METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MELTING METALS

摘要

A method and apparatus for melting metals uses microwave energy as the primary source of heat. The metal or mixture of metals is placed in a ceramic crucible (10) which couples, at least partially, with the microwaves to be used. The crucible is encased in a ceramic casket (14) for insulation and placed within a microwave chamber (1). The chamber (1) may be evacuated and refilled to exclude oxygen. After melting of the metal, the crucible (10) may be removed for pouring, or the metal may be poured within the chamber (1) by dripping or running into a heated mold within the chamber. Apparent coupling of the microwaves with softened or molten metal produces high temperatures with great energy savings.