U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
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U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
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Class 075
SPECIALIZED METALLURGICAL PROCESSES, COMPOSITIONS FOR USE
THEREIN, CONSOLIDATED METAL POWDER COMPOSITIONS, AND LOOSE
METAL PARTICULATE MIXTURES
Class Definition:
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.
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.
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.
505, Superconductor Technology: Apparatus, Material,
Process.
588, Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment.
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.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
65, Glass Manufacturing, 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)
148, 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)
164, Metal Founding, appropriate subclasses, particularly
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)
148, Metal Treatment, 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)
148, 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)
149, Explosive and Thermic Compositions or Charges, for
exothermic compositions for treating metalliferous materials.
See 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)
204, 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)
209, 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, 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)
241, 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)
252, 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)
264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes, 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)
266, Metallurgical Apparatus, 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)
419, 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)
420, 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, 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)
420, 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, 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)
423, 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)
423, 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, 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)
428, 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)
502, 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)
502, 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)
505, Superconductor Technology: Apparatus, Material, Process,
300, for metallurgical operation similar to Class 75
operations that involve material superconducting above 30
degrees Kelvin. (Process class)
507, 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)
508, 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)
588, Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment,
appropriate subclasses for the use of metals (molten or
otherwise) in the destruction or containment of hazardous or
toxic waste. (Process class)
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.
Aldebaranium = YTTERBIUM (Yb); Argentum = SILVER (Ag); Aurum
= GOLD (Au); Ausonium = NEPTUNIUM (Np); Austrium = GALLIUM
(Ga)
Cassiopeium = LUTETIUM (Lu); Celtium = LUTETIUM (Lu);
Columbium = NIOBIUM (Nb)
Demonium = DYSPROSIUM (Dy); Didymium = NEODYMIUM (Nd) and
PRASEODYMIUM (Pr); Dwimanganese = RHENIUM (Re)
Eka - aluminum = GALLIUM (Ga); Ekaboron = SCANDIUM (Sc);
Ekacesium = FRANCIUM (Fr); Ekamanganese = TECHNETIUM (Tc);
Ekasilicon = GERMANIUM (Ge); Ekatantalum = PROTACTINIUM (Pa);
Erythronium = VANADIUM (V)
Ferrum = IRON (Fe); Florentium = PROMETHIUM (Pm)
Glucinum = BERYLLIUM (Be); Hydrargyrum = MERCURY (Hg)
Illinium = PROMETHIUM (Pm); Kalium = POTASSIUM (K)
Lutecium = LUTETIUM (Lu); Masurium = TECHNETIUM (Tc)
Natrium = SODIUM (Na); Neoytterbium = YTTERBIUM (Yb)
Plumbum = LEAD (Pb)
Stannum = TIN (Sn); Stibnium = ANTIMONY (Sb)
Virginium = FRANCIUM (Fr); Wolfram = TUNGSTEN (W)
ACTINIDE*
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).
TRANSITION METAL*
A metal of the group Scandium (Sc), Titanium (Ti), Vanadium
(V), Chromium (Cr), Manganese (Mn), Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co),
Nickel (Ni), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), Yttrium (Y), Zirconium
(Zr), Niobium (Nb) or Columbium (Cb), Molybdenum (Mo),
Technetium (Tc), Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), Palladium
(Pd), Silver (Ag), Cadmium (Cd), 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), Lutetium (Lu), Hafnium (Hf), Tantalum (Ta),
Tungsten (W), Rhenium (Re), Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir),
Platinum (Pt), Gold (Au), Mercury (Hg), Actinium (Ac),
Thorium (Th), Protactinium (Pd), Uranium (U), Neptunium (Np),
Plutonium (Pu), Americium (Am), Curium (Cm), Berkelium (Bk),
Californium (Cf), Einesteinium (Es), Fermium (Fm),
Mendelevium (Md), Nobelium (No), Lawrencium (Lr),
Unnilquadium (Unq), Unnilpentium (Unp), and Unnilhexium
(Unh).
VERTICAL RETORT
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.
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
10.1
Electrothermic processes (e.g., microwave, induction,
resistance, electric arc, plasma, etc.):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
10.67 for the use of electromagnetic energy for stirring or
transporting without production of thermal energy therefrom.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
204, 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.
Subclass:
10.11
With zone melting or fractional crystallization:
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).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
117, 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.
Subclass:
10.12
Controlling process through sensed condition:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Processes in
which include regulating the electrothermic process through a
detected condition.
Subclass:
10.13
Electromagnetic wave energy (e.g., microwave, laser, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Processes in
which thermal energy is produced by electromagnetic wave
irradiation (e.g., microwave, laser, etc.).
Subclass:
10.14
Electrical induction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Processes
wherein an electric current is induced in the material being
treated to provide thermal energy.
Subclass:
10.15
Producing or treating Iron (Fe) or Iron alloy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.14. Process
wherein Iron (Fe) or an alloy containing Iron in any amount
is produced or treated.
Subclass:
10.16
With induced magnetic stirring:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.15. Process
wherein the material is mixed using induced magnetic energy.
Subclass:
10.17
With gaseous treating agent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.15. Process
which also involves the use of a gaseous material.
Subclass:
10.18
Producing or treating Aluminum (Al), Beryllium (Be), Cobalt
(Co), Chromium (Cr), Magnesium (Mg), Nickel (Ni), Titanium
(Ti), or alloy thereof:
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.
Subclass:
10.19
Plasma:
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.
Subclass:
10.2
Influenced by magnetic field:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.19. Process
wherein the plasma is influenced by a magnetic field.
Subclass:
10.21
Producing or treating Aluminum (Al) or Aluminum alloy:
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.
Subclass:
10.22
Producing or treating Iron (Fe) or Iron alloy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.19. Process
wherein Iron (Fe) or an alloy containing Iron in any amount
is produced or treated.
Subclass:
10.23
Consumable metal-containing electrode:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
164, Metal Founding, 48 for electrothermic processes
involving consumable electrodes that occur in the mold.
Subclass:
10.24
Electroslag remelting:
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.
Subclass:
10.25
Producing or treating Chromium (Cr), Cobalt (Co), Copper
(Cu), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), Titanium (Ti),
or alloy thereof:
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.
Subclass:
10.26
Producing or treating Titanium (Ti) or Zirconium (Zr) or
alloy thereof:
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.
Subclass:
10.27
Carbothermic reduction of Aluminum (Al) compound:
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.
Subclass:
10.28
With volatilization of metal halide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Process that
involves the gasification or formation and gasification of a
metal halide.
Subclass:
10.29
Distillation or volatilization of refined metal or compound
thereof:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Process
wherein refined metal or metal compound is condensed or
gasified.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
10.28 for volatilization of metal halides or subclass 10.27
for that carbothermic reduction of Aluminum (Al) compound
involves volatilization of aluminum.
Subclass:
10.3
Producing Zinc (Zn):
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.29. Process
wherein the volatilized metal is Zinc (Zn).
Subclass:
10.31
From consolidated material (e.g., briquette, pellet, etc.):
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.).
Subclass:
10.32
With electric arc:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.3. Process
wherein an electric arc is used.
Subclass:
10.33
Producing Magnesium (Mg):
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.29. Process
wherein the volatilized metal is Magnesium (Mg).
Subclass:
10.34
Rotating chamber:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Process
wherein a chamber or converter that rotates 360 degrees is
used.
Subclass:
10.35
Reducing or smelting slag or dross as starting material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Process in
which a slag or dross is the starting material that is
reduced or smelted.
Subclass:
10.36
Exhaust or top gas reused or treated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Process
wherein an exhaust or top gas from any process stage is
reused or treated.
Subclass:
10.37
With production of electrical energy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.36. Process
wherein all or a portion of the exhaust or top gas is used to
generate electrical energy.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, for residual processes of converting
exhaust to mechanical energy and generation of electrical
energy.
Subclass:
10.38
Producing or treating Iron (Fe) or Iron alloy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.36. Process
wherein Iron (Fe) or Iron containing alloy is produced or
treated.
Subclass:
10.39
Adding gaseous treating agent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Process
wherein a gaseous treating agent is injected into or onto, or
through the charge or melt.
Subclass:
10.4
Gas contains gaseous Oxygen:
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.
Subclass:
10.41
Producing or treating Iron (Fe) or Iron alloy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.4. Process
wherein Iron (Fe) or Iron containing alloy is produced.
Subclass:
10.42
With charge melting by electrothermal energy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.41. Process
wherein the charge is melted by electrothermal energy (e.g.,
in an electric furnace, etc.).
Subclass:
10.43
Hydrogen or Water vapor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.39. Process
wherein hydrogen or water vapor is the treating agent.
Subclass:
10.44
Carbon monoxide or Carbon dioxide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.39. Process
wherein Carbon monoxide or Carbon dioxide is the treating
agent.
Subclass:
10.45
Noble gas, Nitrogen, or inert gas not otherwise identified:
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.
Subclass:
10.46
Adding solid treating agent, slag, or flux:
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.
Subclass:
10.47
Magnesium (Mg) or compound thereof:
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.
Subclass:
10.48
Aluminum (Al) or compound thereof:
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.
Subclass:
10.49
Boron (B) or compound thereof:
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.
Subclass:
10.5
Silicon (Si) or compound thereof:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, 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+.
Subclass:
10.51
Ferrosilicon alloy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.5. Process
wherein a Ferrosilicon alloy is present in the treating
agent, separately prepared slag, or flux.
Subclass:
10.52
Silicon carbide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.5. Process
wherein Silicon carbide is present in the treating agent,
separately prepared slag, or flux.
Subclass:
10.53
With lime present:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.5. Process
wherein Calcium oxide (i.e., lime) is present with the
Silicon (Si) or Silicon compound.
Subclass:
10.54
Alkali metal, Alkaline earth metal, or compound thereof:
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.
Subclass:
10.55
Calcium fluoride (e.g., Fluorspar, Fluorite, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.54. Process
wherein Calcium fluoride (e.g., Fluorspar, Fluorite, etc.) is
the Alkaline earth metal compound.
Subclass:
10.56
Calcium carbide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.54. Process
wherein a Calcium carbide is the Alkaline earth metal
compound.
Subclass:
10.57
Calcium carbonate (e.g., limestone, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.54. Process
wherein Calcium carbonate is the Alkaline earth metal
compound.
Subclass:
10.58
Calcium oxide (e.g., lime, calx, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.54. Process
wherein a Calcium oxide (e.g., lime, calx, etc.) is the
Alkaline earth metal compound.
Subclass:
10.59
Carbon (C) containing material (e.g., Carbon, carbonaceous
material, Carbide, etc.):
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.
Subclass:
10.6
Producing or treating Iron (Fe) or Iron alloy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.59. Process
wherein Iron (Fe) or Iron containing alloy is produced or
treated.
Subclass:
10.61
With electric arc:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.6. Process
wherein an electric arc is used.
Subclass:
10.62
Reducing or smelting:
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.
Subclass:
10.63
Producing or treating Iron (Fe) or Iron alloy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.62. Process
wherein Iron (Fe) or Iron containing alloy is produced or
treated.
Subclass:
10.64
Vacuum purifying or degassing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Process
wherein reduced pressure is used to purify or degas the
molten metal.
Subclass:
10.65
Melting or holding melt:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.1. Process
wherein there is a melting step or a step of holding the
material in a molten state.
Subclass:
10.66
Producing or treating Iron (Fe) or Iron alloy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 10.65. Process
wherein Iron (Fe) or Iron containing alloy is produced or
treated.
Subclass:
10.67
Magnetic (e.g., electromagnetic, etc.) or electrostatic
processes:
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.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
10.1 for electrothermic processes for the intentional
production of heat.
Subclass:
228
Consolidated metal powder compositions:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
251 for unconsolidated mixtures of metal powder.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
102, Ammunition and Explosives, 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.
106, Compositions: Coating or Plastic, 403, for pigments,
fillers, and aggregates containing metal powder.
148, Metal Treatment, subclass 126.1 for processes involving
heat treatment of metal powders, or nonconsolidated metal
powder compositions.
149, Explosive and Thermic Compositions or Charges,
especially 37 for articulate metals in combination with an
oxidant component.
174, 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.
228, Metal Fusion Bonding, subclass 19 for an apparatus of
that class with a means to compact applied flux.
252, 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.
264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes, 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.
285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, subclass 422 for such
articles made of particular metal compositions.
338, Electrical Resistors, 223 for a granular or powdered
resistor element.
419, Powder Metallurgy Processes, 1 for powder metallurgy
processes which include use of heat.
420, 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.
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, 1 for processes of
treating mixtures such as alloys to obtain a metal compound
therefrom.
425, 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.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclass
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.
501, Compositions: Ceramic, appropriate subclasses for
ceramic compositions having metal powder, but lacking a
continuous metal matrix.
520, Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, particularly Class
523, 1 for a synthetic resin or natural rubber containing an
ingredient which may be metallic.
Subclass:
229
Flake or fibrous constituent or fibrous grain structure:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
191, Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles, subclass 45 and
59.1 for collectors of that class.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, especially
292, 549 and 567 for such material involving fibers.
Subclass:
230
With nonmetal constituent - Silicon (Si) considered a metal
(e.g., cermet, 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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
51, Abrasive Tool Making Process, Material, or Composition,
307 for an abrasive tool making process or inorganic
material to be used therein.
148, 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.
149, Explosive and Thermic Compositions or Charges, subclass
108.2 for a free metal-containing composition of that
class.
419, Powder Metallurgy Processes, 10 for powder metallurgy
processes including a nonmetal and involving sintering.
428, 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.
Subclass:
231
Molybdenum sulfide or functional constituent, (e.g.,
lubricant, abrasive, etc.):
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).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
51, Abrasive Tool Making Process, Material, or Composition,
subclass 309 for metal-containing compositions which are
consolidated products having a metal continuous phase.
106, Compositions: Coating or Plastic, subclass 36 for
compositions of that class specially designed for the
production of a tractive or friction surface.
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, 107 for elements of
such devices having modified engaging surfaces.
428, 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.
508, Solid Anti-Friction Devices, Materials Therefor,
Lubricant or Separant Compositions for Moving Solid Surfaces,
and Miscellaneous Mineral Oil Compositions, for lubricating
compositions, especially 100 for rigid lubricants and
bearings containing fluid lubricants.
Subclass:
232
Oxide containing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Composition
containing oxygen in chemically combined form.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
951 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.
Subclass:
233
With another nonmetal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Composition
containing another nonmetal besides oxygen.
(1) Note. See the definition of subclass 230, (1) Note, for
a list of elements considered to be nonmetals in this
classification schedule.
(2) Note. Nonmetal materials such as borates, carbonates,
nitrates, sulfates, etc., are classified herein.
Subclass:
234
Oxygen (O) associated with more than one metal:
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.
Subclass:
235
Oxide of Aluminum (Al), Beryllium (Be), Magnesium (Mg),
Alkaline earth metal, Scandium (Sc), Yttrium (Y), Lanthanide
metal, Actinide Metal, Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), or
Hafnium (Hf):
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:
Oxide, F, Oxide, F, Oxide, F
Y[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]O[subscrpt] [end subscrpt]125, Hfo,
105, TiO, 95
CaO 122, CeO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt], 105,
TiO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt], 85
La[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]O[subscrpt]3[end subscrpt], 121,
Al[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]O[subscrpt]3[end subscrpt], 104,
SiO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt], 78
BeO 120, ZrO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt], 100, Ta[subscrpt]2[end
subscrpt]O[subscrpt]5[end subscrpt], 75
ThO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt], 119, BaO, 97, V[subscrpt]2[end
subscrpt]O[subscrpt]3[end subscrpt], 74
MgO, 112, ZrSiO[subscrpt]4[end subscrpt], 95,
NbO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt], 70
UO[subscrpt]2 [end subscrpt]105, Cr[subscrpt]2[end
subscrpt]O, O[subscrpt]3[end subscrpt], 62
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
106, Compositions: Coating or Plastic, 85 for inorganic
settable compositions.
252, Compositions, 625 for radioactive compositions in
general.
264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes, subclass 0.5 for shaping or treating radioactive
material.
501, Compositions: Ceramic, 94 for a refractory ceramic
composition having a matrix of one or more of the above
oxides.
Subclass:
236
Carbide containing:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
233 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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
252, 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.
264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes, 603 for vitrifying or sintering a refractory
preform.
501, Compositions: Ceramic, 87 for ceramic compositions
which have a nonmetal matrix and contain a carbide.
Subclass:
237
With another nonmetal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 236. Composition
containing another nonmetal, other than carbide.
(1) Note. See the definition of subclass 230, (1) Note, for
a list of elements considered to be nonmetals in this
classification schedule.
(2) Note. Free carbon is considered to be "another nonmetal"
for this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
125, Stone Working, subclass 11 for dressing of grinding
wheels.
338, Electrical Resistors, subclass 330 for an electric
resistance element integral with a terminal.
425, Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus, subclass 470 for a shaping or casting surface of
that class.
Subclass:
238
Nonmetal is Boron (B) or Nitrogen (N):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
244 for a consolidated metal powder composition containing B
or N without carbide.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
419, 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.
Subclass:
239
Carbide only of Vanadium (V), Niobium (Nb) or Columbium (Cb),
or Tantalum (Ta):
This subclass is indented under subclass 236. Subject matter
restricted to the carbides of vanadium, niobium (columbium)
and/or tantalum.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
236 for similar compositions in which the carbide of a metal
other than a Group VB metal may be used alternatively to the
carbide of a Group VB metal.
241 for a composition in which a Group VB metal carbide is
used in addition to the carbide of a metal other than a Group
VB metal.
Subclass:
240
Carbide only of Chromium (Cr), Molybdenum (Mo), or Tungsten
(W):
This subclass is indented under subclass 236. Subject matter
restricted to the carbides of chromium, molybdenum and/or
tungsten.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
236 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).
241 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).
Subclass:
241
Carbon (C) associated with more than one metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 236. Composition
containing the carbides of more than one metal or containing
a carbide of plural metals.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
239 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.
240 for consolidated metal powder compositions containing
carbon associated with two metals, both selected from
Chromium (Cr), Molybdenum (Mo), and Tungsten (W)
exclusively.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
204, Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, subclass 294 for
a carbon-containing electrolytic electrode composition.
Subclass:
242
Free metal is Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), or Nickel (Ni) only:
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).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
241 for compositions in which the binder may contain other
metals in addition to, or alternatively to, Iron (Fe), Cobalt
(Co) and Nickel (Ni).
Subclass:
243
Nonmetal is elemental Carbon (C) only:
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).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
230 for a composition containing elemental carbon plus a
nonmetal other than oxide, carbide, boron or nitrogen.
231 for a composition wherein elemental carbon (e.g.,
graphite, diamond) is not claimed as such, but only
designated as a lubricant, abrasive, etc.
233 for a composition containing elemental carbon in
addition to an oxide.
237 for a composition containing elemental carbon in
addition to a carbide.
244 for a composition containing elemental carbon in
addition to nitrogen or boron.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
501, Compositions: Ceramic, 99 for refractory ceramic
compositions containing elemental carbon.
Subclass:
244
Containing Boron (B) or Nitrogen (N):
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Compositions
in which the nonmetal component is boron and/or nitrogen,
including boron nitride.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
233 for consolidated metal powder compositions containing
borax.
238 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.
254 for a loose powder composition containing metal
particles and particles which contain boron.
Subclass:
245
Base metal one or more of transition metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 228. Composition in
which half or more of the composition, by weight, comprises
one or more, exclusively, of transition elements (i.e.,
Scandium (Sc), Titanium (Ti), Vanadium (V), Chromium (Cr),
Manganese (Mn), Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), Nickel (Ni), Copper
(Cu), Zinc (Zn), Yttrium (Y), Zirconium (Zr), Niobium (Nb) or
Columbium (Cb), Molybdenum (Mo), Technetium (Tc), Ruthenium
(Ru), Rhodium (Rh), Palladium (Pd), Silver (Ag), Cadmium
(Cd), 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), Lutetium
(Lu), Hafnium (Hf), Tantalum (Ta), Tungsten (W), Rhenium
(Re), Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir), Platinum (Pt), Gold (Au),
Mercury (Hg), 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), and
Unnilhexium (Unh).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
252, Compositions, 62.3 for barrier-layer device
compositions, and subclass 301.4 for a fluorescent or
phosphorescent composition containing a transition metal.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for the following
alloys made by melting (fusion) techniques; 417 for a
zirconium base alloy; subclasses 425+ for a niobium
(columbium) base alloy; and subclass 427 for a tantalum base
alloy.
Subclass:
246
Base metal one or more of Iron group, Copper (Cu), or Noble
metal:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
28 for pyrometallurgy of iron and steel.
123 for ferrous alloys.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
252, 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.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for the following
alloys made by melting (fusion) techniques; 435 for a cobalt
base alloy; and subclasses 441+ for a nickel base alloy.
Subclass:
247
Base metal one or more of Copper (Cu) or Noble metal:
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)).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
245 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.
246 for such composition which may have a base of iron,
nickel or cobalt alternative to a copper or noble-metal
base.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
252, Compositions, subclass 514 for an electrically
conductive or emissive composition containing a noble metal.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for the following
alloys made by melting (fusion) techniques; 466 for a
platinum base alloy; subclasses 501+ for a silver base alloy;
and subclasses 507+ for a gold base alloy.
Subclass:
248
Base metal confined to Tungsten (W):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
245 to complete a search for consolidated metal powder
compositions having a tungsten base.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
252, 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.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, 430 for a tungsten
base alloy made by complete melting (fusion) techniques.
Subclass:
249
Base metal one or more of Beryllium (Be), Magnesium (Mg), or
Aluminum (Al):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
228 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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
420, 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.
Subclass:
250
Base metal is Beryllium (Be) only:
This subclass is indented under subclass 249. Subject matter
in which the base metal is confined to beryllium.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
249 to complete a search for consolidated metal particle
compositions which are half or more Be.
Subclass:
252
Mixture contains particles of nonmetal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. 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+).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
230 for products resulting from the consolidation of
particle mixtures of this subclass, and the definition of
subclass 230 for a list of nonmetal elements.
256 for consolidated compositions having metal particles
distributed in a nonmetal continuous phase, such compositions
being designed for use as charges to a metallurgical
furnace.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
44, Fuel and Related Compositions, 252 for a mixture of a
particulate metal with a nonmetal which can react
exothermically with it by activation with water.
106, 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.
148, 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+).
149, Explosive and Thermic Compositions or Charges,
especially 37, 87 and 108.2 for a mixture of a particulate
metal with a nonmetal which can react exothermically with
it.
228, 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.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclass 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.
Subclass:
253
Halogen containing particles:
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.
Subclass:
254
Boron (B) containing particles:
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Subject matter
in which the nonmetal is boron or a boron compound.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
253 for such compositions containing a halogen compound, as
well as boron or a boron compound.
Subclass:
255
Loose particulate mixture (i.e., composition) containing
metal particles:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
228 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.
331 for processes of producing solid particulate free metal
directly from liquid metal.
343 for processes of producing or purifying free metal
powder or producing or purifying alloys in powder form.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
106, Compositions: Coating or Plastic, 403 for metal
particle mixtures to be used as a pigment or filler for such
compositions.
228, 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.
252, Compositions, 181.1 for "getter" compositions, which
may contain metal particles.
417, Pumps, 48 for a getter-type pump.
419, Powder Metallurgy Processes, 1 for powder metallurgy
processes including sintering.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for a free metal or a
single alloy or metallic composition in particulate form.
427, Coating Processes, 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.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, 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.).
Subclass:
300
COMPOSITIONS:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
330 for processes of making a metallurgical treating agent
which process does not involve consolidation.
746 for processes of making a metallurgical treating agent
which process involves consolidation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
44, Fuel and Related Compositions, for fuel compositions
intended to provide only heat for a Class 75 or Class 420
operation.
48, Gas: Heating and Illuminating, for gas compositions
intended to provide only heat for a Class 75 or Class 420
operation.
106, 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.
148, Metal Treatment, for compositions for treating solid
metals (e.g., soldering flux, galvanizing flux, welding
composition, surface treating compositions, etc.) and 240
for reactive coating compositions that react with a metal
base to form a coating thereon.
149, Explosive and Thermic Compositions or Charges, for
exothermic compositions for treating metalliferous materials.
Particularly, see 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.
219, Electric Heating, for electric heating devices,
particularly 145.1 for welding rod or electrode having
significant structure and defined by composition.
228, 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.
252, Compositions, for physical separation, etching or
brightening, descaling, detergents, getters, chemical agents,
solids with solution or dispersion aids, solvents, gaseous
compositions, preservation agents.
420, 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.
428, 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.
501, Compositions: Ceramic, for glass and refractory
compositions containing metalliferous materials.
502, Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product or
Process of Making, for catalysts or solid sorbents that
contain metalliferous materials.
Subclass:
301
Reactive furnace lining:
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.
Subclass:
302
Welding rod or electrode defined by composition:
This subclass is indented under subclass 300. A welding rod
or electrode defined by composition and without significant
structure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
219, Electric Heating, 146.1 for welding rod compositions.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, if the welding rod
without significant structure contains only elemental metal
and no other ingredients (e.g., flux, etc.).
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, 385 for metal
substrate with weld modifying coating.
Subclass:
303
Solid treating composition for liquid metal (e.g., flux,
slagging agent, casting agent, etc.) or charge:
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.
Subclass:
304
In wire, container, or article with surface feature:
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.
Subclass:
305
For casting or teeming operation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 303. Composition
for treating molten metal in the mold or while being poured
in the mold.
(1) Note. Patents having claims to both a Class 164 process
and a Class 75 composition go to Class 164 as original and
are crossed to Class 75.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
164, Metal Founding, for processes of treating molten metal
in a teeming or casting operation.
Subclass:
306
For electrothermic operation (e.g., electroslag remelting,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 303. Composition
for use in electrothermic processes (e.g., electroslag
remelting, etc.).
Subclass:
307
Containing Boron (B) compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 303. Composition
containing a Boron (B) compound (e.g., Borax, Boron halide,
Boron carbide, etc.).
Subclass:
308
Containing Halide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 303. Composition
containing a binary compound of a metal and a Halogen.
Subclass:
309
Containing Fluoride:
This subclass is indented under subclass 308. Composition
wherein the Halogen is Fluorine (F) (e.g., Fluorspar,
Fluorite, etc.).
Subclass:
310
And consolidated:
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.
Subclass:
311
And consolidated:
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.
Subclass:
312
Containing Carbide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 303. Composition
containing a Carbide (e.g., Calcium carbide, Silicon carbide,
etc.).
Subclass:
313
Composition for or from consolidating by agglomerating,
calcinating, compacting, indurating, roasting, sintering, or
solidifying from 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.
Subclass:
314
Containing free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 313. Consolidated
composition that contains metal in the zero valent or free
metal state.
Subclass:
315
Aluminum (Al) or Magnesium (Mg) as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 314. Composition
wherein Aluminum (Al) or Magnesium (Mg) is the free metal.
Subclass:
316
Iron (Fe), Iron scrap, or Iron alloy as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 314. Composition
containing Iron (Fe), Iron scrap, or Iron alloy wherein Iron
is the free metal.
Subclass:
317
And coal, coke, pitch, asphalt, or tar:
This subclass is indented under subclass 316. Composition
which contains coal, coke, pitch, asphalt, or tar.
Subclass:
318
And clay (e.g., bentonite, montmorillonite, etc.), cement, or
Alkali metal silicate:
This subclass is indented under subclass 316. Composition
which contains clay (e.g., bentonite, montmorillonite, etc.),
cement, or Alkali metal silicate.
Subclass:
319
Containing Iron (Fe) compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 313. Composition
containing an Iron compound.
Subclass:
320
And coal, coke, pitch, asphalt, or tar:
This subclass is indented under subclass 319. Composition
which contains coal, coke, pitch, asphalt, or tar.
Subclass:
321
And synthetic polymer, natural polymer, or carbohydrate:
This subclass is indented under subclass 319. Composition
which contains synthetic polymer, natural polymer, or
carbohydrate.
Subclass:
322
And 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.
Subclass:
323
And Alkaline earth metal compound or Aluminum (Al) compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 319. Composition
containing an Alkaline earth metal compound or Aluminum (Al)
compound.
Subclass:
324
Containing Zinc (Zn) compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 313. Composition
containing a Zinc (Zn) compound.
Subclass:
325
Containing coal, coke, pitch, asphalt, or tar:
This subclass is indented under subclass 313. Composition
which contains coal, coke, pitch, asphalt, or tar.
Subclass:
326
Containing 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.
Subclass:
327
Containing Alkaline earth metal compound or Aluminum (Al)
compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 313. Composition
containing an Alkaline earth metal compound or Aluminum (Al)
compound.
Subclass:
328
Containing free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 303. Composition
that contains metal in the zero valent or free metal state.
Subclass:
329
Containing Alkaline earth metal compound or Aluminum (Al)
compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 303. Composition
containing an Alkaline earth metal compound or Aluminum (Al)
compound.
Subclass:
330
PROCESSES:
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.
Subclass:
331
Producing solid particulate free metal directly from liquid
metal (e.g., liquid comminuting, etc.):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
355 for processes of comminuting a liquid solution or
dispersion to obtain a discrete powder form.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
117, Single-Crystal, Oriented-Crystal, and Epitaxy Growth
Processes; Non-Coating Apparatus Therefor, especially
subclass 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.
264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes, 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.
Subclass:
332
With subsequent coating of the particles:
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Process in
which the solidified particles are coated.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
427, Coating Processes, 212 for processes of coating
particles, flakes, or granules.
Subclass:
333
Utilizing centrifugal force or rotating forming zone to
comminute liquid metal:
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.
Subclass:
334
Including directing liquid metal onto rotating disc:
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Process in
which liquid metal is directed against a rotating thin, flat,
circular plate.
Subclass:
335
By vibrating or agitating:
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.
Subclass:
336
Utilizing electrothermic energy to comminute:
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Process in
which electrothermic energy is employed to comminute the
liquid metal into particles.
Subclass:
337
By impinging plural liquid streams:
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Process in
which the particles are formed by causing plural liquid
streams to collide forcibly.
(1) Note. The liquid streams may be of the particle forming
metal only or of both particle forming metal and nonparticle
forming material.
Subclass:
338
By impinging or atomizing with gaseous jet or blast:
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.
Subclass:
339
Gas used is air:
This subclass is indented under subclass 338. Process in
which the gas used is air.
Subclass:
340
By extrusion spraying or gravity fall through orifice:
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.
Subclass:
341
Into moving fluid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 340. Process in
which the formed particles pass into or through moving fluid
medium.
Subclass:
342
Spheroidizing or rounding of existing solid metal particles:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
148, 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.
264, 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.
Subclass:
343
Producing or purifying free metal powder or producing or
purifying alloys in powder form (i.e., named or of size up to
1000 microns in its largest dimension):
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".
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
711 for processes in which nonmetallic material which is
liquid under standard conditions is used to form a
precipitate.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
117, Single-Crystal, Oriented-Crystal, and Epitaxy Growth
Processes; Non-Coating Apparatus Therefor, especially
subclass 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.
148, Metal Treatment, 240 for processes in which a reactive
coating is produced on solid metal.
148, Metal Treatment, subclass 11.5 for processes in which a
powder metal or powder alloy is subjected to working and heat
treatment.
148, Metal Treatment, subclass 126.1 for processes in which
a particulate metal or particulate alloy is subjected to heat
treatment.
419, Powder Metallurgy Processes, 30 for processes which
include preliminary significant treatment, preparation, or
manufacture of the powder, prior to any compacting or
sintering.
427, Coating Processes, 212, for processes in which a
particulate metal or particulate alloy is coated.
Subclass:
344
Radioactive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 343. Process in
which the free metal or alloy or metallic composition is
radioactive.
Subclass:
345
Utilizing electrothermic, magnetic, or wave energy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 343. Process in
which electrothermic, magnetic, or wave energy is used.
Subclass:
346
Utilizing plasma:
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.
Subclass:
347
Utilizing magnetism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 345. Process in
which magnetism is used.
Subclass:
348
Producing or purifying named magnetic material:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
148, 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.
Subclass:
349
Using Phosphorus(P), Boron (B), or Silicon (Si) or compound
thereof:
This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Process in
which Phosphorus(P), Boron (B) or Silicon (Si) or compound
thereof is used.
Subclass:
350
Using Alkaline earth metal or compound thereof:
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.
Subclass:
351
Producing alloy:
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.
Subclass:
352
Including comminution:
This subclass is indented under subclass 351. Process in
which comminution is used in the production of the powder
form.
Subclass:
353
Utilizing scrap material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 343. Process in
which scrap material is used as a starting material.
Subclass:
354
Including comminution:
This subclass is indented under subclass 343. Process in
which a liquid mass or solid is comminuted to obtain a
discrete powder form.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
331 for processes of producing solid particulate free metal
directly from liquid metal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, 1 for
processes of comminuting a solid without a metallurgical
step.
Subclass:
355
Directly from liquid mass (e.g., by atomizing, etc.):
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.
Subclass:
356
And shaping or sintering prior to comminution:
This subclass is indented under subclass 354. Process in
which the solid is shaped or sintered prior to comminution.
Subclass:
357
With step at 300 degrees C or greater:
This subclass is indented under subclass 354. Process in
which at least one process step is performed at a temperature
of 300 degrees C or greater.
Subclass:
358
Use of salt bath:
This subclass is indented under subclass 357. Process in
which a salt melt is used.
Subclass:
359
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 357. Process in
which a metal compound is reduced to free metal.
Subclass:
360
Use of gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 357. Process in
which gas is used.
Subclass:
361
Using nonmetallic material which is liquid under standard
conditions:
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.
Subclass:
362
Decomposition of organo-compound containing metal or metal
carbonyl:
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.
Subclass:
363
At 300 degrees C or greater:
This subclass is indented under subclass 343. Process in
which at least one process step is performed at a temperature
of 300 degrees C or greater.
Subclass:
364
Combined with step at less than 300 degrees C using
nonmetallic material which is liquid under standard
conditions:
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.
Subclass:
365
Step at 300 degrees C or greater after step at less than 300
degrees C using 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.
Subclass:
366
Utilizing a fluidized bed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 363. Process in
which a material undergoing treatment is in a highly
dispersed state in a gaseous medium.
Subclass:
367
Vaporizing or condensing free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 363. Process in
which the metal or alloy or metallic composition is vaporized
or condensed.
Subclass:
368
Settling of powder in molten metal or salt bath:
This subclass is indented under subclass 363. Process in
which a free metal settles as a powder from a molten metal or
salt bath.
Subclass:
369
Purifying powdered metal or reducing powdered metal compound
to free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 363. Process in
which powdered metal is purified or a powdered metal compound
is reduced.
Subclass:
370
Using nonmetallic material which is liquid under standard
conditions:
This subclass is indented under subclass 343. Process in
which a nonmetallic material which is liquid under standard
conditions is used.
Subclass:
371
And settling of free metal from solution:
This subclass is indented under subclass 370. Process in
which a free metal settles as a powder from a solution.
Subclass:
372
Displacing by another metal (i.e., electromotive series):
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.
Subclass:
373
Copper (Cu) recovered:
This subclass is indented under subclass 371. Process in
which the metal that is recovered by displacement is Copper
(Cu).
Subclass:
374
Nickel (Ni) or Cobalt (Co) recovered:
This subclass is indented under subclass 371. Process in
which the metal that is recovered by displacement is Nickel
(Ni) or Cobalt (Co).
Subclass:
375
Process control responsive to sensed condition:
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.
Subclass:
376
Removing material from process to sense condition:
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.
Subclass:
377
Material removed is molten metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 376. Process in
which the sample taken from the process is molten metal.
Subclass:
378
Pressure sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 375. Process in
which the pressure of the material is determined.
Subclass:
379
Of feed gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 378. Process in
which the pressure of a gas being fed to the process is
determined.
Subclass:
380
Temperature sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 375. Process in
which the temperature of the material is determined.
Subclass:
381
Of waste gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 380. Process in
which the temperature of the waste gas is determined.
Subclass:
382
Of molten metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 380. Process in
which the temperature of the molten metal is determined.
Subclass:
383
Of sintered material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 380. Process in
which the temperature of the sintered material is
determined.
Subclass:
384
Composition sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 375. Process in
which the composition of the material is determined.
Subclass:
385
Of waste gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 384. Process in
which the composition of the off-gas is determined.
Subclass:
386
Characteristic of treated material sensed (e.g., density,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 375. Process in
which a physical or mechanical characteristic of the treated
material is determined.
Subclass:
387
Flow rate sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 375. Process in
which the flow rate of the material is determined.
Subclass:
388
Preparing for amalgamation, preparing and amalgamating or
breaking amalgam to produce free metal:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
205, Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein, and
Methods of Preparing the Compositions, appropriate subclasses
for electrolytic treatment of noble metal containing material
or solutions thereof.
209, 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.).
423, 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.
Subclass:
389
And displacing with a metal other than Mercury (Hg):
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.
Subclass:
390
Utilizing a Halogen containing agent:
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.
Subclass:
391
Utilizing a Nitrogen (N) containing agent:
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.
Subclass:
392
Producing or treating free metal:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
148, 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.
Subclass:
393
Utilizing Radioactive material, producing or treating
Radioactive metal:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for processes for
making a Radioactive alloy.
Subclass:
394
Thorium (Th):
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.
Subclass:
395
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 394. Process in
which a Thorium (Th) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
396
Plutonium (Pu):
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.
Subclass:
397
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 396. Process in
which a Plutonium (Pu) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
398
Uranium (U):
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.
Subclass:
399
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 398. Process in
which a Uranium (U) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
400
Free metal production from sea nodules:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, 49, for a process of
obtaining a manganese compound or manganese values from sea
nodules without reduction to elemental metal.
Subclass:
401
Treating multi-component metal-containing scrap having an
integral substrate to separate metal therefrom by temperature
modification or chemical process at 300 degrees C or greater
wherein at least one metal remains solid during separation:
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.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
711 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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
29, Metal Working, 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.
134, 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.
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, 90, for detinning in
which a Tin (Sn) compound is produced.
521, Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, 40, for processes
of treating scrap or waste product containing solid organic
polymer to recover a solid polymer therefrom.
Subclass:
402
Utilizing molten salt bath:
This subclass is indented under subclass 401. Process in
which a molten salt bath is used in the separation.
Subclass:
403
Removing nonmetal from metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 401. Process in
which a material other than free metal is removed from
metal.
Subclass:
404
Separating liquid metal by centrifuging:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
164, Metal Founding, 114, for use of centrifugal force when
shaping liquid metal against a forming surface.
Subclass:
405
Removing gas from liquid metal by use of gas permeable
membrane:
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
95, 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.).
Subclass:
406
Adsorbing impurity from vaporous or liquid metal:
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.
Subclass:
407
Filtering vaporous or liquid metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 392. Process in
which vaporous or liquid metal passes through a filter.
Subclass:
408
Alkali metal, singly or in combination:
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.
Subclass:
409
Magnesium (Mg):
This subclass is indented under subclass 407. Process in
which the vaporous or liquid metal contains over 50 percent
by weight Magnesium (Mg).
Subclass:
410
Noble metal, 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.
Subclass:
411
Copper (Cu):
This subclass is indented under subclass 407. Process in
which the vaporous or liquid metal contains over 50 percent
by weight Copper (Cu).
Subclass:
412
Aluminum (Al):
This subclass is indented under subclass 407. Process in
which the vaporous or liquid metal contains over 50 percent
by weight Aluminum (Al).
Subclass:
413
From metal carbonyl or Carbon monoxide complex:
This subclass is indented under subclass 392. Process in
which free metal is obtained from a metal carbonyl or a
Carbon monoxide complex.
Subclass:
414
At 300 degrees C or greater (e.g., pyrometallurgy, etc.):
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.
Subclass:
415
Foam:
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Process which
produces a metal product which has a mass of pores.
(1) Note. The pores may either be interconnected or closed
cells.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclass 613
for porous or foamed metallic stock material.
Subclass:
416
Combined with step at less than 300 degrees C using
nonmetallic material which is liquid under standard
conditions (e.g., hydrometallurgy, etc.):
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.
Subclass:
417
Obtaining metal from photos:graphic waste:
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Process
wherein the source of metal is photos:graphic waste.
(1) Note. Examples of photos:graphic waste are scrap film
and spent photos:graphic solutions. The metal recovered is
usually silver.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
430, Radiation Imagery Chemistry: Process, Composition, or
Product Thereof, for a process which includes a
photos:graphic 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 photos:graphic developing solution to regenerate the
solution for further use.
Subclass:
418
Obtaining metal from electrolytic slime:
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.
Subclass:
419
Step at less than 300 degrees C using nonmetallic material
which is liquid under standard conditions after a step at 300
degrees C or greater:
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.
Subclass:
420
Step at less than 300 degrees C using nonmetallic material
which is liquid under standard conditions is reduction to
free metal:
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.
Subclass:
421
Noble metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 420. Process
wherein the free metal produced is a Noble metal.
Subclass:
422
Silver (Ag):
This subclass is indented under subclass 421. Process
wherein the Noble metal produced is Silver (Ag).
Subclass:
423
Gold (Au):
This subclass is indented under subclass 421. Process
wherein the Noble metal produced is Gold (Au).
Subclass:
424
Copper (Cu):
This subclass is indented under subclass 420. Process
wherein the free metal produced is Copper (Cu).
Subclass:
425
Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), or Nickel (Ni):
This subclass is indented under subclass 420. Process
wherein the free metal produced is Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), or
Nickel (Ni).
Subclass:
426
Noble metal obtained:
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Process
wherein the metal obtained is a Noble metal.
Subclass:
427
Silver (Ag):
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Process
wherein the metal obtained is Silver (Ag).
Subclass:
428
Gold (Au):
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Process
wherein the metal obtained is Gold (Au).
Subclass:
429
Copper (Cu) obtained:
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Process
wherein the metal obtained is Copper (Cu).
Subclass:
430
Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), or Nickel (Ni) obtained:
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Process
wherein the metal obtained is Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), or
Nickel (Ni).
Subclass:
431
Zinc (Zn), Cadmium (Cd), or Mercury (Hg) obtained:
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Process
wherein the metal obtained is Zinc (Zn), Cadmium (Cd), or
Mercury (Hg).
Subclass:
432
Tin (Sn) or Lead (Pb) obtained:
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Process
wherein the metal obtained is Tin (Sn) or Lead (Pb).
Subclass:
433
Iron (Fe):
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.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
148, 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.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, subclass 88 for
process of preparing ferrophosphorus whether or not any
proportions are specified.
420, 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.
420, 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.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, subclass 578 for
processes of preparing ferrosilicon containing over 50
percent Silicon.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, subclass 591 for
processes of preparing ferroboron containing over 50 percent
Boron.
Subclass:
434
With concurrent production of hydraulic cement:
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).
Subclass:
435
With concurrent production of Titanium dioxide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process
wherein Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is produced concurrently with
Iron (Fe).
Subclass:
436
With consolidation (e.g., pelletizing, etc.) of solid
metallic Iron (Fe) product after reduction:
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.
Subclass:
437
Reducing Iron (Fe) halide:
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.
Subclass:
438
Making wrought Iron (Fe):
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.
Subclass:
439
Pouring molten Iron (Fe) into molten slag (i.e., aston
process):
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.
Subclass:
440
Utilizing moving hearth:
This subclass is indented under subclass 438. Process
wherein the Iron (Fe) is treated on a moving hearth (e.g.,
rocking, etc.).
Subclass:
441
Directly from Iron (Fe) compound only (no metallic 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.
Subclass:
442
In moving furnace:
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.).
Subclass:
443
Reducing in gaseous suspension:
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.
Subclass:
444
Fluidized bed:
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.
Subclass:
445
With melting of Iron (Fe):
This subclass is indented under subclass 444. Process which
includes melting of the metallic Iron (Fe) produced.
Subclass:
446
Outside the fluidized bed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 445. Process
wherein the metallic Iron (Fe) produced in the fluidized bed
is melted outside the fluidized bed.
Subclass:
447
With solid in fluidized bed in addition to reducible Iron
(Fe) compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 444. Process
wherein the fluidized bed contains a solid material in
addition to the reducible Iron (Fe) compound.
Subclass:
448
Carbon (C):
This subclass is indented under subclass 447. Process
wherein the solid is Carbon (C).
Subclass:
449
Generated in situ:
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.
Subclass:
450
Using plural fluidized bed furnaces:
This subclass is indented under subclass 444. Process in
which the solid material passes from one fluidized bed
furnace to another.
Subclass:
451
Using plural fluidized bed zones within a furnace:
This subclass is indented under subclass 444. Process which
employs two or more separate fluidized bed zones within a
single outer shell.
Subclass:
452
Solid product produced (without melting):
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Process in
which solid elemental Iron (Fe) is produced without melting.
Subclass:
453
Cyclone apparatus used:
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.
Subclass:
454
Using same inlet to feed solid and 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.
Subclass:
455
Inlet is a burner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Process
wherein the gas is combustible and is ignited immediately
upon leaving the inlet.
(1) Note. This and the indented subclass include so called
"flash smelting".
Subclass:
456
Burner is horizontal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 455. Process
wherein the inlet projects the solid-gas mixture into the
apparatus horizontally.
Subclass:
457
Inlet feeds upwardly:
This subclass is indented under subclass 454. Process
wherein the gas and solid are fed to the reducing apparatus
in an upward direction.
Subclass:
458
Blast furnace reduction to produce molten Iron (Fe):
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.
Subclass:
459
Using additive to the blast:
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.
Subclass:
460
Carbonaceous:
This subclass is indented under subclass 459. Process
wherein the added substance contains Carbon (C) in any form
(free or combined).
Subclass:
461
Slurry of solid in liquid:
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).
Subclass:
462
Liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 460. Process
wherein the carbonaceous additive is a liquid at ordinary
room temperature.
Subclass:
463
Gaseous:
This subclass is indented under subclass 460. Process in
which the carbonaceous additive is a gas at ordinary
temperature and pressure.
Subclass:
464
Recycled off gas:
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.
Subclass:
465
Water:
This subclass is indented under subclass 459. Process
wherein water is added to the blast.
(1) Note. The water may be added as a liquid or a vapor.
Subclass:
466
Oxygen enrichment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 459. Process
wherein the blast contains more gaseous oxygen than the
ambient air.
Subclass:
467
Tapping molten product:
This subclass is indented under subclass 458. Process
including a step of tapping a molten product from the blast
furnace (e.g., molten Iron, slag, etc.).
Subclass:
468
Top gas recovery:
This subclass is indented under subclass 458. Process which
includes a step of handling, treating, or using the gas which
comes off the top of the blast furnace after passing through
the burden (e.g., by recovering a byproduct, removing
pollutants, or recovering heat, etc.).
Subclass:
469
Specified method of charging burden:
This subclass is indented under subclass 458. Process in
which the charging of solid material at the top of the
furnace is recited in more detail than a single step of
nominal charging.
Subclass:
470
Defined composition of slag:
This subclass is indented under subclass 458. Process
wherein the composition of the molten slag produced in the
process is of a defined composition other than nominal
"slag."
Subclass:
471
Defined composition of reductant:
This subclass is indented under subclass 458. Process
wherein the composition of the reductant of the Iron (Fe)
compound is defined as other than nominal coke.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
460 for a process of adding carbonaceous material through
the tuyeres with the oxygen containing blast, which material
may be a reductant.
Subclass:
472
Defined composition of Iron (Fe) source:
This subclass is indented under subclass 458. Process
wherein the composition of the Iron (Fe) source is
specified.
(1) Note. Mere nominal "ore" is excluded.
Subclass:
473
Reduction in closed retort (e.g., Hoganas process, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process
wherein no substance is added to the batch during the
reduction (e.g., heating a closed mixture of ore and Carbon
(C), etc.).
(1) Note. The closed retort may be a container, as in the
Hoganas process.
Subclass:
474
Reduction in rotary kiln:
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process
wherein a reducible Iron (Fe) compound is reduced to metallic
Iron in an approximately cylindrical vessel rotating on its
axis. The axis is horizontal or inclined less than 45 degrees
from horizontal. The vessel rotates in only one direction
through an angle of over 360 degrees during the reduction and
rotates substantially continuously.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
484 for reduction in an apparatus which does not rotate over
360 degrees or oscillates back and forth during the
reduction.
Subclass:
475
With melting of Iron (Fe) product:
This subclass is indented under subclass 474. Process
wherein the metallic Iron (Fe) product is melted.
Subclass:
476
Iron (Fe) product melted within rotary kiln:
This subclass is indented under subclass 475. Process
wherein the Iron (Fe) product is melted within the rotary
kiln.
Subclass:
477
Introducing solid reductant into rotary kiln:
This subclass is indented under subclass 474. Process
wherein a solid substance which reduces an Iron (Fe) compound
to metallic Iron is introduced into the rotary kiln.
(1) Note. The solid reductant may be charged by itself or in
admixture with other ingredients.
Subclass:
478
Solid reductant is recycled:
This subclass is indented under subclass 477. Process
wherein solid reductant discharged from the rotary kiln is
recycled back into the rotary kiln.
(1) Note. The solid reductant is usually discharged from the
kiln with Iron (Fe), separated from the Iron (Fe), and then
recycled.
Subclass:
479
Any part of the charge is consolidated by agglomerating,
compacting, indurating, or sintering (e.g., pelletized ore,
flux, or reductant, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 477. Process
wherein any or all components of the material charged into
the rotary kiln are consolidated by agglomerating,
compacting, indurating, or sintering.
(1) Note. The components such as ore, flux, or reductant may
be separately consolidated or several ingredients may be
combined and consolidated together (e.g., pellets of combined
ore and coke, etc.).
Subclass:
480
Reducible Iron (Fe) compound and solid reductant fed through
same end of rotary kiln:
This subclass is indented under subclass 477. Process
wherein solid reductant and reducible Iron (Fe) compound are
fed into the rotary kiln from the same end of the kiln.
Subclass:
481
Mixed prior to charging:
This subclass is indented under subclass 480. Process in
which reducible Iron (Fe) compound and solid reductant are
mixed together prior to charging and the mixture is then
charged.
Subclass:
482
With generation of gaseous reductant outside rotary kiln:
This subclass is indented under subclass 474. Process
employing a gaseous reductant which is generated outside the
rotary kiln in a separate device (e.g., coal gasifier,
etc.).
Subclass:
483
Superposed multiple hearth reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process in
which a reducible Iron (Fe) compound is passed downwardly
from one hearth to another hearth located immediately below
during its reduction to metallic Iron. Usually there are
three or more superposed hearths with the reducible Iron
compound passing downward from hearth to hearth during the
process.
Subclass:
484
Moving furnace or hearth (e.g., moving belt, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process which
employs a furnace wherein the part containing or supporting
the reducible Iron (Fe) compound moves during the reduction.
The movement need not be continuous, but may be intermittent
only.
(1) Note. The furnace or hearth must move during the
reduction. Movement merely to charge or discharge the
contents is not enough for this subclass and is placed below
on another basis.
(2) Note. If the part of the furnace which supports the
reducible Iron (Fe) compound moves during the reduction,
classification is proper thereunder even if the heating
apparatus is stationary (e.g., charge on moving belt in
furnace, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
473 for batch reduction system wherein closed containers of
reductant and reducible Iron compound are pushed through a
kiln.
Subclass:
485
Reduction in molten state:
This subclass is indented under subclass 484. Process
wherein some material is molten during the reduction (e.g.,
slag, Iron, etc.) and ingredients for carrying out the
reduction are added to the melt.
Subclass:
486
Heating reduction zone by heat conducted through walls of
zone:
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process
wherein a reducible Iron (Fe) compound is reduced in a zone
in which at least part of the heat required for the reduction
is supplied by conduction through the walls of the zone
(e.g., external heating of apparatus, etc.).
Subclass:
487
Shaft furnace:
This subclass is indented under subclass 486. Process
wherein the apparatus whose exterior is heated is a shaft
furnace.
Subclass:
488
Reduction to metallic Iron (Fe) within shaft furnace:
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process
wherein an Iron (Fe) compound is reduced in a shaft furnace.
Subclass:
489
Externally supplied gas reductant:
This subclass is indented under subclass 488. Process
wherein a gaseous reductant is introduced into the shaft
furnace from outside the furnace.
(1) Note. This and indented subclasses do not exclude the
presence of solid reductant in the shaft furnace as long as a
gaseous reductant is also supplied to the furnace from
outside.
Subclass:
490
Solid Iron (Fe) produced within shaft furnace:
This subclass is indented under subclass 489. Process
wherein an Iron (Fe) compound is reduced to solid metallic
Iron within the shaft furnace without melting the so produced
Iron.
(1) Note. The processes in this and indented subclasses are
sometimes referred to as "direct reduction".
Subclass:
491
With melting Iron (Fe) product outside shaft furnace:
This subclass is indented under subclass 490. Process
wherein the solid Iron (Fe) produced in the shaft furnace is
melted outside the shaft furnace.
Subclass:
492
With gasification of solid carbonaceous material in melt
(e.g., coal, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 491. Process
wherein coal is added to the molten Iron (Fe) and a gas
(usually Oxygen or air) is passed through the melt to convert
the coal in the melt to a reducing gas which is then employed
in the shaft furnace reduction.
Subclass:
493
Using solid Carbon (C) to generate gas in separate furnace
(e.g., Wiberg process, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 490. Process
wherein the gaseous reductant is manufactured from solid
Carbon (C) in a furnace separate from the shaft furnace in
which reduction to metallic Iron (Fe) takes place.
Subclass:
494
Solid Carbon (C) is coal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 493. Process in
which the solid Carbon (C) employed to generate reducing gas
is coal.
Subclass:
495
Direct addition of gas containing gaseous Oxygen or water to
shaft furnace (e.g., continuous HyL process, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 490. Process
wherein a gas containing gaseous Oxygen or Water is added
directly to the shaft furnace without being admixed with or
reacted with another material before the addition.
Subclass:
496
With reformation of reducing gas in separate furnace (e.g.,
Midrex process, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 490. Process in
which a reducing gas is reacted in a separate furnace to
change its chemical composition prior to being introduced
into the shaft furnace.
(1) Note. As an example, Methane is reacted with Carbon
dioxide to yield Carbon monoxide and Hydrogen.
Subclass:
497
With plural reformers (e.g., Purofer process, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 496. Process
wherein two or more reforming furnaces are employed.
Subclass:
498
With addition of steam to reformer (e.g., Armco process,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 496. Process
wherein steam is added to the reformer as a reactant.
Subclass:
499
Molten Iron (Fe) produced in shaft furnace:
This subclass is indented under subclass 488. Process
wherein the Iron (Fe) produced in the shaft furnace is melted
in the shaft furnace.
Subclass:
500
Reduction in molten state:
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process
wherein some material is molten during the reduction (e.g.,
slag, Iron, etc.), and ingredients for carrying out the
reaction are added to the melt.
Subclass:
501
Gas injection below surface of melt:
This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Process
wherein a gas is injected below the surface of the melt
wherein reduction is taking place.
Subclass:
502
Gas injection over surface of melt (e.g., as in reverberatory
furnace, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 500. Process
wherein gas is passed over the surface of the melt.
(1) Note. This gas may be a reducing flame as in a
reverberatory furnace.
Subclass:
503
Reduction in presence of solid Carbon (C) containing material
(e.g., coke, coal, carbides, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process
wherein an Iron (Fe) compound is reduced to metallic Iron in
the presence of a solid containing Carbon. The Carbon may be
either in elemental (e.g., coke, coal, etc.) or combined
(e.g., carbide, etc.) form.
Subclass:
504
Including consolidation of solid Carbon (C) containing
material with reducible Iron (Fe) compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 503. Process
wherein the solid Carbon (C) containing material and a
reducible Iron (Fe) compound are consolidated together before
or during the reduction of the Iron compound.
(1) Note. In some instances the Iron compound is only
partially reduced and the resulting partially reduced
consolidated product is intended to be used in the charge of
a further reduction system (e.g., a blast furnace, etc.).
Subclass:
505
Reduction with externally applied gas (e.g., batch HyL
process, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process
wherein an Iron (Fe) compound is reduced to metallic Iron by
a gas which is added to the Iron compound from outside the
apparatus in which the Iron compound is reduced.
(1) Note. Gas generated by in situ reactions within the
apparatus containing the Iron compound is not "externally
applied" for purposes of this class.
Subclass:
506
Reduction in the presence of liquid carbonaceous reductant
(e.g., petroleum, pitch, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process
wherein an Iron (Fe) compound is reduced in the presence of a
carbonaceous substance added in a liquid state to the
apparatus containing the Iron compound.
Subclass:
507
Melting Iron (Fe) or treating molten Iron:
This subclass is indented under subclass 433. Process
wherein a metal that contains over 50 percent by weight Iron
(Fe) is melted or is treated in the molten state (e.g., to
purify it or to improve its properties, etc.).
(1) Note. The solid Iron which is melted or the molten Iron
which is treated is predominately (over 50 percent) in the
elemental state at the start of the process. The "reduction"
subclasses above take processes wherein a charge which is
predominately an Iron compound is reduced to the metallic
state. This and indented subclasses, however, will take a
process of melting or treating a charge which is
predominately metallic Iron even though some incidental
reduction of an Iron compound takes place (e.g., melting
rusty scrap with reduction of the rust, treating pig Iron of
high Carbon content with Iron oxide whereby the Iron oxide
oxidizes the Carbon and is reduced to metallic Iron, etc.) as
long as less than 50 percent of the Iron in the final product
is produced by the incidental reduction.
(2) Note. This and indented subclasses will take a process
of removing a component from an Iron alloy to make another
alloy.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
433 for a process of preheating Iron (e.g., preheating scrap
for later melting, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
148, 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 of surface melting of the solid or semi-solid
metal. However, if metal casting, metal fusion, machining or
working is involved, there is a requirement of significant
heat treatment as described in section III, A, of the Class
148 definition.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for a process of making
an alloy by melting the ingredients together.
Subclass:
508
Vacuum treatment of molten Iron (Fe):
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Process
wherein a molten metal that contains over 50 percent by
weight Iron (Fe) is treated in a gas pressure significantly
less than one atmosphere pressure.
(1) Note. The low pressure must be intentional in order to
treat the molten metal. Merely melting metal where
atmospheric pressure is low will not cause a patent to be
placed hereunder, unless the low pressure is intentionally
employed to treat the molten metal.
Subclass:
509
Free falling stream or spray of molten Iron (Fe):
This subclass is indented under subclass 508. Process
wherein an unconfined stream or spray of a molten metal that
contains over 50 percent by weight Iron (Fe) is treated in a
vacuum.
(1) Note. In a process for this subclass the stream or spray
remains molten during treatment and then coalesces after
treatment to form a pool of molten metal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
331 for a process wherein a spray of molten metal is
solidified while falling and is recovered as solid particles
of metal.
Subclass:
510
Vacuum lift:
This subclass is indented under subclass 508. Process in
which a vacuum causes a molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Iron (Fe) to be lifted above the level of
the container in which it is held.
(1) Note. A common arrangement is as shown: [figure]
Subclass:
511
With addition of gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 510. Process
wherein a gas is intentionally added to the molten metal that
contains over 50 percent by weight Iron (Fe) while it is
being treated by lifting under a vacuum.
(1) Note. The gas must be added intentionally, mere
accidental leakage is ignored. The amount of gas added is
restricted so that the pressure of gas over the molten metal
remains significantly under one atmosphere.
Subclass:
512
With addition of gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 508. Process
wherein a gas is intentionally added to the molten metal that
contains over 50 percent by weight Iron (Fe) while it is
being treated under vacuum.
(1) Note. The gas must be added intentionally, mere
accidental leakage is ignored. The amount of gas added is
restricted so that the pressure of gas over the molten metal
remains significantly under one atmosphere.
Subclass:
513
In reverberatory furnace (e.g., open-hearth, Siemens-Martin,
puddling, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Process which
is carried out in a reverberatory furnace. A reverberatory
furnace is one in which solid fuel is not burned in contact
with the liquid or solid metal that contains over 50 percent
by weight Iron (Fe). There is a roof over the hearth in which
the metal is melted or the molten metal is treated, and
either solid fuel is burned next to the hearth, but under the
roof, by which means heat is reflected onto the metal by the
roof, or in which gaseous fuel is burned over the metal in
the hearth and heat is reflected down onto the hearth by the
roof.
(1) Note. Common names of furnaces which are reverberatory
are for example, open-hearth, Siemens-Martin and puddling.
Subclass:
514
With treating of molten Iron (Fe) with gas outside
reverberatory furnace (e.g., in Bessemer converter, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 513. Process
including a step wherein a gas is injected into, onto, or
through molten metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Iron (Fe) or a slag layer thereon while the molten metal is
outside the reverberatory furnace. This step may take place
prior to or subsequently to treatment of the metal in a
reverberatory furnace.
(1) Note. Commonly, patents in this subclass employ a
combination of treatment in an open hearth furnace with
treatment in a Bessemer converter.
Subclass:
515
With melting Iron (Fe) in shaft furnace:
This subclass is indented under subclass 513. Process in
which the melting of solid metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Iron in a shaft furnace is combined with a
process step taking place in a reverberatory furnace.
(1) Note. Most patents in this subclass are drawn to a
process of melting metal in a shaft furnace (e.g., cupola,
etc.), and passing the molten metal to a reverberatory
furnace for treatment.
Subclass:
516
Using gaseous Oxygen in a higher concentration than in
ambient air:
This subclass is indented under subclass 513. Process which
employs a gas which has a higher concentration of Oxygen than
that of ambient air for any purpose.
(1) Note. The higher concentration of Oxygen may be employed
to burn fuel in the furnace or it may be injected separately
onto molten metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Iron (Fe) by a lance extending through the roof of the
reverberatory furnace.
Subclass:
517
With addition of solid elemental Carbon (C) or employing
elemental Carbon furnace lining:
This subclass is indented under subclass 513. Process in
which solid elemental Carbon (C) is present in the
reverberatory furnace at any time during the melting of metal
that contains over 50 percent by weight Iron (Fe) or
treatment of molten metal that contains over 50 percent by
weight Iron, or in which the reverberatory furnace employs a
lining which includes elemental Carbon.
Subclass:
518
With compound containing Alkali metal and Oxygen (e.g.,
Sodium nitrate, Sodium carbonate, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 513. Process
wherein a compound containing Alkali metal and Oxygen (e.g.
Sodium nitrate, Sodium carbonate, etc.) is present in the
reverberatory furnace at any time during the process.
Subclass:
519
With Halogen or Halogen containing compound (e.g., Sodium
chloride, Fluorspar, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 513. Process
wherein elemental Halogen or a Halogen compound is present in
the reverberatory furnace at any time during the process.
Subclass:
520
With Alkaline earth metal or Magnesium (Mg) containing
compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 513. Process
wherein an Alkaline earth metal compound or a Magnesium (Mg)
compound is present in the reverberatory furnace at any time
during the process.
(1) Note. The presence of an Alkaline furnace lining (e.g.,
magnesia brick, etc.) will be disregarded for purposes of
this subclass.
Subclass:
521
With Transition metal compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 513. Process
wherein a compound of a Transition metal (i.e., Scandium
(Sc), Titanium (Ti), Vanadium (V), Chromium (Cr), Manganese
(Mn), Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), NIckel (Ni), Copper (Cu), Zinc
(Zn), Yttrium (Y), Zirconium (Zr), Niobium (Nb) or Columbium
(Cb), Molybdenum (Mo), Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh),
Palladium (Pd), Silver (Ag), Cadmium (Cd), Lanthanum (La),
Cerium (Ce), Praseodymium (Pr), Neodymium (Nd), Samarium
(Sm), Europium (Eu), Gadolinium (Gd), Terbium (Tb),
Dysprosium (Dy), Holmium (Ho), Erbium (Er), Thulium (Tm),
Ytterbium (Yb), Lutetium (Lu), Hafnium (Hf), Tantalum (Ta),
Tungsten (W), Rhenium (Re), Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir),
Platinum (Pt), Gold (Au), and Mercury (Hg)) is present in the
reverberatory furnace at any time during the process.
(1) Note. The presence of a Transition metal compound in the
furnace lining will be disregarded for purposes of this
subclass unless there is a specific disclosure that it
interacts in some way with the charge of Iron (Fe).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
393 for a process which employs a Radioactive material
whether or not the Radioactive material becomes part of the
final product.
Subclass:
522
Iron oxide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 521. Process
wherein the Transition metal compound contains only Iron (Fe)
and Oxygen (O).
Subclass:
523
Melting solid Iron (Fe):
This subclass is indented under subclass 513. Process
wherein solid metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Iron (Fe) is melted in the reverberatory furnace.
Subclass:
524
Sequential treatment of molten Iron (Fe) in plural apparatus
with different linings (e.g., acid Bessemer followed by basic
Bessemer, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Process
wherein premelted metal that contains over 50 percent by
weight Iron (Fe) is treated in one apparatus and then
transferred to another apparatus and treated wherein there is
an intentional, claimed difference in the linings between the
different apparatus.
(1) Note. Any recited intentional difference will be enough
to render the linings different (e.g., one lining "acidic"
and the other "basic", etc.).
Subclass:
525
Impinging free falling molten metal stream or spray with a
gas or solid agent or spraying (e.g., atomizing, etc.) of
molten metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Process
wherein a free falling molten metal stream or spray is
impinged during free fall with a gas or solid agent or
wherein a molten metal is sprayed (e.g., atomized, etc.) to
treat the molten metal.
(1) Note. If a molten metal stream or spray is directed onto
solid treating agent in a container or through a slag layer
or used to mix separately added solid treating agent into
molten metal, placement goes elsewhere under subclass 507.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
509 for treating a free falling stream of molten metal that
contains over 50 percent by weight Iron (Fe) in a vacuum.
Subclass:
526
Adding solid treating agent in form of wire, rod, or article
with surface feature or in container or by plunging means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Process
wherein the solid treating agent is added in the form of a
wire, rod, or article with a surface feature or in a
container or a process wherein the solid treating agent is
added to the molten metal that contains over 50 percent by
weight Iron (Fe) by an apparatus or device that mechanically
plunges the solid treating agent into the molten metal.
Subclass:
527
In rotary kiln (e.g., Kaldo process, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Process
wherein a gas or solid treating agent is injected into
premelted metal that contains over 50 percent by weight Iron
(Fe) or slag thereon and wherein the premelted metal is
agitated at any molten process stage by a chamber or
converter that rotates 360 degrees.
Subclass:
528
Injecting gas or nonmetalliferous liquid which gasifies into,
onto, or through premelted Iron (Fe) or slag layer thereon:
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Process
wherein a gas or nonmetalliferous liquid that gasifies (e.g.,
oil, Water, etc.) under the operating conditions is injected
into, onto, or through the premelted metal that contains over
50 percent by weight Iron (Fe) or slag layer thereon.
(1) Note. The injection of gas before or during the melting
is not considered part of the subject matter under this
subclass or the indented subclasses hereinbelow.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
571 for a process wherein gas is used to melt or is injected
during the melting of a metal that contains over 50 percent
by weight Iron (Fe).
Subclass:
529
With hydrocarbon liquid or gas present:
This subclass is indented under subclass 528. Process
wherein a liquid or gaseous compound consisting only of
Carbon (C) and Hydrogen (H) (e.g., Propane, Butane,
petroleum, etc.) is present during the treatment of the
premelted metal that contains over 50 percent by weight Iron
(Fe).
(1) Note. The hydrocarbon must be involved in direct or
indirect treatment of the molten metal or slag layer thereon
and must be present after the melting stage. Use of
hydrocarbon liquid or gas for melting is not sufficient for
this subclass.
Subclass:
530
And hydrocarbon in surrounding relationship to gaseous Oxygen
(e.g., hydrocarbon in outer concentric tube, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 529. Process
wherein a liquid or gaseous hydrocarbon is in a surrounding
relationship to oxygen gas or an oxygen gas containing gas
composition (e.g., hydrocarbon in outer concentric tube,
etc.).
(1) Note. Hydrocarbon used as a shielding or protective gas
surrounding Oxygen gas or air is included in this subclass.
Subclass:
531
And adding solid agent, slag, or flux to premelted Iron (Fe)
or slag layer thereon:
This subclass is indented under subclass 528. Process
wherein premelted metal that contains over 50 percent by
weight Iron (Fe) or slag layer thereon is contacted with a
solid treating agent, a separately prepared slag, or flux.
(1) Note. Classification is based on the agent, slag, or
flux added to the molten metal or slag layer thereon and not
on the composition of the in situ generated slag or solid
agents initially present before melting or added during
melting.
(2) Note. The addition of molten metal to a solid agent,
slag, or flux is acceptable in this subclass.
Subclass:
532
Loose elemental Carbon (C), coal, or coke (e.g., carburizing,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 531. Process
wherein the solid agent added to the molten metal that
contains over 50 percent by weight Iron (Fe) or slag layer
thereon is loose elemental Carbon (C), coal, or coke.
(1) Note. This subclass will take the use of loose Carbon,
coal, or coke for carburizing, but is not limited to
carburizing.
(2) Note. If the Carbon, coal, or coke is part of a
consolidated composition containing other treating agents,
classification goes elsewhere under subclass 531.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
536 537, 542, 543, 566, or 567, for the use of a metal
carbide or a high carbon metal as a carburizing or treating
agent.
561 for the use of elemental Carbon (C), coal, or coke in
treating molten metal or slag layer thereon in absence of a
gas or liquid treating agent.
Subclass:
533
With solid entrained in gas or injected by gas pressure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 531. Process
wherein a solid agent is entrained in or injected by gas
pressure.
(1) Note. In this and the herein below indented subclasses,
classification is based on the solid treating agent, slag, or
flux added to the premelted metal or slag layer whether or
not the solid is the entrained solid.
Subclass:
534
Boron (B) or compound thereof used in process:
This subclass is indented under subclass 533. Process
wherein Boron (B) or compound thereof is present in the solid
agent, separately prepared slag, or flux used for treating at
any process stage.
Subclass:
535
Metal halide used in process:
This subclass is indented under subclass 533. Process
wherein a metal halide (e.g., Sodium chloride, Fluorspar,
etc.) is present in the solid agent, separately prepared
slag, or flux used for treating at any process stage.
Subclass:
536
Carbide used in process:
This subclass is indented under subclass 533. Process
wherein a binary Carbon (C) compound of a metal (i.e.,
Carbide) is present in the solid agent, separately prepared
slag, or flux used for treating at any process stage.
Subclass:
537
Elemental metal or elemental Silicon (Si) used in process:
This subclass is indented under subclass 533. Process
wherein elemental metal (e.g., scrap, Iron (Fe), Magnesium
(Mg), Aluminum (Al), etc.) or elemental Silicon (Si) is
present in the solid agent, separately prepared slag, or flux
used for treating at any process stage.
Subclass:
538
Iron (Fe) containing compound used in process:
This subclass is indented under subclass 533. Process
wherein an Iron (Fe) containing compound (e.g., ore, scale,
Iron oxide, etc.) is present in the solid agent, separately
prepared slag, or flux used for treating at any process
stage.
Subclass:
539
Alkali metal compound or Alkaline earth metal compound used
in process:
This subclass is indented under subclass 533. Process
wherein an Alkali metal compound (e.g., Sodium hydroxide,
Sodium carbonate, etc.) or an Alkaline earth metal compound
(e.g., Calcium oxide, Calcium carbonate, etc.) is present in
the solid agent, separately prepared slag, or flux used for
treating at any process stage.
Subclass:
540
Gas contains gaseous Oxygen:
This subclass is indented under subclass 531. Process
wherein Oxygen gas or Oxygen gas containing composition
(e.g., air, etc.) is the injected gas.
Subclass:
541
Metal halide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Process
wherein a metal halide (e.g., Sodium chloride, Fluorspar,
etc.) is present in the solid agent, separately prepared
slag, or flux.
Subclass:
542
Carbide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Process
wherein a binary Carbon (C) compound of a metal (i.e.,
Carbide) is present in the solid agent, separately prepared
slag, or flux.
Subclass:
543
Elemental metal or elemental Silicon (Si):
This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Process
wherein elemental metal (e.g., scrap, Iron (Fe), Magnesium
(Mg), Aluminum (Al), etc.) or elemental Silicon (Si) is
present in the solid agent, separately prepared slag, or
flux.
Subclass:
544
Iron (Fe) containing compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Process
wherein an Iron (Fe) containing compound (e.g., ore, scale,
Iron oxide, etc.) is present in the solid agent, separately
prepared slag, or flux.
Subclass:
545
Alkali metal compound or Alkaline earth metal compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 540. Process
wherein an Alkali metal compound (e.g., Sodium hydroxide,
Sodium carbonate, etc.) or an Alkaline earth metal compound
(e.g., Calcium oxide, Calcium Carbonate, etc.) is present in
the solid agent, separately prepared slag, or flux.
Subclass:
546
Noble gas or inert gas not otherwise identified:
This subclass is indented under subclass 531. Process
wherein a Noble gas (i.e., Helium (He), Neon (Ne), Argon
(Ar), Krypton (Kr), or Xenon (Xe) or an inert gas not
otherwise identified is the injected gas.
(1) Note. If the injected gas is named (e.g., Carbon
dioxide, etc.), it is classified by the named gas even if the
specification calls the gas inert.
Subclass:
547
Gas compound containing Oxygen (e.g., Carbon monoxide, Carbon
dioxide, Water, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 531. Process
wherein the injected gas is a compound containing Oxygen
(e.g., Carbon monoxide, Carbon dioxide, Water, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
540 or 548+, for gaseous compositions containing Oxygen gas
such as air or Oxygen gas enriched gas compositions.
Subclass:
548
Gas contains gaseous Oxygen:
This subclass is indented under subclass 528. Process
wherein Oxygen gas or an Oxygen gas containing composition
(e.g., air, etc.) is the injected gas.
Subclass:
549
With treatment of exhaust gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 548. Process
wherein the exhaust or waste gas from the process is treated
separately from the molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Iron (Fe).
Subclass:
550
And adding gaseous Oxygen or inert gas to exhaust gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 549. Process
wherein gaseous Oxygen is added with the exhaust gas or
wherein an inert gas is added to the exhaust gas.
(1) Note. If the added gaseous Oxygen reacts with the
exhaust gas leaving no Oxygen in the altered exhaust gas,
proper classification remains with this subclass.
Subclass:
551
Injecting from above and below melt surface:
This subclass is indented under subclass 548. Process
wherein the Oxygen gas or Oxygen gas containing gas
composition is injected from both above and below the melt
surface at the same time or at different times in the
processing.
(1) Note. Injection into the slag or slag-melt interface is
considered to be from above the melt surface for the purposes
of classification in this subclass.
Subclass:
552
Including other gas from below:
This subclass is indented under subclass 551. Process
wherein a gas other than Oxygen gas or an Oxygen gas
containing gas composition is injected from below the melt
surface at the same time or at a different time in the
processing.
Subclass:
553
Injecting only from above melt surface:
This subclass is indented under subclass 548. Process
wherein the Oxygen gas or the Oxygen gas containing gas
composition is injected only from above the melt surface.
(1) Note. Injection into the slag or slag-melt interface is
considered to be from above the melt surface for purposes of
classification in this subclass.
Subclass:
554
Including other gas from above:
This subclass is indented under subclass 553. Process
wherein a gas other than Oxygen gas or an Oxygen gas
containing gas composition is injected from above the melt
surface at the same time or at a different time in the
processing.
Subclass:
555
Including other gas from below:
This subclass is indented under subclass 553. Process
wherein a gas other than Oxygen gas or an Oxygen gas
containing gas composition is injected from below the melt
surface at the same time or at a different time during the
processing.
Subclass:
556
Injecting only from below melt surface:
This subclass is indented under subclass 548. Process
wherein the Oxygen gas or Oxygen gas containing gas
composition is injected only from below the melt surface.
Subclass:
557
Including other gas from below:
This subclass is indented under subclass 556. Process
wherein a gas other than Oxygen gas or an Oxygen gas
containing gas composition is injected from below the melt
surface at the same time or at a different time during the
processing.
Subclass:
558
Noble gas or inert gas not otherwise identified:
This subclass is indented under subclass 528. Process
wherein a Noble gas (i.e., Helium (He), Neon (Ne), Argon
(Ar), Krypton (Kr), or Xenon (Xe)) or an inert gas not
otherwise identified is the injected gas.
(1) Note. If the injected gas is named (i.e., Carbon
dioxide), it is classified by the named gas even if the
specification calls the gas inert.
Subclass:
559
Gas compound containing Oxygen (e.g., Carbon monoxide, Carbon
dioxide, Water, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 528. Process
wherein the injected gas is a compound containing Oxygen
(e.g., Carbon monoxide, Carbon dioxide, Water, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
540 or 548, for processes using gaseous compositions
containing Oxygen gas such as air or Oxygen gas enriched gas
compositions.
Subclass:
560
Treating premelted Iron (Fe) or slag layer thereon by adding
solid agent, slag, or flux:
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Process
wherein premelted metal that contains over 50 percent by
weight Iron (Fe) or slag layer thereon is contacted with a
solid treating agent, a separately prepared slag, or flux.
(1) Note. Classification is based on the agent, slag, or
flux added to the molten metal or slag layer thereon and not
on the composition of the in situ generated slag or solid
agents initially present before melting or added during
melting.
(2) Note. The addition of molten metal to a solid agent,
slag, or flux is acceptable to this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
571 for a process wherein a solid agent is utilized during
the melting of a metal that contains over 50 percent by
weight Iron (Fe).
Subclass:
561
Loose elemental Carbon (C), coal, or coke (e.g., carburizing,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 560. Process
wherein the solid agent added to the molten metal that
contains over 50 percent by weight Iron (Fe) or slag layer
thereon is loose elemental Carbon (C), coal, or coke.
(1) Note. This subclass will take the use of loose Carbon,
coal, or coke for carburizing but is not limited to
carburizing.
(2) Note. If the Carbon, coal, or coke is part of a
consolidated composition containing other treating agents,
classification goes elsewhere under subclass 560.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
532 for the use of elemental Carbon, coal, or coke in
treating molten metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Iron or slag layer thereon in a process also utilizing a gas
or liquid which gasifies.
536 537, 542, 543, 566, or 567, for the use of a metal
carbide or a high Carbon metal as a carburizing or treating
agent.
Subclass:
562
Sulfur (S) or compound thereof:
This subclass is indented under subclass 560. Process
wherein Sulfur (S) or a compound thereof is present in the
solid agent, separately prepared slag, or flux.
Subclass:
563
Nitrate, Chlorate, Permanganate, or Peroxide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 560. Process
wherein a Nitrate, Chlorate, Permanganate, or Peroxide is
present in the solid agent, separately prepared slag, or
flux.
Subclass:
564
Boron (B) or compound thereof:
This subclass is indented under subclass 560. Process
wherein Boron (B) or a compound thereof is present in the
solid agent, separately prepared slag, or flux.
Subclass:
565
Metal halide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 560. Process
wherein a metal halide (e.g., Sodium chloride, Fluorspar,
etc.) is present in the solid agent, separately prepared
slag, or flux.
Subclass:
566
Carbide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 560. Process
wherein a binary Carbon (C) compound of a metal (i.e.,
Carbide) is present in the solid agent, separately prepared
slag, or flux.
Subclass:
567
Elemental metal or elemental Silicon (Si):
This subclass is indented under subclass 560. Process
wherein elemental metal (e.g., scrap, Iron (Fe), Magnesium
(Mg), Aluminum (A1), etc.) or elemental Silicon (Si) is
present in the solid agent, separately prepared slag, or
flux.
Subclass:
568
Aluminum (Al) or Magnesium (Mg):
This subclass is indented under subclass 567. Process
wherein Aluminum (Al) or Magnesium (Mg) is the elemental
metal.
Subclass:
569
Iron (Fe) containing compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 560. Process
wherein an Iron (Fe) containing compound (e.g., ore, scale,
Iron oxide, etc.) is present in the solid agent, separately
prepared slag, or flux.
Subclass:
570
Alkali metal compound or Alkaline earth metal compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 560. Process
wherein an Alkali metal compound (e.g., Sodium hydroxide,
Sodium carbonate, etc.) or an Alkaline earth metal compound
(e.g., Calcium Oxide, Calcium carbonate, etc.) is present in
the solid agent, separately prepared slag, or flux.
Subclass:
571
Melting solid Iron (Fe):
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Process
wherein solid Iron (Fe) is employed in a process which
includes the melting of the Iron.
Subclass:
572
Melting packaged Iron (Fe) or Iron of specified structure to
facilitate melting (e.g., shaped bale of scrap, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 571. Process
wherein the solid Iron (Fe) which is melted is enclosed in or
held together in a package (e.g., steel can, wooden box,
etc.) or in which the solid Iron is recited to have a
particular shape or structure to facilitate melting.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclass 576
for a metallic article of particular shape to facilitate
melting (e.g., package, etc.).
Subclass:
573
In shaft furnace (e.g., cupola, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 571. Process
wherein solid Iron (Fe) is melted in a vertical tubular
furnace.
(1) Note. In this subclass the charge is predominantly
(i.e., over 50 percent) Iron in the metallic state. While
there may be some reduction of Iron compound (e.g., rust or
ore, etc.) taking place, the majority of the molten Iron
produced exists in the metallic state when added to the
furnace.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
488 for a process of reduction of an Iron compound in a
shaft furnace. In this subclass over 50 percent of the Iron
product is obtained by reduction of an Iron compound.
Subclass:
574
Without the use of solid, carbonaceous material (e.g.,
without coke, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 573. Process
wherein no solid, carbonaceous material (e.g., coke, etc.) is
present in the shaft furnace during the melting process.
(1) Note. Usually in this subclass the heat required to melt
the Iron (Fe) is obtained by injecting a gaseous fuel with
air through tuyeres on the bottom of the shaft furnace.
Subclass:
575
Using Oxygen in a higher concentration than ambient air:
This subclass is indented under subclass 573. Process
wherein a gas that has a higher concentration of molecular
Oxygen than ambient air is added to the shaft furnace at any
place.
Subclass:
576
Using both a solid carbonaceous fuel (e.g., coke, etc.) and a
fluid fuel (e.g., natural gas, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 573. Process which
employs a solid carbonaceous fuel (e.g., coke, etc.) and a
fluid fuel (e.g., natural gas, etc.).
(1) Note. The solid carbonaceous fuel is usually charged to
the furnace along with the metal to be melted and the fluid
fuel is injected through the tuyeres along with the
combustion air.
Subclass:
577
Defined composition of solid fuel other than nominal "coke":
This subclass is indented under subclass 573. Process
wherein the shaft furnace employs a solid fuel of defined
composition other than nominal "coke".
(1) Note. Any definition of the solid, carbonaceous fuel
beyond mere nominal "coke" will be sufficient to classify a
patent herein, such as defined particle size, strength of
coke, anthracite coal, etc.
Subclass:
578
With Calcium carbide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 573. Process
wherein Calcium carbide is present in the shaft furnace with
the Iron (Fe) being melted.
Subclass:
579
With Alkali metal compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 573. Process
wherein an Alkali metal compound is present in the shaft
furnace with the Iron (Fe) being melted.
Subclass:
580
In closed vessel with heat conducted through walls only
(e.g., crucible melting, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 571. Process in
which the Iron (Fe) to be melted is placed in a vessel which
is then closed with a lid so that no external materials such
as combustion gasses can contact the Iron. The vessel is
placed in a hot environment and the Iron is melted solely by
heat conducted through the walls of the vessel.
(1) Note. This is often called the crucible process.
Subclass:
581
Melting scrap:
This subclass is indented under subclass 571. Process
wherein the solid Iron (Fe) melted is the waste from
manufacturing or is obtained from articles which are no
longer useful as such.
(1) Note. The term "scrap" in a patent will make placement
in this subclass proper.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
433 for a process of preheating scrap Iron to facilitate
later melting without actually melting the scrap Iron.
Subclass:
582
Separating slag from molten Iron (Fe):
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Process for
separating slag from molten Iron (Fe) (e.g., by skimming,
etc.).
Subclass:
583
Stirring or agitating molten Iron (Fe):
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Process
wherein molten Iron (Fe) is stirred either by contacting with
a mechanical device (e.g., a stirring impeller, etc.) or
without a separate mechanical device contacting the molten
Iron (e.g., by shaking the container holding the molten Iron,
etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
10.67 for a method of agitating molten Iron with a magnetic
field.
528 for a method of agitating molten Iron by injecting a
gas.
Subclass:
584
Pouring or tapping molten Iron (Fe):
This subclass is indented under subclass 507. Process
wherein molten Iron (Fe) is either poured or allowed to run
from a vessel in which it is contained.
Subclass:
585
Nonferrous:
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Process in
which a metal other than Iron (Fe) is produced or a metal
that contains over 50 percent by weight Nonferrous metal,
singly or in combination, is treated.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, for processes for
making a Nonferrous alloy.
Subclass:
586
Concurrent production of Nonferrous metal and other desired
nonmetallic product (e.g., cement, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which a material is reduced to Nonferrous metal with
simultaneous production of another product other than usual
by-products (e.g., cement, etc.).
Subclass:
587
Countercurrent liquid-liquid extraction of molten Nonferrous
metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which a molten metal is introduced into a separating column
and is flowed countercurrent to a contaminated metal that
contains over 50 percent by weight Nonferrous metal to purify
the contaminated metal.
Subclass:
588
Fractionation of molten Nonferrous metal (e.g., with reflux,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which the molten metal that contains over 50 percent by
weight Nonferrous metal is separated by separately collecting
the distillates evaporating at certain temperatures.
Subclass:
589
Alkali metal, singly or in combination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which an Alkali metal (i.e., Lithium (Li), Sodium (Na),
Potassium (K), Rubidium (Rb), Cesium (Cs)) is produced or a
metal that contains over 50 percent by weight Alkali metal,
singly or in combination, is treated.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
745 for a process of producing an Alkali metal or treating a
metal that contains over 50 percent by weight Alkali metal,
singly or in combination, below 300 degrees C.
Subclass:
590
Vaporizing or condensing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 589. Process in
which the Alkali metal is vaporized or condensed. The
vaporization can occur during the reduction of an Alkali
metal compound.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
752 for a process in which a metal impurity is vaporized in
a process including consolidation of a metalliferous
material.
Subclass:
591
Cesium (Cs):
This subclass is indented under subclass 590. Process in
which Cesium (Cs) is vaporized or condensed.
Subclass:
592
Precipitating impurities from molten Alkali metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 589. Process in
which the contaminants are settled out of a molten metal that
contains over 50 percent by weight Alkali metal, singly or in
combination.
Subclass:
593
Beryllium (Be):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Beryllium (Be) is produced or a metal that contains
over 50 percent by weight Beryllium is treated.
Subclass:
594
Magnesium (Mg):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Magnesium (Mg) is produced or a metal that contains
over 50 percent by weight Magnesium is treated.
Subclass:
595
Vaporizing or condensing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 594. Process in
which Magnesium (Mg) is vaporized or condensed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
752 for a process in which a metal impurity is vaporized in
a process including consolidation of a metalliferous
material.
Subclass:
596
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 595. Process in
which a Magnesium (Mg) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
597
Using metal or metal compound reductant:
This subclass is indented under subclass 596. Process in
which a Magnesium (Mg) compound is reduced by using a metal
or a metal compound.
Subclass:
598
And Carbon (C):
This subclass is indented under subclass 597. Process in
which Carbon (C) is also used.
Subclass:
599
Using Carbon (C):
This subclass is indented under subclass 596. Process in
which a Magnesium (Mg) compound is reduced by using Carbon
(C).
Subclass:
600
Treating molten Magnesium (Mg):
This subclass is indented under subclass 594. Process in
which a molten metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Magnesium (Mg) is treated.
Subclass:
601
Precipitating impurities from molten Magnesium (Mg):
This subclass is indented under subclass 600. Process in
which the contaminants are settled out of a molten metal that
contains over 50 percent by weight Magnesium (Mg).
Subclass:
602
Adding gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 600. Process in
which a gas is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Magnesium (Mg).
Subclass:
603
And solid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 602. Process in
which a solid is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Magnesium (Mg).
Subclass:
604
Adding solid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 600. Process in
which a solid is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Magnesium (Mg).
Subclass:
605
Alkaline earth metal, singly or in combination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which an Alkaline earth metal (i.e., Calcium (Ca), Strontium
(Sr), Barium (Ba)) is produced or a metal that contains over
50 percent by weight Alkaline earth metal, singly or in
combination, is treated.
Subclass:
606
Reducing halide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 605. Process in
which an Alkaline earth metal halide is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
607
Vaporizing or condensing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 605. Process in
which an Alkaline earth metal is vaporized or condensed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
752 for a process in which a metal impurity is vaporized in
a process including consolidation of a metalliferous
material.
Subclass:
608
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 607. Process in
which an Alkaline earth metal compound is reduced metal.
Subclass:
609
Treating molten Alkaline earth metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 605. Process in
which a molten metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Alkaline earth metal, singly or in combination, is treated.
Subclass:
610
Rare earth metal, singly or in combination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which a Rare earth metal (i.e., Scandium (Sc), Yttrium (Y),
Lanthanum (La), Cerium (Ce), Praseodymium (Pr), Neodymium
(Nd), Samarium (Sm), Europium (Eu), Gadolinium (Gd), Terbium
(Tb), Dysprosium (Dy), Holmium (Ho), Erbium (Er), Thulium
(Tm), Ytterbium (Yb), Lutetium (Lu)) is produced or a metal
that contains over 50 percent by weight Rare earth metal,
singly or in combination, is treated.
Subclass:
611
Refractory metal, singly or in combination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which a Refractory metal (i.e., Titanium (Ti), Zirconium
(Zr), Hafnium (Hf), Vanadium (V), Niobium (Nb) or Columbium
(Cb), Tantalum (Ta), Chromium (Cr), Molybdenum (Mo), or
Tungsten (W)) is produced or a metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Refractory metal, singly or in combination,
is treated.
Subclass:
612
Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), or Hafnium (Hf), singly or in
combination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 611. Process in
which Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), or Hafnium (Hf) is
produced or a metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Titanium, Zirconium, or Hafnium, singly or in combination, is
treated.
Subclass:
613
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 612. Process in
which a Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), or Hafnium (Hf)
compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
614
Using free metal or alloy reductant:
This subclass is indented under subclass 613. Process in
which the compound is reduced by using a free metal or
alloy.
Subclass:
615
Of Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), or Hafnium (Hf) compound
containing Halogen:
This subclass is indented under subclass 614. Process in
which the Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), or Hafnium (Hf)
compound that is reduced contains Halogen.
Subclass:
616
Of binary halide - MX(4):
This subclass is indented under subclass 615. Process in
which the compound that is reduced is a binary halide -
MX(4).
Subclass:
617
Of chloride - MCl (4):
This subclass is indented under subclass 616. Process in
which the compound that is reduced is a binary chloride - MCl
(4).
Subclass:
618
Free metal or alloy reductant contains Magnesium (Mg):
This subclass is indented under subclass 617. Process in
which the compound is reduced by using a free metal or alloy
reductant that contains Magnesium (Mg).
Subclass:
619
Metal produced is Titanium (Ti):
This subclass is indented under subclass 618. Process in
which the metal that is produced is Titanium (Ti).
Subclass:
620
Of Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), or Hafnium (Hf) compound
containing Halogen:
This subclass is indented under subclass 613. Process in
which the Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), or Hafnium (Hf)
compound that is reduced contains Halogen.
Subclass:
621
Treating molten Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), or Hafnium
(Hf):
This subclass is indented under subclass 612. Process in
which a molten metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), or Hafnium (Hf), singly or in
combination, is treated.
Subclass:
622
Vanadium (V), Niobium (Nb) or Columbium (Cb), or Tantalum
(Ta), singly or in combination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 611. Process in
which Vanadium (V), Niobium (Nb) or Columbium (Cb), or
Tantalum (Ta) is produced or a metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Titanium, Niobium or Columbium, or
Tantalum, singly or in combination, is treated.
Subclass:
623
Chromium (Cr), Molybdenum (Mo), or Tungsten (W), singly or in
combination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 611. Process in
which Chromium (Cr), Molybdenum (Mo), or Tungsten (W) is
produced or a metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Chromium, Molybdenum, or Tungsten, singly or in combination,
is treated.
Subclass:
624
Manganese (Mn):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Manganese (Mn) is produced or a metal that contains
over 50 percent by weight Manganese is treated.
Subclass:
625
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 624. Process in
which a Manganese (Mn) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
626
Cobalt (Co):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Cobalt (Co) is produced or a metal that contains over
50 percent by weight Cobalt is treated.
Subclass:
627
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 626. Process in
which a Cobalt (Co) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
628
Nickel (Ni):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Nickel (Ni) is produced or a metal that contains over
50 percent by weight Nickel is treated.
Subclass:
629
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 628. Process in
which a Nickel (Ni) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
630
Segregation process:
This subclass is indented under subclass 629. Process in
which a Nickel (Ni) compound is reduced to metal by reacting
the compound with a mixture of a carbonaceous reductant and a
chloridizing agent.
Subclass:
631
Noble metal, singly or in combination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which a Noble metal (i.e., Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh),
Palladium (Pd), Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir), Platinum (Pt),
Silver (Ag), Gold (Au)) is produced or a metal that contains
over 50 percent by weight Noble metal, singly or in
combination, is treated.
Subclass:
632
Palladium (Pd):
This subclass is indented under subclass 631. Process in
which Palladium (Pd) is produced or a metal that contains
over 50 percent by weight Palladium is treated.
Subclass:
633
Platinum (Pt):
This subclass is indented under subclass 631. Process in
which Platinum (Pt) is produced or a metal that contains over
50 percent by weight Platinum is treated.
Subclass:
634
Silver (Ag):
This subclass is indented under subclass 631. Process in
which Silver (Ag) is produced or a metal that contains over
50 percent by weight Silver is treated.
Subclass:
635
Recovering Silver (Ag) from photos:graphic material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 634. Process in
which Silver (Ag) is obtained from photos:graphic material.
Subclass:
636
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 634. Process in
which a Silver (Ag) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
637
Gold (Au):
This subclass is indented under subclass 631. Process in
which Gold (Au) is produced or a metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Gold is treated.
Subclass:
638
Copper (Cu):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Copper (Cu) is produced or a metal that contains over
50 percent by weight Copper is treated.
Subclass:
639
Treating material in gaseous suspension:
This subclass is indented under subclass 638. Process in
which a material undergoing treatment is in a highly
dispersed state in a gaseous medium.
Subclass:
640
Treating slag or dross:
This subclass is indented under subclass 638. Process in
which a slag or dross is treated to produce Copper (Cu).
Subclass:
641
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 638. Process in
which a Copper (Cu) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
642
Segregation process:
This subclass is indented under subclass 641. Process in
which a Copper (Cu) compound is reduced to metal by reacting
the compound with a mixture of a carbonaceous reductant and a
chloridizing agent.
Subclass:
643
Treating matte or sulfide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 641. Process in
which a Copper (Cu) matte or sulfide is treated to produce
Copper.
Subclass:
644
Treating waste gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 643. Process in
which the exhaust gas is treated.
Subclass:
645
With prior production of matte or sulfide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 643. Process in
which the Copper (Cu) matte or sulfide is formed before the
matte or sulfide is treated to produce Copper.
Subclass:
646
Treating molten Copper (Cu):
This subclass is indented under subclass 638. Process in
which a molten metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Copper (Cu) is treated.
Subclass:
647
By vacuum:
This subclass is indented under subclass 646. Process in
which molten metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Copper (Cu) is subjected to sub-atmospheric pressures.
Subclass:
648
Adding gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 646. Process in
which a gas is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Copper (Cu).
Subclass:
649
Containing gaseous Oxygen:
This subclass is indented under subclass 648. Process in
which the gas contains gaseous oxygen.
Subclass:
650
And adding solid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 649. Process in
which a solid is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Copper (Cu).
Subclass:
651
And solid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 648. Process in
which a solid is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Copper (Cu).
Subclass:
652
Adding solid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 646. Process in
which a solid is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Copper (Cu).
Subclass:
653
Melting Copper (Cu) in shaft furnace:
This subclass is indented under subclass 638. Process in
which metal that contains over 50 percent by weight Copper
(Cu) is melted in a shaft furnace.
Subclass:
654
Zinc (Zn):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Zinc (Zn) is produced or a metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Zinc is treated.
Subclass:
655
Treating slag or dross:
This subclass is indented under subclass 654. Process in
which a slag or dross is treated to produce Zinc (Zn).
Subclass:
656
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 654. Process in
which a Zinc (Zn) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
657
Using Halogen containing material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 656. Process in
which a Zinc (Zn) compound is reduced by using a material
containing Halogen.
Subclass:
658
Vaporizing or condensing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 656. Process in
which Zinc (Zn) is vaporized or condensed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
752 for a process in which a metal impurity is vaporized in
a process including consolidation of a metalliferous
material.
Subclass:
659
Treating material in gaseous suspension:
This subclass is indented under subclass 658. Process in
which a material undergoing treatment is in a highly
dispersed state in a gaseous medium.
Subclass:
660
Treating material in blast furnace or cupola:
This subclass is indented under subclass 658. Process in
which a blast furnace or cupola is used.
Subclass:
661
Treating material in vertical retort:
This subclass is indented under subclass 658. Process in
which a vertical retort is used.
Subclass:
662
Treating material in rotary kiln:
This subclass is indented under subclass 658. Process in
which a Zinc (Zn) compound is reduced in an approximately
cylindrical vessel rotating on its cylindrical axis. The axis
is horizontal or inclined less than 45 degrees from
horizontal. The vessel rotates in only one direction through
an angle of over 360 degrees during the reduction and rotates
substantially continuously.
Subclass:
663
Treating molten or vaporous Zinc (Zn):
This subclass is indented under subclass 654. Process in
which a molten or vaporous metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Zinc (Zn) is treated.
Subclass:
664
Using Halogen containing material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 663. Process in
which a material that contains Halogen is used.
Subclass:
665
Vaporizing or condensing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 663. Process in
which Zinc (Zn) is vaporized or condensed.
Subclass:
666
Condensing with Lead (Pb) coolant:
This subclass is indented under subclass 665. Process in
which Lead (Pb) coolant is used to condense the vaporous Zinc
(Zn).
Subclass:
667
Condensing with use of molten metal slinger:
This subclass is indented under subclass 665. Process in
which a device for centrifugally throwing liquid is used to
hurl molten metal into vaporous Zinc (Zn) in order to
condense the vaporous Zinc.
Subclass:
668
Cadmium (Cd):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Cadmium (Cd) is produced or a metal that contains over
50 percent by weight Cadmium is treated.
Subclass:
669
Vaporizing or condensing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 668. Process in
which Cadmium (Cd) is vaporized or condensed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
752 for a process in which a metal impurity is vaporized in
a process including consolidation of a metalliferous
material.
Subclass:
670
Mercury (Hg):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Mercury (Hg) is produced or a metal that contains over
50 percent by weight Mercury is treated.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
388 for a process in which an amalgam is broken to produce
free metal.
Subclass:
671
Aluminum (Al):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Aluminum (Al) is produced or a metal that contains over
50 percent by weight Aluminum is treated.
Subclass:
672
Treating slag or dross:
This subclass is indented under subclass 671. Process in
which a slag or dross is treated to produce Aluminum (Al).
Subclass:
673
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 671. Process in
which an Aluminum (Al) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
674
Carbothermic:
This subclass is indented under subclass 673. Process in
which an Aluminum (Al) compound is reduced in the presence of
a carbonaceous material, Carbon (C) or carbide.
Subclass:
675
Decomposition of organo-compound containing Aluminum (Al):
This subclass is indented under subclass 673. Process in
which an organo-compound containing Aluminum (Al) is
reduced.
Subclass:
676
Of Aluminum (Al) halide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 673. Process in
which an Aluminum (Al) compound containing Halogen is
reduced.
Subclass:
677
Of subhalide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 676. Process in
which the compound is an Aluminum (Al) monohalide.
Subclass:
678
Treating molten Aluminum (Al):
This subclass is indented under subclass 671. Process in
which a molten metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Aluminum (Al) is treated.
Subclass:
679
Fractional crystallization:
This subclass is indented under subclass 678. Process in
which molten metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Aluminum (Al) is preferentially crystallized in order to
obtain purified metal. The impurities are excluded from the
purified crystals that form.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
600 for processes directed to the formation of a single
crystal.
Subclass:
680
Adding gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 678. Process in
which a gas is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Aluminum (Al).
Subclass:
681
Containing Halogen atom:
This subclass is indented under subclass 680. Process in
which the gas contains Halogen.
Subclass:
682
And adding solid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 681. Process in
which a solid is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Aluminum (Al).
Subclass:
683
And solid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 680. Process in
which a solid is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Aluminum (Al).
Subclass:
684
Adding solid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 678. Process in
which a solid is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Aluminum (Al).
Subclass:
685
Containing Halogen:
This subclass is indented under subclass 684. Process in
which the solid contains Halogen.
Subclass:
686
Melting Aluminum (Al):
This subclass is indented under subclass 671. Process in
which metal that contains over 50 percent by weight Aluminum
(Al) is melted.
Subclass:
687
Scrap:
This subclass is indented under subclass 686. Process in
which metal scrap that contains over 50 percent by weight
Aluminum (Al) is melted.
Subclass:
688
Gallium (Ga) or Indium (In):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Gallium (Ga) or Indium (In) is produced or a metal that
contains over 50 percent by weight Gallium or over 50 percent
by weight Indium is treated.
Subclass:
689
Germanium (Ge):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Germanium (Ge) is produced or a metal that contains
over 50 percent by weight Germanium is treated.
Subclass:
690
Tin (Sn):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Tin (Sn) is produced or a metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Tin is treated.
Subclass:
691
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 690. Process in
which a Tin (Sn) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
692
Of Halogen containing material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 691. Process in
which a Tin (Sn) compound containing a Halogen is reduced.
Subclass:
693
Lead (Pb):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Lead (Pb) is produced or a metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Lead is treated.
Subclass:
694
Treating material in gaseous suspension or gaseous state:
This subclass is indented under subclass 693. Process in
which a material undergoing treatment is in a highly
dispersed state in a gaseous medium or is in a gaseous
state.
Subclass:
695
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 693. Process in
which a Lead (Pb) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
696
Of Lead-Sulfur compound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 695. Process in
which the Lead (Pb) compound contains Sulfur (S).
Subclass:
697
Treating molten Lead (Pb):
This subclass is indented under subclass 693. Process in
which a molten metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Lead (Pb) is treated.
Subclass:
698
By vacuum:
This subclass is indented under subclass 697. Process in
which molten metal that contains over 50 percent by weight
Lead (Pb) is subjected to sub-atmospheric pressures.
Subclass:
699
Adding gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 697. Process in
which a gas is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Lead (Pb).
Subclass:
700
Containing Halogen atom:
This subclass is indented under subclass 699. Process in
which the gas contains Halogen.
Subclass:
701
Adding solid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 697. Process in
which a solid is added to molten metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Lead (Pb).
Subclass:
702
Containing free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 701. Process in
which the solid contains a free metal.
Subclass:
703
Antimony (Sb):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Antimony (Sb) is produced or a metal that contains over
50 percent by weight Antimony is treated.
Subclass:
704
Reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 703. Process in
which an Antimony (Sb) compound is reduced to metal.
Subclass:
705
Bismuth(Bi):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Bismuth is produced or a metal that contains over 50
percent by weight Bismuth is treated.
Subclass:
706
Arsenic (As):
This subclass is indented under subclass 585. Process in
which Arsenic (As) is produced or a metal that contains over
50 percent by weight Arsenic is treated.
Subclass:
707
Reducing or smelting unnamed ore:
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Process
wherein an unnamed ore is reduced or smelted.
Subclass:
708
Stirring or agitating of molten material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Process
wherein molten material is subjected to an outside force to
cause stirring or agitating of the material. This force may
be applied by a mechanical stirrer, introduction of a gas, or
movement of the vessel in which the material is held.
(1) Note. The stirring or agitating caused by material being
poured into or out of a container will not be sufficient for
placement hereunder.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
10.67 for processes of stirring with a magnetic field.
Subclass:
709
Covering the surface of molten metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Process
wherein the surface of molten metal is covered by a material
to prevent contact with the ambient atmosphere.
(1) Note. A container in which the metal is held will be
ignored as far as placement hereunder is concerned.
Subclass:
710
Below 300 degrees C:
This subclass is indented under subclass 392. Process in
which all stages of the process operate at a temperature
below 300 degrees C (i.e., 572 degrees F).
(1) Note. If a nonmetallic material which is liquid under
standard conditions is used in a step of the process, the
step will be assumed to occur at a temperature below 300
degrees C unless otherwise stated.
Subclass:
711
Using nonmetallic material which is liquid under standard
conditions (e.g., hydrometallurgy, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 710. Process
wherein a nonmetallic material which is a liquid under
standard conditions is used at any stage in the production of
free metal.
(1) Note. The use of a microorganism during the production
of free metal is proper for Class 75.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
343 for processes utilizing a nonmetallic liquid to produce
or to treat free metal in powder form.
416 for processes at 300 degrees C or greater combined with
a step utilizing a nonmetallic liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
134, Cleaning and Liquid Contact With Solids, for cleaning
and liquid contact of metalliferous materials, per se.
(1) Note. Any process recovering free metal from the
contacting liquid or from the metal substrate by chemical
reduction belongs in Class 75 even though cleaning is
involved.
204, Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, for electrical
and wave energy processes and apparatus.
(1) Note. Patents including a claim or claims classifiable
in Class 204 and equally classifiable in Class 75 are
classified as originals in Class 75 and cross-referenced to
Class 204.
(2) Note. In a claim containing both Class 204 and Class 75
operation, the patent is placed as an original in Class 75
if, in a branch of the process, it is essential to perform
the Class 204 operation before the Class 75 free metal
separation. If, however, in a branch of the process, it is
essential to perform the Class 75 free metal separation
before the Class 204 operation, the original is placed in
Class 204 and crossed to Class 75.
(3) Note. The measurement of electrical potential (i.e.,
millivolts) is not sufficient to take a Class 75 process to
Class 204 as an original.
(4) Note. See the Class 204 definition, Lines With Other
Classes and Within This Class section and References to Other
Classes section, for an expansion of the class line between
Class 75 and Class 204, including superiority listing of
classes providing for various metals, alloys, and metal
stocks and methods of manufacturing them.
205, Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein, and
Methods of Preparing the Compositions, appropriate subclasses
for electrolytic treatment, especially subclasses 334+ for
electrolytic synthesis in general, subclasses 557+ for
electrolytic preparation of a metal alloy, and subclasses
560+ for electrolytic preparation of free metal.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, for processes of
removing metal ions from solution to purify the liquid.
However, processes that produce a free metal go to Class 75
as original and are crossed to Class 210 if purification of a
liquid is involved.
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, for chemical processes
of treating metalliferous material to obtain a metal
containing compound, processes that involve production of
metal compounds or extracting, leaching or dissolving
processes utilizing chemical treatment which do not produce
free metal.
(1) Note. Patents including claims classifiable in Class 423
and equally comprehensive claims classifiable in Class 75 are
classified as original in Class 75 and cross-referenced to
Class 423.
(2) Note. Hydrometallurgical processes recovering metal
values go to Class 423. However, if it can be determined
conclusively that free (i.e., zero valent) metal is the metal
value obtained, the patent is placed in Class 75.
427, Coating Processes, for processes of coating metal onto
metallic substrates wherein the intention is to manufacture a
coated product per se. However, if the intention is recovery
of free metal by electromotive displacement wherein the
metallic substrate dissolves as the free metal precipitates
onto the substrate, proper classification goes to Class 75
even if a coated product is involved.
435, Chemistry: Molecular Biology and Microbiology, for
processes employing a microorganism that do not involve the
production of free metal.
502, Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product or
Process of Making, for processes of making or regenerating a
metal catalyst such as by utilizing a liquid wherein the
metal is specifically structured to catalyze a reaction or
sorb a component (e.g., Raney nickel, etc.).
Subclass:
712
Involving mining or in situ operation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 711. Process which
involves operations at a mine or in situ location of the
metalliferous material.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, for
processes involving mining or in situ operation that do not
utilize chemical reduction to the free metal state.
Subclass:
713
From photography material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 711. Process
wherein the free metal is recovered from photography
materials or developing solutions.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
430, Radiation Imagery Chemistry: Process, Composition, or
Product Thereof, particularly 398, for processes of
regenerating processing compositions. If a regenerated
processing composition is the intended result, the original
goes to Class 430 with a mandatory cross to Class 75 if free
metal (e.g., Silver (Ag), etc.) is also recovered.
Subclass:
714
From electrolytic or cementation slime:
This subclass is indented under subclass 711. Process that
produces free metal from a starting material which is a
residue or mixture of metalliferous materials from an
electrolytic or displacement operation.
Subclass:
715
Removing coating to recover free metal from substrate or
coating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 711. Process
wherein a coating is removed from a substrate and free metal
is recovered from either the substrate or coating.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
134, Cleaning and Liquid Contact With Solids, for cleaning of
metallic materials, per se. If a free metal is recovered from
a cleaning solution, the original goes to Class 75 with a
mandatory cross to Class 134 for cleaning. If the scrap or
waste product is treated to recover a free metal substrate,
the original goes to Class 75.
216, Etching a Substrate: Processes, for etching processes.
252, Compositions, subclasses 79.1-79.5 for etching or
brightening compositions or subclass 364 for solvent
compositions useful for leaching or dissolving metal
substrates.
510, Cleaning Compositions for Solid Surfaces, Auxiliary
Compositions Therefor, or Processes of Preparing the
Compositions, appropriate subclasses for compositions
designed to clean specialized metallic articles or bare metal
substrates, per se.
521, Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, for processes of
treating scrap or waste to recover a solid polymer therefrom.
If free metal is recovered, the original goes to Class 75
with a mandatory cross to Class 521 if the solid polymer is
also recovered.
Subclass:
716
From Tin (Sn) scrap or Tin plate:
This subclass is indented under subclass 715. Process
wherein the coating is removed from Tin (Sn) scrap or Tin
plate.
(1) Note. A "detinning" process recovering and identifying a
free metal substrate or recovering Tin as the free metal is
placed in Class 75 as an original. However, if there is no
identification of recovered free metal substrate and a tin
compound is produced or recovered without recovery of tin as
a free metal, placement goes to Class 423 as original.
Subclass:
717
Reducing to free metal with gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 711. Process
wherein a gas (e.g., Hydrogen, Sulfur dioxide, Carbon
monoxide, hydrocarbon, etc.) is used to reduce a
metalliferous material to free metal.
(1) Note. Partial reduction with a reducing gas from one
ionic form to another is not sufficient for placement here.
Free metal must be formed as a result of the gaseous
treatment for this subclass.
Subclass:
718
Copper (Cu) recovered as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 717. Process
wherein the free metal produced is Copper (Cu).
Subclass:
719
Using Sulfur dioxide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 718. Process
wherein Sulfur dioxide is the gas.
Subclass:
720
Noble metal recovered as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 717. Process
wherein the free metal recovered is a Noble metal (i.e.,
Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), Palladium (Pd), Osmium (Os),
Iridium (Ir), Platinum (Pt), Silver (Ag), Gold (Au)).
Subclass:
721
Utilizing organic reducing agent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 711. Process
wherein an organic compound is used as a reducing agent for
producing free metal.
Subclass:
722
Involving organic compound containing metal or organic agent
for agglomerating metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 711. Process
wherein an organic compound containing a metal (e.g.,
complex, solvent, resin, etc.) is involved at any stage in
the process or process wherein an organic agent for
agglomerating free metal (e.g., collecting agent,
flocculation agent, flotation agent, etc.) is involved.
(1) Note. Processes treating metalliferous materials and
producing or recovering organo-metallic complexes without
free metal production should be placed in the appropriate
Organic Chemistry Class. However, if a free metal is
produced, proper classification is in Class 75.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
413 for production of free metal from metal carbonyls or
Carbon monoxide metallic complexes.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
534, Organic Compounds, 10 for organic compounds containing
radioactive metals and processes of producing same and
subclasses 15+ for organic compounds containing rare earth
metals and processes of producing same.
556, Organic Compounds, 1 for organic compounds containing
heavy metals and processes of producing same.
Subclass:
723
Natural or synthetic polymer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 722. Process
wherein the organic compound is a natural or synthetic
polymer (e.g., resin, protein, etc.).
Subclass:
724
Displacing by another metal (i.e., electromotive series):
This subclass is indented under subclass 711. Process
wherein a more electropositive free metal displaces a less
electropositive metal from solution in a free metal form,
while the more electropositive metal goes into solution in
ionic form.
(1) Note. This process is sometimes referred to as
cementation.
(2) Note. Electrowinning will be considered to mean
separation of metals by electrolysis proper for Class 205
unless otherwise indicated. A few patents use the term
electrowinning to refer to displacement and when indicated
proper classification is in Class 75.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
205, Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein, and
Methods of Preparing the Compositions, 334 or 687+, as
appropriate, for electrowinning or separation of metals by
electrolysis.
Subclass:
725
Lead (Pb) or Zinc (Zn) recovered as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 724. Process
wherein the free metal recovered by displacement is Lead (Pb)
or Zinc (Zn).
Subclass:
726
Copper (Cu) recovered as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 724. Process
wherein the free metal recovered by displacement is Copper
(Cu).
Subclass:
727
And flotation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 726. Process
wherein flotation in liquid is involved as a means of
separating solid material from other solid material or from
the liquid and free copper metal is produced at any stage of
the process.
Subclass:
728
And injecting or pressurizing with air or Oxygen:
This subclass is indented under subclass 726. Process
wherein air or Oxygen is injected into the liquid or process
wherein the liquid is subjected to treatment with air or
Oxygen at pressures exceeding atmospheric pressure.
Subclass:
729
From Cyanide solution:
This subclass is indented under subclass 726. Process
wherein the Copper (Cu) free metal is precipitated from a
Cyanide containing solution thereof.
Subclass:
730
With agitating or abrading:
This subclass is indented under subclass 726. Process
wherein an agitating or abrading action is performed with the
liquid or on the solid metalliferous material.
Subclass:
731
Utilizing leaching agent containing Sulfur (S):
This subclass is indented under subclass 726. Process which
utilizes a Sulfur (S) containing chemical agent to leach the
metalliferous material.
Subclass:
732
Noble metal recovered as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 724. Process
wherein the free metal recovered by displacement is a Noble
metal (i.e., Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), Palladium (Pd),
Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir), Platinum (Pt), Silver (Ag), Gold
(Au)).
Subclass:
733
Silver (Ag) recovered as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 732. Process
wherein the free metal recovered by displacement is Silver
(Ag).
Subclass:
734
And injecting or pressurizing with air or Oxygen:
This subclass is indented under subclass 733. Process
wherein air or Oxygen is injected into the liquid or process
wherein the liquid is subjected to treatment with air or
Oxygen at pressures exceeding atmospheric pressure.
Subclass:
735
From Cyanide solution:
This subclass is indented under subclass 733. Process
wherein the Silver (Ag) free metal is precipitated from a
Cyanide containing solution thereof.
Subclass:
736
Gold (Au) recovered as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 732. Process
wherein the free metal recovered by displacement is Gold
(Au).
Subclass:
737
From Cyanide solution:
This subclass is indented under subclass 736. Process
wherein the Gold (Au) free metal is precipitated from a
Cyanide containing solution thereof.
Subclass:
738
Nickel (Ni) or Cobalt (Co) recovered as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 724. Process
wherein the free metal recovered by displacement is Nickel
(Ni) or Cobalt (Co).
Subclass:
739
Utilizing chemical agent to precipitate free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 711. Process
wherein precipitation of free metal occurs when a chemical
agent is added to the metalliferous material.
Subclass:
740
Copper (Cu) recovered as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 739. Process
wherein the free metal recovered is Copper (Cu).
Subclass:
741
Noble metal recovered as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 739. Process
wherein the free metal recovered is a Noble metal (i.e.,
Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), Palladium (Pd), Osmium (Os),
Iridium (Ir), Platinum (Pt), Silver (Ag), Gold (Au)).
Subclass:
742
Cleaning, leaching or dissolving of Mercury (Hg):
This subclass is indented under subclass 711. Process
wherein Mercury (Hg) is subjected to cleaning, leaching or
dissolving to provide a refined Mercury.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
388 for preparing for amalgamation, preparing and
amalgamating, or breaking an amalgam to produce free metal
(e.g., Mercury).
Subclass:
743
With leaching or dissolving:
This subclass is indented under subclass 711. Process
wherein treatment of metalliferous material involves a
leaching or dissolving operation at any stage in the
production of free metal.
Subclass:
744
Noble metal recovered as free metal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 743. Process
wherein the free metal recovered is a Noble metal (i.e.,
Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), Palladium (Pd), Osmium (Os),
Iridium (Ir), Platinum (Pt), Silver (Ag), Gold (Au)).
Subclass:
745
Alkali metal, singly or in combination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 710. Process in
which an Alkali metal (i.e., Lithium (Li), Sodium (Na),
Potassium (K), Rubidium (Rb), Cesium (Cs)) is produced or a
metal that contains over 50 percent by weight Alkali metal,
singly or in combination, is treated.
Subclass:
746
Consolidating metalliferous material (e.g., ore, tailings,
flue dust, fluxes, etc.) by agglomerating, compacting, or
heat treating; preparatory process therefor; or treating
consolidated material therefrom:
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Process for
consolidating a metalliferous material (e.g., ore, tailings,
flue dust, fluxes, etc.) to concentrate a desired
metalliferous component or to perfect the metalliferous
material for a metallurgical operation by compacting,
agglomerating, or heat treatment; preparatory process
therefor; or treatment of consolidated metalliferous material
prepared thereby - wherein (1) there is no chemical
production of free metal that remains in the product and (2)
the product is amenable to a Class 75 or Class 420 refining
or alloying operation.
(1) Note. Consolidating of metalliferous material which is
an ore may involve beneficiation. Beneficiation processes not
involving consolidation of metalliferous materials will be
found in other classes indicated in the following search
notes if no free metal is in the product or elsewhere in this
class if free metal is produced and present in the product.
(2) Note. These subclasses 746+ will be considered the
residual location taking combination of processes involving
such consolidation and other process classes even when
further Class 75 or 420 metallurgical operation is not
expressed in the specification.
(3) Note. If the product of the process contains a free
metal chemically produced by the process, classification goes
to the above process subclasses even if consolidation is
involved or even if only small amounts of free metal are
produced that remain in the final product.
(4) Note. However, if undesirable materials are removed as
free metal during the aforedescribed consolidation process,
classification remains in this section of Class 75.
(5) Note. If consolidation of the type hereinabove set forth
without free metal production takes place at any stage of the
process, classification remains in this section of Class 75
even if the final product is not a consolidated product.
However, the final product must be in intermediate form
amenable to Class 75 or 420 refining or alloying.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
303 for charge or solid treating compositions for treating
molten metal and particularly subclasses 310, 311 and 313+
for consolidated compositions.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
23, Chemistry: Physical Processes, subclass 313 for
agglomerating finely divided nonmetallic elements or
inorganic compounds by treatments which cause coalescence of
the particles and which involve only physical processes not
specifically provided for in some other class.
34, Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, for
processes of drying ore or metalliferous material. However,
if consolidation of the type hereinabove set forth is
combined with drying and gas or vapor contact with solids,
proper classification goes to Class 75.
65, Glass Manufacturing, for processes of making glass by
fusing metalliferous materials.
106, Compositions: Coatings or Plastics, for processes of
preparing molding, hydrosetting, filler, aggregate or pigment
compositions containing metalliferous materials.
134, Cleaning and Liquid Contact With Solids, for cleaning
and liquid contact of metalliferous materials, per se.
However, cleaning or liquid contact involving consolidated
metalliferous material as hereinabove set forth is proper for
Class 75 if a chemical step is involved.
201, Distillation: Processes, Thermolytic, for thermolytic
processes, not elsewhere provided, for treating carbonaceous
material to produce coke or when it is uncertain that the
process involves consolidation or treating of a consolidated
metalliferous material as hereinabove set forth. If coking of
a consolidated metalliferous composition is involved, it goes
to this section of Class 75, unless it can be determined that
free metal is produced.
205, Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein, and
Methods of Preparing the Compositions, for electrolytic
processes of treating metalliferous material. Combinations of
electrolysis and consolidation as hereinabove described are
placed as original in Class 75 and crossed to Class 205.
209, 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). However, if
consolidation of the type set forth hereinabove is combined
with the classifying, separating and assorting of solids,
proper classification goes to Class 75.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, for processes of
separating a component from a liquid. If consolidation of
metalliferous material of the type hereinabove set forth is
involved at any stage of the process, proper classification
goes to Class 75 even if liquid purification is involved and
a cross-reference is placed in Class 210.
241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, for
processes of disintegrating ore or metalliferous material for
the purpose of reducing particle size. Particularly see 3 in
Class 241. Combination of comminution or disintegration and
Class 209 separation go to Class 241. Combination of
comminution or disintegration with consolidation as
hereinabove set forth go to Class 75 whether or not Class 209
separation is involved unless an intended use divergent from
a Class 75 or 420 refining or alloying operation is
expressed.
252, Compositions, for processes, not elsewhere provided, of
making magnetic or chemical treating compositions containing
metalliferous materials.
264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes, 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. However,
processes preparing consolidated metalliferous charges or
metalliferous treating agents amenable to Class 75 or Class
420 refining or alloying operation go as original to this
section of Class 75.
419, Powder Metallurgy Processes, for producing metals,
alloys or metal containing compositions in a solid or compact
state from powdered or particulate material with or without
heating. If a consolidated metalliferous composition is
intended for Class 75 or 420 refining or alloying operation,
proper classification of the process of consolidation goes to
Class 75. The consolidation of free metal containing flue
dust or inclusion of a free metal reactant (i.e., powdered
aluminum) in a compacted metalliferous product intended for
Class 75 or 420 refining or alloying goes to this section of
Class 75. Here the line is strictly one of intent.
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, for chemical processes
of beneficiating ore or metalliferous material that provide
intermediate products even if intended for a Class 75 or
Class 420 operation. However, if the chemical process
includes a step of consolidation of the type hereinbefore set
forth, classification goes to Class 75.
(1) Note. 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.
(2) Note. If a free metal is produced, classification goes
to Class 75 or if an alloy is produced to Class 420 even when
chemical steps are involved. If the free metal produced by
the chemical process ends up in the product as a free metal,
proper classification is in the above free metal section of
Class 75 and not in this consolidation section of Class 75.
(3) Note. Processes of roasting or treating iron oxide ores
to change oxidation state without free metal production go to
Class 423. However, if consolidation is also involved as set
forth hereinabove, classification goes to this section of
Class 75.
(4) Note. Hydrometallurgical processes not producing free
metal go to Class 423. However, if consolidation of the type
hereinabove set forth is involved, proper classification goes
to Class 75.
(5) Note. Processes of removing an impurity from an ore
(e.g., roasting, desulfurizing, dephosphorizing, or
dearsenizing, etc.) are classified in Class 423, subclasses
1+ based upon the metal values recovered. If no particular
resulting metal value is disclosed classification is in Class
423 subclass 1. However, if consolidation as hereinbefore set
forth is involved, classification is in Class 75.
427, Coating Processes, for processes of coating ore or
metalliferous material. However, if consolidation of the type
hereinabove set forth is present, classification goes to
Class 75, even if a coated product is produced.
501, Compositions: Ceramic, for processes of producing
ceramic, glass, or refractory compositions that contain fused
or sintered metalliferous materials.
502, Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product or
Process of Making, for processes of producing metalliferous
products intended for use as a catalyst or sorbent. If the
consolidated metalliferous material as hereinabove set forth
is intended for use as a catalyst or sorbent, the original
goes to Class 502.
507, Earth Boring, Well Treating, and Oil Field Chemistry,
for well treating compositions containing metalliferous
materials.
Subclass:
747
Noble metal containing metalliferous material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 746. Process
involving consolidation of Noble metal containing
metalliferous material without chemical production of free
Noble metal that remains in the product.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
388 for amalgamation processes.
631 for processes of chemically reducing Noble metal
containing metalliferous materials to the zero valent state.
Subclass:
748
With vaporization of impurity as metal halide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 746. Process
wherein an undesirable component is removed by reacting the
ore or metalliferous material with a halogenating agent
(e.g., Sodium chloride, Hydrochloric acid, Chlorine,
Fluorine, etc.) and the resulting metal halide is vaporized.
Subclass:
749
With physical separation or classification of solids:
This subclass is indented under subclass 746. Combined
process that involves separating solid materials and
assorting or segregating them into grades or classes
according to physical characteristics (e.g., flotation,
screening, flocculation, etc.) of solids.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
746 for the line between Class 209 and Class 75 and for
combined operations acceptable to Class 75.
Subclass:
750
By sifting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 749. Process that
includes a sifting (e.g., screening, etc.) operation to
separate or classify solid material.
Subclass:
751
With heat treatment (e.g., calcinating, fusing, indurating,
roasting, sintering, vaporizing, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 746. Process which
includes heat treatment (e.g., calcinating, fusing,
indurating, roasting, sintering, vaporizing, etc.) that may
occur before, after, or during consolidation.
Subclass:
752
Vaporizing metalliferous impurity:
This subclass is indented under subclass 751. Process
involving the removal of undesirable metalliferous material
by vaporization thereof.
(1) Note. If the vaporization of elemental or free metal is
involved, the subject matter is placed here only if the metal
is considered an impurity. Otherwise, the subject matter is
classified in the above refining, or purifying subclasses for
free metal production or Class 420 for alloy production.
(2) Note. Following precedent, Arsenic (As) is considered a
metal for purposes of classification in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
748 for vaporization of impurity as a metal halide.
Subclass:
753
With leaching, dissolving, or washing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 751. Process
wherein the consolidated metalliferous material or the
material undergoing consolidation is subjected to a leaching,
dissolving, or washing treatment.
Subclass:
754
By suspension (e.g., fluid bed, cyclone, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 751. Process
wherein the consolidated metalliferous material or the
material undergoing consolidation is heat treated in the
suspended state (e.g., fluid bed, cyclone, etc.).
Subclass:
755
On moving grate, moving pallet, or endless belt:
This subclass is indented under subclass 751. Process
wherein the consolidated metalliferous material or the
material undergoing consolidation is heat treated on a moving
grate, moving pallet, or endless belt (e.g., Dwight-Loyd,
Greenawalt apparatus, etc.).
Subclass:
756
Using multi-layers:
This subclass is indented under subclass 755. Process
wherein the material undergoing heat treatment is placed on
the grate, pallet, or belt in more than one layer defined by
particle characteristics or interspersed with a layer of
diverse material (e.g., fuel, etc.).
(1) Note. The multi-layers do not refer to coatings on a
pellet, briquette, or consolidated material but refer solely
to the layering of materials undergoing treatment on the
moving apparatus.
Subclass:
757
With gas recycling for reusing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 755. Process
wherein gas used or produced in the heat treatment is
recycled or reused in the same heat treatment process or in a
diverse operation.
Subclass:
758
Sintering:
This subclass is indented under subclass 755. Process
wherein the consolidated metalliferous material or the
material undergoing consolidation is sintered by the heat
treatment.
Subclass:
759
Of consolidated starting material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 758. Process
wherein the metalliferous material is consolidated (e.g.,
agglomerated, compacted, indurated, or presintered, etc.)
prior to the instant sintering.
Subclass:
760
In shaft furnace or multi-hearth furnace:
This subclass is indented under subclass 751. Process
wherein the consolidated metalliferous material or the
material undergoing consolidation is heat treated in an
upright cylindrical furnace known as a shaft furnace or in
any furnace containing multiple hearths.
Subclass:
761
Sintering:
This subclass is indented under subclass 760. Process
wherein the consolidated metalliferous material or the
material undergoing consolidation is sintered by the heat
treatment.
Subclass:
762
In rotary kiln:
This subclass is indented under subclass 751. Process
wherein the consolidated metalliferous material of the
material undergoing consolidation is heat treated and
agitated at any process stage by a chamber or converter that
rotates 360 degrees.
Subclass:
763
Sintering:
This subclass is indented under subclass 762. Process
wherein the consolidated metalliferous material or the
material undergoing consolidation is sintered by the heat
treatment.
Subclass:
764
Coking of binder or additive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 751. Process
wherein a carbonaceous binder or additive is subjected to an
in situ destructive distillation producing a consolidated
metalliferous material containing or coated with coke.
Subclass:
765
Sintering or with agglomerating or compacting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 751. Process
wherein sintering or heat treatment of agglomerated or
compacted metalliferous material is involved.
Subclass:
766
With coal, coke, pitch, asphalt, or tar:
This subclass is indented under subclass 765. Process
wherein coal, coke, pitch, asphalt, or tar is incorporated in
or coated on the consolidated material or utilized as a fuel
with the material undergoing consolidation.
Subclass:
767
With synthetic polymer, natural polymer, or carbohydrate:
This subclass is indented under subclass 765. Process
wherein a synthetic polymer, natural polymer, or carbohydrate
is incorporated in or coated on the consolidated material or
utilized as a fuel with the material undergoing
consolidation.
Subclass:
768
With Alkaline earth metal compound, clay, or hydrosetting
agent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 765. Process
wherein an Alkaline earth metal compound, clay, or
hydrosetting agent (e.g., cement, etc.) is incorporated in or
coated on the consolidated material.
Subclass:
769
Sintering:
This subclass is indented under subclass 765. Process
wherein the metalliferous material is sintered.
Subclass:
770
Agglomerating or compacting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 746. Process
wherein agglomerating or compacting or treatment of
agglomerated or compacted metalliferous material is
involved.
Subclass:
771
With coal, coke, pitch, asphalt, or tar:
This subclass is indented under subclass 770. Process
wherein coal, coke, pitch, asphalt, or tar is incorporated in
or coated on the consolidated material.
Subclass:
772
With synthetic polymer, natural polymer, or carbohydrate:
This subclass is indented under subclass 770. Process
wherein synthetic polymer, natural polymer, or carbohydrate
is incorporated in or coated on the consolidated material.
Subclass:
773
With Alkaline earth metal compound, clay, or hydrosetting
agent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 770. Process
wherein an Alkaline earth metal compound, clay, or
hydrosetting agent (e.g., cement, etc.) is incorporated in or
coated on the consolidated material.
CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS
Subclass:
950
CONSOLIDATED METAL POWDER COMPOSITIONS OF95% THEORETICAL
DENSITY (E.G., WROUGHT, ETC.):
This and the indented subclass(es) are collections of
published disclosures pertaining to consolidated metal powder
compositions having such a small amount of enclosed voids
that they approach, in their properties, the properties of
compositions made by more conventional alloying or fusion
techniques. These collections should not be considered
complete.
(1) Note. Except for patents classified in subclass 248,
subject matter cross- referenced to this subclass should be
considered a candidate for cross-referencing to subclasses
122.1+.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
148, Metal Treatment, 11.5 for processes which combine
working and heat treatment of solid metal.
Subclass:
951
Oxide containing (e.g., dispersion strengthened, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 950. Disclosures in
which the composition contains a compound of oxygen.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
148, Metal Treatment, 400 for metals or alloys strengthened
by the dispersion of oxides which have been prepared by
melting (fusion) techniques.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, 639 for a
metallic composite in which a metal component contains
oxygen.
Subclass:
952
PRODUCING FIBERS, FILAMENTS, OR WHISKERS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Art
collection of patents drawn to producing powders or particles
that are referred to as being "fibers", filaments", or
"whiskers."
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
117, Single-Crystal, Oriented-Crystal, and Epitaxy Growth
Processes; Non-Coating Apparatus Therefor, especially
subclass 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.
Subclass:
953
PRODUCING SPHERES:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Art
collection of patents drawn to producing powders or particles
that are referred to as being "spheres."
Subclass:
954
PRODUCING FLAKES OR CRYSTALS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Art
collection of patents drawn to producing powders or particles
that are referred to as being "flakes" or crystals".
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
117, Single-Crystal, Oriented-Crystal, and Epitaxy Growth
Processes; Non-Coating Apparatus Therefor, especially
subclass 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.
Subclass:
955
PRODUCING DENTAL PRODUCT:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Art
collection of patents drawn to producing powders or particles
that are useful as a dental product.
Subclass:
956
PRODUCING PARTICLES CONTAINING A DISPERSED PHRASE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Art
collection of patents drawn to producing powders or particles
that contain a dispersion.
Subclass:
957
CONTINUOUS REFINING OF MOLTEN IROn (FE):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Art
collection of processes in which molten Iron (Fe) is treated
to improve its properties by a process in which untreated
molten Iron is added to an apparatus either continuously or
intermittently and treated molten Iron is correspondingly
removed from the apparatus. The apparatus remains
substantially full of molten Iron being treated at all times.
The process can be carried out for an indefinite period as
long as more untreated Iron is added.
(1) Note. The use of the term "continuous" in a patent is
prima facie evidence that a cross reference is proper in this
subclass in the absence of a positive indication that the
process is carried out in a discontinuous manner, as by
emptying an apparatus of treated Iron and refilling it with
Iron to be treated.
Subclass:
958
WITH CONCURRENT PRODUCTION OF IRON (FE) AND OTHER DESIRED
NONMETALLIC PRODUCT (E.G., ENERGY, FERTILIZER, ETC.):
Art collection of patents in which other products are
intentionally produced along with Iron (Fe). Excluded are the
normal by-products such as flue gas and slag. However, if the
Iron (Fe) making process is intentionally modified so that
the by-products have special utility a cross-reference is
placed here. As an example, if slag is specifically made to
be high in phosphorus so that it is a good fertilizer a copy
of the patent should be placed here.
Subclass:
959
THERMIT-TYPE REACTION OF SOLID MATERIALS ONLY TO YIELD MOLTEN
METAL:
Art collection of patents in which a mixture of solid
materials including a reducible metal compound and a solid
reducing agent are reacted so that the heat of reaction is
sufficient to yield the reduced metal in molten condition.
(1) Note. A common example is the reaction of Iron oxide and
Aluminum (Al) powder which proceeds with sufficient vigor to
produce Iron in molten form.
(2) Note. Excluded herefrom are patents which treat molten
metal with compositions which have ingredients which interact
exothermically. For such patents see the appropriate subclass
above relating to the treatment of the particular molten
metal involved.
Subclass:
960
IN ZERO GRAVITY ENVIRONMENT:
Art collection of patents in which any step takes place in an
environment free of significant gravity (e.g., in outer
space).
Subclass:
961
TREATING FLUE DUST TO OBTAIN METAL (OTHER THAN BY
CONSOLIDATION):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Art
collection of patents drawn to obtaining metal from the flue
dust that issues from metallurgical furnaces such as blast
furnaces. Excluded are processes which merely consolidate the
flue dust.
Subclass:
962
TREATING OR USING MILL SCALE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Art
collection drawn to patents which treat mill scale to obtain
metal, or which use mill scale in metallurgical processes
other than in the open hearth manufacture of steel.
(1) Note. Mill scale is the oxide which results when hot
metal is rolled or forged in the air. It is usually Iron
oxide.
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000