CRUCIBLES FOR MELTING MATERIAL AND METHODS OF TRANSFERRING MATERIAL THEREFROM

摘要

A crucible for melting material includes at least one wall at least partially enclosing a volume and including an orifice through a portion thereof, and a chill plate supported for movement between at least a first position covering the orifice and a second position. The chill plate is configured for removal of heat from the at least one wall when in the first position. Some crucibles include a substantially flat bottom plate, a plurality of hollow tubes above the substantially flat bottom plate proximate a periphery thereof, and a plurality of O-rings. Each hollow tube is in contact with at least one O-ring, and each O-ring is in contact with the substantially flat bottom plate. A method includes moving the chill plate, initiating flow of molten material, terminating flow of molten material, and replacing the chill plate. Flow of material may be controlled by providing a vacuum in the crucible.

主权项

1. A crucible for melting material, comprising:
at least one wall at least partially enclosing a volume and including an orifice through a portion thereof; and a chill plate supported for movement between at least a first position, wherein the chill plate is in contact with the portion of the at least one wall and covers the orifice, and a second position, wherein the chill plate is removed from contact with the at least one wall, and wherein the chill plate is configured for removal of heat from the portion of the at least one wall when the chill plate is in the first position.