Gas Research Institute

Timothy J Kuhn

Thomas J Schultz

Arvind C Thekdi

James W Bender

A standard atmosphere furnace constructed of a steel casing formed as a cylinder with fibrous insulation attached is operated as a vacuum furnace. A plurality of radiant, fuel-fired ceramic heat tubes positioned in a centered but circumferentially spaced arrangement provides heat input to the furnace to permit it to operate at high, vacuum associated temperatures. The ceramic tubes are vacuum sealed to the furnace case by an elastomer seal/water jacket arrangement which uses an outboard clamp arrangement to establish a ceramic-to-metal contact to permit thermal cooling and prevent tube-flange movement so that the integrity of the elastomer seal can be maintained. In addition, an articulated joint connector is provided so that the tube can be supported in a pivotable manner permitting thermal movement while reducing tube stress to prolonged tube life.

Radiant tube arrangement for high temperature, industrial heat treat

A retractable, roller hearth for use in an industrial heat treat furnace is disclosed whereby the alloy rollers are retracted from their load bearing position when the furnace heat treat processes are underway thus maintaining the rated load capacity of the furnace. A plurality of guided rail support posts and guided, sealed lift posts accurately assure straight line vertical motion of the refractory base enabling contact between fibrous rope seals to seal the hearth from the cooler, lower portions of the furnace when the hearth is in a raised position.

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Toledo, OH, United States of America

Timothy J Kuhn