EP4073431A1

EP4073431A1 - Radiant heating element with free end

Info

Publication number: EP4073431A1
Application number: EP20817424.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Van-Long HOANG; Alexandre LHOEST; Olivier PENSIS
Original assignee: Drever International SA
Current assignee: Drever International SA
Priority date: 2019-12-10
Filing date: 2020-12-09
Publication date: 2022-10-19
Also published as: KR20220112266A; BE1027839B1; WO2021116169A1; US20230023783A1; BE1027839A1; MX2022006913A; BR112022011061A2; CN114829839A

Abstract

Radiant element (1) for heating an oven (200), comprising: - a first end (7); - a second free end (8); - a radiant structure (2) between the first end (7) and the second end (8); - a pipe (5) for supplying power to the inside of the radiant structure (2); - a first fastening leg (20) for mechanically coupling the radiant structure (2) to a support (3), a first coupling means (25) comprising a first portion (25a) arranged to be fastened to the support (3) and a second portion (25b) secured to the first leg (20), wherein the first portion (25a) and the second portion (25b) are mechanically coupled via a first interface (25c) so as to permit a relative movement between the first portion (25a) and the second portion (25b).

Description

Free-ended radiant heating element Technical area

The invention relates to a radiant heating element for the heat treatment of products, more particularly metal products. The invention also relates to a method of fixing radiant heating elements in a furnace for the heat treatment of products, more particularly metal products.

State of the art

Furnaces for the heat treatment of metal products, in strip form, generally comprise a series of radiant heating tubes placed one above the other and / or next to each other in vertical rows and / or horizontal. In general, the products to be treated pass vertically and / or horizontally vis-à-vis these radiant heating tubes and / or between these radiant heating tubes from which heat is emitted by radiation.

Each radiant heating tube comprises a heat source, which may for example be in the form of a burner provided with at least one inlet for a combustible product, at least one inlet for an oxidizer and at least one combustion products outlet such that, supplied with a combustible product and an oxidizer, with or without a heat recovery system, the burner develops a flame within the radiant element from which radiates then heat to the metal products to be treated.

Radiant heating tubes, provided to heat a metal product over its entire width and depth, are generally elongated elements which are delimited by two ends and which are supported between two walls of an oven by each of their two ends. In practice, radiant heating tubes have a first fixing means, at their first end, to a first wall of the furnace comprising an inlet for the heat source, and a second fixing means at their second end. .

A known problem with this type of radiant heating tube is their limited lifespan. Indeed, this support mode associated with a temperature high induces stresses and structural deformations in the radiant heating tube which, following a creep phenomenon, accentuates the aging of the radiant heating tube. Indeed, it is generally observed a relaxation of the stresses which goes hand in hand with an increase in the strains. This increase then induces eccentricities which lead to an increase in stresses.

A known solution aimed at limiting the stresses and structural deformations in the radiant heating tube is to grant one or more degrees of freedom to the second fixing means at the level of the wall of the furnace opposite to the heat supply . The advantage of having a second attachment with one or more degrees of freedom is to reduce certain thermomechanical stresses. This is particularly the case with radiant heating tubes described in documents US1001188782 and JP2001330209A.

[0007] In addition, in particular because the structural constraints remain high, and the heating tubes must therefore be replaced regularly, it is desired to simplify the maintenance of furnaces containing radiant heating tubes.

There are also radiant heating tubes designed to be fixed under a horizontal wall. A radiant tube of such type is described in document JP2005069595A.

Summary of the invention

One of the aims of the present invention is to provide a radiant heating element intended to be placed on a vertical wall and allowing reduced and particularly easy maintenance.

To this end, the inventors propose a radiant element intended to be placed on a first vertical wall of an oven and comprising:

- a first end located on a first side of the radiant element;

- a second end located on a second side of the radiant element, the second side being opposite the first side;

- a radiant structure for heating inside said furnace, located between said first end and second end; a duct for supplying energy inside said radiant structure, said duct being located on the first side of the radiant element;

- a first fixing leg for mechanically coupling the radiant structure to a support located on said first wall, said first leg being located on the first side of the radiant element; and

- a first coupling means for mechanically coupling said first leg to said support; characterized in that the second end is free; and in that said first coupling means comprises:

- a first part arranged to be fixed relative to said support, and

a second part fixed with respect to said first leg, the first part and the second part being mechanically coupled via a first interface so as to allow relative displacement between the first part and the second part.

The first coupling means allows relative movement between the first leg and the support. This makes it possible to reduce, or even eliminate, stresses linked to deformations of the radiant element following, for example, thermal expansion / contractions of the latter. The invention allows a mechanical coupling of the radiant structure to the support (itself located on a vertical wall) on the side of the only first end of the radiant element. It is therefore different from known systems where the radiant element is fixed by its two ends to vertical walls facing each other.

The radiant heating element of the invention, because it is only mechanically coupled in an oven by its end on the side of which an energy supply duct is located, allows easier positioning of this in the oven in comparison to a radiant heating tube requiring attachment points at both ends. This is particularly advantageous, because despite the extension of the life of the radiant heating elements of the invention, they nevertheless have to be replaced after a certain time. It is therefore advantageous to ensure such a replacement with good accessibility of the fixing components. Also, it is advantageous to allow a replacement requiring the least amount of possible labor and ease of supervision of the fixing point (s) during assembly, while having an extended radiant element life. Another advantage of the radiant heating element of the invention is to allow safe mounting thereof in an oven. Indeed, the radiant tubes of the state of the art are generally positioned blind, that is to say that the operator does not see the receptacle intended to receive the second fixing component located at the level of the second. end of a radiant heating tube of the state of the art. As a result, the operator is never sure that the fixing of a radiant heating tube of the state of the art is correctly docked in its receptacle. This major drawback of the radiant heating tubes of the state of the art is eliminated when using the radiant heating element of the invention having a support on only one side and having a second free end.

Another advantage of the radiant heating element of the invention is to allow mechanical coupling of the radiant element to the furnace by reducing, or even eliminating the attachment / s at a hot zone of the radiant heating element, whether this / these fixing / s is / are / are fixed or having a degree of mobility. This is particularly interesting because it is generally observed that it is at the level of the interface between a component used for the mechanical coupling and the radiant structure of a radiant heating element that the most important stresses are concentrated, leading to degradations. accelerated when mechanical coupling takes place in a hot zone. For example, the high temperature can create a diffusion bonding of parts which are supposed to be movable with respect to one another. With the invention, an end support in the hot zone is advantageously eliminated. Another advantage of the radiant heating element of the invention over the radiant heating tubes of the state of the art comprising several fixing means positioned on either side of the radiant heating tube, is to offer a longer life to the radiant heating element by limiting the structural stresses usually encountered on one or more fixing means, stresses linked to the friction of a fixing means, to its blocking following, for example, a twist, to its bonding by diffusion. A radiant element is normally subjected to three physical stresses: its own weight (permanent), high temperatures and temperature variations, pressures / depressions (permanent) and pressure / depression variations. The combinations of these stresses lead to two types of damage: creep and fatigue. Indeed, the high temperatures combined with the permanent pressures / depressions in operation of the radiant element cause creep of the radiant element under very low stresses. Also, the high temperatures combined with a variation of the pressures / depressions and / or of the operating temperature cause fatigue of the radiant element under very low stresses. Fatigue often occurs in areas that concentrate stresses such as geometric discontinuities such as discontinuous changes of sections and the feet of welds.

Another problem that the invention proposes to solve is to make it possible to reduce the differences between the real life of a radiant element and the estimated life. It is observed that the radiant elements of the state of the art have an actual lifespan which does not generally correspond to the estimated lifespan. The actual life is often much less than the estimated life, which represents a problem when choosing the materials used in the radiant elements. Uncertainties leading to actual lifetimes much shorter than estimated can arise from:

- absolute deformations undergone by the radiant element which is difficult to predict by simulation,

- relative deformations which occur when the walls of the furnace are deformed. Thus, the facing walls of the furnace which generally receive the rear support in the hot zone of a radiant heating tube of the state of the art may have different deformations, which induce stresses;

- having one or more components for fixing / supporting the radiant element in a hot or partially hot area thereof,

- due to the blind installation of a component to support the radiant element in the oven, ... The first side of the radiant element is closer to the first wall than the second side. The first end of the radiant element is closer to the first wall than the second end.

[0019] The interface between the first and second parts of the coupling means may be a mechanical contact, for example when the first and second parts of the coupling means are surfaces which slide over each other. The interface can also comprise an assembly of several elements forming the coupling between the first and the second parts, and comprising for example a roller, a ball, a roller, an articulation, ... The interface can comprise a sliding surface and an assembly of several elements. [0020] The first part of the coupling means can be the support itself or part of the support.

Preferably, the first coupling means is a support means allowing relative movement between the first leg and the support, for example in one or more directions relative to the support. For example, the relative displacement is parallel to the first wall. It may comprise a sliding support means, and / or a rotary support means, in particular, a roller or roller support means or an articulation. The sliding and the roller bearing allow movement in two directions. Roller bearing allows movement in one direction only.

A free relative displacement is a relative displacement which, (in an ideal operation) generates only very low or no mechanical moments. Preferably, the free relative movement is in two directions (for example, parallel to the first wall), even more preferably in a single direction.

The energy supply is for example the establishment of a burner, which is inserted into the duct and which produces a flame inside the radiant structure. A recuperator can also be inserted in the duct. The supply of energy inside the radiant structure takes the form, for example, of the supply of hot gases resulting from the combustion produced outside the radiant structure. For example, the energy supply is an energy source supply. In another embodiment, the supply of an energy source corresponds to the passage of an electric cable making it possible to supply energy. electrical means of electric heaters positioned inside the radiant structure (electrical resistance).

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment of the radiant element, the duct is mechanically coupled to the radiant structure in a fixed manner and to the support in a movable manner, for example by means of a compensator. A compensator is for example in the form of a part accommodating mechanical displacements. For example, a compensator has the form of a flexible bellows. Preferably, a compensator makes it possible to achieve a seal between the atmosphere of the furnace and the external environment. Preferably, the duct is assembled to the radiant structure, more preferably, it is welded. More preferably, the duct is rectilinear.

[0025] Preferably, the radiant structure, the first leg and the duct are different constituents which perform a different function in the radiant element.

[0026] The radiant structure of the invention is, for example, a radiant heating tube. The term radiant heating tube is to be understood in the broad sense; it may be a structure based on tubes (double P tubes for example), radiant boxes, etc.

Preferably, the radiant element is made of an alloy, more preferably of steel, even more preferably of refractory steel or of nickel-based steel. An alloy is preferably a metal alloy.

Preferably, the radiant element comprises a radiant alloy structure fixed from a single end (and therefore having a free end), which is particularly advantageous in order to extend the life of the existing radiant elements. . The radiant element can be composed of several parts of different composition and / or alloy. More preferably, the first leg is made of an alloy, for example steel.

For example the radiant structure is a metal radiant tube. For example, the radiant structure is a structure based on metal radiant tubes. For example, the radiant structure is a metal radiant box. Any other material such as ceramic materials (eg silicon carbide) are covered by the invention. The radiant structure can include at least some of the characteristics of the radiant structure described in document EP3098551. The radiant structure is a part of the radiant element capable of emitting heat by radiation towards a product, preferably a strip, even more preferably a metal strip. Preferably, the conduit is axially oriented from the first end to the second end, preferably the conduit is connected to the first end. Preferably, there is a permanent support between the first leg and the support, via the first coupling means, in order to allow relative movement between the first leg and the support.

The support makes it possible to couple the radiant structure to the first wall. The support is an anchoring element, for example, the support is an anchoring element on the first wall of the furnace. The support is preferably vertical. The support is a separate element from the radiant element. It makes it possible to couple the radiant structure to the first wall.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, the support is a stopper, for example, an element making it possible to close an opening in a furnace wall. Preferably, the bracket is attached to the wall of the oven so as to provide a tie-down point to maintain the position of the radiant heating element in the oven while allowing free relative movement of the first leg to be possible. and that this free relative displacement, (in an ideal operation) generates only very low or no mechanical moments in the structure of the radiant heating element due to the thermal deformation of one or more constituent (s) of the radiant heating element, in particular of the radiant structure. The functions provided by the support in the form of a plug can be summarized as follows: providing support for the radiant heating element; ensure the handling of the radiant heating element; ensure easy assembly; sealing between the interior of the oven and the exterior of the oven at the wall to which the radiant heating element is attached.

According to another embodiment, the support is the wall of an oven on which the radiant element of the invention is mechanically coupled so to provide support for the radiant heating element. According to this embodiment, a hook is for example fixed to the wall of the oven.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the radiant element is provided so that said first interface is at a temperature lower than the interior of the oven. Indeed, the relative displacement occurring on the first interface, it is particularly advantageous for it to be at a lower temperature than the oven to avoid sticking between the first part and the second part of the first coupling means, which would harm this. relative displacement. This makes it possible to transpose the zones where the stresses are the strongest in a cold zone, and therefore to increase the mechanical resistance of the first interface, in which there are particularly high stresses.

[0036] For example, an insulator can be arranged to form thermal insulation between (i) the first interface, and (ii) the radiant structure and / or the interior of the oven. Other means of achieving a lower temperature are possible within the scope of the present invention, for example a cooling system.

[0037] According to one embodiment, said first leg is provided to be in support or in traction on said support by means of said first coupling means. It is generally in tension if it is higher than the center of mass of the radiant element. It is generally in support if it is lower than the center of mass of the radiant element. Being in support allows the second part of the first coupling means to come into contact with the first part of the first coupling means by the action of gravity, while being in traction generally requires restraint of the second part of the first means coupling with respect to the first part. Some mechanical construction of the first coupling means may be suitable for traction only, support only, or may be suitable for both.

According to one embodiment, the first coupling means is arranged to allow a relative displacement parallel to said first wall between said first leg and said support. This makes it possible to prevent the second part of the first coupling means from entering the support or moving away from it. According to one embodiment, said first interface allows sliding and / or rolling, preferably sliding and / or rolling of the second part relative to the first part. The sliding is particularly interesting because it is simple to implement and allows a lot of freedom in the movement. It is particularly suited to the case where the leg is resting on the support.

According to one embodiment, said first leg comprises a first leg wall, in the extension of said radiant structure and / or forming an at least partial envelope of said radiant structure, between said radiant structure and said first coupling means .

Preferably, the first leg comprises at least one opening, which can be called the first opening. This opening makes it possible to reduce the stress concentrations. It is preferably located in the wall of the first leg.

[0042] According to one embodiment, said second part of the first coupling means comprises a first leg end plate, which plate is vertical. If the first part of the first coupling means includes a roller, the end plate can roll (and possibly slide) on that roller. If the first part of the first coupling means includes a sliding surface, the end plate can slide over it. If the first part of the first coupling means includes hooks, the end plate may include holes into which the hooks engage.

Preferably, the radiant element comprises a second fixing leg for mechanically coupling the radiant structure to said support, and a second coupling means for mechanically coupling said second leg to said support; said second leg being positioned around said conduit or positioned on another side of said conduit than the first leg; said second coupling means comprising:

- a first part arranged to be fixed relative to said support, and

- a second part fixed relative to said second leg, the first part and the second part being mechanically coupled via a second interface so as to allow a relative displacement between the first part and second part.

Preferably, the first coupling means and second coupling means are distinct, that is to say they are separate. For example, the duct is positioned between the first coupling means and second coupling means.

Preferably, the first leg and second leg are located between the radiant structure and the support; they ensure the support of the radiant structure on the support while allowing free deformation. [0046] According to this preferred embodiment, the radiant structure is mechanically coupled to the wall of an oven through the first leg and the second leg. The first leg and second leg are not part of the radiant structure. They can be used to stiffen the radiant structure. The first leg and second leg contribute in particular to ensuring a function of fixing the radiant structure to the wall of the oven, by means of the support, whether in the form of a wall hook and / or a plug.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first leg is mechanically coupled to the support in a first coupling zone and the second leg is mechanically coupled to the support in a second coupling zone, to allow movement of each of the legs with respect to to the support so that the deformations linked to the thermal and / or mechanical deformation of the radiant element (of the radiant structure in particular) cause the least possible stresses in the radiant element. Preferably, the second leg is made of an alloy, for example (steel).

[0048] According to a preferred embodiment, the support comprises a second support portion for mechanically coupling the second leg and a first support portion for mechanically coupling the first leg. Preferably, the second support portion and first support portion are attached or even mechanically coupled when they are attached to a furnace wall.

Preferably, the second leg is in support or in traction on the support via the second coupling means. Preferably, there is a recessed area located between the first leg and second leg.

Preferably, the radiant element, in particular its second leg, is arranged so that said second interface is at a lower temperature than the interior of the oven, for example by means of an insulator forming thermal insulation between, d 'on the one hand, the radiant structure and / or the interior of the oven, and, on the other hand, said second interface.

Preferably, the first coupling zone (in which the first interface is located) and the second coupling zone (in which the second interface is located) are distinct. Distinct means they are not confused. Even more preferably, the first coupling zone and second zone are located on either side of the energy supply conduit.

Preferably, the first leg and second leg protrude from the radiant structure towards the first end, in the extension of the radiant structure. Preferably, the first leg and second fixing leg overlap at least in part around said duct. According to one embodiment of the invention, the first leg and second fixing leg are adjacent to the radiant structure, preferably, they extend the radiant structure, or according to another preferred way, they are welded thereto, or in another more preferred manner, they are welded thereto so as to ensure structural continuity as an extension of the radiant structure.

According to another embodiment, the second leg is positioned around said duct. Preferably, an insulating layer is positioned between the duct and the first and / or second leg in order to limit heat transfer.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first coupling means comprises at least one means for anchoring the second leg to the support. Preferably, said second leg is pierced with at least one hole or comprises a threaded part intended to be bolted to said support. An anchoring of the second leg with the support by the use of bolts, rivets, welds or any other means of fixing is covered by the invention. According to another preferred embodiment, the second leg comprises a reinforcement assembly to stiffen it, more preferably, the reinforcement assembly is fixed to the second leg, even more preferably, the assembly of reinforcement is welded to the second leg. In a particular embodiment, the reinforcement assembly comprises: a base reinforcement part, two side reinforcement parts in the form of side walls, an upper reinforcement part in the form of a wall, the reinforcement assembly being attached to the end plate of the first leg, and / or the second leg. Preferably, the reinforcement assembly further comprises a stiffener, more preferably at least two stiffeners, more preferably still, the stiffener (s) is / are vertical / wedges.

Preferably, the second leg comprises at least one opening, which can be called a second opening. This opening makes it possible to reduce the stress concentrations. It is preferably located in the wall of the second leg.

Preferably, the second leg comprises a second leg wall, in the extension of the radiant structure and / or forming an at least partial envelope of said radiant structure, between the radiant structure and the second coupling means.

Preferably, the second leg comprises a first wall and a second wall of the second leg, which walls each comprising a second opening.

Preferably, the second leg comprises a second leg end plate forming a second leg surface attached to the second leg wall at the first end of the second leg to mechanically couple the second leg to the support by through the second coupling means. A second end of the second leg corresponds to the interface between the second leg and the radiant structure.

Preferably, the radiant element further comprises a third leg positioned between the first leg and the second leg.

Preferably, the radiant element further comprises a third coupling means for mechanically coupling the third leg to the support. Preferably, the third leg is supported on the support or in traction by means of the third coupling means.

Preferably, the third coupling means is a support means configured to allow a free relative movement of said third leg in a direction relative to said support, more preferably the support means is a means of rotary support, even more preferably a roller or roller support means.

Preferably, the third coupling means is a sliding support means configured to allow free relative movement of the third leg in a direction relative to said support.

Preferably, the support comprises an insulating layer positioned so as to surround the first leg and / or second leg and / or third leg and / or the conduit at least in part.

According to another embodiment, when the support is a plug, a support insulator is positioned on the support so as to surround the first and / or the second leg and / or the third leg at least in part. This is particularly advantageous because such an insulation reduces heat loss to the outside of an oven through the cap. When the support is the wall of the oven, a support insulation is also positioned around the first and / or the second leg.

Preferably, the radiant structure comprises a first curved wall and a second curved wall connected along a first edge and a second edge so that the radiant structure has, in cross section, a lenticular section, more preferably having a rope.

Preferably, a first wall and a second wall mechanically coupled at their two ends facing each other so as to form a first edge and a second edge.

According to another embodiment, the radiant structure comprises a single wall folded in the shape of a drop of water in a cross section. Such a teardrop shape is obtained for example by winding a wall partially so as to obtain a U-shaped wall comprising two ends facing each other. These can then be coupled mechanically (preferably welded) so as to form an edge. An edge may have a slight flat or an overlap of the two ends facing each other.

The invention as well as all the embodiments of the invention can be applied to radiant tubes of different kinds, for example of type: P, double P, U, W, I, etc.

[0074] According to one embodiment envisaged, the radiant element comprises a W-shaped radiant structure developed between the duct and an outlet nozzle. The invention also provides an oven portion of an oven comprising a first vertical oven wall and a first radiant element according to one embodiment of the invention, the support of the first radiant element being only attached to or located on the first furnace wall, more preferably the support of the first radiant element being fixed only to the first furnace wall. In other words, the support is not mechanically coupled to a second wall of the furnace.

All the embodiments and all the variants provided for the radiant element according to the invention are applicable to the oven portion according to the invention, mutatis mutandis.

In one embodiment, said first leg is located lower than said duct. It is preferably supported on the support. Indeed, because of the torque due to gravity, this lower leg presses on the wall, which simplifies the establishment of a mobile coupling relative to an upper leg which would be in traction on the wall.

Preferably, the furnace portion further comprises another radiant element, the support of the second radiant element being fixed to the second furnace wall.

The invention also provides a furnace comprising a plurality of radiant elements according to the invention, or, a plurality of furnace portions according to the invention, the furnace having an oven width for heat treating a strip having a width of tape.

All the embodiments and all the variants provided for the radiant element according to the invention, for the oven portion according to the invention are applicable to the oven according to the invention, mutatis mutandis. Preferably, the radiant structures of the plurality of radiant elements essentially occupy the entire width of the furnace.

The inventors further propose a method of fixing a radiant element to a first vertical wall of an oven for the heat treatment of a product, said method comprising the following steps: a. provide a radiant element comprising:

- a first end located on a first side of the radiant element;

- a second free end located on a second side of the radiant element, the second side being opposite the first side;

- a radiant structure for heating inside said furnace, located between the first end and second end;

- a conduit for supplying energy inside said radiant structure, said conduit being located on the first side of the radiant element;

- a first fixing leg located on the first side of the radiant element, a first coupling means comprising:

• a first part, and

• a second part fixed with respect to said first leg, the first part and the second part being designed to be mechanically coupled via a first interface so as to allow relative displacement between the first part and the second part; b. placing said radiant element on said first wall so that:

• the second end is free;

• the first fixing leg mechanically couples the radiant structure to a support located on said first wall;

• the first coupling means mechanically couples said first leg to said support;

• the first part of the first coupling means is fixed with respect to said support; and

• the second part of the first coupling means is mechanically coupled to the first part via the first interface so as to allow a relative displacement between the first part and second part.

Preferably, the radiant element provided in step a. further includes support; and step b. comprises locating the support on said first wall.

Preferably, the radiant element provided in step a. further comprises a second fixing leg for mechanically coupling the radiant structure to said support, and second coupling means for mechanically coupling said second leg to said support; said second leg being positioned around said conduit or positioned on another side of said conduit than the first leg; said second coupling means comprising:

- a first part arranged to be fixed relative to said support, and

a second part fixed with respect to said second leg, the first part and the second part being mechanically coupled via a second interface so as to allow relative displacement between the first part and the second part; and step b. such as

• the second fixing leg mechanically couples the radiant structure to said support;

• the second coupling means mechanically couples said second leg to said support;

• the first part of the second coupling means is fixed with respect to said support; and

• the second part of the second coupling means is mechanically coupled to the first part via the second interface so as to allow relative displacement between the first part and second part of the second coupling means.

All the embodiments and all the variants provided for the radiant element according to the invention, for the oven portion according to the invention and for the oven according to the invention are applicable to the method of the invention, mutatis mutandis.

A product within the meaning of the invention can be a strip, a plate, a slab; metallic or non-metallic; magnetic or non-magnetic. Brief description of the figures

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent on reading the detailed description which follows, for the understanding of which reference is made to the appended figures, among which:

- Fig.1 shows an embodiment of the invention;

- Fig.2 shows an embodiment of the invention;

- Figs.3a, 3b, 3c show preferred embodiments of the invention;

- Figs. 4a, 4b, 4c show preferred embodiments of the invention;

- Figs. 5a, 5b show a preferred embodiment of the invention;

- Figs. 6 and 7 show preferred embodiments of the invention;

- Fig.8 shows an embodiment of the oven according to the invention;

- Fig.9 shows a detailed embodiment of a leg at the first end;

- Fig.10 shows a detailed embodiment of a mechanical coupling of a leg with a support according to the invention.

The drawings of the figures are not to scale. Generally, like elements or components are denoted by like references in the figures. The presence of reference numbers in the drawings cannot be considered as limiting, including when these numbers are indicated in the claims.

Detailed Description of Certain Embodiments of the Invention [0088] Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the radiant element 1 of the invention. The radiant element 1 is intended to be placed on a first vertical wall 71 of an oven 200, by means of a support 3 which may be an integral part of the first wall 71 or be a part fixed to the first wall. 71.

The radiant element 1 comprises a radiant structure 2 located between a first end 7 located on a first side 501 of the radiant element 1, and a second end 8 located on a second side 502 of the radiant element 1, the second side 502 being opposite to the first side 501. The second end 8 is free, it is therefore not directly mechanically coupled to a wall of an oven but it is mechanically coupled to the first wall 71 of an oven, via the support 3, through the radiant structure 2 and the first leg 20 (which will be described below).

The radiant element 1 comprises a duct 5 connected to the radiant structure 2 so that the duct 5 allows the supply of an energy source inside the radiant structure 2. The duct 5 is generally connected to an energy source feed passing through the first wall 71. The duct 5 is located on the first side 501 of the radiant element 1.

The radiant element 1 comprises a first fixing leg 20 for mechanically coupling the radiant structure 2 to the support 3. The first leg 20 is mechanically coupled to the support 3 by means of a first coupling means 25. The first coupling means 25 comprises a first part 25a arranged to be fixed with respect to said support 3, and a second fixed part 25b. relative to said first leg 20. Thus, when the first leg 20 moves, the second part 25b follows the movement, which is generally due to thermomechanical deformations. The first part 25a is stationary as long as the support 3 is stationary. The second part 25b is stationary as long as the first leg 20 is stationary. The coupling between the first 25a and the second 25b parts is a first interface 25c which includes all the mechanical contacts between the first 25a and the second 25b parts, including any moving parts providing these mechanical contacts. The first interface 25c is located in a first coupling zone 23, and allows a relative displacement between the first leg 20 and the support 3 by making possible a relative displacement between the first part 25a and second part 25b of the first coupling means 25.

For example, the first coupling means 25 is a support means configured to allow free relative movement of the first leg 20 relative to the support 3. For example the support means is a support means to roller 40 as shown in Figures 4a, 4b or 4c. For example the support means is a sliding means as illustrated in Figure 1, where the first part 25a is a surface of the support 3, the second part 25b is an end surface of the first leg 20 which slides on said surface of support 3, and the interface 25c is the interface between these surfaces. In the example of FIG. 1, the first leg 20 rests on the support 3.

Figure 1 further illustrates an insulator 73 used in a preferred embodiment of the invention, and forming thermal insulation between, on the one hand, the radiant structure 2 and the interior of the oven 200 , and, on the other hand, the first interface 25c. The end of the second part 25b, which belongs to this first interface 25c, is thus in a cold zone. The support insulation 73 is preferably positioned at the level of the first end 7 and against the support 3.

[0094] Figure 2 further illustrates a second oven wall 72 vertical and having a wall insulation layer 74 shown with a dot texture. In the example of FIG. 2, the first leg 20 is in traction on the support 3. The coupling means 25 preferably comprises retaining elements, such as fixing holes 101 (illustrated in FIG. 9) coupled to means fixing, allowing relative movement.

Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 4a, 4b and 4c show examples of embodiments of the invention, in which the radiant element 1 comprises a second fixing leg 10 mechanically coupling the radiant structure 2 to the support 3. A second coupling means 15 mechanically couples the second leg 10 to the support 3. The second leg 10 is positioned around the duct 5 or positioned on another side of the duct 5 than the first leg 20. The second coupling means 15 comprises a first part 15a arranged to be fixed relative to the support 3, and a second part 15b fixed relative to the second leg 10. The first part 15a and the second part 15b are mechanically coupled via a second interface 15c, preferably so to allow relative displacement between the first part 15a and second part 15b.

The second leg 10 and first leg 20 are preferably separated and connected to the radiant structure 2. There is between the first leg 20 and second leg 10, a recessed area 9. The first leg 20 and second leg 10 are preferably mechanically coupled via the radiant structure 2. The first leg 20 and second leg 10 protrude from the radiant structure 2. For example, the duct 5 is positioned between the first fixing leg 20 and second leg 10. Figures 3a, 3b, 3c show the second wall 72 of the oven, vertical, and located opposite the first wall 71 of the oven on which is fixed the support 3. The second end 8 of the radiant element 1 is therefore free with respect to the second wall 72 of the furnace. A support insulation layer 73 is also provided at the level of the first end 7 of the radiant element 1, against the support 3. This support insulation layer 73 is shown only in certain figures, but according to a setting. preferred work of the invention, it is present on all the embodiments of the invention.

Figure 3a takes up some features of Figure 1 and further comprises the second leg 10 which is positioned around the duct 5. According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, a duct insulator is positioned, at least partially, between the conduit 5 and the second leg 10 so as to thermally insulate the second leg 10 from the heat emitted by the conduit 5.

Figures 3b, 3c, 4a, 4b, 4c show the radiant element 1 for which the duct 5 is positioned between the first leg 20 and second leg 10.

[0100] FIG. 3c also shows a compensator 59 fixed to the support 3 making it possible to ensure a mechanical coupling of the duct 5 with the support 3. The compensator 59 is preferably isolated from the duct 5, with the exception of the screw part. compensator screw 59 in contact with duct 5. A burner 58 is shown at the end of duct 5. Burner 58 is connected to the end of duct 5.

[0101] FIG. 3c also shows a lower end opening of the leg or first opening 52, located on the first leg 20. This opening 52 is located at the level of the lower end of the first leg 20. In the mode of operation. embodiment of FIG. 5b, the first opening 52 would for example be made in the first wall 202A and in the second wall 202B of the first leg 20. FIG. 3c also shows an upper end opening of the leg or second opening 51, located on the second leg 10. This opening 51 is located at the level of the end upper of the second leg 10. In the embodiment of FIG. 5b, the second opening 51 would for example be made in the first wall 102A and in the second wall 102B of the second leg 10. In addition, FIG. 3c shows an opening center of leg 53 or wall opening 53 located in second leg 10, in an area remote from the ends of second leg 10. Preferably, first wall 102A and second wall 102B of second leg 10 shown in Figure 5b comprise each a wall opening 53, preferably a wall opening 53 is a substantially simple shaped opening. Similar leg center openings 53 can be made in the first leg 20 and / or third leg 30 (not shown).

In FIG. 4a, the second coupling means 15 is a fixing means 16 for fixing the second leg 10 to the support 3 at the level of the second coupling zone 13 immobile. The fixing means 16 is represented by a triangle. The first coupling means 25 is configured to mechanically couple the first leg 20 to the support 3 at the level of the first coupling zone 23 and allows a relative movement between the first leg 20 and the support 3, via the interface 25c between the first. 25a and second 25b parts of the coupling means 25. For example, the first coupling means 25 is a support means configured to allow free relative movement of the first leg 20 in a single first direction 29 relative to the support 3, and / or parallel to the first wall 71 (potentially with a component of the direction of movement perpendicular to FIG. 4a). For example, the support means is a roller 40 or sliding support means. The arrows shown around the first coupling means 25 show the first direction 29, vertical, of the relative displacement of the first coupling means 25.

[0103] In Figure 4b, the radiant element 1 differs from the embodiment shown in Figure 4a in that the second coupling means 15 comprises two coupling devices:

a first free coupling device allowing relative movement between the first 15a and second 15b parts of the coupling means. The arrows shown in Figure 4b around the coupling means of the second free coupling device show a second direction 19 of the relative displacement of the coupling means;

- a second coupling device, fixed, comprising a fixing means 16 for fixing the second leg 10 to the support 3.

[0104] In Figure 4c, the radiant element 1 comprises:

- a second leg 10 mechanically coupled to the support 3 by means of a second coupling means 15 at the level of the second coupling zone 13, the second coupling means 15 allows relative movement between the second leg 10 and the support 3. The arrows shown in Fig.4c around the second coupling means 15 show the second direction 19 of the relative movement of the second coupling means 15;

- a first leg 20 mechanically coupled to a support 3 by means of a first coupling means 25 at the level of the first coupling zone 23, the first coupling means 25 allows relative displacement between the first leg 20 and the support 3. The arrows shown in Fig.4c around the first coupling means 25 show the first direction 29 of movement of the first coupling means 25. For example, the first coupling means 25 for this embodiment is a means of support, more preferably, this coupling means is a roller 40 or sliding support means;

- a third leg 30 mechanically coupled to the support 3 by means of a third coupling means 35 at the level of a third coupling zone 33 (illustrated in FIG. 7), the third coupling means 35 allows a relative displacement between the third leg 30 and the support 3. The arrows shown in Fig.4c around the third coupling means 35 show the third direction 39 of the relative movement of the third coupling means 35.

[0110] The third coupling means 35 comprises a first part 35a arranged to be fixed relative to the support 3, and a second part 35b fixed relative to the third leg 30, the first part 35a and the second part 35b being mechanically coupled via a third interface 35c so as to allow relative displacement between the first part 35a and second part 35b. Preferably, the third leg 30 is designed to be in support or in traction on the support 3 by means of the third coupling means 35. The radiant element is arranged so that the third interface 35c is at a temperature lower than inside the oven 200.

In Figure 4c, the second coupling means 15 allows a relative movement between the second leg 10 and the support 3 in the second direction 19, preferably only in this second direction 19. The first coupling means 25 allows a movement relative between the first leg 20 and the support 3, parallel to the first wall 71, for example in the first direction 29, preferably only in this first direction 29. The third coupling means 35 allows a relative movement between the third leg 30 and the support 3 in the third direction 39, preferably only in this third direction 39.

Preferably, the first direction 29 and the second direction 19 are essentially orthogonal to a main direction of the radiant structure 2 going from the first end 7 to the second end 8. Preferably, the first direction 29 and the second direction 19 are a vertical direction, i.e. they are essentially parallel to a vertical wall of a furnace. Preferably, the first direction 29 and second direction 19 are parallel, more preferably, they coincide. Preferably, the third direction 39 is essentially parallel to a main direction of the radiant structure 2 going from the first end 7 to the second end 8. Preferably the third direction 39 a horizontal direction, that is to say it is essentially orthogonal to a vertical wall of a furnace. Preferably, the first direction 29 and second direction 19 are essentially orthogonal to the third direction 39.

[0107] Preferably, the third leg 30 shown in FIG. 4c comprises:

- a first end of the third leg 30 mechanically coupled to said support 3 via the third coupling means 35;

- a second end of the third leg 30 fixed to the radiant structure 2. [0108] Preferably the second end of the third leg 30 comprises two fixing portions for mechanically fixing to the radiant structure 2 so that there is a third leg opening 55 between the radiant structure 2 and the two fixing portions of the second end of the third leg 30. The advantage of this opening of the third leg 55, like that shown in FIG. 3c as a recessed area 9 by way of example, is to allow a reduction in the stresses at the level of the fixing of the third leg 30 to the radiant structure 2. In fact, this opening of the third leg 55 makes it possible to limit the stress concentrations linked to thermomechanical deformation. The conduit 5 is partially shown in broken lines so as to better show the latter which is partially covered by the third leg 30, the conduit 5 in this Figure 4c is however similar to the conduits 5 shown in Figures 3a to 4b.

In Figures 5a and 5b are sectional views of Figure 3b. The cross section shown in section Va in Figure 5a is lenticular. A lenticular section is characterized by a substantially curved first wall 2A and by a substantially curved second wall 2B, both of which are mechanically coupled at their two ends facing each other and forming a first ridge 61 and a second ridge 62.

[0110] A cross section made at the level of the first leg 10 and of the second leg 20 is shown in FIG. 5b. It corresponds to the sectional view Vb of FIG. 3b. The extension of the first lateral 2A and second wall 2B can be closed, for example by a base reinforcing part 103. The second leg 10 comprises components of a reinforcing assembly in order to ensure good rigidity of the second leg 10. and in particular in order to prevent torsional deformations, that is to say to prevent deformations in a direction different from the direction going from the second leg 10 towards the first leg 20. Such a reinforcement assembly makes it possible to ensure a good rigidity of the second leg 10 is for example one or more vertical stiffeners 108. A vertical stiffener 108, here shown in a direction essentially longitudinal to the second leg 10 can, according to another embodiment be positioned in a direction essentially transverse to the second leg 10. In FIG. 5b, the first leg 20 comprises an extension of the first wall 2A and of the second wall 2B which respectively form a first wall 202A and a second wall 202B of the first leg 20. Thus, the first 20 (respectively second 10) leg can be formed from the first 202A (respectively 102A) and second 202B (respectively 102B) walls, optionally with the base reinforcement part 103. The embodiment of FIGS. 5a and 5b, and in particular the embodiment of the radiant structure 2 can be applied to embodiments of Figures 1, 2, 3a, 3b, 3c, 4a, 4b, 4c.

[0111] Figure 6 shows a particular embodiment of the radiant element of the invention. This radiant element 1 comprises a so-called double P radiant structure 2. The double P radiant structure 2 comprises a first straight section 81, a second straight section 82, and a third straight section 83 extending in essentially parallel directions, between said first end 7 and said second end 8, said first straight section 81 and said second straight section 82 being fluidly connected: at said first end 7 by a first bent portion 84; o at said second end 8 by a second angled portion 86; the first straight section 81 and the third straight section 83 being fluidly connected: at the level of the first end 7 by a third bent portion 85; o at the level of the second end 8 by a fourth bent portion 88. The first leg 20 makes it possible to mechanically couple the radiant structure 2 to the support 3 at the level of the first coupling zone 23. For example, the first leg 20 is coupled to the third angled portion 85 and / or and the third straight section 83.

The second leg 10 makes it possible to mechanically couple the radiant structure 2 to the support 3 at the level of the second coupling zone 13. For example, the second leg 10 is coupled to the second bent portion 84 and / or to the second straight section 82.

[0112] FIG. 7 shows a particular embodiment of the radiant element of the invention. This radiant element 1 comprises a radiant structure 2 said W-shaped between the duct 5 and an outlet nozzle 95. The radiant structure 2 in W shown comprises a first straight section 91, a second straight section 92, a third straight section 93, and a fourth straight section 94 extending in essentially parallel directions, between the first end 7 and the second end 8, so that:

- The first straight section 91 and the second straight section 92 are fluidly connected by a first elbow 96;

- the second straight section 92 and the third straight section 93 are fluidly connected by a second elbow 97;

- the third straight section 93 and the fourth straight section 94 are fluidly connected by a third elbow 98.

The first straight section 91 is fluidly connected to the conduit 5, and the fourth straight section 94 is fluidly connected to the outlet nozzle 95. The second leg 10 is mechanically coupled to the first straight section 91, for example it is attached to it. The second leg 10 makes it possible to mechanically couple the first straight section 91 to the support 3, for example the second leg 10 makes it possible to fix the first straight section 91 to the support 3. The first leg 20 makes it possible to mechanically couple the fourth straight section 94 to the support. 3, for example the first leg 20 makes it possible to fix the fourth straight section 94 to the support 3.

Preferably, in this embodiment, the second leg 10 at least partially surrounds the first straight section 91 and the first leg 20 at least partially surrounds the fourth straight section 94.

The second leg 10 is mechanically coupled to the support 3 at the level of the second coupling zone 13 by means of the second coupling means 15. The first leg 20 is mechanically coupled to the support 3 at the level of the first coupling zone 23 by through the first coupling means 25. Preferably, the second coupling means 15 is a fixing means and the first coupling means 25 is a mechanical coupling means allowing relative movement between the first leg 20 and the support 3 For example, the first coupling means 25 is a roller or sliding bearing means. In a preferred embodiment of the radiant element 1 as shown in Figure 7, the latter further comprises a third leg 30 mechanically coupled to a second elbow 97, for example the third leg 30 is fixed to the second elbow 97. The third leg 30 is mechanically coupled to the support 3 by means of a third coupling means 35 at the level of a third coupling zone 33 and allowing relative movement between the third leg 30 and the support 3. For example, the third coupling means 35 is a roller or sliding bearing means. FIG. 8 shows a portion of an oven 100 comprising two radiant elements 1, 1 'according to the invention. The oven portion 100 comprises a first wall 71 and a second oven wall 72. The oven portion 100 is configured to allow the passage of a strip 99 between the first wall 71 and second wall 72 of the oven. The strip 99 running essentially perpendicular to the first wall 71 and to the second wall 72 of the oven. The first wall 71 and second wall 72 of the furnace are spaced apart by a distance representing the width of the furnace FW. A band 99 has a bandwidth of BW. The radiant elements 1, 1 'are positioned so that their respective radiant structures 2, 2' allow heat transfer to the moving strip 99. In the context of the present invention, two successive radiant elements can also be fixed to the same first wall 71.

The first radiant element 1 is fixed to the first wall 71 of the furnace via its support 3, and the second radiant element 1 'is fixed to the second wall 72 of the furnace via its support 3 '. The second leg 10 is fixed to the support 3. The first leg 20 is mechanically coupled to the support 3 so as to allow relative movement between the first leg 20 and the support 3. The second radiant element 1 'is fixed to the second wall 72 oven through the support 3 '. The second leg 10 'is fixed to the support 3'. The first leg 20 'is mechanically coupled to the support 3' so as to allow relative movement between the first leg 20 'and the support 3'. The duct 5 of the first radiant element 1 opens at the level of the first wall 71 of the furnace. The duct 5 ′ of the second radiant element 1 ′ opens at the level of the second wall 72 of the oven. [0116] Regarding FIG. 8, all the embodiments of the radiant elements 1 described can be applied to the portion of the oven 100 described. In particular, the embodiments comprising a third leg 30 or else a radiant structure 2, a duct 5, a first leg 20, and a first coupling means 25 as described with reference to the preceding figures. FIG. 9 shows an exemplary embodiment of a first leg 20 or of a second leg 10 at the level of the first end 7. If the leg considered is lower than the duct 5, the figure will preferably be inverted up-down. FIG. 9 shows a sectional view of a leg (which may be the first 20 or the second 10) in which the radiant structure 2 is extended in order to form said leg. This embodiment is particularly suitable for a leg in traction on the support 3. The first leg 20 (respectively second leg 10) is assembled to the support 3 by means of a base reinforcement part 203 (respectively 103). Two lateral reinforcing pieces 204 (respectively 104), an upper reinforcing piece 205 (respectively 105) are assembled to the base reinforcing piece 203 (respectively 103). The first leg 20 (respectively second leg 10) is assembled to the base reinforcement part 203 (respectively 103). In a particular embodiment, the base reinforcement part 203 (respectively 103), the two lateral reinforcement parts 204 (respectively 104), the upper reinforcement part 205 (respectively 105) comprise: a base reinforcement part 203 (respectively 103), two lateral reinforcing pieces 204 (respectively 104) in the form of walls, an upper reinforcing piece 205 (respectively 105) in the form of a wall. A first leg end plate 209 (respectively second leg 109) forms a vertical wall which makes it possible to close the assembly comprising the base reinforcement part 203 (respectively 103), the two side reinforcement parts 204 (respectively 104) , and the upper reinforcement piece 205 (105 respectively).

This first leg end plate 209 (respectively second leg 109) also allows the first leg 20 (respectively second leg 10) to be mechanically coupled to the support 3, via the first 25 (respectively second 15). coupling medium. For example, the end plate of the first leg 209 (respectively second leg 109) is bolted to the support 3. FIG. 9 also shows two vertical stiffeners 208 (respectively 108) positioned opposite the junction of the two lateral reinforcing pieces 204 (respectively 104 ) with the base reinforcement part 203 (respectively 103). These vertical stiffeners 208 (respectively 108), here shown in a direction transverse to the section plane, can also be configured along a plane longitudinal to the section plane. These vertical stiffeners 208 (respectively 108), whether transverse or longitudinal to the section plane, allow better torsional rigidity of the assembly of the first leg 20 (respectively second leg 10) to the support 3. FIG. 9 shows fixing holes 201 (respectively 101) in the end plate 209 (respectively 109) of the first leg 20 (respectively second leg 10) to allow the fixing of the first leg 20 (respectively second leg 10) with the support 3 by the use of bolts, rivets or any other means of fixing. FIG. 9 shows two holes, but it is also conceivable to use only one hole, any embodiment with at least one hole is therefore included in the scope of the invention. According to another embodiment, the first leg 20 (respectively second leg 10) is attached to the support 3 by means of inverted angles positioned on the support 3 which form a hook on which the first leg 20 (respectively second leg 10) is positioned. .

[0119] Thus, the first leg 20 comprises, in the extension of the radiant structure 2 and / or forming an at least partial envelope of the radiant structure 2, a first leg wall 202A, 202B located between the radiant structure 2 and the first coupling means 25. The vertical end plate 209 is preferably fixed to the wall of the first leg 202A, 202B. The same can be done for the second leg 10.

[0120] In the case of the radiant heating tube described in FIG. 5a, 5b, the radiant structure comprises a first extension to form the wall of the first leg 202A of the first leg 20 and a second extension to form the wall of the first leg 202B leg 20. The same can be done for the second leg 10. [0121] Figure 10 shows an exemplary embodiment of a roller bearing means 40 for mechanically coupling a first leg 20, or a second leg 10, or a third leg 30 to the support 3. The means of roller bearing 40 shown in FIG. 10 is described in relation to the first leg 20. This roller bearing means 40 can be used for the second leg 10, or easily be adapted for the third leg 30, by positioning it as that it allows movement in an essentially horizontal direction as well as a third leg having a third leg end plate 309. The embodiment of FIG. 10 therefore applies to a third leg mutatis mutandis.

The roller bearing means 40 is included in the first coupling means 25. The roller bearing means 40 comprises a wheel 44 (forming part of the interface 25c) positioned in rotation about an axis wheel 45 (forming part of the first part 25a of the coupling means 25). The wheel axle 45 is fixed to the support 3 by a wheel axle support 46. In the example shown in the figure, the roller bearing means 40 is positioned in a recess of the support 3, so that the wheel 44 protrudes from the support 3 in order to allow the movement of the first leg 20, relative to the support 3, without friction with the support 3. For example the wheel 44 protrudes from 0.5 mm to 50 mm, more preferably the wheel 44 protrudes by less than 20 mm from the support 3. The roller bearing means 40 is positioned at the level of a first mechanical coupling zone 23. The first leg 20 includes a first leg end plate 209 forming a substantially planar first leg surface for mechanical contact with the wheel 44 so as to form line contact 27 with the wheel 44. The end plate is formed. part of the second part 25b of the coupling means 25.

[0123] According to a particular embodiment shown in FIG. 4c, the second part 25b of the first 25 (respectively second 15, respectively third 35) coupling means comprises an end plate 209 (respectively 109, 309) forming a surface of first (respectively second, respectively third) substantially planar leg to come into mechanical contact with the wheel 44 so as to form a line contact 27 with the wheel 44. Concerning the third leg 30 illustrated in figure 4c, this has a third leg end plate 309 forming a third leg surface substantially orthogonal to the first wall 71, which necessitates having a roller bearing means offset from those of the first leg 20 and second leg 10.

[0124] Regarding the third leg 30 illustrated in Figure 7, its third leg end plate 309, forming a third leg surface, is located at the same level with the surface of the second leg end plate 109 and the surface of the first leg end plate 209. The first leg 20, the second leg 10 and the third leg 30 are in contact with bearing means (rotary, roller 40 or sliding) so that they can describe an essentially vertical translation relative to the support 3. The support being fixed to the wall of an oven in an essentially vertical direction.

[0125] According to a preferred variant of FIG. 4c, the respective support means of the first leg 20, of the second leg 10 and of the third leg 30 comprise stop means (not shown) in order to prevent a too great displacement of the end of the leg 10; 20; 30 (of its end plate) relative to the support 3 in the first direction 29 for the first leg 20, in the second direction 19 for the second leg 10, or in the third direction 39 for the third leg 30. According to one another preferred variant of FIG. 4c, the support means comprise means for guiding the leg 10; 20; 30 (not shown), which allow translation only in the first direction 29 for the first leg 20, in the second direction 19 for the second leg 10, or in the third direction 39 for the third leg 30.

The present invention has been described in relation to specific embodiments, which have a purely illustrative value and should not be considered as limiting. In general, the present invention is not limited to the examples illustrated and / or described above. The use of the verbs "to understand", "to include", "to include", or any other variant, as well as their conjugations, can in no way exclude the presence of elements or constituents other than those mentioned. The use of the indefinite article "un", "une", or of the definite article "the", "the" or "", to introduce an element or a constituent does not exclude the presence of a plurality of these elements or these constituents. Reference numbers in the claims do not limit their scope.

[0127] In summary, the invention can also be described as follows. Radiant element 1 for heating an oven 200 and comprising:

- a first end 7;

- a second free end 8;

- a radiant structure 2 between the first end 7 and second end 8; - a conduit 5 for an energy supply inside the radiant structure 2;

- a first fixing leg 20 for mechanically coupling the radiant structure 2 to a support 3, at the level of a first coupling zone 23, - a first coupling means 25 for mechanically coupling the first leg 20 to a support 3 at the level of the first coupling zone 23 while allowing relative movement between the first leg 20 and the support 3.

Claims

1. Radiant element (1) intended to be placed on a first vertical wall (71) of an oven (200) and comprising:

- a first end (7) located on a first side (501) of the radiant element (1);

- a second end (8) located on a second side (502) of the radiant element (1), the second side (502) being opposite to the first side (501);

- a radiant structure (2) for heating inside said furnace (200), located between said first end (7) and second end (8);

- a conduit (5) for supplying energy inside said radiant structure (2), said conduit (5) being located on the first side (501) of the radiant element (1);

- a first fixing leg (20) for mechanically coupling the radiant structure (2) to a support (3) located on said first wall (71), said first leg (20) being located on the first side (501) of the radiant element (1); and

- a first coupling means (25) for mechanically coupling said first leg (20) to said support (3); characterized in that the second end (8) is free; and in that said first coupling means (25) comprises:

- a first part (25a) arranged to be fixed relative to said support (3), and

- a second part (25b) fixed relative to said first leg (20), the first part (25a) and the second part (25b) being mechanically coupled via a first interface (25c) so as to allow a relative displacement between the first part (25a) and second part (25b).

2. Radiant element (1) according to claim 1, arranged so that said first interface (25c) is at a temperature lower than the interior of the furnace (200).

3. Radiant element (1) according to the preceding claim, comprising an insulator (73) arranged to form thermal insulation between, on the one hand, the radiant structure (2) and / or the interior of the oven (200), and, on the other hand, said first interface (25c).

4. Radiant element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said first leg (20) is provided to be in support or in traction on said support (3) by means of said first coupling means. (25).

5. Radiant element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first coupling means (25) allows a relative displacement parallel to said first wall (71) between said first leg (20) and said support. (3).

6. Radiant element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said first interface (25c) allows sliding and / or rolling, preferably sliding and / or rolling of the second part (25b). ) with respect to the first part (25a).

7. Radiant element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said first leg (20) comprises, in the extension of said radiant structure (2) and / or forming an at least partial envelope of said structure radiant (2), a first leg wall (202A; 202B) located between said radiant structure (2) and said first coupling means (25).

8. Radiant element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said second part (25b) of the first coupling means (25) comprises a vertical first leg end plate (209).

9. Radiant element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a second fixing leg (10) for mechanically coupling the radiant structure (2) to said support (3), and a second coupling means (15) for mechanically coupling said second leg (10) to said support (3); said second leg (10) being positioned around said duct (5) or positioned on a different side of said duct (5) than the first leg (20); said second coupling means (15) comprising:

- a first part (15a) arranged to be fixed relative to said support (3), and

- a second part (15b) fixed relative to said second leg (10), the first part (15a) and the second part (15b) being mechanically coupled via a second interface (15c) so as to allow a relative displacement between the first part (15a) and second part (15b).

10. Radiant element (1) according to the preceding claim characterized in that at least one of the first (20) and second (10) legs comprises at least one opening (51, 52, 53).

11. Radiant element (1) according to any one of claims 9 or 10 characterized in that said second leg (10) comprises, in the extension of said radiant structure (2) and / or forming an at least partial envelope of said radiant structure (2), a second leg wall (102A; 102B) located between said radiant structure (2) and said second coupling means (15).

12. Oven portion (100) of an oven (200) comprising a first vertical oven wall (71) and a first radiant element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, said support (3) of said first element. radiant (1) being located only on said first furnace wall (71), preferably, said support (3) of said first radiant element (1) being fixed only to said first furnace wall (71).

13. Oven portion according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said first leg (20) is located lower than said duct (5).

14. Oven (200) comprising a plurality of radiant elements (1, 1 ') according to any one of claims 1 to 11, or a plurality of oven portions (100) according to any one of claims 12 and 13 .

15. Method of fixing a radiant element (1) to a first vertical wall (71) of an oven (200) for the heat treatment of a product (99), said method comprising the following steps: a. provide a radiant element (1) comprising:

- a first end (7) located on a first side (501) of the radiant element (1);

- a first fixing leg (20) located on the first side (501) of the radiant element (1); and

- a first coupling means (25) comprising:

• a first part (25a), and

• a second part (25b) fixed relative to said first leg (20), the first part (25a) and the second part (25b) being provided to be mechanically coupled via a first interface (25c) so as to allow movement relative between the first part (25a) and second part (25b); b. placing said radiant element (1) on said first wall (71) so that:

• the second end (8) is free; the first fixing leg (20) mechanically couples the radiant structure (2) to a support (3) located on said first wall (71); the first coupling means (25) mechanically couples said first leg (20) to said support (3); the first part (25a) of the first coupling means (25) is fixed with respect to said support (3); and the second part (25b) of the first coupling means (25) is mechanically coupled to the first part (25a) via the first interface (25c) so as to allow relative displacement between the first part (25a) and second part ( 25b).