Commutation means for on-line alloying

摘要

Apparatus for commutating an electrical current to an electrically conductive rod of an alloying element during the feed thereof to a body of molten metal for purposes of changing the alloy composition of the metal. The apparatus includes a power supply capable of providing electrical current in amounts sufficient to melt a free end of the rod of alloying material into the molten metal, and a pair of parallel adjacent shafts of substantial cross-section. A pair of commutation wheels are mounted respectfully on said shafts for rotatably engaging the rod between the wheels and for conducting current to the rod. Means are provided for forcing the wheels against the rod to provide intimate electrical and physical contact between the rod and wheels. A plurality of stationary brushes are disposed to physically engage each of said shafts along the length thereof for supplying current to the shafts from the power supply, and from the shafts to the wheels engaging the rod.