Vorrichtung und Verfahren zur kontinuierlichen Metallschmelzezuführung unter Druck

VERFAHREN ZUR HERSTELLUNG VON BLECHEN AUS 6XXX ALUMINIUM LEGIERUNGEN

VIRTUELLE PROGRAMMIERUNG VON FORMTEILBAHNEN

AN AL-SI-MG-ZN-CU ALLOY FOR AEROSPACE AND AUTOMOTIVE CASTINGS

... ²²²The present invention provides an aluminum casting alloy with a composition ²including 4% - 9% Si; 0.1% - 0.7% Mg; less than or equal to 5% Zn; less than ²0.15% Fe; less than 4% Cu; less than 0.3% Mn; less than 0.05% B; less than ²0.15% Ti; and the remainder consisting essentially of aluminum. The inventive ²AlSiMg composition provides increased mechanical properties (Tensile Yield ²Strength and Ultimate Tensile Strength) in comparison to similiarly prepared ²E357 alloy at room temperature and high temperature. The present invention ²also includes a shaped casting formed from the inventive composition and a ²method of forming a shaped casting from the inventive composition.² ...

SLIDING DOOR INTERLOCKING SYSTEM

A pair of interlocking bi-parting sliding doors includes a first sliding door and a second sliding door, wherein the first sliding door has a first meeting stile that includes a first side portion for maintaining a door glass panel and a first mating side portion for engaging the second sliding door, wherein the first mating side portion includes a plurality of recessed zones, and wherein the second sliding door has a second meeting stile that includes a second side portion for maintaining a door glass panel and a second mating side portion for engaging the first mating side portion of the first sliding door, wherein the second mating side portion includes a plurality of extensions, wherein when the first sliding door and the second sliding door are in a closed position, the plurality of extensions interlock with the plurality of recessed zones.

LIGHT SHELF FOR BUILDINGS

In an embodiment, a light shelf of the present invention includes at least one panel assembly for reflecting daylight into a space; and at least two structural elements for holding the panel assembly, wherein the structural elements include a spine component having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween; a first mounting component for installing on a structural member and for engaging the proximal end of the spine component; a second mounting component for engaging the distal end of the spine component; and a sleeve component having at least one indentation for holding a side of the panel assembly.

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.

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR REDUCING SULFUR IMPURITIES AND IMPROVING CURRENT EFFICIENCIES OF INERT ANODE ALUMINUM PRODUCTION CELLS

Methods and apparatus are disclosed for reducing sulfur impurities in aluminum electrolytic production cells (10, 20, 30, 40, 50) in order to significantly increase current efficiency of the cells. An impurity reduction zone may be created in the bath (13) of an inert anode (16a, 16b) cell by submerging a purifying electrode (17, 37, 47) in the bath (13). In another embodiment, an oxygen barrier tube (52), may be disposed in a portion of the bath (13). In a further embodiment, reductants such as aluminum, CO and/or CO2 are added to the bath (13). In another embodiment, electrode current is interrupted or electrodes are removed from selected regions of the cell (10, 20, 30, 40, 50) in order to allow gaseous impurities to escape from the bath (13). Sulfur impurity levels may also be reduced in inert anode cells (62) by scrubbing bath emissions (66) from the cell (62) before they are reintroduced into the cell (62), and by controlling sulfur impurity contents of materials (82) added to the ...

INERT ANODE CONTAINING OXIDES OF NICKEL, IRON AND COBALT USEFUL FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION OF METALS

An inert anode for the electrolytic production of metals such as aluminum is disclosed. The inert anode includes a ceramic oxide material preferably made from NiO, Fe2O3, and CoO. The inert anode composition may be of the formula Ni x Fe2 y Co2O(3y+x+z)+-.delta., where x is from 0.15 to 0.99, y is from 0.0001 to 0.35, z is from 0.0001 to 0.45, and .delta. is from 0 to 0.3. The inert anode may optionally include other oxides and/or at least one metal phase, such as Cu, Ag, Pd, Pt, Au, Rh, Ru, Ir and/or Os. The Ni-Fe-Co-O ceramic material exhibits very low solubility in Hall cell baths used to produce aluminum.

INSULATION ASSEMBLIES FOR METAL PRODUCTION CELLS

Insulation assemblies provide reduced heat loss from electrolytic metal production cells such as inert anode aluminum production cells. The insulation assemblies (20, 24) may be located at the end, side (5, 6) and/or center (9) aisles of the cell, and may be supported by the anodes (12) and deckplate (10) of the cell. The assemblies reduce heat loss and bath vaporization losses, and permit stable operation of the inert anode cell.

FISH-SHAPED BAKING CUP

The design consists of the features of shape and configuration of the entire FISH-SHAPED BAKING CUP shown in the drawings.In the Drawings:Fig. 1 is a bottom perspective view of the fish-shaped baking cup according to the present design;Fig. 2 is a bottom planar view of the fish-shaped baking cup;Fig. 3 is a right side elevation view of the fish-shaped baking cup with the left side being a mirror image thereof; andFig. 4 is a top planar view of the fish-shaped baking cup.Drawing(s)/photograph(s) of the design is (are) included.

CAN

The design is the shape and configuration of the portions of the CAN that are shown in full lines in the accompanying drawings. Portions shown in stippled lines are not part of the Design.Drawings of the design are included.In the drawings:Fig. 1 is a perspective view from above of the CAN in accordance with said Industrial Design;Fig. 2 is a side elevational view; and,Figs. 3 and 4 are top and bottom plan views respectively.

VACUUM PUMP

The design consists of the features of shape, ornament, pattern and configuration of the entire VACUUM PUMP shown in the drawings.

BAT-SHAPED BAKING CUP

The design consists of the features of shape and configuration of the entire bat-shaped baking cup shown in the drawings.Figure 1 is a top perspective view of the bat-shaped baking cup of the present design;Figure 2 is a top plan view of the bat-shaped baking cup of Figure 1;Figure 3 is a bottom plan view of the bat-shaped baking cup of Figure 1;Figure 4 is a left elevation view of the bat-shaped baking cup of Figure 1;Figure 5 is right elevation view of the bat-shaped baking cup of Figure 1;Figure 6 is a rear elevation view of the bat-shaped baking cup of Figure 1; andFigure 7 is a front elevation view of the bat-shaped baking cup of Figure 1.

AN AL-ZN-MG-CU-SC HIGH STRENGTH ALLOY FOR AEROSPACE AND AUTOMOTIVE CASTINGS

... ²²²An aluminum casting alloy, comprises, in weight percent, about 4-9% Zn; about ²1-4% Mg; about 1-2.5% Cu; less than about 0.1% Si; less than about 0.12% Fe; ²less than about 0.5% Mn; about 0.01-0.05% B; less than about 0.15% Ti; about ²0.05-0.2% Zr; about 0.1-0.5% Sc; no more than about 0.05% each miscellaneous ²element or impurity; no more tha about 0.15% total miscellaneous elements or ²impurities.² ...

BAG

The design consists of the features of shape, ornament, pattern and configuration of the entire bag shown in the drawings.In the drawings:Figure 1 is a perspective view of the design;Figure 2 is a front elevation view of the design;Figure 3 is a rear elevation view of the design;Figure 4 is a right elevation view of the design;Figure 5 is a left elevation view of the design;Figure 6 is a top plan view of the design; andFigure 7 is a bottom plan view of the design.Drawing(s)/photograph(s) of the design is (are) included.

TREE BAKING PAN LID

The design consists of the features of shape, ornament, pattern and configuration of the portion of the TREE BAKING PAN LID shown in solid lines in the drawings. The portions shown in the stippled lines do not form part of the design.In the Drawings:Figure 1 is a top perspective view of the design;Figure 2 is a top plan view of the design;Figure 3 is a bottom plan view of the design;Figure 4 is a left elevation view of the design;Figure 5 is a right elevation view of the design;Figure 6 is a rear elevation view of the design;Figure 7 is a front elevation view of the design; andFigure 8 is a top perspective view of the design mated to a corresponding baking pan. The broken line showing of the baking pan is for illustrative purposes only and forms no part of the design.Drawing(s)/photograph(s) of the design is (are) included ...

HEART-SHAPED BAKING PAN LID

The design consists of the features of shape, ornament, pattern and configuration of the entire Heart-Shaped Baking Pan Lid shown in solid lines in the drawings.The broken lines in Figure 8 in the drawings show an environment in which the Heart-Shaped Baking Pan Lid may be associated.In the Drawings:Figure 1 is a top perspective view of the heart-shaped baking pan lid according to the present design;Figure 2 is a top planar view of the heart-shaped baking pan lid;Figure 3 is a bottom planar view of the heart-shaped baking pan lid;Figure 4 is a left elevational view of the heart-shaped baking pan lid;Figure 5 is a right elevational view of the heart-shaped baking pan lid;Figure 6 is a rear elevational view of the heart-shaped baking pan lid;Figure 7 is a front elevational view of the heart-shaped baking pan lid;Figure 8 is a top perspective view of the heart-shaped baking pan lid with a corresponding baking pan shown in broken lines being mated thereto. Drawing(s)/photograph(s) of the design ...

ALUMINUM ALLOY PRODUCTS AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING SAME

An aluminum alloy product and method for producing the aluminum alloy product that, in some embodiments, includes an aluminum alloy strip having at least 0.8 wt. % manganese, at least 0.6 wt % iron, or at least 0.8 wt. % manganese and at least 0.6 wt % iron. A near surface of the aluminum alloy strip, in some embodiments, is substantially free of large particles having an equivalent diameter of at least 50 micrometers and includes small particles. Each small particle, in some embodiments, has a particular equivalent diameter that is less than 3 micrometers, and a quantity per unit area of the small particles having the particular equivalent diameter is at least 0.01 particles per square micrometer at the near surface of the aluminum alloy strip.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONNECTING DRILLING RISER STRINGS AND COMPOSITIONS THEREOF

In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a riser apparatus for use in offshore drilling for oil or other fossil fuels, the riser apparatus comprising: a plurality of riser sections coupled serially end-to-end, wherein each of the riser sections comprises: a tube having a first end and a second end; a first flanged that is mechanically joined to the first end of the tube; a second flanged that is mechanically joined to the second end of the tube; wherein the tube is constructed of an aluminum alloy; and wherein the flanges are constructed of the aluminum alloy; and wherein the riser apparatus has a length of approximately 1,500 meters or greater.

2XXX SERIES ALUMINUM LITHIUM ALLOYS

Thick wrought 2xxx aluminum lithium alloy products are disclosed. The wrought aluminum alloy products have a thickness of at least 12.7 mm and contain from 3.00 to 3.80 wt. % Cu, from 0.05 to 0.35 wt. % Mg, from 0.975 to 1.385 wt. % Li, wherein -0.3*Mg-0.15Cu +1.65 = Li = -0.3*Mg-0.15Cu +1.85, from 0.05 to 0.50 wt. % of at least one grain structure control element, wherein the grain structure control element is selected from the group consisting of Zr, Sc, Cr, V, Hf, other rare earth elements, and combinations thereof, up to 1.0 wt. % Zn, up to 1.0 wt. % Mn, up to 0.12 wt. % Si, up to 0.15 wt. % Fe, up to 0.15 wt. % Ti, 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.

MANUFACTURES, METHODS AND STRUCTURES TO REDUCE ENERGY TRANSFER IN BUILDINGS

A manufacture for reducing thermal transfer through windows has a composite metal/nonmetallic frame and/or a composite vent surround. The metallic and non- metallic components are modular and selectively coupled, such that a range of variations to accommodate different applications may be inter-coupled via common interfaces.

METHOD FOR EXPANDING THE DIAMETER OF A METAL CONTAINER

A method of forming a metal container comprises: curling outward a top edge of the metal container to form a curl and expanding a diameter of a first section of the metal container to form a first expanded section; wherein at least part of the first expanded section is below the curl. In some embodiments, the steps of curling outward a top edge of the metal container to form a curl and expanding a diameter of a first section of the metal container to form a first expanded section are performed in a single stroke of a single die. In some embodiments, the step of expanding a diameter of a first section of the metal container to form an expanded section is performed after the step of curling outward a top edge of the metal container to form a curl.

SAFETY CLOSURE ASSEMBLY

KNURLED CLOSURE

Lubricated sheet product and lubricant composition

There is disclosed a metal sheet product, more particularly formed food container stock and/or industrial sheet product, which has been treated with an ester-free, lubricant composition that is suitable for direct food contact. This composition consists essentially of: (i) about 10-90 wt. % of a polyalphaolefin; (ii) about 10-90 wt. % of an oleic acid; (iii) about 0-60 wt. % of an isostearic acid; and preferably, about 10-35 wt. % isostearic acid. It should be noted that especially good smudge testing results were observed with the presence of oleic acid. In alternative embodiments, the lubricant composition further includes: (iv) up to about 5 wt. % of an antioxidant, preferably about 0.1-3 wt. % butylated hydroxytoluene; and (v) up to about 10 wt. % of a conductivity enhancer, such as about 2-7 wt. % lecithin. When applied in total deposited weights of about 0.1-30 mg/ft2 per side, this invention produces formed food container stock or industrial sheet having improved formability and ...

Molten metal dosing furnace with metal treatment and level control and method

A dosing furnace (10) with metal treatment and level control includes a holding chamber (12) for containing a supply of molten metal (50), a pump (22) connected to the holding chamber (12), a molten metal treatment chamber (16, 18) located at an outlet (26) of the pump (22), and a dosing chamber (40) located downstream and in fluid communication with the molten metal treatment chamber (16, 18). A molten metal level sensor (56) is located in the dosing chamber (40). The pump (22) is a variable speed pump having a pump inlet (24) connected to the holding chamber (12) and configured to pump the molten metal (50) through the dosing furnace (10) during operation. The molten metal level sensor (56) is connected to the pump (22) for providing a pump speed control signal to the pump (22). The molten metal level sensor (56) is configured to monitor the level of the molten metal (50) in the dosing chamber (40) and maintain a preset level of the molten metal (50) in the dosing chamber (40) by controlling ...

Modular tooling system for lane tooling in a conversion press and method for the use thereof

A modular tooling system for use in combination with a conversion press has an upper base member adapted to be removably mounting into the conversion press, a tooling holder, a tooling insert and means for retaining the tooling insert within the tooling holder. The tooling holder is adapted for attachment to the upper base member. The tooling holder defines a chamber therein extending therethrough. The chamber includes a shoulder portion. The tooling insert is adapted to be removably mounted in the tool holder. The insert has a first end, a second end, and a shoulder portion adapted to cooperate with the tooling holder shoulder portion. Bushings and spacers secure the insert within the tooling holder. Both the tooling holder chamber and the tooling insert are of a predetermined cross section which are adapted to correspond with each other and define a keyed relationship.

Apparatus and method for high pressure extrusion with molten aluminum

This invention discloses a molten metal supply system that can supply molten metal to a downstream process at a constant pressure and molten metal flow rate. The molten metal supply system includes a molten metal supply source, a plurality of injectors, and a plurality of check valves.

Stable anodes including iron oxide and use of such anodes in metal production cells

Stable anodes comprising iron oxide useful for the electrolytic production of metal such as aluminum are disclosed. The iron oxide may comprise Fe3O4, Fe2O3, FeO or a combination thereof. During the electrolytic aluminum production process, the anodes remain stable at a controlled bath temperature of the aluminum production cell and current density through the anodes is controlled. The iron oxide-containing anodes may be used to produce commercial purity aluminum.

Blind fastener

A blind fastener including a pull-type core bolt having a shank with a head, and a sleeve having an elongated body with a head, and a tapered notch formed within an exterior surface thereof and defined by a tapered portion having a slope and a frictional enhanced surface. The core bolt is installed within the sleeve. During installation of the fastener within the plurality of work pieces, an axial force is applied to the core bolt the head of the core bolt engages the sleeve, and a bulb is formed on the elongated body of the sleeve, the bulb defining a portion of a bulbed portion. When a selected axial force is reached, the bulbed portion separates from the elongated body and engages axially the tapered portion of the sleeve, increasing the diameter of the bulb which engages a blind side of one of the work pieces.

KNOCKOUT FOR USE WHILE NECKING A METAL CONTAINER, DIE SYSTEM FOR NECKING A METAL CONTAINER AND METHOD OF NECKING A METAL CONTAINER

A knockout has a support surface and the support surface has: (i) a first knockout outer diameter capable of supporting the first inner diameter of a container side wall when the knockout is inserted into an opening of the metal container and when the metal container is being necked with a necking die; and (ii) a second knockout outer diameter capable of supporting the second inner diameter of the container side wall when the knockout is inserted into the opening of the metal container and when the metal container is being necked with the necking die, and wherein the first knockout outer diameter is larger than the second knockout outer diameter. 1. A die system comprising: (i) an opening; and', (a) a first inner diameter; and', '(b) a second inner diameter;', 'wherein the first inner diameter of the container side wall is at least 0.001 inches greater than the second inner diameter of the container side wall;, '(ii) a container side wall, wherein the container side wall has], '(A) a metal container having(B) a necking die having a working surface comprising a land; and (i) a first knockout outer diameter capable of supporting the first inner diameter of the container side wall when the knockout is inserted into the opening of the metal container and when the metal container is being necked with the necking die; and', '(ii) a second knockout outer diameter capable of supporting the second inner diameter of the container side wall when the knockout is inserted into the opening of the metal container and when the metal container is being necked with the necking die, and', 'wherein the first knockout outer diameter is larger than the second knockout outer diameter., '(C) a knockout having a support surface, the support surface having2. The die system of wherein the second inner diameter of the container side wall is closer to the opening of the metal container than the first inner diameter of the container side wall.3. The die system of wherein the first knockout outer ...

Fertilizer compositions and methods of making and using the same

Generally, the instant disclosure relates to fertilizer compositions and methods of making and using the same. More specifically, the instant disclosure relates to blast suppressant and/or blast resistant ammonium nitrate fertilizer compositions, as well as methods of making and using the same.

AN ACID PRETREATMENT METHOD TO IMPROVE ADHESION TO ALUMINUM ALLOYS

An aluminum alloy sheet, plate, casting or extrusion having a surface layer containing magnesium oxide and aluminum oxide is cleaned with an acidic solution. The cleaned component has an aluminum oxide layer that is pretreated with a phosphorus-containing organic acid to form a functionalized layer. A layer of polymeric adhesive is applied to the functionalized layer, and the adhesive layer is joined to a metal support structure to form a vehicle assembly.

GAS METAL BURIED ARC WELDING OF LAP-PENETRATION JOINTS

A method of welding continuous or intermittent lap-penetration joints uses a gas metal buried arc (GMBA) welding process. A first component (22) is GMBA welded to an underlying second metal component (24), by forming an arc (28) between a consumable metal electrode (26) and a surface of the first component (22), depositing metal from the electrode (26) to the first component (22) and producing a pool of molten metal (10) which extends through the first component (22) and into the second component (24). The molten pool metal solidifies into a weld (30) that extends into the second component (24) wherein the weld width at the interface between the components is at least equal to the thickness of the thinner of the first component (22) and the second component (24). The arc (28) is at least partially buried within the thickness of the first component and is moved in the direction of the desired joint location to produce a joint.

METHOD AND REACTOR FOR PRODUCTION OF ALUMINUM BY CARBOTHERMIC REDUCTION OF ALUMINA

A hollow partition wall (4) is employed to feed carbon material to an underflow of a carbothermic reduction furnace used to make aluminum. The partition wall (4) divides a low temperature reaction zone (2) where aluminum oxide is reacted with carbon to form aluminum carbide and a high temperature reaction zone (3) where the aluminum carbide and remaining aluminum oxide are reacted to form aluminum and carbon monoxide.

ALUMINUM SHEET PRODUCTS HAVING IMPROVED FATIGUE CRACK GROWTH RESISTANCE AND METHODS OF MAKING SAME

Aluminum sheet products having highly anisotropic grain microstructures and highly textured crystallographic microstructures are disclosed. The products exhibit improved strength and improved resistance to fatigue crack growth, as well as other advantageous properties such as improved combinations of strength and fracture toughness. The sheet products are useful for aerospace and other applications, particularly aircraft fuselages.

FUNCTIONALLY GRADED METAL MATRIX COMPOSITE SHEET

Method of making a functionally graded metal matrix composite (MMC) product (20) having a solid central layer (18) enriched with particulate matter (10) sandwiched between outer shells (6, 8) by providing molten metal (M) containing particulate matter (10) to a pair of advancing casting surfaces (D1, D2), solidifying the molten metal (M), and withdrawing the MMC product (20) from between the casting surfaces (D1, D2). The solid central layer (18) contains a higher concentration of particulate matter (10) than either of the outer layers (6, 8). The MMC product (20) combines easy mechanical working characteristics and appearance of the metallic outer layers with the enhanced properties provided by the solid central layer (18).

DOUBLE-WALLED CONTAINER AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE

A double-walled container and method of manufacturing are disclosed. A first container having a smaller diameter than a second container is inserted into the second container. A portion of the first container is expanded and/or a portion of the second container may be narrowed so that first and second container is interlocked and form a double-walled container. The first and/or second containers may have ribs. An air gap between the first and second containers provides thermal insulation to contents of the double-walled container.

EXPANSION DIE FOR MANUFACTURING METAL CONTAINERS

The present invention provides an expansion die (5) for manufacturing containers including a work surface (10) including a progressively expanding portion (15) and a land portion (20),- and an undercut portion (25) positioned following the land portion (25) of the work surface (10). The present invention further provides a process for manufacturing shaped containers (A- N, 1- 3) 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.

KNOCKOUT FOR USE WHILE NECKING A METAL CONTAINER, DIE SYSTEM FOR NECKING A METAL CONTAINER AND METHOD OF NECKING A METAL CONTAINER

A knockout (18) has a support surface (20) and the support surface (20) has: (i) a first knockout outer diameter (30) capable of supporting the first inner diameter (22) of a container side wall (14) when the knockout (18) is inserted into an opening (12) of the metal container (10) and when the metal container (10) is being necked with a necking die (16); and (ii) a second knock-out outer diameter (32) capable of supporting the second inner diameter (24) of the container side wall (14) when the knockout (18) is inserted into the opening (12) of the metal container (10) and when the metal container (10) is being necked with the necking die (16), and wherein the first knockout outer diameter (30) is larger than the second knockout outer diameter (32).

IMPROVED ALUMINUM-MAGNESIUM-LITHIUM ALLOYS, AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME

New aluminum-magnesium-lithium alloys, and methods for producing the same are disclosed. The alloys generally contain 2.0 - 3.9 wt. % Mg, 0.1 - 1.8 wt. % Li, up to 1.5 wt. % Cu, up to 2.0 wt. % Zn, up to 1.0 wt. % Ag, up to 1.5 wt. % Mn, up to 0.5 wt. % Si, up to 0.35 wt. % Fe, 0.05 to 0.50 wt. % of a grain structure control element, up to 0.10 wt. % Ti, 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.

MANUFACTURES, METHODS AND STRUCTURES TO REDUCE ENERGY TRANSFER IN BUILDING CURTAIN WALLS

A manufacture and method for reducing thermal transfer through window systems has a composite window cap retainer. The retainer has a metal extrusion at least partially covered by a thermal spacer having reduced relative thermal conductivity. The thermal spacer is mechanically supported by the metal extrusion and mechanically intermediates and thermally insulates between the cap and the metal window structures to which the cap is secured, reducing thermal transfer between the inside and outside environments of a building.

ALUMINUM SHEET WITH ENHANCED FORMABILITY AND AN ALUMINUM CONTAINER MADE FROM ALUMINUM SHEET

A process for preparing an aluminum container is provided. An aluminum sheet comprising a 3XXX or a 5xxx alloy having a tensile yield strength as measured in the longitudinal direction of 27-33 ksi and an ultimate tensile strength; wherein the ultimate tensile strength minus the tensile yield strength is less than 3.30 ksi (UTS-TYS < 3.30 ksi) and having a thickness of 0.006 inches to 0.30 inches is drawn and ironed to form an aluminum container haying a dome. The aluminum container is necked to reduce the diameter of a portion by at least 26% to form a bottle which is finished so as to accept a closure.

BUILDING SUNSHADE WITH INTEGRAL ELECTRIC GENERATOR

A sun shade or light guide generates electricity via a wind-driven movable element, such as a turbine, which drives an electrical generator/alternator. The turbine and/or a fan may be interposed between shade elements for driving one or more generators. The generator may be driven directly or may be mechanically coupled to the movable element. Electricity produced by the generator may be stored in a battery and or used immediately.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING ALUMINA PROPERTIES

Systems, methods and apparatus relating to evaluation of alumina feedstocks are disclosed. A system may include an alumina storage unit comprising an alumina feedstock, an alumina supply member in communication with the alumina storage unit and an aluminum electrolysis cell. The alumina feedstock of the alumina storage unit may periodically flow through the alumina supply member and to the aluminum electrolysis cell. A measurement device may be in communication with the alumina supply member, and may be configured to measure a supply member property and transmit a first signal to a processor. The processor may be configured to receive the first signal and produce supply member property data based, at least in part, on the first signal.

HIGH PERFORMANCE ALSIMGCU CASTING ALLOY

ABSTRACT An aluminum casting alloy has 8.5 ¨ 9.5 wt. % silicon, 0.5 ¨ 2.0 wt. % copper (Cu), 0.27 ¨ 0.53 wt. % magnesium (Mg), wherein the aluminum casting alloy includes copper and magnesium such that 4.7 < (Cu+10Mg) < 5.8, and other elements, including 0.1 ¨ 0.12 wt. % titanium and 0.12 ¨ 0.14 wt. % vanadium, the balance being aluminum. Selected elements may be added to the base composition to give resistance to degradation of tensile properties due to exposure to heat. The thermal treatment of the alloy is calculated based upon wt. % composition to solutionize unwanted phases having a negative impact on properties and may include a three level ramp-up and soak to a final temperature followed by cold water quenching and artificial aging. CA 2853728 2018-02-06 = ...

LOCK-DOWN FOR A PULL TAB ON A CONTAINER WALL

METHOD OF FABRICATING COMPACTED POWDERED METAL EXTRUSION BILLETS

ETCHING OF ALUMINUM BASE ALLOYS

Carbothermic aluminum production using scrap aluminum as a coolant

A process for producing aluminum metal by carbothermic reduction of alumina ore. Alumina ore is heated in the presence of carbon at an elevated temperature to produce an aluminum metal body contaminated with about 10-30% by wt. aluminum carbide. Aluminum metal or aluminum alloy scrap then is added to bring the temperature to about 900-1000° C. and precipitate out aluminum carbide. The precipitated aluminum carbide is filtered, decanted, or fluxed with salt to form a molten body having reduced aluminum carbide content.

Interlocking wettable ceramic tiles

An electrolytic cell for the reduction of aluminum having a layer of interlocking cathode tiles positioned on a cathode block. Each tile includes a main body and a vertical restraining member to prevent movement of the tiles away from the cathode block during operation of the cell. The anode of the electrolytic cell may be positioned about 1 inch from the interlocking cathode tiles.

Joint structure and method for making a joint structure

A joint structure is ideally suited for use in the manufacture of assemblies and subassemblies in aluminum structures. More particularly, the alternative joint structures and methods of forming joint structures facilitate the assembly of a vehicle body-in-white. The friction welded joints of this invention provide assemblies in which lineals and sheet, cast, or extruded components are joined together.

Extrusion method utilizing maximum exit temperature from the die

A method of producing an aluminum base alloy extruded product. The method comprises (a) providing a body of an aluminum base alloy; (b) homogenizing the body at an elevated temperature not exceeding its eutectic temperature for a sufficient period of time to provide a homogeneous distribution of the readily soluble alloy elements, (c) rapidly cooling the body; (d) reheating the body to a reheat temperature of at least 700° F. for a period of at least 0.5 hours; (e) extruding the body from the reheat temperature; (f) solution heat treating the body; and (g) quenching and aging the body.

Shaped can

GMBA-SCHWEISSEN VON ÜBERLAPPUNGSPENETRATIONSVERBINDUNGEN

ALUMINUM ALLOY WITH INTERGRANULAR CORROSION RESISTANCE, METHODS OF ITS MANUFACTURING AND ITS USE

A corrosion resistant aluminum alloy has controlled amounts of iron, manganese, chromium, and titanium along with levels of copper, silicon, nickel, and no more than impurity levels of zinc. The alloy chemistry is tailored such that the electrolytic potential of the grain boundaries matches the alloy matrix material to reduce intergranular corrosion. The alloy is particularly suited for the manufacture of tubing for heat exchangers using extrusion and brazing techniques.

TWO-PIECE COVER FOR BOLT AND NUT ASSEMBLY AND CLIP THEREOF

A cover for a bolt and an annular nut having a plurality of generally planar, side surfaces. The cover includes: a shell (20) having a closed end portion (21) and a plurality of side surfaces (22) extending downwardly from the closed end portion, an interior portion of said side surfaces being threaded (28); and a clip (30) for inserting into the aforementioned shell. The clip includes an annular ring (31) and a plurality of spaced projections (32) ex-tending downwardly from the ring, each projection having exterior threads (33) for engaging with the threaded interior (28) of the shell. Preferably, inte-rior portions of each downward clip projection has a substantially planar surface for engaging with the sides of a lug nut over which this cover is installed.

MOLTEN CRYOLITIC BATH PROBE

A method and apparatus for accurately measuring superheat, bath ratio and alumina concentration in an aluminum smelting bath. In one embodiment, a reusable probe (2) determines the bath temperature and bath sample superheat. In other embodiments, the probe (2) also determines bath composition including bath cryolite ratio and alumina concentration.

METHOD FOR SURFACE TREATING ALUMINUM PRODUCTS

Them is disclosed a method for surface treating aluminum products, especially vehicle wheels, to improve their brightness. The method comprises: (a) applying a chemical brightening composition to these products; (b) deoxidizing the surface of said wheel products in a nitric acid-based bath; (c) forming a porous oxide on that with an electrolytic bath containing phosphoric or phosphonic acid; and (d) applying, preferably spraying, a siloxane-based film to that porous oxide. In many instances, intermediate rinsing substeps are performed between these respective main steps.

MULTI-SHOULDERED FIXED BOBBIN TOOLS FOR SIMULTANEOUS FRICTION STIR WELDING OF MULTIPLE PARALLEL WALLS BETWEEN PARTS

A tool for making simultaneously a plurality of parallel friction stir welds includes at least one shank for holding in a chuck or collet of a friction stir welding machine, a plurality of friction stir welding pins, and friction stir welding shoulders including at least four working surfaces adjacent said ins, the shoulders and pins mounted in axial relationship; dimensions of said friction stir welding pins and shanks corresponding to dimensions and spacings of said friction stir welds.

INSTALLATION AND METHOD FOR IN-LINE MOLTEN METAL PROCESSING USING SALT REACTANT IN A DEEP BOX DEGASSER

An in-line deep box treatment of molten metal (51) wherein, Instead of gaseous C12, a solid salt reactant containing a halide salt (e.g., MgC12) as one of its components may be injected into the molten metal along with an inert gas (typically argon) through the existing degasser impeller (42).The salt flux may be metered into the inert gas stream at a controlled rate. A salt injector flux tank (44) may be retrofitted to current rotary degassing equipments without requiring a specialized rotor (50) design or changes in the degasser unit design. Using the halide salt-based solid flux, the benefits of alkali, alkaline earth, and inclusion removal may be achieved without the industrial hygiene, environmental, and safety issues associated with storing and using the gaseous and hazardous C12 during molten metal degassing.

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.

LIGHT SHELVES FOR DAYLIGHTING

The embodiments disclosed herein relate to light shelves for daylighting, and more particularly to light shelves that include both a diffuser and a reflector. According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a light shelf that includes at least one anchor bracket suitable for attachment to a building structure; at least one support beam attached to the anchor bracket; and a plurality of light transmitting airfoil-shaped louvers each supported and positioned by the support beam at a preselected fixed profile angle, wherein each of the louvers includes a diffuser and a reflective surface.

BUTTERFLY-SHAPED BAKING CUP

The design consists of the features of shape and configuration of the entire butterfly-shaped baking cup shown in the drawings.Figure 1 is a top perspective view of the butterfly-shaped baking cup of the present design;Figure 2 is a top plan view of the butterfly-shaped baking cup of Figure 1;Figure 3 is a bottom plan view of the butterfly-shaped baking cup of Figure 1;Figure 4 is a left elevation view of the butterfly-shaped baking cup of Figure 1;Figure 5 is a right elevation view of the butterfly-shaped baking cup of Figure 1;Figure 6 is a rear elevation view of the butterfly-shaped baking cup of Figure 1; andFigure 7 is a front elevation view of the butterfly-shaped baking cup of Figure 1.

ADA COMPLIANT SILLS HAVING A COLLAPSIBLE WEATHER-STRIP FOR USE WITH SLIDING DOOR ASSEMBLIES

Door sill frame assemblies and sliding door assemblies comprising the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a sill frame assembly for a sliding door includes a first engaging surface capable of attaching with a sliding door and allowing lateral reciprocating motion of the sliding door and a second engaging surface, wherein along at least a first portion of the second engaging surface is attached a sill member and wherein along at least a second portion of the second engaging surface is attached a fixed-panel door, wherein the sill member includes a channel having a weather-strip extending upward from the channel, the weather- strip having a first open state for substantially preventing water and air intrusion past the sliding door when the sliding door is in a closed position and a second compact state for allowing accessibility of a wheelchair through an opening when the sliding door is in an open position.

WHEEL

The design is the features of shape, ornamentation and configuration of the wheel as shown in the drawings.Drawings of the design are included.Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a wheel showing the design;Fig. 2 is a front view thereof;Fig. 3 is a top view thereof;Fig. 4 is a side view thereof; andFig. 5 is a rear view thereof.

ENHANCEMENT OF ALUMINUM TAPPING BY APPLICATION OF TARGETED ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD

Systems, methods and apparatus for facilitating removal of molten metal from an electrolysis cell (30) are provided. In one embodiment, a system includes a container (12) and an electrical source (38) coupled to the container. The electrical source may be configured to provide complementary current to a spout (26) of the container. This complementary current may create a complementary electromagnetic field at least proximal a tip (28) 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.

INERT ANODE ASSEMBLY

A solid material (12') circumscribing an anode system (10) in an electrolysis apparatus is made from a mixture of cryolite and/or alumina (A1 2O3), where the solid material (12') contacts and surrounds the anodes (14, 14').

ALUMINIUM RISER APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING

An apparatus, system and method of manufacturing a marine riser constructed of an aluminium alloy having a high strength-to-weight ratio is provided. The inventive riser apparatus comprises a plurality of riser sections coupled serially end-to-end, wherein each of the riser section comprises a pipe having a first end and a second end, a first flanged coupling welded to the first end of the pipe, and a second flanged coupling welded to the second end of the pipe, wherein the pipe is constructed of an aluminium alloy having a strength- to-weight ratio greater than that of steel. The riser apparatus may optionally include one or more auxiliary lines providing hydraulic communication with a blowout preventer.

CONTROLLED FLUID FLOW MOLD AND MOLTEN METAL CASTING METHOD FOR IMPROVED SURFACE

A DC casting mold for casting molten metal alloy comprising a cooled tubular body that has a thermally insulated insert attached to its top surface. The thermally insulated insert has a bottom portion with a beveled sidewall, which forms an angle with the horizontal melt surface layer of the molten metal and creates an eddy. The eddy causes a substantial number of oxides that are formed during the casting process to remain in the bottom sidewall portion of the thermally insulated insert of the mold, thereby substantially reducing the number of ingot surface imperfections that promote ingot cracking. In addition, the eddy promotes break-up of the oxides into smaller pieces as the oxides flow toward the cooled inner walls of the cooled tubular body, thereby having limited surface area for growth of oxide folds. A method of casting molten metal alloys with improved surface quality is also disclosed.

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.

TRAILER

Improved trailers (e.g., semi-trailers) are disclosed. The trailers (100) include a floor (110) having a top surface (112) and a bottom surface (114), where the top surface is adapted to transport a payload, and an elongated shell (120) 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.

SEALANT JOINT BACKER SUPPORT

The present invention relates to a sealant joint backer support that can be used to prevent three-sided adhesion at a joint when an exterior weather seal is applied. In an embodiment, a bond breaker backer support of the present invention includes a resiliently flexible front face having a groove, wherein the groove is configured for adjusting the bond breaker backer support after installation; and a pair of resiliently flexible legs extending, respectively, from a first end and a second end of the flexible front face.

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. The anode characteristic data is further correlated to electrolisys cell data of the smelting facility.

VACUUM PUMP PACKAGING

The design consists of the features of shape, ornament, pattern and configuration of the Vacuum Pump Packaging shown in the drawings.

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 products having a high amount of magnesium are provided. The Al-Mg alloy products have 4 or 6 to 8 or 10 wt. % Mg and are resistant to both stress corrosion cracking and intergranular corrosion.

A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING CAN BODY SHEET

A method for manufacturing aluminum alloy can body stock including a continuous, in-line sequence of hot rolling, annealing and solution heat treating without intermediate cooling and rapid quenching.

ALUMINUM COATED SILICEOUS PARTICLES, METHODS AND COMPOSITES

Evacuable, resealable bag

2000 Series alloys with enhanced damage tolerance performance for aerospace applications

The invention provides a 2000 series aluminum alloy having enhanced damage tolerance, the alloy consisting essentially of about 3.0-4.0 wt % copper; about 0.4-1.1 wt % magnesium; up to about 0.8 wt % silver; up to about 1.0 wt % Zn; up to about 0.25 wt % Zr; up to about 0.9 wt % Mn; up to about 0.5 wt % Fe; and up to about 0.5 wt % Si, the balance substantially aluminum, incidental impurities and elements, said copper and magnesium present in a ratio of about 3.6-5 parts copper to about 1 part magnesium. The alloy is suitable for use in wrought or cast products including those used in aerospace applications, particularly sheet or plate structural members, extrusions and forgings, and provides an improved combination of strength and damage tolerance.

Molten metal holder furnace and casting system incorporating the molten metal holder furnace

A bottom heated holder furnace (12) for containing a supply of molten metal includes a storage vessel (30) having sidewalls (32) and a bottom wall (34) defining a molten metal receiving chamber (36). A furnace insulating layer (42) lines the molten metal receiving chamber (36). A thermally conductive heat exchanger block (54) is located at the bottom of the molten metal receiving chamber (36) for heating the supply of molten metal. The heat exchanger block (54) includes a bottom face (65), side faces (66), and a top face (67). The heat exchanger block (54) includes a plurality of electrical heaters (70) extending therein and projecting outward from at least one of the faces of the heat exchanger block (54), and further extending through the furnace insulating layer (42) and one of the sidewalls (32) of the storage vessel (30) for connection to a source of electrical power. A sealing layer (50) covers the bottom face (65) and side faces (66) of the heat exchanger block (54) such that the ...

3 component cathode collector bar

A cathode assembly for use in a Hall-Heroult electrolytic cell, the assembly including a cathode block which receives two primary cathode collector bars and one secondary cathode collector bar disposed therebetween. The primary collector bars each have an electrical interface with the cathode block which is sized to be equal to or greater than an electrical interface between the secondary collector bar and the cathode block. The primary collector bars are electrically connected to the cathode block only along an interior portion of the cathode block and the secondary collector bar is fully connected to the cathode block. This arrangement improves current distribution through the cathode assembly by minimizing the amount of current passing through the ends of the cathode block.

Ultra-lightweight thin door with hardware carrier system for a vehicle

A sliding door for vehicles including a space frame formed from a U-shaped extruded aluminum tube and a crossbeam to which inner and outer aluminum door panels are attached. An elongated hardware carrier beam defines a channel configured to receive vehicle door hardware mounted on the exposed inside surface of the door. The overall weight of the door is about 20 pounds and the door is up to about 35 mm thick.

Aluminum alloy for producing high performance shaped castings

An aluminum alloy for shaped castings, the alloy having the following composition ranges in weight percent: about 6.0-8.5% silicon, less than 0.4% magnesium, less than 0.1% cerium, less than 0.2% iron, copper in a range from about 0.1% to about 0.5% and/or zinc in a range from about 1% to about 4%, the alloy being particularly suited for T5 heat treatment.

METHOD OF UNIDIRECTIONAL SOLIDIFICATION OF CASTINGS AND ASSOCIATED APPARATUS

... ²Molten metal is injected uniformly into a mold from a feed chamber in a ²horizontal or vertical direction at a controlled ²rate, directly on top of the metal already within the mold. A cooling medium ²is applied to the bottom surface of the substrate, ²with the type and flow rate of the cooling medium being varied to produce a ²controlled cooling rate throughout the casting process. ²The rate of introduction of molten metal and the flow rate of the cooling ²medium are both controlled to produce a relatively uniform ²solidification rate within the mold, thereby producing a uniform ²microstructure throughout the casting, and low stresses throughout ²the casting. A multiple layer ingot product is also provided comprising a base ²alloy layer and at least a first additional alloy layer, ²the two layers having different alloy compositions, where the first additional ²alloy layer is bonded directly to the base alloy layer by ²applying the first additional alloy in the molten state to the surface ...

SIMULTANEOUS MULTI-ALLOY CASTING

A method of casting a multi-layered metal ingot including the steps of delivering a metallic divider (14) member into a direct chill mold (4), 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 (10) which includes the divider metal layer disposed there between.

COMPONENT CATHODE COLLECTOR BAR

A cathode assembly (2) for use in a Hall-Heroult electrolytic cell, the assembly including a cathode block (4) which receives two primary cathode collector bar (12) and one secondary cathode collector bar (14) disposed therebetween. The primary collector bars (12) each have an electrical interface with the cathode block (4) which is sized to be equal to or greater than an electrical interface between the secondary collector bar (14) and the cathode block (4). The primary collector bars (12) are electrically connected to the cathode block only along an interior portion of the cathode block and the secondary collector bar (14) is fully connected to the cathode block. This arrangement improves current distribution through the cathode assembly by minimizing the amount of current passing through the ends of the cathode block.

BAKING CUP

The design consists of the features of shape, ornament, pattern and configuration of the entire BAKING CUP shown in the drawings. The drawings show two variants. Figures 1 to 4 show a first variant of the design and Figures 5 to 8 show a second variant of the design.In the Drawings:Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the bottom of the first variant of the design;Figure 2 is a bottom view of the first variant of the design;Figure 3 is a left side profile of the first variant of the design. It is understood that the right side profile of the first variant is a mirror image of the left side profile;Figure 4 is a top view of the first variant of the design;Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the bottom of the second variant of the design;Figure 6 is a bottom view of the second variant of the design;Figure 7 is a left side profile of the second variant of the design. It is understood that the right side profile of the second variant is a mirror image of the left side profile; andFigure ...

IMPROVED 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.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOVING PARTICULATE MATTER FROM A GAS STREAM

Horizontal duct scrubbing systems for removing particulate matter from a gas are disclosed. The horizontal scrubbing systems may receive a particulate-containing gas stream (e.g., containing PM10 and/or PM2.5 particulate matter), and remove at least some of such particulates by spraying liquid droplets co-current to the flow of the gas stream, where the liquid droplets have a volume median droplet diameter (DV0.5) of from 240 microns to 600 microns. The scrubbing system may be substantially free of flow deflection members between a liquid inlet manifold and a demister. The system may remove at least 50 wt. % PM10 and/or PM2.5 particulate matter from the gas stream.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF PROTECTING ELECTROLYSIS CELL SIDEWALLS

A system is provided including an electrolysis cell configured to retain a molten electrolyte bath, the bath including at least one bath component, the electrolysis cell including: a bottom, and a sidewall consisting essentially of the at least one bath component; and a feeder system, configured to provide a feed material including the least one bath component to the molten electrolyte bath such that the at least one bath component is within 2% of saturation, wherein, via the feed material, the sidewall is stable in the molten electrolyte bath.

2XXX SERIES ALUMINUM LITHIUM ALLOYS

New 2xxx aluminum lithium alloys are disclosed. The aluminum alloys include 3.5 - 4.4 wt. % Cu, 0.45 - 0.75 wt. % Mg, 0.45 - 0.75 wt. % Zn, 0.65 - 1.15 wt. % Li, 0.1 - 1.0 wt. % Ag, 0.05 -0.50 wt. % of at least one grain structure control element, up to 1.0 wt. % Mn, up to 0.15 wt. % Ti, up to 0.12 wt. % Si, up to 0.15 wt. % Fe, 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.

FERTILIZER COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME

Generally, the instant disclosure relates to fertilizer compositions and methods of making and using the same. More specifically, the instant disclosure relates to blast suppressant and/or blast resistant ammonium nitrate fertilizer compositions, as well as methods of making and using the same.

CURTAIN WALL SYSTEM WITH ANTI-ROLLING SHEAR BLOCK

A curtain wall has a plurality of hollow, extruded vertical and horizontal members. The members have a pair of spaced retainer walls which engage a shear block with a pair of tabs that twist locks onto the retainer walls before fastening the block to the member. A second member slips over the block and is fastened by screws. The abutment of the tabs limits rotation of the block and attached member, providing support for a glazing panel attached to the members. The members have longitudinal recesses accommodating wiring that may be covered with a cover. A bracket interacting with the retainer walls like a shear block may also be used.

BAG

The design consists of the features of shape, ornament, pattern and configuration of the entire BAG shown in the drawings.The drawings show four variants. Figures 1-7 show a first variant of the design; Figures 8-9 show a second variant of the design; Figures 10-11 show a third variant of the design; and Figures 12-13 show a fourth variant of the design.In the Drawings:Figure 1 is a perspective view of the first variant of the design;Figure 2 is a front elevation view of the design illustrated in Figure 1;Figure 3 is a rear elevation view of the design illustrated in Figure 1;Figure 4 is a right elevation view of the design illustrated in Figure 1;Figure 5 is a left elevation view of the design illustrated in Figure 1;Figure 6 is a top plan view of the design illustrated in Figure 1;Figure 7 is a bottom plan view of the design illustrated in Figure 1;Figure 8 is a front elevation view of the second variant of the design;Figure 9 is a rear elevation view of the second variant of the design ...

GHOST-SHAPED BAKING CUP

The design consists of the features of shape and configuration of the entire GHOST-SHAPED BAKING CUP shown in the drawings.In the Drawings:Fig. 1 is a bottom perspective view of the ghost-shaped baking cup according to the present design;Fig. 2 is a bottom planar view of the ghost-shaped baking cup;Fig. 3 is a right side elevation view of the ghost-shaped baking cup; andFig. 4 is a top planar view of the ghost-shaped baking cup.Drawing(s)/photograph(s) of the design is (are) included.

METHOD OF COMBINING WELDING AND ADHESIVE BONDING FOR JOINING METAL COMPONENTS

A method of joining metal components (2, 8) having the steps of depositing adhesive material (16) between the components and welding the components together via solid-state or fusion welding. The welds (18) are spaced apart from the adhesive material (16) and are produced so as to prevent exposure of the adhesive material (16) to the welding (18). The two types of bonds (adhesive and welding) are produced in the components separated by time and space.

ULTRA-LONGLIFE, HIGH FORMABILITY BRAZING SHEET

The present invention relates to multiple layer aluminum brazing sheet having a core (3), a braze cladding (1), and an interliner (2) therebetween that, when fabricated in the fully annealed condition (O-temper), forms a continuous and dense dispersoid band in the core (3) in addition to having an additional sacrificial layer for exceptional post brazed corrosion resistance. This present invention also relates to the process used to fabricate these alloys.

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 (10) and a non-polished relief (20) following the necking surface. The present invention further provides a method of necking an metal container including providing an metal blank; shaping the blank into a bottle stock (1-14); and necking the metal bottle stock (1-14), wherein necking includes at least one necking die having an at least partially non-polished necking surface (10).

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. 1. An assembly , comprising: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 exhibits a stress corrosion cracking resistance for a marine environment.2. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first member passes stress corrosion cracking resistance tests at a stress level of 213 MPa as measured in accordance with the boiling salt test claim 1 , ASTM standard G-103 claim 1 , in the L direction for a period of at least 7 days.3. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first member shows no pitting corrosion or intergranular corrosion in accordance with the type of attack test claim 1 , ASTM G-110.4. The aluminum assembly of claim 1 , wherein the second member passes stress corrosion cracking resistance tests at a stress level of 240 MPa claim 1 , as measured in accordance with the alternate immersion test claim 1 , ASTM standards G-44 claim 1 , in the ST direction for a period of at least 30 days.5. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the second member of the assembly comprises a corrosion potential that is at least 5 mV less than the low copper zone of the joint.6. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the second member comprises an overaged temper.7. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the joint is a solid state weld.8. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the joint comprises a mechanical connection.9. The assembly of ...

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. 1. A shaped aluminum container comprising:a sidewall having a thickness and a height,wherein the sidewall comprises a top necked portion and a bottom necked portion,wherein the thickness of the sidewall in the bottom necked portion varies by at least 0.001 inches; and necking a lower portion of the sidewall with a first necking die so that a working surface of the first necking die contacts a first section of the sidewall and reduces a diameter of the first section of the sidewall by at least 3% in a single die stroke, wherein the thickness of the first section of the sidewall varies along the height of the sidewall by at least 0.001 inches; and', 'necking an upper portion of the sidewall with a second necking die so that a working surface of the second necking die contacts a second section of the sidewall and reduces a diameter of the second section of the sidewall by at least 2% in a single stroke., 'wherein the shaped aluminum container is manufactured by a process comprising2. The container of wherein the thickness of the second section of the sidewall varies along the height of the sidewall by at least 0.001 inches.3. The container of wherein the process further comprises expanding the diameter of a middle portion of the sidewall before necking the upper portion of the sidewall.4. The container in wherein a thickness of the middle portion of the sidewall varies by at least 0.001 inches.5. The container of wherein the process further comprises necking the lower portion of the sidewall with a series of necking dies ...

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.

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. 1. A method comprising: '(i) wherein the preparing step comprises solutionizing of the aluminum alloy body;', '(a) preparing an aluminum alloy body for post-solutionizing cold work, wherein the aluminum alloy body includes an aluminum alloy having 0.5 to 8.0 wt. % copper, wherein the copper is the predominate alloying element of the aluminum alloy other than aluminum;'}(b) after the preparing step (a), cold working the aluminum alloy body by more than 50%; and(c) after the cold working step (b), thermally treating the aluminum alloy body;wherein the cold working and the thermally treating steps are accomplished to achieve an increase in long-transverse tensile yield strength as compared to a reference-version of the aluminum alloy body in the as cold-worked condition.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the preparing step (a) comprises:casting the aluminum alloy body via a semi-continuous casting process.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the preparing step (a) comprises:homogenizing the aluminum alloy body; andhot working the aluminum alloy body;wherein the solutionizing step (a)(i) occurs after the hot working step.4. (canceled)5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the preparing step (a) comprises:continuously casting the aluminum alloy body.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the preparing step (a) comprises:concomitant to the continuously casting step, completing the solutionizing step (a)(i).79-. (canceled)10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the solutionizing step (a)(i) comprises quenching the aluminum alloy body claim 1 , and wherein the quenching occurs in the absence of deformation of the aluminum alloy body.11. The ...

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. 2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the preparing step (a) comprises:casting the aluminum alloy body via a semi-continuous casting process.4. (canceled)5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the preparing step (a) comprises:continuously casting the aluminum alloy body.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the preparing step (a) comprises:concomitant to the continuously casting step, completing the solutionizing step (a)(i).79-. (canceled)10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the solutionizing step (a)(i) comprises quenching the aluminum alloy body claim 1 , and wherein the quenching occurs in the absence of deformation of the aluminum alloy body.11. The method of claim 1 , comprising forming the aluminum alloy body into a shape during the thermal treatment step (c).12. The method of claim 1 , wherein no purposeful thermal heating treatments are applied to the aluminum alloy body between the solutionizing step (a)(i) claim 1 , and the cold working step (b).1314-. (canceled)15. The method of or PI claim 1 , wherein the cold working step (b) occurs in the absence of purposeful heating of the aluminum alloy body.16. (canceled)17. The method of claim 1 , wherein the cold working step (b) comprises reducing the aluminum alloy body to its substantially final form.18. The method of claim 17 , wherein the cold working step (b) comprises cold rolling the aluminum alloy body to final gauge.19. (canceled)20. The method of claim 19 , wherein the cold working step (b) comprises cold working the aluminum alloy body from 35% to 90%.21. (canceled)22. The method of claim 1 , wherein the thermally treating step (c) comprises maintaining the aluminum alloy body below its ...

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. 1. A method comprising: (i) wherein the preparing step comprises solutionizing of the aluminum alloy body;', '(ii) wherein at least one of the silicon and the magnesium is the predominate alloying element of the aluminum alloy body other than aluminum; and', '(iii) wherein the aluminum alloy body contains sufficient solute to promote at least one of a strain hardening response and a precipitation hardening response to achieve a long-transverse tensile yield strength of at least 60 ksi; and, '(a) preparing an aluminum alloy body having 0.1-2.0 wt. % silicon and 0.1-3.0 wt. % magnesium for post-solutionizing cold work;'}(b) after the preparing step (a), cold working the aluminum alloy body by at least 50%;(c) after the cold working step (b), thermally treating the aluminum alloy body;wherein the cold working and the thermally treating steps are accomplished to achieve the at least 60 ksi long-transverse tensile yield strength and a long-transverse elongation of at least about 6%.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the preparing step (a) comprises:casting the aluminum alloy body via a semi-continuous casting process.4. (canceled)5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the preparing step (a) comprises:continuously casting the aluminum alloy body.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the preparing step (a) comprises:concomitant to the continuously casting step, completing the solutionizing step (a)(i).79-. (canceled)10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the solutionizing step (a)(i) comprises quenching the aluminum alloy body claim 1 , and wherein the quenching occurs in the absence of deformation of the aluminum alloy body.11. The method ...

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. 1. An apparatus for degassing a molten metal , the apparatus comprising:a container for holding the molten metal;a dispenser capable of dispensing purge gas; anda diffuser in fluid communication with the molten metal from the container, the diffuser being wettable by the molten metal and capable of receiving the purge gas from the dispenser, forming purge gas bubbles from the purge gas, and emitting the purge gas bubbles into the molten metal.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the diffuser has a face with a plurality of pores formed thereon claim 1 , the pores being in fluid communication with the molten metal and capable of forming purge gas bubbles from the purge gas and emitting the purge gas bubbles into the molten metal.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the average diameter of the pores is not greater than 200 microns.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the molten metal is aluminum.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the molten metal contains dissolved hydrogen gas and the purge gas bubbles are capable of removing the dissolved hydrogen gas from the molten metal.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising an ultrasonic oscillator disposed adjacent to the diffuser such that the diffuser lies within a sonicated field of the oscillator.7. The ...

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. 1. An aluminum alloy comprising: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;up to 0.10 wt. % of any other element, with the total of these other elements not exceeding 0.35 wt. %; andthe balance being aluminum.2. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , comprising 0.07 to 0.18 wt. % Sc and 0.07 to 0.18 wt. % Zr.3. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , comprising 0.05 to 0.50 wt. % in total of Cu and Ag.4. The aluminum alloy of claim 3 , comprising 0.20 to 0.40 wt. % in total of Cu and Ag.5. The aluminum alloy of claim 4 , wherein the alloy excludes Ag claim 4 , except as an other element.6. The aluminum alloy of claim 4 , wherein the alloy excludes Cu claim 4 , except as an other element.7. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , wherein the alloy includes not greater than 0.03 wt. % Mn.8. The aluminum alloy of claim 7 , wherein the alloy includes not greater than 0.01 wt. % Mn.9. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , wherein the alloy includes not greater than 0.03 wt. % in total of Cr claim 1 , V and Ti.10. The aluminum alloy of claim 9 , wherein the alloy includes at least 0.005 wt. % Ti.11. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , ...

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. 1. A method comprising: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; andforming a reinforced composite from the mixture, the reinforced composite comprising a non-particulate metal portion having the substantially inert sub-micron sized particles therein.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , due to the adding step claim 1 , the reinforced composite comprises an oxide concentration of less than about 100 ppm in the metal portion.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sub-micron sized particles are selected from the group consisting of nanoparticles claim 1 , carbon nanotubes claim 1 , magnetic sub-micron sized particles claim 1 , non-metallic sub-micron sized particles claim 1 , ceramic particles; and combinations thereof.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the forming step comprises a reinforced composite product having particles with an average aspect ratio of about 1:5.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the reinforced composite comprises not greater than 25 vol. % of sub-micron sized particles.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the reinforced composite comprises having not less than 0.1 vol. % of sub-micron sized particles therein.7. A method claim 1 , comprising:forming a mixture comprising a carrier and a molten metal, wherein the carrier includes a salt;adding a plurality of substantially inert sub-micron sized particles into the mixture; andproducing a reinforced composite from the mixture, the ...

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. 1 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;, '(a) casting an aluminum alloy comprising(b) homogenizing the aluminum alloy;(c) extruding the aluminum alloy into an extruded product;(d) solution heat treating the extruded product;(e) cold working the extruded product by 1-4%; and(f) artificially aging the extruded product.. A method comprising: This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/328,622, filed Dec. 4, 2008, entitled “IMPROVED ALUMINUM-COPPER-LITHIUM ALLOYS”, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/992,330, filed Dec. 4, 2007, and entitled “IMPROVED ALUMINUM ALLOYS”, and is related to PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US08/85547, filed Dec. 4, 2008. Each of the above-identified patent applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.Aluminum alloys are useful in a variety of applications. However, improving one property of an aluminum alloy without degrading another property often proves elusive. For example, it is difficult to increase the strength of an alloy without decreasing the toughness of an alloy. Other properties of interest for aluminum alloys include corrosion resistance, density and fatigue, to name a few.Broadly, the present disclosure relates to aluminum-copper-lithium alloys having an improved combination of properties.In one aspect, the aluminum alloy is a ...

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. 1. An ex-situ system for treating contaminant-containing water , the system comprising:a first treatment zone comprising a reducing agent adapted to reduce the oxidation-reduction potential of contaminant-containing water flowing therethrough; anda second treatment zone downstream of the first treatment zone, the second treatment zone comprising zero valent iron for removing at least a portion of contaminants contained in the contaminant-containing water.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the reducing agent comprises zero valent iron.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first treatment zone comprises a filler.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the first treatment zone comprises not greater than about 10 wt % of the reducing agent.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the reducing agent is zero valent iron.6. The system of claim 3 , wherein the first treatment zone is a column and wherein the column consists essentially of the reducing agent and the filler.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second treatment zone comprises at least 50 wt % zero valent iron.8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second treatment zone consists essentially of zero valent iron.9. The system of claim 1 , further comprising:a third treatment zone fluidly interconnected to an exit of the second treatment zone, the third treatment zone comprising a contaminant scavenging material.10. The system of claim 8 , wherein the contaminant scavenging material comprises at ...

PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR DIRECT CHILL CASTING

An apparatus for direct chill casting of metal having an open ended mold cavity formed by a casting surface, a refractory sleeve adapted to receive molten metal, a coolant delivery system for supplying coolant to chill the descending hot metal body, and a boron nitride ring mounted between the refractory sleeve and the peripheral wall of the mold cavity. A downspout may be used instead of a refractory sleeve having a flow control rod or floating baffle to control the amount of molten metal entering the mold cavity. A process for direct chill casting of a metal including continuously filling the cavity with molten metal and permitting the metal to move downwardly through the mold to form an ingot, and simultaneously chilling the ingot by spraying coolant on the ingot from the coolant delivery system. 15.-. (canceled)6. An apparatus for direct chill casting of metal comprising:an open ended mold cavity formed by a casting surface with an upper end and a lower end;a downspout located at the upper end of the mold cavity being adapted to receive molten metal having a flow control rod or a floating baffle;a coolant delivery system below the lower end of the mold for supplying coolant to chill the descending hot metal body; anda boron nitride ring mounted on the upper end of the mold cavity,wherein the flow control rod or the floating baffle controls the amount of molten metal to enter the mold cavity.7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the boron nitride ring substantially prevents the metal from adhering to the wall of the mold.8. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the coolant is water.9. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the metal is aluminum or an aluminum alloy.1012.-. (canceled) This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/245,951 filed Oct. 6, 2008, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a process and apparatus for direct chill casting of molten metal, such as aluminum. In ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING ALUMINA PROPERTIES

Systems, methods and apparatus relating to evaluation of alumina feedstocks are disclosed. A system may include an alumina storage unit comprising an alumina feedstock, an alumina supply member in communication with the alumina storage unit and an aluminum electrolysis cell. The alumina feedstock of the alumina storage unit may periodically flow through the alumina supply member and to the aluminum electrolysis cell. A measurement device may be in communication with the alumina supply member, and may be configured to measure a supply member property and transmit a first signal to a processor. The processor may be configured to receive the first signal and produce supply member property data based, at least in part, on the first signal. 1. A system comprising:(a) an alumina storage unit comprising an alumina feedstock;(b) an alumina supply member in communication with the alumina storage unit and an aluminum electrolysis cell, wherein the alumina feedstock of the alumina storage unit periodically flows through the alumina supply member and to the aluminum electrolysis cell; and(c) a measurement device in communication with the alumina supply member, wherein the measurement device is configured to measure a supply member property and transmit a first signal to a processor, wherein the processor is configured to receive the first signal and produce supply member property data based, at least in part, on the first signal.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising:a data analyzer configured to analyze the supply member property data and provide a predicted alumina property based on the supply member property data.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the predicted alumina property comprise at least one of alumina flowability and alumina particle size distribution.4. The system of claim 2 , further comprising:an alumina flow control device in communication with at least one of the alumina storage unit and the alumina supply member;a controller in communication with the ...

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 2 ) and metal additives. The amount of selected metal additives may result in production of electrodes having a tailored density and/or porosity. The electrodes may be durable and used in aluminum electrolysis cells.

2XXX SERIES ALUMINUM LITHIUM ALLOYS

Thick wrought 2xxx aluminum lithium alloy products are disclosed. The wrought aluminum alloy products have a thickness of at least 12.7 mm and contain from 3.00 to 3.80 wt. % Cu, from 0.05 to 0.35 wt. % Mg, from 0.975 to 1.385 wt. % Li, wherein −0.3*Mg−0.15Cu+1.65≦Li≦−0.3*Mg−0.15Cu+1.85, from 0.05 to 0.50 wt. % of at least one grain structure control element, wherein the grain structure control element is selected from the group consisting of Zr, Sc, Cr, V, Hf, other rare earth elements, and combinations thereof, up to 1.0 wt. % Zn, up to 1.0 wt. % Mn, up to 0.12 wt. % Si, up to 0.15 wt. % Fe, up to 0.15 wt. % Ti, 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. 2. The aluminum alloy product of claim 1 , wherein the grain structure control element is at least Zr claim 1 , and wherein the alloy contains 0.05 to 0.20 wt. % Zr.36.-. (canceled)7. The aluminum alloy product of claim 1 , comprising at least 3.20 wt. % Cu.8. (canceled)9. The aluminum alloy product of claim 1 , comprising at least 3.40 wt. % Cu.10. (canceled)11. The aluminum alloy product of claim 7 , comprising not greater than 3.70 wt. % Cu.12. (canceled)13. The aluminum alloy product of claim 9 , comprising not greater than 3.60 wt. % Cu.14. (canceled)15. The aluminum alloy product of claim 11 , comprising at least 0.15 wt. % Mg.16. (canceled)17. The aluminum alloy product of claim 15 , comprising not greater than 0.25 wt. % Mg.18. (canceled)19. The aluminum alloy product of claim 11 , comprising at least 1.035 wt. % Li.20. (canceled)21. The aluminum alloy product of claim 17 , comprising at least 1.150 wt. % Li.22. (canceled)23. The aluminum alloy product of claim 19 , comprising not greater than 1.325 wt. % Li.24. (canceled)25. The aluminum alloy product of claim 21 , comprising not greater than 1.250 wt. % Li.26. The aluminum alloy product of claim 19 , comprising at least 0.20 wt. % Zn.27. (canceled)28. The aluminum ...

METAL SHEETS AND PLATES HAVING FRICTION-REDUCING TEXTURED SURFACES AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING SAME

Metal sheets and plates having friction-reducing textured surfaces and methods of manufacturing these metal sheets and plates are disclosed herein. In an embodiment, there is provided a transportation vessel that includes at least one metal product having at least one surface that is substantially grooved, wherein the substantially grooved surface forms a riblet topography, the riblet topography including a multiplicity of adjacent permanently rolled longitudinal riblets running along at least a part of the surface, and wherein the riblet topography is coated with at least one coating sufficiently designed and applied to preserve the riblet topography. In an embodiment, the multiplicity of adjacent permanently rolled longitudinal riblets results in a friction-reducing textured surface. In an embodiment, metal product is used in fabricating at least a portion of an aircraft. In an embodiment, metal product is used in fabricating at least a portion of a rotor blade. 1. A method of manufacturing a metal product comprising:providing a substantially flat metal sheet or plate; at least one roll having an outer surface engraved with a riblet topography, wherein the riblet topography includes a multiplicity of adjacent longitudinal riblets, and', 'at least one roll having an unaltered substantially flat outer surface;, 'passing the substantially flat metal sheet or plate through a rolling mill, wherein the rolling mill includesproducing a substantially grooved metal sheet or plate that includes a multiplicity of adjacent permanently rolled longitudinal riblets running along at least a part of the surface;coating the substantially grooved metal sheet or plate with at least one coating sufficiently designed and applied to preserve the multiplicity of adjacent permanently rolled longitudinal riblets; andobtaining the metal product.2. The method of wherein the multiplicity of adjacent permanently rolled longitudinal riblets of the substantially grooved metal sheet or plate ...

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) and inlet recyclable fines (RF). The first liquid may include a recovered recyclable fines portion (RF), and the second liquid may include a waste carbon fines portion (CF). The mass ratio of the recovered recyclable fines portion (RF) to the inlet recyclable fines (RN) may be at least about 0.5. The mass ratio of the waste carbon fines portion (CF) to the inlet carbon fines (CF) may be at least about 0.1. 118-. (canceled)19. A system comprising:(a) a plurality of aluminum electrolysis cells adapted to produce aluminum metal; (i) receive off-gases from the aluminum electrolysis cells; and', wherein the particulate fines stream comprises particulate fines having a maximum diameter of not greater than about 45 microns;', 'wherein the particulate fines comprises carbon fines and recyclable fines; and', 'wherein the recyclable fines comprise alumina fines;, '(ii) discharge a particulate fines stream;'}], '(b) a gas treatment center adapted to (i) receive the particulate fines stream;', '(ii) separate at least some of the carbon fines from at least some of the recyclable fines; and', '(iii) discharge a recyclable fines outlet stream comprising recyclable fines; and, '(c) a fines separator adapted to(d) an agglomerator adapted to agglomerate the recyclable fines of the recyclable fines outlet stream into an agglomerated product, wherein the agglomerated product has an average diameter of at least about 90 microns.20. The system of claim 19 , wherein the recyclable fines outlet stream comprises bath fines. Aluminum and other metals, such as lead, ...

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. 1. A method comprising:(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.2. The method of claim 1 , further wherein the at least one processing variable is the amount of sulfur;wherein the condition of the amount of sulfur is not greater than about 1.0 wt. %;further wherein the actual average titanium diboride particle size is not greater than about 7 microns.3. The method of claim 1 , further wherein the at least one processing variable is the reaction temperature;wherein the condition of the reaction temperature is in the range of at least about 1450 C to 1500 C; further wherein the actual average titanium diboride particle size is in the range from about 4 microns to ...

LIGHT SHELF FOR BUILDINGS

In an embodiment, a light shelf of the present invention includes at least one panel assembly for reflecting daylight into a space; and at least two structural elements for holding the panel assembly, wherein the structural elements include a spine component having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween; a first mounting component for installing on a structural member and for engaging the proximal end of the spine component; a second mounting component for engaging the distal end of the spine component; and a sleeve component having at least one indentation for holding a side of the panel assembly. 1. A structural element comprising: wherein the wall mounting component includes an opening with internal threads, and', 'wherein the wall mounting component includes at least one aperture for receiving a fastener for securing the wall mounting component to the interior wall of the building;, 'a wall mounting component for securing to an interior wall of a building,'} wherein the spine component includes a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis therebetween,', 'wherein the proximal end of the spine component includes an outer surface with external threads,', 'wherein the distal end of the spine component includes an outer surface with external threads, and', 'wherein the proximal end of the spine component is sufficiently sized and shaped to be rotated to move along its axis through the opening of the wall mounting component;, 'a spine component for securing to the wall mounting component,'} wherein the sleeve component is sufficiently designed for holding a light shelf, and', 'wherein the sleeve component includes a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis therebetween; and, 'a sleeve component for slidably positioning over the spine component,'} wherein the free-end mounting component includes an opening with internal threads,', 'wherein the free-end mounting component includes at least one aperture, and', 'wherein the ...

SELF-GUIDING FRICTION STIR WELDING APPARATUS AND METHOD

One embodiment of a friction stir welding apparatus comprises two friction stir welding tools on a carriage. The first friction stir welding tool is capable of rotating in a first direction. The second friction stir welding tool is capable of rotating in a second direction, counter to the first direction. The first friction stir welding tool and the second friction stir welding tool are operable to weld simultaneously and in tandem along an intersection of at least two work pieces. 1. A friction stir welding apparatus comprising:a carriage;a first friction stir welding tool held by the carriage and capable of rotating in a first direction; anda second friction stir welding tool held by the carriage and capable of rotating in a second direction, counter to the first direction;wherein the first friction stir welding tool and the second friction stir welding tool are operable to weld simultaneously and in tandem along an intersection of at least two work pieces.2. The apparatus of wherein the intersection comprises a seam formed by an abutment of the work pieces.3. The apparatus of wherein claim 1 , when welding claim 1 , the first friction stir welding tool is capable of exerting a greater force on a first work piece than on a second work piece and the second friction stir welding tool is capable of exerting a greater force on the second work piece than on the first work piece so that a sum of the forces of the first and second stir welding tools on the work pieces urges the carriage and the friction stir welding tools along the intersection in a substantially linear path.4. The apparatus of further comprising a third friction stir welding tool held by the carriage wherein claim 1 , the first friction stir welding tool claim 1 , the second friction stir welding tool and the third friction stir welding toll are operable to weld simultaneously and in tandem along the intersection claim 1 , and wherein when welding claim 1 , a sum of the forces of the stir welding tools ...

Method of Forming a Metal Container

A method of forming a metal container comprises: narrowing a first top section of the container in at least one narrowing step, wherein after narrowing the first top section, the first top section has a first top section minimum outer diameter; and narrowing a second section of the metal container after narrowing the first top section, wherein after narrowing the second section, the second section has a second section minimum outer diameter; wherein the second section is below the first top section minimum outer diameter and wherein the second section minimum outer diameter is larger than the first top section minimum outer diameter. In some embodiments, the second section is below the first top section minimum outer diameter. In some embodiments, the second section of the metal container is necked with a necking die.

AGING OF ALUMINUM ALLOYS FOR IMPROVED COMBINATION OF FATIGUE PERFORMANCE AND STRENGTH

Aluminum alloys 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. 1. A method comprising: a. solution heat treating the 2099 aluminum alloy at a temperature of at least 800° F.; and', 'b. quenching the 2099 aluminum alloy; and, '(i) preparing a 2099 aluminum alloy for artificial aging, the preparing comprising c. aging the 2099 aluminum alloy at a temperature of at least 250° F.; and', 'd. final aging the 2099 aluminum alloy at a temperature of from 165° to not greater than 225° F. and for a duration such that the 2099 aluminum alloy realizes:, '(ii) artificially aging the 2099 aluminum alloy, the artificial aging comprising(1) at least a 3% increase in tensile yield strength as compared to a similar aluminum alloy; and(2) better fatigue crack growth resistance as compared to the similar aluminum alloy;wherein the artificial aging step (ii) is completed such that the volume fraction of delta prime phase within the 2099 aluminum alloy increases during the final aging step, and wherein the claimed tensile yield strength increase and better fatigue crack growth resistance properties are realized due to such increase in the volume fraction of the delta prime phase;wherein the similar aluminum alloy is of identical composition relative to the 2099 aluminum alloy;wherein the similar aluminum alloy and the 2099 aluminum alloy are prepared identically for artificial aging; andwherein the similar aluminum alloy is artificially aged in the same manner as the 2099 aluminum alloy, but in the absence of the final aging step (ii)(d).2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the artificially aging step ...

ADVANCED MULTI-SHOULDERED FIXED BOBBIN TOOLS FOR SIMULTANEOUS FRICTION STIR WELDING OF MULTIPLE PARALLEL WALLS BETWEEN PARTS

A multi-shouldered friction stir welding tool comprises an exterior threaded solid pin having a diameter and a length; a shoulder having a threadless inner diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the exterior threaded solid pin and at least one substantially radial threaded set screw hole; an monolithic shoulder-shank having a threadless inner diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the exterior threaded solid pin and at least one substantially radial threaded set screw hole; a pair of locking nuts having a threadless outer diameter and a threaded inner diameter operably compatable with the exterior threaded solid pin, wherein the shoulder and the monolithic shoulder-shank are capable of slidable engagement with the exterior threaded solid pin along the length of the exterior threaded solid pin to set a space slightly larger than a thickness of a work piece to be welded. 16-. (canceled)7. A multi-shouldered friction stir welding tool comprising:an exterior threaded solid pin having a diameter and a length;a shoulder having a threadless inner diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the exterior threaded solid pin and at least one substantially radial threaded set screw hole;an monolithic shoulder-shank having a threadless inner diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the exterior threaded solid pin and at least one substantially radial threaded set screw hole;a pair of locking nuts having a threadless outer diameter and a threaded inner diameter operably compatable with the exterior threaded solid pin,wherein the shoulder and the monolithic shoulder-shank are capable of slidable engagement with the exterior threaded solid pin along the length of the exterior threaded solid pin to set a space slightly larger than a thickness of a work piece to be welded.8. The multi-shouldered friction stir welding tool according to further comprises a lock nut threaded onto the exterior threaded solid pin into an abutting relationship with the shoulder.9. The ...

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. 1. A method comprising: '(i) wherein the extruded aerospace structural component is made from a hard aluminum alloy having a tensile yield strength of at least 50 ksi and comprises at least one continuous microcavity; and', '(a) assembling an aerospace vehicle having an extruded aerospace structural component;'}(b) monitoring the structural health of the extruded aerospace structural component via the at least one continuous microcavity of the extruded aerospace structural component.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the continuous microcavity (A) to the cross-sectional area of the extruded aerospace structured component (A) is not greater than 10 (A/A≦10).3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the continuous microcavity to the cross-sectional area of the extruded aerospace structural component is not greater than 1 (A/A≦1).4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the continuous microcavity to the cross-sectional area of the extruded aerospace structural component is not greater than 0.1 (A/A≦0.1).5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the continuous microcavity comprises a diameter of not greater than 2 mm.6. The method of claim 4 , wherein the continuous microcavity comprises a diameter of not greater than 1.5 mm.7. The method of claim 4 , wherein the continuous microcavity comprises a diameter of not greater than 0.5 mm.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the extruded aerospace structural component is one of a fuselage stringer claim 1 , a fuselage frame claim ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR IMPROVING MAGNETO-HYDRODYNAMICS STABILITY AND REDUCING ENERGY CONSUMPTION FOR ALUMINUM REDUCTION CELLS

An apparatus and method for smelting has a smelting pot for containing electrolyte, alumina and a layer of liquid aluminum. A wall in the form of one or more TiBor alumina plates extends from the bottom of the pot to a height exceeding the height of the liquid aluminum layer formed in the bottom of the smelting pot during smelting. The wall partitions the bottom of the pot and impedes movement of the aluminum under the influence of MHD forces, diminishing the maximum crest height of waves in the aluminum and allowing a reduction in the ACD to reduce electrical resistance and power consumption. The wall may equal or exceed the height of the anode and may, when conductive, act as a cathode, drawing a horizontal current. The wall may be composed of alumina, e.g., in the form of blocks, undergoing electrolytic reduction and being replaced periodically. 1. A smelting apparatus for electrolytically producing aluminum metal from alumina in a Hall-Héroult cell , comprising:an anode;a cathode;an electrolyte bath;a smelting pot for containing the electrolyte, alumina and a layer of liquid aluminum, the smelting pot having a bottom and sides and the aluminum layer having a given height above the bottom of the smelting pot; anda wall disposed within the smelting pot defining sub-areas therein and extending at least a portion of at least one of the length and width of the smelting pot.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the wall has a height above the bottom of the smelting pot exceeding the given height of the aluminum layer in the smelting pot.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the wall has a height extending into the electrolyte bath.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein during smelting claim 1 , the height of the wall is above the lower surface of the anode claim 1 , such that the anode is juxtaposed next to the wall but does not touch it.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the wall is capable of guiding molten aluminum moving under the influence of magnetic force ...

ALUMINUM ELECTROLYSIS CELL WITH COMPRESSION DEVICE AND METHOD

In accordance with the instant disclosure, aluminum electrolysis cells having reduced cathode voltage drop and methods of operating the same are provided. More particularly, the instant disclosure provides a compression device for applying a force to an end of the current collector subassembly to improve the contact, thereby reducing the joint resistance across the interface between the cathode block and the current collector subassembly. The compression device is used in conjunction with the systems and methods of the instant disclosure. 1. An aluminum electrolysis cell , comprising:an anode;a cathode assembly, having a cathode block, a slot in the cathode block, and a current collector subassembly, wherein the current collector subassembly is at least partially disposed in the slot; andan axial compression device, adjacent to an end of a current collector subassembly and adapted to apply force onto an end of the current collector subassembly,wherein the current collector subassembly is conformed to the slot via the axial compression device.2. The aluminum electrolysis cell of claim 1 , wherein the axial compression device comprises:a spring member adapted to apply force to an end of the current collector bar; anda brace adapted to hold the spring in place on the end of the collector bar.3. The aluminum electrolysis cell of claim 1 , wherein the axial compression device comprises:an adjustable bracket having a screw and a threaded assembly, wherein the adjustable bracket is adapted to fit on an outer end of the current collector subassembly.4. The aluminum electrolysis cell of claim 1 , wherein the axial compression device comprises:a metallic balloon having at least one wall, where the wall encloses a gas-filled void,wherein the metallic balloon is adjacent to an inner cathode collector subassembly end,inside the slot.5. The aluminum electrolysis cell of claim 1 , wherein the axial compression device comprises:a metallic balloon having at least one wall, where the ...

EXPANDABLE MEMBER AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME

The instant disclosure provides an apparatus, comprising a metallic body having at least one sidewall, wherein the sidewall encloses a void, and an expandable material retained within the void and encased by the sidewall; wherein the void comprises a first volume at a first temperature; and wherein, at a second temperature of at least about 500° C., the expandable material expands such that the void comprises a second volume, wherein the second volume is greater than the first volume, wherein, via the expansion of the expandable materials, the at least one sidewall exerts a pressure of at least about 150 psig. Methods are also provided. 1. What is claimed is: An apparatus , comprising:a metallic body having at least one sidewall, wherein the sidewall encloses a void, and an expandable material retained within the void and encased by the sidewall;wherein the void comprises a first volume at a first temperature; andwherein, at a second temperature of at least about 500° C., the expandable material expands such that the void comprises a second volume, wherein the second volume is greater than the first volume,wherein, via the expansion of the expandable materials, the at least one sidewall exerts a pressure of at least about 150 psig.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the metallic body is sealed.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the metallic body is sealed by a sealant selected from the group consisting of: mechanical fasteners claim 2 , bolts claim 2 , welds claim 2 , rivets claim 2 , adhesives claim 2 , and combinations thereof.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the expandable material comprises a gas; an inert gas claim 1 , a phase change material claim 1 , and combinations thereof.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the gas comprises an inert gas claim 1 , oxygen claim 1 , carbon dioxide claim 1 , nitrogen claim 1 , argon claim 1 , or combinations thereof.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the void further comprises a filler material which does not ...

Multi-alloy composite sheet for automotive panels

Multi-alloy composite sheets and methods of producing the composite sheets for use in automotive applications are disclosed. The automotive application may include an automotive panel having a bi-layer or a tri-layer composite sheet with 3xxx and 6xxx aluminum alloys. The composite sheets may be produced by roll bonding or multi-alloy casting, among other techniques. Each of the composite sheets may demonstrate good flat hem rating and mechanical properties, long shelf life, and high dent resistance, among other properties.

HIGH PERFORMANCE AlSiMgCu CASTING ALLOY

An aluminum casting alloy has 8.5-9.5 wt. % silicon, 0.5-2.0 wt. % copper (Cu), 0.27-0.53 wt. % magnesium (Mg), wherein the aluminum casting alloy includes copper and magnesium such that 4.7≦(Cu+10Mg)≦5.8, and other elements, the balance being aluminum. Selected elements may be added to the base composition to give resistance to degradation of tensile properties due to exposure to heat. The thermal treatment of the alloy is calculated based upon wt. % composition to solutionize unwanted phases having a negative impact on properties and may include a three level ramp-up and soak to a final temperature followed by cold water quenching and artificial aging. 1. An aluminum casting alloy consisting of:8.5-9.5 wt. % silicon;0.5-2.0 wt. % copper (Cu); 'wherein the aluminum casting alloy includes copper and magnesium such', '0.27-0.53 wt. % magnesium (Mg);'}that 4.7≦(Cu+10Mg)≦5.8;up to 5.0 wt. % zinc;up to 1.0 wt. % silver;up to 1.0 wt. % nickelup to 1.0 wt. % hafniumup to 1.0 wt. % manganeseup to 1.0 wt. % iron;up to 0.30 wt. % titanium;up to 0.30 wt. % zirconium;up to 0.30 wt. % vanadium;up to 0.10 wt. % of one or more of strontium, sodium and antimony;other elements being ≦0.04 wt. % each and ≦0.12 wt. % in total;the balance being aluminum.2. The aluminum casting alloy of claim 1 , wherein the alloy includes 1.35-2.0 wt. % copper and 0.27-0.445 wt. % magnesium.3. The aluminum casting alloy of claim 1 , wherein the alloy includes 0.5-0.75 wt. % copper and 0.395-0.53 wt. % magnesium.4. The aluminum casting alloy of claim 1 , wherein the alloy includes 0.75-1.35 wt. % copper and 0.335-0.505 wt. % magnesium.5. The aluminum casting alloy of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum casting alloy includes copper and magnesium such that 5.0≦(Cu+10Mg)≦5.5.6. The aluminum casting alloy of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum casting alloy includes copper and magnesium such that 5.1≦(Cu+10Mg)≦5.4.7. The aluminum casting alloy of claim 1 , wherein the alloy contains ≦0.25 wt. % zinc.8. The aluminum ...

FLOATING FLAPPER VALVE

An apparatus for increasing the insulation value of a window system with a weep hole includes a flapper valve with a buoyant flap articulating relative to a non-moving portion. The flap is positioned on the window frame over the weep hole proximate the inside of the structure in which the window system is installed and the non-moving portion is attached to the window frame. The flap may be held against the frame around the weep hole by gravity and/or by the elastic memory of a portion of the flap, such as a plastic hinge. The flapper valve is closed when dry to diminish the flow of ex-filtration through the weep hole, but opens in response to being flooded with water due to the buoyancy of the flap, opening the weep hole and allowing the water to drain. 1. A weep hole valve for a structure , comprising:a non-articulating portion securable to the structure proximate the weep hole;an articulating portion secured to the non-articulating portion and articulatable relative to the non-articulating portion between a closed position at least partially covering and at least partially obstructing a flow of air through the weep hole and an open position, permitting a flow of water through the weep hole, the articulating portion having buoyancy in water and floating in response to at least partial submersion in water to transition from the closed position to the open position.2. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the articulating portion is secured to the non-articulating portion by a flexible portion claim 1 , the articulating portion being biased toward the closed position by the flexible portion and the buoyancy of the articulating portion overcoming the biasing of the flexible portion to transition from the closed position to the open position in response to partial or complete submersion in water.3. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the articulating portion is biased towards the closed position at least partially due to the effect of gravity claim 1 , the buoyancy of the ...

PIN LATCH WITH DETECTION DEVICE AND MOVABLE CATCH-PIN AND INTERMEDIATE POSITION WITH AUTOMATIC RETURN MECHANISM

A pin latch includes a guide block, a handle having a trigger, and a shear pin housed slidably within the guide block and connected to the handle. The shear pin includes a catch-pin engageable by the trigger, and is slidable between an engageable position and a disengageable position when the handle is moved from a closed position to an open position. Alternately, the pin latch includes a bracket connected to the shear pin and includes a catch-pin, and the handle is moveable to an intermediate position, such that a trigger is disengaged from the catch-pin and the shear pin engages a stop pin. A guide block spring acts on the stop pin to retain releasably the handle in its intermediate position. The guide block includes a finger and the shear pin includes a groove sized and shaped to receive the finger when the pin latch is in an unlatchable position. 1. A pin latch , comprising:a guide block;a handle attached pivotally to the guide block, the handle including a trigger; anda shear pin housed slidably within the guide block and connected to the handle, the shear pin including a catch-pin that is slidable between an engageable position and a disengageable position;wherein the handle is moveable between a closed position, in which the handle is retained releasably within the guide block, the shear pin is extended from the guide block, and the trigger is engaged with the catch-pin of the shear pin when the catch-pin is in its engageable position, and an open position, in which the handle is retracted from the guide block, the trigger is disengaged from the catch-pin, and the shear pin is retracted within the guide block and the catch-pin is moved to its disengageable position.2. The pin latch of claim 1 , wherein the guide block includes a first end claim 1 , a second end opposite the first end claim 1 , and a tubular portion extending from the first end to the second end of the guide block and having a pair of opposed sidewalls claim 1 , each of which includes a slot ...

METHOD FOR EXPANDING THE DIAMETER OF A METAL CONTAINER

A method of forming a metal container comprises: curling outward a top edge of the metal container to form a curl and expanding a diameter of a first section of the metal container to form a first expanded section; wherein at least part of the first expanded section is below the curl. In some embodiments, the steps of curling outward a top edge of the metal container to form a curl and expanding a diameter of a first section of the metal container to form a first expanded section are performed in a single stroke of a single die. In some embodiments, the step of expanding a diameter of a first section of the metal container to form an expanded section is performed after the step of curling outward a top edge of the metal container to form a curl. 1. A method of forming a metal container comprising:curling outward a top edge of the metal container to form a curl; andexpanding a diameter of a first section of the metal container to form a first expanded section;wherein at least part of the expanded section is below the curl.2. The method of wherein the curling step (A) and the expanding step (B) are performed simultaneously.3. The method of wherein step (B) expanding a first section of the metal container to form an expanded section is accomplished using an expansion die.4. The method of wherein the curling step (A) and the expanding step (B) are performed in a single stroke of a single die.5. The method of wherein the expanding step (B) is performed after the curling step (A).6. The method of further comprising (C) expanding a diameter of a second section of the metal container to form a second expanded section.7. The method of further comprising (C) expanding a diameter of a second section of the metal container to form a second expanded section prior to curling step (A).8. The method of wherein the expanding step (B) comprises inserting an expansion die into an open end of the metal container.9. The method of wherein the diameter of the first section of the metal ...

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. 2. The method of claim 1 , wherein after the anodizing step (ii) claim 1 , the shape cast aluminum alloy product realizes a Delta-E of not greater than about 5.0.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the finishing style includes a visually apparent surface defect free surface claim 1 , and wherein the selecting step (c) comprises:selecting a layered microstructure, wherein the layered microstructure comprises an outer layer having alpha aluminum phase and eutectic microstructure; andwherein the producing step (d) comprises:producing the shape cast product having the layered microstructure, wherein the outer layer has a thickness of not greater than about 400 microns; andremoving at least a portion of the outer layer from the shape cast product.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the selecting step (c) comprises selecting a hypereutectic alloy composition.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the alloy is the Al—Ni—Mn alloy.6. The method of claim 4 , wherein the uniform oxide layer is associated with an intended viewing surface of the product claim 4 , wherein the method comprises:applying a colorant to at least a portion of the uniform oxide layer, wherein after the applying step, the intended viewing surface of the shape cast product has a Delta-E of not greater than about 5.0 due to, at least in part, the uniformity of the oxide layer, and wherein the intended viewing surface is substantially free of visually apparent surface defects.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the selecting step (c) comprises selecting a hypoeutectic alloy composition.9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the alloy is an Al—Ni—Mn ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR JOINING DISSIMILAR MATERIALS

An apparatus is provided including: at least one first sheet comprising a first material; at least one second sheet comprising a second material, wherein the first material comprises at least one of: a thermal conductivity and an electrical conductivity that is at least 10% lower than that of the second material; and a joint comprising at least one resistance spot weld (RSW), wherein the first sheet is at least about 1.5 times the thickness of the second sheet. Methods are also provided. 1. An apparatus , comprising:a. at least one first sheet comprising a first material; 'wherein the first material comprises at least one of: a thermal conductivity and an electrical conductivity that is at least 10% lower than that of the second material; and', 'b. at least one second sheet comprising a second material,'}c. a joint comprising at least one resistance spot weld (RSW), wherein the first sheet is at least about 1.5 times the thickness of the second sheet.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the RSW has a cross-tension strength of at least about 2.67 kN when measured in accordance with JIS Z3138.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first material comprises an aluminum alloy.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the aluminum alloy is selected form the group consisting of: AA series 1xxx; AA series 2xxx; AA series 3xxx; AA series 5xxx; AA series 6xxx; AA series 7xxx claim 3 , or combinations thereof.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first sheet is selected from the group consisting of: a monolithic aluminum alloy; a multi-layered aluminum alloy; a coated aluminum alloy; a plated aluminum alloy; and combinations thereof.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first sheet is not greater than 5 mm.7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the thickness ratio of the first sheet to the second sheet is not greater than 6:1.8. The apparatus of selected from the group consisting of: an auto structure; a body structure; an auto body structure; a closure panel; or ...

SWAGE INDICATING COLLAR

A swage collar including a shank having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and an outside diameter, a flange extending circumferentially from the first end of the shank and having a outer diameter, and a transition step formed at a location where the first end of the shank transitions to the flange. When the swage collar is swaged, the transition step is deformed from an undeformed state to a deformed state such that the transition step is blended with the outside diameter of the shank and the outer diameter of the flange. The transition step is substantially linear in its undeformed state and is oriented at an angle from a longitudinal axis of the swage collar. When the transition step is in its deformed state, the transition step includes a curved portion having a radius of curvature visually indicating a complete swage of the collar. 1. A swage collar , comprising:a shank having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and an outside diameter;a flange extending circumferentially from the first end of the shank and having a outer diameter; anda transition step formed at a location where the first end of the shank transitions to the flange,wherein the swage collar is adapted to be swaged, and wherein when the swage collar is swaged, the transition step is deformed from an undeformed state to a deformed state wherein the transition step is blended with the outside diameter of the shank and the outer diameter of the flange.2. The swage collar of claim 1 , wherein the transition step is substantially linear in its undeformed state.3. The swage collar of claim 2 , wherein the transition step is oriented at an angle from a longitudinal axis of the swage collar.4. The swage collar of claim 3 , wherein the angle is about 90 degrees.5. The swage collar of claim 3 , wherein the angle is about 120 degrees.6. The swage collar of claim 3 , wherein the angle is about 135 degrees.7. The swage collar of claim 3 , wherein the angle is within a range of ...

SWAGE INDICATING COLLAR

A swage collar including a shank having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and an outside diameter, a flange extending circumferentially from the first end of the shank and having a outer diameter, and a scalloped shoulder formed at a location where the first end of the shank transitions to the flange. When the swage collar is swaged, the shoulder is deformed from an undeformed state to a deformed state such that the shoulder is blended with the outside diameter of the shank and the outer diameter of the flange. When the shoulder is in its deformed state, it includes multiple curved portions each having a radius of curvature that visually indicates all around the outside diameter of the collar a complete swage of the collar. Knurling located on the outside diameter of the shank and proximate to the second end is deformable and provides a visual indication of the application of an installation tool. 1. A swage collar , comprising:a shank having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and an outside diameter;a flange extending circumferentially from the first end of the shank and having a outer diameter; anda scalloped shoulder formed at a location proximate to where the first end of the shank transitions to the flange,wherein the swage collar is adapted to be swaged, and wherein when the swage collar is swaged, the shoulder is deformed from an undeformed state to a deformed state wherein the shoulder is blended with the outside diameter of the shank and the outer diameter of the flange.2. The swage collar of claim 1 , wherein when the shoulder is in its deformed state claim 1 , the transition step includes a curved portion.3. The swage collar of claim 2 , wherein the curved portion includes a radius of curvature.4. The swage collar of claim 1 , wherein the shank includes a bore extending from the first end to the second end of the shank claim 1 , an inner surface defined by the bore claim 1 , and a fit-up tab extending from the inner surface. ...

MOUNTING AND HINGE ASSEMBLY FOR A SHELF

A mounting assembly for connecting a light shelf to a structure in cantilever fashion. A pair of receiver units attach to the structure and each has a pair of brackets with a slot there between. A recess is formed on an upper interior surface of the upper bracket. The lower bracket has an abutment support surface distal to the structure. A pair of inserter units attach to opposite sides of the shelf, each having an insertion leg and an abutment support. The insertion leg inserts into the recess of a corresponding receiver when the abutment support rests on the abutment surface. The weight of the shelf pulls the abutment support into engagement with the abutment surface and pushes the insertion leg into engagement with the recess, holding the shelf horizontally. 1. A cantilever mounting for connecting a member to a structure , comprises:(A) a receiver attachable to the structure, the receiver having a recess and an abutment surface spaced there from;(B) an inserter attachable to the member, the inserter having an insertion leg and an abutment support spaced there from, the insertion leg insertable into the recess of the receiver, the abutment support capable of resting upon the abutment surface when the insertion leg is in the recess, the weight of the member attached to the inserter pulling the abutment support into engagement with the abutment surface and pushing the insertion leg into engagement with the recess, holding the member at a given orientation relative to the structure.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the member is a light shelf.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the light shelf has a base claim 2 , a panel contacting the base and a frame extending from a first end of the base around the panel to a second end of the base claim 2 , capturing the panel between the base and the frame.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the inserter is a first inserter and further including a second inserter to yield a pair of inserters claim 3 , wherein each ...

STRIP CASTINGS 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). 1. A product comprising:a cast aluminum alloy product comprising:an aluminum alloy; and wherein the alloying addition is substantially immiscible with molten aluminum,', 'wherein particles of the substantially immiscible alloying addition are uniformly distributed throughout the cast aluminum alloy product, and', 'wherein the particles are deposited between secondary dendrite arms of the cast aluminum alloy product., 'at least 0.1 weight percent alloying addition,'}2. The product according to claim 1 , wherein the particles are less than three microns in size.3. The product according to claim 1 , wherein the alloying addition comprises at least one of Sn claim 1 , Pb claim 1 , Bi claim 1 , Cd claim 1 , and Sb.4. The product according to claim 1 , wherein the alloying addition comprises at least 0.1 weight % Sn.5. The product according to claim 1 , wherein the alloying addition comprises at least 0.1 weight % Pb.6. The product according to claim 1 , wherein the alloying addition comprises at least 0.1 weight % Bi.7. The product according to claim 1 , wherein the alloying addition comprises at least 0.1 weight % Cd.8. The product according to ...

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. 1. A method comprising: a matrix;', 'semiconductor particles within the matrix; and', 'a charge transfer agent within the matrix; and, 'contacting a body comprising a photocatalytic film with a carbon dioxide-containing gas, wherein the photocatalytic film comprisesconverting, via the body, at least 10 ppm/minute carbon dioxide to non-carbon dioxide products per square meter of photocatalytic film surface area.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the converting step comprises:reacting, in the presence of light, carbon dioxide gas with at least one of the semiconductor material and the charge transfer agent to produce a non-carbon dioxide product.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the converting step occurs at about ambient conditions.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the converting step comprises:producing a carbonate-containing end product via a receptor agent.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the charge transfer agent comprises a first alkaline material and wherein the receptor agent comprises a second alkaline material claim 1 , different than the first alkaline material.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the first alkaline material comprises sodium and the second alkaline material comprises calcium.7. A method comprising: a matrix;', 'semiconductor particles within the matrix; and', 'a charge transfer agent within the matrix; and, 'flowing an incoming gas stream comprising carbon dioxide through a gas scrubbing apparatus comprising a photocatalytic film, wherein the photocatalytic film comprisesremoving, via the photocatalytic film, at least 10 ppm/minute carbon dioxide from the incoming gas stream.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein carbon dioxide is removed from the incoming gas stream at a rate of at least about 0.5 vol. % per hour.9. The method of claim 7 , wherein the ...

ADJUSTABLE LIGHT SHELF

A light shelf for controlling solar radiation that impinges on a building has a panel with a pair of support brackets. The brackets run along tracks secured to the building and engage the tracks to assume a variety of elevations. The brackets can be moved independently, allowing the panel to be tilted and may have pivot joints to facilitate tilting. The panel may be mounted to the brackets in a way that allows the panel to translate horizontally. The panel may have a plurality of elements that can be adjusted to change the surface area and may be automated to respond to ambient conditions. 1. A light shelf , comprising:a panel capable of interacting with light for controlling solar radiation that impinges on a building;a stationary mounting element capable of occupying a fixed position relative to the building; anda moveable mounting element capable of coupling to the stationary mounting element and the panel and moveable between a plurality of positions relative to the stationary mounting element for selectively supporting the panel at a plurality of positions relative to the building.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the stationary mounting element includes a track along which the moveable element moves.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the moveable element includes a bracket moveable on the track and a retaining element capable of retaining the bracket at a selected one of the plurality of positions.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the stationary mounting element includes a plurality of tracks and the moveable element includes a pair of brackets claim 3 , each bracket of the pair moveable along a corresponding one of the plurality of tracks.5. The apparatus of claim 4 , wherein each bracket of the pair of brackets is separately moveable relative to the other bracket of the pair.6. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein at least one of the brackets includes a pivot coupling interposed between the panel and the corresponding track allowing the panel ...

METHOD OF PRODUCING INGOT WITH VARIABLE COMPOSITION USING PLANAR SOLIDIFICATION

Molten metal of a first composition is fed into a mold cavity, via a first control apparatus, wherein the control apparatus is open, wherein the feeding comprises flowing out of a first feed chamber. The first control apparatus is closed. A second control apparatus is opened. Molten metal of a second composition is fed into the mold cavity, via the second control apparatus, wherein at least a portion of the metal of the first composition in the mold cavity is sufficiently molten so that an initial feed of molten metal of the second composition mixes with the molten metal of the first composition in the mold cavity, wherein the feeding comprises flowing out of a second feed chamber, wherein the second composition is different from the first composition. An ingot is removed from the mold cavity, wherein the ingot has a top section, a middle section, and a bottom section, wherein the bottom section is composed of metal of the first composition, wherein the top section is composed of metal of the second composition, wherein the middle section is composed of a mixture of metal of the first composition and the second composition. 1. A method of casting metal , comprising the following steps:feeding a molten metal of a first composition from a first feed chamber at a predetermined flow rate into a mixing apparatus;feeding the molten metal from the mixing apparatus into a mold cavity;closing the first feed chamber;feeding a molten metal of a second composition at a predetermined flow rate into the mixing apparatus, wherein the first composition is different from the second composition;wherein the molten metal of the first and second compositions are aluminum alloys, removing an ingot from the mold cavity, wherein the ingot has a thickness, a top section, a middle section, and a bottom section, wherein the bottom section is composed of metal of the first composition, wherein the top section is composed of the metal of the second composition, wherein the middle section of the ...

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.

BLIND FASTENER

A blind fastener including a core bolt having a shank with a head and a threaded portion, and a sleeve having an elongated body with a head, an internal threaded portion, and a tapered notch formed within an exterior surface thereof and defined by a tapered portion having a slope and a frictional enhanced surface. The core bolt is installed within the sleeve such that its threaded portion engages threadedly the internal threaded portion of the sleeve. During installation of the fastener within the plurality of workpieces, a bulb is formed on the elongated body of the sleeve, the bulb defining a portion of a bulbed portion. When a selected axial force is reached, the bulbed portion separates from the elongated body and engages axially the tapered portion of the sleeve, increasing the diameter of the bulb which engages a blind side of one of the workpieces. 1. A blind fastener , comprising:a core bolt having an elongated shank with a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a head located at the first end, and a threaded portion located at the second end; anda sleeve having an elongated body with a first end, a second end opposite the first end of the elongated body, an exterior surface extending from the first end of the elongated body to the second end of the elongated body, a head located at the first end of the elongated body, an internal threaded portion located at the second end of the elongated body, and a tapered notch formed within the exterior surface intermediate the first and second ends of the elongated body and defined by a tapered portion,wherein the core bolt is adapted to be installed within the sleeve such that the threaded portion of the core bolt engages threadedly the internal threaded portion of the sleeve,wherein the fastener is adapted to be installed within openings of a plurality of workpieces, such that the head of the sleeve engages an accessible side of one of the plurality of workpieces, the head of the pin engages the head of the ...

COMPOSITE PRODUCTS AND RELATED METHODS

Composite products and methods of making the same are provided. 1. A composite product , comprising:an extrusion including a parent material and a non-parent material,wherein the parent material comprises a metal material;wherein the non-parent material comprises a particulate material embedded within the parent material and dispersed within the parent material, wherein the parent material is different from the non-parent material.2. The product of claim 1 , wherein the parent material is selected from the group consisting of: aluminum claim 1 , aluminum alloy claim 1 , magnesium claim 1 , magnesium alloy claim 1 , titanium claim 1 , titanium alloy claim 1 , copper claim 1 , copper alloy claim 1 , steel claim 1 , steel alloy claim 1 , iron claim 1 , iron alloy claim 1 , nickel claim 1 , nickel alloy claim 1 , and combinations thereof.3. The product of claim 1 , wherein the non-parent material comprises: a metal; a chemically oxidized parent material; a nanomaterial claim 1 , a non-metallic material; and combinations thereof.4. The product of claim 1 , wherein the non-parent material in the composite material comprises: a metal material having an average particle size of not greater than about 1 micron.5. The product of claim 1 , wherein the non-parent material comprises a material having an average particle size of not greater than about 20 nanometers.6. The product of claim 1 , wherein the non-parent material is uniformly dispersed in the composite product.7. A method claim 1 , comprising:(a) providing a plurality of members comprising a parent material and a non-parent material, wherein the parent material is different from the non-parent material; and wherein, via the extruding step, the composite product comprises a plurality of particles of the non-parent material,', 'wherein the particles having an average particle size of not greater than about 5 microns,', 'wherein the particles of non-parent material are embedded within the parent material., '(b) extruding ...

HEAT SINK FOR AN ELECTRONIC COMPONENT

A device for thermal management of an electronic component includes an inner shell dimensioned to house an electrical circuit and a thermally conductive metal outer shell. The metal outer shell has a thickness less than 6.3246 mm; a first closed end having a first diameter and dimensioned to support an electronic component operably connected to the electrical circuit; and a second end having a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is greater than the second diameter. The inner shell is at least partially within the outer shell. The outer shell is comprised of a single metal sheet. The thinnest portion of the outer metal shell is less than or equal to 0.75 times the thickest portion of the outer metal shell. 1. A device comprising:an inner shell dimensioned to house an electrical circuit; a thickness less than 0.249 inch (6.3246 mm):', 'a first closed end having a first diameter and dimensioned to support an electronic component operably connected to the electrical circuit; and', 'a second end having a second diameter,', 'wherein the first diameter is greater than the second diameter;, 'a thermally conductive metal outer shell comprisingwherein the inner shell is at least partially within the outer shell; andwherein the outer shell is comprised of a single metal sheet.2. The device of wherein the outer shell is in physical contact with the inner shell.3. The device of wherein the second end of the outer shell is in physical contact with the inner shell proximate to a second end of the inner shell.4. The device of further comprising a plurality of apertures in the outer shell between the first end and the second end of the outer shell.5. The device of wherein when heat is generated by an electronic component in thermal communication the first closed end of the thermally conductive outer shell claim 4 , air is drawn through the apertures and cools via convention at least one of the inner shell claim 4 , the outer shell and the electronic component.6. The device ...

MULTI-LAYER ALUMINUM ALLOY SHEET PRODUCT, SHEET PRODUCT FOR TUBES FOR HEAT EXCHANGERS AND METHODS OF MAKING

An aluminum sheet product comprises: a core layer comprising one of a 3xxx, 5xxx and 6xxx aluminum alloy; and a liner layer comprising one of a 3xxx aluminum alloy having an additive of 0.5-5% Zn, and a 7xxx aluminum alloy. In some embodiments, the aluminum sheet product r has an O temper pre-braze tensile strength of at least 20 Ksi. In some embodiments the corrosion potential difference between the liner and core is at least 30 millivolts. In some embodiments, the aluminum sheet product further comprises an inner layer comprising one of a 3xxx and a 4xxx aluminum alloy. 1. An aluminum sheet product comprising:a core layer comprising a 3xxx aluminum alloy; anda liner layer comprising a 3xxx aluminum alloy having an additive of Zn.2. The aluminum sheet product of further comprising an inner layer.3. The aluminum sheet of wherein the inner layer comprises a 3xxx aluminum alloy.4. A tube comprising:a core layer comprising a 3xxx aluminum alloy; anda liner layer comprising a 3xxx aluminum alloy having an additive of Zn. This application claims priority to prior filed U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/645,126 filed on May 10, 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference.Mechanically assembled heat exchangers are used for residential HVAC application. Past heat exchangers were made of copper, or extruded-single-layer aluminum, tubes and aluminum plate fins. The copper, or extruded-single-layer aluminum, tubes were laced into aluminum fins and then mechanically expanded such that the tube outer surface has close contact with the fins. The heat transfer was achieved in part by the mechanical contact between tubes and fins.In various illustrative embodiments, without being bound thereby, the disclosure herein may be summarized as within the following illustrative paragraphs:An aluminum alloy sheet product comprises a core layer and a liner layer. The liner layer comprises either a 3xxx aluminum alloy having an additive of 0.5-5% Zn, or a 7xxx aluminum alloy. The ...

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. 1. A method comprising:(a) casting an alloy that consists essentially of: 6.9 to 9 wt. % Zn; 1.3 to 1.68 wt. % Mg; 1.2 to 1.9 wt. % Cu, with wt. % Mg<(wt. % Cu+0.3); and 0.05 to 0.3 wt. % Zr, the balance Al, incidental elements and impurities;(b) homogenizing and hot forming said alloy into a workpiece by one or more methods selected from the group consisting of: rolling, extruding and forging;(c) solution heat treating the workpiece;(d) quenching the solution heat treated workpiece; and(e) artificially aging the quenched workpiece.2. The method of claim 1 , comprising: age forming the workpiece into a structural component shape.3. The method of wherein the quenched workpiece is 3 to 12 inches at its thickest cross sectional point.4. The method of wherein the alloy contains less than 8 wt. % Zn and less than 1.8 wt. % Cu.5. The method of wherein artificial aging step (e) comprises:(i) a first aging stage within 200 to 275° F.; and(ii) a second aging stage within 300 to 335° F.6. The method of wherein artificial aging step (e) comprises:(i) a first aging stage within 200 to 275° F.;(ii) a second aging stage within 300 to 335° F.; and(iii) a third aging stage within 200 to 275° F.7. The method of wherein the first aging stage (i) proceeds within 230 to 260° F.8. The method of wherein the ...

SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MEASURING ELECTROLYSIS CELL OPERATING CONDITIONS AND COMMUNICATING THE SAME

System, method and apparatus for measuring electrolysis cell operating conditions and communicating the same are disclosed. The system includes a selectively positionable member coupled to an analytical apparatus, wherein the selectively positionable is configured to move the analytical apparatus into and out of physical communication with a bath. The system may also include a crust breaker for breaking the surface of a bath and an electronic device for measuring bath level. 1. A system comprising: a metal electrolysis cell comprising a bath; and a selectively positionable member coupled to an analytical apparatus , wherein the selectively positionable member is operable to move the analytical apparatus from a first position to a second position , wherein in the first position the analytical apparatus is not in physical communication with the bath , wherein in the second position the analytical apparatus is in physical communication with the bath , and wherein the analytical apparatus is configured to measure at least one operating condition related to the bath and communicate the measured operating condition to a host computer through a network.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an electronic device coupled to at least one of the selectively positionable member and the analytical apparatus claim 1 , wherein the electronic device detects a delta between the first position and the second position claim 1 , and communicates the delta to the host computer through the network.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the analytical apparatus and the electronic device are integrated claim 2 , and wherein the selectively positionable member claim 2 , the analytical apparatus and the electronic device are automated.4. The system of claim 2 , wherein the operating condition comprises bath superheat claim 2 , bath temperature claim 2 , bath constituent concentration claim 2 , bath constituent ratio claim 2 , and bath level.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the metal ...

SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MEASURING ELECTROLYSIS CELL OPERATING CONDITIONS AND COMMUNICATING THE SAME

System, method and apparatus for measuring electrolysis cell operating conditions and communicating the same are disclosed. The system includes a selectively positionable member coupled to an analytical apparatus, wherein the selectively positionable is configured to move the analytical apparatus into and out of physical communication with a bath. The system may also include a crust breaker for breaking the surface of a bath and an electronic device for measuring bath level. 1. A method comprising: operating a metal electrolysis cell comprising a bath; moving an analytical apparatus using a selectively positionable member from a first position to a second position , wherein in the first position the analytical apparatus is not in physical communication with the bath , wherein in the second position the analytical apparatus is in physical communication with the bath; measuring at least one operating condition related to the bath using the analytical apparatus; and communicating the operating condition to a host computer through a network.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: detecting a delta between the first position and the second position using an electronic device.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising: communicating the delta to the host computer through the network.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the analytical apparatus and the electronic device are integrated claim 2 , and wherein the selectively positionable member claim 2 , the analytical apparatus and the electronic device are automated.5. The method of claim 2 , wherein the operating condition comprises bath superheat claim 2 , bath temperature claim 2 , bath constituent concentration claim 2 , bath constituent ratio claim 2 , and bath level.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the metal electrolysis cell is an aluminum electrolysis cell claim 5 , wherein the bath constituent concentration is the concentration of alumina claim 5 , and wherein the bath constituent ratio is the ratio of ...

BUILDING SUNSHADE WITH INTEGRAL ELECTRIC GENERATOR

A sun shade or light guide generates electricity via a wind-driven movable element, such as a turbine, which drives an electrical generator/alternator. The turbine and/or a fan may be interposed between shade elements for driving one or more generators. The generator may be driven directly or may be mechanically coupled to the movable element. Electricity produced by the generator may be stored in a battery and or used immediately. 1. A light control device , comprising:a light control member capable of being positioned proximate a building;a moveable member rotatably coupled to the light control member, the moveable member; capable of moving in response to an air current; andan electric generator coupled to the movable member, the generator capable of generating electricity when the movable member is moved.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the light control device includes a shade capable of effecting the sunlight entering the building through an opening therein.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the shade has a hollow accommodating the movable element.4. The device of claim 3 , wherein the movable element is a turbine with a plurality of blades extending at least partially across the hollow.5. The device of claim 4 , wherein the turbine is a squirrel cage type.6. The device of claim 4 , wherein the turbine is a fan type.7. The device of claim 4 , wherein the shade is composed of a plurality of spaced members with the hollow disposed there between and held together by a bridging member.8. The device of claim 7 , wherein the shade has an elliptical shape and the hollow has an interior curvature approximating the circumference of the circle traced by the turbine blades when the turbine is moved.9. The device of claim 4 , wherein the shade has an airfoil shape with the hollow occupying a position proximate the area of the airfoil which generates lift in response to air flow over the airfoil shape.10. The device of claim 4 , wherein the generator is coupled to an end ...

CAPTIVE PANEL FASTENER ASSEMBLY

A fastener assembly for installation within a work piece, the fastener assembly including a bolt, a retainer ring, and a housing that houses the retainer ring. The housing is positioned at and engages one side of the work piece, while the bolt is inserted into a hole of the work piece on an opposite side thereof. The retainer ring engages the bolt such that a plurality of pressure pads extending from a plurality of corresponding spring beam elements of the retainer ring reside in an annular groove of the bolt. The housing captivates the bolt onto the work piece, while providing a positive hold out of the bolt. 1. A fastener , comprising:a bolt having an elongated shank portion adapted to be positioned within an opening of a work piece, the work piece having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the elongated shank portion having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a head formed at the first end, a threaded portion having a plurality of external bolt threads, the threaded portion being adapted to extend past the second side of the work piece, and an annular groove formed proximate to the second end;a housing having an interior portion; anda retainer ring housed within the interior portion of the housing,wherein the elongated shank portion of the bolt is adapted to be installed through the housing, such that the retainer ring engages the annular groove of the bolt.2. The fastener of claim 1 , wherein the retainer ring includes an outer ring having an interior surface and at least one spring beam element extending from the interior surface claim 1 , wherein when the bolt engages the retainer ring claim 1 , the at least one spring beam element is displaced and expands radially from a free position to an expanded position in order to enable the bolt to travel through the retainer ring claim 1 , and wherein when the retainer ring engages and aligns with the annular groove of the bolt claim 1 , the at least one spring beam element springs ...

ALUMINUM ALLOYS AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME

Heat treatable aluminum alloy strips and methods for making the same are disclosed. The heat treatable aluminum alloy strips are continuously cast and quenched, with optional rolling occurring before and/or after quenching. After quenching, the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip is neither annealed nor solution heat treated. 2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip includes from 0.05 wt. % Mn to 3.5 wt. % Mn.3. The method of claim 1 , comprising:after the quenching step (c), artificially aging the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip.4. The method of claim 3 , comprising:after the quenching step (c) and prior to the artificially aging step, cold rolling the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip.512.-. (canceled)14. The aluminum alloy strip of claim 13 , wherein the aluminum alloy strip includes from 0.10 to 1.4 wt. % Si.15. The aluminum alloy strip of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy strip includes from 0.20 to 1.3 wt. % Si.16. The aluminum alloy strip of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy strip includes from 0.10 to 1.7 wt. % Cu.17. The aluminum alloy strip of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy strip includes from 0.20 to 1.5 wt. % Cu.18. The aluminum alloy strip of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy strip includes from 0.10 to 1.7 wt. % Mg.19. The aluminum alloy strip of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy strip includes from 0.20 to 1.6 wt. % Mg.20. The aluminum alloy strip of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy strip includes at least 0.75 wt. % Mg.21. The aluminum alloy strip of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy strip includes at least 0.05 wt. % Mn.22. The aluminum alloy strip of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy strip includes at least 0.35 wt. % Mn.23. The aluminum alloy strip of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy strip includes at least 0.50 wt. % Mn.24. The aluminum alloy strip of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy strip includes at least 0.70 wt. % Mn.25. The aluminum alloy strip of claim 1 , wherein ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PRODUCING MULTI-LAYERED ALLOY PRODUCTS

System and method of producing multi-layered aluminum alloy products are disclosed. A multi-layered aluminum alloy product may be formed by first heating a first aluminum alloy to a first temperature where the first temperature is at least about 5° C. lower than the eutectic temperature of the first aluminum alloy, second heating a second aluminum alloy to a second temperature where the second temperature is at least about 5° C. higher than the liquidus temperature of the second aluminum alloy, and coupling the second aluminum alloy to the first aluminum alloy to produce a multi-layered aluminum alloy product. 1. A method comprising:producing a first aluminum alloy having a horizontal upper surface;heating the first aluminum alloy to a first temperature to form a heated first aluminum alloy, wherein the first temperature is at least about 1° C. lower than the eutectic temperature of the first aluminum alloy;producing a liquid second aluminum alloy;heating the liquid second aluminum alloy to a second temperature, wherein the second temperature is at least about 5° C. higher than the liquidus temperature of the second aluminum alloy; andcontacting the liquid second aluminum alloy with the horizontal upper surface of the heated first aluminum alloy thereby producing a first multi-layered aluminum alloy product, wherein the heating the first aluminum alloy step occurs before the contacting step.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first temperature is at least about 2° C. lower than the eutectic temperature.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first temperature is at least about 3° C. lower than the eutectic temperature.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first temperature is at least about 4° C. lower than the eutectic temperature.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first temperature is at least about 200° C. lower than the eutectic temperature.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first temperature is at least about 300° C. lower than the eutectic ...

ALUMINUM ALLOYS AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME

Heat treatable aluminum alloy strips and methods for making the same are disclosed. The heat treatable aluminum alloy strips are continuously cast and quenched, with optional rolling occurring before and/or after quenching. After quenching, the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip is neither annealed nor solution heat treated. 1. A method comprising:(a) continuously casting a heat treatable aluminum alloy strip;(b) after the continuously casting step, quenching the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip;wherein, after the quenching step (b), the method excludes both (i) annealing of the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip, and (ii) solution heat treating of the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip includes from 0.05 wt. % Mn to 3.5 wt. % Mn.3. The method of claim 1 , comprising:after the quenching step (b), artificially aging the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip.4. The method of claim 3 , comprising:after the quenching step (b) and prior to the artificially aging step, cold rolling the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the continuously casting step (a) comprises:(A) delivering a molten aluminum alloy to a pair of spaced apart rotating casting rolls defining a nip therebetween;(B) advancing the molten aluminum alloy between surfaces of the casting rolls, wherein a freeze front of metal is formed at the nip; and(C) withdrawing the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip from the nip.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the heat treatable aluminum alloy strip includes as least one eutectic former selected from the group consisting of Si claim 5 , Fe claim 5 , Ni claim 5 , Zn claim 5 , Mg claim 5 , Cu claim 5 , Mn claim 5 , and combinations thereof claim 5 , and wherein the advancing step (B) comprises:first forming two outer concentration regions;second forming an inner concentration region;wherein the inner concentration region is located between the two outer ...

6XXX ALUMINUM ALLOYS, AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME

New 6xxx aluminum alloys are disclosed. The new 6xxx aluminum alloys may include 1.05-1.50 wt. Mg, 0.60-0.95 wt. % Si, where the (wt. % Mg)/(wt. % Si) is from 1.30 to 1.90, 0.275-0.50 wt. % Cu, and from 0.05 to 1.0 wt. % of at least one secondary element, wherein the secondary element is selected from the group consisting of V, Fe, Cr, Mn, Zr, Ti, and combinations thereof. 1. A 6xxx aluminum alloy consisting of:(a) 1.05-1.50 wt. Mg; 'wherein (wt. % Mg)/(wt. % Si) is from 1.30 to 1.90;', '(b) 0.60-0.95 wt. % Si;'}(c) 0.275-0.50 wt. % Cu; wherein at least V is present and wherein the 6xxx aluminum alloy includes at from 0.05 wt. % to 0.25 wt. % V as a secondary element;', 'wherein, when present, the 6xxx aluminum alloy includes not greater than 0.80 wt. % Fe as a secondary element;', 'wherein, when present, the 6xxx aluminum alloy includes not greater than 0.50 wt. % Mn as a secondary element;', 'wherein, when present, the 6xxx aluminum alloy includes not greater than 0.40 wt. % Cr as a secondary element;', 'wherein, when present, the 6xxx aluminum alloy includes not greater than 0.25 wt. % Zr as a secondary element;', 'wherein, when present, the 6xxx aluminum alloy includes not greater than 0.10 wt. % Ti as a secondary element;, '(d) from 0.05 to 1.0 wt. % of at least one secondary element, wherein the secondary element is selected from the group consisting of V, Fe, Cr, Mn, Zr, Ti, and combinations thereof;'}(e) the balance being aluminum and other elements, wherein each one of the other elements does not exceed 0.10 wt. % in the 6xxx aluminum alloy, and wherein the total of the other elements is not more than 0.35 wt. % in the 6xxx aluminum alloy.28.-. (canceled)9. The 6xxx aluminum alloy of claim 1 , wherein the alloy includes at least 0.65 wt. % Si.10. The 6xxx aluminum alloy of claim 1 , wherein the alloy includes at least 0.70 wt. % Si.11. The 6xxx aluminum alloy of claim 1 , wherein the alloy includes not greater than 0.90 wt. % Si.12. The 6xxx aluminum alloy ...

6XXX ALUMINUM ALLOYS, AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME

New 6xxx aluminum alloys are disclosed. The new 6xxx aluminum alloys may include 1.05-1.50 wt. Mg, 0.60-0.95 wt. % Si, where the (wt. % Mg)/(wt. % Si) is from 1.30 to 1.90, 0.275-0.50 wt. % Cu, and from 0.05 to 1.0 wt. % of at least one secondary element, wherein the secondary element is selected from the group consisting of V, Fe, Cr, Mn, Zr, Ti, and combinations thereof. 1. A 6xxx aluminum alloy consisting of(a) 1.05-1.50 wt. Mg; 'wherein (wt. % Mg)/(wt. % Si) is from 1.30 to 1.90;', '(b) 0.60-0.95 wt. % Si;'}(c) 0.35-0.50 wt, % Cu;(d) less than 0.05 wt. % V;(e) from 0.05 to 1.0 wt. % of at least one secondary element, wherein the secondary element is selected from the group consisting of Fe, Cr, Mn, Zr, Ti, and combinations thereof; Wherein the 6xxx aluminum alloy includes not greater than 0.50 wt. % Mn as a secondary element;', 'wherein the 6xxx aluminum alloy includes not greater than 0.40 wt. % Cr as a secondary element;', 'wherein the alloy includes less than 0.05 wt. % Zr;', 'wherein, when present, the 6xxx aluminum alloy includes not greater than 0.80 wt. % Fe as a secondary element;', 'wherein, when present, the 6xxx aluminum alloy includes not greater than 0.10 wt. % Ti as a secondary element;, 'wherein at least one of Cr, Mn and Zr is present, and wherein the combined amount of Cr, Mn, and Zr in the 6xxx aluminum alloy is from 0.15 to 0.80 wt. %;'}(f) the balance being aluminum and other elements, wherein each one of the other elements does not exceed 0.10 wt. % in the 6xxx aluminum alloy, and wherein the total of the other elements is not more than 0.35 wt. % in the 6xxx aluminum alloy.2. The 6xxx aluminum alloy of claim 1 , wherein the alloy includes from 0.01 to 0.50 wt. % Fe.3. The 6xxx aluminum alloy of claim 2 , wherein the alloy includes from 0.05 to 0.30 wt. % Fe claim 2 , not greater than 0.35 wt. % Mn claim 2 , not greater than 0.30 wt. % Cr claim 2 , and from 0.01 to 0.10 wt. % Ti.4. The 6xxx aluminum alloy of claim 3 , wherein the alloy ...

TIE DOWN ASSEMBLY

A tie down assembly adapted to be installed within a structure includes a cup and a crossbar that is fastened removably to the cup by a plurality of fasteners. The cup includes a recess forming an interior surface, and a plurality of seats extending from the interior surface. The crossbar includes a central portion and a plurality of elongated members extending therefrom. Each of the members includes a head that engages a corresponding one of the seats of the cup and is secured to the seat by one of the fasteners. The central portion of the crossbar may include a central aperture that receives one of the fasteners for an additional attachment point to the cup. The crossbar is adapted to receive tie down hooks, connectors, and the like. When the crossbar requires repair or replacement, it may be removed from the cup by unfastening the fasteners without the need to remove the cup from the structure. 1. A tie down assembly , comprising:a cup having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a recess formed within the first end and defining an interior surface and an inner wall surrounding the interior surface, and a plurality of seats extending from the interior surface, each of the plurality of seats including a bore; anda crossbar having a central portion and a plurality of members extending from the central portion, each of the plurality of members includes a free end having a head and an aperture formed within the head,the crossbar being fastened removably to the cup by a plurality of fasteners such that the crossbar is positioned within the recess of the cup and each of the heads of the plurality of members of the crossbar engages a corresponding one of the plurality of seats of the cup, each of the apertures of the heads of the plurality of members of the crossbar aligns with a corresponding one of the bores of the plurality of seats of the cup, and each of the aligned apertures of the heads of the plurality of members of the crossbar and the bores of the ...

BLIND FASTENER

A blind fastener including a pull-type core bolt having a shank with a head, and a sleeve having an elongated body with a head, and a tapered notch formed within an exterior surface thereof and defined by a tapered portion having a slope and a frictional enhanced surface. The core bolt is installed within the sleeve. During installation of the fastener within the plurality of work pieces, an axial force is applied to the core bolt the head of the core bolt engages the sleeve, and a bulb is formed on the elongated body of the sleeve, the bulb defining a portion of a bulbed portion. When a selected axial force is reached, the bulbed portion separates from the elongated body and engages axially the tapered portion of the sleeve, increasing the diameter of the bulb which engages a blind side of one of the work pieces. 1. A fastener , comprising:a core bolt having an elongated shank with a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a head located at the second end, and a pull portion located at the first end, the pull portion having a plurality of grooves; anda sleeve having an elongated body with a fiat end, a second end opposite the first end of the elongated body, an exterior surface extending from the first end of the elongated body to the second end of the elongated body, a head located at the first end of the elongated body, and a tapered notch formed within the exterior surface intermediate the first and second ends of the elongated body and defined by a tapered portion,wherein the core bolt is adapted to be installed within the sleeve such that the head of the core bolt is juxtaposed with the second end of the elongated body of the sleeve,wherein the fastener is adapted to be installed within a plurality of work pieces such that the head of the sleeve engages an accessible side of one of the plurality of work pieces, and the second end of the elongated body of the sleeve extends from a blind side of another of the plurality of work pieces,wherein during ...

2XXX SERIES ALUMINUM LITHIUM ALLOYS

Wrought 2xxx aluminum lithium alloy products having a thickness of from 0.040 inch to 0.500 inch are disclosed. The wrought aluminum alloy products contain from 3.00 to 3.80 wt. % Cu, from 0.05 to 0.35 wt. % Mg, from 0.975 to 1.385 wt. % Li, wherein −0.3*Mg−0.15Cu+1.65≦Li≦−0.3*Mg−0.15Cu+1.85, from 0.05 to 0.50 wt. % of at least one grain structure control element, wherein the grain structure control element is selected from the group consisting of Zr, Sc, Cr, V, Hf, other rare earth elements, and combinations thereof, up to 1.0 wt. % Zn, up to 1.0 wt. % Mn, up to 0.12 wt. % Si, up to 0.15 wt. % Fe, up to 0.15 wt. % Ti, 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. 1. A wrought aluminum alloy product having a thickness of from 0.040 inch to 0.500 inch , the aluminum alloy consisting of:from 3.00 to 3.80 wt. % Cu;from 0.05 to 0.35 wt. % Mg; 'wherein −0.3*Mg−0.15Cu+1.65≦Li≦−0.3*Mg−0.15Cu+1.85;', 'from 0.975 to 1.385 wt. % Li;'}from 0.05 to 0.50 wt. % of at least one grain structure control element, wherein the at least one grain structure control element is selected from the group consisting of Zr, Sc, Cr, V, Hf, other rare earth elements, and combinations thereof;up to 1.0 wt. % Zn;up to 1.0 wt. % Mn;up to 0.12 wt. % Si;up to 0.15 wt. % Fe;up to 0.15 wt. % Ti;up to 0.10 wt. % of any other element, with the total of these other elements not exceeding 0.35 wt. %; andthe balance being aluminum.25-. (canceled)6. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , comprising at least 3.10 wt. % Cu.7. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , comprising at least 3.20 wt. % Cu.8. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , comprising at least 3.30 wt. % Cu.9. (canceled)10. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , comprising not greater than 3.75 wt. % Cu.1112.-. (canceled)13. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , comprising not greater than 3.60 wt. % Cu.14. (canceled)15. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , comprising at least 0.15 wt. % Mg.16. The ...

INSERTS FOR HOLLOW STRUCTURAL MEMBERS

A pre-formed insert with stable dimensions for mechanical insertion into a hollow member and that reduces the Nusselt number and convection across the hollow member. The insert may be formed of a low heat conducting material like PVC and have extensions and internal voids that impede convection in the hollow and conduction through the insert. The inserts may be used in stiles, rails, heads and sills of aluminum windows and doors. In one embodiment an insert is received in an open hollow and may cooperate with an insert in a frame hollow to decrease convection at the head end of a sliding window or door. An insert may be placed within the hollow of a window or door beside a roller assembly. 1. A device for members made from a first material having a first thermal conductivity and having a hollow supporting heat transfer by convection , comprising:an insert having stable free-standing dimensions rendering the insert capable of insertion into the hollow and extending at least partially across the hollow when inserted therein, the insert capable of reducing the Nusselt number of the member when inserted into the hollow relative to the Nusselt number of the member without the insert present in the hollow.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the insert is made from a second material with a second thermal conductivity and has a cross-sectional shape which at least partially subdivides the hollow into a plurality of sub-areas.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the insert has a cross-sectional shape with a wall having a first orientation and a second wall having an orientation disposed at an angle relative to the first wall.4. The device of claim 3 , wherein the first wall is disposed perpendicular to the second wall.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the insert has a cross-sectional shape with a plurality of walls defining a grid.6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the member receiving the insert is a member of a door.7. The device of claim 1 , wherein the member receiving the ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOVING PARTICULATE MATTER FROM A GAS STREAM

Horizontal duct scrubbing systems for removing particulate matter from a gas are disclosed. The horizontal scrubbing systems may receive a particulate-containing gas stream (e.g., containing PM10 and/or PM2.5 particulate matter), and remove at least some of such particulates by spraying liquid droplets co-current to the flow of the gas stream, where the liquid droplets have a volume median droplet diameter (DV0.5) of from 240 microns to 600 microns. The scrubbing system may be substantially free of flow deflection members between a liquid inlet manifold and a demister. The system may be remove at least 50 wt. % PM10 and/or PM2.5 particulate matter from the gas stream. 119-. (canceled)20. A method for removing particulate matter from a gas , the method comprising:{'sup': '3', 'claim-text': (i) the waste gas inlet at one end;', '(ii) a treated gas outlet at an opposite end;', '(iii) a liquid inlet manifold proximal the waste gas inlet, the liquid inlet manifold comprising a plurality of nozzles, wherein the nozzles are oriented to spray liquid droplets co-current to the gas stream;', '(iv) and a demister proximal the treated gas outlet;', 'wherein the horizontally disposed housing is substantially free of flow deflection members between the liquid inlet manifold and the demister, thereby defining a substantially unrestricted particulate-liquid contacting zone between the liquid inlet manifold and the demister;, '(a) directing a particulate-containing gas stream having a concentration of least 0.7 mg/mof PM10 particulate matter into a horizontally disposed housing via a waste gas inlet, the horizontally disposed housing comprising(b) passing the gas stream through the substantially unrestricted particulate-liquid contacting zone;(c) supplying a liquid to the plurality of nozzles via the liquid inlet manifold, thereby spraying liquid droplets through the substantially unrestricted particulate-liquid contacting zone and co-current to the flow of the gas stream, wherein ...

HIGH PERFORMANCE SLEEVED INTERFERENCE FASTENERS FOR COMPOSITE APPLICATIONS

A fastener adapted to pass through aligned holes through workpieces is disclosed. The fastener includes a pin member having a transition portion wherein the diameter of the transition portion decreases radially as it extends from the smooth cylindrical shank portion to the threaded portion. The fastener may also comprise a sleeve member and a clamping means. The clamping means includes a collar, a nut, or any other possible clamping means. In exemplary embodiments, the workpieces can be formed with a plurality of materials, the materials including composite, metallic, or composite/metallic structures, any combination thereof. In particular embodiments, the fastener has interference capability of 0.0005 to 0.0100 inches in composite structures without risk of composite delamination or damage. As a result of the fastener interference, gaps between the fastener and the structure are eliminated thereby providing good electrical conductivity between components. As a result, the potential for electrical sparks is reduced, providing a safer fastener for use with aerospace applications. 134-. (canceled)35. A fastener , comprising:a sleeve member having an enlarged head at one end and a tubular portion, the tubular portion having an inner surface with an inner diameter, and an outer surface with an outer diameter, wherein the outer diameter of the tubular portion is less than an inner diameter of inner surfaces of aligned holes of a plurality of workpieces in which the fastener is adapted to be installed, wherein the inner surface of the tubular portion of the sleeve member is coated with a low friction coating; anda pin member having an enlarged pin head at one end thereof, a threaded portion at an opposite end thereof, a smooth cylindrical shank portion located below the pin head and having a diameter greater than the inner diameter of the tubular portion of the sleeve member, and a transition portion between the smooth cylindrical shank portion and the threaded portion, ...

CURRENT COLLECTOR BAR APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME

The instant disclosure provides an electrolysis cell, which includes: an anode; a cathode block; and a current collector bar configured to be at least partially disposed adjacent to and in electrical communication with the cathode block, wherein the bar comprises: at least one sidewall; an inner void enclosed by the sidewall; and an expandable material retained in the inner void via the at least one sidewall, wherein the expandable material is configured to exert pressure on the wall of the inner void while the bar is at operating temperature, such that the bar is conformed to the cathode block. 1. An electrolysis cell , comprising:an anode;at least one cathode block; anda current collector bar configured to be at least partially disposed adjacent to and in electrical communication with the cathode block, wherein the current collector bar comprises:at least one sidewall;an inner void enclosed by the sidewall; andan expandable material retained in the inner void via the at least one sidewall,wherein the expandable material is configured to exert pressure on the wall of the inner void while the collector bar is at operating temperature, such that the collector bar is conformed to the cathode block.2. The electrolysis cell of claim 1 , further wherein the expandable material is selected from the group consisting of: a gas claim 1 , an inert gas claim 1 , a phase change material claim 1 , MgCO claim 1 , CaCO claim 1 , a degrading material claim 1 , and combinations thereof.3. The electrolysis cell of claim 2 , further wherein the expandable material undergoes a phase change at a temperature exceeding about 100° C. to evolve a gas.4. The electrolysis cell of claim 1 , wherein the at least one sidewall comprises a seal.5. The electrolysis cell of claim 4 , further wherein the seal comprises a weld claim 4 , a mechanical fastener claim 4 , an adhesive claim 4 , a bolt claim 4 , a rivet claim 4 , and combinations thereof.6. The electrolysis cell of claim 1 , wherein the ...

Anodized aluminum alloy products having improved appearance and/or abrasion resistance, and methods of making the same

New methods of producing anodized aluminum alloy products having an improved surface appearance properties are disclosed. The methods may include preparing an aluminum alloy body for anodizing, thereby producing an anodized aluminum alloy body, contacting an intended viewing surface of the anodized aluminum alloy body with an acid, thereby producing a prepared intended viewing surface of the anodized aluminum alloy body, and sealing the prepared intended viewing surface of the anodized aluminum alloy body. The anodized aluminum alloy products may realize a preselected color tolerance, such as realizing a b* value that is within a specified tolerance of a preselected b* value.

METHOD OF MAKING A ROLLED ALUMINUM PRODUCT

A method of making a rolled aluminum product comprises sawing an aluminum ingot so that the ingot is separated into at least two separate aluminum slabs and rolling at least one of the slabs unclad and unbrazed. In some embodiments, the ingot is sawn horizontally, across its face, as so that, the slabs are equal in length to the ingot. In some embodiments, at least one of the slabs is rolled to form a one of a plate, sheet or foil. The rolling can be hot rolling or cold rolling. Some embodiments further comprise scalping the aluminum ingot. In some embodiments, the sawing of the ingot eliminates or reduces the need to scalp the aluminum ingot and scalping is not performed. Some embodiments further comprise sawing curved edges off the aluminum slabs. 1. A method comprising:sawing an aluminum ingot so that the ingot is separated into at least two separate aluminum slabs; androlling at least one of the slabs unclad and unbrazed.2. The method of wherein the rolling is at least one of hot rolling and cold rolling.3. The method of further comprising scalping the aluminum ingot.4. The method of wherein the two separate aluminum slabs have thicknesses that are approximately equal.5. The method of wherein sawing an aluminum ingot so that the ingot is separated into at least two separate aluminum slabs comprises sawing an aluminum ingot so that the ingot is separated into more than two separate aluminum slabs.6. The method of wherein the sawing is done with a horizontal saw.7. The method of further comprising sawing curved edges off the aluminum slabs8. The method of wherein after sawing the curved edges off the aluminum slabs the aluminum slabs have a substantially rectangular cross-section.9. The method of further comprising sawing or machining the edges at an angle.10. The method of wherein after sawing or machining the edges off the aluminum slab claim 10 , the aluminum slabs have a substantially angular cross-section.11. The method of wherein at least one of the slabs is ...

Systems and methods for stereoscopic imaging of aluminum electrolysis pot tending operations

Systems and methods for stereoscopic imaging and viewing of aluminum electrolysis and related operation and/or maintenance activities are disclosed. The system may produce stereoscopic images based at least in part on images obtained from two or more imaging devices. The system may display the stereoscopic images for viewing to facilitate aluminum electrolysis cell operation and/or maintenance.

ALUMINUM MELTING APPARATUS

A method and apparatus for melting aluminum uses a dense metal salt of Rubidium, Cesium, or Strontium. The salt is melted by a stinger and then superheated by AC applied to electrodes immersed in the salt. Aluminum in contact with the salt melts and floats on the salt. In continuous scrap melting, inflows and outflows of aluminum are comparable and may be shielded by inert gas. The superheated salt may be purified and may be heated in a separate reservoir and pumped to and from another reservoir containing salt and/or metal. The salt may be used to supplement the heating of an existing furnace. 1. An apparatus for melting aluminum , comprising:a receptacle having a first portion capable of containing a salt, and a second portion capable of containing aluminum, the first portion being disposed below and in fluid communication with the second portion;a salt of at least one of the metals selected from the group Rubidium, Cesium, and Strontium disposed in the first portion, the salt having a density greater than molten aluminum;a pair of spaced electrodes disposed in the first portion;a source of electrical power capable of establishing an electrical potential between the spaced electrodes, the salt supporting an electric current between the electrodes that heats the salt through Joule heating to a temperature above the melting point of aluminum.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a cover disposed over the second portion.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , further comprising a non-reactive gas present in the receptacle between the aluminum in the second receptacle and the cover.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the gas is Argon.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the receptacle is divided into a first receptacle for the first portion and a second receptacle for the second portion claim 1 , the first and second receptacles in fluid communication.6. The apparatus of claim 5 , further comprising a pump to move the salt between the first receptacle and the ...

Resistance welding fastener, apparatus and methods

An apparatus and method for fastening dissimilar metals like steel and aluminum utilizes a steel rivet and a spot welding machine. The rivet and metals are stacked and the heat from the welder's electric current softens the lower melting point aluminum allowing the rivet to penetrate the aluminum and weld to the steel layer. The fastener may be used to join stacks with several layers of different materials and may be used to apply a threaded socket or stud made from steel or titanium to an aluminum or magnesium alloy structure. Layers of non-conductive materials like plastic and ceramics may also be affixed to a conductive layer using the fastener made from a compatible material that extends through a pilot hole.

Wastewater treatment system and methods

The instant disclosure is directed towards methods of treating wastewater and related systems, where the system includes: an aerated zone comprising media (e.g. with sufficient surface area and porosity to sustain microbial growth and retain bacteria) and a non-aerated zone comprising compost, wherein the system is configured to remove emulsified oil (e.g. and grease) from a wastewater stream.

HANDLE MECHANISMS

A handle mechanism includes a gear drive having an interior end and an exterior end; an inside handle fixed to the interior end; a button; a finger; a handle drive; an outside handle; and a spring. The button has an interior end and an exterior end, which is positioned within the exterior end of the gear drive. The handle drive is positioned within the exterior end of the gear drive and is rotatable relative thereto. The outside handle and the handle drive rotate together. The outside handle moves between a first position, wherein it is constrained from rotation, and a second position. The finger is fixed to the exterior end of the button, which moves between a first position, wherein the finger causes the gear drive and the handle drive to rotate together, and a second position. The spring biases the button and the outside handle toward their first positions. 1. A handle mechanism , comprising:a housing having an interior side, an exterior side opposite said interior side, a niche formed in said exterior side, a recess formed in said exterior side at a first end of said niche, and a hole extending through said housing at said recess;a gear drive having an interior end, an exterior end opposite said interior end, a longitudinal axis extending from said interior end to said exterior end, a peripheral surface, and a gear formed within said peripheral surface, said exterior end being positioned with said hole of said housing and positioned in said recess of said housing, said gear drive being positioned such that said longitudinal axis is perpendicular to said housing;an inside handle fixed to said interior end of said gear drive;a button disposed within said gear drive and oriented substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis of said gear drive, said button having an interior end and an exterior end opposite said interior end of said button, said interior end of said button extending through said inside handle, said exterior end of said button being positioned ...

FASTENER INSTALLATION TOOL

A fastener installation tool including a cylinder assembly, a handle/sleeve assembly, and a tool head. The handle/sleeve assembly includes a handle having a bore and a sleeve positioned within the bore. An inner wall of the sleeve includes a first portion with a first inner diameter and a second portion with a second inner diameter. The sleeve includes an outer wall having a first portion with a first outer diameter and a second portion with a second outer diameter, the first outer diameter of the first portion of the outer wall of the sleeve being greater than the second outer diameter of the second portion of the outer wall of the sleeve. A space is formed between the second portion of the outer wall of the sleeve and the second portion of the inner wall of the handle, which enables the sleeve to flex during operation of the tool. 1. A fastener installation tool , comprising:a cylinder assembly including a housing having an upper end, a lower end opposite the upper end; anda handle/sleeve assembly including a handle attached to the upper end of the cylinder assembly, the handle having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a bore extending between the first and second ends, and an inner wall defined by the bore, the inner wall having a first portion with a first inner diameter, a second portion with a second inner diameter, and a shoulder intermediate the first and second portions, the first inner diameter of the first portion being greater than the second inner diameter of the second portion,the handle/sleeve assembly further including a sleeve having a first end, a second end opposite the first end of the sleeve, an outer wall having a first portion with a first outer diameter and a second portion with a second outer diameter, and an annular step formed intermediate the first and second portions of the outer wall of the sleeve, the first portion of the sleeve extending from the first end of the sleeve to the annular step and the second portion of the ...

FASTENER AND FASTENER INSTALLATION TOOL

A fastening system including a fastener and a fastener installation tool. The fastener includes a pin member having an elongated shank portion with a threaded portion, a stop shoulder located at an end of the threaded portion, and a pull portion extending from the stop shoulder. The stop shoulder includes an outer rim and an inner annular wall. The inner annular wall and the inner face form an annular recess. The fastener installation tool includes a puller having a front face. The recess of the fastener is adapted to receive the front face of the fastener installation tool when the puller engages the pull portion of the pin member and facilitates alignment of teeth of the installation tool and pull grooves of the pin member. 1. A fastening system , comprising:a fastener having a pin member including an elongated shank portion having a threaded portion, a stop shoulder located at an end of the threaded portion, and a pull portion extending from the stop shoulder, wherein the stop shoulder includes an outer rim and an inner annular wall which form an annular recess; anda fastener installation tool having a puller with a front face, wherein the annular recess of the fastener is adapted to receive the front face of the fastener installation tool when the puller engages the pull portion of the pin member.2. The fastening system of claim 1 , wherein the front face of the puller of the fastener installation tool is angled at an angle measured transverse to a longitudinal axis of the puller.3. The fastening system of claim 2 , wherein the receiving recess of the fastener includes a semi-circular-shaped cross section.4. The fastening system of claim 2 , wherein the receiving recess of the fastener includes a square-shaped cross section.5. The fastening system of claim 2 , wherein the pull portion of the pin member includes at least one pull groove claim 2 , and the puller of the fastener installation tool includes at least one tooth that is sized and shaped to engage the at ...

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.

PIN LATCH WITH DETECTION DEVICE AND MOVABLE CATCH-PIN AND INTERMEDIATE POSITION WITH AUTOMATIC RETURN MECHANISM

A pin latch includes a guide block, a handle having a trigger, and a shear pin housed slidably within the guide block and connected to the handle. The shear pin includes a catch-pin engageable by the trigger, and is slidable between an engageable position and a disengageable position when the handle is moved from a closed position to an open position. Alternately, the pin latch includes a bracket connected to the shear pin and includes a catch-pin, and the handle is moveable to an intermediate position, such that a trigger is disengaged from the catch-pin and the shear pin engages a stop pin. A guide block spring acts on the stop pin to retain releasably the handle in its intermediate position. The guide block includes a finger and the shear pin includes a groove sized and shaped to receive the finger when the pin latch is in an unlatchable position. 1. A pin latch , comprising:a guide block;a handle attached pivotally to the guide block, the handle including a trigger; anda shear pin housed slidably within the guide block and connected to the handle, the shear pin including a catch-pin that is slidable between an engageable position and a disengageable position;wherein the handle is moveable between a closed position, in which the handle is retained releasably within the guide block, the shear pin is extended from the guide block, and the trigger is engaged with the catch-pin of the shear pin when the catch-pin is in its engageable position, and an open position, in which the handle is retracted from the guide block, the trigger is disengaged from the catch-pin, and the shear pin is retracted within the guide block and the catch-pin is moved to its disengageable position.2. The pin latch of claim 1 , wherein the guide block includes a first end claim 1 , a second end opposite the first end claim 1 , and a tubular potion extending from the first end to the second end of the guide block and having a pair of opposed sidewalls claim 1 , each of which includes a slot ...

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 roil coated, colored, self-cleaning substrates may be iridescent-free.

SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MEASURING ELECTROLYSIS CELL OPERATING CONDITIONS AND COMMUNICATING THE SAME

System, method and apparatus for measuring electrolysis cell operating conditions and communicating the same are disclosed. The system includes a selectively positionable member coupled to an analytical apparatus, wherein the selectively positionable is configured to move the analytical apparatus into and out of physical communication with a bath. The system may also include a crust breaker for breaking the surface of a bath and an electronic device for measuring bath level. 1. A method comprising: operating a metal electrolysis cell comprising a bath; moving an analytical apparatus using a selectively positionable member from a first position to a second position , wherein in the first position the analytical apparatus is not in physical communication with the bath , wherein in the second position the analytical apparatus is in physical communication with the bath; measuring at least one operating condition related to the bath using the analytical apparatus; and communicating the operating condition to a host computer through a network.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: detecting a delta between the first position and the second position using an electronic device.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising: communicating the delta to the host computer through the network.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the analytical apparatus and the electronic device are integrated claim 2 , and wherein the selectively positionable member claim 2 , the analytical apparatus and the electronic device are automated.5. The method of claim 2 , wherein the operating condition comprises bath superheat claim 2 , bath temperature claim 2 , bath constituent concentration claim 2 , bath constituent ratio claim 2 , and bath level.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the metal electrolysis cell is an aluminum electrolysis cell claim 5 , wherein the bath constituent concentration is the concentration of alumina claim 5 , and wherein the bath constituent ratio is the ratio of ...

PRESSURE RELIEF LATCH

A latch including a housing having side members each having an elongated slot, a bolt mounted rotatably to the housing and positioned between the side members of the housing, a trigger mounted rotatably to the housing, and a pin and roller positioned slidably within the elongated slots of the side members of the housing. The bolt is moveable between a first, closed position and a second open position. The trigger is moveable between a first position, in which the pin and roller are engaged with the bolt when the bolt is in its first position, and a second position, in which the pin and roller are disengaged from the bolt. The latch can be opened automatically when a defined load is provided on the bolt, or manually by depressing the trigger to disengage the pin and roller from the bolt. 1. A latch , comprising:a housing having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, first and second side members, each of which includes an outer surface, an inner surface, and an elongated slot extending from the outer surface to the inner surface and between the first and second ends, the first and second side members forming a space between the inner surfaces thereof, a base portion positioned at the second end and including first and second coves, each of which is positioned adjacent to an outer surface of a corresponding one of the first and second side members, the base portion including a first slot located intermediate the first and second coves and extending to the space, and a mounting portion positioned at the first end and including a second slot and extending to the space;a bolt mounted rotatably to the housing proximate to the first end thereof and positioned between the first and second side members of the housing, the bolt including a curvilinear portion, a first end located on the curvilinear portion, a linear portion, and a second end located on the linear portion, the bolt being moveable rotatably between a first position, in which the linear portion of the ...

5XXX-LITHIUM ALUMINUM ALLOYS, AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME

New 5xxx-lithium aluminum alloys and related products are disclosed. The new 5xxx-lithium aluminum alloy may contain from 3.75 to 5.0 wt. % Mg, from 1.6 to 2.3 wt. % Li, and from 0.50 to 2.5 wt. % Zn, among others. 1. An aluminum alloy consisting of:from 3.75 to 5.0 wt. % magnesium (Mg);from 1.6 to 2.3 wt. % lithium (Li);from 0.50 to 2.5 wt. % zinc (Zn);0.05 to 0.50 wt. % of a grain structure control element selected from the group consisting of zirconium (Zr), scandium (Sc), chromium (Cr), vanadium (V), hafnium (Hf), other rare earth elements, and combinations thereof;up to 1.00 wt. % copper (Cu); wherein Cu+Ag≧1.15 wt. %;', 'wherein, when the aluminum alloy contains not greater than 0.04 wt. % Cu and not greater than 0.04 wt. % Ag, the aluminum alloy contains at least 0.75 wt. % zinc;, 'up to 1.00 wt. % silver (Ag);'}up to 0.5 wt. % silicon (Si);up to 1.0 wt. % manganese (Mn);up to 0.15 wt. % titanium (Ti); andthe balance being aluminum, other elements and impurities, wherein the aluminum alloy contains not greater than 0.10 wt. % of any one of the other elements, and wherein the aluminum alloy contains not greater than 0.35 wt. % total of the other elements.2. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy contains at least 40 wt. % Mg.35.-. (canceled)6. The aluminum alloy of claim 2 , wherein the aluminum alloy contains not greater than 4.9 wt. % Mg.79.-. (canceled)10. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy contains at least 1.65 wt. % Li.1112.-. (canceled)13. The aluminum alloy claim 10 , wherein the aluminum alloy contains not greater than 2.20 wt. % Li.14. (canceled)15. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy contains at least 0.60 wt. % Zn.1619.-. (canceled)20. The aluminum alloy of claim 15 , wherein the aluminum alloy contains not greater than 2.25 wt. % Zn.21. (canceled)22. The aluminum alloy of claim 1 , wherein the aluminum alloy contains at least 0.05 wt % Cu.2325.-. (canceled)26. The aluminum alloy of ...

TEXTURED SLEEVES FOR FASTENERS

A fastener adapted to be installed in a hole of a composite structure includes a sleeve, a pin member, and a locking member. The sleeve has an outer surface having an outer diameter. The outer surface of the sleeve is textured. The outer diameter of the tubular portion is less than an inner diameter of the hole of the structure. The pin member has a shank portion. The sleeve is adapted to expand radially over the shank portion of the pin member to form an interference fit between the outer surface of the sleeve and the hole of the structure so as to provide an installed position of the fastener. When the fastener is in the installed position, the texture of the outer surface of the tubular portion deforms to engage with voids of the composite material present on the inner surface of the hole. 1. A fastener , comprising:a sleeve having a tubular portion and an enlarged head at a first end of said tubular portion, said tubular portion having an inner surface having an inner diameter and an outer surface having an outer diameter, said outer diameter of said tubular portion being less than an inner diameter of a hole of a structure in which the fastener is adapted to be installed, said outer surface of said tubular portion being textured;a pin member having a first end, a second end opposite said first end of said pin member, an enlarged pin head at said first end of said pin member, a locking portion at said second end, and a shank portion between said first and second ends of said pin member, said shank portion having a diameter greater than said inner diameter of said sleeve; anda locking member adapted to fit over said locking portion of said pin member,wherein said sleeve is adapted to expand radially over said shank portion of said pin member to form an interference fit between said outer surface of said sleeve and the hole of the structure so as to provide an installed position of said fastener, andwherein when said fastener is in said installed position, said ...

ADJUSTABLE HOOK LATCH

A latch including a housing having a cylinder, a compression spring positioned within the cylinder, and a ball positioned at one end of the compression spring, a hook positioned slidably within the housing, and a star wheel positioned around the hook and having a plurality of holes formed therein. The ball under load from the spring aligns with and engages one of the holes of the star wheel to retain it in place. The star wheel is moveable rotatably such that the ball disengages the one of the holes of the star wheel to enable the hook to move axially and be adjusted relative to the housing, and the ball is adapted to engage another of the holes of the star wheel to retain the star wheel and prevent inadvertent rotation. 1. A latch , comprising:a housing having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first chamber that extends from the first end to a location intermediate the first and second ends, a second chamber that extends from the first end to a location intermediate the first and second ends;a cylinder positioned within the first chamber, wherein the cylinder includes a body having a hollow portion, a compression spring positioned within the hollow portion of the body, and a ball positioned at one end of the compression spring proximate to the first end of the housing;a hook positioned slidably within the second chamber of the housing and including a shaft and a hook head at one end of the shaft;a star wheel positioned around the shaft of the hook and further positioned at the first end of the housing, wherein the star wheel includes a shaft and a flange located at one end of the shaft and having a face juxtaposed with the first end of the housing and a first plurality of holes formed within the face, wherein the ball aligns with and engages one of the first plurality of holes of the star wheel to retain the star wheel in a first position,wherein the star wheel is moveable rotatably relative to the housing, such that when the star wheel is rotated ...

ADJUSTABLE PRESSURE RELIEF LATCH

A latch including a housing having side members each having an elongated slot, a bolt mounted rotatably to the housing and positioned between the side members of the housing, an adjustment mechanism, and a pin and roller positioned slidably within the elongated slots of the side members of the housing. The adjustment mechanism includes a compression spring, a central cap for receiving the pin and roller therethrough, and a nut for adjusting the load on the compression spring. The bolt is moveable between a first, closed position, in which the pin and roller are engaged with the bolt, and a second open position, in which the pin and roller are disengaged from the bolt. The latch can be opened automatically when a defined load, as adjusted by the adjustment mechanism, is provided on the bolt to disengage the pin and roller from the bolt. 1. A latch , comprising:a housing having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, first and second side members, each of which includes an outer surface, an inner surface, and an elongated slot extending from the outer surface to the inner surface and between the first and second ends, the first and second side members forming a space between the inner surfaces thereof, a base portion positioned at the second end and including first and second coves, each of which is positioned adjacent to an outer surface of a corresponding one of the first and second side members, the base portion including a first slot located intermediate the first and second coves and extending to the space, and a mounting portion positioned at the first end and including a second slot and extending to the space;a bolt mounted rotatably to the housing proximate to the first end thereof and positioned between the first and second side members of the housing, the bolt including a curvilinear portion, a first end located on the curvilinear portion, a linear portion, and a second end located on the linear portion, the bolt being moveable rotatably between a ...

FASTENER LOCKING MEMBERS

A locking member for a fastener, such as a nut or a collar, includes a shank portion and a flanged portion, a bore extending the shank portion and the flanged portion and including a first interior portion located within the shank portion and a containment cavity located within the flanged portion, and an inner wall defining the containment cavity. The containment cavity includes an inner diameter that is greater than an inner diameter of the first interior portion of the bore. The inner wall of the containment cavity includes one or a combination of flat/linear surfaces, concave surfaces, and convex surfaces. 1. A locking member , comprising a first end , a second end opposite the first end , a shank portion extending from the first end to a location intermediate the first and second ends , a flanged portion extending from the shank portion and to the second end , a bore extending from the first end to the second end and including a first interior portion located within the shank portion and a containment cavity located within the flanged portion and proximate to the first end , and an inner wall defining a containment cavity , the containment cavity including an inner diameter that is greater than an inner diameter of the first interior portion of the bore.2. The locking member of claim 1 , wherein the inner wall of the containment cavity includes a first concave surface located proximate to the first interior portion claim 1 , a second concave surface located proximate to the first end claim 1 , and a first flat surface intermediate and joining the first and second concave surfaces.3. The locking member of claim 2 , wherein the inner wall of the containment cavity includes a second flat surface joining the first concave surface with the first interior portion.4. The locking member of claim 3 , wherein the first interior portion includes a threaded portion.5. The locking member of claim 1 , wherein the inner wall of the containment cavity includes a first convex ...

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. 1. A method comprising: 3.3 to 4.1 wt. % Cu;', '0.7 to 1.3 wt. % Mg;', '0.01 to 0.16 wt. % V;', '0.05 to 0.6 wt. % Mn;', '0.05 to 0.20 wt. % Zr; and', 'up to 0.6 wt. % Ag;', 'the balance being aluminum, incidental elements, and impurities;', 'wherein the combined amount of copper and magnesium is in the range of from 4.0 wt. % to 5.1 wt. %;', 'wherein the ratio of copper to magnesium is in the range of from 2.6 to 5.5; and, '(a) preparing an aluminum alloy product consisting of(b) processing the aluminum alloy product into one of a T3 or T8 temper.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the processing comprises:solution-heat treating and quenching the aluminum alloy product; andcold working the aluminum alloy product.3. The method of claim 2 , comprising claim 2 , after the cold working claim 2 , naturally aging the aluminum alloy product to a T3 temper.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the T3 temper is selected from the group consisting of T39 claim 3 , T351 claim 3 , and T36.56.-. (canceled)7. The method of claim 2 , comprising claim 2 , after the cold working claim 2 , artificially aging the aluminum alloy product to a T8 temper.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the T8 temper is selected from the group consisting of T89 claim 7 , T851 and T86.910.-. (canceled)11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the preparing comprises at least one of rolling claim 1 , extruding and forging.12. The method of claim 1 , comprising:forming the aluminum alloy product into an aerospace structural member.13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the aerospace structural member is selected ...

MANUFACTURES, METHODS AND STRUCTURES TO REDUCE ENERGY TRANSFER IN BUILDINGS

A manufacture for reducing thermal transfer through windows has a composite metal/nonmetallic frame and/or a composite vent surround. The metallic and non-metallic components are modular and selectively coupled, such that a range of variations to accommodate different applications may be inter-coupled via common interfaces. 1. An access structure for an opening through a building envelope , comprising:a frame structure coupled to the building, framing the opening, the frame structure having a plurality of elongated frame elements made from aluminum alloy extrusions with an attachment bead disposed on a surface thereof, the elongated frame elements attached together at the ends thereof to form the frame structure;a plurality of polymer adaptors having a coupling head, each of the plurality of adaptors attached to corresponding ones of the frame elements by snap-fitting the coupling head to the attachment bead to form a frame assembly;a vent assembly spanning the frame structure, at least partially covering the opening, the vent assembly having at least one glazing panel and a panel surround embracing the periphery of the glazing panel, the panel surround having a plurality of elongated panel surround sections made from aluminum alloy extrusions, the plurality of elongated panel surround sections attaching together at the ends thereof to form a panel surround, the glazing panel being inserted into the panel surround to form the vent assembly, the vent assembly being attached to the frame structure.2. The access structure of claim 1 , wherein the access structure is a window providing access to light and the at least one panel is a glazing panel.3. The access structure of claim 2 , wherein the window has an opened and a closed position.4. The access structure of claim 3 , wherein each of the plurality of elongated panel surround sections includes a box portion made from metal and a non-metallic ledge that attaches to the box portion.5. The access structure of claim 4 , ...

LOCKING MEMBER WITH SEALING INSERT AND CHANNEL

A locking member includes a body having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a bore extending through the body from the first end to the second end, a bearing surface at the first end, fastening means for securing the locking member to a pin member, and a channel formed within the bearing surface and surrounding the bore. The locking member also includes a first insert located within the channel. The first insert is adapted such that, when the locking member is secured against a surface of a workpiece, the first insert prevents passage of a sparking material from within the bore of the locking member. 1. A locking member , comprising:a body having a first end, a second end opposite said first end, a bore extending through said body from said first end to said second end, a bearing surface at said first end, fastening means for securing said locking member to a pin member, and a channel formed within said bearing surface and surrounding said bore; anda first insert positioned within said channel, said first insert being adapted such that, when said locking member is secured against a surface of a workpiece, said first insert prevents passage of a sparking material from within said bore of said locking member.2. The locking member of claim 1 , wherein said fastening means includes a thread formed within at least a portion of said bore.3. The locking member of claim 1 , wherein said body includes a neck portion proximate said second end and a flanged portion proximate said first end claim 1 , a diameter of said flanged portion being greater than a diameter of said neck portion.4. The locking member of claim 3 , wherein said neck portion is hexagonal.5. The locking member of claim 1 , wherein said body comprises one or more of titanium claim 1 , aluminum claim 1 , nickel claim 1 , and steel.6. The locking member of claim 1 , wherein said first insert includes a material including one or more of a polymer claim 1 , an elastomer claim 1 , a ceramic claim 1 , ...

Systems and methods of protecting electrolysis cell sidewalls

Broadly, the present disclosure relates to sidewall features (e.g. inner sidewall or hot face) of an electrolysis cell, which protect the sidewall from the electrolytic bath while the cell is in operation (e.g. producing metal in the electrolytic cell).

LOCKING MEMBER WITH DISPERSIVE ENERGY ABSORBENT LAYER

A locking member includes a base portion having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a bore extending from the first end to the second, the bore including a threaded portion having a plurality of internal threads, and an insert having a first end, a second end opposite the first end of the insert, a bore extending from the first end of the insert to the second end of the insert, the bore of the insert including a threaded portion having a plurality of internal threads. The insert is positioned within the bore of the nut. The insert is made from an electrically dispersive and electrically absorbent material, such as polymers, elastomers, flame retardant fabrics, metal foam, carbon foam, polymer foam or aerogel. 1. A locking member , comprising:a base portion having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a bore extending from the first end to the second, the bore including a threaded portion having a plurality of internal threads; andan insert having a first end, a second end opposite the first end of the insert, a bore extending from the first end of the insert to the second end of the insert, the bore of the insert including a threaded portion having a plurality of internal threads,wherein the insert is positioned within the bore of the nut, andwherein the insert is made from an electrically dispersive and electrically absorbent material.2. The locking member of claim 1 , wherein the insert is made of an elastomer.3. The locking member of claim 1 , wherein the insert is made of a polymer.4. The locking member of claim 1 , wherein the insert is made of a flame retardant fabric.5. The locking member of claim 1 , the insert is made of a cellular and crushable material.6. The locking member of claim 1 , wherein the cellular and crushable materials is selected from the group consisting of metal foam claim 1 , carbon foam claim 1 , and polymer foam.7. The locking member of claim 1 , wherein the insert is made from aerogel.8. The locking member of ...

RIVET FEEDING APPARATUS

A fastener feed apparatus includes a mounting portion and a feed portion attached movably thereto. The feed portion includes a feed body having first and second ends and an internal track extending therethrough. The internal track is sized and shaped to convey a fastener through the feed body. The feed portion also includes a feeding block attached to the second end of the feed body and including a body and a pair of feed fingers, each of which includes a first end attached to the body and a second end. A track is formed between the feed fingers, is sized and shaped to convey the fastener from its first end to its second end, and is contiguous with the internal track of the feed body. The second end of the track includes a retention point. The feed fingers are sized and shaped to retain the fastener at the retention point. 1. A fastener feed apparatus , comprising:a mounting portion; and a feed body having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and an internal track extending through the feed body from the first end to the second end, the internal track being sized and shaped to enable conveyance of a fastener therethrough from the first end to the second end, and', 'a feeding block attached to the second end of the feed body and including a body and a pair of feed fingers, each of which includes a first end attached to the body and a free, second end opposite the first end of the feed finger, a track being formed between the feed fingers, the track including a first end adjacent the first ends of the feed fingers and a second end adjacent the second ends of the feed fingers, the track being sized and shaped to convey the fastener from the first end of the track to the second end of the track, the track being contiguous with the internal track of the feed body, the second end of the track including a retention point, and the feed fingers being sized and shaped to enable retention of the fastener at the retention point., 'a feed portion attached movably to ...

RIVET

A rivet includes a pin member having a head and a lock groove, and a lock ring having a flange. The flange of the lock ring is swaged into the lock groove of the pin member and transformed to a bead that engages the lock groove, and a portion of an outer surface of the lock ring deforms and is rotated inwardly. The rivet is installed within a structure such that the head of the pin member is flush with an outer surface of a panel and the portion of the outer surface of the lock ring is flush with an outer surface of another panel. The pin member includes a frangible portion that breaks off when the rivet is installed. 1. A rivet , comprising:a pin member including an elongated shank having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a lock groove located proximate to the first end, a frangible portion, and a break neck groove located intermediate the lock groove and the frangible portion, and a head located at the first end; anda lock ring having a first end, a second end opposite the first end of the lock ring, an aperture extending from the first end of the lock ring to the second end of the lock ring, an outer surface extending from the first end of the lock ring to the second end of the lock ring, and a flange located at the second end of the lock ring,wherein the lock ring is installed on the pin member proximate to the first end of the pin member such that the flange of the lock ring is aligned with the lock groove of the pin member,wherein the lock ring is adapted to be secured to the pin member such that the flange of the lock ring is swaged into the lock groove of the pin member and transformed to a bead that engages the lock groove, and a portion of the outer surface of the lock ring proximate to the first end of the lock ring deforms and is rotated inwardly.2. The rivet of claim 1 , wherein the lock groove of the pin member is annular.3. The rivet of claim 2 , wherein the lock groove has an hourglass shape.4. The rivet of claim 3 , wherein the pin ...

LOCK BOLT COLLAR WITH HIGH STANDOFF INTERNAL BEAD

A lock bolt collar comprises a shank having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a through-bore extending from the first end to the second end, an inner wall having an internal bead located proximate to the first end of the shank and extending circumferentially and inwardly into the through-bore. The bead includes a first inner diameter and an extended portion extending from the bead and to a point proximate to the second end, the extended portion including a second inner diameter, where the second inner diameter is greater than the first inner diameter. 1. A lock bolt collar , comprising a shank having a first end , a second end opposite the first end , a through-bore extending from the first end to the second end , an inner wall having an internal bead located proximate to the first end of the shank and extending circumferentially and inwardly into the through-bore , the bead including a first inner diameter , and an extended portion extending from the bead and to a point proximate to the second end , the extended portion including a second inner diameter , wherein the second inner diameter is greater than the first inner diameter.2. The lock bolt collar of claim 1 , wherein the shank includes an exterior surface having an outer diameter that is substantially constant from the first end to the second end.3. The lock bolt collar of claim 1 , further comprising a flange is located at the first end of the shank.4. The lock bolt collar of claim 1 , wherein the shank includes a tapered portion located at the second end thereof claim 1 , wherein the tapered portion includes an inner taper portion and an outer taper portion.5. The lock bolt collar of claim 4 , wherein each of the inner and outer taper portions taper at an angle in a range of about 15 degrees to about 30 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the collar.6. The lock bolt collar of claim 1 , wherein the shank includes a radiused portion located at the second end thereof.7. The lock bolt ...

FASTENERS WITH COATED AND TEXTURED PIN MEMBERS

A pin member for a fastener includes an elongated shank having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a cylindrical shank portion having an outer surface, a head located at the first end of the elongated shank, the head including a bearing surface located on the bearing surface of the head, and a threaded portion located at the second end of the elongated shank. Either or both of the bearing surface of the head or the outer surface of the cylindrical shank portion is coated with a coating and/or is textured. The coating may be tungsten, molybdenum, copper, or a refractory ceramic. The textured surfaces may include a surface roughness greater than 0.5 micron. 1. A pin member , comprising:an elongated shank having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a cylindrical shank portion having an outer surface, a head located at the first end of the elongated shank, the head including a bearing surface located on the underside of the head, and a threaded portion located at the second end of the elongated shank,wherein the bearing surface of the head is coated with a coating.2. The pin member of claim 1 , wherein the coating is selected from the group consisting of tungsten claim 1 , molybdenum claim 1 , tantalum claim 1 , niobium claim 1 , and a refractory ceramic.3. The pin member of claim 1 , wherein the coating is selected from the group consisting of copper and silver.4. The pin member of claim 3 , wherein the bearing surface of the head is textured.5. The pin member of claim 4 , wherein the textured bearing surface of the head includes a surface roughness greater than 0.5 micron.6. The pin member of claim 1 , wherein the outer surface of the cylindrical shank portion is coated with the coating.7. The pin member of claim 6 , wherein the coating is selected from the group consisting of tungsten claim 6 , molybdenum claim 6 , tantalum claim 6 , niobium claim 6 , and a refractory ceramic.8. The pin member of claim 6 , wherein the coating is selected ...

FASTENERS WITH DUAL SKIN DEPTH WASHERS

A fastener including a pin member with an elongated shank having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a cylindrical shank portion having an outer surface, a head located at the first end of the elongated shank, the head including a bearing surface located on the underside of the head, and a threaded portion located at the second end of the elongated shank. The fastener includes a washer installed on the pin member against the bearing surface of the head of the pin member. The washer includes an outer surface and at least one dielectric gasket layer located on the outer surface of the washer. 1. A fastener , comprising:a pin member including an elongated shank having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a cylindrical shank portion having an outer surface, a head located at the first end of the elongated shank, the head including a bearing surface located on the underside of the head, and a threaded portion located at the second end of the elongated shank; anda washer installed on the pin member against the bearing surface of the head of the pin member, wherein the washer includes an outer surface and at least one dielectric gasket layer located on the outer surface of the washer.2. The fastener of claim 1 , wherein the washer is made of metal.3. The fastener of claim 2 , wherein the washer is made of copper.4. The fastener of claim 2 , wherein the washer is made of silver.5. The fastener of claim 2 , wherein the at least one dielectric gasket layer of the washer includes a first coating.6. The fastener of claim 5 , wherein the first coating includes a conductive metal coating.7. The fastener of claim 6 , wherein the at least one dielectric gasket layer includes a plurality of dielectric gasket layers.8. The fastener of claim 6 , wherein the bearing surface of the head of the pin member is coated with a second coating.9. The fastener of claim 8 , wherein the second coating is selected from the group consisting of tungsten claim 8 , molybdenum ...

Manufacture and method for forming structures and the structures resulting therefrom

A clip for assembling corners of hollow members such as the rails and stiles of an extruded aluminum door. The clip has an L shape and may feature a double L shape. A portion inserts into the hollow of a first member and is attached thereto. Another portion extends into the other hollow member for attachment thereto to form a sturdy joint without welding. Pairs of clips may be used at each corner.

MANUFACTURE AND METHOD FOR FORMING STRUCTURES AND THE STRUCTURES RESULTING THEREFROM

A clip for assembling corners of hollow members such as the rails and stiles of an extruded aluminum door. The clip has an L shape and may feature a double L shape. A portion inserts into the hollow of a first member and is attached thereto. Another portion extends into the other hollow member for attachment thereto to form a sturdy joint without welding. Pairs of clips may be used at each corner. 1. A clip for attaching a first member to a second member , comprising:a first leg;a second leg, the second leg attached to the first leg at a first angle, the first leg capable of being joined to the first member and the second leg capable of being joined to the second member, the first leg having a first portion that is capable of being received within an interior of the first member, contacting the interior of the first member and being fastened to the first member, the second leg having a second portion that is capable of being received within an interior of the second member, contacting the interior of the second member and being fastened to the second member.2. The clip of claim 1 , wherein the first leg and the second leg are each capable of being fastened to the first member and the second member claim 1 , respectively at a plurality of locations.3. The clip of claim 1 , further comprising a third leg attached to and extending from at least one of the first leg and the second leg in a direction of extension of the second leg claim 1 , the third leg being spaced from the second leg and being capable of being fastened to the second member.4. The clip of claim 1 , further comprising a stabilizer member that extends from the first leg and contacts an interior surface of the first member when the clip is fastened thereto limiting the motion of the clip relative to the first member.5. The clip of claim 4 , wherein the clip is formed from a continuous ribbon of metal that is bent to form the clip with first claim 4 , second and third legs.6. The clip of claim 5 , wherein ...

ASYMMETRIC FASTENER RECESS AND KEY

A fastening system including a pin member and a key for engaging the pin member. The pin member includes a shank portion and a recess formed within an end face of the shank portion. The recess includes a plurality of splines and recesses that form first and second bearing surfaces oriented at angles. The key includes a key head having a plurality of splines and grooves that form first and second bearing surfaces oriented at angles. The plurality of splines and recesses of the pin member and the plurality of splines and recesses of the key are adapted to communicate with each other when tightening and loosening the pin member. 1. A fastening system , comprising:a pin member including an elongated shank portion having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a smooth cylindrical shank portion, a threaded portion located at the second end and having a plurality of external threads, and an end face located at the second end and having a recess formed therein, and a head located at the first end,wherein the recess includes a plurality of splines extending axially and positioned circumferentially and equally spaced about a periphery thereof and extending inwardly, each of the plurality of splines includes a first bearing surface and a second bearing surface,wherein the recess includes a plurality of recesses extending axially and formed circumferentially and equally spaced about the periphery, each of the plurality of recesses being located between a corresponding pair of the plurality of splines,wherein each of the first bearing surfaces of each of the plurality of splines of the is oriented at a first angle extending and measured from a radial line that extends from a center point of the elongated shank portion of the pin member to a first point on such first bearing surface located proximate to minor inner diameter of such spline of the pin member in a rotational direction towards the second bearing surface of such spline,wherein each of the second bearing ...

TRI-LINKS LATCH

A latch having body with a hook, a handle attached pivotally to the body, and a series of links that facilitate opening and closing the handle. The links include a pair of front links, a pair of back links, and a middle link. The middle link connects the front links and the back links at one end of the middle link and with slots in the front link. The other end of the middle link pivots with the handle via a rivet. The middle link acts as an extended arm to drive the front links and back links for opening and closing the latch. A handle spring provides a means to pop-open the handle. A pair of link covers retains the front links and the back links on the body. 1. A latch , comprising:a body having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a hook located at the second end, and a pair of side portions located intermediate the first and second ends, the body being moveable axially and rotatably from a first position to second position;a handle attached pivotally to the first end of the body, the handle being moveable from a closed position, in which a portion of the handle is attached releasably to the body, and an open position, in which the portion of the handle is detached from the body;a pair of first links, each of which is attached rotatably to a corresponding one of the side portions of the body proximate to the first end of the body, each of the first links being moveable from a first position to a second position;a pair of second links, each of which is attached rotatably to a corresponding one of the side portions of the body proximate to the first end of the body and overlapping a corresponding one of the first links, each of the second links being moveable from a first position to a second position; anda third link having a pair of elongated link members, a first end of each of the link members being attached to a corresponding one of the second links and an opposite, second end of each of the link members being attached to the handle,when the ...

PRESSURE RELIEF DOOR

A pressure relief door having a panel with an exterior side and an interior side, a pair of pressure relief latches mounted to the interior side of the panel, and a pair of hinges mounted to the panel and each including a lock mechanism mounted thereto. Each of the lock mechanisms includes a mounting bracket. The door is adapted to be installed within a structure and moveable between a closed position, such that the exterior side of the panel is substantially flush with an exterior surface of the structure, the lock mechanisms are engaged with an interior surface of the structure, and the pressure relief latches are engaged with the interior surface of the structure, and an open position, such that the pressure relief latches are disengaged with the interior surface of the structure, while the lock mechanisms remain engaged with the interior surface of the structure. 1. A pressure relief door , comprising:a panel having an exterior side, an interior side opposite the exterior side, a front edge, a rear edge opposite the front edge, and a pair of side edges, each of which extends from the front edge to the rear edge;a pair of first mounting brackets mounted to the interior side of the panel, one of the first mounting brackets being mounted proximate to one of the side edges of the panel, and the other of the first mounting brackets being mounted proximate to the other of the side edges of the panel;a pair of pressure relief latches, each of which is mounted to a corresponding one of the first mounting brackets; anda pair of hinges, each of which includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end of each of the hinges being mounted to a corresponding one of the first mounting brackets proximate to the rear edge of the panel, each of the hinges further including a lock mechanism mounted to the second end of the hinge, each of the lock mechanisms including a second mounting bracket.2. The pressure relief door of claim 1 , wherein the second ...

HIGH PERFORMANCE SLEEVED INTERFERENCE FASTENERS FOR COMPOSITE APPLICATIONS

A fastener adapted to pass through aligned holes through workpieces is disclosed. The fastener includes a pin member having a transition portion wherein the diameter of the transition portion decreases radially as it extends from the smooth cylindrical shank portion to the threaded portion. The fastener may also comprise a sleeve member and a clamping means. The clamping means includes a collar, a nut, or any other possible clamping means. In exemplary embodiments, the workpieces can be formed with a plurality of materials, the materials including composite, metallic, or composite/metallic structures, any combination thereof. In particular embodiments, the fastener has interference capability of 0.0005 to 0.0100 inches in composite structures without risk of composite delamination or damage. As a result of the fastener interference, gaps between the fastener and the structure are eliminated thereby providing good electrical conductivity between components. As a result, the potential for electrical sparks is reduced, providing a safer fastener for use with aerospace applications. 1. A fastener , comprising:a sleeve member having an enlarged head at one end and a tubular portion, the tubular portion having an inner surface with an inner diameter, and an outer surface with an outer diameter, wherein the outer diameter of the tubular portion is less than an inner diameter of inner surfaces of aligned holes of a plurality of workpieces in which the fastener is adapted to be installed, wherein the inner surface of the tubular portion of the sleeve member is coated with a low friction coating;and a pin member having an enlarged pin head at one end thereof, a threaded portion at an opposite end thereof, a smooth cylindrical shank portion located below the pin head and having a diameter greater than the inner diameter of the tubular portion of the sleeve member, and a transition portion between the smooth cylindrical shank portion and the threaded portion,wherein the pin ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PRODUCING MULTI-LAYERED ALLOY PRODUCTS

System and method of producing multi-layered aluminum alloy products are disclosed. A multi-layered aluminum alloy product may be formed by first heating a first aluminum alloy to a first temperature where the first temperature is at least about 5° C. lower than the eutectic temperature of the first aluminum alloy, second heating a second aluminum alloy to a second temperature where the second temperature is at least about 5° C. higher than the liquidus temperature of the second aluminum alloy, and coupling the second aluminum alloy to the first aluminum alloy to produce a multi-layered aluminum alloy product. 1. A method comprising:producing a first aluminum alloy having a horizontal upper surface;producing a second aluminum alloy;heating the second aluminum alloy to a first temperature to form a liquid second aluminum alloy, wherein the first temperature is at least 1° C. higher than the liquidus temperature of the second aluminum alloy;delivering the liquid second aluminum alloy to the horizontal upper surface of the first aluminum alloy while the first aluminum alloy is substantially stationary; andcontacting the liquid second aluminum alloy with the first aluminum alloy to form a first multi-layered aluminum alloy product.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:applying a flux to the horizontal upper surface of the first aluminum alloy before the delivering step.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein applying the flux comprises brushing a salt-based compound onto the horizontal upper surface of the first aluminum alloy.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the producing the first aluminum alloy comprises one of the following techniques:direct chill ingot casting, permanent mold casting, slab casting, plate casting, and melting and alloying.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the producing the second aluminum alloy comprises one of the following techniques:direct chill ingot casting, permanent mold casting, slab casting, plate casting, and melting and alloying.6. ...