EP0584024A1 - Superstructure for high intensity electrolytic vat used in the production of aluminium - Google Patents

Superstructure for high intensity electrolytic vat used in the production of aluminium Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0584024A1
EP0584024A1 EP93420343A EP93420343A EP0584024A1 EP 0584024 A1 EP0584024 A1 EP 0584024A1 EP 93420343 A EP93420343 A EP 93420343A EP 93420343 A EP93420343 A EP 93420343A EP 0584024 A1 EP0584024 A1 EP 0584024A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
anode
superstructure
superstructure according
frame
box
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Application number
EP93420343A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Bernard Langon
Christian Duval
Alain Vanacker
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Rio Tinto France SAS
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Aluminium Pechiney SA
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Publication date
Application filed by Aluminium Pechiney SA filed Critical Aluminium Pechiney SA
Publication of EP0584024A1 publication Critical patent/EP0584024A1/en
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    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/16—Electric current supply devices, e.g. bus bars
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/08—Cell construction, e.g. bottoms, walls, cathodes
    • C25C3/10—External supporting frames or structures

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a very high intensity tank superstructure for the production of aluminum according to the Hall-Héroult process by electrolysis of alumina in molten cryolite.
  • This tank superstructure is intended to support, in the smallest possible volume and with minimum bulk, the various additional devices essential to the operation of the tank, therefore necessarily placed in its immediate environment.
  • the superstructure of a modern electrolysis tank consists of one or more horizontal steel beams supported on feet at their ends and supporting the ancillary devices including the anode current rises and the anode frame formed by aluminum bars to which the anodes are connected, the cryolite and alumina supply systems (alumina tank, crust breaker, metering distributor), the anode up-down control mechanisms, and very often the effluent collection pipes , gas and dust, emitted by the tank.
  • the feet are supported at the ends of the metal box which constitutes the actual electrolysis tank. This arrangement has the advantage of freeing up space on the two long sides of the tanks, by which the anodes are changed.
  • the current trend is to constantly increase the unit power of the tanks, which results in an elongation of the box, the length of which can exceed 15 meters for very high intensity tanks operating at more than 300 kA.
  • the connectors usually in service on medium and high intensity electrolysis cells are connectors with "straight input” as described for example in document US 3627670 (FR-A-2039543) for which positioning before tightening of the anode rod on the anode frame is achieved by displacement of this rod, kept vertical, to its location in the connector along a plane perpendicular to the plane of the anode frame.
  • this approach to the connectors located near the support points that is to say the end legs and intermediate gantries, becomes impossible since these points support are placed on the path of the anodes.
  • the invention relates to a very high intensity electrolysis cell superstructure for the production of aluminum according to the Hall-Héroult process, the cell being constituted by a thermally insulated metal box of elongated parallelepiped shape, said superstructure comprising at least one rigid beam arranged along the long length of the box, resting on supports, and supporting in particular the anode frame to which are connected on the one hand the current rises coming from the previous tank in the series and on the other hand the anode rods , characterized in that each rigid beam rests only on supports placed between its ends, preferably more than 50 cm from the ends, called intermediate gantries, and in that each anode frame, associated with each rigid beam, includes electrical and mechanical connection means or anode connector fully integral with said frame and ensuring contact and tightening of each anode rod against it after lateral engagement and positioning of each rod in the corresponding connector.
  • Figure 1 shows the structure in cross section of an electrolytic cell and Figure 2 shows an example of a high power cell superstructure according to the prior art.
  • Figures 3 and 4 show the most usual variants of tank superstructure according to the invention, while Figures 5, 6A and 6B show a type of anode connector with lateral engagement which, in combination with the new superstructure, constitutes l 'invention.
  • Figures 2, 3 and 4 show the proportions (width / length of the box), part of the length of the superstructures has been truncated in Figures 2, 3 and 4.
  • the essential organs of the electrolytic cell have been underlined: the metal casing 1 the internal lining 2, the cathode 3 and the cathode bar 4, the sheet of Al liquid 5, the molten cryolite bath 6 covered of a solidified crust 7, the anodes 8 suspended by the rods 9 and fixed to the anode frame 10 by means of connectors 14 as well as the superstructure formed by the two rigid beams 11 which support, in particular, the anode frame 10, the assembly anodes 8, the alumina metering distributor 12 whose local storage silo 13 is often placed between the two beams 11 as well as the effluent collection pipes not shown.
  • FIG. 2 representative of a tank superstructure of the prior art
  • the outline of the upper edge 15 of the box 1 has been schematically shown, as well as the rigid beams 11 which form the superstructure, the ends of which rest on the feet 32 arranged at each head of the tank while their center rests on a central portico 17 itself comprising 2 or 4 feet 18 resting on the upper edge 15 of the box in its central part.
  • FIG. 3 represents an example of a superstructure according to the invention comprising 2 rigid beams 11 in I-shaped profile placed on at least 2 intermediate gantries 17 each comprising a transverse support beam 19 resting on at least 2 feet 18.
  • the beam transverse support shown in the form of a tubular profile with a square section can also be formed by any solid profile, for example in I, T or U shape.
  • the feet 18 of the 2 intermediate gantries are supported on the flange 15 upper part of the box from which they are electrically isolated. This support system must take into account the expansion of the metal box during service, in particular in the transverse direction, therefore it does not really constitute a fixed support point.
  • the support of the feet 18 of the gantry can also be carried out outside the box on specialized elements, for example a solid block or reinforced concrete pillars. This arrangement overcomes the problems of electrical insulation and transverse expansion of the box but reduces the space between the tanks.
  • the rigid longitudinal beams 11 are I-shaped profiles, it is possible to advantageously replace each I-shaped profile by a mechanically welded assembly of 2 tubular profiles 11A, 11B of square, rectangular or circular section kept parallel by spacers also acting as support legs 11C in solid or tubular profile, of square, rectangular or circular section.
  • This configuration shown in Figure 4 while ensuring excellent rigidity offers the advantage of leaving openings 27 between the support legs (11C) for the passage of mechanical and electrical connections including equipotential cross members 28 intended to ensure electrical balancing and rigorous mechanics between the anode frames 10 upstream and downstream of the same tank.
  • the invention also relates to the production of a superstructure with rigid longitudinal beams 11 discontinuous, that is to say formed by at least 2 distinct sections each resting on at least 2 intermediate gantries 17.
  • This configuration (not shown) makes it possible to limit the bending stresses supported by rigid beams 11 of great length but above all to simplify the manufacture, transport and installation of these beams. By this means the superstructure can even be produced by assembling modular elements.
  • the support of the longitudinal parts 11, 11B, continuous or discontinuous on the intermediate gantries 17 is produced by a means making it possible to absorb the slight relative movements of the supports of the beams on the gantry.
  • a simple solution consists in allowing the support faces of the longitudinal beams 11 to rest freely on the transverse support beams 19 of the intermediate gantries.
  • the anode frames 10 can be formed into 2 parts so as to distribute the expansions on either side of the center of the superstructure. There is then between the 2 parts an expansion joint ensuring electrical contact, for example a loop of aluminum strips or any other equivalent means.
  • the flexible foils 30 which provide the electrical connection between the rise 29 and the anode frame 10 being connected to the frame in the hatched area 31 so as to free up the maximum space for the anode change maneuvers along the long sides of the tank.
  • this connector 14 is constituted in particular by a metal chassis 16 made integral with the anode frame 10 by bolting or any other rigid fixing means 21.
  • This chassis delimited by 2 parallel plates 16A, 16B and their spacers 16C has a recess lateral forming with the anode frame 10 the housing 24 in which is placed the rod 9 anode.
  • This kept vertical, is first moved along a plane perpendicular to the anode frame and at least 1/2 anode width away from the edge of the nearest intermediate gantry, then moved along a plane parallel to the frame anode to the lateral housing 24 of the connector where it is then lowered towards the bath and positioned at the level required by the anode plane.
  • the anode rod is then clamped against the anode frame using an appropriate clamping means 26 fixed in the chassis 16 so that the chassis-medium assembly tightening constituting the connector 14 is fully secured to the anode frame.
  • a particularly suitable clamping means 26, as shown in FIGS. 5, 6A and 6B, is constituted in particular by 2 connecting rods 22 articulated on a common axis 20 fixed to the spacers 16C of the chassis and whose spacing is adjusted at their free ends by means of 2 nuts 22A, 22B and a threaded screw 23 with opposite pitch by rotation of the screw head 25.
  • Each rod head on the side of the fixed axis 20 is provided with a clamping piece or crosspiece 22C , 22D which comes to press over the entire width of the rod against the anode rod when the rods are moved apart according to the position shown in FIG. 6A.
  • clamping means 26 form part of the claimed invention as soon as they are completely integrated into the chassis 16 by allowing lateral entry of the anode rods into the connector 14 rendered fully attached to the anode frame.
  • the invention makes it possible to take account of the effects of deflection of the beam, due to differential thermal expansions.
  • the horizontal support beam 19 of the gantry is subjected to temperature variations which are a function of the alumina cover of the anodes. The highest temperature will be reached during a change of anode near this beam, this change causing a rupture of the solidified electrolyte crust, and direct radiation of the electrolyte at about 930-960 °, on the superstructure.
  • the invention in the various modes of implementation which have been described, removes one of the most serious obstacles to the production of tanks of more than 300 kA, the technical and economic advantages of which are very attractive.

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Electrolytic Production Of Metals (AREA)

Abstract

Superstructure of a cell for very high intensity electrolysis for the production of aluminium by the Hall-Héroult process, the cell consisting of a lagged metal casing of elongate parallelepipedal shape, the said superstructure comprising at least one rigid beam (11) arranged along the great length of the casing, resting on supports (19) and supporting especially the anode frame (10) to which are connected, on the one hand, the current risers (30) from the preceding cell in the series and, on the other hand, the anode rods (9), characterised in that each rigid beam rests solely on supports placed between its so-called intermediate portico ends, and in that each anode frame associated with each rigid beam comprises means for electrical and mechanical connection or anode connectors (14) which are entirely firmly fastened to the said frame and providing the contact and the clamping of each anode rod against the latter after lateral engagement and positioning of each rod in the corresponding connector. <IMAGE>

Description

DOMAINE TECHNIQUE DE L'INVENTIONTECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

La présente invention concerne une superstructure de cuve de très haute intensité pour la production d'aluminium selon le procédé Hall-Héroult par électrolyse d'alumine dans de la cryolithe fondue. Cette superstructure de cuve est destinée à supporter, dans le plus faible volume possible et avec un encombrement minimum, les différents dispositifs annexes indispensables au fonctionnement de la cuve donc nécessairement placés dans son environnement immédiat.The present invention relates to a very high intensity tank superstructure for the production of aluminum according to the Hall-Héroult process by electrolysis of alumina in molten cryolite. This tank superstructure is intended to support, in the smallest possible volume and with minimum bulk, the various additional devices essential to the operation of the tank, therefore necessarily placed in its immediate environment.

ETAT DE LA TECHNIQUE ACTUELLECURRENT STATE OF THE ART

La superstructure d'une cuve d'électrolyse moderne est constituée par une ou plusieurs poutres horizontales en acier appuyées sur des pieds à leurs extrémités et supportant les dispositifs annexes dont les montées de courant anodique et le cadre anodique formé par des barres d'aluminium auxquelles sont connectées les anodes, les systèmes d'alimentation en cryolithe et alumine (réservoir d'alumine, brise-croûte, distributeur-doseur), les mécanismes de commande de montée-descente des anodes, et très souvent, les canalisations de captage des effluents, gaz et poussières, émis par la cuve.The superstructure of a modern electrolysis tank consists of one or more horizontal steel beams supported on feet at their ends and supporting the ancillary devices including the anode current rises and the anode frame formed by aluminum bars to which the anodes are connected, the cryolite and alumina supply systems (alumina tank, crust breaker, metering distributor), the anode up-down control mechanisms, and very often the effluent collection pipes , gas and dust, emitted by the tank.

Les pieds prennent appui aux extrémités du caisson métallique qui constitue la cuve d'électrolyse proprement dite. Cette disposition a l'avantage de libérer l'espace sur les deux grands côtés des cuves, par lesquels on procède aux changements d'anodes.The feet are supported at the ends of the metal box which constitutes the actual electrolysis tank. This arrangement has the advantage of freeing up space on the two long sides of the tanks, by which the anodes are changed.

PROBLEMES POSES PAR L'EVOLUTION DE LA TECHNIQUEPROBLEMS POSED BY THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TECHNIQUE

La tendance actuelle est à l'augmentation constante de la puissance unitaire des cuves, qui se traduit par un allongement du caisson dont la longueur peut dépasser 15 mètres pour des cuves de très haute intensité fonctionnant à plus de 300 kA.The current trend is to constantly increase the unit power of the tanks, which results in an elongation of the box, the length of which can exceed 15 meters for very high intensity tanks operating at more than 300 kA.

Dans ce cas la construction de la superstructure pose un problème difficile car celle-ci doit posséder une rigidité suffisante pour :

  • supporter avec son propre poids les anodes et tous les dispositifs annexes énumérés précédemment,
  • supporter l'effort nécessaire pour rompre les croûtes d'électrolyte solidifié s'opposant aux déplacements verticaux des anodes,
  • assurer la constance de la distance anode-cathode (environ 40 mm) sur toute la longueur de la cuve car le processus de régulation des cuves exige un positionnement extrêmement précis du plan anodique par rapport au plan cathodique horizontal formé par la nappe d'aluminium liquide.
In this case the construction of the superstructure poses a problem difficult because it must have sufficient rigidity to:
  • support with its own weight the anodes and all the ancillary devices listed above,
  • withstand the force necessary to break the crusts of solidified electrolyte opposing the vertical displacements of the anodes,
  • ensure the consistency of the anode-cathode distance (about 40 mm) over the entire length of the tank because the process of regulating the tanks requires extremely precise positioning of the anode plane relative to the horizontal cathode plane formed by the sheet of liquid aluminum .

Pour ce faire on est conduit à augmenter l'épaisseur et la hauteur des poutres et par conséquent leur masse. Par ailleurs l'augmentation de hauteur se répercute sur celle des bâtiments. donc sur leur coût. On est par conséquent rapidement limité dans cette voie.
Pour les cuves de grande intensité fonctionnant néanmoins à des intensités inférieures à 300 kA, une solution est apportée par l'adjonction, entre les pieds d'extrémité supportant les poutres horizontales de points d'appui ou portiques intermédiaires tels que préconise EP-A-0210111 (US 4 720 333) pour former une superstructure à supports multiples ou structure multipalée.To do this, we are led to increase the thickness and the height of the beams and consequently their mass. In addition, the increase in height affects that of the buildings. therefore on their cost. We are therefore quickly limited in this direction.
For high intensity tanks operating nevertheless at intensities lower than 300 kA, a solution is provided by adding, between the end legs supporting the horizontal beams of support points or intermediate gantries as recommended by EP-A- 0210111 (US 4 720 333) to form a superstructure with multiple supports or multi-blade structure.

Pour les cuves de très haute intensité fonctionnant à plus de 300 kA, cette solution devient quasiment inapplicable en raison de l'impossibilité de réaliser certaines manoeuvres, notamment lors des changements d'anodes et des risques d'accident résultant du trop grand encombrement des grands côtés de cuve.For very high intensity tanks operating at more than 300 kA, this solution becomes almost inapplicable due to the impossibility of carrying out certain maneuvers, in particular during anode changes and the risk of accidents resulting from the excessive size of large sides of tank.

En effet, avec l'augmentation du nombre des anodes. mais surtout de leurs dimensions et par conséquent de leur masse unitaire qui dépasse 2 tonnes, de nouvelles difficultés sont apparues pour assurer une bonne exploitation des cuves, remettant notamment en cause la superstructure multipalée avec pieds d'extrémité et portiques intermédiaires telle que décrite précédemment. De fait cette superstructure s'est avérée incompatible avec certains dispositifs intégrés en rendant par exemple inaccessibles les systèmes de connexion électrique et mécanique, ou connecteurs, des tiges d'anode au cadre anodique.Indeed, with the increase in the number of anodes. but above all of their dimensions and consequently of their unit mass which exceeds 2 tonnes, new difficulties have appeared to ensure proper operation of the tanks, calling into question in particular the multi-blade superstructure with end legs and intermediate gantries as described above. In fact, this superstructure has been found to be incompatible with certain integrated devices by making, for example, inaccessible the electrical and mechanical connection systems, or connectors, of the anode rods to the anode frame.

Ainsi, les connecteurs habituellement en service sur les cuves d'électrolyse de moyenne et grande intensité (I < 300 kA) sont des connecteurs à "entrée droite" tels que décrits par exemple dans le document US 3627670 (FR-A-2039543) pour lesquels le positionnement avant serrage de la tige d'anode sur le cadre anodique est réalisé par déplacement de cette tige, maintenue verticale, vers son emplacement dans le connecteur selon un plan perpendiculaire au plan du cadre anodique. Or, avec l'augmentation des dimensions des anodes, cette manoeuvre d'approche des connecteurs situés près des points d'appui, c'est-à-dire des pieds d'extrémité et des portiques intermédiaires, devient impossible puisque ces points d'appui sont placés sur la trajectoire des anodes.Thus, the connectors usually in service on medium and high intensity electrolysis cells (I <300 kA) are connectors with "straight input" as described for example in document US 3627670 (FR-A-2039543) for which positioning before tightening of the anode rod on the anode frame is achieved by displacement of this rod, kept vertical, to its location in the connector along a plane perpendicular to the plane of the anode frame. However, with the increase in the dimensions of the anodes, this approach to the connectors located near the support points, that is to say the end legs and intermediate gantries, becomes impossible since these points support are placed on the path of the anodes.

Par ailleurs, ces connecteurs à "entrée droite" comportent une partie fixe solidaire du cadre anodique assurant le centrage de la tige d'anode et une partie amovible assurant le serrage et le blocage contre le cadre anodique de la tige une fois positionnée. S'agissant maintenant de tenir des anodes dont la masse dépasse 2 tonnes, la qualité du contact et du serrage de la tige d'anode contre le cadre anodique doit rester excellente pour limiter la chute de tension à l'interface tige/cadre mais aussi pour éviter tout glissement de l'anode et par suite toute perturbation due à une variation locale de la distance anode/cathode. Pour ce faire la pression de serrage, donc la taille des connecteurs, et notamment de leur partie amovible, doivent être considérablement augmentées. Pendant les opérations de changement d'anode, il convient alors de prévoir des moyens d'accrochage pour retenir temporairement ces parties amovibles dont la masse peut atteindre 30 ou 40 kg, augmentant donc les risques de chute et d'encombrement dans la zone de travail.
Compte tenu de ces inconvénients la demanderesse a été amenée à mettre au point, pour les cuves d'électrolyse de très haute intensité, une nouvelle superstructure en combinaison avec un autre type de connecteur d'anode afin:

  • de conserver une rigidité suffisante aux poutres horizontales en dépit de l'augmentation du poids des anodes et de certains dispositifs annexes, et cela sans surdimensionnement en hauteur de la superstructure qui nécessiterait une surélévation des bâtiments.
  • de réaliser les changements d'anode sans difficulté résultant d'une part de l'encombrement et des risques de chute causés par les parties amovibles des connecteurs, d'autre part de l'inadaptation de la superstructure multipalée avec le mode de connexion des tiges d'anode et cela sans allongement de la superstructure ni augmentation de l'entraxe entre cuve, donc sans modification des dimensions au sol des bâtiments.
Furthermore, these "straight entry" connectors comprise a fixed part secured to the anode frame ensuring the centering of the anode rod and a removable part ensuring tightening and locking against the anode frame of the rod once positioned. As regards holding anodes whose mass exceeds 2 tonnes, the quality of the contact and tightening of the anode rod against the anode frame must remain excellent to limit the voltage drop at the rod / frame interface but also to avoid any slip of the anode and consequently any disturbance due to a local variation of the anode / cathode distance. To do this, the clamping pressure, therefore the size of the connectors, and in particular of their removable part, must be considerably increased. During the anode change operations, it is then necessary to provide attachment means for temporarily retaining these removable parts, the mass of which can reach 30 or 40 kg, thus increasing the risk of falling and of congestion in the working area. .
Given these drawbacks, the applicant has been led to develop, for very high intensity electrolytic cells, a new superstructure in combination with another type of anode connector in order to:
  • to maintain sufficient rigidity for horizontal beams despite the increase in the weight of the anodes and certain ancillary devices, and this without oversizing in height of the superstructure which would require an elevation of the buildings.
  • to carry out the anode changes without difficulty resulting on the one hand from the bulk and the risks of falling caused by the removable parts of the connectors, on the other hand from the unsuitability of the multi-blade superstructure with the mode of connection of the rods anode and this without lengthening the superstructure or increasing the center-to-center distance between tanks, therefore without modifying the dimensions on the ground of buildings.

OBJET DE L'INVENTIONOBJECT OF THE INVENTION

Il est apparu lors des essais, que le rôle des portiques intermédiaires pouvait être privilégié par rapport à celui des pieds d'extrémité et que 3 voire 2 portiques judicieusement placés entre les extrémités de chaque poutre centrale suffisaient, en l'absence de pieds d'extrémité, pour conserver à la superstructure une rigidité suffisante dès l'instant où la contrainte de flexion et donc de déformation restait acceptable pour chaque palée.
Grâce à la limitation du nombre de palées, et donc de l'encombrement des grands côtés de cuve, l'accessibilité des connecteurs aux grandes anodes a été améliorée mais il convenait de régler simultanément le problème de l'approche du connecteur par la tige d'anode au niveau des portiques intermédiaires.It appeared during the tests, that the role of the intermediate gantries could be privileged compared to that of the end legs and that 3 or even 2 gantries judiciously placed between the ends of each central beam were sufficient, in the absence of end, to keep the superstructure sufficiently rigid from the moment when the bending stress and therefore deformation remained acceptable for each bearing.
Thanks to the limitation of the number of pallets, and therefore of the bulk of the large sides of the tank, the accessibility of the connectors to the large anodes has been improved but it was necessary to simultaneously resolve the problem of the approach of the connector by the rod d anode at the intermediate gantries.

Celui-ci a trouvé une solution par l'adoption d'un nouveau mode de connexion par engagement latéral des tiges d'anode dans leur connecteur respectif selon un plan parallèle au cadre anodique, chaque connecteur restant par ailleurs entièrement solidaire du cadre anodique éliminant tout risque de chute des éléments de serrage rendus inamovibles.The latter found a solution by adopting a new connection mode by lateral engagement of the anode rods in their respective connector along a plane parallel to the anode frame, each connector remaining moreover entirely integral with the anode frame eliminating all risk of falling of the clamping elements made irremovable.

Plus précisément l'invention concerne une superstructure de cuve d'électrolyse à très haute intensité pour la production d'aluminium selon le procédé Hall-Héroult, la cuve étant constituée par un caisson métallique calorifugé de forme parallélépipédique allongée, ladite superstructure comportant au moins une poutre rigide disposée selon la grande longueur du caisson, reposant sur des appuis, et supportant notamment le cadre anodique auquel sont connectées d'une part les montées de courant venant de la cuve précédente dans la série et d'autre part les tiges d'anodes, caractérisée en ce que chaque poutre rigide repose uniquement sur des appuis placés entre ses extrémités, de préférence à plus de 50 cm des extrémités, appelés portiques intermédiaires, et en ce que chaque cadre anodique, associé à chaque poutre rigide, comporte des moyens de connexion électrique et mécanique ou connecteur d'anode entièrement solidaires dudit cadre et assurant le contact et le serrage de chaque tige d'anode contre celui-ci après engagement latéral et positionnement de chaque tige dans le connecteur correspondant.More specifically, the invention relates to a very high intensity electrolysis cell superstructure for the production of aluminum according to the Hall-Héroult process, the cell being constituted by a thermally insulated metal box of elongated parallelepiped shape, said superstructure comprising at least one rigid beam arranged along the long length of the box, resting on supports, and supporting in particular the anode frame to which are connected on the one hand the current rises coming from the previous tank in the series and on the other hand the anode rods , characterized in that each rigid beam rests only on supports placed between its ends, preferably more than 50 cm from the ends, called intermediate gantries, and in that each anode frame, associated with each rigid beam, includes electrical and mechanical connection means or anode connector fully integral with said frame and ensuring contact and tightening of each anode rod against it after lateral engagement and positioning of each rod in the corresponding connector.

DESCRIPTION DES FIGURESDESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

La figure 1 rappelle la structure en coupe transversale d'une cuve d'électrolyse et la figure 2 représente un exemple de superstructure de cuve de haute puissance selon l'art antérieur. Les figures 3 et 4 représentent les variantes les plus usuelles de superstructure de cuve selon l'invention alors que les figures 5, 6A et 6B représentent un type de connecteur d'anode à engagement latéral qui, en combinaison avec la nouvelle superstructure, constitue l'invention. Pour respecter les proportions (largeur/longueur du caisson) une partie de la longueur des superstructures a été tronquée sur les figures 2, 3 et 4.Figure 1 shows the structure in cross section of an electrolytic cell and Figure 2 shows an example of a high power cell superstructure according to the prior art. Figures 3 and 4 show the most usual variants of tank superstructure according to the invention, while Figures 5, 6A and 6B show a type of anode connector with lateral engagement which, in combination with the new superstructure, constitutes l 'invention. To respect the proportions (width / length of the box), part of the length of the superstructures has been truncated in Figures 2, 3 and 4.

Sur la figure 1 on a souligné les organes essentiels de la cuve d'électrolyse: le caisson métallique 1 le garnissage interne 2, la cathode 3 et la barre cathodique 4, la nappe d'Al liquide 5, le bain de cryolithe fondue 6 recouvert d'une croûte solidifiée 7, les anodes 8 suspendues par les tiges 9 et fixées au cadre anodique 10 au moyen des connecteurs 14 ainsi que la superstructure formée par les deux poutres rigides 11 qui supportent, notamment, le cadre anodique 10, l'ensemble des anodes 8, le distributeur doseur d'alumine 12 dont le silo de stockage local 13 est souvent placé entre les deux poutres 11 de même que les canalisations de captage d'effluents non représentées.In FIG. 1, the essential organs of the electrolytic cell have been underlined: the metal casing 1 the internal lining 2, the cathode 3 and the cathode bar 4, the sheet of Al liquid 5, the molten cryolite bath 6 covered of a solidified crust 7, the anodes 8 suspended by the rods 9 and fixed to the anode frame 10 by means of connectors 14 as well as the superstructure formed by the two rigid beams 11 which support, in particular, the anode frame 10, the assembly anodes 8, the alumina metering distributor 12 whose local storage silo 13 is often placed between the two beams 11 as well as the effluent collection pipes not shown.

Sur la figure 2 représentative d'une superstructure de cuve de l'art antérieur, on a schématisé le contour du rebord supérieur 15 du caisson 1 ainsi que les poutres rigides 11 qui forment la superstructure, dont les extrémités s'appuient sur les pieds 32 disposés à chaque tête de la cuve alors que leur milieu s'appuie sur un portique central 17 comportant lui-même 2 ou 4 pieds 18 reposant sur le rebord supérieur 15 du caisson dans sa partie centrale.In FIG. 2 representative of a tank superstructure of the prior art, the outline of the upper edge 15 of the box 1 has been schematically shown, as well as the rigid beams 11 which form the superstructure, the ends of which rest on the feet 32 arranged at each head of the tank while their center rests on a central portico 17 itself comprising 2 or 4 feet 18 resting on the upper edge 15 of the box in its central part.

On notera aussi le mode de connexion des tiges d'anode par un connecteur 14 enserrant la tige 9 d'anode contre le cadre anodique 10 après approche et positionnement de ladite tige maintenue verticale dans un plan perpendiculaire au cadre anodique passant par le connecteur 14.Note also the mode of connection of the anode rods by a connector 14 enclosing the anode rod 9 against the anode frame 10 after approaching and positioning said rod kept vertical in a plane perpendicular to the anode frame passing through the connector 14.

La figure 3 représente un exemple de superstructure selon l'invention comportant 2 poutres rigides 11 en profilé en forme de I posées sur au moins 2 portiques intermédiaires 17 comportant chacun une poutre d'appui transversale 19 reposant sur au moins 2 pieds 18. La poutre d'appui transversale représentée sous forme de profilé tubulaire de section carrée peut aussi être constituée par tout profilé plein par exemple en I, en T ou en U. Dans le cas présent les pieds 18 des 2 portiques intermédiaires s'appuient sur le rebord 15 supérieur du caisson dont ils sont isolés électriquement. Ce système d'appui doit tenir compte de la dilatation du caisson métallique en cours de service en particulier dans le sens transversal, de ce fait il ne constitue pas véritablement un point d'appui fixe. Il faut donc prévoir une liberté de mouvement de cet appui dans la direction de dilatation du caisson, c'est-à-dire dans la direction générale du courant circulant dans la file de cuves disposées en travers par rapport à l'axe de la file. Pour réaliser cette protection il est donc nécessaire de prévoir des moyens autorisant le déplacement relatif de l'appui par rapport au caisson au niveau du plat bord 15 tels que des appuis glissants ou roulants 32 comme des patins ou des roulements à rouleaux. Il est également possible de réaliser cette protection par un système articulé, représenté à la figure 4 comportant pour chaque portique 17, d'un côté un pied articulé 18A sur le plat bord 15 autour d'un axe fixe parallèle au grand axe A-A' de la cuve, de l'autre côté un pied mobile constitué par une biellette 18B articulée à une de ses extrémités sur le plat bord 15 autour d'un axe fixe également parallèle au grand axe de la cuve et à son autre extrémité autour d'un axe mobile commun avec l'extrémité de la poutre d'appui transversale 19 du portique.FIG. 3 represents an example of a superstructure according to the invention comprising 2 rigid beams 11 in I-shaped profile placed on at least 2 intermediate gantries 17 each comprising a transverse support beam 19 resting on at least 2 feet 18. The beam transverse support shown in the form of a tubular profile with a square section can also be formed by any solid profile, for example in I, T or U shape. In the present case, the feet 18 of the 2 intermediate gantries are supported on the flange 15 upper part of the box from which they are electrically isolated. This support system must take into account the expansion of the metal box during service, in particular in the transverse direction, therefore it does not really constitute a fixed support point. It is therefore necessary to provide a freedom of movement of this support in the direction of expansion of the box, that is to say in the general direction of the current flowing in the line of tanks arranged transversely relative to the axis of the line . To achieve this protection, it is therefore necessary to provide means allowing the relative movement of the support relative to the box at the level of the flat edge 15 such as sliding or rolling supports 32 such as pads or roller bearings. It is also possible to achieve this protection by an articulated system, represented in FIG. 4 comprising for each gantry 17, on one side an articulated foot 18A on the flat edge 15 around a fixed axis parallel to the major axis AA 'of the tank, on the other side a movable leg constituted by a link 18B articulated at one of its ends on the flat edge 15 around a fixed axis also parallel to the major axis of the tank and at its other end around a common mobile axis with the end of the transverse support beam 19 of the gantry.

L'appui des pieds 18 du portique peut encore s'effectuer à l'extérieur du caisson sur des éléments spécialisés, par exemple un massif ou des piliers en béton armé. Cette disposition permet de s'affranchir des problèmes d'isolation électrique et de dilatation transversale du caisson mais réduit l'espace entre les cuves.The support of the feet 18 of the gantry can also be carried out outside the box on specialized elements, for example a solid block or reinforced concrete pillars. This arrangement overcomes the problems of electrical insulation and transverse expansion of the box but reduces the space between the tanks.

Si dans sa version la plus usuelle les poutres rigides 11 longitudinales sont des profilés en I, il est possible de remplacer avantageusement chaque profil en I par un assemblage mécano-soudé de 2 profilés tubulaires 11A, 11B de section carrée, rectangulaire ou circulaire maintenus parallèles par des entretoises faisant aussi office de pieds supports 11C en profilé plein ou tubulaire, de section carrée, rectangulaire ou circulaire. Cette configuration représentée à la figure 4, tout en assurant une excellente rigidité offre l'avantage de laisser des ouvertures 27 entre les pieds supports (11C) pour le passage des liaisons mécaniques et électriques notamment des traverses équipotentielles 28 destinées à assurer un équilibrage électrique et mécanique rigoureux entre les cadres anodiques 10 amont et aval d'une même cuve.If in its most usual version the rigid longitudinal beams 11 are I-shaped profiles, it is possible to advantageously replace each I-shaped profile by a mechanically welded assembly of 2 tubular profiles 11A, 11B of square, rectangular or circular section kept parallel by spacers also acting as support legs 11C in solid or tubular profile, of square, rectangular or circular section. This configuration shown in Figure 4, while ensuring excellent rigidity offers the advantage of leaving openings 27 between the support legs (11C) for the passage of mechanical and electrical connections including equipotential cross members 28 intended to ensure electrical balancing and rigorous mechanics between the anode frames 10 upstream and downstream of the same tank.

L'invention concerne également la réalisation de superstructure avec poutres longitudinales rigides 11 discontinues c'est-à-dire formées d'au moins 2 tronçons distincts reposant chacun sur au moins 2 portiques intermédiaires 17. Cette configuration (non représentée) permet de limiter les contraintes de flexion que supportent les poutres rigides 11 de grande longueur mais surtout de simplifier la fabrication, le transport et la mise en place de ces poutres. Par ce moyen la superstructure peut même être réalisée par assemblage d'éléments modulaires.The invention also relates to the production of a superstructure with rigid longitudinal beams 11 discontinuous, that is to say formed by at least 2 distinct sections each resting on at least 2 intermediate gantries 17. This configuration (not shown) makes it possible to limit the bending stresses supported by rigid beams 11 of great length but above all to simplify the manufacture, transport and installation of these beams. By this means the superstructure can even be produced by assembling modular elements.

D'une façon générale l'appui des parties longitudinales 11, 11B, continues ou discontinues sur les portiques intermédiaires 17 est réalisé par un moyen permettant d'absorber les légers mouvements relatifs des appuis des poutres sur le portique. Une solution simple consiste à laisser reposer librement les faces d'appui des poutres longitudinales 11 sur les poutres d'appui transversales 19 des portiques intermédiaires.In general, the support of the longitudinal parts 11, 11B, continuous or discontinuous on the intermediate gantries 17 is produced by a means making it possible to absorb the slight relative movements of the supports of the beams on the gantry. A simple solution consists in allowing the support faces of the longitudinal beams 11 to rest freely on the transverse support beams 19 of the intermediate gantries.

Du point de vue maintenant de la position des circuits électriques dans la superstructure, et notamment des cadres anodiques 10, il est avantageux que ces derniers soient placés au-dessus des portiques intermédiaires comme représenté sur les figures 3 et 4 plutôt que logés dans les poutres transversales des portiques intermédiaires comme représenté sur la figure 2. A noter que, comme les poutres longitudinales rigides 11, les cadres anodiques 10 de grande longueur peuvent être constitués en 2 parties de façon à répartir les dilatations de part et d'autre du centre de la superstructure. On dispose alors entre les 2 parties un joint de dilatation assurant le contact électrique par exemple une boucle en feuillards d'aluminium ou tout autre moyen équivalent.From the point of view now of the position of the electrical circuits in the superstructure, and in particular of the anode frames 10, it is advantageous that the latter are placed above the intermediate gantries as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 rather than housed in the beams transverse intermediate gantries as shown in Figure 2. Note that, like the rigid longitudinal beams 11, the anode frames 10 of great length can be formed into 2 parts so as to distribute the expansions on either side of the center of the superstructure. There is then between the 2 parts an expansion joint ensuring electrical contact, for example a loop of aluminum strips or any other equivalent means.

Concernant par ailleurs les montées de courant 29 venant de la cuve amont, il est très préférable de les disposer au droit des portiques intermédiaires 17 c'est-à-dire dans le même plan vertical que celui des portiques, les clinquants souples 30 qui assurent la liaison électrique entre la montée 29 et le cadre anodique 10 étant raccordé sur le cadre dans la zone hachurée 31 de façon à libérer le maximum d'espace pour les manoeuvres de changement d'anode le long des grands côtés de cuve.Furthermore, regarding the current surges 29 coming from the upstream tank, it is very preferable to arrange them at the level of the intermediate gantries 17, that is to say in the same vertical plane as that of the gantries, the flexible foils 30 which provide the electrical connection between the rise 29 and the anode frame 10 being connected to the frame in the hatched area 31 so as to free up the maximum space for the anode change maneuvers along the long sides of the tank.

Ces aménagements des principaux éléments de la superstructure destinés à assurer une desserte efficace des cuves de très haute intensité doivent être complétés obligatoirement par une modification du mode de connexion électrique et mécanique des tiges 9 des anodes au cadre anodique 10 en raison de l'inadaptation des connecteurs aux opérations de positionnement et de maintien par serrage des anodes de grande dimension. Le nouveau connecteur 14, permettant un positionnement des tiges 9 d'anodes par engagement latéral dans le logement du connecteur prévu à cet effet et entièrement solidaire du cadre anodique intégré à la nouvelle superstructure, a permis de résoudre efficacement les problèmes de positionnement et de serrage des tiges de grosses anodes.These arrangements of the main elements of the superstructure intended to ensure efficient service of very high intensity tanks must be completed by a modification of the method of electrical and mechanical connection of the rods 9 of the anodes to the anode frame 10 due to the unsuitability of the connectors for positioning and clamping operations for large anodes. The new connector 14, allowing positioning of the anode rods 9 by lateral engagement in the connector housing provided for this purpose and entirely integral with the anode frame integrated into the new superstructure, made it possible to effectively solve the problems of positioning and tightening stems of large anodes.

Selon la figure 5 ce connecteur 14 est constitué notamment d'un chassis métallique 16 rendu solidaire du cadre anodique 10 par boulonnage ou tout autre moyen de fixation rigide 21. Ce chassis délimité par 2 plaques parallèles 16A, 16B et leurs entretoises 16C comporte un évidement latéral formant avec le cadre anodique 10 le logement 24 dans lequel vient se placer la tige 9 d'anode. Celle-ci, maintenue verticale, est d'abord déplacée selon un plan perpendiculaire au cadre anodique et distant d'au moins une 1/2 largeur d'anode du bord du portique intermédiaire le plus proche, puis déplacée selon un plan parallèle au cadre anodique vers le logement latéral 24 du connecteur où elle est ensuite abaissée vers le bain et positionnée au niveau requis par le plan anodique. La tige d'anode est ensuite serrée contre le cadre anodique à l'aide d'un moyen de serrage 26 approprié fixé dans le chassis 16 de sorte que l'ensemble chassis-moyen de serrage constituant le connecteur 14 est entièrement solidaire du cadre anodique.According to FIG. 5, this connector 14 is constituted in particular by a metal chassis 16 made integral with the anode frame 10 by bolting or any other rigid fixing means 21. This chassis delimited by 2 parallel plates 16A, 16B and their spacers 16C has a recess lateral forming with the anode frame 10 the housing 24 in which is placed the rod 9 anode. This, kept vertical, is first moved along a plane perpendicular to the anode frame and at least 1/2 anode width away from the edge of the nearest intermediate gantry, then moved along a plane parallel to the frame anode to the lateral housing 24 of the connector where it is then lowered towards the bath and positioned at the level required by the anode plane. The anode rod is then clamped against the anode frame using an appropriate clamping means 26 fixed in the chassis 16 so that the chassis-medium assembly tightening constituting the connector 14 is fully secured to the anode frame.

Un moyen de serrage 26 particulièrement approprié, tel que représenté sur les figures 5, 6A et 6B, est constitué notamment par 2 biellettes 22 articulées sur un axe commun 20 fixé aux entretoises 16C du chassis et dont l'écartement est réglé à leurs extrémité libre au moyen de 2 écrous 22A, 22B et une vis filetée 23 à pas inverse par mise en rotation de la tête de vis 25. Chaque tête de biellette du côté de l'axe fixe 20 est munie d'une pièce de serrage ou traverse 22C, 22D qui vient appuyer sur toute la largeur de la biellette contre la tige d'anode lorsqu'on écarte les biellettes selon la position représentée à la figure 6A.
En revanche le rapprochement des biellettes tel que représenté à la figure 6B provoque le dégagement des traverses 22C, 22D et le desserrage de la tige d'anode. A noter que l'axe de rotation 20 des biellettes étant fixe, l'éloignement de la vis filetée à pas inverse de l'axe de rotation lors du rapprochement des biellettes ne doit pas être contrarié et pour ce faire, il est nécessaire de prévoir aux extrémités libres des biellettes, des orifices de forme oblongue au passage de la vis filetée à pas inverse et de ses écrous qui se déplacent en translation.A particularly suitable clamping means 26, as shown in FIGS. 5, 6A and 6B, is constituted in particular by 2 connecting rods 22 articulated on a common axis 20 fixed to the spacers 16C of the chassis and whose spacing is adjusted at their free ends by means of 2 nuts 22A, 22B and a threaded screw 23 with opposite pitch by rotation of the screw head 25. Each rod head on the side of the fixed axis 20 is provided with a clamping piece or crosspiece 22C , 22D which comes to press over the entire width of the rod against the anode rod when the rods are moved apart according to the position shown in FIG. 6A.
However, the approximation of the rods as shown in Figure 6B causes the release of the cross members 22C, 22D and the loosening of the anode rod. Note that the axis of rotation 20 of the rods being fixed, the distance of the thread with a reverse pitch from the axis of rotation when the rods are brought closer must not be thwarted and to do this, it is necessary to provide at the free ends of the connecting rods, oblong holes in the passage of the reverse pitch threaded screw and its nuts which move in translation.

D'autres moyens de serrage 26 que celui qui vient d'être décrit font partie de l'invention revendiquée dès l'instant qu'ils sont complètement intégrés au chassis 16 en autorisant une entrée latérale des tiges d'anodes dans le connecteur 14 rendu entièrement solidaire du cadre anodique.Other clamping means 26 than that which has just been described form part of the claimed invention as soon as they are completely integrated into the chassis 16 by allowing lateral entry of the anode rods into the connector 14 rendered fully attached to the anode frame.

Enfin l'invention permet de tenir compte des effets de flèche de la poutre, dus à des dilatations thermiques différentielles. En effet, la poutre d'appui horizontale 19 du portique est soumise à des variations de température qui sont fonction de la couverture en alumine des anodes. La température la plus élevée sera atteinte lors d'un changement d'anode à proximité de cette poutre, ce changement provoquant une rupture de la croûte d'électrolyte solidifiée, et un rayonnement direct de l'électrolyte à 930-960° environ, sur la superstructure.Finally, the invention makes it possible to take account of the effects of deflection of the beam, due to differential thermal expansions. Indeed, the horizontal support beam 19 of the gantry is subjected to temperature variations which are a function of the alumina cover of the anodes. The highest temperature will be reached during a change of anode near this beam, this change causing a rupture of the solidified electrolyte crust, and direct radiation of the electrolyte at about 930-960 °, on the superstructure.

Le gradient thermique entre la partie supérieure et la partie inférieure de la poutre introduit une flèche. Si cette flèche est incompatible avec la régulation de la cuve, on est conduit à réduire ce gradient thermique. Un bon contrôle de la dilatation permet de simplifier les appuis du portique sur le caisson si les dilatations sont semblables.The thermal gradient between the upper part and the lower part of the beam introduces an arrow. If this deflection is incompatible with the regulation of the tank, we are led to reduce this thermal gradient. A good expansion control simplifies the support of the gantry on the box if the expansions are similar.

Pour cela on peut mettre en oeuvre l'une ou plusieurs des solutions suivantes qui agissent sur les différents facteurs provoquant la flèche:

  • a) Matériau: il est possible, pour constituer la poutre, d'utiliser des aciers au nickel qui présentent une dilatation inférieure de moitié à celle de l'acier ordinaire.
  • b) Evacuation des calories par circulation d'air: les calories peuvent être évacués par une circulation d'air à l'intérieur et/ou autour de la poutre.
  • c) Evacuation des calories par Caloduc: des tubes fermés contenant un fluide à la limite de la température de vaporisation sont placés au contact de la partie inférieure de la poutre à une extrémité et à l'extérieur de la cuve à l'autre extrémité. La chaleur de la partie exposée de la poutre vaporise le liquide, ce gaz monte dans le tube et se condense dans la partie extérieure en libérant des calories.
  • d) Equilibrage des températures: un pont thermique peut être installé entre la partie inférieure de la poutre et sa partie supérieure. Il doit être constitué en matériau bon conducteur thermique tel que l'aluminium.
  • e) Ecran thermique: un écran réflèchissant et/ou isolant thermique, installé autour de la poutre, la protège du rayonnement thermique occasionnel lors d'un changement d'anode.
For this, one or more of the following solutions can be implemented which act on the different factors causing the deflection:
  • a) Material: it is possible, to constitute the beam, to use nickel steels which have an expansion lower by half than that of ordinary steel.
  • b) Evacuation of calories by air circulation: calories can be evacuated by air circulation inside and / or around the beam.
  • c) Evacuation of calories by heat pipe: closed tubes containing a fluid at the limit of the vaporization temperature are placed in contact with the lower part of the beam at one end and outside the tank at the other end. The heat of the exposed part of the beam vaporizes the liquid, this gas rises in the tube and condenses in the external part by releasing calories.
  • d) Temperature balancing: a thermal bridge can be installed between the lower part of the beam and its upper part. It must be made of a material that is a good thermal conductor such as aluminum.
  • e) Thermal screen: a reflecting and / or thermal insulating screen, installed around the beam, protects it from occasional thermal radiation during an anode change.

L'invention, dans les différents modes de mise en oeuvre qui ont été décrits, lève un des plus sérieux obstacles à la réalisation de cuves de plus de 300 kA dont les avantages techniques et économiques sont très attractifs.The invention, in the various modes of implementation which have been described, removes one of the most serious obstacles to the production of tanks of more than 300 kA, the technical and economic advantages of which are very attractive.

Claims (17)

Superstructure de cuve d'électrolyse à très haute intensité pour la production d'aluminium selon le procédé Hall-Héroult, la cuve étant constituée par un caisson métallique (1) calorifugé de forme parallèlépipédique allongée, ladite superstucture comportant au moins une poutre rigide (11) disposée selon la grande longueur du caisson reposant sur des appuis et supportant notamment le cadre anodique (10) auquel sont connectées d'une part les montées de courant (29) venant de la cuve précédente dans la série et d'autre part les tiges (9) d anodes caractérisée en ce que chaque poutre rigide (11) repose uniquement sur des appuis placés entre ses extrémités, appelés portiques intermédiaires (17) et en ce que chaque cadre anodique (10) associé à chaque poutre rigide comporte des moyens de connexion électrique et mécanique ou connecteurs (14) d'anode entièrement solidaires dudit cadre et assurant le contact et le serrage de chaque tige (9) d anode contre celui-ci après engagement latéral et positionnement de chaque tige dans le connecteur correspondant.Superstructure of very high intensity electrolysis cell for the production of aluminum according to the Hall-Héroult process, the cell being constituted by a thermally insulated metal box (1) of elongated parallelepiped shape, said superstucture comprising at least one rigid beam (11 ) arranged along the great length of the box resting on supports and supporting in particular the anode frame (10) to which are connected on the one hand the current rises (29) coming from the previous tank in the series and on the other hand the rods (9) of anodes characterized in that each rigid beam (11) rests solely on supports placed between its ends, called intermediate gantries (17) and in that each anode frame (10) associated with each rigid beam comprises means for electrical and mechanical connection or anode connectors (14) entirely integral with said frame and ensuring contact and tightening of each anode rod (9) against it below after lateral engagement and positioning of each rod in the corresponding connector. Superstructure selon la revendication 1, caractérisée en ce que chaque portique intermédiaire (17) comporte une poutre d'appui transversale (19) reposant sur au moins 2 pieds (18).Superstructure according to claim 1, characterized in that each intermediate gantry (17) comprises a transverse support beam (19) resting on at least 2 feet (18). Superstructure selon la revendication 2, caractérisée en ce que la poutre d'appui transversale (19) ainsi que les pieds (18) sont des profilés tubulaires de section carrée, rectangulaire ou circulaire.Superstructure according to claim 2, characterized in that the transverse support beam (19) as well as the legs (18) are tubular profiles of square, rectangular or circular section. Superstructure selon la revendication 2, caractérisée en ce que la poutre d'appui transversale (19) ainsi que les pieds (18) sont des profilés pleins en I, en T ou en U.Superstructure according to claim 2, characterized in that the transverse support beam (19) and the legs (18) are solid I, T or U sections. Superstructure selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisée en ce que les pieds (18) de chaque portique intermédiaire prennent appui sur les rebords (15) du caisson par des moyens autorisant un déplacement relatif de l'appui par rapport au caisson.Superstructure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the feet (18) of each intermediate gantry bear on the edges (15) of the box by means allowing relative movement of the support relative to the box . Superstructure selon la revendication 5, caractérisée en ce que les moyens autorisant un déplacement relatif de l'appui par rapport au caisson sont des appuis roulants ou glissants (31).Superstructure according to claim 5, characterized in that the means allowing relative movement of the support relative to the box are rolling or sliding supports (31). Superstructure selon la revendication 5, caractérisée en ce que les moyens autorisant un déplacement relatif de l'appui par rapport au caisson sont un système articulé comportant d'un côté un pied articulé 18A sur le plat bord (15) autour d'un axe fixe et de l'autre côté un pied mobile constitué par une biellette 18B articulée à une extrémité sur le plat bord (15) autour d'un axe fixe et à son autre extrémité autour d'un axe mobile commun avec l'extrémité de la poutre d'appui transversale (19).Superstructure according to claim 5, characterized in that the means allowing a relative displacement of the support relative to the box are an articulated system comprising on one side an articulated foot 18A on the flat edge (15) around a fixed axis and on the other side a movable foot constituted by a rod 18B articulated at one end on the flat edge (15) around a fixed axis and at its other end around a mobile axis common with the end of the beam transverse support (19). Superstructure selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisée en ce que l'appui des pieds (18) de chaque portique intermédiaire est réalisé à l'extérieur du caisson sur des éléments spécialisés.Superstructure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the support of the feet (18) of each intermediate gantry is produced outside of the box on specialized elements. Superstructure selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 8, caractérisée en ce que les poutres rigides (11) longitudinales sont des profilés pleins en I.Superstructure according to any one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the rigid longitudinal beams (11) are solid I-shaped profiles. Superstructure selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 8, caractérisée en ce que chaque poutre rigide (11) longitudinale est constituée par 2 profilés (11A, 11B) pleins ou tubulaires de section carrée, rectangulaire ou circulaire maintenus parallèles par des entretoises ou pieds supports (11C) en profilé plein ou tubulaire de section carrée, rectangulaire ou circulaire.Superstructure according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that each rigid longitudinal beam (11) is constituted by 2 sections (11A, 11B) full or tubular of square, rectangular or circular section held parallel by spacers or feet supports (11C) in solid or tubular profile with square, rectangular or circular section. Superstructure selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 10, caractérisée en ce que les poutres rigides (11) longitudinales sont discontinues et constituées par au moins 2 tronçons reposant chacun sur au moins 2 portiques intermédiaires (17).Superstructure according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the rigid longitudinal beams (11) are discontinuous and constituted by at least 2 sections each resting on at least 2 intermediate gantries (17). Superstructure selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 11, caractérisée en ce que les montées de courant (29) venant de la cuve en amont ainsi que les clinquants souples (30) assurant la liaison entre ces montées (29) et le cadre anodique (10) sont placés dans le plan vertical P perpendiculaire au grand axe A A' de la cuve passant par chaque portique intermédiaire (17).Superstructure according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the current rises (29) coming from the tank upstream as well as the flexible shims (30) ensuring the connection between these rises (29) and the anode frame (10) are placed in the vertical plane P perpendicular to the major axis AA 'of the tank passing through each intermediate gantry (17). Superstructure selon la revendication 1, caractérisée en ce que les connecteurs d'anode (14) entièrement solidaires du cadre anodique (10) sont constitués notamment par un chassis métallique (16) solidaire du cadre anodique, à l'intérieur duquel est fixé un moyen de serrage (26) des tiges d'anode.Superstructure according to claim 1, characterized in that the anode connectors (14) entirely integral with the anode frame (10) consist in particular of a metal frame (16) integral with the anode frame, inside which is fixed a means clamping (26) anode rods. Superstructure selon la revendication 13, caractérisée en ce que le chassis (16) rendu solidaire du cadre anodique par un moyen de fixation rigide (21) délimité par 2 plaques parallèles (16A, 16B) et leurs entretoises (16C), comporte un évidement latéral formant avec le cadre anodique le logement (24) de la tige d'anode.Superstructure according to claim 13, characterized in that the chassis (16) made integral with the anode frame by a rigid fixing means (21) delimited by 2 parallel plates (16A, 16B) and their spacers (16C), has a lateral recess forming with the anode frame the housing (24) of the anode rod. Superstructure selon les revendications 1 et 13, caractérisée en ce que le moyen de serrage (26) est constitué par 2 biellettes (22) articulées sur un axe commun (20) fixé aux entretoises (16C) du chassis dont les têtes du côté de l'axe fixe (20) sont munies de pièces de serrage ou traverses (22C, 22D) venant s'appuyer contre la tige (9) d'anode lorsque l'on écarte lesdites biellettes.Superstructure according to Claims 1 and 13, characterized in that the clamping means (26) consists of 2 connecting rods (22) articulated on a common axis (20) fixed to the spacers (16C) of the chassis, the heads of which on the side of the 'fixed axis (20) are provided with clamping pieces or crosspieces (22C, 22D) coming to bear against the anode rod (9) when the said links are moved aside. Superstructure selon la revendication 15, caractérisée en ce que l'écartement des biellettes est réglé à leur extrémité libre (22A, 22B) au moyen de 2 écrous (22A, 22B) et d'une vis filetée (23) à pas inverse.Superstructure according to claim 15, characterized in that the spacing of the rods is adjusted at their free end (22A, 22B) by means of 2 nuts (22A, 22B) and a threaded screw (23) with reverse pitch. Superstructure selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisée en ce que la poutre d'appui transversale (19) de chaque portique intermédiaire comporte au moins un moyen de protection contre le rayonnement thermique du bain d'électrolyse.Superstructure according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the transverse support beam (19) of each intermediate gantry comprises at least one means of protection against the thermal radiation of the electrolysis bath.
EP93420343A 1992-08-20 1993-08-17 Superstructure for high intensity electrolytic vat used in the production of aluminium Withdrawn EP0584024A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9210272 1992-08-20
FR9210272A FR2694945B1 (en) 1992-08-20 1992-08-20 Very high intensity electrolytic cell superstructure for aluminum production.

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0584024A1 true EP0584024A1 (en) 1994-02-23

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US (1) US5378338A (en)
EP (1) EP0584024A1 (en)
AU (1) AU663400B2 (en)
BR (1) BR9303422A (en)
CA (1) CA2101660C (en)
FR (1) FR2694945B1 (en)
IS (1) IS1825B (en)
NO (1) NO311044B1 (en)
NZ (1) NZ248214A (en)

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FR2989693A1 (en) * 2012-04-24 2013-10-25 Rio Tinto Alcan Int Ltd PREHEATING CONNECTOR
CN105917028A (en) * 2013-08-09 2016-08-31 力拓艾尔坎国际有限公司 Electrolytic device and anode assembly intended for the production of aluminium, electrolytic cell and apparatus comprising such a device

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FR2884833B1 (en) * 2005-04-20 2007-05-25 Ecl Soc Par Actions Simplifiee DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MAINTAINING AND CONNECTING AN ANODE ROD ON ANODIC FRAME OF AN ALUMINUM ELECTROLISE CELL
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US20140202873A1 (en) * 2011-10-10 2014-07-24 Mitsubishi Electric Corporation System and method for control pf layer formation in an aluminum electrolysis cell
WO2013055228A1 (en) * 2011-10-10 2013-04-18 Goodtech Recovery Technology As System and method for control of layer formation in an aluminium electrolysis cell
CN103132102B (en) * 2011-11-25 2016-05-11 贵阳铝镁设计研究院有限公司 The detachable intermediate support device of capable of preventing arch deformation for aluminum cell casing
FR3016900B1 (en) * 2014-01-27 2016-01-15 Rio Tinto Alcan Int Ltd ELECTROLYSIS DEVICE AND ANODE ASSEMBLY FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ALUMINUM, ELECTROLYSIS CELL AND INSTALLATION COMPRISING SUCH A DEVICE.
AU2014305612B2 (en) * 2013-08-09 2017-12-21 Rio Tinto Alcan International Limited Electrolytic cell intended for the production of aluminium and electrolytic smelter comprising this cell
FR3016895B1 (en) * 2014-01-27 2017-09-08 Rio Tinto Alcan Int Ltd DEVICE FOR LIFTING ANODIC ASSEMBLIES OF AN ELECTROLYSIS TANK.
RU2582421C1 (en) * 2014-12-29 2016-04-27 Общество с ограниченной ответственностью "Объединенная Компания РУСАЛ Инженерно-технологический центр" Cover of electrolyser for aluminium production
CN105479049B (en) * 2015-12-18 2017-07-11 贵阳铝镁设计研究院有限公司 A kind of auxiliary welding equipment
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FR2902443A1 (en) * 2006-06-14 2007-12-21 Nkm Noell Special Cranes Connector for mechanical and electrical connection of an anode to an anodic frame of an aluminum production cell by a fused-salt electrolysis, comprises pressing surface having a body to cooperate with an anode rod connecting to the frame
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CN105917028A (en) * 2013-08-09 2016-08-31 力拓艾尔坎国际有限公司 Electrolytic device and anode assembly intended for the production of aluminium, electrolytic cell and apparatus comprising such a device
CN105917028B (en) * 2013-08-09 2018-10-16 力拓艾尔坎国际有限公司 The electrolytic cell and device of electrolysis installation and anode assemblies including such equipment for producing aluminium

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
NO932837L (en) 1994-02-21
AU663400B2 (en) 1995-10-05
AU4475593A (en) 1994-02-24
FR2694945A1 (en) 1994-02-25
CA2101660C (en) 1999-12-07
IS1825B (en) 2002-10-01
NO311044B1 (en) 2001-10-01
IS4063A (en) 1994-02-21
CA2101660A1 (en) 1994-02-21
US5378338A (en) 1995-01-03
NO932837D0 (en) 1993-08-10
NZ248214A (en) 1995-02-24
FR2694945B1 (en) 1994-10-07
BR9303422A (en) 1994-03-15

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