The World’s Most Efficient Aluminum Launder System
Apogee’s CT utilizes thermally conductive refractory sections impervious to metal attack which contains electrical heating elements. This design is a very favorable alternative too unheated open launders or those heated inefficiently through radiant heat transfer. Heating occurs subsurface, thermal losses are reduced, melt loss is negligible and thermal stratification is non-existent. As a result, maintenance costs and labor is significantly reduced. In fact, the trough should not be regularly skimmed. Monthly skimming can be accomplished instead of daily skimming. The in-wall heating elements operate isothermally at a fraction of their design capability therefore extending their expected life to over 2 years.
CT has demonstrated holding energy requirements lower than 0.5 kW-H per linear foot and has raised temperatures during transfer of 1.3 degrees F per linear foot, at a flow rate of 19,000 pounds per hour. Additional system energy savings can be attained by reducing the holding furnace temperature while still delivering the metal with an accurate pouring temperature. An 8 foot radiantly heated trough requires more than 9 kW-H and cannot raise metal temperature without significant oxide formation, which in the case of a radiant heated trough impedes the heat transfer mechanism. A thin layer of oxide in an Apogee CT creates an insulation layer that reduces radiation losses and should not be skimmed. The combination CT trough with integral BSPP heated “Blister” shown above has been proven in production operation. The “Blister” acts as a heated dip well and offers increased savings by replacing the traditional holding furnace at the casting machine.
Performance Features
- Low Energy Consumption (Less than 500 W/ft)
- Sub-surface Conduction Heating
- Cool Lid Temperatures
- Virtually Skimless
- Longer Refractory Life
- Low Maintenance, Years of Heating Element Life
- Isothermal Holding Capabilities to 1450°F
- In-Line Metal Heating Capabilities
- Uniform Temperature Throughout Metal Depth
- Precise Temperature Control
- Metal Quality Retention
- Proven heating element reliability