About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2026 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Melt Processing, Casting and Recycling
|
| Presentation Title |
Modular Liquid Metal Loop for Aluminum Melt Treatment: Benchmarking and Research Potential |
| Author(s) |
Bo Raadam, Mohammad Ibrahim, Odin Vassbotn Breivik, Magnus Breimo, Ragnhild Elizabeth Aune, Robert Fritzsch |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Bo Raadam |
| Abstract Scope |
To support innovation in aluminum cast shop operations, a modular liquid metal loop, holding up to 150kg of metal, has been designed and constructed at NTNU to replicate melt treatment processes under controlled, pilot-scale conditions. Engineered for continuous circulation and high thermal stability, the system enables studies in areas from alloy generation and chip/scrap recycling to filtration. Core components include an industrial-standard launder, electric heating unit, and a permanent magnet pump, validated using computational simulations. Safety has been an integral part of the design, with built-in features to address thermal, mechanical, and containment hazards. Initial benchmarking confirmed stable operation and compatibility with advanced melt treatment modules, such as ceramic foam filters. By combining flexibility with industrial relevance, the loop provides a robust platform for developing, testing, and optimizing next generation cast shop technologies. These include improving melt quality, enhancing resource efficiency, and promoting sustainable recycling in aluminum production. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: Light Metals |
| Keywords |
Aluminum, Process Technology, Recycling and Secondary Recovery |