Treating molten metals by moving electric arc

摘要

An apparatus ( 10 ) and a method for reducing inclusions, shrinkage blowholes, porosity and segregation in metal castings during the casting process, and for improving the grain structure, mechanical properties and yield of ingots and other castings. The apparatus ( 10 ) comprises: At least one electrode ( 14 ) for forming a moving electric arc ( 16 ) over the upper surface ( 18 ) of a metallic casting ( 12 ) being cast and a stand ( 20 ) for suspending the electric arc electrode ( 14 ) over the upper surface ( 18 ) of the metallic casting ( 12 ) during or after pouring and a second electrode ( 24 ) attachable to a metallic surface ( 26 ) of the mold ( 28 ) being used for casting, for completion of an electric circuit ( 30 ) including the electric arc ( 16 ) and electronic controls ( 32 ) connected between the apparatus ( 10 ) and a power supply ( 34 ).