Melting and purification of Niobium

The aspects involved in the purification of Niobium in Electron Beam Furnaces will be outlined and correlated with practical experience accumulated over 12 years of continuously producing high purity Niobium metal and Niobium-zirconium ingots at CBMM, meeting the needs for a wide range of uses. Also included are some comments regarding raw material requirements and preparation. (AU)