.~ Spheroidizing or rounding of existing solid metal particles
DEFINITION
Classification: 75/342
Spheroidizing or rounding of existing solid metal particles:
(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
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,
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.
