EP3213910A1 - Counterpressure device for a vibrocompacting machine and machine comprising such a device - Google Patents

Counterpressure device for a vibrocompacting machine and machine comprising such a device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3213910A1
EP3213910A1 EP17156969.2A EP17156969A EP3213910A1 EP 3213910 A1 EP3213910 A1 EP 3213910A1 EP 17156969 A EP17156969 A EP 17156969A EP 3213910 A1 EP3213910 A1 EP 3213910A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
machine
mold
flange
counterpressure
mass
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
EP17156969.2A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Vincent Philippaux
Sylvain Taxonera
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Fives Solios SA
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Fives Solios SA
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Publication date
Application filed by Fives Solios SA filed Critical Fives Solios SA
Publication of EP3213910A1 publication Critical patent/EP3213910A1/en
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B30—PRESSES
    • B30B—PRESSES IN GENERAL
    • B30B11/00—Presses specially adapted for forming shaped articles from material in particulate or plastic state, e.g. briquetting presses, tabletting presses
    • B30B11/02—Presses specially adapted for forming shaped articles from material in particulate or plastic state, e.g. briquetting presses, tabletting presses using a ram exerting pressure on the material in a moulding space
    • B30B11/022—Presses specially adapted for forming shaped articles from material in particulate or plastic state, e.g. briquetting presses, tabletting presses using a ram exerting pressure on the material in a moulding space whereby the material is subjected to vibrations
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22C—FOUNDRY MOULDING
    • B22C15/00—Moulding machines characterised by the compacting mechanism; Accessories therefor
    • B22C15/28—Compacting by different means acting simultaneously or successively, e.g. preliminary blowing and finally pressing
    • B22C15/30—Compacting by different means acting simultaneously or successively, e.g. preliminary blowing and finally pressing by both pressing and jarring devices
    • 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

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the field of the manufacture of carbon anodes from, in particular, a mixture of coal pitch and crushed coke, for the production of aluminum by a Hall-Héroult electrolysis process.
  • a compaction machine by vibrotassage, essentially comprising a mold of parallelepipedal general shape of rectangular cross-section, removably mounted on a vibrating table constituting the bottom of the mold, and also comprising a pressing mass adapted to be introduced axially into said mold by an upper end of the mold.
  • the vibrating table is secured to a frame by means of suspension means and is subjected to vibration in a substantially vertical direction, along the axis of the mold, under the effect of vibration actuating means.
  • FIG. 1 and 2 of this application An example of such a known machine is shown in figures 1 and 2 of this application.
  • the machine is then essentially composed of a parallelepiped-shaped mold of rectangular cross-section 1 of substantially vertical axis, vertically displaceable, and removably mounted on a vibrating table 2, and an pressing mass 3.
  • a paste 4 composed of liquid pitch and crushed coke
  • the pasty mixture is compacted under the effect of the hammering of the pressing mass 3.
  • balanced shafts rotate in opposite directions and induce excitation in table 2 which then takes a vertical sinusoidal motion.
  • the table 2 is installed on an elastic suspension 6 to limit vibration transmissions to the ground 7 and / or in the vicinity of the machine.
  • Said mold 1 is conventionally mounted on guides 9a, sliding vertically in sleeves 2a integral with the table 2, and is actuated by hydraulic cylinders 10 connected by the free end of their rod to the mold 1 and by the lower end of their cylinder to the table 2, said hydraulic cylinders 10 performing the clamping functions of the mold 1 on the table 2 and demolding, lifting the mold 1 above the table 2 to allow the lateral removal of a molded block from the top of the table 2.
  • the compaction device may comprise a system for evacuating the inside of the mold 1 and a so-called backpressure device 12 integral with a lid 13 sealingly closing the upper part of the mold 1 by means of mechanisms 15 of removable closure of the cover 13 on the mold 1 (see figure 1 ), the cover 13 being movable vertically with the pressing mass 3 relative to the mold 1 by external means 11 such as a winch or a hydraulic cylinder with suspension rod, associated with the vacuum system of the mold 1, and subject to a frame (not shown), being guided by vertical guides 9b of the cover 13 in the sleeves 1b integral with the mold 1.
  • Said cover 13 seals the mold 1 and provides a support against the pressure device 12 which pushes the pressing mass 3 to the paste 4 and the table 2.
  • the back pressure device 12 comprises expandable devices, generally pneumatic cylinders 14, which are installed between the cover 13, against which they bear, and the pressing mass 3, that they push back down.
  • These pneumatic cylinders 14 have their upper and lower bottoms respectively secured to the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3 and are inflated with compressed air during all or part of the compaction phase, the source of compressed air not being shown in the figures.
  • the counter-pressure device 12 comprises two pneumatic cylinders 14, arranged on either side, symmetrically, of the rod 11 for suspending the pressing mass 3 and the cover 13.
  • the compaction of the material in the mold is carried out in particular to give the future anode a specific density. It is thus necessary to monitor in the mold of the compaction machine the density of the material during the compaction, in order to adjust the manufacturing parameters accordingly, such as the amount of material poured into the mold, the speed of unbalance rotation and the force exerted by the counterpressure device.
  • the document FR 2,674,259 proposes to monitor the height of a block being formed by using an optoelectric type sensor cooperating with a reflector to determine the height of the rod carrying the pressing mass.
  • an optoelectric type sensor cooperating with a reflector to determine the height of the rod carrying the pressing mass.
  • variations in height of the rod due in particular to the vibrations of the table can induce measurement errors.
  • the document FR 2 751 991 describes an example of a device for monitoring and controlling the density of carbon blocks.
  • the rod to which is suspended the pressing mass is surrounded by a piece molded comprising an electronic sensor, mounted on the hood, without contact with the rod.
  • Discrete measurement marks are formed along the length of the rod, and cooperate with the electronic sensor, to provide a measure of the height of the block being formed in the mold. The sensor being carried by the hood, measurement errors are reduced.
  • such a device makes it possible to have a measurement of the height only along the vertical central axis of the mold, while it might be desirable to also know the height on the sides in order to monitor the geometry of the block. in the mold.
  • the counterpressure device thus forms a device for measuring the density of the block being formed in the machine.
  • the backpressure device is advantageously compact by integrating the measurement function performed by the sensor into the guide assembly of the expandable element.
  • the backpressure device further comprises at least one accelerometer secured to one or the other of the upper flange and the lower flange.
  • a first accelerometer is attached to the upper flange, to measure the accelerations of the lid, and a second accelerometer attached to the lower flange to measure the accelerations of the pressing mass.
  • the two guide elements are of column types mounted telescopically with each other, providing effective guidance and limiting the risk of buckling.
  • the sensor may be of the LVDT type and comprise for this purpose firstly a magnetic element attached to one of the first element and the second guide element and secondly a rod sensitive to the magnetic field of the magnetic element. The rod is then fixed to the other of the first element and the second guide element.
  • This type of sensor compact in shape, is easily implemented in the guide assembly and provides a continuous measurement of the relative height of the two elements for measuring the density continuously.
  • the vertically expandable element comprises at least one inflatable cylinder or at least one stack of at least two inflatable cylinders.
  • the sensor of the relative vertical position of the first element relative to the second element is then advantageously placed inside an inflatable cylinder that provides protection vis-à-vis high temperatures and possible polluting particles in the environment of the back pressure device.
  • the vertically expandable element is traversed at least in part, and preferably right through, by the guide assembly.
  • the sensor of the relative vertical position of the first element relative to the second element is then placed at least partly inside the vertically expandable element.
  • a compaction machine by vibrocompaction of a carbon block intended to form an anode for the electrolysis of aluminum.
  • the machine comprises at least one mold capable of being secured to a vibrating table and comprising an open face, an pressing mass capable of being introduced along a vertical central axis by the open face of the mold and movable vertically in the mold, a cover, suitable to close with sealing the open face of the mold and at least one counter-pressure device as presented above.
  • the upper flange of the backpressure device is then attached to a lower face of the cover and the lower flange of the backpressure device is attached to an upper face of the pressing mass.
  • the backpressure device integrating the sensor with the relative vertical position of the first element relative to the second element of the guide assembly can thus be attached to the machine without the design of the machine being otherwise modified.
  • the machine comprises at least two counterpressure devices, eccentric laterally on either side of the vertical central axis of the pressing mass.
  • the machine is then devoid of any counter pressure device guided along the vertical central axis.
  • the machine can therefore further include a system for comparing the measurements of the at least two backpressure devices, in order to measure a flatness of the pressing mass during the vibrotassage of the block in the mold. Operations can then be taken in case of non-compliance with the required flatness conditions
  • a backpressure device for a vertical vibrocompaction compaction machine for forming anodic blocks molded from a paste composed of liquid pitch and crushed coke is described below by way of non-limiting example. . Nevertheless, the backpressure device according to the invention can be adapted to any other compaction device by vertical vibrotassage, from granules or any other machine without departing from the scope of the invention.
  • the vibrocompaction machine comprises in the usual manner, and as already described with reference to figures 1 and 2 representing a machine of the prior art, a mold 1 of parallelepipedal general shape of rectangular cross section, open to both opposite horizontal faces which are its base and its upper face.
  • the mold 1 is fixed in a detachable manner on a vibrating table 2, so as to close the base and constitute the bottom of the mold 1.
  • the machine further comprises a pressing mass 3 intended to be engaged in the mold 1 by the upper face of the mold, and which is supported under a cover 13 removably attached to the upper end of the mold 1 to ensure sealing tight.
  • the machine further comprises two counterbalanced shafts 5 rotating in opposite directions and inducing excitation in the table 2, which then takes a vertical sinusoidal movement.
  • the table 2 is installed on an elastic suspension 6 intended to limit vibration transmissions to the ground 7 and / or in the vicinity of the machine.
  • a lid locking system 13 on the mold 1 is provided on the machine.
  • the machine further comprises a displacement system along a central vertical axis A-A of the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3 by means of a rod 11 of suspension.
  • the adjective “vertical” and its variants designate any direction parallel to the central vertical axis A-A of the lid; the adjective “horizontal” and its variants designate any direction perpendicular to the central vertical axis A-A.
  • the displacement system is associated with a vacuum system of the mold 1 when the lid 13 closes the upper face of the mold 1 so as to control the pressure during the formation of the carbon block in the mold 1.
  • the lower face of the pressing mass 3 forms an impression 8, corresponding to the shape of the upper face of the future anode.
  • the machine according to the invention further comprises at least one counterpressure device 12 positioned between the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3.
  • the backpressure device 12 comprises at least one counterpressure assembly 16 , whose function is to exert a counterpressure force between the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3.
  • the backpressure assembly 16 comprises at least one vertically expandable element 16a positioned between an upper flange 17 which, as will be seen later, is attached to the cover 13 and a lower flange 18 which, as will also be seen further, is attached to the pressing mass 3. More precisely, the vertically expandable element 16a bears vertically on the one hand on the upper flange 17 and on the other on a lower flange 18. Even more specifically, the expandable member 16a comprises, in the vertical direction, an upper end attached to the upper flange 17 and a lower end attached to the lower flange 18. The vertically expandable member 16a is elastically deformable, so that it exerts a counterpressure force, in the vertical direction, between the upper flange 17 and the lower flange 18, and thus between the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3.
  • the expansible member 16a is formed of a stack of two identical annular inflatable cylinders 19 in order to increase the total vertical stroke of the expandable member 16a.
  • a first jack 19 is fixed between the upper flange 17 and an intermediate flange 20 ; the second jack 19 is fixed between the intermediate flange 20 and the lower flange 18.
  • the intermediate flange 20 is pierced so that the inside of the cylinders 19 is communicating.
  • only one pneumatic cylinder actuation system is required for each stack.
  • the fastening system between the cylinders 19 and the flanges 17, 18, 20 ensures a seal of the inside of the cylinders 19 vis-à-vis the external environment.
  • the expandable member 16a is guided vertically by a guide assembly 21 .
  • the guide assembly 21 comprises at least two elements, in this case according to the embodiment presented here two columns 22, 23 movable vertically relative to each other.
  • a first column 22, said upper column is secured at least in vertical displacement with the upper flange 17.
  • the upper column 22 is fixed rigidly and sealingly to the upper flange 17.
  • the lower column 22 is fixed rigidly and sealingly to the lower flange 18.
  • the two columns 22, 23 of the guide assembly 21 are mounted telescopically with each other.
  • the lower column 23 is housed inside the upper column 22 so as to allow vertical sliding.
  • the intermediate flange 20 has at its center a bore of diameter sufficient to pass the upper column 22.
  • the guidance of the sliding of the lower column 23 with respect to the upper column 22 is ensured by the cooperation between the lower flange 18 and the upper column 22.
  • the upper column 22 comprises two vertical grooves diametrically opposed so as to define two legs 22a of the upper column 22, and the lower flange 18 comprises two openings 18a to leave the feet 22a of the upper column 22.
  • the size and shape of the openings 18a of the lower flange 18 with respect to the size and shape of the legs 22a of the upper column 22 ensure the guidance of the vertical sliding.
  • the guidance can be provided by the columns 22, 23, a fair enough clearance being provided between the inner surface of the upper column 22 and the outer surface of the lower column 23 to allow vertical sliding.
  • the guiding is provided by the intermediate flange 20 cooperating with the upper column 22.
  • pads are attached to the periphery of the bore in the middle of the intermediate flange 20 and slide along the outer surface of the upper column 22.
  • the backpressure device 12 further comprises at least one sensor 24 of the relative vertical position of the upper column 22 with respect to the lower column 23 of the guide assembly 21, making it possible to continuously know the distance between the upper flange 17 and the lower flange 18, and therefore between the underside of the cover 13 and the upper face of the pressing mass 3.
  • the guide element 21 passes, in the vertical direction, at least in part the expandable element 16a, and in practice passes through the element 16a expansible from side to side in the vertical direction.
  • the sensor 24 is placed in an interior space of the vertically expandable member 16a.
  • 24 to the vertical position sensor is on LVDT (Linear Variable Differential Transformer) 25 and includes a magnetic element, for example a neodymium magnet, fixed to the lower column 23.
  • the magnet 25 and the lower column 23 are traversed vertically at their center by a bore, in which a rod 26 extends.
  • the rod 26 is made of a magnetostrictive material and attached to the upper column 22.
  • a connector 27 of the rod 26 is provided on the upper flange 17 to be accessible outside the device 12 against pressure for a connection. Specifically, the rod 26 passes through a bore in the upper column 22 and emerges outside the expandable member 16a.
  • a protective cover 27a can be provided on the upper flange 17 to form a housing for the connector 27 of the rod 26.
  • sealing elements are placed between the rod 26 and the bore in the upper column 22.
  • the rod 26 can thus be connected to a current source and the response of the rod 26 can be recorded in a computer system 28 via its connector 27.
  • the pressing mass 3 bounces vertically on the material in the mold 1, so that the upper flange 17 moves vertically with respect to the lower flange 18 of the counterpressure device.
  • the upper column 22 moving relative to the lower column 23, the position of the magnet 25 along the rod 26 is modified, and can be followed by the response of the rod 26.
  • the counterpressure device 12 thus makes it possible to measure the density of a block being formed by following the evolution of its height in the mold 1 of the machine.
  • the back pressure function and the density measurement function are then cleverly combined in a single backpressure device 12, making it possible to reduce the size of the machine and to facilitate the installation of the measuring means.
  • the sensor 24 of the vertical position and more precisely the magnet 25 and the rod 26 according to the embodiment presented here, is placed in the interior space of the expandable member 16a, so that the sensor 24 is protected from the outside environment.
  • the expansible element 16a comprises the jacks 19
  • the sensor 24 is placed inside the jacks 19.
  • the inside of the jacks 19 is ventilated because of their alternating swelling and deflating, so that the temperature inside the cylinders 19 is lower than the surrounding temperature.
  • the surrounding temperature may be of the order of 100 ° C, that is to say the temperature of the material in the mold, the internal space of the cylinders 19 provides an advantageous protection for the sensor 24 to improve its robustness and precision.
  • the counterpressure device 12 thus forms a module within the vibrotassage machine combining two functions: on the one hand it exerts the counterpressure force between the pressing mass 3 and the cover 13, and on the other hand it makes it possible to measure the height of the material in the mold 1.
  • the device 12 can thus be easily mounted and disassembled on the machine.
  • the backpressure device 12 may further comprise an accelerometer disposed on the upper flange 17 for measuring the accelerations of the cover 13 or on the flange. 18 to measure the accelerations of the pressing mass.
  • the backpressure device 12 comprises two accelerometers 29, 30: an accelerometer 29 fixed on the upper flange 17 and an accelerometer 30 attached to the lower flange 18.
  • at least the accelerometer 30 of the lower flange 18 is placed inside the expansible assembly 16a, to reduce the influence of the temperature of the pressing mass in contact with the hot material in the mold 1.
  • the two accelerometers 29, 30 are also connected to the computer system 28 to retrieve the measurements.
  • the accelerometer 30 of the lower flange 18 is connected to a connector 31 fixed to the flange 17 and emerging out of the interior space of the expansible assembly 16a.
  • the connector 31 is thus accessible externally and is in turn connected to the computer system 28 for recovering the accelerometer measurements from the lower flange 18.
  • the backpressure device 12 is mounted by fixing on the one hand the upper flange 17 to the lower face of the cover 13 and on the other hand by fixing the lower flange 18 to the upper face of the pressing mass 3.
  • the fixing between the lower flange 18 and the pressing mass 3 can be carried out in a sealed manner.
  • the fastening systems 19a of the cylinders 19, and more generally any fastening system of the expandable element 16a, on the upper flange 17, on the lower flange 18 and on the intermediate flange 20 provide a seal.
  • the interior space of the expandable member 16a of the counterpressure assembly 16 constitutes a sealed environment of the external environment.
  • the external environment of the expandable element 16a can be filled with dust and vapors from the material used to form the blocks.
  • the sensor 24 and the accelerometer 30 of the lower flange 18 are advantageously protected in the interior space of the vertically expandable element 16a.
  • the sensor 24 of the vertical position possibly combined with the accelerometers 29, 30, makes it possible to follow continuously, in real time, the evolution of the density of the block being formed in the mold 1 of the machine. Adjustments can then be implemented also in real time to precisely control the density of the block. For example, the rotational speed of the unbalanced shafts and / or the force exerted by the expansible member 16a of the counterpressure device 12 can be adjusted. The amount of material poured into the mold 1 to form the block can also be adjusted as a result of the measurements on the previous block. Alternatively or in combination, the mass of the unbalanced trees can also be adjusted as a result of the measurements on the previous block.
  • the monitoring of the measurements is improved and makes it possible to detect typical signals of a problem with a view to performing a predictive maintenance operation, that is to say even before the problem actually manifests itself.
  • the backpressure device 12 incorporating the sensor 24 from the vertical position does not require modifying the design of the machine, and can replace an already existing counterpressure device.
  • At least two backpressure devices 12 are mounted on the machine between the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3.
  • the two counterpressure devices 12 are eccentric laterally on either side of the central vertical axis A-A of the pressing mass 3 and the cover 13. No back pressure device is guided along the central vertical axis A-A.
  • the measurements provided by the sensor 24 of the vertical position of each counterpressure device 12 can be compared in the computer system by means of a comparison system in order to determine a flatness of the pressing mass 3 and to deduce therefrom information on the upper face, that is to say on the face in contact with the impression 8 of the mass 3 pressing, the block formed in the mold.
  • the block is a green anodic block intended for the electrolysis of aluminum
  • the green block once formed is stacked with the other green blocks before being taken to an anode baking oven. .
  • Stacking can reach several meters in height.
  • a parallelism between the two-by-two faces of the block with a precision, for example of the order of 2 mm, is required in order to allow stable storage.
  • the simple and rapid installation of two sensors 24 from the vertical position on the machine by two eccentric counterpressure devices 12 makes it possible to monitor that the upper face of the block being formed is parallel to its lower face, ie that is, in contact with the bottom of the mold 1, respecting the desired accuracy.
  • the measurement of a flatness also makes it possible to monitor the good horizontal distribution of the material in the mold 1.
  • the machine may include more than two counterpressure devices.
  • the counterpressure device 12 thus described combining the backpressure function and the block density measurement function makes it possible to increase the accuracy of the measurement by staying permanently on the machine, throughout the formation of the block in the mold. . Since the sensor 24 for measuring the vertical position is placed between the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3, distance measurement errors are limited.
  • the backpressure device 12 can be easily and quickly installed on a vibrocompaction compaction machine without modification of the machine, in place of a state-of-the-art counterpressure device. Since the measuring devices are integrated in the backpressure device 12, no assembly operation specific to the measuring devices, in addition to their connection to the computer system, is necessary, reducing the installation costs.
  • the backpressure devices 12 being replaced periodically, the maintenance of the measuring devices is also facilitated.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Electrolytic Production Of Metals (AREA)
  • Press Drives And Press Lines (AREA)
  • Measuring Fluid Pressure (AREA)
  • Press-Shaping Or Shaping Using Conveyers (AREA)
  • Casting Devices For Molds (AREA)

Abstract

Dispositif (12) de contrepression pour une machine de compaction par vibrotassage comportant : - au moins un ensemble (16) de contrepression, comprenant un élément (16a) expansible verticalement entre une bride (17) supérieure et une bride (18) inférieure et, - au moins un ensemble (21) de guidage coopérant avec l'élément (16a) expansible pour guider son expansion vertical, l'ensemble (21) de guidage comprenant au moins deux éléments (22, 23) de guidage, - au moins un capteur (24) de la position verticale relative du premier élément (22) par rapport au deuxième (23) élément de l'ensemble (21) de guidage, le dispositif (12) de contrepression formant ainsi dispositif de mesure de la densité du bloc en cours de formation dans la machine.Counterpressure device (12) for a vibrocompaction compaction machine comprising: at least one counterpressure assembly (16) comprising an element (16a) vertically expandable between an upper flange (17) and a lower flange (18) and, at least one guide assembly (21) cooperating with the expansible element (16a) to guide its vertical expansion, the guide assembly (21) comprising at least two guiding elements (22, 23), at least one sensor (24) for the relative vertical position of the first element (22) with respect to the second element (23) of the guide assembly (21), the device (12) for counterpressure thus forming device for measuring the density of the block being formed in the machine.

Description

L'invention concerne le domaine de la fabrication des anodes en carbone à partir notamment d'un mélange de brai de houille et de coke concassé, pour la production d'aluminium par un procédé d'électrolyse Hall-Héroult.The invention relates to the field of the manufacture of carbon anodes from, in particular, a mixture of coal pitch and crushed coke, for the production of aluminum by a Hall-Héroult electrolysis process.

A cet effet, il est connu de placer la matière dans une machine de compaction par vibrotassage, comprenant essentiellement un moule de forme générale parallélépipédique de section transversale rectangulaire, monté amovible sur une table vibrante constituant le fond du moule, et comprenant également une masse pressante apte à être introduite axialement dans ledit moule par une extrémité supérieure du moule. La table vibrante est solidarisée à un châssis par l'intermédiaire de moyens de suspension et est soumise à des vibrations selon une direction sensiblement verticale, selon l'axe du moule, sous l'effet de moyens d'actionnement en vibration.For this purpose, it is known to place the material in a compaction machine by vibrotassage, essentially comprising a mold of parallelepipedal general shape of rectangular cross-section, removably mounted on a vibrating table constituting the bottom of the mold, and also comprising a pressing mass adapted to be introduced axially into said mold by an upper end of the mold. The vibrating table is secured to a frame by means of suspension means and is subjected to vibration in a substantially vertical direction, along the axis of the mold, under the effect of vibration actuating means.

Un exemple d'une telle machine connue est représenté aux figures 1 et 2 de la présente demande. La machine est alors essentiellement constituée d'un moule de forme générale parallélépipédique de section transversale rectangulaire 1 d'axe sensiblement vertical, déplaçable verticalement, et monté de manière amovible sur une table vibrante 2, et d'une masse pressante 3. Après introduction dans le moule 1 d'une pâte 4 composée de brai liquide et de coke concassé, le mélange pâteux est compacté sous l'effet du martèlement de la masse pressante 3. A cet effet, des arbres 5 balourdés tournent en sens opposés et induisent une excitation dans la table 2 qui prend alors un mouvement sinusoïdal vertical. Usuellement, la table 2 est installée sur une suspension élastique 6 permettant de limiter les transmissions vibratoires au sol 7 et/ou au voisinage de la machine.An example of such a known machine is shown in figures 1 and 2 of this application. The machine is then essentially composed of a parallelepiped-shaped mold of rectangular cross-section 1 of substantially vertical axis, vertically displaceable, and removably mounted on a vibrating table 2, and an pressing mass 3. After introduction into the mold 1 of a paste 4 composed of liquid pitch and crushed coke, the pasty mixture is compacted under the effect of the hammering of the pressing mass 3. For this purpose, balanced shafts rotate in opposite directions and induce excitation in table 2 which then takes a vertical sinusoidal motion. Usually, the table 2 is installed on an elastic suspension 6 to limit vibration transmissions to the ground 7 and / or in the vicinity of the machine.

L'extrémité inférieure de la masse pressante 3, dite empreinte 8, pénètre à l'intérieur du moule 1 pour donner la forme du dessus du bloc moulé. Sous l'effet des déplacements verticaux que la table 2 communique à la pâte 4, la masse pressante 3 rebondit sur le dessus du bloc en cours de formation.The lower end of the pressing mass 3, called the impression 8, penetrates inside the mold 1 to give the shape of the top of the molded block. Under the effect of the vertical movements that the table 2 communicates with the dough 4, the pressing mass 3 bounces on top of the block being formed.

Ledit moule 1 est classiquement monté sur des guides 9a, coulissant verticalement dans des manchons 2a solidaires de la table 2, et est actionné par des vérins hydrauliques 10 liés par l'extrémité libre de leur tige au moule 1 et par l'extrémité inférieure de leur cylindre à la table 2, lesdits vérins hydrauliques 10 assurant les fonctions de bridage du moule 1 sur la table 2 et de démoulage, en soulevant le moule 1 au-dessus de la table 2 pour permettre l'enlèvement latéral d'un bloc moulé du dessus de la table 2.Said mold 1 is conventionally mounted on guides 9a, sliding vertically in sleeves 2a integral with the table 2, and is actuated by hydraulic cylinders 10 connected by the free end of their rod to the mold 1 and by the lower end of their cylinder to the table 2, said hydraulic cylinders 10 performing the clamping functions of the mold 1 on the table 2 and demolding, lifting the mold 1 above the table 2 to allow the lateral removal of a molded block from the top of the table 2.

Par ailleurs, le dispositif de compaction peut comporter un système de mise sous vide de l'intérieur du moule 1 et un dispositif dit de contre-pression 12 solidaire d'un couvercle 13 fermant avec étanchéité la partie supérieure du moule 1 grâce à des mécanismes 15 de fermeture amovible du couvercle 13 sur le moule 1 (voir figure 1), le couvercle 13 étant déplaçable verticalement avec la masse pressante 3 par rapport au moule 1 par des moyens extérieurs 11 tels un treuil ou un vérin hydraulique avec tige de suspension, associés au système de mise sous vide du moule 1, et assujettis à une charpente (non représentée), en étant guidé par des guides verticaux 9b du couvercle 13 dans les manchons 1b solidaires du moule 1. Ledit couvercle 13 assure l'étanchéité du moule 1 et procure un appui au dispositif de contre-pression 12 qui repousse la masse pressante 3 vers la pâte 4 et la table 2. Le dispositif de contre-pression 12 comprend des dispositifs expansibles, généralement des vérins pneumatiques 14, qui sont installés entre le couvercle 13, contre lequel ils prennent appui, et la masse pressante 3, qu'ils repoussent vers le bas. Ces vérins pneumatiques 14 ont leurs fonds supérieur et inférieur respectivement solidarisés au couvercle 13 et à la masse pressante 3 et sont gonflés avec de l'air comprimé pendant tout ou partie de la phase de compactage, la source d'air comprimé n'étant pas représentée sur les figures.Furthermore, the compaction device may comprise a system for evacuating the inside of the mold 1 and a so-called backpressure device 12 integral with a lid 13 sealingly closing the upper part of the mold 1 by means of mechanisms 15 of removable closure of the cover 13 on the mold 1 (see figure 1 ), the cover 13 being movable vertically with the pressing mass 3 relative to the mold 1 by external means 11 such as a winch or a hydraulic cylinder with suspension rod, associated with the vacuum system of the mold 1, and subject to a frame (not shown), being guided by vertical guides 9b of the cover 13 in the sleeves 1b integral with the mold 1. Said cover 13 seals the mold 1 and provides a support against the pressure device 12 which pushes the pressing mass 3 to the paste 4 and the table 2. The back pressure device 12 comprises expandable devices, generally pneumatic cylinders 14, which are installed between the cover 13, against which they bear, and the pressing mass 3, that they push back down. These pneumatic cylinders 14 have their upper and lower bottoms respectively secured to the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3 and are inflated with compressed air during all or part of the compaction phase, the source of compressed air not being shown in the figures.

De cette manière, une force verticale dirigée vers le bas est générée sur la masse pressante 3 lors de ladite phase de compactage. Cette force s'oppose, d'une part, au rebond de la masse pressante 3 sur la pâte 4, et d'autre part, augmente l'énergie développée à l'impact de la masse pressante 3 sur ladite pâte 4. Ce dispositif de contre-pression 12 permet d'améliorer significativement les résultats d'une compaction et de stabiliser les mouvements de la masse pressante 3 lors du compactage.In this way, a vertical downward force is generated on the pressing mass 3 during said compaction phase. This force opposes, on the one hand, the rebound of the pressing mass 3 on the paste 4, and on the other hand, increases the energy developed at the impact of the pressing mass 3 on said paste 4. This device backpressure 12 helps improve significantly the results of compaction and stabilize the movements of the pressing mass 3 during compaction.

Sur la figure 2, le dispositif de contre-pression 12 comprend deux vérins 14 pneumatiques, disposés de part et d'autre, symétriquement, de la tige 11 de suspension de la masse pressante 3 et du couvercle 13.On the figure 2 , the counter-pressure device 12 comprises two pneumatic cylinders 14, arranged on either side, symmetrically, of the rod 11 for suspending the pressing mass 3 and the cover 13.

Afin d'augmenter la course des vérins 14 tout en limitant le phénomène de flambage, il a été par ailleurs proposé dans le document WO 2010/119184 d'empiler au moins deux vérins coopérant avec des moyens de guidage, afin de guider leurs déformations et leurs courses. Chaque empilement possède son propre moyen de guidage. Les empilages de vérins sont montés symétriquement et excentrés latéralement de part et d'autre de l'axe central vertical du moule, de sorte qu'il n'y pas d'empilage de vérin coaxial à l'axe central vertical du moule. Un avantage est que le dispositif de contre-pression de la machine requiert peu, voire pas, d'entretien, et facile à installer et à démonter, et est avantageusement accessible de l'extérieur.In order to increase the stroke of the cylinders 14 while limiting the phenomenon of buckling, it has been proposed in the document WO 2010/119184 stacking at least two cylinders cooperating with guide means, to guide their deformations and their strokes. Each stack has its own guide means. The stack of cylinders are mounted symmetrically and eccentric laterally on either side of the vertical central axis of the mold, so that there is no cylinder stack coaxial with the vertical central axis of the mold. One advantage is that the counter pressure device of the machine requires little or no maintenance, and easy to install and disassemble, and is advantageously accessible from the outside.

La compaction de la matière dans le moule est réalisée afin notamment d'attribuer à la future anode une densité déterminée. Il est ainsi nécessaire de surveiller dans le moule de la machine de compaction la densité de la matière au cours de la compaction, afin d'ajuster les paramètres de fabrication en conséquence, tels que la quantité de matière déversée dans le moule, la vitesse de rotation des balourds et l'effort exercé par le dispositif de contre-pression.The compaction of the material in the mold is carried out in particular to give the future anode a specific density. It is thus necessary to monitor in the mold of the compaction machine the density of the material during the compaction, in order to adjust the manufacturing parameters accordingly, such as the amount of material poured into the mold, the speed of unbalance rotation and the force exerted by the counterpressure device.

A cet effet, il est connu de surveiller la hauteur de la matière dans le moule.For this purpose, it is known to monitor the height of the material in the mold.

Le document FR 2 674 259 propose de surveiller la hauteur d'un bloc en cours de formation en utilisant un capteur de type optoélectrique coopérant avec un réflecteur pour déterminer la hauteur de la tige portant la masse pressante. Cependant, les variations de hauteur de la tige dues notamment aux vibrations de la table peuvent induire des erreurs de mesure.The document FR 2,674,259 proposes to monitor the height of a block being formed by using an optoelectric type sensor cooperating with a reflector to determine the height of the rod carrying the pressing mass. However, variations in height of the rod due in particular to the vibrations of the table can induce measurement errors.

Le document FR 2 751 991 décrit un exemple d'un dispositif pour surveiller et commander la densité de blocs carbonés. Dans ce dispositif, la tige à laquelle est suspendue la masse pressante est entourée d'une pièce moulée comprenant un capteur électronique, montée sur le capot, sans contact avec la tige. Des repères discrets de mesure sont formés sur la longueur de la tige, et coopèrent avec le capteur électronique, afin de fournir une mesure de la hauteur du bloc en cours de formation dans le moule. Le capteur étant porté par le capot, les erreurs de mesure sont diminuées.The document FR 2 751 991 describes an example of a device for monitoring and controlling the density of carbon blocks. In this device, the rod to which is suspended the pressing mass is surrounded by a piece molded comprising an electronic sensor, mounted on the hood, without contact with the rod. Discrete measurement marks are formed along the length of the rod, and cooperate with the electronic sensor, to provide a measure of the height of the block being formed in the mold. The sensor being carried by the hood, measurement errors are reduced.

Un tel dispositif nécessite cependant de revoir la conception de la machine afin d'y intégrer les repères sur la tige de suspension de la masse pressante et le capteur sur le capot. En outre, en cas d'intervention sur le capteur, la masse pressante doit être immobilisée.Such a device, however, requires a review of the design of the machine to incorporate the pins on the suspension rod of the pressing mass and the sensor on the hood. In addition, in case of intervention on the sensor, the pressing mass must be immobilized.

De plus, un tel dispositif ne permet d'avoir une mesure de la hauteur uniquement le long de l'axe central vertical du moule, alors qu'il pourrait être souhaitable de connaître également la hauteur sur les côtés afin de surveiller la géométrie du bloc dans le moule.In addition, such a device makes it possible to have a measurement of the height only along the vertical central axis of the mold, while it might be desirable to also know the height on the sides in order to monitor the geometry of the block. in the mold.

Il existe donc un besoin pour une nouvelle machine de compaction surmontant notamment les inconvénients de l'art antérieur précité.There is therefore a need for a new compaction machine overcoming in particular the disadvantages of the aforementioned prior art.

A cet effet, selon un premier aspect, il est proposé un dispositif de contrepression pour une machine de compaction par vibrotassage pour le formage d'un bloc dans un moule de la machine, notamment un bloc anodique destiné à former une anode pour l'électrolyse de l'aluminium. Le dispositif de contrepression comporte notamment :

  • au moins un ensemble de contrepression comprenant au moins un élément expansible verticalement et prenant appui verticalement d'une part sur une bride supérieure apte à être fixée à un couvercle du moule de la machine et d'autre part sur une bride inférieure apte à être fixée à une masse pressante de la machine, l'élément expansible verticalement permettant d'exercer un effort de contrepression entre la bride supérieure et la bride inférieure par déformation élastique et,
  • au moins un ensemble de guidage coopérant avec l'élément expansible verticalement de l'ensemble de contrepression pour guider son expansion vertical. L'ensemble de guidage comprend au moins deux éléments de guidage, mobiles verticalement l'un par rapport à l'autre, un premier élément étant solidaire en translation verticale de la bride supérieure et le deuxième élément étant solidaire en translation verticale de la bride inférieure,
  • au moins un capteur de la position verticale relative du premier élément par rapport au deuxième élément de l'ensemble de guidage.
For this purpose, according to a first aspect, there is provided a backpressure device for a vibrotassage compaction machine for forming a block in a mold of the machine, in particular an anode block for forming an anode for electrolysis. aluminum. The counterpressure device comprises in particular:
  • at least one back pressure assembly comprising at least one vertically expandable element supported vertically on the one hand on an upper flange adapted to be fixed to a cover of the mold of the machine and on the other hand on a lower flange that can be fixed to a pressing mass of the machine, the vertically expandable element for exerting a counterpressure force between the upper flange and the lower flange by elastic deformation and,
  • at least one guide assembly cooperating with the vertically expandable member of the counterpressure assembly to guide its vertical expansion. The guide assembly comprises at least two guide elements, vertically movable relative to one another, a first element being integral in vertical translation of the upper flange and the second element being integral in vertical translation of the lower flange,
  • at least one sensor of the relative vertical position of the first element relative to the second element of the guide assembly.

Le dispositif de contrepression forme ainsi dispositif de mesure de la densité du bloc en cours de formation dans la machine. Le dispositif de contrepression est avantageusement compact en intégrant la fonction de mesure réalisée par le capteur dans l'ensemble de guidage de l'élément expansible.The counterpressure device thus forms a device for measuring the density of the block being formed in the machine. The backpressure device is advantageously compact by integrating the measurement function performed by the sensor into the guide assembly of the expandable element.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le dispositif de contrepression comprend de plus au moins un accéléromètre solidaire de l'une ou de l'autre de la bride supérieure et de la bride inférieure. A cet effet, par exemple, un premier accéléromètre est fixé à la bride supérieure, pour mesurer les accélérations du couvercle, et un deuxième accéléromètre fixé à la bride inférieure pour mesurer les accélérations de la masse pressante. Ainsi, en mesurant la densité du bloc en cours de formation et les accélérations, un contrôle fin et précis de la fabrication des blocs peut être mis en oeuvre.According to one embodiment, the backpressure device further comprises at least one accelerometer secured to one or the other of the upper flange and the lower flange. For this purpose, for example, a first accelerometer is attached to the upper flange, to measure the accelerations of the lid, and a second accelerometer attached to the lower flange to measure the accelerations of the pressing mass. Thus, by measuring the density of the block being formed and the accelerations, a fine and precise control of the manufacture of the blocks can be implemented.

Selon un mode de réalisation, les deux éléments de guidage sont de types colonnes montées de manière télescopique l'une avec l'autre, assurant un guidage efficace et limitant les risques de flambage.According to one embodiment, the two guide elements are of column types mounted telescopically with each other, providing effective guidance and limiting the risk of buckling.

Le capteur peut être de type LVDT et comprendre à cet effet d'une part un élément magnétique fixé à l'un du premier élément et du deuxième élément de guidage et d'autre part une tige sensible au champ magnétique de l'élément magnétique. La tige est alors fixée à l'autre du premier élément et du deuxième élément de guidage. Ce type de capteur, de forme compacte, se met en place aisément dans l'ensemble de guidage et assure une mesure continue de la hauteur relative des deux éléments pour mesurer la densité en continu.The sensor may be of the LVDT type and comprise for this purpose firstly a magnetic element attached to one of the first element and the second guide element and secondly a rod sensitive to the magnetic field of the magnetic element. The rod is then fixed to the other of the first element and the second guide element. This type of sensor, compact in shape, is easily implemented in the guide assembly and provides a continuous measurement of the relative height of the two elements for measuring the density continuously.

Selon un mode de réalisation, l'élément expansible verticalement comprend au moins un vérin gonflable ou encore au moins un empilage d'au moins deux vérins gonflables. Le capteur de la position verticale relative du premier élément par rapport au deuxième élément est alors avantageusement placé à l'intérieur d'un vérin gonflable qui offre une protection vis-à-vis des hautes températures et des éventuelles particules polluantes dans l'environnement du dispositif de contrepression.According to one embodiment, the vertically expandable element comprises at least one inflatable cylinder or at least one stack of at least two inflatable cylinders. The sensor of the relative vertical position of the first element relative to the second element is then advantageously placed inside an inflatable cylinder that provides protection vis-à-vis high temperatures and possible polluting particles in the environment of the back pressure device.

Selon un mode de réalisation, l'élément expansible verticalement est traversé au moins en partie, et de préférence de part en part, par l'ensemble de guidage. Le capteur de la position verticale relative du premier élément par rapport au deuxième élément est alors placé au moins en partie à l'intérieur de l'élément expansible verticalement.According to one embodiment, the vertically expandable element is traversed at least in part, and preferably right through, by the guide assembly. The sensor of the relative vertical position of the first element relative to the second element is then placed at least partly inside the vertically expandable element.

Selon un deuxième aspect, il est proposé une machine de compaction par vibrotassage d'un bloc carboné destiné à former une anode pour l'électrolyse de l'aluminium. La machine comprend au moins un moule apte à être solidarisé à une table vibrante et comprenant une face ouverte, une masse pressante apte à être introduite selon un axe central vertical par la face ouverte du moule et déplaçable verticalement dans le moule, un couvercle, apte à fermer avec étanchéité la face ouverte du moule et au moins un dispositif de contrepression tel que présenté ci-dessus. La bride supérieure du dispositif de contrepression est alors fixée à une face inférieure du couvercle et la bride inférieure du dispositif de contrepression est fixée à une face supérieure de la masse pressante. Le dispositif de contrepression intégrant le capteur de la position verticale relative du premier élément par rapport au deuxième élément de l'ensemble de guidage peut ainsi être rapporté sur la machine sans que la conception de la machine ne soit par ailleurs modifiée.According to a second aspect, there is provided a compaction machine by vibrocompaction of a carbon block intended to form an anode for the electrolysis of aluminum. The machine comprises at least one mold capable of being secured to a vibrating table and comprising an open face, an pressing mass capable of being introduced along a vertical central axis by the open face of the mold and movable vertically in the mold, a cover, suitable to close with sealing the open face of the mold and at least one counter-pressure device as presented above. The upper flange of the backpressure device is then attached to a lower face of the cover and the lower flange of the backpressure device is attached to an upper face of the pressing mass. The backpressure device integrating the sensor with the relative vertical position of the first element relative to the second element of the guide assembly can thus be attached to the machine without the design of the machine being otherwise modified.

Selon un mode de réalisation, la machine comprend au moins deux dispositifs de contrepression, excentrés latéralement de part et d'autre de l'axe central vertical de la masse pressante. La machine est alors dépourvue de tout dispositif de contre-pression guidé selon l'axe central vertical. La machine peut de ce fait comprendre de plus un système de comparaison des mesures des au moins deux dispositifs de contrepression, afin de mesurer une planéité de la masse pressante pendant le vibrotassage du bloc dans le moule. Des opérations peuvent alors être prises en cas de non-conformité avec les conditions de planéité requisesAccording to one embodiment, the machine comprises at least two counterpressure devices, eccentric laterally on either side of the vertical central axis of the pressing mass. The machine is then devoid of any counter pressure device guided along the vertical central axis. The machine can therefore further include a system for comparing the measurements of the at least two backpressure devices, in order to measure a flatness of the pressing mass during the vibrotassage of the block in the mold. Operations can then be taken in case of non-compliance with the required flatness conditions

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lumière de la description d'un mode de réalisation de l'invention accompagnée des figures dans lesquelles :

  • la figure 1 est une vue en perspective d'une machine de compaction par vibrotassage de l'art antérieur, dont le couvercle et la masse pressant sont soulevés au-dessus du moule solidarisé sur la table vibrante ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue en coupe frontale de la machine de compaction par vibrotassage représentée sur la figure 1, équipée d'un dispositif de contre-pression de l'art antérieur ;
  • la figure 3 est une vue en coupe frontale du couvercle et de la masse pressante munis d'un dispositif de contrepression et de mesure en continu de la densité d'un bloc carboné conforme à l'invention selon un mode de réalisation ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue en coupe de côté du dispositif de contrepression et de mesure en continu de la densité d'un bloc carboné de la figure 3 dans une première position ;
  • la figure 5 est une vue similaire à celle de la figure 4 du dispositif de contrepression et de mesure en continu de la densité d'un bloc carboné dans une deuxième position ;
  • la figure 6 est une vue de dessus du dispositif de contrepression et de mesure en continu de la densité d'un bloc carboné.
Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge in the light of the description of an embodiment of the invention accompanied by the figures in which:
  • the figure 1 is a perspective view of a vibrocompaction compaction machine of the prior art, the lid and the pressing mass are raised above the mold secured to the vibrating table;
  • the figure 2 is a front sectional view of the vibrocompaction compaction machine shown in FIG. figure 1 equipped with a back pressure device of the prior art;
  • the figure 3 is a front sectional view of the lid and the pressing mass provided with a device for counterpressure and continuous measurement of the density of a carbon block according to the invention according to one embodiment;
  • the figure 4 is a side sectional view of the counterpressure device and continuous measurement of the density of a carbon block of the figure 3 in a first position;
  • the figure 5 is a view similar to that of the figure 4 counterpressure device and continuously measuring the density of a carbon block in a second position;
  • the figure 6 is a top view of the counterpressure device and continuous measurement of the density of a carbon block.

Il est décrit ci-après, à titre d'exemple non limitatif, un dispositif de contre-pression pour une machine de compaction par vibrotassage vertical pour le formage de blocs anodiques moulés à partir d'une pâte composée de brai liquide et de coke concassé. Néanmoins, le dispositif de contrepression suivant l'invention peut être adapté à tout autre dispositif de compaction par vibrotassage vertical, à partir de granulés ou de toute autre machine sans pour autant sortir du cadre de l'invention.A backpressure device for a vertical vibrocompaction compaction machine for forming anodic blocks molded from a paste composed of liquid pitch and crushed coke is described below by way of non-limiting example. . Nevertheless, the backpressure device according to the invention can be adapted to any other compaction device by vertical vibrotassage, from granules or any other machine without departing from the scope of the invention.

La machine de vibrotassage selon l'invention comprend de manière usuelle, et comme cela a déjà été décrit en référence aux figures 1 et 2 représentant une machine de l'art antérieur, un moule 1 de forme générale parallélépipédique de section transversale rectangulaire, ouvert à ses deux faces horizontales opposées qui sont sa base et sa face supérieure. Le moule 1 est fixé de manière amovible sur une table 2 vibrante, de manière à fermer la base et à constituer le fond du moule 1. La machine comprend en outre une masse 3 pressante destinée à être engagée dans le moule 1 par la face supérieure du moule, et qui est supportée sous un couvercle 13 fixé de manière amovible sur l'extrémité supérieure du moule 1 pour en assurer la fermeture étanche. La machine comporte par ailleurs deux arbres 5 balourdés tournant en sens opposés et induisant une excitation dans la table 2, qui prend alors un mouvement vertical sinusoïdal. Accessoirement, la table 2 est installée sur une suspension élastique 6 destinée à limiter les transmissions vibratoires au sol 7 et/ou au voisinage de la machine.The vibrocompaction machine according to the invention comprises in the usual manner, and as already described with reference to figures 1 and 2 representing a machine of the prior art, a mold 1 of parallelepipedal general shape of rectangular cross section, open to both opposite horizontal faces which are its base and its upper face. The mold 1 is fixed in a detachable manner on a vibrating table 2, so as to close the base and constitute the bottom of the mold 1. The machine further comprises a pressing mass 3 intended to be engaged in the mold 1 by the upper face of the mold, and which is supported under a cover 13 removably attached to the upper end of the mold 1 to ensure sealing tight. The machine further comprises two counterbalanced shafts 5 rotating in opposite directions and inducing excitation in the table 2, which then takes a vertical sinusoidal movement. Incidentally, the table 2 is installed on an elastic suspension 6 intended to limit vibration transmissions to the ground 7 and / or in the vicinity of the machine.

Comme illustré schématiquement sur la figure 3, un système 15 de verrouillage du couvercle 13 sur le moule 1 est prévu sur la machine.As illustrated schematically on the figure 3 a lid locking system 13 on the mold 1 is provided on the machine.

La machine comporte de plus un système de déplacement selon un axe A-A central vertical du couvercle 13 et de la masse 3 pressante au moyen d'une tige 11 de suspension.The machine further comprises a displacement system along a central vertical axis A-A of the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3 by means of a rod 11 of suspension.

Dans la présente demande, l'adjectif « vertical » et ses variantes désignent toute direction parallèle à l'axe A-A central vertical du couvercle ; l'adjectif « horizontal » et ses variantes désignent toute direction perpendiculaire à l'axe A-A central vertical.In the present application, the adjective "vertical" and its variants designate any direction parallel to the central vertical axis A-A of the lid; the adjective "horizontal" and its variants designate any direction perpendicular to the central vertical axis A-A.

Le système de déplacement est associé à un système de mise sous vide du moule 1 lorsque le couvercle 13 ferme la face supérieure du moule 1 de manière à contrôler la pression lors de la formation du bloc carboné dans le moule 1.The displacement system is associated with a vacuum system of the mold 1 when the lid 13 closes the upper face of the mold 1 so as to control the pressure during the formation of the carbon block in the mold 1.

La face inférieure de la masse 3 pressante forme une empreinte 8, correspondant à la forme de la face supérieure de la future anode.The lower face of the pressing mass 3 forms an impression 8, corresponding to the shape of the upper face of the future anode.

La machine selon l'invention comprend de plus au moins un dispositif 12 de contrepression positionné entre le couvercle 13 et la masse pressante 3.The machine according to the invention further comprises at least one counterpressure device 12 positioned between the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3.

Plus précisément, le dispositif 12 de contrepression comporte au moins un ensemble 16 de contrepression, ayant pour fonction d'exercer un effort de contrepression entre le couvercle 13 et la masse pressante 3.More specifically, the backpressure device 12 comprises at least one counterpressure assembly 16 , whose function is to exert a counterpressure force between the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3.

A cet effet, l'ensemble 16 de contrepression comprend au moins un élément 16a expansible verticalement positionné entre une bride 17 supérieure qui, comme cela sera vu plus loin, est fixée au couvercle 13 et une bride 18 inférieure qui, comme cela sera également vu plus loin, est fixée à la masse 3 pressante. Plus précisément, l'élément 16a expansible verticalement prend appui verticalement d'une part sur la bride 17 supérieure et d'autre part sur une bride 18 inférieure. Encore plus précisément, l'élément 16a expansible comprend, selon la direction verticale, une extrémité supérieure fixée à la bride 17 supérieure et une extrémité inférieure fixée à la bride 18 inférieure. L'élément 16a expansible verticalement est déformable élastiquement, de sorte qu'il exerce un effort de contrepression, selon la direction verticale, entre la bride 17 supérieure et la bride 18 inférieure, et donc entre le couvercle 13 et la masse 3 pressante.For this purpose, the backpressure assembly 16 comprises at least one vertically expandable element 16a positioned between an upper flange 17 which, as will be seen later, is attached to the cover 13 and a lower flange 18 which, as will also be seen further, is attached to the pressing mass 3. More precisely, the vertically expandable element 16a bears vertically on the one hand on the upper flange 17 and on the other on a lower flange 18. Even more specifically, the expandable member 16a comprises, in the vertical direction, an upper end attached to the upper flange 17 and a lower end attached to the lower flange 18. The vertically expandable member 16a is elastically deformable, so that it exerts a counterpressure force, in the vertical direction, between the upper flange 17 and the lower flange 18, and thus between the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3.

Selon le mode de réalisation présenté ici, l'élément 16a expansible est formé d'un empilage de deux vérins 19 gonflables annulaires, identiques, afin d'augmenter la course totale verticale de l'élément 16a expansible. Un premier vérin 19 est fixé entre la bride 17 supérieure et une bride 20 intermédiaire ; le deuxième vérin 19 est fixé entre la bride 20 intermédiaire et la bride 18 inférieure. La bride 20 intermédiaire est percée de sorte que l'intérieur des vérins 19 est communiquant. Ainsi, un seul système d'actionnement pneumatique des vérins est requis pour chaque empilement. Le système de fixation entre les vérins 19 et les brides 17, 18, 20 assure une étanchéité de l'intérieur des vérins 19 vis-à-vis de l'environnement extérieur.According to the embodiment presented here, the expansible member 16a is formed of a stack of two identical annular inflatable cylinders 19 in order to increase the total vertical stroke of the expandable member 16a. A first jack 19 is fixed between the upper flange 17 and an intermediate flange 20 ; the second jack 19 is fixed between the intermediate flange 20 and the lower flange 18. The intermediate flange 20 is pierced so that the inside of the cylinders 19 is communicating. Thus, only one pneumatic cylinder actuation system is required for each stack. The fastening system between the cylinders 19 and the flanges 17, 18, 20 ensures a seal of the inside of the cylinders 19 vis-à-vis the external environment.

L'élément 16a expansible est guidé verticalement par un ensemble 21 de guidage. L'ensemble 21 de guidage comprend au moins deux éléments, en l'occurrence selon le mode de réalisation présenté ici deux colonnes 22, 23 mobiles verticalement l'une par rapport à l'autre. Une première colonne 22, dite colonne supérieure, est solidaire au moins en déplacement vertical avec la bride 17 supérieure. En pratique, la colonne 22 supérieure est fixée rigidement et de manière étanche à la bride 17 supérieure. La deuxième colonne 23, dite colonne inférieure, et solidaire au moins en déplacement vertical avec la bride 18 inférieure. Là encore, en pratique, la colonne 22 inférieure est fixée rigidement et de manière étanche à la bride 18 inférieure.The expandable member 16a is guided vertically by a guide assembly 21 . The guide assembly 21 comprises at least two elements, in this case according to the embodiment presented here two columns 22, 23 movable vertically relative to each other. A first column 22, said upper column, is secured at least in vertical displacement with the upper flange 17. In practice, the upper column 22 is fixed rigidly and sealingly to the upper flange 17. The second column 23, called lower column, and secured at least in vertical displacement with the flange 18 below. Again, in practice, the lower column 22 is fixed rigidly and sealingly to the lower flange 18.

Selon le mode de réalisation présenté ici, les deux colonnes 22, 23 de l'ensemble 21 de guidage sont montées de manière télescopique l'une avec l'autre. Par exemple, la colonne 23 inférieure est logée à l'intérieur de la colonne 22 supérieure de manière permettre le glissement vertical. La bride 20 intermédiaire présente en son milieu un perçage de diamètre suffisant pour laisser passer la colonne 22 supérieure. Le guidage du glissement de la colonne 23 inférieure par rapport à la colonne 22 supérieure est assuré par la coopération entre la bride 18 inférieure et la colonne 22 supérieure. Plus précisément, la colonne 22 supérieure comprend deux rainures verticales diamétralement opposées de manière à définir deux pieds 22a de la colonne 22 supérieure, et la bride 18 inférieure comprend deux ouvertures 18a pour laisser les pieds 22a de la colonne 22 supérieure. La dimension et la forme des ouvertures 18a de la bride 18 inférieure par rapport à la dimension et à la forme des pieds 22a de la colonne 22 supérieure assurent le guidage du glissement vertical.According to the embodiment presented here, the two columns 22, 23 of the guide assembly 21 are mounted telescopically with each other. For example, the lower column 23 is housed inside the upper column 22 so as to allow vertical sliding. The intermediate flange 20 has at its center a bore of diameter sufficient to pass the upper column 22. The guidance of the sliding of the lower column 23 with respect to the upper column 22 is ensured by the cooperation between the lower flange 18 and the upper column 22. Specifically, the upper column 22 comprises two vertical grooves diametrically opposed so as to define two legs 22a of the upper column 22, and the lower flange 18 comprises two openings 18a to leave the feet 22a of the upper column 22. The size and shape of the openings 18a of the lower flange 18 with respect to the size and shape of the legs 22a of the upper column 22 ensure the guidance of the vertical sliding.

En variante ou en combinaison, le guidage peut être assuré par les colonnes 22, 23, un jeu juste suffisant étant prévu entre la surface intérieure de la colonne 22 supérieure et la surface extérieure de la colonne 23 inférieure pour autoriser le glissement vertical.Alternatively or in combination, the guidance can be provided by the columns 22, 23, a fair enough clearance being provided between the inner surface of the upper column 22 and the outer surface of the lower column 23 to allow vertical sliding.

En variante encore, ou en combinaison, le guidage est assuré par la bride 20 intermédiaire coopérant avec la colonne 22 supérieure. Par exemple, des patins sont fixés à la périphérie du perçage au milieu de la bride 20 intermédiaire et glissent le long de la surface extérieure de la colonne 22 supérieure.In another variant, or in combination, the guiding is provided by the intermediate flange 20 cooperating with the upper column 22. For example, pads are attached to the periphery of the bore in the middle of the intermediate flange 20 and slide along the outer surface of the upper column 22.

Le dispositif 12 de contrepression comprend en outre au moins un capteur 24 de la position verticale relative de la colonne 22 supérieure par rapport à la colonne 23 inférieure de l'ensemble 21 de guidage, permettant de connaître en continu la distance entre la bride 17 supérieure et la bride 18 inférieure, et donc entre la face inférieure du couvercle 13 et la face supérieure de la masse 3 pressante.The backpressure device 12 further comprises at least one sensor 24 of the relative vertical position of the upper column 22 with respect to the lower column 23 of the guide assembly 21, making it possible to continuously know the distance between the upper flange 17 and the lower flange 18, and therefore between the underside of the cover 13 and the upper face of the pressing mass 3.

De préférence, l'élément 21 de guidage traverse, selon la direction verticale, au moins en partie l'élément 16a expansible, et en pratique traverse l'élément 16a expansible de part en part selon la direction verticale. Ainsi, le capteur 24 se trouve placé dans un espace intérieur de l'élément 16a expansible verticalement.Preferably, the guide element 21 passes, in the vertical direction, at least in part the expandable element 16a, and in practice passes through the element 16a expansible from side to side in the vertical direction. Thus, the sensor 24 is placed in an interior space of the vertically expandable member 16a.

Selon le mode de réalisation présenté ici, le capteur 24 de la position verticale relative est de type LVDT (Linear Variable Differential Transformer) et comprend notamment un élément 25 magnétique, par exemple un aimant néodyme, fixée à la colonne 23 inférieure. L'aimant 25 et la colonne 23 inférieure sont traversés verticalement en leur centre par un perçage, dans lequel une tige 26 s'étend. La tige 26 est réalisée dans un matériau magnétostrictif et fixée à la colonne 22 supérieure. Un connecteur 27 de la tige 26 est prévu sur la bride 17 supérieure pour être accessible à l'extérieur du dispositif 12 de contrepression pour un branchement. Plus précisément, la tige 26 traverse un perçage dans la colonne 22 supérieure et émerge à l'extérieur de l'élément 16a expansible. Un capot 27a de protection peut être prévu sur la bride 17 supérieure pour former un logement pour le connecteur 27 de la tige 26. De préférence, des éléments d'étanchéité sont placés entre la tige 26 et le perçage dans la colonne 22 supérieure. La tige 26 peut ainsi être connectée à une source de courant et la réponse de la tige 26 peut être enregistrée dans un système 28 informatique par l'intermédiaire de son connecteur 27.According to the embodiment described here, 24 to the vertical position sensor is on LVDT (Linear Variable Differential Transformer) 25 and includes a magnetic element, for example a neodymium magnet, fixed to the lower column 23. The magnet 25 and the lower column 23 are traversed vertically at their center by a bore, in which a rod 26 extends. The rod 26 is made of a magnetostrictive material and attached to the upper column 22. A connector 27 of the rod 26 is provided on the upper flange 17 to be accessible outside the device 12 against pressure for a connection. Specifically, the rod 26 passes through a bore in the upper column 22 and emerges outside the expandable member 16a. A protective cover 27a can be provided on the upper flange 17 to form a housing for the connector 27 of the rod 26. Preferably, sealing elements are placed between the rod 26 and the bore in the upper column 22. The rod 26 can thus be connected to a current source and the response of the rod 26 can be recorded in a computer system 28 via its connector 27.

Lorsque les arbres 5 balourdés sont mis en opération, la masse 3 pressante rebondit verticalement sur la matière dans le moule 1, de sorte que la bride 17 supérieure se déplace verticalement par rapport à la bride 18 inférieure du dispositif de contrepression. La colonne 22 supérieure se déplaçant par rapport à la colonne 23 inférieure, la position de l'aimant 25 le long de la tige 26 est modifiée, et peut être suivie par la réponse de la tige 26.When the unbalanced shafts are put into operation, the pressing mass 3 bounces vertically on the material in the mold 1, so that the upper flange 17 moves vertically with respect to the lower flange 18 of the counterpressure device. The upper column 22 moving relative to the lower column 23, the position of the magnet 25 along the rod 26 is modified, and can be followed by the response of the rod 26.

Le dispositif 12 de contrepression permet ainsi de mesurer la densité d'un bloc en cours de formation en suivant l'évolution de sa hauteur dans le moule 1 de la machine.The counterpressure device 12 thus makes it possible to measure the density of a block being formed by following the evolution of its height in the mold 1 of the machine.

La fonction de contrepression et la fonction de mesure de la densité sont alors combinées astucieusement dans un unique dispositif 12 de contrepression, permettant de réduire l'encombrement de la machine et facilitant l'installation des moyens de mesure.The back pressure function and the density measurement function are then cleverly combined in a single backpressure device 12, making it possible to reduce the size of the machine and to facilitate the installation of the measuring means.

En outre, le capteur 24 de la position verticale, et plus précisément l'aimant 25 et la tige 26 selon le mode de réalisation présenté ici, est placé dans l'espace intérieur de l'élément 16a expansible, de sorte que le capteur 24 est protégé de l'environnement extérieur. Par exemple, lorsque l'élément 16a expansible comprend les vérins 19, le capteur 24 est placé à l'intérieur des vérins 19. Or, l'intérieur des vérins 19 est ventilé du fait de leurs gonflements et dégonflements alternés, de sorte que la température à l'intérieur des vérins 19 est inférieure à la température environnante. La température environnante pouvant être de l'ordre de 100°C, c'est-à-dire la température de la matière dans le moule, l'espace intérieur des vérins 19 offre une protection avantageuse pour le capteur 24 pour en améliorer la robustesse et la précision.In addition, the sensor 24 of the vertical position, and more precisely the magnet 25 and the rod 26 according to the embodiment presented here, is placed in the interior space of the expandable member 16a, so that the sensor 24 is protected from the outside environment. For example, when the expansible element 16a comprises the jacks 19, the sensor 24 is placed inside the jacks 19. However, the inside of the jacks 19 is ventilated because of their alternating swelling and deflating, so that the temperature inside the cylinders 19 is lower than the surrounding temperature. The surrounding temperature may be of the order of 100 ° C, that is to say the temperature of the material in the mold, the internal space of the cylinders 19 provides an advantageous protection for the sensor 24 to improve its robustness and precision.

Le dispositif 12 de contrepression forme ainsi un module au sein de la machine de vibrotassage combinant deux fonctions : d'une part il exerce l'effort de contrepression entre la masse 3 pressante et le couvercle 13, et d'autre part il permet de mesurer la hauteur de la matière dans le moule 1. Le dispositif 12 peut ainsi être facilement monté et démonté sur la machine.The counterpressure device 12 thus forms a module within the vibrotassage machine combining two functions: on the one hand it exerts the counterpressure force between the pressing mass 3 and the cover 13, and on the other hand it makes it possible to measure the height of the material in the mold 1. The device 12 can thus be easily mounted and disassembled on the machine.

Afin de compléter la mesure de la hauteur et préciser la densité du bloc en cours de formation dans le moule, le dispositif 12 de contrepression peut en outre comprendre un accéléromètre disposé sur la bride 17 supérieure pour mesurer les accélérations du couvercle 13 ou sur la bride 18 inférieure pour mesurer les accélérations de la masse 3 pressante. En pratique, le dispositif 12 de contrepression comprend deux accéléromètres 29, 30 : un accéléromètre 29 fixé sur la bride 17 supérieure et un accéléromètre 30 fixé sur la bride 18 inférieure. Avantageusement, au moins l'accéléromètre 30 de la bride 18 inférieure est placé à l'intérieur de l'ensemble 16a expansible, pour diminuer l'influence de la température de la masse pressante en contact avec la matière chaude dans le moule 1.In order to complete the measurement of the height and to specify the density of the block being formed in the mold, the backpressure device 12 may further comprise an accelerometer disposed on the upper flange 17 for measuring the accelerations of the cover 13 or on the flange. 18 to measure the accelerations of the pressing mass. In practice, the backpressure device 12 comprises two accelerometers 29, 30: an accelerometer 29 fixed on the upper flange 17 and an accelerometer 30 attached to the lower flange 18. Advantageously, at least the accelerometer 30 of the lower flange 18 is placed inside the expansible assembly 16a, to reduce the influence of the temperature of the pressing mass in contact with the hot material in the mold 1.

Les deux accéléromètres 29, 30 sont également connectés au système 28 informatique pour en récupérer les mesures. A cet effet, l'accéléromètre 30 de la bride 18 inférieure est relié à un connecteur 31 fixé à la bride 17 et émergeant hors de l'espace intérieur de l'ensemble 16a expansible. Le connecteur 31 est ainsi accessible à l'extérieur et est à son tour connecté au système 28 informatique pour récupérer les mesures de l'accéléromètre de la bride 18 inférieure.The two accelerometers 29, 30 are also connected to the computer system 28 to retrieve the measurements. For this purpose, the accelerometer 30 of the lower flange 18 is connected to a connector 31 fixed to the flange 17 and emerging out of the interior space of the expansible assembly 16a. The connector 31 is thus accessible externally and is in turn connected to the computer system 28 for recovering the accelerometer measurements from the lower flange 18.

Le dispositif 12 de contrepression est monté en fixant d'une part la bride 17 supérieure à la face inférieure du couvercle 13 et d'autre part en fixant la bride 18 inférieure à face supérieure de la masse 3 pressante. De préférence, la fixation entre la bride 18 inférieure et la masse 3 pressante peut être réalisée de manière étanche. De même, les systèmes 19a de fixation des vérins 19, et plus généralement tout système de fixation de l'élément 16a expansible, sur la bride 17 supérieure, sur la bride 18 inférieure et sur la bride 20 intermédiaire assurent une étanchéité. Ainsi, l'espace intérieur de l'élément 16a expansible de l'ensemble 16 de contrepression constitue un milieu isolé de manière étanche de l'environnement extérieur. En effet, l'environnement extérieur de l'élément 16a expansible peut être empli de poussières et de vapeurs issues de la matière employée pour former les blocs. Ainsi, le capteur 24 et l'accéléromètre 30 de la bride 18 inférieure sont avantageusement protégés dans l'espace intérieur de l'élément 16a expansible verticalement.The backpressure device 12 is mounted by fixing on the one hand the upper flange 17 to the lower face of the cover 13 and on the other hand by fixing the lower flange 18 to the upper face of the pressing mass 3. Preferably, the fixing between the lower flange 18 and the pressing mass 3 can be carried out in a sealed manner. Likewise, the fastening systems 19a of the cylinders 19, and more generally any fastening system of the expandable element 16a, on the upper flange 17, on the lower flange 18 and on the intermediate flange 20 provide a seal. Thus, the interior space of the expandable member 16a of the counterpressure assembly 16 constitutes a sealed environment of the external environment. Indeed, the external environment of the expandable element 16a can be filled with dust and vapors from the material used to form the blocks. Thus, the sensor 24 and the accelerometer 30 of the lower flange 18 are advantageously protected in the interior space of the vertically expandable element 16a.

Le capteur 24 de la position verticale, éventuellement combiné avec les accéléromètres 29, 30, permet de suivre en continu et en temps réel l'évolution de la densité du bloc en cours de formation dans le moule 1 de la machine. Des réglages peuvent alors être mis en oeuvre également en temps réel pour contrôler avec précision la densité du bloc. Par exemple, la vitesse de rotation des arbres 15 balourdés et/ou l'effort exercé par l'élément 16a expansible du dispositif 12 de contrepression peuvent être ajustés. La quantité de matière versée dans le moule 1 pour former le bloc peut également être ajustée en conséquence des mesures sur le bloc précédent. En variante ou en combinaison, la masse des arbres balourdés peut également être ajustée en conséquence des mesures sur le bloc précédent.The sensor 24 of the vertical position, possibly combined with the accelerometers 29, 30, makes it possible to follow continuously, in real time, the evolution of the density of the block being formed in the mold 1 of the machine. Adjustments can then be implemented also in real time to precisely control the density of the block. For example, the rotational speed of the unbalanced shafts and / or the force exerted by the expansible member 16a of the counterpressure device 12 can be adjusted. The amount of material poured into the mold 1 to form the block can also be adjusted as a result of the measurements on the previous block. Alternatively or in combination, the mass of the unbalanced trees can also be adjusted as a result of the measurements on the previous block.

Comme le capteur 24 de la position verticale et les accéléromètres 29, 30 sont en permanence présents sur la machine dans le dispositif 12 de contrepression, le suivi des mesures est amélioré et permet de détecter des signaux typiques d'un problème en vue d'effectuer une opération de maintenance prédictive, c'est-à-dire avant même que le problème ne se manifeste effectivement.Since the sensor 24 of the vertical position and the accelerometers 29, 30 are permanently present on the machine in the counterpressure device 12, the monitoring of the measurements is improved and makes it possible to detect typical signals of a problem with a view to performing a predictive maintenance operation, that is to say even before the problem actually manifests itself.

Le dispositif 12 de contrepression intégrant le capteur 24 de la position verticale ne nécessite pas de modifier la conception de la machine, et peut venir remplacer un dispositif de contrepression déjà existant.The backpressure device 12 incorporating the sensor 24 from the vertical position does not require modifying the design of the machine, and can replace an already existing counterpressure device.

De préférence, au moins deux dispositifs 12 de contrepression selon l'invention sont montés sur la machine, entre le couvercle 13 et la masse 3 pressante. Les deux dispositifs 12 de contrepression sont excentrés latéralement de part et d'autre de l'axe A-A central vertical de la masse 3 pressante et du couvercle 13. Aucun dispositif de contre-pression n'est guidé selon l'axe A-A central vertical. Ainsi, les mesures fournies par le capteur 24 de la position verticale de chaque dispositif 12 de contrepression peuvent être comparées dans le système 28 informatique au moyen d'un système de comparaison afin de déterminer une planéité de la masse 3 pressante et d'en déduire des informations sur la face supérieure, c'est-à-dire sur la face en contact avec l'empreinte 8 de la masse 3 pressante, du bloc formé dans le moule.Preferably, at least two backpressure devices 12 according to the invention are mounted on the machine between the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3. The two counterpressure devices 12 are eccentric laterally on either side of the central vertical axis A-A of the pressing mass 3 and the cover 13. No back pressure device is guided along the central vertical axis A-A. Thus, the measurements provided by the sensor 24 of the vertical position of each counterpressure device 12 can be compared in the computer system by means of a comparison system in order to determine a flatness of the pressing mass 3 and to deduce therefrom information on the upper face, that is to say on the face in contact with the impression 8 of the mass 3 pressing, the block formed in the mold.

Par exemple, dans le cas où le bloc est un bloc anodique cru, destiné à l'électrolyse de l'aluminium, le bloc cru une fois formé est empilé avec les autres blocs crus avant d'être emmené dans un four à cuire les anodes. L'empilement peut atteindre plusieurs mètres de hauteur. Ainsi, un parallélisme entre les faces deux à deux du bloc avec une précision par exemple de l'ordre de 2 mm est requis afin de permettre un stockage stable. La mise en place simple et rapide de deux capteurs 24 de la position verticale sur la machine par deux dispositifs 12 de contrepression excentrés permet de surveiller que la face supérieure du bloc en cours de formation est bien parallèle à sa face inférieure, c'est-à-dire celle en contact avec le fond du moule 1, en respectant la précision voulue.For example, in the case where the block is a green anodic block intended for the electrolysis of aluminum, the green block once formed is stacked with the other green blocks before being taken to an anode baking oven. . Stacking can reach several meters in height. Thus, a parallelism between the two-by-two faces of the block with a precision, for example of the order of 2 mm, is required in order to allow stable storage. The simple and rapid installation of two sensors 24 from the vertical position on the machine by two eccentric counterpressure devices 12 makes it possible to monitor that the upper face of the block being formed is parallel to its lower face, ie that is, in contact with the bottom of the mold 1, respecting the desired accuracy.

La mesure d'une planéité permet également de surveiller la bonne répartition horizontale de la matière dans le moule 1.The measurement of a flatness also makes it possible to monitor the good horizontal distribution of the material in the mold 1.

La machine peut comprendre plus que deux dispositifs 12 de contrepression.The machine may include more than two counterpressure devices.

Le dispositif 12 de contrepression ainsi décrit combinant la fonction de contrepression et la fonction de mesure de la densité du bloc permet d'augmenter la précision de la mesure en restant à demeure sur la machine, tout au long de la formation du bloc dans le moule. Le capteur 24 de mesure de la position verticale étant placé entre le couvercle 13 et la masse 3 pressante, les erreurs de mesure de distance sont limitées.The counterpressure device 12 thus described combining the backpressure function and the block density measurement function makes it possible to increase the accuracy of the measurement by staying permanently on the machine, throughout the formation of the block in the mold. . Since the sensor 24 for measuring the vertical position is placed between the cover 13 and the pressing mass 3, distance measurement errors are limited.

Le dispositif 12 de contrepression peut être installé facilement et rapidement sur une machine de compaction par vibrotassage sans modification de la machine, à la place d'un dispositif de contrepression de l'état de l'art. Les dispositifs de mesure étant intégrés dans le dispositif 12 de contrepression, aucune opération de montage spécifique aux dispositifs de mesure, outre leur connexion au système 28 informatique, n'est nécessaire, diminuant les coûts d'installation.The backpressure device 12 can be easily and quickly installed on a vibrocompaction compaction machine without modification of the machine, in place of a state-of-the-art counterpressure device. Since the measuring devices are integrated in the backpressure device 12, no assembly operation specific to the measuring devices, in addition to their connection to the computer system, is necessary, reducing the installation costs.

Les dispositifs 12 de contrepression étant remplacés périodiquement, la maintenance des dispositifs de mesure est également facilitée.The backpressure devices 12 being replaced periodically, the maintenance of the measuring devices is also facilitated.

Claims (11)

Dispositif (12) de contrepression pour une machine de compaction par vibrotassage pour le formage d'un bloc dans un moule (1) de la machine, notamment un bloc anodique destiné à former une anode pour l'électrolyse de l'aluminium, le dispositif (12) comportant : - au moins un ensemble (16) de contrepression, comprenant au moins un élément (16a) expansible verticalement et prenant appui verticalement d'une part sur une bride (17) supérieure apte à être fixée à un couvercle (13) du moule (1) de la machine et d'autre part sur une bride (18) inférieure apte à être fixée à une masse (3) pressante de la machine, l'élément expansible verticalement permettant d'exercer un effort de contrepression entre la bride (17) supérieure et la bride (18) inférieure par déformation élastique et, - au moins un ensemble (21) de guidage coopérant avec l'élément (16a) expansible verticalement de l'ensemble (16) de contrepression pour guider son expansion verticale, l'ensemble (21) de guidage comprenant au moins deux éléments (22, 23) de guidage, mobiles verticalement l'un par rapport à l'autre, un premier élément (22) étant solidaire en translation verticale de la bride (17) supérieure et le deuxième élément (23) étant solidaire en translation verticale de la bride (18) inférieure, - au moins un capteur (24) de la position verticale relative du premier élément (22) par rapport au deuxième (23) élément de l'ensemble (21) de guidage, le dispositif (12) de contrepression formant ainsi dispositif de mesure de la densité du bloc en cours de formation dans la machine.Backpressure device (12) for a vibrotassage compaction machine for forming a block in a mold (1) of the machine, in particular an anode block for forming an anode for the electrolysis of aluminum, the device (12) comprising: - At least one set (16) against pressure, comprising at least one member (16a) expandable vertically and bearing vertically on the one hand on an upper flange (17) adapted to be fixed to a cover (13) of the mold (1). ) of the machine and secondly on a lower flange (18) adapted to be fixed to a mass (3) pressing the machine, the vertically expandable member for exerting a pressure against pressure between the flange (17) upper and the lower flange (18) by elastic deformation and, at least one guide assembly (21) cooperating with the vertically expandable element (16a) of the counterpressure assembly (16) to guide its vertical expansion, the guide assembly (21) comprising at least two elements (22); , 23) , vertically movable relative to each other, a first element (22) being integral in vertical translation of the upper flange (17) and the second element (23) being integral in vertical translation of the flange (18) lower, at least one sensor (24) for the relative vertical position of the first element (22) with respect to the second element (23) of the guide assembly (21) , the device (12) for counterpressure thus forming device for measuring the density of the block being formed in the machine. Dispositif (12) selon la revendication 1, comprenant de plus au moins un accéléromètre (29, 30) solidaire de l'une ou de l'autre de la bride (17) supérieure et de la bride (18) inférieure.Device (12) according to claim 1, further comprising at least one accelerometer (29, 30) integral with one or the other of the upper flange (17) and the lower flange (18) . Dispositif (12) selon la revendication 2, comprenant un premier accéléromètre (29) fixé à la bride (17) supérieure, apte à mesurer les accélérations du couvercle (13), et un deuxième accéléromètre (30) fixé à la bride (18) inférieure apte à mesurer les accélérations de la masse (3) pressante.Device (12) according to claim 2, comprising a first accelerometer (29) fixed to the upper flange (17) , able to measure the accelerations of the cover (13), and a second accelerometer (30) fixed to the flange (18) lower able to measure the accelerations of the mass (3) pressing. Dispositif (12) selon la revendication 1 ou la revendication 2, dans lequel les deux éléments (21, 22) de guidage sont de types colonnes montées de manière télescopique l'une avec l'autre.Device (12) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the two guide elements (21, 22) are of column types mounted telescopically with each other. Dispositif (12) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel le capteur (24) est de type LVDT et comprend d'une part un élément (25) magnétique fixé à l'un du premier élément (21) et du deuxième élément (22) de guidage et d'autre part une tige (26) sensible au champ magnétique de l'élément (25) magnétique, ladite tige (26) étant fixée à l'autre du premier élément et du deuxième élément de guidage.Device (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (24) is of the LVDT type and comprises on the one hand a magnetic element (25) fixed to one of the first element (21) and the second guiding element (22) and secondly a rod (26) sensitive to the magnetic field of the magnetic element (25) , said rod (26) being fixed to the other of the first element and the second guide element. Dispositif (12) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel l'élément (16a) expansible verticalement comprend au moins un vérin (19) gonflable.Apparatus (12) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the vertically expandable member (16a) comprises at least one inflatable jack (19) . Dispositif (12) selon la revendication 5, dans lequel l'élément (16a) expansible comprend au moins un empilage d'au moins deux vérins (19) gonflables.Device (12) according to claim 5, wherein the expansible member (16a) comprises at least one stack of at least two inflatable cylinders (19) . Dispositif (12) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel l'élément (16a) expansible verticalement est traversé au moins en partie par l'ensemble de guidage, le capteur (24) de la position verticale relative du premier élément (21) par rapport au deuxième élément (22) étant placé au moins en partie à l'intérieur de l'élément (16a) expansible verticalement.A device (12) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vertically expandable member (16a) is traversed at least in part by the guide assembly, the sensor (24) of the relative vertical position of the first member ( 21) relative to the second member (22) being located at least partly within the vertically expandable member (16a) . Machine de compaction par vibrotassage d'un bloc carboné destiné à former une anode pour l'électrolyse de l'aluminium comprenant au moins un moule (1) apte à être solidarisé à une table vibrante et comprenant une face ouverte, une masse (3) pressante apte à être introduite selon un axe (A-A) central vertical par la face ouverte du moule (1) et déplaçable verticalement dans le moule (1), un couvercle (13), apte à fermer avec étanchéité la face ouverte du moule (1) et au moins un dispositif (12) de contrepression selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, la bride (17) supérieure du dispositif (12) de contrepression étant fixée à une face inférieure du couvercle (13) et la bride (18) inférieure du dispositif (12) de contrepression étant fixée à une face supérieure de la masse (3) pressante.A vibrocompaction compaction machine of a carbon block for forming an anode for the electrolysis of aluminum comprising at least one mold (1) adapted to be secured to a vibrating table and comprising an open face, a mass (3) pressing device capable of being introduced along a central vertical axis (AA) through the open face of the mold (1) and movable vertically in the mold (1), a cover (13), able to seal the open face of the mold (1 ) and at least one backpressure device (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, the upper flange (17 ) of the backpressure device (12) being attached to a lower face of the cover (13) and the flange (18). bottom of the counterpressure device (12) being attached to an upper face of the pressing mass (3) . Machine selon la revendication 9, comprenant au moins deux dispositifs (12) de contrepression selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 8, excentrés latéralement de part et d'autre de l'axe (A-A) central vertical de la masse (3) pressante, la machine étant dépourvue de tout dispositif de contre-pression guidé selon l'axe (A-A) central vertical.Machine according to claim 9, comprising at least two devices (12) against pressure according to any one of claims 1 to 8, eccentric laterally on either side of the vertical central axis (AA) of the mass (3) the machine is devoid of any counter-pressure device guided along the central vertical axis (AA) . Machine selon la revendication 10, comprenant de plus un système de comparaison des mesures des au moins deux dispositifs (12) de contrepression, afin de mesurer une planéité de la masse (3) pressante pendant le vibrotassage du bloc dans le moule (1). Machine according to claim 10, further comprising a system for comparing the measurements of the at least two backpressure devices (12) to measure a flatness of the pressing mass (3) during the vibrotassage of the block in the mold (1).
EP17156969.2A 2016-03-02 2017-02-20 Counterpressure device for a vibrocompacting machine and machine comprising such a device Withdrawn EP3213910A1 (en)

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FR1600359A FR3048377B1 (en) 2016-03-02 2016-03-02 COUNTERPRESSION DEVICE FOR A VIBROASSING COMPACTION MACHINE AND MACHINE COMPRISING SUCH A DEVICE

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CA2958644A1 (en) 2017-09-02
FR3048377B1 (en) 2018-03-23

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