Abstract:
Processes and apparatus for enhancing the effectiveness of chemical tempering processes by subjecting the interface between a diffusion medium and a body between which an ion exchange is occurring to an electric field whose polarity through the interface is inverted at least once during the diffusion operation. The diffusion operation is also improved by subjecting the interface to pressure waves in the sonic or ultrasonic frequency range.
Abstract:
A PROCESS FOR PHYSICALLY STRENGTHENING A BODY MADE OF VITREOUS OR PARTLY VITREOUS MATERIAL BY PROVIDING THE BODY WITH SURFACE LAYERS OR COATINGS OF A MATERIAL WHOSE COMPOSITION IS SUCH THAT AT LEAST ONE COATING INGREDIENT CAN UNDERGO A SOLID-TO-SOLID PHASE TRANSFORMATION WHICH GIVES THE COATING A HARDNESS AT LEAST EQUAL TO THAT OF THE BODY, AND CAUSING SUCH PHASE TRANSFORMATION TO TAKE PLACE.
Abstract:
An article which may be in the form of a flat sheet is supported at least partially by a plurality of jets of gas discharged upwardly against the article from discharge orifices while the orifices are moved in directions having horizontal components so that the sheet may be displaced in a horizontal plane. The orifices may be in the walls of cylinders which are then rotated so that the moving jets displace the sheet horizontally. Orifices may also be provided in the upper reach of a belt which passes over slots in a gas discharge chamber which is connected to a source of gas under pressure. Both a method and apparatus are disclosed.