Crucible Fluxing with Hycast™ RAM- Effect on Metal Quality and Operational Cost

Abstract:

Hycast TM RAM, hereafter called RAM, is a crucible fluxing technology for removal of alkaline elements (Na, Ca, and Li), as well as carbides, oxides and cryolite, from aluminium pot-room metal without the use of chlorine. AlF3 powder is injected into the liquid metal (below the metal surface) by the use of a specially designed rotor system and argon as a carrier gas. The fluxing system can be adapted to different crucible transport/tapping system, and is proven for crucible sizes from 2 to 9 tons. Since surface active elements like Sodium are removed before the metal enters into the furnace, the metal oxidation during pouring and furnace treatment is significantly reduced. Pretreatment will also reduce the carbide level in the metal, and by this improve the overall metal quality, and prevent clogging/deposits in furnaces, degassers, ceramic foam filters etc. This paper describes the principles of the RAM technology, effect on metal quality and documented operational benefits in a primary casthouse. Also environmental issues are discussed.

• Periodical: Materials Science Forum (Volume 693)
• Pages: 44-53
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/MSF.693.44
• Online since: July 2011
• Authors: Terje Haugen, Idar Kjetil Steen, Erling Myrbostad, Arild Håkonsen
• Keywords: Alkaline Metal, Aluminium Fluoride, Inclusion, Pot-Room Metal, Pre-Treatment

References

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