SP-MSMVC8 8-Station Automated Arc Melting System with Vacuum Casting and Glovebox for High-Throughput Metallurgical Research
Central to the system is a water-cooled copper hearth featuring eight identical cavities (Ø50 mm × 10 mm depth) for independent vacuum casting. Each cavity can hold casting molds up to Ø8 × 75 mm. A 6 mm ceriated tungsten electrode, cooled by water, is precisely controlled via a three-axis CNC stage (X, Y, Z) with programmable parameters including melting current, duration, and rasterizing speed. This setup ensures uniform melting and solidification while minimizing cross-contamination through ceramic grids, quartz rings, and a vacuum shroud around the electrode.
Key Features
- Eight independent vacuum casting stations with water-cooled copper hearth and molds.
- Glovebox environment with <1 ppm H2O and O2 for contamination-free arc melting.
- Programmable CNC-controlled 3-axis positioning for precise melting and rasterizing.
- Water-cooled 6 mm ceriated tungsten electrode with vacuum shroud to prevent contamination.
- Individual vacuum control via 8-channel solenoid valve manifold.
- Touchscreen interface for real-time control and monitoring.
- Optional handheld arc melting wand with 3.85 mm ceriated tungsten electrode for manual operation.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Number of Stations | 8 independent vacuum casting cavities |
| Sample Capacity | Up to 30 grams per sample |
| Copper Hearth Cavity Size | Ø50 mm × 10 mm depth |
| Casting Mold Size | Up to Ø8 × 75 mm |
| Electrode Type | 6 mm ceriated tungsten, water-cooled |
| CNC Control | 3-axis (X, Y, Z) programmable with touchscreen interface |
| Power Supply | 480 VAC, 3-phase, 50/60 Hz, 25 kW, up to 630 A output (400 VAC optional) |
| Glovebox Dimensions | 1200 mm × 740 mm × 900 mm (L × W × H) |
| Glovebox Environment | <1 ppm H2O and O2, HEPA filtered |
| Vacuum Control | 8-channel solenoid valve manifold for individual station vacuum casting |
Typical Applications
This system is suited for metallurgical research requiring precise melting and casting of multiple samples under ultra-clean, controlled atmospheres. It supports alloy development, materials synthesis, and high-throughput screening of metal samples with minimal contamination risk.
Configuration & Operating Notes
The system includes all necessary feedthroughs and a handheld arc melting wand for manual operation alternatives. A water chiller (KJ-5300) for copper hearth cooling is required but not included. Users must regularly regenerate the glovebox purification system and replace consumable O2 and moisture sensors approximately annually. Corrosive gases are prohibited to avoid sensor damage. Safety precautions include wearing tinted goggles during operation and avoiding contact between the tungsten electrode tip and samples or copper hearth to prevent damage and injury.
