The present invention concerns an installation for a gunning operation for repairing a lining (1L) of a metallurgical vessel (1) comprising, - a mobile shooting unit (12) provided with a gunning lance (13), - a localisation system (17) for determining a first position (P1) of the of the mobile shooting unit relative to the metallurgical vessel, - a data processing system (21) configured, to define a first shooting sequence (S1) by the mobile shooting unit, to run a collision test checking whether the gunning lance contacts at any time the metallurgical vessel during implementation of the first shooting sequence (S1), to control the gunning system (11) to apply a first shooter sequence (S1), only if the collision test is positive.
A submerged nozzle for casting molten metal into a mould, is provided that includes an erosion resistant sleeve (2) made of a material resistant to erosion provided over a tubular portion and extending along a longitudinal axis (Z). The erosion resistant sleeve includes at least one annular protrusion (2p), extending radially outwards beyond a recessed portion (2r) of the erosion resistant sleeve over the whole circumference of the erosion resistant sleeve (2), the at least one annular protrusion (2p) follows a periodic wavy trajectory oscillating between one or more tip-points situated closest to the first end and a corresponding number of one or more valley-points situated closest to the second end, the periodic wavy trajectory being defined by an amplitude (A) greater than 5 mm and a periodicity (P) comprised between 1 and 20 tip to valley to tip periods per 2π rad.
The invention relates to a stopper (1) comprising ridges (12) in contact with the slag in a tundish (60). Each ridge (12) has a radial extension (21) that is less than half a radius (20) of the stopper (1) measured at said ridge (12). The ridges (12) rise and drop around the stopper (1). The ridges (12) decrease the creation of vortices by the stopper (1) and increase thus its lifetime.
B22D 41/16 - Closures stopper-rod type, i.e. a stopper-rod being positioned downwardly through the vessel and the metal therein, for selective registry with the pouring opening
The invention relates to a stopper (1) comprising ridges (12) in contact with the slag in a tundish (60). Each ridge (12) has a radial extension (21) that is less than half a radius (20) of the stopper (1) measured at said ridge (12). The ridges (12) decrease the creation of vortices by the stopper (1) and increase thus its lifetime. The ridges (12) are disposed in quincunx along the lateral wall (10).
B22D 41/16 - Closures stopper-rod type, i.e. a stopper-rod being positioned downwardly through the vessel and the metal therein, for selective registry with the pouring opening
5.
GAS PURGE PLUG AND SYSTEM FOR EASY INSTALLATION OF THE GAS PURGE PLUG IN A METALLURGICAL VESSEL
The present invention concerns a system for easy installation of a gas purge plug (1) in an opening (15) in a wall (11w) of a metallurgical vessel (11). The system comprises, · a gas purge plug equipped with a plug coupling element (1 c), · an insertion rod (2) equipped with a rod coupling element (2c) complementary with the plug coupling element (1c) to assemble the gas purge plug and insertion rod to form a rigid plug / rod assembly extending along a longitudinal axis (X). · A rail assembly configured for receiving the plug / rod assembly and for guiding the gas purge plug into an opening at an accurate operational position. The insertion rod (2) is also equipped with at least two locking blades (2b) configured for engaging into corresponding catcher elements (12) provided at a periphery of the opening (15), to block the position of the plug / rod assembly along the longitudinal axis (X).
The present invention concerns a measuring lance (1) for measuring a position (has) of an air-slag interface (2as) between an atmosphere (4) and a slag layer (2) sitting on top of a molten metal (3), and a position (hsm) of a slag-metal interface (2sm) between the slag layer (2) and the molten metal (3) in a single measurement run, comprising: • a carrier tube (5) extending along an axis (X) between a proximal end (5p) and a distal end (5d) located downstream of the proximal end, • a measuring unit (6) coupled to the distal end (5d) of the carrier tube (5) and configured for passing through the slag layer (2), the measuring unit (6) comprising, o an electric circuit (7) configured for detecting the air-slag interface (2as), o a slag-metal interface detection unit (8) located downstream of the distal end (5d), comprising at least first and second electric measuring terminals (8ta, 8tb), and configured for measuring values of a first material property at the position (hsm) of the slag-metal interface (2sm) between the slag layer (2) and the molten metal (3), and o preferably a sensor unit (9) comprising first and second electric sensor terminals (9ta, 9tb) and configured for measuring values of a second material property of the slag layer (2) and of the molten metal (3), o a cap (10) enclosing the slag-metal interface detection unit (8) and optionally the sensor unit (9), configured for separating the slag-metal interface detection unit (8) from an outer environment.
G01F 23/24 - Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by measuring physical variables, other than linear dimensions, pressure or weight, dependent on the level to be measured, e.g. by difference of heat transfer of steam or water by measuring variations of resistance of resistors due to contact with conductor fluid
B22D 2/00 - Arrangement of indicating or measuring devices, e.g. for temperature or viscosity of the fused mass
INSTALLATION FOR APPLYING A LINING COMPOSITION IN THE FORM OF DRY PARTICULATE MATERIAL TO FORM A WORKING LINING ONTO A PERMANENT REFRACTORY LAYER OF A TUNDISH
Embodiments of the invention concerns an installation for applying a lining composition in the form of dry particulate material (2p) to form a working lining (2s) onto a surface of a cavity in a tundish (1) wherein, in a space reference system (X, Y, Z), advantageously with X ⊥ Y ⊥ Z, wherein X is a longitudinal axis, Y is a transverse axis, and Z is a vertical axis. The installation comprises, • a support frame (41x-41z) defining a passage, • a tank (21) configured for storing an amount of the dry particulate material (2p) and comprising a tank outlet (21o) coupled to a metering unit (25) having a dispensing outlet (25o), • dispensing units (22) configured for being coupled to the dispensing outlet (25o), and for dispensing dry particulate material metered by the metering unit • a plunger (11) configured for fitting in the cavity with a peripheral gap (111) of gap width (g) between the plunger (11) and peripheral walls (1w) of the tundish, • a longitudinal translation mechanism (31x) configured for holding and translating the dispensing outlet (25o) along the longitudinal axis (X), • a transverse translation mechanism (31y) configured for receiving the tundish (1) and translating the tundish (1) along the transverse axis (Y) in and out of the passage, and • an elevation translation mechanism (31z) configured for holding the plunger (11) and translating the plunger along the vertical axis (Z) in and out of the cavity when the tundish is located in the passage.
A metal casting installation is provided that includes a robot configured for carrying out the operations of handing a new ladle shroud to a manipulator of the ladle located at the loading station, and coupling a driving device to the ladle slide gate each manipulator is fixed relative to the corresponding first or second ladle such as to move together with the corresponding first or second ladle between the loading station and the casting station.
The present invention concerns a submerged nozzle for casting molten metal into a mould, comprising an erosion resistant sleeve (2) made of a material resistant to erosion provided over a tubular portion and extending along a longitudinal axis (Z), wherein the erosion resistant sleeve comprises at least one annular protrusion (2p), extending radially outwards beyond a recessed portion (2r) of the erosion resistant sleeve over the whole circumference of the erosion resistant sleeve (2), wherein the at least one annular protrusion (2p) follows a periodic wavy trajectory oscillating between one or more tip-points situated closest to the first end and a corresponding number of one or more valley-points situated closest to the second end, the periodic wavy trajectory being defined by an amplitude (A) greater than 5 mm and a periodicity (P) comprised between 1 and 20 tip-to-valley-to tip periods per 2 rad.
The present invention concerns a submerged nozzle for casting molten metal into a mould, comprising an erosion resistant sleeve (2) made of a material resistant to erosion provided over a tubular portion and extending along a longitudinal axis (Z), wherein the erosion resistant sleeve comprises at least one annular protrusion (2p), extending radially outwards beyond a recessed portion (2r) of the erosion resistant sleeve over the whole circumference of the erosion resistant sleeve (2), wherein the at least one annular protrusion (2p) follows a periodic wavy trajectory oscillating between one or more tip-points situated closest to the first end and a corresponding number of one or more valley-points situated closest to the second end, the periodic wavy trajectory being defined by an amplitude (A) greater than 5 mm and a periodicity (P) comprised between 1 and 20 tip-to-valley-to tip periods per 2 rad.
A metal casting installation is provided that includes a loading platform, a tundish,
a first ladle and a second ladle, each of the first and second ladle has a floor provided with an opening, a collector nozzle and a ladle shroud. The installation also includes a ladle sliding gate configured for moving the collector nozzle and the ladle shroud between a sealed position, a casting position, and an unclogging position. A turret is provided for holding the first and second ladles, configured for moving and holding in place the first and second ladles between a loading station and a casting station over the tundish. A robot is also provided and configured for loading a new ladle shroud onto the ladle slide gate, and coupling a driving device to the ladle slide gate.
B22D 41/015 - Heating means with external heating, i.e. the heat source not being a part of the ladle
B22D 41/24 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate
Filter module (1) of a filtering system for a tundish (10) comprises a filter unit (1f) provided with channels (1c) extending from a channel inlet to a channel outlet, and a wall module (2) comprising a wall defining an opening (2o) extending over an opening height (h2) from the floor (10f). A bypass passage (2b) is defined between the wall module (2) and the filter module (1) of largest width (t12) such that the metal melt can only flow from the inlet portion to the outlet portion by flowing either through the channels of the filter unit (1f) or through the bypass passage (2b). The wall module comprises a wall ledge (2L) having a width (t2L). The filter module (1) further comprises a filter ledge (1L) having a width (t1L) and being offset vertically relative to the wall ledge (2L) to form therewith a baffle.
Plate condition tool for the measurement of condition data of slide gate valve plates coupled to the slide gate valve of a metallurgic vessel, said slide gate valve comprising a collector nozzle, said plate condition tool comprising: a) a main body comprising an obturator for obturating at least partially the collector nozzle; b) a gas injecting device comprising a pressure regulator for injecting a gas in the collector nozzle through the obturator; c) a gas flow measuring device for measuring the flow of the gas injected by the gas injecting device d) a controller being communicatively connected to the gas flow measuring device and being configured to receive input data relating to the relative position of the slide gate valve plates; and wherein the obturator comprises a seal holder for holding a collector nozzle seal.
System for tracking and assessing the condition of replaceable refractory elements in a metallurgic facility comprising: a) a plurality of identifiable metallurgical vessels, such as ladles, wherein each one of said identifiable metallurgical vessels comprises removable refractory elements, such as slide gate valve plates; b) a plurality of replacement refractory elements, wherein each replacement refractory element comprises a machine-readable identification tag comprising refractory element identification data; c) a reading station, such as an RFID workbench, for reading the machine-readable identification tags of a replacement refractory element positioned in a reading zone of the reading station; d) a refractory condition tool for assessing the condition of refractory elements coupled to anyone of said metallurgical vessels; e) a monitoring unit connectable to the reading station and the refractory condition tool.
A casting nozzle for use in the casting of molten metal produces a stable flow pattern having an elongated section in the horizontal plane. The bore cross-sectional area contains, from entry to exit, at least two significant section area reductions to reduce turbulence, realign streamlines and affect flow distribution inside the nozzle. The bore cross-section has a local minimum value in a contraction section located between the entry section and an expansion section. Bore cross-sectional area decreases from the expansion section to the lower end of the nozzle. The two significant cross-sectional area reductions cooperate with other structures within the bore to stabilize flow.
Slide closure for a vessel that operatively contains molten metal, comprising: a slide housing including a recess receiving a first refractory closure plate; a slide unit including an opening receiving a second refractory closure plate; wherein at least one clamping mechanism is arranged to start the clamping of the corresponding refractory closure plate via an actuation of the at least one clamping mechanism when the slide unit is displaced relative to the slide housing and the first and the second refractory closure plates are distant apart from each other, essentially before the first and the second faces of the respective first and the second refractory closure plates are in contact under pressure.
A sliding gate valve of a metallurgic vessel comprises a carriage. The carriage comprises a plate frame for supporting a first refractory plate and the plate frame is slideably mounted on a carriage support structure for sliding along a first axis. The carriage comprises a selecting device for selecting between a first stroke ΔX1 and a second stroke ΔX2 by moving a blocking member between a blocking and a non-blocking position. When the blocking member is located in the blocking position a first bumper portion of the plate frame is bumping into the blocking member if the plate frame is to slide beyond a nominal end-position. When the blocking member is located in the non-blocking position the first bumper portion is not bumping into the blocking member if the plate frame is to slide beyond a nominal end-position, thereby allowing the plate frame to slide beyond the nominal end-position to a service end-position.
F16K 3/30 - Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing Details
B22D 41/24 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate
B22D 41/34 - Supporting, fixing or centering means therefor
F16K 3/02 - Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing facesPackings therefor
A metallurgic casting installation comprises a robot. The robot comprises a handling tool coupled to an arm of the robot by a coupling element. The coupling element comprises a tool interface rigidly coupled to the handling tool, and a robot interface rigidly coupled to the arm of the robot. The compliance of the coupling element can be controlled such that upon application of a load onto the tool interface, the tool interface can be moved relative to the robot interface, by translation along and/or rotation about one or more of a first, second and third orthogonal spatial axes X1, X2, X3. The coupling element is resilient in that upon release of the load, the tool interface returns to a reset position relative to the robot interface corresponding to a reset distance Dr separating the tool interface and the robot interface.
A robotized system for fixing a sliding gate valve plate to a sliding gate valve or removing a sliding gate valve plate from a sliding gate valve comprises a sliding gate valve plate, a metallurgic vessel provided with a sliding gate valve comprising a plate support frame comprising a receiving cradle suitable for receiving and locking the sliding gate valve plate, and a robot comprising a handling interface provided with gripping clamps for gripping the sliding gate valve plate. The sliding gate valve plate comprises gripping holds mating the gripping clamps of the robot, such that the robot can securely hold and handle the sliding gate valve plate.
B22D 41/24 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate
B22D 41/56 - Means for supporting, manipulating or changing a pouring-nozzle
20.
ROBOTIZED LADLE TRANSPORTATION DEVICE SYSTEM WITH EMBEDDED MANIPULATOR
The present invention concerns a metal casting installation comprising, • (a) a loading platform (20), • (b) a tundish (1), • (c) a first ladle (11) and a second ladle (12), each comprising, • · a floor provided with an opening (11 o, 12o), • · a ladle shroud (13a-13c), • · a ladle sliding gate (15) configured for being coupled to a driving device (17) for actuating the ladle sliding gate between a sealed position and a casting position, and comprising a collector nozzle (14) for receiving the ladle shroud, • (d) a first and second ladle shroud manipulators (35) for holding the ladle shroud (13a-13c) coupled over the collector nozzle (14) of the first and second ladles, • (e) a transportation device comprising a first holding device and a second holding device for holding the first and second ladles (11, 12), and being configured for moving and holding in place the first and second ladles between a loading station, adjacent to the loading platform (20), and a casting station, over the tundish (1), Characterized in that, • · the metal casting installation comprises a robot (21) configured for carrying out the following operations, • o handing a new ladle shroud (13b) to the manipulator (35) of the ladle located at the loading station, and • o coupling a driving device (17) to the ladle slide gate (15) • · each manipulator is fixed relative to the corresponding first or second ladle (11, 12), such as to move together with the corresponding first or second ladle between the loading station and the casting station.
A metal casting installation comprising a loading platform, a tundish, first and second ladles, each comprising, a floor provided with an opening, a ladle shroud, and a ladle sliding gate, the installation further comprising first and second ladle shroud manipulators for holding the ladle shroud coupled over a collector nozzle of the first and second ladles, a transportation device comprising first and second holding devices for holding the ladles, and configured for moving the ladles between a loading station and a casting station, and a robot configured for handing a new ladle shroud to the manipulator of the ladle located at a loading station, and coupling a driving device to the ladle slide gate, each manipulator being fixed relative to the corresponding ladle, such as to move together with the corresponding ladle between the loading station and the casting station.
The present invention concerns a metal casting installation comprising, (a) a loading platform (20), (b) a tundish (1), (c) a first ladle (11) and a second ladle (12), each of the first and second ladle comprising, • a floor provided with an opening (11o, 12o), • a collector nozzle (14) and a ladle shroud (13a-13c), • a ladle sliding gate (15) configured for moving the collector nozzle and the ladle shroud between a sealed position wherein the opening is sealed, a casting position wherein the opening faces the ladle shroud (13a-13c), and an unclogging position wherein the opening faces the collector nozzle (14), (d) a turret (30) for holding the first and second ladles, configured for moving and holding in place the first and second ladles (11,12) between a loading station and a casting station, over the tundish (1), Characterized in that, the metal casting installation comprises a robot (21) configured for carrying out the following operations on the first or second ladle which is held in the loading station, • loading a new ladle shroud (13b) onto the ladle slide gate (15), and •coupling a driving device (17) to the ladle slide gate (15).
The present invention concerns a metal casting installation comprising, (a) a loading platform (20), (b) a tundish (1), (c) a first ladle (11) and a second ladle (12), each of the first and second ladle comprising, ? a floor provided with an opening (11o, 12o), ? a collector nozzle (14) and a ladle shroud (13a-13c), ? a ladle sliding gate (15) configured for moving the collector nozzle and the ladle shroud between a sealed position wherein the opening is sealed, a casting position wherein the opening faces the ladle shroud (13a-13c), and an unclogging position wherein the opening faces the collector nozzle (14), (d) a turret (30) for holding the first and second ladles, configured for moving and holding in place the first and second ladles (11,12) between a loading station and a casting station, over the tundish (1), Characterized in that, the metal casting installation comprises a robot (21) configured for carrying out the following operations on the first or second ladle which is held in the loading station, ? loading a new ladle shroud (13b) onto the ladle slide gate (15), and ?coupling a driving device (17) to the ladle slide gate (15).
The present invention concerns a lance composed of a top lance (1t) and of a sublance (2) coupled to the top lance (1t), which forms a shoulder (1s) between the top lance and the sublance. The sublance (2) of the present invention is provided with a protective device (3) comprising a coupling end (2c) opening to the cavity (2v), wherein, • when at rest, the protective device (3) is in an initial configuration characterized by an outer maximum diameter (D3o) which is not more than 10% larger than the diameter (D2) of sublance (2) (D3o ≤ 1.1 D2), • when the sublance (2) is coupled to the lance the protective device (3) contacts the shoulder (1s) and is deformed into a deformed configuration, forming a surface impervious to molten metal and slag, which spans over a whole area of the shoulder (1s).
wherein, an inner surface of the locking ring is provided with N L-shaped channels, such that the inner nozzle can be inserted along a longitudinal axis, Z, through an opening of the locking ring, with the N protrusions being engaged in corresponding first channel portion until they abut against corresponding first channel ends, at which point the inner nozzle can be rotated about the longitudinal axis to engage the protrusions along corresponding second channel portions to self-lock the inner nozzle in its operating position.
A device and a process for the continuous application of a refractory slurry to a surface incorporate a batch reactor (10) for the controlled mixing of the slurry, a product vessel (60) in communication with the batch reactor (10) to contain the mixed slurry, and a variable-rate spraying applicator or nozzle in communication with the product vessel and with an air supply. A controller (100) controls input to, output from, and the operation of, the batch mixer (10), and monitors batch production. The controller (100) monitors the amount of slurry contained in the product vessel (60). If the level of slurry in the product hopper is such that the product hopper cannot accommodate an additional batch of slurry, the controller interrupts batch production and resumes production when the product hopper can accept the contents of the batch reactor (10).
B28C 7/02 - Controlling the operation of the mixing
B28C 7/04 - Supplying or proportioning the ingredients
B28C 5/02 - Apparatus or methods for producing mixtures of cement with other substances, e.g. slurries, mortars, porous or fibrous compositions without using driven mechanical means effecting the mixing
System for tracking and assessing the condition of replaceable refractory elements in a metallurgic facility comprising: a) a plurality of identifiable metallurgical vessels (1), such as ladles, wherein each one of said identifiable metallurgical vessels comprises removable refractory elements (1p), such as slide gate valve plates; b) a plurality of replacement refractory elements (1r), wherein each replacement refractory element comprises a machine-readable identification tag (1t) comprising refractory element identification data; c) a reading station (2), such as an RFID workbench, for reading the machine- readable identification tags (1t) of a replacement refractory element (1d) positioned in a reading zone (21) of the reading station (2); d) a refractory condition tool (3) for assessing the condition of refractory elements coupled to anyone of said metallurgical vessels (1); e) a monitoring unit (4) connectable to the reading station (2) and the refractory condition tool (3).
Slide closure for a vessel that operatively contains molten metal, comprising: a slide housing including a recess receiving a first refractory closure plate; a slide unit including an opening receiving a second refractory closure plate; wherein at least one clamping mechanism is arranged to start the clamping of the corresponding refractory closure plate via an actuation of the at least one clamping mechanism when the slide unit is displaced relative to the slide housing and the first and the second refractory closure plates are distant apart from each other, essentially before the first and the second faces of the respective first and the second refractory closure plates are in contact under pressure.
System for tracking and assessing the condition of replaceable refractory elements in a metallurgic facility comprising: a) a plurality of identifiable metallurgical vessels (1), such as ladles, wherein each one of said identifiable metallurgical vessels comprises removable refractory elements (1p), such as slide gate valve plates; b) a plurality of replacement refractory elements (1r), wherein each replacement refractory element comprises a machine-readable identification tag (1t) comprising refractory element identification data; c) a reading station (2), such as an RFID workbench, for reading the machine- readable identification tags (1t) of a replacement refractory element (1d) positioned in a reading zone (21) of the reading station (2); d) a refractory condition tool (3) for assessing the condition of refractory elements coupled to anyone of said metallurgical vessels (1); e) a monitoring unit (4) connectable to the reading station (2) and the refractory condition tool (3).
Plate condition tool (3) for the measurement of condition data of slide gate valve plates (2u, 2L, 2m) coupled to the slide gate valve (2) a metallurgic vessel (1), such as a ladle, said slide gate valve (2) comprising a collector nozzle (2n), said plate condition tool (3) comprising: a) a main body (4) comprising an obturator (5) for obturating at least partially the collector nozzle (2n); b) a gas injecting device comprising a pressure regulator (6) for injecting a gas in the collector nozzle (2n) through the obturator (5) at a target pressure; c) a gas flow measuring device (7) for measuring the flow of the gas injected by the gas injecting device or a pressure measuring device for measuring the gas pressure in the collector nozzle (2n); d) a controller (8) being communicatively connected to the gas flow measuring device (7) or to the pressure measuring device and being configured to receive input data relating to the relative position of the slide gate valve plates (2u, 2L, 2m); and wherein the obturator (5) comprises a seal holder (51) for holding a collector nozzle seal (52), said seal holder (51) being movable relative to said main body (4) at least along a forward axis X1 of said main body (4) for pressing the collector nozzle seal (52) against the collector nozzle (2n).
Plate condition tool (3) for the measurement of condition data of slide gate valve plates (2u, 2L, 2m) coupled to the slide gate valve (2) a metallurgic vessel (1), such as a ladle, said slide gate valve (2) comprising a collector nozzle (2n), said plate condition tool (3) comprising: a) a main body (4) comprising an obturator (5) for obturating at least partially the collector nozzle (2n); b) a gas injecting device comprising a pressure regulator (6) for injecting a gas in the collector nozzle (2n) through the obturator (5) at a target pressure; c) a gas flow measuring device (7) for measuring the flow of the gas injected by the gas injecting device or a pressure measuring device for measuring the gas pressure in the collector nozzle (2n); d) a controller (8) being communicatively connected to the gas flow measuring device (7) or to the pressure measuring device and being configured to receive input data relating to the relative position of the slide gate valve plates (2u, 2L, 2m); and wherein the obturator (5) comprises a seal holder (51) for holding a collector nozzle seal (52), said seal holder (51) being movable relative to said main body (4) at least along a forward axis X1 of said main body (4) for pressing the collector nozzle seal (52) against the collector nozzle (2n).
A casting nozzle (10) for use in the casting of molten metal produces a stable flow pattern having an elongated section in the horizontal plane. The bore (12) cross-sectional area contains, from entry (24) to exit (26, 28), at least two significant section area reductions to reduce turbulence, realign streamlines and affect flow distribution inside the nozzle. The bore cross-section has a local minimum value in a contraction section (40) located between the entry section (30) and an expansion section (50). Bore cross-sectional area decreases from the expansion section to the lower end of the nozzle. The two significant cross-sectional area reductions cooperate with other structures within the bore to stabilize flow.
B22D 11/06 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths into moulds with travelling walls, e.g. with rolls, plates, belts, caterpillars
A gate for metallurgic vessels is provided with a collector nozzle coupled to a bottom plate assembly of the gate. The bottom plate assembly allows a collector nozzle to be coupled to a bottom gate plate without need of a separate bayonet ring. A bayonet ring is integrated to the bottom plate assembly, allowing a collector nozzle to be mounted by a single robot, or by a single operator more easily than existing systems.
The present invention concerns a sliding gate valve of a metallurgic vessel comprising a carriage. The carriage comprises a plate frame for supporting a first refractory plate and the plate frame is slideably mounted on a carriage support structure for sliding along a first axis. The carriage comprises a selecting device for selecting between a first stroke ΔX1 and a second stroke ΔX2 by moving a blocking member between a blocking and a non-blocking position. When the blocking 10 member is located in the blocking position a first bumper portion of the plate frame is bumping into the blocking member if the plate frame is to slide beyond a nominal end-position. When the blocking member is located in the non-blocking position the first bumper portion is not bumping into the blocking member if the plate frame is to slide beyond a nominal end-position, thereby allowing the plate frame to slide beyond the nominal end-position to a service end-position.
B22D 41/24 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate
B22D 41/34 - Supporting, fixing or centering means therefor
The present invention concerns a robotized system for fixing or removing a sliding gate valve plate to or from a sliding gate valve, comprising: (a) a sliding gate valve plate (1) comprising a sliding surface (1s) separated from a second surface (1d) by a thickness of the sliding gate valve plate and joined to one another by a peripheral edge (1e), (b) metallurgy vessel (41) provided with a sliding gate valve comprising a plate support frame (11) comprising a receiving cradle (12) suitable for receiving and locking the sliding gate valve plate (1), (c) a robot (20) comprising a handling interface (21) provided with gripping clamps (25g, 25r, 25t) for gripping the sliding gate valve plate, wherein, (d) the sliding gate valve plate comprises gripping holds (5) located at the peripheral edge (1e) and / or at the second surface (1d), adjacent to the peripheral edge, mating the gripping clamps (25g, 25r, 25t) of the robot, such that the robot can securely hold and handle the sliding gate valve plate, in that (e) the gripping clamps (25g, 25r, 25t) can be moved, preferably by rotation about a rotation axis, from an open position suitable for surrounding the peripheral edge (1e) of the sliding gate valve plate to a gripping position suitable for coupling the gripping clamps (25g, 25r, 25t) to the gripping holds (5) of the sliding gate valve plate (1), and in that (f) the receiving cradle of the plate support frame comprises clearings (15) allowing access of the gripping clamps (25g, 25r, 25t) to the gripping holds (5) when the sliding gate valve plate is locked in the receiving plate support frame.
B22D 41/24 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate
Metallurgic casting installation comprising a robot (20), wherein said robot (20) comprises a handling tool coupled to an arm of the robot by a coupling element, said coupling element comprising, • a tool interface (2) rigidly coupled to the handling tool and • a robot interface (1) rigidly coupled to the arm of the robot, wherein i. the compliance of the coupling element can be controlled such that upon application of a load onto the tool interface (2), the tool interface (2) can be moved relative to the robot interface (1), by translation along and/or rotation about one or more of a first, second and third orthogonal spatial axes X1, X2, X3, and ii. the coupling element is resilient in that upon release of the load, the tool interface (2) returns to a reset position relative to the robot interface (1) corresponding to a reset distance Dr separating the tool interface (2) and the robot interface (1).
A tap hole closure (1) for use in a tap hole bore of a converter, comprising an elongated 5 refractory body (2) extending along a central longitudinal axis X, said refractory body (2) comprising: - an upstream portion (16) having a maximum width W3m - a downstream portion (14) having a width W1 - and an intermediate portion (15) directly connected to the upstream portion (16) and adjacent to the downstream portion (14), said intermediate portion being adapted to engage entirely in the tap hole, and wherein - said intermediate portion extending over a height H2 of at least 50 mm along the central longitudinal axis, - said intermediate portion having a width W2 at any location such as W1
The present invention concerns a self-locking inner nozzle system for locking an inner nozzle (10) in operating position at an outlet of a metallurgic vessel (200) for a time sufficient for a sealing material (2) to set, said self-locking inner nozzle system comprising: (A) an inner nozzle (10), provided with N ≥ 2 protrusions (11), distributed around a perimeter of the lateral surface (10L), (B) an upper frame (30f) rigidly fixed to a bottom surface of a metallurgic vessel, (C) a locking ring (31), rigidly fixed to the upper frame wherein, an inner surface of the locking ring is provided with N L-shaped channels, such that the inner nozzle can be inserted along a longitudinal axis, Z, through an opening of the locking ring, with the N protrusions (11) being engaged in corresponding first channel portion (32) until they abut against corresponding first channel ends (32e), at which point the inner nozzle can be rotated about the longitudinal axis to engage the protrusions along corresponding second channel portions (33) to self-lock the inner nozzle in its operating position.
The present invention concerns a gate for metallurgic vessels provided with a collector nozzle coupled to bottom plate assembly of the gate. The bottom plate assembly of the present invention allows a collector nozzle to be coupled to a bottom gate plate without need of a separate bayonet ring. The bayonet ring is integrated to the bottom plate assembly, allowing a collector nozzle to be mounted by a single robot, or by a single operator more easily than existing systems.
The present invention concerns a slab nozzle (1) for use in a continuous slab casting installation, characterized by a specific geometry of the outer wall of a downstream portion thereof which is inserted in a slab mould cavity. The specific geometry promotes a "round-about" effect whereby converging opposite streams of molten metal flowing towards two opposite flanks of the slab nozzle are each preferentially deviated towards one side of the slab nozzle where they can freely flow through the narrow channels formed between the slab nozzle and the slab mould cavity wall without impinging with one another. This prolongs the service life of the slab nozzle by substantially reducing the erosion rate of the outer wall thereof.
The present invention concerns a refractory stopper (1) for controlling the flow of molten metal out of a metallurgical vessel, said refractory stopper comprising: (a) an elongated body comprising a bulk (1b) made of a refractory material and defined by a peripheral wall (1w), the elongated body extending over a length, L, along a longitudinal axis, X1, from a distal end (1d) to a nose tip (1n), (b) a device (5) for measuring the temperature at an inner zone located (3i) within the bulk of the elongated body, the inner zone being separated from an outer zone (3o) located outside of the bulk of the elongated body by a strip of material of lowest thickness, t, wherein the temperature of the inner zone is representative of an instantaneous temperature at the outer zone, characterized in that, the elongated body comprises a through hole (2), extending through the elongated body along a transverse axis, X2, transverse, preferably normal to the longitudinal axis, X1, over a length, D, and defined by a through-hole wall extending from a perimeter of a first opening to a perimeter of a second opening, said first and second openings (2a) being located at the peripheral wall, and in that, the outer zone belongs to the through hole wall and is separated from the nose tip by a distance, M, lower than two third of the length, L, of the elongated body, M ≤ 2/3 L, preferably lower than one third of the length, L, M ≤ ⅓ L.
The present invention concerns a metallurgic installation comprising: (A) A metallurgic vessel (22) such as a tundish; (B) A refractory stopper (1) for controlling the flow of molten metal out of the dispensing outlet of the metallurgic vessel, said refractory stopper comprising: • an elongated body comprising an outer surface extending over a length, L, along a longitudinal axis, X1, from a distal end to a nose tip, and is mounted over the tundish to control the flow of molten metal through the dispensing outlet, • a gas line (7w) comprising a gas inlet connectable to a source of inert gas (7),, extending along a portion of the elongated body and comprising a gas outlet (7o) at the outer surface of the elongated body, located at a distance, Ln, measured along the longitudinal axis, X, of at least 30 mm, and of not more than L / 2, preferably not more than L/3, more preferably, not more than 300 mm from the nose tip, • a pressure measuring device (7p) for measuring the pressure, P, in the gas line, and • a controller (7c) configured for: maintaining a constant gas flow rate in the gas line; recording the pressure measured in the gas line; and correlating said measured pressure to the presence or not of slag at the level of the gas outlet.
The present invention concerns a sliding gate valve plate for a molten metal gate valve having: - an upper surface, - a lower surface, said upper and lower surfaces being planar and parallel to one another, - a connecting outer surface connecting the upper surface to the lower surface and - a pouring channel fluidly connecting the upper surface (2) to the lower surface (3), said pouring channel having a pouring axis of symmetry (Xp), wherein the upper and lower surfaces have geometries defined by the following ratios: R1 = LOl1/LOu1, comprised between 50 and 95%, preferably between 57 and 92%, more preferably between 62.5 and 90%, R2 = LOl2/LOu2, comprised between 50 and 95%, preferably between 57 and 92%, more preferably between 62.5 and 90%, R3 = LAl1/LAu1, greater than or equal to 75%, preferably greater of equal to 90%, more preferably greater of equal to 95%, R4 = LAl2/LAu2, greater than or equal to 75%, preferably greater of equal to 90%, more preferably greater of equal to 95% LOu1 and LOu2 are two segments meeting at the pouring axis of symmetry, Xp, and which together form the upper longitudinal extent, LOu, defined as is the longest segment connecting two points of a perimeter of the upper surface and intersecting the pouring axis of symmetry (Xp); LAu1 and LAu2 are two segments meeting at the pouring axis of symmetry, Xp, and which together form the upper latitudinal extent, LAu, defined as the extent normal to and intersecting both the pouring axis of symmetry, Xp, and the upper longitudinal extent, and similarly, LOl1 and LOl2 are two segments meeting at the pouring axis of symmetry, Xp, and which together form the lower longitudinal extent, LOl, defined as is the longest segment connecting two points of a perimeter of the lower surface and intersecting the pouring axis of symmetry (Xp); LAl1 and LAl2 are two segments meeting at the pouring axis of symmetry, Xp, and which together form the upper latitudinal extent, LAl, defined as the extent normal to and intersecting both the pouring axis of symmetry, Xp, and the lower longitudinal extent.
B22D 41/22 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings
A refractory sliding gate valve plate has a planar upper surface and a planar lower surface parallel to the planar upper surface. A connecting outer surface connects the upper surface to the lower surface, and a pouring channel fluidly connects the upper surface to the lower surface. Specified ratios of length between (a) specified longitudinal segments extending from the axis of symmetry of the pouring channel to the perimeter on the upper surface and the lower surface of the plate, respectively, and also between (b) specified latitudinal segments extending from the axis of symmetry of the pouring channel to the perimeter on the upper surface and the lower surface of the plate, respectively, increase the uniformity of thrust force applied to the plates and the contact area between the upper surfaces of two such plates within a valve.
B22D 41/22 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings
The present invention concerns a casting nozzle comprising an elongated body defined by an outer wall and comprising a bore (1) defined by a bore wall and extending along a longitudinal axis, X1, from a bore inlet (1u) to a downstream bore end (1d), said bore comprising two opposite side ports (2), each extending transversally to said longitudinal axis, X1, from an opening at the bore wall defining a port inlet (2u) adjacent to the downstream bore end (1d), to an opening at the outer wall defining a port outlet (2d) which fluidly connects the bore with an outer atmosphere, Characterized in that, upstream from, and directly above each port inlet (2u), one or two flow deflectors (3) protrude out of the bore wall and extend from an upstream deflector end remote from the port inlet to a downstream deflector end close to the port inlet, over a deflector height, Hd, measured parallel to the longitudinal axis, X1, and wherein an area of a cross-section normal to the longitudinal axis, X1, of each flow deflector increases continuously over at least 50% of the deflector height, Hd, in the direction extending from the upstream deflector end towards the downstream deflector end.
Ladle shroud for casting metal, kit of parts for coupling assembly for coupling said ladle shroud to a ladle, metal casting installation and coupling process
A metal casting installation comprises a ladle comprising an inner nozzle in fluid communication with the through-opening of a top gate plate. The installation contains a ladle shroud coupling assembly comprising a support frame comprising a bottom gate plate and a passage. The support frame is slidingly coupled to a planar bottom surface of a top gate plate of the inner nozzle of the ladle, such that the opening of the bottom gate plate can be brought in or out of registry with the through-opening of the top gate plate. A drawer frame can be can be moved through the passage of the support frame. The bore of a specifically designed ladle shroud capable of being reversibly coupled to latches can be brought into or out of registry with the opening of the bottom gate plate.
A device for measuring the temperature of a bath of metal contains a sleeve and an optical head. The sleeve and optical head may be joined together or taken apart by rotation with respect to each other. The sleeve is made at least partially of a refractory material. A method for measuring the temperature of a bath of molten metal makes use of the inventive device. By virtue of this device, mounting and removal is rendered easier while keeping the measuring zone centered and decreasing measurement disturbances caused by the emission of gas from the sleeve.
The present invention concerns an ingot casting shroud (1) comprising structural walls made of a refractory material defining an inner bore (5) extending along and centered about a longitudinal axis, X1, from a bore inlet (5u) located at an inlet end of the ingot casting shroud to a bore outlet (5d) located at an outlet end of the ingot casting shroud, said ingot casting shroud further comprising: (a) An inlet portion (2) including the inlet end and the bore inlet (5u), (b) A tubular portion (3) adjacent the inlet portion and extending along the longitudinal axis, X1, and through which the inner bore extends, and (c) An outlet portion (4) including the outlet end and bore outlet (5d), said outlet portion being adjacent to the tubular portion (3) and separated from the inlet portion (2) by said tubular portion, and comprising an outlet structural wall made of a refractory material defined by an outer outlet peripheral surface (4out) separated from the bore by a thickness of the outlet structural wall, Characterized in that, a portion of the outer outlet peripheral surface (4out) extending over a perimeter of the outlet portion is provided with a resilient layer (6) having a resiliency of at least 70%, wherein the resiliency is defined as the ratio, H1 / HO, of the thickness, H1, of a product after the compression and relaxation of a compressive force which reduces the original thickness to 50% of its original thickness, HO, to its original thickness, HO, measured at room temperature on a sample (6t) of dimensions L1 x L2 x HO collected from the resilient layer (6).
A tube exchange device for holding and replacing refractory nozzle comprises a frame with a casting opening. The frame is configured to be fixed to the lower side of a metal casting vessel. The frame is has an upper portion and a lower portion joining at a middle section plane in which an inner nozzle and an exchangeable pouring nozzle form a sliding contact. The lower portion of the frame contains a displacing element and a guiding element disposed for displacing and guiding the nozzle from a standby position to a casting position, and a pressing element pressing the nozzle at the casting position towards the upper portion of the frame. In a combination of the tube exchange device and a nozzle, the nozzle comprises bearing elements mating with the clamping elements of the tube exchange device.
LADLE SHROUD FOR CASTING METAL, KIT OF PARTS FOR COUPLING ASSEMBLY FOR COUPLING SAID LADLE SHROUD TO A LADLE, METAL CASTING INSTALLATION AND COUPLING PROCESS
The present invention concerns a metal casting installation comprising a ladle (11) comprising an inner nozzle (113) in fluid communication with the through-opening of a top gate plate (114u), and equipped with a ladle shroud coupling assembly comprising: (a) a support frame (211) comprising a bottom gate plate (114d) and a passage (120), said support frame (211) being slidingly coupled to a planar bottom surface of the top gate plate (114u), such that the opening (114a) of the bottom gate plate (114d) can be brought in or out of registry with the through-opening of the top gate plate (114u), (b) a drawer frame (210) inserted in the passage (120) of the support frame (211), such that the drawer frame (210) can be moved back and forth through said passage (120), (c) first and second latches (30) resiliently mounted such that they can move from a coupling position, to a loading position, (d) a specifically designed ladle shroud (111), comprising a bore (115) and gripping means suitable for being reversibly coupled to the first and second latches (30), wherein the drawer frame (210), by moving through the passage (120) of the support frame can bring the bore (115) of the ladle shroud (111) alternatively in and out of registry with the opening (114a) of the bottom gate plate (114d).
B22D 41/56 - Means for supporting, manipulating or changing a pouring-nozzle
51.
LADLE SHROUD FOR CASTING METAL, KIT OF PARTS FOR COUPLING ASSEMBLY FOR COUPLING SAID LADLE SHROUD TO A LADLE, METAL CASTING INSTALLATION AND COUPLING PROCESS
The present invention concerns a metal casting installation comprising a ladle (11) comprising an inner nozzle (113) in fluid communication with the through-opening of a top gate plate (114u), and equipped with a ladle shroud coupling assembly comprising: (a) a support frame (211) comprising a bottom gate plate (114d) and a passage (120), said support frame (211) being slidingly coupled to a planar bottom surface of the top gate plate (114u), such that the opening (114a) of the bottom gate plate (114d) can be brought in or out of registry with the through-opening of the top gate plate (114u), (b) a drawer frame (210) inserted in the passage (120) of the support frame (211), such that the drawer frame (210) can be moved back and forth through said passage (120), (c) first and second latches (30) resiliently mounted such that they can move from a coupling position, to a loading position, (d) a specifically designed ladle shroud (111), comprising a bore (115) and gripping means suitable for being reversibly coupled to the first and second latches (30), wherein the drawer frame (210), by moving through the passage (120) of the support frame can bring the bore (115) of the ladle shroud (111) alternatively in and out of registry with the opening (114a) of the bottom gate plate (114d).
The invention relates to a device for measuring the temperature of a bath of metal, comprising a sleeve and an optical head, and also to a method for joining together or taking apart a sleeve and an optical head, and also to a sleeve, and finally to a method for measuring the temperature of a bath of molten metal. By virtue of this device, mounting and removal is rendered easier while keeping the measuring zone centred and decreasing measurement disturbances caused by the emission of gas from the sleeve made of refractory material.
The invention relates to a device for measuring the temperature of a bath of metal, comprising a sleeve and an optical head, and also to a method for joining together or taking apart a sleeve and an optical head, and also to a sleeve, and finally to a method for measuring the temperature of a bath of molten metal. By virtue of this device, mounting and removal is rendered easier while keeping the measuring zone centred and decreasing measurement disturbances caused by the emission of gas from the sleeve made of refractory material.
B22D 2/00 - Arrangement of indicating or measuring devices, e.g. for temperature or viscosity of the fused mass
B22D 41/16 - Closures stopper-rod type, i.e. a stopper-rod being positioned downwardly through the vessel and the metal therein, for selective registry with the pouring opening
F16B 7/20 - Connections of rods or tubes, e.g. of non-circular section, mutually, including resilient connections using bayonet connections
The present invention concerns a submerged nozzle (1) for casting steel comprising: • an inlet portion (1A), • an elongated portion (1B) extending along a first longitudinal axis, X1, from said inlet portion (1A), or adjacent thereto, to, • an outlet portion (1C), defined by an outer peripheral wall and comprising a first outlet front port (35) opening on said outer peripheral wall, • a pouring bore (50) extending parallel to the first longitudinal axis, X1, opening at said inlet orifice (18) and extending at least partly in the outlet portion (1C) of the nozzle whence it opens to the atmosphere at least through said first front port (35), which extends along front port direction, Y1, transverse to said first longitudinal axis, X1, from a front port inlet end (35i) joining the bore (50) to a front port outlet end (35o) opening at the outer peripheral wall of the outlet portion of the nozzle, • wherein a planar cut of the nozzle outlet portion (1C) along a plane normal to the first longitudinal axis, X1, passing through the front port inlet (35i) comprises: o the outline of the bore (50), defined by the bore perimeter (50P) and by the bore centroid (50x) of the area defined by said bore perimeter and, o the outline of the outer peripheral wall of the outlet portion of the nozzle defined by the wall perimeter (1P) and the wall centroid (1x) of the area defined by said wall perimeter, and o a first transverse axis, Y, passing by the bore centroid (50x) and extending along a direction parallel to the orthogonal projection of the front port direction, Y1, onto the plane of the cut, characterised in that, in said planar cut: • the bore centroid (50x) and wall centroid (1x) are distinct and separated by a distance, d≠ 0. • The segment extending along the first transverse axis, Y, from the bore centroid (50x), to the wall perimeter (1P) is longer than the segment extending from the wall centroid (1X) to the intersecting point between the first transverse axis, Y, and the wall perimeter (1P).
The present invention concerns a submerged nozzle (1) for casting steel comprising: ⋅ an inlet portion (1A), ⋅ an elongated portion (1B) extending along a first longitudinal axis (X1) from said inlet portion (1A), or adjacent thereto, to, ⋅ an outlet portion (1C), defined by an outer peripheral wall and comprising a first outlet front port (35) opening on said outer peripheral wall, ⋅ a pouring bore (50) extending parallel to the first longitudinal axis (X1) opening at said inlet orifice (18) and extending at least partly in the outlet portion (1C) of the nozzle whence it opens to the atmosphere at least through said first front port (35), which extends along a front port direction (Y1), transverse to said first longitudinal axis (X1) from a front port inlet end (35i) joining the bore (50) to a front port outlet end (35o) opening at the outer peripheral wall of the outlet portion of the nozzle, ⋅ wherein a planar cut of the nozzle outlet portion (1C) along a plane normal to the first direction (X1) comprises: ∘ the outline of the outer peripheral wall of the outlet portion (1C) of the nozzle defined by the wall perimeter (1P) and the wall centroid (1x) of the area defined by said wall perimeter ∘ a first transverse axis (Y) passing by the bore centroid (50x) and extending along a direction parallel to the orthogonal projection of the front port direction (Y1) onto the plane of the cut; characterised in that, ⋅ the nozzle comprises no front port extending along a direction opposite to the direction of the first front port (35) with respect to the longitudinal axis and belonging to the plane defined by the longitudinal axis (X1) and the front port direction (Y1) and in that, in said planar cut: ⋅ the distance (L1) from the wall centroid (1x) to the outer peripheral wall measured along the first transverse axis (Y) on the side of the front port (35) is greater than the same distance (L2) measured on the side opposite the front port (35); L1 > L2.
COUPLING DEVICE FOR REVERSIBLY COUPLING A LADLE SHROUD TO A COLLECTOR NOZZLE, SELF-SUPPORTED LADLE SHROUD, KIT THEREOF AND METHOD FOR COUPLING A LADLE SHROUD TO A COLLECTOR NOZZLE
Coupling device for reversibly coupling a ladle shroud to a collector nozzle, self-supported ladle shroud, kit thereof and method for coupling a ladle shroud to a collector nozzle. The present invention concerns a coupling device (34) fixed to a ladle shroud (111) for reversibly coupling an inlet orifice (115a) of said ladle shroud to a collector nozzle (112) fixed to the outside of a bottom floor of a ladle (11) in a metal casting installation, by means of at least a first and second elongated latches (32) pivotally mounted on a hinge (36), such that the latch can pivot from a fixing position to an idle position. The idle position of the latches allowing the engagement of the ladle shroud into its casting configuration about the collector nozzle, and the fixing position of the latches engages catching means (33, 33a) provided on said latches into matching fixing means (31, 31a) located on the gate frame holding the collector nozzle.
The present invention concerns a coating composition for applications at temperatures higher than 1200 °C comprising : (a) between 80.0 and 99.9 wt.% of unstabilized zirconia; and (b) between 0.1 and 5.0 wt.% of a liquid phase former which is solid at ambient temperature and either melts or reacts, or decomposes to form a liquid phase above a temperature not lower than 1000°C; wherein the wt.% are expressed in terms of total solid weight of the coating composition at room temperature. It also concerns a refractory element, preferably made of a carbon bonded refractory, comprising a coated surface comprising a first coating (1) of composition as defined above.
C23C 4/10 - Oxides, borides, carbides, nitrides or silicidesMixtures thereof
C04B 35/48 - Shaped ceramic products characterised by their compositionCeramic compositionsProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products based on oxides based on zirconium or hafnium oxides or zirconates or hafnates
B22D 41/22 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings
Casting plates constructed for facing the casting orifice of a metallurgical vessel are provided with a metallic casing. The casting plates and metallic casing are provided with a protrusion configured to interact with a detector. The casing has a main surface with an opening, and two substantially longitudinal bearing surfaces. The protrusion extends from the casing in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal bearing surfaces. The protrusion is formed by a ramp having an inclined portion.
B22D 11/00 - Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths
B22D 41/24 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate
B22D 41/34 - Supporting, fixing or centering means therefor
A tube for pouring liquid metal has a pouring channel with a pouring axis. The tube has a downstream part with a pouring channel with an outlet diameter, and a flared upstream part with a length known as the threshold distance. The threshold distance is greater than four times the outlet diameter. The upstream part is flared and configured so that its upper end has a convex overall shape in the axial direction. The upstream part is included within a first volume corresponding to the complementary part of an axisymmetric frustoconical volume having as its axis the pouring axis. The generatrix of the volume forms an angle greater than 5 degrees with the pouring axis. The upstream part is included within a second volume, delimited by a surface of revolution generated by an isosceles trapezium revolving about the pouring axis.
The present invention concerns a device (1), for example a gas purging plug, for blowing gas into a metallurgical vessel comprising (a) a body (2) extending along a central axis (X1) comprising, (b) at least one gas flow channel (3) fluidly connecting a gas inlet (3a) located at one end of said body to a gas outlet (3b), located at the opposite end along said axis, said channel (3) being in the shape of a slit defined by a first and second opposed surfaces. The device (1) according to the invention is characterized in that, (c) the at least one gas channel (3) comprises a series of continuous concave bridges (4) connecting the first and second opposing surfaces defining the channel, with their concave side (4a) oriented towards the gas outlet (3b), wherein said concave bridges (4) are disposed in a staggered arrangement, such that any first shortest line running from the gas outlet (3b) to the gas inlet (3a) of the channel necessarily intercepts the concave side (4a) of at least one first bridge (41). The device (1) according to the invention permits to prevent clogging of device by infiltrated molten metal or slag.
A refractory nozzle comprises a substantially tubular portion with an axial through bore and a plate comprising a first, contact surface normal to the axial through bore and comprising the outlet opening, and a second surface opposite to the first contact surface joining the wall of the tubular portion to the side edges defining the perimeter and thickness of the plate. All but the first contact surface of the inner nozzle plate are at least partially clad with a metal casing having side edges. The inner nozzle plate metal casing comprises three separate bearing elements jutting out of the side edges. Each bearing element comprises a bearing ledge facing in the direction of the contact surface and distributed around the perimeter of the plate. The centroids of the orthogonal projections onto a plane parallel to the contact surface of the bearing ledges form the vertices of a triangle.
A device that holds and replaces a casting plate in a continuous casting installation metallurgical vessel contains a detector-limit switch assembly that automatically moves a casting plate to the casting position or to the sealing position, depending on whether a replacement plate is on standby on the device or not. Casting plates used with the invention are provided with a metallic casing. The casting plates and metallic casing are configured to interact with the detector contained in the device.
B22D 41/22 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings
63.
Frame for a device for holding and replacing casting plates and assembly
A frame, for a device for holding and replacing plates for transferring molten metal contained in a metallurgical vessel having a casting channel, defines a housing for receiving and holding a plate, when the device is assembled, in the operating position in the vicinity of the casting channel of the metallurgical vessel. The frame is arranged to enable the introduction of the plate into the housing, and the extraction of the plate from the housing, by translation along a plate insertion direction. The housing is formed so as to have an overall planar symmetry in relation to a central longitudinal plane parallel with the plate insertion direction. The frame comprises slots for receiving thrusters intended, when the device is assembled, to apply a force, in the direction of the metallurgical vessel, on a plate inserted in the housing.
B22D 37/00 - Controlling or regulating the pouring of molten metal from a casting melt-holding vessel
B22D 41/24 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate
An inner nozzle for casting molten metal from a metallurgical vessel incorporates a substantially tubular portion with an axial through bore, and an inner nozzle plate comprising a bottom flat contact surface and a second surface opposite the bottom contact surface and joining the wall of the tubular portion to the side edges of the plate. The inner nozzle incorporates a metallic casing cladding at least a portion of some or all of the side edges and second surface but not the sliding plane of the inner nozzle plate. The cladding is provided with a metallic bearing surface, facing towards and recessed with respect to the contact surface and extending from the cladded portion of the side edges beyond the perimeter of the contact surface. The bearing surface is defined by the ledges of at least two separate bearing elements distributed around the perimeter of the plate.
The present invention concerns a shop gate and a nozzle (1) suitable for being coupled with the bottom floor (10a) of a tundish (10), said nozzle comprising a hollow tube with an axial bore (2) extending from an inlet (2a) opening at a first end of the nozzle to an opposite outlet (2b) opening at or adjacent the second, opposite end, and comprising a flange (5) extending substantially normal to the axis of the tube and located between said first and second ends, characterized in that, the flange comprises a lower, guiding surface (5b) facing towards the second end of the tube, said guiding surface (5b) being flat and substantially normal to the tube.
B22D 41/22 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings
B22D 41/24 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate
The present invention concerns a nozzle unit (1) for use in a nozzle exchange device (100) in a continuous metal casting apparatus, said nozzle exchange device (100) being of the type comprising a loading opening and guiding means (7) for sliding the nozzle unit through said opening into casting position with respect to the nozzle exchange device, wherein said nozzle unit (1) comprises a nozzle plate (1) made of a refractory material clad in a metal can. In order to prevent said plate from being presented to the loading opening with the wrong orientation, i.e., with the trailing edge (2d) first, said plate is provided with at least one lug (6) at or adjacent the trailing edge (2d), said at least one lug (6) being transverse to said first major axis (X1) and extending substantially beyond the perimeter defining the base of the prism such that the loading opening (16) allows engagement of the base (2c, 2d) of the nozzle plate (2) but not of the at least one lug (6). The flexural yield point or ultimate flexural force of said at least one lug (6) is comprised between 10 and 2000 kgf (100 N and 20 kN), which is too high for an operator to reach by hand, but which can be handled very easily by a hydraulic, mechanical, or pneumatic arm (31 ) which can thus bend or break said at least one lug (6) to push the plate into its casting position, only if loaded with its leading edge first.
The tube (10) delimits a pouring channel (12) having a pouring axis (X), comprising a downstream part, in which the pouring channel has a diameter known as the outlet diameter, and an upstream part (16) which is defined as being that part of the tube that lies between an upper transverse plane (Psup). tangential to the upper end (20) of the tube, and a lower transverse plane (Pinf) lying a distance (L), known as the threshold distance, from the upper transverse plane (Psup), the threshold distance having a dimension greater than four times the outlet diameter, the upstream part (16) being flared and being configured in such a way that: - its upper end (20) has a convex overall shape in the axial direction (X) and has a surface of intersection with the upper transverse plane (Psup) of which the width in the radial direction (Y) is less than half the outlet diameter (Dout), - the upstream part (16) is included within a first volume corresponding to the complementary part of an axisymmetric frustoconical volume (V1) having as its axis the pouring axis (X), and the generatrix of which forms an angle alpha (a) greater than 5° with the pouring axis (X), the small base (22) of the frustoconical volume (V1) corresponding to the surface of intersection of the lower transverse plane with the pouring channel (12), - the upstream part (16) is included within a second volume (V2), delimited by a surface of revolution generated by an isosceles trapezium (24) revolving about the pouring axis (X), the small base (26) of the trapezium lying in the upper transverse plane (Psup), having as its centre the centre (C) of the upper end (20) of the tube and as its dimension a width (E) equal to half the outlet diameter (Dout), the large base (28) of the trapezium lying in the lower transverse plane (Pinf) and the two non-parallel sides (30, 32) of the trapezium together making an angle beta (β) less than 30°.
A ladle shroud for casting liquid metal contains a canal along which the metal can pass, extending essentially along an axis, and a metallic jacket positioned at an end portion of the shroud that corresponds to an end of the canal, characterized in that the jacket comprises at least a belt of a thickness greater than or equal to 10 mm, preferably of 14 mm, and in that the shroud comprises means of attachment to driving means, the attachment means being formed on the jacket, notably on the belt thereof.
The invention relates to an inner nozzle (12) for casting molten metal from a metallurgical vessel, said inner nozzle comprising a) a substantially tubular portion (24) with an axial through bore; b) an inner nozzle plate comprising a bottom flat contact surface (26) enclosed within a perimeter (Pm) and a second surface opposite the bottom contact surface (26) and joining the wall of the tubular portion (24) to the side edges (40a-b, 42a-b) of the plate, said side edges defining the perimeter and thickness of the plate, the inner nozzle further comprising c) a metallic casing (22) cladding at least a portion of some or all of the side edges (40a-b, 42a- b) and second surface but not the sliding plane (Pg) of the inner nozzle plate and provided with d) a metallic bearing surface (34a, 34b, 34c), facing towards and recessed with respect to the contact surface (26) and extending from the cladded portion of the side edges (40a-b, 42a-b) beyond the perimeter (Pm) of the contact surface (26), characterised in that the bearing surface (34a, 34b, 34c) is defined by the ledges (34a, 34b, 34c) of at least two separate bearing elements (30a, 30b, 30c) distributed around the perimeter of the plate.
A casting element for a casting installation for transferring liquid metal comprises a plurality of casting elements in successive contact and forming a canal along which the metal can flow, the casting element comprising a tube, notably a ladle shroud, the axis of which corresponds to the axis of the canal. The casting element is able to make contact with an upstream element of the installation and comprises means for controlling the angular orientation of the tube about its axis with respect to the upstream element, these means being capable of giving the tube at least three distinct orientations.
The invention relates to a frame (30) for a device for holding and replacing plates for transferring molten metal contained in a metallurgical vessel having a casting channel (20), the frame defining a housing (32) for receiving and holding a plate (34), when the device is assembled, in the operating position in the vicinity of the casting channel (20) of the metallurgical vessel, the frame (30) being arranged to enable the introduction of the plate (34) into the housing (32) and the extraction of the plate (34) from the housing (32) by translation along a plate insertion direction, the housing (32) being formed so as to have an overall planar symmetry in relation to a plane of symmetry (50) parallel with the plate insertion direction, the frame (30) comprising, on either side of the housing (32) in relation to the plane of symmetry (50) of said housing (32), slots for receiving thrusters (54) intended, when the device is assembled, to apply a force, in the direction of the metallurgical vessel, on a plate (34) inserted in the housing (32). The slots for receiving the thrusters (54) situated on either side of the housing (32) do not match in the planar symmetry defined by the plane of symmetry (50) of the housing (32).
B22D 41/24 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate
The invention relates to an inner nozzle (12) to be mounted onto a tube exchange device (10) for holding and replacing an exchangeable pouring nozzle for casting molten metal out of a vessel, said tube exchange device comprising a frame with a casting opening, said frame being suitable for being fixed to the lower side of a metal casting vessel and comprising a first, upper portion and a second, lower portion, joining at a middle section plane defining the plane where an inner nozzle (12) and an exchangeable pouring nozzle form a sliding contact, - the upper side portion of the frame comprising means for receiving and clamping (50a, 50b, 50c) in place at its pouring position a bearing surface of an inner nozzle (12) against a support portion of the upper side portion of the frame, such that the through bore of the inner nozzle (12) is in fluid communication with the casting opening, and - the lower portion comprising means for loading and moving along a first direction (X) into casting position an exchangeable pouring nozzle characterised in that at least two of the clamping means (50a, 50b, 50c) are arranged transverse to said first direction (X).
The invention relates to a frame (30) for a device for holding and replacing plates for transferring molten metal contained in a metallurgical vessel having a casting channel (20), the frame defining a housing (32) for receiving and holding a plate (34), when the device is assembled, in the operating position in the vicinity of the casting channel (20) of the metallurgical vessel, the frame (30) being arranged to enable the introduction of the plate (34) into the housing (32) and the extraction of the plate (34) from the housing (32) by translation along a plate insertion direction, the housing (32) being formed so as to have an overall planar symmetry in relation to a plane of symmetry (50) parallel with the plate insertion direction, the frame (30) comprising, on either side of the housing (32) in relation to the plane of symmetry (50) of said housing (32), slots for receiving thrusters (54) intended, when the device is assembled, to apply a force, in the direction of the metallurgical vessel, on a plate (34) inserted in the housing (32). The slots for receiving the thrusters (54) situated on either side of the housing (32) do not match in the planar symmetry defined by the plane of symmetry (50) of the housing (32).
B22D 41/24 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate
The invention relates to an inner nozzle (12) to be mounted onto a tube exchange device (10) for holding and replacing an exchangeable pouring nozzle for casting molten metal out of a vessel, said tube exchange device comprising a frame with a casting opening, said frame being suitable for being fixed to the lower side of a metal casting vessel and comprising a first, upper portion and a second, lower portion, joining at a middle section plane defining the plane where an inner nozzle (12) and an exchangeable pouring nozzle form a sliding contact, - the upper side portion of the frame comprising means for receiving and clamping (50a, 50b, 50c) in place at its pouring position a bearing surface of an inner nozzle (12) against a support portion of the upper side portion of the frame, such that the through bore of the inner nozzle (12) is in fluid communication with the casting opening, and - the lower portion comprising means for loading and moving along a first direction (X) into casting position an exchangeablepouring nozzle characterised in that at least two of the clamping means (50a, 50b, 50c) are arranged transverse to said first direction (X).
B22D 41/34 - Supporting, fixing or centering means therefor
B22D 41/40 - Means for pressing the plates together
B22D 41/56 - Means for supporting, manipulating or changing a pouring-nozzle
75.
DEVICE FOR HOLDING AND REPLACING A CASTING PLATE IN A CASTING INSTALLATION, METALLIC CASING OF CASTING PLATE AND CASTING PLATE, PROVIDED WITH MEANS INTERACTING WITH A DEVICE DETECTOR
The invention relates to a device for holding and replacing a casting plate in a continuous casting installation metallurgicalvessel. A detector-limit switch assembly automatically moves a casting plate to the casting position or to the sealing position,depending on whether a replacement plate is on standby on the device or not. The invention relates to a metallic casing of casting plate and a casting plate, provided with means interacting with the device detector.
B22D 41/24 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate
B22D 41/34 - Supporting, fixing or centering means therefor
A support head capable of supporting a ladle shroud for casting liquid metal comprises a canal along which the metal can pass, extending essentially along an axis, the support head being designed for a tube handling device. Such a head comprises control means for controlling the angular orientation of the shroud with respect to the head, about an axis corresponding to the axis of the canal. A ladle shroud having defined control means is capable of collaborating with the support head.
B25H 1/00 - Work benchesPortable stands or supports for positioning portable tools or work to be operated on thereby
B66F 7/22 - Lifting frames, e.g. for lifting vehiclesPlatform lifts with tiltable platforms
77.
DEVICE FOR HOLDING AND REPLACING A CASTING PLATE IN A CASTING INSTALLATION, METALLIC CASING OF CASTING PLATE AND CASTING PLATE, PROVIDED WITH MEANS INTERACTING WITH A DEVICE DETECTOR
The invention relates to a device for holding and replacing a casting plate in a continuous casting installation metallurgical vessel. A detector-limit switch assembly automatically moves a casting plate to the casting position or to the sealing position, depending on whether a replacement plate is on standby on the device or not. The invention relates to a metallic casing of casting plate and a casting plate, provided with means interacting with the device detector.
B22D 41/24 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate
B22D 41/34 - Supporting, fixing or centering means therefor
The invention relates to an inner nozzle (12) for casting molten metal from a metallurgical vessel, said inner nozzle comprising a) a substantially tubular portion (24) with an axial through bore; b) an inner nozzle plate comprising a bottom flat contact surface (26) enclosed within a perimeter (Pm) and a second surface opposite the bottom contact surface (26) and joining the wall of the tubular portion (24) to the side edges (40a-b, 42a-b) of the plate, said side edges defining the perimeter and thickness of the plate, the inner nozzle further comprising c) a metallic casing (22) cladding at least a portion of some or all of the side edges (40a-b, 42a- b) and second surface but not the sliding plane (Pg) of the inner nozzle plate and provided with d) a metallic bearing surface (34a, 34b, 34c), facing towards and recessed with respect to the contact surface (26) and extending from the cladded portion of the side edges (40a-b, 42a-b) beyond the perimeter (Pm) of the contact surface (26), characterised in that the bearing surface (34a, 34b, 34c) is defined by the ledges (34a, 34b, 34c) of at least two separate bearing elements (30a, 30b, 30c) distributed around the perimeter of the plate.
The invention relates to a pouring nozzle 30 comprising at its upstream end 32 a generally rectangular shaped plate 34 with a top surface 16 and a bottom surface. The nozzle 30 also comprises a tube 38 the axis 40 of which is substantially orthogonal to the top surface 16 of the plate 34. The tube 38 extends from the bottom surface of the plate 34 to the downstream end 36 of the nozzle. The nozzle comprises a pouring channel consisting of the inlet orifice 18 formed through the surface 16 of the plate 34, a bore in the plate 34, a bore 50 in the tube 38; the downstream end 36 of the tube is closed and the pouring channel emerges close to the downstream end 36 through outlets 46, 46' formed in the lateral walls of the tube 38. The orifice of the plate 34, the bores of the plate and of the tube and the outlets being in fluid connection. The outlets 46, 46' are disposed symmetrically on either side of the axis 40 of the tube 38. The centres of the outlets 46, 46' on either side of the axis 40 define an axis 48 of the outlets substantially orthogonal to the axis 40 of the tube 38. The axis of the outlets is substantially parallel to a pair of sides of the plate 34. The orifice 18 is oblong and has a major axis 42 and a minor axis 44. The minor axis 44 of the orifice 18 is parallel to the axis 48 of the outlets. According to another of its objects, the present invention also relates to an assembly of such a nozzle with an inner nozzle. This nozzle as well as its assembly with an inner nozzle are used for the continuous casting of steel from a tundish towards a continuous casting mould.
B22D 41/22 - Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings
The invention relates to a drive device (10) of a regulation valve for casting liquid metal, including a main rod (16) for controlling the opening and closing of the valve, and a means (40) for coupling the main rod (16) to the valve. The device also comprises a means (62, 64) for controlling a coupling means (40), suitable for activating and deactivating the coupling means.
The invention relates to a casting member (30) for a casting plant for transferring liquid metal that includes a plurality of casting members in successive contact and defines a channel for metal flow, wherein the casting member (30) includes a pipe, in particular a ladle pipe, having an axis corresponding to the channel axis. The casting member is capable of contact with an upstream member of the plant, and includes means (42) for controlling the angular orientation of the pipe along the axis thereof relative to the upstream member, said means being capable of imparting three different orientations to the tube.
The present invention relates to a ladle pipe (10) for liquid metal casting, that includes a channel (11) for the metal flow extending substantially along an axis, and a metal envelope (17) provided in an end portion of the pipe corresponding to an end of the channel, characterised in that the envelope (17) includes at least one belt (18) having a thickness no lower than 10 mm, preferably 14 mm, and in that the pipe (10) includes means (20) for connection to the driving means, the connection means being provided on the envelope (17) and in particular on the belt (18) thereof.
The invention relates to a bearing head (20) capable of bearing a ladle pipe (12) for casting liquid metal, that includes a channel (40) for the metal flow extending substantially along an axis, the bearing head (20) being adapted for a pipe handling device (10). This head (20) includes means (36a, 36b) for controlling the angular orientation of the pipe relative to the head according to an axis corresponding to the channel axis. The invention also relates to a ladle pipe capable of interaction with such a bearing head.
The invention relates to a casting member (30) for a casting plant for transferring liquid metal that includes a plurality of casting members in successive contact and defines a channel for metal flow, wherein the casting member (30) includes a pipe, in particular a ladle pipe, having an axis corresponding to the channel axis. The casting member is capable of contact with an upstream member of the plant, and includes means (42) for controlling the angular orientation of the pipe along the axis thereof relative to the upstream member, said means being capable of imparting three different orientations to the tube.
The present invention relates to a ladle pipe (10) for liquid metal casting, that includes a channel (11) for the metal flow extending substantially along an axis, and a metal envelope (17) provided in an end portion of the pipe corresponding to an end of the channel, characterised in that the envelope (17) includes at least one belt (18) having a thickness no lower than 10 mm, preferably 14 mm, and in that the pipe (10) includes means (20) for connection to the driving means, the connection means being provided on the envelope (17) and in particular on the belt (18) thereof.
The invention relates to a device (26, 26', 26") for handling a jet protection pipe (16) for casting liquid metal, that includes means (28, 30, 30') for maintaining said pipe downstream from a metal casting regulation valve (14), wherein the valve can assume an open configuration and a closed configuration under the action of driving means (20). The handling device (26, 26', 26") includes means (32, 34, 80) for attachment to the valve driving means (20). The present invention also relates to a jet protection pipe or a flow of liquid metal from a casting ladle towards a metal distributor, the pipe having a longitudinal axis and comprising a pipe gripping head at one end thereof. According to the invention, the gripping head is fusiform.
The invention relates to a device (22) for transporting and storing at least one ladle pipe (18) for a liquid metal casting plant, wherein said ladle pipe (18) comprises a channel for the liquid metal flow and extends substantially along an axis. The device (22) also includes a rack (22) adapted for storing the ladle pipe (18) in a position of use in which the channel axis is vertical, the rack (22) providing an access (33) from the outside towards a side surface of the pipe when the latter is in the position of use.
The invention relates to a bearing head (20) capable of bearing a ladle pipe (12) for casting liquid metal, that includes a channel (40) for the metal flow extending substantially along an axis, the bearing head (20) being adapted for a pipe handling device (10). This head (20) includes means (36a, 36b) for controlling the angular orientation of the pipe relative to the head according to an axis corresponding to the channel axis. The invention also relates to a ladle pipe capable of interaction with such a bearing head.
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