Patent ID: 6533991
Filing Date: 2003-03-18
Classification: C21D,F27B

Abstract:
A nozzle for injecting cooling gas into the hot zone of a vacuum heat treating furnace comprising:a forward portion having a first central opening formed therethrough; a rear portion having a second central opening formed therethrough; said first central opening being in communication with said second central opening to form a gas flow channel extending through the length of the nozzle; a flap disposed in the gas flow channel, said flap being adapted for substantially limiting the transfer of heat out of the hot zone through said gas flow channel and for substantially limiting the unforced introduction of cooler gas into the hot zone through said gas flow channel; means for pivotably supporting said flap in the first central opening such that forced cooling gas flowing in the gas flow channel displaces said flap from a closed position to an open position whereby the cooling gas can be injected into the furnace hot zone; and means for supporting said nozzle in the hot zone.