Patent ID: 6318447
Filing Date: 2001-11-20
Classification: B22C

Abstract:
An apparatus for distributing a granular material from a hopper into a mold flask in a foundry process, comprising:a proximal distribution plate affixed to a lower portion of the hopper, wherein said proximal distribution plate includes a plurality of uniform primary apertures therethrough;a distal distribution plate slidably mounted in abutment with said proximal distribution plate, wherein said distal distribution plate includes a series of secondary apertures therethrough;a masking plate mounted to said distal distribution plate, said masking plate including a first surface and a second surface with a series of masking plate bores traversing said masking plate, said masking plate being mounted to said distal distribution plate such that said masking plate bores are in line with said secondary apertures, said masking plate bores having a principal diameter therethrough to determine the flow rate of the granular material through said masking plate into the flask; andwherein each said primary aperture corresponds to at least one secondary aperture and masking plate bore such that said distal distribution plate is movable between a closed position, wherein said primary apertures do not overlap said secondary apertures and masking plate bores, and an open position, wherein said primary apertures overlap said secondary apertures and said masking plate bores such that granular material flows from the hopper through said primary apertures, said secondary apertures, and said masking plate bores.