Unit Cell Titanium Casting

Abstract

A system (5) and method (800) for unit cell casting of titanium or titanium-alloys is disclosed herein. The system (5) comprises an external chamber (45), a crucible (10) positioned within the external chamber (45), an induction coil (15) positioned around the crucible, an internal chamber (40) positioned within the external chamber (45), and a mold (30) positioned within the internal chamber (40). The external chamber (45) is evacuated and a pressurized gas is injected into the evacuated external chamber (45) to create a pressurized external chamber (45). An ingot (20) is melted within the crucible utilizing induction heating generated by the induction coil (15). The internal chamber (40) is evacuated to create an evacuated internal chamber (40). The titanium alloy material of the ingot (20) is completely transferred into the mold (30) from the crucible (10) using a pressure differential created between the external chamber (45) and the internal chamber (40).

Description

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 354,003, filed on Jun. 23, 2016, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]Not ApplicableBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONField of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates to precision titanium casting. More specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for precision titanium casting utilizing induction heating.Description of the Related Art[0004]Various methods of titanium casting are well-known. One such method is investment casting which involves a lost wax procedure.[0005]Vacuum electric arc smelting is another method in which a titanium ingot is melted by substantial heat generated by mutual discharging in a high current state by respectively using a titanium ingot crucible and a water-cooled copper crucible as a positive electrode and a ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a method for casting materials using a two chamber casting system. The method involves using a pressure differential to help move material from the crucible into the pattern mold. This pressure difference can be achieved by using a vacuum and argon gas. By reducing the pressure in the inner chamber before the crucible is emptied, the method allows for better filling of complex geometries and increases efficiency. This also reduces turbulent flow of molten titanium and shortens the overall casting cycle.

Problems solved by technology

Vacuum induction smelting and vacuum electric arc smelting require the use of a water-cooled copper crucible which results in the loss of substantial heat.

Furthermore, the preparation of the molding shell is very complex and time consuming, which adds to the costs.

The molten titanium liquid will come into direct contact with water if the crucible cracks, resulting in a fierce reaction, or even explosion, which poses a great threat to production safety.

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