EP1740740A2 - Compact service module which is intended for electrolytic aluminium production plants - Google Patents

Compact service module which is intended for electrolytic aluminium production plants

Info

Publication number
EP1740740A2
EP1740740A2 EP05742627A EP05742627A EP1740740A2 EP 1740740 A2 EP1740740 A2 EP 1740740A2 EP 05742627 A EP05742627 A EP 05742627A EP 05742627 A EP05742627 A EP 05742627A EP 1740740 A2 EP1740740 A2 EP 1740740A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
plane
center
anode
service module
driving position
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
EP05742627A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1740740B1 (en
Inventor
Alain Van Acker
Patrick Delescluse
Benoîst MOREL
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.)
Fives ECL SAS
Original Assignee
ECL SAS
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
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=34944607&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=EP1740740(A2) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by ECL SAS filed Critical ECL SAS
Publication of EP1740740A2 publication Critical patent/EP1740740A2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1740740B1 publication Critical patent/EP1740740B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • CCHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25CPROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/14Devices for feeding or crust breaking
    • CCHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25CPROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • CCHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25CPROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/08Cell construction, e.g. bottoms, walls, cathodes
    • C25C3/10External supporting frames or structures
    • CCHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25CPROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C7/00Constructional parts, or assemblies thereof, of cells; Servicing or operating of cells

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis according to the Hall-Héroult process. It relates more particularly to the service modules used in aluminum production plants.
  • Aluminum is produced industrially by igneous electrolysis, according to the well-known Hall-Héroult process, in electrolysis cells.
  • the factories contain a large number of electrolysis cells arranged in a line, in buildings called halls or electrolysis rooms, and electrically connected in series using connecting conductors, so as to optimize the floor occupation of factories.
  • the cells are generally arranged so as to form two or more parallel lines which are electrically linked together by end conductors.
  • an electrolysis plant requires interventions on the electrolysis cells which include, in particular, the replacement of used anodes with new anodes, the removal of liquid metal from the cells and the removal or addition of electrolyte.
  • interventions on the electrolysis cells include, in particular, the replacement of used anodes with new anodes, the removal of liquid metal from the cells and the removal or addition of electrolyte.
  • the most modern factories are equipped with one or more service units comprising a movable bridge which can be translated above the electrolysis cells, and along the series of cells, and one or more several service machines each comprising a trolley and a service module provided with handling and intervention members (often called "tools"), such as shovels and hoists, and capable of being moved on the mobile bridge.
  • tools handling and intervention members
  • electrolysis service machines or "MSE”("PTA” or “Pot Tending Assembly” or “PTM” or “Pot Tending Machine” in English).
  • MSE electrolysis service machines
  • the electrolysis cells are arranged as close together as possible and close to one of the lateral sides of the rooms electrolysis and a circulation aisle as narrow as possible is built close to the other lateral side of the rooms.
  • This provision requires that the distance between the walls of the electrolysis room and the limits of the working area of each of the tools of the service machines is as small as possible, in particular for access to the electrolysis cells. This distance is called “tool approach”.
  • the position of the cells in the electrolysis room and the total surface area of the room which results therefrom depend appreciably on the volume occupied by the service machines and on the possibilities of approach and movement of their tools.
  • the known service modules occupy a large volume which prohibits a reduced approach to the sides of the electrolysis rooms, in particular the lateral sides, and which appreciably limits their movements near these sides.
  • the subject of the invention is a service module for a series of electrolysis cells intended for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis comprising a chassis capable of being fixed to a carriage and a turret mounted on the chassis so as to be able to pivot around a vertical axis A in use, defining a substantially horizontal plane in use, called "turret plane" Pt, and equipped with: - a set of tools including in particular a breaker mounted on a telescopic arm, a shovel with buckets mounted on a telescopic arm, at least one first anode clamp mounted on a telescopic arm and a hopper provided with a retractable conduit; a balcony or a cabin comprising controls intended to operate the module and said tools and a driving position from which an operator can actuate said controls, and characterized in that, with respect to a first plane PI and to a second plane P2, perpendicular to each other and to the plane Pt of the turret and intersecting on the axis A:
  • the center C of the driving position is located at a determined distance C1 from the plane PI and at a determined distance C2 from the plane P2; - the center of the bucket shovel and the center of the first anode clamp are located on the opposite side of the PI plane with respect to the driving position;
  • the picker and said retractable conduit are arranged between the driving position and the row formed by the bucket shovel and the first anode clamp.
  • the service module includes at least four basic tools used for anode changes while remaining compact.
  • the invention also makes it possible to make the operations symmetrical, so that a service machine equipped with a module according to the invention can be used interchangeably regardless of the position of the cells relative to the lateral sides of the bathroom. electrolysis.
  • the invention also makes it possible to avoid the use of two or more concentric turrets, which consequently makes it possible to simplify the design of the service module.
  • the invention also relates to a service machine comprising a carriage and a service module as described above.
  • the invention also relates to a service unit of an aluminum production plant by igneous electrolysis comprising a movable bridge and at least one service machine according to the invention.
  • the invention also relates to the use of a service unit according to the invention for interventions on electrolysis cells intended for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis.
  • Another subject of the invention is a method for changing the anode of an electrolysis cell intended for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis, in which at least one determined anode is replaced by a new anode using a module service according to the invention.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a typical electrolysis room, seen in section, intended for the production of aluminum and comprising a service unit shown diagrammatically.
  • FIGS 2 and 3 show, schematically, arrangements of the basic tools of the service module according to the invention, seen from below.
  • Figures 4 and 5 illustrate, schematically, exemplary embodiments of the service module according to the invention, in side view.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates the operations for changing anodes which can be carried out with a module according to the invention.
  • Electrolysis plants for the production of aluminum include a liquid aluminum production area which includes one or more electrolysis rooms (1).
  • each electrolysis room (1) comprises electrolysis cells (2) and at least one "service unit” or “service machine” (3).
  • the electrolysis cells (2) are normally arranged in rows or rows, each row or row typically comprising more than a hundred cells.
  • the cells (2) are arranged so as to clear a circulation aisle (31) along the electrolysis room (1).
  • the cells (2) comprise a series of anodes (21) provided with a metal rod (22) intended for the fixing and the electrical connection of the anodes to a metallic anode frame (not illustrated).
  • the service unit (3) is used to carry out operations on the cells (2) such as changing the anode or filling the feed hoppers with ground bath and A1F 3 of the electrolysis cells. It can also be used to handle various loads, such as tank elements, pockets of liquid metal or anodes.
  • the invention particularly relates to service units capable of carrying out anode changes.
  • the service unit (3) comprises a movable bridge (4) which can be translated above the electrolysis cells (2) and a service machine (5) comprising a movable carriage (6) capable of being moved over the mobile bridge (4) and a service module (7) equipped with several handling and intervention devices (10), such as tools (shovels, anode pliers, stitches, ).
  • the mobile bridge (4) rests and circulates on raceways (30, 30 ') arranged parallel to each other and to the main axis of the hall (and of the cell file).
  • the movable bridge (4) can thus be moved along the electrolysis room (1).
  • the service module (7) comprises a chassis (8), typically a platform, capable of being fixed to a carriage (6) and a turret (9) mounted on the chassis (8 ) so that it can pivot around a vertical axis A in use.
  • the turret (9) is equipped with a balcony or a control cabin (18) comprising controls intended to operate the module (7) and said tools (10) and a driving position (19) from which an operator can actuate said controls.
  • the turret (9) is also equipped with a determined set of tools (10), namely at least one drill (11) mounted on a telescopic arm (1 la), a bucket shovel (12) mounted on a telescopic arm (12a), at least one anode handling clamp (hereinafter called “anode clamp”) (13, 14) mounted on a telescopic arm (13a, 14a), and a hopper (15 ) provided with a retractable duct (16).
  • tools (10) are intended for the operations of changing the anodes of the hall electrolysis cells.
  • the pricker (11) is used to break the crust of alumina and solidified bath which generally covers the anodes of the cell;
  • the bucket shovel (12) is used to clear the location of the anode, after removal of the spent anode, by removal of solid materials (such as pieces of crust and carbon and alumina) which s 'are there;
  • the anode clamp (s) (13, 14) are used to grasp and handle the anodes by their rod, in particular for removing spent anodes from an electrolysis cell and placing new anodes in the cell electrolysis;
  • the retractable conduit (16) is used to introduce alumina and / or ground bath into the electrolysis cell, so as to reform a coating layer, after the installation of a new anode.
  • the turret (9) according to the invention can also be equipped with additional tools, such as a hoist.
  • a telescopic arm (l ia, 12a, 13a, 14a) comprises at least one fixed member and a first movable member capable of being translated relative to the fixed member along a determined translation axis .
  • the fixed and mobile members have a substantially elongated shape, such as a rod, a barrel or a more complex shape, with which a main axis can be associated in the lengthwise direction.
  • the main axis of the fixed and mobile member (s) is typically substantially vertical in use.
  • the determined axis of translation is generally parallel to the main axis of the fixed member and may coincide with it.
  • the fixed member is fixed to the turret (9) rigidly or flexibly.
  • a flexible fixing allows a certain movement of the movable member relative to its fixing point.
  • the tools are attached to the movable member, generally at one end thereof.
  • the fixed member can be a first hollow barrel of substantially square section and the movable member a second barrel of substantially square section capable of sliding inside the first barrel; in this example, the main axis of the first and second barrels coincide.
  • the telescopic arm may comprise one or more intermediate movable members, located between the fixed member and the first movable member and able to be translated relative to the latter.
  • the turret (9) defines a plane Pt perpendicular to the axis A, and therefore substantially horizontal in use, called the plane of the turret.
  • this plane is divided into four geometric quadrants delimited by two planes (PI, P2), perpendicular to the plane of the turret (and therefore vertical in use), perpendicular to one 'other and passing through axis A.
  • This reference system is illustrated in Figures 2 and 3.
  • the space is then divided into four subspaces each corresponding to one of the four quadrants delimited by the two planes PI and P2.
  • the quadrants, and the corresponding subspaces are designated by the Roman numerals I to IN for the purposes of the description.
  • the tools are normally located on the same side of the plane of the turret, namely the side which is below this plane (and therefore under the chassis and the turret) in use.
  • the center of the driving position (19) is located either in the reference subspace (I or IN) located on one side of the plane PI, or on the plane P2 which separates these two subspaces;
  • - the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the center of the anode clamp (s) (13, 14) are located, on the opposite side of the PI plane, either in a subspace adjacent to the subspace of reference (for example in subspace II when the center of the driving position is in subspace I), or in the subspace opposite to the reference subspace (for example in subspace III when the center of the driving position is in subspace I);
  • - the breaker (11) and the retractable conduit (16) are arranged between the driving position (18) and either the plane Pa parallel to the plane PI and passing through the center of the first anode clamp (13), or the plane Pb parallel to the PI plane and passing through the center of the bucket shovel (12), depending on the space available left by the bucket shovel and the anode clamp (s).
  • the breaker (11) and the retractable conduit (16) are then disposed between the driving position (18) and the row formed by the bucket shovel (12) and the anode clamp (s) (13, 14) .
  • the breaker (11) can be placed between the driving position (19) and the bucket shovel (12) and the retractable duct (16) can be placed between the driving position (19) and the clamp (s) (s) with anodes (13, 14).
  • the picker (11) and the retractable conduit (16) are preferably located between the PI plane and said row, and more generally between the PI plane and the row formed by the bucket shovel (12) and the anode pliers (13 , 14).
  • the picker (11) and the retractable conduit (16) are preferably still located between the plane P12 parallel to the axis A and passing through the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the plane PI 3 or P14 parallel to the axis A and passing through the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the anode clamp (13 or 14) which is the furthest from the center of the shovel.
  • the position of the tools according to the invention allows visibility over all of the anode changing tools (11 to 16) when the operator intervenes in the work area (17) at level of the tank or in the working area (17 ') at the level of the anode rod fasteners (22).
  • the operator's point of view on the anode changing operations is designated by the reference 20.
  • the position of the tools according to the invention also makes it possible to carry out said operations without requiring rotation of the turret (9) around axis A; the positioning of the tools relative to the location of an anode (21) or of its rod (22) during said operations requires only slight displacements of the turret (9) by horizontal translation and / or slight pivoting of the turret (9) relative to the axis A.
  • the driving position (19), the bucket shovel (12) and the anode clamp (s) (13, 14)) are located at determined radial distances from the A axis. These distances can be given in terms of distances from the planes PI and P2, as indicated in FIG. 2 (namely Cl and C2 for the driving position, Bl and B2 for the bucket shovel, Al and A2 for the first anode clamp, Al 'and A2' for the possible second anode clamp, ).
  • the distances from the plane PI (Al, Al ', Bl, Cl) depend in particular on the size of the tools, the height of the movable bridge (4), the dimensions of the cells (2) and the distance which separates them.
  • the angle S between the plane P2 and the plane Pc passing through the axis A and the center C of the driving position (19) is preferably between 0 and 40 °, and more preferably between 0 and 15 °.
  • This arrangement makes it possible to place the operator's field of vision between the telescopic arm (1 la) of the pricker and the retractable conduit (16), which is typically actuated by a telescopic arm, while preserving the possibility of maintaining these components at near the P2 plane.
  • the determined distance C2 from the driving position (19) is typically between 0 and 1000 mm, and more typically between 100 and 600 mm.
  • the bucket shovel (12) and the first anode clamp (13) are spaced so as to leave sufficient space between them to prevent them from colliding.
  • the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the center of the first anode clamp (13) are located on opposite sides of the plane P2.
  • This configuration makes it possible to make the operation of the module symmetrical, with respect to a rotation of 180 ° around the axis A, while preserving the compactness of the module and the visibility of the operator on the tools.
  • an exemplary arrangement of which is illustrated diagrammatically in FIG. 2 the center C of the driving position (19) and the center of the bucket shovel (12) are located on the same side of the P2 plan.
  • the center C of the driving position (19) can be located in the subspace I and the center of the bucket shovel (12) can be located in the subspace II; the center of the first anode clamp (13) is then preferably in the subspace III.
  • the mirror configuration with respect to the plane P2 is also possible.
  • the center C of the driving position (19) and the center of the first anode clamp (13) are located in the same side of the P2 plane.
  • the center C of the driving position (19) can be located in the IN space and the center of the first anode clamp (13) can be located in the space III; the center of the bucket shovel (12) is then preferably in the subspace I
  • the mirror configuration with respect to the plane P2 is also possible.
  • the service module (7) may further comprise at least one additional anode clamp (14) - typically one or two additional clamps - mounted on a telescopic arm and located in the same subspace as the first anode clamp (13).
  • the center of the additional anode clamp (14) is preferably located on the same side of the planes PI and P2 as the center of the first clamp (13). More preferably, the center of the additional anode clamp (14) is also located in the plane Pa parallel to the plane PI and passing through the center of the first anode clamp (13).
  • the plane Pa parallel to the plane PI and passing through the center of the first anode clamp (13) and the plane Pb parallel to the plane PI and passing through the center of the shovel to the buckets (12) are advantageously spaced apart by a relatively small distance F, which is typically between 0 and 300 mm.
  • F typically between 0 and 300 mm.
  • the telescopic arms of the bucket shovel and the anode clamp (s) are substantially aligned, that is to say that they form a row of tools, so that their active part is located in an area distant from operator station and thus provides great visibility in the field of action of these tools.
  • the operator can go from one tool to the next by a simple longitudinal movement along the bridge and a small movement of the bridge itself.
  • the pricker (11) is located at a distance from the plane P2 of between 0 and 200 mm.
  • the angle P between the plane P2 and the plane Pp passing through the telescopic arm (11a) of the nozzle (11) and the nozzle (11) is preferably between 0 and 20 °.
  • the telescopic arm (1a) of the pricker (11) is located near, and possibly in, the plane PI. This arrangement allows simultaneous operating symmetry of the module, by a rotation of 180 ° relative to the axis A, and a high compactness of the module.
  • the pricker (11) is typically placed on a bent arm fixed to the end of its telescopic arm (l ia), as illustrated in FIG. 5.
  • the telescopic arm (1 la) of the pricker (11) can be vertical (figure 5) or inclined ( Figure 4) relative to the axis A.
  • the distance between the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the distance between the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the or each anode clamp (13, 14) are typically between 3 and 5 meters. These distances are determined center to center and correspond to the line segments D12, D13, D14 parallel to the plane Pt of the turret shown in FIG. 2.
  • the angular opening N between the plane PI 2 parallel to the axis A and passing through the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the plane PI 3 or P14 parallel to the axis A and passing through the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the anode pliers (13, 14) furthest from the center of the shovel is preferably less than 30 °, and more preferably less than 20 °.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a possible embodiment of the service module according to the invention.
  • the drawings show a side view of the module and in section of the movable bridge (4); drawing 4 (A) corresponds to drawing 4 (B), except that the bucket shovel
  • the module is installed on a carriage (6) so as to constitute a service machine (5).
  • the carriage (6) is mounted on the two crosspieces (4 ', 4 ") of a bridge so that it can move along the latter.
  • the breaker is shown in a" waiting "position (H 1 ) and in a "working” position (11); in this last position, the pricker has access to the working area (17) of the tools.
  • the telescopic arm (1 la) of the pricker is inclined relative to the axis A .
  • FIG. 5 illustrates another possible embodiment of the service module according to the invention.
  • the tools are shown in the standby position.
  • the hopper (15) is placed closer to the cabin or the balcony (18) than in the example in FIG. 4.
  • the telescopic arm (1 la) of the pricker is parallel to the axis A.
  • the invention is particularly advantageous for a method of changing the anode of an electrolysis cell (2) intended for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis, in which:
  • a service module (7) according to the invention is approached from said cell (2);
  • the new anode is covered with alumina and / or a ground bath using the retractable conduit (16).

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)

Abstract

The invention relates to a service module (7) comprising (i) a frame which is fixed to a carriage and (ii) a turret (9) which is mounted to the frame such that it can pivot around a vertical axis and which is equipped with: a set of tools including a tapper (11), a tipping bucket (12), an anode clamp (13), and a chute (15) which is provided with a retractable conduit (16); and a cabin (18) comprising controls which are used to manoeuvre the module and the aforementioned tools and a driver's cab (19). According to the invention, two planes which are perpendicular to one another and to the plane of the turret (9) and which intersect at the axis are used as reference planes. The tipping bucket and the anode clamp are located on the opposite side of a plane in relation to the driver's cab (19). Moreover, the tapper (11) and the retractable conduit (16) are disposed between the driver's cab (19) and the row formed by the tipping bucket (12) and the anode clamp (13).

Description

MODULE DE SERVICE COMPACT DESTINÉ AUX USINES DE PRODUCTION D'ALUMINIUM PAR ÉLECTROLYSE COMPACT SERVICE MODULE FOR ELECTROLYSIS ALUMINUM PRODUCTION PLANTS
Domaine de l'inventionField of the invention
L'invention concerne la production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée selon le procédé de Hall-Héroult. Elle concerne plus particulièrement les modules de service utilisés dans les usines de production d'aluminium.The invention relates to the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis according to the Hall-Héroult process. It relates more particularly to the service modules used in aluminum production plants.
Etat de la techniqueState of the art
L'aluminium est produit industriellement par électrolyse ignée, selon le procédé bien connu de Hall-Héroult, dans des cellules d'électrolyse. Les usines contiennent un grand nombre de cellules d'électrolyse disposées en ligne, dans des bâtiments appelés halls ou salles d'électrolyse, et raccordées électriquement en série à l'aide de conducteurs de liaison, de façon à optimiser l'occupation au sol des usines. Les cellules sont généralement disposées de manière à former deux ou plusieurs files parallèles qui sont électriquement liées entre elles par des conducteurs d'extrémité.Aluminum is produced industrially by igneous electrolysis, according to the well-known Hall-Héroult process, in electrolysis cells. The factories contain a large number of electrolysis cells arranged in a line, in buildings called halls or electrolysis rooms, and electrically connected in series using connecting conductors, so as to optimize the floor occupation of factories. The cells are generally arranged so as to form two or more parallel lines which are electrically linked together by end conductors.
En fonctionnement, une usine d'électrolyse nécessite des interventions sur les cellules d'électrolyse parmi lesquelles figurent, notamment, le remplacement des anodes usées par des anodes neuves, le prélèvement de métal liquide des cellules et les prélèvements ou ajouts d'électrolyte. Afin d'effectuer ces interventions, les usines les plus modernes sont équipées d'une ou plusieurs unités de service comprenant un pont mobile qui peut être translaté au-dessus des cellules d'électrolyse, et le long des séries de cellules, et une ou plusieurs machines de service comprenant chacune un chariot et un module de service muni d'organes de manutention et d'intervention (souvent appelés « outils »), tels que des pelles et des palans, et apte à être déplacée sur le pont mobile. Ces unités de service sont souvent appelées "machines de service électrolyse" ou "M.S.E" ("PTA" ou "Pot Tending Assembly" ou "PTM" ou "Pot Tending Machine" en langue anglaise). Afin d'optimiser l'espace dans les salles d'électrolyse et de réduire le coût des investissements, les cellules d'électrolyse sont disposées de manière aussi rapprochée que possible les unes des autres et à proximité de l'un des côtés latéraux des salles d'électrolyse et une allée de circulation aussi étroite que possible est aménagée à proximité de l'autre côté latéral des salles. Cette disposition impose que la distance entre les murs de la salle d'électrolyse et les limites de la zone de travail de chacun des outils des machines de service soit la plus réduite possible, notamment pour l'accès aux cellules d'électrolyse. Cette distance est appelée "approche des outils". La position des cellules dans la salle d'électrolyse et la surface totale de la salle qui en résulte dépendent sensiblement du volume occupé par les machines de service et des possibilités d'approche et de mouvement de leurs outils. Or, les modules de service connus occupent un volume important qui interdit une approche réduite des côtés des salles d'électrolyse, notamment des côtés latéraux, et qui limite sensiblement leurs mouvements à proximité de ces côtés. Compte tenu des nombreux outils nécessaires à l'entretien des cellules, il est difficile de réduire le volume des modules par un simple rapprochement des outils sans nuire à la visibilité des opérations par les opérateurs installés dans les postes de pilotage.In operation, an electrolysis plant requires interventions on the electrolysis cells which include, in particular, the replacement of used anodes with new anodes, the removal of liquid metal from the cells and the removal or addition of electrolyte. In order to carry out these interventions, the most modern factories are equipped with one or more service units comprising a movable bridge which can be translated above the electrolysis cells, and along the series of cells, and one or more several service machines each comprising a trolley and a service module provided with handling and intervention members (often called "tools"), such as shovels and hoists, and capable of being moved on the mobile bridge. These service units are often called "electrolysis service machines" or "MSE"("PTA" or "Pot Tending Assembly" or "PTM" or "Pot Tending Machine" in English). In order to optimize the space in the electrolysis rooms and to reduce the investment cost, the electrolysis cells are arranged as close together as possible and close to one of the lateral sides of the rooms electrolysis and a circulation aisle as narrow as possible is built close to the other lateral side of the rooms. This provision requires that the distance between the walls of the electrolysis room and the limits of the working area of each of the tools of the service machines is as small as possible, in particular for access to the electrolysis cells. This distance is called "tool approach". The position of the cells in the electrolysis room and the total surface area of the room which results therefrom depend appreciably on the volume occupied by the service machines and on the possibilities of approach and movement of their tools. Now, the known service modules occupy a large volume which prohibits a reduced approach to the sides of the electrolysis rooms, in particular the lateral sides, and which appreciably limits their movements near these sides. Given the many tools required to maintain the cubicles, it is difficult to reduce the volume of the modules by simply bringing the tools together without affecting the visibility of operations by the operators installed in the cockpits.
La demanderesse a donc recherché des unités de service qui permettent d'éviter ces inconvénients.The Applicant has therefore sought service units which make it possible to avoid these drawbacks.
Description de l'inventionDescription of the invention
L'invention a pour objet un module de service d'une série de cellules d'électrolyse destinée à la production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée comprenant un châssis apte à être fixé à un chariot et une tourelle montée sur le châssis de manière à pouvoir pivoter autour d'un axe vertical A en utilisation, définissant un plan sensiblement horizontal en utilisation, appelé "plan de la tourelle" Pt, et équipée de : - un ensemble d'outils incluant notamment un piqueur monté sur un bras télescopique, une pelle à godets montée sur un bras télescopique, au moins une première pince à anodes montée sur un bras télescopique et une trémie munie d'un conduit escamotable ; un balcon ou une cabine comportant des commandes destinées à manœuvrer le module et lesdits outils et un poste de conduite duquel un opérateur peut actionner lesdites commandes, et caractérisé en ce que, par rapport à un premier plan PI et à un deuxième plan P2, perpendiculaires l'un à l'autre et au plan Pt de la tourelle et se croisant sur l'axe A :The subject of the invention is a service module for a series of electrolysis cells intended for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis comprising a chassis capable of being fixed to a carriage and a turret mounted on the chassis so as to be able to pivot around a vertical axis A in use, defining a substantially horizontal plane in use, called "turret plane" Pt, and equipped with: - a set of tools including in particular a breaker mounted on a telescopic arm, a shovel with buckets mounted on a telescopic arm, at least one first anode clamp mounted on a telescopic arm and a hopper provided with a retractable conduit; a balcony or a cabin comprising controls intended to operate the module and said tools and a driving position from which an operator can actuate said controls, and characterized in that, with respect to a first plane PI and to a second plane P2, perpendicular to each other and to the plane Pt of the turret and intersecting on the axis A:
- le centre C du poste de conduite est situé à une distance déterminée Cl du plan PI et à une distance déterminée C2 du plan P2 ; - le centre de la pelle à godets et le centre de la première pince à anodes sont situés du côté opposé du plan PI par rapport au poste de conduite ;the center C of the driving position is located at a determined distance C1 from the plane PI and at a determined distance C2 from the plane P2; - the center of the bucket shovel and the center of the first anode clamp are located on the opposite side of the PI plane with respect to the driving position;
- le piqueur et ledit conduit escamotable sont disposés entre le poste de conduite et la rangée formée par la pelle à godets et la première pince à anodes.- the picker and said retractable conduit are arranged between the driving position and the row formed by the bucket shovel and the first anode clamp.
La disposition des outils du module selon l'invention permet que leur partie active se situe dans une zone éloignée de la cabine et du poste de l'opérateur et procure ainsi une grande visibilité dans le champ d'action des outils. Elle permet également de les rapprocher sensiblement de l'axe de rotation de la tourelle, sans nuire à la visibilité, ce qui conduit à une plus grande compacité du module et facilite les approches réduites. Ainsi, le module de service comporte au moins quatre outils de base utilisés pour les changements d'anode tout en restant compact.The arrangement of the tools of the module according to the invention allows their active part to be located in an area remote from the operator's cabin and station and thus provides great visibility in the field of action of the tools. It also makes it possible to bring them substantially closer to the axis of rotation of the turret, without impairing visibility, which leads to greater compactness of the module and facilitates reduced approaches. Thus, the service module includes at least four basic tools used for anode changes while remaining compact.
L'invention permet en outre de rendre les opérations symétriques, de sorte qu'une machine de service équipée d'un module selon l'invention peut être utilisée indifféremment quelle que soit la position des cellules par rapport aux côtés latéraux de la salle d'électrolyse.The invention also makes it possible to make the operations symmetrical, so that a service machine equipped with a module according to the invention can be used interchangeably regardless of the position of the cells relative to the lateral sides of the bathroom. electrolysis.
L'invention permet aussi d'éviter le recours à deux ou plusieurs tourelles concentriques, ce qui permet en conséquence de simplifier la conception du module de service. L'invention a également pour objet une machine de service comprenant un chariot et un module de service tel que décrit précédemment.The invention also makes it possible to avoid the use of two or more concentric turrets, which consequently makes it possible to simplify the design of the service module. The invention also relates to a service machine comprising a carriage and a service module as described above.
L'invention a encore pour objet une unité de service d'une usine de production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée comprenant un pont mobile et au moins une machine de service selon l'invention.The invention also relates to a service unit of an aluminum production plant by igneous electrolysis comprising a movable bridge and at least one service machine according to the invention.
L'invention a encore pour objet l'utilisation d'une unité de service selon l'invention pour les interventions sur des cellules d'électrolyse destinées à la production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée.The invention also relates to the use of a service unit according to the invention for interventions on electrolysis cells intended for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis.
L'invention a encore pour objet un procédé de changement d'anode d'une cellule d'électrolyse destinée à la production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée, dans lequel on remplace au moins une anode déterminée par une anode neuve en utilisant un module de service selon l'invention.Another subject of the invention is a method for changing the anode of an electrolysis cell intended for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis, in which at least one determined anode is replaced by a new anode using a module service according to the invention.
L'invention est décrite en détail ci-après à l'aide des figures annexées.The invention is described in detail below using the attached figures.
La figure 1 illustre une salle d'électrolyse typique, vue en section, destinée à la production d'aluminium et comprenant une unité de service représentée de manière schématique.FIG. 1 illustrates a typical electrolysis room, seen in section, intended for the production of aluminum and comprising a service unit shown diagrammatically.
Les figures 2 et 3 représentent, de manière schématique, des dispositions des outils de base du module de service selon l'invention, en vue du dessous.Figures 2 and 3 show, schematically, arrangements of the basic tools of the service module according to the invention, seen from below.
Les figures 4 et 5 illustrent, de manière schématique, des exemples de réalisation du module de service selon l'invention, en vue de côté.Figures 4 and 5 illustrate, schematically, exemplary embodiments of the service module according to the invention, in side view.
La figure 6 illustre les opérations de changement d'anodes qui peuvent être effectuées avec un module selon l'invention. Les usines d'électrolyse destinées à la production d'aluminium comprennent une zone de production d'aluminium liquide qui comprend une ou plusieurs salles d'électrolyse (1). Tel qu'illustré à la figure 1, chaque salle d'électrolyse (1) comporte des cellules d'électrolyse (2) et au moins une "unité de service" ou "machine de service" (3). Les cellules d'électrolyse (2) sont normalement disposées en rangées ou files, chaque rangée ou file comportant typiquement plus d'une centaine de cellules. Les cellules (2) sont disposées de manière à dégager une allée de circulation (31) sur le long de la salle d'électrolyse (1). Les cellules (2) comprennent une série d'anodes (21) munies d'une tige métallique (22) destinée à la fixation et au raccordement électrique des anodes à un cadre anodique métallique (non illustré).FIG. 6 illustrates the operations for changing anodes which can be carried out with a module according to the invention. Electrolysis plants for the production of aluminum include a liquid aluminum production area which includes one or more electrolysis rooms (1). As illustrated in FIG. 1, each electrolysis room (1) comprises electrolysis cells (2) and at least one "service unit" or "service machine" (3). The electrolysis cells (2) are normally arranged in rows or rows, each row or row typically comprising more than a hundred cells. The cells (2) are arranged so as to clear a circulation aisle (31) along the electrolysis room (1). The cells (2) comprise a series of anodes (21) provided with a metal rod (22) intended for the fixing and the electrical connection of the anodes to a metallic anode frame (not illustrated).
L'unité de service (3) sert à effectuer des opérations sur les cellules (2) telles que les changements d'anode ou le remplissage des trémies d'alimentation en bain broyé et en A1F3 des cellules d'électrolyse. Elle peut également servir à manutentionner des charges diverses, telles que des éléments de cuve, des poches de métal liquide ou des anodes. L'invention concerne tout particulièrement les unités de service aptes à effectuer les changements d'anode.The service unit (3) is used to carry out operations on the cells (2) such as changing the anode or filling the feed hoppers with ground bath and A1F 3 of the electrolysis cells. It can also be used to handle various loads, such as tank elements, pockets of liquid metal or anodes. The invention particularly relates to service units capable of carrying out anode changes.
L'unité de service (3) comprend un pont mobile (4) qui peut être translaté au-dessus des cellules d'électrolyse (2) et une machine de service (5) comprenant un chariot mobile (6) apte à être déplacé sur le pont mobile (4) et un module de service (7) équipé de plusieurs organes de manutention et d'intervention (10), tels que des outils (pelles, pinces à anode, piqueurs,...). Le pont mobile (4) repose et circule sur des chemins de roulement (30, 30') disposés parallèlement l'un à l'autre et à l'axe principal du hall (et de la file de cellules). Le pont mobile (4) peut ainsi être déplacé le long de la salle d'électrolyse (1).The service unit (3) comprises a movable bridge (4) which can be translated above the electrolysis cells (2) and a service machine (5) comprising a movable carriage (6) capable of being moved over the mobile bridge (4) and a service module (7) equipped with several handling and intervention devices (10), such as tools (shovels, anode pliers, stitches, ...). The mobile bridge (4) rests and circulates on raceways (30, 30 ') arranged parallel to each other and to the main axis of the hall (and of the cell file). The movable bridge (4) can thus be moved along the electrolysis room (1).
Dans le cadre de l'invention, le module de service (7) comporte un châssis (8), typiquement une plate-forme, apte à être fixé à un chariot (6) et une tourelle (9) montée sur le châssis (8) de manière à pouvoir pivoter autour d'un axe vertical A en utilisation. La tourelle (9) est équipée d'un balcon ou d'une cabine de commande (18) comportant des commandes destinées à manœuvrer le module (7) et lesdits outils (10) et un poste de conduite (19) duquel un opérateur peut actionner lesdites commandes.In the context of the invention, the service module (7) comprises a chassis (8), typically a platform, capable of being fixed to a carriage (6) and a turret (9) mounted on the chassis (8 ) so that it can pivot around a vertical axis A in use. The turret (9) is equipped with a balcony or a control cabin (18) comprising controls intended to operate the module (7) and said tools (10) and a driving position (19) from which an operator can actuate said controls.
La tourelle (9) selon l'invention est également équipée d'un ensemble déterminé d'outils (10), à savoir au moins un piqueur (11) monté sur un bras télescopique (1 la), une pelle à godets (12) montée sur un bras télescopique (12a), au moins une pince de manutention d'anode (appelée "pince à anodes" par la suite) (13, 14) montée sur un bras télescopique (13a, 14a), et une trémie (15) munie d'un conduit escamotable (16). Ces outils (11 à 16) sont destinés aux opérations de changement d'anodes des cellules d'électrolyse du hall. Dans ces opérations, le piqueur (11) sert à briser la croûte d'alumine et de bain solidifié qui couvre généralement les anodes de la cellule ; la pelle à godets (12) sert à dégager l'emplacement de l'anode, après le retrait de l'anode usée, par enlèvement des matières solides (telles que des morceaux de croûte et de carbone et de l'alumine) qui s'y trouvent ; la ou les pinces à anodes (13, 14) servent à saisir et à manipuler les anodes par leur tige, notamment pour l'enlèvement des anodes usées d'une cellule d'électrolyse et la mise en place d'anodes neuves dans la cellule d'électrolyse ; le conduit escamotable (16) sert à introduire de l'alumine et/ou du bain broyé dans la cellule d'électrolyse, de manière à reformer une couche de revêtement, après la mise en place d'une anode neuve. La tourelle (9) selon l'invention peut également être équipée d'outils supplémentaires, tels qu'un palan.The turret (9) according to the invention is also equipped with a determined set of tools (10), namely at least one drill (11) mounted on a telescopic arm (1 la), a bucket shovel (12) mounted on a telescopic arm (12a), at least one anode handling clamp (hereinafter called "anode clamp") (13, 14) mounted on a telescopic arm (13a, 14a), and a hopper (15 ) provided with a retractable duct (16). These tools (11 to 16) are intended for the operations of changing the anodes of the hall electrolysis cells. In these operations, the pricker (11) is used to break the crust of alumina and solidified bath which generally covers the anodes of the cell; the bucket shovel (12) is used to clear the location of the anode, after removal of the spent anode, by removal of solid materials (such as pieces of crust and carbon and alumina) which s 'are there; the anode clamp (s) (13, 14) are used to grasp and handle the anodes by their rod, in particular for removing spent anodes from an electrolysis cell and placing new anodes in the cell electrolysis; the retractable conduit (16) is used to introduce alumina and / or ground bath into the electrolysis cell, so as to reform a coating layer, after the installation of a new anode. The turret (9) according to the invention can also be equipped with additional tools, such as a hoist.
Dans le cadre de l'invention, un bras télescopique (l ia, 12a, 13a, 14a) comporte au moins un membre fixe et un premier membre mobile apte à être translaté par rapport au membre fixe le long d'un axe de translation déterminé. Les membres fixe et mobile(s) ont une forme sensiblement allongée, telle qu'une tige, un fût ou une forme plus complexe, à laquelle on peut associer un axe principal dans le sens de la longueur. L'axe principal des membres fixe et mobile(s) est typiquement sensiblement vertical en utilisation. L'axe de translation déterminé est généralement parallèle à l'axe principal du membre fixe et peut coïncider avec celui-ci. Le membre fixe est fixé à la tourelle (9) de manière rigide ou souple. Une fixation souple permet un certain débattement du membre mobile par rapport à son point de fixation. Les outils sont fixés au membre mobile, généralement à une extrémité de celui-ci. Par exemple, le membre fixe peut être un premier fût creux de section sensiblement carrée et le membre mobile un deuxième fût de section sensiblement carrée apte à coulisser à l'intérieur du premier fût ; dans cet exemple, l'axe principal des premier et deuxième fûts coïncident. Le bras télescopique peut comporter un ou plusieurs membres mobiles intermédiaires, situés entre le membre fixe et le premier membre mobile et aptes à être translatés par rapport à ces derniers.In the context of the invention, a telescopic arm (l ia, 12a, 13a, 14a) comprises at least one fixed member and a first movable member capable of being translated relative to the fixed member along a determined translation axis . The fixed and mobile members have a substantially elongated shape, such as a rod, a barrel or a more complex shape, with which a main axis can be associated in the lengthwise direction. The main axis of the fixed and mobile member (s) is typically substantially vertical in use. The determined axis of translation is generally parallel to the main axis of the fixed member and may coincide with it. The fixed member is fixed to the turret (9) rigidly or flexibly. A flexible fixing allows a certain movement of the movable member relative to its fixing point. The tools are attached to the movable member, generally at one end thereof. Through example, the fixed member can be a first hollow barrel of substantially square section and the movable member a second barrel of substantially square section capable of sliding inside the first barrel; in this example, the main axis of the first and second barrels coincide. The telescopic arm may comprise one or more intermediate movable members, located between the fixed member and the first movable member and able to be translated relative to the latter.
La tourelle (9) définit un plan Pt perpendiculaire à l'axe A, et donc sensiblement horizontal en utilisation, dit plan de la tourelle. Afin de décrire l'agencement des éléments sur la tourelle, ce plan est découpé en quatre quadrants géométriques délimités par deux plans (PI, P2), perpendiculaires au plan de la tourelle (et donc verticaux en utilisation), perpendiculaires l'un à l'autre et passant par l'axe A. Ce référentiel est illustré aux figures 2 et 3. L'espace est alors découpé en quatre sous- espaces correspondant chacun à l'un des quatre quadrants délimités par les deux plans PI et P2. Les quadrants, et les sous-espaces correspondants, sont désignés par les chiffres romains I à IN pour les besoins de la description.The turret (9) defines a plane Pt perpendicular to the axis A, and therefore substantially horizontal in use, called the plane of the turret. In order to describe the arrangement of the elements on the turret, this plane is divided into four geometric quadrants delimited by two planes (PI, P2), perpendicular to the plane of the turret (and therefore vertical in use), perpendicular to one 'other and passing through axis A. This reference system is illustrated in Figures 2 and 3. The space is then divided into four subspaces each corresponding to one of the four quadrants delimited by the two planes PI and P2. The quadrants, and the corresponding subspaces, are designated by the Roman numerals I to IN for the purposes of the description.
Les outils se situent normalement d'un même côté du plan de la tourelle, à savoir le côté qui se trouve en dessous de ce plan (et donc sous le châssis et la tourelle) en utilisation.The tools are normally located on the same side of the plane of the turret, namely the side which is below this plane (and therefore under the chassis and the turret) in use.
Utilisant le référentiel indiqué ci-dessus :Using the repository indicated above:
- le centre du poste de conduite (19) est situé soit dans le sous-espace de référence (I ou IN) situé sur un côté du plan PI, ou sur le plan P2 qui sépare ces deux sous- espaces ;- the center of the driving position (19) is located either in the reference subspace (I or IN) located on one side of the plane PI, or on the plane P2 which separates these two subspaces;
- le centre de la pelle à godets (12) et le centre de la ou des pince(s) à anodes (13, 14) sont situées, du côté opposé du plan PI, soit dans un sous-espace adjacent au sous-espace de référence (par exemple dans le sous-espace II lorsque le centre du poste de conduite est dans le sous-espace I), soit dans le sous-espace opposé au sous- espace de référence (par exemple dans le sous-espace III lorsque le centre du poste de conduite est dans le sous-espace I) ; - le piqueur (11) et le conduit escamotable (16) sont disposés entre le poste de conduite (18) et soit le plan Pa parallèle au plan PI et passant par le centre de la première pince à anodes (13), soit le plan Pb parallèle au plan PI et passant par le centre de la pelle à godets (12), selon l'espace disponible laissé par la pelle à godets et la ou les pinces à anodes. Le piqueur (11) et le conduit escamotable (16) sont alors disposés entre le poste de conduite (18) et la rangée formée par la pelle à godets (12) et la ou les pince(s) à anodes (13, 14). Par exemple, le piqueur (11) peut être disposé entre le poste de conduite (19) et la pelle à godets (12) et le conduit escamotable (16) peut être disposé entre le poste de conduite (19) et la ou les pince(s) à anodes (13, 14). Le piqueur (11) et le conduit escamotable (16) se situent de préférence entre le plan PI et ladite rangée, et plus généralement entre le plan PI et la rangée formée par la pelle à godets (12) et les pinces à anodes (13, 14). Le piqueur (11) et le conduit escamotable (16) se situent de préférence encore entre le plan P12 parallèle à l'axe A et passant par le centre du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la pelle à godets (12) et le plan PI 3 ou P14 parallèle à l'axe A et passant par le centre du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la pince à anodes (13 ou 14) qui est le plus éloigné du centre de la pelle.- the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the center of the anode clamp (s) (13, 14) are located, on the opposite side of the PI plane, either in a subspace adjacent to the subspace of reference (for example in subspace II when the center of the driving position is in subspace I), or in the subspace opposite to the reference subspace (for example in subspace III when the center of the driving position is in subspace I); - the breaker (11) and the retractable conduit (16) are arranged between the driving position (18) and either the plane Pa parallel to the plane PI and passing through the center of the first anode clamp (13), or the plane Pb parallel to the PI plane and passing through the center of the bucket shovel (12), depending on the space available left by the bucket shovel and the anode clamp (s). The breaker (11) and the retractable conduit (16) are then disposed between the driving position (18) and the row formed by the bucket shovel (12) and the anode clamp (s) (13, 14) . For example, the breaker (11) can be placed between the driving position (19) and the bucket shovel (12) and the retractable duct (16) can be placed between the driving position (19) and the clamp (s) (s) with anodes (13, 14). The picker (11) and the retractable conduit (16) are preferably located between the PI plane and said row, and more generally between the PI plane and the row formed by the bucket shovel (12) and the anode pliers (13 , 14). The picker (11) and the retractable conduit (16) are preferably still located between the plane P12 parallel to the axis A and passing through the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the plane PI 3 or P14 parallel to the axis A and passing through the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the anode clamp (13 or 14) which is the furthest from the center of the shovel.
Tel qu'illustré à la figure 6, la position des outils selon l'invention permet une visibilité sur l'ensemble des outils de changement d'anodes (11 à 16) lorsque l'opérateur intervient dans la zone de travail (17) au niveau de la cuve ou dans la zone de travail (17') au niveau des fixations des tiges d'anodes (22). Le point de vision de l'opérateur sur les opérations de changement d'anode est désigné par la référence 20. Ces opérations procèdent comme suit : la croûte qui couvre les anodes est tout d'abord brisée à l'aide du piqueur (11) (figure 6(A)), l'anode usée est ensuite retirée à l'aide d'une pince à anodes (13, 14) (figure 6(B)), l'emplacement de l'anode est dégagé à l'aide de la pelle à godets (12) (figure 6(C)), et l'anode neuve est mise en place à l'aide d'une pince à anodes (13, 14) (figure 6(B)) et recouverte de d'alumine et/ou de bain broyé à l'aide du conduit escamotable (figure 6(D)). Dans le cas où le module est équipé de plusieurs pinces à anode, ces opérations peuvent se faire simultanément pour plusieurs anodes. La position des outils selon l'invention permet également d'effectuer lesdites opérations sans nécessiter de rotation de la tourelle (9) autour de l'axe A ; la mise en position des outils par rapport à l'emplacement d'une anode (21) ou de sa tige (22) durant lesdites opérations requiert uniquement de légers déplacements de la tourelle (9) par translation horizontale et/ou de légers pivotements de la tourelle (9) par rapport à l'axe A.As illustrated in FIG. 6, the position of the tools according to the invention allows visibility over all of the anode changing tools (11 to 16) when the operator intervenes in the work area (17) at level of the tank or in the working area (17 ') at the level of the anode rod fasteners (22). The operator's point of view on the anode changing operations is designated by the reference 20. These operations proceed as follows: the crust which covers the anodes is first broken using the pricker (11) (figure 6 (A)), the spent anode is then removed using an anode pliers (13, 14) (figure 6 (B)), the location of the anode is cleared at using the bucket shovel (12) (figure 6 (C)), and the new anode is put in place using anode pliers (13, 14) (figure 6 (B)) and covered alumina and / or bath ground using the retractable conduit (Figure 6 (D)). If the module is equipped with several anode clamps, these operations can be carried out simultaneously for several anodes. The position of the tools according to the invention also makes it possible to carry out said operations without requiring rotation of the turret (9) around axis A; the positioning of the tools relative to the location of an anode (21) or of its rod (22) during said operations requires only slight displacements of the turret (9) by horizontal translation and / or slight pivoting of the turret (9) relative to the axis A.
Le poste de conduite (19), la pelle à godets (12) et la ou les pince(s) à anodes (13, 14)) sont situés à des distances radiales déterminées de l'axe A. Ces distances peuvent être données en termes de distances par rapport aux plans PI et P2, tel qu'indiqué dans la figure 2 (à savoir Cl et C2 pour le poste de conduite, Bl et B2 pour la pelle à godets, Al et A2 pour la première pince à anodes, Al' et A2' pour l'éventuelle deuxième pince à anodes,...). Les distances par rapport au plan PI (Al, Al', Bl, Cl) dépendent notamment de la dimension des outils, de la hauteur du pont mobile (4), des dimensions des cellules (2) et de la distance qui les sépare.The driving position (19), the bucket shovel (12) and the anode clamp (s) (13, 14)) are located at determined radial distances from the A axis. These distances can be given in terms of distances from the planes PI and P2, as indicated in FIG. 2 (namely Cl and C2 for the driving position, Bl and B2 for the bucket shovel, Al and A2 for the first anode clamp, Al 'and A2' for the possible second anode clamp, ...). The distances from the plane PI (Al, Al ', Bl, Cl) depend in particular on the size of the tools, the height of the movable bridge (4), the dimensions of the cells (2) and the distance which separates them.
L'angle S entre le plan P2 et le plan Pc passant par l'axe A et le centre C du poste de conduite (19) est de préférence compris entre 0 et 40°, et de préférence encore compris entre 0 et 15°. Cette disposition permet de placer le champ de vision de l'opérateur entre le bras télescopique (1 la) du piqueur et le conduit escamotable (16), qui est typiquement actionné par un bras télescopique, tout en préservant la possibilité de maintenir ces composants à proximité du plan P2. Dans cette configuration, la distance déterminée C2 du poste de conduite (19) est typiquement comprise entre 0 et 1000 mm, et plus typiquement entre 100 et 600 mm.The angle S between the plane P2 and the plane Pc passing through the axis A and the center C of the driving position (19) is preferably between 0 and 40 °, and more preferably between 0 and 15 °. This arrangement makes it possible to place the operator's field of vision between the telescopic arm (1 la) of the pricker and the retractable conduit (16), which is typically actuated by a telescopic arm, while preserving the possibility of maintaining these components at near the P2 plane. In this configuration, the determined distance C2 from the driving position (19) is typically between 0 and 1000 mm, and more typically between 100 and 600 mm.
La pelle à godets (12) et la première pince à anodes (13) sont espacés de manière à libérer un espace suffisant entre eux pour éviter qu'elles se percutent.The bucket shovel (12) and the first anode clamp (13) are spaced so as to leave sufficient space between them to prevent them from colliding.
De préférence, le centre de la pelle à godets (12) et le centre de la première pince à anodes (13) sont situés sur des côtés opposés du plan P2. Cette configuration permet de rendre symétrique le fonctionnement du module, par rapport à une rotation de 180° autour de l'axe A, tout en préservant la compacité du module et la visibilité de l'opérateur sur les outils. Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, dont un exemple de disposition est illustré schématiquement à la figure 2, le centre C du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la pelle à godets (12) sont situés du même côté du plan P2. Par exemple, le centre C du poste de conduite (19) peut être situé dans le sous-espace I et le centre de la pelle à godets (12) peut être situé dans le sous-espace II ; le centre de la première pince à anodes (13) est alors de préférence dans le sous-espace III. La configuration miroir par rapport au plan P2 est également possible.Preferably, the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the center of the first anode clamp (13) are located on opposite sides of the plane P2. This configuration makes it possible to make the operation of the module symmetrical, with respect to a rotation of 180 ° around the axis A, while preserving the compactness of the module and the visibility of the operator on the tools. According to one embodiment of the invention, an exemplary arrangement of which is illustrated diagrammatically in FIG. 2, the center C of the driving position (19) and the center of the bucket shovel (12) are located on the same side of the P2 plan. For example, the center C of the driving position (19) can be located in the subspace I and the center of the bucket shovel (12) can be located in the subspace II; the center of the first anode clamp (13) is then preferably in the subspace III. The mirror configuration with respect to the plane P2 is also possible.
Selon un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention, dont un exemple de disposition est illustré schématiquement à la figure 3, le centre C du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la première pince à anodes (13) sont situés du même côté du plan P2. Par exemple, le centre C du poste de conduite (19) peut être situé dans le sous-espace IN et le centre de la première pince à anodes (13) peut être situé dans le sous-espace III ; le centre de la pelle à godets (12) est alors de préférence dans le sous-espace I La configuration miroir par rapport au plan P2 est également possible.According to another embodiment of the invention, an exemplary arrangement of which is illustrated diagrammatically in FIG. 3, the center C of the driving position (19) and the center of the first anode clamp (13) are located in the same side of the P2 plane. For example, the center C of the driving position (19) can be located in the IN space and the center of the first anode clamp (13) can be located in the space III; the center of the bucket shovel (12) is then preferably in the subspace I The mirror configuration with respect to the plane P2 is also possible.
Le module de service (7) selon l'invention peut comprendre, en outre, au moins une pince à anodes supplémentaire (14) - typiquement une ou deux pinces supplémentaires - montée sur un bras télescopique et située dans le même sous- espace que la première pince à anodes (13). Le centre de la pince à anodes supplémentaire (14) est de préférence situé du même côté des plans PI et P2 que le centre de la première pince (13). De préférence encore, le centre de la pince à anodes supplémentaire (14) est également situé dans le plan Pa parallèle au plan PI et passant par le centre de la première pince à anodes (13).The service module (7) according to the invention may further comprise at least one additional anode clamp (14) - typically one or two additional clamps - mounted on a telescopic arm and located in the same subspace as the first anode clamp (13). The center of the additional anode clamp (14) is preferably located on the same side of the planes PI and P2 as the center of the first clamp (13). More preferably, the center of the additional anode clamp (14) is also located in the plane Pa parallel to the plane PI and passing through the center of the first anode clamp (13).
Afin de faciliter les opérations successives de changement d'anode, le plan Pa parallèle au plan PI et passant par le centre de la première pince à anodes (13) et le plan Pb parallèle au plan PI et passant par le centre de la pelle à godets (12) sont avantageusement espacés d'une distance F relativement faible, qui est typiquement comprise entre 0 et 300 mm. Ainsi, les bras télescopiques de la pelle à godets et de la ou les pinces à anodes sont sensiblement alignés, c'est-à-dire qu'ils forment une rangée d'outils, de sorte que leur partie active se situe dans une zone éloignée du poste de conduite et procure ainsi une grande visibilité dans le champ d'action de ces outils. En outre, dans cette configuration, l'opérateur peut passer d'un outil au suivant par un simple déplacement longitudinal le long du pont et un faible déplacement du pont lui-même.In order to facilitate the successive operations of changing anode, the plane Pa parallel to the plane PI and passing through the center of the first anode clamp (13) and the plane Pb parallel to the plane PI and passing through the center of the shovel to the buckets (12) are advantageously spaced apart by a relatively small distance F, which is typically between 0 and 300 mm. Thus, the telescopic arms of the bucket shovel and the anode clamp (s) are substantially aligned, that is to say that they form a row of tools, so that their active part is located in an area distant from operator station and thus provides great visibility in the field of action of these tools. In addition, in this configuration, the operator can go from one tool to the next by a simple longitudinal movement along the bridge and a small movement of the bridge itself.
De manière avantageuse, le piqueur (11) se situe à une distance du plan P2 comprise entre 0 et 200 mm. L'angle P entre le plan P2 et le plan Pp passant par le bras télescopique (1 la) du piqueur (11) et le piqueur (11) est de préférence compris entre 0 et 20°. Ainsi, le bras télescopique (1 la) du piqueur (11) se situe à proximité de, et éventuellement dans, le plan PI. Cette disposition permet d'obtenir simultanément une symétrie de fonctionnement du module, par une rotation de 180° par rapport à l'axe A, et une grande compacité du module. Le piqueur (11) est typiquement placé sur un bras coudé fixé à l'extrémité de son bras télescopique (l ia), comme illustré à la figure 5. Le bras télescopique (1 la) du piqueur (11) peut être vertical (figure 5) ou incliné (figure 4) par rapport à l'axe A.Advantageously, the pricker (11) is located at a distance from the plane P2 of between 0 and 200 mm. The angle P between the plane P2 and the plane Pp passing through the telescopic arm (11a) of the nozzle (11) and the nozzle (11) is preferably between 0 and 20 °. Thus, the telescopic arm (1a) of the pricker (11) is located near, and possibly in, the plane PI. This arrangement allows simultaneous operating symmetry of the module, by a rotation of 180 ° relative to the axis A, and a high compactness of the module. The pricker (11) is typically placed on a bent arm fixed to the end of its telescopic arm (l ia), as illustrated in FIG. 5. The telescopic arm (1 la) of the pricker (11) can be vertical (figure 5) or inclined (Figure 4) relative to the axis A.
La distance entre le centre du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la pelle à godets (12) et la distance entre le centre du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la ou de chaque pince à anodes (13, 14) sont typiquement comprises entre 3 et 5 mètres. Ces distances sont déterminées centre à centre et correspondent aux segments de droite D12, D13, D14 parallèles au plan Pt de la tourelle représentés sur la figure 2.The distance between the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the distance between the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the or each anode clamp (13, 14) are typically between 3 and 5 meters. These distances are determined center to center and correspond to the line segments D12, D13, D14 parallel to the plane Pt of the turret shown in FIG. 2.
L'ouverture angulaire N entre le plan PI 2 parallèle à l'axe A et passant par le centre du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la pelle à godets (12) et le plan PI 3 ou P14 parallèle à l'axe A et passant par le centre du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la pince à anodes (13, 14) le plus éloigné du centre de la pelle est de préférence inférieure à 30°, et de préférence encore inférieure à 20°.The angular opening N between the plane PI 2 parallel to the axis A and passing through the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the plane PI 3 or P14 parallel to the axis A and passing through the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the anode pliers (13, 14) furthest from the center of the shovel is preferably less than 30 °, and more preferably less than 20 °.
La figure 4 illustre une réalisation possible du module de service selon l'invention. Les dessins représentent une vue de côté du module et en section du pont mobile (4) ; le dessin 4(A) correspond au dessin 4(B), à la différence près que la pelle à godetsFIG. 4 illustrates a possible embodiment of the service module according to the invention. The drawings show a side view of the module and in section of the movable bridge (4); drawing 4 (A) corresponds to drawing 4 (B), except that the bucket shovel
(12) n'est pas représentée afin de montrer la première pince à anodes (13) située à côté de celle-ci. Dans ces dessins, le module est installé sur un chariot (6) de manière à constituer une machine de service (5). Le chariot (6) est monté sur les deux traverses (4', 4") d'un pont de manière à pouvoir se déplacer le long de ce dernier. Le piqueur est représenté dans une position "d'attente" (H1) et dans une position "de travail" (11) ; dans cette dernière position, le piqueur a accès à la zone de travail (17) des outils. Le bras télescopique (1 la) du piqueur est incliné par rapport à l'axe A.(12) is not shown in order to show the first anode clamp (13) located at side of it. In these drawings, the module is installed on a carriage (6) so as to constitute a service machine (5). The carriage (6) is mounted on the two crosspieces (4 ', 4 ") of a bridge so that it can move along the latter. The breaker is shown in a" waiting "position (H 1 ) and in a "working" position (11); in this last position, the pricker has access to the working area (17) of the tools. The telescopic arm (1 la) of the pricker is inclined relative to the axis A .
La figure 5 illustre une autre réalisation possible du module de service selon l'invention. Les outils sont représentés en position d'attente. Dans cette variante, la trémie (15) est placée plus près de la cabine ou du balcon (18) que dans l'exemple de la figure 4. Le bras télescopique (1 la) du piqueur est parallèle à l'axe A.FIG. 5 illustrates another possible embodiment of the service module according to the invention. The tools are shown in the standby position. In this variant, the hopper (15) is placed closer to the cabin or the balcony (18) than in the example in FIG. 4. The telescopic arm (1 la) of the pricker is parallel to the axis A.
L'invention est particulièrement avantageuse pour un procédé de changement d'anode d'une cellule d'électrolyse (2) destinée à la production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée, dans lequel :The invention is particularly advantageous for a method of changing the anode of an electrolysis cell (2) intended for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis, in which:
- on approche un module de service (7) selon l'invention de ladite cellule (2) ;- A service module (7) according to the invention is approached from said cell (2);
- on brise la croûte d'alumine et de bain solidifié qui entoure et couvre au moins une anode usée déterminée avec le piqueur (11) ;- The crust of alumina and solidified bath which surrounds and covers at least one spent anode determined with the prickler (11) is broken;
- on retire l'anode usée avec une pince à anodes (13, 14) ; - on prépare l'emplacement de l'anode neuve avec la pelle à godets (12) ;- removing the used anode with anode pliers (13, 14); - The location of the new anode is prepared with the bucket shovel (12);
- on met en place l'anode neuve à l'aide d'une pince à anodes (13, 14) ;- the new anode is put in place using an anode pliers (13, 14);
- on recouvre l'anode neuve d'alumine et/ou de bain broyé à l'aide du conduit escamotable (16). - The new anode is covered with alumina and / or a ground bath using the retractable conduit (16).

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Module de service (7) d'une série de cellules d'électrolyse (2) destinée à la production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée comprenant un châssis (8) apte à être fixé à un chariot (6) et une tourelle (9) montée sur le châssis (8) de manière à pouvoir pivoter autour d'un axe vertical A en utilisation, définissant un plan Pt sensiblement horizontal en utilisation, dit plan de la tourelle, et équipée de : - un ensemble d'outils incluant notamment un piqueur (11) monté sur un bras télescopique (l ia), une pelle à godets (12) montée sur un bras télescopique (12a), au moins une première pince à anodes (13) montée sur un bras télescopique (13a) et une trémie (15) munie d'un conduit escamotable (16) ; - un balcon ou une cabine (18) comportant des commandes destinées à manœuvrer le module et lesdits outils et un poste de conduite (19) duquel un opérateur peut actionner lesdites commandes, et caractérisé en ce que, par rapport à un premier plan PI et à un deuxième plan P2, perpendiculaires l'un à l'autre et au plan Pt de la tourelle (9) et se croisant sur l'axe A : - le centre C du poste de conduite (19) est situé à une distance déterminée Cl du plan PI et à une distance déterminée C2 du plan P2 ; - le centre de la pelle à godets (12) et le centre de la première pince à anodes (13) sont situés du côté opposé du plan PI par rapport au poste de conduite (19) ; - le piqueur (11) et le conduit escamotable (16) sont disposés entre le poste de conduite (19) et la rangée formée par la pelle à godets (12) et la première pince à anodes (13).1. Service module (7) of a series of electrolysis cells (2) intended for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis comprising a chassis (8) capable of being fixed to a carriage (6) and a turret ( 9) mounted on the chassis (8) so as to be able to pivot about a vertical axis A in use, defining a substantially horizontal plane Pt in use, called the plane of the turret, and equipped with: - a set of tools including in particular a drill (11) mounted on a telescopic arm (l ia), a bucket shovel (12) mounted on a telescopic arm (12a), at least a first anode clamp (13) mounted on a telescopic arm (13a) and a hopper (15) provided with a retractable conduit (16); a balcony or a cabin (18) comprising controls intended to operate the module and said tools and a driving position (19) from which an operator can actuate said controls, and characterized in that, with respect to a first plane PI and to a second plane P2, perpendicular to each other and to the plane Pt of the turret (9) and intersecting on the axis A: - the center C of the driving position (19) is located at a determined distance C1 from the plane PI and at a determined distance C2 from the plane P2; - The center of the bucket shovel (12) and the center of the first anode clamp (13) are located on the opposite side of the PI plane with respect to the driving position (19); - the picker (11) and the retractable conduit (16) are arranged between the driving position (19) and the row formed by the bucket shovel (12) and the first anode clamp (13).
2. Module de service (7) selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que le centre de la pelle à godets (12) et le centre de la première pince à anodes (13) sont situés sur des côtés opposés du plan P2. 2. Service module (7) according to claim 1, characterized in that the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the center of the first anode clamp (13) are located on opposite sides of the plane P2.
3. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que le centre C du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la pelle à godets (12) sont situés du même côté du plan P2.3. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the center C of the driving position (19) and the center of the bucket shovel (12) are located on the same side of the P2 plan.
4. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que le centre C du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la première pince à anodes (13) sont situés du même côté du plan P2.4. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the center C of the driving position (19) and the center of the first anode clamp (13) are located on the same side of plan P2.
5. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisé en ce que l'angle S entre le plan P2 et le plan Pc passant par l'axe A et le centre C du poste de conduite (19) est compris entre 0 et 40°.5. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the angle S between the plane P2 and the plane Pc passing through the axis A and the center C of the driving position ( 19) is between 0 and 40 °.
6. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisé en ce que l'angle S entre le plan P2 et le plan Pc passant par l'axe A et le centre C du poste de conduite (19) est compris entre 0 et 15°.6. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the angle S between the plane P2 and the plane Pc passing through the axis A and the center C of the driving position ( 19) is between 0 and 15 °.
7. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 6, caractérisé en ce que le plan Pa parallèle au plan PI et passant par le centre de la première pince à anodes (13) et le plan Pb parallèle au plan PI et passant par le centre de la pelle à godets (12) sont espacés d'une distance F comprise entre 0 et 300 mm.7. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the plane Pa parallel to the plane PI and passing through the center of the first anode clamp (13) and the plane Pb parallel to the PI plane and passing through the center of the bucket shovel (12) are spaced by a distance F between 0 and 300 mm.
8. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 7, caractérisé en ce que le piqueur (11) se situe à une distance du plan P2 comprise entre 0 et 200 mm.8. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the pricker (11) is located at a distance from the plane P2 between 0 and 200 mm.
9. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 8, caractérisé en ce que l'angle P entre le plan P2 et le plan Pp passant par le bras télescopique (1 la) du piqueur (11) et le piqueur (11) est compris entre 0 et 20°.9. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the angle P between the plane P2 and the plane Pp passing through the telescopic arm (1 la) of the pricker (11) and the pricker (11) is between 0 and 20 °.
10. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 9, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend en outre au moins une pince à anodes supplémentaire (14) dont le centre est situé du même côté des plans PI et P2 que le centre de la première pince (13).10. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it further comprises at least one anode clamp additional (14) whose center is located on the same side of the planes PI and P2 as the center of the first clamp (13).
11. Module de service (7) selon la revendication 10, caractérisé en ce que le centre de la ou des pinces supplémentaires (14) est situé dans un plan Pa parallèle au plan PI et passant par le centre de la première pince à anodes (13).11. Service module (7) according to claim 10, characterized in that the center of the additional clamp (s) (14) is located in a plane Pa parallel to the plane PI and passing through the center of the first anode clamp ( 13).
12. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 11, caractérisé en ce que l'ouverture angulaire V entre le plan P12 parallèle à l'axe A et passant par le centre du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la pelle à godets (12) et le plan PI 3 ou PI 4 parallèle à l'axe A et passant par le centre du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la pince à anodes (13 ou 14) le plus éloigné du centre de la pelle est inférieure à 30°.12. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the angular opening V between the plane P12 parallel to the axis A and passing through the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the plane PI 3 or PI 4 parallel to the axis A and passing through the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the anode clamp (13 or 14) the furthest from the center of the shovel is less than 30 °.
13. Module de service (7) selon la revendication 12, caractérisé en ce que ladite ouverture angulaire est inférieure à 20°.13. Service module (7) according to claim 12, characterized in that said angular opening is less than 20 °.
14. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 13, caractérisé en ce que le piqueur (11) et le conduit escamotable (16) se situent entre le plan PI et ladite rangée.14. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the nozzle (11) and the retractable conduit (16) are located between the plane PI and said row.
15. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 14, caractérisé en ce que le piqueur (11) et le conduit escamotable (16) se situent entre le plan P12 parallèle à l'axe A et passant par le centre du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la pelle à godets (12) et le plan P13 ou P14 parallèle à l'axe A et passant par le centre du poste de conduite (19) et le centre de la pince à anodes (13 ou 14) le plus éloigné du centre de la pelle.15. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the nozzle (11) and the retractable conduit (16) are located between the plane P12 parallel to the axis A and passing through the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the bucket shovel (12) and the plane P13 or P14 parallel to the axis A and passing through the center of the driving position (19) and the center of the clamp with anodes (13 or 14) furthest from the center of the shovel.
16. Machine de service (5) comprenant un chariot (6) et un module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 15. 16. Service machine (5) comprising a carriage (6) and a service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 15.
17. Unité de service (3) d'une usine de production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée comprenant un pont mobile (4) et au moins une machine de service (5) selon la revendication 16.17. Service unit (3) of an aluminum production plant by igneous electrolysis comprising a movable bridge (4) and at least one service machine (5) according to claim 16.
18. Utilisation d'une unité de service (3) selon la revendication 17 pour les interventions sur des cellules d'électrolyse (2) destinées à la production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée.18. Use of a service unit (3) according to claim 17 for interventions on electrolysis cells (2) intended for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis.
19. Procédé de changement d'anode d'une cellule d'électrolyse (2) destinée à la production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée, dans lequel on remplace au moins une anode déterminée par une anode neuve en utilisant un module de service selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 15.19. Method for changing the anode of an electrolysis cell (2) intended for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis, in which at least one determined anode is replaced by a new anode using a service module according to l any of claims 1 to 15.
20. Procédé de changement d'anode selon la revendication 19, dans lequel: - on approche le module de service (7) de ladite cellule (2) ; - on brise la croûte d'alumine et de bain solidifié qui entoure et couvre au moins une anode usée déterminée avec le piqueur (11) ; - on retire l'anode usée avec une pince à anodes (13, 14) ; - on prépare l'emplacement de l'anode neuve avec la pelle à godets (12) ; - on met en place l'anode neuve à l'aide d'une pince à anodes (13, 14) ; - on recouvre l'anode neuve d'alumine et/ou de bain broyé à l'aide du conduit escamotable (16). 20. Anode changing method according to claim 19, in which: - the service module (7) is approached from said cell (2); - The crust of alumina and solidified bath which surrounds and covers at least one spent anode determined with the prickler (11) is broken; - removing the used anode with anode pliers (13, 14); - The location of the new anode is prepared with the bucket shovel (12); - the new anode is put in place using an anode pliers (13, 14); - The new anode is covered with alumina and / or a ground bath using the retractable conduit (16).
EP05742627.2A 2004-03-25 2005-03-22 Compact service module which is intended for electrolytic aluminium production plants Active EP1740740B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0403080A FR2868086B1 (en) 2004-03-25 2004-03-25 COMPACT SERVICE MODULE FOR ALUMINUM PRODUCTION FACILITIES BY ELECTROLYSIS
PCT/FR2005/000695 WO2005095676A2 (en) 2004-03-25 2005-03-22 Compact service module which is intended for electrolytic aluminium production plants

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1740740A2 true EP1740740A2 (en) 2007-01-10
EP1740740B1 EP1740740B1 (en) 2016-11-02

Family

ID=34944607

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP05742627.2A Active EP1740740B1 (en) 2004-03-25 2005-03-22 Compact service module which is intended for electrolytic aluminium production plants

Country Status (13)

Country Link
US (1) US7780823B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1740740B1 (en)
CN (1) CN1934291B (en)
AR (1) AR051432A1 (en)
AU (1) AU2005229221B2 (en)
BR (1) BRPI0507277B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2560675C (en)
FR (1) FR2868086B1 (en)
NO (1) NO341543B1 (en)
RU (1) RU2370574C2 (en)
UA (1) UA89777C2 (en)
WO (1) WO2005095676A2 (en)
ZA (1) ZA200606609B (en)

Families Citing this family (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20050215552A1 (en) * 2002-05-17 2005-09-29 Gadde Kishore M Method for treating obesity
FR2872175B1 (en) * 2004-06-25 2006-07-28 Ecl Soc Par Actions Simplifiee COMPACT SERVICE MODULE FOR ALUMINUM PRODUCTION FACILITIES BY ELECTROLYSIS
FR2876713B1 (en) * 2004-10-14 2007-07-20 Ecl Soc Par Actions Simplifiee METHOD FOR CHANGING ANODE IN AN ELECTROLYTIC ALUMINUM PRODUCTION CELL INCLUDING ANODE POSITION ADJUSTMENT AND SERVICE MACHINE FOR CARRYING OUT THE METHOD
FR2913985B1 (en) * 2007-03-23 2009-08-28 Ecl Soc Par Actions Simplifiee SERVICE MODULE HAVING AT LEAST ONE ANODE CLAMP AND A MEANS FOR EXERCISING FORCE OR SHOCK ON THE ANODE ROD.
FR2937341B1 (en) * 2008-10-16 2010-11-12 Ecl SERVICE MACHINE FOR INTERVENTION ON ELECTROLYSIS CELLS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ALUMINUM BY IGNEE ELECTROLYSIS
FR2953862B1 (en) * 2009-12-11 2011-12-16 Ecl DEVICE FOR COLLECTING SOLID DEBRIS IN AN ELECTROLYSIS TANK FOR ALUMINUM PRODUCTION
CN102616665B (en) * 2011-01-27 2014-03-19 中国有色(沈阳)冶金机械有限公司 Blanking system of aluminum electrolysis multifunctional crane
FR2980488B1 (en) * 2011-09-28 2014-04-11 Ecl COMPACT SERVICE MODULE AND ITS USE IN A PLANT OF ALUMINUM PRODUCTION BY ELECTROLYSIS
CN103010961B (en) * 2012-12-25 2015-02-04 云南云铝涌鑫铝业有限公司 Crown block hydraulic system and control method thereof
RU2596559C1 (en) * 2015-04-23 2016-09-10 Общество с ограниченной ответственностью "Объединенная Компания РУСАЛ Инженерно-технологический центр" Self-propelled machine wheel suspension
EP4293141A1 (en) 2022-06-13 2023-12-20 Dubai Aluminium PJSC Anode servicing assembly for an aluminium electrolysis plant, and methods for operating the same

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3769195A (en) * 1971-07-02 1973-10-30 Nl Kraanbouw Mij Nv Apparatus for changing anode blocks in an aluminum furnace and for tapping and refilling said furnace
US4053384A (en) * 1975-10-10 1977-10-11 Siegmund Frederik W Device for changing anode blocks, crust breaking and charging aluminum furnaces
FR2350407A1 (en) * 1976-05-04 1977-12-02 Pechiney Aluminium METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CLEANING WASTE ANODE BODIES FROM AN ELECTROLYSIS TANK IGNEE
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
US6090264A (en) * 1999-02-16 2000-07-18 Piron; Gerard Tool holding device for the extraction and transfer of anodes in the center of an aluminum factory and equipment to put into operation such a device
EP1101838B1 (en) * 1999-11-19 2010-08-18 Reel Method of management in the operation of a molten salt aluminium electrolysis plant and aluminium production plant managed by this method

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See references of WO2005095676A3 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN1934291A (en) 2007-03-21
WO2005095676A2 (en) 2005-10-13
US7780823B2 (en) 2010-08-24
AU2005229221B2 (en) 2010-04-08
ZA200606609B (en) 2008-02-27
AU2005229221A1 (en) 2005-10-13
US20050211552A1 (en) 2005-09-29
BRPI0507277B1 (en) 2015-09-29
AR051432A1 (en) 2007-01-17
CN1934291B (en) 2010-05-05
BRPI0507277A (en) 2007-06-26
NO341543B1 (en) 2017-12-04
UA89777C2 (en) 2010-03-10
RU2006137568A (en) 2008-04-27
CA2560675C (en) 2014-07-15
EP1740740B1 (en) 2016-11-02
NO20064678L (en) 2006-10-16
CA2560675A1 (en) 2005-10-13
RU2370574C2 (en) 2009-10-20
FR2868086B1 (en) 2006-05-26
WO2005095676A3 (en) 2006-07-06
FR2868086A1 (en) 2005-09-30

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP1740740A2 (en) Compact service module which is intended for electrolytic aluminium production plants
CA2591495C (en) Handling device for hoods of a cell for electrolytic aluminium production
CA2570757C (en) Small-sized service module for aluminium electrolysis factories
EP2761061B1 (en) Compact service module and use thereof in a plant for producing aluminum by electrolysis
CA2938716C (en) System for carrying out operations linked to the use of cells of a facility for producing aluminium by means of electrolysis
EP1819847B1 (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 the same
EP2373567B1 (en) Device for attaching containers for collecting solid debris and pivoting at the end of a mobile arm, in particular a device for attaching hinged buckets of a scale scoop
EP1443128B1 (en) Service machine for electrolytic cells in aluminium production
FR3032457A1 (en) SERVICE MODULE FOR THE OPERATION OF AN ALUMINUM PRODUCTION PLANT
FR3032456B1 (en) SERVICE MACHINE FOR OPERATING AN ALUMINUM PRODUCTION FACILITY
EP1991719A2 (en) Remote-driven service module designed for aluminum production plants

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: 20060818

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A2

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

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: AL BA HR LV MK YU

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20110512

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R079

Ref document number: 602005050586

Country of ref document: DE

Free format text: PREVIOUS MAIN CLASS: C25C0003100000

Ipc: C25C0003060000

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: C25C 7/00 20060101ALI20160513BHEP

Ipc: C25C 3/06 20060101AFI20160513BHEP

Ipc: C25C 3/10 20060101ALI20160513BHEP

Ipc: C25C 3/14 20060101ALI20160513BHEP

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20160610

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: FIVES ECL

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 LT 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

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 841956

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20161115

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602005050586

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: FP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 13

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 841956

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20161102

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

Ref country code: LT

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: 20161102

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: 20161102

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: 20170203

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

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: 20161102

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: 20170302

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: 20161102

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: 20161102

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: 20161102

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: 20170302

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: 20161102

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: 20161102

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: 20161102

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: 20161102

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: 20161102

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602005050586

Country of ref document: DE

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: 20161102

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: 20170202

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

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20170803

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

Effective date: 20170322

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

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: 20161102

Ref country code: MC

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: 20161102

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

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

Ref country code: LU

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

Effective date: 20170322

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 14

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: 20170322

Ref country code: IE

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

Effective date: 20170322

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20170331

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

Ref country code: BE

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

Effective date: 20170331

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

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; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20050322

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R008

Ref document number: 602005050586

Country of ref document: DE

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R039

Ref document number: 602005050586

Country of ref document: DE

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 NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20161102

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: 20161102

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

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20230222

Year of fee payment: 19

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

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20230401

Year of fee payment: 19

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

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 20240220

Year of fee payment: 20

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

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20240220

Year of fee payment: 20