Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

Embodiments of a system and method for melting feedstock and casting ingots are disclosed. The system comprises a feedstock source, a stationary melting furnace, and one or more solidification modules capable of receiving molten feedstock from the melting furnace. In some embodiments, the system further includes a feed system for transferring feedstock from the feedstock source to the melting furnace. Feedstock is fed into the melting furnace and heated to produce molten feedstock. Molten feedstock flows into a solidification crucible within the solidification module. The solidification crucible is cooled to provide directional solidification and production of an ingot. The melting furnace may include a thermal valve system to prevent molten feedstock from flowing into the solidification crucible until substantially all of the feedstock within the melting furnace is molten. In some embodiments, the feedstock consists essentially of silicon and a multi-crystalline silicon ingot is produced.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim