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Title: Sonic resonator control and method for determining component concentration in multiple component molten liquids

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6369869

This invention teaches a control to be used in smelting aluminum by the electrolysis breakdown of alumina (Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/) in a molten electrolyte heated to approximately 950/sup 0/-1000/sup 0/ C. The invention provides a sonic resonator and control that can accurately detect the resonant frequency of the resonator in the molten electrolyte. The resonator preferably is made with tubular side wall 1/4 of the sonic wavelength, or is a quarter wave resonator. A wave generator inputs a signal having a range of frequencies that includes the resonant frequency, so that a peak resonant output at the resonant frequency can be detected on an oscilloscope or like detector. This instantaneous resonant frequency is then checked against an accurate data base correlating the resonant frequencies of the resonator in the electrolyte at specific alumina concentrations normally experienced throughout the electrolysis cycle. The electrolysis cycle can thus be controlled and recharged at any predetermined low alumina concentration greater than where the anode effect phase of the cycle normally might begin.

Assignee:
Dept. of Energy
Patent Number(s):
US 4447301
OSTI ID:
6369869
Resource Relation:
Patent File Date: Filed date 29 Oct 1982; Other Information: PAT-APPL-437787
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English