Ultrasonic degassing and processing of aluminum

Abstract

A commercially and industrially viable ultrasonic system has been developed. This system is being used in an industrial environment. The aim of this paper is to present the experimental method used and results obtained from two different processes. The system was tested on a continuous rod, casting and rolling line. This line is used to make wire rod in pure and alloyed aluminum. The system was also tested in a large scale die casting shop. Each process had its own challenges in how to measure the degassing ability of the system, along with product improvements not related to hydrogen gas. We will present various methods used to measure the dissolved hydrogen and the resulting product improvements after ultrasonic degassing. Additionally we will discuss sampling methods for spectrum analysis and inclusion measurement. Sources of contamination will also be discussed.