EP2510136A1 - Dispositif destine a collecter des debris solides dans une cuve d'electrolyse destinee a la production d'aluminium - Google Patents
Dispositif destine a collecter des debris solides dans une cuve d'electrolyse destinee a la production d'aluminiumInfo
- Publication number
- EP2510136A1 EP2510136A1 EP10799073A EP10799073A EP2510136A1 EP 2510136 A1 EP2510136 A1 EP 2510136A1 EP 10799073 A EP10799073 A EP 10799073A EP 10799073 A EP10799073 A EP 10799073A EP 2510136 A1 EP2510136 A1 EP 2510136A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- actuator
- altitude
- collection unit
- bucket
- blade
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 title claims abstract description 16
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 title claims abstract description 16
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 title claims description 14
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 title claims description 14
- 239000004411 aluminium Substances 0.000 title abstract 2
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 28
- 238000005868 electrolysis reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 37
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 claims description 16
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 claims description 14
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 229910001338 liquidmetal Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000004590 computer program Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000010802 sludge Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000013519 translation Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 8
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 8
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 7
- 239000003792 electrolyte Substances 0.000 description 5
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000035939 shock Effects 0.000 description 3
- IRPGOXJVTQTAAN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 2,2,3,3,3-pentafluoropropanal Chemical compound FC(F)(F)C(F)(F)C=O IRPGOXJVTQTAAN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- KLZUFWVZNOTSEM-UHFFFAOYSA-K Aluminum fluoride Inorganic materials F[Al](F)F KLZUFWVZNOTSEM-UHFFFAOYSA-K 0.000 description 2
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000009626 Hall-Héroult process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000007792 addition Methods 0.000 description 1
- PNEYBMLMFCGWSK-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium oxide Inorganic materials [O-2].[O-2].[O-2].[Al+3].[Al+3] PNEYBMLMFCGWSK-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000003042 antagnostic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004364 calculation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003575 carbonaceous material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005266 casting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910001610 cryolite Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000006866 deterioration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007599 discharging Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003670 easy-to-clean Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000605 extraction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000002513 implantation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011810 insulating material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011819 refractory material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000284 resting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007711 solidification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008023 solidification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
- C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
- B66C3/00—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith and intended primarily for transmitting lifting forces to loose materials; Grabs
- B66C3/02—Bucket grabs
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
- B66C3/00—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith and intended primarily for transmitting lifting forces to loose materials; Grabs
- B66C3/14—Grabs opened or closed by driving motors thereon
- B66C3/16—Grabs opened or closed by driving motors thereon by fluid motors
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
- B66C3/00—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith and intended primarily for transmitting lifting forces to loose materials; Grabs
- B66C3/20—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith and intended primarily for transmitting lifting forces to loose materials; Grabs mounted on, or guided by, jibs
Definitions
- the invention relates to the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis according to the Hall-Héroult method. It relates more particularly to a device for collecting solid debris immersed or floating in the electrolysis bath and the liquid metal, in particular sludge from the electrolytic bath and which accumulate on the bottom of the tank, as well as the remains of carbon and crust debris that originate in particular from the various operations performed before and during the removal of spent anodes.
- Aluminum is produced industrially by igneous electrolysis, according to the well-known Hall-Héroult process, in electrolysis cells.
- the plants contain a large number of electrolysis cells arranged in line, in buildings called halls or electrolysis rooms, and connected electrically in series using connecting conductors, so as to optimize the ground occupation of the cells. factories.
- the cells are generally arranged to form two or more parallel lines that are electrically bonded together by end conductors.
- the electrolyte bath and the liquid metal are contained in a tank, called an "electrolysis cell", comprising a steel box, which is lined internally with refractory and / or insulating materials, and a cathode assembly located at the bottom of the tank.
- Anodes typically of carbonaceous material, are partially immersed in the electrolyte bath.
- an electrolysis plant requires interventions on the electrolysis cells including, in particular, the replacement of spent anodes with new anodes, the removal of liquid metal and the additions or withdrawals of electrolyte.
- the factories are generally equipped with one or more service units comprising a movable bridge that can be translated over and along the series of electrolysis cells, and one or more service modules. , each comprising a carriage, adapted to be moved on the movable bridge, and handling and intervention devices, such as shovels and hoists, commonly called “tools”.
- These service units are often called “electrolysis service machines” or “MSE”("PTA” or “Pot Tending Assembly” or "PTM” or “Pot Tending Machine” in English).
- the service module generally comprises, attached to the carriage, a rotary frame, called tool turret, which is adapted to rotate about a vertical axis and is integral with said tools.
- Each tool can be attached to the end of a cable operated by a winch attached to said turret, or at the end an arm, which can be telescopic and / or articulated.
- One of the necessary interventions during the anode replacement is the cleaning of the area occupied by the spent anode and to be occupied by the new anode.
- This zone is essentially constituted by the bath and the liquid metal but can contain many solid debris that it is necessary to remove before setting up the new anode.
- a hard crust of fluorinated cryolite and alumina is formed on the upper surface of the bath. This crust has the advantage of retaining heat within the bath and therefore constitutes an effective heat-insulating envelope. But it is extremely hard and adheres to the wall of the anode block, so it is necessary to break it around the worn anode, to allow the extraction thereof.
- rupturing of the crust is carried out using tools such as piercers, called “crust breakers". Then, during the removal of the spent anode, an orifice in the crust is formed, which orifice is left vacant until the installation of the new anode and which we will call “anodic hole”. Crust failure and handling of the spent anodic block inevitably lead to the formation of solid pieces or parts which float or remain suspended in the electrolysis bath, or which fall to the bottom of the tank. It is then necessary to collect them by means of a collection tool, commonly called “crust”.
- European Patent Application EP-A-0 440 488 describes an example of a crust scoop associated with a particular vehicle, distinct from a service machine.
- European patent application EP-A-0 618 313 describes, but in a little detail, an example of a service machine equipped with a device adapted to ensure the rupture of the crust in the vicinity of a worn anode and the cleaning anodic hole.
- the crust scoop commonly used is a clamp consisting of two buckets arranged symmetrically with respect to a substantially vertical plane and hinged, pivoting about two substantially horizontal axes, possibly merged. Each bucket has a leading edge, also called “blade", vis-à-vis the leading edge of the other bucket.
- the crust scoop is immersed in the open position in the bath and then the crust scoop is passed from an open position to a closed position, using at least one actuator that acts either directly on a scoop. , or preferably on a linkage designed to bring the cups in a rotational movement substantially symmetrical with respect to each other, the solid debris between the two cups being thus trapped, while the liquid medium mixture of Electrolyte bath and molten metal can still escape, in particular through openings in the walls of the buckets.
- the movement of opening and closing the crust is driven by the actuation of at least one pneumatic cylinder which acts on a linkage designed to transform the translation movement of the cylinder in two symmetrical movements of the buckets .
- European Patent Application EP-A-1,178,004 proposes a solution likely to solve the problem set out in the preceding paragraph.
- This solution consists of using a bucket scoop mounted on a vertical arm but not to directly attach the frame secured to the axes of the buckets on said vertical arm.
- the chassis is split into a part called “excavator frame”, which remains attached to the arm attached to the turret and a part called “bucket support frame”, vertically movable relative to the door frame such that, the instantaneous center of rotation of the buckets being able to move while the arm remains stationary relative to the bottom of the tank, it is possible to give the leading edges of the buckets a substantially rectilinear trajectory.
- the shovel can be placed so that its leading edges are flush with the bottom of the tank during the entire operation of closing the shovel.
- a complex bucket closure assembly comprising "a transmission rod of forces, one of whose ends is articulatedtinct on the bucketstinct and whose other end is articulated on a rotating actuating rod, itself hinged to the support frame of the buckets, said rotating rod being mechanically connected to the excavator frame by means of a connecting rod compensation means articulated on the excavator frame, said rotary rod being moreover actuated in rotation by means of an actuating cylinder, whose point of application is integral with the support frame of the buckets ".
- Such a solution requires the introduction into the crust with numerous intermediate pieces intended to operate in a hostile environment and to undergo vibrations of high amplitude, in particular because of the stresses associated with the breakdown of the buckets. This involves frequent replacement of these parts subject to rapid wear.
- the aim that the applicant has set was to achieve, without damaging the bottom of the tank, effective cleaning of the anode hole during the replacement of the anodes, while using a simple tool, easy to clean and maintain , and inexpensive in maintenance.
- a first object according to the invention is a collection unit intended to collect solid debris and sludge present in the liquid media of an aluminum production cell, such as the electrolysis bath and the liquid metal, in particularly a crust scoop for cleaning anode holes, comprising:
- At least one articulated bucket pivoting about a substantially horizontal axis, mounted on said frame, having a substantially horizontal blade and actuated by a second actuator, integral with said frame, which imposes on said bucket a rotational movement about said axis substantially horizontal,
- ii) defining, from the values determined in i), the vertical displacement that must be imposed on said link so that the altitude of said blade remains greater than a predetermined value; iii) define and transmit to said first actuator an appropriate control flow, allowing said first actuator to impose said vertical displacement to said link.
- Said first actuator makes it possible to vertically move said link which, typically in the form of a rigid rod, a vertical sliding mast, or a cable, is integral with the collection unit.
- said first actuator also called “lifting actuator”, particularly during the rotation of the bucket or buckets, an operating regime where the altitude of the axis of rotation of the bucket is imposed according to from that of the blade of the bucket.
- said first actuator is controlled during the rotation of said bucket by said programmable control system which advantageously comprises a control and control unit and a converter.
- the converter sends a signal representative of said setpoint towards the converter.
- the converter translates said signal into a control stream and transmits said control stream to said first actuator.
- the converter may for example be a servo-distributor associated with a cylinder or a variable speed drive associated with an electric motor.
- the control flow is an oil flow to a cylinder chamber.
- the control flow is an electrical signal, or a control current, whose characteristic properties (intensity (s), frequency (s), etc.) influence the direction and speed of rotation of the motor. .
- the altitude of the substantially horizontal axis and that of the blade can be measured directly by sensors but, because of the aggressive environment and the lack of accessibility, these direct measurements are advantageously replaced by calculations based on indirect measurements.
- said programmable control system can be connected to a first sensor for measuring the vertical displacement of said link relative to a reference level and to a second sensor making it possible to measure, directly or indirectly, the difference in altitude between the blade of the bucket and the substantially horizontal axis around which the bucket pivots .
- the reference level can be a fixed level defined in the repository of the electrolysis hall. It can also be linked to the mobile support on which the collection unit is fixed. In the latter case, it is obviously necessary to take into account a possible altitude variation of said mobile support.
- a sensor can be used to determine the angular position of the bucket.
- said second actuator is a cylinder that requires a rotation to said bucket by means of a connecting rod
- a displacement sensor can be used to measure the displacement of the rod of said cylinder with respect to the body of said cylinder.
- the characteristics of the control flow transmitted to the first actuator act on the direction and the intensity of the displacement to be performed by said first actuator: plus the difference found between the measured altitude of the substantially horizontal axis and its set altitude. is important, the stronger the intensity of the displacement imposed on the actuator.
- the set value to be imposed on the altitude of said substantially horizontal axis is defined so that the altitude of the blade is not only larger but also as close as possible to said value. predetermined.
- said control and control unit is advantageously an industrial programmable controller which, multiple times, preferably at regular time intervals, typically a few tens of milliseconds,:
- the computer program implemented in said programmable logic controller is based on a kinematic model which describes a trajectory of the blade passing above, but not too far, from the bottom of the tank. This trajectory can be deduced from the theoretical profile of the bottom of the vessel by translation along a vector oriented vertically upwards and whose intensity corresponds to a predefined safety distance.
- the collection unit according to the invention can be for example a "crust scoop" used for cleaning anode holes, comprising a frame and two buckets mounted on said frame, arranged symmetrically with respect to a substantially vertical plane and articulated , pivoting about two substantially horizontal axes, each bucket having a blade vis-à-vis the blade of the other bucket, the second actuator, integral with said frame, imposing each of said buckets a rotational movement substantially symmetrical relative said substantially vertical plane, so that solid debris between the two buckets are trapped by said buckets.
- a "crust scoop” used for cleaning anode holes
- the second actuator also called “closing actuator” or “closing actuator / opening” is chosen from pneumatic cylinders, because this type of cylinder does not control at any time the speed of rotation of the bucket during the closing phase of the bucket or buckets.
- the collection unit which is a crust scoop, is immersed in the bath while it is in the open position, then it is moved from an open position to a closed position, using the closing actuator acting on a linkage designed to bring the buckets in a rotational movement substantially symmetrical relative to each other.
- the solid debris between the two buckets are thus trapped, while the liquid medium, mixture of electrolyte bath and molten metal can still escape, in particular through openings in the walls of the buckets.
- Part of this liquid medium which is very viscous, adheres to the wall of the buckets, so that the cups are covered with a gangue that must be removed after each passage of the crust in the tank because the buckets , very quickly fouled, become inoperative.
- bucket breakdown To remove the maximum of bath and metal that cool and freeze by adhering to the surface of the cups, we realize a operation, called “bucket breakdown".
- the bucket closure / opening actuator is used so that the edges opposite the buckets are driven at such a speed that their bringing into contact results in a sufficiently violent shock for that the cooled bath and metal is peeled off and ejected from the surface of said wells.
- the bucket closure / opening actuator consisted of one or more pneumatic cylinders.
- the pneumatic cylinder or cylinders by at least one double-acting hydraulic jack connected to a supply circuit which has at least two operating diagrams for closing the buckets:
- This second diagram corresponds to a differential assembly similar to that described a little further, in Example 1, during the comment on the rapid descent of the collection unit, illustrated in FIG. 5.
- the functions to fill being different, the circuit supplying the second actuator is different from that which feeds the first actuator but the differential mounting principle remains the same.
- it can either be removed or said hydraulic cylinders and provide an intermediate piece acting on the linkage, or leave them near the buckets but protect them from projections.
- the hydraulic power unit which is mounted on the service machine and which is already placed at a height, so that it is remote from the electrolysis bath, and to install the hydraulic circuit necessary for the operation of the cylinder (s). so that the part most exposed to the hostile environment is limited to the hoses that feed the compartments of the double-acting cylinder.
- the fact of choosing for closing actuator one or more hydraulic cylinder (s) allows to dedicate the compressed air supplied by the onboard compressor of the service machine to other functions or, of preferably, to choose a compressor of lower capacity, therefore lighter, to equip said service machine.
- said first actuator also called “lifting actuator”
- said first actuator comprises an electric motor integral with said movable support, a link secured to said collection unit and coupled to said motor so that the rotation said electric motor causes the displacement of said collection unit through said connection
- said converter is a speed controller which transmits to said electric motor a control current, whose characteristics allow said electric motor to impose said vertical displacement to said link.
- Said electric motor may be the motor of an electric jack, said link being the rod of the jack supporting or being coupled with a vertical mast supporting said collection unit. It may also be the motor of an electric winch, said Haison being the cable supporting said collection unit.
- Example 2 described below illustrates such an embodiment.
- said first actuator comprises at least one hydraulic cylinder which comprises a body integral with the movable support and a piston connected to a rod which acts as said haison and said converter is a distributor mounted on the portion. of the hydraulic circuit which feeds with a controlled flow the rod side chamber of said hydraulic cylinder.
- said distributor which advantageously is an electro-hydraulic servo-distributor servo-controlled and controlled by said programmable control system.
- said distributor is a 4/3 servo-distributor, proportional action, electrically controlled.
- said first actuator comprises at least one hydraulic jack that allows to move vertically said connection to which is attached the rest of the collection unit.
- the manipulator arm of the collection unit is a telescopic arm, comprising a "mobile" mast sliding in a “fixed” arm, the stem of said hydraulic cylinder being secured to said "mobile” mast and the body of said hydraulic cylinder being secured to said "fixed” mast, connected to said mobile support, for example a tool turret fixed on a carriage capable of running along the beam of a traveling crane, so that said collecting unit can be moved and positioned at above the work area before descending to the anodic hole.
- a “symmetrical” solution consisting in making the "mobile” mast integral with the body of the jack and the rod integral with the "fixed” mast secured to the movable support, is also possible.
- the rise of the collection unit is done by supplying the shaft chamber with oil.
- a preferred embodiment comprises a distributor controlled by a programmable automaton which collects, at regular time intervals, typically a few tens of milliseconds, the altitude H of the substantially horizontal axis around which the bucket and the value L of displacement of the piston rod of the second actuator, deduced from these values, using an associated computer memory, the set value that must be imposed on the altitude of the axis of pivoting of the bucket and injects a signal towards said dispenser so as to decrease or increase the volume of the oil which feeds the chamber rod side and which is necessary to reach the correct altitude.
- the first actuator may include a plurality of hydraulic cylinders.
- the control of the oil volume in each of the rod-side chambers is not easy, it is preferable to use as the first actuator a single cylinder whose chamber rod side is fed with a single slave valve .
- the device according to the invention makes it possible in particular to carry out a debris collection by defining a safety distance between the bottom of the tank and the blade of the bucket or buckets: as soon as the estimated distance is less than this safety distance, the system pilot sends to the said distributor a setpoint which increases the volume of oil in the cylinder side chamber of the cylinder so as to impose the desired altitude to the piston and therefore the substantially horizontal axis of rotation of the bucket.
- the control system sends a direction to the distributor that reduces the volume of oil in the cylinder side chamber of the cylinder.
- the proportional-action servo-distributor controls the oil flow sent under the required pressure in the stem chamber; when it has to be brought closer, it evacuates towards the reservoir a controlled flow of oil coming from the shaft-side chamber, which is under a pressure corresponding substantially to the weight of the collecting unit.
- the variable speed drive used emits a control current which can act not only on the amplitude of the speed of rotation but also on the direction of rotation of the electric motor.
- the safety distance and the limit distance are chosen as close as possible.
- the bottom of the tank being generally flat, this amounts to imposing a rectilinear trajectory to the leading edge of the bucket.
- this trajectory can be defined more precisely, depending on the actual geometry of the bottom of the tank where the collection of debris must be performed.
- a target altitude for the bucket blade is defined and the programmable control system is associated with a computer memory programmed to provide, depending on the bucket angle directly or indirectly measured, the altitude of the bucket. set that must have the instantaneous center of rotation of said bucket.
- the target altitude for the blade is constant if the bottom of the tank is considered plane.
- the device according to the invention makes it possible to position the bucket or buckets as close as possible to the cathode, thus to increase the efficiency of the debris collection operation without touching the bottom of the tank.
- the collection unit suspended from the moving carriage which moves along the traveling crane, is advantageously provided with a displacement sensor which makes it possible to to know at any time the altitude of the or substantially horizontal axes of rotation of the bucket or buckets.
- the displacement sensor may be a cable encoder or a laser range finder.
- the elevation of the bottom of the tank is itself known and can be checked regularly, for example by slowly lowering the collection unit placed in a predetermined position until the blade of the bucket touches the bottom of the tank.
- the bucket is generally defined by an axial wall, that is to say a regulated surface generated by a generatrix parallel to the pivot axis and based on an open directional curve, and two transverse walls.
- transverse walls have a substantially rectilinear edge, which joins the ends of the open curve.
- the position of the bucket can be characterized by the angle that this edge makes with the vertical.
- d the distance from this edge to the pivot axis and by h the distance between the blade and the projection of the pivot axis on said edge
- ⁇ d cos + h sin a.
- the angle of inclination is itself directly related to a dimensional characteristic of the actuator that rotates the bucket. For example, if it is a cylinder, the angle of inclination is directly related to the stroke of the cylinder rod.
- the programmable control system is an industrial programmable logic controller (PLC), which collects at regular time intervals, typically a few tens of milliseconds, to using a first sensor, the altitude of the pivot axis of the bucket, and with the aid of a second sensor, the value of the stroke of the closing cylinder and deduced from these values, to the using a computer program based on a kinematic model describing the trajectory of the blade in an appropriate frame of reference, the set value that must be imposed on the altitude of the pivot axis of the bucket and accordingly drives the servo distributor to introduce or evacuate the volume of oil necessary to reach the correct altitude.
- PLC industrial programmable logic controller
- said hydraulic cylinder is a double-acting cylinder whose rod is secured to the vertical mast and said collection unit, with a rod-side chamber capable of imposing at any time on said rod a vertical movement upwards and a piston-side chamber. able to impose at any time on said rod vertical downward movement, the two chambers being connectable, via at least one distributor, to a pressure source or a reservoir, the supply circuit comprising several circuit portions that allow the following hydraulic power supply schemes to be realized:
- the circuit portion supplying the rod-side chamber comprises a flow-controlled distributor and controlled by a programmable control system comprising a control and command unit which collects the altitude data of said axis substantially horizontal and the difference in altitude between the blade of the bucket and the substantially horizontal axis, deduced from these data the set value that must be imposed on the altitude of said substantially horizontal axis and emits a signal representative of said value of setpoint towards said distributor.
- Example 1 we describe in more detail these different operating phases of the collection unit.
- Another object according to the invention is a service module intended to be used in an igneous electrolysis aluminum production plant comprising a trolley and handling and intervention devices, characterized in that it also comprises a collection unit according to the invention, as described above.
- Another object according to the invention is a service unit of an igneous electrolysis aluminum production plant comprising a traveling crane and characterized in that it also comprises at least one service module according to the invention, such as previously described.
- Another object according to the invention is the use of a service module according to the invention for the interventions on electrolysis cells intended for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis, in particular for the cleaning of the anode holes, wherein said first actuator is driven by said programmable control system so that said bucket blade (s) follows (s) a predefined path, typically located above and parallel to the bottom of the vessel.
- Another object according to the invention is a method for cleaning an anode hole during the replacement of an anode, in which a collection unit according to the invention is used, said first actuator being mounted integral with a service machine and proceeds as follows:
- said first actuator is operated in rapid descent to a predetermined altitude, higher than the level of the bath located in the tank, to allow the opening of the collection unit;
- said second actuator is actuated so that it opens the buckets until said buckets reach a reference open position, typically close to the maximum opening allowed by the stroke of the second actuator;
- said first actuator is operated in a "slow" descent to a predefined altitude; in a specific and preferred embodiment, the predefined target altitude is the altitude reached by a point representative of the connection when the blade of the bucket comes into contact with the bottom of the tank.
- said first actuator is actuated in a slow descent until the contact of at least one blade is detected on the bottom of the vessel; for example, if the actuator is a hydraulic cylinder, a sensor is used to detect when the pressure in the oil circuit that feeds the piston-side chamber increases sharply, a sensor to determine the opening angle the bucket and a displacement sensor which makes it possible to know the altitude of the link during said contact;
- said first actuator is actuated to raise said collection unit to the origin point of the trajectory defined in the preceding step
- the first actuator is actuated in mounted mode and, when the collection unit has reached a certain altitude, the actuators of the MSE are used to move the assembly to a debris receiving area. harvested.
- Figure 1 schematically illustrates a service machine in a typical electrolysis room for the production of aluminum, seen in section.
- Figure 2 illustrates a particular embodiment of a collection unit, which is a crust scoop, mounted on a telescopic vertical guide mast actuated by a hydraulic cylinder.
- FIG. 3 illustrates, in perspective, the linkage and the bucket with the bucket of the embodiment of FIG. 2.
- Figures 4 to 7 illustrate, in four different configurations, the diagram of a hydraulic circuit feeding the first actuator (lifting jack) of a collection unit according to the invention. These configurations correspond to the following operating modes: idle (figure 4), fast descent (figure 5), mounted (figure 6) and slave operation (figure 7).
- Figure 8 schematically illustrates a collection unit according to the invention, wherein the first actuator is an electromechanical ram.
- Electrolysis plants for aluminum production include a liquid aluminum production area that includes one or more electrolysis rooms.
- the electrolysis room (1) illustrated in FIG. 1 comprises electrolysis cells (2) and a service machine (5).
- the electrolysis cells (2) are normally arranged in rows or rows, each row or line typically having more than one hundred cells.
- the cells (2) are arranged so as to clear a circulation aisle along the electrolysis room (1).
- the cells (2) comprise a series of anodes (3) provided with a metal rod (4) for fixing and electrically connecting the anodes to a metal anode frame (not shown).
- the service unit (5) is used to carry out operations on the cells (2) such as anode changes or the filling of ground bath feed hoppers and aluminum fluoride (A1F3). It can also be used to handle various loads, such as tank elements, pockets of liquid metal that are used during casting (“ladles”) or anodes. It can also be used to clean the anode hole after removing a worn anode and before installing a new anode.
- A1F3 aluminum fluoride
- the service unit (5) comprises a movable bridge (6) which can be translated over the electrolysis cells (2), and at least one service module (7) comprising a movable carriage (8), said "tool holder", adapted to be moved on the movable bridge (6) and equipped with several handling and intervention devices (10), such as tools, among which may include the crust scoop (100 ').
- the tools are here mounted on vertical telescopic poles (9) attached to the movable carriage (8).
- a crust may also be moved and maneuvered from a vehicle other than a service machine.
- the invention applies to any collection unit, regardless of its mode of movement and placement above the work area.
- FIGs 2 and 3 illustrate a particular embodiment of a collection unit (100), which is a crust scoop (100 ') attached to the end of a telescopic arm, at the end of the movable arm called here " was shovel "(11).
- the shovel shaft is a mobile vertical mast (9 ") sliding in a vertical mast (9 '), which itself moves vertically under the effect of an actuator (not shown), able to make faster movements while remaining integral with the tool turret of the mobile carriage (8) of a service module (7)
- the crustal scoop comprises a frame (110) provided with two buckets (120a and 120b) placed in substantially perpendicular to a substantially vertical plane and articulated, pivoting about two substantially horizontal axes (115a and 115b).
- Each bucket (120a, 120b) has a leading edge, or blade (128a, 128b) opposite the blade (128b, 128a) of the other bucket (120b, 120a)
- the second actuator is here in the form of two cylinders (200, 201) secured to the frame (110) , operating simultaneously, by imposing on each of the buckets, via a connecting rod (300, 300 '), a movement of substantially symmetrical rotation relative to the substantially vertical plane, so that the solid debris between the two buckets are trapped by said buckets.
- the two actuators of the second actuator were pneumatic cylinders particularly well suited for the breakdown operation.
- FIGS. 4 to 7 illustrate, in four different configurations, the diagram of a hydraulic circuit supplying the first actuator (50) of a collection unit according to the invention, which furthermore possesses the characteristics described previously (FIGS. 2 and 3). ).
- the first actuator (50), or lift cylinder, is a double acting cylinder (51) with a body (55) and a piston (56) associated with a rod (52).
- the rod (52) is integral with the collection unit (not shown in Figures 4 to 7).
- the double-acting cylinder (51) has a stem-like chamber (53), called the lower one, capable of imposing at any moment on the vertical mobile mast (9 ") a vertical upward movement and a piston-like chamber (54), said upper , capable of imposing a vertical downward movement on the vertical mobile mast at any moment,
- the hydraulic circuit comprises two portions (63) and (64) which feed the two chambers (53) and (54) of the double-acting cylinder (51).
- the circuit can be connected, via a three-position distributor, called “direction distributor” (80), to the "pressure line” (P) and to the “return line” (R) of a hydraulic power plant.
- the direction distributor (80) is naturally in the position (802) which corresponds to the rest and can be excited to be put in one of the two other possible positions: the position (803) where the rod (52) of the cylinder makes lowering the collection unit and the position (801) where the cylinder rod raises said collection unit.
- the circuit portion (64) includes a main branch (640) having one end connected to the directional distributor (80) and the other end connected to the piston chamber (54) of the actuator (51).
- the circuit portion (63) includes a main branch (630) having one end connected to the direction distributor (80) and the other end branching into two sub-branches, each of which is equipped with a two-way distributor. positions (81, 82), the first sub-branch (631 comprising 6310, 6311, 6312 and 6313) being associated with a retaining valve (90), the second sub-branch (632 comprising 6320, 6321 and 6322) being associated to the electrohydraulic servo-distributor (83).
- the two sub-branches meet at their other ends to form the circuit portion (633) which feeds the rod chamber (53) of the jack (51).
- Figure 4 illustrates the circuit when the lift cylinder is at rest.
- the direction distributor (80) is naturally in the position (802), which puts the two circuit portions (63) and (64) in connection with each other through their respective main branches (630) and (640).
- the distributor (82) is in the position (821) which blocks the circulation in the second sub-branch. Isolated by the distributor (82) in position (821) and by the non-conducting valve (90) (the piloting pressures of the connections (92) and (93) are insufficient to make it flow), the The stem chamber (53) is maintained, apart from any shock, at a substantially constant pressure, associated with the weight of the collection unit.
- the circuit branch (633) is equipped with a safety, integrated in the function of the valve of retainer (90) to limit the pressure in the stem chamber in the event of an impact.
- Figure 5 illustrates the circuit when the lift cylinder is in fast descent.
- the direction distributor (80) is energized to occupy the position (803), which places the two circuit portions (63) and (64) in communication with the pressure line (P) of the hydraulic power unit, the two portions of circuit (63) and (64) also communicating with each other via their respective main branches (630) and (640) at the direction distributor (80) when in this position (803).
- the distributor (82) is in the position (821) which blocks the circulation in the second sub-branch.
- the distributor (81) is in the position (811) and allows the operation of the check valve (90): as soon as the resultant of the forces due to the piloting pressures coming from one part of the branch (92) and on the other side of the branch (93) is greater than a certain value, the check valve (90) becomes "passing".
- the check valve (90) is set to a critical value, typically close to 180 bar, so that, as soon as its piloting has sufficient pressure, it becomes free-running and the oil can flow from the stem-chamber ( 53) to the plunger chamber (54), via the branches (630) and (640), which communicate with each other at the direction distributor (80), placed in position (803). In this way, the flow of oil from the hydraulic unit is increased by the flow of oil from the piston chamber. If the x is the ratio (section of the piston chamber (54)) / (section of the shank (52)), the flow from the hydraulic unit is multiplied by x, so that with such a differential arrangement, the piston rod can descend with a speed x times faster than with a conventional assembly.
- Figure 6 illustrates the circuit when the lift cylinder raises the rod (52).
- the direction distributor (80) is energized to occupy the position (801), which places the main branch (630) in connection with the pressure line (P) of the hydraulic power unit and the main branch (640) in communication with the reservoir from the hydraulic power plant, via the return line (R).
- the distributor (82) is in the position (821) and the distributor (81) is in the position (811).
- the pressurized oil passes through the main branch (630), passes through the distributor (81) in position (811) and joins the portions (6313) and (633) via the non-return valve (91), to supply the chamber-rod (53).
- the oil in the piston chamber (54) is discharged to the return line (R) of the hydraulic unit, via the main branch (640).
- Figure 7 illustrates the circuit when the lift cylinder is activated in a slave mode when the collection of debris.
- the direction distributor (80) is energized to occupy the position (801), which places the main branch (630) in connection with the pressure line (P) of the hydraulic power unit and the main branch (640) in connection with the return line (R) of the hydraulic power station.
- the dispenser (82) is in the position (822) and the dispenser (81) is in the position (812).
- the servo-distributor is activated to be placed in the position (831) for the descent or (833) for the climb.
- the servo-distributor is controlled by a programmable controller (84) which receives the indications provided by two sensors:
- the first indicates the distance (H) between a reference horizontal level (N) (for example a platform of the tool turret) and a fixed point of the frame (110 ') of the collection unit (shown in FIG. in Figure 7 by the common horizontal level of the axes of rotation of the buckets), which allows to know the altitude of the axis (115 ') around which pivots the bucket (120') whose shape is schematically dashed;
- N reference horizontal level
- N for example a platform of the tool turret
- the second indicates the stroke (L) of the rod of the closing cylinder (200 '), which, through a common connecting rod (300'), controls the opening and closing of the two buckets.
- the programmable control system is a programmable controller (84) associated with a computer memory (85) which enables it, as a function of the measurement values of (H) and (L) transmitted, to define a set altitude at the lifting jack (50).
- the programmable controller (84) sends a signal (S) to the servo-distributor (83), which is a proportional proportional servo-distributor, imposing on the circuit portion supplying the rod-side chamber an oil flow ( ⁇ ) that is all the more important that the deviation from the set position is large.
- the signal has characteristics that make it possible to move the movable member of the servo-distributor in a position of type (833) more or less advanced, depending on the flow rate of oil under pressure, the oil from the branches (630) and (632) and feeding the rod-side chamber via the branches (6321), (6322) and (633).
- the programmable controller (84) sends a signal (S) to the servo-distributor (83) to a configuration corresponding to a position (831), where the pressurized oil no longer supplies the side-rod chamber, which is connected to the return line (R), via the branches (65), (6321), (6322) and (633), the flow ( ⁇ ) for discharging the oil to the return line being controlled by the opening of the servo-distributor, which is controlled by the signal emitted by the PLC.
- the programmable automaton (84) collects, at regular time intervals, typically a few tens of milliseconds, the altitude H of the pivot axis of the bucket and the value L of the stroke of the closing cylinder and deduces from these values, using a computer program based on a kinematic model that describes the trajectory of the blade in an appropriate frame of reference, the set value that must be imposed on the altitude of the pivot axis of the bucket and emits a signal (S) towards the servo-distributor (83) so as to introduce or evacuate the volume of oil necessary to reach the correct altitude.
- S signal
- the second actuator (200 ') here simply schematized essentially to illustrate the role it plays in the operating principle of the first actuator (50), the latter being controlled in particular according to the spatial configuration of said second actuator.
- This second actuator whose body is integral with the rod (52) of the first actuator (50), is here a double-acting hydraulic cylinder connected to a supply circuit, a part of which allows differential mounting to ensure the breakdown function .
- the lifting cylinder is actuated in rapid descent (configuration illustrated by the figure
- the bucket actuator called the "closing cylinder” is actuated so that it opens the buckets until they reach an open reference position, typically close to the maximum opening of the buckets permitted by the stroke of said closing cylinder.
- the lifting cylinder is actuated downhill "slow" (specific supply of the piston-side chamber) until it detects the contact of at least one blade on the bottom of the tank; for example, a sensor is used to detect the moment when the pressure in the oil circuit which feeds the piston-side chamber increases sharply and a displacement sensor which makes it possible to raise the altitude of the blade during said contact;
- Said lifting cylinder is actuated to raise said collection unit up to the origin point of the trajectory defined in the preceding step (configuration illustrated by FIG.
- the lift cylinder is actuated in mounted mode (configuration shown in Figure 6) and, when the collection unit has reached a certain altitude, the actuators of the MSE are used to move all to a reception area of harvested debris.
- FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a collection unit, in which the first actuator (50) is an electric motor (53 ') fed by means of a circuit which makes it possible to slave the rotation of said motor.
- the electric motor is that of an electric cylinder (51 ') which imposes a vertical movement to the link (52 ') integral with the frame (110').
- the electric jack is replaced by an electric winch, the link then being a cable connected to said frame, the vertical displacement thereof being for example guided by a guide device fixed on the movable support.
- the variable speed drive (83 ') is controlled by a programmable controller (84) which receives the indications provided by two sensors:
- the first indicates the distance (H) between a reference horizontal level (N) (for example a platform of the tool turret) and a fixed point of the frame (110 ') of the collection unit (shown in FIG. in the figure by the common horizontal level of the axes of rotation of the buckets), which allows to know the altitude of the axis (115 ') around which pivots the bucket (120') whose form is schematized in dashed lines;
- N reference horizontal level
- N for example a platform of the tool turret
- the second indicates the stroke (L) of the rod of the closing cylinder (200 '), which, through a common connecting rod (300'), controls the opening and closing of the two buckets.
- the programmable control system comprises a programmable controller (84) associated with a computer memory (85) which enables it, as a function of the measurement values of (H) and (L) transmitted, to define the set altitude of the substantially horizontal axis around which pivots a bucket. If the set altitude is higher than the effective altitude, there is danger of collision between the bucket blade and the bottom of the tank.
- variable speed drive (83 ') is then activated in such a way that it can quickly correct the trajectory of the blade.
- the programmable controller (84) sends a signal (S) to the variable speed drive (83 '), which converts said signal into a current of command (I) which imposes said electric motor a direction of rotation and speed all the more important that the deviation from the set position is large.
- the variable speed drive (83 ') is activated in such a way that it can quickly correct the motor servo, to lower the altitude of the blade.
- the programmable controller (84) sends a signal (S) to the variable speed controller (83 ') which imposes on the motor a direction of rotation and a speed which is greater as the deviation from the set position is large.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Electrochemistry (AREA)
- Materials Engineering (AREA)
- Metallurgy (AREA)
- Organic Chemistry (AREA)
- Electrolytic Production Of Metals (AREA)
- Operation Control Of Excavators (AREA)
Abstract
Description
Claims
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
FR0905992A FR2953862B1 (fr) | 2009-12-11 | 2009-12-11 | Dispositif destine a collecter des debris solides dans une cuve d'electrolyse destinee a la production d'aluminium |
PCT/FR2010/000813 WO2011070245A1 (fr) | 2009-12-11 | 2010-12-07 | Dispositif destine a collecter des debris solides dans une cuve d'electrolyse destinee a la production d'aluminium |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2510136A1 true EP2510136A1 (fr) | 2012-10-17 |
EP2510136B1 EP2510136B1 (fr) | 2013-10-23 |
Family
ID=42131884
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP10799073.1A Active EP2510136B1 (fr) | 2009-12-11 | 2010-12-07 | Dispositif destine a collecter des debris solides dans une cuve d'electrolyse destinee a la production d'aluminium |
Country Status (9)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20120234690A1 (fr) |
EP (1) | EP2510136B1 (fr) |
CN (1) | CN102666933B (fr) |
AU (1) | AU2010329754B2 (fr) |
CA (1) | CA2780166A1 (fr) |
FR (1) | FR2953862B1 (fr) |
RU (1) | RU2012129271A (fr) |
WO (1) | WO2011070245A1 (fr) |
ZA (1) | ZA201202644B (fr) |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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CN103849889B (zh) * | 2013-05-15 | 2016-06-29 | 洛阳宇航重工机械有限公司 | 残阳极电解质清理设备 |
CN104087972B (zh) * | 2014-05-19 | 2017-04-19 | 江苏建筑职业技术学院 | 抬包吸铝管气压驱动清理机 |
CN108796577A (zh) * | 2018-09-04 | 2018-11-13 | 苏州奥特金属制品有限公司 | 一种大型金属制品阳极氧化固定架 |
EP4293141A1 (fr) | 2022-06-13 | 2023-12-20 | Dubai Aluminium PJSC | Ensemble d'entretien d'anode pour une installation d'électrolyse d'aluminium et ses procédés de fonctionnement |
Family Cites Families (12)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE3131624A1 (de) * | 1980-09-02 | 1982-06-16 | VEB Schwermaschinenbaukombinat TAKRAF-Stammbetrieb-Betrieb für Anlagenbau und Rationalisierung, DDR 7010 Leipzig | Greifer mit beeinflussbarem bewegungsverlauf der schneiden von greiferschalen |
SE436436B (sv) * | 1981-06-18 | 1984-12-10 | Eurotrade Machine Pool Ab | Djupmetare vid grevmaskiner |
NO176283C (no) | 1990-02-02 | 1995-03-08 | Hydeq As | Kjöretöy hovedsakelig innrettet for opprensking av badskorpe- og kullrester fra elektrolyseceller |
IT1263968B (it) | 1993-02-25 | 1996-09-05 | Gianfranco Zannini | Apparecchiatura automatizzata per il cambio degli anodi delle celle elettrolitiche per la produzione di alluminio |
DE19806816B4 (de) * | 1998-02-18 | 2005-04-14 | Rohr Gmbh | Motor-Unterwassergreifer mit Überwachungseinrichtung |
ATE319648T1 (de) * | 2000-08-04 | 2006-03-15 | Reel | Entnahme-, reinigung-, kalibrierungseinrichtung für in der aluminiumherstellung angewandte elektrolysezellen |
FR2868086B1 (fr) * | 2004-03-25 | 2006-05-26 | Ecl Soc Par Actions Simplifiee | Module de service compact destine aux usines de production d'aluminium par electrolyse |
CN201087073Y (zh) * | 2007-08-08 | 2008-07-16 | 四川启明星铝业有限责任公司 | 铝电解多功能天车 |
CN201183832Y (zh) * | 2008-03-31 | 2009-01-21 | 中国铝业股份有限公司 | 铝电解槽专用捞块装置 |
CN201195667Y (zh) * | 2008-04-18 | 2009-02-18 | 中国有色(沈阳)冶金机械有限公司 | 铝电解多功能起重机的工具小车装置 |
CN201193190Y (zh) * | 2008-04-18 | 2009-02-11 | 中国有色(沈阳)冶金机械有限公司 | 一种铝电解多功能起重机的工具小车 |
CN201195666Y (zh) * | 2008-04-18 | 2009-02-18 | 中国有色(沈阳)冶金机械有限公司 | 铝电解多功能起重机回转装置下支架装置 |
-
2009
- 2009-12-11 FR FR0905992A patent/FR2953862B1/fr not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2010
- 2010-12-07 US US13/513,966 patent/US20120234690A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2010-12-07 CA CA2780166A patent/CA2780166A1/fr not_active Abandoned
- 2010-12-07 EP EP10799073.1A patent/EP2510136B1/fr active Active
- 2010-12-07 WO PCT/FR2010/000813 patent/WO2011070245A1/fr active Application Filing
- 2010-12-07 CN CN201080056223.XA patent/CN102666933B/zh not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2010-12-07 AU AU2010329754A patent/AU2010329754B2/en not_active Ceased
- 2010-12-07 RU RU2012129271/02A patent/RU2012129271A/ru not_active Application Discontinuation
-
2012
- 2012-04-12 ZA ZA2012/02644A patent/ZA201202644B/en unknown
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
---|
See references of WO2011070245A1 * |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2780166A1 (fr) | 2011-06-16 |
FR2953862A1 (fr) | 2011-06-17 |
US20120234690A1 (en) | 2012-09-20 |
CN102666933B (zh) | 2016-08-03 |
AU2010329754B2 (en) | 2013-10-31 |
EP2510136B1 (fr) | 2013-10-23 |
WO2011070245A1 (fr) | 2011-06-16 |
RU2012129271A (ru) | 2014-01-20 |
ZA201202644B (en) | 2013-06-26 |
FR2953862B1 (fr) | 2011-12-16 |
AU2010329754A1 (en) | 2012-05-10 |
CN102666933A (zh) | 2012-09-12 |
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