| ALCOA INC. Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120121890 | METHODS OF MAKING A REINFORCED COMPOSITE AND REINFORCED COMPOSITE PRODUCTS - Methods for making reinforced composites and reinforced composite products are provided. In one embodiment, a method comprises adding (a) a carrier comprising a salt and (b) a plurality of substantially inert sub-micron sized particles into a molten metal to form a mixture; and forming a reinforced composite from the mixture, the reinforced composite comprising a non-particulate metal portion having the substantially inert sub-micron sized particles therein. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120103476 | 5XXX ALUMINUM ALLOYS, AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME - Improved 5xxx aluminum alloys having an improved combination of properties are disclosed. The new 5xxx aluminum alloys generally contain 0.50 to 3.25 wt. % Mg, 0.05 to 0.20 wt. % Sc, 0.05 to 0.20 wt. % Zr, up to 0.50 wt. % in total of Cu and Ag, less than 0.10 wt. % Mn, up to 0.30 wt. % in total of Cr, V and Ti, up to 0.50 wt. % in total of Ni and Co, up to 0.25 wt. % Fe, up to 0.25 wt. % Si, up to 0.50 wt. % Zn, and up to 0.10 wt. % of any other element, with the total of these other elements not exceeding 0.35 wt. %, the balance being aluminum. The new 5xxx aluminum alloys may be used in high strength electrical conductor products, among others. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120090432 | WETTABLE INJECTORS FOR DEGASSING OF MOLTEN METAL - Various illustrative embodiments of an apparatus and method for reducing the dissolved hydrogen content of a molten metal alloy are provided. The disclosed embodiments can be utilized for the processing of molten metal alloys such as aluminum, and more particularly, for the removal of dissolved hydrogen from molten metal alloys such as aluminum. Gas permeable diffusers can be employed that are wettable by molten metal. When used as gas injectors, either in combination with ultrasonic oscillation or without, the gas permeable wettable diffusers can provide a high density of ultrafine inert gas bubbles that can be used to rapidly and efficiently reduce the level of dissolved hydrogen within the molten metal. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120055591 | 6XXX ALUMINUM ALLOYS, AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME - New 6xxx aluminum alloy bodies and methods of producing the same are disclosed. The new 6xxx aluminum alloy bodies may be produced by preparing the aluminum alloy body for post-solutionizing cold work, cold working by at least 25%, and then thermally treating. The new 6xxx aluminum alloy bodies may realize improved strength and other properties. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055590 | ALUMINUM-LITHIUM ALLOYS, AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME - New Al—Li alloy bodies and methods of producing the same are disclosed. The new Al—Li alloy bodies may be produced by preparing the aluminum alloy body for post-solutionizing cold work, cold working by at least 25%, and then thermally treating. The new Al—Li alloy bodies may realize improved strength and other properties. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055589 | 2XXX ALUMINUM ALLOYS, AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME - New 2xxx aluminum alloy bodies and methods of producing the same are disclosed. The new 2xxx aluminum alloy bodies may be produced by preparing the aluminum alloy body for post-solutionizing cold work, cold working by at least 25%, and then thermally treating. The new 2xxx aluminum alloy bodies may realize improved strength and other properties. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055588 | 7XXX ALUMINUM ALLOYS, AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME - New 7xxx aluminum alloy bodies and methods of producing the same are disclosed. The new 7xxx aluminum alloy bodies may be produced by preparing the aluminum alloy body for post-solutionizing cold work, cold working by at least 25%, and then thermally treating. The new 7xxx aluminum alloy bodies may realize improved strength and other properties. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120043294 | SHAPED METAL CONTAINER AND METHOD FOR MAKING SAME - A shaped metal container comprising less metal than prior art shaped metal containers while still able to handle sufficient axial load and undergo shaping processes, including necking, without wrinkling, buckling, collapsing or other physical defect is disclosed. Processes for shaping a metal container having a sidewall of variable thickness, wherein a portion of the sidewall having a variable thickness is shaped using a die or dies are also disclosed. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120024433 | MULTI-ALLOY ASSEMBLY HAVING CORROSION RESISTANCE AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME - An assembly and method of making the assembly are provided. The assembly includes: a first 7xxx series aluminum alloy member comprising not greater than 1 wt. % Cu; a second 7xxx series aluminum alloy member comprising at least 1 wt % Cu; a joint between the first member and the second member that joins the first member to the second member; wherein the assembly comprises a stress corrosion cracking resistance for a marine environment. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20110303609 | WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOVAL OF CONTAMINANTS VIA MIXED METAL OXIDE BEDS - The instant disclosure relates to methods, systems, and apparatus for polishing wastewater (i.e. non-potable water) using filtration media. More particularly, the instant disclosure relates to wastewater polishing using a bed of mixed metal oxides under certain operating conditions to remove a plurality of contaminants from a wastewater stream. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110284389 | SELF CLEANING ALUMINUM ALLOY SUBSTRATES - Self-cleaning aluminum alloy substrates and methods of making the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a substrate is provided, the substrate including an aluminum alloy body, an anodic oxide zone having micropores within a surface of the aluminum alloy body, the anodic oxide zone being substantially impermeable to contaminants, and a photocatalytic film located on at least a portion of the anodic oxide zone, wherein the photocatalytic film comprises photocatalytically active semiconductor. In one embodiment, a method is provided, the method including the steps of forming an anodic oxide zone in at least a portion of an aluminum alloy base, forming a photocatalytic film, the photocatalytic film being located on the anodic oxide zone, and sealing the anodic oxide zone with a sealant, wherein, as sealed, the anodic oxide zone is substantially impermeable to contaminants. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110278120 | WEAR RESISTANT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS - The present disclosure relates to wear resistant transportation systems, methods, and apparatus. In one embodiment, a system includes a contact device, a conductor bar, and a mobile unit. The contact device is coupled to the mobile unit and in electrical communication with both the conductor bar and the mobile unit. The contact device is configured to travel across, and is in contact with, the conductor bar coincidental to movement of the mobile unit. A thin, conductive wear resistant coating is located on an outer surface of at least one of the conductor bar and contact device. The thin, conductive wear resistant coating restricts abrading of the outer surface of at least one of the conductor bar and the contact device. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110268603 | ALUMINUM ALLOY PRODUCTS HAVING IMPROVED PROPERTY COMBINATIONS AND METHOD FOR ARTIFICIALLY AGING SAME - Aluminum alloy products, such as plate, forgings and extrusions, suitable for use in making aerospace structural components like integral wing spars, ribs and webs, comprises about: 6 to 10 wt. % Zn; 1.2 to 1.9 wt. % Mg; 1.2 to 2.2 wt. % Cu, with Mg≦(Cu+0.3); and 0.05 to 0.4 wt. % Zr, the balance Al, incidental elements and impurities. Preferably, the alloy contains about 6.9 to 8.5 wt. % Zn; 1.2 to 1.7 wt. % Mg; 1.3 to 2 wt. % Cu. This alloy provides improved combinations of strength and fracture toughness in thick gauges. When artificially aged per the 3-stage method of preferred embodiments, this alloy also achieves superior SCC performance, including under seacoast conditions. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110253266 | High strength forged aluminum alloy products - High strength forged aluminum alloys and methods for producing the same are disclosed. The forged aluminum alloy products may have grains having a high aspect ratio in at least two planes, generally the L-ST and the LT-ST planes. The forged aluminum alloy products may also have a high amount of texture. The forged products may realize increased strength relative to conventionally prepared forged products of comparable product form, composition and temper. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110247730 | 2XXX SERIES ALUMINUM LITHIUM ALLOYS HAVING LOW STRENGTH DIFFERENTIAL - The present application discloses wrought 2xxx Al—Li alloy products that are work insensitive. The wrought aluminum alloy products generally include from about 2.75 wt. % to about 5.0 wt. % Cu, from about 0.2 wt. % to about 0.8 wt. % Mg, where the ratio of copper-to-magnesium ratio (Cu/Mg) in the aluminum alloy is in the range of from about 6.1 to about 17, from about 0.1 wt. % to 1.10 wt. % Li, from about 0.3 wt. % to about 2.0 wt. % Ag, from 0.50 wt. % to about 1.5 wt. % Zn, up to about 1.0 wt. % Mn, the balance being aluminum, optional incidental elements, and impurities. The wrought aluminum alloy products may realize a low strength differential and in a short aging time due to their work insensitive nature. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110176982 | SURFACES AND COATINGS FOR THE REMOVAL OF CARBON DIOXIDE - Apparatus suited for removing carbon dioxide from gases are disclosed. The apparatus may employ bodies having a photocatalytic film. Associated methods and compositions are also disclosed. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110175398 | MODULAR ARCHITECTURE FOR COMBAT TACTICAL VEHICLE - A combat tactical modular vehicle structure including a center frame module comprising a front bulkhead a cab portion and a rear bulkhead where the center frame module includes an integrated armor so that the integrated armor is a part of center frame module or the center frame module has at least one piece of armor attached to the center frame module, a front frame module comprising an engine subframe where the front frame module is connected to the front bulkhead by a plurality of mechanical coupling devices, and a rear frame module comprising a gearbox subframe where the rear frame module is connected to the rear bulkhead by the plurality of mechanical coupling devices for selectively connecting and disconnecting the front frame module to the front bulkhead without substantially affecting the connection and the rear frame module to the rear bulkhead without substantially affecting the connection. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110169325 | TANK WHEEL ASSEMBLY WITH WEAR RESISTANT COATING - The present disclosure relates to tank wheel assembly systems, methods, and apparatus. In one embodiment, a tank wheel assembly includes a first wheel and a second wheel. A first face of the first wheel faces a second face of the second wheel. A guide tunnel is defined by at least a portion of the first face and at least a portion of the second face. The guide tunnel has outer surfaces and is configured to receive a center guide of a tank tread. The guide tunnel and center guide at least partially maintain the tank tread of the tank wheel assembly. A wear resistant coating is located on at least a portion of the outer surfaces of the guide tunnel, restricts the center guide of the tank tread from abrading the outer surfaces of the guide tunnel, and has a thickness of at least about 0.025 inch. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110167889 | EXPANDING DIE AND METHOD OF SHAPING CONTAINERS - The present invention provides an expansion die for manufacturing containers including a work surface including a progressively expanding portion and a land portion; and an undercut portion positioned following the land portion of the work surface. The present invention further provides a process for manufacturing shaped containers including providing a container stock having a first diameter; expanding at least a portion of the container stock to a second diameter with at least one expansion die; and forming an end of the container stock to accept a container lid. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110156324 | SIDEWALL AND BOTTOM ELECTRODE ARRANGEMENT FOR ELECTRICAL SMELTING REACTORS AND METHOD FOR FEEDING SUCH ELECTRODES - Metallurgical reactors having cooling capability and electrode feed capability are disclosed. The reactors may include a shell having a sidewall and a bottom, where the shell is adapted to contain a molten material. The reactors may include at least one consumable electrode protruding through an opening of the shell and into the molten material. The reactors may include a current contact clamp configured to conduct operating current to the electrode, where the current clamp is in contact with the electrode, and where the current clamp comprises at least one internal channel, wherein the internal channel is configured to circulate a cooling medium. The reactors may include an electric isolation ring disposed between the electrode and the opening of the shell, wherein the electric isolation ring is configured to sealingly engage the electrode and the opening so as to restrict flow of the molten material out of the shell. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110135554 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOVING GASEOUS POLLUTANTS FROM A GAS STREAM - Horizontal gas-liquid scrubbing systems and associated gas scrubbing methodologies are provided. In one embodiment, a horizontal duct scrubbing system includes a horizontally disposed housing having a waste gas inlet and a treated gas outlet, a liquid inlet manifold disposed within the horizontally disposed housing, the liquid inlet manifold comprising a plurality of nozzles oriented to spray a scrubbing liquor co-current to the flow of a gas stream flowing through the horizontally disposed housing, and a demister located proximal the treated gas outlet, where the horizontally disposed housing is substantially free of flow deflection members between the liquid inlet manifold and the demister. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110120929 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING WATER USING IRON - Systems and associated methods for treating contaminant-containing wastewater are provided. The systems generally include a reducing zone for reducing the oxidation-reduction potential of the water and a clean-up zone comprising zero valent iron for removing at least a portion of the contaminant from the contaminant-containing water. The systems are operable to remove one or more contaminants from the contaminant-containing water and are operable for extended durations without clogging due to the formation of iron hydroxides. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110104033 | METHODS OF MAKING TITANIUM DIBORIDE POWDERS - The present disclosure is directed towards methods of making titanium diboride products in various sizes. An aspect of the method provides (a) selecting a target average particle size for a target titanium diboride product; (b) selecting at least one processing variable from the group consisting of: an amount of sulfur, an inert gas flow rate, a soak time, and a reaction temperature; (c) selecting a condition of the processing variable based upon the target average particle size; and (d) producing an actual titanium diboride product having an actual average particle size using the at least one processing variable, wherein due to the at least one processing variable, the actual average particle size corresponds to the target average particle size. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110056597 | METHODS OF AGING ALUMINUM ALLOYS TO ACHIEVE IMPROVED BALLISTICS PERFORMANCE - Aluminum alloy products having improved ballistics performance are disclosed. The aluminum alloy products may be underaged. In one embodiment, the underaged aluminum alloy products realize an FSP resistance that it is better than that of a peak strength aged version of the aluminum alloy product. In one embodiment, ballistics performance criteria is selected and the aluminum alloy product is underaged an amount sufficient to achieve a ballistics performance that is at least as good as the ballistics performance criteria. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110027485 | SELF-CLEANING SUBSTRATES AND METHODS FOR MAKING THE SAME - A methods, apparatus and compositions for producing colored, self-cleaning substrates by roll coating are provided. The roll coated, colored, self-cleaning substrates retain the predetermined color and a predetermined gloss of the colored coating, thereby facilitating their use in architectural applications. The roll coated, colored, self-cleaning substrates may be iridescent-free. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110024304 | COMPOSITION FOR MAKING WETTABLE CATHODE IN ALUMINUM SMELTING - Compositions for making wettable cathodes to be used in aluminum electrolysis cells are disclosed. The compositions generally include titanium diboride (TiB | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110020665 | COATED METAL ARTICLE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING SAME - A surface finishing and coating methodology that provides a superior looking aluminum product with acceptable corrosion performance for outdoor use. In one embodiment, a coating of high purity aluminum is applied first to an aluminum article or product via cold or thermal spray and the mechanical surface modification (e.g., polishing, buffing, brushing, etc.) is clone second. The resulting product has the desirable light weight and mechanical properties of aluminum with the chosen look and performance of the high purity aluminum coating. The aluminum product to be coated may be obtained by extrusion, forging, casting, or rolling. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017055 | 5XXX ALUMINUM ALLOYS AND WROUGHT ALUMINUM ALLOY PRODUCTS MADE THEREFROM - Improved 5xxx aluminum alloys and products made therefrom are disclosed. The new 5xxx aluminum alloy products may achieve an improved combination of properties due to, for example, the presence of copper. In one embodiment, the new 5xxx aluminum alloy products are able to achieve an improved combination of properties by solution heat treatment. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20100315504 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TAPPING METAL ELECTROLYSIS CELLS - Systems, methods and apparatus for facilitating tailored removal of liquids from electrolysis cells are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system includes a container adapted to contain molten liquid of an electrolysis cell, where the molten liquid comprises at least one of molten metal and electrolyte, a passageway adapted to view the molten liquid as it enters the body of the container, an imaging device facing the passageway, where the imaging device is adapted to obtain images of the molten liquid as the molten liquid enters the container, and a display in communication with the imaging device, where the display is adapted to depict the molten liquid via the images obtained by the imaging device. When the molten liquid transitions from molten metal to electrolyte, flow of liquid into the container may be adjusted. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100304175 | HIGH STRENGTH MULTI-LAYER BRAZING SHEET STRUCTURES WITH GOOD CONTROLLED ATMOSPHERE BRAZING (CAB) BRAZEABILITY - The present invention relates to aluminum brazing sheet with high levels of Magnesium in the core layer and having good Controlled Atmosphere Brazing (CAB) brazeability and suitable for use with any commercially available brazing flux, including brazing flux with or without Cesium. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100304078 | FIRE RESISTANT SYSTEMS, METHODS AND APPARATUS - The present disclosure relates to fire-resistant systems, methods, and apparatus. In one embodiment, a fire-resistant system includes a fire-resistant panel and a protected material coupled to the fire-resistant panel. The fire-resistant panel includes a passive layer and a back layer. The passive layer comprises a phyllosilicate material. The back layer comprises an inorganic material and may be coupled to the passive layer. Optionally, the fire-resistant panel may include a secondary layer comprising a functional material, where the functional material comprises one of a phase change material or an endothermic material. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100276360 | METHODS, APPARATUS AND SYSTEMS FOR POLISHING WASTEWATER UTILIZING NATURAL MEDIA FILTRATION - Wastewater treatment systems, methods and apparatus for polishing a wastewater stream comprising a plurality of contaminants are provided. One system includes a vessel containing a plurality of natural media filtration agents selected to remove selected ones of the plurality of contaminants from the wastewater stream. In one embodiment, the vessel includes a bed of bauxite residue and at least one other natural media filtration agent. In another embodiment, the vessel includes a bed of compost and at least one other natural media filtration agent. The vessel includes a wastewater inlet that is in fluid communication with one or more of the natural media filtration agents. The vessel includes a wastewater outlet that is in fluid communication with one or more of the natural media filtration agents. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100275732 | SYSTEMS, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REDUCING IMPURITIES IN ELECTROLYSIS CELLS - Systems, methods and apparatus for reducing impurities in electrolysis cells are disclosed. In one approach, a method includes feeding a particulate fines feed stream to a tank, mixing particulate fines (PF) with liquid, the liquid having a first liquid and a second liquid, and separating at least some of the first liquid from at least some of the second liquid. The particulate fines (PF) may include inlet carbon fines (CF | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100200415 | CORROSION RESISTANT ALUMINUM ALLOY SUBSTRATES AND METHODS OF PRODUCING THE SAME - Aluminum alloy products comprising an aluminum alloy base and a sulfate-phosphate oxide zone integral therewith are disclosed. Methods of making the same are also disclosed. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100199741 | MANUFACTURING PROCESS TO PRODUCE A NECKED CONTAINER - The present invention provides a necking system including a plurality of necking dies each necking dies having an at least partially non-polished necking surface and a non-polished relief following the necking surface. The present invention further provides a method of necking a metal container including providing a metal blank; shaping the blank into a bottle stock; and necking the metal bottle stock, wherein necking includes at least one necking die having an at least partially non-polished necking surface. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100193369 | ENHANCEMENT OF ALUMINUM TAPPING BY APPLICATION OF TARGETED ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD - Systems, methods and apparatus for facilitating removal of molten metal from an electrolysis cell are provided. In one embodiment, a system includes a container and an electrical source coupled to the container. The electrical source may be configured to provide complementary current to a spout of the container. This complementary current may create a complementary electromagnetic field at least proximal a tip portion of the spout. When the spout of the container receives the complementary current, and when the spout is in liquid communication with the molten liquid of the electrolysis cell, the complementary electromagnetic field of the complementary current may at least partially assist to increase the flow of molten metal into the spout of the container. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100183869 | Aluminum alloys, aluminum alloy products and methods for making the same - Decorative shape cast products and methods, systems, compositions and apparatus for producing the same are described. In one embodiment, the decorative shape cast products are produced from an Al—Ni or Al—Ni—Mn alloy, with a tailored microstructure to facilitate production of anodized decorative shape cast product having the appropriate finish and mechanical properties. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100183474 | ALUMINUM-COPPER ALLOYS CONTAINING VANADIUM - New 2xxx aluminum alloys containing vanadium are disclosed. In one embodiment, the aluminum alloy includes 3.3-4.1 wt. % Cu, 0.7-1.3 wt. % Mg, 0.01-0.16 wt. % V, 0.05-0.6 wt. % Mn, 0.01 to 0.4 wt. % of at least one grain structure control element, the balance being aluminum, incidental elements and impurities. The new alloys may realize an improved combination of properties, such as in the T39 or T89 tempers. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100180992 | AGING OF ALUMINUM ALLOYS FOR IMPROVED COMBINATION OF FATIGUE PERFORMANCE AND STRENGTH - Aluminum alloy having an improved combination of properties are provided. In one aspect, a method for producing the alloy includes preparing an aluminum alloy for artificial aging and artificially aging the alloy. In one embodiment, the artificially aging step includes aging the aluminum alloy at a temperature of at least about 250° F., and final aging the aluminum alloy at a temperature of not greater than about 225° F. and for at least about 20 hours. These aluminum alloys realize an improved combination of properties, including improved strength with at least equivalent fatigue crack growth resistance. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100175552 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOVING GASEOUS POLLUTANTS FROM A GAS STREAM - Horizontal gas-liquid scrubbing systems and associated gas scrubbing methodologies are provided. In one embodiment, a horizontal duct scrubbing system includes a horizontally disposed housing having a waste gas inlet and a treated gas outlet, a liquid inlet manifold disposed within the horizontally disposed housing, the liquid inlet manifold comprising a plurality of nozzles oriented to spray a scrubbing liquor co-current to the flow of a gas stream flowing through the horizontally disposed housing, and a demister located proximal the treated gas outlet, where the horizontally disposed housing is substantially free of flow deflection members between the liquid inlet manifold and the demister. The gas stream may include sulfur dioxide, and the system may be capable of removing at least 71 vol. % sulfur dioxide from the gas stream. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100163603 | ADVANCED MULTI-SHOULDERED FIXED BOBBIN TOOLS FOR SIMULTANEOUS FRICTION STIR WELDING OF MULTIPLE PARALLEL WALLS BETWEEN PARTS - A multi-shouldered friction stir welding tool ( | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100162850 | CARBOTHERMIC ALUMINUM PRODUCTION APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Apparatus, systems and methods for carbothermically producing aluminum are disclosed. The systems may include a reactor and an electrical supply. The reactor may include a plurality of side-entering electrodes and a top-entering electrode. The electrical supply may be operable to supply multiphase current to the side-entering electrodes and/or the top-entering electrodes. The electrodes may be in communication with a molten bath of the reactor, and the multiphase current supplied thereto may be passed through the bath to heat the reactor. The amount of current supplied to various electrode sets may be adjusted to facilitate tailored heating of the molten bath. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100147113 | DECARBONIZATION PROCESS FOR CARBOTHERMICALLY PRODUCED ALUMINUM - A method of recovering aluminum is provided. An alloy melt having Al | 06-17-2010 |
| 20100140979 | PEDESTRIAN SAFE AUTOMOTIVE HOOD HAVING REINFORCING FOAM - The present invention provides a thin vehicle closure panel design that substantially reduces a thickness (panel gauge plus the perpendicular distance or depth between the panels) of a vehicle hood ( | 06-10-2010 |
| 20100119407 | CORROSION RESISTANT ALUMINUM ALLOYS HAVING HIGH AMOUNTS OF MAGNESIUM AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - Systems and methods for continuously casting Al—Mg alloy sheet or plate product having a high amount of magnesium are disclosed. The Al—Mg products have 4 or 6 to 8 or 10 wt. % Mg and are resistant to both stress corrosion cracking and intergranular corrosion. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100107815 | USE OF ALUMINA-CARBON AGGLOMERATES IN THE CARBOTHERMIC PRODUCTION OF ALUMINUM - An agglomerate comprising alumina, carbon, and a binder for use in a vapor recovery reactor of a carbothermic alumina reduction furnace is disclosed. A method for using alumina-carbon agglomerates to capture aluminum vapor species and utilize waste heat from off-gases in a vapor recovery reactor to form a recyclable material is also disclosed. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100090850 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TAPPING A METAL ELECTROLYSIS CELL - The present disclosure relates to systems, methods, and apparatus for extracting molten liquid from an electrolysis cell. In one embodiment, a system includes a container and an electrical characteristic detector. The container comprises a body adapted to contain molten liquid and a spout. The spout includes a base portion, a tip portion and a passageway connecting the base portion to the tip portion. The electrical characteristic detector is coupled to the container and is configured to determine an electrical characteristic associated with the molten liquid as the molten liquid passes into the body of the container via the passageway. A process parameter associated with the removal of the molten liquid from the container may be changed when it is determined that an electrical characteristic associated with the molten liquid has achieved a predetermined threshold. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100047113 | AL-SI-MG-ZN-CU ALLOY FOR AEROSPACE AND AUTOMOTIVE CASTINGS - The present invention provides an aluminum casting alloy with a composition including 4%-9% Si; 0.1%-0.7% Mg; less than or equal to 5% Zn; less than 0.15% Fe; less than 4% Cu; less than 0.3% Mn; less than 0.05% B; less than 0.15% Ti; and the remainder consisting essentially of aluminum. The inventive AlSiMg composition provides increased mechanical properties (Tensile Yield Strength and Ultimate Tensile Strength) in comparison to similiarly prepared E357 alloy at room temperature and high temperature. The present invention also includes a shaped casting formed from the inventive composition and a method of forming a shaped casting from the inventive composition. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100043939 | Reinforced Hybrid Structures and Methods Thereof - The present invention discloses a method for producing a wing structure comprising producing a machined metallic bottom skin by pre-machinmg, preforming or combinations thereof, finishing the skin which serves as a mold, placing a plurality of straps on top of the skin, arranging a monolithic, fiber metal laminate, or non-reinforced metallic laminate skin on top of the plurality of straps to form a module, and curing the module, wherein the bottom skin is the load carrying element in the wing The present invention also discloses a method for producing a wing structure comprising providing a mold, placing a first monolithic, fiber metal laminate, or non-reinforced metallic laminate skin on a lay-up mold, placing a plurality of straps on top of the skin, arranging a second monolithic, fiber metal laminate, or non-reinforced metallic laminate skin on top of the plurality of straps to form a module, and curing the module. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100037998 | Aluminum alloy products having improved property combinations and method for artificially aging same - Aluminum alloy products about 4 inches thick or less that possesses the ability to achieve, when solution heat treated, quenched, and artificially aged, and in parts made from the products, an improved combination of strength, fracture toughness and corrosion resistance, the alloy consisting essentially of: about 6.8 to about 8.5 wt. % Zn, about 1.5 to about 2.00 wt. % Mg, about 1.75 to about 2.3 wt. % Cu; about 0.05 to about 0.3 wt. % Zr, less than about 0.1 wt. % Mn, less than about 0.05 wt. % Cr, the balance Al, incidental elements and impurities and a method for making same. The instantly disclosed alloys are useful in making structural members for commercial airplanes including, but not limited to, upper wing skins and stringers, spar caps, spar webs and ribs of either built-up or integral construction. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100037997 | ALUMINUM ALLOYS FOR DISPLAY FRAMES - Described is a method for forming an internal frame configured to receive a flat screen display. Aggressive partial annealing is applied to a hard temper 5182 aluminum alloy material having magnesium content greater than or equal to 3.0 wt. %. The material is partial annealed to an extent that the hard temper aluminum alloy is substantially softened with respect to its initial hardened temper while not exceeding the point where recrystallization occurs. An internal frame for a flat screen display is formed from the partial annealed aluminum alloy. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100028715 | SIMULTANEOUS MULTI-ALLOY CASTING - A method of casting a multi-layered metal ingot including the steps of delivering a metallic divider member into a direct chill mold, pouring a first molten metal into the mold on one side of the divider member, and pouring a second molten metal into the mold on the other side of the divider member, and allowing the first molten metal and the second molten metal solidify to form a metal ingot which includes the divider metal layer disposed there between. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20090315297 | TRAILER - Improved trailers (e.g., semi-trailers) are disclosed. The trailers may include a floor having a top surface and a bottom surface, where the top surface is adapted to transport a payload, and an elongated shell connected to the bottom surface of the floor, where the elongated shell defines a portion of a substantially closed torsion-resistant chamber of the trailer. The trailers may have a torsion resistance that is substantially higher than conventional trailers of similar size and/or load capacity. The trailers may weigh substantially less than conventional trailers of similar size and/or load capacity. The trailers may realize a bending resistance that is at least equivalent to the bending resistance of conventional trailers of similar size and/or load capacity. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090305883 | DEFLUORIDATION OF WATER - Bio-ceramic compositions for removing fluoride from water, and methods for making the same are disclosed. The bio-ceramic composition may comprise alumina, calcium oxide, sulfur, and/or carbon. The bio-ceramic composition may be produced from at least one natural media, such as chitin or eggshell membrane. The bio-ceramic composition may realize an initial fluoride adsorption capacity, in water, of at least about 5 mg/g. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090236233 | ALUMINUM ELECTROLYSIS CELL ELECTROLYTE CONTAINMENT SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS AND METHODS RELATING TO THE SAME - Aluminum electrolysis cells and associated system and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an aluminum electrolysis cell includes an outer shell, a bottom, a plurality of bath resistant blocks defining a surrounding wall, and at least one spring member coupled to at least one of the plurality of bath resistant blocks and the outer shell, where the at least one spring member is configured to maintain the plurality of bath resistant blocks in a substantially leak-tight configuration. | 09-24-2009 |
| 20090156100 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR GRINDING WORK ROLLERS - A grinding wheel comprising a cylindrical hub of a desired material having a first band of yieldable material on its outer circumferential surface, and a second band of abrasive material on the outer circumferential surface of the first band. The first band of yieldable material can be flexible or semi-flexible and provides support for the second band. An adhesive can be used to avoid relative motion between the hub and the first belt, and between the first and second belts. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090148719 | FRICTION-STIR WELDMENTS AND SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME - Friction-stir weldments and systems and methods for producing the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a metal product includes a first metal plate having a first center-neutral axis, a second metal plate comprising a second center-neutral axis, and a friction-stir corner weld that connects the first metal plate to the second metal plate, where the first center-neutral axis of the first metal plate is transverse to the second center-neutral axis of the second metal plate. In another embodiment, a system for producing friction-stir weldments includes a backup anvil having a first supporting face and a second supporting face, where the first supporting face is adapted to receive and support the first metal plate, and where the second supporting face is adapted to receive and support a second metal plate, wherein the center-neutral axis of the first metal plate is transverse to the center-neutral axis of the second metal plate. | 06-11-2009 |
| 20090142222 | ALUMINUM-COPPER-LITHIUM ALLOYS - Improved aluminum-copper-lithium alloys are disclosed. The alloys may include 3.4-4.2 wt. % Cu, 0.9-1.4 wt. % Li, 0.3-0.7 wt. % Ag, 0.1-0.6 wt. % Mg, 0.2-0.8 wt. % Zn, 0.1-0.6 wt. % Mn, and 0.01-0.6 wt. % of at least one grain structure control element, the balance being aluminum and incidental elements and impurities. The alloys achieve an improved combination of properties over prior art alloys. | 06-04-2009 |
| 20090139371 | CARBOTHERMIC ALUMINUM PRODUCTION APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Apparatus, systems and methods for carbothermically producing aluminum are disclosed. The systems may include a reactor and an electrical supply. The reactor may include a plurality of side-entering electrodes and a top-entering electrode. The electrical supply may be operable to supply multiphase current to the side-entering electrodes and/or the top-entering electrodes. The electrodes may be in communication with a molten bath of the reactor, and the multiphase current supplied thereto may be passed through the bath to heat the reactor. The amount of current supplied to various electrode sets may be adjusted to facilitate tailored heating of the molten bath. | 06-04-2009 |
| 20090136122 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INSPECTING ANODES AND SMELTING MANAGEMENT RELATING TO THE SAME - Systems and methods for inspecting anodes, and smelting management based thereon are provided. In one embodiment, a system includes an imaging device configured to obtain images of at least one anode assembly, an image processor configured to producing imaging data based on the images, and a data analyzer configured to produce anode characteristic data based on the imaging data. In one embodiment, a method includes the steps of obtaining at least one image of at least a portion of an anode assembly, producing imaging data based on the at least one image, and deriving anode characteristic data based, at least in part, on the imaging data. | 05-28-2009 |
| 20090107840 | METHODS, SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING COMPOSITION OF FEED MATERIAL OF METAL ELECTROLYSIS CELLS - Systems and methods for determining compositions of cover materials for electrolysis cells are provided. In one embodiment a system includes an aluminum electrolysis cell adapted to contain an electrolytic bath, a hopper configured to provide a cover material to the aluminum electrolysis cell, where the cover material includes alumina and electrolytic bath particulate, an imaging device configured to capture images of the cover material, an image processor configured to analyze the images and output imaging data relating to the cover material, and a data analyzer configured to analyze the imaging data and output a determined cover material composition in the form of cover material information. The cover material information may be used to manage operation of the aluminum electrolysis cell, such as via adjusting the composition or feed rate of the cover material. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090092529 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOVING GASEOUS POLLUTANTS FROM A GAS STREAM - Horizontal gas-liquid scrubbing systems and associated gas scrubbing methodologies are provided. In one embodiment, a horizontal duct scrubbing system includes a horizontally disposed housing having a waste gas inlet and a treated gas outlet, a liquid inlet manifold disposed within the horizontally disposed housing, the liquid inlet manifold comprising a plurality of nozzles oriented to spray a scrubbing liquor co-current to the flow of a gas stream flowing through the horizontally disposed housing, and a demister located proximal the treated gas outlet, where the horizontally disposed housing is substantially free of flow deflection members between the liquid inlet manifold and the demister. The gas stream may include sulfur dioxide, and the system may be capable of removing at least 71 vol. % sulfur dioxide from the gas stream. | 04-09-2009 |
| 20090084763 | Production or assembly line method of spot welding - The present invention provides a production line method of resistance welding comprising the steps of contacting a metal sheet with an electrode having an initial contact surface area at a force provide a pressure to the metal sheet; applying a current though the electrode to the metal sheet; measuring dimensional changes of the electrode; correlating dimensional changes in the electrode to changes in the initial contact surface area; and adjusting the force to compensate for the changes in the initial contact surface area of the electrode to maintain pressure to the metal sheet. The force may be adjusted by stepping the force to maintain pressure to the flaying surface of the metal sheet to be welded. By maintaining the pressure at the faying surface the life cycle of the electrodes may be increased without forming discrepant welds. | 04-02-2009 |
| 20090084474 | RECRYSTALLIZED ALUMINUM ALLOYS WITH BRASS TEXTURE AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - A recrystallized aluminum alloy having brass texture and Goss texture, wherein the amount of brass texture exceeds the amount of Goss texture, and wherein the recrystallized aluminum alloy exhibits at least about the same tensile yield strength and fracture toughness as a compositionally equivalent unrecrystallized alloy of the same product form and of similar thickness and temper. | 04-02-2009 |
| 20090061216 | CORROSION RESISTANT ALUMINUM ALLOY SUBSTRATES AND METHODS OF PRODUCING THE SAME - Aluminum alloy products comprising an aluminum alloy base and a sulfate-phosphate oxide zone integral therewith are disclosed. Methods of making the same are also disclosed. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090026063 | SURFACES AND COATINGS FOR THE REMOVAL OF CARBON DIOXIDE - Apparatus suited for removing carbon dioxide from gases are disclosed. The apparatus may employ bodies having a photocatalytic film. Associated methods and compositions are also disclosed. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090013823 | USE OF ALUMINA-CARBON AGGLOMERATES IN THE CARBOTHERMIC PRODUCTION OF ALUMINUM - An agglomerate comprising alumina, carbon, and a binder for use in a vapor recovery reactor of a carbothermic alumina reduction furnace is disclosed. A method for using alumina-carbon agglomerates to capture aluminum vapor species and utilize waste heat from off-gases in a vapor recovery reactor to form a recyclable material is also disclosed. | 01-15-2009 |
| 20090011272 | METAL BODIES CONTAINING MICROCAVITIES AND APPARATUS AND METHODS RELATING THERETO - Monolithic metal bodies (e.g., hard aluminum alloys) comprising a continuous microcavity contained within the body are disclosed. The ratio of the cross-sectional area of the metal body to the cross-sectional area of the microcavity may be not greater than 10. The produced metal bodies may be used in structural applications (e.g., aerospace vehicles) to monitor or test the integrity of the metal body. | 01-08-2009 |
| 20090010798 | ALUMINUM-COPPER-MAGNESIUM ALLOYS HAVING ANCILLARY ADDITIONS OF LITHIUM - An aluminum-copper-magnesium alloy having ancillary additions of lithium. The alloy composition includes from about 3 to about 5 weight percent Cu, from about 0.5 to about 2 weight percent Mg, and from about 0.01 to about 0.9 weight percent Li. The combined amount of Cu and Mg is maintained below a solubility limit of the aluminum alloy. The alloys possess improved combinations of fracture toughness and strength, and also exhibit good fatigue crack growth resistance. | 01-08-2009 |
| 20080302520 | Heat Exchanger - A heat exchanger suitable for long term use in the unfiltered hot exhaust gas of an aluminum smelter is disclosed. In one embodiment, the heat exchanger comprises fluid carrying tubes connected together with web members to form a cylindrical shell. A header located at each end of the cylindrical shell is provided for feeding fluid to and from the tubes of the heat exchanger. Shrouds can be placed over the headers to affect hot gas turbulence and help minimize scaling. The surfaces of the cylindrical shell, when in un-scrubbed exhaust gas of an aluminum smelter, will be in contact with particles and/or dust and possibly caustic fumes and, therefore, may be treated with a relevant slip coating selected, for example, from the Teflon family. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080274367 | RECOVERED HIGH STRENGTH MULTI-LAYER ALUMINUM BRAZING SHEET PRODUCTS - A multi-layer metallurgical product comprising a core aluminum alloy, purposefully tailored through chemistry and processing route to resist recrystallization during the brazing cycle to intentionally exploit the higher strengths immediately after brazing of a deformed and recovered microstructure, the core aluminum alloy being positioned on one side to an aluminum alloy interliner designed to be resistant to localized erosion, which, in turn, is adjacent to a 4xxx cladding alloy. The multi-layer product can be fabricated at least in part via any multi-alloy ingot casting processes such as the Simultaneous Multi-Alloy Casting process or the Unidirectional Solidification of Castings process. | 11-06-2008 |
| 20080254309 | Functionally Graded Metal Matrix Composite Sheet - The present invention discloses a method of making a functionally graded metal matrix composite (MMC) sheet having a central layer of particulate matter. The method includes providing a molten metal containing particulate matter to a pair of advancing casting surfaces. Solidifying the molten metal while advancing the molten metal between the advancing casting surfaces to form a product comprising a first solid outer layer, a second solid outer layer, and a semi-solid central layer having a higher concentration of particulate matter than either of the outer layers. Solidifying the central layer to form a solid metal product comprised of an inner layer sandwiched between the outer layers and withdrawing the metal product from between the casting surfaces. The method yields an MMC having a central layer enriched with particulate matter and sandwiched between metallic outer layers. The product combines the easy mechanical working chracteristics and the appearance of the metallic outer layers with the enhanced properties provided by the central MMC layer. | 10-16-2008 |
| 20080251230 | Strip Casting of Immiscible Metals - The present invention discloses a method of strip casting an aluminum alloy from immiscible liquids that yields a highly uniform structure of fine second phase particles. The results of the present invention are achieved by using a known casting process to cast the alloy into a thin strip at high speeds. In the method of the present invention, the casting speed is preferably in the region of about 50-300 feet per minute (fpm) and the thickness of the strip preferably smaller than 0.08-0.25 inches. Under these conditions, favorable results are achieved when droplets of the immiscible liquid phase nucleate in the liquid ahead of the solidification front established in the casting process. The droplets of the immiscible phase are engulfed by the rapidly moving freeze front into the space between the Secondary Dendrite Arms (SDA). | 10-16-2008 |
| 20080241573 | SELF CLEANING ALUMINUM ALLOY SUBSTRATES - Self-cleaning aluminum alloy substrates and methods of making the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a substrate is provided, the substrate including an aluminum alloy body, an anodic oxide zone having micropores within a surface of the aluminum alloy body, the anodic oxide zone being substantially impermeable to contaminants, and a photocatalytic film located on at least a portion of the anodic oxide zone, wherein the photocatalytic film comprises photocatalytically active semiconductor. In one embodiment, a method is provided, the method including the steps of forming an anodic oxide zone in at least a portion of an aluminum alloy base, forming a photocatalytic film, the photocatalytic film being located on the anodic oxide zone, and sealing the anodic oxide zone with a sealant, wherein, as sealed, the anodic oxide zone is substantially impermeable to contaminants. | 10-02-2008 |
| 20080226154 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING CARBONACEOUS PASTES USED IN THE PRODUCTION OF CARBON ELECTRODES - Systems and methods for producing a carbonaceous paste are provided. The systems and methods may include a paste control system that obtains an image of the carbonaceous paste and determines whether operational parameters associated with paste production require adjustment. One or more operational variables may be adjusted based on the obtained images to facilitate production of the carbonaceous paste. | 09-18-2008 |
| 20080217377 | Fracture Resistant Friction Stir Welding Tool - Friction stir welding tool to facilitate stress reduction within the tool that may include a body, a pin, a tension member, and an end assembly, the tension member and end assembly facilitating axial compression of the pin. The tension member may be decoupled from the pin and/or body of the tool via one or more decoupling members. The end assembly may comprise spring members to provide an axial force to the tension member. The pin may include various features to facilitate stress reduction proximal the pin. | 09-11-2008 |
| 20080196545 | LOW CARBON ALUMINUM PRODUCTION METHOD USING SINGLE FURNACE CARBOTHERMIC REDUCTION OPERATED IN BATCH MODE - A batch process for producing low carbon aluminum using a single carbothermic reactor furnace is disclosed in which the slag making, metal making and carbon extraction is carried out in a single furnace, single compartment reactor. The Al | 08-21-2008 |
