This is the generic class for specialized metallurgical processes
for producing or recovering metals from metal compounds, ores, or
scrap metal and for refining liquid metal and for compositions used
in these specialized metallurgical processes, consolidated metal
powder compositions, and loose metal particulate mixtures.
Included in this class are patents drawn to:
(A) Processes for the production of solid, particulate free
metal directly from liquid metal.
(B) Processes for the production or purification of free metal
powder or the production or purification of alloys in powder form.
(C) Processes for the production or refining of free metal
or alloys that use the electrothermal effects of electricity or
electromagnetic wave energy or that use magnetism or electrostatics.
(D) Processes for the production of free metal by smelting,
roasting, or furnace methods (a.k.a., pyrometallurgy) or by using
a nonmetallic material which is liquid under standard conditions
(a.k.a., hydrometallurgy).
(E) Processes for the treatment of liquid metal or melting
metal.
(F) Processes for consolidating metalliferous charges or treating
agents that are used in other processes of this class by agglomerating,
compacting, indurating, or sintering.
(G) Compositions, not elsewhere provided for, disclosed as
useful in metallurgical processes (e.g., reactive furnace linings,
charges or solid treating compositions for producing free metal
or alloys from metalliferous materials, gaseous or liquid compositions
used in the production of free metal or alloys or used in the treatment
of liquid metal) and processes of manufacturing compositions useful
in metallurgical processes.
(H) Consolidated metal powder compositions having a continuous
free metal phase, such as those produced by a process of the class
of Powder Metallurgy Processes. See Lines With Other Classes and
Within This Class, 1., below.
(I) Loose metal particulate mixtures.
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
A. LIST OF CLASSES OF CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS AND COMPOSITIONS
USED IN METALLURGICAL PROCESSES
148, Metal Treatment.
149, Explosive and Thermic Compositions or Charges.
252, Compositions.
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds.
507, Earth Boring, Well Treating, and Oil Field Chemistry.
508, Solid Anti-Friction Devices, Materials Therefor, Lubricant
or Separant Compositions for Moving Solid Surfaces, and Miscellaneous
Mineral Oil Compositions.
B. LIST OF CLASSES OF FREE METAL PRODUCTS
148, Metal Treatment.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles.
502, Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product
or Process of Making.
C. LIST OF PROCESS CLASSES
65, Glass Manufacturing.
148, Metal Treatment.
164, Metal Founding.
204, Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy.
209, Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids.
241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration.
264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes.
266, Metallurgical Apparatus.
419, Powder Metallurgy Processes.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions.
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds.
502, Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product
or Process of Making.
D. ORDER OF SUPERIORITY AMONG VARIOUS METAL, ALLOY, AND METAL
STOCK AREAS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE INVOLVING THEM.
The order of superiority among various metal, alloy, and metal
stock areas and methods of manufacture involving them is as follows:
1. Class 419, Powder Metallurgy Processes.
2. Class 148, Metal Treatment, subclasses 22+, compositions
for treatment of solid metal.
3. Class 75, Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, subclasses 300,301, and 303+,
gaseous, liquid, or solid treating compositions for liquid metal
or charges, and subclass 302, welding rod defined by composition.
4. Class 75, Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, subclasses 228+, consolidated
metal powder compositions and subclasses 255+, loose metal
particulate mixtures.
5. Class 420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, claimed as
products.
6. Class 148, Metal Treatment, subclasses 95-122, 194-287,
and 500-714, in class schedule order, providing for certain processes
of treating solid or semi-solid metal by modifying or maintaining
internal physical structure (i.e., microstructure) or chemical properties
of metal, processes of reactive coating of metal or processes of chemical-heat
removing (e.g., flame-cutting etc.) or burning of metal. However,
if metal casting, fusion bonding, machining, or working is involved,
there is a requirement of significant heat treatment as described
in the Class 148 definition, Lines With Other Classes, "Metal
Casting, Metal Fusion Bonding, Machining, or Working Classes".
7. Class 148, Metal Treatment, subclasses 33+, barrier layer
stock material and subclasses 400+, stock.
8. Class 75, Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, subclasses 331+, processes
of making solid particulate alloys directly from liquid metal and
subclasses 343+, processes of producing or purifying alloys
in powder form.
9. Class 75, Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, subclasses 10.1+ and 10.67,
processes of making alloys by electrothermic, electromagnetic, or
electrostatic processes.
10. Class 420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, processes
of manufacture.
11. Class 75, Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, subclasses 330+, processes
of making metal and processes or treating liquid metals and liquid
alloys and consolidating metalliferous material.
12. Class 204, Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, processes.
13. Class 164, Metal Founding, subclasses 1+, processes.
14. Class 266, Metallurgical Apparatus, subclasses 44+, processes
of operating metallurgical apparatus.
15. Class 216, Etching a Substrate: Processes.
This list is not complete and may be added to as the proper
relationship of other areas is determined.
The rules for determining Class placement of the Original
Reference (OR) for claimed chemical compositions are set forth in
the Class Definition of Class 252 in the section LINES WITH OTHER
CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS, subsection COMPOSITION CLASS SUPERIORITY,
which includes a hierarchical ORDER OF SUPERIORITY FOR COMPOSITION CLASSES.
Glass Manufacturing,
subclasses 19+ for processes of treating (e.g., quenching, etc.),
recovering, or manufacturing products from slag where no making
of elemental metal is claimed, and subclass 141 for apparatus for treating
slag with a liquid. Class 65 will take processes where the slag
is identified as being obtained from a metal manufacturing process (e.g.,
blast furnace slag, etc.), as long as no positive step of making
metal is claimed. (Process class).
Metal Treatment, appropriate subclasses for certain processes of
treating solid or semi-solid metal by modifying or maintaining the
internal physical structure (i.e., microstructure) or chemical properties
of metal, processes of reactive coating of metal or processes of
chemical-heat removing (e.g., flame-cutting etc.) or burning of
metal. (Process class).
Metal Founding, appropriate subclasses, particularly
subclasses 55.1+ , for an alloying or refining step when performed
during casting which includes treating while teeming or while in
the mold. Class 75 provides for a process of refining combined with
a Class 164 process (significant or nominal). The refining for Class 75
is done outside of a mold. (Process class).
Metal Treatment,
subclasses 22+ for compositions employed in the treatment of solid
metal (e.g., masking compositions, welding compositions, soldering
fluxes, compositions for treating heated solid metal, etc.). (Class
of chemical compounds and compositions used in metallurgical processes).
Metal Treatment, for elemental metal or alloys which (a) are the
product of a Class 148 process (e.g., heat treated, age hardened);
(b) are claimed in terms of specific magnetic properties or as having
particular internal structure which affects the magnetic properties;
(c) are amorphous; (d) possess the property of shape memory; (e)
are the product of a significant Class 164, Metal Founding, step
(e.g., chill cast, directionally solidified), or (f) are the product
of the dispersion of particulate matter in molten metal which particulate
matter retains its identity in the final product (e.g., dispersion
strengthened etc.). (Class of free metal products).
Explosive and Thermic Compositions or Charges, for exothermic compositions for treating metalliferous
materials. See
subclasses 5+ , 20+, 30+, or 37+ for
compositions which (1) contain at least one free metal or metalloid
and at least one Oxygen (O) supplying material and (2) are capable
of reacting to yield heat and reaction by-products. The line between
Class 149 and Class 75 is difficult due to the similarity of ingredients
in the compositions. If there is a positive recitation of exothermic
utility, the original goes to Class 149 even if the composition
is used in a Class 75 process. If the composition is used in a Class
75 process and there is no positive recitation of exothermic utility,
it goes to Class 75 as an original. Patents having claims to both
a Class 75 process and a Class 149 composition go to Class 75 as
original and are crossed to Class 149. (Class of chemical compounds
and compositions used in metallurgical processes).
Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, appropriate subclasses for the preparation of metals,
alloys, and products of utility only as intermediary products in
a metallurgical process by electrical or wave energy methods including
chemical reactions which are caused by more than the mere thermal
effects of the electrical or wave energy. Lacking positive indication
of more than a thermal effect, processes producing metals, treating
metals, producing alloys or treating alloys go to Class 75. Branching
processes wherein one branch comprises a process falling within
the definition of Class 204 and wherein at least one branch comprises
a process falling within the definition of Class 75 are classified
in Class 75. Combinations of metallurgical process steps falling within
the definition of Class 75 and electrical or wave energy process
steps falling under the definition of Class 204, are classified
in Class 204 when the metallurgical process steps are preparatory
to the electrical or wave energy process steps and are classified
in Class 75 when the electrical or wave energy process steps are
preparatory to the metallurgical process steps. The foregoing applies
even though such preparatory steps result in a desired by-product.
(Process class).
Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids, for concentration processes which involve the separation
of ore or metalliferous materials by nonchemical means (e.g., flotation,
screening, amalgamation, etc.). Preparatory chemical processes for
producing an intermediate for amalgamation, preparatory chemical
processes followed by amalgamation, and chemical or physiochemical
processes of breaking the amalgam to liberate the desired free metal
will be found in Class 75,
subclasses 388+ . A combination of classifying, separating, or assorting metalliferous
material that is to be used in a Class 75 process with consolidation
will be found in Class 75. (Process class).
Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, appropriate subclasses, for processes of comminuting
or disintegrating solid metal, ore, or metalliferous material for
the purpose of reducing their particle size and operations perfecting the
same which do not involve a chemical treatment. A combination of
comminution or disintegration with a step provided for in Class 75
will be found in Class 75. (Process class).
Compositions, for physical separation agents, barrier layer device compositions,
magnetic compositions having a nonmetal matrix, etching or brightening
compositions, descaling agents, detergents, getters, electrically
conductive compositions, having a nonmetal matrix, radioactive compositions,
chemical agents, solids with solution or dispersion aids, solvents, gaseous
compositions, and preservative agents. Gaseous compositions and
liquid compositions used in metallurgical processes will be found
in Class 75,
subclass 300 . Solid treating compositions for molten metal or
charges will be found in Class 75, subclasses 303+. (Class
of chemical compounds and compositions used in metallurgical processes).
Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes,
subclasses 5+ for processes of forming solid particulate material directly
from molten or liquid mass wherein a material other than metal is
comminuted (see Class 75, subclass 331 for an amplification of the
line), subclass 15 for spheroidizing or rounding of solid, nonmetallic
particles (see Class 75 subclass 342 for an amplification of the
line), and appropriate subclasses, particularly 109+, for
uniting of bulk assembly particulate materials and for methods of
compacting and briquetting nonmetallic particles intended for uses
other than Class 75 or Class 420 refining or alloying. (Process
class).
Metallurgical Apparatus,
subclasses 44+ , for processes of operating metallurgical apparatus which
are solely directed to those steps of operating such an apparatus
which do not effect a chemical or physical change in the work being treated.
(Process class).
Powder Metallurgy Processes, appropriate subclasses, for processes of producing
metals, alloys, or metal containing compositions in a solid or compact
state from powdered or particulate material with or without heating.
(Process class).
Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for processes of making alloys or metallic compositions. However,
processes of making solid particulate alloys or metallic compositions
directly from liquid metal will be found in Class 75,
subclasses 331+ and processes of producing alloys or metallic compositions
in powder form will be found in Class 75, subclasses 343+.
In the instances in which the above mentioned processes are claimed
and a process of making an alloy is claimed in generalized terms
the patent will go as an original to Class 75 and a cross reference
will be placed in Class 420. Processes of making an alloy by electrothermic, electromagnetic,
or electrostatic steps will be found in Class 75, subclasses 10.1+ or
subclass 10.67. In the instances in which the electrothermic, electromagnetic,
or electrostatic steps are claimed and a process of making an alloy
is claimed in generalized terms the patent will go as an original
to Class 75 and a cross-reference will be placed in Class 420. In
the instances in which the electrothermic, electromagnetic, or electrostatic
steps are claimed and an alloy or metallic composition is claimed
as a product, the patent will go as an original to Class 420 and
a cross reference will be placed in Class 75. The line between Class
75 and Class 420 is necessarily a difficult one since the metals
produced by the processes of Class 75 are often impure and the Class
420 alloys are sometimes made from ores. Therefor, the following
lines will be observed. A process of making an alloy of desired
composition for an end use will be classified in Class 420 even
if made by reducing compounds or ore. A method of reduction or smelting
to yield metal without intent to obtain a particular alloy or metallic
composition will be classified in Class 75 even if it is recognized
that the product is impure. Furthermore, methods of melting, refining,
or removing a component from an existing alloy (e.g., purifying,
etc.) will be found in Class 75. Melting of two or more metals or
alloys together to produce an alloy will be found in Class 420.
In the production of a ferroalloy, if the percentages of metals
are specified the original will go to Class 420. (Process class).
Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for alloys or metallic compositions. An alloy or metallic composition
made by consolidating base metal particles or a mixture of metal
and nonmetal particles is proper for Class 75,
subclasses 303+ or subclasses 228+ unless (a) all the
components are melted or dissolved or (b) a part of the components
is melted and the mass is treated as a fluent liquid (e.g., stirring,
pouring, etc.) in which instances the product is proper for Class
420. Cases of doubt will be resolved in favor of placement in Class
75, subclasses 303+ or subclasses 228+. Class
75, subclasses 303+ or subclasses 255+ provide
for compositions containing loose metal particles not elsewhere
provided for. Class 420 provides for a free metal or a single alloy
or metallic composition in particulate form. However, a blend of free
metal particles or alloy or metallic composition particles with
other particles whether another free metal, another alloy or metallic composition,
or a nonmetal is proper for Class 75, subclasses 303+ or
subclasses 255+. Class 420 also provides for patents claiming
an article by name only without any positive structural limitation
and reciting the metal or alloy or metallic composition of which
the article is made. (Class of free metal products).
Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, for inorganic compounds and nonmetallic elements, including
metal compounds useful in metallurgical processes of obtaining free
metals. Solid treating compositions for molten metal or charges
for producing metal or treating molten metal, including compositions
for or from consolidating, will be found in Class 75. (Class of chemical
compounds and compositions used in metallurgical processes).
Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, appropriate subclasses, for processes for chemically modifying
metalliferous material (e.g., ore, scrap, etc.) to form products
which comprise inorganic compounds even if intended for subsequent
reduction to free metals. Processes recovering metal values go to
Class 423 unless it can be determined conclusively that free metal
(i.e., zero valent) is the metal value obtained, in which case the
patent is placed as an original in Class 75. A smelting process
is assumed to produce a free metal unless otherwise stated. Class
423,
subclasses 1+ provide for processes of beneficiating a metalliferous ore
where no free metal is obtained and the product is not consolidated.
Beneficiation processes are classified in the first subclass under subclass
1 providing for the metal value recovered. Processes which simply
remove an impurity from an ore without identifying any specific
metal present (e.g., roasting, desulfurizing, dephosphorizing, or
dearsenizing ore, etc.) are placed in subclass 1. Class 75, subclasses
746+ provide for consolidating metalliferous material (e.g.,
ore, tailings, flue dust, fluxes, etc.) by agglomerating, compacting
or heat treating; preparatory process therefore; or treating consolidated
material therefrom even though the production of a free metal is
not claimed. Processes resulting in the production or separation
of undesired metal (e.g., impurities, etc.) during the manufacture
of Class 423 compounds are classified in Class 423. However, if
the metal removed is recovered as a desired product, the patent
is classified in Class 75. Recovery of the metal is assumed to be
a process to produce a desired product for an end use unless otherwise
stated. Patents including claims classifiable in Class 423 and equally comprehensive
claims classifiable in Class 75 are classified in Class 75 and cross-referenced to
Class 423. (Process class).
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, for material or articles having some structure.
In general, when claims mention the article by name only and define
it in terms of composition, the original goes to the composition
class. (Class of free metal products).
Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product
or Process of Making, for compositions that are used as catalysts, solid
sorbents, and their supports even if they are made of metal or metal
compounds. (Class of free metal products).
Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product
or Process of Making, for processes of producing or rehabilitating metals
or metalliferous products intended for use as a catalyst, sorbent,
or support therefor. (Process class).
Superconductor Technology: Apparatus, Material,
Process,
subclasses 300+ , for metallurgical operation similar to Class 75
operations that involve material superconducting above 30 degrees
Kelvin. (Process class).
Earth Boring, Well Treating, and Oil Field Chemistry, for earth boring and well treating compositions.
(Class of chemical compounds and compositions used in metallurgical
processes).
Solid Anti-Friction Devices, Materials Therefor,
Lubricant or Separant Compositions for Moving Solid Surfaces, and
Miscellaneous Mineral oil Compositions, for lubricant compositions. (Class of chemical compounds
and compositions used in metallurgical processes).
Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment,
subclasses 313 through 320for the use of metals (molten or otherwise) in
the destruction or containment of hazardous or toxic waste. (Process
class).
SECTION IV - GLOSSARY
(Asterisked * terms are employed in section
C, Chemistry and Metallurgy of the International Patent Classification
(IPC) and have the same meaning herein.)
Synonyms of names of metal elements used in this class (mostly
obsolete) are listed below. The names used in this class are in
capital letters, the synonyms in lower case.
A metal of the group Actinium (Ac), Thorium (Th), Protactinium
(Pa), Uranium (U), Neptunium (Np), Plutonium (Pu), Americium (Am),
Curium (Cm), Berkelium (Bk), Californium (Cf), Einsteinium (Es),
Fermium (Fm), Mendelevium (Md), Nobelium (No), and Lawrencium (Lr).
ALKALI METAL*
A metal of the group Lithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium
(K), Rubidium (Rb), Cesium (Cs), and Francium (Fr).
ALKALINE EARTH METAL*
A metal of the group Calcium (Ca), Strontium (Sr), Barium
(Ba), and Radium (Ra).
ALLOY
A union, possessing metallic properties of two or more metallic
elements or of nonmetallic element (s) and metallic elements(s)
which are not pure compounds and which are miscible with each other,
which at least to a certain extent when molten forms a more or less
homogeneous liquid having a metallic matrix and which does not separate
into distinct layers when solid. Such combinations when solidified
from a melt may consist of mechanical mixtures, entectics, entectoids,
solid solutions, or in part of chemical compounds one or more of which
may exist at the same time. Intermetallic compounds are considered
alloys for purposes of classification.
(1)
Note. The term "alloy" when used in the various
definitions of Class 75 is considered to include a "metallic
composition" (q.v.) of the type that is found in Class
420.
AMALGAMATION
The use of a liquid metal to collect, to alloy, or to
adhere a desired free metal without melting the desired free metal
with heat.
BASE
A metal which is present in an amount of over 50% by weight
in an alloy.
BESSEMER CONVERTER
A device having passages in its bottom (i.e., tuyeres) through
which a gas containing gaseous Oxygen (e.g., air, etc.) is passed
upwardly through molten metal or molten metalliferous material (e.g.,
matte, etc.) to treat the metal or material.
BLAST FURNACE
A type of shaft furnace specifically designed to reduce metal
compounds (e.g., ore, etc.) to elemental metal using a combustible
solid reductant (e.g., coke, etc.). The furnace is designed to operate
continuously for a long period of time, with solid reductant, metal
compound, and any other desired solid additive (e.g., flux, etc.)
being continuously or periodically added at the top of the furnace
and the resulting molten metal and by-product slag being continuously
or periodically tapped from the bottom of the furnace. A gas containing
gaseous Oxygen (e.g., air, etc.) is preheated (usually by the exhaust
gas) and is injected into the furnace through tuyeres above the
molten metal and slag level.
CEMENTATION
A process of recovering a free metal from solution wherein
a more electropositive free metal displaces a less electropositive
metal from solution as a free metal while the more electropositive
metal goes into solution in ionic form.
CONSOLIDATE
To form into a compact mass.
CRUCIBLE FURNACE
A furnace in which the material to be heated is placed
in a refractory container, the container is covered with a lid,
and the covered container is heated in a furnace. The material is
heated solely by heat conducted through the walls of the crucible.
CUPOLA
A shaft furnace primarily designed to melt metal by use of
a solid fuel charged with the metal. A gas containing gaseous Oxygen
(e.g., air) is blown into the bottom of the furnace to burn the
fuel and cause the metal to melt from the heat of combustion.
DISPLACEMENT REACTION FOR METALS
In the reaction A + BC = AC + B,
the metal A, being more positive than the metal B, is oxidized.
The displacement series or electromotive series for metals in decreasing
order of their negative potentials is: (negative) Vanadium (V),
Tungsten (W), Molybdenum (Mo), Gold (Au), Osmium (Os), Platinum
(Pt), Iridium (Ir), Tantalum (Ta), Palladium (Pd), Ruthenium (Ru),
Antimony (Sb), Bismuth(Bi), Arsenic (As), Mercury (Hg), Silver (Ag),
Copper (Cu), Titanium (Ti), Tin (Sn), Lead (Pb), Germanium (Ge),
Zirconium (Zr), Cerium (Ce), Nickel (Ni), Cobalt (Co), Thallium
(Tl), Niobium (Nb), Cadmium (Cd), Iron (Fe), Chromium (Cr), Zinc
(Zn), Manganese (Mn), Uranium (U), Gadolinium (Gd), Indium (In),
Gallium (Ga), Aluminum (Al), Rare Earth Metals, Beryllium (Be),
Scandium (Sc), Yttrium (Y), Magnesium (Mg), Lithium (Li), Calcium
(Ca), Strontium (Sr), Barium (Ba), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), Rubidium
(Rb), Cesium (Cs) (positive).
FLUIDIZED BED
A bed of solid particles with gas flowing upward through
the particles with sufficient velocity to keep the particles suspended
and in motion in the gas without blowing them bodily out of the
top of the bed. The suspended particles act much like a fluid.
GASEOUS SUSPENSION
The suspension of solid in gas. This may be in a fluidized
bed (q.v.) or in any other system (such as a conduit) where solids
are suspended in a gas.
HALOGEN*
An element of the group Fluorine (F), Chlorine (Cl), Bromine
(Br), Iodine (I), and Astatine (At).
HEAVY METAL*
A metal other than a light metal (q.v.).
HYDROMETALLURGY
A somewhat inexact term for processes involving solution
in water or other liquid in which metalliferous material or metal
is treated to prepare free metal, to purify, or to refine free metal,
or to prepare intermediate materials more suitable for use in preparing
free metal (e.g., extracting, leaching, beneficiating, etc.).
IRON GROUP
An element of the group Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), and Nickel
(Ni).
LANTHANIDE*
A metal of the group Lanthanum (La), Cerium (Ce), Praseodymium
(Pr), Neodymium (Nd), Promethium (Pm), Samarium (Sm), Europium (Eu),
Gadolinium (Gd), Terbium (Tb), Dysprosium (Dy), Holmium (Ho), Erbium
(Er), Thulium (Th), Ytterbium (Yb), and Lutetium (Lu).
LIGHT METAL*
A metal of the group Lithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium
(K), Rubidium (Rb), Cesium (Cs), Francium (Fr), Calcium (Ca), Strontium
(Sr), Barium (Ba), Radium (Ra), Beryllium (Be), Magnesium (Mg),
and Aluminum (Al).
METAL*
Element other than nonmetal (q.v.).
METALLIC COMPOSITION
A composition which contains a continuous phase of metal
and no continuous phase of nonmetal.
MUFFLE FURNACE
A furnace in which the material to be heated is placed
in an enclosed section (the muffle), which protects the material
from the combustion products of the furnace. The material is heated
by heat conducted through the walls of the muffle.
NOBLE GAS*
An element of the group Helium (He), Neon (Ne), Argon
(Ar), Krypton (Kr), Xenon (X), and Radon (Rn).
NOBLE METAL*
A metal of the group Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rd), Palladium
(Pd), Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir), Platinum (Pt), Silver (Ag), and
Gold (Au).
NONMETAL*
An element of the group Hydrogen (H), Boron (B), Carbon
(C), Silicon (Si), Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus(P), Oxygen (O), Sulfur
(S), Selenium (Se), Tellurium (Te), Fluorine (F), Chlorine (Cl),
Bromine (Br), Iodine (I), Astatine (At), Helium (He), Neon (Ne),
Argon (Ar), Krypton (Kr), Xenon (Xe), and Radon (Rd).
(1) Note. For subclasses 228+ Silicon is considered
to be a metal.
PLATINUM GROUP*
An element of the group Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir), Platinum
(Pt), Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), Palladium (Pd).
PRECIOUS METAL
Synonym for Noble Metal (q.v.).
PYROMETALLURGY
A somewhat inexact term for processes carried out at relatively
high temperatures, usually in furnaces, in which metalliferous material
or metal is treated to prepare free metal, to purify or to refine
free metal, or to prepare intermediate materials more suitable for
use in preparing free metal (e.g., smelting, bessemerizing, roasting
of ores, etc.).
RADIOACTIVE ELEMENT
An element of the group Technetium (Tc), Promethium (Pm),
Polonium (Po), Astatine (At), Radon (Rn), Francium (Fr), Radium
(Ra), Actinium (Ac), Thorium (Th), Protactinium (Pa), Uranium (U),
Neptunium (Np), Plutonium (Pu), Americium (Am), Curium (Cm), Berkelium
(Bk), Californium (Cf), Einsteinium (Es), Fermium (Fm), Mendelevium
(Md), Nobelium (No), Lawrencium (Lr), Unnilquadium (Unq), Unnipentium
(Unp), and Unnilhexium (Unh).
RARE EARTH METAL*
An element of the group Scandium (Sc), Yttrium (Y), Lanthanum
(La), Cerium (Ce), Praseodymium (Pr), Neodymium (Nd), Promethium
(Pm), Samarium (Sm), Europium (Eu), Gadolinium (Gd), Terbium (Tb),
Dysprosium (Dy), Holmium (Ho), Erbium (Er), Thulium (Tm), Ytterbium
(Yb), and Lutetium (Lu).
REFRACTORY METAL*
A metal of the group Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), Hafnium
(Hf), Vanadium (V), Niobium (Nb) or Columbium (Cb), Tantalum (Ta),
Chromium (Cr), Molybdenum (Mo), and Tungsten (W).
REVERBERATORY FURNACE
An enclosed furnace in which the material to be heated is
placed in the bottom of the furnace and gaseous fuel is burned over
the top of the material or the flame or combustion products from
burning solid fuel separately from the material to be heated are
reflected by the top of the furnace and passed over the material.
Types of reverberatory furnace are the Siemen-Martin furnace, the open
hearth furnace, and the puddling furnace.
ROTARY KILN
An approximately cylindrical apparatus which rotates on
its axis in operation. The axis is horizontal or inclined less than
45 degrees from horizontal. Usually, the axis is slightly inclined
from horizontal. In operation the kiln rotates substantially continuously
in one direction.
SCRAP
Discarded waste metal suitable for reprocessing.
SHAFT FURNACE
A vertical approximately cylindrical apparatus in which material
to be treated is passed downwardly through the shaft while it is
heated in any manner. In this class the material treated in the
furnace is usually either reduced to free metal or melted or both.
SYNONYMS
See the beginning of the Glossary section for a list
of synonyms of names of metal elements used in this class (mostly
obsolete).
A vertical, generally cylindrical, vessel closed at the bottom
and heated externally so that the contents are heated only by heat
conduced through the retort walls. Often a product is volatilized
from the retort and collected in another container.
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Process for producing or treating free metal or alloys that
involve production of thermal energy from electricity, electromagnetic,
or wave energy at any stage in the process.
(1)
Note. The use of electrothermal energy may occur at any stage
in the process. Thus, melting of slag, ore or metal in an electric
furnace and subsequent transfer to another converter and treating
therein is to be considered an electrothermic process.
Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, for chemical processes using electrical and wave
energy to produce or treat free metal by means other than production
of heat.
(1) Note. Problems arise between Class 75 and Class 204 when
an energy form is given without indication of the mechanism of its
utilization. If the mechanism involves only conversion of the energy
form to heat or if the utilization of the energy is preparatory to
a Class 75 operation, the original goes to Class 75. When the mechanism
is not clear from the specification and not preparatory to a Class
75 operation the following line is followed for purposes of classification.
Placement goes to Class 75 if reactants (e.g., reducing agents,
etc.) other than the starting material (e.g., ore, etc.) are present
which would normally react in the presence of heat to produce the
desired product (e.g., Iron, etc.). Otherwise, placement goes as
original to Class 204. See References to Other Classes, of the Class
204 definition for an expansion of the class line between Class
75 and Class 204, including a superiority listing of classes providing
for various metals, alloys, and metal stocks and methods of manufacturing
them.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Processes wherein solid metal is traversed by a melt zone
causing migration of impurities within the metal resulting in purification
of the metal (i.e., zone melting) or processes of refining molten
metal or metal alloys by selective crystallization and separation
of the crystalline phase from the melt to effect purification (i.e., fractional
crystallization).
Single-Crystal, Oriented-Crystal, and Epitaxy
Growth Processes; Non-Coating Apparatus Therefor, for processes and non-coating apparatus for growing
therein-defined single-crystal of all types of materials, including metal;
e.g., by zone melt processing. References disclosing processes which
form Class 117 defined single-crystal material and also form an amorphous
material and/or a polycrystalline material should be placed according
to the following guidelines: placement should be determined first by
the most comprehensive claim; if that is not determinative placement should
be determined as follows: (a) references having only generic claims should
have the original placed in Class 117 with appropriate cross-reference,
(b) references having all species claims placeable in one class should
have the original placed in that class with appropriate cross-reference, or
(c) references having equally comprehensive species claims should
have the original placed in Class 117 with appropriate cross-reference.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Processes in which thermal energy is produced by electromagnetic
wave irradiation (e.g., microwave, laser, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Processes wherein an electric current is induced in the
material being treated to provide thermal energy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.14. Process wherein elemental Aluminum (Al), Beryllium (Be),
Cobalt (Co), Chromium (Cr), Magnesium (Mg), Nickel (Ni), Titanium
(Ti), or alloy thereof is produced or treated. The alloy produced
or treated can contain the above mentioned metals in any amount.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Processes wherein a wholly or partially charged mixture
of gaseous ions and electrons (i.e., plasma is the source of thermal
energy).
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.19. Process wherein elemental Aluminum (Al) or an alloy containing
Aluminum in any amount is produced or treated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Processes wherein an electrode containing a metal, metal
compound or alloy is used up or melted by electrothermic energy
and the metal therefrom incorporated in a molten substrate.
(1)
Note. A consumable "carbon electrode" having
no metal, metal compound or alloy present is excluded from this
subclass.
(2)
Note. The consumable electrode may contain solid treating
agent or flux.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.23. Process wherein the electrode is in electrical contact with
a slag and the electrical current therebetween melts the electrode
causing the molten metal therefrom to be refined by passing through
the slag.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.24. Process wherein elemental Chromium (Cr), Cobalt (Co), Copper
(Cu), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), Titanium (Ti), or
alloy thereof is produced or treated by electroslag remelting. The
alloy produced or treated can contain the above mentioned metals
in any amount.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.23. Process wherein elemental Titanium (Ti) or Zirconium (Zr)
or alloy thereof, is produced or treated using a consumable electrode.
The alloy produced or treated can contain the above mentioned metals
in any amount.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Processes wherein an Aluminum (Al) compound is reduced in
the presence of a carbonaceous material, carbon or carbide.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.3. Process wherein the Zinc (Zn) containing material is charged
or utilized in consolidated form (e.g., briquette, pellet, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.39. Process wherein Oxygen gas or an Oxygen gas containing gaseous
composition (e.g., air) is the treating agent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.39. Process wherein Argon (Ar), Helium (He), Krypton (Kr), Neon
(Ne), Radon (Rn), Xenon (Xe), Nitrogen (N), or an inert gas not
otherwise identified is the treating agent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Process wherein a solid treating agent, separately prepared
slag, or flux is added to the charge or melt.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.46. Process wherein Magnesium (Mg) or a Magnesium compound (e.g.,
Magnesia, etc.) is present in the treating agent, separately prepared
slag, or flux.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.46. Process wherein Aluminum (Al); or an Aluminum compound (e.g.,
Alumina, etc.) is present in the treating agent, separately prepared
slag, or flux.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.46. Process wherein Boron (B) or Boron compound (e.g., borax,
Boron carbide, etc.) is present in the treating agent, separately
prepared slag, or flux.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.46. Process wherein Silicon (Si) or a Silicon compound (e.g.,
Silica, etc.) is present in the treating agent, separately prepared
slag, or flux.
Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds,
subclasses 324+ for production of Silicon or a Silicon compound,
per se. However, electrothermic processes for forming metal-silicon
alloys are proper for Class 75, subclasses 10.1+.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.5. Process wherein a Ferrosilicon alloy is present in the treating
agent, separately prepared slag, or flux.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.46. Process wherein an Alkali metal, Alkaline earth metal, or
compound thereof is present in the treating agent, separately prepared
slag, or flux.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.54. Process wherein Calcium fluoride (e.g., Fluorspar, Fluorite,
etc.) is the Alkaline earth metal compound.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.46. Process wherein a Carbon (C) containing material (e.g.,
Carbon, carbonaceous material, Carbide, etc.) is present in the
treating agent, separately prepared slag, or flux.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Process wherein there is a reducing or smelting operation
and which are not classifiable in the subclasses herein above provided.
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Process wherein magnetic (e.g., electromagnetic etc.) or
electrostatic energy is used for purposes other than production
of heat (e.g., stirring transporting, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Composition comprising free-metal containing powder or particles
which have been united to form a self-sustaining mass.
(1)
Note. "Powder" is defined as a mass of particles,
that is, portions of matter so small that they are not ordinarily
handled as individual units. According to Metals Handbook, 8th Edition,
1961, Volume 1, page 28, metallic powders then used in powder metallurgy
had a particle size within the range of 0.1 to 1,000 microns in
their largest dimension, as determined by screens or other suitable
instruments. Powder particles generally are distinguished from filamentary
particles in that their shape and length-to-diameter ratio are such
that in the dry state the particles will not hold together as a coherent
article without the application of pressure and or heat, that is,
will not become entangled.
(2)
Note. This and the indented subclasses include compositions
made without any melting or fusion of the particles, as well as
those made by sintering, that is, a process in which a portion of
metal particle is alloyed, bonded, brazed, coalesced, partly fused
or welded to a portion of an adjacent metal particle due to the
application of heat, or heat and pressure. Reference: Everhart,
J. L., et al., "Mechanical Properties of Metals and Alloys",
Circular of the National Bureau of Standards, C 447, 1943, page
16.
(3)
Note. The composition may contain nonmetal material, but for
classification in this subclass, the claimed product must have a
metallic matrix, that is, must have a continuous metal phase in
which the nonmetallic material is dispersed as a discontinuous phase.
In the absence of a more explicit description, such a situation
may be assumed when (a) the composition contains more than 40% metal; (b)
the composition is prepared by a process which would inherently
unite the metal particles without uniting the nonmetal component;
or (c) the composition is described as nonmetal particles "cemented" with
a metal.
(4)
Note. Where a patent contains a claim to a consolidated metal
powder composition and, in addition, one or more claims to (a) a
process for making the composition and/or (b) an ingredient
or unconsolidated mixture for use in the process, the patent is
classified in this or the indented subclasses (228+) and
cross-referenced to the other subclass, even though such other subclass
may precede this in the schedule of this class (75).
(5)
Note. Those patents are placed in this subclass (228) which
claim all metal compositions wherein the base metal may be (a) either
a transition or nontransition metal, or (b) a nontransition metal not
provided for below, that is, the Alkali metals (i.e., Lithium (Li),
Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), Rubidium (Rb), Cesium (Cs), and Francium
(Fr)); the Alkaline earth metals (i.e., Calcium (Ca), Strontium
(Sr), Barium (Ba), and Radium (Rd)); Gallium (Ga), Indium (In);
Thallium (Tl); Silicon (Si), which is considered a metal in this
and its indented subclasses; Germanium (Ge); Tin (Sn); Lead (Pb);
Arsenic (As); Antimony (Sb); and Bismuth(Bi).
(6)
Note. In this and the indented subclasses a "metal
silicide" is considered to be an intermetallic compound
or alloy.
(7)
Note. The order of superiority among various alloy, metallic
composition and metal stock areas and methods of manufacture involving
them is given in the class definition under Lines With Other Classes
and Within This Class.
Ammunition and Explosives,
subclasses 283+ for a solid propellant form defined in such terms
as "a generally perforated propellant mass," "a configured
mass, i.e., sheet," with at least one dimension specified,
or a porous mass in combination with an ancillary perforation extending
therethrough.
Electricity: Conductors and Insulators,
subclass 118 for a device of that class insulated with powdered
or granular compositions, and subclass 137 for insulator devices,
per se.
Compositions,
subclass 62.51 for magnetic compositions having a nonmetal matrix;
subclasses 181.1+ for "getter" compositions;
and subclasses 500+ for electrically conductive compositions
having a nonmetal matrix.
Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes,
subclasses 109+ , particularly subclasses 111, for processes directed
to forming of articles by uniting of discrete, bulk assembled particles.
See the search notes to Class 264 in Class 29, subclass 602, and
see the definitions in Class 264 and pertinent subclasses as cited
herein for the line between these classes.
Alloys or Metallic Compositions, appropriate subclasses for metallic compositions made by
fusing (melting) the metals. A composition made by consolidating
loose metal particles with heat and/or pressure is proper
for
subclass 228 unless either (a) all the components are melted
or dissolved, or (b) a part of the components are melted and the
mass is treated as a fluent liquid, e.g., by stirring, pouring, etc.
Cases of doubt will be resolved in favor of placement in subclass
228.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclass 78 for apparatus for forming products by uniting associated
particles of metallic elements, or alloys, or amalgams.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclasses 539.5 , 545 and 546+ for material or articles
of that class containing consolidated metal powder, subclass 570
for a composite metallic powder, and subclass 613 for porous, nonparticulate
metallic stock material.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Class 523,
subclasses 1+ for a synthetic resin or natural rubber containing
an ingredient which may be metallic.
This subclass is indented under subclass 228. Composition which (1) contains a particle component which
has a thickness which is diminutive in comparison with its length
and width, or (2) has a component originally contained in the starting
material or produced during the uniting of the particles or subsequent processing,
which is characterized by a width and thickness which is diminutive
compared to its length, e.g., fibrous, circular, needle-like, whiskerish,
etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 228. Composition containing one of the following, in free or
combined form: a noble gas, a halogen, a chalcogen (oxygen, sulfur,
selenium or tellurium), nitrogen, phosphorus, carbon or boron.
(1)
Note. Free silicon is considered to be a metal; a metal silicide
is considered to be an intermetallic compound or alloy.
(2)
Note. In this and the indented subclasses the presence or
absence of hydrogen is ignored.
(3)
Note. The recitation as part of the total composition of a
material known to, or generally considered to, contain carbon, such
as "steel" or "cast iron", puts
the composition in this or an indented subclass.
(4)
Note. See the notes to subclass 228, especially (3) Note,
and to subclass 231 for the distinction between compositions for
this class and compositions for Class 106.
(5)
Note. See the notes to subclass 231 for the distinction between
compositions for this class and compositions for Class 51 and Class
252.
Metal Treatment,
subclass 24 for flux compositions containing metal and a nonmetal
binder or slurrying agent to be used in the treatment of solid metal.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclass 539.5 for stock material having interengaged metal and nonmetal
continuous phase; subclasses 564 and 565 for metallic composites
having metal particles and nonmetal particles; and subclasses 639+ for
composite metallic stock in which a component contains oxygen, sulfur,
or an organic compound.
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Composition in which the nonmetal is a molybdenum sulfide
or in which a solid, nonmetal component is claimed in functional
terms, such as a lubricant, an abrasive, a frictional component,
etc.
(1)
Note. Where the functional component is restricted to a specific
material other than MoSx, the patent is classified in the "nonfunctional" subclass
below, appropriate to the material, e.g., diamond as the sole permissible
abrasive or graphite as the sole permissible lubricant, are provided
for in subclass 243, etc., and is cross-referenced here (subclass
231) if appropriate.
(2)
Note. Where the description of the functional component is
of hybrid character, the patent is classified in this subclass only
when the component is not specifically provided for below, e.g.,
an "abrasive oxide" is provided for in subclasses 232+,
but a "lubricating sulfide" indicates classification
in this subclass (231).
Abrasive Tool Making Process, Material, or Composition,
subclass 309 for metal-containing compositions which are consolidated
products having a metal continuous phase.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclass 564 for brake shoe type composite materials; subclass
687 for metallic stock having a rough surface; and subclass 932
for such stock having an abrasive or cutting feature.
Solid Anti-Friction Devices, Materials Therefor,
Lubricant or Separant Compositions for Moving Solid Surfaces, and
Miscellaneous Mineral Oil Compositions, for lubricating compositions, especially
subclasses 100+ for rigid lubricants and bearings containing fluid
lubricants.
for a collection of patented disclosures having
to do with consolidated metal powder compositions having greater
than 95 percent theoretical density and containing an oxide.
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Composition containing oxides of more than one metal, or
containing the oxide of plural metals, e.g., a metal silicate, etc.
(1)
Note. Where all of the metals with which Oxygen (O) is associated
are selected from Aluminum (Al), Beryllium (Be), Magnesium (Mg),
Alkaline earth metal, Scandium (Sc), Yttrium (Y), Lanthanide metal,
Actinide metal, Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), or Hafnium (Hf) placement
of the patent is in subclass 235.
(2)
Note. Included herein are those nonmetal additives such as
clay, slag, or spinels, which are a combination of divalent metal
oxide and a trivalent metal oxide having the formula MO.M"2O3
or MM"2O4, not provided for in subclass 235.
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Composition in which the oxide is restricted to one or more
of alumina, beryllia, magnesia, lime, strontia, baria, titania,
zirconia, hafnia, or an oxide of radium, scandium, yttrium, a lanthanide
metal or an actinide metal, including thoria and uranium oxide.
(1)
Note. Included herein are those oxides having a free energy
of formation (F) at 1,000 C. of greater than 80 kilocalories per
gram atom of oxygen. The following table, taken from U.S. Patent
3,377,143, is presented as a guide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Composition in which the nonmetal is carbon in the form
of a carbide.
(1)
Note. This subclass (236) is the locus for a composition under
subclass 230 which has a single metal carbide as its sole nonmetal
component, which carbide is of a metal other than Vanadium (V),
Niobium (Nb) or Columbium (Cb), Tantalum (Ta), Chromium (Cr), Molybdenum
(Mo), or Tungsten (W).
(2)
Note. The mere designation of a composition or a component
of a composition as a "carburized" metal, alloy,
or other metal product, is not sufficient for placement of a patent
in this subclass; rather, such patent is placed in a subclass providing
for elemental carbon, e.g., subclass 243.
for consolidated metal powder compositions containing
an oxide as well as a carbide. Where the oxide is a necessary component
of the composition, a patent for such composition is not cross-referenced
to this subclass or its indented subclasses.
Compositions,
subclass 62.3 for a barrier layer device composition containing
a binary alloy or carbide, and subclass 516 for an electrically
conductive or emissive composition containing a carbide.
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Composition in which the nonmetal other than carbon is restricted
to boron and/or nitrogen.
(1)
Note. This definition is meant to include boron carbide as
the sole nonmetal component, as well as metal-carbide compositions
containing boron nitride as the only additional nonmetal component.
Powder Metallurgy Processes,
subclass 12 for powder metallurgy processes with sintering
which include a boride compound; and subclass 13 for similar processes
which include a nitride compound.
for a similar composition in which the carbide of
a metal other than Chromium (Cr), Molybdenum (Mo), or Tungsten (W)
may be used alternatively to the carbide of Chromium (Cr), Molybdenum
(Mo), or Tungsten (W).
for a composition in which Chromium (Cr), Molybdenum
(Mo), or Tungsten (W) carbide is used in addition to the carbide
of a metal other than Chromium (Cr), Molybdenum (Mo), or Tungsten
(W).
for consolidated metal powder compositions containing
carbon associated with two metals, both selected from Vanadium (V),
Niobium (Nb) or Columbium (Cb), and Tantalum (Ta) exclusively.
for consolidated metal powder compositions containing
carbon associated with two metals, both selected from Chromium (Cr),
Molybdenum (Mo), and Tungsten (W) exclusively.
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Composition in which the only permissible free (e.g., "cementing")
metal is one or more of iron, cobalt and nickel.
(1)
Note. Where other free metals are permitted in the composition,
the patent is classified in subclass 241 and is not cross-referenced
to this subclass (242).
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Composition in which the only permissible nonmetal component
is carbon, and wherein the carbon is not claimed as being part of
a chemical compound.
(1)
Note. The claiming of a component of the composition as "steel," "cast
iron" or other metal product known to contain carbon as
an essential component, e.g., a "carburized" metal
or alloy, is sufficient for placement in this subclass (243).
for a consolidated metal powder composition containing
boron or nitrogen as a carbide or in addition to a metal carbide,
or in which the composition has been carbonitrided.
Compositions,
subclasses 62.3+ for barrier-layer device compositions, and subclass
301.4 for a fluorescent or phosphorescent composition containing
a transition metal.
Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for the following alloys made by melting (fusion) techniques;
subclasses 417+ for a zirconium base alloy; subclasses 425+ for
a niobium (columbium) base alloy; and subclass 427 for a tantalum base
alloy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Composition in which half or more of the composition, by
weight, comprises one or more metals selected exclusively from the
Iron Group (i.e., Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), Nickel (Ni)), Copper (Cu),
or Noble metal (i.e., Silver (Ag), Gold (Au), Osmium (Os), Iridium
(Ir), Platinum (Pt), Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), and Palladium
(Pd)).
(1)
Note. Compositions containing steel, cast iron, etc., are
considered to be nonmetal containing, and are classified in subclasses
230+. See the definition of subclass 230.
Compositions,
subclass 513 for an electrically conductive or emissive composition
containing a free metal from the iron group; and subclass 514 for
such a composition containing a free noble metal.
Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for the following alloys made by melting (fusion) techniques;
subclasses 435+ for a cobalt base alloy; and subclasses 441+ for
a nickel base alloy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Composition in which half or more of the composition, by
weight, comprises one or more, exclusively, of Copper (Cu) or Noble
metal (i.e., Silver (Ag), Gold (Au), Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir),
Platinum (Pt), Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), and Palladium (Pd)).
for a consolidated metal powder composition which
may have a base of a transition metal, other than iron, nickel or
cobalt alternative to a copper or noble-metal base.
Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for the following alloys made by melting (fusion) techniques;
subclasses 466+ for a platinum base alloy; subclasses 501+ for
a silver base alloy; and subclasses 507+ for a gold base
alloy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Composition requiring half or more of the composition, by
weight, to be tungsten.
(1)
Note. Where Tungsten (W) is an alternative base metal to another
transition metal, e.g., where the claims allow the base metal to
be selected from Tungsten (W) and Molybdenum (Mo), the patent is
placed in subclass 245 and is not cross-referenced to this subclass.
Compositions,
subclass 301.5 for a fluorescent or phosphorescent composition
containing tungsten, and subclass 515 for an electrically conductive
or emissive composition containing free tungsten.
This subclass is indented under subclass 228. Composition in which half or more of the composition, by
weight, comprises one or more of aluminum, beryllium, and magnesium.
for a consolidated metal powder composition having,
as base metal, (1) a nontransition metal other than Al, Be or Mg,
(2) Al, Be or Mg only in admixture with another metal, or (3) Al,
Be or Mg as an alternative to another metal.
Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for the following alloys made by melting (fusion) techniques;
subclass 401 for a beryllium base alloy; subclasses 402+ for
a magnesium base alloy; and subclass 528 for an aluminum base alloy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 255. Subject matter containing, in loose, particulate form, (a)
a metal, that is, a pure metal, an alloy, an intermetallic compound
or an agglomerate which is more than half free metal, and (b) a nonmetal,
that is, a material which is more than half by weight of a nonmetal
element or compound of such element.
(1)
Note. A patent drawn to a mixture having a component provided
for in the title of subclasses indented hereunder are placed in
the indented subclasses and are not cross-referenced to this subclass, even
though the mixture may have components not provided for in the title
of the indented subclass.
(2)
Note. The search notes below indicate that the line between
this subclass, on the one hand, and Class 106 metal depositing compositions
and Class 148 fluxes, on the other hand, depends upon the presence
of a nonmetal vehicle in the composition. Such vehicle need not
be claimed for original placement of a patent in these other classes
where the composition is disclosed as usable only in combination
with the vehicle. Such a patent should be cross-referenced here (subclasses
252+).
for products resulting from the consolidation of
particle mixtures of this subclass, and the definition of subclass
230 for a list of nonmetal elements.
for consolidated compositions having metal particles
distributed in a nonmetal continuous phase, such compositions being
designed for use as charges to a metallurgical furnace.
Fuel and Related Compositions,
subclasses 252+ for a mixture of a particulate metal with a nonmetal
which can react exothermically with it by activation with water.
Compositions: Coating or Plastic,
subclass 1.05 , for metal-depositing coating compositions which
contain metal particles and a nonmetal vehicle which makes a coherent
composition, whether liquid, solid, plastic, pasty, etc., and which
facilitates application to a surface to be metallized at ordinary
temperatures.
Metal Treatment,
subclass 24 for compositions containing metal particles, a
fluxing component, and a nonmetal vehicle which makes a coherent composition,
whether liquid, solid, plastic, pasty, etc., and which facilitates
application to a solid metal at ordinary temperatures. Subclass
24 also includes methods for fluxing which comprise the mere use
of compositions classifiable herein (subclasses 252+).
Explosive and Thermic Compositions or Charges, especially
subclasses 37+ , 87 and 108.2 for a mixture of a particulate metal
with a nonmetal which can react exothermically with it.
Metal Fusion Bonding,
subclass 224 for a process of surface bonding a metal to another
metal or a nonmetal where a powdered filler material, mixed with
a flux, is employed. Where a patent claims both the bonding process
and an unconsolidated metal particle composition used in the bonding,
the patent is placed in Class 228 and cross-referenced here.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclasses 558 and 560+ for solid welding rods coated
with or containing particulate mixtures of the type classified here,
or in Class 106, subclass 1.05, or Class 148, subclass 24.
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Subject matter in which the nonmetal is a halogen (i.e.,
Fluorine (F), Chlorine (Cl), Bromine (Br), Iodine (I), and Astatine
(At)) compound.
(1)
Note. Where the particle mixture contains boron, in free or
combined form, as well as a halogen, it is classified in this subclass
and not cross-referenced to subclass 254.
This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Composition which comprises loose particles of a metal or
alloy mixed with loose particles of a different metal or alloy or
with loose particles of a nonmetal.
(1)
Note. Where a patent claims both the powder metallurgy process
and the unconsolidated starting material, it is classified as an
original in Class 419 and is cross-referenced here.
for such compositions consolidated to a coherent
(self-sustaining) shape or form, without total loss of the particulate
nature of the unconsolidated mass, that is, without total fusion
of all components of the mass. Patents contained in these subclasses
(228+) often contain disclosures of loose metal particles
and mixtures of the same.
Metal Fusion Bonding,
subclass 248 for a process of surface bonding a metal to another
metal or a nonmetal where a powdered filler material is employed.
Where a patent claims both the bonding process and an unconsolidated
metal particle composition used in the bonding as a filler, the
patent is placed in Class 228 and is cross-referenced here.
Coating Processes,
subclasses 458+ for applying metal particles utilizing an electrostatic
charge; subclasses 446+ for plasma spraying processes; subclasses
180+ for other particulate metal coating processes; and
subclasses 446+ for flame-spray coating processes. Where
a patent claims both the coating process and an unconsolidated metal
particle composition used in the process, the patent is classified in
Class 427 and cross-referenced here.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclasses 403+ for a metal particle coated with a nonmetal, and
subclass 570 for composite metal particles (e.g., a powder having
one metal coated upon a different metal, etc.).
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Compositions that are: (A) reactive furnace linings; (B)
charges or solid treating compositions, not elsewhere provided,
for producing free metal or alloys from metalliferous materials
or for treating liquid metal; (C) gaseous and liquid compositions,
not elsewhere provided, used in the production of free metal or
alloys or used in the treatment of liquid metal; (D) consolidated
metal powder compositions having a continuous free metal phase, such
as produced by a Class 419 process; (E) loose particulate mixtures
(i.e., compositions) containing (a) particles of one free metal
mixed with particles of another free metal or alloy; (b) particles
of one alloy mixed with particles of another alloy or (c) particles
of free metal or alloy mixed with nonfree metal containing particles
and not elsewhere provided.
(1)
Note. Processes of making the compositions of the type mentioned
in A, B, or C will be found elsewhere in this class. See "SEARCH
THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS" below.
Compositions: Coating or Plastic, for metal depositing compositions, coating repellent,
polishes, corrosion inhibiting coatings, molding compositions, sodium
silicate or hydrosetting compositions, bituminous compositions used
for coating metalliferous materials or for agglomerates in general.
Metal Treatment, for compositions for treating solid metals (e.g., soldering flux,
galvanizing flux, welding composition, surface treating compositions,
etc.) and
subclasses 240+ for reactive coating compositions that react with
a metal base to form a coating thereon.
Explosive and Thermic Compositions or Charges, for exothermic compositions for treating metalliferous
materials. Particularly see
subclasses 5+ , 20+, 30+ or 37+ for
compositions which (1) contain at least one free metal or metalloid
and at least one Oxygen (O) supplying material and (2) are capable
of reacting to yield heat and reaction by-products.
(1)
Note. The line between Class 149 and Class 75 is difficult
due to the similarity of ingredients in the compositions. If there
is a positive recitation of exothermic utility, the original goes
to Class 149 even if the composition is used in a Class 75 process.
If the composition is used in a Class 75 process and there is no
positive recitation of exothermic utility, it goes to Class 75 as
an original.
(2)
Note. Patents having claims to both a Class 75 process and
a Class 149 composition go to Class 75 as original and are crossed
to Class 149.
Electric Heating, for electric heating devices, particularly
subclasses 145.1+ for welding rod or electrode having significant
structure and defined by composition.
Metal Fusion Bonding, for metal fusion bonding means, particularly
subclass 56.3 for solder having significant structure or subclass
50 for seam backup means having significant structure.
Compositions, for physical separation, etching or brightening,
descaling, detergents, getters, chemical agents, solids with solution
or dispersion aids, solvents, gaseous compositions, preservation
agents.
Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for alloys or metallic compositions having a continuous
metal phase.
(1)
Note. Class 420 alloys go as original to Class 420 even if
used as treating agents. If a Class 420 material is combined with
another ingredient to provide a solid treating composition for liquid
metal, the original goes to Class 75, if not provided for elsewhere.
(2)
Note. Consolidated metal powder compositions produced by a
Class 419 process go as original to Class 75 and are not provided
for in Class 420 even though a continuous metal phase may be present.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, for material or articles having some structure.
See section 5 for the relationship between Class 428 and the composition
classes. In general, when claims mention the article by name only
and define it in terms of composition, the original goes to the composition
class.
(1)
Note. Welding rods or welding electrodes defined only in terms
of composition are placed in Class 75 subclass 302. Flux defined
by composition in wire form or in a container go as original to
Class 75 subclass 304 unless there is significant structural description.
This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Furnace lining composition that is used for intentional
reactivity with metalliferous materials in the furnace to produce
beneficiated or refined ore, charge or free metal.
Alloys or Metallic Compositions, if the welding rod without significant structure
contains only elemental metal and no other ingredients (e.g., flux,
etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Composition which is a solid treating composition for liquid
metal or a charge for producing metal or treating liquid metal.
(1)
Note. The composition herein does not encompass ore, per se,
or alloy, per se. Another ingredient utilized in producing or refining
of metal must be present with the ore or alloy to be acceptable
to this composition subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 303. Composition that is in a wire, in a container, or in an
article defined by surface feature (e.g., groove, openings, etc.)
which aids in the utilization or dispersement of the charge or treating agent.
(1)
Note. The recitation of a shape other than wire or article
with surface feature is insufficient for classification in this subclass.
Thus, pellet, briquette, cube, etc., are placed elsewhere under
subclass 303.
This subclass is indented under subclass 309. Composition wherein the Fluoride is in consolidated form
produced by agglomerating, calcinating, compacting, indurating,
sintering, or solidifying from a molten mass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 308. Composition wherein the Halide is in consolidated form produced
by agglomerating, calcinating, compacting, indurating, sintering,
or solidifying from a molten mass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 303. Composition which is: (1) intended for consolidation by
agglomerating, calcinating, indurating, sintering, or solidifying
from molten mass; (2) consolidated composition produced by agglomerating,
calcinating, compacting, indurating, sintering, or solidifying from
a molten mass, or (3) composition derived from materials which were
consolidated by agglomerating, calcinating, compacting, indurating,
sintering, or solidifying from a molten mass.
(1)
Note. This subclass takes as original consolidated metalliferous
compositions amenable to Class 75 or Class 420 refining or alloying
operation unless an intended use divergent from a Class 75 or Class
420 refining or alloying operation is the expressed use.
(2)
Note. The consolidated composition may be a coated composition
or may contain more than one layer. However, coated compositions
produced by processes not involving agglomerating, calcinating, compacting,
indurating, sintering or solidifying from molten mass go elsewhere
under subclass 303 if they are coated charges, or coated solid treating compositions
for molten metal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 316. Composition which contains clay (e.g., bentonite, montmorillonite,
etc.), cement, or Alkali metal silicate.
This subclass is indented under subclass 319. Composition which contains clay (e.g., bentonite, montmorillonite,
etc.), cement, or Alkali metal silicate.
This subclass is indented under subclass 313. Composition which contains clay (e.g., bentonite, montmorillonite,
etc.), cement, or Alkali metal silicate.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes not otherwise provided for.
(1)
Note. This class has no miscellaneous subclass as such, thus
this subclass serves as the miscellaneous process subclass.
(2)
Note. Among others, some patents may be found in this subclass
which claim only a process of making a metallurgical treating agent
which process does not involve consolidation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Process in which liquid free metal is comminuted to form
discrete particles and solidified in its comminuted form.
Single-Crystal, Oriented-Crystal, and Epitaxy
Growth Processes; Non-Coating Apparatus Therefor, especially
subclasses 75 , 87, 205, and 921, for processes and non-coating
apparatus for growing therein-defined single-crystal of all types
of materials, including metals, which are in the form of whiskers.
Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes,
subclasses 5+ for processes of forming solid particulate material
directly from molten or liquid mass wherein a material other than
metal is comminuted or for processes in which the claims are broad
or nondefinitive as to material and the disclosure states that materials other
than metal are processed by the invention. Patents having claims
to forming solid particulate metal and claims to forming solid particulate nonmetal
or patents having generic claims with a disclosure to forming solid
particulate metal and to forming solid particulate nonmetal will
go as originals to Class 264 and a cross-reference will be placed
in Class 75.
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Process in which the liquid metal is comminuted by use of
centrifugal force or by use of a revolving or rotating surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Process in which the particles are formed by agitation or
vibration of the liquid metal to fling or shake off the particles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Process in which the particles are formed by impinging with
or directing a jet or blast of a gas into contact with the liquid
metal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Process in which the particles are formed by flowing or
allowing the liquid metal to fall through an orifice.
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Process in which solid, irregular, or nonspherical particulate
metal is reshaped wherein the irregularities are diminished or the
particles are caused to become more spherical or rounded in shape
without loss of metal therefrom and by means other than use of a
mold or shaping surface therefore and in which the individual and separate
identities of the particles are maintained.
(1)
Note. Patents in this subclass are generally directed to those
processes in which heat is employed to soften the particles so as
to permit the internal cohesive forces of the particles to effect
the reshaping as defined.
Metal Treatment, particularly
subclass 513 for processes of treating loose metal particles
to modify or maintain internal physical structure (i.e., microstructure)
or chemical properties thereof. In this context, it is important
to note that spheroidizing, in terms of microstructure, is a Class 148
operation and that spheroidizing of Class 75 refers to the macrostructure.
Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes,
subclass 15 for spheroidizing or rounding of solid, nonmetallic
particles. Patents having claims to spheroidizing or rounding of
solid metal particles and claims to spheroidizing or rounding of solid,
nonmetal particles or patents having generic claims with a disclosure
to spheroidizing or rounding of solid, metal particles and to spheroidizing
or rounding of solid, nonmetallic particles will go as originals
to Class 264 and a cross-reference will be placed in Class 75.
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Process in which a free metal powder is produced or purified
or in which alloys in powder form are produced or purified.
(1)
Note. In order for a patent to be classified in this subclass,
or the subclasses hereunder indented, the claims or disclosure must
specifically state that a powder is produced or is purified. A "precipitate" is
not considered to be a "powder" for purposes of
classification in these subclasses.
(2)
Note. "Powder" is defined as a mass of particles,
that is, portions of matter so small that they are not ordinarily
handled as individual units. According to Metals Handbook, 8th Edition,
1961, Volume I, page 28, metallic powders then used in powder metallurgy
had a particle size up to 1,000 microns in their largest dimension,
as determined by screens or other suitable instruments. Powder particles generally
are distinguished from filamentary particles in that their shape
and length-to-diameter ratio are such that in the dry state the
particles will not hold together as a coherent article without the application
of pressure or heat, that is, will not become entangled.
(3)
Note. If a patent states that a "powder" is produced
or purified, the patent is to be placed here regardless of any designation
of the size of the "powder".
Single-Crystal, Oriented-Crystal, and Epitaxy
Growth Processes; Non-Coating Apparatus Therefor, especially
subclasses 75 , 87, 205, and 921, for processes and non-coating
apparatus for growing therein-defined single-crystal of all types
of materials, including metals, which are in the form of whiskers.
Powder Metallurgy Processes,
subclasses 30+ for processes which include preliminary significant
treatment, preparation, or manufacture of the powder, prior to any
compacting or sintering.
This subclass is indented under subclass 345. Process in which a wholly or partially charged mixture of
gaseous ions and electrons (i.e., plasma) is the source of energy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 343. Process in which a named magnetic material (i.e., the magnetic
properties are specified) is purified without modifying or altering
the magnetic properties or is produced.
Metal Treatment,
subclass 105 for processes in which the material is in particulate
form at the time its magnetic properties are altered, as well as at
the end of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Process in which an Alkaline earth metal (i.e., Calcium
(Ca), Strontium (Sr), Barium (Ba)) or compound thereof is used.
This subclass is indented under subclass 343. Process in which an alloy is produced in powder form.
(1)
Note. Patents which claim both a process of making an alloy
and a process of making a powder alloy are classified as originals
in Class 75 and a cross-reference will be placed in Class 420.
This subclass is indented under subclass 354. Process in which a liquid solution or dispersion is comminuted
to form discrete powder and is solidified in its comminuted form.
A reduction of a metal compound to free metal can occur at any stage
of the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 354. Process in which at least one process step is performed
using a nonmetallic material which is liquid under standard conditions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 343. Process in which an organo-compound containing metal or
a metal carbonyl is reduced to form a free metal powder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 363. Process in which at least one step is performed at less
than 300 degrees C using a nonmetallic material which is liquid
under standard conditions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 364. Process in which at least two distinct process steps are
performed. The process step at less than 300 degrees C using a nonmetallic
material which is liquid under standard conditions precedes the
process step in which the temperature is 300 degrees C or greater.
This subclass is indented under subclass 371. Process in which the settling of free metal powder occurs
by displacement of a first metal in a compound by a second metal
which is more positive in the electromotive series than the first
metal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Process in which the operation is regulated by perceiving
a characteristic or a change in a characteristic of the material
or the apparatus and implementing an action in the process based
upon the measured characteristic.
This subclass is indented under subclass 375. Process in which a sample is taken from the process to determine
a characteristic or a change in a characteristic of the material
in order to regulate the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Process which is a (1) preparatory chemical process for
producing an intermediate for amalgamation, (2) preparatory chemical
process followed by amalgamation or (3) chemical or physiochemical
process of breaking the amalgam thus formed to liberate the desired free
metal (e.g., sublimation of mercury, dissolution or displacement
of the metal from the amalgam, etc.).
(1)
Note. The term amalgamation under this subclass and subclasses
indented hereunder is restricted to a species of amalgamation which
requires the use of liquid metal (e.g., mercury, lead, zinc, alloy, etc.)
to collect, to alloy or to adhere to a desired free metal without
heat-melting the desired free metal.
Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein,
and Methods of Preparing the Compositions, appropriate subclasses for electrolytic treatment
of noble metal containing material or solutions thereof.
Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids, for the "so called" amalgamation
processes for separation, per se, of metals (e.g., noble metal,
etc.) from metal containing materials (e.g., ore, etc.).
Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, for chemical processes of treating noble metal containing
materials and including treating amalgam or amalgamation steps that
result in a metal compound as a product and without a free metal
product.
This subclass is indented under subclass 388. Process wherein a more electropositive free metal displaces
a less electropositive metal from solution in a free metal form,
while the more electropositive metal is not Mercury (Hg).
(1)
Note. See the definitions of the class for displacement and
the electromotive series, per se.
This subclass is indented under subclass 388. Process wherein a Halogen containing agent (e.g., Chlorine,
Hydrochloric acid, Sodium iodide, etc.) is used at any stage in
the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 388. Process wherein a Nitrogen (N) containing agent (e.g., salt
peter, Nitric acid, Ammonium sulfate, Nitrogen dioxide, etc.) is
used at any stage in the process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Process wherein elemental metal is produced from metal compounds,
such as ore, or wherein elemental metal is treated by a process
not provided for elsewhere.
(1)
Note. This and indented subclasses provide for a process of
removing a component from a pre-existing alloy (e.g., purification,
etc.).
(2)
Note. Processes in which metal is treated in the molten state
are specifically included hereunder.
Metal Treatment, appropriate subclasses for processes of treating
solid or semi-solid metal to modify or maintain the internal physical
structure (i.e., microstructure) or chemical properties of metal.
However, if metal casting, welding, machining, or working is involved,
there is a requirement of significant heat treatment as described
in section III, A, of the Class 148 definition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 392. Process in which a Radioactive material is used to produce
or to treat a free metal, in which a Radioactive metal (i.e., Technetium
(Tc), Promethium (Pm), Polonium (Po), Francium (Fr), Radium (Ra),
Actinium (Ac), Thorium (Th), Protactinium (Pa), Uranium (U), Neptunium
(Np), Plutonium (Pu), Americium (Am), Curium (Cm), Berkelium (Bk),
Californium (Cf), Einsteinium (Es), Fermium (Fm), Mendelevium (Md),
Nobelium (No), Lawrencium (Lr), Unnilquadium (Unq), Unnilpentium
(Unp), Unnilhexium (Unh)) is produced, or in which a metal that
contains a Radioactive metal is treated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 393. Process in which Thorium (Th) is produced, a metal that
contains Thorium is treated, or a material that contains Thorium
is used to produce or to treat a free metal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 393. Process in which Plutonium (Pu) is produced, a metal that
contains Plutonium is used to produce or to treat a free metal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 393. Process in which Uranium (U) is produced, a metal that contains
Uranium is treated, or a material that contains Uranium is used
to produce or to treat a free metal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 392. Process wherein elemental metal is produced from metalliferous
lumps found on the bed of the sea. These lumps are usually high
in manganese.
Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds,
subclasses 49+ , for a process of obtaining a manganese compound
or manganese values from sea nodules without reduction to elemental
metal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 392. Process in which a multicomponent metal-containing scrap
having an integral substrate is separated to recover metal. During
the separation at least one metal remains solid. The separation
is performed by changing the temperature of the scrap or by chemically
processing the scrap at 300 degrees C or greater.
(1)
Note. The following criteria will be used to define the word "scrap":
(A) If a patent refers to a material as scrap, then the material
will be assumed to be scrap. (B) If a patent does not refer to a
material as scrap (e.g., metal borings, tin cans, etc.); but it
can be inferred from the patent that metal, not a specific article,
is recovered, then the material will be assumed to be scrap. (C)
If it is unclear as to the nature of the material being treated
(e.g., tin plate, etc.), the material will be assumed to be scrap.
(D) If there is a positive statement indicating that an "article" is
recovered, then the "article" is not "scrap" and
the patent is classified elsewhere (e.g., removing metal compounds
from engine parts, removing tin from a can to reuse the can, etc.).
for processes of recovering metal from multicomponent
metal-containing scrap having an integral substrate in which a nonmetallic
material which is liquid under standard conditions is used.
Metal Working,
subclasses 403.1+ , for separation of materials one from another in
which the separation is done to salvage a portion of a specific article
for reuse.
Cleaning and Liquid Contact With Solids, for processes of separating metal from metal or
metal from nonmetal to clean a specific article for reuse (e.g.,
the cleaning of gun bores by the removal of metal fouling the same,
etc.). If a base is cleaned and the removed metal is recovered,
the original will go to Class 75 and a cross-reference will be placed
in Class 134.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers,
subclasses 40+ , for processes of treating scrap or waste product
containing solid organic polymer to recover a solid polymer therefrom.
This subclass is indented under subclass 392. Process in which an apparatus consisting essentially of
a compartment spun about a central axis is used to separate liquid
metal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 392. Process in which the liquid metal containing a gas is contacted
with one side of a gas permeable membrane to selectively permeate
the gas through the membrane to remove the gas from the liquid metal.
Gas Separation: Processes,
subclass 46 for processes of removing a gas from a liquid other
than a liquid metal by use of selective diffusion of gases through
a substantially solid barrier (e.g., semipermeable membrane, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 392. Process in which a contaminant is removed from vaporous
or liquid metal by contacting the metal with a material that has
an affinity for the contaminant such that the contaminant adheres
to the reactive surfaces of the material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 407. Process in which the vaporous or liquid metal contains over
50 percent by weight of an Alkali metal (i.e., Lithium (Li), Sodium
(Na), Potassium (K), Rubidium (Rb), Cesium (Cs)), singly or in combination.
This subclass is indented under subclass 407. Process in which the vaporous or liquid contains over 50
percent by weight of a Noble metal (i.e., Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium
(Rd), Palladium (Pd), Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir), Platinum (Pt),
Silver (Ag), Gold (Au)), singly or in combination.
This subclass is indented under subclass 392. Process of producing or treating free metal wherein at least
one step of the process takes place at a temperature of over 300
degrees C.
(1)
Note. This and indented subclasses contain subject matter
often referred to in the art as pyrometallurgy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Process wherein a step at over 300 degrees C is combined
with a step at less than 300 degrees C the latter step employing
a nonmetallic material which is a liquid under standard conditions. The
steps may take place in any order.
(1)
Note. This subclass generally provides for a step of pyrometallurgy
combined with a step of hydrometallurgy.
Radiation Imagery Chemistry: Process, Composition,
or Product Thereof, for a process which includes a photographic step
or which prepares a composition for that class combined with a step
of recovering metal. An example of a process for Class 430 is a
process of recovering silver from a photographic developing solution
to regenerate the solution for further use.
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Process wherein the source of metal is the slime that accumulates
on the bottom of electrolytic cells during electrolysis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Process wherein a step at less than 300 degrees C using
nonmetallic material which is liquid under standard conditions occurs
after a step at 300 degrees C or greater.
This subclass is indented under subclass 419. Process wherein reduction to free metal occurs in a step
at less than 300 degrees C using nonmetallic material which is liquid
under standard conditions, which step is after a step at over 300
degrees C.
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Process in which Iron (Fe) is produced or a metal that contains
over 50 percent by weight Iron is treated.
(1)
Note. The term "reducing" as used below
in indented subclasses means that over 50 percent of the metallic
Iron produced in the process must be obtained by reduction of an
Iron compound (e.g., ore, etc.).
(2)
Note. This and indented subclasses provide for treating a
metal that contains over 50 percent by weight Iron in the molten
state and melting a metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Iron.
(3)
Note. This subclass contains patents drawn to processes of
preheating ferrous scrap for subsequent metallurgical processing
without actual melting.
(4)
Note. Production of a ferroalloy, such as ferromanganese,
ferrochromium, or nickeliferous pig Iron, where the percentage of
the metals is unspecified will go as originals to the nonferrous
metal subclass regardless of the fact that Iron (Fe) may be produced
in the production of the ferroalloy. If the percentages of metals
are specified the original will go to Class 420, Alloys or Metallic
Compositions.
Metal Treatment, appropriate subclasses for processes of treating solid or
semi-solid metal to modify or maintain the internal physical structure
(i.e., microstructure) or chemical properties of metal. See Class
148,
subclass 512 , for processes including surface melting of the
solid or semi-solid metal. However, if casting, welding, machining,
or working is involved, there is a requirement of significant heat
treatment as described in section III, A, of the Class 148 definition.
Alloys or Metallic Compositions,
subclass 117 for processes of preparing ferrosilicon containing
over 50 percent Iron or wherein no relative proportions of Iron
and Silicon are disclosed.
Alloys or Metallic Compositions,
subclass 121 for processes of preparing ferroboron containing
over 50 percent Iron or wherein no relative proportions of Iron
and Boron are specified.
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process wherein an inorganic material intended to harden
by addition of water is produced concurrently with Iron (Fe).
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process wherein a solid elemental Iron (Fe) containing product
is consolidated (e.g., pelletized, briquetted, etc.) after being
reduced. This is usually done to decrease surface area and thus
inhibit oxidation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process wherein a compound of Iron (Fe) and Halogen (e.g.,
Iron halide, etc.) is reduced to yield metallic Iron.
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process for making the commercial product called "wrought
Iron (Fe)" which is a very low Carbon (C) (less than 0.1%)
Iron intimately admixed with a slag. The conventional process heats
molten pig Iron in a reverberatory furnace. The Carbon is burned
out causing the Iron to become pasty, at which point it is rolled into
balls and worked to remove excess slag.
This subclass is indented under subclass 438. Process wherein molten low Carbon (C) Iron (Fe) is poured
into molten slag. The Iron becomes intimately mixed with the slag
and then settles, carrying with it some slag. Liquid slag is poured
off and the pasty Iron-slag mixture is worked to yield wrought Iron.
This subclass is indented under subclass 438. Process wherein over 50 percent of the Iron (Fe) in the
final wrought Iron product is added to the process as an Iron compound,
such as ore, instead of in the metallic state.
This subclass is indented under subclass 441. Process in which the wrought Iron (Fe) is prepared in a
furnace which moves during the process (e.g., rocking, rotating,
etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process wherein an Iron (Fe) compound, generally in particulate
form, is reduced to elemental Iron while suspended in a gas.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Process wherein particulate Iron (Fe) compound (e.g., ore,
etc.) is kept in motion and suspended by the upward flow of gas,
the suspension acting much like a fluid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 445. Process wherein the metallic Iron (Fe) produced in the fluidized
bed is melted outside the fluidized bed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 444. Process wherein the fluidized bed contains a solid material
in addition to the reducible Iron (Fe) compound.
This subclass is indented under subclass 448. Process wherein the Carbon (C) is not added in solid form,
but solid Carbon is generated in the fluidized bed by chemical reaction.
(1)
Note. The Carbon may be generated by cracking natural gas.
(2)
Note. To be placed in this subclass there must be a specific
claim that solid Carbon is generated in the fluidized bed. Cases
of doubt will be resolved in favor of placement in another subclass
under 444.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Process wherein gas containing a suspension of Iron compound
or reduced Iron compound is introduced into an apparatus tangentially
so as to create a swirl. This apparatus may be used to effect reduction
or to separate the Iron (Fe) produced from the gas.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Process wherein the solid to be reduced and a reducing gas
are fed into the apparatus, where reduction occurs, through the
same inlet.
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process wherein an Iron (Fe) compound is reduced in a shaft
furnace with solid reductant, normally coke, with a preheated forced
blast of gas containing gaseous Oxygen, normally air. A blast furnace
is operated in a continuous manner, with additional burden (i.e.,
solid Iron compound, reductant, and flux) being added at the top
of the furnace as the burden is consumed. Preheated gas containing
gaseous Oxygen (the "blast") is added under pressure through
tuyeres just above the level of molten Iron and slag produced by
the reduction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 458. Process wherein an additional substance other than ambient
air is intentionally added to the blast forced under pressure through
the tuyeres.
This subclass is indented under subclass 460. Process wherein the carbonaceous additive is a solid suspended
in a liquid, one or both of the solid and liquid containing Carbon
(C) in any form (free or combined).
This subclass is indented under subclass 463. Process wherein the carbonaceous gas is taken from the top
of the blast furnace and recycled to the tuyeres.
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10.1