Patent ID: 8156996

Claim:
An apparatus for producing a preform by nucleated casting, the apparatus comprising: a mold in which a preform is formed, wherein the mold comprises a side wall, and a top surface, and wherein the side wall of the mold comprises a mold upper portion; an atomizing nozzle, wherein the atomizing nozzle produces a droplet spray directed towards the mold; and a gas injector producing a gas flow, wherein the gas injector comprises a plate and a gas injector upper portion; wherein the plate and the mold define a passageway therebetween for gas flow; wherein the mold top surface and the gas injector upper portion define a gap fluidly communicating with the passageway for gas flow; and wherein the gap directs the gas flow in a direction that redirects at least a portion of the droplet spray away from the side wall of the mold.