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US 3,944,443 AGranted
Ultra high temperature chemical reactions with metals
OwnerFrancis Lee Jonesinventor
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Abstract
A method for treating metals and metal surfaces is disclosed. The method includes the use of a plasma gas generated by an induction plasma system. In one embodiment, a cutting tool, such as a saw blade or razor blade is passed into contact with the plasma to produce an extremely hard blade surface. The method includes stabilization of the plasma prior to use, and the electrical insulating of metallic parts of the treating equipment in order to prevent arcing. Very high feed speeds may be employed, up to 150 feet per minute.
Claims9
A method for treating metal structures to harden the surface thereof which comprises:
- a. generating a plasma gas selected from the group consisting of propane, a mixture of nitrogen and propane and a mixture of nitrogen and boron trifluoride by an induction plasma system;
- b. stabilizing the plasma gas generated by the induction plasma system;
- c. providing an electrically insulated feed system for passing the metal structure through the plasma gas;
- d. passing the metal structure consisting essentially of a metal selected from the group consisting of steel compositions, cast iron, aluminum, titanium and alloys of said metals through the plasma gas at a speed of from 60 to 150 feet per minute;
- and
- e. quenching the surface of the metal structure with a fluid immediately after the metal structure has passed through the plasma gas to harden the surface thereof.
3 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.