| 摘要 |
<p>A method and electrode assembly for use in consumable electrode arc melting of metals and alloys, particularly titanium and titanium-base alloys. The method includes forming an assembly including an electrode of the metal or alloy to be melted. An elongated ring, which is of metal or alloy construction, has one end connected to one end surface of the electrode and another end connected to an electrode holder, which is connected to a source of electrical potential. The ring has an outside diameter less than the outside diameter of the electrode to form an annular marginal area on the end surface of the electrode. This annular marginal area is defined by the ring and the periphery of the end surface of the electrode. This assembly is positioned within a cooled mold of conductive material, which mold is also connected to a source of electrical potential. An electrical current is produced between the electrode and the mold to produce an arc from the end of the electrode to continuously melt the electrode to form an ingot. Melting is continued until the annular marginal area at least begins to melt and melting is discontinued before the marginal area melts completely away. Hence, the melting operation may be stopped before the electrode is completely melted away to result in contamination of the ingot by melting of material from the ring or electrode holder. <IMAGE></p> |
