Method and apparatus for continuous in-line annealing of amorphous strip

Abstract

An apparatus for the in-line annealing of amorphous strip includes feed rolls for substantially continuously feeding the strip during annealing. The strip is first fed into a nip of cooperating heated pressure rolls. The heated pressure rolls rapidly heat the strip to an annealing temperature at a rate of substantially 10.sup.2 -10.sup.4 .degree.C./second while also subjecting the strip to localized plastic deformation. Where multiple ribbons are being fed simultaneously through the heating pressure rolls, bonding occurs to produce a composite strip. The strip is fed from the pressure rolls through an in-line annealer immediately downstream from the pressure rolls. During annealing, the strip is continuously fed and maintained under tension by operation of a winding roll. The strip is annealed at a temperature of between 420.degree.-510.degree. C. for 0.01-10.0 minutes. Torque of between 200-600 inch pounds is applied to the strip both during annealing and as the strip cools to room temperature prior to winding. An associated method is also disclosed.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.