KR20220149775A - Lances for use in metal production and foundry equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a lance consisting of an upper lance (1t) and a sublance (2) coupled to the upper lance (1t), forming a shoulder (1s) between the upper lance and the sublance. The sublance 2 of the present invention provides a protective device 3 comprising an open engaging end 2c to the cavity 2v; ) is in the initial configuration, characterized in that 10% or less (D3o ≤ 1.1 D2) than the diameter D2 of the sublance 2, when the sublance 2 is coupled to the lance, the protection device 3 is in contact with the shoulder 1s and is deformed into a deformed configuration, forming an impermeable surface for molten metal and slag over the entire area of the shoulder 1s.

Description

Lances for use in metal production and foundry equipment

The present invention relates to a lance for immersion of a probe into molten metal contained in a metallurgical vessel, such as a converter for the production of steel. The lance is a reusable upper lance that is not in contact with the molten metal, and a sub-lance coupled to the upper lance for measuring a parameter of the molten metal at its free end, and/or a sampling tool for collecting a sample of the molten metal. A type that contains In use, the sublance is partially immersed into the molten metal and is disposable. The connection between the upper lance and the sublance defines a shoulder, since the upper lance has a larger diameter than the sublance. If molten metal splatters on the shoulder of the upper lance, once solidified, it can jeopardize the bonding of the new sublance to the upper lance. The present invention proposes a sublance provided with a protective device to prevent splattering of molten metal or slag into the shoulder region of the upper lance. To facilitate storage of the sublance in an existing rack and to handle the sublance by the robot without changing the programming of the robot, the protection device stored in the rack has a diameter similar to that of the sublance.

Metal production processes are carried out in pyrometallurgical vessels where they undergo desired or undesirable chemical or physical reactions during residence time or during the movement of molten metal and/or slag from one vessel to another. Because the properties of the final metal product thus produced are strongly dependent on temperature, process conditions, including pH, and whether desired and undesired chemical or physical reactions have occurred, for further characterization, these parameters are measured and in situ It is also important to collect samples (in situ). This is generally done with a lance comprising an upper lance remaining out of the molten metal or slag and a sublance coupled to the upper lance and provided with a probe and/or sample collector at its free end. The upper lance is usually made of metal or polymer and is reusable. On the other hand, the sublance is generally made of thick cardboard and is disposable.

For example, steel can be produced from carbon-rich molten pig iron by an oxygen converter process, and oxygen is blown through the molten pig iron into a lance 12 to lower the carbon content of the alloy and change it to a low carbon steel (Figure 1). Reference). In this process, samples are collected and parameters of the melt are measured at least during oxygen blowing (sometimes referred to as inblow sublances) and after oxygen blowing (sometimes referred to as endblow sublances). ) with different sublances to ensure obtaining a steel of the desired quality. The blow sublance is typically provided with a sensor capable of measuring the temperature and liquidus of the molten metal and a sample collector for recovering a sample of the metal. Endblow sublances are typically provided with sensors for measuring the temperature and oxygen content of the molten metal and a sample collector for recovering a sample of the metal.

A new sublance is inserted over the engagement portion of the upper lance until it reaches a shoulder formed by the handling portion of the upper lance having a larger diameter than the sublance. Due to vibration during use, it is possible that the sublance does not come into contact with the shoulder, resulting in small gaps. The molten metal 11 or the slag floating on its surface, because the vessel is in motion, or in the case of a steelmaking converter, is sprayed with oxygen to the top and even the shoulder of the sublance or, if any, between the shoulder and the top of the sublance. It can be stirred because it can create splatters 11s that can reach the crevices. The metal or slag splatter solidifies and forms an incrustation at the surface of the joint and/or the shoulder at the height of the gap. When the current sub-lance is withdrawn from the upper lance and discarded, it is important to scrape any solid metal sheathing from the surfaces of the shoulder and the engaging portion of the upper lance so that the next sub-lance cannot properly bond to the upper lance.

US4566343 and EP3588052 describe a solution for preventing the formation of a metal sheath in the gap between the sublance and the shoulder. US4566343 describes a resilient ring seal between the top of the sublance and the immersion end of the shoulder of the upper lance to reduce the deposition of frozen metal at the joint between the upper lance and the sublance. EP3588052 uses two resilient ring seals arranged at the end of the sublance, the two resilient ring seals being circumferentially arranged on top of each other to seal the space between the mating tab and the end of the sublance describe These solutions protect the gap between the sublance and the shoulder from reaching by metal or slag splatters. As mentioned above, gaps do not necessarily occur, and these solutions do not protect the shoulder from metal splashing.

KR101597688 proposes a solution for protecting the shoulder of the upper lance from metal splashing. The upper end of the sublance is defined by an inner ring comprising an inner passage suitable for engagement with an engagement portion of the upper lance, and an outer ring separated from and coaxial with the inner ring and having a larger diameter than the inner ring; It provides an anti-stick cover that matches the diameter of the metal and protects it from splashing metal. A problem with this solution is that the outer ring has a diameter that is substantially larger than the diameter of the sublance. Thus, racks traditionally used to store new sublances awaiting utilization can no longer be used without modifying the dimensions of the receiving means to match the dimensions of the anti-stick cover. In addition, changing the geometry of the upper end of the sublance by engagement of the anti-stick cover may require a change in the programming of the robot used to handle the sublance and engage or retrieve them from the upper lance.

The present invention proposes a solution for protecting the shoulder of the upper lance as well as any gaps formed between the shoulder and the sublance, while maintaining the substantially unmodified upper geometry of the sublance. The advantage of this solution is that it can be implemented as a one-to-one replacement for existing sublances, without requiring design changes to the existing racks used to store the sublances, and without requiring changes to the programming of the robot used to handle the sublances. There is this. This solution has the advantage that the suitability of the protection device to the surface of the upper lance and the conformity of the sublance to the surface results in a deformation of the entire device rather than a deformation of the surface of the elastic material." and "This solution It has the advantage of reducing the possibility of damage during handling and assembly, as the expandable radial protective device only expands after the and sublances are axially joined together. These and other advantages of the present invention continue to be presented.

The invention is defined in the appended independent claims. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims. In particular, the present invention relates to a lance for immersing a probe in molten metal comprising:

(A) Upper Lance -

- a handling portion extending along a longitudinal axis (X) and comprising a distal end of a cross-section perpendicular to said longitudinal axis (X) of a diameter (D1), provided at said distal end;

● extending coaxially with the longitudinal axis (X) and having a maximum diameter (d1), including a joint where D1 > d1 -,

d2인 원통형이며, 탐침 및/또는 샘플 수집기가 제공된 침지 단부로부터, 상기 공동으로 개방되는 결합 단부를 포함하는 보호 장치에 결합되는 근위 단부까지, 상기 종축(X)을 따라 연장되고, (B) a sublance formed by an elongate tube extending along the longitudinal axis (X) and comprising a cavity configured to snugly receive an engagement portion, the cavity having substantially a diameter (d2) of d1

d2, extending along the longitudinal axis (X) from an immersion end provided with a probe and/or sample collector to a proximal end coupled to a protective device comprising said cavity-opening engaging end;

○ the elongate tube has an outer diameter (D2) with a cross section of d1 < d2 < D2 < D1, and

○ the protection device is deformable upon application of a force along the longitudinal axis X, and

○ the coupling part is inserted into the cavity of the sublance with the protection device in contact with the shoulder -,

here,

When at rest, the protective device has an outer maximum diameter (D3o) of 10% or less of D2 (D3o ≤ 1.1 D2), preferably 5% or less of D2 (D3o ≤ 1.05 D2), more preferably D3o = In the initial configuration, characterized in that D2,

When the sub-lance is coupled to the lance by the coupling part in the inserted state in the cavity, the protection device contacts the shoulder and deforms into a deformed configuration, so that the It forms an impermeable surface for molten metal and slag which spans the area inscribed in a circle perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X and covers the entire area of the shoulder.

In a first embodiment, the protection device comprises:

● Inner tube deformable upon application of a compressive force along said longitudinal axis (X) - said inner tube extending along said longitudinal axis (X) and defining an inner passage of diameter (D3i) with D3i≥d1, said inner layer comprising: a plurality of inner slits separated from each other and distributed over the circumference of said inner tube;

An outer tube deformable upon application of a compressive force along the longitudinal axis (X) - the outer tube snugly surrounding the inner tube and comprising a plurality of outer slits distributed over the circumference of the outer tube and separated from one another -,

Optionally, one or more peripheral tubes inserted into each other and snugly surrounding the outer tube 3o and deformable upon application of a compressive force along the longitudinal axis X, each of which is separated from one another and said a plurality of peripheral slits distributed on the circumference of each of one or more peripheral tubes, wherein the peripheral slits 3i of two adjacent peripheral tubes do not overlap each other at any point, and the outer slits 3o does not overlap the peripheral slits of the peripheral tube adjacent the outer tube at any point;

The inner slit 3i and the outer slit 3o do not overlap each other at any point.

Preferably, the inner slit and the outer slit extend parallel to the longitudinal axis (X). In an alternative embodiment, the inner slit and the outer slit extend transversely to but not perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, the inner and outer slit preferably between 10 and 50°, more preferably form an angle with the longitudinal axis including between 25 and 45[deg.]. The inner tube and the outer tube may be made of an elastomeric material, or a plastically deformable metal, or may be in the form of a woven fabric of woven or nonwoven fibers made of ceramic, polymer, or metal fibers. In order to improve the reproducibility of deformation of the protective device, the inner tube and/or the outer tube may be provided with fold lines for controlling the deformation of the folding protective device 3 in a reproducible manner. The inner tube and the outer tube may have different heights measured along the longitudinal axis (X).

In a second embodiment, the protection device may include a tube that is deformable by application of a compressive force along the longitudinal axis (X). The tube extends along the longitudinal axis X and defines an inner passage of diameter D3i with D3i≧d1, the tube comprising a plurality of slits separated from each other and distributed over the circumference of the tube. In a preferred embodiment, the slits are two sets -

an upper set extending from a location adjacent the mating end to a location adjacent to half the height of the tube measured along the longitudinal axis (X), and

- a set of sub-sets extending from a location adjacent the fixed end opposite the mating end to a location adjacent to half the height of the tube;

The upper set of slits is offset with respect to the lower set of slits.

The protective device of the first and second embodiments described above may be cylindrical, or comprise a plurality of cylindrical portions, or may have one or more cylindrical portions and one or more tapered or curved portions distributed along the longitudinal axis X. It may contain parts.

In a third embodiment, the protection device comprises:

● a support ring coupled to the proximal end of the elongate tube, and

- a plurality of L-shaped plates comprising an outer portion that joins an inner portion at a corner height of L, wherein the L-shaped plate is adjacent to or at a corner of the L-shaped plate by a hinge of the support ring. rotatably mounted and distributed around the circumference,

o in the initial configuration of the protective device, each L-shaped plate such that the inner portion extends radially inwardly substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X to at least partially occlude the cavity and the outer portion extend to the sublance biased to rotate, stationary relative to the outer surface of

○ the L-shaped plate is configured to pivot about the hinge 3h from the initial configuration to the modified configuration upon insertion of the coupling portion 1c into the cavity for coupling the sik sub-lance to the upper lance and , in the modified configuration, the inner portion is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis (X) and the outer portion extends radially substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X), wherein the protective device is in contact with the shoulder to a splash. They are superimposed on each other to form a continuous screen.

Each outer part has a free edge greater than the corner, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X), and when the protection device is in the initial configuration, each outer part To match the outer surface, each outer portion is preferably curved with a curvature matching the outer diameter D2 of the engaging end.

Similarly, each inner portion has a free side shorter than the corner, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X), inserting the engaging portion into the cavity and pivoting the L-shaped plate through their hinges, the Each inner portion has a curvature coincident with the maximum diameter d1 of the engaging portion, such that the inner portion is pressed against the wall of the cavity and forms an inner passage of diameter D3i with D3i≧d1 to allow insertion of the engaging portion. It is preferable to be curved.

The L-shaped plate is preferably sufficiently rigid such that it is not substantially deformed in normal use of the device, and is preferably made of a metal, preferably steel or aluminum, made of a ceramic material, or made of a polymer material.

d2인 원통형이며, 탐침 및/또는 샘플 수집기가 제공된 침지 단부로부터, 상기 공동(2v)으로 개방되는 결합 단부(2c)를 포함하는 보호 장치(3)에 결합되는 근위 단부까지, 상기 종축(X)을 따라 연장된다. 상기 서브랜스는 다음과 같은 특징이 있다.The invention also relates to a sublance coupled to said coupling portion of said lance as defined above. The sublance is defined by an elongate tube extending along the longitudinal axis X and includes a cavity configured to snugly receive the coupling portion, the cavity having a diameter d2 substantially d1

d2, from an immersion end provided with a probe and/or a sample collector to a proximal end coupled to a protective device 3 comprising an engaging end 2c that opens into the cavity 2v, the longitudinal axis X is extended along The sublance has the following characteristics.

the elongate tube has an outer diameter D2 with a cross-section d1 < d2 < D2 < D1, and

- said protective device is deformable upon application of a force along said longitudinal axis (X), and

• The coupling portion is inserted into the cavity of the sublance with the protection device in contact with the shoulder.

When at rest, the protective device has an outer maximum diameter (D3o) of 10% or less of D2 (D3o ≤ 1.1 D2), preferably 5% or less of D2 (D3o ≤ 1.05 D2), more preferably D3o = In the initial configuration, characterized in that D2,

When the sub-lance is coupled to the lance by the coupling part in the inserted state in the cavity, the protection device contacts the shoulder and deforms into a deformed configuration, so that the forming a surface impermeable to molten metal and slag spanning a region inscribed in a circle perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X), perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X) over a distance equal to at least ½ D1 from the longitudinal axis (X) covers the entire area of the shoulder extending to

The protection device is preferably as defined in the first, second or third embodiments described above.

The invention also relates to a protective device for preventing bouncing of the shoulder formed between the distal end of the handling part as defined above and the sub-lance of the lance. The protection device is

● Inner tube deformable upon application of a compressive force along the longitudinal axis (X) - The inner tube extends along the longitudinal axis (X) and forms an inner passage of a diameter (D3i) with D3i≥d1, the inner tube comprising: a plurality of inner slits separated from each other and distributed over the circumference of said inner tube;

An outer tube deformable upon application of a compressive force along the longitudinal axis (X) - the outer tube snugly surrounding the inner tube and comprising a plurality of outer slits distributed over the circumference of the outer tube and separated from one another -,

Optionally, one or more peripheral tubes inserted into one another and snugly surrounding the outer tube and deformable upon application of a compressive force along the longitudinal axis (X), each of the one or more peripheral tubes being separated from each other and being separated from the one or more peripheral tubes. a plurality of peripheral slits distributed on the circumference of each of the tubes, wherein the peripheral slits 3i of two adjacent peripheral tubes do not overlap each other at any point, and wherein the outer slits do not overlap the outer slits at any point. does not overlap the peripheral slits of the peripheral tube adjacent the tube;

The inner slit and the outer slit do not overlap each other at any point.

The protection device is preferably as defined in the first, second or third embodiments described above.

For a more complete understanding of the features of the present invention, reference is made to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:
1 shows: an oxygen lance according to the invention and a steelmaking converter with the lance.
2a shows a handling part and a separate coupling part of a lance according to the invention;
Figure 2b shows the upper lance of the present invention formed by coupling the handling portion and the engaging portion of Figure 1 (a) to each other.
2c shows a sublance according to the invention.
Fig. 2d shows a lance according to the invention formed by the sub-lance of Fig. 2c coupled to the upper lance of Fig. 2b;
2e shows a sublance according to the invention.
3a shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a protection device according to the invention;
Fig. 3b shows the protection device of Fig. 3a in assembly;
3c to 3f show alternative embodiments of protection devices according to the invention.
Figure 4a shows details of the coupling of the coupling portion to the handling portion for forming the upper lance of the present invention.
Figure 4b shows a detail of the assembled upper lance of figure 4a above on a sublance provided with a protection device of the type shown in figures 3a - 3f;
FIG. 4C shows the sublance of FIG. 4B partially inserted over the mating portion of the upper lance of FIG. 4B , with the upper surface of the protection device in contact with the shoulder but remaining undeformed in the initial configuration;
FIG. 4D shows the sublance of FIG. 4C fully inserted over the mating portion of the upper lance of FIG. 4C, wherein one embodiment of the protection device is deformed to a modified configuration and protects the shoulder from bouncing.
Fig. 4e shows a partially modified protection device of the type shown in Figs. 3a to 3f;
5a shows an exploded view of a second embodiment of the protection device of the invention;
Fig. 5b shows a side view of a second embodiment of the protection device of Fig. 5a in assembled form;
Fig. 5c shows a second embodiment of the protection device of Fig. 5b in an initial configuration;
Fig. 5d shows a second embodiment of the protection device of Fig. 5b in a modified configuration;
FIG. 5e shows a sublance according to the invention with the protection device of the second embodiment of FIG. 5a .
Figure 6a shows details of the coupling of the coupling portion to the handling portion for forming the upper lance of the present invention.
6b shows details of the assembled upper lance of FIG. 6a above on a sublance provided with a protection device of the type shown in FIGS. 5a-5e ;
FIG. 6c shows the sublance of FIG. 6b partially inserted over the coupling of the upper lance of FIG. 6b, wherein the upper surface of the second embodiment of the protection device is still separated from the shoulder and has already been at least partially deformed by the introduction of the coupling; shows
Figure 6d; A second embodiment of the protection device shows the sub-lance of FIG. 6c fully inserted over the mating portion of the upper lance of FIG. 6c, deforming into a modified configuration and protecting the shoulder from bouncing.
7a and 7b show an alternative embodiment of the protection device according to the invention.

The present invention relates to a lance for immersing a probe in molten metal. The lance comprises an upper lance 1t and a disposable sublance 2 that holds the probe and is coupled to the upper lance 1t.

The upper lance 1t includes a reusable handling portion 1h and an engaging portion 1c coupled to or at least partially integral with the distal end of the handling portion 1h. The handling portion 1h includes a distal end extending along a longitudinal axis X and having a substantially circular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of a diameter D1 . The distal end is provided with a coupling portion 1c extending coaxially with the longitudinal axis X and having a maximum diameter d1 with D1 > d1. The joint is generally formed by:

- a fastening element 1f fixed to or integrally fixed with the distal end of the handling part 1h and defining an exposed area of the distal end forming the shoulder 1s, and

• A probe holder 1p extending along a longitudinal axis X and comprising a proximal end reversibly coupled to a fixation element 1f.

A given probe holder can be used several times without replacing it, but it deteriorates quickly due to exposure due to difficult usage conditions, and unlike the handling part 1h and the fixing element 1f, the probe holder needs to be replaced at regular intervals.

The sublance 2 is disposable and is formed by an elongate tube 2t extending along the longitudinal axis X and comprising a cavity 2v configured to snugly receive the engaging portion 1c. The cavity is substantially cylindrical with a diameter d2 of d1 < d2, and a protective device 3 comprising a mating end 2c which opens into the cavity 2v from an immersion end provided with a probe 2p and/or a sample collector ) extending along the longitudinal axis (X) to the proximal end where it engages. The elongate tube 2t has an outer diameter D2 with a cross section d1 < d2 < D2 < D1. The protective device 3 is deformable upon application of a force along the longitudinal axis X. The sub-lance 2 is reversibly coupled to the upper lance 1 t to form a lance. The coupling of the sub-lance 2 to the upper lance 1 t to form the lance of the present invention is such that the coupling end 1 c of the upper lance 1 t is connected to the coupling end 2 c of the protection device 3 by the shoulder ( It is achieved by inserting it into the cavity 2v of the sublance 2 in contact with 1s).

The gist of the present invention is, on the one hand,

● a separate (uncoupled) sublance that does not substantially change the geometry of the mating end (2c) of the sublance, uses an existing rack for storing the sublance, and allows the robot to be used without any programming modifications. and, on the other hand,

• Covers and protects the entire area of the shoulder and any gaps formed between the shoulder 1s and the sublance 2, when the latter is joined to the former.

This is achieved by designing the protection device as follows.

● When at rest, the protective device 3 has an outer maximum diameter D3o of 10% or less of D2 (D3o ≤ 1.1 D2), preferably 5% or less of D2 (D3o ≤ 1.05 D2), more preferably In the initial configuration characterized in that D3o = D2,

● When the sub-lance 2 is coupled to the lance by the engaging portion 1c in a state inserted into the cavity 2v, the protection device 3 comes into contact with the shoulder 1s and is deformed into a deformed configuration, D3d forming an impermeable surface to molten metal and slag spanning a region inscribed with a circle perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of diameter D3d with ≧D1; In a modified configuration, the protective device 3 covers the entire area of the shoulder 1s extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X over a distance equal to at least ½ D1 from the longitudinal axis X.

upper lance (1t)

The upper lance 1t is a hollow rod long enough to be inserted into a metallurgical vessel, as shown in FIG. 1 . For example, in the case of a steel making converter, the length of the upper lance 1t may be 10 to 20 meters, and may be longer depending on the dimensions of the metallurgical installation. This is handled by a robot configured to pull the lance into and out of the metallurgical vessel. The upper lance is formed of a handling portion 1h and an engaging portion 1c.

The handling portion 1h extends along a longitudinal axis X and comprises a distal end of a substantially circular cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of a diameter D1 . In most cases, the cross-section of the distal end is circular, but in non-circular cases, the cross-section can likewise be characterized by a hydraulic diameter Dh1 (not shown in the figure) instead of a diameter D1, where Dh1 = A1/P1, where A1 and P1 are the area and perimeter of the cross-section of the distal end perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X). The circularity of the distal end cross-section of the handling portion is not necessarily essential to the present invention. But in practice, it is usually circular.

The handling part 1h, which can be made of metal or polymer, or of a fiber-reinforced polymer composite, is designed to last a significant service time without modification, and can be considered an integral part of a metallurgical installation.

As shown in FIG. 2b , the engaging portion 1c extends coaxially with the longitudinal axis X and has a maximum diameter d1 where D1 > d1. Thus, the shoulder 1s of the width 1/2 (D1-d1) is formed by the distal end of the handling portion 1h and the engaging portion 1c.

As shown in Fig. 2A, the engaging portion 1c is generally formed by the following.

- a fastening element 1f fixed to or integrally fixed with the distal end of the handling part 1h and defining an exposed area of the distal end forming the shoulder 1s, and

• A probe holder 1p extending along a longitudinal axis X and comprising a proximal end reversibly coupled to a fixation element 1f.

Like the handling portion, the coupling portion is generally hollow defining a passageway for receiving any wiring required by the probe 2p located at the free end of the sublance 2 . At the free end of the coupling portion 1c and, in particular at the free end of the probe holder 1p, the corresponding electrical connection of any wiring of the probe 2b when the sublance 2 is coupled to the upper lance 1t ( An electrical connection 1e (eg a male plug or female socket) may be provided for coupling to 2e), thus a passage through the upper lance to any controller for recording measurements by the probe 2p. along to form a continuous electrically conductive communication extending from the probe 2p. Electrical connection 1e of probe holder 1p can be damaged by repeated connection/disconnection to new sublance 2 and harsh working conditions in metallurgical vessel, very close to molten metal at very high temperature and often vibrate Because of the exposure to

The probe holder 1p is to be reversibly coupled to the fixing element 1f to form the coupling portion 1c by mechanical means such as a thread, bayonet, snap fit, etc. as shown in FIGS. 4A and 6A . can

sublance (2)

The sublance 2 extends along the longitudinal axis X and includes a cavity 2v configured to snugly receive the engaging portion 1c. The sublance 2 is constituted by at least the following.

● an elongate tube (2t) comprising an immersion end and a proximal end;

- a probe (2p) and/or a metal or slag sample collector is coupled to the immersion end of the elongate tube (2t), and

• A protective device 3 is coupled to the proximal end of the elongate tube 2t.

d2인 원통형이며, 탐침(2p)에 의해 적어도 부분적으로 폐쇄된 침지 단부로부터 상부 랜스(1t)의 결합부(1c)를 수용하기 위한 공동을 개방하는 보호 장치(3)의 결합 단부(2c)까지 종축(X)을 따라 연장된다. 상부 랜스(1t)의 결합부(1c)는 공동(2v)의 벽과 접촉하고 마찰에 의해 서브랜스(2)를 고정하는 파지 수단을 포함할 수 있다. 서브랜스(2)는 또한 나사산, 베이어닛, 스냅 핏 등과 같은 기계적 수단에 의해 결합부에 고정될 수 있다.The cavity has substantially a diameter (d2) of d1

d2 from the immersion end at least partially closed by the probe 2p to the engaging end 2c of the protective device 3 which opens a cavity for receiving the engaging portion 1c of the upper lance 1t It extends along the longitudinal axis (X). The engaging portion 1c of the upper lance 1t may comprise gripping means for contacting the wall of the cavity 2v and holding the sub-lance 2 by friction. The sublance 2 may also be secured to the joint by mechanical means such as a thread, a bayonet, a snap fit, or the like.

An electrical connection 2e mating with the electrical connection 1e of the coupling portion 1c of the upper lance can be fixed in a corresponding position in the cavity 2v, such that the sublance 2 is coupled to the upper lance 1t. When done, electrical communication is formed by connecting the electrical connection devices 1e, 2e of the upper lance 1t and the sub-lance 2 . As such, the probe 2b may be electrically connected to an external controller (not shown).

The elongate tube 2t is generally made of cardboard which is closed by a probe at its immersion end. Specifically, the engaging end 2c of the elongate tube 2t of the sublance 2 generally has a substantially circular cross-section of an outer diameter D2 where d1 < d2 < D2 < D1. When the cross-section of any one of the engaging portion 1t, the cavity 2v, the engaging end 2c of the sublance 2 or the distal end of the handling portion 1h is not circular, the cross-section is dh1 < dh2 < Dh2 < Dh1 can be defined as the corresponding hydraulic diameters, which are defined as the ratio of the area (A) to the perimeter (P) of that section (Dh = A / P).

The subject matter of the invention comprises the provision of a protection device (3) secured to the mating end of the sublance (2). In the stationary state, the protective device has an initial configuration that does not substantially change the external geometric dimensions of the sublance. The protective device 3 can be deformed into a deformed configuration upon application of a force parallel to the longitudinal axis X thereon. The force for deforming the protective device 3 should not substantially exceed the force normally applied for coupling the sub-lance 2 to the upper lance 1t, the protective device being the free end of the protective device 3 . when inserting the engaging portion 1c of the upper lance 1t into the cavity 2v until in contact with the shoulder 1s of the upper lance 1t, and according to the embodiment, the engaging portion 1c into the cavity 2v ) should be transformed from the initial configuration to the modified configuration when inserted deeper into the

The coupling of the various components of the lance 1 according to the present embodiment may include coupling the probe holder 1p to the fixing element 1f to form the coupling portion 1c. The probe holder 1p may be fixed to the fastening element 1f with a thread, bayonet, snap fit, or the like. Thereafter, the engaging portion 1c of the upper lance 1t is connected to the cavity 2v of the sublance 2 like a sword into the sheath until the protective device 3 in its initial configuration contacts the shoulder 2h. ) can be inserted coaxially into the Upon application of a force along the longitudinal axis X onto the protective device 3 , the protective device reaches a deformed configuration. It is essential for the present invention that the protective device 3 reaches a modified configuration when the engagement between the sub-lance 2 and the upper lance 1t is completed.

2d, 4d, and 6d, when the sub-lance 2 is coupled to the upper lance 1t, the protection device 3 causes the free end of the protection device to contact the shoulder 1s. It is in a modified configuration and extends radially over the area inscribed with a circle perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of diameter D3d of diameter D3d > D1, covering the entire area of shoulder 1s. In a modified configuration, the shoulder 1s is protected by a protection device 3 from any molten metal splatter 11s, which can be rubbed and scraped to remove any solidified metal from the surface of the shoulder 1s. no need. This cleaning operation must be done manually and can be very cumbersome.

Protection device (3) - double tube

In the preferred embodiment shown in Figures 3a to 3e, the protection device 3 comprises:

● Inner tube (3i) deformable upon application of a compressive force along longitudinal axis (X) - the inner tube extends along longitudinal axis (X) and forms an inner passage of diameter (D3i) with D3i≥d1, inner tube (3i) ) comprises a plurality of inner slits 3si separated from each other and distributed on the circumference of the inner tube 3i -,

● Outer tube (3o) deformable when compressive force is applied along longitudinal axis (X) - The outer tube snugly surrounds the inner tube (3i), is distributed on the circumference of the outer tube (3o) and separated from each other. with an outer slit (3so) - comprising,

The inner slit 3si and the outer slit 3so do not overlap each other at any point.

The protective device 3 may optionally comprise one or more peripheral tubes inserted into each other and snugly surrounding the outer tube 3o and deformable upon application of a compressive force along the longitudinal axis X, each of the one or more peripheral tubes comprising: , comprising a plurality of peripheral slits separated from each other and distributed on the circumference of each of the one or more peripheral tubes, the peripheral slits of the two adjacent peripheral tubes do not overlap each other at any point, and the outer slits 3so are any It does not overlap with the peripheral slits of the peripheral tube adjacent to the outer tube at the point of .

As shown in Fig. 4e, non-overlapping inner and outer slits 3si and 3so are essential to the present invention for the following reasons. In the initial configuration, the protection device is based on the number of stripes of material having a stripe width measured in the tangential direction (i.e. perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X and the radial direction) defined between two adjacent slits of the initial slit width. has an outer maximum diameter (D3o) yielding a perimeter Pi = π x D3o formed by In a modified configuration, the protection device 3 forms a surface that spans the region inscribed with a circle of diameter D3d with D3o < D3d, yielding a perimeter Pd = π x D3d > Pi. Since the stripe width remains constant when bending the stripes of the material, Pd can be greater than Pi by increasing the slit width accordingly. A problem with the locally wide slits 3si, 3so is that the surface formed due to these openings cannot be impermeable to the splatters 11s of molten metal and slag. For this reason, both the inner tube 3i and the outer tube 3o are splatters 11s of metal or slag where any locally wide slits in the inner or outer tube are always covered by stripes of material in the outer or inner tube, respectively. To define an impermeable surface for , an inner slit 3si and an outer slit 3so that do not overlap each other at any point are needed.

3A to 3E , the inner slit 3si and the outer slit 3so may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis X. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3f , the inner slit 3si and the outer slit 3so may extend transverse to the longitudinal axis but not perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In this embodiment, the inner slit 3si and the outer slit 3so form an angle with the longitudinal axis comprising 10 to 50°, preferably 25 to 45°.

Figure 3c shows an embodiment in which a fold line 3f is provided on the inner tube 3i and/or the outer tube 3o to control the deformation of the folding protective device 3 in a reproducible manner. The crease ensures that the tube is preferentially deformed along the fold line 3f. The crease 3f may be formed by a dotted perforation of the tube, by a locally thinner wall thickness of the inner and/or outer tube, whereby the crease is defined by a corresponding groove. Since the protection device 3 is joined at one end to the proximal end of the tube 2t extending and at the coupling end 2c to the coupling of the upper lance 1t, the fold line 3f is the protection device 3 . may proceed adjacent to and parallel to one end and the engaging end 2c of the . The fold line 3f may also extend circumferentially at about mid-height of the protective device 3 in order to ensure that in the deformed configuration the protective device 3 spans the entire area of the shoulder. Preferred positions of the fold line 3f as described above are shown in Figures 3c and 4e.

As shown in FIG. 3D , the inner tube 3i and the outer tube 3o may have different heights measured along the longitudinal axis X. As shown in FIG. In the embodiment of FIG. 3d the outer tube 3o is about half the height of the inner tube 3i. In the embodiment of figure 3d, the outer slit 3so of the outer tube is open at the free side of the outer tube 3o located closest to the engaging end 2c. The outer slit 3so opened at the free side of the outer tube 3o located closest to the mating end 2c is any outer tube having a height including between 50% and 100% of the height of the inner tube 3i. (3o) may also apply. With this configuration, the inner tube is double-folded and the free stripes of the outer tube open like flower petals. The space between two adjacent stripes (=petals) of the outer tube is protected by a stripe of material of the inner tube 3i that is offset with respect to the material of the outer tube.

The protective device 3 may be cylindrical as shown in FIGS. 3a to 3d and 3f or may comprise one or more cylindrical portions and one or more tapered or curved portions distributed along the longitudinal axis X and , an embodiment of which is shown in Fig. 3e.

The inner tube 3i and the outer tube 3o may be made of an elastomeric material or a plastically deformable metal, or may be in the form of a woven fabric of woven or non-woven fibers made of ceramic, polymer or metal fibers.

4a to 4d show various steps for mounting a lance according to an embodiment of the present invention, highlighting the deformation of the protection device 3 upon coupling the sub-lance 2 to the upper lance 1t. FIG. 4a shows a method of coupling the probe holder 1p to the fastening element 1f to form the engagement portion 1c of the upper lance 1t. 4a the threads for coupling the probe holder 1p to the fastening element 1f are shown. As discussed above, other coupling means such as bayonet or snap fit may be used without affecting the present invention. 4b and 4c, the engaging portion 1c of the upper lance 1t is still in its initial configuration without deformation of the protective device when the engaging end 2c of the protective device is in contact with the shoulder 1s is inserted into the cavity 2v of the sublance 2 like a knife into the sheath. The protection device 3 shown in Figs. 4b to 4e is of the form shown in Figs. 3b or 3c, but the same principle applies to any one of the embodiments shown in Figs. 3b to 3f. At this stage, as shown in Fig. 4c, the sub-lance 2 is not yet fully engaged with the upper lance 1t. In order to complete the engagement, the engaging portion 1c has to penetrate deeper into the cavity applying a compressive force along the longitudinal axis X onto the deforming protective device 3 to arrive at a deformed configuration. Comparing FIGS. 4D and 4E , upon application of a compressive force along the longitudinal axis X, a two-tube, substantially cylindrical protective device buckles at mid-height (measured along the longitudinal axis X). It can be seen that this forms a geometric structure comprising two inverted funnels joined together at the wide end of each funnel. The diameter (D3d) at the fold height of the stripe of material must be at least equal to the diameter (D2) of the distal end of the upper lance (D3d≥D2). Consequently, the height of the protective device 3 measured along the longitudinal axis X is the radial width of the shoulder 1s formed between the upper lance 1t and the sub-lance 2 (= 1/2 (D1 - D2c)) should be greater than twice of, D2c is the diameter of the mating end 2c of the protection device 3 .

Protective device (3) - single tube

In an alternative preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 7a and 7b , the protection device 3 comprises a single tube which is deformable upon application of a compressive force along the longitudinal axis X. The tube extends along the longitudinal axis X and forms an internal passage of diameter D3i with D3i≧d1, the tube 3i comprising a plurality of slits 3s spaced apart from each other and distributed on the circumference of the tube .

7a , the slits extend over at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90% of the height of the tube measured along the longitudinal axis X.

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 7b, the slits 3s are distributed in two sets,

an upper set extending from a location adjacent the mating end 2c to a location adjacent to half the height of the tube measured along the longitudinal axis X, and

• a lower set extending from a location adjacent the fixed end opposite the mating end 2c to a location adjacent to half the height of the tube;

The upper set of slits 3s is offset with respect to the lower set of slits 3s.

The slits 3s may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis X or, alternatively, they may extend transversely to the longitudinal axis X but not perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In the latter embodiment, the slits 3s form an angle with the longitudinal axis which preferably comprises 10 to 50°, more preferably 25 to 45°. In all cases, the slits are preferably parallel to each other or at least not intersecting each other.

7a and 7b, the tube is preferably provided with a fold line 3f to control the deformation of the fold protection device 3 in a reproducible manner. For example, the fold line 3f may extend circumferentially at half the height of the tube.

The tube may be cylindrical or may comprise one or more cylindrical portions and one or more tapered or curved portions distributed along the longitudinal axis X. The tube is preferably in the form of a woven fabric of woven or non-woven fibers made of an elastomeric material, or a plastically deformable metal, or made of a ceramic, polymer, or metal fiber.

Protector (3) - Lotus

In an alternative preferred embodiment shown in Figures 5a to 5e, the protective device 3 comprises:

● a support ring 3r coupled to the coupling end 2c of the sublance 2, and

• A plurality of L-shaped plates 3p (see Fig. 5a) each comprising an outer portion 3po that merges into an inner portion 3pi at a corner height of L.

The L-shaped plate is rotatably mounted and distributed around the circumference of the support ring by means of hinges 3h at or adjacent to the corners of the L-shaped plate, so that, as shown in Fig. 5b, the protection device 3 is By rotation of the L-shaped plate 3p with respect to each hinge 3h, it can be changed between the initial and modified configurations.

In the initial configuration of the protection device 3 shown in FIG. 5c , each L-shaped plate has an inner portion 3pi extending radially inwardly substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X to at least partially define the cavity 2v. It is biased to rotate, occlude and the outer part 3po rests against the outer surface of the sublance 2 . In the initial configuration, the inner portion 3pi forms an inner passage of diameter D3i with D3i < d1. The bias can be created with a spring that forces the L-shaped plate into the initial configuration described above. However, the bias can be created much more simply by moving the center of gravity of the L-shaped plates so that gravity causes them to naturally rotate to reach the configuration described above. Sublances are generally stored, handled, and used with the longitudinal axis (X) substantially vertical, so that the effects of gravity can be easily controlled.

As shown in Fig. 5b, the L-shaped plate is viewed from the initial configuration shown in Fig. 5c upon insertion of the engaging portion 1c into the cavity 2v to couple the sub-lance 2 to the upper lance 1t. It is configured to pivot about the hinge 3h in the modified configuration shown in 5d. 5D , in a modified configuration, the inner portion 3pi is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis X and the outer portion 3po extends radially substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, the protection device (3) overlap each other to form a continuous screen against the metal splatter when in contact with the shoulder 1s.

As can be seen in FIGS. 5A and 5D , each outer part 3po preferably has a free side greater than the corner measured in the tangential direction (ie perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X and the radial direction). As such, when the L-shaped plate 3p pivots about the hinge to reach a deformed configuration (such as a blooming lotus), all L-shaped plates come into contact with adjacent L-shaped plates located on either side, thereby causing the shoulder 1s It forms a continuous screen that protects it from splattering.

Each outer part 3po is preferably curved with a curvature coincident with the outer diameter D2 of the engaging end 2c so that when the protective device 3 is in its initial configuration, each outer part 3po It mates with the outer surface of the sublance 2 . This is shown in FIGS. 5C and 5E , such that the maximum diameter D3o of the protective device 3 does not exceed D2 by more than 10% (D3o ≤ 1.1 D2).

In a preferred embodiment, each inner part 3pi has a free side shorter than the corner measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, as can be seen in FIGS. 5A-5C . As such, when the protection device 3 is in the initial configuration and the inner portion 3pi extends radially inward, they do not overlap each other. They do not need to form a continuous screen since they are not used in the initial configuration and because the sub-lance is not coupled to the upper lance. When the L-shaped plates pivot to reach the deformed configuration, they come into contact with the walls of the cavity, allowing for a cavity opening as large as possible to receive the engaging portion 1c, preferably of diameter d1, into the cavity 2v. They should not overlap each other.

Inserting the engaging portion 1c into the cavity 2v and pivoting the L-shaped plate 3 through their hinges 3h, the inner portion 3pi is pressed against the wall of the cavity 2v and with D3i≧d1 Each inner part 3pi is preferably curved with a curvature coincident with the maximum diameter d1 of the engaging portion 1c to form an inner passage of diameter D3i, thereby allowing insertion of the engaging portion 1c. do.

The L-shaped plate 3 is preferably sufficiently rigid such that it does not substantially deform in normal use of the device. In particular, when the engaging portion 1c flows into the cavity 2v and presses the inner portion 3pi of the L-shaped plate, the inner portion should not (substantially) bend and prevent the rotation of the L-shaped plate without being bent. It must be strong enough to be driven. The L-shaped plate is preferably made of a metal, preferably of steel or aluminum, of a ceramic material, of a polymeric material, preferably not of a rubbery polymer.

6a to 6d show various steps for coupling various components of a lance according to the present embodiment of the present invention, and the deformation of the protection device 3 when the sub-lance 2 is coupled to the upper lance 1t. emphasize the FIG. 6a shows a method of coupling the probe holder 1p to the fastening element 1f to form the engagement portion 1c of the upper lance 1t. 6a the threads for coupling the probe holder 1p to the fastening element 1f are shown. As discussed above, other coupling means such as bayonet or snap fit may be used without affecting the present invention. 6b and 6c, the engaging portion 1c of the upper lance 1t is inserted into the cavity 2v of the sub-lance 2 like a knife into the sheath. In the initial configuration, the inner portion 3pi of the L-shaped plate 3p extends radially inward, partially occluding the opening of the cavity 2v, and an opening with a diameter smaller than the diameter d1 of the engaging portion 1c. leave the As a result, the engaging portion 1c, as it comes into contact with the inner portion 3pi of the L-shaped plate 3p, exerts a force along the longitudinal axis X on the inner portion, making them downward against the wall of the cavity 2v. By pushing to , it drives the tilting of the L-shaped plate 3p and at the same time raises the outer part 3po from the outer wall of the sublance 2 . In the step shown in FIG. 6c , the protection device may or may not have reached the deformed configuration, depending on how far the inner part 3pi is pushed against the wall of the cavity 2v. At this stage, the sub-lance 2 is not yet fully engaged with the upper lance 1 t because its engaging end 2 c does not contact the shoulder 1 s. In order to complete the engagement, the engaging portion 1c has to penetrate deeper into the cavity. It is essential for the present invention that the protective device 3 reaches a modified configuration when the engagement between the sub-lance 2 and the upper lance 1t is completed. In order to bring the outer part 3po side by side to fully open the "lotus" and form a continuous screen, to fully press the inner part against the wall of the cavity 2v, the engaging portion 1c has a diameter of the engaging portion to handle In the upper part adjacent to the portion 1c, it may be tapered by increasing until it reaches the maximum diameter d1.

conclusion

The various aspects of the present invention, including the upper lance 1t, the sub-lance 2, and the protection device 3, have in common a protection device characterized by the following.

● When at rest, the protective device 3 has an outer maximum diameter D3o of 10% or less of D2 (D3o ≤ 1.1 D2), preferably 5% or less of D2 (D3o ≤ 1.05 D2), more preferably In the initial configuration characterized in that D3o = D2,

● When the sub-lance 2 is coupled to the lance by the engaging portion 1c in a state inserted into the cavity 2v, the protection device 3 comes into contact with the shoulder 1s and is deformed into a deformed configuration, D3d Forms an impermeable surface to molten metal and slag spanning the area inscribed with a circle perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the diameter D3d with ≥ D1, covering the entire area of the shoulder 1s, and covering the longitudinal axis X ) extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X over a distance equal to at least ½ D1.

This seemingly simple solution is a great advantage in terms of maintenance of the lance since it is not necessary to scrape any solidified metal or slag splatter that soils the shoulder 1s of the upper lance 1t. At the same time, the sublance of the prior art can be replaced by the sublance 2 of the present invention without changing anything in the process, either in the rack holding the spare sublance 2 or in the programming of the robot handling the sublance. This is possible because in the initial configuration the protective device 3 does not substantially change the geometry of the sublance. This solution is also very economical to implement.

Reference Explanation One lance 1c joint 1e Electrical coupling of disposable probe holders 1f fastening element 1h handling part 1p Disposable probe holder 1s shoulder 1t upper lance 2 sublance 2c mating end of sublance 2e Electrical coupling of sublances 2p probe 2t elongated tube 2v public 3 protection device 3f crease 3h hinge 3i inner tube 3o outer tube 3p L-shaped plate 3pi The inner part of the L-shaped plate 3po The outer part of the L-shaped plate 3r support ring 3si inner slit 3so outer slit 10 Metallurgical vessels (e.g. transducers) 11 molten metal 11s splash 12 gas lances (e.g. oxygen lances) d1 Maximum diameter of the cross-section of the joint D1 Diameter of the cross-section of the distal end of the handling portion d2 diameter of cavity D2 outer diameter of mating end D3d Outer diameter of deformed protective device D3i Diameter of the inner passage of the protection device D3o Outer diameter of undeformed protective device X breeder

Claims (17)

A lance (1) for immersing a probe in molten metal, comprising:
(A) Upper Lance (1t) -
- a handling portion 1h extending along a longitudinal axis X and comprising a distal end of a cross-section perpendicular to said longitudinal axis X of diameter D1, provided at said distal end;
● extending coaxially with the longitudinal axis (X) and having a maximum diameter (d1), including a coupling portion (1c) with D1 > d1 -,
(B) a sublance (2) formed by an elongate tube (2t) extending along said longitudinal axis (X) and comprising a cavity (2v) configured to snugly receive an engaging portion (1c) - The cavity has substantially a diameter d2 of d1

d2, from an immersion end provided with a probe 2p and/or a sample collector to a proximal end coupled to a guard 3 comprising an engaging end 2c that opens into the cavity 2v, the longitudinal axis extending along (X),
○ the elongate tube 2t has an outer diameter D2 with a cross-section d1 < d2 < D2 < D1, and
○ the protection device 3 is deformable upon application of a force along the longitudinal axis X, and
○ In the lance (1) comprising - the coupling part (1c) is inserted into the cavity (2v) of the sublance (2) with the protection device (3) in contact with the shoulder (1s),
When at rest, the protective device 3 has an outer maximum diameter D3o of 10% or less of D2 (D3o ≤ 1.1 D2), preferably 5% or less of D2 (D3o ≤ 1.05 D2), more preferably is in the initial configuration characterized in that D3o = D2,
● When the sub-lance 2 is coupled to the lance by the coupling portion 1c in a state inserted in the cavity 2v, the protection device 3 comes into contact with the shoulder 1s and is deformed. deformed in configuration to form an impermeable surface to molten metal and slag spanning a region inscribed with a circle perpendicular to said longitudinal axis X of diameter D3d with D3d ≥ D1, the entire shoulder 1s A lance, characterized in that it covers an area. The method according to claim 1, wherein the protection device (3),
● Inner tube (3i) deformable upon application of a compressive force along said longitudinal axis (X) - said inner tube extending along said longitudinal axis (X) and forming an inner passage of diameter (D3i) with D3i≥d1, said the inner tube 3i comprises a plurality of inner slits 3si separated from each other and distributed on the circumference of the inner tube 3i;
● Outer tube (3o) deformable upon application of compressive force along the longitudinal axis (X) - The outer tube snugly surrounds the inner tube (3i), is distributed on the circumference of the outer tube (3o) and is mutually exclusive including a number of external slits (3so) that are separated -,
Optionally, one or more peripheral tubes inserted into each other and snugly surrounding the outer tube 3o and deformable upon application of a compressive force along the longitudinal axis X, each of which is separated from one another and said a plurality of peripheral slits distributed on the circumference of each of one or more peripheral tubes, wherein the peripheral slits 3i of two adjacent peripheral tubes do not overlap each other at any point, and the outer slits 3o does not overlap the peripheral slits of the peripheral tube adjacent the outer tube at any point;
and the inner slit (3i) and the outer slit (3o) do not overlap each other at any point. The lance according to claim 2, wherein the inner slit (3si) and the outer slit (3so) extend parallel to the longitudinal axis (X). 3. The inner slit (3si) and the outer slit (3so) according to claim 2, wherein the inner slit (3si) and the outer slit (3so) extend transversely but not perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X), the inner slit (3si) and the outer slit (3so) preferably forms an angle with said longitudinal axis comprising between 10 and 50°, more preferably between 25 and 45°. 5. The woven material according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the inner tube (3i) and the outer tube (3o) are made of an elastomeric material, or a plastically deformable metal, or made of a ceramic, polymer, or metal fiber. or a lance in the form of a woven fabric of non-woven fibers. 6. The fold line (3f) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the inner tube (3i) and/or the outer tube (3o) has a fold line (3f) for controlling the deformation of the folding protection device (3) in a reproducible manner. Provided, Lance. 7. The lance according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the inner tube (3i) and the outer tube (3o) have different heights measured along the longitudinal axis (X). The protective device (3) according to claim 1, wherein the protective device (3) comprises a tube that is deformable upon application of a compressive force along the longitudinal axis (X), the tube extending along the longitudinal axis (X) and having a diameter (D3i) of D3i≥d1 forming an internal passage of the tube, said tube 3i comprising a plurality of slits 3s separated from each other and distributed on the circumference of said tube, said slits 3s preferably comprising two sets -
an upper set extending from a location adjacent the mating end 2c to a location adjacent to half the height of the tube measured along the longitudinal axis X, and
- distributed in a sub-set extending from a position adjacent to the fixed end opposite the engaging end (2c) to a position adjacent to half the height of the tube;
The upper set of slits (3s) is offset with respect to the lower set of slits (3s). 9. The device according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the protection device (3) comprises:
● Cylindrical or
● contains a plurality of cylindrical parts, or
A lance comprising at least one cylindrical portion and at least one tapered or curved portion distributed along a longitudinal axis (X). The method according to claim 1, wherein the protection device (3),
● a support ring 3r coupled to the proximal end of the elongate tube 2t, and
- a plurality of L-shaped plates (3p) comprising an outer portion (3po) joined to an inner portion (3pi) at a corner height of L, said L-shaped plate being adjacent or adjacent to a corner of said L-shaped plate rotatably mounted and distributed around the circumference of said support ring by means of hinges 3h at height;
o In the initial configuration of the protection device 3 , each L-shaped plate extends radially inwardly so that the inner part 3pi is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X to at least partially cover the cavity 2v biased to rotate, occlude and the outer part (3po) is stationary relative to the outer surface of the sublance (2), and
○ The L-shaped plate is the hinge ( 3h), wherein in the modified configuration, the inner portion 3pi is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis X and the outer portion 3po is radially substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. extending and overlapping each other to form a continuous screen for splashes when the protective device (3) comes into contact with the shoulder (1s). 11. The protective device (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each outer part (3po) has a free edge greater than the corner, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X), ) in the initial configuration, each outer part 3po has the outer diameter D2 of the engaging end 2c such that each outer part 3po mates with the outer surface of the sublance 2 . The lance, which curves to a curvature matching the 12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein each inner part (3pi) has a free side shorter than the corner, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X),
Inserting the engaging portion 1c into the cavity 2v and pivoting the L-shaped plate 3 through their hinges 3h, the inner portion 3pi is pressed against the wall of the cavity 2v. and to form an internal passage of diameter D3i with D3i ≥ d1, allowing insertion of the engaging portion 1c, each inner portion 3pi matching the maximum diameter d1 of the engaging portion 1c. A lance that curves with curvature. 13. The L-shaped plate (3) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the L-shaped plate (3) is sufficiently rigid that it is not substantially deformed in normal use of the device, and is preferably made of metal, preferably steel or aluminum, A lance made of a ceramic material or made of a polymer material. A sub-lance (2) coupled to the coupling portion (1c) of the lance (1t) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, formed by an elongate tube (2t) extending along the longitudinal axis (X) and a cavity (2v) configured to snugly receive the engaging portion (1c), the cavity having substantially a diameter (d2) of d1

d2, from an immersion end provided with a probe 2p and/or a sample collector to a proximal end coupled to a guard 3 comprising an engaging end 2c that opens into the cavity 2v, the longitudinal axis extending along (X),
the elongate tube 2t has an outer diameter D2 with a cross-section d1 < d2 < D2 < D1, and
- said protective device (3) is deformable upon application of a force along said longitudinal axis (X), and
● In the sublance (2), the coupling part (1c) is inserted into the cavity (2v) of the sublance (2) with the protection device (3) in contact with the shoulder (1s),
When at rest, the protective device 3 has an outer maximum diameter D3o of 10% or less of D2 (D3o ≤ 1.1 D2), preferably 5% or less of D2 (D3o ≤ 1.05 D2), more preferably is in the initial configuration characterized in that D3o = D2,
● When the sub-lance 2 is coupled to the lance by the coupling portion 1c in a state inserted in the cavity 2v, the protection device 3 comes into contact with the shoulder 1s and is deformed. deformed in configuration to form an impermeable surface to molten metal and slag spanning a region inscribed with a circle perpendicular to said longitudinal axis X of diameter D3d with D3d≥D1, from said longitudinal axis X at least A sublance (2), characterized in that it covers the entire area of the shoulder (1s) extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X) over a distance equal to ½ D1. 15. The sublance (2) according to claim 14, wherein the protection device (3) is as defined in any one of claims 2 to 7, 8 and 9 or any one of claims 10 to 13. A protective device (3) for preventing bouncing of the shoulder (1s) formed between the distal end of the handling part (1h) and the sub-lance (2) of the lance according to claim 1,
● Inner tube (3i) deformable upon application of a compressive force along said longitudinal axis (X) - said inner tube extending along said longitudinal axis (X) and forming an inner passage of diameter (D3i) with D3i≥d1, said the inner tube 3i comprises a plurality of inner slits 3si separated from each other and distributed on the circumference of the inner tube 3i;
● Outer tube (3o) deformable upon application of compressive force along the longitudinal axis (X) - The outer tube snugly surrounds the inner tube (3i), is distributed on the circumference of the outer tube (3o) and is mutually exclusive including a number of external slits (3so) that are separated -,
Optionally, one or more peripheral tubes inserted into each other and snugly surrounding the outer tube 3o and deformable upon application of a compressive force along the longitudinal axis X, each of which is separated from one another and said a plurality of peripheral slits distributed on the circumference of each of one or more peripheral tubes, wherein the peripheral slits 3i of two adjacent peripheral tubes do not overlap each other at any point, and the outer slits 3o does not overlap the peripheral slits of the peripheral tube adjacent the outer tube at any point;
and the inner slit (3i) and the outer slit (3o) do not overlap each other at any point. Protective device according to claim 16 , as defined in any one of claims 2 to 7 and 9 .

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