CA2852222A1 - Method and arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step - Google Patents
Method and arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2852222A1 CA2852222A1 CA2852222A CA2852222A CA2852222A1 CA 2852222 A1 CA2852222 A1 CA 2852222A1 CA 2852222 A CA2852222 A CA 2852222A CA 2852222 A CA2852222 A CA 2852222A CA 2852222 A1 CA2852222 A1 CA 2852222A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- anode
- pressing
- dimensional object
- machining
- electrorefining
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 112
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 34
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 title claims abstract description 34
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 title claims abstract description 33
- 238000003384 imaging method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 108
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 7
- 229910052802 copper Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 7
- 239000010949 copper Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 7
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 claims description 93
- 238000003754 machining Methods 0.000 claims description 60
- 230000007547 defect Effects 0.000 claims description 19
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 claims description 16
- 238000005266 casting Methods 0.000 description 18
- 238000007670 refining Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005755 formation reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000003801 milling Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012876 topography Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000003723 Smelting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005868 electrolysis reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007726 management method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000630 rising effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003313 weakening effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25C7/00—Constructional parts, or assemblies thereof, of cells; Servicing or operating of cells
- C25C7/02—Electrodes; Connections thereof
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25C7/00—Constructional parts, or assemblies thereof, of cells; Servicing or operating of cells
- C25C7/06—Operating or servicing
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
- Y02P10/00—Technologies related to metal processing
- Y02P10/20—Recycling
Landscapes
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Electrochemistry (AREA)
- Materials Engineering (AREA)
- Metallurgy (AREA)
- Organic Chemistry (AREA)
- Electrolytic Production Of Metals (AREA)
- Length Measuring Devices By Optical Means (AREA)
Abstract
The arrangement relates to a method and to an arrangement for preparing anodes (2) cast for a process for electrorefining of metals such a copper for an electrorefining step. The method comprises a providing step for providing an anode (2) cast for a process for electrorefining of metals, and at least one imaging step for imaging a surface of the anode (2) with a three dimensional object imaging means (1) to measure surface quality of the anode (2).
Description
METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT FOR PREPARING ANODES
CAST FOR A PROCESS FOR ELECTROREFINING OF
METALS FOR AN ELECTROREFINING STEP
Field of the invention The invention relates to a method for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step as defined in the preamble of independent claim 1.
The invention also relates to an arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step as defined in the preamble of independent claim 17.
The final refining of several metals is carried out by means of electrolysis.
The refining process employs soluble anodes which are obtained by casting molten metal into anode moulds.
It is natural that casting fins are created at the anode edges, as well as on the spot where the lifting pins hit when rising from the mould bottom. In cases where an anode mould is used for a long time, there is often created a recess on the bottom of the mould, which causes a respective swell to form on one side of the anode. The lifting of an anode onto the conveyor may result in torsions in the lug parts, so that the anode, when lowered into the electrolytic cell, may cause short circuits and weakening of the current efficiency. The bearing surface of an anode lug is often concave, in which case the contact to a busbar remains weak. Because the anodes and the cathode plates are disposed in a electrolytic cell in a closely spaced apart relationship so that the distance between the anodes and the cathode plates is only a few centimeters, an anode may get in contact with a cathode plate in the electrolytic cell, which results in a short-circuit, if the surface of the anode is not smooth and straight. Irregularities in the distance between the cathode plates and the anodes in the electrolytic cell caused by the surface of a anode not being smooth and straight also affects the current density across the gap between the anode and the cathode plate.
Publications US 4,903,519 and US 4,903,520 presents methods and apparatuses for straightening anodes cast for a process for electrolytic refining of metals.
However, straightening of an anode by pressing does not necessarily cure all straightness and surface smoothness defects of the anode. This means that surface quality of anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals should also be measured after the pressing procedure to evaluate if the anode can be used in an electrolytic cell for further refining of metals contained in the anode.
Publication US 2009/0136122 Al presents systems and methods for inspecting anodes, and smelting management based thereon are provided. In one embodiment, a system includes an imaging device configured to obtain images of at least one anode assembly, an image processor configured to producing imaging data based on the images, and a data analyzer configured to
CAST FOR A PROCESS FOR ELECTROREFINING OF
METALS FOR AN ELECTROREFINING STEP
Field of the invention The invention relates to a method for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step as defined in the preamble of independent claim 1.
The invention also relates to an arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step as defined in the preamble of independent claim 17.
The final refining of several metals is carried out by means of electrolysis.
The refining process employs soluble anodes which are obtained by casting molten metal into anode moulds.
It is natural that casting fins are created at the anode edges, as well as on the spot where the lifting pins hit when rising from the mould bottom. In cases where an anode mould is used for a long time, there is often created a recess on the bottom of the mould, which causes a respective swell to form on one side of the anode. The lifting of an anode onto the conveyor may result in torsions in the lug parts, so that the anode, when lowered into the electrolytic cell, may cause short circuits and weakening of the current efficiency. The bearing surface of an anode lug is often concave, in which case the contact to a busbar remains weak. Because the anodes and the cathode plates are disposed in a electrolytic cell in a closely spaced apart relationship so that the distance between the anodes and the cathode plates is only a few centimeters, an anode may get in contact with a cathode plate in the electrolytic cell, which results in a short-circuit, if the surface of the anode is not smooth and straight. Irregularities in the distance between the cathode plates and the anodes in the electrolytic cell caused by the surface of a anode not being smooth and straight also affects the current density across the gap between the anode and the cathode plate.
Publications US 4,903,519 and US 4,903,520 presents methods and apparatuses for straightening anodes cast for a process for electrolytic refining of metals.
However, straightening of an anode by pressing does not necessarily cure all straightness and surface smoothness defects of the anode. This means that surface quality of anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals should also be measured after the pressing procedure to evaluate if the anode can be used in an electrolytic cell for further refining of metals contained in the anode.
Publication US 2009/0136122 Al presents systems and methods for inspecting anodes, and smelting management based thereon are provided. In one embodiment, a system includes an imaging device configured to obtain images of at least one anode assembly, an image processor configured to producing imaging data based on the images, and a data analyzer configured to
2 produce anode characteristic data based on the imaging data. In one embodiment, a method includes the steps of obtaining at least one image of at least a portion of an anode assembly, producing imaging data based on the at least one image, and deriving anode characteristic data based, at least in part, on the imaging data.
Objective of the invention The object of the invention is to provide a method and an arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step.
to Short description of the invention The method for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step is characterized by the definitions of independent claim 1.
Preferred embodiments of the method are defined in the dependent claims 2 to 16.
The arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step is correspondingly characterized by the definitions of independent claim 17.
Preferred embodiments of the arrangement are defined in the dependent claims 18 to 30.
A preferred embodiment of the method comprises using in the method an anode preparation machine comprising (i) receiving means for receiving anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals, (ii) scales means for performing a weighting step for weighting the anode to determine if the weight of the anode is within a predetermined weight range, (iii) anode pressing means for pressing the anode for straightening at least lugs of the anode and, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell for performing a thickness measuring step for measuring the thickness of the anode, (iv) machining means for machining at least lugs of the anode, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, (v) a rejection means for receiving rejected anodes, and (vi) a delivery means for receiving anodes from the machining means. In the anode preparation machine that is used in this preferred embodiment of the method, the rejection means is arranged in a feeding direction of the anodes downstream of the scales means, the anode pressing means, and the three-dimensional object imaging means. This embodiment of the method comprises a providing step includes receiving the anode cast for a process for electrorefining of metals by means of the receiving means. This embodiment of the method comprises a weighting step for weighting the anode to determine if the weight of the anode is within a predetermined weight range by means of the scales means. In this embodiment of the method, the weighting step is performed after the providing step. This embodiment of the method comprises a pressing step for pressing the anode for straightening the anode. This embodiment of the method comprises a thickness measuring step for measuring the thickness of the anode, wherein the thickness measuring step is performed in connection with the pressing
Objective of the invention The object of the invention is to provide a method and an arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step.
to Short description of the invention The method for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step is characterized by the definitions of independent claim 1.
Preferred embodiments of the method are defined in the dependent claims 2 to 16.
The arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step is correspondingly characterized by the definitions of independent claim 17.
Preferred embodiments of the arrangement are defined in the dependent claims 18 to 30.
A preferred embodiment of the method comprises using in the method an anode preparation machine comprising (i) receiving means for receiving anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals, (ii) scales means for performing a weighting step for weighting the anode to determine if the weight of the anode is within a predetermined weight range, (iii) anode pressing means for pressing the anode for straightening at least lugs of the anode and, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell for performing a thickness measuring step for measuring the thickness of the anode, (iv) machining means for machining at least lugs of the anode, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, (v) a rejection means for receiving rejected anodes, and (vi) a delivery means for receiving anodes from the machining means. In the anode preparation machine that is used in this preferred embodiment of the method, the rejection means is arranged in a feeding direction of the anodes downstream of the scales means, the anode pressing means, and the three-dimensional object imaging means. This embodiment of the method comprises a providing step includes receiving the anode cast for a process for electrorefining of metals by means of the receiving means. This embodiment of the method comprises a weighting step for weighting the anode to determine if the weight of the anode is within a predetermined weight range by means of the scales means. In this embodiment of the method, the weighting step is performed after the providing step. This embodiment of the method comprises a pressing step for pressing the anode for straightening the anode. This embodiment of the method comprises a thickness measuring step for measuring the thickness of the anode, wherein the thickness measuring step is performed in connection with the pressing
3 step by means of the anode pressing means. In this embodiment of the method, the pressing step if performed after the weighting step. This embodiment of the method comprises a machining step for machining at least lugs of the anode in a machining means. In this embodiment of the method, the machining step is performed after the pressing step. This embodiment of the method comprises a delivery step for receiving the anode from the machining means at the delivery means. In this embodiment of the method an imaging step for scanning a surface of the anode with a three-dimensional object imaging means to measure surface quality of the anode is performing at least one of (a) after the weighting step and prior the pressing step and (b) after the pressing step and prior the machining step.
A preferred embodiment of the arrangement comprises an anode preparation machine comprising (i) a receiving means for receiving anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals, (ii) a scales means configured for receiving anodes from the receiving means and for performing a weighting step for weighting the anode to determine if the weight of the anode is within a predetermined weight range, (iii) an anode pressing means configured for receiving anodes from the scales means and for pressing the anode for straightening at least lugs of the anode and, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, and for measuring the thickness of the anode, (iv) a machining means configured for receiving anodes from the anode pressing means and for machining at least lugs of the anode, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, (v) rejection means for receiving rejected anodes, and (vi) a delivery means for receiving anodes from the machining means. In this preferred embodiment of the arrangement, the rejection means is arranged in a feeding direction of the anodes downstream of the scales means, the anode pressing means, and the three-dimensional object imaging means.
This preferred embodiment of the arrangement at least one of (a) a three-dimensional object imaging means configured to measure surface quality of the anode when moving the anode from the scales means to the anode pressing means and (b) a three-dimensional object imaging means configured to measure surface quality of the anode when moving the anode from the anode pressing means to the machining means.
List of figures In the following the invention will described in more detail by referring to the figures, of which Figure 1 shows a flow sheet of a first embodiment, Figure 2 shows a flow sheet of a second embodiment Figure 3 is a principle sketch of an anode preparation machine of an arrangement according to a first embodiment, Figure 4 is a principle sketch of an anode preparation machine of an arrangement according to a second embodiment,
A preferred embodiment of the arrangement comprises an anode preparation machine comprising (i) a receiving means for receiving anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals, (ii) a scales means configured for receiving anodes from the receiving means and for performing a weighting step for weighting the anode to determine if the weight of the anode is within a predetermined weight range, (iii) an anode pressing means configured for receiving anodes from the scales means and for pressing the anode for straightening at least lugs of the anode and, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, and for measuring the thickness of the anode, (iv) a machining means configured for receiving anodes from the anode pressing means and for machining at least lugs of the anode, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, (v) rejection means for receiving rejected anodes, and (vi) a delivery means for receiving anodes from the machining means. In this preferred embodiment of the arrangement, the rejection means is arranged in a feeding direction of the anodes downstream of the scales means, the anode pressing means, and the three-dimensional object imaging means.
This preferred embodiment of the arrangement at least one of (a) a three-dimensional object imaging means configured to measure surface quality of the anode when moving the anode from the scales means to the anode pressing means and (b) a three-dimensional object imaging means configured to measure surface quality of the anode when moving the anode from the anode pressing means to the machining means.
List of figures In the following the invention will described in more detail by referring to the figures, of which Figure 1 shows a flow sheet of a first embodiment, Figure 2 shows a flow sheet of a second embodiment Figure 3 is a principle sketch of an anode preparation machine of an arrangement according to a first embodiment, Figure 4 is a principle sketch of an anode preparation machine of an arrangement according to a second embodiment,
4 Figure 5 is a principle sketch of an anode preparation machine of an arrangement according to a third embodiment, Figure 6 is a principle sketch of an anode preparation machine of an arrangement according to a fourth embodiment and Figure 7 shows an anode preparation machine.
Detailed description of the invention The invention relates to a method and to an arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step.
First the method for preparing anodes 2 cast for a process for electrorefining of metals such a copper for an electrorefining step and some embodiments and variants thereof will be described in greater detail.
The method for preparing anodes 2 cast for a process for electrorefining of metals such a copper for an electrorefining step a providing step for providing an anode 2 cast for a process for electrorefining of metals.
Anodes 2 may for example be provided from a casting plant arranged at the site, where method is used, or shipped from another site to the site where the method is used. The method can also be used at a casting plant for casting anodes for electrorefining of metals. This allows noticing of possible defects of an anode at the casting plant before the anode is shipped to another site for use in an electrorefining step.
The method comprises additionally at least one imaging step for scanning a surface of the anode 2 with a three-dimensional object imaging means 1 to measure surface quality of the anode 2. Surface quality means in this context for example the topography of the surface of the anode 2. The three-dimensional object imaging means 1 is preferably, but not necessarily, functionally connected to an image processing apparatus (not shown in the drawings). The three-dimensional object imaging means 1 may be used for noticing defects of the anode 2 such as casting flaws, completeness of lugs for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, gas formations in the anode 2, and unevenness of a surface of the anode 2.
The measured surface quality of the anode 2 may also be used for tracing defects in the molds used in the casting process for casting the anode.
The measuring of the surface quality may be performed by keeping the three-dimensional object imaging means 1 stationary and by moving the anode 2 in relation to the three-dimensional object imaging means 1. Alternatively the measuring of the surface quality may be performed by moving the three-dimensional object imaging means 1 and by keeping the anode 2 stationary in relation to the three-dimensional object imaging means 1.
Alternatively the measuring of the surface quality may be performed by moving both the three-dimensional object imaging means 1 and the anode 2. Alternatively the measuring of the surface quality may be performed by keeping both the three-dimensional object imaging means 1 and the anode 2 stationary.
Three-dimensional object imaging means 1 are preferably, but not necessarily, configured for imaging the two opposite main surfaces of the anode 2 as shown in figures 3 to 6. By using a first three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging one main surfaces of the anode 2 and
Detailed description of the invention The invention relates to a method and to an arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step.
First the method for preparing anodes 2 cast for a process for electrorefining of metals such a copper for an electrorefining step and some embodiments and variants thereof will be described in greater detail.
The method for preparing anodes 2 cast for a process for electrorefining of metals such a copper for an electrorefining step a providing step for providing an anode 2 cast for a process for electrorefining of metals.
Anodes 2 may for example be provided from a casting plant arranged at the site, where method is used, or shipped from another site to the site where the method is used. The method can also be used at a casting plant for casting anodes for electrorefining of metals. This allows noticing of possible defects of an anode at the casting plant before the anode is shipped to another site for use in an electrorefining step.
The method comprises additionally at least one imaging step for scanning a surface of the anode 2 with a three-dimensional object imaging means 1 to measure surface quality of the anode 2. Surface quality means in this context for example the topography of the surface of the anode 2. The three-dimensional object imaging means 1 is preferably, but not necessarily, functionally connected to an image processing apparatus (not shown in the drawings). The three-dimensional object imaging means 1 may be used for noticing defects of the anode 2 such as casting flaws, completeness of lugs for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, gas formations in the anode 2, and unevenness of a surface of the anode 2.
The measured surface quality of the anode 2 may also be used for tracing defects in the molds used in the casting process for casting the anode.
The measuring of the surface quality may be performed by keeping the three-dimensional object imaging means 1 stationary and by moving the anode 2 in relation to the three-dimensional object imaging means 1. Alternatively the measuring of the surface quality may be performed by moving the three-dimensional object imaging means 1 and by keeping the anode 2 stationary in relation to the three-dimensional object imaging means 1.
Alternatively the measuring of the surface quality may be performed by moving both the three-dimensional object imaging means 1 and the anode 2. Alternatively the measuring of the surface quality may be performed by keeping both the three-dimensional object imaging means 1 and the anode 2 stationary.
Three-dimensional object imaging means 1 are preferably, but not necessarily, configured for imaging the two opposite main surfaces of the anode 2 as shown in figures 3 to 6. By using a first three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging one main surfaces of the anode 2 and
5 a second three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging the opposite main surface of the anode 2 as shown in figures 3 to 6, it is possible to calculate the volume of the anode 2 and/or to measure the thickness of the anode 2. The method may therefore comprise a step for calculating the volume of the anode 2 based on surface quality of the anode 2 measured with at least two three-dimensional object imaging means 1 and/or a step for calculating the thickness of the anode 2 based on surface quality of the anode 2 measured with at least two three-dimensional object imaging means 1.
The method may comprise performing an imaging step after a pressing step for pressing the anode 2 in an anode pressing means 3 for straightening the anode 2 to obtain a pressed anode 2, whereby the anode 2 in the imaging step is a pressed anode 2. The method may include quitting preparing of the anode 2 and transporting the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 if the surface quality of the anode 2 is outside a predetermined surface quality range.
The method may comprise performing an imaging step before a pressing step for pressing the anode 2 in an anode pressing means 3 for straightening the anode 2 to obtain a pressed anode 2. The method may include quitting preparing of the anode 2 and transporting the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 if the surface quality of the anode 2 is outside a predetermined surface quality range.
If the method comprises a pressing step for pressing the anode 2 in an anode pressing means 3 for straightening the anode 2 to obtain a pressed anode 2, the imaging step may be performed when moving the anode 2 to the anode pressing means 3 and/or when moving the anode 2 from the anode pressing means 3.
The method may include a thickness measuring step for measuring the thickness of the anode 2 in connection with the pressing step in the anode pressing means 3.
The method may include quitting preparing of the anode 2 and transporting the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 if the thickness of the anode 2 is outside a predetermined thickness range.
The method may comprise a weighting step for weighting the anode 2 to determine if the weight of the anode 2 is within a predetermined weight range. In such case the method may comprise quitting preparing of the anode 2 and transporting the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 if the weight of the anode 2 is outside a predetermined weight range.
The method may comprise a machining step for machining lugs of the anode 2, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell.
The method may comprise a machining step for machining the surface of the anode 2 if the measured surface quality of the surface of the anode 2 contains defects which are outside of an accepted defect range.
The method may comprise performing an imaging step after a pressing step for pressing the anode 2 in an anode pressing means 3 for straightening the anode 2 to obtain a pressed anode 2, whereby the anode 2 in the imaging step is a pressed anode 2. The method may include quitting preparing of the anode 2 and transporting the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 if the surface quality of the anode 2 is outside a predetermined surface quality range.
The method may comprise performing an imaging step before a pressing step for pressing the anode 2 in an anode pressing means 3 for straightening the anode 2 to obtain a pressed anode 2. The method may include quitting preparing of the anode 2 and transporting the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 if the surface quality of the anode 2 is outside a predetermined surface quality range.
If the method comprises a pressing step for pressing the anode 2 in an anode pressing means 3 for straightening the anode 2 to obtain a pressed anode 2, the imaging step may be performed when moving the anode 2 to the anode pressing means 3 and/or when moving the anode 2 from the anode pressing means 3.
The method may include a thickness measuring step for measuring the thickness of the anode 2 in connection with the pressing step in the anode pressing means 3.
The method may include quitting preparing of the anode 2 and transporting the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 if the thickness of the anode 2 is outside a predetermined thickness range.
The method may comprise a weighting step for weighting the anode 2 to determine if the weight of the anode 2 is within a predetermined weight range. In such case the method may comprise quitting preparing of the anode 2 and transporting the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 if the weight of the anode 2 is outside a predetermined weight range.
The method may comprise a machining step for machining lugs of the anode 2, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell.
The method may comprise a machining step for machining the surface of the anode 2 if the measured surface quality of the surface of the anode 2 contains defects which are outside of an accepted defect range.
6 An embodiment of the method comprises using in the method an anode preparation machine 7 comprising (i) receiving means 6 for receiving anodes 2 cast for a process for electrorefining of metals, (ii) scales means for performing a weighting step for weighting the anode 2 to determine if the weight of the anode 2 is within a predetermined weight range, (iii) anode pressing means 3 for pressing the anode 2 for straightening at least lugs of the anode 2 and, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, (iv) machining means 5 for machining at least lugs of the anode 2, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, (v) a rejection means 8 for receiving rejected anodes 2, and (vi) a delivery means 9 for receiving anodes 2 from the machining means 5. In the anode preparation machine 7 that is used in this preferred embodiment of the method, the rejection means 8 is arranged in a feeding direction of the anodes 2 downstream of the scales means 4, the anode pressing means 3, and the three-dimensional object imaging means 1.This embodiment of the method comprises a providing step includes receiving the anode 2 cast for a process for electrorefining of metals by means of the receiving means 6. This embodiment of the method comprises a weighting step for weighting the anode 2 to determine if the weight of the anode 2 is within a predetermined weight range by means of the scales means. In this embodiment of the method, the weighting step is performed after the providing step. This embodiment of the method comprises a pressing step for pressing the anode 2 for straightening the anode 2. This embodiment of the method may comprise a thickness measuring step for measuring the thickness of the anode 2, wherein the thickness measuring step is performed in connection with the pressing step by means of the anode pressing means 3. In this embodiment of the method, the pressing step if performed after the weighting step. This embodiment of the method comprises a machining step for machining at least lugs of the anode 2. In this embodiment of the method, the machining step is performed after the pressing step. In this embodiment of the method an imaging step for scanning a surface of the anode 2 with a three-dimensional object imaging means 1 to measure surface quality of the anode 2 is performing at least one of (a) after the weighting step and prior the pressing step, as if figures 1 and 2, and (b) after the pressing step and prior the machining step, as in figure 1. This embodiment of the method may include quitting preparing of the anode 2 and transporting the anode 2 to the rejection means 8 (i) if the weight of the anode 2 is outside a predetermined weight range, (ii) if the thickness of the anode 2 determined by the anode pressing means 3 is outside a predetermined thickness range, or (iii) if the surface quality of the anode 2 is outside a predetermined surface quality range.
Such anodes 2, which processing has been quitted and which has been transported to a rejection means 8 in the method for some reason may be melted so that the material of the anode 2 is used for casting a new anode 2.
In the method, the measured surface quality may be used in the a machining step subsequent of the imaging step for controlling a machining means such as an milling apparatus
Such anodes 2, which processing has been quitted and which has been transported to a rejection means 8 in the method for some reason may be melted so that the material of the anode 2 is used for casting a new anode 2.
In the method, the measured surface quality may be used in the a machining step subsequent of the imaging step for controlling a machining means such as an milling apparatus
7 used in the machining step so that surface defects of the anode 2 are corrected in the machining step. By correcting surface defects of an anode 2 instead of rejecting a re¨melting the anode 2 the anode rejection percentage can be reduced.
In the method a laser scanner or a stereo camera system is preferably, but not necessarily, used as the or a three-dimensional object imaging means 1. A three-dimensional object imaging means that is used in the method can alternatively or additionally comprise at least one of the following: An infrared scanner, a camera arrangement for obtaining a three-dimensional representation, or a three-dimensional stereo imagining means.
Next the arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process (not shown in the figures) for electrorefining of metals such a copper for an electrorefining step and some embodiments and variants thereof will be described in greater detail.
The arrangement for preparing anodes 2 cast for a process for electrorefining of metals such a copper for an electrorefining step comprises at least one three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for scanning a surface of the anode 2 to measure surface quality of the anode 2. Surface quality means in this context for example the topography of the surface of the anode 2. The three-dimensional object imaging means 1 is preferably, but not necessarily, functionally connected to an image processing apparatus (not shown in the drawings). The three-dimensional object imaging means 1 may be used for noticing defects of the anode 2 such as casting flaws, completeness of lugs for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, gas formations in the anode 2, and unevenness of a surface of the anode 2. The measured surface quality of the anode 2 may also be used for tracing defects in the molds used in the casting process for casting the anode.
Three-dimensional object imaging means 1 are preferably, but not necessarily, configured for imaging the two opposite main surfaces of the anode 2 as shown in figures 3 to 6. By using a first three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for scanning one main surfaces of the anode 2 and a second three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging the opposite main surface of the anode 2 as shown in figures 3 to 6, it is possible to calculate the volume of the anode 2 and/or to measure the thickness of the anode 2.
Anodes 2 may for example be provided from a casting plant arranged at the site, where arrangement is used, or shipped from another site to the site where the arrangement is used. The arrangement can also be used at a casting plant for casting anodes for electrorefining of metals.
This allows noticing of possible defects of an anode at the casting plant before the anode is shipped to another site for use in an electrorefining step.
The arrangement may comprise a anode pressing means 3 for pressing the anode 2 for straightening at least lugs (not shown in the drawings) of the anode 2 and, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell. In such case the arrangement may comprise a three-dimensional object imaging means 1 configured to measure surface quality of the anode 2 when moving the anode 2 to the anode pressing means 3.
In the method a laser scanner or a stereo camera system is preferably, but not necessarily, used as the or a three-dimensional object imaging means 1. A three-dimensional object imaging means that is used in the method can alternatively or additionally comprise at least one of the following: An infrared scanner, a camera arrangement for obtaining a three-dimensional representation, or a three-dimensional stereo imagining means.
Next the arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process (not shown in the figures) for electrorefining of metals such a copper for an electrorefining step and some embodiments and variants thereof will be described in greater detail.
The arrangement for preparing anodes 2 cast for a process for electrorefining of metals such a copper for an electrorefining step comprises at least one three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for scanning a surface of the anode 2 to measure surface quality of the anode 2. Surface quality means in this context for example the topography of the surface of the anode 2. The three-dimensional object imaging means 1 is preferably, but not necessarily, functionally connected to an image processing apparatus (not shown in the drawings). The three-dimensional object imaging means 1 may be used for noticing defects of the anode 2 such as casting flaws, completeness of lugs for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, gas formations in the anode 2, and unevenness of a surface of the anode 2. The measured surface quality of the anode 2 may also be used for tracing defects in the molds used in the casting process for casting the anode.
Three-dimensional object imaging means 1 are preferably, but not necessarily, configured for imaging the two opposite main surfaces of the anode 2 as shown in figures 3 to 6. By using a first three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for scanning one main surfaces of the anode 2 and a second three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging the opposite main surface of the anode 2 as shown in figures 3 to 6, it is possible to calculate the volume of the anode 2 and/or to measure the thickness of the anode 2.
Anodes 2 may for example be provided from a casting plant arranged at the site, where arrangement is used, or shipped from another site to the site where the arrangement is used. The arrangement can also be used at a casting plant for casting anodes for electrorefining of metals.
This allows noticing of possible defects of an anode at the casting plant before the anode is shipped to another site for use in an electrorefining step.
The arrangement may comprise a anode pressing means 3 for pressing the anode 2 for straightening at least lugs (not shown in the drawings) of the anode 2 and, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell. In such case the arrangement may comprise a three-dimensional object imaging means 1 configured to measure surface quality of the anode 2 when moving the anode 2 to the anode pressing means 3.
8 In such case the arrangement may comprise a three-dimensional object imaging means 1 configured to measure surface quality of the anode 2 when moving the anode 2 from the anode pressing means 3. The measuring of the surface quality may be performed by keeping the three-dimensional object imaging means 1 stationary and by moving the anode 2 in relation to the three-dimensional object imaging means 1. Alternatively the measuring of the surface quality may be performed by moving the three-dimensional object imaging means 1 and by keeping the anode 2 stationary in relation to the three-dimensional object imaging means 1. Alternatively the measuring of the surface quality may be performed by moving both the three-dimensional object imaging means 1 and the anode 2. Alternatively the measuring of the surface quality may be performed by keeping both the three-dimensional object imaging means 1 and the anode 2 stationary. In such case the arrangement may be configured quit to preparing of the anode 2 and to transport the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 if the surface quality of the anode 2, which surface quality is determined by the three-dimensional object imaging means 1, is outside a predetermined surface quality range. The anode pressing means 3 may be configured to measure the thickness of the anode 2. In such case the arrangement may be configured quit to preparing of the anode 2 and to transport the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 if the thickness of the anode 2, which thickness is determined by the anode pressing means 3, is outside a predetermined thickness range.
The arrangement may comprise a scales means 4 for weighting the anode 2 to determine if the weight of the anode 2 is within a predetermined weight range. In such case the arrangement may be configured quit to preparing of the anode 2 and to transport the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 if the weight of the anode 2, which weight is determined by the scales means 4, is outside a predetermined weight range.
The arrangement may comprise a machining means 5 for machining lugs of the anode 2, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell.
The arrangement may comprise a machining means 5 for machining the surface of the anode 2 if the measured surface quality of the surface of the anode 2, which surface quality is measured by the three-dimensional object imaging means 1, contains defects which are outside of an accepted defect range.
The arrangement may comprise, as shown in figures 3 to 6, a first three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging one main surface of the anode 2 and a second three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging the opposite main surface of the anode 2. By using a first three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging one main surfaces of the anode 2 and a second three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging the opposite main surface of the anode 2 as shown in figures 3 to 6, it is possible to calculate the volume of the anode 2 and/or to measure the thickness of the anode 2.
A preferred embodiment of the arrangement comprises an anode preparation machine 7
The arrangement may comprise a scales means 4 for weighting the anode 2 to determine if the weight of the anode 2 is within a predetermined weight range. In such case the arrangement may be configured quit to preparing of the anode 2 and to transport the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 if the weight of the anode 2, which weight is determined by the scales means 4, is outside a predetermined weight range.
The arrangement may comprise a machining means 5 for machining lugs of the anode 2, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell.
The arrangement may comprise a machining means 5 for machining the surface of the anode 2 if the measured surface quality of the surface of the anode 2, which surface quality is measured by the three-dimensional object imaging means 1, contains defects which are outside of an accepted defect range.
The arrangement may comprise, as shown in figures 3 to 6, a first three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging one main surface of the anode 2 and a second three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging the opposite main surface of the anode 2. By using a first three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging one main surfaces of the anode 2 and a second three-dimensional object imaging means 1 for imaging the opposite main surface of the anode 2 as shown in figures 3 to 6, it is possible to calculate the volume of the anode 2 and/or to measure the thickness of the anode 2.
A preferred embodiment of the arrangement comprises an anode preparation machine 7
9 comprising (i) a receiving means 6 for receiving anodes 2 cast for a process for electrorefining of metals, (ii) a scales means 4 configured for receiving anodes 2 from the receiving means 6 and for performing a weighting step for weighting the anode 2 to determine if the weight of the anode 2 is within a predetermined weight range, (iii) an anode pressing means 3 configured for receiving anodes 2 from the scales means 4 and for pressing the anode 2 for straightening at least lugs of the anode 2 and, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, (iv) a machining means 5 configured for receiving anodes 2 from the anode pressing means 3 and for machining at least lugs of the anode 2, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode 2 during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, (v) rejection means 8 for receiving rejected anodes 2, and (vi) a delivery means 9 for receiving anodes 2 from the machining means 5. In this preferred embodiment the rejection means 8 is arranged in a feeding direction of the anodes 2 downstream of the scales means 4, the anode pressing means 5, and the three-dimensional object imaging means 1. This preferred embodiment of the arrangement at least one of (a) a three-dimensional object imaging means 1 configured to measure surface quality of the anode 2 when moving the anode 2 from the scales means 4 to the anode pressing means 3, as in figure 4, and (b) a three-dimensional object imaging means 1 configured to measure surface quality of the anode 2 when moving the anode 2 from the anode pressing means 3 to the machining means 5, as in figure 3. In this embodiment of the arrangement the anode preparation machine 7 may be configured to quit preparing of the anode 2 and to transport the anode 2 to a rejection means 8 (i) if the weight of the anode 2 determined by the scales means 4 is outside a predetermined weight range, (ii) if the thickness of the anode 2 determined by the anode pressing means 3 is outside a predetermined thickness range, or (iii) if the surface quality determined by said at least one three-dimensional object imaging means 1 of the anode 2 is outside a predetermined surface quality range.
Such anodes 2, which processing has been quitted and which has been transported to a rejection means 8 in the arrangement for some reason may be melted so that the material of the anode 2 is used for casting a new anode 2.
In the arrangement, the measured surface quality may be used in the a machining means for controlling the machining means for example a milling machine so that surface defects of the anode 2 are corrected in the machining step. By correcting surface defects of an anode 2 instead of rejecting a re¨melting the anode 2 the anode rejection percentage can be reduced.
In the arrangement, a three-dimensional object imaging means comprises preferably, but not necessarily, a laser scanner 1. If several three-dimensional object imaging means are used in the arrangement, all three-dimensional object imaging means comprises preferably, but not necessarily, a laser scanner 1. A three-dimensional object imaging means of the arrangement can alternatively or additionally comprised at least one of the following: An infrared scanner, a camera arrangement for obtaining a three-dimensional representation, or a three-dimensional stereo imagining means.
It is apparent to a person skilled in the art that as technology advanced, the basic idea of the invention can be implemented in various ways. The invention and its embodiments are therefore not restricted to the above examples, but they may vary within the scope of the claims.
Such anodes 2, which processing has been quitted and which has been transported to a rejection means 8 in the arrangement for some reason may be melted so that the material of the anode 2 is used for casting a new anode 2.
In the arrangement, the measured surface quality may be used in the a machining means for controlling the machining means for example a milling machine so that surface defects of the anode 2 are corrected in the machining step. By correcting surface defects of an anode 2 instead of rejecting a re¨melting the anode 2 the anode rejection percentage can be reduced.
In the arrangement, a three-dimensional object imaging means comprises preferably, but not necessarily, a laser scanner 1. If several three-dimensional object imaging means are used in the arrangement, all three-dimensional object imaging means comprises preferably, but not necessarily, a laser scanner 1. A three-dimensional object imaging means of the arrangement can alternatively or additionally comprised at least one of the following: An infrared scanner, a camera arrangement for obtaining a three-dimensional representation, or a three-dimensional stereo imagining means.
It is apparent to a person skilled in the art that as technology advanced, the basic idea of the invention can be implemented in various ways. The invention and its embodiments are therefore not restricted to the above examples, but they may vary within the scope of the claims.
Claims (30)
1. A method for preparing anodes (2) cast for a process for electrorefining of metals such a copper for an electrorefining step, characterized by a providing step for providing an anode (2) cast for a process for electrorefining of metals, and by at least one imaging step for imaging a surface of the anode (2) with a three-dimensional object imaging means (1) to measure surface quality of the anode (2).
2. The method according to claim 1, characterized by performing an imaging step after a pressing step for pressing the anode (2) in an anode pressing means (3) for straightening the anode (2) to obtain a pressed anode (2), whereby the anode (2) in the imaging step is a pressed anode (2).
3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by performing an imaging step before a pressing step for pressing the anode (2) in an anode pressing means (3) for straightening the anode (2) to obtain a pressed anode (2).
4. The method according to claim 3, characterized by if the surface quality of the anode (2), which surface quality is measured by means of the three-dimensional object imaging means (1), is outside a predetermined surface quality range, quitting preparing of the anode (2) and transporting the anode (2) to a rejection means (8).
5. The method according to any of the claims 2 to 4, characterized by performing a thickness measuring step for measuring the thickness of the anode (2) in connection with the pressing step in the anode pressing means (3).
6. The method according to claim 5, characterized by if the thickness of the anode (2) is outside a predetermined thickness range, quitting preparing of the anode (2) and transporting the anode (2) to a rejection means (8).
7. The method according to any of the claims 1 to 6, characterized by the method comprising a weighting step for weighting the anode (2) to determine if the weight of the anode (2) is within a predetermined weight range.
8. The method according to claim 7, characterized by if the weight of the anode (2) is outside a predetermined weight range, quitting preparing of the anode (2) and transporting the anode (2) to a rejection means (8).
9. The method according to any of the claims 1 to 8, characterized by the method comprising a machining step for machining lugs of the anode (2), which lugs are intended for supporting the anode (2) during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell.
10. The method according to any of the claims 1 to 9, characterized by the method comprising a machining step for machining the surface of the anode (2) if the surface quality of the surface of the anode (2) which surface quality is measured by means of the three-dimensional object imaging means (1), contains defects which are outside of an accepted defect range.
11. The method according to any of the claims 1 to 10, characterized by by using a first three-dimensional object imaging means (1) for imaging one main surfaces of the anode (2) and a second three-dimensional object imaging means (1) for imaging the opposite main surface of the anode (2).
12. The method according to claim 11, characterized by by a volume calculating step for calculating the volume of the anode (2) based on surface quality of the anode (2) measured with the first three-dimensional object imaging means (1) and the second three-dimensional object imaging means (1).
13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized by by a thickness calculating step for calculating the thickness of the anode (2) based on surface quality of the anode (2) measured with the first three-dimensional object imaging means (1) and the second three-dimensional object imaging means (1).
14. The method according to any of the claims 1 to 13, characterized by using in the method an anode preparation machine (7) comprising (i) receiving means (6) for receiving anodes (2) cast for a process for electrorefining of metals, (ii) scales means (4) for performing a weighting step for weighting the anode (2) to determine if the weight of the anode (2) is within a predetermined weight range, (iii) anode pressing means (3) for performing a pressing step for pressing the anode (2) for straightening at least lugs of the anode (2) and, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode (2) during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, (iv) machining means (5) for machining at least lugs of the anode (2), which lugs are intended for supporting the anode (2) during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, (v) a rejection means (8) for receiving rejected anodes (2), and a delivery means (9) for receiving anodes (2) from the machining means (5), by the providing step includes receiving the anode (2) cast for a process for electrorefining of metals by means of the receiving means (6), by a weighting step for weighting the anode (2) to determine if the weight of the anode (2) is within a predetermined weight range by means of the scales means (4), wherein the weighting step is performed after the providing step, by a pressing step for pressing the anode (2) for straightening the anode (2), wherein the pressing step if performed after the weighting step, by a thickness measuring step for measuring the thickness of the anode (2), wherein the thickness measuring step is performed in connection with the pressing step by means of the anode pressing means (3), by a machining step for machining at least lugs of the anode (2) in the machining means (5), wherein the machining step is performed after the pressing step, by a delivery step for receiving the anode (2) from the machining means (5) at the delivery means (9), by performing an imaging step for scanning a surface of the anode (2) with a three-dimensional object imaging means (1) to measure surface quality of the anode (2) at least one of (a) after the weighting step and prior the pressing step and (b) after the pressing step and prior the machining step ,and by in the anode preparation machine (7) that is used in the method, the rejection means (8) is arranged in a feeding direction of the anodes (2) downstream of the scales means (4), the anode pressing means (3), and the three-dimensional object imaging means (1).
15. The method according to claim 14, characterized by quitting preparing of the anode (2) and transporting the anode (2) to the rejection means (8) (i) if the weight of the anode (2) is outside a predetermined weight range, (ii) if the thickness of the anode (2) determined by the anode pressing means (3) is outside a predetermined thickness range, or (iii) if the surface quality of the anode (2) is outside a predetermined surface quality range.
16. The method according to any of the claims 1 to 15, characterized by using at least one of the following as a three-dimensional object imaging means (1): a laser scanner, an infrared scanner, a camera arrangement for obtaining a three-dimensional representation, or a three-dimensional stereo imagining means.
17. An arrangement for preparing anodes (2) cast for a process for electrorefining of metals such a copper for an electrorefining step, characterized by at least one three-dimensional object imaing means (1) for scanning a surface of the anode (2) to measure surface quality of the anode (2).
18. The arrangement according to claim 17, characterized by the arrangement comprises an anode pressing means (3) for pressing the anode (2) for straightening at least lugs of the anode (2) and, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode (2) during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, and by the arrangement comprising a three-dimensional object imaging means (1) configured to measure surface quality of the anode (2) when moving the anode (2) to the anode pressing means (3).
19. The arrangement according to claim 17 or 18, characterized by the arrangement comprises a anode pressing means (3) for pressing the anode (2) for straightening at least lugs of the anode (2) and, which lugs are intended for supporting the anode (2) during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, and by the arrangement comprising a three-dimensional object imaging means (1) configured to measure surface quality of the anode (2) when moving the anode (2) from the anode pressing means (3).
20. The arrangement according to claim 19, characterized by the arrangement being configured quit to preparing of the anode (2) and configured to transport the anode (2) to the rejection means (8) if the surface quality of the anode (2), which surface quality is determined by the three-dimensional object imaging means (1), is outside a predetermined surface quality range.
21. The arrangement according to claim 19 or 20, characterized by the anode pressing means (3) being configured to measure the thickness of the anode (2).
22. The arrangement according to claim 21, characterized by the arrangement being configured quit to preparing of the anode (2) and configured to transport the anode (2) to the rejection means (8) if the thickness of the anode (2), which thickness is determined by the anode pressing means (3), is outside a predetermined thickness range.
23. The arrangement according to any of the claims 17 to 22, characterized by the arrangement comprising a scales means (4) for weighting the anode (2) to determine if the weight of the anode (2) is within a predetermined weight range.
24. The arrangement according to claim 23, characterized by the arrangement being configured quit to preparing of the anode (2) and configured to transport the anode (2) to the rejection means (8) if the weight of the anode (2), which weight is determined by the scales means (4), is outside a predetermined weight range.
25. The arrangement according to any of the claims 17 to 24, characterized by the arrangement comprising a machining means (5) for machining lugs of the anode (2), which lugs are intended for supporting the anode (2) during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell.
26. The arrangement according to any of the claims 17 to 25, characterized by the arrangement comprising a machining means (5) for machining the surface of the anode (2) if the measured surface quality of the surface of the anode (2), which surface quality is measured by the three-dimensional object imaging means (1), contains defects which are outside of an accepted defect range.
27. The arrangement according to any of the claims 17 to 26, characterized by by a first three-dimensional object imaging means (1) for scanning one main surfaces of the anode (2) and a second three-dimensional object imaging means (1) for imaging the opposite main surface of the anode (2).
28. The arrangement according to any of the claims 17 to 27, characterized by comprising an anode preparation machine (7) comprising (i) receiving means (6) for receiving anodes (2) cast for a process for electrorefining of metals, (ii) scales means (4) configured for receiving anodes (2) from the receiving means (6) and for performing a weighting step for weighting the anode (2) to determine if the weight of the anode (2) is within a predetermined weight range, (iii) anode pressing means (3) configured for receiving anodes (2) from the scales means (4) and for pressing the anode (2) for straightening at least lugs of the anode (2), which lugs are intended for supporting the anode (2) during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, and configured for measuring the thickness of the anode (2), (iv) machining means (5) configured for receiving anodes (2) from the anode pressing means (3) and for machining at least lugs of the anode (2), which lugs are intended for supporting the anode (2) during the electrorefining step in an electrolytic cell, (v) rejection means (8) for receiving rejected anodes (2), and (vi) a delivery means (9) for receiving anodes (2) from the machining means (5), by at least one of (a) a three-dimensional object imaging means (1) configured to measure surface quality of the anode (2) when moving the anode (2) from the scales means (4) to the anode pressing means (3) and (b) a three-dimensional object imaging means (1) configured to measure surface quality of the anode (2) when moving the anode (2) from the anode pressing means (3) to the machining means (5) and by the rejection means (8) being arranged in a feeding direction of the anodes (2) downstream of the scales means (4), the anode pressing means (5), and the three-dimensional object imaging means (1).
29. The arrangement according to claim 28, characterized by the anode preparation machine (7) being configured to quit preparing of the anode (2) and configured to transport the anode (2) to the rejection means (8) (i) if the weight of the anode (2) determined by the scales means (4) is outside a predetermined weight range, (ii) if the thickness of the anode (2) determined by the anode pressing means (3) is outside a predetermined thickness range, or (iii) if the surface quality determined by said at least one three-dimensional object imaging means (1) of the anode (2) is outside a predetermined surface quality range.
30. The arrangement according to any of the claims 17 to 29, characterized by a three-dimensional imaging means comprising at least one of the following: a laser scanner (1), an infrared scanner, a camera arrangement for obtaining a three-dimensional representation, or a three-dimensional stereo imagining means.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| FI20135688A FI20135688L (en) | 2013-06-24 | 2013-06-24 | Method and arrangement for producing cast anodes for electrolytic refining of metals for the electrolytic refining step |
| FI20135688 | 2013-06-24 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2852222A1 true CA2852222A1 (en) | 2014-12-24 |
| CA2852222C CA2852222C (en) | 2022-07-12 |
Family
ID=52105768
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2852222A Active CA2852222C (en) | 2013-06-24 | 2014-05-23 | Method and arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JP6411791B2 (en) |
| CN (1) | CN104233380B (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2852222C (en) |
| CL (1) | CL2014001685A1 (en) |
| FI (1) | FI20135688L (en) |
Family Cites Families (11)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPS59133387A (en) * | 1983-01-21 | 1984-07-31 | Nippon Mining Co Ltd | Anode shaping method |
| FI86262C (en) * | 1987-04-16 | 1992-08-10 | Outokumpu Oy | Method and apparatus for straightening cast anodes |
| JPS63281007A (en) * | 1987-05-13 | 1988-11-17 | Sumitomo Metal Mining Co Ltd | Detecting method for defective anode |
| JP3627400B2 (en) * | 1996-10-22 | 2005-03-09 | 三菱マテリアル株式会社 | Electrode anode plate straightening device |
| JPH10160417A (en) * | 1996-11-29 | 1998-06-19 | Mitsubishi Materials Corp | Method and device for detecting defective anode |
| FI107192B (en) * | 1999-11-09 | 2001-06-15 | Outokumpu Oy | Method for checking the surface quality of an electrode |
| FI112383B (en) * | 2001-06-25 | 2003-11-28 | Outokumpu Oy | Method for Improving Cathode Quality in Electrolysis |
| US8594417B2 (en) * | 2007-11-27 | 2013-11-26 | Alcoa Inc. | Systems and methods for inspecting anodes and smelting management relating to the same |
| FI123318B (en) * | 2009-09-29 | 2013-02-28 | Outotec Oyj | Three-dimensional imaging of a mass flow |
| IN2012DN03206A (en) * | 2009-10-19 | 2015-10-23 | Sumitomo Electric Industries | |
| WO2011118596A1 (en) * | 2010-03-25 | 2011-09-29 | 三菱レイヨン株式会社 | Method for fabricating anodized alumina, inspection device, and inspection method |
-
2013
- 2013-06-24 FI FI20135688A patent/FI20135688L/en not_active Application Discontinuation
-
2014
- 2014-05-23 CA CA2852222A patent/CA2852222C/en active Active
- 2014-06-23 CL CL2014001685A patent/CL2014001685A1/en unknown
- 2014-06-24 CN CN201410286269.0A patent/CN104233380B/en active Active
- 2014-06-24 JP JP2014129512A patent/JP6411791B2/en active Active
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CL2014001685A1 (en) | 2015-04-17 |
| CA2852222C (en) | 2022-07-12 |
| CN104233380B (en) | 2018-06-08 |
| CN104233380A (en) | 2014-12-24 |
| FI20135688L (en) | 2014-12-25 |
| JP6411791B2 (en) | 2018-10-24 |
| JP2015007284A (en) | 2015-01-15 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| Seita | A high-resolution and large field-of-view scanner for in-line characterization of powder bed defects during additive manufacturing | |
| US10052712B2 (en) | Method of manufacturing a component | |
| US10137500B2 (en) | Method of manufacturing a component | |
| WO2018024210A1 (en) | Powder spreading quality test method and additive manufacturing device | |
| CN108838397B (en) | Laser additive manufacturing online monitoring method | |
| EP3536422B1 (en) | Detection and repair method for powder additive manufacturing | |
| CN107727011B (en) | Method for measuring flatness and profile on line in selective laser melting manufacturing process | |
| JP5494566B2 (en) | Defect detection method for steel | |
| CN108608119B (en) | Laser additive manufacturing online monitoring method | |
| CA2852222C (en) | Method and arrangement for preparing anodes cast for a process for electrorefining of metals for an electrorefining step | |
| US20190039314A1 (en) | Three-Dimensional Shaping Method | |
| US20230234140A1 (en) | Shaping quality evaluation method in laminating and shaping, laminating and shaping system, information processing apparatus, and program | |
| JP2015105429A (en) | Surface inspection device for deposition metal plate and classification system for deposition metal plate and cathode plate | |
| JP5611177B2 (en) | Ablation abnormality detection device and anomaly detection method | |
| JP5137865B2 (en) | Vertical inspection apparatus and vertical inspection method for anode plate for electrolytic purification | |
| CA2924962C (en) | Method and arrangement method for preparing cast anodes for use in electrorefining of metals | |
| JP6988705B2 (en) | Non-destructive inspection method for slab bubble defects | |
| JP2008116324A (en) | Ultrasonic inspection method of continuously cast rod, and manufacturing method therefor | |
| CN111408858B (en) | Welding machine detection method and system | |
| CN110000356A (en) | A kind of quick detection and the method for demarcating small billet flow channel quality | |
| WO2024063150A1 (en) | Method for inspecting additively manufactured product and method for manufacturing additively manufactured product | |
| JPS6057967B2 (en) | Anode correction cutting device for copper electrolysis | |
| EP3642558A1 (en) | System for characterising a geometry of a suspended load, method using such a system and facility for producing aluminium by electrolysis comprising such a system | |
| CN116481466A (en) | Ball-based flaw detection image scale calculation auxiliary device, method and system | |
| JP2015007284A5 (en) |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20190424 |
|
| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20190424 |
|
| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20190424 |
|
| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20190424 |
|
| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20190424 |