JP2002316256A - Container - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a container which eliminates the need for replacement of a part such as a stoke. SOLUTION: The container is provided with a closed container main body 50 in which molten metal of aluminum alloy, etc., can be stored, a molten metal flow path 57 extending toward the outer peripheral upper part 57b of the container main body 50 through an opening 57a arranged at a position near the bottom part 50a of the container main body 50 in the inner periphery of the container main body 50 and means 101, 313 for regulating the pressure in the container main body. As the means for regulating the pressure, e.g. non-oxidizing gas, such as nitrogen gas, or a vacuum evacuating system, such as a vacuum pump, can be adopted.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a container used for transporting, for example, molten aluminum.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In a factory where aluminum is formed by using a large number of die-casting machines, an aluminum material is often supplied not only inside the factory but also outside the factory. In this case, a container containing aluminum in a molten state is transported from a factory on the material supply side to a factory on the molding side, and the molten material is supplied to each die cast machine.

[0003]

The present inventors have proposed a technique for supplying a material from such a container to the die casting machine by utilizing a pressure difference. That is, in this technique, the inside of the container is pressurized and the molten material in the container is led out through a pipe introduced into the container. As such a container, for example, JP-A-8-20
No. 826 can be used.

However, in the apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-20826, since the stalk is continuously exposed to the molten metal in the container, the stalk's base metal is oxidized and corroded, and the stalk needs to be replaced. Sex often occurs,
There is a problem. When such a container is transported between factories, the inside of the container is first preheated using a gas burner or the like, and then the molten material is supplied into the container. This is disclosed in JP-A-8-20826. In such a device, there is also a problem that the operability is very poor because the stalk in the container becomes a hindrance in the preheating, and for example, it is necessary to remove the stalk together with a large lid for holding the stalk and perform the preheating.

The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a container that does not require replacement of parts such as stalk.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a container which can efficiently perform preheating.

[0007]

In order to solve the above problems, a container according to the present invention is provided with an airtight container main body capable of storing a molten metal and a position on the inner periphery of the container main body near the bottom of the container main body. It is characterized by comprising a flow path of the molten metal extending toward the upper part of the outer periphery of the container main body through the opening, and means for adjusting the pressure in the container main body.

In the present invention, the flow path for flowing the molten metal extends from a position on the inner periphery of the container body near the bottom of the container body toward the upper portion of the outer periphery of the container body. That is, in the present invention, compared to the apparatus disclosed in JP-A-8-20826, a member such as stalk exposed to the molten metal in the container is not required, so that there is no need to replace parts such as stalk. . Further, in the present invention, since a member that obstructs preheating such as stalk is not arranged in the container, workability for preheating is improved,
Preheating can be performed efficiently. After the molten metal is contained in the container, it is often necessary to scoop out oxides and the like on the surface of the molten metal. This work is difficult to do if there is stalk inside. ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, since there is no structure like a stalk inside a container, workability | operativity can be improved.

Here, the molten metal supply method using the container according to the present invention includes: (a) a step of introducing the molten metal into the container from the outside of the container by setting the inside of the container to a more negative pressure than the outside of the container; (B) drawing out the molten metal from the inside of the container to the outside of the container. Here, the negative pressure state means that the pressure outside the container> the pressure inside the container.
In addition to the case where the inside of the container is depressurized, the case where the outside of the container is pressurized,
Further, the case where the pressure inside the container is reduced and the pressure outside the container is increased is also included.

[0010] By introducing the molten metal into the container by utilizing the pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the container in this manner, a furnace for supplying the molten metal through a member which is configured to draw the molten metal into the container, for example, a pipe. And the container can be connected. For example, since it is not necessary to connect a furnace for supplying molten metal with a container via a gutter member, the opportunity for the molten metal to come into contact with air is drastically reduced, and oxidation of the molten metal supplied into the container is reduced as much as possible. Becomes possible. Therefore, the work of removing the oxide is not required, the workability can be improved, and a molten metal containing almost no oxide can be supplied.

The step (b) is characterized in that the inside of the container is made to be in a more positive pressure than the outside of the container and the molten metal is led out of the container to the outside of the container. For example, the container communicates with the inside and outside of the container. And a first pipe through which the molten metal can be circulated, wherein the steps (a) and (b) perform introduction and extraction of the molten metal using the first pipe. It is characterized by the following.

The positive pressure state means that the pressure inside the container is greater than the pressure outside the container. In addition to the case where the inside of the container is pressurized, the case where the pressure outside the container is reduced and the case where the inside of the container is further pressurized and the pressure outside the container is reduced are also included.

In the present invention, the supply of the molten metal from the furnace for supplying the molten metal to the container and the supply of the molten metal from the container to the server can be performed using, for example, a common first pipe. It can be very simple.
However, the present invention includes the case where separate piping is used for introducing and discharging the molten metal.

In the method for supplying molten metal according to the present invention, the container includes a second pipe provided inside and outside the container so as to communicate with each other, and the step (a) and the step (b) are performed in the second step.
The pressure in the container is reduced and pressurized by using the piping of (1). By performing the depressurization and pressurization in the container with the common pipe in this way, the configuration of the container can be made very simple.

Therefore, according to the present invention, for example, only by providing the first and second pipes for the container, it becomes possible to introduce the molten metal into the container and to extract the molten metal from the container. This not only simplifies the structure, but also makes it possible to drastically reduce the oxidation of the molten metal.

In the method for supplying a molten metal according to the present invention, the step (a) includes a step of depressurizing the inside of the container and introducing the molten metal into the container from outside the container; It is characterized by comprising a step of detecting, and a step of controlling the pressure in the container according to the detected liquid level. This makes it possible to supply an appropriate amount of molten metal into the container, for example, regardless of the system configuration on the server side.

In the method for supplying a molten metal according to the present invention, the step (a) further comprises a step of replacing the space in the container with an inert gas after introducing the molten metal. This makes it possible to further suppress the oxidation of the supplied molten metal in the container.

In the method for supplying molten metal according to the present invention, the container may be provided so as to communicate with the inside and outside of the container and provided with a first pipe through which the molten metal can flow. The effective inner diameter is larger than about 50 mm and about 100 m
m. A more preferred inner diameter is from about 65 mm to about 80 mm. This is a finding obtained as a result of the inventors examining the relationship between the pipe diameter and the pressure required for pumping.

The molten metal supply system of the present invention is provided with a container capable of containing the molten metal, a pipe provided inside and outside the container so as to communicate therewith, and through which the molten metal can flow. And an exhaust system for exhausting air. Further, the molten metal supply system of the present invention includes a container capable of containing the molten metal, a first pipe communicating between the inside and the outside of the container, and allowing the molten metal to flow, and an inside and outside of the container. And a second pipe capable of exhausting the inside of the container.

In the present invention, since it is sufficient to connect the furnace for supplying molten metal with the vessel via a pipe for drawing the molten metal into the vessel, the opportunity for the molten metal to come into contact with air is drastically reduced. Oxidation of the supplied molten metal can be reduced as much as possible. Thus, according to the present invention,
Oxide removal work is not required, workability can be improved, and a molten metal containing almost no oxide can be supplied.

The molten metal supply system according to the present invention is characterized in that an opening of the pipe inside the container is below the container. As a result, most of the molten metal supplied from the pipe in the container is supplied below the level of the molten metal already supplied in the container, that is, most of the molten metal supplied from the pipe is supplied to the molten metal. This eliminates direct contact with the air in the container during the supply, thereby effectively preventing oxidation of the molten metal. Further, since the opening of the pipe is at such a position, the supply of the molten metal from the container to the server by pressurization can be performed using the pipe.

[0022] The molten metal supply system of the present invention further comprises means for detecting a liquid level of the molten metal in the container, and means for controlling the exhaust system according to the detected liquid level. Is what you do. This makes it possible to supply an appropriate amount of molten metal into the container. The liquid level detecting means is provided with a pair of electrodes provided at a predetermined interval on the ceiling portion in the container, and each tip portion projects at least to a position of a maximum liquid level in the container. By using such a liquid level detecting means, it is possible to detect the liquid level with a simple configuration even in a high-temperature environment where metal is melted. Such a liquid level detecting means may be used in combination with, for example, a weight sensor. For example, the amount of molten metal in the container is usually measured using a weight sensor, and the liquid level detecting means having the above configuration can be used as an emergency maximum liquid level detecting means. As a result, a safer system can be constructed.

In the method for supplying molten metal of the present invention, the inside of the container is depressurized to suck the molten metal, the container is transported to a point of use, and the container is pressurized to supply the molten metal to the point of use. It is characterized by the following. here,
For example, the molten metal is aluminum, and the transportation of the container to a use point is performed via a public road, and at the use point, molding of aluminum using an aluminum die-cast machine using the molten aluminum Is executed.

The present invention relates to a production method for producing molten aluminum from solid aluminum, comprising: a step of melting aluminum in a furnace; a step of connecting the furnace and the vessel via a pipe; Depressurizing the vessel and introducing molten aluminum into the vessel from the furnace through the pipe, and pressurizing the vessel to melt the aluminum from the vessel to the server from the vessel through the pipe. And a deriving step. Thereby, it is possible to produce molten aluminum having a small amount of oxides.

In the method for producing an aluminum die-cast product of the present invention, a step of melting aluminum in a furnace, a step of connecting the furnace and the vessel via a pipe, and a step of reducing the pressure in the vessel are performed. Introducing molten aluminum into the vessel from the furnace through the pipe, and introducing molten aluminum from the vessel to the server through the pipe by pressurizing the vessel, and Supplying the molten metal from a server to an aluminum die-cast machine to manufacture an aluminum die-cast product. This makes it possible to efficiently produce a high-quality aluminum die-cast product containing less oxide.

The method of manufacturing an automobile according to the present invention includes a step of melting aluminum in a furnace, a step of connecting the furnace and the vessel via a pipe, and a step of reducing the pressure in the vessel to connect the pipe. Introducing the molten aluminum from the furnace into the container through the furnace, pressurizing the interior of the container and extracting the molten aluminum from the container to the server through the piping, and aluminum from the server It is characterized by comprising a step of manufacturing an automobile engine by supplying the molten metal to a die-cast machine, and a step of assembling an automobile using the manufactured engine. This makes it possible to efficiently manufacture an automobile having a high-quality engine with a small amount of oxides.

[0027] The molten metal supply system of the present invention comprises a pressurized molten metal supply container, an elevating mechanism that moves up and down while holding the pressurized molten metal supply container, and a pressurized molten metal supply container. And a transport vehicle having a pressurized gas storage tank for supplying gas.

The transport vehicle of the present invention comprises an elevating mechanism that moves up and down while holding the pressurized molten metal supply container, and a pressurized gas storage tank that supplies gas for pressurization to the pressurized molten metal supply container. It is characterized by having.

According to the present invention, a pressurized gas storage tank is mounted on a transport vehicle, and a pressurized gas is supplied from the pressurized gas storage tank to a pressurized molten metal supply container. , The container need not be inclined as in the prior art. Therefore, for example, it is not necessary to provide a rotating mechanism in the forklift, and only the lifting mechanism needs to be provided, and the mechanism becomes very simple. Moreover, since the pressurized gas storage tank is used as the pressurizing means, it is not necessary to mount a generator, which is considered when a compressor is mounted, for example, and it is possible to reduce the size and weight. It is very easy to refill the gas inside the factory.

The above-mentioned transport device is provided at a fork portion of a fork wrist mechanism, and is provided with a measuring means (for example, a pressure sensor) for measuring the weight of the container, and the container for storing the container from the pressurized gas storage tank based on the measurement result. And control means for controlling the supply of the gas to the apparatus.

According to this configuration, for example, when the weight of the container becomes equal to or less than a predetermined value, the supply of the gas is stopped by assuming that a predetermined amount of molten metal is supplied from the container to the other side, and the supply of the molten metal is stopped. Stop. This makes it possible to supply a specific amount of molten metal without any manual operation and with a simple configuration.

The supply device of the present invention comprises an airtight region, means for supplying a metal into the airtight region, means for receiving the supplied metal in the airtight region, and adjustment of the oxygen concentration in the airtight region. Means for performing the operation.

[0033] The supply device of the present invention comprises a furnace capable of holding, keeping or heating molten metal, a pipe for guiding the molten metal to an airtight chamber, and a means for adjusting the oxygen concentration in the furnace and the airtight chamber. And means for adjusting the difference between the pressure of the furnace and the pressure of the hermetic chamber.

Further, the supply apparatus of the present invention comprises a furnace capable of holding, keeping or heating the molten metal, a pipe for guiding the molten metal to an airtight chamber, and a pressure lower than the pressure in the furnace and the pressure in the airtight chamber. Means for adjusting the molten metal to be relatively high and sending the molten metal to a point of use. The apparatus may further include means for adjusting the pressure in the furnace to be relatively lower than the pressure at the use point and returning the molten metal to the furnace.

According to the supply method of the present invention, molten metal is transferred in an airtight region in which the oxygen concentration or oxygen activity is controlled. Further, the method for producing a metal product of the present invention is a step of supplying a molten metal in an airtight region in which the oxygen concentration is controlled,
Shaping the supplied metal.

The oxygen concentration or the oxygen activity is adjusted so that the oxidation of the metal is suppressed. The oxygen concentration can be adjusted not only by adjusting the partial pressure of oxygen but also by adjusting the total pressure. Further, the temperature may be adjusted including the temperature. Hereinafter, the term “oxygen concentration” includes the concept of oxygen activity. Depending on conditions such as temperature, pressure and oxygen concentration, not only oxidation of the metal is suppressed but also the metal may be reduced. In any case, the metal is supplied to the use point in the hermetic zone while the oxidation is suppressed. Examples of the metal supplied here include a metal in a molten state or metal powder (including fine particles and ultrafine particles, the same applies hereinafter). The composition of the metal may be a single element or an alloy. The means for adjusting the oxygen concentration includes, for example, an exhaust system and a non-oxidizing gas introduction system. These may be provided in combination or may be provided with a plurality of systems. As an exhaust system, an exhaust blower and various vacuum pumps (for example, a liquid ring pump such as a rotary pump, a mechanical booster pump, a water ring pump, an oil diffusion pump, a turbo molecular pump, an ion getter pump, a cryopump, etc.) are used as necessary. May be selected or used in combination. A vacuum gauge (vacuum gauge) may be provided as needed. Examples of the non-oxidizing gas include a rare gas, nitrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, sulfur hexafluoride, and the like. These gases may be selected according to the properties of the metal. Non-oxidizing gases may be used in combination.

By adopting such a configuration, in the supply device of the present invention, it is possible to supply the metal to the use point in the hermetic region while suppressing the oxidation of the metal. For this reason, the production amount of oxides such as oxide films and glue can be suppressed to an extremely low level, and the productivity can be improved.

In addition, metals having low free energy of formation and high reactivity, such as magnesium, calcium, and titanium, have a problem that they are easily oxidized in processes such as melting, holding, hot water distribution, pouring, and forming. The same applies to metals such as powders whose surface free energy is excessive. These metals are not only susceptible to oxidation, but also have the danger of ignition and explosion. According to the present invention, such a metal can be supplied safely.

Further, in the die-casting of metal, when the molten metal is supplied to the die-casting apparatus, the metal is oxidized and ignited, which impairs the strength, accuracy and appearance of the product. This is remarkable in a metal which is easily oxidized and difficult to process, for example, a magnesium alloy. One factor is that the oxide of the metal is mixed before the molten metal is supplied to the cavity. ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, since the oxidation of a metal is supplied to a die-cast apparatus in the state suppressed, the quality of a product improves. This effect is further enhanced by controlling the oxygen activity in the flow space of the molten metal including the cavity as described later.

When the metal is melted as described above, a flame retardant such as beryllium may be added for flame prevention. Beryllium is not only known for its low elemental abundance, but is also a very toxic element. For example, it is known that inhaling oxides has an adverse effect on the human body, such as impairing the respiratory tract. And now, beryllium is being diffused into the environment through the manufacturing process and its inclusion in products (note also after the products become waste). The use of such harmful substances
There is a major problem from the viewpoint of worker safety and environmental protection. According to the present invention, since it is not necessary to use such harmful gas, it is possible to ensure the safety of workers and prevent harmful substances from diffusing into the environment.

Next, the container of the present invention will be described. Here, the case where the container is used fixedly (for example, a melting furnace for molten metal, a holding furnace, etc.) and the case where it is used movably (for example, a container) can be applied.

[0042] The container of the present invention comprises a frame forming an airtight region, a heat insulating material provided inside the frame, and at least one pipe provided through the frame and the heat insulating material. It is provided.

[0043] The present invention also provides a container capable of holding a molten metal, a means for pressurizing the inside of the furnace,
Means for depressurizing the inside of the furnace.

The frame forms a closed space which is an airtight area inside. Further, it plays a role of maintaining the strength of the entire container and a role of protecting the heat insulating material from the outside. The frame can be made of various metal materials, and the material may be appropriately selected according to the use of the container. This selection is preferably made in consideration of the physical and chemical properties of the contents contained in the container. For example, the frame is selected so that even if the heat insulating material is broken, the frame is not melted or broken by the heat of the contents or a chemical reaction with the contents. The same applies to the heat insulating material. For example, various heat-resistant bricks are selected according to the use of the container.

The piping provides access between the outside and inside space of the frame. A plurality of such pipes may be provided. For example, by connecting an exhaust system to this pipe to reduce the pressure inside, it is possible to control the oxygen concentration and the oxygen activity in the internal hermetic zone. Also, for example, by connecting a non-oxidizing gas introduction system to this pipe, a non-oxidizing gas can be supplied inside.

Further, with this piping, such reduced pressure,
The fluid (molten metal or powder) can be taken out of or put into the container by pressurization. For example, consider a case where a plurality of pipes are provided. The contents are assumed to be molten metal. In this case, if a non-oxidizing gas is introduced from the first pipe to pressurize the hermetic region, a force for pushing the molten metal to the outside through the second pipe acts. Further, if the first pipe is connected to an exhaust system to reduce the pressure in the airtight region, the molten metal can be sucked from the outside through the second pipe. The piping is heated by a heater or the like as necessary. The temperature is preferably set to be higher than the melting point of the contents flowing in the tube. At this time, not only the movement of the molten metal or powder but also the oxygen concentration in the system can be controlled by the exhaust system or the non-oxidizing gas supply system. As described above, one of the major features of the present invention is that the generation of the pressure difference including the reduced pressure state contributes to both the mass transfer of the molten metal and the powder and the prevention of oxidation. Further, when the atmosphere in the pipe becomes oxidative, oxides adhere to the pipe and the pipe is clogged. According to the present invention, not only the oxygen concentration in the pipe is controlled but also the content in the pipe can be prevented from remaining, so that such a problem of clogging can be solved.

Further, the container of the present invention may have a form further comprising means for measuring the temperature in the hermetic zone and means for adjusting the pressure in the frame according to the measured temperature.

A heat-resistant material such as a heat-resistant brick deteriorates in heat resistance due to its aging. For example, when a molten metal is transported using a plurality of containers, the temperature of the molten metal may be different depending on the individual difference of the containers. Occasionally, the temperature of the molten metal may drop to a level that does not meet the needs of the user. The container of the present invention employs a configuration in which the temperature of the airtight region or the molten metal is measured, and the pressure in the frame is controlled based on the measured temperature. By adopting such a configuration, the thermal conductivity in the system is controlled by the pressure. For example, for a container in which the temperature is reduced during the transfer of the molten metal, the inside of the frame is depressurized by an exhaust system to suppress the internal heat conductivity to a small value. Thereby, the temperature of the molten metal can be maintained irrespective of a decrease in the heat insulating performance of the heat insulating material. The temperature difference between the contents of the plurality of containers can be reduced. Also, oxidation of the molten metal can be prevented. The pressure control can be performed not by the temperature itself but by the rate of temperature change (for example, a differential value), and this configuration can perform more accurate temperature control of the molten metal.

According to the present invention, there is provided a container capable of delivering molten metal, a frame having an inner surface provided with a heat insulating material, a heater provided inside the heat insulating material, and a means for measuring the temperature of the molten metal. And means for controlling the heater according to the measured temperature.

In the container of the present invention, not only the structure for controlling the pressure in the container in accordance with the measured temperature and the temperature change, but also the temperature of the heater disposed in the container in accordance with the measured temperature and the temperature change. A configuration may be used. In the configuration of the present invention, the airtightness of the frame does not matter. As a heater, for example, there is a configuration in which a resistor wiring is exposed inside a heat insulating material. In addition, various heaters such as a sheathed heater and a radiant tube may be employed. Then, the temperature in the container or the temperature of the contents or the temperature change is measured, and the amount of energy (electric power, gas) supplied to the heater is controlled according to the measured value. Thereby, the temperature of the molten metal can be maintained irrespective of a decrease in the heat insulating performance of the heat insulating material. The temperature difference between the contents of the plurality of containers can be reduced. Further, with such a configuration, the temperature of the contents of the container can be accurately controlled. Furthermore, the configuration of the container of the present invention can be combined with the above-described configuration of each container of the present invention.

[0051] The forming apparatus of the present invention comprises a means for forming a metal supplied to a point of use, an airtight chamber surrounding the point of use, and a means for adjusting the oxygen concentration in the airtight chamber. It is provided with.

The molding apparatus according to the present invention includes, for example, injection molding, extrusion molding, compression molding, and extrusion in which molten metal supplied to a point of use is extruded into a space between a core mold (male mold) and a cavity mold (female mold). It can be applied to various molding devices such as molding and blow molding. In the forming apparatus of the present invention, the metal to be formed is supplied to the use point in a state where the oxygen concentration is adjusted (including the reduced pressure). For the supply of the metal to the point of use, the above-described supply device and container of the present invention can be used. For example, in conventional metal forming, when the metal is supplied to the device, the metal is oxidized and ignited, and the strength of the product is reduced.
Prevents accuracy and appearance. This is remarkable in a metal which is easily oxidized and difficult to process, for example, a magnesium alloy. ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, since the oxidation of a metal is supplied to a shaping | molding apparatus in the state suppressed, the quality of the shaping | molding product improves. In the case of a die casting apparatus, it is more effective to control the oxygen activity in the flow space of the molten metal including the nozzle, sprue, runner, and gate. For this purpose, a valve and an exhaust system or a non-oxidizing gas supply system may be provided on the opposite side of the flow point of the molten metal from the use point, and the relative pressure difference and the oxygen concentration between the use point may be adjusted.

A container according to another aspect of the present invention is a sealed container main body having a through hole that can store molten metal and is used for adjusting an internal pressure, and a bottom portion of the container main body on the inner periphery of the container main body. And a fire-resistant wall provided to cover the inner wall of the container main body, having a flow path of the molten metal extending upward to the outside via an opening provided at a position close to the container. It is characterized by the following.

In the present invention, since the flow path of the molten metal is constituted by a fire-resistant wall having high heat conductivity provided so as to cover the inner wall of the container body, when the molten metal is stored in the container, The heat of the molten metal being conducted is conducted through the refractory wall, and the temperature of the flow path is substantially equal to that of the stored molten metal. Therefore, the molten metal flowing through the flow path does not cool down in the flow path and solidify and adhere to the surface of the flow path. That is, when the molten metal solidifies and adheres to the flow path, the flow path (conventional pipe) is likely to be clogged. However, the present invention can effectively prevent the flow path from being clogged. Further, in the present invention, since the temperature of the flow channel is substantially equal to that of the stored molten metal, the viscosity of the molten metal flowing near the surface of the flow channel does not decrease, and the pressure from the container is reduced by a smaller pressure difference. Out of the molten metal and introduction of the molten metal into the container. That is, the container of the present invention is configured such that the flow path of the molten metal is constituted by a refractory wall having high thermal conductivity provided so as to cover the inner wall of the container body, and the temperature of the flow path is substantially equal to that of the stored molten metal. This is very effective for a system in which a molten metal is introduced into and out of a container using a pressure difference.

Since the container of the present invention is provided with a through-hole used for adjusting the internal pressure, for example, the inside of the container is made to have a negative pressure through the through-hole, so that the inside of the container is formed through the flow path. It is possible to introduce molten metal. In the present invention,
By introducing the molten metal into the container through the flow path as described above, the metal adhering to the surface of the flow path is washed by the hotter molten metal flowing through the flow path. Therefore, in the present invention, clogging of the flow path can be effectively prevented by having the through-hole used for adjusting the internal pressure.

In the present invention, the flow path for flowing the molten metal extends from a position near the bottom of the container main body on the inner periphery of the container main body toward the upper portion of the outer periphery of the container main body. That is, in the present invention, compared to the apparatus disclosed in JP-A-8-20826, a member such as stalk exposed to the molten metal in the container is not required, so that there is no need to replace parts such as stalk. . Further, in the present invention, since a member that obstructs preheating such as stalk is not arranged in the container, workability for preheating is improved,
Preheating can be performed efficiently.

The container according to one embodiment of the present invention is characterized by further comprising a heat insulating member interposed between the inner wall of the container main body and the fire-resistant wall. The container is lined with a member having high heat insulation performance because it is necessary to enhance the heat retention as a whole. The part directly in contact with the molten metal is lined with a refractory member. In the container of the present invention, a refractory caster material is disposed in a zone separating the inside of the container and the flow path, and the thermal conductivity in this region is intentionally increased. The refractory material is set to have a higher density and a higher thermal conductivity than the heat insulating material. Examples of the refractory material include a dense refractory caster, and examples of the heat insulating material include a heat insulating caster and a board material.
By adopting such a configuration, in addition to keeping the molten metal in the container warm, heat is easily supplied to the above-described flow path. Therefore, the flow passage is less likely to be cooled by the influence of the outside, and the clogging of the flow passage can be more effectively prevented. Further, since the viscosity of the molten metal can be suppressed to a small value, the molten metal can be introduced into and out of the container with a small pressure difference.

A container according to one embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the bottom of the container body is inclined toward the opening so that the opening is at a lower position. Thereby, when the amount of molten metal in the container is reduced, the substantial area where the refractory material near the flow path contacts the molten metal in the container becomes larger than the area at a location away from the flow path. . Therefore, it is possible to minimize the cooling of the flow path, to prevent the flow path from being clogged more effectively, and to allow the molten metal to be introduced into and out of the container with a smaller pressure difference. Become. In addition, it is possible to efficiently extract the molten metal remaining in the container from the flow channel by inclining the container by reducing the inclination angle and minimizing the clogging of the flow channel.

A container according to an embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that an openable and closable hatch is provided on an upper portion of the container main body.

In the present invention, by providing such a hatch, for example, it is possible to preheat the container by opening a hatch and inserting a gas burner before introducing molten metal into the container. The flow path is warmed through the material, the clogging of the flow path can be more effectively prevented, and the molten metal can be introduced into and out of the container with a smaller pressure difference. In the present invention, when the molten metal is introduced into the container via the flow path, the flow path can be preliminarily heated as described above, and therefore, it is particularly effective in such a case.

[0061] A container according to one aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the through hole is provided in the hatch.

As described above, the container is preheated by the gas burner before the molten metal is supplied into the container. This preheating is performed by opening the hatch and inserting the gas burner into the container. Therefore, the hatch is opened each time molten metal is supplied into the container. In the present invention, since such a hatch is provided with a through hole for adjusting the internal pressure, it is possible to confirm the adhesion of the metal to the through hole for adjusting the internal pressure every time the molten metal is supplied into the container. Then, for example, when metal is attached to the through hole, it may be removed each time. Therefore, in the present invention, it is possible to prevent clogging of a pipe or a hole used for adjusting the internal pressure.

[0063]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a metal supply system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the figure, the first factory 10 and the second factory 10
The factory 20 is provided, for example, at a place distant from a public road 30.

In the first factory 10, a plurality of die cast machines 11 as use points are arranged.
Each die cast machine 11 is for molding a product having a desired shape by injection molding using molten aluminum as a raw material. Examples of such products include parts related to automobile engines. Further, as the molten metal, not only an aluminum alloy but also an alloy mainly composed of other metals such as magnesium and titanium may be used. Each die cast machine 11
, A holding furnace (hand holding furnace) 12 for temporarily storing the molten aluminum before the shot is arranged.
The holding furnace 12 stores a plurality of shots of molten aluminum, and the molten aluminum is injected into the die casting machine 11 from the holding furnace 12 through the ladle 13 or the pipe for each one shot. It has become. Each holding furnace 12 has a liquid level detection sensor (not shown) for detecting the liquid level of the molten aluminum stored in the container and a temperature sensor (not shown) for detecting the temperature of the molten aluminum. Are located. The detection results of these sensors are transmitted to the control panel of each die cast machine 11 or the central control unit 16 of the first factory 10.

In the receiving section of the first factory 10, a receiving table 17 for receiving a container 100 described later is arranged. The container 100 received by the receiving table 17 of the receiving section is delivered to a predetermined die-casting machine 11 by a delivery vehicle 18 and the holding furnace 1
2 is supplied with molten aluminum.
The container 100 after the supply is returned to the receiving table 17 of the receiving section by the delivery vehicle 18 again.

The first factory 10 is provided with a first furnace 19 for melting aluminum and supplying the molten aluminum to the container 100. The container 100 supplied with molten aluminum by the first furnace 19 is also provided. The delivery vehicle 18 delivers the product to a predetermined die cast machine 11.

The first factory 10 is provided with a display unit 15 for displaying when it is necessary to add molten aluminum to each die casting machine 11.
More specifically, for example, a unique number is assigned to each die cast machine 11, and the number is displayed on the display unit 15, and corresponds to the number of the die cast machine 11 for which addition of molten aluminum is necessary. The number on the display unit 15 is turned on. The operator uses the delivery vehicle 18 based on the display on the display unit 15 to
To the die cast machine 11 corresponding to the number and supply the molten aluminum. The display on the display unit 15 is performed under the control of the central control unit 16 based on the detection result by the liquid level detection sensor.

The second factory 20 is provided with a second furnace 21 for melting aluminum and supplying it to the container 100. A plurality of types of containers 100 having different capacities, pipe lengths, heights, widths, and the like are prepared. For example, the holding furnace 12 in the die cast machine 11 in the first factory 10
There are a plurality of types having different capacities depending on the capacity of the battery. However, it goes without saying that the container 100 may be unified into one type and standardized.

The container 100 supplied with the molten aluminum by the second furnace 21 is placed on a transport truck 32 by a forklift (not shown). The truck 32 carries the containers 100 through the public road 30 to the vicinity of the receiving table 17 of the receiving unit in the first factory 10, and these containers 100 are received by the receiving table 17 by a forklift (not shown). . The empty container 100 in the receiving section is returned to the second factory 20 by the truck 32.

The second factory 20 is provided with a display unit 22 for displaying when it is necessary to add molten aluminum to each die casting machine 11 in the first factory 10. The configuration of the display unit 22 is substantially the same as the configuration of the display unit 15 disposed in the first factory 10. The display on the display unit 22 is performed under the control of the central control unit 16 in the first factory 10 via the communication line 33, for example. In the display unit 22 in the second factory 20, it has been determined that the molten aluminum is supplied from the first furnace 19 in the first factory 10 among the die cast machines 11 requiring the supply of molten aluminum. The die cast machine 11 is displayed so as to be distinguished from the other die cast machines 11. For example, the number corresponding to the die cast machine 11 determined as such flashes. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the second factory 20 from erroneously supplying the molten aluminum to the die cast machine 11 determined to be supplied with the molten aluminum from the first furnace 19. Further, in addition to the above, data transmitted from the central control unit 16 is also displayed on the display unit 22.

Next, the operation of the metal supply system thus configured will be described.

The central controller 16 monitors the amount of molten aluminum in each holding furnace 12 via a liquid level detection sensor provided in each holding furnace 12. Here, when the necessity of supplying molten aluminum occurs in a certain holding furnace 12, the central control unit 16 detects the “unique number” of the holding furnace 12 by a temperature sensor provided in the holding furnace 12. "Temperature data" of the holding furnace 12
"Form data" relating to the form (to be described later), final "time data" when the molten aluminum disappears from the holding furnace 12, "traffic data" on the public road 30, and "melting aluminum" required for the holding furnace 12. The quantity data and the temperature data are transmitted to the second factory 20 via the communication line 33. In the second factory 20, these data are displayed on the display unit 22. Based on these displayed data, the operator empirically sets the container 1 in the holding furnace 12 immediately before the molten aluminum disappears from the holding furnace 12.
The delivery time of the container 100 from the second factory 20 and the temperature at the time of sending the molten aluminum are determined so that 00 arrives and the molten aluminum at that time has a desired temperature. Alternatively, these data are taken into, for example, a personal computer (not shown), and the holding furnace 1 is used just before the holding furnace 12 runs out of molten aluminum using predetermined software.
2 and the time at which the container 100 is dispatched from the second factory 20 and the temperature at the time of dispatching the molten aluminum are estimated so that the molten aluminum at that time is at a desired temperature, and the time and temperature are estimated. It may be displayed. Alternatively, the temperature of the second furnace 21 may be automatically controlled based on the estimated temperature. The amount of the molten aluminum to be contained in the container 100 may also be determined based on the above “amount data”.

Truck 3 loaded with container 100 at shipping time
2 departs and arrives at the first factory 10 via the public road 30, the container 100 is received from the truck 32 into the receiving table 17 of the receiving section.

Thereafter, the received container 100 is delivered to a predetermined die-casting machine 11 by a delivery vehicle 18 together with the receiving table 17, and the holding furnace 1 is removed from the container 100.
2 is supplied with molten aluminum.

As shown in FIG. 2, in this example, high-pressure air is sent from the receiver tank 101 into the sealed container 100, whereby the molten aluminum contained in the container 100 is discharged from the pipe 56, and 12. In FIG. 2, reference numeral 103 denotes a pressure valve, and 104 denotes a leak valve.

Here, there are various heights of the holding furnace 12, and the height of the pipe 56 is controlled by an elevating mechanism provided on the delivery vehicle 18.
Can be adjusted so that the tip of the holder becomes the optimum position on the holding furnace 12. However, depending on the height of the holding furnace 12, there is a case where the lifting mechanism alone cannot cope with the problem. Therefore, in the present system, as the “form data” relating to the form of the holding furnace 12, data relating to the height of the holding furnace 12, the distance to the holding furnace 12, and the like are sent to the second factory 20 in advance, and the second factory 20 On the side, the container 100 having the optimum form, for example, the optimum height is selected and delivered based on the data.
It should be noted that a container 100 having an optimal size according to the amount to be supplied.
May be selected and delivered.

Next, a container (pressurized molten metal supply container) 100 suitable for the system configured as described above will be described.
A description will be given based on FIG. 3 and FIG. FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the container 100, and FIG. 4 is a plan view thereof.

The container 100 has a large lid 52 disposed in an upper opening 51 of a cylindrical body 50 having a bottom. Flanges 53 and 54 are provided on the outer periphery of the main body 50 and the large lid 51, respectively, and the main body 50 and the large lid 51 are fixed by fastening the flanges with bolts 55. The main body 50 and the large lid 51 are, for example, metal on the outside and refractory on the inside, and a heat insulating material is interposed between the metal on the outside and the refractory.

At one location on the outer periphery of the main body 50, a pipe mounting portion 58 provided with a flow path 57 communicating from the inside of the main body 50 to the pipe 56 is provided.

FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the pipe mounting portion 5 shown in FIG.
FIG. 8 is a sectional view taken along line AA in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 5, the outside of the container 100 is constituted by a metal frame 100a, and the inside is constituted by a refractory material 100b. Between the frame 100a and the refractory material 100b, a heat insulating material having a smaller thermal conductivity than the refractory material is provided. Material 100c is interposed. The flow path 57 is formed in a refractory material 100b provided inside the container 100. That is, the flow path 57 is separated from the inside of the container by a refractory member having a large thermal conductivity. By employing such a configuration, heat radiation from inside the container is easily transmitted to the flow path. On the outside of the flow path (on the side opposite to the inside of the container), a heat insulating material is provided outside of the refractory member. A refractory material having a higher density and a higher thermal conductivity than the heat insulating material is used. Examples of the refractory material include a dense refractory ceramic material. Examples of the heat insulating material include heat insulating ceramic materials such as heat insulating casters and board materials.

The flow path 57 in the pipe mounting portion 58 extends toward an upper portion 57b on the outer periphery of the main body 50 through an opening 57a provided at a position near the container main body bottom 50a on the inner periphery of the main body 50. . The pipe 56 is fixed so as to communicate with the flow path 57 of the pipe mounting portion 58. The pipe 56
It has a Γ shape, whereby the one end 59 of the pipe 56 faces downward. More specifically, one end 59 of the pipe 56 is inclined by, for example, about 10 ° with respect to a vertical line. By providing such an inclination, for example, when the molten metal led out from the one end port 59 flows down to the server side, the splash of the hot water drops from the hot water surface is reduced.

The inside diameters of the flow path 57 and the pipe 56 following the flow path 57 are substantially equal, and are preferably about 65 mm to 85 mm. Conventionally, the inside diameter of this type of piping has been about 50 mm. This is because if it is more than that, it is considered that a large pressure is required when the inside of the container is pressurized and the molten metal is led out from the pipe. On the other hand, the present inventors have set that the inner diameter of the flow path 57 and the pipe 56 following the flow path is preferably about 65 mm to 85 mm, which greatly exceeds this 50 mm, more preferably about 70 mm to 80 mm, and further preferably about 7 mm.
0 mm. That is, when the molten metal flows upward through the flow path or the pipe, two parameters, the weight of the molten metal itself existing in the flow path or the pipe and the viscous resistance of the inner wall of the flow path or the pipe, determine the flow of the molten metal. It is considered that this has a large effect on the resistance to be inhibited. here,
When the inner diameter is smaller than 65 mm, the molten metal flowing through the flow path is affected by both the weight of the molten metal itself and the viscous resistance of the inner wall at any position. A region which is hardly affected by the viscous drag of the first portion starts to occur, and the region gradually increases. The effect of this region is very large, and the resistance that hinders the flow of the molten metal begins to drop. When the molten metal is drawn out of the container, it is sufficient to pressurize the inside of the container with a very small pressure. In other words, conventionally, the influence of such a region is not taken into consideration at all, and only the weight of the molten metal itself is considered as a variable factor of the resistance that hinders the flow of the molten metal.
The inner diameter is set to about 50 mm for reasons such as workability and maintainability. On the other hand, when the inner diameter exceeds 85 mm, the weight of the molten metal itself becomes very dominant as a resistance to hinder the flow of the molten metal, and the resistance to hinder the flow of the molten metal increases. According to the results of the prototype made by the present inventors, 7
An inner diameter of about 0 mm to 80 mm may be sufficient to pressurize the pressure in the container with a very small pressure, and 70 mm is most preferable from the viewpoint of standardization and workability. That is, the pipe diameter is 5
It is standardized in units of 10 mm, such as 0 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, and so on, and the smaller the pipe diameter is, the easier the handling is and the better the workability is.

An opening 60 is provided substantially at the center of the large lid 52.
The opening 60 is provided with a hatch 62 to which a handle 61 is attached. Hatch 62 is large lid 52
It is provided at a position slightly higher than the upper surface. Hatch 62
Is attached to the large lid 52 via a hinge 63 at one location on the outer periphery. Thereby, the hatch 62 can be opened and closed with respect to the opening 60 of the large lid 52. Further, bolts 64 with handles for fixing the hatch 62 to the large lid 52 are attached to two places on the outer periphery of the hatch 62 so as to face the position where the hinge 63 is attached. The hatch 62 is fixed to the large lid 52 by closing the opening 60 of the large lid 52 with the hatch 62 and rotating the bolt 64 with the handle. The hatch 62 can be opened from the opening 60 of the large lid 52 by reversing the rotation of the bolt 64 with the handle to release the fastening. The container 100 is opened through the opening 60 with the hatch 62 opened.
The internal maintenance and insertion of the gas burner during preheating are performed.

At the center of the hatch 62 or at a position slightly deviated from the center, a through-hole 65 for adjusting the internal pressure for reducing and increasing the pressure in the container 100 is provided. A piping 66 for pressurization and decompression is connected to the through hole 65. The pipe 66 extends upward from the through hole 65, bends at a predetermined height, and extends horizontally therefrom. A thread is formed on the surface of the portion of the pipe 66 inserted into the through hole 65, while a thread is also formed on the through hole 65, whereby the pipe 66 is fixed to the through hole 65 by screwing. It is supposed to be.

A pressurizing or depressurizing pipe 67 can be connected to one of the pipes 66. The pressurizing pipe is connected to a tank or a pressurizing pump stored in pressurized gas. In addition, a pressure reducing pump is connected to the pressure reducing pipe. Then, the pipe 5 is utilized by utilizing the pressure difference by reducing the pressure.
It is possible to introduce molten aluminum into the container 100 through the flow path 6 and the flow path 57, and to take out the molten aluminum out of the container 100 through the flow path 57 and the pipe 56 using a pressure difference by pressurization. Is possible. By using an inert gas such as a nitrogen gas as the pressurized gas, the oxidation of the molten aluminum during pressurization can be more effectively prevented.

In the present embodiment, the hatch 62 arranged substantially at the center of the large lid 52 is provided with a through hole 65 for pressurizing and depressurizing, while the pipe 66 extends in the horizontal direction. Therefore, the pressurizing or depressurizing pipe 67 is connected to the pipe 6 described above.
6 can be safely and easily performed. Further, since the pipe 66 can be rotated with a small force with respect to the through hole 65 by extending the pipe 66 in this manner, it is very difficult to fix or remove the pipe 66 screwed to the through hole 65. Can be performed with a small force, for example, without using a tool.

At a position slightly deviated from the center of the hatch 62 and at a position facing the above-described through-hole 65 for pressurizing and depressurizing, a through-hole 68 for releasing pressure is provided.
A relief valve (not shown) is attached to 8. Thus, for example, when the pressure inside the container 100 becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure, the inside of the container 100 is opened to the atmospheric pressure from the viewpoint of safety.

In the large lid 52, two through holes 70 for a liquid level sensor into which two electrodes 69 as a liquid level sensor are inserted are arranged at a predetermined interval. Electrodes 69 are inserted into these through holes 70, respectively. The electrodes 69 are arranged so as to face each other in the container 100, and the respective tips extend to, for example, almost the same position as the maximum liquid level of the molten metal in the container 100. By monitoring the conduction state between the electrodes 69, the container 1
It is possible to detect the maximum liquid level of the molten metal in 00, whereby the excessive supply of the molten metal to the container 100 can be more reliably prevented.

On the bottom rear surface of the main body 50, for example, two leg portions 71 having a cross-sectional opening shape into which a fork (not shown) of a forklift is inserted and having a predetermined length are arranged in parallel. Further, the bottom inside the main body 50 is
The whole is inclined so that the 7 side becomes lower. Thus, when the molten aluminum is led out to the outside via the flow path 57 and the pipe 56 by pressurization, the so-called remaining hot water is reduced. Further, for example, when the container 100 is tilted and the molten aluminum is led out through the flow path 57 and the pipe 56 during maintenance, the angle at which the container 100 is tilted can be made smaller, and safety and workability are improved. .

As described above, in the container 100 according to the present embodiment, the hatch 62 is provided with the through hole 65 for adjusting the internal pressure, and the through hole 65 is connected to the piping 66 for adjusting the internal pressure. Each time the molten metal is supplied, the adhesion of the metal to the through-hole 65 for adjusting the internal pressure can be confirmed. Therefore, clogging of the pipe 66 and the through hole 65 used for adjusting the internal pressure can be prevented.

In the container 100 according to the present embodiment,
The hatch 62 is provided with a through-hole 65 for adjusting the internal pressure, and the hatch 62 is located substantially at the center of the upper surface of the container 100 corresponding to a position where the change in the liquid level of the molten aluminum and the degree to which the droplets scatter are relatively small. Since it is provided, the adhesion of the molten aluminum to the pipe 66 and the through hole 65 used for adjusting the internal pressure is reduced. Therefore, clogging of the pipe 66 and the through hole 65 used for adjusting the internal pressure can be prevented.

Further, in the container 100 according to the present embodiment,
Since the hatch 62 is provided on the upper surface of the large lid 52,
The distance between the back surface of the hatch 62 and the liquid surface is longer by the thickness of the large cover 52 than the distance between the back surface of the large lid 52 and the liquid surface. Therefore, the possibility that aluminum adheres to the back surface of the hatch 62 provided with the through hole 65 is reduced, and clogging of the pipe 66 and the through hole 65 used for adjusting the internal pressure can be prevented.

Next, the second furnace 2 in the second factory 20
A supply system from 1 to the container 100 will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 6, molten aluminum is stored in the second furnace 21. A supply unit 21a is provided in the second furnace 21, and a suction pipe 201 is inserted into the supply unit 21a. The suction pipe 201 is arranged such that one end port (the other end 201b of the suction pipe 201) protrudes from the liquid surface of the molten aluminum of the supply unit 21a. That is, one end portion 201a of the suction tube 201 extends to near the bottom of the second furnace 21,
The other end 201b of the suction tube 201 is led out from the supply unit 21a. The suction tube 201 has a holding mechanism 2
02 is basically held inclined. The inclination angle is, for example, about 10 ° with respect to the perpendicular, and matches the inclination of the tip of the pipe 56 in the container 100. The tip 201b of the suction tube 201
Is connected to the distal end of the pipe 56 in the container 100, and by matching the inclination in this way, the connection between the distal end 201 b of the suction pipe 201 and the distal end of the pipe 56 in the container 100 is facilitated. .

A pump 313 for reducing pressure is connected to the pipe 66.
Is connected. Next, the pump 313
Is operated to reduce the pressure inside the container 100. Thereby, the molten aluminum stored in the second furnace 21 is introduced into the container 100 via the suction pipe 201 and the pipe 56.

In the present embodiment, particularly, the molten aluminum stored in the second furnace 21 as described above is supplied to the suction pipe 2.
Since the molten aluminum is introduced into the container 100 through the pipe 01 and the pipe 56, the molten aluminum does not come into contact with external air. Therefore, no oxide is generated,
The quality of the molten aluminum supplied using this system is very good. In addition, the operation for removing the oxide from inside the container 100 becomes unnecessary, and the workability is improved.

In this embodiment, in particular, the introduction of the molten aluminum into the container 100 and the extraction of the molten aluminum from the container 100 can be performed using substantially only the two pipes 56 and 312. Can be very simple. Further, since the chance that the molten aluminum comes into contact with the outside air is drastically reduced, generation of oxides can be almost eliminated.

FIG. 7 shows a manufacturing flow when the above system is applied to an automobile factory.

First, as shown in FIG.
The molten aluminum stored therein is introduced (received hot water) into the container 100 via the suction pipe 201 and the pipe 56 (Step 501).

Next, as shown in FIG. 1, the container 100 is transported from the second factory 20 to the first factory 10 by the truck 32 via the public road 30 (step 502).

Next, the first factory (use point) 10
Then, the container 100 is delivered by the delivery vehicle 18 to the die casting machine 11 for manufacturing an automobile engine, and the container 1
From 00, molten aluminum is supplied to the holding furnace 12 (step 503).

Next, in the die cast machine 11, an automobile engine is molded using the molten aluminum stored in the holding furnace 12 (step 50).
4).

Then, the automobile is assembled using the automobile engine and other parts molded in this manner,
The car is completed (Step 505).

In this embodiment, as described above, since the engine of the automobile is made of aluminum containing almost no oxide, it is possible to manufacture an automobile having an engine with good performance and durability.

Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the configuration of the supply device and the molding device of the present invention. Here, an example in which the present invention is applied to die casting of a magnesium alloy will be described.

The holding furnace 420 is a furnace for holding a molten metal (molten metal). Chamber 4 of holding furnace 420
The material of 20a is 18-8 stainless steel in this example, and the inside is further subjected to an Almar treatment with a FC plate. The holding furnace 420 contains a molten magnesium alloy 401. The melting temperature of this holding furnace is maintained by a heater 425. Holding furnace 4
An exhaust system 421 for exhausting the inside and a non-oxidizing gas introduction system 422 for supplying a non-oxidizing gas are connected to 20. 422b is a gas reservoir. In this example, the exhaust system 421 has at least one vacuum pump 421b. Further, the non-oxidizing gas introduction system 422 includes a holding furnace 420.
It also has the function of pressurizing the inside. Further, the holding furnace 420 is provided with a pressure sensor (G) 423 for measuring the internal pressure and a temperature sensor 424 for measuring the temperature of the molten metal.
As the pressure sensor 423, a Bourdon gauge, a Pirani gauge, a BA gauge, or the like is selected and used according to a pressure range to be used. As the temperature sensor 424, a thermocouple, a radiation thermometer, or the like can be used.

In the purge chamber 430, the delivery of the molten metal is performed. The purge chamber 430 can keep the inside airtight. Similarly to the holding furnace 420, an exhaust system 431 for exhausting the inside of the purge chamber 430 and a non-oxidizing gas introduction system 432 for supplying a non-oxidizing gas are connected to the purge chamber 430. In this example, the exhaust system 431 has at least one vacuum pump 431b. Non-oxidizing gas introduction system 4
32 also has a function of pressurizing the inside of the purge chamber 430.
432b is a gas reservoir. Further, the purge chamber 43
A pressure sensor (G) 433 for measuring the internal pressure is also provided at zero.

The holding furnace 420 and the purge chamber 430 are connected by a pipe 440 and a bypass pipe 442. 4
43 is a bypass valve. A heater 441 such as a resistor is wound around the pipe 440. This heater 441
Accordingly, the temperature inside the pipe is maintained at a temperature at which the magnesium alloy melts. If the pressure in the purge chamber 430 is now lower than the pressure in the holding furnace 420, the molten magnesium alloy 401 passes through the pipe 440 and passes through the holding furnace 420.
From the purge chamber 430. Purge chamber 4
When the pressure of the furnace 30 is higher than the pressure of the holding furnace 420, the magnesium alloy 401 remaining in the pipe is purged.
It is sucked into the holding furnace 420 from the 30 side. In any case, the oxygen concentration in the system is adjusted so that oxidation of the metal is suppressed. Therefore, the metal is safely supplied to the use point in the purge chamber 430 without burning or explosion. Further, since the oxidation of the metal is suppressed, the formation of the oxide is also suppressed, or the metal is not oxidized at all. Therefore, a high-quality metal having a clean surface and no oxide can be supplied. Further, in the present invention, since the oxygen concentration in the system is controlled so as to suppress the oxidation of the metal, there is no need to add a harmful flame retardant such as beryllium. Therefore, the working environment is also improved. No harmful substances are contained in products, scraps (burrs, etc.) and wastes (wastes and defective products). For this reason, harmful substances can be prevented from diffusing into the environment.

Now, the purge chamber 430 is installed in the die casting apparatus 4.
It is also a supply point (use point) of 50 molten metals. In this example, the loading chamber 451 of the die casting device 450 is provided so as to protrude into the purge chamber 430. The loading chamber 451 and the purge chamber 430 are hermetically sealed by welding or the like. The loading chamber 451 has an opening from which molten metal (in this case, magnesium alloy 1) is supplied. Metal supplied is injection cylinder 4
52 supplies it to the mold side. Note that the loading chamber 451 is kept warm by a heater 453. The mold 454a is a cavity mold, and the mold 454b is a core mold, and the metal supplied in the space therebetween is formed into a predetermined shape. The molds 454a and 454b are provided with a mold clamping mechanism 455a.
(Fixed side) and 455b (moving side).
The moving-side mold clamping mechanism 455b can be pressurized by a hydraulic cylinder 457.

According to the molding apparatus of the present invention, the supplied metal does not oxidize at the point of use. Therefore, a high quality product can be obtained without oxides being mixed in the product. The accuracy is further improved, and the effect is remarkable especially in a thin molded product. In addition, the appearance is improved without blackening of the product.

In general, as much as 20 to 40% of oxides are produced by die casting of a magnesium alloy, and the productivity is extremely low. According to the present invention, generation of an oxide can be suppressed to an extremely low level. Therefore, according to the present invention, productivity can be increased and product cost can be reduced.

Further, waste discharged in the manufacturing process and waste generated after use of products contain harmful beryllium and the like. Magnesium alloys are also designated as dangerous goods. ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, since the amount of waste can be reduced and a harmful substance becomes unnecessary, the disposal cost of waste can also be reduced. Furthermore, if the container of the present invention is used, a magnesium alloy as a dangerous substance can be safely transported.

FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing another example of the supply device of the present invention. Here, the holding furnace 42 illustrated in FIG.
A configuration in which a melting furnace 410 is provided at a stage preceding 0 will be described.

FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the melting furnace of the present invention. The melting furnace 10 is a furnace for melting a metal in a solid state. The configuration of the melting furnace 410 is very similar to that of the holding furnace 420. The material of the chamber 410a of the melting furnace 410 is 18-8 stainless steel in this example, and further, the inside is subjected to an almar treatment with an FC plate.
In this melting furnace 410, the molten magnesium alloy 4
01 is supplied and heated by the heater 415. 416
Is a partition. An exhaust system 411 for exhausting the inside of the melting furnace 410 and a non-oxidizing gas introduction system 412 for supplying a non-oxidizing gas are connected to the melting furnace 410. 412b is a gas reservoir. In this example, the exhaust system 411 has at least one vacuum pump 411b. Further, the non-oxidizing gas introduction system 412 also has a function of pressurizing the inside of the melting furnace 410. Further, the melting furnace 410 is provided with a pressure sensor (G) 413 for measuring the internal pressure and a temperature sensor 414 for measuring the temperature of the molten metal.

To put the solid metal 401b into the melting furnace 410, first, the hermetic door 463 is opened, and the solid metal 401b is introduced into the purge chamber 461 from outside. The airtight door 463 is closed, and the inside of the purge chamber 461 is exhausted by the exhaust system 466. With the bypass 467 opened and the pressures in the purge chamber 461 and the charging chamber 462 balanced, the airtight door 464 and the heat insulating door 465 are opened. Solid metal moves with a pusher or drawer. The bottom of the charging chamber 462 has a rotating mechanism, and the solid metal is charged into the melting furnace 410 by this rotation.

FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the configuration of the container of the present invention. The container (container) 470 includes a frame 471 that forms an airtight airtight area, a heat insulating material 472 provided inside the frame 471, a pipe 473 provided through the frame 471 and the heat insulating material 472, 47
4 is provided. Further, a temperature sensor 475 for measuring the temperature in the airtight region is provided.

The frame 471 forms a closed space which is an airtight area inside. Further, the frame 471 plays a role of maintaining the strength of the entire container 470 and a role of protecting the heat insulating material 472 from the outside. The frame 471 can be made of various metal materials, and the material may be appropriately selected according to the use of the container. This selection is preferably made in consideration of the physical and chemical properties of the contents contained in the container. For example, the frame is selected so that even if the heat insulating material is broken, the frame is not melted or broken by the heat of the contents or a chemical reaction with the contents. The same applies to the heat insulating material. For example, various heat-resistant bricks are selected according to the use of the container.

The pipes 473, 474 provide access between the outside and the inside of the container 470. One or more pipes may be provided. For example, by connecting an exhaust system (not shown) to the pipe 473 to reduce the pressure inside,
It is possible to control the oxygen concentration and the oxygen activity in the internal hermetic zone. Further, for example, by connecting a non-oxidizing gas introduction system to the pipe 473, a non-oxidizing gas can be supplied inside.

With such reduced pressure and increased pressure, a pipe 474 is formed.
Through which fluids (molten metal or powder) can be taken in and out of the container. When a non-oxidizing gas is introduced from the pipe 473 to pressurize the hermetic region, the molten metal can be extruded to the outside through the pipe 474. If the pipe 473 is connected to an exhaust system to reduce the pressure in the hermetic region, the molten metal can be sucked from the outside through the pipe 474. The pipe 474 is heated by a heater or the like as necessary. The temperature is preferably set to be higher than the melting point of the contents flowing in the tube. At this time, not only the movement of the molten metal or powder but also the oxygen concentration in the system can be controlled by the exhaust system or the non-oxidizing gas supply system. As described above, one of the major features of the present invention is that the generation of the pressure difference including the reduced pressure state contributes to both the mass transfer of the molten metal and the powder and the prevention of oxidation. Further, when the atmosphere in the pipe 474 becomes oxidative, oxides adhere to the pipe and the pipe is clogged. In the present invention, not only the oxygen concentration in the pipe 474 can be controlled but also the contents can be prevented from being left in the pipe, so that such a problem of clogging can be solved.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a joint that can be used for connecting pipes. The container of the present invention can play a role substantially equivalent to the holding furnace 420 in the above-described embodiment. That is, instead of the holding furnace 420,
One or more containers 470 can be used. At this time, the pipe 474 may be connected to the pipe 440 on the side where the metal is supplied (for example, the purge chamber 430).

The pipe 474 and the pipe 440 can be connected by, for example, a joint 475. The joint 475 includes a gasket 476 and is connected to the pipe 474 and the pipe 440 in an airtight manner. When the gasket 476 is made of resin, it is preferable to cool the vicinity of the gasket with a water cooling head 477 or the like. When a gasket such as copper or gold is used, the water cooling head 477 can be omitted.
Further, the joint 475 can be used to connect the pipe 473 to an exhaust system and a gas introduction system.

FIG. 13 is a view schematically showing another example of the structure of the container of the present invention. In this container 480, the frame 47
1 has an opening, which is hermetically sealed by a lid 471b. The container 480 is connected to an exhaust system 476 by a pipe 473.

The temperature sensor 475 detects the molten metal 4
01 is provided, and a controller 477 is provided for controlling the exhaust system 476 according to the measured temperature and the rate of change of the temperature. For example, the opening and closing of the valve 476b is controlled by the controller 477. By employing such a configuration, in the container of the present invention, the thermal conductivity in the system can be controlled by the pressure.

A heat-resistant material such as a heat-resistant brick deteriorates in heat resistance due to its aging. For example, when a molten metal is transported using a plurality of containers, the temperature of the molten metal may be different depending on the individual difference of the containers. Occasionally, the temperature of the molten metal may drop to a level that does not meet the needs of the user. In the container of the present invention, for example, for a container in which the temperature is reduced during the transport of the molten metal, the inside of the frame is depressurized by the exhaust system, and the internal heat conductivity can be suppressed to a small value. As a result, regardless of the decrease in the heat insulation performance of the heat insulating material,
The temperature of the molten metal can be maintained. The temperature difference between the contents of the plurality of containers can be reduced. Also, oxidation of the molten metal can be prevented. The pressure control can be performed not by the temperature itself but by the rate of temperature change (for example, a differential value), and this configuration can perform more accurate temperature control of the molten metal.

FIG. 14 is a view schematically showing another example of the structure of the container of the present invention. The container 490 includes a frame 471 and a lid 471b in which a heat insulating material 472 is disposed on the inner surface, a heater 491 disposed inside the heat insulating material 472, a temperature sensor 475 for measuring the temperature of the molten metal 401, and a measured temperature. Or a controller 492 for controlling the heater 475 in accordance with the rate of change in temperature. For example, by controlling the power supply 493 for supplying power to the heater 491 according to the temperature change rate measured by the temperature sensor 475, the temperature of the metal 401 is appropriately managed. In this embodiment, the airtightness of the container does not matter from the viewpoint of temperature control. Of course, it is preferable to adjust the internal pressure and oxygen concentration. This should be the case, especially when housing unstable metals.

[0130] In this example, the container 490 is shown mounted on a bed 494 of a truck or ship. The electrode 495 is exposed on the loading platform 494, and the electrical connection with the electrode 496 on the container side is ensured by placing the container in a predetermined place. 497 is an insulating member such as an insulator.
In this case, the power supply 493 can be mounted on a truck. It may be shared with the truck battery. By employing such a configuration, high-quality metal can be delivered and supplied.

FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining an example of a metal delivery model using the supply device and the container according to the present invention.

For example, when a molten metal is used, approximately three embodiments can be considered. The first is a case where a melting furnace or a holding furnace is installed in the vicinity of a use point, in a factory having a molding apparatus, or the like. The second is a case where a small melting furnace is provided for each molding apparatus. The third is a case where a metal is melted at a predetermined place and the melted metal is delivered to a point of use. The present invention can be applied in any case, resulting in improved quality, improved safety, improved productivity, and reduced energy costs. The second example described above is considered to be the most disadvantageous in terms of energy. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG.
0 and 490 may be arranged. The metal remains in good condition and is delivered safely. Such a configuration significantly reduces energy costs. Furthermore, the cost of the melting furnace and the cost of the installation space that were individually arranged at the use points are eliminated.

[0133]

As described above, according to the present invention,
It is possible to provide a container that does not require replacement of parts such as stalk.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a metal supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a relationship between a container and a holding furnace according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view of a container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a plan view of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a partial sectional view of FIG.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration of a supply system from a second furnace to a container in a second factory according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a vehicle using the system of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a supply device of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a view schematically showing another example of the supply device of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a melting furnace of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a view schematically showing an example of the configuration of a container of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a joint that can be used for connecting pipes.

FIG. 13 is a view schematically showing another example of the configuration of the container of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a view schematically showing another example of the configuration of the container of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a view for explaining an example of a metal delivery model using a supply device and a container according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 50 main body 50a bottom of main body 57 flow path 57a flow path opening 57b upper part of main body outer periphery 100 container 101 receiver tank 313 decompression pump

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (72) Inventor, etc.Mizuno 66, Tsutsumachi-Teraike, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture Inside (72) Inventor Kazunori Suzuki 66, Tsutsumachi Teraike, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, Toyoda Sakae Corporation (72) Inventor Koji Iyoda 66 66, Tsutsumachi-Teraike, Toyota-shi, Aichi Prefecture Inside the Sakae Shokai Co., Ltd. 4E014 LA09

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. A closed container main body capable of storing a molten metal, and a molten metal extending toward an upper portion of the outer periphery of the container main body through an opening provided at a position near the bottom of the container main body inside the container main body. A container comprising: a metal channel; and means for adjusting a pressure in the container body.