Patent ID: 6168753
Filing Date: 2001-01-02
Classification: F04D

Abstract:
A support structure having a lower end suited for positioning an object such as a pump housing below the surface of a bath of molten metal, and an upper end suited for connection to structure above the bath of molten metal, comprising: an elongated support leg of a graphite material, a sleeve housing said support leg, said sleeve being formed of a ceramic that is resistant to the heat of the molten metal, both the leg and the sleeve having a length suited for connection to a support structure above the bath of molten metal and a lower end suited for connection to a structure immersed below the metal level of the bath of molten metal; means forming a helical groove between the interface of the graphite leg and the ceramic sleeve extending from the upper end of the leg to a location proximate said immersed structure; and a source of an inert gas, and means for connecting said source of inert gas to said helical groove to fill the groove.