Method and apparatus for making ductile iron castings

摘要

A method and apparatus is disclosed for making ductile iron castings. A nodulizing agent is placed into an open reaction chamber formed in the top of a mold and molten graphite iron is fed to the reaction chamber by a new and improved sealing member which is movable to cover the chamber for the required casting time. The member is designed to permit the reacted alloy to flow through the member and across the top of the mold to the inlet of a casting cavity formed in the mold and covered by the member, thereby minimizing the depth of the reaction chamber and eliminating the need for forming runner systems in the mold, both of which contribute to the production of scrap material. Also provided is the temporary storage of the molten alloyed iron in an open reservoir to enhance homogenization of the alloy and to facilitate the removal of impurities therein.