Prediction of microstructure in which cast iron will solidify by determining positions of thermocouples and interrupting the method if distances between thermocouples and predetermined ideal positions are larger than predetermined value

摘要

A microstructure in which a cast iron will solidify is predicted by determining positions of thermocouples (102, 104) before cooling curves are recorded; and interrupting the method if distances between thermocouples and predetermined ideal positions corresponding to each thermocouple are larger than a predetermined value. Independent claims are also included for: (a) a thermocouple unit useful in recording cooling curves comprising first and second thermocouples, a central part joined to the thermocouples and includes connecting mechanism for connecting the thermocouples to a calculation mechanism and information transfer mechanism (112) including bar code or a magnetic memory mechanism for transferring calibration data and/or traceability data relating to the thermocouples; (b) a thermocouple holder (200) comprising a cylindrical bushing (202) being fixed to the thermocouples and has a position indicator (206), a head part (208) comprising fastener (214) for attaching the thermocouple holder to a sampling unit and opening (210) for giving access to the information transfer mechanism, and joining mechanism for joining the bushing and the head part in a flexible manner; (c) sampling unit comprising attaching mechanism for attaching a sample vessel and thermocouple inside the housing, a moving mechanism for moving the bushing between a measurement position and a resting position, and detector for detecting whether the position indicator is in a position corresponding to the measurement position; and (d) a sampling module kit comprising thermocouple unit, thermocouple holder, and sampling unit.