Device for Melting Metals

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes an apparatus for melting metals (particularly non-ferrous ones below 1000°C, like aluminum) using a plasma-generated hot gas stream instead of traditional gas or oil burners. The plasma is generated and kept at a distance from the metal to avoid contamination; thermal radiation and hot gases are directed onto the metal to melt it. The apparatus can use microwave or electric arc plasma generation, offers precise control, and minimizes direct plasma-material contact.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Eco-friendly aluminum and non-ferrous metal recycling and melting facilities.
• Industrial metal foundries seeking to reduce CO2 emissions.
• Upgrading existing melting furnaces to cleaner plasma heating systems.
• Specialized alloy manufacturing requiring minimal contamination.
• Laboratory-scale metal melting with precise, controllable heating.
• Pre-heating, maintaining, or processing metals with high purity requirements.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Greatly reduces or eliminates on-site CO2 emissions compared to conventional oil/gas burning.
• Minimizes contamination and oxidation of the molten metal, yielding higher-purity melts.
• Can retrofit existing melting furnaces, reducing the need for large new investments.
• Allows precise, remote-controlled heating with adjustable power, flow, and directionality.
• Adaptable to various metals and alloys, especially those sensitive to induction or direct arcing.
• Energy recirculation and reuse designs further increase efficiency and reduce operating costs.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a device for melting metals having a melting temperature of less than 1000 °C. According to the invention, an apparatus (2) for forming a plasma (8) is arranged on a melting furnace (1). The apparatus (2) is connected to a voltage supply, and at least one first feed for a plasma gas is connected to the apparatus (2), by means of which plasma gas the plasma (8) can be formed. The apparatus is designed, dimensioned, arranged and/or oriented such that the plasma (8) that is formed is at a distance from the metal as material to be melted (9). A hot gas flow can be formed by means of the plasma (8), which hot gas flow is directed toward the material to be melted (9). A melt tub or a crucible (5) is arranged in the melting furnace (1) in order to receive the melted metal.