EP2964412B1 - Method and facility for transforming a liquid-state metal into a solid-state metal - Google Patents

Method and facility for transforming a liquid-state metal into a solid-state metal Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP2964412B1
EP2964412B1 EP14707426.4A EP14707426A EP2964412B1 EP 2964412 B1 EP2964412 B1 EP 2964412B1 EP 14707426 A EP14707426 A EP 14707426A EP 2964412 B1 EP2964412 B1 EP 2964412B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
downstream
metal
installation
receiving surface
vibrating
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.)
Active
Application number
EP14707426.4A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2964412A2 (en
Inventor
Christian Roche
Arthur TRAUB
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.)
Fai Production SAS
Original Assignee
Fai Production SAS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Fai Production SAS filed Critical Fai Production SAS
Publication of EP2964412A2 publication Critical patent/EP2964412A2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2964412B1 publication Critical patent/EP2964412B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22F—WORKING METALLIC POWDER; MANUFACTURE OF ARTICLES FROM METALLIC POWDER; MAKING METALLIC POWDER; APPARATUS OR DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR METALLIC POWDER
    • B22F9/00—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof
    • B22F9/02—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof using physical processes
    • B22F9/06—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof using physical processes starting from liquid material
    • 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
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22D—CASTING OF METALS; CASTING OF OTHER SUBSTANCES BY THE SAME PROCESSES OR DEVICES
    • B22D5/00—Machines or plants for pig or like casting
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22F—WORKING METALLIC POWDER; MANUFACTURE OF ARTICLES FROM METALLIC POWDER; MAKING METALLIC POWDER; APPARATUS OR DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR METALLIC POWDER
    • B22F9/00—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof
    • B22F9/02—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof using physical processes
    • B22F9/04—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof using physical processes starting from solid material, e.g. by crushing, grinding or milling
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22F—WORKING METALLIC POWDER; MANUFACTURE OF ARTICLES FROM METALLIC POWDER; MAKING METALLIC POWDER; APPARATUS OR DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR METALLIC POWDER
    • B22F9/00—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof
    • B22F9/02—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof using physical processes
    • B22F9/06—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof using physical processes starting from liquid material
    • B22F9/08—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof using physical processes starting from liquid material by casting, e.g. through sieves or in water, by atomising or spraying
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22F—WORKING METALLIC POWDER; MANUFACTURE OF ARTICLES FROM METALLIC POWDER; MAKING METALLIC POWDER; APPARATUS OR DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR METALLIC POWDER
    • B22F9/00—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof
    • B22F9/02—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof using physical processes
    • B22F9/04—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof using physical processes starting from solid material, e.g. by crushing, grinding or milling
    • B22F2009/045—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof using physical processes starting from solid material, e.g. by crushing, grinding or milling by other means than ball or jet milling
    • B22F2009/047—Making metallic powder or suspensions thereof using physical processes starting from solid material, e.g. by crushing, grinding or milling by other means than ball or jet milling by rolling

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of metallurgical industry.
  • a conditioning phase After treatment in a reduction furnace of a metal previously obtained from an ore, a conditioning phase must be carried out consisting in obtaining, from the metal in the liquid state, fragments of metal in the solid state , with specific dimensions.
  • a conditioning phase consisting in obtaining, from the metal in the liquid state, fragments of metal in the solid state , with specific dimensions.
  • Such a demand for products in the form of fragments relates in particular to ferro-alloys and silicon-metal.
  • Such a process requires making a sand bowl for each pour and having a very expensive installation for destroying and crushing blocks. This process is particularly long to implement and therefore expensive and generates a significant production of unwanted fines or metal dust which can reach 15% of the production.
  • the object of the present invention is to considerably reduce the times for producing fragments of a metal in the solid state from a metal in the liquid state, by implementing an installation which is relatively simpler and less expensive. and which provides a relatively controlled dimensioning of the fragments.
  • the metal is preferably solidified when it reaches said fragmentation roller.
  • the method can include: circulating an emulsion of a liquid and a gas in transverse channels of an upstream cooling zone and circulating a liquid in transverse channels of a downstream cooling zone, these cooling zones succeeding each other in the longitudinal direction of said reception tables.
  • Said second table can constitute said downstream table.
  • the fragmentation roller may be subjected, on a first stroke, to first springs and, on a second stroke extending the first stroke, to second springs adding to the first springs.
  • Said second table can constitute said downstream table.
  • the installation may include at least one intermediate table located between said second table and said downstream table, means for vibrating this intermediate table and means for cooling this intermediate table.
  • Said tables may include receiving plates which are chosen from copper, with the exception of at least the part of said downstream table situated below said fragmentation roller which comprises a plate which is chosen from steel.
  • the means for vibrating said tables may be common.
  • the means for vibrating said tables can be separated.
  • Said tables may include plates, the cooling means having channels for circulation of a cooling fluid, arranged inside these plates.
  • Said tables can comprise, in an upstream zone of the installation, at least one plate having circulation channels provided with injectors of a liquid-coolant emulsion and, in a downstream zone following said upstream zone, at least one plate with circulation channels for a coolant.
  • the installation may include means for suspending said fragmentation roller including return springs.
  • Said suspension means may comprise pendulums on which the ends of the fragmentation roller are mounted to rotate, mobile means for supporting these pendulums, means for returning the fragmentation roller opposing the movements of the pendulums relative to the movable means of support and return means opposing the movements of said mobile supports.
  • the return means may be, at said equilibrium position, prestressed.
  • Said fragmentation roller can be placed above a downstream part of the downstream table.
  • the fragmentation roller can be provided at its periphery with a plurality of projecting fingers.
  • At least the upstream part of the receiving surface of the first table is inclined downstream.
  • At least two successive receiving plates can be greatly offset in the vertical direction so that the metal falls from one onto the other.
  • the installation may include an upstream zone in which at least one plate has circulation channels provided with injectors of a liquid-coolant emulsion and a downstream zone along said upstream zone in which at least one plate has circulation channels. circulation of a coolant.
  • the installation may include means for suspending said fragmentation roller including return springs.
  • At least the upstream part of the receiving surface of the first table or upstream table is inclined downstream.
  • This installation 1 is more particularly suitable for such processing of metals such as ferro-alloys or silicon metal.
  • the installation 1 may successively comprise, between a discharge station 2 and a discharge station 3, a plurality of longitudinal tables succeeding one another, including a first table longitudinal 4 and a second longitudinal table 5, this second table 5 constituting a table downstream of the installation.
  • the first longitudinal table 4 may comprise a plurality of successive plates 6, preferably made of copper, for example five, which substantially define a first longitudinal metal receiving surface 7, which has an upstream end 7a and a downstream end 7b.
  • the successive plates 6 slightly overlap, being vertically offset in steps corresponding substantially to their thicknesses, the upstream plates having downstream transverse edges placed on transverse edges upstream of the downstream plates, the upper face of each plate 6 being substantially horizontal and having longitudinal edges 6a of lateral delimitations, projecting upwards.
  • the first table 4 comprises a frame 8 which comprises longitudinal members 9 which extend below the lateral parts of the plates 6 and on which the latter are fixed by means of supports 10, the longitudinal members 9 being connected by cross members 11 .
  • the frame 8 is mounted on a fixed frame 12 by means of a plurality of springs 13 and the frame 8 is connected to the frame 12 by means of a vibration generating member 14 capable of vibrating the frame 8.
  • the second longitudinal table 5 may comprise a plurality of successive plates 15, preferably of copper, for example two, and an end plate 16, preferably of steel, which substantially define a second longitudinal surface 17 for receiving the metal, which has an upstream end 17a and a downstream end 17b.
  • the successive plates 15 and 16 overlap slightly, the upstream plates having downstream transverse edges placed on transverse edges upstream of the downstream plates, the upper face of each plate being substantially horizontal and having edges longitudinal 15a and 16a of lateral delimitations, projecting upwards.
  • the second table 4 comprises a frame 18 which comprises longitudinal members 19 which extend below the lateral parts of the plates 15 and 16 and on which the latter are fixed, the longitudinal members 19 being connected by cross members 20.
  • the frame 18 is mounted on a fixed frame 21 by means of a plurality of springs 22 and the frame 18 is connected to the frame 21 by means of a vibration generating member 23 capable of making the frame 18 vibrate.
  • the second table 4 is placed so that an upstream part of its longitudinal receiving surface 17 is located below and at a distance from the downstream end 7b of the longitudinal receiving surface 7 of the first longitudinal table 4, creating thus a strong discontinuity between the first longitudinal receiving surface 7 and the second longitudinal receiving surface 17.
  • the plates 6 and 15 have pluralities of internal cooling channels which extend transversely in planes parallel to their upper faces and which can be connected to sources of cooling fluids so as to circulate in these channels these fluids in order to cool these plates.
  • each plate 6 of the first table 4 has a plurality of transverse channels arranged in pairs of channels 24 and 25, so that the ends of each pair of channels, located on one side of this plate, are connected by elbows in recirculation U 26, the other ends of which are situated on the other side of the plate are one provided with an injector 27 and the other connected to an external duct 28.
  • Each injector 27 is fixed to the side of the plate 6 and has an internal emulsion chamber 29 in which a coolant such as water and a coolant gas such as nitrogen are supplied by external conduits 30 and 31 to be mixed and injected axially into each inner channel 24 of the plate 6 to be discharged through the outer conduit 28 corresponding.
  • the first longitudinal table 4 forms an upstream cooling zone.
  • the plates 15 of the second longitudinal table 5 have transverse cooling channels 32 which can be arranged as above, but without the provision of injectors, so as to circulate only a coolant such as the water.
  • the second longitudinal table 5 forms an upstream cooling zone.
  • the upstream cooling zone could extend over part of the length of the first longitudinal table 4 or extend over the second longitudinal table 5, the downstream cooling zone being arranged accordingly.
  • the installation 1 comprises a fixed frame 34 which carries an inclined longitudinal ramp 35 preferably provided with a refractory material, which is located above and behind the upstream part of the receiving surface 7 of the first table 4 and which can also be equipped with transverse channels 36 for cooling by a suitable fluid.
  • the installation 1 is equipped, at the discharge station 2, with maneuvering means 33 for receiving a bag 37 and maneuvering the latter.
  • the first plate (s) 6 forming the upstream part of the receiving surface 7 of the first table 4 are slightly inclined downstream, by a few degrees, while all the other plates of the installation can be horizontal . According to an alternative embodiment, all the plates could be slightly inclined downstream.
  • Installation 1 can operate and be used as follows.
  • the vibration generating members 14 and 23 are in operation so that the plates 6 carried by the frame 9 of the first longitudinal table 4 vibrate and that the plates 15 and 16 carried by the frame 18 of the second longitudinal table 5 vibrate independently.
  • the cooling fluids circulate in the abovementioned internal channels of the plates 6 and 15 of the longitudinal tables 4 and 5.
  • a bag 37 containing a metal M in the liquid or molten state is placed at the pouring station 2.
  • the pocket 37 is maneuvered to pour the metal M in a controlled manner onto the inclined ramp 35 ( Figure 2 , arrow F1).
  • the metal M in the liquid state flows by spreading out on the inclined ramp 35 and spills over the upstream part of the receiving surface 7 of the first table ( Figure 2 , arrow F2), further spreading so as to form a ply (not shown).
  • the metal M in the form of a sheet moves from upstream to downstream on the receiving surface 7 of the first longitudinal table ( Figure 2 , arrow F3) and, concomitantly and gradually, under the effect of the cooling induced by the cooled plates 6, the metal M cools relatively suddenly, solidifies, and breaks, forming fragments as it progresses.
  • the fragments of the metal M spill and fall on the upstream part of the receiving surface 17 of the second longitudinal table 5 ( Figure 2 , arrow F4), of a height such that their fall still generates their fragmentation.
  • This is a drop from a height which is much greater than the reduced drops induced during the passage of the metal M from one receiving plate to the other of each of the tables.
  • the installation 1 can be equipped with vertical plates 39 and / or curtains of hanging chains 40, placed longitudinally on each side and above the edges of the receiving surfaces 7 and 17 and a plate 41 placed transversely below the downstream edge of the first longitudinal table and above the upstream edge of the second longitudinal table.
  • the installation 1 could be equipped with covers (not shown) extending above and at a distance from the longitudinal tables 4 and 5 and above the evacuation station.
  • first longitudinal table 4 and the second longitudinal table 5 could be connected together and mounted on a common fixed frame.
  • first longitudinal table 4 and the second longitudinal table 5 could be subjected to a common vibration generating member.
  • the difference in level between the downstream part of the first longitudinal table and the upstream part of the second longitudinal table may be greater than twelve percent of the length of the first table.
  • the length of the first longitudinal table 4 could be between four and six meters and the height of the fall between the first longitudinal table 4 and the second longitudinal table 5 could be between sixty and ninety centimeters.
  • the length of the second longitudinal table 5 could be between two and four meters.
  • the width of the longitudinal tables 4 and 5 can be between two and four meters.
  • the thickness of the plates 6, 15 and 16 could be between six and eight centimeters, the reduced falls between the plates of each table being in proportion to these thicknesses.
  • the thickness of the metal sheet M, after the liquid metal has been spilled, may be between half and ten centimeters.
  • the temperature of the fragments of this metal when they reach the end of the first longitudinal table 4 can be between 400 ° C and 800 ° C and the temperature of the fragments of this metal when they reach the end of the second longitudinal table 5 can be between 150 ° C and 300 ° C.
  • the copper plates 6 and 15 can be covered, at least on their upper surfaces for receiving the metal M, with a protective layer such as for example zircon or graphite.
  • the installation 1 may further comprise at least one mechanism 101 with a transverse fragmentation roller, placed for example above the receiving end plate 16 of the second longitudinal table 5.
  • a transverse fragmentation roller placed for example above the receiving end plate 16 of the second longitudinal table 5.
  • two offset mechanisms 101 longitudinally from upstream to downstream are planned.
  • the mechanism 101 comprises a rotary transverse roller driven with fragmentation 102 which is carried by suspension means 103 mounted on the fixed frame 21.
  • the suspension means 103 comprise end pendulums 104 which carry the ends of the roller 102, one of which is provided with a drive motor, for example hydraulic 105.
  • the suspension means 103 also comprise an upper cradle 106 which comprises lateral supports 107 connected by crosspieces 108 and articulated on the fixed frame 21 by means of transverse pivots 109.
  • the end pendulums 104 are connected to the lateral supports 107 by means of pairs of front and rear rods 110 and 111, the lower ends of which are provided with heads 112 and 113 which are articulated on either side of the ends of the roller 102, on the pendulums 104 by means of transverse pivots 114 and 115 and which slide freely through longitudinal arms 116 of the lateral supports 107, the upper ends of the rods 110 and 111 being provided with adjustment nuts 117 and 118
  • the rods 110 and 111 are arranged so as to form V open upwards.
  • the suspension means 103 further comprise central rods 119, substantially vertical, the lower ends of which are provided with heads 120 which are articulated on the fixed frame 21 by means of transverse pivots 121 and which slide freely through longitudinal arms 122 of the lateral supports 107.
  • the upper ends of the central rods 119 are provided with adjustment nuts 124 .
  • the heads 120 have shoulders 125 on which the longitudinal arms 122 can bear.
  • the suspension means 103 also comprise means for returning the roller 102 to an equilibrium position.
  • These return means comprise pairs of springs 126 and 127 which are arranged around the rods 110 and 111, between the heads 112 and 113 and the end portions of the longitudinal arms 116, the preload of these springs 126 and 127 being provided by nuts 117 and 118.
  • These return means also include central springs 128 which are arranged around the rods 119, between the longitudinal arms 122 by means of washers 129 and the nuts. 124, by means of washers 130, the prestressing of these springs 128 being ensured by the nuts 124.
  • the roller 102 is cylindrical and is provided at its periphery with protruding pins or fingers 131 added partially engaged in housings of the roller 102 and fixed by means of screws 132.
  • the roller 102 is cylindrical and is provided at its periphery with protruding pins or fingers 133 screwed directly into housings of the transverse roller.
  • Mechanism 101 can operate in the following manner.
  • the cradle 106 In the low equilibrium position of the fragmentation roller 102, on the one hand the cradle 106 is in the low position, the longitudinal arms 112 being forced to bear on the shoulders 125 of the heads 120 of the rods 119 under the effect springs 128, and, on the other hand, the nuts 117 and 118 are supported on the longitudinal arms 116 under the effect of the springs 126 and 127.
  • the cooling of the metal M along its path upstream of the mechanism 101 is such that the metal fragments M are solidified when they reach this mechanism 101.
  • the fingers of the transverse roller 102 can meet the fragments, in particular the largest and / or the clusters of fragments , and possibly cause their further fragmentation by percussion or punching.
  • the transverse roller 102 may have a tendency to lift and move upstream and / or downstream, by upward movement and / or tilting. end balancers 104, by compressing return springs 126 and 127.
  • the transverse roller 102 may tend to lift further. In this case, to compensate for additional stresses acting on the transverse roller 102, it is then the cradle 106 which can be lifted by pivoting around the transverse pivots 109, moving away from the shoulders 125 and compressing the central springs 128.
  • the springs 126 and 127 on the one hand and the central springs 128 on the other hand are dimensioned and prestressed so that the increase in the effects of fragmentation above, resulting from the above-mentioned progressiveness of the lifting of the transverse roller 102 , is established by the fact that the springs 126 and 127 oppose the lifting of the transverse roller 102 on a first stroke and that the central springs 128 are added to the springs 126 and 127 to oppose an additional lifting of the transverse roller 102 on a second race extending upwards the first race.
  • the mechanism 101 with transverse fragmentation roller 102 could be provided at another location along the longitudinal tables 4 and 5.
  • several mechanisms 101 with transverse fragmentation roller 102 spaced apart could be provided along one or more longitudinal tables 4 and 5.
  • the cradle 106 pivotally mounted could be replaced by vertical sliding means carrying the pendulums 104 and subjected to central springs equivalent to the central springs 128.
  • the installation 1 comprises, between the first table 4 and the last table 5 described above, several successive intermediate vibrating tables 42, which respectively comprise a plurality of successive plates 43, made of copper, determining the surfaces for receiving the metal 44 and which are respectively provided with vibration drive means which can be equivalent to those described above.
  • the successive plates 43 of each intermediate table 42 slightly overlap, the upstream plates having downstream transverse edges placed on upstream transverse edges of the downstream plates, the upper face of each plate being substantially horizontal.
  • the downstream end edges of the plates of the intermediate tables 42 are situated above and at a distance from the upstream end edges of the upstream plates of the tables which follow them, so that each can vibrate independently.
  • the falls of the metal M thus caused can be much lower than the significant fall occurring between the first table 4 and the first of the intermediate tables 43.
  • the first plate (s) 6b which determine an upstream zone, of the first table 4 are inclined downstream, so that, when the metal M is poured from the ramp 35, this inclination produces a driving effect downstream of the metal M and prevents the metal from stagnating on these plates, thus making cooling more efficient and protecting the plates against risks of tearing of the metal from the plates and their perforation.
  • this inclination can be between two and ten degrees.
  • the plate 16 located below the mechanism (s) 101 could be provided on a last vibrating reception table independent of the anterior reception tables.
  • the mechanism 101 with transverse fragmentation roller as well as the cooling means producing, on the receiving table or tables, a first cooling zone using a liquid-coolant emulsion and a second zone using only a coolant. could be used in an installation of different structure and operation.
  • one or more mechanisms 101 with transverse fragmentation rollers could be provided above anterior tables, in particular on at least one of the intermediate tables 42, preferably providing steel plates below these mechanisms.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Heat Treatments In General, Especially Conveying And Cooling (AREA)
  • Metal Rolling (AREA)
  • Crushing And Grinding (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne le domaine de l'industrie métallurgique.The present invention relates to the field of metallurgical industry.

Après traitement dans un four de réduction d'un métal issu antérieurement d'un minerai, on doit réaliser une phase de conditionnement consistant à l'obtention, à partir du métal à l'état liquide, de fragments de métal à l'état solide, présentant des dimensions spécifiques. Une telle demande de produits sous forme de fragments concerne en particulier les ferro-alliages et le silicium-métal.After treatment in a reduction furnace of a metal previously obtained from an ore, a conditioning phase must be carried out consisting in obtaining, from the metal in the liquid state, fragments of metal in the solid state , with specific dimensions. Such a demand for products in the form of fragments relates in particular to ferro-alloys and silicon-metal.

On met en oeuvre actuellement un procédé de refroidissement et de fragmentation qui consiste à réaliser une cuvette en sable, à couler le métal à l'état liquide dans cette cuvette pour former un bloc et à détruire et broyer ou concasser ce bloc de façon à obtenir des fragments de métal à l'état solide.We are currently implementing a cooling and fragmentation process which consists of making a sand bowl, pouring the metal in a liquid state into this bowl to form a block and destroying and crushing or crushing this block so as to obtain solid metal fragments.

Un tel procédé oblige à réaliser pour chaque coulée une cuvette en sable et à disposer d'une installation très coûteuse de destruction et de concasser des blocs. Ce procédé est particulièrement long à mettre en œuvre et donc coûteux et engendre une production importante de fines ou poussières de métal indésirables pouvant atteindre 15% de la production.Such a process requires making a sand bowl for each pour and having a very expensive installation for destroying and crushing blocks. This process is particularly long to implement and therefore expensive and generates a significant production of unwanted fines or metal dust which can reach 15% of the production.

Le brevet US-3 707 182 décrit une table rotative sur laquelle un matériau liquide est déversé. La table est refroidie de façon uniforme, de façon que le matériau se solidifie et se fragmente.The patent US-3,707,182 describes a rotary table on which a liquid material is poured. The table is uniformly cooled, so that the material solidifies and breaks up.

La présente invention a pour but de réduire considérablement les temps de production de fragments d'un métal à l'état solide à partir d'un métal à l'état liquide, en mettant en œuvre une installation qui est relativement plus simple et moins coûteuse et qui assure un dimensionnement relativement contrôlé des fragments.The object of the present invention is to considerably reduce the times for producing fragments of a metal in the solid state from a metal in the liquid state, by implementing an installation which is relatively simpler and less expensive. and which provides a relatively controlled dimensioning of the fragments.

Il est tout d'abord proposé un procédé pour la transformation d'un métal à l'état liquide en un métal à l'état solide et fragmenté, sur au moins deux tables se succédant l'une l'autre.First of all, a method is proposed for transforming a metal in the liquid state into a metal in the solid and fragmented state, on at least two tables which succeed one another.

Ce procédé comprend :

  • déverser le métal à l'état liquide sur une partie amont d'une première surface de réception d'une première table refroidie,
  • faire vibrer la première table de façon que le métal se déplace vers une extrémité aval de la surface de réception de cette première table,
  • faire chuter le métal depuis l'extrémité aval de la première table sur une partie amont d'une deuxième surface de réception d'une deuxième table refroidie,
  • faire vibrer la seconde table de façon que le métal se déplace vers une extrémité aval de la surface de réception de cette deuxième table,
  • faire passer le métal au-dessous d'au moins un rouleau transversal rotatif de fragmentation placé au-dessus d'une table aval située en aval de la première table,
  • faire vibrer la table aval de façon que le métal se déplace vers une extrémité aval de la surface de réception de cette dernière table aval, et
  • évacuer le métal fragmenté et solidifié à l'extrémité aval de la surface de réception de cette dernière table aval.
This process includes:
  • pouring the metal in the liquid state onto an upstream part of a first receiving surface of a first cooled table,
  • vibrating the first table so that the metal moves towards a downstream end of the receiving surface of this first table,
  • drop the metal from the downstream end of the first table onto an upstream part of a second receiving surface of a second cooled table,
  • vibrating the second table so that the metal moves towards a downstream end of the receiving surface of this second table,
  • passing the metal below at least one rotary transverse fragmentation roller placed above a downstream table located downstream of the first table,
  • vibrating the downstream table so that the metal moves towards a downstream end of the receiving surface of this last downstream table, and
  • evacuate the fragmented and solidified metal at the downstream end of the receiving surface of this last downstream table.

Le métal est de préférence solidifié lorsqu'il atteint ledit rouleau de fragmentation.The metal is preferably solidified when it reaches said fragmentation roller.

Le procédé peut comprendre : faire circuler une émulsion d'un liquide et d'un gaz dans des canaux transversaux d'une zone amont de refroidissement et faire circuler un liquide dans des canaux transversaux d'une zone aval de refroidissement, ces zones de refroidissement se succédant dans le sens longitudinal desdites tables de réception.The method can include: circulating an emulsion of a liquid and a gas in transverse channels of an upstream cooling zone and circulating a liquid in transverse channels of a downstream cooling zone, these cooling zones succeeding each other in the longitudinal direction of said reception tables.

Ladite seconde table peut constituer ladite table aval.Said second table can constitute said downstream table.

Le procédé peut comprendre :

  • faire passer le métal sur la surface de réception d'au moins une table intermédiaire refroidie située entre ladite deuxième table et ladite table aval, en faisant chuter le métal d'une table à l'autre,
  • faire vibrer ladite table intermédiaire de façon que le métal se déplace vers une extrémité aval de la surface de réception de cette table intermédiaire.
The process can include:
  • passing the metal over the receiving surface of at least one cooled intermediate table situated between said second table and said downstream table, by causing the metal to drop from one table to another,
  • vibrating said intermediate table so that the metal moves towards a downstream end of the receiving surface of this intermediate table.

Le rouleau de fragmentation peut être soumis, sur une première course, à des premiers ressorts et, sur une seconde course prolongeant la première course, à des seconds ressorts s'ajoutant aux premiers ressorts.The fragmentation roller may be subjected, on a first stroke, to first springs and, on a second stroke extending the first stroke, to second springs adding to the first springs.

Il est également proposé une installation pour la transformation d'un métal à l'état liquide en un métal à l'état solide et fragmenté.An installation is also proposed for the transformation of a metal in the liquid state into a metal in the solid and fragmented state.

Une installation peut comprendre:

  • une première table vibrante comprenant une première surface de réception du métal présentant une extrémité amont et une extrémité aval d'évacuation, des moyens pour refroidir la première table, des moyens pour faire vibrer la première table de façon que le métal se déplace de l'amont vers l'aval,
  • des moyens pour déverser le métal à l'état liquide sur une partie amont de la première surface de réception de la première table,
  • une deuxième table vibrante comprenant une deuxième surface de réception du métal présentant une extrémité amont et une extrémité aval d'évacuation, la partie amont de la surface de réception de la deuxième table étant située au-dessous et à distance de l'extrémité aval de la première surface de réception de la première table, de telle sorte que le métal chute de la première table sur la deuxième table, des moyens pour refroidir la seconde table, des moyens pour faire vibrer la deuxième table de façon que le métal se déplace de l'amont vers l'aval,
  • une table aval vibrante comprenant une surface de réception du métal présentant une extrémité amont et une extrémité aval d'évacuation et des moyens pour faire vibrer la table aval de façon que le métal se déplace de l'amont vers l'aval,
  • au moins un rouleau rotatif de fragmentation placé au-dessus de cette table aval et transversalement au déplacement du métal sur cette table.
An installation can include:
  • a first vibrating table comprising a first metal receiving surface having an upstream end and a downstream discharge end, means for cooling the first table, means for vibrating the first table so that the metal moves from the upstream downstream,
  • means for pouring the metal in the liquid state onto an upstream part of the first receiving surface of the first table,
  • a second vibrating table comprising a second metal receiving surface having an upstream end and a downstream discharge end, the upstream part of the receiving surface of the second table being situated below and at a distance from the downstream end of the first receiving surface of the first table, so that the metal drops from the first table onto the second table, means for cooling the second table, means for vibrating the second table so that the metal moves from upstream downstream,
  • a vibrating downstream table comprising a metal receiving surface having an upstream end and a downstream discharge end and means for vibrating the downstream table so that the metal moves from upstream to downstream,
  • at least one rotary fragmentation roller placed above this downstream table and transversely to the movement of the metal on this table.

Ladite deuxième table peut constituer ladite table aval.Said second table can constitute said downstream table.

L'installation peut comprendre au moins une table intermédiaire située entre ladite deuxième table et ladite table aval, des moyens pour faire vibrer cette table intermédiaire et des moyens pour refroidir cette table intermédiaire.The installation may include at least one intermediate table located between said second table and said downstream table, means for vibrating this intermediate table and means for cooling this intermediate table.

Lesdites tables peuvent comprendre des plaques de réception qui sont choisies en cuivre, à l'exception d'au moins la partie de ladite table aval située au-dessous dudit rouleau de fragmentation qui comprend une plaque qui est choisie en acier.Said tables may include receiving plates which are chosen from copper, with the exception of at least the part of said downstream table situated below said fragmentation roller which comprises a plate which is chosen from steel.

Les moyens pour faire vibrer lesdites tables peuvent être communs.The means for vibrating said tables may be common.

Les moyens pour faire vibrer lesdites tables peuvent être séparés.The means for vibrating said tables can be separated.

Lesdites tables peuvent comprendre des plaques, les moyens de refroidissement présentant des canaux de circulation d'un fluide de refroidissement, aménagés à l'intérieur de ces plaques.Said tables may include plates, the cooling means having channels for circulation of a cooling fluid, arranged inside these plates.

Lesdites tables peuvent comprendre, dans une zone amont de l'installation, au moins une plaque présentant des canaux de circulation munis d'injecteurs d'une émulsion liquide-gaz de refroidissement et, dans une zone aval suivant ladite zone amont, au moins une plaque présentant des canaux de circulation d'un liquide de refroidissement.Said tables can comprise, in an upstream zone of the installation, at least one plate having circulation channels provided with injectors of a liquid-coolant emulsion and, in a downstream zone following said upstream zone, at least one plate with circulation channels for a coolant.

L'installation peut comprendre des moyens de suspension dudit rouleau de fragmentation incluant des ressorts de rappel.The installation may include means for suspending said fragmentation roller including return springs.

Lesdits moyens de suspension peuvent comprendre des balanciers sur lesquels les extrémités du rouleau de fragmentation sont montées tournantes, des moyens mobiles de support de ces balanciers, des moyens de rappel du rouleau de fragmentation s'opposant aux déplacements des balanciers par rapport aux moyens mobiles de support et des moyens de rappel s'opposant aux déplacements desdits supports mobiles.Said suspension means may comprise pendulums on which the ends of the fragmentation roller are mounted to rotate, mobile means for supporting these pendulums, means for returning the fragmentation roller opposing the movements of the pendulums relative to the movable means of support and return means opposing the movements of said mobile supports.

Les moyens de rappel peuvent être, à ladite position d'équilibre, précontraints.The return means may be, at said equilibrium position, prestressed.

Ledit rouleau de fragmentation peut être placé au-dessus d'une partie aval de la table aval.Said fragmentation roller can be placed above a downstream part of the downstream table.

Le rouleau de fragmentation peut être muni à sa périphérie d'une pluralité de doigts en saillie.The fragmentation roller can be provided at its periphery with a plurality of projecting fingers.

Au moins la partie amont de la surface de réception de la première table est inclinée vers l'aval.At least the upstream part of the receiving surface of the first table is inclined downstream.

Une installation pour la transformation d'un métal à l'état liquide en un métal à l'état solide et fragmenté, comprend :

  • une pluralité de tables vibrantes munies de plaques de réception se succédant d'amont en aval et présentant des surfaces de réception du métal,
  • des moyens pour déverser le métal à l'état liquide sur une partie amont de la table amont,
  • des moyens pour faire vibrer lesdites tables de façon que le métal se déplace de l'amont vers l'aval,
  • au moins un rouleau rotatif de fragmentation placé au-dessus de la table aval et transversalement au déplacement du métal sur cette table,
lesdites plaques de réception étant choisies en cuivre et étant munies de moyens de refroidissement, à l'exception de la plaque de réception située au-dessous dudit rouleau rotatif de fragmentation qui est choisie en un acier.An installation for the transformation of a metal in the liquid state into a metal in the solid and fragmented state, comprises:
  • a plurality of vibrating tables provided with receiving plates succeeding each other from upstream to downstream and having metal receiving surfaces,
  • means for pouring the metal in the liquid state onto an upstream part of the upstream table,
  • means for vibrating said tables so that the metal moves from upstream to downstream,
  • at least one rotary fragmentation roller placed above the downstream table and transverse to the movement of the metal on this table,
said receiving plates being chosen from copper and being provided with cooling means, with the exception of the receiving plate located below said rotary fragmentation roller which is chosen from steel.

Au moins deux plaques de réception successives peuvent être fortement décalées dans le sens vertical de façon que le métal chute de l'une sur l'autre.At least two successive receiving plates can be greatly offset in the vertical direction so that the metal falls from one onto the other.

L'installation peut comprendre une zone amont dans laquelle au moins une plaque présente des canaux de circulation munis d'injecteurs d'une émulsion liquide-gaz de refroidissement et une zone aval suivant ladite zone amont dans laquelle au moins une plaque présente des canaux de circulation d'un liquide de refroidissement.The installation may include an upstream zone in which at least one plate has circulation channels provided with injectors of a liquid-coolant emulsion and a downstream zone along said upstream zone in which at least one plate has circulation channels. circulation of a coolant.

L'installation peut comprendre des moyens de suspension dudit rouleau de fragmentation incluant des ressorts de rappel.The installation may include means for suspending said fragmentation roller including return springs.

Dans cette installation, au moins la partie amont de la surface de réception de la première table ou table amont est inclinée vers l'aval.In this installation, at least the upstream part of the receiving surface of the first table or upstream table is inclined downstream.

Des installations selon la présente invention, de transformation d'un métal à l'état liquide en un métal à l'état solide fragmenté, et leur fonctionnement vont maintenant être décrites à titre d'exemples non limitatifs et illustrés par le dessin sur lequel :

  • la figure 1 représente une vue en perspective d'une installation ;
  • la figure 2 représente une coupe verticale longitudinale de l'installation de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 3 représente une coupe verticale longitudinale d'une première table longitudinale de l'installation de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 4 représente une coupe verticale longitudinale d'une seconde table longitudinale de l'installation de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 5 représente une vue en bout, de l'aval vers l'amont, de l'installation de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 6 représente une coupe horizontale d'une plaque de la première table longitudinale de l'installation de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 7 représente une vue en perspective d'une partie aval de la seconde table longitudinale de l'installation de la figure 1, illustrant un mécanisme à rouleau de fragmentation ;
  • la figure 8 représente une vue latérale du mécanisme à rouleau de fragmentation de la figure 7 ; et
  • la figure 9 représente une variante de réalisation de l'installation.
Installations according to the present invention, for transforming a metal in the liquid state into a metal in the fragmented solid state, and their operation will now be described by way of nonlimiting examples and illustrated by the drawing in which:
  • the figure 1 represents a perspective view of an installation;
  • the figure 2 represents a longitudinal vertical section of the installation of the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 3 represents a vertical longitudinal section of a first longitudinal table of the installation of the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 4 represents a vertical longitudinal section of a second longitudinal table of the installation of the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 5 represents an end view, from downstream to upstream, of the installation of the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 6 represents a horizontal section of a plate from the first longitudinal table of the installation of the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 7 represents a perspective view of a downstream part of the second longitudinal table of the installation of the figure 1 , illustrating a fragmentation roller mechanism;
  • the figure 8 shows a side view of the fragmentation roller mechanism of the figure 7 ; and
  • the figure 9 represents an alternative embodiment of the installation.

On a représenté sur le dessin une installation 1 pour la transformation d'un métal à l'état liquide en un métal à l'état solide et fragmenté.There is shown in the drawing an installation 1 for the transformation of a metal in the liquid state into a metal in the solid and fragmented state.

Cette installation 1 est plus particulièrement adaptée pour une telle transformation de métaux tels que des ferro-alliages ou du silicium métal.This installation 1 is more particularly suitable for such processing of metals such as ferro-alloys or silicon metal.

Comme illustré en particulier sur les figures 1 et 2, l'installation 1 peut comprendre successivement, entre une station de déversement 2 et une station d'évacuation 3, une pluralité de tables longitudinales se succédant l'une l'autre, dont une première table longitudinale 4 et une seconde table longitudinale 5, cette seconde table 5 constituant une table aval de l'installation.As illustrated in particular on figures 1 and 2 , the installation 1 may successively comprise, between a discharge station 2 and a discharge station 3, a plurality of longitudinal tables succeeding one another, including a first table longitudinal 4 and a second longitudinal table 5, this second table 5 constituting a table downstream of the installation.

Comme illustré en particulier sur les figures 1, 2 et 3, la première table longitudinale 4 peut comprendre une pluralité de plaques successives 6, de préférence en cuivre, par exemple cinq, qui définissent substantiellement une première surface longitudinale de réception 7 du métal, qui présente une extrémité amont 7a et une extrémité aval 7b.As illustrated in particular on figures 1 , 2 and 3 , the first longitudinal table 4 may comprise a plurality of successive plates 6, preferably made of copper, for example five, which substantially define a first longitudinal metal receiving surface 7, which has an upstream end 7a and a downstream end 7b.

Les plaques successives 6 se chevauchent légèrement, en étant décalées verticalement en gradins correspondant sensiblement à leurs épaisseurs, les plaques amont présentant des bords transversaux aval placés sur des bords transversaux amont des plaques aval, la face supérieure de chaque plaque 6 étant sensiblement horizontale et présentant des rebords longitudinaux 6a de délimitations latérales, en saillie vers le haut.The successive plates 6 slightly overlap, being vertically offset in steps corresponding substantially to their thicknesses, the upstream plates having downstream transverse edges placed on transverse edges upstream of the downstream plates, the upper face of each plate 6 being substantially horizontal and having longitudinal edges 6a of lateral delimitations, projecting upwards.

La première table 4 comprend un bâti 8 qui comprend des longerons 9 qui s'étendent au-dessous des parties latérales des plaques 6 et sur lesquels sont fixées ces dernières par l'intermédiaire de supports 10, les longerons 9 étant reliés par des traverses 11.The first table 4 comprises a frame 8 which comprises longitudinal members 9 which extend below the lateral parts of the plates 6 and on which the latter are fixed by means of supports 10, the longitudinal members 9 being connected by cross members 11 .

Le bâti 8 est monté sur un châssis fixe 12 par l'intermédiaire d'une pluralité de ressorts 13 et le bâti 8 est relié au châssis 12 par l'intermédiaire d'un organe générateur de vibration 14 apte à faire vibrer le bâti 8.The frame 8 is mounted on a fixed frame 12 by means of a plurality of springs 13 and the frame 8 is connected to the frame 12 by means of a vibration generating member 14 capable of vibrating the frame 8.

Comme illustré en particulier sur les figures 1, 2 et 4, la seconde table longitudinale 5 peut comprendre une pluralité de plaques successives 15, de préférence en cuivre, par exemple deux, et une plaque terminale 16, de préférence en acier, qui définissent substantiellement une seconde surface longitudinale de réception 17 du métal, qui présente une extrémité amont 17a et une extrémité aval 17b.As illustrated in particular on figures 1 , 2 and 4 , the second longitudinal table 5 may comprise a plurality of successive plates 15, preferably of copper, for example two, and an end plate 16, preferably of steel, which substantially define a second longitudinal surface 17 for receiving the metal, which has an upstream end 17a and a downstream end 17b.

Les plaques successives 15 et 16 se chevauchent légèrement, les plaques amont présentant des bords transversaux aval placés sur des bords transversaux amont des plaques aval, la face supérieure de chaque plaque étant sensiblement horizontale et présentant des rebords longitudinaux 15a et 16a de délimitations latérales, en saillie vers le haut.The successive plates 15 and 16 overlap slightly, the upstream plates having downstream transverse edges placed on transverse edges upstream of the downstream plates, the upper face of each plate being substantially horizontal and having edges longitudinal 15a and 16a of lateral delimitations, projecting upwards.

La seconde table 4 comprend un bâti 18 qui comprend des longerons 19 qui s'étendent au-dessous des parties latérales des plaques 15 et 16 et sur lesquels sont fixées ces dernières, les longerons 19 étant reliés par des traverses 20.The second table 4 comprises a frame 18 which comprises longitudinal members 19 which extend below the lateral parts of the plates 15 and 16 and on which the latter are fixed, the longitudinal members 19 being connected by cross members 20.

Le bâti 18 est monté sur un châssis fixe 21 par l'intermédiaire d'une pluralité de ressorts 22 et le bâti 18 est relié au châssis 21 par l'intermédiaire d'un organe générateur de vibrations 23 apte à faire vibrer le bâti 18.The frame 18 is mounted on a fixed frame 21 by means of a plurality of springs 22 and the frame 18 is connected to the frame 21 by means of a vibration generating member 23 capable of making the frame 18 vibrate.

La seconde table 4 est placée de telle sorte qu'une partie amont de sa surface longitudinale de réception 17 soit située au-dessous et à distance de l'extrémité aval 7b de la surface longitudinale de réception 7 de la première table longitudinale 4, créant ainsi une forte discontinuité entre la première surface longitudinale de réception 7 et la seconde surface longitudinale de réception 17.The second table 4 is placed so that an upstream part of its longitudinal receiving surface 17 is located below and at a distance from the downstream end 7b of the longitudinal receiving surface 7 of the first longitudinal table 4, creating thus a strong discontinuity between the first longitudinal receiving surface 7 and the second longitudinal receiving surface 17.

Les plaques 6 et 15 présentent des pluralités de canaux intérieurs de refroidissement qui s'étendent transversalement dans des plans parallèles à leurs faces supérieures et qui peuvent être reliés à des sources de fluides de refroidissement de façon à faire circuler dans ces canaux ces fluides afin de refroidir ces plaques.The plates 6 and 15 have pluralities of internal cooling channels which extend transversely in planes parallel to their upper faces and which can be connected to sources of cooling fluids so as to circulate in these channels these fluids in order to cool these plates.

Comme illustré en particulier sur la figure 6, chaque plaque 6 de la première table 4 présente une pluralité de canaux transversaux agencés par paires de canaux 24 et 25, de telle sorte que les extrémités de chaque paire de canaux, situées d'un côté de cette plaque, sont reliées par des coudes en U de recirculation 26, dont les autres extrémités situées de l'autre côté de la plaque sont l'une munie d'un injecteur 27 et l'autre reliée à un conduit extérieur 28.As illustrated in particular on the figure 6 , each plate 6 of the first table 4 has a plurality of transverse channels arranged in pairs of channels 24 and 25, so that the ends of each pair of channels, located on one side of this plate, are connected by elbows in recirculation U 26, the other ends of which are situated on the other side of the plate are one provided with an injector 27 and the other connected to an external duct 28.

Chaque injecteur 27 est fixé sur le côté de la plaque 6 et présente une chambre intérieure d'émulsion 29 dans laquelle un liquide de refroidissement tel que de l'eau et un gaz de refroidissement tel que de l'azote sont amenés par des conduits extérieurs 30 et 31 pour être mélangés et injectés axialement dans chaque canal intérieur 24 de la plaque 6 pour être évacués par le conduit extérieur 28 correspondant. Ainsi, la première table longitudinale 4 forme une zone amont de refroidissement.Each injector 27 is fixed to the side of the plate 6 and has an internal emulsion chamber 29 in which a coolant such as water and a coolant gas such as nitrogen are supplied by external conduits 30 and 31 to be mixed and injected axially into each inner channel 24 of the plate 6 to be discharged through the outer conduit 28 corresponding. Thus, the first longitudinal table 4 forms an upstream cooling zone.

De façon équivalente, les plaques 15 de la seconde table longitudinale 5 présentent des canaux transversaux de refroidissement 32 qui peuvent être agencés comme ci-dessus, mais sans la prévision d'injecteurs, de façon à faire circuler uniquement un liquide de refroidissement tel que de l'eau. Ainsi, la seconde table longitudinale 5 forme une zone amont de refroidissement.Equivalently, the plates 15 of the second longitudinal table 5 have transverse cooling channels 32 which can be arranged as above, but without the provision of injectors, so as to circulate only a coolant such as the water. Thus, the second longitudinal table 5 forms an upstream cooling zone.

Néanmoins, selon une variante de réalisation, la zone amont de refroidissement pourrait s'étendre sur une partie de la longueur de la première table longitudinale 4 ou se prolonger sur la seconde table longitudinale 5, la zone aval de refroidissement étant aménagée en conséquence.However, according to an alternative embodiment, the upstream cooling zone could extend over part of the length of the first longitudinal table 4 or extend over the second longitudinal table 5, the downstream cooling zone being arranged accordingly.

A la station de déversement 2, l'installation 1 comprend un châssis fixe 34 qui porte une rampe longitudinale inclinée 35 de préférence munie d'un matériau réfractaire, qui est située au-dessus et en arrière de la partie amont de la surface de réception 7 de la première table 4 et qui peut aussi être équipée de canaux transversaux 36 en vue de son refroidissement par un fluide adapté.At the dumping station 2, the installation 1 comprises a fixed frame 34 which carries an inclined longitudinal ramp 35 preferably provided with a refractory material, which is located above and behind the upstream part of the receiving surface 7 of the first table 4 and which can also be equipped with transverse channels 36 for cooling by a suitable fluid.

Comme illustré en particulier sur les figures 1, 2 et 5, l'installation 1 est équipée, à la station de déversement 2, de moyens de manœuvre 33 pour recevoir une poche 37 et manœuvrer cette dernière.As illustrated in particular on figures 1 , 2 and 5 , the installation 1 is equipped, at the discharge station 2, with maneuvering means 33 for receiving a bag 37 and maneuvering the latter.

De préférence, la première ou les premières plaques 6 formant la partie amont de la surface de réception 7 de la première table 4 sont légèrement inclinées vers l'aval, de quelques degrés, tandis que toutes les autres plaques de l'installation peuvent être horizontales. Selon une variante de réalisation, toutes les plaques pourraient être légèrement inclinées vers l'aval.Preferably, the first plate (s) 6 forming the upstream part of the receiving surface 7 of the first table 4 are slightly inclined downstream, by a few degrees, while all the other plates of the installation can be horizontal . According to an alternative embodiment, all the plates could be slightly inclined downstream.

L'installation 1 peut fonctionner et être utilisée de la manière suivante.Installation 1 can operate and be used as follows.

Les organes générateurs de vibration 14 et 23 sont en marche de telles sorte que les plaques 6 portées par le bâti 9 de la première table longitudinale 4 vibrent et que les plaques 15 et 16 portées par le bâti 18 de la seconde table longitudinale 5 vibrent, de façon indépendante. Les fluides de refroidissement circulent dans les canaux intérieurs précités des plaques 6 et 15 des tables longitudinales 4 et 5.The vibration generating members 14 and 23 are in operation so that the plates 6 carried by the frame 9 of the first longitudinal table 4 vibrate and that the plates 15 and 16 carried by the frame 18 of the second longitudinal table 5 vibrate independently. The cooling fluids circulate in the abovementioned internal channels of the plates 6 and 15 of the longitudinal tables 4 and 5.

Une poche 37 contenant un métal M à l'état liquide ou en fusion est placée à la station de déversement 2.A bag 37 containing a metal M in the liquid or molten state is placed at the pouring station 2.

On manœuvre la poche 37 pour déverser de façon contrôlée le métal M sur la rampe inclinée 35 (Figure 2, flèche F1).The pocket 37 is maneuvered to pour the metal M in a controlled manner onto the inclined ramp 35 ( Figure 2 , arrow F1).

Le métal M à l'état liquide, à une température un peu supérieure à sa température de fusion, s'écoule en s'étalant sur la rampe inclinée 35 et se déverse sur la partie amont de la surface de réception 7 de la première table (Figure 2, flèche F2), en s'étalant encore de façon à former une nappe (non représentée).The metal M in the liquid state, at a temperature a little higher than its melting temperature, flows by spreading out on the inclined ramp 35 and spills over the upstream part of the receiving surface 7 of the first table ( Figure 2 , arrow F2), further spreading so as to form a ply (not shown).

Sous l'effet des vibrations de la première table longitudinale 4, et éventuellement de la pente de la surface de réception 7, le métal M sous forme d'une nappe se déplace de l'amont vers l'aval sur la surface de réception 7 de la première table longitudinale (Figure 2, flèche F3) et, concomitamment et progressivement, sous l'effet du refroidissement induit par les plaques refroidies 6, le métal M se refroidit relativement brutalement, se solidifie, et se brise en formant des fragments au fur et à mesure de son avancement.Under the effect of the vibrations of the first longitudinal table 4, and possibly the slope of the receiving surface 7, the metal M in the form of a sheet moves from upstream to downstream on the receiving surface 7 of the first longitudinal table ( Figure 2 , arrow F3) and, concomitantly and gradually, under the effect of the cooling induced by the cooled plates 6, the metal M cools relatively suddenly, solidifies, and breaks, forming fragments as it progresses.

Lorsque le métal M atteint l'extrémité aval 7a de la première table 4, ses fragments sont solidifiés, bien que le cœur des fragments les plus gros puisse éventuellement être encore pâteux.When the metal M reaches the downstream end 7a of the first table 4, its fragments are solidified, although the core of the largest fragments may possibly still be pasty.

Puis, les fragments du métal M, dont certains peuvent encore présenter des dimensions trop importantes et non souhaitées, par exemple sous la forme de langues, se déversent et chutent sur la partie amont de la surface de réception 17 de la seconde table longitudinale 5 (Figure 2, flèche F4), d'une hauteur telle que leur chute engendre encore leur fragmentation. Il s'agit là d'une chute d'une hauteur qui est beaucoup plus importante que les chutes réduites induites lors du passage du métal M d'une plaque de réception à l'autre de chacune des tables.Then, the fragments of the metal M, some of which may still be too large and undesired, for example in the form of tongues, spill and fall on the upstream part of the receiving surface 17 of the second longitudinal table 5 ( Figure 2 , arrow F4), of a height such that their fall still generates their fragmentation. This is a drop from a height which is much greater than the reduced drops induced during the passage of the metal M from one receiving plate to the other of each of the tables.

Puis, sous l'effet des vibrations de la seconde table longitudinale 5 et, concomitamment, sous l'effet du refroidissement induit par les plaques refroidies 15, progressivement, les fragments du métal M continuent leur mouvement vers l'aval sur la surface de réception 17 de la seconde table longitudinale 5 (Figure 2, flèche F5) et leur refroidissement en continuant éventuellement de se briser sous forme de fragments encore plus petits au fur et à mesure de leur avancementThen, under the effect of the vibrations of the second longitudinal table 5 and, concomitantly, under the effect of cooling induced by the cooled plates 15, progressively, the fragments of the metal M continue their downstream movement on the receiving surface 17 of the second longitudinal table 5 ( Figure 2 , arrow F5) and their cooling, possibly continuing to break down in the form of even smaller fragments as they go along

Puis, les fragments obtenus, solidifiés et refroidis, se déversent à l'extrémité aval de la seconde table longitudinale 5 dans un récipient de récupération 38 placé à la station d'évacuation 3 (Figure 2, flèche F6).Then, the fragments obtained, solidified and cooled, pour out at the downstream end of the second longitudinal table 5 into a recovery container 38 placed at the evacuation station 3 ( Figure 2 , arrow F6).

Comme illustré sur la figure 1, afin que des fragments de métal ne se projettent à l'extérieur des tables longitudinales 4 et 5, l'installation 1 peut être équipée de plaques verticales 39 et/ou de rideaux de chaînes suspendues 40, placées longitudinalement de chaque côté et au-dessus des bords des surfaces de réception 7 et 17 et une plaque 41 placée transversalement au-dessous du bord aval de la première table longitudinale et au-dessus du bord amont de la seconde table longitudinale. En outre, l'installation 1 pourrait être équipée de couvercles (non représentés) s'étendant au-dessus et à distance des tables longitudinales 4 et 5 et au-dessus de la station d'évacuation.As illustrated in the figure 1 , so that metal fragments do not project outside the longitudinal tables 4 and 5, the installation 1 can be equipped with vertical plates 39 and / or curtains of hanging chains 40, placed longitudinally on each side and above the edges of the receiving surfaces 7 and 17 and a plate 41 placed transversely below the downstream edge of the first longitudinal table and above the upstream edge of the second longitudinal table. In addition, the installation 1 could be equipped with covers (not shown) extending above and at a distance from the longitudinal tables 4 and 5 and above the evacuation station.

A titre d'exemple non limitatif, la première table longitudinale 4 et la seconde table longitudinale 5 pourraient être reliées entre elles et montées sur un châssis fixe commun. Dans ce cas, la première table longitudinale 4 et la seconde table longitudinale 5 pourraient être soumises à un organe générateur de vibration commun.By way of nonlimiting example, the first longitudinal table 4 and the second longitudinal table 5 could be connected together and mounted on a common fixed frame. In this case, the first longitudinal table 4 and the second longitudinal table 5 could be subjected to a common vibration generating member.

La différence de niveau entre la partie aval de la première table longitudinale et la partie amont de la seconde table longitudinale peut être supérieure à douze pour cent de la longueur de la première table. En particulier, la longueur de la première table longitudinale 4 pourrait être comprise entre quatre et six mètres et la hauteur de la chute entre la première table longitudinale 4 et la seconde table longitudinale 5 pourrait être comprise entre soixante et quatre vingt dix centimètres.The difference in level between the downstream part of the first longitudinal table and the upstream part of the second longitudinal table may be greater than twelve percent of the length of the first table. In particular, the length of the first longitudinal table 4 could be between four and six meters and the height of the fall between the first longitudinal table 4 and the second longitudinal table 5 could be between sixty and ninety centimeters.

La longueur de la seconde table longitudinale 5 pourrait être comprise entre deux et quatre mètres.The length of the second longitudinal table 5 could be between two and four meters.

La largeur des tables longitudinales 4 et 5 peut être comprise entre deux et quatre mètres.The width of the longitudinal tables 4 and 5 can be between two and four meters.

L'épaisseur des plaques 6, 15 et 16 pourrait être comprise entre six et huit centimètres, les chutes réduites entre les plaques de chaque table étant en proportion de ces épaisseurs.The thickness of the plates 6, 15 and 16 could be between six and eight centimeters, the reduced falls between the plates of each table being in proportion to these thicknesses.

L'épaisseur de la nappe de métal M, après déversement du métal liquide peut être comprise entre un demi et dix centimètres.The thickness of the metal sheet M, after the liquid metal has been spilled, may be between half and ten centimeters.

Dans le cas d'un métal M dont la température de fusion est d'environ 1750°C (degrés Celsius), par exemple du silicium métal, la température des fragments de ce métal lorsqu'ils atteignent l'extrémité de la première table longitudinale 4 peut être comprise entre 400°C et 800°C et la température des fragments de ce métal lorsqu'ils atteignent l'extrémité de la seconde table longitudinale 5 peut être comprise entre 150°C et 300°C.In the case of a metal M whose melting temperature is around 1750 ° C (degrees Celsius), for example silicon metal, the temperature of the fragments of this metal when they reach the end of the first longitudinal table 4 can be between 400 ° C and 800 ° C and the temperature of the fragments of this metal when they reach the end of the second longitudinal table 5 can be between 150 ° C and 300 ° C.

Par ailleurs, les plaques 6 et 15 en cuivre peuvent être recouvertes, au moins sur leurs surfaces supérieures de réception du métal M, d'une couche de protection telle que par exemple de zircon ou de graphite.Furthermore, the copper plates 6 and 15 can be covered, at least on their upper surfaces for receiving the metal M, with a protective layer such as for example zircon or graphite.

Comme illustré en particulier sur les figures 1 et 2, l'installation 1 peut comprendre en outre au moins un mécanisme 101 à rouleau transversal de fragmentation, placé par exemple au-dessus de la plaque terminale de réception 16 de la seconde table longitudinale 5. Selon l'exemple représenté, deux mécanismes 101 décalés longitudinalement d'amont en aval sont prévus.As illustrated in particular on figures 1 and 2 , the installation 1 may further comprise at least one mechanism 101 with a transverse fragmentation roller, placed for example above the receiving end plate 16 of the second longitudinal table 5. According to the example shown, two offset mechanisms 101 longitudinally from upstream to downstream are planned.

Comme illustré en particulier sur les figures 4, 7 et 8, le mécanisme 101 comprend un rouleau transversal rotatif entraîné de fragmentation 102 qui est porté par des moyens de suspension 103 montés sur le châssis fixe 21.As illustrated in particular on figures 4 , 7 and 8 , the mechanism 101 comprises a rotary transverse roller driven with fragmentation 102 which is carried by suspension means 103 mounted on the fixed frame 21.

Les moyens de suspension 103 comprennent des balanciers d'extrémité 104 qui portent les extrémités du rouleau 102, dont l'un est muni d'un moteur d'entraînement par exemple hydraulique 105.The suspension means 103 comprise end pendulums 104 which carry the ends of the roller 102, one of which is provided with a drive motor, for example hydraulic 105.

Les moyens de suspension 103 comprennent en outre un berceau supérieur 106 qui comprend des supports latéraux 107 reliés par des traverses 108 et articulés sur le châssis fixe 21 par l'intermédiaire de pivots transversaux 109.The suspension means 103 also comprise an upper cradle 106 which comprises lateral supports 107 connected by crosspieces 108 and articulated on the fixed frame 21 by means of transverse pivots 109.

Les balanciers d'extrémité 104 sont reliés aux supports latéraux 107 par l'intermédiaire de paires de tiges avant et arrière 110 et 111 dont les extrémités inférieures sont munies de têtes 112 et 113 qui sont articulées, de part et d'autre des extrémités du rouleau 102, sur les balanciers 104 par l'intermédiaire de pivots transversaux 114 et 115 et qui coulissent librement au travers de bras longitudinaux 116 des supports latéraux 107, les extrémités supérieures des tiges 110 et 111 étant munies d'écrous de réglages 117 et 118. Les tiges 110 et 111 sont disposées de façon à former des V ouverts vers le haut.The end pendulums 104 are connected to the lateral supports 107 by means of pairs of front and rear rods 110 and 111, the lower ends of which are provided with heads 112 and 113 which are articulated on either side of the ends of the roller 102, on the pendulums 104 by means of transverse pivots 114 and 115 and which slide freely through longitudinal arms 116 of the lateral supports 107, the upper ends of the rods 110 and 111 being provided with adjustment nuts 117 and 118 The rods 110 and 111 are arranged so as to form V open upwards.

Les moyens de suspension 103 comprennent en outre des tiges centrales 119, substantiellement verticales, dont les extrémités inférieures sont munies de têtes 120 qui sont articulées sur le châssis fixe 21 par l'intermédiaire de pivots transversaux 121 et qui coulissent librement au travers de bras longitudinaux 122 des supports latéraux 107. Les bras longitudinaux 116 et les bras longitudinaux 122, situés à côté les uns des autres, sont parallèles et sont reliés par des plaques transversales 123. Les extrémités supérieures des tiges centrales 119 sont munies d'écrous de réglage 124.The suspension means 103 further comprise central rods 119, substantially vertical, the lower ends of which are provided with heads 120 which are articulated on the fixed frame 21 by means of transverse pivots 121 and which slide freely through longitudinal arms 122 of the lateral supports 107. The longitudinal arms 116 and the longitudinal arms 122, located next to each other, are parallel and are connected by transverse plates 123. The upper ends of the central rods 119 are provided with adjustment nuts 124 .

Les têtes 120 présentent des épaulements 125 sur lesquels peuvent venir en appui les bras longitudinaux 122.The heads 120 have shoulders 125 on which the longitudinal arms 122 can bear.

Les moyens de suspension 103 comprennent également des moyens de rappel du rouleau 102 vers une position d'équilibre.The suspension means 103 also comprise means for returning the roller 102 to an equilibrium position.

Ces moyens de rappel comprennent des paires de ressorts 126 et 127 qui sont disposés autour des tiges 110 et 111, entre les têtes 112 et 113 et les portions d'extrémité des bras longitudinaux 116, la précontrainte de ces ressorts 126 et 127 étant assurée par les écrous 117 et 118.These return means comprise pairs of springs 126 and 127 which are arranged around the rods 110 and 111, between the heads 112 and 113 and the end portions of the longitudinal arms 116, the preload of these springs 126 and 127 being provided by nuts 117 and 118.

Ces moyens de rappel comprennent également des ressorts centraux 128 qui sont disposés autour des tiges 119, entre les bras longitudinaux 122 par l'intermédiaire de rondelles 129 et les écrous 124, par l'intermédiaire de rondelles 130, la précontrainte de ces ressorts 128 étant assurée par les écrous 124.These return means also include central springs 128 which are arranged around the rods 119, between the longitudinal arms 122 by means of washers 129 and the nuts. 124, by means of washers 130, the prestressing of these springs 128 being ensured by the nuts 124.

Selon une variante illustrée sur la figure 4, le rouleau 102 est cylindrique et est muni à sa périphérie de picots ou doigts en saillie 131 rapportés engagés partiellement dans des logements du rouleau 102 et fixés grâce à des vis 132.According to a variant illustrated on the figure 4 , the roller 102 is cylindrical and is provided at its periphery with protruding pins or fingers 131 added partially engaged in housings of the roller 102 and fixed by means of screws 132.

Selon une autre variante illustrée sur la figure 7, le rouleau 102 est cylindrique et est muni à sa périphérie de picots ou doigts en saillie 133 vissés directement dans des logements du rouleau transversal.According to another variant illustrated on the figure 7 , the roller 102 is cylindrical and is provided at its periphery with protruding pins or fingers 133 screwed directly into housings of the transverse roller.

Le mécanisme 101 peut fonctionner de la manière suivante.Mechanism 101 can operate in the following manner.

Dans la position basse d'équilibre du rouleau de fragmentation 102, d'une part le berceau 106 est en position basse, les bras longitudinaux 112 étant contraints d'être en appui sur les épaulements 125 des têtes 120 des tiges 119 sous l'effet des ressorts 128, et, d'autre part, les écrous 117 et 118 sont en appui sur les bras longitudinaux 116 sous l'effet des ressorts 126 et 127.In the low equilibrium position of the fragmentation roller 102, on the one hand the cradle 106 is in the low position, the longitudinal arms 112 being forced to bear on the shoulders 125 of the heads 120 of the rods 119 under the effect springs 128, and, on the other hand, the nuts 117 and 118 are supported on the longitudinal arms 116 under the effect of the springs 126 and 127.

Le refroidissement du métal M le long de son parcours en amont du mécanisme 101 est tel que les fragments de métal M sont solidifiés lorsqu'ils atteignent ce mécanisme 101.The cooling of the metal M along its path upstream of the mechanism 101 is such that the metal fragments M are solidified when they reach this mechanism 101.

Lorsque les fragments de métal M se déplacent sur la plaque 16 de la seconde table longitudinale 5 et passent sous le rouleau 102 entraîné en rotation, les doigts du rouleau transversal 102 peuvent rencontrer les fragments, notamment les plus gros et/ou les amas de fragments, et provoquer, éventuellement encore, leur fragmentation par percussion ou poinçonnage.When the metal fragments M move on the plate 16 of the second longitudinal table 5 and pass under the roller 102 driven in rotation, the fingers of the transverse roller 102 can meet the fragments, in particular the largest and / or the clusters of fragments , and possibly cause their further fragmentation by percussion or punching.

Dans le cas de fragments trop gros ou d'amas de fragments trop épais, le rouleau transversal 102 peut avoir tendance à se soulever et se déplacer vers l'amont et/ou vers l'aval, par déplacement vers le haut et/ou basculement des balanciers d'extrémité 104, en comprimant des ressorts de rappel 126 et 127.In the case of fragments which are too large or of clusters of fragments which are too thick, the transverse roller 102 may have a tendency to lift and move upstream and / or downstream, by upward movement and / or tilting. end balancers 104, by compressing return springs 126 and 127.

Dans le cas de fragments encore plus gros ou d'amas de fragments encore plus épais, le rouleau transversal 102 peut avoir tendance à encore se soulever. Dans ce cas, pour compenser les contraintes supplémentaires agissant sur le rouleau transversal 102, c'est alors le berceau 106 qui peut se soulever en pivotant autour des pivots transversaux 109, en s'écartant des épaulements 125 et en comprimant les ressorts centraux 128.In the case of even larger fragments or clusters of even thicker fragments, the transverse roller 102 may tend to lift further. In this case, to compensate for additional stresses acting on the transverse roller 102, it is then the cradle 106 which can be lifted by pivoting around the transverse pivots 109, moving away from the shoulders 125 and compressing the central springs 128.

Les ressorts 126 et 127 d'une part et les ressorts centraux 128 d'autre part sont dimensionnés et précontraints de telle sorte que l'accroissement des effets de fragmentation ci-dessus, résultant de la progressivité ci-dessus des relevages du rouleau transversal 102, est établi grâce au fait que les ressorts 126 et 127 s'opposent au relevage du rouleau transversal 102 sur une première course et que les ressorts centraux 128 s'ajoutent aux ressorts 126 et 127 pour s'opposer un relevage supplémentaire du rouleau transversal 102 sur une seconde course prolongeant vers le haut la première course.The springs 126 and 127 on the one hand and the central springs 128 on the other hand are dimensioned and prestressed so that the increase in the effects of fragmentation above, resulting from the above-mentioned progressiveness of the lifting of the transverse roller 102 , is established by the fact that the springs 126 and 127 oppose the lifting of the transverse roller 102 on a first stroke and that the central springs 128 are added to the springs 126 and 127 to oppose an additional lifting of the transverse roller 102 on a second race extending upwards the first race.

Selon une variante de réalisation, le mécanisme 101 à rouleau transversal de fragmentation 102 pourrait être prévu à un autre endroit le long des tables longitudinales 4 et 5. Selon une autre variante de réalisation, plusieurs mécanismes 101 à rouleau transversal de fragmentation 102 espacés pourraient être prévus le long d'une ou des tables longitudinales 4 et 5.According to an alternative embodiment, the mechanism 101 with transverse fragmentation roller 102 could be provided at another location along the longitudinal tables 4 and 5. According to another alternative embodiment, several mechanisms 101 with transverse fragmentation roller 102 spaced apart could be provided along one or more longitudinal tables 4 and 5.

Selon une variante de réalisation, le berceau 106 monté pivotant pourrait être remplacé par des moyens de coulissement vertical portant les balanciers 104 et soumis à des ressorts centraux équivalents aux ressorts centraux 128.According to an alternative embodiment, the cradle 106 pivotally mounted could be replaced by vertical sliding means carrying the pendulums 104 and subjected to central springs equivalent to the central springs 128.

Selon une variante de réalisation illustrée sur la figure 9, l'installation 1 comprend, entre la première table 4 et la dernière table 5 décrites précédemment, plusieurs tables vibrantes successives intermédiaires 42, qui comprennent respectivement une pluralité de plaques successives 43, en cuivre, déterminant des surfaces de réception du métal 44 et qui sont munies respectivement de moyens d'entraînement en vibration qui peuvent être équivalents à ceux décrits précédemment.According to an alternative embodiment illustrated on the figure 9 , the installation 1 comprises, between the first table 4 and the last table 5 described above, several successive intermediate vibrating tables 42, which respectively comprise a plurality of successive plates 43, made of copper, determining the surfaces for receiving the metal 44 and which are respectively provided with vibration drive means which can be equivalent to those described above.

Comme dans le cas des plaques des tables 4 et 5, les plaques successives 43 de chaque table intermédiaire 42 se chevauchent légèrement, les plaques amont présentant des bords transversaux aval placés sur des bords transversaux amont des plaques aval, la face supérieure de chaque plaque étant sensiblement horizontale.As in the case of the plates of tables 4 and 5, the successive plates 43 of each intermediate table 42 slightly overlap, the upstream plates having downstream transverse edges placed on upstream transverse edges of the downstream plates, the upper face of each plate being substantially horizontal.

Les bords d'extrémité aval des plaques des tables intermédiaires 42 sont situées au-dessus et à distance des bords d'extrémité amont des plaques amont des tables qui les succèdent, de façon que chacune puisse vibrer de façon indépendante. Les chutes du métal M ainsi occasionnées peuvent être beaucoup plus faibles que la chute important intervenant entre la première table 4 et la première des tables intermédiaires 43.The downstream end edges of the plates of the intermediate tables 42 are situated above and at a distance from the upstream end edges of the upstream plates of the tables which follow them, so that each can vibrate independently. The falls of the metal M thus caused can be much lower than the significant fall occurring between the first table 4 and the first of the intermediate tables 43.

La chute importante du métal M prévue précédemment entre la table 4 et la table 5 se produit alors entre la première table 4 et la première de ces tables intermédiaires.The significant fall of the metal M previously provided between the table 4 and the table 5 then occurs between the first table 4 and the first of these intermediate tables.

Comme illustré de façon accentuée sur la figure 9, la ou les premières plaques 6b, qui déterminent une zone amont, de la première table 4 sont inclinées vers l'aval, de telle sorte que, lorsque le métal M est déversé depuis la rampe 35, cette inclinaison produit un effet d'entraînement vers l'aval du métal M et évite que le métal stagne sur ces plaques, rendant ainsi le refroidissement plus efficace et protégeant les plaques contre des risques d'arrachement du métal des plaques et leur perforation. Par exemple, cette inclinaison peut être comprise entre deux et dix degrés.As illustrated in an accented manner on the figure 9 , the first plate (s) 6b, which determine an upstream zone, of the first table 4 are inclined downstream, so that, when the metal M is poured from the ramp 35, this inclination produces a driving effect downstream of the metal M and prevents the metal from stagnating on these plates, thus making cooling more efficient and protecting the plates against risks of tearing of the metal from the plates and their perforation. For example, this inclination can be between two and ten degrees.

Selon une variante de réalisation, la plaque 16 située au-dessous du ou des mécanismes 101 pourrait être prévus sur une dernière table vibrante de réception indépendante des tables antérieures de réception.According to an alternative embodiment, the plate 16 located below the mechanism (s) 101 could be provided on a last vibrating reception table independent of the anterior reception tables.

Par ailleurs, le mécanisme 101 à rouleau transversal de fragmentation ainsi que les moyens de refroidissement produisant, sur la ou les tables de réception, une première zone de refroidissement utilisant une émulsion liquide-gaz de refroidissement et une seconde zone utilisant uniquement un liquide de refroidissement pourraient être employés dans une installation de structure et de fonctionnement différents.Furthermore, the mechanism 101 with transverse fragmentation roller as well as the cooling means producing, on the receiving table or tables, a first cooling zone using a liquid-coolant emulsion and a second zone using only a coolant. could be used in an installation of different structure and operation.

En outre, un ou plusieurs mécanismes 101 à rouleaux transversaux de fragmentation pourraient être prévus au-dessus de tables antérieures, notamment sur au moins l'une des tables intermédiaires 42, en prévoyant de préférence des plaques en acier au-dessous de ces mécanismes.In addition, one or more mechanisms 101 with transverse fragmentation rollers could be provided above anterior tables, in particular on at least one of the intermediate tables 42, preferably providing steel plates below these mechanisms.

La présente invention ne se limite pas à l'exemple décrit ci-dessus. Bien d'autres variantes de réalisation sont possibles sans sortir du cadre de l'invention, qui est définit par les revendications jointes.The present invention is not limited to the example described above. Many other alternative embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended claims.

Claims (25)

  1. A method for converting a metal in the liquid state into a fragmented metal in the solid state, on at least two tables which are mutually successive, comprising
    pouring the metal in the liquid state on an upstream portion which is inclined in a downstream direction of a first receiving surface (7) of a first cooled table (4),
    vibrating the first table so that the metal moves toward a downstream end of the receiving surface of that first table,
    causing the metal to fall from the downstream end of the first table on an upstream portion of a second receiving surface (17) of a second cooled table (5),
    vibrating the second table so that the metal moves toward a downstream end of the receiving surface of that second table,
    passing the metal below at least one rotary transverse fragmentation roller (102) which is positioned above a downstream table which is located downstream of the first table (5),
    vibrating the last table so that the metal moves toward a downstream end of the receiving surface of that downstream table, and
    discharging the fragmented and solidified metal at the downstream end of the receiving surface of that downstream table.
  2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the metal is solidified when it reaches the fragmentation roller (102).
  3. The method as claimed in either of claims 1 or 2, comprising: circulating an emulsion of a liquid and a gas in transverse channels (24) of an upstream cooling zone and circulating a liquid in transverse channels (32) of a downstream cooling zone, those cooling zones being mutually successive in the longitudinal direction of the receiving tables.
  4. The method as claimed in one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second table constitutes the downstream table (5).
  5. The method as claimed in one of claims 1 to 3, comprising:
    passing the metal on the receiving surface of at least one cooled intermediate table which is located between the second table and the downstream table, causing the metal to fall from one table to the other,
    vibrating the intermediate table so that the metal moves toward a downstream end of the receiving surface of that intermediate table.
  6. The method as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the fragmentation roller (102) is subjected, over a first path, to first springs (126, 127) and, over a second path which extends the first path, to second springs (128) which supplement the first springs.
  7. An installation for converting a metal in the liquid state into a fragmented metal in the solid state, comprising:
    - a first vibrating table (4) comprising a first receiving surface (6) for the metal having an upstream end and a downstream discharge end, cooling means (24) for the first table, means (14) for vibrating the first table so that the metal moves in a downstream direction,
    - means (35, 37) for pouring the metal in the liquid state on an upstream portion of the first receiving surface (7) of the first table (4),
    - a second vibrating table (5) comprising a second receiving surface (17) for the metal having an upstream end and a downstream discharge end, the upstream portion (17a) of the receiving surface of the second table (5) being located below and with spacing from the downstream end (7b) of the first receiving surface (7) of the first table (4), so that the metal falls from the first table (4) on the second table (5), cooling means (32) for the second table (5), means (23) for vibrating the second table (5) so that the metal moves in a downstream direction,
    - a downstream vibrating table (5) comprising a receiving surface (17) for the metal having an upstream end and a downstream discharge end and means (23) for vibrating the downstream table (5) so that the metal moves in a downstream direction,
    - at least one rotary fragmentation roller (102) which is positioned above that downstream table and transversely to the movement of the metal on that table.
  8. The installation as claimed in claim 7, wherein the second table constitutes the downstream table.
  9. The installation as claimed in claim 7, comprising at least one intermediate table which is located between the second table and the downstream table, means for vibrating that intermediate table and cooling means for that intermediate table.
  10. The installation as claimed in one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the tables comprise receiving plates which are selected to be of copper, with the exception of at least the portion of the downstream table which is located below the fragmentation roller which comprises a plate which is selected to be of steel.
  11. The installation as claimed in one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the means for vibrating the tables are common.
  12. The installation as claimed in one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the means for vibrating the tables are separate.
  13. The installation as claimed in one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the tables comprise plates (6, 15, 16), the cooling means having circulation channels for a cooling fluid, which are configured inside those plates.
  14. The installation as claimed in one of claims 7 to 13, wherein the tables comprise, in an upstream zone of the installation, at least one plate (6) having circulation channels (24) which are provided with injectors (27) for a cooling liquid/gas emulsion and, in a downstream zone following the upstream zone, at least one plate (15) which has circulation channels (32) for a cooling liquid.
  15. The installation as claimed in one of claims 7 to 14, comprising suspension means for the fragmentation roller including restoring springs.
  16. The installation as claimed in claim 15, wherein the suspension means (103) comprise rocker arms (104), on which the ends of the fragmentation roller (102) are mounted so as to rotate, movable support means (107) for those rocker arms, restoring means (126, 127) for the fragmentation roller acting counter to the movements of the rocker arms in relation to the movable support means and restoring means (128) acting counter to the movements of the movable supports (107).
  17. The installation as claimed in claim 16, wherein the restoring means (126, 127, 128) are pretensioned at the position of equilibrium.
  18. The installation as claimed in one of claims 7 to 17, wherein the fragmentation roller (102) is positioned above a downstream portion of the downstream table (5).
  19. The installation as claimed in one of claims 7 to 18, wherein the fragmentation roller (102) is provided at the periphery thereof with a plurality of projecting fingers (131, 133).
  20. The installation as claimed in one of claims 7 to 19, wherein at least the upstream portion of the receiving surface of the first table is inclined in a downstream direction.
  21. The installation for converting a metal in the liquid state into a fragmented metal in the solid state, comprising:
    - a plurality of vibrating tables which are provided with receiving plates which are mutually successive in a downstream direction and which have receiving surfaces for the metal,
    - means (35, 37) for pouring the metal in the liquid state on an upstream portion of the upstream table (4),
    - means (23) for vibrating the tables (5) so that the metal moves in a downstream direction,
    - at least one rotary fragmentation roller (102) which is positioned above the downstream table (5) and transversely to the movement of the metal on that table,
    the receiving plates being selected to be of copper and being provided with cooling means, with the exception of the receiving plate which is located below the rotary fragmentation roller which is selected to be of a steel.
  22. The installation as claimed in claim 21, wherein at least two successive receiving plates are greatly offset in the vertical direction so that the metal falls from one on the other.
  23. The installation as claimed in either of claims 21 or 22, comprising an upstream zone in which at least one plate (6) has circulation channels (24) which are provided with injectors (27) for a cooling liquid/gas emulsion and a downstream zone which follows the upstream zone and in which at least one plate (15) has circulation channels (32) for a cooling liquid.
  24. The installation as claimed in one of claims 21 to 23, comprising suspension means for the fragmentation roller including restoring springs.
  25. The installation as claimed in one of claims 21 to 24, wherein at least the upstream portion of the receiving surface of the first table or upstream table is inclined in a downstream direction.
EP14707426.4A 2013-03-06 2014-03-03 Method and facility for transforming a liquid-state metal into a solid-state metal Active EP2964412B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1352004A FR3002869B1 (en) 2013-03-06 2013-03-06 PROCESS AND PLANT FOR TRANSFORMING A LIQUID METAL TO A SOLID STATE METAL
PCT/EP2014/054096 WO2014135501A2 (en) 2013-03-06 2014-03-03 Method and facility for transforming a liquid-state metal into a solid-state metal

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2964412A2 EP2964412A2 (en) 2016-01-13
EP2964412B1 true EP2964412B1 (en) 2020-02-19

Family

ID=48856756

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP14707426.4A Active EP2964412B1 (en) 2013-03-06 2014-03-03 Method and facility for transforming a liquid-state metal into a solid-state metal

Country Status (10)

Country Link
US (1) US9950371B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2964412B1 (en)
CN (1) CN105228776B (en)
BR (1) BR112015021697B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2901872C (en)
EA (1) EA031271B1 (en)
ES (1) ES2777974T3 (en)
FR (1) FR3002869B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2014135501A2 (en)
ZA (1) ZA201506389B (en)

Families Citing this family (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10536357B2 (en) * 2015-06-05 2020-01-14 Cisco Technology, Inc. Late data detection in data center
CN107537997B (en) * 2017-09-14 2019-03-05 陕西远大新材料技术有限公司 Straight-line oscillation casting machine
CN108165687B (en) * 2018-01-13 2019-09-06 十堰市郧阳区榕峰钢铁有限公司 A kind of slag granulation heat collector
CN112575201B (en) * 2020-12-09 2022-04-15 清远楚江铜业有限公司 Reclaimed copper scrap recovery equipment
CN115673330A (en) * 2022-11-21 2023-02-03 苏州朗信智能科技有限公司 Automatic ferroalloy casting equipment
CN115815573A (en) * 2022-11-21 2023-03-21 苏州朗信智能科技有限公司 Iron alloy casting forming method
CN117182001A (en) * 2023-09-18 2023-12-08 苏州朗信智能科技有限公司 Mould for pouring liquid metal and straight line pouring equipment
CN118699346A (en) * 2024-08-30 2024-09-27 苏州朗信智能科技有限公司 Metal fluid casting forming equipment and casting control method

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1729631A (en) * 1921-10-28 1929-10-01 Aluminum Co Of America Process of reclaiming scrap metals
US1816059A (en) * 1928-12-24 1931-07-28 Edward W Smith Rotary casting machine
GB1269833A (en) * 1969-07-11 1972-04-06 Rolls Royce A method and apparatus for producing a metal article
CH524415A (en) * 1970-04-20 1972-06-30 Gruenzweig & Hartmann Equipment for the implementation of the full mold casting process
US3707182A (en) * 1971-07-19 1972-12-26 Ppg Industries Inc Flaking apparatus
ATE296696T1 (en) * 2001-02-09 2005-06-15 Sms Demag Ag METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CASTING AND SOLIDIFYING LIQUID METAL AND SPECIFICATION THEREOF
FR2885544B1 (en) * 2005-05-13 2009-01-16 Fai Production Soc Par Actions PROCESS AND PLANT FOR TRANSFORMING A LIQUID-LIKE METAL TO A SOLID AND FRAGMENTED METAL

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
None *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN105228776A (en) 2016-01-06
CN105228776B (en) 2018-11-27
WO2014135501A3 (en) 2014-12-04
US20160016231A1 (en) 2016-01-21
BR112015021697A2 (en) 2017-07-18
CA2901872C (en) 2021-03-02
EA031271B1 (en) 2018-12-28
BR112015021697B1 (en) 2019-10-01
EP2964412A2 (en) 2016-01-13
CA2901872A1 (en) 2014-09-12
US9950371B2 (en) 2018-04-24
ZA201506389B (en) 2017-02-22
WO2014135501A2 (en) 2014-09-12
EA201591651A1 (en) 2016-01-29
FR3002869B1 (en) 2015-10-23
FR3002869A1 (en) 2014-09-12
ES2777974T3 (en) 2020-08-06

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2964412B1 (en) Method and facility for transforming a liquid-state metal into a solid-state metal
CA2867778A1 (en) Machine for producing circular products by means of layer-by-layer addition
EP2711149B1 (en) Device for transporting slurry along two perpendicular axes and assembly for manufacturing mould blocks including such a device
EP0057651A2 (en) Process for rapid solidification and cooling by continuous casting of molten materials based on metal oxides
EP2925451B1 (en) Impact screen for an impact crusher, impact crusher provided with said impact screen, and crushing facility
FR2556253A1 (en) INSTALLATION AND METHOD FOR MELTING AND CASTING
EP0743114B2 (en) Process for the lubrication of the walls of a continuous casting mould for metals and mould for carrying out the process
FR2710554A1 (en) Method and apparatus for grinding old sponges and similar products
FR2660213A1 (en) Centrally fed hammer mill for shredding metallic objects
FR2847493A1 (en) Method for sorting iron bars into short and long products comprises transporting bars aligned on conveyor and placing downstream of conveyor device ensuring continuity of progress of long products delivered by conveyor
EP1585840B1 (en) Hopper-loading method and installation
FR2844212A1 (en) PROCESS AND INSTALLATION FOR AUTOMATIC MORPHOLOGICAL SORTING OF SUBSTANTIALLY SPHERICAL OBJECTS.
EP3655178B1 (en) Method and apparatus of producing metallic billets
EP3224163A1 (en) Device and method for controlled conveyance
EP1144154B1 (en) Device for evacuating cuttings cast by a machine tool machining head, machine tool comprising such a device and said device working method
FR2686407A1 (en) DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SEPARATING METALS.
CH644538A5 (en) Method for manufacturing a fragmented raw material and apparatus for implementing this method
BE738234A (en)
FR2610218A1 (en) Rotary crusher with projection
LU87984A1 (en) Device for packaging a molten product
FR2655278A1 (en) Crusher (grinder) with multi-function rotor and crushing installation implementing the said crusher
BE548302A (en)
BE509864A (en)
BE702461A (en)
CH166709A (en) Automatic hearth for solid fuel.

Legal Events

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

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20150903

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

RIN1 Information on inventor provided before grant (corrected)

Inventor name: ROCHE, CHRISTIAN

Inventor name: TRAUB, ARTHUR

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20180629

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

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

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20190930

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

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

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602014061166

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1234361

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20200315

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FI

Ref legal event code: FGE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SE

Ref legal event code: TRGR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NO

Ref legal event code: T2

Effective date: 20200219

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20200219

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

Ref country code: RS

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

Effective date: 20200219

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2777974

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

Effective date: 20200806

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

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

Ref country code: BG

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

Effective date: 20200519

Ref country code: GR

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

Effective date: 20200520

Ref country code: LV

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: HR

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

Effective date: 20200219

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

Ref country code: NL

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

Effective date: 20200219

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

Ref country code: DK

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: PT

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

Effective date: 20200712

Ref country code: SK

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: RO

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: LT

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: EE

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: SM

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: CZ

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

Effective date: 20200219

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1234361

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20200219

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602014061166

Country of ref document: DE

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

Ref country code: MC

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

Effective date: 20200219

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20200331

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

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

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

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

Ref country code: LU

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

Effective date: 20200303

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20201120

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

Ref country code: CH

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

Effective date: 20200331

Ref country code: IT

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: IE

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

Effective date: 20200303

Ref country code: AT

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: LI

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

Effective date: 20200331

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

Ref country code: PL

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: BE

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

Effective date: 20200331

Ref country code: SI

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

Effective date: 20200219

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

Effective date: 20200519

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

Ref country code: GB

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

Effective date: 20200519

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

Ref country code: TR

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: MT

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: CY

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

Effective date: 20200219

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

Ref country code: MK

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

Effective date: 20200219

Ref country code: AL

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

Effective date: 20200219

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

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20231211

Year of fee payment: 11

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

Ref country code: IS

Payment date: 20240102

Year of fee payment: 11

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

Ref country code: FI

Payment date: 20240222

Year of fee payment: 11

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20240307

Year of fee payment: 11

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

Ref country code: SE

Payment date: 20240319

Year of fee payment: 11

Ref country code: NO

Payment date: 20240226

Year of fee payment: 11

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

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20240405

Year of fee payment: 11