EP3099840B1 - Electrolysis tank comprising an anodic assembly hoisting device - Google Patents

Electrolysis tank comprising an anodic assembly hoisting device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3099840B1
EP3099840B1 EP15739950.2A EP15739950A EP3099840B1 EP 3099840 B1 EP3099840 B1 EP 3099840B1 EP 15739950 A EP15739950 A EP 15739950A EP 3099840 B1 EP3099840 B1 EP 3099840B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
anode
electrolytic cell
cell according
side walls
jack
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.)
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Application number
EP15739950.2A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3099840A1 (en
EP3099840A4 (en
Inventor
Frédéric BRUN
Yves Rochet
Steeve RENAUDIER
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Rio Tinto Alcan International Ltd
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Rio Tinto Alcan International Ltd
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    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/08—Cell construction, e.g. bottoms, walls, cathodes
    • C25C3/10—External supporting frames or structures
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/08—Cell construction, e.g. bottoms, walls, cathodes
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/08—Cell construction, e.g. bottoms, walls, cathodes
    • C25C3/12—Anodes
    • C25C3/125—Anodes based on carbon
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/16—Electric current supply devices, e.g. bus bars

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the general technical field of aluminum production by electrolysis in an electrolysis cell containing a cryolite bath (hereinafter referred to as " cryolite bath ").
  • an electrolytic cell comprising a plurality of anode assembly lifting devices contained in the electrolytic cell, each anode assembly comprising at least one precured carbon anode.
  • Aluminum is essentially produced by electrolysis of alumina dissolved in a cryolite bath.
  • Each anode assembly comprises an anode structure - composed of an anode rod and hooking means - mounted on at least one anode, more particularly a precooked carbon block.
  • a distribution of current as regular as possible between the various anode assemblies is essential for obtaining a good output of aluminum production. This is why the position of an anodic plane - defined by the lower faces of the anodes anode assemblies - must be precisely controlled.
  • the positioning of the anode plane is typically achieved by means of a jack and linkage system which drives in motion an anode frame and the plurality of anode assemblies which are attached and connected to this anode frame.
  • Such a cylinder and linkage system moving an anode frame disposed above the tank has the disadvantage of generating a large space above the tank.
  • the height, and therefore the cost, of the building in which the tanks are arranged depends on the height of the tanks so that this solution is not satisfactory.
  • a lifting device comprising a cylinder formed of a body and a rod, the cylinder body being arranged against a longitudinal side wall of the vessel box and the free end of the rod serving as a bearing structure for the anode assemblies .
  • a disadvantage of such a device is that the longitudinal side wall of the box, particularly at the liquid level, is very hot and radiates so that the operation and the life of the cylinder can be degraded.
  • the positioning of the cylinder gene thermal exchanges at the longitudinal side wall of the box which must be controllable to control the size of the slope formed in the tank, for example by air blowing as known from the patent publication WO99 / 54526 .
  • the stroke of the cylinder must be important so that the size, including longitudinal cylinder is problematic for positioning against the wall, due in particular to the limited space left in space inter-tanks by the various electrical conductors of the electrolysis current.
  • the lifting device also does not participate in the supply of the electrolysis current to the anode assembly so that when an anode assembly is changed, the electrical supply conductor must be manipulated in addition to be reconnected to the new anode set.
  • An object of the present invention is to provide a tank comprising a lifting system whose configuration allows to overcome, at least in part, the disadvantages mentioned above.
  • the invention proposes an electrolytic cell that can be used for the production of aluminum, comprising a box including a bottom and transverse and longitudinal lateral walls, the box being covered with an inner lining intended to receive a cryolite bath and a plurality of anode assemblies each including an anode structure and at least one anode immersed in the cryolite bath, the vessel further comprising a plurality of lifting devices extending along the longitudinal side walls of the housing for moving the anode assemblies, each anode structure extending transversely in the vessel and being associated with a respective pair of lifting devices disposed along opposite longitudinal side walls of the vessel and each carrying one of the ends of the anode structure, the lifting devices comprising a jack consisting of a body and a jack rod extending along a longitudinal axis B-B ', and an anode receiver for receiving an end of the anode structure, the jack being coupled to the anode receiver to animate it with a translational movement along a translation axis TT' between
  • Lifting devices do not extend above the anodes, preferably not above the cryolite bath and more preferably not above the well.
  • the term above must be understood as above the element to which it relates and in a volume formed by vertical translation of the surface obtained by projection of this element in a horizontal plane. The lifting devices do not thus prevent a vertical stroke of the anode assemblies.
  • the lifting devices serve to move the anode units vertically in translation in the electrolytic cell to adjust the positioning of the anode plane during the operation of the electrolytic cell and form an integral part of the electrolytic cell.
  • the anode assemblies are of the precooked type intended to be changed periodically after wear of the anodes constituting them.
  • the anode structure can mechanically support the anodes which are precooked carbon blocks and ensure the electrical connection of the anode assembly at each change of anode assembly.
  • parallel and distinct axes means two parallel and non-coincident axes, that is to say spaced apart by a non-zero distance
  • the lifting devices may comprise a transverse link beam between the jack rod and the anode receiver, said connecting beam preferably extending along a perpendicular transverse axis. to the longitudinal axis BB 'of the jack and to the translation axis T-T'.
  • the assembly consisting of the cylinder rod, the connecting beam and the anode receiver can form a U-shaped structure so that the cylinder body extends facing anodic receptor.
  • facing is meant that at least one plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder passes through the cylinder body and the anode receiver. This makes it possible to limit the height of the lifting devices.
  • the connecting beam is integral with the cylinder rod and the connecting beam is mounted integral with the anode receiver. This makes it possible to transmit the movements of the rod to the anode receiver.
  • the anode receiver may comprise a bar extending along the translation axis T-T '.
  • this bar comprises a housing at one of its ends, said housing being intended to receive the end of the anode structure.
  • This bar allows mechanical retention of the anode structure above the cryolite bath. It can also allow the conduction of the electric current for the supply of the anode assemblies. To do this, a portion of the bar is electrically connected to flexible electrical conduction means.
  • the anode assembly is in particular electrically powered via the housing, and more particularly the surfaces in contact with the anode structure and the housing.
  • a fastening system may be provided to secure the anode structure to the housing.
  • This fixing system may include means for plating the anode structure against the housing to ensure the conduction of the current between the housing and the anode structure.
  • the bar may be of rectangular or square section to improve its mechanical strength. It may further comprise a steel skeleton and copper portions housed in or around the skeleton for conveying electrical energy to the anode assemblies.
  • the lifting devices may include means for guiding the anode receiver to guide the movement of the anode receiver along the translation axis T-T '.
  • the guide means at least partially surround the anode receiver and define a sliding guide path for the anode receiver.
  • the guide means may comprise two rings spaced apart by a non-zero distance along the translation axis T-T ', each ring surrounding a portion of the anode receiver.
  • each ring may comprise a slot for the passage of the connecting beam when moving the anode receiver between the retracted and deployed positions. This makes it possible to maximize the distance between the rings in order to avoid any angular play of the bar in the guide means. We guarantee thus a displacement in vertical translation of the anode receiver.
  • the lifting devices are attached to the electrolytic cell so that the translation axis T-T 'of each anode receiver (and thus the longitudinal axis of the cylinder) is vertical.
  • each electrolysis cell comprises a plurality of anode assemblies.
  • the vessel advantageously comprises a controller connected to the lifting devices for controlling the synchronous displacement of the lifting devices of each pair. This makes it possible to ensure a displacement in vertical translation of each anode assembly.
  • each lifting device may advantageously be attached to one of the longitudinal side walls of the containment enclosure.
  • each lifting device can be attached to an upper edge of the confinement enclosure opposite the box so that the body of the cylinder of each lifting device is positioned at an altitude greater than the altitude of the cryolite bath.
  • each lifting device is fixed to the upper edge of the containment enclosure by a free end of the jack so that said free end is further away from the bottom of the box than the jack rod.
  • the side walls of the containment chamber are offset outwards with respect to the side walls of the box so that said side walls of the enclosure extend around and above the side walls of the box, the side walls of the box and the containment being mechanically connected by an annular plate, the anode receptors of the lifting devices extending through openings in the plate.
  • the translation axis TT ' is preferably vertical, the anode receptors being able to move in vertical translation through the openings in the plate.
  • the anode receivers pass through the containment chamber through annular dynamic seal seals. This makes it possible to further improve the tightness of the tank.
  • the jacks of the lifting devices can extend outside the tank.
  • the electrolytic cell may also comprise a gas collection device including at least one gas collection duct having suction holes for gas suction, each lifting device being fixed on said collection duct.
  • Each collection duct of the gas collection device may extend along the upper edge of the longitudinal side walls of the enclosure, each lifting device being fixed to said collection duct by a free end of the cylinder so that said end free is further from the bottom of the box than the cylinder rod.
  • the rectangular parallelepiped-shaped electrolysis cell comprises a caisson 1, a confinement chamber 2, a plurality of anode assemblies 3, a cathode 4, a gas collection device 5 and lifting devices 6.
  • This tank is used for the production of aluminum. It may be associated with a plurality of other electrolysis cells, possibly identical, the different tanks being arranged one after the other, two successive electrolytic cells being adjacent at one of their longitudinal side walls. as shown in figure 2 where two successive tanks C1, C2 are represented.
  • the casing 1 is of generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. It comprises a bottom 10 and transverse lateral walls 11 and longitudinal 12. The bottom 10 and the four side walls 11, 12 are covered with a refractory material 13 for insulating the box 1.
  • the box 1 may be metallic, for example in steel.
  • the casing 1 is open in its upper part. It is intended to receive a cryolite bath 14 in which the anode assemblies 3 are immersed.
  • the confinement chamber 2 bears on the upper edges of the caisson 1. It comprises two transverse lateral walls 21 and two longitudinal lateral walls 22 fixed to the caisson 1.
  • the side walls 21, 22 of the containment enclosure 2 are outwardly shifted relative to the side walls 11, 12 of the box 1 so that said side walls 21, 22 of the chamber 2 extend around and above the side walls 11, 12 of the box 1.
  • the planes in which s extend the side walls 21, 22 of the enclosure 2 surround the side walls 11, 12 of the box 1.
  • the upper edges of the box 1 and / or the lower edges of the containment chamber 2 may form a flap to mechanically connect the side walls 11, 12, 21, 22 of the box 1 and the chamber 2, so that the enclosure 2 defines with the caisson 1 a free volume above the cryolite bath 14.
  • the containment enclosure also includes a removable cowling 23 to cover the upper opening defined by the four side walls 21, 22 of the enclosure 2.
  • the cowling 23 may be composed of a panel assembly or covers extending generally in a plane, and bear on the upper edges 24 of the side walls 21, 22 of the enclosure 2.
  • Each anode assembly 3 comprises at least one anode 31 and an anode structure 32. During the electrolysis reaction, the anode 31 immersed in the cryolite bath 14 is consumed. Anode assemblies 3 must therefore be replaced periodically.
  • the anode 31 is of precooked type, that is to say a block of precooked carbon material before introduction into the electrolytic cell.
  • the anode structure 32 allows on the one hand to support and manipulate the anode 31, and on the other hand to supply power.
  • Each anode structure 32 forms an independent support for its associated anode (s) 31.
  • each anode structure 32 extends transversely in the tank between the longitudinal side edges 22 of the enclosure 2.
  • each anode structure 32 comprises a beam extending transversely between the longitudinal lateral edges 22 of the enclosure 2.
  • the anode structure 32 may comprise an armature 332 made of a metal having a good mechanical strength, such as steel, and sections 331 made of a metal having a good electrical conductivity such as copper. This reinforcement 332 allows the anode structure 32 to maintain the suspended anodes 31, while the sections 331 make it possible to carry the current electric power supply for the anodes 31.
  • the cathode 4 is composed of one (or more) block (s) of carbonaceous material.
  • the cathode blocks are electrically connected to cathode conductors exiting the electrolysis cell for routing electrical current to the next electrolytic cell.
  • the cathode 4 may be of any type known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in more detail below.
  • the gas collection device 5 comprises one (or more) collection duct (s) on which (which) suction holes for the suction of gases are distributed.
  • the collection (or sheaths) is (are) associated with (or more) suction device (s) (not shown). It (s) extends (ent) on the longitudinal side walls 22 of the enclosure 2, and possibly on the transverse side walls 21 of the enclosure 2. The presence of suction holes along the longitudinal walls 23 of enclosure 2 makes it possible to improve the collection efficiency of the polluting gases 5.
  • the lifting devices 6 allow the manipulation of the anode structures 32 to which the anodes 31 are suspended. More specifically, the lifting devices 6 make it possible to move the anode units 3 vertically in translation in order to adjust the positioning of the anode plane during the operation of the tank. electrolysis.
  • Each anode structure 32 is associated with two respective lifting devices on each of which rests one of its ends.
  • the displacement of each anode structure 32 is independent of the displacement of the other anode structures 32 and anode assemblies contained in the tank. It is thus possible to vertically move the anode assemblies 3 independently of each other.
  • Each lifting device 6 is in contact with a respective end of the anode structure 32.
  • Two lifting devices 6 associated with an anode structure 32 are connected to a controller (not shown) to control their actuation synchronously. This makes it possible to ensure simultaneous displacement of the ends of the anode structure 32 in order to keep it substantially horizontal during its displacement.
  • the controller can also be programmed to control the speed and direction of movement of the anode structure 32. This makes it possible to vary the speed of displacement of the anode structure 32 according to the type of operation used.
  • the displacement speed of the anode structure 32 may be greater than the displacement speed of the anode structure 32 in the case of an adjustment of the anodic plane during electrolysis, such an adjustment requiring fine adjustments.
  • Each lifting device 6 comprises a jack 61 and an anode receiver 62.
  • the jack 61 makes it possible to move the anodic receiver 62 vertically in translation along a translation axis T-T '.
  • the cylinder 61 comprises a body 611 and a rod 612 extending along a longitudinal axis B-B '.
  • the cylinder 61 may be of pneumatic or electric type to withstand the high temperatures prevailing near the tank.
  • the anode receiver 62 comprises a bar 621 of rectangular section extending along a longitudinal axis coinciding with the translation axis T-T '.
  • the upper end of the bar 621 comprises a housing 622 for receiving the end of the anode structure 32 and whose shape is complementary thereto.
  • the housing 622 may be a U-shaped structure composed of a base 6221 extending in a plane perpendicular to the translation axis TT 'and two vertical panels 6222 extending perpendicular to the base 6221, the end the anode structure 32 being intended to be supported on the base 6221, between the vertical panels 6222.
  • the lifting device may also include a fastening system.
  • This fastening system makes it possible to secure the anode structure 32 to the housing 622.
  • the fastening system comprises, for example, a possibly threaded rod intended to be inserted into through-holes formed in the vertical panels 6222, the bores being arranged in the vertical panels 6222 of FIGS. so that the rod extends above the anode structure 32, transversely thereto when the rod is mounted on the housing 622.
  • the fastening system may include plating means for pressing the anode structure 32 against a surface of the housing 622, preferably against the base 6221 of the housing 622.
  • the fastening system may include a bolt to be bolted through a hole and a tapping formed respectively in the anode structure 32 and in the base 6221 of the housing 622. The abutment of a head of the bolt against the anode structure 32 ensures its plating against the base 6221 of the housing 622.
  • This fastening system makes it possible to prevent the anode structure 32 from being disengaged from the housing 622 when the anode structure 32 is moved vertically towards the bottom 10 of the box 1.
  • the production of aluminum by electrolysis causes the formation of a crust solidified on the surface of the cryolite bath 14.
  • the anodes 31 are fixed in this solidified crust.
  • the stresses - including the friction forces - exerted by the crust on the anodes 31 may be greater than the gravity, resulting in a risk of disengagement of the anodic structure of the housing.
  • a portion 6211 (for example the end closest to the bottom of the box 12, or the upper end or housing 622) of the bar is electrically connected to flexible electrical conduction means 7 to allow power supply sets anodic 3, via housing 622.
  • Such a lifting device 6 can then be positioned at the periphery of the tank electrolysis.
  • the jack can advantageously be housed in a free space provided between reinforcement cradles of the box 1 to reduce the size of the lifting device inside the enclosure.
  • the jack 61 can be connected to the anode receiver 62 via a transverse link beam 63.
  • This transverse link beam 63 preferably extends perpendicular to the rod 612 and to the bar 621.
  • the beam link 63 is mounted integral with the bar 621 and the rod 612 of the cylinder 61.
  • a bolting system arranged to secure the rod 612 to the transverse link beam 63 compensates for any parallelism defects between the cylinder 61 and the anode receiver 62.
  • each ring 641, 622 is slotted to allow passage of the transverse beam 63 during sliding of the bar 621 between the retracted and deployed positions.
  • the cylinder 61 is fixed to the box "head up". More specifically, the cylinder body 611 61 is mounted on the casing 1 so that its free end 613 is further away from the bottom 10 of the casing 1 that the rod 612.
  • the free end 613 of the body 611 of the cylinder 61 is preferably fixed to the upper edge of the containment chamber and advantageously to the collection duct of the gas collection device 5.
  • the cylinder body 611 61 extends against the longitudinal side wall 22 of the containment chamber 2, at a height greater than that of the cryolite bath. This limits the risk of degradation of the cylinder by exposure of the body 611 to too high temperatures.
  • the temperature of the side walls 11, 12 of the box 1 is generally greater than the temperature of the side walls 21, 22 of the chamber 2 due to the presence in the vicinity of the cryolite bath 14 whose operating temperature is 1 order of 1000 ° C.
  • the operating principle of the lifting devices is as follows. Anodes 31 are assumed to be immersed in the cryolite bath.
  • the controller controls the synchronized operation of the two lifting devices 6 on which the anode structure 32 of the anode assembly 3 rests.
  • the anode receiver 62 of each jack slides inside the guide means 64 and moves from the retracted position to the deployed position.
  • the cylinder 61, the anode receiver 62 and the anode structure 32 are aligned, that is to say they extend substantially in the same plane.
  • the jack 61 may be offset from the plane containing the anode receiver 62 and the anode structure 32.

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Electrolytic Production Of Metals (AREA)
  • Electrolytic Production Of Non-Metals, Compounds, Apparatuses Therefor (AREA)

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention concerne le domaine technique général de la production d'aluminium par électrolyse dans une cuve d'électrolyse contenant un bain à base de cryolithe (dénommé ci-après « bain cryolithaire »).The present invention relates to the general technical field of aluminum production by electrolysis in an electrolysis cell containing a cryolite bath (hereinafter referred to as " cryolite bath ").

Elle concerne plus précisément une cuve d'électrolyse comprenant une pluralité de dispositifs de levage d'ensembles anodiques contenus dans la cuve d'électrolyse, chaque ensemble anodique comportant au moins une anode carbonée de type précuite.More specifically, it relates to an electrolytic cell comprising a plurality of anode assembly lifting devices contained in the electrolytic cell, each anode assembly comprising at least one precured carbon anode.

Présentation de l'art antérieurPresentation of the prior art

L'aluminium est essentiellement produit par électrolyse d'alumine dissoute dans un bain cryolithaire.Aluminum is essentially produced by electrolysis of alumina dissolved in a cryolite bath.

Actuellement, la production d'aluminium à l'échelle industrielle est mise en oeuvre dans une cuve d'électrolyse composée d'un caisson en acier ouvert dans sa partie supérieure, et dont le fond est recouvert de matériau réfractaire sur lequel s'étend une cathode surmontée par plusieurs ensembles anodiques plongés dans le bain cryolithaire porté à une température comprise entre 930 et 980°C.Currently, production of aluminum on an industrial scale is carried out in an electrolytic cell composed of a steel box open at its upper part, and whose bottom is covered with refractory material on which extends a cathode surmounted by several anode assemblies immersed in the cryolite bath heated to a temperature between 930 and 980 ° C.

Chaque ensemble anodique comporte une structure anodique - composée d'une tige d'anode et de moyens d'accrochage - montée sur au moins une anode, plus particulièrement un bloc carboné précuit.Each anode assembly comprises an anode structure - composed of an anode rod and hooking means - mounted on at least one anode, more particularly a precooked carbon block.

L'application d'un courant électrique entre les ensembles anodiques et la cathode permet d'initier la réaction d'électrolyse.The application of an electric current between the anode assemblies and the cathode makes it possible to initiate the electrolysis reaction.

Les températures usuelles de fonctionnement d'une cuve étant comprises entre 930 et 980°C, l'aluminium produit est liquide. Il se dépose par gravité sur la cathode qui est étanche. Régulièrement l'aluminium produit, ou une partie de l'aluminium produit, est aspiré par une poche de coulée, et transvasé dans des fours de fonderie.The usual operating temperatures of a tank being between 930 and 980 ° C, the product aluminum is liquid. It is deposited by gravity on the cathode which is waterproof. Regularly the produced aluminum, or a part of the produced aluminum, is sucked by a ladle, and transferred into foundry furnaces.

Les anodes carbonées sont consommées progressivement durant la réaction d'électrolyse. Une fois l'un des ensembles anodiques usé, celui-ci est remplacé par un ensemble anodique neuf.The carbon anodes are consumed progressively during the electrolysis reaction. Once one of the used anode sets, it is replaced by a new anode assembly.

Une répartition de courant aussi régulière que possible entre les différents ensembles anodiques est essentielle pour l'obtention d'un bon rendement de production d'aluminium. C'est pourquoi la position d'un plan anodique - défini par les faces inférieures des anodes des ensembles anodiques - doit être contrôlée avec précision.A distribution of current as regular as possible between the various anode assemblies is essential for obtaining a good output of aluminum production. This is why the position of an anodic plane - defined by the lower faces of the anodes anode assemblies - must be precisely controlled.

Or, la position du plan anodique qui fait face à la nappe cathodique d'aluminium liquide doit être périodiquement ajustée pour tenir compte de la variation de paramètres tels que:

  • la hauteur de la nappe d'aluminium, qui augmente régulièrement puis baisse brusquement lors du soutirage du métal,
  • l'usure progressive du plan anodique.
However, the position of the anodic plane facing the liquid aluminum cathode layer must be periodically adjusted to take into account the variation of parameters such as:
  • the height of the aluminum sheet, which increases regularly and then drops sharply when the metal is withdrawn,
  • progressive wear of the anodic plane.

Le positionnement du plan anodique est typiquement réalisé au moyen d'un système de vérin et d'embiellage qui entraîne en déplacement un cadre anodique et la pluralité d'ensembles anodiques qui sont fixés et connectés à ce cadre anodique.The positioning of the anode plane is typically achieved by means of a jack and linkage system which drives in motion an anode frame and the plurality of anode assemblies which are attached and connected to this anode frame.

Un tel système de vérin et d'embiellage déplaçant un cadre anodique disposé au-dessus de la cuve présente l'inconvénient de générer un encombrement important au-dessus de la cuve. La hauteur, et donc le coût, du bâtiment dans lequel sont disposées les cuves, dépend de la hauteur des cuves de sorte que cette solution n'est pas satisfaisante.Such a cylinder and linkage system moving an anode frame disposed above the tank has the disadvantage of generating a large space above the tank. The height, and therefore the cost, of the building in which the tanks are arranged, depends on the height of the tanks so that this solution is not satisfactory.

Par ailleurs, le déplacement d'un cadre anodique auquel est fixé une pluralité d'ensemble anodique n'autorise pas un réglage fin et individualisé de la position des ensembles anodiques qui peut permettre de palier à :

  • un emballement de la cuve lié à des effets d'anodes en détectant ces derniers à leur apparition par l'enregistrement des tensions anodiques et en les corrigeant directement en relevant uniquement l'ensemble anodique sous lequel débute l'effet d'anode,
  • l'inégalité de répartition du courant entre les différents ensembles anodiques,
  • des hétérogénéités locales de température ou de composition du bain,
  • des changements de forme de l'interface bain-métal par suite des variations de la carte des courants électriques dans le bain et dans le métal.
Moreover, the displacement of an anode frame to which a plurality of anode assemblies is attached does not allow a fine and individualized adjustment of the position of the anode assemblies which can make it possible to compensate for:
  • a runaway of the tank related to anode effects by detecting these at their appearance by the recording of the anode voltages and correcting them directly by noting only the anode assembly under which the anode effect begins,
  • the unequal distribution of the current between the different anode sets,
  • local heterogeneities in temperature or bath composition,
  • changes in the shape of the bath-metal interface due to changes in the electrical current map in the bath and in the metal.

On connaît par ailleurs du document de brevet US3575827 un dispositif de levage comprenant un vérin formé d'un corps et d'une tige, le corps de vérin étant disposé contre une paroi latérale longitudinale du caisson de la cuve et l'extrémité libre de la tige servant de structure porteuse pour les ensembles anodiques. Un inconvénient d'un tel dispositif est que la paroi latérale longitudinale du caisson, notamment au niveau des liquides, est très chaude et rayonne de sorte que le fonctionnement et la durée de vie du vérin peuvent être dégradés. Aussi, le positionnement du vérin gène les échanges thermiques au niveau de la paroi latérale longitudinale du caisson, lesquels doivent pouvoir être régulés pour contrôler la dimension du talus formé dans la cuve, par exemple par soufflage d'air tel que connu de la publication brevet WO99/54526 . De plus, comme la hauteur d'usure des blocs anodiques carbonés est importante dans les cuves actuelles, la course du vérin doit être importante de sorte que l'encombrement, notamment longitudinal du vérin est problématique pour son positionnement contre la paroi, du fait notamment de l'espace restreint laissé dans l'espace inter-cuves par les diverses conducteurs électriques du courant d'électrolyse. Le dispositif de levage ne participe par ailleurs pas à l'amenée du courant d'électrolyse jusqu'à l'ensemble anodique de sorte que lorsqu'un ensemble anodique est changé, le conducteur électrique d'alimentation doit être manipulé en sus pour être reconnecté à l'ensemble anodique neuf.Also known from the patent document US3575827 a lifting device comprising a cylinder formed of a body and a rod, the cylinder body being arranged against a longitudinal side wall of the vessel box and the free end of the rod serving as a bearing structure for the anode assemblies . A disadvantage of such a device is that the longitudinal side wall of the box, particularly at the liquid level, is very hot and radiates so that the operation and the life of the cylinder can be degraded. Also, the positioning of the cylinder gene thermal exchanges at the longitudinal side wall of the box, which must be controllable to control the size of the slope formed in the tank, for example by air blowing as known from the patent publication WO99 / 54526 . In addition, as the wear height of anodic carbon blocks is important in the current tanks, the stroke of the cylinder must be important so that the size, including longitudinal cylinder is problematic for positioning against the wall, due in particular to the limited space left in space inter-tanks by the various electrical conductors of the electrolysis current. The lifting device also does not participate in the supply of the electrolysis current to the anode assembly so that when an anode assembly is changed, the electrical supply conductor must be manipulated in addition to be reconnected to the new anode set.

Un but de la présente invention est de proposer une cuve comprenant un système de levage dont la configuration permet de palier, au moins en partie aux inconvénients énoncés ci-dessus.An object of the present invention is to provide a tank comprising a lifting system whose configuration allows to overcome, at least in part, the disadvantages mentioned above.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

A cet effet l'invention propose une cuve d'électrolyse utilisable pour la production d'aluminium, comportant un caisson incluant un fond et des parois latérales transversales et longitudinales, le caisson étant recouvert d'un revêtement intérieur destiné à recevoir un bain cryolithaire et une pluralité d'ensembles anodiques incluant chacun une structure anodique et au moins une anode plongeant dans le bain cryolithaire, la cuve comprenant en outre une pluralité de dispositifs de levage s'étendant le long des parois latérales longitudinales du caisson pour déplacer les ensembles anodiques, chaque structure anodique s'étendant transversalement dans la cuve et étant associée à une paire respective de dispositifs de levage disposés le long de parois latérales longitudinales opposées du caisson et portant chacun l'une des extrémités de la structure anodique, les dispositifs de levage comprenant un vérin composé d'un corps et d'une tige de vérin s'étendant le long d'un axe longitudinal B-B', et un récepteur anodique destiné à recevoir une extrémité de la structure anodique, le vérin étant couplé au récepteur anodique pour l'animer d'un mouvement de translation le long d'un axe de translation T-T' entre une position rétractée, et une position déployée, la cuve d'électrolyse comprenant en outre une enceinte de confinement en appui sur le caisson et incluant des parois latérales transversales et longitudinales, l'enceinte étant destinée à définir un volume de confinement des gaz au-dessus du bain cryolithaire, caractérisée en ce que l'axe longitudinal B-B' du vérin est parallèle et distinct de l'axe de translation T-T' du récepteur anodique de sorte que le récepteur anodique se trouve à l'intérieur de l'enceinte de confinement et le vérin se trouve à l'extérieur de l'enceinte de confinement.To this end, the invention proposes an electrolytic cell that can be used for the production of aluminum, comprising a box including a bottom and transverse and longitudinal lateral walls, the box being covered with an inner lining intended to receive a cryolite bath and a plurality of anode assemblies each including an anode structure and at least one anode immersed in the cryolite bath, the vessel further comprising a plurality of lifting devices extending along the longitudinal side walls of the housing for moving the anode assemblies, each anode structure extending transversely in the vessel and being associated with a respective pair of lifting devices disposed along opposite longitudinal side walls of the vessel and each carrying one of the ends of the anode structure, the lifting devices comprising a jack consisting of a body and a jack rod extending along a longitudinal axis B-B ', and an anode receiver for receiving an end of the anode structure, the jack being coupled to the anode receiver to animate it with a translational movement along a translation axis TT' between a retracted position, and an extended position, the electrolysis chamber further comprising a confinement chamber resting on the caisson and including transverse and longitudinal lateral walls, the chamber being intended to define a volume of confinement of the gases above above the cryolite bath, characterized in that the longitudinal axis BB 'of the jack is parallel and distinct from the translation axis TT' of the anode receiver so that the anode receiver is inside the containment chamber and the cylinder is outside the containment.

Le fait de positionner les dispositifs de levage à la périphérie de la cuve d'électrolyse - et plus précisément le long de ses parois latérales longitudinales - permet l'absence d'obstacle à une course verticale des ensembles anodiques. Ceci permet un remplacement des ensembles anodiques par le haut de la cuve d'électrolyse, sans nécessiter la mise en oeuvre d'une cinématique de déplacement complexe des ensembles anodiques. Les dispositifs de levage ne s'étendent pas au-dessus des anodes, de préférence pas au-dessus du bain cryolithaire et de préférence encore pas au-dessus du caisson. Le terme au-dessus doit être compris comme au-dessus de l'élément auquel il se rapport et dans un volume formé par translation verticale de la surface obtenue par projection de cet élément dans un plan horizontal. Les dispositifs de levage ne font ainsi pas obstacle à une course verticale des ensembles anodiques.Positioning the lifting devices at the periphery of the electrolysis cell - and more precisely along its longitudinal side walls - allows the absence obstacle to a vertical stroke of anode assemblies. This allows the anode assemblies to be replaced by the top of the electrolytic cell, without requiring the implementation of a kinematics of complex displacement of the anode assemblies. Lifting devices do not extend above the anodes, preferably not above the cryolite bath and more preferably not above the well. The term above must be understood as above the element to which it relates and in a volume formed by vertical translation of the surface obtained by projection of this element in a horizontal plane. The lifting devices do not thus prevent a vertical stroke of the anode assemblies.

Les dispositifs de levage servent à déplacer verticalement en translation les ensembles anodiques dans la cuve d'électrolyse pour ajuster le positionnement du plan anodique au cours du fonctionnement de la cuve d'électrolyse et font partie intégrante de la cuve d'électrolyse.The lifting devices serve to move the anode units vertically in translation in the electrolytic cell to adjust the positioning of the anode plane during the operation of the electrolytic cell and form an integral part of the electrolytic cell.

Les ensembles anodiques sont de type précuits destinés à être changés périodiquement après usure des anodes les constituant. La structure anodique permet de supporter mécaniquement les anodes qui sont des blocs carbonés précuits et d'assurer la connexion électrique de l'ensemble anodique à chaque changement d'ensemble anodique. On entend, dans le cadre de la présente invention, par « axes parallèles et distincts », deux axes parallèles et non confondus, c'est-à-dire espacés d'une distance non nulleThe anode assemblies are of the precooked type intended to be changed periodically after wear of the anodes constituting them. The anode structure can mechanically support the anodes which are precooked carbon blocks and ensure the electrical connection of the anode assembly at each change of anode assembly. In the context of the present invention, the term "parallel and distinct axes" means two parallel and non-coincident axes, that is to say spaced apart by a non-zero distance

Le fait que l'axe longitudinal B-B' du vérin soit parallèle et distinct de l'axe de translation T-T' permet de déporter le récepteur anodique par rapport au vérin. On obtient ainsi un dispositif de levage qui peut présenter d'une part une hauteur minimale (i.e. dimension du dispositif selon l'axe longitudinal du vérin), et qui d'autre part peut être mieux et plus facilement agencé dans le faible espace laissé disponible entre deux cuves adjacentes pour un positionnement à la périphérie d'une cuve d'électrolyse. Cette amélioration d'agencement rendue possible du fait du déport du récepteur anodique par rapport au vérin permet de limiter la hauteur des cuves d'électrolyse et/ou de diminuer l'espace entre deux cuves adjacentes.The fact that the longitudinal axis B-B 'of the cylinder is parallel and distinct from the translation axis T-T' allows to deport the anode receiver relative to the cylinder. This gives a lifting device which can have on the one hand a minimum height (ie dimension of the device along the longitudinal axis of the cylinder), and on the other hand can be better and more easily arranged in the small space left available between two adjacent tanks for positioning at the periphery of an electrolytic cell. This improvement of arrangement made possible by the offset of the anode receiver relative to the cylinder can limit the height of the electrolysis cells and / or reduce the space between two adjacent tanks.

Pour permettre un déport du récepteur anodique par rapport au vérin, les dispositifs de levage peuvent comprendre une poutrelle de liaison transversale entre la tige de vérin et le récepteur anodique, ladite poutrelle de liaison s'étendant de préférence le long d'un axe transversal perpendiculaire à l'axe longitudinal B-B' du vérin et à l'axe de translation T-T'.In order to allow the anode receiver to be displaced relative to the jack, the lifting devices may comprise a transverse link beam between the jack rod and the anode receiver, said connecting beam preferably extending along a perpendicular transverse axis. to the longitudinal axis BB 'of the jack and to the translation axis T-T'.

L'ensemble composé de la tige de vérin, de la poutrelle de liaison et du récepteur anodique peut former une structure en U de sorte que le corps de vérin s'étend en regard du récepteur anodique. Par « en regard », on entend qu'au moins un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe longitudinal du vérin passe par le corps de vérin et le récepteur anodique. Ceci permet de limiter la hauteur des dispositifs de levage.The assembly consisting of the cylinder rod, the connecting beam and the anode receiver can form a U-shaped structure so that the cylinder body extends facing anodic receptor. By "facing" is meant that at least one plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder passes through the cylinder body and the anode receiver. This makes it possible to limit the height of the lifting devices.

Avantageusement, la poutrelle de liaison est montée solidaire sur la tige de vérin et la poutrelle de liaison est montée solidaire du récepteur anodique. Ceci permet de transmettre les mouvements de la tige au récepteur anodique.Advantageously, the connecting beam is integral with the cylinder rod and the connecting beam is mounted integral with the anode receiver. This makes it possible to transmit the movements of the rod to the anode receiver.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le récepteur anodique peut comprendre un barreau s'étendant le long de l'axe de translation T-T'. Avantageusement, ce barreau comprend un logement à l'une de ses extrémités, ledit logement étant destiné à recevoir l'extrémité de la structure anodique. Ce barreau permet un maintien mécanique de la structure anodique au-dessus du bain cryolithaire. Il peut permettre en outre la conduction du courant électrique pour l'alimentation des ensembles anodiques. Pour ce faire, une portion du barreau est connectée électriquement à des moyens de conduction électrique flexibles. L'ensemble anodique est notamment alimenté électriquement via le logement, et plus particulièrement les surfaces en contact de la structure anodique et du logement. Un système de fixation peut être prévu pour solidariser la structure anodique au logement. Ceci permet d'éviter un dégagement de la structure anodique hors du logement durant les déplacements en translation de la structure anodique. Ce système de fixation peut comprendre des moyens de placage de la structure anodique contre le logement pour garantir la conduction du courant entre le logement et la structure anodique.In one embodiment, the anode receiver may comprise a bar extending along the translation axis T-T '. Advantageously, this bar comprises a housing at one of its ends, said housing being intended to receive the end of the anode structure. This bar allows mechanical retention of the anode structure above the cryolite bath. It can also allow the conduction of the electric current for the supply of the anode assemblies. To do this, a portion of the bar is electrically connected to flexible electrical conduction means. The anode assembly is in particular electrically powered via the housing, and more particularly the surfaces in contact with the anode structure and the housing. A fastening system may be provided to secure the anode structure to the housing. This makes it possible to avoid a release of the anode structure out of the housing during translational movements of the anode structure. This fixing system may include means for plating the anode structure against the housing to ensure the conduction of the current between the housing and the anode structure.

Le barreau peut être de section rectangulaire ou carrée pour améliorer sa tenue mécanique. Il peut en outre comporter un squelette en acier et des portions en cuivre logées dans ou autour du squelette pour l'acheminement d'énergie électrique vers les ensembles anodiques.The bar may be of rectangular or square section to improve its mechanical strength. It may further comprise a steel skeleton and copper portions housed in or around the skeleton for conveying electrical energy to the anode assemblies.

Comme indiqué précédemment, les dispositifs de levage peuvent comprendre des moyens de guidage du récepteur anodique pour guider le déplacement du récepteur anodique le long de l'axe de translation T-T'. Dans certaines variantes de réalisation, les moyens de guidage entourent au moins partiellement le récepteur anodique et définissent un chemin de guidage à coulissement pour le récepteur anodique. Par exemple, les moyens de guidage peuvent comprendre deux anneaux espacés d'une distance non nulle le long de l'axe de translation T-T', chaque anneau entourant une portion du récepteur anodique. De préférence, chaque anneau peut comporter une fente pour le passage de la poutrelle de liaison lors du déplacement du récepteur anodique entre les positions rétractée et déployée. Ceci permet de maximiser la distance entre les anneaux afin d'éviter un éventuel jeu angulaire du barreau dans les moyens de guidage. On garantit ainsi un déplacement en translation verticale du récepteur anodique.As previously indicated, the lifting devices may include means for guiding the anode receiver to guide the movement of the anode receiver along the translation axis T-T '. In some embodiments, the guide means at least partially surround the anode receiver and define a sliding guide path for the anode receiver. For example, the guide means may comprise two rings spaced apart by a non-zero distance along the translation axis T-T ', each ring surrounding a portion of the anode receiver. Preferably, each ring may comprise a slot for the passage of the connecting beam when moving the anode receiver between the retracted and deployed positions. This makes it possible to maximize the distance between the rings in order to avoid any angular play of the bar in the guide means. We guarantee thus a displacement in vertical translation of the anode receiver.

Les dispositifs de levage sont fixés à la cuve d'électrolyse de sorte que l'axe de translation T-T' de chaque récepteur anodique (et donc l'axe longitudinal du vérin) soit vertical.The lifting devices are attached to the electrolytic cell so that the translation axis T-T 'of each anode receiver (and thus the longitudinal axis of the cylinder) is vertical.

Les cuves d'électrolyse actuelles présentant de grandes dimensions, chaque cuve d'électrolyse comprend une pluralité d'ensembles anodiques. La cuve comprend avantageusement un contrôleur connecté aux dispositifs de levage pour commander le déplacement synchrone des dispositifs de levage de chaque paire. Ceci permet d'assurer un déplacement en translation verticale de chaque ensemble anodique.Current electrolysis vessels having large dimensions, each electrolysis cell comprises a plurality of anode assemblies. The vessel advantageously comprises a controller connected to the lifting devices for controlling the synchronous displacement of the lifting devices of each pair. This makes it possible to ensure a displacement in vertical translation of each anode assembly.

Dans certains modes de réalisation, chaque dispositif de levage peut avantageusement être fixé à l'une des parois latérales longitudinales de l'enceinte de confinement. Notamment, chaque dispositif de levage peut être fixé à un bord supérieur de l'enceinte de confinement opposé au caisson de sorte que le corps du vérin de chaque dispositif de levage soit positionné à une altitude supérieure à l'altitude du bain cryolithaire. Ceci permet de limiter l'exposition du corps de vérin au rayonnement thermique émanant de façon prépondérante sur le caisson en face du bain cryolithaire dont la température de fonctionnement est de l'ordre de 1000°C, l'exposition du corps à de telles températures pouvant dégrader le fonctionnement du vérin. En plaçant le corps de vérin au-dessus du bain cryolithaire, on augmente la fiabilité et la durabilité de celui-ci.In certain embodiments, each lifting device may advantageously be attached to one of the longitudinal side walls of the containment enclosure. In particular, each lifting device can be attached to an upper edge of the confinement enclosure opposite the box so that the body of the cylinder of each lifting device is positioned at an altitude greater than the altitude of the cryolite bath. This makes it possible to limit the exposure of the cylinder body to the thermal radiation emanating predominantly from the caisson in front of the cryolite bath whose operating temperature is of the order of 1000 ° C., the exposure of the body to such temperatures may degrade the operation of the cylinder. By placing the cylinder body above the cryolite bath, it increases the reliability and durability thereof.

De préférence, chaque dispositif de levage est fixé au bord supérieur de l'enceinte de confinement par une extrémité libre du vérin de sorte que ladite extrémité libre est plus éloignée du fond du caisson que la tige de vérin.Preferably, each lifting device is fixed to the upper edge of the containment enclosure by a free end of the jack so that said free end is further away from the bottom of the box than the jack rod.

De préférence, les parois latérales de l'enceinte de confinement sont décalées vers l'extérieur par rapport aux parois latérales du caisson de sorte que lesdites parois latérales de l'enceinte s'étendent autour et au-dessus des parois latérales du caisson, les parois latérales du caisson et de l'enceinte de confinement étant reliées mécaniquement par un replat annulaire, les récepteurs anodiques des dispositifs de levage s'étendant à travers des ouvertures ménagées dans le replat. Ceci permet d'améliorer l'étanchéité de la cuve en limitant les dimensions des ouvertures aux dimensions des récepteurs anodiques.Preferably, the side walls of the containment chamber are offset outwards with respect to the side walls of the box so that said side walls of the enclosure extend around and above the side walls of the box, the side walls of the box and the containment being mechanically connected by an annular plate, the anode receptors of the lifting devices extending through openings in the plate. This makes it possible to improve the tightness of the tank by limiting the dimensions of the openings to the dimensions of the anode receivers.

L'axe de translation T-T' est préférentiellement vertical, les récepteurs anodiques étant aptes à se déplacer en translation verticale à travers les ouvertures ménagées dans le replat. Dans certaines variantes de réalisation, les récepteurs anodiques traversent l'enceinte de confinement au travers de joints annulaires d'étanchéité dynamique. Ceci permet d'améliorer encore l'étanchéité de la cuve.The translation axis TT 'is preferably vertical, the anode receptors being able to move in vertical translation through the openings in the plate. In some embodiments, the anode receivers pass through the containment chamber through annular dynamic seal seals. This makes it possible to further improve the tightness of the tank.

Pour maximiser le volume utile à la production d'aluminium à l'intérieur de la cuve et pour limiter les risques de dégradation des dispositifs de levage, les vérins des dispositifs de levage peuvent s'étendre à l'extérieur de la cuve.To maximize the volume needed for the production of aluminum inside the tank and to limit the risk of degradation of the lifting devices, the jacks of the lifting devices can extend outside the tank.

La cuve d'électrolyse peut également comprendre un dispositif de collecte de gaz incluant au moins une gaine de captation de gaz comportant des trous d'aspiration pour l'aspiration de gaz, chaque dispositif de levage étant fixé sur ladite gaine de captation. Chaque gaine de captation du dispositif de collecte de gaz peut s'étendre le long du bord supérieur des parois latérales longitudinales de l'enceinte, chaque dispositif de levage étant fixé à ladite gaine de captation par une extrémité libre du vérin de sorte que ladite extrémité libre est plus éloignée du fond du caisson que la tige de vérin.The electrolytic cell may also comprise a gas collection device including at least one gas collection duct having suction holes for gas suction, each lifting device being fixed on said collection duct. Each collection duct of the gas collection device may extend along the upper edge of the longitudinal side walls of the enclosure, each lifting device being fixed to said collection duct by a free end of the cylinder so that said end free is further from the bottom of the box than the cylinder rod.

On forme ainsi une gaine de captation qui, outre sa fonction première d'acheminement des gaz, peut être utilisée notamment en tant que :

  • ceinture de cerclage pour l'ensemble composé du caisson et de l'enceinte, et en tant que
  • support de fixation pour différents éléments de la cuve d'électrolyse tels que les dispositifs de levage.
Thus, a collection sheath is formed which, in addition to its primary gas routing function, can be used in particular as:
  • strapping belt for the set consisting of the box and the enclosure, and as a
  • mounting bracket for various elements of the electrolysis cell such as lifting devices.

Le fait d'associer plusieurs fonctions à la gaine de captation permet ainsi de limiter l'encombrement de la cuve et de faciliter sa fabrication.The fact of associating several functions with the capture sheath thus makes it possible to limit the bulk of the tank and to facilitate its manufacture.

Brève description des figuresBrief description of the figures

D'autres avantages et caractéristiques du dispositif de levage selon l'invention ressortiront encore de la description qui va suivre de plusieurs variantes d'exécution, données à titre d'exemples non limitatifs, à partir des dessins annexés sur lesquels :

  • les figures 1 et 2 sont des vues en coupes longitudinale et transversale d'un exemple de cuve d'électrolyse,
  • les figures 3 et 4 sont des vues en perspective d'un dispositif de levage de la cuve d'électrolyse.
Other advantages and characteristics of the lifting device according to the invention will emerge from the following description of several alternative embodiments, given by way of non-limiting examples, from the attached drawings in which:
  • the figures 1 and 2 are views in longitudinal and transverse sections of an example of an electrolysis cell,
  • the figures 3 and 4 are perspective views of a lifting device of the electrolysis cell.

Description détailléedetailed description

On va maintenant décrire un exemple de cuve d'électrolyse incluant un dispositif de levage pour le déplacement d'un cadre anodique. Dans ces différentes figures, les éléments équivalents portent les mêmes références numériques.An example of an electrolysis cell including a lifting device for the displacement of an anode frame will now be described. In these different figures, the equivalent elements bear the same numerical references.

On utilisera dans la suite du texte les expressions « paroi latérale », « fond », « ouverture supérieure », en référence à un parallélépipède rectangle.In the rest of the text, the terms "side wall", "bottom" and "top opening" will be used, with reference to a rectangular parallelepiped.

Le lecteur appréciera que l'on entend, dans le cadre de la présente invention, par :

  • « fond », une paroi horizontale d'un parallélépipède rectangle située à proximité du sol,
  • « ouverture supérieure » une ouverture ménagée dans une paroi horizontale d'un parallélépipède rectangle opposée au fond,
  • « face/paroi latérale », une face/paroi verticale d'un parallélépipède rectangle s'étendant dans un plan perpendiculaire au fond,
  • « faces/parois longitudinales », des faces/parois verticales d'un parallélépipède rectangle dont au moins une dimension est supérieure aux dimensions des autres faces/parois latérales,
  • « faces/parois transversales », des faces/parois verticales s'étendant perpendiculairement aux faces/parois longitudinales.
The reader will appreciate that in the context of the present invention, the following is meant:
  • 'Bottom' means a horizontal wall of a rectangular parallelepiped situated close to the ground,
  • 'Upper opening' means an opening in a horizontal wall of a rectangular parallelepiped opposite to the bottom,
  • 'Face / side wall' means a face / vertical wall of a rectangular parallelepiped extending in a plane perpendicular to the bottom,
  • ' Longitudinal faces / walls' means the vertical faces / walls of a rectangular parallelepiped of which at least one dimension is greater than the dimensions of the other faces / side walls,
  • " Transverse faces / walls" means vertical faces / walls extending perpendicular to the longitudinal faces / walls.

Par ailleurs, on utilisera les termes « dessus », « dessous » par rapport à un axe vertical.In addition, the terms "above" and "below" will be used in relation to a vertical axis.

En référence à la figure 1, on a illustré un exemple de cuve d'électrolyse selon l'invention. La cuve d'électrolyse de forme parallélépipédique rectangle comprend un caisson 1, une enceinte de confinement 2, une pluralité d'ensembles anodiques 3, une cathode 4, un dispositif de collecte de gaz 5 et des dispositifs de levage 6.With reference to the figure 1 an example of an electrolytic cell according to the invention has been illustrated. The rectangular parallelepiped-shaped electrolysis cell comprises a caisson 1, a confinement chamber 2, a plurality of anode assemblies 3, a cathode 4, a gas collection device 5 and lifting devices 6.

Cette cuve est utilisable pour la production d'aluminium. Elle peut être associée à une pluralité d'autres cuves d'électrolyse, éventuellement identiques, les différentes cuves étant disposées à la suite les unes des autres, deux cuves d'électrolyses successives étant adjacentes au niveau de l'une de leurs parois latérales longitudinales, comme illustré à la figure 2 où deux cuves successives C1, C2 sont représentées.This tank is used for the production of aluminum. It may be associated with a plurality of other electrolysis cells, possibly identical, the different tanks being arranged one after the other, two successive electrolytic cells being adjacent at one of their longitudinal side walls. as shown in figure 2 where two successive tanks C1, C2 are represented.

Le caisson 1 est de forme globalement parallélépipédique rectangle. Il comprend un fond 10 et des parois latérales transversales 11 et longitudinales 12. Le fond 10 et les quatre parois latérales 11, 12 sont recouverts d'un matériau réfractaire 13 permettant de calorifuger le caisson 1. Le caisson 1 peut être métallique, par exemple en acier.The casing 1 is of generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. It comprises a bottom 10 and transverse lateral walls 11 and longitudinal 12. The bottom 10 and the four side walls 11, 12 are covered with a refractory material 13 for insulating the box 1. The box 1 may be metallic, for example in steel.

Le caisson 1 est ouvert dans sa partie supérieure. Il est destiné à recevoir un bain cryolithaire 14 dans lequel sont plongés les ensembles anodiques 3.The casing 1 is open in its upper part. It is intended to receive a cryolite bath 14 in which the anode assemblies 3 are immersed.

L'enceinte de confinement 2 définit un volume fermé au-dessus du bain cryolithaire 14 dans lequel les ensembles anodiques 3 sont déplacés.The confinement chamber 2 defines a closed volume above the cryolite bath 14 in which the anode assemblies 3 are moved.

L'enceinte de confinement 2 est en appui sur les bords supérieurs du caisson 1. Elle comprend deux parois latérales transversales 21 et deux parois latérales longitudinales 22 fixées au caisson 1.The confinement chamber 2 bears on the upper edges of the caisson 1. It comprises two transverse lateral walls 21 and two longitudinal lateral walls 22 fixed to the caisson 1.

Les parois latérales 21, 22 de l'enceinte de confinement 2 sont décalées vers l'extérieur par rapport aux parois latérales 11, 12 du caisson 1 de sorte que lesdites parois latérales 21, 22 de l'enceinte 2 s'étendent autour et au-dessus des parois latérales 11, 12 du caisson 1. Ainsi, les plans dans lesquels s'étendent les parois latérales 21, 22 de l'enceinte 2 entourent les parois latérales 11, 12 du caisson 1.The side walls 21, 22 of the containment enclosure 2 are outwardly shifted relative to the side walls 11, 12 of the box 1 so that said side walls 21, 22 of the chamber 2 extend around and above the side walls 11, 12 of the box 1. Thus, the planes in which s extend the side walls 21, 22 of the enclosure 2 surround the side walls 11, 12 of the box 1.

Les bords supérieurs du caisson 1 et/ou les bords inférieurs de l'enceinte de confinement 2 peuvent former un replat pour relier mécaniquement les parois latérales 11, 12, 21, 22 du caisson 1 et de l'enceinte 2, de sorte que l'enceinte 2 définit avec le caisson 1 un volume libre au-dessus du bain cryolithaire 14.The upper edges of the box 1 and / or the lower edges of the containment chamber 2 may form a flap to mechanically connect the side walls 11, 12, 21, 22 of the box 1 and the chamber 2, so that the enclosure 2 defines with the caisson 1 a free volume above the cryolite bath 14.

L'enceinte de confinement comprend également un capotage amovible 23 pour coiffer l'ouverture supérieure définie par les quatre parois latérales 21, 22 de l'enceinte 2. Le capotage 23 peut être composé d'un assemblage de panneaux ou capots s'étendant globalement dans un plan, et être en appui sur les bords supérieurs 24 des parois latérales 21, 22 de l'enceinte 2.The containment enclosure also includes a removable cowling 23 to cover the upper opening defined by the four side walls 21, 22 of the enclosure 2. The cowling 23 may be composed of a panel assembly or covers extending generally in a plane, and bear on the upper edges 24 of the side walls 21, 22 of the enclosure 2.

Chaque ensemble anodique 3 comprend au moins une anode 31 et une structure anodique 32. Durant la réaction d'électrolyse, l'anode 31 plongée dans le bain cryolithaire 14 se consomme. Les ensembles anodiques 3 doivent donc être remplacés périodiquement.Each anode assembly 3 comprises at least one anode 31 and an anode structure 32. During the electrolysis reaction, the anode 31 immersed in the cryolite bath 14 is consumed. Anode assemblies 3 must therefore be replaced periodically.

L'anode 31 est de type précuite, c'est-à-dire un bloc de matériau carboné précuit avant introduction dans la cuve d'électrolyse.The anode 31 is of precooked type, that is to say a block of precooked carbon material before introduction into the electrolytic cell.

La structure anodique 32 permet d'une part de supporter et manipuler l'anode 31, et d'autre part de l'alimenter en courant électrique. Chaque structure anodique 32 forme un support indépendant pour sa ou ses anode(s) 31 associées.The anode structure 32 allows on the one hand to support and manipulate the anode 31, and on the other hand to supply power. Each anode structure 32 forms an independent support for its associated anode (s) 31.

Comme illustré sur les figures 1 et 2, les ensembles anodiques 3 s'étendent transversalement dans la cuve, et la cuve comprend une pluralité d'ensembles anodiques disposés côte à côte le long de la cuve selon un axe longitudinal de la cuve.As illustrated on figures 1 and 2 , the anode assemblies 3 extend transversely in the vessel, and the vessel comprises a plurality of anode assemblies arranged side by side along the vessel along a longitudinal axis of the vessel.

Chaque structure anodique 32 s'étend transversalement dans la cuve entre les bords latéraux longitudinaux 22 de l'enceinte 2. Dans le mode de réalisation illustré aux figures 1 et 2, chaque structure anodique 32 comporte une poutre s'étendant transversalement entre les bords latéraux longitudinaux 22 de l'enceinte 2.Each anode structure 32 extends transversely in the tank between the longitudinal side edges 22 of the enclosure 2. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. figures 1 and 2 each anode structure 32 comprises a beam extending transversely between the longitudinal lateral edges 22 of the enclosure 2.

La structure anodique 32 peut comprendre une armature 332 constituée dans un métal présentant une bonne tenue mécanique, tel que de l'acier, et des tronçons 331 constitués dans un métal présentant une bonne conductivité électrique tel que du cuivre. Cette armature 332 permet à la structure anodique 32 d'assurer le maintien en suspension des anodes 31, tandis que les tronçons 331 permettent d'assurer l'acheminement de courant électrique pour l'alimentation électrique des anodes 31.The anode structure 32 may comprise an armature 332 made of a metal having a good mechanical strength, such as steel, and sections 331 made of a metal having a good electrical conductivity such as copper. This reinforcement 332 allows the anode structure 32 to maintain the suspended anodes 31, while the sections 331 make it possible to carry the current electric power supply for the anodes 31.

La cathode 4 est composée d'un (ou plusieurs) bloc(s) de matériau carboné. Les blocs cathodiques sont connectés électriquement à des conducteurs cathodiques sortant de la cuve d'électrolyse en vue de l'acheminement du courant électrique vers la cuve d'électrolyse suivante. La cathode 4 peut être de tout type connu de l'homme du métier et ne sera pas décrite plus en détail dans la suite.The cathode 4 is composed of one (or more) block (s) of carbonaceous material. The cathode blocks are electrically connected to cathode conductors exiting the electrolysis cell for routing electrical current to the next electrolytic cell. The cathode 4 may be of any type known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in more detail below.

Le dispositif de collecte de gaz 5 permet de récupérer les gaz polluants générés lors de la réaction d'électrolyse.The gas collection device 5 makes it possible to recover the pollutant gases generated during the electrolysis reaction.

Le dispositif de collecte de gaz 5 comprend une (ou plusieurs) gaine(s) de captation sur laquelle (lesquelles) des trous d'aspiration pour l'aspiration des gaz sont réparties.The gas collection device 5 comprises one (or more) collection duct (s) on which (which) suction holes for the suction of gases are distributed.

La (ou les) gaine(s) de captation est (sont) associée(s) à un (ou plusieurs) dispositif(s) d'aspiration (non représentés). Elle(s) s'étend(ent) sur les parois latérales longitudinales 22 de l'enceinte 2, et éventuellement sur les parois latérales transversales 21 de l'enceinte 2. La présence de trous d'aspiration le long des parois longitudinales 23 de l'enceinte 2 permet d'améliorer l'efficacité de collecte des gaz polluants 5.The collection (or sheaths) is (are) associated with (or more) suction device (s) (not shown). It (s) extends (ent) on the longitudinal side walls 22 of the enclosure 2, and possibly on the transverse side walls 21 of the enclosure 2. The presence of suction holes along the longitudinal walls 23 of enclosure 2 makes it possible to improve the collection efficiency of the polluting gases 5.

Avantageusement, chaque gaine de captation peut être de section carrée ou rectangulaire, et être réalisée dans un matériau présentant une forte robustesse mécanique, tel que de l'acier. Ceci permet d'augmenter la rigidité et la solidité de la gaine d'aspiration. On forme ainsi une gaine de captation qui, outre sa fonction première d'acheminement des gaz, peut être utilisée notamment en tant que ceinture de cerclage pour l'ensemble composé du caisson 1 et de l'enceinte 2, et en tant que support de fixation pour différents éléments de la cuve d'électrolyse tels que les dispositifs de levage ou des dispositifs de perçage. Le fait d'associer plusieurs fonctions à la gaine de captation permet ainsi de limiter l'encombrement de la cuve et de réaliser des gains structurels.Advantageously, each capture sheath may be of square or rectangular section, and be made of a material having a high mechanical strength, such as steel. This makes it possible to increase the rigidity and the strength of the suction duct. A collection sheath is thus formed which, in addition to its primary function of conveying gases, can be used in particular as a strapping belt for the assembly composed of the box 1 and the chamber 2, and as a support for fixing for different elements of the electrolysis cell such as lifting devices or piercing devices. The fact of associating several functions with the capture sheath thus makes it possible to limit the bulk of the tank and to achieve structural gains.

Les dispositifs de levage 6 permettent la manipulation des structures anodiques 32 auxquelles sont suspendues les anodes 31. Plus précisément les dispositifs de levage 6 permettent de déplacer verticalement en translation les ensembles anodiques 3 pour ajuster le positionnement du plan anodique au cours du fonctionnement de la cuve d'électrolyse.The lifting devices 6 allow the manipulation of the anode structures 32 to which the anodes 31 are suspended. More specifically, the lifting devices 6 make it possible to move the anode units 3 vertically in translation in order to adjust the positioning of the anode plane during the operation of the tank. electrolysis.

Chaque structure anodique 32 est associée à deux dispositifs de levage respectifs sur chacun desquels reposent une de ses extrémités. Ainsi, le déplacement de chaque structure anodique 32 est indépendant du déplacement des autres structures anodiques 32 et ensembles anodiques contenues dans la cuve. Il est ainsi possible de déplacer verticalement les ensembles anodiques 3 indépendamment les uns des autres.Each anode structure 32 is associated with two respective lifting devices on each of which rests one of its ends. Thus, the displacement of each anode structure 32 is independent of the displacement of the other anode structures 32 and anode assemblies contained in the tank. It is thus possible to vertically move the anode assemblies 3 independently of each other.

Chaque dispositif de levage 6 est en contact avec une extrémité respective de la structure anodique 32. Deux dispositifs de levage 6 associés à une structure anodique 32 sont connectés à un contrôleur (non représenté) pour commander leur actionnement de manière synchrone. Ceci permet d'assurer un déplacement simultané des extrémités de la structure anodique 32 afin de la maintenir sensiblement horizontale lors de son déplacement. Le contrôleur peut également être programmé pour commander la vitesse et le sens de déplacement de la structure anodique 32. Ceci permet de faire varier la vitesse de déplacement de la structure anodique 32 en fonction du type d'opération mise en oeuvre. Par exemple, dans le cas d'un remplacement d'un ensemble anodique 3 usé par un ensemble anodique neuf, la vitesse de déplacement de la structure anodique 32 peut être supérieure à la vitesse de déplacement de la structure anodique 32 dans le cas d'un ajustement du plan anodique en cours d'électrolyse, un tel ajustement nécessitant des réglages fins.Each lifting device 6 is in contact with a respective end of the anode structure 32. Two lifting devices 6 associated with an anode structure 32 are connected to a controller (not shown) to control their actuation synchronously. This makes it possible to ensure simultaneous displacement of the ends of the anode structure 32 in order to keep it substantially horizontal during its displacement. The controller can also be programmed to control the speed and direction of movement of the anode structure 32. This makes it possible to vary the speed of displacement of the anode structure 32 according to the type of operation used. For example, in the case of a replacement of an anode assembly 3 used by a new anode assembly, the displacement speed of the anode structure 32 may be greater than the displacement speed of the anode structure 32 in the case of an adjustment of the anodic plane during electrolysis, such an adjustment requiring fine adjustments.

Chaque dispositif de levage 6 comprend un vérin 61 et un récepteur anodique 62.Each lifting device 6 comprises a jack 61 and an anode receiver 62.

Le vérin 61 permet de déplacer verticalement en translation le récepteur anodique 62 selon un axe de translation T-T'. Le vérin 61 comporte un corps 611 et une tige 612 s'étendant le long d'un axe longitudinal B-B'. Avantageusement, le vérin 61 peut être de type pneumatique ou électrique pour résister aux hautes températures régnant à proximité de la cuve.The jack 61 makes it possible to move the anodic receiver 62 vertically in translation along a translation axis T-T '. The cylinder 61 comprises a body 611 and a rod 612 extending along a longitudinal axis B-B '. Advantageously, the cylinder 61 may be of pneumatic or electric type to withstand the high temperatures prevailing near the tank.

Le récepteur anodique 62 comporte un barreau 621 de section rectangulaire s'étendant selon un axe longitudinal confondu avec l'axe de translation T-T'. L'extrémité supérieure du barreau 621 comprend un logement 622 destiné à recevoir l'extrémité de la structure anodique 32 et dont la forme est complémentaire à celle-ci.The anode receiver 62 comprises a bar 621 of rectangular section extending along a longitudinal axis coinciding with the translation axis T-T '. The upper end of the bar 621 comprises a housing 622 for receiving the end of the anode structure 32 and whose shape is complementary thereto.

Notamment, le logement 622 peut être une structure en U composée d'une base 6221 s'étendant dans un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe de translation T-T' et de deux panneaux verticaux 6222 s'étendant perpendiculairement à la base 6221, l'extrémité de la structure anodique 32 étant destinée à être en appui sur la base 6221, entre les panneaux verticaux 6222.In particular, the housing 622 may be a U-shaped structure composed of a base 6221 extending in a plane perpendicular to the translation axis TT 'and two vertical panels 6222 extending perpendicular to the base 6221, the end the anode structure 32 being intended to be supported on the base 6221, between the vertical panels 6222.

Le dispositif de levage peut également comprendre un système de fixation. Ce système de fixation permet de solidariser la structure anodique 32 au logement 622. Le système de fixation comprend par exemple une tige éventuellement filetée destinée à être insérée dans des alésages traversants ménagés dans les panneaux verticaux 6222 les alésages étant agencés dans les panneaux verticaux 6222 de sorte que la tige s'étend au-dessus la structure anodique 32, transversalement à celle-ci lorsque la tige est montée sur le logement 622.The lifting device may also include a fastening system. This fastening system makes it possible to secure the anode structure 32 to the housing 622. The fastening system comprises, for example, a possibly threaded rod intended to be inserted into through-holes formed in the vertical panels 6222, the bores being arranged in the vertical panels 6222 of FIGS. so that the rod extends above the anode structure 32, transversely thereto when the rod is mounted on the housing 622.

Le système de fixation peut comprendre des moyens de placage pour plaquer la structure anodique 32 contre une surface du logement 622, de préférence contre la base 6221 du logement 622. Par exemple, le système de fixation peut comprendre un boulon destiné à être boulonné à travers un trou et un taraudage ménagés respectivement dans la structure anodique 32 et dans la base 6221 du logement 622. La venue en butée d'une tête du boulon contre la structure anodique 32 assure son placage contre la base 6221 du logement 622.The fastening system may include plating means for pressing the anode structure 32 against a surface of the housing 622, preferably against the base 6221 of the housing 622. For example, the fastening system may include a bolt to be bolted through a hole and a tapping formed respectively in the anode structure 32 and in the base 6221 of the housing 622. The abutment of a head of the bolt against the anode structure 32 ensures its plating against the base 6221 of the housing 622.

Ce système de fixation permet d'éviter que la structure anodique 32 ne se dégage du logement 622 lorsque la structure anodique 32 est déplacée verticalement vers le fond 10 du caisson 1. En effet la production d'aluminium par électrolyse entraîne la formation d'une croûte solidifiée à la surface du bain cryolithaire 14. Les anodes 31 sont figées dans cette croûte solidifiée.This fastening system makes it possible to prevent the anode structure 32 from being disengaged from the housing 622 when the anode structure 32 is moved vertically towards the bottom 10 of the box 1. In fact the production of aluminum by electrolysis causes the formation of a crust solidified on the surface of the cryolite bath 14. The anodes 31 are fixed in this solidified crust.

Lors d'un déplacement vertical de la structure anodique 32 vers le fond 10 du caisson 1 pour faire descendre les anodes 31, les contraintes - notamment les forces de frottement - exercées par la croûte sur les anodes 31 peuvent être supérieures à la gravité, entrainant un risque de dégagement de la structure anodique du logement.During a vertical displacement of the anode structure 32 towards the bottom 10 of the box 1 to lower the anodes 31, the stresses - including the friction forces - exerted by the crust on the anodes 31 may be greater than the gravity, resulting in a risk of disengagement of the anodic structure of the housing.

La présence d'un système de fixation permet de limiter ce risque, notamment par l'application de forces de traction sur la structure anodique 32 tendant à maintenir celle-ci à l'intérieur du logement 622 au cours du déplacement vertical des anodes 31 vers le fond 10 du caisson 1.The presence of a fastening system limits this risk, in particular by the application of tensile forces on the anode structure 32 tending to maintain it inside the housing 622 during the vertical movement of the anodes 31 to the bottom 10 of the box 1.

Avantageusement, comme cela est visible sur les figures 2 et 4, une portion 6211 (par exemple l'extrémité la plus proche du fond du caisson 12, ou encore l'extrémité supérieure ou logement 622) du barreau est connectée électriquement à des moyens de conduction électrique flexibles 7 pour permettre l'alimentation électrique des ensembles anodiques 3, via le logement 622.Advantageously, as is visible on the figures 2 and 4 a portion 6211 (for example the end closest to the bottom of the box 12, or the upper end or housing 622) of the bar is electrically connected to flexible electrical conduction means 7 to allow power supply sets anodic 3, via housing 622.

Avantageusement, le récepteur anodique 62 est agencé de sorte que l'axe de translation T-T' soit distinct (i.e. non confondu) et parallèle à un axe longitudinal B-B' du vérin 61.Advantageously, the anode receiver 62 is arranged so that the translation axis T-T 'is distinct (i.e. not merged) and parallel to a longitudinal axis B-B' of the jack 61.

Ceci permet de déporter le récepteur anodique 62 par rapport au vérin 61 de sorte à limiter la hauteur du dispositif de levage 6. On obtient ainsi un dispositif de levage 6 qui peut présenter d'une part une hauteur minimale (i.e. dimension du dispositif selon l'axe longitudinal du vérin), et qui d'autre part peut être mieux et plus facilement agencé dans le faible espace laissé disponible entre deux cuves adjacentes pour un positionnement à la périphérie d'une cuve d'électrolyse.This makes it possible to move the anodic receiver 62 away from the jack 61 so as to limit the height of the lifting device 6. This gives a lifting device 6 which can have on the one hand a minimum height (ie dimension of the device according to FIG. longitudinal axis of the cylinder), and which, on the other hand, can be better and more easily arranged in the small space left between two adjacent tanks for positioning on the periphery of an electrolytic cell.

Un tel dispositif de levage 6 peut alors être positionné à la périphérie de la cuve d'électrolyse.Such a lifting device 6 can then be positioned at the periphery of the tank electrolysis.

On offre ainsi la possibilité de changer des ensembles anodiques 3 par le haut de la cuve d'électrolyse sans que les dispositifs de levage 6 ne fassent obstacle à la course verticale du changement des ensembles anodiques 3, ce qui permet d'envisager des gains structurels importants. Par ailleurs, le fait de déporter le vérin 61 par rapport au récepteur anodique 62 permet de positionner le vérin 61 à l'extérieur de l'enceinte de confinement tandis que le récepteur anodique 62 se trouve à l'intérieur de l'enceinte de confinement. On réduit ainsi les risques de dégradation du vérin 61 en limitant son exposition aux gaz et au rayonnement thermique. Le vérin peut avantageusement être logé dans un espace libre ménagé entre des berceaux de renfort du caisson 1 pour réduire l'encombrement du dispositif de levage à l'intérieur de l'enceinte.It thus offers the possibility of changing anode assemblies 3 by the top of the electrolytic cell without the lifting devices 6 hindering the vertical stroke of the change of the anode assemblies 3, which makes it possible to envisage structural gains important. Furthermore, the fact of deporting the cylinder 61 relative to the anode receiver 62 makes it possible to position the cylinder 61 outside the confinement enclosure while the anode receiver 62 is inside the containment enclosure. . This reduces the risk of degradation of the cylinder 61 by limiting its exposure to gases and heat radiation. The jack can advantageously be housed in a free space provided between reinforcement cradles of the box 1 to reduce the size of the lifting device inside the enclosure.

Différentes solutions peuvent être envisagées pour rendre l'axe de translation T-T' non confondu et parallèle à l'axe longitudinal B-B'.Different solutions can be envisaged to make the translation axis T-T 'unmixed and parallel to the longitudinal axis B-B'.

Par exemple, le vérin 61 peut être connecté au récepteur anodique 62 par l'intermédiaire d'une poutrelle de liaison transversale 63. Cette poutrelle de liaison transversale 63 s'étend de préférence perpendiculairement à la tige 612 et au barreau 621. La poutrelle de liaison 63 est montée solidaire du barreau 621 et de la tige 612 du vérin 61. Un système de boulonnage agencé pour solidariser la tige 612 à la poutrelle de liaison transversale 63 permet de compenser les éventuels défauts de parallélisme entre le vérin 61 et le récepteur anodique 62.For example, the jack 61 can be connected to the anode receiver 62 via a transverse link beam 63. This transverse link beam 63 preferably extends perpendicular to the rod 612 and to the bar 621. The beam link 63 is mounted integral with the bar 621 and the rod 612 of the cylinder 61. A bolting system arranged to secure the rod 612 to the transverse link beam 63 compensates for any parallelism defects between the cylinder 61 and the anode receiver 62.

Des moyens de guidage 64 permettent d'assurer le déplacement vertical du récepteur anodique 62 selon l'axe de translation T-T'. Les moyens de guidage peuvent comprendre deux anneaux 641, 642 espacés d'une distance non nulle selon l'axe de translation T-T', chaque anneau entourant partiellement le barreau 621 pour permettre son coulissement vertical entre :

  • une position rétractée ou basse où le logement 622 est proche de la surface du bain cryolithaire 14, et
  • une position déployée ou haute où le logement 622 est éloigné de la surface du bain cryolithaire 14.
Guiding means 64 make it possible to ensure the vertical displacement of the anode receiver 62 along the translation axis T-T '. The guide means may comprise two rings 641, 642 spaced by a non-zero distance along the translation axis T-T ', each ring partially surrounding the bar 621 to allow its vertical sliding between:
  • a retracted or low position where the housing 622 is close to the surface of the cryolite bath 14, and
  • a deployed or high position where the housing 622 is remote from the surface of the cryolite bath 14.

Dans le mode de réalisation illustré à la figure 4, chaque anneau 641,642 est fendu pour permettre le passage de la poutrelle transversale 63 lors du coulissement du barreau 621 entre les positions rétractée et déployée.In the embodiment illustrated in figure 4 each ring 641, 622 is slotted to allow passage of the transverse beam 63 during sliding of the bar 621 between the retracted and deployed positions.

Le vérin 61 est fixé au caisson « tête en haut ». Plus précisément, le corps 611 de vérin 61 est monté sur le caisson 1 de sorte que son extrémité libre 613 est plus éloignée du fond 10 du caisson 1 que la tige 612. L'extrémité libre 613 du corps 611 de vérin 61 est de préférence fixée au bord supérieur de l'enceinte de confinement et avantageusement sur la gaine de captation du dispositif de collecte de gaz 5. Ainsi, le corps 611 de vérin 61 s'étend contre la paroi latérale longitudinale 22 de l'enceinte de confinement 2, à une hauteur supérieure à celle du bain cryolithaire. Ceci permet de limiter le risque de dégradation du vérin par exposition du corps 611 à de trop fortes températures. En effet, la température des parois latérales 11, 12 du caisson 1 est généralement supérieure à la température des parois latérales 21, 22 de l'enceinte 2 du fait de la présence à proximité du bain cryolithaire 14 dont la température de fonctionnement est de l'ordre de 1000°C.The cylinder 61 is fixed to the box "head up". More specifically, the cylinder body 611 61 is mounted on the casing 1 so that its free end 613 is further away from the bottom 10 of the casing 1 that the rod 612. The free end 613 of the body 611 of the cylinder 61 is preferably fixed to the upper edge of the containment chamber and advantageously to the collection duct of the gas collection device 5. Thus , the cylinder body 611 61 extends against the longitudinal side wall 22 of the containment chamber 2, at a height greater than that of the cryolite bath. This limits the risk of degradation of the cylinder by exposure of the body 611 to too high temperatures. Indeed, the temperature of the side walls 11, 12 of the box 1 is generally greater than the temperature of the side walls 21, 22 of the chamber 2 due to the presence in the vicinity of the cryolite bath 14 whose operating temperature is 1 order of 1000 ° C.

Le principe de fonctionnement des dispositifs de levage est le suivant. On suppose les anodes 31 plongées dans le bain cryolithaire.The operating principle of the lifting devices is as follows. Anodes 31 are assumed to be immersed in the cryolite bath.

Pour déplacer verticalement l'ensemble anodique 3, le contrôleur commande l'actionnement synchronisé des deux dispositifs de levage 6 sur lesquels repose la structure anodique 32 de l'ensemble anodique 3.To vertically move the anode assembly 3, the controller controls the synchronized operation of the two lifting devices 6 on which the anode structure 32 of the anode assembly 3 rests.

Chaque vérin 61 applique une force sur sa tige 612 tendant à la déplacer entre :

  • une position dégagée où la tige 612 s'étend principalement à l'extérieur du corps 611, et
  • une position ramassée où la tige 612 s'étend principalement à l'intérieur du corps 611 de vérin 61.
Each cylinder 61 applies a force on its rod 612 tending to move between:
  • an open position where the rod 612 extends mainly outside the body 611, and
  • a picked up position where the rod 612 extends mainly inside the body 611 of the cylinder 61.

Le déplacement de la tige entre les positions dégagée et ramassée est transmis au récepteur anodique 62 par l'intermédiaire de la poutrelle transversale de liaison 63.The movement of the rod between the released and picked up positions is transmitted to the anode receiver 62 via the transverse link beam 63.

Le récepteur anodique 62 de chaque vérin coulisse à l'intérieur des moyens de guidage 64 et se déplace de la position rétractée à la position déployée.The anode receiver 62 of each jack slides inside the guide means 64 and moves from the retracted position to the deployed position.

Ainsi, l'association des ensembles anodiques à des dispositifs de levage respectifs permet de déplacer les ensembles anodiques 3 indépendamment les uns des autres. Par ailleurs, le fait de déporter le récepteur anodique par rapport au vérin permet un positionnement des dispositifs de levage à la périphérie de la cuve d'électrolyse, sans former des obstacles au déplacement des ensembles anodiques au-dessus des cuves, et facilement insérable à la périphérie de la cuve sans contraintes sur les circuits de conducteurs électriques passant sous et entre les cuves grâce à leur compacité augmentée.Thus, the combination of the anode assemblies with respective lifting devices makes it possible to move the anode assemblies 3 independently of one another. Furthermore, the fact of deporting the anode receiver relative to the jack allows a positioning of the lifting devices at the periphery of the electrolytic cell, without forming obstacles to the displacement of the anode assemblies above the tanks, and easily insertable to the periphery of the tank without constraints on the circuits of electrical conductors passing under and between the tanks due to their increased compactness.

Le lecteur aura compris que de nombreuses modifications peuvent être apportées au dispositif de levage décrit ci-dessus sans sortir matériellement des nouveaux enseignements présentés ici.The reader will have understood that many modifications can be made to the lifting device described above without physically going out of the new teachings presented here.

Par ailleurs, les formes des différentes pièces constituant le dispositif de levage - tel que la forme du barreau ou du logement etc. - peuvent varier.Moreover, the shapes of the various parts constituting the lifting device - such as the shape of the bar or housing etc. - may vary.

Egalement, dans les modes de réalisations illustrés aux figures 1 à 4, le vérin 61, le récepteur anodique 62 et la structure anodique 32 sont alignés, c'est à dire qu'ils s'étendent sensiblement dans un même plan. En variante, le vérin 61 peut être décalé par rapport au plan contenant le récepteur anodique 62 et la structure anodique 32.Also, in the embodiments illustrated at Figures 1 to 4 , the cylinder 61, the anode receiver 62 and the anode structure 32 are aligned, that is to say they extend substantially in the same plane. Alternatively, the jack 61 may be offset from the plane containing the anode receiver 62 and the anode structure 32.

Claims (15)

  1. Electrolytic cell used for producing aluminum, comprising a pot shell (1) including a base (10) and transverse and longitudinal side walls (11, 12), the pot shell (1) being covered with a liner (13) to receive a cryolite bath (14) and a plurality of anode assemblies (3) each including an anode structure (32) and at least one anode (31) immersed in the cryolite bath, the cell further comprising a plurality of lifting devices (6) extending along the longitudinal side walls of the pot shell (1) to move the anode assemblies (3), each anode structure (32) extends transversely in the cell and is associated with a respective pair of lifting devices arranged along opposite longitudinal side walls of the pot shell (1) and each carrying one of the ends of the anode structure (32), the lifting devices comprising a jack (61) made up of a body (611) and a jack rod (612) extending along a longitudinal axis (B-B'), and an anode receiver (62) designed to receive one end of the anode structure (32), the jack (61) being coupled to the anode receiver (62) to drive it with a translational motion along a translation axis (T-T') between a retracted position and a deployed position, the electrolytic cell further comprises a confinement chamber (2) bearing on the pot shell (1), the confinement chamber (2) including transverse (21) and longitudinal (22) side walls, the confinement chamber (2) being designed to define a confinement volume for gases above the cryolite bath (14), characterized in that the longitudinal axis (B-B') of the jack (61) is parallel and separate from the translation axis (T-T') of the anode receiver (62) so that the anode receiver (62) is inside the confinement chamber and the jack (61) is outside the confinement chamber.
  2. Electrolytic cell according to claim 1, wherein the lifting devices may comprise a transverse connecting beam (63) between the rod (612) of the jack (61) and the anode receiver (62), said connecting beam (63) preferably extending along a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (B-B') of the jack (61).
  3. Electrolytic cell according to claim 2, wherein the assembly composed of the rod (612) of the jack, the connecting beam (63) and the anode receiver (62) form a U-shaped structure
  4. Electrolytic cell according to either of claims 2 or 3, wherein the connecting beam (63) is mounted interdependently on the rod (612) of the jack (61) and the connecting beam (63) is mounted interdependently on the anode receiver (62).
  5. Electrolytic cell according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the anode receiver (62) comprises a bar (621) extending along the translation axis (T - T'),
  6. Electrolytic cell according to claim 5, wherein the anode receiver comprises a housing (622) at one end of the bar (621), said housing (622) being designed to receive the end of the anode structure (32).
  7. Electrolytic cell according to claim 6, further comprising a fixing system for securing the anode structure (32) to the housing (622).
  8. Electrolytic cell according to claim 7, wherein the fixing system comprises means of holding the anode structure (32) up against the housing (622).
  9. Electrolytic cell according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein a portion of the bar (621) is electrically connected to flexible electrical conducting means to enabling power to be supplied to each anode assembly (3).
  10. Electrolytic cell according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising guide means (64) for the anode receiver (62) to guide the movement of the anode receiver (62) along the translation axis (T - T').
  11. Electrolytic cell according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lifting devices are attached to the electrolytic cell so that the translation axis (T- T') of each anode receiver (62) is vertical.
  12. Electrolytic cell according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each lifting device (6) is fixed to a one of the longitudinal side walls of the confinement chamber (2).
  13. Electrolytic cell according to claim 12, wherein the side walls (21, 22) of the confinement chamber (2) are offset outwardly relative to the side walls (11, 12) of the pot shell (1) so that said side walls (21, 22) of the confinement chamber (2) extend around and above the side walls (11, 12) of the pot shell (1), side walls (11, 12, 21, 22) of the pot shell (1) and of the confinement chamber (2) being mechanically connected by a ring-shaped ledge, the anode receivers (62) of the lifting devices extending through openings in the ledge.
  14. Electrolytic cell according to claim 13, wherein the anode receivers (62) pass through the confinement chamber (2) through ring-shaped dynamic seals.
  15. Electrolytic cell according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein each lifting device is fixed to an upper edge of the confinement chamber (2) opposite the pot shell (1) so that the jack body of each lifting device is positioned at an altitude higher than the altitude of the cryolite bath.
EP15739950.2A 2014-01-27 2015-01-23 Electrolysis tank comprising an anodic assembly hoisting device Active EP3099840B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1400172A FR3016895B1 (en) 2014-01-27 2014-01-27 DEVICE FOR LIFTING ANODIC ASSEMBLIES OF AN ELECTROLYSIS TANK.
PCT/IB2015/000068 WO2015110901A1 (en) 2014-01-27 2015-01-23 Electrolysis tank comprising an anodic assembly hoisting device

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3099840A1 EP3099840A1 (en) 2016-12-07
EP3099840A4 EP3099840A4 (en) 2018-02-07
EP3099840B1 true EP3099840B1 (en) 2019-07-24

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EP15739950.2A Active EP3099840B1 (en) 2014-01-27 2015-01-23 Electrolysis tank comprising an anodic assembly hoisting device

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EP (1) EP3099840B1 (en)
CN (1) CN105940146B (en)
AU (1) AU2015208855B2 (en)
BR (1) BR112016015625B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2935439C (en)
DK (1) DK179216B1 (en)
FR (1) FR3016895B1 (en)
RU (1) RU2684025C2 (en)
WO (1) WO2015110901A1 (en)

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WO2018178509A1 (en) * 2017-03-29 2018-10-04 Kumera Oy Adjustment device mechanism for anodes of an aluminium smelter and method for adjusting anodes of an aluminium smelter
FR3093736B1 (en) * 2019-03-14 2021-02-19 Rio Tinto Alcan Int Ltd Intervention tool for the operation of an electrolysis cell
BR112022003413A2 (en) * 2019-08-28 2022-05-24 Elysis Lp Apparatus and method for operating an electrolytic cell

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Publication number Publication date
AU2015208855A1 (en) 2016-07-28
CN105940146A (en) 2016-09-14
BR112016015625B1 (en) 2022-02-01
FR3016895B1 (en) 2017-09-08
CA2935439A1 (en) 2015-07-30
RU2684025C2 (en) 2019-04-03
EP3099840A1 (en) 2016-12-07
AU2015208855B2 (en) 2018-08-23
RU2016134821A3 (en) 2018-10-04
EP3099840A4 (en) 2018-02-07
FR3016895A1 (en) 2015-07-31
CA2935439C (en) 2022-03-29
WO2015110901A1 (en) 2015-07-30
BR112016015625A2 (en) 2017-08-08
DK201670537A1 (en) 2016-08-22
CN105940146B (en) 2018-08-07
DK179216B1 (en) 2018-02-12
RU2016134821A (en) 2018-03-02

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