Method and apparatus for producing a solution heat treated sheet

摘要

The present invention comprises a method and apparatus suitable for accomplishing the method that significantly simplifies the process of making a solution heat treated feedstock. The method comprises continuously casing an aluminum alloy to produce a cast feedstock. Any apparatus which accomplishes continuous casting is appropriate for use with the present invention. Once the cast feedstock is formed, it is hot rolled and quenched during hot rolling to form the solution heat treated feedstock. The apparatus which accomplishes the method of the present invention comprises a continuous caster, at least one hot mill stand, and at least one quenching apparatus before or in the at least one hot mill stand.