Patent ID: 9010402
Filing Date: 2015-04-21
Classification: B22D

Abstract:
1. A method of interlocking structural steel components with a metal-filled interlock comprising the steps of: aligning a contoured portion comprising at least one hole of a first structural steel component to be in flow communication with a contoured portion comprising at least one hole of a second structural steel component; placing a mold about the aligned contoured portions of the structural steel components and a portion of the outer surfaces of the first and the second structural steel components; attaching a crucible and a spout to the mold wherein the crucible and the spout are configured and disposed to provide gravity fluid flow communication between the crucible and the mold, upon attachment of the crucible and the spout; blocking the gravity fluid flow communication between the crucible and the mold with a metal plug; charging the crucible with exothermic reactive metals; igniting the exothermic reactive metals forming a molten metal filler; melting the metal plug; flowing the molten metal filler into the mold, through the aligned holes, and about the aligned contoured portions of the structural steel components; forming a molten metal reservoir extending through the contoured portions of structural steel components and onto opposing outside surfaces of the structural steel components; cooling the molten metal filler and forming a metal-filled interlock; removing the crucible and the spout; and removing the mold.