Molten metal filter

Abstract

A molten metal filter includes a refractory plate having an opening therethrough. A refractory filter element is attached to the refractory plate and projects therefrom, the exterior surfaces of the filter element generally defining a rectangular prism. The filter element is hollow so as to define an interior cavity. The filter element includes an opening in that portion of the filter element that is attached to the refractory plate, the opening surrounding the opening in the refractory plate such that fluid communication is established between the cavity and the opening in the refractory plate. In the preferred embodiment, a plurality of filter elements are provided, which filter elements are connected to the refractory plate such that adjacent sides of the filter elements are oriented vertically and are disposed generally parallel to each other. It is preferred that the refractory plate be oriented generally vertically and disposed within a filter box so as to define an inlet chamber within which the filter elements are disposed, and an exit chamber through which filtered metal can be discharged from the filter box. Best results are obtained by forming the filter elements from a porous, refractory, ceramic material or glass frit-bonded or sintered silicon carbide or alumina, and by forming the refractory plate from a siliceous-based, castable, refractory material.