EP1689914A1 - A method and equipment for positioning when replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell - Google Patents

A method and equipment for positioning when replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell

Info

Publication number
EP1689914A1
EP1689914A1 EP04808847A EP04808847A EP1689914A1 EP 1689914 A1 EP1689914 A1 EP 1689914A1 EP 04808847 A EP04808847 A EP 04808847A EP 04808847 A EP04808847 A EP 04808847A EP 1689914 A1 EP1689914 A1 EP 1689914A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
anode
height
accordance
anodes
gripper
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
Application number
EP04808847A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1689914B1 (en
Inventor
Arnt Helge Fidjeland
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Norsk Hydro ASA
Original Assignee
Norsk Hydro ASA
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Norsk Hydro ASA filed Critical Norsk Hydro ASA
Publication of EP1689914A1 publication Critical patent/EP1689914A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1689914B1 publication Critical patent/EP1689914B1/en
Not-in-force legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

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
    • C25C7/06—Operating or servicing
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/08—Cell construction, e.g. bottoms, walls, cathodes
    • C25C3/12—Anodes
    • C25C3/125—Anodes based on carbon
    • 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
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
    • Y10T29/49718—Repairing
    • 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
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/53—Means to assemble or disassemble
    • Y10T29/5313—Means to assemble electrical device
    • Y10T29/53135—Storage cell or battery

Definitions

  • a method and equipment for positioning when replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell The present invention concerns a method for positioning when replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell, and equipment for carrying out this method.
  • Electrolysis cells of the Hall-Heroult type with prebaked anodes for the production of aluminium require regular replacement of used anodes with new ones during operation.
  • Such prebaked anodes comprise a prebaked or calcined carbon block to which an anode suspender is attached via nipples that are fastened to the carbon block.
  • the anode suspender and its nipples are of a metallic material.
  • the combination of carbon block and anode suspender are usually called the anode, and this is fastened via the anode suspender to the superstructure of the electrolysis cell, more precisely to an anode beam that may run in the longitudinal direction of the cell.
  • a standard cell design comprises two anode beams, and a certain number of anodes may be arranged side by side along each of the beams. Often each anode beam may have 8-10 anodes.
  • the carbon material in the anodes is consumed during the electrolysis process and must be replaced before the metallic material in the nipples is revealed. This process takes approximately 28 days and, in an electrolysis hall with several tens of cells, there will be an extensive need for the removal of used anodes and the insertion of new ones. In this operation, it is important for the lower side of the new anode that is inserted to be positioned as correctly as possible in the position of the used anode in terms of height. This is because the interpolar distance (the distance between the anode and the cathode) is an important parameter in the cell.
  • the method involves the transport path of a used anode from the cell to a first level above the cell being registered so that the length of the electrode is measured, a new electrode being lowered, whereby the distance from a second level parallel to the first level is detected to measure the length of the new electrode, measurement of the distance between the levels stated and the new electrode being lowered further from the second level for a distance that is equal to the transport path of the used anode minus the distance between the two levels stated.
  • this solution comprises an arm which is activated by the electrodes and which also has a detector to detect the arm's motion.
  • the detector consists of a beam of light and a receiver, and the beam of light is broken by a screen mounted on the arm.
  • the detector solution is of the optical/mechanical type with moving parts that easily can move out of position over time and/or require extensive maintenance/inspection to ensure the mobility and correct function of the components.
  • This principle of measurement is based upon the use of an incremental counter in addition to limit switches, where the relative movement of the crane is counted.
  • the present invention represents a method and equipment for the replacement of anodes in an electrolysis plant that provide very precise positioning of the anodes and are more robust in the face of dust, wear and mechanical stress than prior art solutions. Moreover, the solution requires little inspection and has a good user interface for the operator who operates the crane.
  • Figs. 1 a-b show elementary diagrams with vital parts of the measuring equipment, with and without an anode;
  • Fig. 2 shows an elementary diagram of how the measurements are performed.
  • one intention of the present method is to achieve more precise insertion of anodes by means of more precise distance measurement using improved equipment involving distance measurement using a laser. This avoids random anode hoist measuring errors, and there is less possibility of incorrect operation thanks to the interlocking technology chosen.
  • the measuring principle and the sequence used eliminate measuring errors in connection with the vertical deflection of the crane bridge and random play in the coarse structure.
  • the measuring equipment comprises a laser cell 3 installed inside a tight cabinet 4 with a vertical protection tube 5.
  • the laser beam 7 shines through the tube towards a reflective tag 6 placed on the anode gripper 2.
  • the laser cell will measure the precise distance.
  • a lifting device the anode hoist, is mounted on a rotation crab on the combination crane that is able to lift a burned-out anode out of an electrolysis cell and replace it with a new anode.
  • the anode hoist is hydraulically controlled, i.e. the anode and anode suspender are lifted out of and lowered into the cell by means of hydraulic force.
  • the anode hoist is equipped with an anode gripper.
  • This is a gripping device that is fastened to the anode hoist. It can grip the anode suspender 10 that is fastened to the anode 11 (see Fig. 1b).
  • the anode suspender has a hole in its upper part that can be gripped by a gripping device.
  • Such gripping devices may comprise one ore more studs that can be entered into the hole in the suspender.
  • the PLC means Programmable Logic Control.
  • the PLC can control output signals (O) by means of input signals (I) and a logically constructed program.
  • the PLC consists of several microprocessors.
  • the PLC processor is located on the crane structure while several decentralised I/O racks are located on the mobile crabs and on the driver's cab.
  • the decentralised I/O racks are linked to the PLC processor by means of highspeed data communication, which is very noise immune. This avoids having many signal cables, which may be vulnerable to noise and error signals.
  • laser measuring equipment can measure the distance between the laser cell and a reflective tag.
  • the precision of this combination is approximately 1 mm.
  • the laser cell used in the example has RS-232 communication with the decentralised racks.
  • the laser cell is expediently located inside a tight cabinet with overpressure attached to a flanged protection tube, for example of diameter 50 mm and length approximately 2.5 m.
  • the laser beam is designed so that it shines from the cabinet through the tube and down towards the reflective tag on the anode gripper.
  • RS-232 (ASCII characters - port to port) communication is a data communication method that precisely transfers signals from the laser cell to the PLC.
  • a PanelView (not shown) is a screen-based visualisation system that communicates with the PLC via the same communication method as for decentralised I/O racks. This visualisation system can read off all values saved as described below so that the crane driver in the cabine can read the values.
  • a light panel (not shown) comprises a column of light with 5 lights of different colours. This light panel has 2 function modes. Mode 1 is used when removing the anode and indicates the measuring sequences step by step. Mode 2 is positioning indication when inserting the anode. This indicates when the anode is too high, too low or in the correct position. This is based on an algorithm that is programmed in the PLC. 1) PLC Interlocking (PLC interlocking in the PLC-program) The sequence is interlocked so that mechanical play is always eliminated.
  • the crane in the example is controlled by the PLC with intelligent decentralised I/O racks.
  • the distance laser measuring equipment communicates with the decentralised I/O racks.
  • the laser cell and one decentralised rack must be positioned on the anode hoist as the laser cell transfers measured values to the PLC processor via an intelligent decentralised I/O rack. It is important for the transfer of values between the laser cell and the PLC to be as noise immune as possible in relation to electromagnetic and electrostatic beams and not to be affected by temperature fluctuations in order to avoid error signals. This is achieved with the PLC structure chosen.
  • the laser measuring equipment with the laser cell is, as stated above, located inside a dust-tight cabinet 4 (the electrotechnical designation is IP 56) on the rotating anode hoist crab.
  • the cabinet has a flanged tube 5 of diameter 50 mm and length approximately 2.5 m mounted on it, which extends down towards the reflective tag 6.
  • the reflective tag is fastened to the anode gripper 2.
  • the laser measuring equipment measures the distance between a fixed point in this tight cabinet (the installation location) on the anode hoist through the tube and down towards the reflective tag on the anode gripper.
  • the tight cabinet is provided with overpressure and a long tube as stated so that the powerful upward air flows (hot air with a lot of gas containing fluorine and dust in connection with anode replacement) do not reach the lens of the laser cell. This is an important detail in the prevention of error measurements.
  • the laser measuring principle described is a central part of the present invention as it is not subject to mechanical wear and does not require maintenance.
  • a PanelView 550 visualisation panel is installed inside the crane cab so that all measurements and stages in the sequence can be read off. This is controlled by the PLC.
  • a function light panel is installed in front of the operator with 5 indicator lamps.
  • This function display has 2 modes. This is made for the operator to let him monitor the functions in connection with the insertion of anodes, in particular the mounting height for the new anode (for more information, see the functional description).
  • the operator's controls comprise a joystick on the left side, which has 3 stages for upward movement of the anode gripper.
  • UP STAGE 1 exerts a lifting force on the anode gripper of approximately 60-70% of the weight of the burned-out anode and has a relatively low lifting speed. This force setting is used when the anode gripper height needs to be measured using the laser equipment.
  • UP STAGE 2 exerts a lifting force on the anode gripper of approximately 300% of the weight of the burned-out anode (breakaway force when removing an anode) and has the same speed as UP STAGE 1.
  • UP STAGE 3 exerts a lifting force on the anode gripper of approximately 200% of the weight of the burned-out anode and has a high speed for rapid anode handling.
  • the anode gripper position is saved in the PLC if UP STAGE 1 lifting has been active continuously for 2 seconds. If the operator uses UP STAGE 2, the anode gripper position will not be saved in the PLC. This is an important interlocking function in the PLC to eliminate play and to ensure that the crane is deflected in approximately the same way for all measurements. When this has been done in accordance with the method, the PLC will acknowledge this with a yellow light on the light panel. This means that measurement A has been completed. The anode clip is loosened and the burned-out anode is removed from the cell.
  • the burned-out anode is placed down on the reference level (checker plate), see Figure 2b.
  • the anode is lifted up by using anode hoist UP STAGE 1 , i.e. the anode hoist will again lift with approximately 60-70% of the anode weight.
  • the burned-out anode will not be lifted from the reference level, but the crane structure is extended in the same way as when lifting the anode out of the cell. This results in the play in the crane being eliminated.
  • the operator presses the REMEMBER POSITION switch on the joystick.
  • the position is saved in the PLC if the UP STAGE 1 lifting was active for 2 seconds. When this has been done correctly, the PLC will acknowledge this with a green light on the light panel. This means that measurement B has been completed.
  • the old anode is then placed in a waste bin.
  • the new anode is fastened to the anode gripper.
  • This is then placed on the same reference level as for the burned-out anode, see Figure 2c.
  • the anode is lifted up by using UP STAGE 1 , i.e. the anode hoist will again lift with approximately 60-70% of the anode weight. While the lifting is taking place, the operator presses the REMEMBER POSITION switch on the joystick.
  • the position is saved in the PLC if the UP STAGE 1 lifting was active for 2 seconds. When this has been done correctly, the PLC will acknowledge this with a red light on the light panel. This means that measurement C has been completed. All the measurements have now been completed.
  • the PLC calculates the insertion height of the new anode using this formula - see
  • A is the position of the burned-out anode in the cell.
  • B is the position of the burned-out anode on the reference level.
  • C is the position of the new anode on the same reference level.
  • X is the additional height of the new anode in the cell in relation to the burned-out anode.
  • the indicator panel then switches to Mode 2 for indication.
  • the operator inserts the anode in the cell in accordance with the light indication in Mode 2, i.e. if the yellow lights light up (1 or 2 yellow lights), the anode is too high, and if the red lights light up (1 or 2 red lights), the anode is too low.
  • the anode has the correct height position if the green light lights up, i.e. the anode is in position D +/- 3 mm.
  • the anode is fixed with the anode clamp. The sequence has been completed, and the equipment can be used to replace an anode in another cell.
  • Additional insertion height for a new anode is important to avoid anode deformation.
  • the additional height means that the anode does not draw “full power”, and it is allowed to heat up gradually before full current flows through it.

Abstract

The present invention concerns a method and equipment for replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell in which a crane with an anode gripper is used to lift out used anodes and to insert new anodes. The new anode is inserted at a height in accordance with a calculated height based on the height of the anode removed, the height of the anode removed and the height of the new anode being measured against a common reference level. Laser-based measuring equipment is arranged between a point on the crane, which is stationary in terms of height during the operation, and a point on the anode gripper, which moves together with the anode, and measures the heights stated. The measured values are processed by a PLC-based system, which determines a more precise insertion height of the new anode in accordance with a specific algorithm.

Description

A method and equipment for positioning when replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell The present invention concerns a method for positioning when replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell, and equipment for carrying out this method.
Electrolysis cells of the Hall-Heroult type with prebaked anodes for the production of aluminium require regular replacement of used anodes with new ones during operation. Such prebaked anodes comprise a prebaked or calcined carbon block to which an anode suspender is attached via nipples that are fastened to the carbon block. The anode suspender and its nipples are of a metallic material. The combination of carbon block and anode suspender are usually called the anode, and this is fastened via the anode suspender to the superstructure of the electrolysis cell, more precisely to an anode beam that may run in the longitudinal direction of the cell. A standard cell design comprises two anode beams, and a certain number of anodes may be arranged side by side along each of the beams. Often each anode beam may have 8-10 anodes. The carbon material in the anodes is consumed during the electrolysis process and must be replaced before the metallic material in the nipples is revealed. This process takes approximately 28 days and, in an electrolysis hall with several tens of cells, there will be an extensive need for the removal of used anodes and the insertion of new ones. In this operation, it is important for the lower side of the new anode that is inserted to be positioned as correctly as possible in the position of the used anode in terms of height. This is because the interpolar distance (the distance between the anode and the cathode) is an important parameter in the cell.
Today this operation is increasingly performed using a traversing crane mounted on rails that runs along the rows of electrolysis cells and is usually positioned above them. The operation stated is one of the more labour-intensive and frequent operations during the operation of electrolysis cells, and the various players within the industry have developed improvements to simplify and rationalise this work while focusing on the safety and working environment of the operators. An established method of determining the insertion height of the new anode is to place it on a table beside the anode removed and to mark a common reference level on the anode suspender with chalk. A measuring stand is used as an auxiliary tool for this operation. US patent no. 4,221 ,641 concerns a method and an arrangement for replacing electrodes in a reduction cell for the production of aluminium. The method involves the transport path of a used anode from the cell to a first level above the cell being registered so that the length of the electrode is measured, a new electrode being lowered, whereby the distance from a second level parallel to the first level is detected to measure the length of the new electrode, measurement of the distance between the levels stated and the new electrode being lowered further from the second level for a distance that is equal to the transport path of the used anode minus the distance between the two levels stated. To determine the level, this solution comprises an arm which is activated by the electrodes and which also has a detector to detect the arm's motion. The detector consists of a beam of light and a receiver, and the beam of light is broken by a screen mounted on the arm. The detector solution is of the optical/mechanical type with moving parts that easily can move out of position over time and/or require extensive maintenance/inspection to ensure the mobility and correct function of the components. This principle of measurement is based upon the use of an incremental counter in addition to limit switches, where the relative movement of the crane is counted.
The present invention represents a method and equipment for the replacement of anodes in an electrolysis plant that provide very precise positioning of the anodes and are more robust in the face of dust, wear and mechanical stress than prior art solutions. Moreover, the solution requires little inspection and has a good user interface for the operator who operates the crane.
These and further advantages may be achieved with the invention in accordance with the attached claims 1-10.
The present invention will be described in further detail in the following by means of figures and examples, where:
Figs. 1 a-b show elementary diagrams with vital parts of the measuring equipment, with and without an anode; Fig. 2 shows an elementary diagram of how the measurements are performed.
As stated above, one intention of the present method is to achieve more precise insertion of anodes by means of more precise distance measurement using improved equipment involving distance measurement using a laser. This avoids random anode hoist measuring errors, and there is less possibility of incorrect operation thanks to the interlocking technology chosen. The measuring principle and the sequence used eliminate measuring errors in connection with the vertical deflection of the crane bridge and random play in the coarse structure.
Compared with manual measurement with a measuring stand and reference level, replacing anodes is less labour-intensive with this method - no operator is required on the floor for insertion and for positioning of the anode height, and the anode insertion height is more precise, which is important for the operation of the cell.
With reference to Figure 1a, the measuring equipment comprises a laser cell 3 installed inside a tight cabinet 4 with a vertical protection tube 5. The laser beam 7 shines through the tube towards a reflective tag 6 placed on the anode gripper 2. Under these circumstances, the laser cell will measure the precise distance. The tight cabinet, together with the protection tube and air overpressure that is supplied to the cabinet 4 via an air supply pipe 8, prevent fluoride dust and gas from reaching the cell's lens. This combination will produce precise measurement without random measuring errors. Cables for communication with the PLC run from the cabinet.
A lifting device, the anode hoist, is mounted on a rotation crab on the combination crane that is able to lift a burned-out anode out of an electrolysis cell and replace it with a new anode. The anode hoist is hydraulically controlled, i.e. the anode and anode suspender are lifted out of and lowered into the cell by means of hydraulic force.
The anode hoist is equipped with an anode gripper. This is a gripping device that is fastened to the anode hoist. It can grip the anode suspender 10 that is fastened to the anode 11 (see Fig. 1b). Conventionally, the anode suspender has a hole in its upper part that can be gripped by a gripping device. Such gripping devices may comprise one ore more studs that can be entered into the hole in the suspender.
PLC means Programmable Logic Control. The PLC can control output signals (O) by means of input signals (I) and a logically constructed program. The PLC consists of several microprocessors. The PLC processor is located on the crane structure while several decentralised I/O racks are located on the mobile crabs and on the driver's cab. The decentralised I/O racks are linked to the PLC processor by means of highspeed data communication, which is very noise immune. This avoids having many signal cables, which may be vulnerable to noise and error signals.
In this connection, laser measuring equipment can measure the distance between the laser cell and a reflective tag. The precision of this combination is approximately 1 mm. The laser cell used in the example has RS-232 communication with the decentralised racks. The laser cell is expediently located inside a tight cabinet with overpressure attached to a flanged protection tube, for example of diameter 50 mm and length approximately 2.5 m. The laser beam is designed so that it shines from the cabinet through the tube and down towards the reflective tag on the anode gripper.
RS-232 (ASCII characters - port to port) communication is a data communication method that precisely transfers signals from the laser cell to the PLC.
A PanelView (not shown) is a screen-based visualisation system that communicates with the PLC via the same communication method as for decentralised I/O racks. This visualisation system can read off all values saved as described below so that the crane driver in the cabine can read the values.
A light panel (not shown) comprises a column of light with 5 lights of different colours. This light panel has 2 function modes. Mode 1 is used when removing the anode and indicates the measuring sequences step by step. Mode 2 is positioning indication when inserting the anode. This indicates when the anode is too high, too low or in the correct position. This is based on an algorithm that is programmed in the PLC. 1) PLC Interlocking (PLC interlocking in the PLC-program) The sequence is interlocked so that mechanical play is always eliminated. This is done by the operator having to use the joystick for the anode hoist UP STAGE 1 for a minimum of 2 seconds and to use the REMEMBER MEASURED VALUE switch at the same time before the anode gripper position is saved in the PLC. When the joystick for the anode hoist is in the position UP STAGE 1 , the hydraulic aggregate ensures, with the appropriate valves, that the anode hoist has approximately 60-70% lifting force in relation to the weight of a burned-out anode.
2) Integrated PLC Solution The PLC installation results in the signal transfer between the laser cell and the PLC being very noise immune, the signal transfer being reliable and random error measurements not being produced.
3) Visualisation Simple visualisation shows the sequence and produces reliable positioning of the new anode.
The crane in the example is controlled by the PLC with intelligent decentralised I/O racks. The distance laser measuring equipment communicates with the decentralised I/O racks. The laser cell and one decentralised rack must be positioned on the anode hoist as the laser cell transfers measured values to the PLC processor via an intelligent decentralised I/O rack. It is important for the transfer of values between the laser cell and the PLC to be as noise immune as possible in relation to electromagnetic and electrostatic beams and not to be affected by temperature fluctuations in order to avoid error signals. This is achieved with the PLC structure chosen.
The laser measuring equipment with the laser cell is, as stated above, located inside a dust-tight cabinet 4 (the electrotechnical designation is IP 56) on the rotating anode hoist crab. The cabinet has a flanged tube 5 of diameter 50 mm and length approximately 2.5 m mounted on it, which extends down towards the reflective tag 6. The reflective tag is fastened to the anode gripper 2. The laser measuring equipment measures the distance between a fixed point in this tight cabinet (the installation location) on the anode hoist through the tube and down towards the reflective tag on the anode gripper. The tight cabinet is provided with overpressure and a long tube as stated so that the powerful upward air flows (hot air with a lot of gas containing fluorine and dust in connection with anode replacement) do not reach the lens of the laser cell. This is an important detail in the prevention of error measurements. The laser measuring principle described is a central part of the present invention as it is not subject to mechanical wear and does not require maintenance.
A PanelView 550 visualisation panel is installed inside the crane cab so that all measurements and stages in the sequence can be read off. This is controlled by the PLC.
A function light panel is installed in front of the operator with 5 indicator lamps. This function display has 2 modes. This is made for the operator to let him monitor the functions in connection with the insertion of anodes, in particular the mounting height for the new anode (for more information, see the functional description).
The operator's controls comprise a joystick on the left side, which has 3 stages for upward movement of the anode gripper.
UP STAGE 1 exerts a lifting force on the anode gripper of approximately 60-70% of the weight of the burned-out anode and has a relatively low lifting speed. This force setting is used when the anode gripper height needs to be measured using the laser equipment.
UP STAGE 2 exerts a lifting force on the anode gripper of approximately 300% of the weight of the burned-out anode (breakaway force when removing an anode) and has the same speed as UP STAGE 1. UP STAGE 3 exerts a lifting force on the anode gripper of approximately 200% of the weight of the burned-out anode and has a high speed for rapid anode handling.
On the same joystick as stated above, there is a press-button switch at the front. This is used to operate REMEMBER ANODE GRIPPER POSITION.
Functional Description, see Figure 2 All the functions described are carried out by the operator in the crane cab. The operator first sets the offset value on the PanelView, i.e. how much higher the new anode is to be inserted in relation to the burned-out anode (the typical setting is 20 mm). The operator guides the crane so that he grips the anode suspender (the anode) with the anode gripper. He then lifts the burned-out anode by operating the anode hoist UP STAGE 1 with the joystick (see Figure 2a). This involves the anode hoist lifting with a preset force that is approximately 60-70% of the anode weight (constant force). This results in the elimination of play. While the lifting is taking place, the operator presses the REMEMBER POSITION switch on the joystick. The anode gripper position is saved in the PLC if UP STAGE 1 lifting has been active continuously for 2 seconds. If the operator uses UP STAGE 2, the anode gripper position will not be saved in the PLC. This is an important interlocking function in the PLC to eliminate play and to ensure that the crane is deflected in approximately the same way for all measurements. When this has been done in accordance with the method, the PLC will acknowledge this with a yellow light on the light panel. This means that measurement A has been completed. The anode clip is loosened and the burned-out anode is removed from the cell.
The burned-out anode is placed down on the reference level (checker plate), see Figure 2b. The anode is lifted up by using anode hoist UP STAGE 1 , i.e. the anode hoist will again lift with approximately 60-70% of the anode weight. The burned-out anode will not be lifted from the reference level, but the crane structure is extended in the same way as when lifting the anode out of the cell. This results in the play in the crane being eliminated. While the lifting is taking place, the operator presses the REMEMBER POSITION switch on the joystick. The position is saved in the PLC if the UP STAGE 1 lifting was active for 2 seconds. When this has been done correctly, the PLC will acknowledge this with a green light on the light panel. This means that measurement B has been completed.
The old anode is then placed in a waste bin. The new anode is fastened to the anode gripper. This is then placed on the same reference level as for the burned-out anode, see Figure 2c. The anode is lifted up by using UP STAGE 1 , i.e. the anode hoist will again lift with approximately 60-70% of the anode weight. While the lifting is taking place, the operator presses the REMEMBER POSITION switch on the joystick. The position is saved in the PLC if the UP STAGE 1 lifting was active for 2 seconds. When this has been done correctly, the PLC will acknowledge this with a red light on the light panel. This means that measurement C has been completed. All the measurements have now been completed.
The PLC calculates the insertion height of the new anode using this formula - see
Figure 2d:
D=A-B+C-X D is the desired position of the new anode.
A is the position of the burned-out anode in the cell.
B is the position of the burned-out anode on the reference level.
C is the position of the new anode on the same reference level.
X is the additional height of the new anode in the cell in relation to the burned-out anode.
The new anode is inserted in the cell at anode position = D (+/- tolerance, typically +/- 3 mm - the tolerance can be adjusted from the operator panel).
The indicator panel then switches to Mode 2 for indication. The operator inserts the anode in the cell in accordance with the light indication in Mode 2, i.e. if the yellow lights light up (1 or 2 yellow lights), the anode is too high, and if the red lights light up (1 or 2 red lights), the anode is too low. The anode has the correct height position if the green light lights up, i.e. the anode is in position D +/- 3 mm. When the anode is positioned in the cell and the green light lights up, the anode is fixed with the anode clamp. The sequence has been completed, and the equipment can be used to replace an anode in another cell.
Additional insertion height for a new anode is important to avoid anode deformation. The additional height means that the anode does not draw "full power", and it is allowed to heat up gradually before full current flows through it.

Claims

Claims
1. A method for positioning when replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell of Hall- Heroult type with prebaked anodes, in which a crane with an anode gripper is used to lift out used anodes and to insert new anodes, the gripper act in a predetermined, fixed point in the hanger of the anodes, and in which a new anode is inserted at a height in accordance with a calculated height based on the height of the anode removed, the height of the anode removed and the height of the new anode being measured against a common reference level, characterised in that laser-based measuring equipment for length measurements is arranged between a point on the crane, which is stationary in terms of height during the operation, and a point on the anode gripper, which moves together with the anode, that the equipment measures the heights stated and that the measured values are processed by a PLC- based system, which determines the insertion height of the new anode in accordance with a specific algorithm.
2. A method in accordance with claim 1 , characterised in that the algorithm comprises the following formula:
D=A-B+C-X, where:
D is the desired position of the new anode.
A is the position of the used anode in the cell. B is the position of the used anode on the reference level.
C is the position of the new anode on the same reference level.
X is the additional height for insertion of the new anode in relation to the used anode.
3. A method in accordance with claim 1 , characterised in that, before the height stated is measured, play is eliminated in the anode gripper and connected mechanical structures in the crane by the anode gripper being subjected to a first lifting force that is less than the weight of the burned-out anode.
4. Equipment for positioning when replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell of Hall- Heroult type with prebaked anodes, comprising a crane with an anode gripper to lift out used anodes and to insert new anodes, the gripper acts in a predefined point of the anode's hanger, with which a new anode is inserted at a height in accordance with a calculated height based on the height of the anode removed, the height of the anode removed and the height of the new anode being measured against a common reference level, characterised in that laser-based measuring equipment for length measurements is arranged between a point on the crane, which is stationary in terms of height during the operation, and a point on the anode gripper, which moves together with the anode, and that the equipment measures the heights stated and transfers the data signals to a PLC, which processes measured, saved values and determines the insertion height of the new anode in accordance with a specific algorithm.
5. Equipment in accordance with claim 4, characterised in that the laser-based measuring equipment comprises a laser cell, which both emits laser light and detects reflected laser light and which is mounted at a location that is stationary in terms of height on the crane and that a reflective device for reflection of the laser light is mounted on the anode gripper.
6. Equipment in accordance with claim 5, characterised in that the laser cell is contained in a dust-tight cabinet with a downward-facing opening, to which is attached a tube through which the laser light passes.
7. Equipment in accordance with claim 6, characterised in that the cabinet is supplied with compressed air to establish air overpressure so that dust cannot reach up into the cabinet via the tube.
8. Equipment in accordance with claim 7, characterised in that the PLC is arranged so that the measured values transferred are stored and processed after interlocking to eliminate play.
9. Equipment in accordance with claim 8, characterised in that the interlocking involves the anode gripper being subjected to a lifting force equivalent to 60-70% of the weight of the anode, and that this must be applied for at least 2 seconds before the measurement can be stored.
10. Equipment in accordance with claims 8-9, characterised in that a display, a light signal or similar visualises the completion of the sequence in accordance with the method and interlocking specified, and that measured values are saved in accordance with this.
EP04808847A 2003-11-26 2004-11-15 A method and equipment for positioning when replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell Not-in-force EP1689914B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NO20035253A NO319212B1 (en) 2003-11-26 2003-11-26 Method for positioning when changing anodes in an electrolytic cell, as well as equipment for the same
PCT/NO2004/000350 WO2005052217A1 (en) 2003-11-26 2004-11-15 A method and equipment for positioning when replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1689914A1 true EP1689914A1 (en) 2006-08-16
EP1689914B1 EP1689914B1 (en) 2010-05-05

Family

ID=30439592

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP04808847A Not-in-force EP1689914B1 (en) 2003-11-26 2004-11-15 A method and equipment for positioning when replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell

Country Status (13)

Country Link
US (1) US20070214626A1 (en)
EP (1) EP1689914B1 (en)
CN (1) CN1898414B (en)
AR (1) AR047316A1 (en)
AT (1) ATE466973T1 (en)
AU (1) AU2004293726B2 (en)
BR (1) BRPI0416999A (en)
CA (1) CA2547055C (en)
DE (1) DE602004027070D1 (en)
NO (1) NO319212B1 (en)
RU (1) RU2361968C2 (en)
WO (1) WO2005052217A1 (en)
ZA (1) ZA200604323B (en)

Families Citing this family (18)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2874934B1 (en) 2004-09-08 2007-09-07 Ecl Soc Par Actions Simplifiee METHOD FOR CHANGING ANODE IN AN ELECTROLYTIC ALUMINUM PRODUCTION CELL INCLUDING ANODE POSITION ADJUSTMENT AND DEVICE FOR IMPLEMENTING THE SAME
CN100427646C (en) * 2005-07-06 2008-10-22 中国铝业股份有限公司 Automatic control method and device of multifunction crane aluminium discharging
CN1323280C (en) * 2005-08-25 2007-06-27 南宁市众成伟业控制技术有限公司 Anode horizontal height-finding system with radio comparing base as platform
FR2898137B1 (en) * 2006-03-03 2008-12-26 Ecl Soc Par Actions Simplifiee REMOTE PILOTABLE SERVICE MODULE FOR ALUMINUM PRODUCTION PLANTS
US7976685B2 (en) 2006-03-03 2011-07-12 E.C.L. Remote controllable pot tending module for use in aluminum production plants
US8594417B2 (en) * 2007-11-27 2013-11-26 Alcoa Inc. Systems and methods for inspecting anodes and smelting management relating to the same
WO2010068991A1 (en) * 2008-12-18 2010-06-24 Aluminium Smelter Developments Pty Ltd A rodless anode block for an aluminium reduction cell
CN104250841A (en) * 2013-06-25 2014-12-31 住友重机械搬运系统工程株式会社 Transporting system, electrolysis refining system and transporting method
US10079680B2 (en) 2013-07-17 2018-09-18 Emerging Sense, Affarsutveckling Ab Selective revocation of certificates
CN104529137B (en) * 2014-12-10 2016-11-30 河南安彩高科股份有限公司 A kind of glass pressing machine is quickly accurately positioned method
CN105441975B (en) * 2015-04-28 2017-10-10 贵阳铝镁设计研究院有限公司 The special change poles instrument of aluminium electroloysis
CN105256333B9 (en) * 2015-11-23 2022-07-26 株洲天桥起重机股份有限公司 Anode replacing system for aluminum electrolysis production
CN105274572B (en) * 2015-11-23 2017-09-22 株洲天桥起重机股份有限公司 A kind of method of anode change for aluminum electrolysis
CN106811772B (en) * 2017-04-13 2019-06-28 中南大学 A kind of aluminium cell Automatic pole changing system and its change poles method
PE20201050A1 (en) 2017-09-18 2020-10-12 Boston Electrometallurgical Corp SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ELECTROLYSIS OF MELTED OXIDE
CN108315805B (en) * 2018-03-27 2019-07-23 五冶集团上海有限公司 A method of eliminating pot anode beams error
CN111118549B (en) * 2020-02-21 2022-09-09 浙江捷创智能技术有限公司 Quantitative control method for carbon anode replacement in aluminum electrolysis process
CN112048738B (en) * 2020-09-11 2023-06-13 郑述营 Anode replacement system of electrolytic cell

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE2819351A1 (en) * 1978-04-03 1979-10-04 Alusuisse METHOD FOR MEASURING ELECTRODES TO BE REPLACED, ARRANGEMENT FOR IMPLEMENTING THE METHOD AND DETECTOR FOR REGISTERING THE REACHER OF A PRESET POSITION
IT1221994B (en) * 1987-07-09 1990-08-31 Techmo Car Spa EQUIPMENT FOR THE MECHANIZED CHANGE OF THE ANODES IN THE ELECTROLYTIC CELLS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ALUMINUM
NL8801742A (en) * 1988-07-08 1990-02-01 Nkm Nl Kraanbouw Electrolysis cell anode replacement mechanism - has units round table slewing on travelling crane crab and movable vertically
IT1263968B (en) * 1993-02-25 1996-09-05 Gianfranco Zannini AUTOMATED EQUIPMENT FOR THE CHANGE OF THE ELECTROLYTIC CELL ANODES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ALUMINUM
CN1298892C (en) * 2003-01-14 2007-02-07 石忠宁 Aluminium electrolyzing inert anode of Fe base aluminium oxide composite material and its preparing method
US7001497B2 (en) * 2003-04-25 2006-02-21 Alcoa,Inc. Process and apparatus for positioning replacement anodes in electrolytic cells

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See references of WO2005052217A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
BRPI0416999A (en) 2007-02-06
AU2004293726B2 (en) 2009-04-30
AU2004293726A1 (en) 2005-06-09
ATE466973T1 (en) 2010-05-15
CN1898414A (en) 2007-01-17
CN1898414B (en) 2010-07-07
ZA200604323B (en) 2007-11-28
NO319212B1 (en) 2005-06-27
EP1689914B1 (en) 2010-05-05
US20070214626A1 (en) 2007-09-20
CA2547055C (en) 2012-01-24
WO2005052217A1 (en) 2005-06-09
DE602004027070D1 (en) 2010-06-17
CA2547055A1 (en) 2005-06-09
RU2006122532A (en) 2008-01-10
AR047316A1 (en) 2006-01-18
NO20035253D0 (en) 2003-11-26
RU2361968C2 (en) 2009-07-20

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
ZA200604323B (en) A method and equipment for positioning when replacing anodes in an electrolysis cell
US7422675B2 (en) Process for changing anodes in an electrolytic aluminum production cell including adjustment of the position of the anode and device for implementing the process
RU2378417C2 (en) Method of replacing anode and correcting it position in aluminium production electrolysis and machine to this effect
CA2523656C (en) Process and apparatus for positioning replacement anodes in electrolytic cells
RU2702213C2 (en) Jacking system for crane
EP0093026B1 (en) Spark erosion machine
CN105755506A (en) Automatic anode exchanging system of aluminum electrolysis cell and exchanging method of automatic anode exchanging system
US4894129A (en) Method and apparatus for positioning sheet-like objects
US4038162A (en) Method and apparatus for detecting and eliminating short-circuits in an electrolytic tank
JP3925983B2 (en) Electrolytic smelting abnormality detection method and abnormality detection system for implementing the same
AU2005284068B2 (en) Method of changing an anode of a cell for the production of aluminium by means of electrolysis, including an adjustment of the position of the anode, and device for performing same
KR20170087050A (en) Device for positioning at least one electrode for smelting furnaces
JP2002012996A (en) Method for automatically detecting abnormal electrode in electrolytic refining
CN103848344B (en) A kind of overhead traveling crane accurate positioning method and device
CN110727238A (en) Double-station plasma fusion equipment control system and method
CN109425329B (en) Method for detecting deviation offset of plate blank in heating furnace
JP3189947B2 (en) An abnormality detection method for electrolytic smelting and an abnormality detection system for implementing the method
CA2842083C (en) System and apparatus for assisting maintenance of an electrolysis cell
EP3460106A1 (en) Automatic auxiliary crane for maintaining an electrolysis installation
CN219489402U (en) Automatic lifting and feeding mechanism for stainless steel plates
JP3183400B2 (en) Calibration method of magnetic sensor for detecting abnormal electrode in electrolytic smelting
CN210458386U (en) Intelligent pole-changing measuring system device for electrolytic aluminum
KR20030004823A (en) Hot metal control system of iron and steel works
CN2459656Y (en) Metal anode test platform
CN117686263A (en) Automatic temperature measurement sampling system of robot

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20060626

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 602004027070

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 20100617

Kind code of ref document: P

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: VDEP

Effective date: 20100505

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100816

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100905

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100806

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100906

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20101119

Year of fee payment: 7

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20110208

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602004027070

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20110207

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101130

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20101115

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101130

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101130

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101115

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101115

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20111130

Year of fee payment: 8

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20101106

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101115

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100505

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

Effective date: 20130731

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 602004027070

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20130601

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100805

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20130601

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20121130