EP2919931B1 - Tool for fastening an attachment head to an electrode cast in a mould, associated installation and associated method - Google Patents

Tool for fastening an attachment head to an electrode cast in a mould, associated installation and associated method Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2919931B1
EP2919931B1 EP14798810.9A EP14798810A EP2919931B1 EP 2919931 B1 EP2919931 B1 EP 2919931B1 EP 14798810 A EP14798810 A EP 14798810A EP 2919931 B1 EP2919931 B1 EP 2919931B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
tool
support
connecting head
mold
electrode
Prior art date
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Application number
EP14798810.9A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2919931A1 (en
Inventor
Thierry Barre
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.)
Aubert and Duval SA
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Aubert and Duval SA
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Publication of EP2919931A1 publication Critical patent/EP2919931A1/en
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22D—CASTING OF METALS; CASTING OF OTHER SUBSTANCES BY THE SAME PROCESSES OR DEVICES
    • B22D11/00—Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths
    • B22D11/08—Accessories for starting the casting procedure
    • B22D11/081—Starter bars
    • B22D11/083—Starter bar head; Means for connecting or detaching starter bars and ingots
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22D—CASTING OF METALS; CASTING OF OTHER SUBSTANCES BY THE SAME PROCESSES OR DEVICES
    • B22D11/00—Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths
    • B22D11/001—Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths of specific alloys
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22D—CASTING OF METALS; CASTING OF OTHER SUBSTANCES BY THE SAME PROCESSES OR DEVICES
    • B22D11/00—Continuous casting of metals, i.e. casting in indefinite lengths
    • B22D11/08—Accessories for starting the casting procedure
    • B22D11/081—Starter bars
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22D—CASTING OF METALS; CASTING OF OTHER SUBSTANCES BY THE SAME PROCESSES OR DEVICES
    • B22D7/00—Casting ingots, e.g. from ferrous metals
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22D—CASTING OF METALS; CASTING OF OTHER SUBSTANCES BY THE SAME PROCESSES OR DEVICES
    • B22D7/00—Casting ingots, e.g. from ferrous metals
    • B22D7/005—Casting ingots, e.g. from ferrous metals from non-ferrous metals
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B7/00—Heating by electric discharge
    • H05B7/02—Details
    • H05B7/10—Mountings, supports, terminals or arrangements for feeding or guiding electrodes
    • H05B7/101—Mountings, supports or terminals at head of electrode, i.e. at the end remote from the arc
    • H05B7/102—Mountings, supports or terminals at head of electrode, i.e. at the end remote from the arc specially adapted for consumable electrodes

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a tool for fixing a fastening head on an electrode cast in a mold according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • Such tooling is intended to be used in particular in a transferred arc plasma torch furnace for melting and refining in a cooled copper crucible (referred to as “Plasma Arc Melting Cold Hearth Refining”), or in a furnace.
  • electron guns for melting and refining in a cooled crucible referred to as “Electron Beam Cold Hearth Refining”).
  • a metal electrode is then made in the furnace, by continuous casting.
  • An electrode is a cylindrical shaped ingot for remelting.
  • Falling metal materials are advantageously made of titanium alloy. More generally, they may be of other metallic materials such as noble metals.
  • the electrode is re-melted in a vacuum arc reflow oven, referred to as the "Vacuum Arc Remelting".
  • the electrode is evacuated and supplied with the melting stream in a crucible called ingot mold.
  • An electric arc is created between the free end of the electrode and the bottom of the mold, causing the progressive melting of the electrode.
  • the distance between the molten metal surface and the electrode is controlled during the fusion.
  • the electrode is continuously poured into the moulder ring of the melting and refining furnace by extracting it progressively from the mold by means of a pulling system. To do this, a dovetail-shaped mold bottom is used.
  • the solder serves both to support the weight of the electrode and to transmit the reflow current.
  • US 6,273,179 describes a method in which a mounting member of the attachment head is welded to the end of the electrode, directly in the moulder ring of the melting and refining furnace, during the formation of this electrode.
  • the mounting member is initially housed in a cavity of the bottom of the mold.
  • the attachment head is mechanically assembled on the mounting member and the assembly is introduced into the reflow oven.
  • This method is therefore simpler to implement. However, it still requires a large number of manipulations and assembly operations that must be performed at the end of the casting, consuming the operating time.
  • the dimensions of the mounting member must correspond precisely to the complementary shape in the mold, which prevents the possible recycling of the mounting members. The cost of the process is therefore high.
  • An object of the invention is to simplify the implementation of a method of remelting metal electrodes, economically and with a saving of time.
  • the subject of the invention is a tool according to claim 1.
  • the tool according to the invention may comprise one or more of the features of claims 2 to 11.
  • the invention also relates to a plant for producing metal parts according to claim 12.
  • the plant according to the invention may comprise one or more of the features of claim 13.
  • the invention also relates to a method for producing metal parts according to claim 14.
  • the method according to the invention may comprise one or more of the features of claim 15.
  • a first installation 10 according to the invention, intended for the production of metal parts by refining and melting, is illustrated by the Figures 1 and 2 .
  • the metal parts formed by the installation 10 according to the invention are, for example, ingots or shapes, in particular of metal alloy.
  • the metal parts are made from a source metal, especially in the form of compacted metal chips 12, in particular falling metal material.
  • Falling metal materials are advantageously made of titanium alloy. More generally, they may be of other metallic materials such as noble metals.
  • the installation 10 comprises a crucible assembly 14, visible on the figure 1 , for the continuous casting formation of an electrode 16, and a reflow oven 18 of the electrode 16, the relevant parts of which are shown on FIG. figure 2 .
  • the installation 10 comprises a tool 20, illustrated by the Figures 3 to 5 , suitable for being mounted in the moulder ring of the crucible assembly 14, to receive an attachment head 22 on the electrode 16.
  • the installation 10 advantageously comprises an assembly station 24 of the tool 20, visible on the figure 3 .
  • the electrode 16 is obtained by continuous casting in the crucible assembly 14.
  • the electrode-16 advantageously has a cylindrical shape, of diameter for example between 100 mm and 1300 mm, advantageously between 700 mm and 900 mm, and in particular between 730 mm and 840 mm, and height for example between 500 mm and 5000 mm, in particular between 2000 mm and 4000 mm.
  • the attachment head 22 is formed by a metal block, made of a metal suitable for fusion with the metal constituting the electrode 16. During the formation of the electrode 16 in the crucible assembly 14, the fastening head 22 is thus fixed at one end of the electrode 16.
  • the attachment head 22 is designated by the English term "stub". It is made in one piece by coming from matter.
  • the attachment head 22 is cylindrical, of diameter and height respectively smaller than the diameter and the height of the electrode 16.
  • the attachment head 22 may have a variable height from one electrode 16 to another, for example between 600 mm and 1300 mm.
  • the attachment head 22 has, at its free end, a hooking form 26 to an electrical displacement and connecting member 28, located in the reflow oven 18, which will be described below.
  • the attachment head 22 is able to mechanically and electrically connect the displacement and electrical connection member 28 to the electrode 16 during the reflow operation in the furnace 18, without any intermediate welding operation or mechanical assembly has to be performed between the attachment head 22 and the electrode 16.
  • the crucible assembly 14 comprises a supply of source metal 30, a melting receptacle 32 receiving the metal coming from the supply 30, and at least one crucible 34 for refining the molten metal in the receptacle 32.
  • the crucible assembly 14 further comprises a moulder ring 36 for continuous casting of the refined molten metal in each crucible 34, and a plurality of metal melting apparatus 38, arranged respectively facing the melting receptacle 32, of each crucible refining 34, and the moulder ring 36.
  • the metal supply 30 opens opposite the melting receptacle 32. It is suitable for discharging source metal in the form of chips or massive drops 12 into the receptacle 32, for melting the source metal using the apparatus of merger 38.
  • At least one refining crucible 34 is connected upstream to the melting receptacle 32 to receive the molten metal from the receptacle 32, and maintain it in the form of a bath 40 of molten metal, by means of an apparatus melting 38. At least one refining crucible 34 is connected downstream to the moulder ring 36 for dispensing refined molten metal to the moulder ring 36.
  • the moulder ring 36 comprises a mold 42 intended to receive the tooling 20, and a displacement member 44 intended to move the tooling 20 to allow the continuous casting of the electrode 16.
  • the mold 42 defines a cavity 46 for molding vertical axis A-A '. It is for example made of metal, especially copper. It is connected to a cooling system (not shown), such as a cooling water circulation system.
  • the mold 42 is cylindrical in the shape of a ring.
  • the mold 42 opens upwards through an upper opening 48 placed opposite a melting apparatus 38, and opens downwards through a lower drawing opening 50 of the electrode 16. It has an upper lateral passage 52 of distribution of molten metal, connected to a crucible 34.
  • the displacement member 44 preferably comprises a jack comprising a cylinder and a cylinder rod (not shown) or a similar electromechanical system.
  • the tooling 20 is adapted to be mounted reversibly on the displacement member 44, in order to be displaced in translation along the axis A-A 'by the displacement member 44.
  • the crucible assembly 14 is a transferred arc plasma torch furnace for melting and refining in a cooled copper crucible (referred to as "Plasma Arc Cold Hearth Refining").
  • each melter 38 is a plasma torch.
  • the plasma torch is adapted to produce a plasma beam 54 directed downwards, respectively to the melting receptacle 32, to each refining crucible 34, and to the moulder ring 36 through the upper opening 48.
  • the crucible assembly 14 is used in an electron gun furnace for melting and refining in a cooled crucible (referred to as "Electron Beam Cold Hearth Refining").
  • each melting apparatus 38 is capable of producing an electron beam 54 directed downwards, respectively to the melting receptacle 32, to each refining crucible 34, and to the moulder ring 36 through the upper opening 48.
  • the reflow oven 18 is generally a vacuum arc reflow oven, referred to as "Vacuum Arc Remelting".
  • the displacement and electrical connection member 28 comprises a metal crucible 60 (also called “ingot mold") in which a partial vacuum is produced, a source 62 of electrical power, electrically connected to the body of displacement and electrical connection 28, and an assembly 64 for actuating the displacement member and electrical connection 28.
  • a metal crucible 60 also called “ingot mold”
  • source 62 of electrical power electrically connected to the body of displacement and electrical connection 28
  • assembly 64 for actuating the displacement member and electrical connection 28.
  • the source 62 is electrically connected to the electrode 16 through the displacement member 28, and through the attachment head 22, to generate an electrical voltage, and an electric arc between the free end of the electrode 16 and a metal surface located opposite, in the bottom of the crucible 60.
  • the electric arc causes progressive melting of the free end of the electrode 16.
  • the actuating assembly 64 is able to move the electrode 16 relative to the metal surface via the displacement member and electrical connection 28 and via the attachment head 22, to control at each instant the distance separating the free end of the electrode 16 and the metal surface during the progressive fusion of this electrode 16.
  • the tooling 20 comprises a support 70 for receiving the attachment head 22, of longitudinal axis BB 'vertical on the figure 3 .
  • It comprises a mold bottom 72, carried by the support 70 at an upper end of the support 70 and a mounting end 74 of the support 70 on the displacement member 44, located at a lower end of the support 70.
  • the tooling 20 further comprises a mechanism 76 for longitudinally immobilizing the attachment head 22 with respect to the longitudinally adjustable support 70, in order to immobilize the attachment head 22 in a plurality of distinct longitudinal positions. along the longitudinal axis B-B '.
  • the tool 20 also comprises a mechanism 78 for radial immobilization of the attachment head 22 with respect to the longitudinal axis B-B '.
  • the support 70 comprises a tubular sleeve 80 of axis B-B ', partially closed downwards by a bottom wall 82.
  • the tubular sleeve 80 defines a central lumen 84 for receiving the fastening head 22 and transverse openings 86 for mounting the longitudinal immobilization mechanism 76.
  • the sleeve 80 has, around each transverse opening 86, a longitudinal rib 88 for supporting the immobilization mechanism 76, through which the transverse opening 86 extends.
  • the central lumen 84 extends along the axis B-B '. It opens upwards facing the mold bottom 72, at the upper end of the support 70.
  • the central lumen 84 is closed partially downwards by the bottom wall 82. It opens axially downwards through the mounting end 74.
  • the tubular sleeve 80 here defines two transverse openings 86 arranged opposite one another, on either side of the axis B-B '.
  • Each transverse opening 86 opens into the central lumen 84, towards the axis B-B ', and outside the sleeve 80, away from the axis B-B'.
  • each transverse opening 86 is a longitudinal slot of axis BB 'extending over a portion of the length of the sleeve 70.
  • the length of the transverse opening 86, taken along the axis B-B ', is for example between 50% and 75% of the length of the sleeve 80.
  • Each longitudinal rib 88 protrudes radially from the axis B-B 'on the outer surface of the sleeve 80.
  • the rib 88 defines a flat part 90, intended to support the mechanism 76, and longitudinal edges 92 for fixing the mechanism 76.
  • the mold base 72 comprises a first half-piece 94 and a second half-piece 96, which are mounted movable relative to each other and relative to the support 70, between an open configuration of insertion of the head of the mold. 22, and a closed configuration of introduction of the attachment head 22 in the moulder ring 36.
  • the mold base 72 further comprises a mechanism 98 for guiding the displacement of each half-piece 94, 96, and a cooling assembly 100 of each half-piece 94, 96.
  • Each half piece 94, 96 is formed of a metal material similar to that constituting the mold 42 of the moulder ring 36, for example copper.
  • each half piece 94, 96 is formed by a half disc defining a central notch. It thus presents a general form of C.
  • Each half piece 94, 96 defines an upper surface 102 substantially planar, intended to receive molten metal at the bottom of the mold 42, and to cool to solidify the metal.
  • the upper surface 102 advantageously extends in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis B-B '.
  • the half-pieces 94, 96 are displaceable transversely towards the axis BB 'between the open configuration and the closed configuration, advantageously in translation along an axis CC' perpendicular to the axis B-B ', visible on the figure 4 .
  • the half-pieces 94, 96 define between them an axial orifice 104 for introducing the fastening head 22 into the central lumen 84 of the support 70.
  • the introduction orifice 104 has a greater extent than it has in the closed configuration.
  • the half-pieces 94, 96 are substantially in contact with each other.
  • the insertion orifice 104 is substantially closed and has a contour substantially conjugate to the outer contour of the attachment head 22.
  • the half-pieces 94, 96 have an outer contour substantially conjugate to the inner contour of the mold 42.
  • the guide mechanism 98 comprises slides 106 fixed on the outer surface of the sleeve 80 by brackets 108. Each half piece 94, 96 is carried by two rails 106 disposed on either side of the axis B-B '.
  • the cooling assembly 100 comprises hollow plates 110 delimiting cooling fluid circulation channels, and cooling fluid supply connections (not shown).
  • the hollow plates 110 are reported under each half piece 94, 96.
  • a cooling fluid for example water, is able to circulate in the channels defined between the hollow plates 110 and each half-piece 94, 96, to cool the upper surface 102.
  • the longitudinal immobilization mechanism 76 comprises a transverse member 120 immobilizing the attachment head 22, and a locking assembly 122 of the transverse immobilization member 120 on the support 70 in a position longitudinally adjustable along the axis B-B '.
  • the transverse member 120 is formed by a pin.
  • the transverse member 120 is mounted through a through hole 124 formed transversely in the fastening head 22, and through each transverse opening 86. Its ends protrude transversely on either side of the support 70, to be gripped by the locking assembly 122.
  • the locking assembly 122 has removable engagement lugs 130 on the transverse member 120, and for each lug 130, a retaining fork 132 of the locking lug 130 on the support 70.
  • the locking assembly 122 advantageously furthermore comprises fastening members 134 complementary to each lug 130 on the support 70.
  • Each lug 130 includes a yoke 136 for engaging one end of the transverse member 120 and a rod 138 for attachment to the yoke 132.
  • the yoke 136 delimits a passage 140 receiving one end of the transverse member 120 to lock it in translation along the axis B-B '.
  • the attachment rod 138 protrudes from the yoke 136. It is adapted to engage the fork 132, in order to maintain the yoke 136 axially in position along the axis B-B '.
  • the fork 132 is fixed on the support 70, advantageously under the through opening 86.
  • the complementary fixing members 134 are formed by screw systems mounted through the yoke 136 in the support 70, advantageously at holes formed in the lateral edges 92 of the rib 88.
  • Each lug 130 is adapted to be reversibly assembled on the holder 70 between a disassembled configuration away from the holder 70 and a plurality of configurations mounted on the holder 70, spaced along the axis B-B '.
  • the passage 140 of the yoke 136 receives the end of the transverse member 120.
  • the rod 138 protrudes with respect to the yoke 136 to be received in the fork 132. It is maintained in the fork 132 by removable fasteners, nut type.
  • the yoke 136 is pressed against the support 70, advantageously at the level of the flat part 90. It is held in the plated position by the complementary fastening members 134.
  • each lug 130 is adapted to be attached to the support 70 in a discrete number of mounted configurations longitudinally spaced apart along the axis B-B '.
  • the position of the mounted configuration can be adjusted continuously along the transverse opening 86 along the axis B-B '.
  • the longitudinal adjustment of the lugs 130 modifies the relative position of the attachment head 22 with respect to the support 70, and with respect to the mold base 72, so that the length of the section of the attachment head 22 protruding beyond above the bottom of the mold 72 is constant, regardless of the length of the attachment head 22.
  • the radial immobilization mechanism 78 includes adjustable thrust screws 150 inserted radially through the support 70 into the central lumen 84.
  • Each thrust screw 150 is able to come into radial abutment on the attachment head 22, to lock it radially relative to the axis B-B 'in at least one direction.
  • the assembly station 24 comprises a base 160 for assembling the attachment head 22 and the support 70, and a handling assembly (not shown).
  • the method comprises an assembly phase of the tooling 20, a phase of forming an electrode 16 in the crucible assembly 14 by means of the tooling 20, and then a phase of reflow of the electrode 16 in the reflow oven 18.
  • the assembly phase can be performed in masked time outside the main enclosure receiving the copper crucible assembly 14.
  • the free end of the assembly base 160 projects into the central lumen 84 through the mounting end 74.
  • the half pieces 94, 96 of the mold base 72 are then placed in their open configuration.
  • the attachment head 22 is introduced from above into the central lumen 84 through the axial orifice 104 defined between the half pieces 94, 96.
  • the attachment head 22 is reversibly fixed to the free end of the assembly base 160 in the central lumen 84.
  • the axial position of the attachment head 22 along the axis BB ' is then adjusted by moving the assembly base 160 relative to the support 70, as a function of the desired height of the section of the head 22 projecting from beyond the bottom of the mold 72, flush with the bottom of the mold 72 or set back below the bottom of the mold 72.
  • the transverse member 120 is introduced successively into a first transverse opening 86, into the through hole 124, then into a second transverse opening 86.
  • the free ends of the transverse member 120 then protrude transversely out of the support 70 through the respective transverse openings 86.
  • the ears 130 are then engaged around each free end of the transverse member 120 and are fixed against the support 70.
  • each free end of the transverse member 120 is introduced into a passage 140 defined in the yoke 136.
  • the fixing rod 138 is inserted into a retaining fork 132.
  • the yoke 136 is pressed against the flat surface 90.
  • the fixing members of the rod 138 on the fork 132 are put in place.
  • the additional fasteners 134 between the yoke 136 and the rib 88 are also assembled.
  • Each ear 130 occupies a configuration mounted on the support 70, in a determined axial position.
  • the attachment head 22 is then immobilized axially along the axis B-B 'in a selected position, through the locking assembly 122 comprising the transverse member 120 and the lugs 130.
  • the tool 20 comprising the attachment head 22 is then conveyed to the moulder ring 36 of the crucible assembly 14.
  • the mounting tip 74 is mounted on the displacement member 44. Coolant supply conduits (not shown) are connected to the cooling assembly 100.
  • the displacement member 44 is actuated to place the mold base 72 in the molding cavity 46 defined in the mold 42.
  • the end of the attachment head 22 is then partially melted, for example by the beam 54 of the melting apparatus 38 situated above the moulder ring 36.
  • Molten metal from a refining crucible 34 is then introduced into the molding cavity 46 to gradually fill the molding cavity 46.
  • the attachment head 22 is welded to the electrode 16, without external intervention
  • the displacement member 44 is actuated to jointly pull down the hook head support 70, the mold bottom 72 and the forming electrode 16 on the mold bottom 72.
  • the continuous casting of the electrode 16 is carried out gradually.
  • the electrode 16 is formed, it is extracted out of the crucible assembly 14, the attachment head 22 already being welded at one of its ends.
  • the electrode 16 provided with its attachment head 22, is introduced into the reflow oven 18 and is mounted directly on the displacement member and electrical connection 28 of the reflow oven 18.
  • the attachment head 22 is further electrically connected to the electrical power source 62 to cause reflow of the electrode 16 in the crucible 60 and form the desired metal part.
  • the tooling 20 according to the invention is therefore particularly easy to use and adapts to a wide variety of attachment heads 22. This allows the recycling of the attachment heads 22.
  • the mounting of the tool 20 can be performed in masked time, increasing the productivity of the process.
  • attachment head 22 is fixed on the electrode 16 directly during its manufacture, without external intervention and can be mounted directly in the reflow oven 18, without additional mechanical assembly to achieve.

Description

La présente invention concerne un outillage de fixation d'une tête d'accrochage sur une électrode coulée dans un moule selon le préambule de la revendication 1.The present invention relates to a tool for fixing a fastening head on an electrode cast in a mold according to the preamble of claim 1.

Un tel outillage est destiné à être utilisé notamment dans un four à torches plasma à arc transféré pour la fusion et l'affinage en creuset cuivre refroidi (désigné par le terme anglais «Plasma Arc Melting Cold Hearth Refining »), ou dans un four à canons d'électrons pour la fusion et l'affinage en creuset refroidi (désigné par le terme anglais « Electron Beam Cold Hearth Refining »).Such tooling is intended to be used in particular in a transferred arc plasma torch furnace for melting and refining in a cooled copper crucible (referred to as "Plasma Arc Melting Cold Hearth Refining"), or in a furnace. electron guns for melting and refining in a cooled crucible (referred to as "Electron Beam Cold Hearth Refining").

Pour obtenir des alliages métalliques de grande qualité, à base de chutes de matériau métallique, il est nécessaire d'affiner le métal en creuset refroidi après l'avoir fondu dans un four du type précité. Une électrode métallique est ensuite réalisée dans le four, par coulée continue. Une électrode est un lingot de forme cylindrique destiné à la refusion.To obtain high quality metal alloys, based on scrap metal material, it is necessary to refine the metal crucible cooled after melting in an oven of the aforementioned type. A metal electrode is then made in the furnace, by continuous casting. An electrode is a cylindrical shaped ingot for remelting.

Les chutes de matériaux métalliques sont avantageusement en alliage de titane. Plus généralement, elles peuvent être en d'autres matériaux métalliques tels que des métaux nobles.Falling metal materials are advantageously made of titanium alloy. More generally, they may be of other metallic materials such as noble metals.

L'électrode est refondue dans un four de refusion à arc sous vide, désigné par le terme anglais « Vacuum Arc Remelting ». Dans ce four, l'électrode est mise sous vide et alimentée par le courant de fusion dans un creuset appelé lingotière. Un arc électrique est créé entre l'extrémité libre de l'électrode et le fond de la lingotière, provoquant la fusion progressive de l'électrode.The electrode is re-melted in a vacuum arc reflow oven, referred to as the "Vacuum Arc Remelting". In this oven, the electrode is evacuated and supplied with the melting stream in a crucible called ingot mold. An electric arc is created between the free end of the electrode and the bottom of the mold, causing the progressive melting of the electrode.

La distance entre la surface métallique fondue et l'électrode est pilotée au cours de la fusion.The distance between the molten metal surface and the electrode is controlled during the fusion.

Pour permettre le déplacement de l'électrode et son raccordement électrique, il est connu de souder à son extrémité une tête d'accrochage métallique, désignée par le terme anglais « stub », après que l'électrode ait été sortie du four de fusion et d'affinage.To allow the displacement of the electrode and its electrical connection, it is known to weld at its end a metal hooking head, designated by the English term "stub", after the electrode has been removed from the melting furnace and refining.

Or, l'électrode est coulée continûment dans l'anneau mouleur du four de fusion et d'affinage en l'extrayant progressivement du moule à l'aide d'un système de tirage. Pour ce faire, un fond de moule en forme de queue d'aronde est utilisé.However, the electrode is continuously poured into the moulder ring of the melting and refining furnace by extracting it progressively from the mold by means of a pulling system. To do this, a dovetail-shaped mold bottom is used.

Pour fixer la tête d'accrochage, il est donc généralement nécessaire de scier l'extrémité de l'électrode pour supprimer cette queue d'aronde, puis de réaliser une soudure soigneuse de la tête d'accrochage. La soudure sert à la fois à supporter le poids de l'électrode et à transmettre le courant de refusion.To fix the fastening head, it is therefore generally necessary to saw the end of the electrode to remove the dovetail, then to achieve a careful welding of the fastening head. The solder serves both to support the weight of the electrode and to transmit the reflow current.

Un tel procédé ne donne pas entière satisfaction. Les opérations multiples du procédé nécessitent des manipulations fastidieuses et consommatrices en temps opératoire.Such a method is not entirely satisfactory. The multiple operations of the process require tedious and time consuming manipulations.

Pour pallier partiellement ce problème, US 6,273,179 décrit un procédé dans lequel un organe de montage de la tête d'accrochage est soudé à l'extrémité de l'électrode, directement dans l'anneau mouleur du four de fusion et d'affinage, lors de la formation de cette électrode. L'organe de montage est logé initialement dans une cavité du fond du moule.To partially overcome this problem, US 6,273,179 describes a method in which a mounting member of the attachment head is welded to the end of the electrode, directly in the moulder ring of the melting and refining furnace, during the formation of this electrode. The mounting member is initially housed in a cavity of the bottom of the mold.

Ensuite, la tête d'accrochage est assemblée mécaniquement sur l'organe de montage et l'ensemble est introduit dans le four de refusion.Then, the attachment head is mechanically assembled on the mounting member and the assembly is introduced into the reflow oven.

Ce procédé est donc plus simple à mettre en oeuvre. Il nécessite cependant encore un grand nombre de manipulations et d'opérations de montage qui doivent être effectuées à l'issue de la coulée, en consommant du temps opératoire.This method is therefore simpler to implement. However, it still requires a large number of manipulations and assembly operations that must be performed at the end of the casting, consuming the operating time.

Par ailleurs, compte tenu de la conformation du moule de coulée, les dimensions de l'organe de montage doivent correspondre précisément à la forme complémentaire dans le moule, ce qui empêche le recyclage éventuel des organes de montage. Le coût du procédé est donc élevé.Moreover, given the conformation of the casting mold, the dimensions of the mounting member must correspond precisely to the complementary shape in the mold, which prevents the possible recycling of the mounting members. The cost of the process is therefore high.

Un but de l'invention est de simplifier la mise en oeuvre d'un procédé de refusion d'électrodes métalliques, de manière économique et avec un gain de temps opératoire.An object of the invention is to simplify the implementation of a method of remelting metal electrodes, economically and with a saving of time.

À cet effet, l'invention a pour objet un outillage selon la revendication 1.For this purpose, the subject of the invention is a tool according to claim 1.

L'outillage selon l'invention peut comprendre l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques des revendications 2 à 11.The tool according to the invention may comprise one or more of the features of claims 2 to 11.

L'invention a également pour objet une installation de production de pièces métalliques selon la revendication 12.The invention also relates to a plant for producing metal parts according to claim 12.

L'installation selon l'invention peut comprendre l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques de la revendication 13.The plant according to the invention may comprise one or more of the features of claim 13.

L'invention a aussi pour objet un procédé de production de pièces métalliques selon la revendication 14.The invention also relates to a method for producing metal parts according to claim 14.

Le procédé selon l'invention peut comprendre l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques de la revendication 15.The method according to the invention may comprise one or more of the features of claim 15.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à la lecture de la description qui va suivre, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple, et faite en se référant aux dessins annexés, sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue schématique en perspective partielle d'un four de fusion et d'affinage dans une première installation selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue schématique en coupe des parties pertinentes d'un four de refusion de la première installation selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 3 est une vue en élévation d'un premier outillage selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue de dessus de l'outillage selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 5 est une vue en coupe suivant un plan axial médian V de l'outillage selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 6 est une vue en coupe suivant un plan axial médian VI, perpendiculaire au plan axial médian V, de l'outillage selon l'invention.
The invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of example, and with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • the figure 1 is a schematic partial perspective view of a melting and refining furnace in a first installation according to the invention;
  • the figure 2 is a schematic sectional view of the relevant parts of a reflow oven of the first installation according to the invention;
  • the figure 3 is an elevational view of a first tool according to the invention;
  • the figure 4 is a top view of the tool according to the invention;
  • the figure 5 is a sectional view along a median axial plane V of the tool according to the invention;
  • the figure 6 is a sectional view along a median axial plane VI perpendicular to the median axial plane V of the tool according to the invention.

Une première installation 10 selon l'invention, destinée à la production de pièces métalliques par affinage et fusion, est illustrée par les figures 1 et 2.A first installation 10 according to the invention, intended for the production of metal parts by refining and melting, is illustrated by the Figures 1 and 2 .

Les pièces métalliques formées par l'installation 10 selon l'invention sont par exemple des lingots ou des formes, en particulier en alliage métallique.The metal parts formed by the installation 10 according to the invention are, for example, ingots or shapes, in particular of metal alloy.

Les pièces métalliques sont réalisées à partir d'un métal source, notamment sous forme de copeaux métalliques compactés 12, en particulier de chutes de matériau métallique.The metal parts are made from a source metal, especially in the form of compacted metal chips 12, in particular falling metal material.

Les chutes de matériaux métalliques sont avantageusement en alliage de titane. Plus généralement, elles peuvent être en d'autres matériaux métalliques tels que des métaux nobles.Falling metal materials are advantageously made of titanium alloy. More generally, they may be of other metallic materials such as noble metals.

L'installation 10 comporte un ensemble creuset 14, visible sur la figure 1, destiné à la formation par coulée continue d'une électrode 16, et un four de refusion 18 de l'électrode 16, dont les parties pertinentes sont représentées sur la figure 2.The installation 10 comprises a crucible assembly 14, visible on the figure 1 , for the continuous casting formation of an electrode 16, and a reflow oven 18 of the electrode 16, the relevant parts of which are shown on FIG. figure 2 .

Selon l'invention, l'installation 10 comporte un outillage 20, illustré par les figures 3 à 5, propre à être monté dans l'anneau mouleur de l'ensemble creuset 14, pour recevoir une tête d'accrochage 22 sur l'électrode 16. L'installation 10 comporte avantageusement un poste d'assemblage 24 de l'outillage 20, visible sur la figure 3.According to the invention, the installation 10 comprises a tool 20, illustrated by the Figures 3 to 5 , suitable for being mounted in the moulder ring of the crucible assembly 14, to receive an attachment head 22 on the electrode 16. The installation 10 advantageously comprises an assembly station 24 of the tool 20, visible on the figure 3 .

L'électrode 16 est obtenue par coulée continue dans l'ensemble creuset 14.The electrode 16 is obtained by continuous casting in the crucible assembly 14.

L'électrode-16 présente avantageusement une forme cylindrique, de diamètre par exemple compris entre 100 mm et 1300 mm, avantageusement entre 700 mm et 900 mm, et notamment entre 730 mm et 840 mm, et de hauteur par exemple comprise entre 500 mm et 5000 mm, notamment entre 2000 mm et 4000 mm.The electrode-16 advantageously has a cylindrical shape, of diameter for example between 100 mm and 1300 mm, advantageously between 700 mm and 900 mm, and in particular between 730 mm and 840 mm, and height for example between 500 mm and 5000 mm, in particular between 2000 mm and 4000 mm.

La tête d'accrochage 22 est formée par un bloc métallique, réalisé dans un métal propre à fusionner avec le métal constituant l'électrode 16. Lors de la formation de l'électrode 16 dans l'ensemble creuset 14, la tête d'accrochage 22 se fixe ainsi à une extrémité de l'électrode 16.The attachment head 22 is formed by a metal block, made of a metal suitable for fusion with the metal constituting the electrode 16. During the formation of the electrode 16 in the crucible assembly 14, the fastening head 22 is thus fixed at one end of the electrode 16.

La tête d'accrochage 22 est désignée par le terme anglais « stub ». Elle est réalisée d'un seul tenant en étant venue de matière.The attachment head 22 is designated by the English term "stub". It is made in one piece by coming from matter.

Dans cet exemple, la tête d'accrochage 22 est cylindrique, de diamètre et de hauteur inférieurs respectivement au diamètre et à la hauteur de l'électrode 16.In this example, the attachment head 22 is cylindrical, of diameter and height respectively smaller than the diameter and the height of the electrode 16.

Grâce à l'outillage 20 selon l'invention, la tête d'accrochage 22 peut présenter une hauteur variable d'une électrode 16 à une autre, comprise par exemple entre 600 mm et 1300 mm.Thanks to the tooling 20 according to the invention, the attachment head 22 may have a variable height from one electrode 16 to another, for example between 600 mm and 1300 mm.

Dans l'exemple représenté sur la figure 6, la tête d'accrochage 22 comporte, à son extrémité libre, une forme d'accrochage 26 à un organe de déplacement et de raccordement électrique 28, situé dans le four de refusion 18, qui sera décrit ci-dessous.In the example shown on the figure 6 , the attachment head 22 has, at its free end, a hooking form 26 to an electrical displacement and connecting member 28, located in the reflow oven 18, which will be described below.

Ainsi, la tête d'accrochage 22 est propre à raccorder mécaniquement et électriquement l'organe de déplacement et de raccordement électrique 28 à l'électrode 16 pendant l'opération de refusion dans le four 18, sans qu'aucune opération intermédiaire de soudure ou d'assemblage mécanique n'ait à être réalisée entre la tête d'accrochage 22 et l'électrode 16.Thus, the attachment head 22 is able to mechanically and electrically connect the displacement and electrical connection member 28 to the electrode 16 during the reflow operation in the furnace 18, without any intermediate welding operation or mechanical assembly has to be performed between the attachment head 22 and the electrode 16.

En référence à la figure 1, l'ensemble creuset 14 comporte une alimentation 30 en métal source, un réceptacle 32 de fusion, recevant le métal provenant de l'alimentation 30, et au moins un creuset 34 d'affinage du métal fondu dans le réceptacle 32.With reference to the figure 1 the crucible assembly 14 comprises a supply of source metal 30, a melting receptacle 32 receiving the metal coming from the supply 30, and at least one crucible 34 for refining the molten metal in the receptacle 32.

L'ensemble creuset 14 comporte en outre un anneau mouleur 36 pour la coulée continue du métal fondu affiné dans chaque creuset 34, et une pluralité d'appareils 38 de fusion du métal, disposés en regard respectivement du réceptacle de fusion 32, de chaque creuset d'affinage 34, et de l'anneau mouleur 36.The crucible assembly 14 further comprises a moulder ring 36 for continuous casting of the refined molten metal in each crucible 34, and a plurality of metal melting apparatus 38, arranged respectively facing the melting receptacle 32, of each crucible refining 34, and the moulder ring 36.

L'alimentation en métal 30 débouche en regard du réceptacle de fusion 32. Elle est propre à déverser du métal source sous forme de copeaux ou de chutes massives 12 dans le réceptacle 32, pour fondre le métal source à l'aide de l'appareil de fusion 38.The metal supply 30 opens opposite the melting receptacle 32. It is suitable for discharging source metal in the form of chips or massive drops 12 into the receptacle 32, for melting the source metal using the apparatus of merger 38.

Au moins un creuset d'affinage 34 est raccordé en amont au réceptacle de fusion 32 pour recevoir le métal fondu provenant du réceptacle 32, et le maintenir sous forme d'un bain 40 de métal fondu, par l'intermédiaire d'un appareil de fusion 38. Au moins un creuset d'affinage 34 est raccordé en aval à l'anneau mouleur 36 pour distribuer du métal fondu affiné vers l'anneau mouleur 36.At least one refining crucible 34 is connected upstream to the melting receptacle 32 to receive the molten metal from the receptacle 32, and maintain it in the form of a bath 40 of molten metal, by means of an apparatus melting 38. At least one refining crucible 34 is connected downstream to the moulder ring 36 for dispensing refined molten metal to the moulder ring 36.

L'anneau mouleur 36 comporte un moule 42, destiné à recevoir l'outillage 20, et un organe de déplacement 44, destiné à mouvoir l'outillage 20 pour permettre la coulée continue de l'électrode 16.The moulder ring 36 comprises a mold 42 intended to receive the tooling 20, and a displacement member 44 intended to move the tooling 20 to allow the continuous casting of the electrode 16.

Le moule 42 délimite une cavité 46 de moulage d'axe vertical A-A'. Elle est par exemple réalisée en métal, notamment en cuivre. Elle est raccordée à un système de refroidissement (non représenté), tel qu'un système de refroidissement par circulation d'eau.The mold 42 defines a cavity 46 for molding vertical axis A-A '. It is for example made of metal, especially copper. It is connected to a cooling system (not shown), such as a cooling water circulation system.

Dans cet exemple, le moule 42 est cylindrique en forme d'anneau.In this example, the mold 42 is cylindrical in the shape of a ring.

Le moule 42 débouche vers le haut par une ouverture supérieure 48 placée en regard d'un appareil de fusion 38, et débouche vers le bas par une ouverture inférieure 50 de tirage de l'électrode 16. Elle présente un passage latéral supérieur 52 de distribution de métal fondu, raccordé à un creuset 34.The mold 42 opens upwards through an upper opening 48 placed opposite a melting apparatus 38, and opens downwards through a lower drawing opening 50 of the electrode 16. It has an upper lateral passage 52 of distribution of molten metal, connected to a crucible 34.

L'organe de déplacement 44 comporte de préférence un vérin comprenant un cylindre et une tige de vérin (non représentés) ou un système électromécanique analogue.The displacement member 44 preferably comprises a jack comprising a cylinder and a cylinder rod (not shown) or a similar electromechanical system.

L'outillage 20 est propre à être monté de manière réversible sur l'organe de déplacement 44, afin d'être déplacé en translation suivant l'axe A-A' par l'organe de déplacement 44.The tooling 20 is adapted to be mounted reversibly on the displacement member 44, in order to be displaced in translation along the axis A-A 'by the displacement member 44.

Dans l'exemple représenté sur la figure 1, l'ensemble creuset 14 est un four à torches plasma à arc transféré pour la fusion et l'affinage en creuset cuivre refroidi (désigné par le terme anglais «Plasma Arc Cold Hearth Refining »).In the example shown on the figure 1 the crucible assembly 14 is a transferred arc plasma torch furnace for melting and refining in a cooled copper crucible (referred to as "Plasma Arc Cold Hearth Refining").

Dans ce cas, chaque appareil de fusion 38 est une torche plasma. La torche plasma est propre à produire un faisceau plasma 54 dirigé vers le bas, respectivement vers le réceptacle de fusion 32, vers chaque creuset d'affinage 34, et vers l'anneau mouleur 36 à travers l'ouverture supérieure 48.In this case, each melter 38 is a plasma torch. The plasma torch is adapted to produce a plasma beam 54 directed downwards, respectively to the melting receptacle 32, to each refining crucible 34, and to the moulder ring 36 through the upper opening 48.

En variante, l'ensemble creuset 14 est utilisé dans un four à canon d'électrons pour la fusion et l'affinage en creuset refroidi (désigné par le terme anglais «Electron Beam Cold Hearth Refining »).Alternatively, the crucible assembly 14 is used in an electron gun furnace for melting and refining in a cooled crucible (referred to as "Electron Beam Cold Hearth Refining").

Dans ce cas, chaque appareil de fusion 38 est propre à produire un faisceau d'électrons 54 dirigé vers le bas, respectivement vers le réceptacle de fusion 32, vers chaque creuset d'affinage 34, et vers l'anneau mouleur 36 à travers l'ouverture supérieure 48.In this case, each melting apparatus 38 is capable of producing an electron beam 54 directed downwards, respectively to the melting receptacle 32, to each refining crucible 34, and to the moulder ring 36 through the upper opening 48.

Le four de refusion 18 est généralement un four de refusion à arc sous vide , désigné par le terme anglais « Vacuum Arc Remelting ».The reflow oven 18 is generally a vacuum arc reflow oven, referred to as "Vacuum Arc Remelting".

Outre l'organe de déplacement et de raccordement électrique 28 décrit plus haut, il comporte un creuset métallique 60 (aussi appelé « lingotière ») dans lequel un vide partiel est réalisé, une source 62 de puissance électrique, raccordée électriquement à l'organe de déplacement et de raccordement électrique 28, et un ensemble 64 d'actionnement de l'organe de déplacement et de raccordement électrique 28.In addition to the displacement and electrical connection member 28 described above, it comprises a metal crucible 60 (also called "ingot mold") in which a partial vacuum is produced, a source 62 of electrical power, electrically connected to the body of displacement and electrical connection 28, and an assembly 64 for actuating the displacement member and electrical connection 28.

La source 62 est raccordée électriquement à l'électrode 16 à travers l'organe de déplacement 28, et à travers la tête d'accrochage 22, pour engendrer une tension électrique, et un arc électrique entre l'extrémité libre de l'électrode 16 et une surface métallique située en regard, dans le fond du creuset 60.The source 62 is electrically connected to the electrode 16 through the displacement member 28, and through the attachment head 22, to generate an electrical voltage, and an electric arc between the free end of the electrode 16 and a metal surface located opposite, in the bottom of the crucible 60.

L'arc électrique provoque la fusion progressive de l'extrémité libre de l'électrode 16. L'ensemble d'actionnement 64 est propre à déplacer l'électrode 16 par rapport à la surface métallique par l'intermédiaire de l'organe de déplacement et de raccordement électrique 28 et par l'intermédiaire de la tête d'accrochage 22, pour piloter à chaque instant la distance séparant l'extrémité libre de l'électrode 16 et la surface métallique lors de la fusion progressive de cette électrode 16.The electric arc causes progressive melting of the free end of the electrode 16. The actuating assembly 64 is able to move the electrode 16 relative to the metal surface via the displacement member and electrical connection 28 and via the attachment head 22, to control at each instant the distance separating the free end of the electrode 16 and the metal surface during the progressive fusion of this electrode 16.

En référence aux figures 3 à 6, l'outillage 20 comporte un support 70 de réception de la tête d'accrochage 22, d'axe longitudinal B-B' vertical sur la figure 3.With reference to Figures 3 to 6 , the tooling 20 comprises a support 70 for receiving the attachment head 22, of longitudinal axis BB 'vertical on the figure 3 .

Il comprend un fond de moule 72, porté par le support 70 à une extrémité supérieure du support 70 et un embout de montage 74 du support 70 sur l'organe de déplacement 44, situé à une extrémité inférieure du support 70.It comprises a mold bottom 72, carried by the support 70 at an upper end of the support 70 and a mounting end 74 of the support 70 on the displacement member 44, located at a lower end of the support 70.

Selon l'invention, l'outillage 20 comporte en outre un mécanisme 76 d'immobilisation longitudinale de la tête d'accrochage 22 par rapport au support 70, réglable longitudinalement, pour immobiliser la tête d'accrochage 22 dans une pluralité de positions longitudinales distinctes le long de l'axe longitudinal B-B'.According to the invention, the tooling 20 further comprises a mechanism 76 for longitudinally immobilizing the attachment head 22 with respect to the longitudinally adjustable support 70, in order to immobilize the attachment head 22 in a plurality of distinct longitudinal positions. along the longitudinal axis B-B '.

L'outillage 20 comprend également un mécanisme 78 d'immobilisation radiale de la tête d'accrochage 22 par rapport à l'axe longitudinal B-B'.The tool 20 also comprises a mechanism 78 for radial immobilization of the attachment head 22 with respect to the longitudinal axis B-B '.

Dans cet exemple, le support 70 comporte un manchon tubulaire 80 d'axe B-B', obturé partiellement vers le bas par une paroi de fond 82.In this example, the support 70 comprises a tubular sleeve 80 of axis B-B ', partially closed downwards by a bottom wall 82.

Le manchon tubulaire 80 définit une lumière centrale 84 de réception de la tête d'accrochage 22 et des ouvertures transversales 86 traversantes de montage du mécanisme d'immobilisation longitudinale 76.The tubular sleeve 80 defines a central lumen 84 for receiving the fastening head 22 and transverse openings 86 for mounting the longitudinal immobilization mechanism 76.

Dans cet exemple, le manchon 80 présente, autour de chaque ouverture transversale 86, une nervure longitudinale 88 d'appui du mécanisme d'immobilisation 76, à travers laquelle s'étend l'ouverture transversale 86.In this example, the sleeve 80 has, around each transverse opening 86, a longitudinal rib 88 for supporting the immobilization mechanism 76, through which the transverse opening 86 extends.

La lumière centrale 84 s'étend le long de l'axe B-B'. Elle débouche vers le haut en regard du fond de moule 72, au niveau de l'extrémité supérieure du support 70.The central lumen 84 extends along the axis B-B '. It opens upwards facing the mold bottom 72, at the upper end of the support 70.

Dans cet exemple, la lumière centrale 84 est obturée partiellement vers le bas par la paroi de fond 82. Elle débouche axialement vers le bas à travers l'embout de montage 74.In this example, the central lumen 84 is closed partially downwards by the bottom wall 82. It opens axially downwards through the mounting end 74.

Le manchon tubulaire 80 définit ici deux ouvertures transversales 86 disposées en regard l'une de l'autre, de part et d'autre de l'axe B-B'.The tubular sleeve 80 here defines two transverse openings 86 arranged opposite one another, on either side of the axis B-B '.

Chaque ouverture transversale 86 débouche dans la lumière centrale 84, vers l'axe B-B', et à l'extérieur du manchon 80, à l'écart de l'axe B-B'.Each transverse opening 86 opens into the central lumen 84, towards the axis B-B ', and outside the sleeve 80, away from the axis B-B'.

Dans cet exemple, chaque ouverture transversale 86 est une fente longitudinale d'axe B-B' s'étendant sur une partie de la longueur du manchon 70.In this example, each transverse opening 86 is a longitudinal slot of axis BB 'extending over a portion of the length of the sleeve 70.

La longueur de l'ouverture transversale 86, prise le long de l'axe B-B', est par exemple comprise entre 50 % et 75 % de la longueur du manchon 80.The length of the transverse opening 86, taken along the axis B-B ', is for example between 50% and 75% of the length of the sleeve 80.

Chaque nervure longitudinale 88 fait saillie radialement par rapport à l'axe B-B' sur la surface extérieure du manchon 80.Each longitudinal rib 88 protrudes radially from the axis B-B 'on the outer surface of the sleeve 80.

La nervure 88 définit un méplat 90, destiné à l'appui du mécanisme 76, et des bords longitudinaux 92 de fixation du mécanisme 76.The rib 88 defines a flat part 90, intended to support the mechanism 76, and longitudinal edges 92 for fixing the mechanism 76.

Comme illustré par les figures 3 à 6, le fond de moule 72 comporte une première demi pièce 94 et une deuxième demi pièce 96, qui sont montées mobiles l'une par rapport à l'autre et par rapport au support 70, entre une configuration ouverte d'insertion de la tête d'accrochage 22, et une configuration fermée d'introduction de la tête d'accrochage 22 dans l'anneau mouleur 36.As illustrated by Figures 3 to 6 , the mold base 72 comprises a first half-piece 94 and a second half-piece 96, which are mounted movable relative to each other and relative to the support 70, between an open configuration of insertion of the head of the mold. 22, and a closed configuration of introduction of the attachment head 22 in the moulder ring 36.

Le fond de moule 72 comporte en outre un mécanisme 98 de guidage du déplacement de chaque demi pièce 94, 96, et un ensemble 100 de refroidissement de chaque demi pièce 94, 96.The mold base 72 further comprises a mechanism 98 for guiding the displacement of each half-piece 94, 96, and a cooling assembly 100 of each half-piece 94, 96.

Chaque demi pièce 94, 96 est formée en un matériau métallique similaire à celui constituant le moule 42 de l'anneau mouleur 36, par exemple en cuivre.Each half piece 94, 96 is formed of a metal material similar to that constituting the mold 42 of the moulder ring 36, for example copper.

Dans cet exemple, chaque demi pièce 94, 96 est formée par un demi disque délimitant une encoche centrale. Elle présente ainsi une forme générale de C.In this example, each half piece 94, 96 is formed by a half disc defining a central notch. It thus presents a general form of C.

Chaque demi pièce 94, 96 définit une surface supérieure 102 sensiblement plane, destinée à recevoir du métal fondu au fond du moule 42, et à le refroidir pour solidifier le métal. La surface supérieure 102 s'étend avantageusement dans un plan sensiblement perpendiculaire à l'axe B-B'.Each half piece 94, 96 defines an upper surface 102 substantially planar, intended to receive molten metal at the bottom of the mold 42, and to cool to solidify the metal. The upper surface 102 advantageously extends in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis B-B '.

Les demi pièces 94, 96 sont déplaçables transversalement vers l'axe B-B' entre la configuration ouverte et la configuration fermée, avantageusement en translation suivant un axe C-C' perpendiculaire à l'axe B-B', visible sur la figure 4.The half-pieces 94, 96 are displaceable transversely towards the axis BB 'between the open configuration and the closed configuration, advantageously in translation along an axis CC' perpendicular to the axis B-B ', visible on the figure 4 .

Les demi-pièces 94, 96 définissent entre elles un orifice axial 104 d'introduction de la tête d'accrochage 22 dans la lumière centrale 84 du support 70.The half-pieces 94, 96 define between them an axial orifice 104 for introducing the fastening head 22 into the central lumen 84 of the support 70.

Dans la configuration ouverte, représentée sur la figure 4, l'orifice d'introduction 104 présente une étendue supérieure à celle qu'il présente dans la configuration fermée.In the open configuration, represented on the figure 4 , the introduction orifice 104 has a greater extent than it has in the closed configuration.

Dans la configuration fermée, les demi pièces 94, 96 sont sensiblement au contact l'une de l'autre. L'orifice d'introduction 104 est sensiblement fermé et présente un contour sensiblement conjugué au contour extérieur de la tête d'accrochage 22.In the closed configuration, the half-pieces 94, 96 are substantially in contact with each other. The insertion orifice 104 is substantially closed and has a contour substantially conjugate to the outer contour of the attachment head 22.

Par ailleurs, les demi pièces 94, 96 présentent un contour extérieur sensiblement conjugué au contour intérieur du moule 42.Furthermore, the half-pieces 94, 96 have an outer contour substantially conjugate to the inner contour of the mold 42.

Le mécanisme de guidage 98 comporte des glissières 106 fixées sur la surface extérieure du manchon 80 par des équerres 108. Chaque demi pièce 94, 96 est portée par deux glissières 106 disposées de part et d'autre de l'axe B-B'.The guide mechanism 98 comprises slides 106 fixed on the outer surface of the sleeve 80 by brackets 108. Each half piece 94, 96 is carried by two rails 106 disposed on either side of the axis B-B '.

L'ensemble de refroidissement 100 comporte des plaques creuses 110 délimitant des canaux de circulation de fluide de refroidissement, et des raccords d'alimentation en fluide de refroidissement (non représentés). Les plaques creuses 110 sont rapportées sous chaque demi pièce 94, 96.The cooling assembly 100 comprises hollow plates 110 delimiting cooling fluid circulation channels, and cooling fluid supply connections (not shown). The hollow plates 110 are reported under each half piece 94, 96.

Un fluide de refroidissement, par exemple de l'eau, est apte à circuler dans les canaux définis entre les plaques creuses 110 et chaque demi pièce 94, 96, pour refroidir la surface supérieure 102.A cooling fluid, for example water, is able to circulate in the channels defined between the hollow plates 110 and each half-piece 94, 96, to cool the upper surface 102.

Selon l'invention, le mécanisme d'immobilisation longitudinale 76 comporte un organe transversal 120 d'immobilisation de la tête d'accrochage 22, et un ensemble de blocage 122 de l'organe transversal d'immobilisation 120 sur le support 70 dans une position longitudinale ajustable le long de l'axe B-B'.According to the invention, the longitudinal immobilization mechanism 76 comprises a transverse member 120 immobilizing the attachment head 22, and a locking assembly 122 of the transverse immobilization member 120 on the support 70 in a position longitudinally adjustable along the axis B-B '.

Dans cet exemple, l'organe transversal 120 est formé par une goupille.In this example, the transverse member 120 is formed by a pin.

L'organe transversal 120 est monté à travers un trou traversant 124 ménagé transversalement dans la tête d'accrochage 22, et à travers chaque ouverture transversale 86. Ses extrémités font saillie transversalement de part et d'autre du support 70, pour être saisies par l'ensemble de blocage 122.The transverse member 120 is mounted through a through hole 124 formed transversely in the fastening head 22, and through each transverse opening 86. Its ends protrude transversely on either side of the support 70, to be gripped by the locking assembly 122.

L'ensemble de blocage 122 comporte des oreilles 130 démontables d'engagement sur l'organe transversal 120, et, pour chaque oreille 130, une fourchette de retenue 132 de l'oreille de blocage 130 sur le support 70.The locking assembly 122 has removable engagement lugs 130 on the transverse member 120, and for each lug 130, a retaining fork 132 of the locking lug 130 on the support 70.

L'ensemble de blocage 122 comporte en outre avantageusement des organes 134 de fixation complémentaire de chaque oreille 130 sur le support 70.The locking assembly 122 advantageously furthermore comprises fastening members 134 complementary to each lug 130 on the support 70.

Chaque oreille 130 comporte une chape 136 d'engagement d'une extrémité de l'organe transversal 120 et une tige 138 de fixation sur la fourchette 132.Each lug 130 includes a yoke 136 for engaging one end of the transverse member 120 and a rod 138 for attachment to the yoke 132.

La chape 136 délimite un passage 140 recevant une extrémité de l'organe transversal 120 pour la bloquer en translation le long de l'axe B-B'.The yoke 136 delimits a passage 140 receiving one end of the transverse member 120 to lock it in translation along the axis B-B '.

La tige de fixation 138 fait saillie par rapport à la chape 136. Elle est propre à s'engager dans la fourchette 132, afin de maintenir la chape 136 axialement en position le long de l'axe B-B'.The attachment rod 138 protrudes from the yoke 136. It is adapted to engage the fork 132, in order to maintain the yoke 136 axially in position along the axis B-B '.

La fourchette 132 est fixée sur le support 70, avantageusement sous l'ouverture traversante 86.The fork 132 is fixed on the support 70, advantageously under the through opening 86.

Les organes 134 de fixation complémentaire sont formés par des systèmes de vis montées à travers la chape 136 dans le support 70, avantageusement au niveau de trous ménagés dans les bords latéraux 92 de la nervure 88.The complementary fixing members 134 are formed by screw systems mounted through the yoke 136 in the support 70, advantageously at holes formed in the lateral edges 92 of the rib 88.

Chaque oreille 130 est propre à être assemblée de manière réversible sur le support 70, entre une configuration démontée à l'écart du support 70 et une pluralité de configurations montées sur le support 70, espacées le long de l'axe B-B'.Each lug 130 is adapted to be reversibly assembled on the holder 70 between a disassembled configuration away from the holder 70 and a plurality of configurations mounted on the holder 70, spaced along the axis B-B '.

Dans la configuration montée sur le support 70, le passage 140 de la chape 136 reçoit l'extrémité de l'organe transversal 120. La tige 138 fait saillie par rapport à la chape 136 pour être reçue dans la fourchette 132. Elle est maintenue dans la fourchette 132 par des organes de fixation démontables, de type écrou.In the configuration mounted on the support 70, the passage 140 of the yoke 136 receives the end of the transverse member 120. The rod 138 protrudes with respect to the yoke 136 to be received in the fork 132. It is maintained in the fork 132 by removable fasteners, nut type.

La chape 136 est plaquée contre le support 70, avantageusement au niveau du méplat 90. Elle est maintenue en position plaquée par les organes de fixation complémentaire 134.The yoke 136 is pressed against the support 70, advantageously at the level of the flat part 90. It is held in the plated position by the complementary fastening members 134.

Dans l'exemple représente sur la figure 3, chaque oreille 130 est propre à être fixée sur le support 70 dans un nombre discret de configurations montées, espacées longitudinalement les unes des autres le long de l'axe B-B'.In the example represents on the figure 3 each lug 130 is adapted to be attached to the support 70 in a discrete number of mounted configurations longitudinally spaced apart along the axis B-B '.

Ces configurations sont définies par la position des trous ménagés dans les bords latéraux 92 de la nervure 88.These configurations are defined by the position of the holes formed in the lateral edges 92 of the rib 88.

En variante, la position de la configuration montée peut être ajustée continûment le long de l'ouverture transversale 86 suivant l'axe B-B'.Alternatively, the position of the mounted configuration can be adjusted continuously along the transverse opening 86 along the axis B-B '.

L'ajustement longitudinal des oreilles 130 modifie la position relative de la tête d'accrochage 22 par rapport au support 70, et par rapport au fond de moule 72, pour que la longueur du tronçon de la tête d'accrochage 22 faisant saillie au-dessus du fond de moule 72 soit constante, quel que soit la longueur de la tête d'accrochage 22.The longitudinal adjustment of the lugs 130 modifies the relative position of the attachment head 22 with respect to the support 70, and with respect to the mold base 72, so that the length of the section of the attachment head 22 protruding beyond above the bottom of the mold 72 is constant, regardless of the length of the attachment head 22.

Ceci permet l'utilisation de têtes d'accrochage 22 de tailles variées, autorisant notamment le recyclage des têtes d'accrochage 22 déjà utilisées.This allows the use of fastening heads 22 of various sizes, allowing in particular the recycling of fastening heads 22 already used.

Le mécanisme d'immobilisation radiale 78 comporte des vis de poussée réglables 150 insérés radialement à travers le support 70 dans la lumière centrale 84.The radial immobilization mechanism 78 includes adjustable thrust screws 150 inserted radially through the support 70 into the central lumen 84.

Chaque vis de poussée 150 est propre à venir en appui radial sur la tête d'accrochage 22, pour la bloquer radialement par rapport à l'axe B-B' au moins dans une direction.Each thrust screw 150 is able to come into radial abutment on the attachment head 22, to lock it radially relative to the axis B-B 'in at least one direction.

En référence à la figure 3, le poste d'assemblage 24 comporte une base 160 d'assemblage de la tête d'accrochage 22 et du support 70, et un ensemble de manutention (non représenté).With reference to the figure 3 , the assembly station 24 comprises a base 160 for assembling the attachment head 22 and the support 70, and a handling assembly (not shown).

Un procédé de production d'une pièce métallique dans l'installation 10 selon l'invention va maintenant être décrit.A method of producing a metal part in the installation 10 according to the invention will now be described.

Le procédé comporte une phase d'assemblage de l'outillage 20, une phase de formation d'une électrode 16 dans l'ensemble creuset 14 à l'aide de l'outillage 20, puis une phase de refusion de l'électrode 16 dans le four de refusion 18.The method comprises an assembly phase of the tooling 20, a phase of forming an electrode 16 in the crucible assembly 14 by means of the tooling 20, and then a phase of reflow of the electrode 16 in the reflow oven 18.

La phase d'assemblage peut être réalisée en temps masqué en dehors de l'enceinte principale recevant l'ensemble creuset cuivre 14.The assembly phase can be performed in masked time outside the main enclosure receiving the copper crucible assembly 14.

Elle comporte tout d'abord la disposition du support 70 sur la base d'assemblage 160. Avantageusement, l'extrémité libre de la base d'assemblage 160 fait saillie dans la lumière centrale 84 à travers l'embout de montage 74.It comprises first of all the arrangement of the support 70 on the assembly base 160. Advantageously, the free end of the assembly base 160 projects into the central lumen 84 through the mounting end 74.

Les demi pièces 94, 96 du fond de moule 72 sont alors placées dans leur configuration ouverte.The half pieces 94, 96 of the mold base 72 are then placed in their open configuration.

Puis, la tête d'accrochage 22 est introduite par le haut dans la lumière centrale 84 à travers l'orifice axial 104 défini entre les demi pièce 94, 96.Then, the attachment head 22 is introduced from above into the central lumen 84 through the axial orifice 104 defined between the half pieces 94, 96.

La tête d'accrochage 22 est fixée de manière réversible sur l'extrémité libre de la base d'assemblage 160, dans la lumière centrale 84.The attachment head 22 is reversibly fixed to the free end of the assembly base 160 in the central lumen 84.

La position axiale de la tête d'accrochage 22 le long de l'axe B-B' est alors réglée en déplaçant la base d'assemblage 160 par rapport au support 70, en fonction de la hauteur souhaitée du tronçon de la tête 22 en saillie au-delà du fond de moule 72, affleurant le fond de moule 72 ou en retrait en deçà du fond de moule 72.The axial position of the attachment head 22 along the axis BB 'is then adjusted by moving the assembly base 160 relative to the support 70, as a function of the desired height of the section of the head 22 projecting from beyond the bottom of the mold 72, flush with the bottom of the mold 72 or set back below the bottom of the mold 72.

Puis, l'organe transversal 120 est introduit successivement dans une première ouverture transversale 86, dans le trou traversant 124, puis dans une deuxième ouverture transversale 86.Then, the transverse member 120 is introduced successively into a first transverse opening 86, into the through hole 124, then into a second transverse opening 86.

Les extrémités libres de l'organe transversal 120 dépassent alors transversalement hors du support 70 à travers les ouvertures transversales 86 respectives.The free ends of the transverse member 120 then protrude transversely out of the support 70 through the respective transverse openings 86.

Les oreilles 130 sont ensuite engagées autour de chaque extrémité libre de l'organe transversal 120 et sont fixées contre le support 70.The ears 130 are then engaged around each free end of the transverse member 120 and are fixed against the support 70.

À cet effet, chaque extrémité libre de l'organe transversal 120 est introduite dans un passage 140 défini dans la chape 136. Simultanément, la tige de fixation 138 est insérée dans une fourchette de retenue 132.For this purpose, each free end of the transverse member 120 is introduced into a passage 140 defined in the yoke 136. Simultaneously, the fixing rod 138 is inserted into a retaining fork 132.

La chape 136 est plaquée contre le méplat 90. Les organes de fixation de la tige 138 sur la fourchette 132 sont mis en place. Les organes de fixation additionnels 134 entre la chape 136 et la nervure 88 sont également assemblés.The yoke 136 is pressed against the flat surface 90. The fixing members of the rod 138 on the fork 132 are put in place. The additional fasteners 134 between the yoke 136 and the rib 88 are also assembled.

Chaque oreille 130 occupe une configuration montée sur le support 70, dans une position axiale déterminée.Each ear 130 occupies a configuration mounted on the support 70, in a determined axial position.

La tête d'accrochage 22 est alors immobilisée axialement le long de l'axe B-B' dans une position choisie, par l'intermédiaire de l'ensemble de blocage 122 comprenant l'organe transversal 120 et les oreilles 130.The attachment head 22 is then immobilized axially along the axis B-B 'in a selected position, through the locking assembly 122 comprising the transverse member 120 and the lugs 130.

Puis, les demi pièces 94, 96 sont passées dans leur configuration fermée ceinturant l'extrémité de la tête d'accrochage 22.Then, the half pieces 94, 96 are passed in their closed configuration belting the end of the attachment head 22.

L'outillage 20 comprenant la tête d'accrochage 22 est alors convoyé jusqu'à l'anneau mouleur 36 de l'ensemble creuset 14.The tool 20 comprising the attachment head 22 is then conveyed to the moulder ring 36 of the crucible assembly 14.

L'embout de montage 74 est monté sur l'organe de déplacement 44. Des conduits d'alimentation en fluide de refroidissement (non représentés) sont raccordés à l'ensemble de refroidissement 100.The mounting tip 74 is mounted on the displacement member 44. Coolant supply conduits (not shown) are connected to the cooling assembly 100.

L'organe de déplacement 44 est actionné pour placer le fond de moule 72 dans la cavité de moulage 46 définie dans le moule 42.The displacement member 44 is actuated to place the mold base 72 in the molding cavity 46 defined in the mold 42.

L'extrémité de la tête d'accrochage 22 est alors partiellement fondue, par exemple par le faisceau 54 de l'appareil de fusion 38 situé au-dessus de l'anneau mouleur 36.The end of the attachment head 22 is then partially melted, for example by the beam 54 of the melting apparatus 38 situated above the moulder ring 36.

Du métal fondu provenant d'un creuset d'affinage 34 est ensuite introduit dans la cavité de moulage 46 pour remplir progressivement la cavité de moulage 46. Lors de cette coulée, la tête d'accrochage 22 se soude sur l'électrode 16, sans intervention extérieureMolten metal from a refining crucible 34 is then introduced into the molding cavity 46 to gradually fill the molding cavity 46. During this casting, the attachment head 22 is welded to the electrode 16, without external intervention

Ensuite, l'organe de déplacement 44 est actionné pour tirer conjointement vers le bas le support de tête d'accrochage 70, le fond de moule 72 et l'électrode 16 en formation sur le fond de moule 72. La coulée continue de l'électrode 16 s'effectue progressivement.Then, the displacement member 44 is actuated to jointly pull down the hook head support 70, the mold bottom 72 and the forming electrode 16 on the mold bottom 72. The continuous casting of the electrode 16 is carried out gradually.

Une fois l'électrode 16 formée, elle est extraite hors de l'ensemble creuset 14, la tête d'accrochage 22 étant déjà soudée à une de ses extrémités.Once the electrode 16 is formed, it is extracted out of the crucible assembly 14, the attachment head 22 already being welded at one of its ends.

Après démontage de l'outillage 20 selon l'invention, l'électrode 16, munie de sa tête d'accrochage 22, est introduite dans le four de refusion 18 et est montée directement sur l'organe de déplacement et de raccordement électrique 28 du four de refusion 18.After disassembly of the tooling 20 according to the invention, the electrode 16, provided with its attachment head 22, is introduced into the reflow oven 18 and is mounted directly on the displacement member and electrical connection 28 of the reflow oven 18.

Aucune opération de soudure ou d'assemblage mécanique n'est nécessaire, ce qui simplifie considérablement la mise en oeuvre du procédé, et diminue le temps de cycle.No welding or mechanical assembly operation is necessary, which considerably simplifies the implementation of the method, and reduces the cycle time.

La tête d'accrochage 22 est en outre raccordée électriquement à la source de puissance électrique 62, pour provoquer la refusion de l'électrode 16 dans le creuset 60 et former la pièce métallique souhaitée.The attachment head 22 is further electrically connected to the electrical power source 62 to cause reflow of the electrode 16 in the crucible 60 and form the desired metal part.

L'outillage 20 selon l'invention est donc particulièrement simple d'utilisation et s'adapte à une grande variété de têtes d'accrochage 22. Ceci autorise le recyclage des têtes d'accrochage 22.The tooling 20 according to the invention is therefore particularly easy to use and adapts to a wide variety of attachment heads 22. This allows the recycling of the attachment heads 22.

Le montage de l'outillage 20 peut être réalisé en temps masqué, augmentant la productivité du procédé.The mounting of the tool 20 can be performed in masked time, increasing the productivity of the process.

Par ailleurs, la tête d'accrochage 22 est fixée sur l'électrode 16 directement lors de sa fabrication, sans intervention extérieure et peut être montée directement dans le four de refusion 18, sans assemblage mécanique supplémentaire à réaliser.Furthermore, the attachment head 22 is fixed on the electrode 16 directly during its manufacture, without external intervention and can be mounted directly in the reflow oven 18, without additional mechanical assembly to achieve.

Claims (15)

  1. A tool (20) for fixing a connecting head (22) on an electrode (16) casted in a mold (42), comprising:
    - a connecting head (22) support (70) extending along a longitudinal axis (B-B');
    - a mold base (72), supported by the support (70), the mold base (72) defining an axial orifice (104) for passage of the connecting head (22);
    - an end-piece (74) for mounting the support (70) on a movement member (44) for moving the tool (20) in the mold (42); and
    - a mechanism (76) for longitudinal immobilization of the connecting head (22) on the support (70);
    characterized in that the mechanism (76) for longitudinal immobilization is longitudinally adjustable relative to the support (70) in order to immobilize the connecting head (22) relative to the support (70) in at least two different longitudinal positions along the longitudinal axis (B-B').
  2. The tool (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that the longitudinal immobilizing mechanism (76) comprises at least one transverse immobilizing member (120) for the connecting head (22) and an assembly (122) for locking the transverse immobilizing member (120) on the support (70) in each of the separate longitudinal positions.
  3. The tool (20) according to claim 2, characterized in that the support (70) delimits at least one transverse passage opening (86), the transverse immobilizing member (120) passing through the transverse opening (86), the locking assembly (122) being positioned on an outer surface of the support (70), outside the transverse opening (86).
  4. The tool (20) according to claim 3, characterized in that the locking assembly (122) comprises at least one lug (130) engaged on the transverse immobilizing member (120), the lug (130) being able to be disassembled with respect to the support (70), the locking assembly (122) comprising a locking protrusion for locking the lug (130) against the support (70), fixed on the support (70).
  5. The tool (20) according to claim 4, characterized in that the lug (130) comprises a longitudinal fixing rod (138), the locking protrusion comprising a retaining yoke (132) for retaining the longitudinal fixing rod (138).
  6. The tool (20) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the transverse opening (86) is a longitudinal slot.
  7. The tool (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a mechanism (78) for radial immobilization of the connecting head (22) with respect to the longitudinal axis (B-B').
  8. The tool (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mold base (72) comprises:
    - a first mold base (72) part (94) delimiting a first part of the contour of the axial passage orifice (104);
    - a second mold base (72) part (96) delimiting a second part of the contour of the axial passage orifice (104), the first part (94) and/or the second part (96) being mounted to be transversely movable on the support (70) between an insertion configuration of the connecting head (22) and a usage configuration;
    - a mechanism (98) for guiding the movement of the first part (94) and/or the second part (96) with respect to the support (70).
  9. The tool (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mold base (72) comprises a cooling assembly (100).
  10. The tool (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support (70) comprises a tubular sleeve (80) defining a central aperture (84) for insertion of the connecting head (22), the mold base (72) being mounted at one longitudinal end of the tubular sleeve (80), the mounting end-piece (74) being situated at an opposite longitudinal end of the tubular sleeve (80).
  11. The tool (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it bears a connecting head (22) on an electrode (16), immobilized longitudinally relative to the support (70) by the immobilizing mechanism, the connecting head (22) protruding beyond the mold base (72) through the axial passage orifice (104) of the mold base (72).
  12. An installation (10) for producing metal parts, comprising:
    - a refining hearth assembly (14), comprising at least one mold (42) for forming an electrode (16) by casting,
    - a tool (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, movably mounted in the mold (42), the tool (20) bearing a connecting head (22);
    the hearth assembly (14) comprising a movement member (44) for moving the tool (20) in the mold (42), the mounting end-piece (74) of the support (70) of the tool (20) being mounted on the movement member (44).
  13. The installation (10) according to claim 12, characterized in that it comprises a furnace (18) for remelting the electrode (16) formed in the hearth assembly (14), the remelting furnace (18) comprising:
    - an additional movement member (28) for moving and electrically connecting the connecting head (22) in the remelting furnace (18), able to receive the connecting head (22).
  14. A method for producing metal parts, comprising the following steps:
    - loading a connecting head (22) in a tool (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 11;
    - adjusting the longitudinal position of the connecting head (22) relative to the support (70) in a selected longitudinal position;
    - immobilizing the connecting head (22) in the selected longitudinal position, using the longitudinal immobilizing mechanism (76);
    - inserting the mold base (72) into a mold (42) for forming an electrode (16) by casting, at least part of the connecting head (22) protruding from, being flush with or being set back from the mold base (72);
    - pouring molten metal into the mold (42) on said part of the connecting head (22);
    - moving the tool (20) using a movement member (44) of the mold (42) to form the electrode (16).
  15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that it comprises the following steps:
    - recovering the electrode (16) equipped with the connecting head (22);
    - mounting the connecting head (22) on an additional movement and electrical connection member (28) of a remelting furnace (18);
    - remelting the electrode (16) in the remelting furnace (18).
EP14798810.9A 2013-11-13 2014-11-12 Tool for fastening an attachment head to an electrode cast in a mould, associated installation and associated method Active EP2919931B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1361088A FR3009216B1 (en) 2013-11-13 2013-11-13 TOOLING FOR ATTACHING A HITCH HEAD TO A CASTING ELECTRODE IN A MOLD, AND ASSOCIATED INSTALLATION AND METHOD
PCT/EP2014/074379 WO2015071312A1 (en) 2013-11-13 2014-11-12 Tool for fastening an attachment head to an electrode cast in a mould, associated installation and associated method

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EP2919931B1 true EP2919931B1 (en) 2016-09-21

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JP (1) JP5982583B2 (en)
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JP7095470B2 (en) * 2018-08-02 2022-07-05 日本製鉄株式会社 Manufacturing method and manufacturing equipment for titanium ingots or titanium alloy ingots

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JPS4916015B1 (en) * 1970-10-16 1974-04-19
DE2126993C3 (en) * 1971-06-01 1974-01-24 Leybold-Heraeus Gmbh & Co Kg, 5000 Koeln Process for the production of consumable electrodes for electrometallurgical processes and casting mold for carrying out the process
ES2016928T5 (en) * 1986-01-03 1995-08-16 Dislich Margrit PROCEDURE AND ARRANGEMENT TO JOIN A NEW CAST LINE IN A CONTINUOUS CAST FACILITY.
SU1457273A1 (en) * 1987-04-20 1994-11-15 Украинский научно-исследовательский институт металлов Device for continuous casting of inclined blanks
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JP2745595B2 (en) * 1988-12-05 1998-04-28 大同特殊鋼株式会社 Electroslag remelting equipment
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JP2000197949A (en) * 1998-12-28 2000-07-18 Kawasaki Steel Corp Method for starting casting in bloom continuous casting
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JP4654850B2 (en) * 2005-09-09 2011-03-23 大同特殊鋼株式会社 Attaching the stub to the electrode used in the remelting furnace
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US20160250681A1 (en) 2016-09-01
KR20150099753A (en) 2015-09-01
US9808860B2 (en) 2017-11-07
FR3009216B1 (en) 2015-09-04
RU2015123712A (en) 2017-01-10
JP2016504198A (en) 2016-02-12
EP2919931A1 (en) 2015-09-23
FR3009216A1 (en) 2015-02-06
KR101758262B1 (en) 2017-07-14
WO2015071312A1 (en) 2015-05-21
RU2610992C2 (en) 2017-02-17

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