Apparatus and process for electro-magnetically forming a material into a desired thin strip shape

摘要

An apparatus and process for electromagnetically forming a material into a desired thin strip shape. The apparatus comprises a first portion for electromagnetically containing and forming the material in molten form into a cross-sectional shape substantially the same as the desired thin strip shape. A second portion receives the molten material in the thin strip shape from the first portion. In addition, the second portion reduces the distortion in the cross-sectional shape due to surface tension. The second portion includes a device for providing an electromagnetic field having a reduced strength as compared to the strength of an electromagnetic field in the first portion. The electromagnetic field may be reduced in strength by providing an inductor having hollow inner surfaces facing the molten material so as to form substantially straight vertical surfaces in the molten material. In another embodiment, a shield is provided between the inductor and the molten metal to selectively reduce the strength of the electromagnetic field.