Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A convection diffuser and charge support system for an annealing furnace utilizes a diffuser base, a base-encircling ring, and convector plates which are preferably formed as castings of nodular iron. The diffuser base defines an array of horizontally-extending gas circulation passages which are shielded from above by an integrally-formed, overlying top wall. The top wall prevents debris and other undesirable substances from dropping into and accumulating within the primary flow passages. Vane extension formations project above the top wall and have their upper edges arranged to engage and support a charge of material to be annealed. The ring structure extends perimetrically about the base structure and defines an array of curved, upwardly opening grooves which cooperate with the primary flow passages to direct gases which discharge from the base structure so that the gases flow upwardly, along a generally helical flow paths about a charge of material being annealed. The ring structure may have one or more cast-in-situ cooling passages. The ring structure may be provided with a depending, perimetrically-extending skirt. Where the charge takes the form of a vertical stack of coils of metal, the convector plates are interposed between end regions of adjacent ones of the coils to provide flow paths for ducting gases therebetween. The casting or castings of the ring structure have cast-in-situ cooling conduit formations for ducting cooling fluid therethrough, and depending formations which provide a continuous, downwardly-extending skirt. A novel and improved method is provided for forming nodular iron castings for use in high heat environments and incorporating cast-in-situ cooling conduits.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim