Multiple die casting machines with single vacuum source

#1. Field of the Invention

#The present invention relates to a vacuum die casting method and system and, more particularly, to a system and method in which multiple die casting machines are connected to and function with a single vacuum apparatus resulting in a simple, efficient and low cost arrangement that produces better and stronger castings.

#2. Description of the Related Art

#FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a prior art die casting machine showing the basic elements of a machine in the first step of the die casting process and illustrating the filling of a chamber with molten metal.

#FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 illustrating the casting of an item as molten metal is forced into the die cavity.

#FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic view of the apparatus shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrating the ejecting of a casting to complete a casting cycle.

#While the present invention is open to various modifications and alternative constructions, the preferred embodiment shown in the drawings will be described herein in detail. It is to be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalent structures and alternative constructions falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as expressed in the appended claims.

#Referring now to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, there is illustrated the operation of a die casting machine sometimes referred to as a horizontal cold-chamber system. The machine 10 includes a mold or die having a fixed block 12 and a horizontally movable block 14, a die cavity 16, an entry chamber or shot sleeve 18, and a plunger 20. The plunger is movable in the chamber under the influence of a hydraulic cylinder 22. Molten metal 24 is poured into an opening 26 after the two mold blocks 12 and 14 have been brought together and locked. As shown in FIG. 2, the hydraulic cylinder pushes the plunger to the left forcing the molten metal into the die cavity. After a predetermined period of time, the movable block 14 moves to the left, away from the stationary block 12, as illustrated in FIG. 3, exposing the casting 30. The casting is then pushed away from the mold by ejector pins 32, 34, thereby completing a casting cycle. Of course, while only the basic steps of the casting cycle and the elements of a die casting machine have been disclosed, those in the field understand that other elements and steps must be taken in a typical die casting operation.

#Referring now to FIG. 4, a die casting machine and a vacuum apparatus is illustrated. The die casting machine is similar to that described in relation to FIGS. 1-3, and it operates in a similar manner. However, the machine is connected to a vacuum apparatus 50 and a controller 52. The vacuum apparatus typically consists of an electric motor operating a pump which in turn is connected to an empty tank called a receiver. The receiver in turn is connected through appropriate pipes or hoses to a valve 54 adjacent to and in communication with the casting cavity 36 in the die 38.