PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR MINIMIZING THE POTENTIAL FOR EXPLOSIONS IN THE DIRECT CHILL CASTING OF LITHIUM ALLOYS

Abstract

An apparatus and a system including a casting pit; a mold including a reservoir and a cavity; a coolant feed operable to introduce a coolant to a periphery of a metal emerging from the mold cavity; an array of water vapor exhaust ports about at least the top periphery of the casting pit; a mechanism to introduce an inert fluid into the coolant feed. A method for a direct chill casting including, after detecting a bleed out, exhausting generated gas from the casting pit at a flow volume rate that is enhanced relative to a flow volume rate prior to detecting bleed out or run out; introducing an inert gas into the casting pit; and introducing an inert fluid into a coolant feed to the casting mold.

Claims

1. A system comprising: at least one furnace comprising at least one melt containing vessel; and an intermediate casting product station coupled to the at least one furnace and operable to receive a molten metal from the at least one furnace, the intermediate casting product station comprising: a casting pit; at least one mold located at a top portion of the casting pit, the mold comprising a reservoir and a cavity; a coolant feed operable to introduce a coolant at least to a periphery of a metal emerging from the mold; a mechanism to introduce an inert fluid into the coolant feed; at least one moveable platen disposed in the casting pit, and operable to support a metal as the metal solidifies in the mold; an array of exhaust ports about at least a top portion of the casting pit; a bleed-out detection device; and a controller operable to direct a reduction or stoppage of flow of coolant into the coolant feed upon detection of a bleed-out by the bleed-out detection device and an admittance of an inert fluid into the coolant feed.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the intermediate casting product station further comprises an array of gas introduction ports about at least the top periphery of the casting pit, and the system further comprises an inert gas source operable to supply an inert gas to the array of gas introduction ports.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the inert fluid is helium gas.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the inert fluid is a mixture of a helium gas and an argon gas.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the inert fluid is a mixture of a helium gas and an argon gas comprising at least about 20% of the helium gas.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the mechanism to introduce an inert fluid into the coolant feed comprises a valve system comprising at least a first valve and a second valve, the first valve operable to allow for an admission of coolant into the reservoir or the coolant feed and the second valve operable to allow for an admission of an inert fluid into the reservoir or the coolant feed,

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the inert fluid is a mixture of a helium gas and an argon gas comprising at least about 60% of the helium gas.

8. An intermediate casting product comprising lithium-aluminum alloy made using the system of claim 1.

9. The intermediate casting product of claim 8, wherein the alloy comprises about 0.1 percent to six percent lithium.

10. The intermediate casting product of claim 8, wherein the alloy comprises properties to meet a requirement of 100,000 pounds per square inch (psi) tensile strength and 80,000 psi yield strength.

11. An extruded product comprising lithium-aluminum alloy made using the system of claim 1.

12. A product comprising a lithium-aluminum alloy made using the system of claim 1, wherein the product is a component for an aircraft or an automobile.

13. The system of claim 6, wherein the valve system is operable to allow a mixture of coolant and inert fluid to be selectively fed to the coolant feed.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the array of exhaust ports comprise an array of exhaust ports about intermediate and bottom portions of the casting pit.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the array of exhaust ports about the intermediate portion of the casting pit comprise a first array of exhaust ports located from 0.3 to 0.5 meters below the mold and a second array of exhaust ports located from 1.5 to 2.0 meters below the mold and the array of exhaust ports about the bottom portion of the casting pit comprise exhaust ports at base of the casting pit.

16. A system comprising: at least one furnace comprising at least one melt containing vessel; and an intermediate casting product station coupled to the at least one furnace and operable to receive a molten metal from the at least one furnace, the intermediate casting product station comprising: a casting pit; at least one moveable platen disposed in the casting pit; at least one mold located at a top portion of the casting pit at a position above the platen, the mold comprising a reservoir and a cavity; an array of exhaust ports about at least the top portion of the casting pit; a bleed-out detection device; a valve system comprising at least a first valve and a second valve, the first valve operable to allow for an admission of a coolant into at least one coolant feed and the second valve operable to allow for an admission of an inert fluid into the at least one coolant feed, wherein the at least one coolant feed is positioned to introduce a coolant or an inert fluid to a periphery of a metal emerging from the mold; and a controller operable to close the first valve to reduce or stop the flow of a coolant into the coolant feed and to open the second valve to admit an inert fluid into the coolant feed upon detection of a bleed-out by the bleed-out detection device.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the intermediate casting product station further comprises an array of gas introduction ports about at least the top portion of the casting pit, and the system further comprises an inert gas source operable to supply an inert gas to the array of gas introduction ports.

18. The system of claim 16, wherein the array of exhaust ports comprise an array of exhaust ports about intermediate and bottom portions of the casting pit.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the array of exhaust ports about the intermediate portion of the casting pit comprise a first array of exhaust ports located from 0.3 to 0.5 meters below the mold and a second array of exhaust ports located from 1.5 to 2.0 meters below the mold and the array of exhaust ports about the bottom portion of the casting pit comprise exhaust ports at base of the casting pit.

20. The system of claim 16, wherein the furnace comprises an induction furnace comprising an induction coil surrounding the melt-containing vessel and separated from the melt-containing vessel by a gap and the system further comprises a gas circulation subsystem comprising a gas source coupled to feed port associated with the gap and operable to introduce a gas into the gap.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] FIG. 1 is a simplified cross sectional view of one embodiment of a direct chill casting system.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a top schematic view of the casting system of FIG. 1 showing a valve configuration for a coolant feed system under normal operating conditions.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a top schematic view of the casting system of FIG. 1 showing a valve configuration for a coolant feed system upon detection of a bleed out.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a process flow diagram of an embodiment of a process.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of a system operable to form an alloy melt and one or more intermediate casting products from an alloy melt.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] According to one embodiment, exhaust ports are located around the interior perimeter of a direct chill casting pit, at various locations from just below the top of the pit to the pit bottom to rapidly remove water vapor or steam from the casting pit. Inert gas is simultaneously or subsequently introduced into the casting pit interior space to eliminate the coalition of hydrogen gas into a critical mass. According to one embodiment described herein, there is provided a modified mold for direct chill casting of AlLi alloys that allows for the continuous or serial introduction of an inert gas into the coolant stream during casting while allowing for stoppage of the coolant flow and introduction of inert gas into the ingot solidification zone in the event of a bleed out or run out.

[0024] An apparatus and method for casting AlLi alloys is described. A concern with prior art teachings is that water and the AlLi molten metal bleed-out or run-out materials come together and release hydrogen during an exothermic reaction. Even with sloped pit bottoms, minimum water levels, etc., the water and bleed-out or run-out molten metal may still come into intimate contact, enabling the reaction to occur. Casting without water, using another liquid such as those described in prior art patents affects castability, quality of the cast product, is costly to implement and maintain, as well as poses environmental concerns and fire hazards.

[0025] The instantly described apparatus and method improve the safety of DC casting of AlLi alloys by minimizing or eliminating ingredients that must be present for an explosion to occur. It is understood that water (or water vapor or steam) in the presence of the molten AlLi alloy will produce hydrogen gas. A representative chemical reaction equation is believed to be:

2LiAl+8H.sub.2O.fwdarw.2LiOH+2Al(OH).sub.3+4H.sub.2(g).

[0026] Hydrogen gas has a density significantly less than a density of air. Hydrogen gas that evolves during the chemical reaction, being lighter than air, tends to gravitate upward, toward the top of a cast pit, just below the casting mold and mold support structures at the top of the casting pit. This typically enclosed area allows the hydrogen gas to collect and become concentrated enough to create an explosive atmosphere. Heat, a spark, or other ignition source can trigger the explosion of the hydrogen plume of the as-concentrated gas.

[0027] It is understood that the molten bleed-out or run-out material when combined with the intermediate casting product cooling water that is used in a DC process (as practiced by those skilled in the art of aluminum ingot casting) will create steam and/or water vapor. The steam and/or water vapor are accelerants for the reaction that produces the hydrogen gas. Removal of this steam and/or water vapor by a steam removal system will remove the ability of the water to combine with AlLI creating LiOH, and the expulsion of H.sub.2. The instantly described apparatus and method minimizes the potential for the presence of steam and/or water vapor in the casting pit by, in one embodiment, placing exhaust ports about the inner periphery of the casting pit, and rapidly activating the vents upon the detection of an occurrence of a bleed out.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the exhaust ports are located in several areas within the casting pit, e.g., from about 0.3 meters to about 0.5 meters below the casting mold, in an intermediate area from about 1.5 meters to about 2.0 meters from the casting mold, and at the bottom of the cast pit. For reference, and as shown in the accompanying drawings described in greater detail below, a casting mold is typically placed at a top of a casting pit, from floor level to as much as one meter above floor level. The horizontal and vertical areas around the casting mold below the mold table are generally closed-in with a pit skirt and a Lexan glass encasement except for the provision to bring in and ventilate outside air for dilution purpose, such that the gases contained within the pit are introduced and exhausted according to a prescribed manner.

[0029] In another embodiment, an inert gas is introduced into the casting pit interior space to minimize or eliminate the coalition of hydrogen gas into a critical mass. In this case, the inert gas is a gas that has a density less than a density of air and that will tend to occupy the same space just below the top of the casting pit that hydrogen gas would typically inhabit. Helium gas is one such example of suitable inert gas with a density less than a density of air.

[0030] The use of argon has been described in numerous technical reports as a cover gas for protecting AlLi alloys from ambient atmosphere to prevent their reaction with air. Even though argon is completely inert, it has a density greater than a density of air and will not provide the inerting of the casting pit upper interior unless a strong upward draft is maintained. Compared to air as a reference (1.3 grams/liter), argon has density on the order of 1.8 grams/liter and would tend to settle to the bottom of a cast pit, providing no desirable hydrogen displacement protection within the critical top area of the casting pit. Helium, on the other hand, is nonflammable and has a low density of 0.2 grams per liter and will not support combustion. By exchanging air for a lower density of inert gas inside a casting pit, the dangerous atmosphere in the casting pit may be diluted to a level where an explosion cannot be supported. Also, while this exchange is occurring, water vapor and steam are also removed from the casting pit. In one embodiment, during steady state casting and when non-emergency condition pertaining to a bleed-out is not being experienced, the water vapor and steam are removed from the inert gas in an external process, while the clean inert gas can be re-circulated back through the casting pit.

[0031] It is to be noted that those skilled in the art of melting and direct chill casting of aluminum alloys except the melting and casting of aluminum-lithium alloys may be tempted to use nitrogen gas in place of helium because of the general industrial knowledge that nitrogen is also an inert gas. However, for the reason of maintaining process safety, it is mentioned herein that nitrogen is really not an inert gas when it comes to interacting with liquid aluminum-lithium alloys. Nitrogen does react with the alloy and produces ammonia which in turns reacts with water and brings in additional reactions of dangerous consequences, and hence its use should be completely avoided. The same holds true for another presumably inert gas carbon di oxide. Its use should be avoided in any application where there is a finite chance of molten aluminum lithium alloy to get in touch with carbon dioxide.

[0032] A significant benefit obtained through the use of an inert gas that is lighter than air is that the residual gases will not settle into the casting pit, resulting in an unsafe environment in the pit itself. There have been numerous instances of heavier than air gases residing in confined spaces resulting in death from asphyxiation. It would be expected that the air within the casting pit will be monitored for confined space entry, but no process gas related issues are created.

[0033] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, FIG. 1 shows a cross-section of an embodiment of a DC casting system. DC system 5 includes casting pit 16 that is typically formed into the ground. Disposed within casting pit 16 is casting cylinder 15 that may be raised and lowered, for example, with a hydraulic power unit (not shown). Attached to a superior or top portion of casting cylinder 15 is platen 18 that is raised and lowered with casting cylinder 15. Above or superior to platen 18 in this view is stationary casting mold 12. Casting mold 12 has an open top and bottom as viewed and a body that defines a mold cavity (a cavity therethrough) and that includes a reservoir therein for a coolant. In one embodiment, coolant is introduced to the reservoir in mold 12 through coolant port 11. Coolant port 11 is connected through a conduit (e.g., stainless steel conduit) to coolant source 17 containing a suitable coolant such as water. A pump may be in fluid communication with the coolant and assist in a movement of the coolant to coolant port 17 and the reservoir in mold 12. In one embodiment, valve 21 is disposed between the coolant source and coolant port 11 to control the flow of coolant into the reservoir. A flow meter may also be present in the conduit to monitor a flow rate of coolant to the reservoir. Valve 21 may be controlled by a controller (controller 35) and such controller can also monitor a flow rate of coolant through the conduit.

[0034] Molten metal is introduced into casting mold 12 and is cooled by the cooler temperature of the casting mold and through the introduction of a coolant through coolant feeds 14 associated with casting mold 12 around a base or bottom of casting mold 12 that impinges on the intermediate casting product after it emerges from the mold cavity (emerges below the casting mold). In one embodiment, the reservoir in the casting mold is in fluid communication with coolant feeds 14. Coolant (e.g., water) from coolant feeds 14 flows onto a surface or periphery of an emerging intermediate casting product (e.g., an ingot) and provides a direct chill and solidification of the metal. Surrounding casting mold 12 is casting table 31. As shown in FIG. 1, in one embodiment, gasket or seal 29 fabricated from, for example, a high temperature resistant silica material is located between the structure of mold 12 and table 31. Gasket 29 inhibits steam or any other atmosphere from below mold table 31 to reach above the mold table and thereby inhibits the pollution of the air in which casting crewmen operate and breathe.

[0035] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, system 5 includes molten metal detector 10 positioned just below mold 12 to detect a bleed out or run-out. Molten metal detector 10 may be, for example, an infrared detector of the type described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,279,645, a break out detector as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,296,613 or any other suitable device that can detect the presence of a bleed out.

[0036] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, system 5 also includes exhaust system 19. In one embodiment, exhaust system 19 includes, in this embodiment, exhaust ports 20A, 20A, 20B, 20B, 20C and 20C positioned in casting pit 16. The exhaust ports are positioned to maximize the removal of generated gases including ignition sources (e.g., H.sub.2(g) and reactants (e.g., water vapor or steam)) from the inner cavity of the casting pit. In one embodiment, exhaust ports 20A, 20A are positioned about 0.3 meters to about 0.5 meters below mold 12; exhaust ports 20B, 20B are positioned about 1.5 meters to about 2.0 meters below the mold 12; and exhaust ports 20C, 20C are positioned at a base of casting pit 16 where bleed out metal is caught and contained. The exhaust ports are shown in pairs at each level. It is appreciated that, in an embodiment where there are arrays of exhaust ports at different levels such as in FIG. 1, there may be more than two exhaust ports at each level. For example, in another embodiment, there may be three or four exhaust ports at each level. In another embodiment, there may be less than two (e.g., one at each level). Exhaust system 19 also includes remote exhaust vent 22 that is remote from casting mold 12 (e.g., about 20 to 30 meters away from mold 12) to allow exit of exhausted gases from the system. Exhaust ports 20A, 20A, 20B, 20B, 20C, 20C are connected to exhaust vent 22 through ducting (e.g., galvanized steel or stainless steel ducting). In one embodiment, exhaust system 19 further includes an array of exhaust fans to direct exhaust gases to exhaust vent 22.

[0037] FIG. 1 further shows gas introduction system 24 including, in this embodiment, inert gas introduction ports (e.g., inert gas introduction ports 26A, 26A, 26B, 26B, 26C and 26C) disposed around the casting pit and connected to an inert gas source or sources 27. In one embodiment, concurrent to positions of each of ports 26B and 26B, and 26C and 26C, there are positioned excess air introduction ports to assure additional in-transit dilution of the evolved hydrogen gas. The positioning of gas introduction ports is selected to provide a flood of inert gas to immediately replace the gases and steam within the pit, via a gas introduction system 24 that introduces inert gas as and when needed (especially upon the detection of the bleed-out) through inert gas introduction ports 26 into casting pit 16 within a predetermined time (e.g., about a maximum of 30 seconds) of the detection of a bleed out condition. FIG. 1 shows gas introduction ports 26A and 26A positioned near a top portion of casting pit 16; gas introduction ports 26B and 26B positioned at an intermediate portion of casting pit 16; and gas introduction ports 26C and 26C positioned at a bottom portion of casting pit 16. Pressure regulators or valves may be associated with each gas introduction port to control the introduction of an inert gas. The gas introduction ports are shown in pairs at each level. It is appreciated that, in an embodiment, where there are arrays of gas introduction ports at each level, there may be more than two gas introduction ports at each level. For example, in another embodiment, there may be three or four gas introduction ports at each level. In another embodiment, there may be less than two (e.g., one) at each level.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 1, in one embodiment, the inert gas introduced through gas introduction ports 26A and 26A at top 14 of casting pit 16 impinges on the solidified, semi-solid and liquid aluminum lithium alloy below mold 12, and inert gas flow rates in this area are, in one embodiment, at least substantially equal to a volumetric flow rate of a coolant prior to detecting the presence of a bleed out or a run out. In embodiments where there are gas introduction ports at different levels of a casting pit, flow rates through such gas introduction ports may be the same as a flow rate through the gas introduction ports at top 14 of casting pit 16 or may be different (e.g., less than a flow rate through the gas introduction ports at top 14 of casting pit 16).

[0039] In another embodiment, gas introduction system 24 includes a conduit to auxiliary gas introduction port 23 in mold 12 so that an inert gas can replace or be added with the coolant flowing through the mold (e.g., by discharging inert gas with coolant through coolant feeds) or separately flow through the mold (e.g., in the embodiment shown, a body of mold 12 has a reservoir for coolant in fluid communication with coolant source 17, coolant port 11, and coolant feeds 14 and a separate manifold for inert gas in fluid communication inert gas source 27, auxiliary gas introduction port 23 and with one or more inert gas feeds 25 into the casting pit). Representatively, valve 13 is disposed in the conduit to control or modulate a flow of inert gas into mold 12 through auxiliary gas introduction port 23. In one embodiment, valve 13 is closed or partially closed under non-bleed-out or non-run-out conditions and opened in response to a bleed-out or run-out. In embodiments where there are gas introduction ports at different levels of a casting pit, flow rates through such gas introduction ports may be the same as a flow rate through the gas introduction ports at top 14 of casting pit 16 or may be different (e.g., less than a flow rate through the gas introduction ports at top 14 of casting pit 16). Valve 13 may be controlled by a controller (controller 35) and a pressure in the conduit to auxiliary gas introduction port 23 may be monitored by the controller through, for example, a pressure gauge in the conduit.

[0040] As noted above, one suitable inert gas to introduce through the gas introduction ports is helium. Helium has a density less than a density of air, will not react with aluminum or lithium to produce a reactive product and has a relatively high thermal conductivity (0.15 W.Math.m.sup.?1.Math.K.sup.?1). Where inert gas is introduced to replace a flow of coolant through mold 12, such as in the case of a bleed-out or run-out, in one embodiment, an inert gas such as helium having a relatively high thermal conductivity is introduced to inhibit deformation of the mold by molten metal. In another embodiment, a mixture of inert gas may be introduced. Representatively, a mixture of inert gas includes a helium gas. In one embodiment, a mixture of inert gas includes a helium gas and an argon gas that includes at least about 20 percent of the helium gas. In another embodiment, a helium/argon mixture includes at least about 60 percent of a helium gas. In a further embodiment, a helium/argon mixture includes at least about 80 percent of a helium gas and correspondingly at most about 20 percent of an argon gas.

[0041] The replacement inert gas introduced through the gas introduction ports is removed from casting pit 16 by an upper exhaust system 28 which, in one embodiment, is kept activated at lower volume on continuous basis but the volume flow rate is enhanced immediately upon detection of a bleed out and directs inert gas removed from the casting pit to the exhaust vent 22. In one embodiment, prior to the detection of bleed out, the atmosphere in the upper portion of the pit may be continuously circulated through an atmosphere purification system consisting of moisture stripping columns and steam desiccants thus keeping the atmosphere in the upper region of the pit reasonably inert. The removed gas while being circulated is passed through the desiccant and any water vapor is removed to purify the upper pit atmosphere containing inert gas. The purified inert gas may then be re-circulated to inert gas injection system 24 via a suitable pump 32. When this embodiment is employed, inert gas curtains are maintained, between ports 20A and 26A and similarly between ports 20A and 26A to minimize the escape of the precious inert gas of the upper region of the casting pit through the pit ventilation and exhaust system.

[0042] The number and exact location of exhaust ports 20A, 20A, 20B, 20B, 20C, 20C and inert gas introduction ports 26A, 26A, 26B, 26B, 26C, 26C will be a function of the size and configuration of the particular casting pit being operated and these are calculated by the skilled artisan practicing DC casting in association with those expert at recirculation of air and gases. It is most desirable to provide the three sets (e.g., three pairs) of exhaust ports and inert gas introduction ports as shown FIG. 1. Depending on the nature and the weight of the product being cast, a somewhat less complicated and less expensive but equally effective apparatus can be obtained using a single array of exhaust ports and inert gas introduction ports about the periphery of the top of casting pit 16.

[0043] In one embodiment, each of a movement of platen 18/casting cylinder 15, a molten metal supply inlet to mold 12 and a water inlet to the mold are controlled by controller 35. Molten metal detector 10 is also connected to controller 35. Controller 35 contains machine-readable program instructions as a form of non-transitory tangible media. In response to a signal from molten metal detector 10 to controller 35 of an AlLi molten metal bleed-out or run-out, the machine-readable instructions cause movement of platen 18 and molten metal inlet supply (not shown) to stop, coolant flow (not shown) into mold 12 to stop and/or be diverted, and higher volume exhaust system 19 to be activated simultaneously or within about 15 seconds and in another embodiment, within about 10 seconds, to divert the water vapor containing exhaust gases and/or water vapor away from the casting pit via exhaust ports 20A, 20A, 20B, 20B, 20C and 20C to exhaust vent 22. At the same time or shortly thereafter (e.g., within about 10 seconds to within about 30 seconds), the machine-readable instructions further activate gas introduction system and an inert gas having a density less than a density of air, such as helium, is introduced through gas introduction ports 26A, 26A, 26B, 26B, 26C and 26C.

[0044] The process and apparatus described herein provide a unique method to adequately contain AlLi bleed-outs or run-outs such that a commercial process can be operated successfully without utilization of extraneous process methods, such as casting using a liquid like ethylene glycol that render the process not optimal for cast metal quality, a process less stable for casting, and at the same time a process which is uneconomical and flammable. As anyone skilled in the art of ingot casting will understand, it must be stated that in any DC process, bleed-outs and run-outs will occur. The incidence will generally be very low, but during the normal operation of mechanical equipment, something will occur outside the proper operating range and the process will not perform as expected. The implementation of the described apparatus and process and use of this apparatus will minimize water-to-molten metal hydrogen explosions from bleed-outs or run-outs while casting AlLi alloys that result in casualties and property damage.

[0045] As noted above, as an intermediate casting product emerges from a casting mold cavity, coolant from the coolant feeds around the casting mold impinges about the periphery of the intermediate casting product corresponding to a point just below where coolant exits the coolant feeds 14. The latter location is commonly referred to as the solidification zone. Under these standard conditions, a mixture of water, and air is produced in casting pit about the periphery of the intermediate casting product, and into which freshly produced water vapor is continuously introduced as the casting operation continues.

[0046] Shown in FIG. 2 is a schematic top plan view of system 5 showing casting mold 12 and casting table 31. In this embodiment, system 5 includes a coolant feed system that is placed in the coolant feed, either between a reservoir in casting mold 12 (reservoir 50 in FIG. 2) and the coolant feeds (coolant feeds 14, FIG. 1) or upstream of reservoir 50. Coolant feed system 56, in this embodiment, replaces coolant port 11, valve 21 and the associated conduit between coolant port 11 and coolant source 17. As shown in FIG. 2, in the illustrated embodiment, coolant feed system 56 is upstream of reservoir 50. Mold 12 (illustrated in this embodiment as a round mold) surrounds metal 44 (e.g., molten metal introduced into mold 12). Also as seen in FIG. 2, coolant feed system 56 includes valve system 58 connected to conduit 63 or conduit 67 that each feeds reservoir 50. Suitable material for conduit 63 and conduit 67 and the other conduits and valves discussed herein includes, but is not limited to, stainless steel (e.g., a stainless steel tubular conduit). Valve system 58 includes first valve 60 associated with conduit 63. First valve 60 allows for the introduction of a coolant (generally water) from coolant source 17 through valve 60 and conduit 63. Valve system 58 also includes second valve 66 associated with conduit 67. In one embodiment, second valve 66 allows for the introduction of an inert fluid from inert fluid source 64 through second valve 66 and conduit 67. Conduit 63 and conduit 67 connect coolant source 17 and inert fluid source 64, respectively, to reservoir 12.

[0047] An inert fluid for inert fluid source 64 is a liquid or gas that will not react with lithium or aluminum to produce a reactive (e.g., explosive) product and at the same time will not be combustible or support combustion. In one embodiment, an inert fluid is an inert gas. A suitable inert gas is a gas that has a density that is less than a density of air and will not react with lithium or aluminum to produce a reactive product. Another property of a suitable inert gas to be used in the subject embodiment is that the gas should have a higher thermal conductivity than ordinarily available in inert gases or in air and inert gas mixtures. An example of such suitable gas simultaneously meeting the aforesaid requirements is helium (He). Where inert gas is introduced to replace a flow of coolant through mold 12, such as in the case of a bleed-out or run-out, in one embodiment, an inert gas such as helium, having a relatively high thermal conductivity is introduced to inhibit deformation of the mold by molten metal. In another embodiment, a mixture of inert gases may be introduced. Representatively, a mixture of inert gases includes a helium gas. In one embodiment, a mixture of inert gases includes a helium gas and an argon gas may be used. According to one embodiment, a helium/argon mixture includes at least about 20 percent of the helium gas. According to another embodiment, a helium/argon mixture includes at least about 60 percent of the helium gas. In a further embodiment, a helium/argon mixture includes at least about 80 percent of a helium gas and correspondingly at most about 20 percent of an argon gas.

[0048] In FIG. 2, which represents normal casting conditions, first valve 60 is open and second valve 66 is closed. In this valve configuration, only coolant from coolant source 17 is admitted into conduit 63 and thus reservoir 12 while inert fluid from inert fluid source 64 is excluded therefrom. A position (e.g., fully opened, partially opened) of valve 60 may be selected to achieve a desired flow rate, measured by a flow rate monitor associated with valve 60 or separately positioned adjacent valve 60 (illustrated downstream of valve 60 as first flow rate monitor 68). According to one embodiment, where desired, second valve 66, can be partially opened so that inert fluid (e.g., an inert gas) from inert fluid source 64 may be mixed in reservoir 12 with coolant from coolant source 17 during normal casting conditions. A position of valve 66 may be selected to achieve a desired flow rate, measured by a flow rate monitor associated with valve 66 or separately positioned adjacent valve 66 (illustrated downstream of valve 66 as second flow rate monitor 69) (e.g., a pressure monitor for an inert fluid source).

[0049] In one embodiment, each of first valve 60, second valve 66, first flow rate monitor 68 and second flow rate monitor 69 is electrically and/or logically connected to controller 35. Controller 35 includes non-transitory machine-readable instructions that, when executed, cause one or both of first valve 60 and second valve 66 to be actuated. For example, under normal casting operations such as shown in FIG. 2, such machine-readable instructions cause first valve 60 to be open partially or fully and second valve 66 to be closed or partially open.

[0050] Turning now to FIG. 3, this figure shows valve system 58 in a configuration upon an occurrence of a bleed out or run out. Under these circumstances, upon detection of a bleed out or run out by bleed out detection device 10 (see FIG. 1), first valve 60 is closed to stop the flow of coolant (e.g., water) from coolant source 17. At the same time or shortly thereafter, within 3 to 20 seconds, second valve 66 is opened to allow the admission of an inert fluid from inert fluid source 64, so that the only inert fluid is admitted into conduit 67. Where an inert fluid is an inert gas such as helium (He), under this condition, given the lower density of helium than air, water or water vapor, the area at the top of casting pit 16 and about mold 12 (see FIG. 1) is immediately flooded with inert gas thereby displacing any mixture of water and air and inhibiting the formation of hydrogen gas or contact of molten Al/Li alloy with coolant (e.g., water) in this area, thereby significantly reducing the possibility of an explosion due to the presence of these materials in this region. Velocities of between 1.0 ft/sec and about 6.5 ft/sec., preferably between about 1.5 ft/sec and about 3 ft/sec and most preferably about 2.5 ft/sec are used. In one embodiment where an inert fluid is an inert gas, inert gas source 64 may correspond to inert gas source or sources 27 that supply gas introduction system 24 described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0051] Also shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 are check valve 70 and check valve 72 associated with first valve 60 and second valve 66, respectively. Each check valve inhibits the flow of coolant and/or inert fluid (e.g., gas) backward into respective valves 60 and 66 upon the detection of a bleed out and a change in material flow into mold.

[0052] As shown schematically in FIGS. 2 and 3, in one embodiment, coolant supply line 63 is also equipped with by-pass valve 73 to allow for immediate diversion of the flow of coolant to an external dump prior to its entry into first valve 60, so that upon closure of first valve 60, water hammering or damage to the feed system or leakage through valve 60 is minimized. In one embodiment, the machine-readable instructions in controller 35 include instructions such that once a bleed out is detected by, for example, a signal to controller 35 from an infrared thermometer, the instructions cause by-pass valve 73 to be actuated to open to divert coolant flow; first valve 60 to be actuated sequentially to closed; and second valve 66 actuated to open to allow admission of an inert gas.

[0053] As noted above, one suitable inert gas is helium. Helium has a relatively high heat conductivity that allows for continuous extraction of heat from a casting mold and from solidification zone once coolant flow is halted. This continuous heat extraction serves to cool the ingot/billet being cast thereby reducing the possibility of any additional bleed outs or run outs occurring due to residual heat in the head of the ingot/billet. Simultaneously the mold is protected from excessive heating thereby reducing the potential for damage to the mold. As a comparison, thermal conductivities for helium, water and glycol are as follows: He; 0.1513 W.Math.m.sup.?1.Math.K.sup.?1; H.sub.2O; 0.609 W.Math.m.sup.?1.Math.K.sup.?1; and Ethylene Glycol; 0.258 W.Math.m.sup.?1.Math.K.sup.?1.

[0054] Although the thermal conductivity of helium, and the gas mixtures described above, are lower than those of water or glycol, when these gases impinge upon an intermediate casting product such as an ingot or billet at or near a solidification zone, no steam curtain is produced that might otherwise reduce the surface heat transfer coefficient and thereby the effective thermal conductivity of the coolant. Thus, a single inert gas or a gas mixture exhibits an effective thermal conductivity much closer to that of water or glycol than might first be anticipated considering only their directly relative thermal conductivities

[0055] As will be apparent to the skilled artisan, while FIGS. 2 and 3 depict an intermediate casting product of a billet or round section of cast metal being formed, the apparatus and method described is equally applicable to the casting of rectangular ingot or other shapes or forms.

[0056] FIG. 4 presents a flow chart of a method of operation of system 5, particularly in the event of a bleed out. The method will be described in terms of an automated process where a controller, such as controller 35 in FIGS. 1-3 controls system 5 through machine-readable instructions (e.g., a computer program) stored in the controller or accessible by the controller. In one embodiment, controller 35 contains machine-readable instructions that when executed control an operation of system including an operation on a detection of a bleed out. As noted above, in one embodiment, controller 35 controls each of a movement of platen 18/casting cylinder 15, a molten metal supply inlet to mold 12 and a coolant/inert fluid inlet to the mold. Molten metal detector 10 is also connected to controller 35. Controller 35 contains machine-readable program instructions as a form of non-transitory tangible media. Referring to FIG. 4 and method 100, first an AlLi molten metal bleed out or run out is detected by molten metal detector 10 (block 110). In response to a signal from molten metal detector 10 to controller 35 of an AlLi molten metal bleed-out or run-out, controller 35 directs movement of platen 18 and molten metal inlet supply (not shown) to stop (blocks 120, 130), and coolant flow into coolant feeds 14 to stop (e.g., stop coolant flow to conduit feed 52 by actuation of valve 60 to closed (FIG. 3)) (block 140). Simultaneous with the noted operations or within about 15 seconds and in another embodiment, within about 10 seconds, higher volume exhaust system 19 (FIG. 1) is activated by execution of machine-readable instructions by controller 35 to divert the water vapor containing exhaust gases and/or water vapor away from the casting pit via exhaust ports 20A, 20A, 20B, 20B, 20C and 20C to exhaust vent 22 (block 150). At the same time or shortly thereafter (e.g., within about 10 seconds to within about 30 seconds), the execution of the machine-readable instructions by controller 35 activates gas introduction system 24 (FIG. 1). Activation of gas introduction system introduces an inert gas having a density less than a density of air, such as helium, through gas introduction ports 26A, 26A, 26B, 26B, 26C and 26C into the casting pit (block 160). At the same time or shortly thereafter, in one embodiment, the execution of the machine-readable instructions actuate valve 66 to open (FIG. 3) to introduce an inert fluid (e.g., helium gas or a mixture of inert gas) into coolant feeds 14 (e.g., actuation of valve 66 to introduce an inert fluid to mold 12 through conduit feed 52) (block 170). The introduced inert gas (e.g., inert gas introduced through gas introduction system 24 (FIG. 1) and/or inert gas introduced into coolant feeds 14 from inert fluid source 64 (FIG. 3)) is subsequently collected via the exhaust gas system and may then be purified (block 180). As the bleed out mediation continues, execution of the machine-readable instructions by controller 35 further controls the collection and purification of inert gas by, for example, controlling pump 32 (FIG. 1).

[0057] A significant benefit obtained through the use of lighter-than-air inert fluid is that the residual gasses will not settle into the casting pit, resulting in an unsafe environment in the pit itself. There have been numerous instances of heavier than air gasses residing in confined spaces resulting in death from asphyxiation. Even though the cast pit is generally considered a confined space, no additional external air will be required to supplement the air within the casting pit. It would be expected that the air within the cast pit will be monitored for confined space entry, but no process gas related issues are created.

[0058] This process describes a unique method to adequately contain AlLi bleed-outs or run-outs such that a commercial process can be operated successfully without utilization of extraneous process methods, such as casting using a liquid like ethylene glycol that render the process uneconomical and potentially flammable. As anyone skilled in the art of ingot casting will understand, it must be stated that in any direct chill process, bleed-outs and run-outs will occur. The incidence will generally be very low, but during the normal operation of mechanical equipment, something will occur outside the proper operating range and the process will not perform as expected. The implementation of this process and the utilization of the apparatus described herein will minimize water-to-molten metal hydrogen explosions from bleed-outs or run-outs while casting AlLi alloys that result in casualties and property damage.

[0059] In one embodiment, an AlLi alloy manufactured using a direct chill casting pit as described contains about 0.1 percent to about six percent lithium and, in another embodiment, about 0.1 percent to about three percent lithium. In one embodiment, an AlLi alloy manufactured using a charging apparatus as described contains lithium in the range of 0.1 percent to 6.0 percent, copper in the range of 0.1 percent to 4.5 percent, and magnesium in the range of 0.1 percent to 6 percent with silver, titanium, zirconium as minor additives along with traces of alkali and alkaline earth metals with the balance aluminum. Representative AlLi alloys include but are not limited to Alloy 2090 (copper 2.7%, lithium 2.2%, silver 0.4% and zirconium 0.12%); Alloy 2091 (copper 2.1%, lithium 2.09% and zirconium 0.1%); Alloy 8090 (lithium 2.45%, zirconium 0.12%, copper 1.3% and magnesium 0.95%); Alloy 2099 (copper 2.4-3.0%, lithium 1.6-2.0%, zinc 0.4-1.0%, magnesium 0.1-0.5%, manganese 0.1-0.5%, zirconium 0.05-0.12%, iron 0.07% maximum and silicon 0.05% maximum); Alloy 2195 (1% lithium, 4% copper, 0.4% silver and 0.4% magnesium); and Alloy 2199 (zinc 0.2-0.9%, magnesium 0.05-0.40%, manganese 0.1-0.5%, zirconium 0.05-0.12%, iron 0.07% maximum and silicon 0.07% maximum). A representative AlLi alloy is an AlLi alloy having properties to meet the requirements of 100,000 pounds per square inch (psi) tensile strength and 80,000 psi yield strength.

[0060] FIG. 5 presents a side view of a schematic of a system for forming one or more intermediate casting products such as billets, slabs, ingots, blooms or other forms in a direct chill casting process. According to FIG. 5, system 200 includes induction furnace 205 including furnace vessel 210 and melt-containing vessel 230 around which an inductor coil is located. In one embodiment of making an AlLi alloy, a solid charge of aluminum and lithium and any other metals for the desired alloy are introduced into a lower portion of furnace vessel 210 and into melt-containing vessel 230. Representatively, the aluminum metal may be introduced and melted initially prior to the introduction of lithium metal. Once the aluminum metal is melted, lithium metal is introduced. Other metals may be introduced before or with the initial introduction of aluminum or before, after or with the lithium metal. Such metals may be introduced with a charging apparatus. The metals are melted by induction heating (via the induction coil) and the melted metals are transferred through a conduit by, for example, gravity feed to first filter 215, through degasser 220, to second filter 225 and to intermediate casting product forming station 240.

[0061] Induction furnace 205 in system 200 includes an induction coil surrounding melt-containing vessel 230. In one embodiment, there is a gap between an outside surface of melt-containing vessel 230 and an inside surface of the induction coil. In one embodiment, an inert gas is circulated in the gap. The representation of induction furnace 205 in FIG. 5 shows gas circulating around a representatively cylindrical melt-containing vessel (e.g., around the entire outer surface of the vessel). FIG. 5 shows a gas circulation subsystem associated with system 200. In one embodiment, a gas, such as an inert gas (e.g., helium), is supplied from gas source 255 through, for example, a stainless steel tube. Various valves control the supply of the gas. When a gas is supplied from gas source 255, valve 256 adjacent gas source 255 is open as is valve 251 to allow gas to be introduce into feed port 245 and valve 252 to allow gas to be discharged from discharge port 246 into the circulation subsystem. In one embodiment, the gas is introduced into feed port 245 associated with induction furnace 205. The introduced gas circulates in the gap between melt-containing vessel 230 and the induction coil. The circulated gas then exits induction furnace 205 through discharge port 246. From discharge port 246, the gas is passed through in-line hydrogen analyzer 258. Hydrogen analyzer 258 measures an amount (e.g., a concentration) of hydrogen in the gas stream. If the amount exceeds, for example, 0.1 percent by volume, the gas is vented to the atmosphere through vent valve 259. The circulated gas from discharge port 246 is also passed through purifier 260. Purifier 260 is operable or configured to remove hydrogen and/or moisture from the inert gas. An example of a purifier to remove moisture is a dehumidifier. From purifier 260, the gas is exposed to heat exchanger 270. Heat exchanger 270 is configured to remove heat from the gas to regulate a gas temperature to, for example, below 120? F. Representatively, in circulating through the gap between the induction coil and the melt-containing vessel, a gas may pick up/retain heat and a temperature of the gas will rise. Heat exchanger 270 is configured to reduce the temperature of the gas and, in one embodiment, to return such temperature to a target temperature which is below 120? F. and, in one embodiment, is around room temperature. In one embodiment, in addition to exposing the gas to heat exchanger 270, the gas may be cooled by exposing the gas to refrigeration source 275. In this manner, the temperature of the gas may be reduced significantly prior to entering/re-entering induction furnace 205. As shown in FIG. 5, the gas circulation subsystem 250 includes temperature monitor 280 (e.g., a thermocouple) prior to feed port 245. Temperature monitor 280 is operable to measure a temperature of a gas being fed into feed port 245. The circulation of gas through the described stages of gas circulation subsystem 250 (e.g., hydrogen analyzer 258, purifier 260, heat exchanger 270 and refrigeration source 275) may be through a tube, e.g., a stainless steel tube, to which each described stage is connected. In addition, it is appreciated that the order of the described stages may vary.

[0062] In another embodiment, the gas circulated through the gap between the melt-containing vessel 230 and the induction coil is atmospheric air. Such an embodiment may be used with alloys that do not contain reactive elements as described above. Referring to FIG. 5, where atmospheric air is to be introduced into the gap, gas circulation subsystem 250 may be isolated to avoid contamination. Accordingly, in one embodiment, valves 251, 252 and 256 are closed. To allow the introduction of air into feed port 245, air feed valve 253 is opened. To allow discharge from discharge port 246, air discharge valve 257 is opened. Air feed valve 253 and air discharge valve 257 are closed when gas circulation subsystem 250 is used and a gas is supplied from gas source 255. With air feed valve 253 and air discharge valve 257 open, atmosphere air is supplied to the gap by blower 258 (e.g., a supply fan). Blower 258 creates an air flow that supplies air (e.g., through tubing) to feed valve 245 at a volume representatively on the order of 12,000 cfm. Air circulates through the gap and is discharged through discharge port 246 to the atmosphere.

[0063] As noted above, from induction furnace 205, a melted alloy flows through filter 215 and filter 225. Each filter is designed to filter impurities from the melt. The melt also passes through in-line degasser 220. In one embodiment, degasser 220 is configured to remove undesired gas species (e.g., hydrogen gas) from the melt. Following the filtering and degassing of the melt, the melt may be introduced to intermediate casting product forming station 240 where one or more intermediate casting products (e.g., billets, slabs) may be formed in, for example, a direct-chill casting process. Intermediate casting product forming station 240, in one embodiment, includes a direct chill casting system similar to system 5 in FIG. 1 and the accompanying text. Such system representatively includes but is not limited to a casting pit having top, intermediate and bottom portions; a mold located at the top portion of the casting pit, the mold including a reservoir therein; a molten metal detector operable to detect a bleed-out or run-out; an exhaust system operable to remove generated gases including ignition sources and reactants from a casting pit; a gas introduction system including an inert gas source operable to provide inert gas to a casting pit; air-introduction ports operable to introduce air into a casting pit; a collection system operable to collect inert gas exiting the casting pit (e.g., through the exhaust system) and to remove constituents (e.g., steam) from the inert gas; and a recirculation system to recirculate the collected inert gas. In one embodiment, the direct chill casting system includes a coolant feed system that includes a valve system connected to a conduit feed such as illustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. The valve system includes a first valve operable to modulate a flow of coolant (e.g., water) from a coolant source and a second valve to modulate a flow of an inert fluid from an inert fluid source(s).

[0064] The system described above may be controlled by a controller. In one embodiment, controller 290 is configured to control the operation of system 200. Accordingly, various units such as induction furnace 205; first filter 215; degasser 220; second filter 225; and intermediate casting product forming station 240 are electrically connected to controller 290 either through wires or wirelessly. In one embodiment, controller 290 contains machine-readable program instructions as a form of non-transitory media. In one embodiment, the program instructions perform a method of melting a charge in induction furnace 205 and delivering the melt to intermediate casting product forming station 240. With regard to melting the charge, the program instructions include, for example, instructions for stirring the melt, operating the induction coil and circulating gas through the gap between the induction coil and melt-containing vessel 230. In an embodiment, where a charging apparatus includes a stirring means or mixing means, such program instructions include instructions for stirring or agitating the melt. With regard to delivering the melt to intermediate casting product forming station 240, such instructions include instructions for establishing a flow of the melt from induction furnace 205 through the fillers and degassers. At intermediate casting product forming station 240, the instructions direct the formation of one or more billets or slabs. With regard to forming one or more billets, the program instructions include, for example, instructions to lower the one or more casting cylinders 295 and spraying coolant 297 to solidify the metal alloy cast.

[0065] In one embodiment, controller 290 also regulates and monitors the system. Such regulation and monitoring may be accomplished by a number of sensors throughout the system that either send signals to controller 290 or are queried by controller 290. For example, with reference to induction furnace 205, such monitors may include one or more temperature gauges/thermocouples associated with melt-containing vessel 230 and/or upper furnace vessel 210. Other monitors include temperature monitor 280 associated with gas circulation subsystem 250 that provides the temperature of a gas (e.g., inert gas) introduced into the gap between melt-containing vessel 230 and inside surface of the induction coil. By monitoring a temperature of the circulation gas, a freeze plane associated with melt-containing vessel 230 may be maintained at a desired position. In one embodiment, a temperature of an exterior surface of melt-containing vessel may also be measured and monitored by controller 290 by placing a thermocouple adjacent to the exterior surface of melt-containing vessel 230 (thermocouple 344). Another monitor associated with gas circulation subsystem 250 is associated with hydrogen analyzer 258. When hydrogen analyzer 258 detects an excess amount of hydrogen in the gas, a signal is sent to or detected by controller 290 and controller 290 opens vent valve 259. In one embodiment, controller 290 also controls the opening and closing of valves 251, 252 and 256 associated with gas circulation subsystem 250 when gas is supplied from gas source 255 (each of the valves are open) with, for example, a flow rate of gas controlled by the extent to which controller 290 opens the valves and, when ambient air is supplied from blower 258, each of the valves are closed and air feed valve 253 and air discharge valve 257 are open. In one embodiment, where air is circulated through the gap, controller 290 may regulate the velocity of blower 258 and/or the amount feed valve 253 is open to regulate a temperature of an exterior surface of melt-containing vessel 230 based, for example, on a temperature measurement from thermocouple 344 adjacent an exterior of melt-containing vessel 230. A further monitor includes, for example, probes associated with a bleed out detection subsystem associated with induction furnace 205. With regard to the overall system 200, additional monitors may be provided to, for example, monitor the system for a molten metal bleed out or run out. With respect to monitoring and controlling a bleed-out or run-out at intermediate casting product forming station 240, in one embodiment, controller 290 monitors and/or controls at least the flow of coolant to a reservoir of a casting mold, a flow of inert gas to the reservoir of the casting mold, a movement of a platen in the casting pit, the exhaust system, the gas (e.g., inert gas) introduction system and the recirculation system.

[0066] The above-described system may be used to form billets or slabs or other intermediate casting product forms that may be used in various industries, including, but not limited to, automotive, sports, aeronautical and aerospace industries. The illustrated system shows a system for forming billets or slabs by a direct-chill casting process. Slabs or other than round or rectangular may alternatively be formed in a similar system. The formed billets may be used, for example, to extrude or forge desired components for aircraft, for automobiles or for any industry utilizing extruded metal parts. Similarly, slabs or other forms of castings may be used to form components such as components for automotive, aeronautical or aerospace industries such as by rolling or forging.

[0067] The above-described system illustrates one induction furnace feeding intermediate casting product forming station 240. In another embodiment, a system may include multiple induction furnaces and, representatively, multiple gas circulation subsystems including multiple source gases, multiple filters and degassers.

[0068] There has thus been described a commercially useful method and apparatus for minimizing the potential for explosions in the direct chill casting of AlLi alloys. It is appreciated that though described for AlLi alloys, the method and apparatus can be used in the casting of other metals and alloys.

[0069] It will be appreciated that several of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives or varieties thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Also that various alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

[0070] In the description above, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific requirements and several specific details have been set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that one or more other embodiments may be practiced without some of these specific details. The particular embodiments described are not provided to limit the invention but to illustrate it. The scope of the invention is not to be determined by the specific examples provided above but only by the claims below. In other instances, well-known structures, devices, and operations have been shown in block diagram form or without detail in order to avoid obscuring the understanding of the description. Where considered appropriate, reference numerals or terminal portions of reference numerals have been repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements, which may optionally have similar characteristics.

[0071] It should also be appreciated that reference throughout this specification to one embodiment, an embodiment, one or more embodiments, or different embodiments, for example, means that a particular feature may be included in the practice of the invention. Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the description various features are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects may lie in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. In another situation, an inventive aspect may include a combination of embodiments described herein or in a combination of less than all aspects described in a combination of embodiments. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the invention.