Reynolds Metals Company Research Articles

This Thing Called Goodwill: The Reynolds Metals Company and Political Networking in Wartime America

This article examines the Reynolds Metals Company’s political networking activities in Washington, D.C., and the state capitals of the U.S. South in the 1940s and 1950s. It argues that Reynolds’ astute recruitment of senior staff from federal and state governments, its adept building of elite networks in the legislative and executive branches, its judicious espousing of key political rhetoric (antitrust, regional development, national security), as well as its nurturing of Democratic circles in the South were crucial to their attainment of competitive advantage. This saw the company rise from being a new entrant in the U.S. primary aluminum production during World War II to the second-largest national producer by 1946 and a major global player by the mid-1950s. This same political networking was critical in maintaining that advantage after World War II in the face of competition from the Aluminum Company of America and the Canadian multinational Aluminium Company of Canada. Both “wartime” (covering the period from World War II and into the Cold War) and the legacy of government intervention (from the early twentieth century until the 1960s, including the New Deal) provided a fertile context for RMC’s business strategy. The company’s success owed much to founder Richard S. Reynolds Sr.’s acumen in hiring the right people, creating or joining the right networks, having the right social capital, as well as his experiences and connections accrued from working with his uncle, the noted tobacco magnate R. J. Reynolds. The article offers insights into the nature of U.S. business–government relations.

Wrapping Aluminum at the Reynolds Metals Company

ABSTRACTA bright future for aluminum was envisioned in the 1950s, as the Reynolds Metals Company boldly set out to reinvent the material from military applications to domestic use in the American “good life.” The company literally wrapped a number of new products for the American lifestyle with aluminum, prompting comparisons today with Roland Barthes's theory of wrapping the empty center. However, after a generation's use, aluminum wrapping was discarded. The consequences of rampant consumerism became apparent in the next decades, revealing a legacy of mounting aluminum waste and the company's 1960s and 1970s recycling efforts appeared to be nothing more than a greenwashed front. Aluminum's contemporary status as a sustainable material is considered within the complexity of this history.

Aluminum reduction technology—where to from here?

John J. Chen (University of Auckland): When the program for the TMS 2000 Aluminum Reduction Technology sessions was put together, there was much media attention on the so-called Y2K bug. With the dawning of the new millennium—the correct start-date of the new millennium aside—we felt that it would be timely to take stock of the technology and discuss what the direction and needs are for research and development in the new millennium. Hence the title, Aluminum Reduction Technology—Where to from Here. It was felt that the best way to achieve a free interchange of ideas would be to deviate from the normal TMS paperpresentation format. Instead, we decided on having a panel of experts who represent the broad cross section of the industry, in terms of geography, academe, industry, etc. We would also encourage comments and questions from the audience. We are very grateful to the panelists who have accepted our invitation to present their viewpoints, which will act as the seed for further discussion and debate. We are very pleased that Dr. Nolan Richards agreed to chair the discussion. Nolan Richards (Consultant): Firstly, this is your panel. These people have consented to be up here to be of service to you. They are going to present ideas— it could be their visions, their wishes, or their complaints. It is up to you to react. I hope that some things that are said up here will inspire you to ask questions and comments. We came to this symposium, I believe, to be inspired and to learn something. I love what Barry Welch said on Monday—think out of the box. It reminded me of some innovative experiments that we conducted together in our early years at Reynolds [Reynolds Metals Company]. That’s how I perceive what Dr. Welch and others are going to inspire you to think out of the box.

Corrosion and Fatigue Resistance Study of Aluminum Bridge Deck

Thousands of bridges on which the U.S. transportation system depends are in need of repair or replacement. Engineers are continually looking for materials that can significantly extend the lives of these structures. The use of lightweight materials such as aluminum could often avoid the cost of the replacement of the sound foundations and steel girders of bridges listed as structurally deficient. However, bridge engineers have not considered aluminum for use as a bridge material because of a lack of information on the in-service performance of existing aluminum bridges and a lack of knowledge about the metal's lower life-cycle costs compared with those of traditional materials. The reconfiguration of the Smithfield Bridge in downtown Pittsburgh from a mass transit-highway bridge to a highway-traffic bridge presented an opportunity for Reynolds Metals Company to analyze the corrosion and fatigue performance of the almost 30-year-old deck and the more than 60-year-old cross members. The results of the study indicate that aluminum is a viable material for bridge decks when it is properly designed into the application.

Corrosion and Fatigue Resistance Study of Aluminum Bridge Deck

Thousands of bridges on which the U.S. transportation system depends are in need of repair or replacement. Engineers are continually looking for materials that can significantly extend the lives of these structures. The use of lightweight materials such as aluminum could often avoid the cost of the replacement of the sound foundations and steel girders of bridges listed as structurally deficient. However, bridge engineers have not considered aluminum for use as a bridge material because of a lack of information on the in-service performance of existing aluminum bridges and a lack of knowledge about the metal's lower life-cycle costs compared with those of traditional materials. The reconfiguration of the Smithfield Bridge in downtown Pittsburgh from a mass transit–highway bridge to a highway-traffic bridge presented an opportunity for Reynolds Metals Company to analyze the corrosion and fatigue performance of the almost 30-year-old deck and the more than 60-year-old cross members. The results of the study indicate that aluminum is a viable material for bridge decks when it is properly designed into the application.

Heat transport and solidification in the electromagnetic casting of aluminum alloys: Part I. Experimental measurements on a pilot-scale caster

While many investigators have examined electromagnetic and magnetohydrodynamics phenomena in electromagnetic casting (EMC) of aluminum, there appears to be no published work on heat transport and solidification in such casters. This two-part series is an attempt to remedy this deficiency. The first part describes two experimental campaigns, carried out on a pilot-scale electromagnetic caster at Reynolds Metals Company, in which sacrificial thermocouples were used to obtain many data on temperature distributions within the aluminum of a pilot-scale caster and thereby to obtain the shape of the liquid metal pool (sump). The data reveal a strong dependence of temperature distribution and sump depth on casting speed but a relatively weak dependence on the flow rate of the quenching water striking the outside of the ingot.

Heat transport and solidification in the electromagnetic casting of aluminum alloys: Part II. Development of a mathematical model and comparison with experimental results

In this second article of a two-part series, a mathematical model for heat transport and solidification of aluminum in electromagnetic casting is developed. The model is a three-dimensional one but involves a simplified treatment of convective heat transport in the liquid metal pool. Heat conduction in the solid was thought to play a dominant role in heat transport, and the thermal properties of the two alloys used in measurements reported in Part I (AA 5182 and 3104) were measured independently for input to the model. Heat transfer into the water sprays impacting the sides of the ingot was approximated using a heat-transfer coefficient from direct chill casting; because this heat-transfer step appears not to be rate determining for solidification and cooling of most of the ingot, there is little inaccuracy involved in this approximation. Joule heating was incorporated into some of the computations, which were carried out using the finite element software FIDAP. There was good agreement between the computed results and extensive thermocouple measurements (reported in Part I) made on a pilot-scale caster at Reynolds Metals Company (Richmond, VA).

5423922 Delacquering of aluminum cans for recycling: Kirk Thomas E Henrico County, VA, United States Assigned to Reynolds Metals Company

Increasing population and individual wealth have led to a higher demand for energy and raw material resources as well as for steady improvement of processing technology in view of efficient use of resources and avoiding emissions in production and recycling processes. Present situation and future trend of recycling processing are discussed by examples from the aluminium and steel industries, recycling of cars and post-consumer municipal recovery. The importance of more intense observance of thermodynamic laws and of a 4E strategy “Economy, Energy, Environment and Education” is outlined.

Microstructure and properties of Al-Cu-Li-Ag-Mg-Zr alloy

Weldalite™ 049 is an ultrahigh strength weldable Al-Cu-Li based alloy containing minor amounts of Ag, Mg and Zr, developed at Martin Marietta. Additions of Ag and Mg seem to stimulate precipitation in this alloy, but the exact role of these elements in promoting the precipitation of strengthening phases is as yet unclear. In this paper, we report the characteristic microstructure of the Weldalite™ 049 alloy in the near peak aged T8 temper condition and its effect on the measured tensile properties of this alloy.The alloy used in this study was prepared by the Reynolds Metals Company. Measured alloy composition was Al-4.36 Cu-1.25 Li-0.39 Mg-0.35 Ag-0.14 Zr (wt.%). Tensile tests were performed at both room and cryogenic temperatures. The samples for TEM observations were cut from the mechanical testing specimens and then thinned to electron transparency by polishing and ion milling. Liquid nitrogen cooled specimen holder was used for ion milling to avoid local specimen heating. Diffraction contrast and tilting experiments were performed at 200kV in a JEM-2000FX. HREM was done in an ISI-002B at 200kV, with an interpretable resolution limit of 0.18 nm.

The Indispensable Role of Management Science in Centralizing Freight Operations at Reynolds Metals Company

In October 1988, the Reynolds Metals Company centralized interstate truckload freight operations. Reynolds' over-200 plants, warehouses, and suppliers no longer dispatch their own shipments to some 200 van and flatbed carriers of their choosing. Instead, they communicate daily shipments to central dispatch at the company's headquarters in Richmond, Virginia. There shipments are assigned to one of 14 premium-quality carriers through a comprehensive automated dispatching system. The Reynolds management sciences department built mixed integer programming and simulation models of central dispatch operations that transportation used to select and deploy carriers. To support daily freight operations, it built on-line dispatching models to help dispatchers route freight by the best service alternative at the lowest cost. Central dispatch has improved on-time delivery of shipments and reduced annual freight costs by over $7 million.

Ultrasonic Technology for Measuring Molten Aluminum Quality

In order to increase our understanding and control of the quality aspects of aluminum in the molten state, Reynolds Metals Company has developed a pulse-echo ultrasonic system to make four ultrasonic measurements: discontinuity evaluation, relative changes in attenuation, longitudinal wave velocity, and spectrum analysis of reflected pulses. These measurements are made possible through the use of a specially designed probe which is immersed in the molten metal; the metal can be either in a quiescent or a dynamic (flowing) condition. The system has been applied to examine several conditions of molten alumimum quality, and it has been determined that it can detect improvements, as well as deleterious effects.

Machining of aluminum alloys

Machining of aluminum alloys was the subject of a technical session at the Materials and Processing Show and Congress held in Chicago on November 13, 1979. This article presents some of the highlights on machining of aluminum alloys discussed at this session. The papers presented were: “Influence of Aluminum Casting Alloy Characteristics on Machinability” John L. Jorstad, Reynolds Metals Company “A Practical Approach to Aluminum Machining” Daniel R. Stashko, Valeron Corporation “Successful Broaching of Aluminum Automotive Engine Components” Myron J. Schmenk, Cincinnati Milacron “Drilling of 380 and 390 Aluminum” Thomas J. Skingle, Acme-Cleveland Corporation “The Skiving of Extruded Aluminum Tubing for Automotive Condenser Tubes” Robert B. Jagers, Chrysler Corporation “Ultra High-Speed Machining of Aluminum” Robert I. King, Lockheed Missile & Space Co.

MULTI LEVEL PROGRAMMED DECISION MAKING IN PRODUCTION PLANNING: A CASE STUDY IN ALUMINUM MANUFACTURE.

The article reports on decision making in an industrial environment. The author focuses on decisions related to product routings made at the Alloys Plant of Reynolds Metals Company of Sheffield, Al...

ALUMINUM X2036

Abstract ALUMINUM X2036 was developed for structural-sheet components in the automotive industry and is well suited for the manufacture of porcelain enameled housewares. This datasheet provides information on composition, physical properties, elasticity, and tensile properties as well as deformation. It also includes information on corrosion resistance as well as forming, heat treating, machining, and joining. Filing Code: Al-207. Producer or source: Reynolds Metals Company.

REYNOLDS 390 and A390

Abstract REYNOLDS 390 and A390 are hypereutectic aluminum-silicon alloys having excellent wear resistance coupled with good mechanical properties, high hardness, and low coefficients of expansion. This datasheet provides information on composition, physical properties, hardness, elasticity, and tensile properties as well as fatigue. It also includes information on high temperature performance and corrosion resistance as well as casting, heat treating, and machining. Filing Code: Al-203. Producer or source: Reynolds Metals Company.

Creativity Training: A Testing Program That Became a Sales Training Program*

The Journal of Creative BehaviorVolume 2, Issue 3 p. 179-186 Creativity Training: A Testing Program That Became a Sales Training Program* CLOYD S. STEINMETZ, CLOYD S. STEINMETZ Director Sales Training at Reynolds Metals Company. He is also past president of the American Society for Training and Development. Address: 204 Desota Drive, Richmond, Virginia, 23229Search for more papers by this author CLOYD S. STEINMETZ, CLOYD S. STEINMETZ Director Sales Training at Reynolds Metals Company. He is also past president of the American Society for Training and Development. Address: 204 Desota Drive, Richmond, Virginia, 23229Search for more papers by this author First published: Summer 1968 https://doi.org/10.1002/j.2162-6057.1968.tb00100.xCitations: 3 ‡ This article is a slight modification of one printed originally, under the same title, in the Training Directors Journal, April 1965. AboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinked InRedditWechat Citing Literature Volume2, Issue3Summer 1968Pages 179-186 RelatedInformation

ALUMINUM 613

Abstract Aluminum 613 is a natural aging casting alloy having high impact resistance, good corrosion resistance and good machinability. This datasheet provides information on composition, physical properties, hardness, elasticity, and tensile properties as well as fracture toughness. It also includes information on casting, heat treating, machining, and joining. Filing Code: Al-169. Producer or source: Reynolds Metals Company.

ALUMINUM D612

Abstract Aluminum D612 is a high strength natural aging alloy having high shock resistance and good corrosion resistance for pressure tight castings. This datasheet provides information on composition, physical properties, hardness, elasticity, tensile properties, and compressive and shear strength as well as fracture toughness and fatigue. It also includes information on casting, heat treating, machining, and joining. Filing Code: Al-160. Producer or source: Reynolds Metals Company.

ALUMINUM 6101

Abstract Aluminum 6101 is a heat treatable wrought alloy recommended for applications involving maximum electrical conductivity with moderately high strength, such as bus conductors. This datasheet provides information on composition, physical properties, hardness, elasticity, tensile properties, and shear strength. It also includes information on forming, heat treating, machining, and joining. Filing Code: Al-155. Producer or source: Reynolds Metals Company. See also Alloy Digest Al-194, January 1970.

Reviews

Abstract WHO GOVERNS? DEMOCRACY AND POWER IN AN AMERICAN CITY. By Robert A. Dahl. Yale University Press, New Haven, Connecticut, 1961. xii + 355 pp. 53 tables. 47 fig. $7.50. COMMUNITY POLITICAL SYSTEMS. Edited by Morris Janowitz. The Free Press of Glencoe Inc., New York, 1961. 259 pp. 88 tables. 7 fig. $7.50. DECISIONS IN SYRACUSE. By Roscoe C. Martin, Frank J. Munger and others, xvi + 368 pp. 3 tables. 3 maps. 3 fig. $6.95. THE FUTURE METROPOLIS. Edited by Lloyd Rodwin. George Braziller, Inc., New York, 1961. 253 pp. 9 fig. $5.00. PLANNING AND THE URBAN COMMUNITY. Edited by Harvey S. Perloff. Carnegie Institute of Technology and University of Pittsburgh Press, 1961. xvii + 255 pp. $4.00. FORM, DESIGN, AND THE CITY. Philadelphia City Planning Commission. Color-sound film, 57 minutes, 16 mm. Produced by the Reynolds Metals Company in cooperation with the American Institute of Architects, 1961. Available through George Pettingill, Librarian, American Institute of Architects, 1735 New York Avenue N.W., Washington 6, D. C.