Method for manufacturing and repairing molten metal containment vessels

Abstract

A method of manufacturing an open top, walled member for containing a molten metal, especially a flowing molten metal or reconstructing a worn or damaged member. The method includes the step of forming the inner walls of a mold which define the inner surfaces of the walled member of an open metal mesh screen which is meltable by the molten metal which is to be contained. The next step is to transfer, usually by pumping, an alumina-silicon carbide casting compound into the space between the open mesh metal screen and the outer walls defining the mold, which outer walls may be in situ structures. If an existing walled member is being repaired, any damaged or worn portions of the existing walled member are removed and the casting compound is poured in to replace these portions. The next step is to apply heat to dry the casting compound while the open mesh screen of the mold remains in place in contact with the casting compound. The final step involves removing the open screen mesh by flowing hot molten metal into the open top, walled containment member.