Systems and methods for controlling the dimensions of a cold finger apparatus in electroslag refining process

Abstract

A system and method of electroslag refining of metal is taught. The system and method includes the introduction of unrefined metal into an electroslag refining process in which the unrefined metal is first melted at the upper surface of the refining slag. The molten metal is refined as it passes through the molten slag. The refined metal is collected in a cold hearth apparatus having a skull of refined metal formed on the surface of the cold hearth for protecting the cold hearth from the leaching action of the refined molten metal. A cold finger bottom pour spout is formed at the bottom of the cold hearth to permit dispensing of molten refined metal from the cold hearth. The dimensions of the cold finger apparatus pour spout are controlled by positioning a retaining means around the outer surface of the pour spout thereby controlling the flow rate of molten metal through the cold finger apparatus.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.