Method for Melting and Thermally Treating Solids

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

This invention describes a method for melting and thermal treatment of solid materials (such as metals and glass) using a hot process gas that is inductively heated. The innovation involves introducing specific chemical elements or compounds into the heated gas, which then enhance the emission of long-wavelength electromagnetic radiation (particularly above 575 nm). This improved radiation absorption by the solids leads to more efficient heating and melting, as well as possible decomposition of harmful substances during the process.

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

• Melting and refining of metals in electric or induction furnaces
• Thermal treatment processes in the glass industry
• Environmentally friendly disposal of hazardous hydrocarbon wastes by thermally breaking them down during melting
• Utilization in recycling plants for melting scrap or waste materials
• Processing contaminated or oil-containing materials (e.g., used transformer oils or pyrolysis byproducts) in a safe, efficient manner
• Heat treatment of solid materials requiring controlled, efficient heating
• Reduction of fossil fuel usage in high-temperature furnace operations

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Increases efficiency of thermal treatment and melting by optimizing radiation absorption in the target material
• Significantly reduces CO2 emissions compared to conventional oil or gas-fired furnaces
• Enables safer and more complete decomposition of toxic or contaminated hydrocarbons during thermal processing
• Reduces energy losses by maximizing the proportion of useful long-wavelength electromagnetic radiation
• Can improve the quality of final melted products through more uniform heating
• Allows flexible introduction of chemical additives in different states (solid, liquid, gas) to tailor process efficiency
• Supports processes with lower emissions and potential for greener, more sustainable operations

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

According to the method, at least one hot process gas flow is provided by inductively heating at least one body, through which and/or past which process gas to be heated is directed in the direction of solids to be thermally treated or melted, and the at least one body is heated using an electric coil which surrounds the body and is connected to an electric alternating voltage source or an electric direct voltage source that is operated in pulses. At least one chemical element and/or at least one chemical compound is/are introduced into the hot process gas flow, ions from said at least one chemical element and/or chemical compound being converted to an excited state by the heat of the process gas flow or at least one chemical reaction being initiated such that the proportion of electromagnetic radiation which is directed onto the thermally treated or melted product, having a wavelength of ≥ 575 nm, is increased by at least 10% of the total spectrum of the electromagnetic radiation.