melting aluminium swarf.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 1993Date of Patent: September 27, 1994Assignee: Cookson Group PLCInventors: Anil Katyal, Warwick N. Brown, Roger Howitt
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Patent number: 5340379Abstract: A device is described for injecting gas into molten metal, e.g. molten aluminum, in a furnace chamber. It comprises: (a) a stirring apparatus having a reservoir chamber separate from the furnace chamber, a connector portion with an orifice connecting the interior of the furnace and the reservoir for the passage of the molten metal between them through the connector portion, vacuum/pressure generating means connected to the reservoir chamber interior for alternatively and successively producing therein a vacuum for drawing molten metal into its interior from the furnace chamber and a positive pressure for expelling the molten metal therefrom into the furnace chamber through the orifice in the form of a high velocity stirring jet, and (b) gas injector means adapted to inject gas into the high velocity stirring jet such that the gas is broken down into a large number of small bubbles which are circulated throughout the furnace chamber with the stirring jet.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 1993Date of Patent: August 23, 1994Assignee: Alcan International LimitedInventors: Francois Tremblay, Ghyslain Dube
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Patent number: 5324487Abstract: A melt is stored in a vessel. A lower half of a degassing member is immersed in the melt. The degassing member has a cylindrical form with the lower end closed, and the lower half section is made of a porous material which is permeable to gas and impermeable to melts as molten metal, molten slag, or molten matte. This lower half section is a partitioning member. When an internal space inside the degassing member is sucked to realize vacuum or reduced pressure atmosphere, gas producing components in the melt pass through the partition member of the degassing member, and are exhausted to inside the degassing member, thus being separated from the melt. Also, by making the degassing member rotate or move in a horizontal or vertical direction, the melt is stirred. With these features, gas-producing components in the melt can be removed at a high efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 1993Date of Patent: June 28, 1994Assignees: Tokyo Yogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Masamichi SanoInventors: Masamichi Sano, Nobuo Miyagawa, Kunji Yamamoto
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Patent number: 5316719Abstract: A method of producing a substance utilizing an agravic effect, and an apparatus for carrying out the same. A container (3, 55, 65) containing materials for producing a substance is revolved about a horizontal axis, at least while a process of producing the substance is in progress, so as to meet an inequality: ##EQU1## where .omega. (radian/sec) is the angular velocity of the container, g (mm/s.sup.2) is gravitational acceleration, r (mm) is the distance between a unit mass and an axis of rotation of the container rotating about its own axis to generate a residual centrifugal force acting on the unit mass, and x is the upper limit of the ratio between centrifugal force acting on the unit mass at each cycle and the terrestrial gravity (gravitational acceleration g).Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 1993Date of Patent: May 31, 1994Inventor: Masao Kubota
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Patent number: 5306472Abstract: A melt is stored in a vessel placed in a decompression vessel. On the bottom of the vessel is arranged a bubble generator made of porous bricks, and bubbles of argon gas are introduced into the melt through this bubble generator. Also a lower half section of a degassing member is immersed in the melt. This degassing member has a cylindrical form with the lower end closed and the section immersed in the melt is made of a porous material permeable to gases and impermeable to melts.With these features, a surface of molten metal can be put under reduced pressure and high content components of the melt can be removed by means of bubbling, and also solute components in the melt can be removed into bubbles of argon gas. Also, gases in the melt and gases produced by reactions between the melt and the porous material can be sucked through a wall of the degassing member into inside thereof and removed.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 1993Date of Patent: April 26, 1994Assignees: Tokyo Yogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Masamichi SanoInventors: Masamichi Sano, Nobuo Miyagawa, Kunji Yamamoto
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Patent number: 5275385Abstract: The rotor drive of an aluminum refining system is operated under constant current, rather than at constant rotor speed. As a result, smooth, stable refining operations are conveniently achieved in commercial practice.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1992Date of Patent: January 4, 1994Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventor: John F. Pelton
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Patent number: 5160479Abstract: A stirring device for molten metals such as aluminum. The device involves a mechanism which inserts and dips a nozzle-shaped stirring tube into a melting furnace through an insertion hole opened in the side wall of the furnace and stirs the molten metal using the stirring tube to repeatedly suck up and blow down the molten metal.The first claimed mechanism consists of the insertion hole opened through the sidewall at an angle and an external unit having a tilting and inserting mechanism to tilt the stirring tube and insert it into the insertion hole. The second claimed mechanism consists of a transportable structure which has a transferrable base provided with a support frame to mount the stirring tube connected to the tilting mechanism, a positioning mechanism to allow axial movement of the stirring tube, and other necessary operating units.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1991Date of Patent: November 3, 1992Assignee: Sumitomo Light Metal Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Tsutomu Yoshida, Toshinori Inoue, Toshihiko Shirasawa, Takashi Asahina
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Patent number: 5135202Abstract: An apparatus for melting down chips of, e.g., aluminum into a molten bath of a melting furnace for, e.g., aluminum. A charging vessel (10) is installed in the molten bath (2) of the melting furnace (1), and has an opening (11) kept above the surface (3) of the molten bath, an inlet port (12) through which molten metal (2) flows from the melting furnace (1 ) into the charging vessel (10), and an outlet port (13) located below the surface (3) of the molten bath. A discharge pipe (20) is attached to the discharge side of a pump (30) for conveying the molten metal (2), and has a sidewall provided with an intake port (24) connected with the outlet port (13) of the charging vessel (10) for returning the molten metal (2) into the melting furnace (1) through the discharge pipe (20). The apparatus can realize a drastically improved efficiency in melting chips (5), while preventing the oxidation of the chips (5).Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1991Date of Patent: August 4, 1992Assignee: Hitachi Metals, Ltd.Inventors: Satoshi Yamashita, Akira Kinoshita
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Patent number: 5106062Abstract: Apparatus for producing metal alloys in semi-liquid or paste-like state, constituted by a plurality of modular elements (1a--1b--1c, and so forth), each of which is formed by an elongated hollow body with two mutually opposite open faces, transversely to which through-tubes 8--8a--8b are inserted, which tubes can be connected with an external source of controlled-circulation coolant liquid, such as a diathermic liquid, or air mixed with atomized water.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1991Date of Patent: April 21, 1992Assignee: Stampal, S.p.A.Inventor: Abis Sergio
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Patent number: 5087292Abstract: The invention relates to the treatment of a liquid with a gas. A gas injector, for example oxygen, is surrounded with a sheath to carry a flow of a liquid under treatment (for example lead) which is taken up and circulated by the pump. The end of the injector is thereby protected by moving away the bubbles of oxygen. Application for example in the refining of metals, for example non ferrous metals, food liquids, paper pulps and the production of sulfur.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 1990Date of Patent: February 11, 1992Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l Exploitation des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventor: Guillermo Garrido
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Patent number: 5020778Abstract: The invention provides a new stirring apparatus for stirring the liquid metal contents of a furnace, particularly the shallow furnaces used in the processing of aluminum and its alloys. The apparatus consists a reservoir separate from the furnace of relatively large horizontal cross-section and volume, into which a vaccuum draws metal from the furnace through a nozzle, the metal then being returned by gas pressure forcibly into the furnace through the nozzle in the form of a horizontally directed jet. The cycle is repeated at sufficiently close intervals to ensure that the furnace bath is quickly and effectively mixed. The nozzle directs the molten metal entering the reservoir tangentially to swirl the metal and reduce the accumulation of dross. The reservoir comprises a bottom static part including the nozzle and a readily removable top cover carrying heaters for heating the reservoir interior and the dross that deposits on the side wall to ease its removal.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1989Date of Patent: June 4, 1991Assignee: Alcan International LimitedInventors: Marc-Andre Thibault, Marc Auger, Bruno Gariepy, Andre Gendron
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Patent number: 4917359Abstract: An easy method and apparatus to eliminate casting defects from composite materials of hypereutectic Al-Si alloys and improve their properties. The product composite materials with primary silicon crystals of several microns have fine honogeneous microstructures and mechanical properties comparable to similar materials produced by the conventional powder metallurgy technology. Highly wear-resistant composite materials, in which the hypereutectic Al-Si alloy and strengthening material are homogeneously mixed, can be obtained with ease. The hypereutectic Al-Si alloy and strengthening material are homogeneously mixed by stirring blades rotated at low speed. The obtained molten composite alloy rotated at high speed about a horizontal shaft in a heat-resistant vessel. The rotor rotating and stirring at high speed spatters the molten composite alloy material to break up the crystallizing out primary silicon crystals.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1989Date of Patent: April 17, 1990Assignees: Agency of Industrial Science & Technology, Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kiyoshi Ichikawa, Satoshi Ishizuka, Shinji Yamamoto
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Patent number: 4907784Abstract: An apparatus for fusing small articles of nonferrous metal comprises an molten metal chamber, for forming and containing molten metal, having burners for fusing a raw material such as ingot etc., and a fusing chamber disposed adjacent to the molten metal chamber for fusing small particles of the nonferrous metal. The molten metal discharged from the molten metal chamber is circulated through a swirl generation chamber and a suction passage and is introduced into a pump and discharged into to the molten metal chamber. The small particles of nonferrous metal are introduced into the upper side of a swirl generation chamber, in which a swirl stream is generated, mixed with the molten metal while dispersed in the molten metal and delivered to the molten metal chamber.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1988Date of Patent: March 13, 1990Assignees: Sanken Sangyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Aishin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kazuo Kusaka, Shigeo Suehiro, Noboru Tajiri, Kiyoshi Nakamura, Tsuyoshi Okimoto
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Patent number: 4893793Abstract: The thermostable amorphous ferromagnetic powder containing iron, cobalt, or nickel, also comprises xylene from 0.2 to 25% by volume of the powder particles, up to 20% chrome and boron by weight, and lithium or magnesium in amounts from 0.1 to 2.0% by weight. The powder is resistant to oxidizing up to temperatures of 250.degree. C. and has a specific surface up to 160m.sup.2 /g.The method for its manufacture comprises reduction of a solution containing salts of iron, cobalt, chrome, a complexing agent, and metal salts or polyvalent alcohols by means of a reductant sodium borohydride in the presence of sodium hydroxide. The solution is protected by an organic hydrophobic substance--xylene during a period from 5 seconds to 10 minutes in the presence of a magnetic field.The device for manufacture of the thermostable amorphous ferromagnetic powder comprises a vertical reactor with a stirrer and electromagnet generating a magnetic field.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 1988Date of Patent: January 16, 1990Assignee: VMEI LENINInventors: Dimiter T. Butchkov, Yovka D. Dragieva, Zvetan K. Nikolov, Georgi G. Georgiev, Mina S. Slavtcheva-Staikova, Ivanka S. Grozdanova
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Patent number: 4892294Abstract: A device for liquid pumping, including a main chamber and a pump chamber for receiving a subportion of the liquid to be pumped from the main chamber and which is provided with means for cyclic variation of the pressure in the pump chamber between a pressure greater than a pressure less than the pressure in the main chamber. The pump chamber is connected to the main chamber by at least one input opening and at least one output opening. The input opening has a substantially lower flow resistance in the direction into the pump chamber than in the opposite direction and the output opening has a substantially lower flow resistance in the direction out of the pump chamber than in the opposite direction.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 1989Date of Patent: January 9, 1990Assignee: Granges Aluminium AktiebolagInventor: Per-Olof Kagstrom