Induction furnace having improved thermal profile

摘要

Apparatus for casting directionally solidified articles is disclosed. Concepts for obtaining a desired temperature profile in an induction furnace are discussed. An induction furnace 10 has increased heating capacity at the withdrawal end 32 of the susceptor 28. A hot zone baffle 42 is disposed at the withdrawal end to inhibit the radiation of heat energy from the hot zone 12. A plurality of grooves 34 are formed about the interior of the susceptor at the withdrawal end to inhibit the conduction of heat energy out of the susceptor. A preferred thermal profile in the operating furnace with a peak temperature in close proximity to the withdrawal end results.