Atomised metal powder prodn. - giving prod. with very low oxygen content and adjustable carbon content, uses granulation chamber with reduced fluid collection

The powdering medium, the reducing gas atmosphere and fluid used comprise hydrocarbons, pref. gas-form or liq. hydrocarbon or a mixt. such as gas oil, oil, benzene, or similar. The quantity of reducing powdering medium per time unit is adjusted in relation to the amount of metal per time unit, so that the desired carbon content in the produced metal powder is obtd. A molten stream is thus exposed to the gas-form or liq. hydrocarbon and to protect the powder against oxidation, the pulverisation takes place in a closed granulation chamber partially filled with liq. medium and under excess pressure of gas-form reducing medium. This obviates also any possible risks of explosion. The granulation chamber is connected via a base tapping-off arrangement to a vessel contg. a metal smelt. In the upper part of the chamber is an inlet for reducing gas, and there is a mouthpiece inserted for the supply of reducing powdering medium. A fluid lock comprises a pipe communicating with the chamber via a valve, and which issues below fluid level in the lock.