PROCESS FOR PREPARATION OF THE INTERMETALLIC COMPOUND Nb3Sn BY MELT METALLURGICAL PROCEDURE

Abstract

The invention relates to a process for preparation of the intermetallic compound Nb3Sn by melt metallurgical procedure. The process comprises the steps of pressing Nb particles and Sn particles to form a start electrode, whereby the pressed start electrode is remelted in a vacuum in an electric arc, whereby a first moulded body is obtained. Alternatively, the process comprises the steps of remelting an Nb start electrode in an electric arc in a vacuum, whereby Sn particles are being introduced into the molten Nb forming during the remelting, whereby a first moulded body is obtained. The molar ratio of Nb and Sn is selected appropriately such that the first moulded body obtained contains at least 50% by weight of the intermetallic compound Nb3Sn as the A15 phase as well as free Nb and/or Sn and inevitable impurities, if applicable.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.