Method and apparatus for the production of metal granules
US5017218A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 12, 1989 |
| Grant date | May 21, 1991 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 12, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB22F2999/00
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Method and apparatus for the production of metal granules from a molten metal are disclosed. A molten metal stream is directed against an impact element located above the surface of water in a water tank. The impact of the molten metal upon the impact element causes the molten metal to disintegrate into drops which spread out radially from the impact element. The drops fall down into the water below the impact element in an annular region a certain radial distance from the impact element. The radial distance is varied by varying the velocity of the molten metal stream relative to the impact element at the instant of impact, and/or by varying the height of the impact element above the water surface, in order to substantially continuously vary the radius of the annular region in which the molten metal drops hit the water surface. By using the method and apparatus of the present invention it is possible to granulate metals and metal alloys having a low sinking rate in water and a high enthalpy.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.