EP1344589B1 - Process and device for treating an alloy melt before a casting operation - Google Patents

Process and device for treating an alloy melt before a casting operation Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1344589B1
EP1344589B1 EP03003899A EP03003899A EP1344589B1 EP 1344589 B1 EP1344589 B1 EP 1344589B1 EP 03003899 A EP03003899 A EP 03003899A EP 03003899 A EP03003899 A EP 03003899A EP 1344589 B1 EP1344589 B1 EP 1344589B1
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Prior art keywords
melt
alloy
crystallisation vessel
vessel
inlet
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1344589A3 (en
EP1344589A2 (en
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Evgenij Dr. Sterling
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22D—CASTING OF METALS; CASTING OF OTHER SUBSTANCES BY THE SAME PROCESSES OR DEVICES
    • B22D27/00—Treating the metal in the mould while it is molten or ductile ; Pressure or vacuum casting
    • B22D27/02—Use of electric or magnetic effects
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22D—CASTING OF METALS; CASTING OF OTHER SUBSTANCES BY THE SAME PROCESSES OR DEVICES
    • B22D17/00—Pressure die casting or injection die casting, i.e. casting in which the metal is forced into a mould under high pressure
    • B22D17/007—Semi-solid pressure die casting
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C22—METALLURGY; FERROUS OR NON-FERROUS ALLOYS; TREATMENT OF ALLOYS OR NON-FERROUS METALS
    • C22C—ALLOYS
    • C22C1/00—Making non-ferrous alloys
    • C22C1/12—Making non-ferrous alloys by processing in a semi-solid state, e.g. holding the alloy in the solid-liquid phase

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method and an apparatus for processing a melt of an alloy for a casting process which is brought into a partially solidified state and contains crystallization seeds distributed over its volume.
  • the object of the invention is to prepare a melt of an alloy in such a way that the distribution of the crystallization nuclei over the volume of the melt is as fine and homogeneous as possible before it is introduced into a casting mold.
  • This object is achieved by bringing the melt, which has a temperature above the melting temperature of the alloy, into a crystallization vessel heated to a temperature below the melting temperature, adding this melt in the crystallization vessel alloy as powder, and by means of electrical and / or magnetic forces melt and powder in the crystallization vessel are mixed together.
  • the pulverulent particles of the alloy which are immediately enveloped by the melt, form crystallization nuclei, which by means of the electrical and / or magnetic forces are distributed homogeneously within the melt.
  • the melt is introduced as a jet into the crystallization vessel, which extends between two electrodes, to which an electrical voltage is applied. Due to the so-called pinch effect of the jet is narrowed and compressed, which is already partially split during inflow into individual, liquid droplets.
  • the crystallization vessel is thus not filled with a compact jet, but with a dispersed jet.
  • the surface of the melt volume increases significantly, with a degassing takes place.
  • a magnetic field is formed in the crystallization vessel.
  • the magnetic field and the electric field act differently on the melt and the particles therein, so that the mixing effect is promoted.
  • melt is sucked into the set under reduced pressure crystallization vessel.
  • the inflowing jet of melt further dispersed and dissolves into individual drops. This also promotes the formation of nuclei.
  • the melt is supplied to the crystallization vessel with the supply of inert gas.
  • the shielding gas when the shielding gas is supplied under pressure, the process is further improved.
  • the shielding gas prevents chemical reactions of the alloy with the atmosphere, which could adversely affect the subsequent casting process.
  • a crystallization vessel having a melt inlet and a powdered alloy inlet having a heater and provided with electrodes applied to a voltage source in the region of its bottom and inlet.
  • a melt 11 of a metal alloy for example AlSi 9, is maintained at a temperature which is above the melting temperature of this alloy.
  • the oven 10 is closed in a vacuum-tight manner and kept under vacuum by means of a suction device 12.
  • the furnace 10 is connected via a pouring line 13 with a crystallization vessel 14.
  • the crystallization vessel 14 consists of a cylinder 15 of electrically non-conductive material, which has a thermal conductivity between 0.20 and 1.5W / mk.
  • the cylinder 15 is closed at the top with a lid 16, which also consists of electrically non-conductive material.
  • the line 13 connects.
  • the lid is connected to an inlet piece 17 made of electrically conductive material.
  • the inlet piece 17 has a conically widening inlet opening.
  • the lid 16 is followed by a suction line 18, which is connected to an exhaust 19.
  • the lid 16 is further provided with a filler neck 20 through which alloy powder can be introduced into the crystallization vessel 14.
  • a piston 21 which also consists of an electrically non-conductive material.
  • the piston 21 is guided in a subsequent to the crystallization vessel 14 cylinder 22, which is provided with a discharge opening, not shown.
  • the cylinder 15 of the crystallization tank 14 is provided with an electrode 23 in the region of its bottom.
  • the inlet piece 17 is made of electrically conductive material. Between the electrode 23 and the inlet piece 17, a voltage source 24 is arranged, the voltage and above all the current strength of which is adjustable by means of an adjusting device 25.
  • the crystallization vessel 14 is associated with a preferably electric heater 26, which is preferably adjustable and which heats the crystallization vessel 14 at a preselectable temperature and holds at this temperature. Furthermore, the crystallization container 14 is associated with a magnetic coil 27, with which in the interior of the cylinder 15 of the crystallization vessel 14, a magnetic field is buildable.
  • the pouring channel 13 is equipped with a gate valve 28, via which the connection between the furnace 19 and the crystallization vessel 14 can be released and shut off.
  • a supply line 29 connects, via which protective gas can be supplied with excess pressure, for example argon.
  • melt 11 is first introduced into the furnace 10.
  • the furnace 10 is brought by means of the suction 12 to a vacuum of 0.5 mbar to 3 mbar.
  • the crystallization vessel 14 is heated by means of the heater 26 to a temperature which is 3% to 50% lower than the melting temperature of the alloy in question.
  • a vacuum is generated by the suction 19, which is stronger than the vacuum in the furnace 10th
  • melt 11 is sucked into the crystallization tank 14.
  • protective gas is supplied via the line 29. Due to the suction effect, alloy in powder form is also sucked in via the inlet connection 20. The powder is enclosed in the melt and distributed.
  • a voltage is applied to the electrode 23 and the inlet piece 17 so that a current whose size is less than 10 A flows in the jet of the melt.
  • To a homogeneously dispersed mixture To obtain a magnetic field is generated by means of the magnetic coil 27 in the interior of the crystallization vessel 14, which leads to a radial movement of the melt.
  • the circuit is first interrupted. Now the voltage is increased to values of 150V to 400V, so that an arc is ignited, in which a current with a strength up to 1300A can flow.
  • the electromagnetic field generated by the magnetic coil 27 is varied and continuously increased, for example, in the direction of filling.
  • the piston 21 is lowered, so that the melt flows out through the cylinder and its discharge opening and is processed further in a suitable manner. All known casting methods can be used.
  • the electrode 23 is integrated in the piston 21, which forms the bottom of the crystallization vessel 14.
  • the voltage source 24 is connected to two electrodes 30 and 31 of the cylinder 15 of the crystallization vessel 14.
  • the second connection is made to the pouring channel 13.
  • the piston 21 moves during the filling of the melt continuously down, then successively the electrodes 30 and 31 are used, which with the piston movement via switches 32 and 33 and be switched off.
  • the melt prepared in the crystallization vessel 14 is transferred to a storage or transport container 34 in which it is in the processed state is held.
  • This container 34 is provided with a suction 35, so that a negative pressure can be applied to it. It is provided with a heater 36 and a solenoid 37. Likewise, it is equipped with an electrode 38.
  • the two end walls of the container 34 are formed by pistons 39 and 40.
  • the container 34 can also be used for shaping.
  • the nomogram shown can predict the thermokinetic sequence.
  • the nomogram shown applies to the alloy AlSi9Cu 3 .
  • the amount of powdered alloy added with a grain size of about 125 microns to about 400 microns is applied in proportions by weight.
  • the temperature difference ⁇ T in [C °] is the difference between the casting temperature and the melting temperature of the alloy. If an amount of powdery alloy is added, which is in the nomogram region A, this causes only a reduction of the temperature of the melt. The melt is thus placed in a semi-solid state without the powdery particles forming nuclei. However, when an amount of powdered alloy is added to reach the nomogram region B, the powdery particles function as additional, unmelted nuclei. If the addition of powdered particles in the nomogram region C, the two processes will run side by side, ie a reduction of the superheat temperature and nucleation due to unmelted particles.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Manufacture Of Metal Powder And Suspensions Thereof (AREA)
  • Manufacture And Refinement Of Metals (AREA)
  • Treatment Of Steel In Its Molten State (AREA)
  • Furnace Details (AREA)
  • General Induction Heating (AREA)
  • Waste-Gas Treatment And Other Accessory Devices For Furnaces (AREA)
  • Crystals, And After-Treatments Of Crystals (AREA)
  • Joining Of Building Structures In Genera (AREA)
  • Hard Magnetic Materials (AREA)

Abstract

Production of a melt of an alloy for casting comprises: (a) placing the melt having a temperature lying above the liquidus temperature of the alloy in a crystallization vessel (14) heated to a temperature lying below the liquidus temperature; (b) adding an alloy as a powder; and (c) mixing the melt and powder using electrical and/or magnetic forces. An Independent claim is also included for a device for carrying out the process. Preferred Features: The melt is introduced into the crystallization vessel as a beam extending between two electrodes (17, 23) to which an electrical voltage is applied. A magnetic field is formed in the crystallization vessel. The melt is suctioned into the vessel under pressure and with the introduction of a protective gas.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren und eine Vorrichtung zum Aufbereiten einer Schmelze einer Legierung für einen Gießvorgang, die in einen teilerstarrten Zustand gebracht wird und über ihr Volumen verteilte Kristallisationskeime enthält.The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for processing a melt of an alloy for a casting process which is brought into a partially solidified state and contains crystallization seeds distributed over its volume.

Das Herstellen von halberstarrter Legierungen ist beispielsweise aus einem Beitrag von J.-P. Gabathuler und J. Erling "Thixocasting: ein moderndes Verfahren zur Herstellung von Formbauteilen" bekannt, der in dem Tagungsband "Aluminium als Leichtbaustoff in Transport und Verkehr", ETH Zürich, S. 63 bis 77 vom 27.05.1994 bekannt.The production of semi-solid alloys, for example, from a post from J.-P. Gabathuler and J. Erling "Thixocasting: a modern method for the production of molded components" known in the conference proceedings "Aluminum as a lightweight construction material in transport and traffic", ETH Zurich, pp 63 to 77 from 27.05.1994 known.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine Schmelze einer Legierung so aufzubereiten, dass eine möglichst feine und homogene Verteilung der Kristallisationskeime über das Volumen der Schmelze vorliegt, bevor diese in eine Gießform eingebracht wird.The object of the invention is to prepare a melt of an alloy in such a way that the distribution of the crystallization nuclei over the volume of the melt is as fine and homogeneous as possible before it is introduced into a casting mold.

Diese Aufgabe wird dadurch gelöst, dass Schmelze, die eine oberhalb der Schmelztemperatur der Legierung liegende Temperatur aufweist, in einen auf eine unterhalb der Schmelztemperatur liegende Temperatur beheizten Kristallisationsbehälter gebracht wird, dass dieser Schmelze in dem Kristallisationsbehälter Legierung als Pulver zugegeben wird und dass mittels elektrischer und/oder magnetischer Kräfte Schmelze und Pulver in dem Kristallisationsbehälter miteinander vermischt werden.This object is achieved by bringing the melt, which has a temperature above the melting temperature of the alloy, into a crystallization vessel heated to a temperature below the melting temperature, adding this melt in the crystallization vessel alloy as powder, and by means of electrical and / or magnetic forces melt and powder in the crystallization vessel are mixed together.

Insbesondere die pulverförmigen Partikel der Legierung, die von der Schmelze sofort umhüllt werden, bilden Kristallisationskeime, die mittels der elektrischen und/oder magnetischen Kräfte innerhalb der Schmelze homogen verteilt werden.In particular, the pulverulent particles of the alloy, which are immediately enveloped by the melt, form crystallization nuclei, which by means of the electrical and / or magnetic forces are distributed homogeneously within the melt.

In vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung wird vorgesehen, dass die Schmelze als Strahl in den Kristallisationsbehälter eingebracht wird, der sich zwischen zwei Elektroden erstreckt, an die eine elektrische Spannung angelegt wird. Aufgrund des sogenannten Pinch-Effektes wird der Strahl verengt und zusammengepresst, der während des Einströmens schon teilweise in einzelne, flüssige Tropfen aufgespalten wird. Der Kristallisationsbehälter wird somit nicht mit einem kompakten Strahl gefüllt, sondern mit einem dispergierten Strahl. Damit erhöht sich die Fläche des Schmelzenvolumens deutlich, wobei auch eine Entgasung stattfindet.In an advantageous embodiment of the invention it is provided that the melt is introduced as a jet into the crystallization vessel, which extends between two electrodes, to which an electrical voltage is applied. Due to the so-called pinch effect of the jet is narrowed and compressed, which is already partially split during inflow into individual, liquid droplets. The crystallization vessel is thus not filled with a compact jet, but with a dispersed jet. Thus, the surface of the melt volume increases significantly, with a degassing takes place.

Wenn die Schmelze vollständig in den Kristallisationsbehälter eingeströmt ist, verschwindet der Schmelzenstrahl, so dass dann auch der Stromfluss unterbrochen wird. Um weiter eine Dispergierung zu erreichen und auch ein elektrisches Feld zu erzeugen, wird dann in weiterer Ausgestaltung der Erfindung vorgesehen, dass nach Einbringen der Schmelze zwischen der Schmelze und einer Elektrode ein Lichtbogen gezündet wird.When the melt has completely flowed into the crystallization tank, the melt jet disappears, so that then the current flow is interrupted. In order to further achieve a dispersion and also to generate an electric field, it is then provided in a further embodiment of the invention that after introduction of the melt between the melt and an electrode, an arc is ignited.

Um weiter das Durchmischen der in dem Kristallisationsbehälter befindlichen Schmelze zu fördern und dabei die Kristallisationskeime fein zu verteilen, wird in dem Kristallisationsbehälter ein Magnetfeld gebildet. Das Magnetfeld und das elektrische Feld wirken auf die Schmelze und die darin befindlichen Partikel unterschiedlich ein, so dass der Vermischungseffekt gefördert wird.In order to further promote the mixing of the melt contained in the crystallization vessel and to thereby finely distribute the crystallization nuclei, a magnetic field is formed in the crystallization vessel. The magnetic field and the electric field act differently on the melt and the particles therein, so that the mixing effect is promoted.

In weiterer Ausgestaltung der Erfindung wird vorgesehen, dass die Schmelze in den unter Unterdruck gesetzten Kristallisationsbehälter eingesaugt wird. Durch die Erzeugung eines Vakuums in dem Kristallisationsbehälter wird weiter erreicht, dass der einströmende Strahl aus Schmelze weiter dispergiert und sich in einzelne Tropfen auflöst. Auch damit wird die Bildung von Kristallisationskeimen gefördert.In a further embodiment of the invention it is provided that the melt is sucked into the set under reduced pressure crystallization vessel. By creating a vacuum in the crystallization vessel is further achieved that the inflowing jet of melt further dispersed and dissolves into individual drops. This also promotes the formation of nuclei.

In weiterer Ausgestaltung der Erfindung wird vorgesehen, dass die Schmelze unter Zufuhr von Schutzgas dem Kristallisationsbehälter zugeführt wird. Insbesondere wenn das Schutzgas unter Druck zugeführt wird, wird der Prozess weiter verbessert. Darüber hinaus verhindert das Schutzgas chemische Reaktionen der Legierung mit der Atmosphäre, was den anschließenden Gießvorgang nachteilig beeinflussen könnte.
Bei einer Vorrichtung zum Durchführen des Verfahrens wird ein Kristallisationsbehälter mit einem Einlass für die Schmelze und einem Einlass für Legierung in Pulverform vorgesehen, der eine Heizeinrichtung aufweist und der im Bereich seines Bodens und seines Einlasses mit an eine Spannungsquelle angelegten Elektroden versehen ist.In a further embodiment of the invention it is provided that the melt is supplied to the crystallization vessel with the supply of inert gas. In particular, when the shielding gas is supplied under pressure, the process is further improved. In addition, the shielding gas prevents chemical reactions of the alloy with the atmosphere, which could adversely affect the subsequent casting process.
In an apparatus for carrying out the method, there is provided a crystallization vessel having a melt inlet and a powdered alloy inlet having a heater and provided with electrodes applied to a voltage source in the region of its bottom and inlet.

Weitere Merkmale und Vorteile der Erfindung ergeben sich aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung der in der Zeichnung dargestellten Ausführungsformen.

Fig. 1
zeigt eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung im Schnitt in schematischer Darstellung, die direkt an einen Ofen angeschlossen ist,
Fig. 2
eine abgewandelte Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung,
Fig. 3
eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung mit einer Zusatzeinrichtung zur Übernahme der aufbereiteten Schmelze und
Fig. 4
ein Nomogramm zur Voraussage des thermokinetischen Ablaufs.
Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the embodiments illustrated in the drawings.
Fig. 1
shows a schematic section of a device according to the invention, which is connected directly to a furnace,
Fig. 2
a modified embodiment of a device according to the invention,
Fig. 3
a device according to the invention with an additional device for taking over the processed melt and
Fig. 4
a nomogram for the prediction of the thermokinetic sequence.

In einem Ofen 10 wird eine Schmelze 11 einer Metalllegierung, beispielsweise AlSi 9, auf einer Temperatur gehalten, die oberhalb der Schmelztemperatur dieser Legierung liegt. Der Ofen 10 ist vakuumdicht verschlossen und mittels einer Absaugung 12 unter Vakuum gehalten.In a furnace 10, a melt 11 of a metal alloy, for example AlSi 9, is maintained at a temperature which is above the melting temperature of this alloy. The oven 10 is closed in a vacuum-tight manner and kept under vacuum by means of a suction device 12.

Der Ofen 10 ist über eine Gießleitung 13 mit einem Kristallisationsbehälter 14 verbunden. Der Kristallisationsbehälter 14 besteht aus einem Zylinder 15 aus elektrisch nicht leitendem Material, das eine Wärmeleitfähigkeit zwischen 0,20 und 1,5W/mk besitzt. Der Zylinder 15 ist oben mit einem Deckel 16 verschlossen, der ebenfalls aus elektrisch nicht leitendem Material besteht. An den Deckel schließt die Leitung 13 an. Hierzu ist der Deckel mit einem Einlassstück 17 aus elektrisch leitendem Material verbunden. Das Einlassstück 17 besitzt eine sich konisch erweiternde Einlassöffnung. An den Deckel 16 schließt eine Absaugleitung 18 an, die mit einer Absaugung 19 verbunden ist. Der Deckel 16 ist weiter mit einem Einfüllstutzen 20 versehen, durch welchen hindurch Legierung in Pulverform in den Kristallisationsbehälter 14 eingegeben werden kann.The furnace 10 is connected via a pouring line 13 with a crystallization vessel 14. The crystallization vessel 14 consists of a cylinder 15 of electrically non-conductive material, which has a thermal conductivity between 0.20 and 1.5W / mk. The cylinder 15 is closed at the top with a lid 16, which also consists of electrically non-conductive material. To the lid, the line 13 connects. For this purpose, the lid is connected to an inlet piece 17 made of electrically conductive material. The inlet piece 17 has a conically widening inlet opening. The lid 16 is followed by a suction line 18, which is connected to an exhaust 19. The lid 16 is further provided with a filler neck 20 through which alloy powder can be introduced into the crystallization vessel 14.

Als Boden des Kristallisationsbehälters 14 dient ein Kolben 21, der ebenfalls aus einem elektrisch nicht leitenden Material besteht. Der Kolben 21 ist in einem an den Kristallisationsbehälter 14 anschließenden Zylinder 22 geführt, der mit einer nicht dargestellten Abflussöffnung versehen ist. Der Zylinder 15 des Kristallisationsbehälters 14 ist im Bereich seines Bodens mit einer Elektrode 23 versehen. Wie schon erwähnt wurde, ist das Einlassstück 17 aus elektrisch leitendem Material. Zwischen der Elektrode 23 und dem Einlassstück 17 ist eine Spannungsquelle 24 angeordnet, deren Spannung und vor allem auch deren Stromstärke mittels einer Verstelleinrichtung 25 einstellbar ist.As the bottom of the crystallization vessel 14 is a piston 21, which also consists of an electrically non-conductive material. The piston 21 is guided in a subsequent to the crystallization vessel 14 cylinder 22, which is provided with a discharge opening, not shown. The cylinder 15 of the crystallization tank 14 is provided with an electrode 23 in the region of its bottom. As already mentioned, the inlet piece 17 is made of electrically conductive material. Between the electrode 23 and the inlet piece 17, a voltage source 24 is arranged, the voltage and above all the current strength of which is adjustable by means of an adjusting device 25.

Dem Kristallisationsbehälter 14 ist eine vorzugsweise elektrische Heizeinrichtung 26 zugeordnet, die vorzugsweise regelbar ist und die den Kristallisationsbehälter 14 auf einer vorwählbare Temperatur aufheizt und auf dieser Temperatur hält. Des weiteren ist dem Kristallisationsbehälter 14 eine Magnetspule 27 zugeordnet, mit welcher im Innern des Zylinders 15 des Kristallisationsbehälters 14 ein Magnetfeld aufbaubar ist.The crystallization vessel 14 is associated with a preferably electric heater 26, which is preferably adjustable and which heats the crystallization vessel 14 at a preselectable temperature and holds at this temperature. Furthermore, the crystallization container 14 is associated with a magnetic coil 27, with which in the interior of the cylinder 15 of the crystallization vessel 14, a magnetic field is buildable.

Der Gießkanal 13 ist mit einem Absperrschieber 28 ausgerüstet, über welchen die Verbindung zwischen dem Ofen 19 und dem Kristallisationsbehälter 14 freigegeben und abgesperrt werden kann. An den Gießkanal 13 schließt eine Zuführleitung 29 an, über welche Schutzgas mit Überdruck zugeführt werden kann, beispielsweise Argon.The pouring channel 13 is equipped with a gate valve 28, via which the connection between the furnace 19 and the crystallization vessel 14 can be released and shut off. To the pouring channel 13, a supply line 29 connects, via which protective gas can be supplied with excess pressure, for example argon.

Zum Aufbereiten einer Schmelze wird zunächst Schmelze 11 in den Ofen 10 eingefüllt. Der Ofen 10 wird mittels der Absaugung 12 auf ein Vakuum von 0,5mbar bis 3mbar gebracht. Der Kristallisationsbehälter 14 wird mittels der Heizeinrichtung 26 auf eine Temperatur aufgeheizt, die 3% bis 50% niedriger als die Schmelztemperatur der betreffenden Legierung ist. In dem Kristallisationsbehälter 14 wird mittels der Absaugung 19 ein Vakuum erzeugt, das stärker ist als das Vakuum in dem Ofen 10.For the preparation of a melt, melt 11 is first introduced into the furnace 10. The furnace 10 is brought by means of the suction 12 to a vacuum of 0.5 mbar to 3 mbar. The crystallization vessel 14 is heated by means of the heater 26 to a temperature which is 3% to 50% lower than the melting temperature of the alloy in question. In the crystallization tank 14, a vacuum is generated by the suction 19, which is stronger than the vacuum in the furnace 10th

Sobald der Schieber 28 geöffnet wird, wird Schmelze 11 in den Kristallisationsbehälter 14 eingesaugt. Dabei wird Schutzgas über die Leitung 29 zugeführt. Aufgrund der Saugwirkung wird auch Legierung in Pulverform über den Einlassstutzen 20 angesaugt. Das Pulver wird in die Schmelze eingeschlossen und verteilt.As soon as the slide 28 is opened, melt 11 is sucked into the crystallization tank 14. In this case, protective gas is supplied via the line 29. Due to the suction effect, alloy in powder form is also sucked in via the inlet connection 20. The powder is enclosed in the melt and distributed.

An die Elektrode 23 und das Einlassstück 17 wird eine Spannung angelegt, so dass in dem Strahl der Schmelze ein Strom fließt, dessen Größe weniger als 10A beträgt. Um ein möglichst homogen dispergiertes Gemisch zu erhalten, wird mittels der Magnetspule 27 im Innern des Kristallisationsbehälters 14 ein Magnetfeld erzeugt, das zu einer radialen Bewegung der Schmelze führt.A voltage is applied to the electrode 23 and the inlet piece 17 so that a current whose size is less than 10 A flows in the jet of the melt. To a homogeneously dispersed mixture To obtain a magnetic field is generated by means of the magnetic coil 27 in the interior of the crystallization vessel 14, which leads to a radial movement of the melt.

Nachdem die gesamte Schmelze in den Kristallisationsbehälter eingeströmt ist, ist zunächst der Stromkreis unterbrochen. Jetzt wird die Spannung auf Werte von 150V bis 400V erhöht, so dass ein Lichtbogen gezündet wird, in welchem ein Strom mit einer Stärke bis zu 1300A strömen kann. Um eine gerichtete Kristallisation zu vermeiden, wird das elektromagnetische Feld, das mit der Magnetspule 27 erzeugt wird, variiert und beispielsweise in Richtung der Füllung kontinuierlich erhöht.After the entire melt has flowed into the crystallization tank, the circuit is first interrupted. Now the voltage is increased to values of 150V to 400V, so that an arc is ignited, in which a current with a strength up to 1300A can flow. In order to avoid directional crystallization, the electromagnetic field generated by the magnetic coil 27 is varied and continuously increased, for example, in the direction of filling.

Nachdem die Schmelze in dieser Weise aufbereitet worden ist, wird der Kolben 21 abgesenkt, so dass die Schmelze über den Zylinder und dessen Abflussöffnung ausfließt und in geeigneter Weise weiter verarbeitet wird. Dabei können alle bekannten Gussverfahren angewandt werden.After the melt has been processed in this way, the piston 21 is lowered, so that the melt flows out through the cylinder and its discharge opening and is processed further in a suitable manner. All known casting methods can be used.

Bei einer abgewandelten Ausführungsform wird vorgesehen, dass die Elektrode 23 in den Kolben 21 integriert ist, der den Boden des Kristallisationsbehälters 14 bildet.In a modified embodiment, it is provided that the electrode 23 is integrated in the piston 21, which forms the bottom of the crystallization vessel 14.

Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel nach Fig. 2 ist die Spannungsquelle 24 an zwei Elektroden 30 und 31 des Zylinders 15 des Kristallisationsbehälters 14 angeschlossen. Der zweite Anschluss erfolgt an den Gießkanal 13. Bei dieser Ausführung bewegt sich der Kolben 21 während des Einfüllens der Schmelze kontinuierlich nach unten, wobei dann nacheinander die Elektroden 30 und 31 zum Einsatz kommen, die mit der Kolbenbewegung über Schalter 32 und 33 zu- und abgeschaltet werden.According to the embodiment Fig. 2 the voltage source 24 is connected to two electrodes 30 and 31 of the cylinder 15 of the crystallization vessel 14. The second connection is made to the pouring channel 13. In this embodiment, the piston 21 moves during the filling of the melt continuously down, then successively the electrodes 30 and 31 are used, which with the piston movement via switches 32 and 33 and be switched off.

Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel nach Fig. 3 wird die in den Kristallisationsbehälter 14 aufbereitete Schmelze in einen Aufbewahrungs- oder Transportbehälter 34 weitergegeben, in welchem sie in dem aufbereiteten Zustand gehalten wird. Dieser Behälter 34 ist mit einer Absaugung 35 versehen, so dass an ihn ein Unterdruck angelegt werden kann. Er ist mit einer Heizeinrichtung 36 und einer Magnetspule 37 versehen. Ebenso ist er mit einer Elektrode 38 ausgerüstet. Die beiden Stirnwände des Behälters 34 werden von Kolben 39 und 40 gebildet. Der Behälter 34 kann auch zur Formgebung eingesetzt werden.According to the embodiment Fig. 3 For example, the melt prepared in the crystallization vessel 14 is transferred to a storage or transport container 34 in which it is in the processed state is held. This container 34 is provided with a suction 35, so that a negative pressure can be applied to it. It is provided with a heater 36 and a solenoid 37. Likewise, it is equipped with an electrode 38. The two end walls of the container 34 are formed by pistons 39 and 40. The container 34 can also be used for shaping.

Mit dem in Fig. 4 dargestellten Nomogramm lässt sich der thermokinetische Ablauf voraussagen. Das dargestellte Nomogramm gilt für die Legierung AlSi9Cu3. Die Menge an pulverförmiger Legierung, die mit einer Korngröße von etwa 125µm bis etwa 400µm zugegeben wird, ist in Mengenprozentanteilen aufgetragen. Die Temperaturdifferenz ΔT in [C°] ist der Unterschied zwischen der Gießtemperatur und der Schmelztemperatur der Legierung. Wenn eine Menge an pulverförmiger Legierung zugegeben wird, die in dem Nomogrammbereich A liegt, so bewirkt diese nur eine Reduzierung der Temperatur der Schmelze. Die Schmelze wird damit in einem halberstarrten Zustand versetzt, ohne dass die pulverförmigen Partikel Kristallisationskeime bilden. Wenn jedoch eine Menge an pulverförmiger Legierung zugegeben wird, so dass der Nomogrammbereich B erreicht wird, so wirken die pulverförmigen Partikel als zusätzliche, nicht geschmolzene Kristallisationskeime. Erfolgt die Zugabe von pulverförmigen Partikeln in dem Nomogrammbereich C, so werden die beiden Vorgänge nebeneinander ablaufen, d.h. eine Verringerung der Überhitzungstemperatur und eine Keimbildung aufgrund nicht geschmolzener Partikel.With the in Fig. 4 shown nomogram can predict the thermokinetic sequence. The nomogram shown applies to the alloy AlSi9Cu 3 . The amount of powdered alloy added with a grain size of about 125 microns to about 400 microns is applied in proportions by weight. The temperature difference ΔT in [C °] is the difference between the casting temperature and the melting temperature of the alloy. If an amount of powdery alloy is added, which is in the nomogram region A, this causes only a reduction of the temperature of the melt. The melt is thus placed in a semi-solid state without the powdery particles forming nuclei. However, when an amount of powdered alloy is added to reach the nomogram region B, the powdery particles function as additional, unmelted nuclei. If the addition of powdered particles in the nomogram region C, the two processes will run side by side, ie a reduction of the superheat temperature and nucleation due to unmelted particles.

Selbstverständlich müssen unterschiedliche Nomogramme für unterschiedliche Legierungen gebildet werden.Of course, different nomograms must be made for different alloys.

Claims (9)

  1. A method for preparing a metal-alloy product for a casting process wherein the product is brought to a semi-solidified state and in which crystallisation nuclei are distributed throughout the volume, characterised in that the melt has a temperature greater than the melting temperature of the alloy the alloy is introduced into the crystallisation vessel which is below the melting temperature and that the melt introduced is an alloy in a pulverised form, the melt and the alloy are mixed in the crystallisation vessel by applying electrical and magnetic forces thereto.
  2. The method according to claim 1, characterised in that the melt is introduced into the crystallisation vessel in the form of a stream which flows between two electrodes which are supplied with electrical power.
  3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that after the introduction of the melt, an electrical arc is established between the melt and the electrode.
  4. The method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that a magnetic field is established within the crystallisation vessel.
  5. The method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the melt is aspirated into the crystallisation vessel which is placed under a vacuum.
  6. The method according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the melt is introduced into the crystallisation vessel with the supplying of a protective gas.
  7. An apparatus for implementing the method according to one of claims 1 to 6 characterised in that a crystallisation vessel having an inlet for the melt and an inlet for an alloy in pulverised form and a heating arrangement which is provided with measures to produce a magnetic field effective in the interior and with electrodes connected to an electrical supply in the base area and inlet.
  8. The apparatus according to claim 7, characterised in that the crystallisation vessel is connected to a means for creating a vacuum therein.
  9. The apparatus according to claims 7 to 8 characterised in that the crystallisation vessel is connected to the furnace via a conduit which is provided with an inlet for protective gas.
EP03003899A 2002-03-13 2003-02-21 Process and device for treating an alloy melt before a casting operation Expired - Lifetime EP1344589B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

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SI200331339T SI1344589T1 (en) 2002-03-13 2003-02-21 Process and device for treating an alloy melt before a casting operation

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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DE10212349 2002-03-13
DE10212349A DE10212349C1 (en) 2002-03-13 2002-03-13 Production of an alloy melt for casting comprises placing the melt having a temperature lying above the liquidus temperature of the alloy in a crystallization vessel, adding an alloy as a powder, and mixing the melt and powder

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EP1344589A2 EP1344589A2 (en) 2003-09-17
EP1344589A3 EP1344589A3 (en) 2005-05-18
EP1344589B1 true EP1344589B1 (en) 2008-06-04

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US (1) US6988529B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1344589B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4541650B2 (en)
KR (1) KR100995490B1 (en)
CN (1) CN1275725C (en)
AT (1) ATE397503T1 (en)
AU (1) AU2003200990B2 (en)
BR (1) BR0300491B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2420931C (en)
DE (2) DE10212349C1 (en)
DK (1) DK1344589T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2307838T3 (en)
MX (1) MXPA03002089A (en)
NO (1) NO20031112L (en)
PT (1) PT1344589E (en)
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US20050103461A1 (en) * 2003-11-19 2005-05-19 Tht Presses, Inc. Process for generating a semi-solid slurry
CN102133629A (en) * 2011-03-01 2011-07-27 大连理工大学 Light-alloy electromagnetic suspension casting device and method
JP5991982B2 (en) * 2011-11-02 2016-09-14 大亜真空株式会社 Arc melting furnace apparatus and arc melting method of object to be melted
CN102794432A (en) * 2012-07-24 2012-11-28 江苏万里活塞轴瓦有限公司 Device for preparing semisolid-state slurry of aluminum alloy
JP6171216B2 (en) * 2013-05-09 2017-08-02 東芝機械株式会社 Semi-solid metal production apparatus, semi-solid metal production method, and molding method using semi-solid metal
CN109351916B (en) * 2018-07-31 2021-03-12 湖南人文科技学院 Preparation method of high-boron alloy
CN109261940A (en) * 2018-09-28 2019-01-25 平顶山学院 A kind of metal material increasing material manufacturing forming method and device
CN110538587B (en) * 2019-09-12 2022-03-08 福建省鼎智新材料科技有限公司 Powder spraying semi-solid pulping device based on gas stirring and working method thereof

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KR20030074297A (en) 2003-09-19
US6988529B2 (en) 2006-01-24
ES2307838T3 (en) 2008-12-01
ATE397503T1 (en) 2008-06-15
NO20031112D0 (en) 2003-03-11
NO20031112L (en) 2003-09-15
AU2003200990B2 (en) 2008-05-22
CA2420931A1 (en) 2003-09-13
CA2420931C (en) 2011-05-03
US20040003912A1 (en) 2004-01-08
DK1344589T3 (en) 2008-10-13
JP4541650B2 (en) 2010-09-08
CN1443615A (en) 2003-09-24
AU2003200990A1 (en) 2003-10-02
MXPA03002089A (en) 2004-08-11
JP2004025302A (en) 2004-01-29
DE10212349C1 (en) 2003-08-28
BR0300491B1 (en) 2012-02-07
PT1344589E (en) 2008-08-13
EP1344589A3 (en) 2005-05-18
EP1344589A2 (en) 2003-09-17
SI1344589T1 (en) 2008-10-31
DE50309939D1 (en) 2008-07-17
CN1275725C (en) 2006-09-20
KR100995490B1 (en) 2010-11-19
BR0300491A (en) 2004-08-17

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