Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a dual-purpose casting assistive apparatus for bottom pour furnace that is capable of efficiently stirring and mixing molten metal contained in a furnace and further acts a sealant for the furnace opening to prevent the release of molten metal into a mold, thus enhancing furnace operation efficiency.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Casting of molten metal is a critical process in metalworking industries, such as foundries and manufacturing plants, where precise control over the pouring and mixing of molten metal is essential to ensure the quality and consistency of the final product. Traditional methods for controlling the release of molten metal from a furnace involve the use of stopper rods or valves that manually seal and open the furnace opening. While effective to an extent, these methods often present challenges, including inconsistent pouring rates, difficulty in achieving a homogeneous mixture, and increased labor requirements. Additionally, manual lifting and controlling of stopper rods are hazardous due to the high temperatures involved, posing safety risks to operators.

[0003] Existing systems typically use separate tools for stirring and pouring, which complicate the casting process and reduce efficiency. Furthermore, these systems lack sufficient control over the pouring speed and the ability to effectively mix the molten metal, leading to defects in the cast material. The need for a more efficient, reliable, and safe solution for both pouring and mixing molten metal has led to the development of the present invention. By combining these two functions into a single, easy-to-operate apparatus, the invention seeks to streamline the casting process, improve safety for operators, and ensure a more consistent and high-quality metal product.

[0004] CN202655619U discloses about a casting stopper mechanism of a bottom-casting medium frequency holding furnace, and belongs to the technical field of the holding furnace casting. The casting stopper mechanism comprises a furnace body, a furnace cover, a stopper and a transmission mechanism, wherein a water port is formed at the bottom of the furnace body; the stopper vertically penetrates through the furnace cover to be inserted into the furnace body, and aligns to the center of the water port; the stopper is connected with the transmission mechanism; and the transmission mechanism comprises a motor holder, an air cylinder holder and a transmission arm, wherein the motor holder is provided with a motor, a gearbox, a coupler and adjusting bolts, the air cylinder holder is provided with an air cylinder, one end of the transmission arm is connected with the motor and the air cylinder, the other end of the transmission arm is connected with a screw on a stopper, the connecting end of the transmission arm and the screw is provided with a U-shaped shifting fork, an upper floating tray is arranged above the U-shaped shifting fork, a lower floating tray is arranged under the U-shaped shifting fork, a fixed guide sleeve which is arranged on the bracket support plate at one side of the motor holder is positioned above the screw; and a pressure spring is arranged on the screw between the fixed guide sleeve and the lower floating tray. The casting stopper mechanism provided by the utility model reduces the labor intensity of workers, enhances the device operating efficiency, efficiently lowers the potential safety hazard, the labor intensity of works, production cost and the like, and enhances the comprehensive benefits for factories.

[0005] CN210242375U discloses about a stopper rod bottom injection type intermediate frequency furnace relates to the field of intermediate frequency furnace equipment and comprises a stopper rod, a lifting mechanism, a furnace cover, a furnace body and a bearing platform; the stopper rod is vertically arranged in the furnace body, the bottom of the furnace body is provided with a discharge hole adaptive to the head end of the stopper rod, a sleeve is arranged above the discharge hole, the sleeve is sleeved on the rod body at the lower part of the stopper rod with a gap, and the center of the furnace cover is provided with a limiting hole; the lifting mechanism comprises a supporting vertical plate, a rotating transverse plate and a hydraulic cylinder, the bottom ends of the supporting vertical plate and the hydraulic cylinder are respectively fixed on the upper surfaces of the bearing platforms at two corresponding sides of the furnace body, and the two ends of the rotating transverse plate are respectively hinged with the top ends of the supporting vertical plate and the hydraulic cylinder; the middle part of the surface of the rotating transverse plate is provided with a slideway, a pulley which is adapted to the slideway and can roll along the slideway is arranged in the slideway, and the tail end of the stopper rod is fixedly connected with a rolling shaft of the pulley; the intermediate frequency furnace not only can control the stopper rod to automatically perform accurate stopper and pull actions, but also has simple structure and very convenient use.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed to control the pouring and mixing of molten metal in casting processes, however these devices fail to provide a dual-purpose solution that effectively combines both functions in a single, efficient system. Most existing devices lack precise control over the molten metal release or fail to incorporate an effective stirring mechanism, leading to inconsistencies in metal quality, increased operational complexity, and safety concerns during metal handling.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop an apparatus that requires to integrate both molten metal pouring and stirring into a single, streamlined apparatus. The developed apparatus needs to provide precise control over the pouring process, ensure uniform mixing of the molten metal, and enhance safety by reducing the manual handling of hot materials. Additionally, the developed apparatus should offer flexibility for both manual and automated operation, improving overall efficiency in casting operations.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop an apparatus that provides a means for sealing a furnace opening to prevent premature molten metal release, ensuring safe and controlled pouring during the casting process.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop an apparatus that integrates a means for stirring molten metal within the furnace to ensure a homogeneous mixture, improving the quality of the cast material.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop an apparatus that is durable, reliable and easy-to-operate.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a dual-purpose casting assistive apparatus for bottom pour furnace that provides a means for sealing a furnace opening to prevent premature molten metal release, ensuring safe and controlled pouring during the casting process.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a dual-purpose casting assistive apparatus for bottom pour furnace, comprises of an elongated rod having a first and second portions, wherein the first portion is tapered to form a pointed structure that fits into an opening of a bottom pour furnace connecting the furnace with a crucible configured with the furnace to act as a stopper for the furnace, ring arranged at the first portion and integrated with plurality of blades that acts as a stirrer for mixing molten metal contained in the furnace, wherein the rod is uplifted from its initial position when pouring of the molten metal is to be performed which leads to exposure of the opening resulting in pouring of the molten metal from the furnace into the crucible, the first and second portions of the rod corresponds to a lower and upper portion of the rod, respectively, the second portion is oriented in an upright position over the opening in view of supporting the apparatus in the furnace.

[0015] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1a illustrates a front view of a dual-purpose casting assistive apparatus for bottom pour furnace;
Figure 1b illustrates a top view of the proposed apparatus;
Figure 1c illustrates an isometric view of the proposed apparatus; and
Figure 2 illustrates an internal view of an auxiliary crucible depicting engagement of the apparatus in an auxiliary bottom pouring furnace.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0018] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0019] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0020] The present invention relates to a dual-purpose casting assistive apparatus for bottom pour furnace that enables efficient stirring and mixing of molten metal within the furnace and serves as a secure seal for the furnace opening, effectively preventing unintended release of molten metal into a mold. This dual functionality enhances the operational efficiency and control of the furnace during casting processes.

[0021] Referring to Figure 1a and 1b, a front view of a dual-purpose casting assistive apparatus for bottom pour furnace and top view of the proposed apparatus are illustrated, respectively, comprising an elongated rod 101 having a first and second portions, wherein said first portion is tapered to form a pointed structure that fits into an opening of a bottom pour furnace, a ring 102 arranged at with the rod 101 and integrated with plurality of blades 103.

[0022] The proposed apparatus herein comprises of an elongated rod 101 that consists of two main portions i.e., a first portion and a second portion. The first and second portions of the rod 101 corresponds to a lower and upper portion of the rod 101, respectively. The first portion is designed with a tapered, pointed structure that precisely fits into the opening at the base of a bottom pour furnace.

[0023] The second portion is oriented in an upright position over the opening in view of supporting the apparatus in the furnace. The pointed end functions as a stopper, sealing the furnace’s opening and effectively controlling the flow of molten metal. When inserted, the structure blocks the passage between the furnace and the crucible below, preventing molten material from pouring out. The rod 101 is configured so that the rod 101 is easily lifted, disengaging the pointed stopper from the furnace opening and allowing molten metal to flow from the furnace into the crucible.

[0024] A ring 102 is arranged on the first portion of the elongated rod 101 which is equipped with multiple blades 103 that function as a stirring means for the molten metal contained in the bottom pour furnace. This ring 102 with blades 103 is strategically located close to the furnace’s opening, allowing it to engage with the molten metal inside. When the rod 101 is rotated or slightly moved, the blades 103 stir the molten material, ensuring uniform mixing and maintaining a consistent composition, which is crucial for producing high-quality castings. This stirring action helps to prevent sedimentation or separation of elements within the molten metal, improving the overall quality of the cast material (as illustrated in fig 1c).

[0025] When the pouring process is to be initiated, the rod 101 is lifted vertically from its initial position, thereby disengaging the tapered, pointed end of the first portion from the furnace’s opening. This upward motion exposes the furnace’s outlet, allowing the molten metal to flow out due to gravity and pour directly into the crucible positioned below. The combination of a stopper and stirrer in one apparatus not only simplifies the casting process by reducing the need for separate stirring and pouring means but also enhances the safety and control of molten metal handling. The ring 102 and blades 103 thus provide efficient mixing, while the rod’s 101 lifting means ensures precise control over the timing and flow rate of the molten metal release (as illustrated in fig 2).

[0026] In an embodiment of the present invention, the rod 101 is lifted from the furnace either manually or with the help of a mechanical lifting mechanism, depending on the setup and operational requirements. When manual operation is chosen, the upper portion of the rod 101 is equipped with a handle or grip that enables an operator to pull the rod 101 upward. This handle provides sufficient leverage, allowing the operator to disengage the rod’s 101 tapered end from the furnace opening to release molten metal into the crucible below. This approach is effective for smaller-scale operations or simpler setups where manual handling of the rod 101 is manageable, and precise timing is under the direct control of the operator. By manually lifting the rod 101, the operator gains immediate control over the flow, and after pouring, the rod 101 is carefully lowered back into place to reseal the furnace.

[0027] For larger furnaces, a mechanical lifting mechanism is preferred to increase efficiency and safety. This includes a lever unit, pulley arrangement or actuator such as a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder attached to the upper portion of the rod 101. The lever with a pulley provides smooth and steady lifting motion, while an actuator allows for precise, automated control of the rod’s 101 movement. In an automated setup, the lifting mechanism is synchronized with other furnace operations, enabling the rod 101 to lift at the exact moment needed, thereby controlling the flow of molten metal with precision. In either case, additional guiding mechanisms, such as a support frame or guide sleeve, ensure the rod’s 101 alignment during lifting, preventing any unwanted wobbling and making the process safe and efficient for operators.

[0028] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the elongated rod 101, equipped with the tapered lower portion acting as the stopper, is placed within the furnace's bottom opening to contain the molten metal. When casting is to begin, the operator or an automated means lifts the rod 101, disengaging the tapered end from the furnace opening to allow molten metal to flow into a crucible below. This lifting action is either manual or mechanically assisted, providing controlled timing for precise pouring. Integrated near the rod’s 101 lower portion, the ring 102 with multiple blades 103 serves as a stirring means to homogenize the molten metal by rotating the rod 101, ensuring an even mixture and quality consistency. After pouring, the rod 101 is lowered back into position to reseal the furnace. These coordinated steps, from controlled pouring to thorough stirring, provide efficient handling, safety, and uniform quality in the casting process, making the invention highly effective for managing molten metal flow with precision.

[0029] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A dual-purpose casting assistive apparatus for bottom pour furnace, comprising:

i) an elongated rod 101 having a first and second portions, wherein said first portion is tapered to form a pointed structure that fits into an opening of a bottom pour furnace connecting said furnace with a crucible configured with said furnace to act as a stopper for said furnace; and
ii) a ring 102 arranged at said first portion and integrated with plurality of blades 103 that acts as a stirrer for mixing molten metal contained in said furnace, wherein said rod 101 is uplifted from its initial position when pouring of said molten metal is to be performed which leads to exposure of said opening resulting in pouring of said molten metal from said furnace into said crucible.

2) The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first and second portions of said rod 101 corresponds to a lower and upper portion of said rod 101, respectively.

3) The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said second portion is oriented in an upright position over said opening in view of supporting said apparatus in said furnace.