Patent ID: 6467425
Filing Date: 2002-10-22
Classification: C23C

Abstract:
A combination of a metal tube with an apparatus for coating an inner face of said metal tube with an electrically conducting material, comprising:(a) first and second electrode assemblies supported in an interior of said metal tube; said first and second electrode assemblies being axially spaced from one another and each including a main electrode; at least said first electrode assembly including an insulating member; the main electrode of said first electrode assembly being supported on said inner face with an interposition of said insulating member; said second electrode assembly including an auxiliary electrode connected to said main electrode of said second electrode assembly and to said metal tube; (b) a wire, made of said material, secured to and extending between said main electrodes; and (c) a source of high-intensity current connected to said main electrode of said first electrode assembly, and to said main electrode of said second electrode assembly through said metal tube and said auxiliary electrode of said second electrode assembly, for passing an electric current pulse through said wire for causing an explosive vaporization thereof to produce a vaporized material from said wire, whereby particles of the vaporized material impinge on said inner face and form a layer thereon.