EP0621097B1 - Set of ceramic elements for a casting gate and method of changing this set - Google Patents

Set of ceramic elements for a casting gate and method of changing this set Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0621097B1
EP0621097B1 EP93401009A EP93401009A EP0621097B1 EP 0621097 B1 EP0621097 B1 EP 0621097B1 EP 93401009 A EP93401009 A EP 93401009A EP 93401009 A EP93401009 A EP 93401009A EP 0621097 B1 EP0621097 B1 EP 0621097B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
plate
refractory
movable
fixed
plates
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.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP93401009A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0621097A1 (en
Inventor
François Noel Richard
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Vesuvius France SA
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Vesuvius France SA
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Vesuvius France SA filed Critical Vesuvius France SA
Priority to AT93401009T priority Critical patent/ATE163583T1/en
Priority to DE69317260T priority patent/DE69317260T2/en
Priority to EP93401009A priority patent/EP0621097B1/en
Priority to ES93401009T priority patent/ES2117110T3/en
Priority to US08/214,287 priority patent/US5388733A/en
Priority to RU94046377A priority patent/RU2117552C1/en
Priority to CN94190196A priority patent/CN1057717C/en
Priority to CA002137373A priority patent/CA2137373A1/en
Priority to MXPA94002806A priority patent/MXPA94002806A/en
Priority to JP52277294A priority patent/JP3335357B2/en
Priority to PCT/EP1994/001212 priority patent/WO1994023864A2/en
Priority to BR9404969A priority patent/BR9404969A/en
Priority to AU66793/94A priority patent/AU667275B2/en
Publication of EP0621097A1 publication Critical patent/EP0621097A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0621097B1 publication Critical patent/EP0621097B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22D—CASTING OF METALS; CASTING OF OTHER SUBSTANCES BY THE SAME PROCESSES OR DEVICES
    • B22D41/00—Casting melt-holding vessels, e.g. ladles, tundishes, cups or the like
    • B22D41/14—Closures
    • B22D41/22—Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings
    • B22D41/24—Closures sliding-gate type, i.e. having a fixed plate and a movable plate in sliding contact with each other for selective registry of their openings characterised by a rectilinearly movable plate

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a set of refractory elements, in particular for a shutter of casting, said casting shutter comprising a metal frame mounted on a metallurgical container, at least one fixed refractory plate, comprising at least one pouring orifice, at least one movable refractory plate, comprising at least one pouring orifice, at least one collecting nozzle made integral with the movable plate, displacement means for displacing said at least one movable plate by relative to said at least one fixed plate so as to control the recovery of the orifice of the fixed plate and the movable plate; means of pressure which allow to clamp said at least one movable plate against said at least one fixed plate (known for example by: Stahl und Eisen 94 (1974) No. 2, pages 70-72).
  • each refractory element is changed individually.
  • the collecting nozzle can be reached from outside the metal frame but access to the plates to be changed requires opening this metal frame.
  • the flow shutter has a door mounted on hinges. This door can be opened to give access to the refractories.
  • Each refractory plate is removed individually and replaced with a new plate (with or without metal casing). This method is well suited when the elements refractories to handle are light enough to be easy to replace manually and provided that the access and ambient conditions allow the operator has easy and safe access.
  • a first step the set of used refractories is removed in a single operation, and in a second step we put back a new set of new refractories.
  • a gripper and a single movement are sufficient, whereas according to the prior art, a gripper and a specific movement by refractory element were necessary.
  • the handling time is greatly reduced because the handling of each of the elements is replaced by a single overall handling. Automation is made easier by the uniqueness of the movement.
  • the number of manipulations to be performed is reduced in a ratio of 2 to 3.
  • FIG. 1 shows an overview of a converter 1 for the development of steel.
  • a drawer shutter designated by the general reference 10 is fixed under the converter 1.
  • the steel contained in this converter is poured into a pocket 3 through a tap hole.
  • FIG. 2 a sectional view of the drawer shutter 10 mounted on the converter 1.
  • This shutter consists of a metal frame 12 fixed on the outside wall of the converter.
  • a fixed plate 14 and a movable plate 16.
  • Each of these plates has an orifice, respectively 14a, 16a for the passage of the metal.
  • pressure means press the movable plate 16 against the fixed plate 14 and this one against a plate 36 mounted in a recess of the frame 12.
  • the fixed plate is placed in a frame, said frame for driving the fixed plate 20, and the movable plate in a drive frame 22 of the movable plate 16.
  • the rod 44 of the cylinder is retained in a housing of the drive frame of the movable plate 22.
  • the jack allows the movable plate to be moved on the fixed plate.
  • the shutter comprises in all three plates, namely the junction plate 36, the fixed plate 14 and the plate mobile 16. But only the fixed plates 14 and mobile 16 are working plates which support erosion on contact with liquid metal. On the contrary, the junction plate 36 does not see steel in the sense that it is only changed when converter 1 is empty.
  • the drawer shutter has two work plates only in addition to the junction plate, it could include more, for example three or more.
  • a lock with 2 positions 50 This lock is mounted on the frame 20 for driving the fixed plate. In a first position, shown in Figure 1, it enters a housing 51 of the frame 2. In its other position it enters a housing 3 provided in the drive frame 22 of the movable plate. In the first position it immobilizes the drive frame of the fixed plate relative to the frame and, in its second position, relative to the drive frame of the movable plate.
  • the cylinder presents sufficient travel to move the set of two frames 20 and 22 sufficiently to release the set of refractory elements from the grip of the pressure means of the fixed plate against the junction surface of the pouring orifice.
  • the same means namely the cylinder achieves successively two distinct functions.
  • it allows to move the plate movable on the fixed plate (first position of the latch 50).
  • it is used during the extraction of the part to be changed from the installation of a new fixed plate.
  • the lock is placed in its second position, which allows to move with one blocks the fixed plate drive frame and the plate drive frame mobile joined together by the bolt 50.
  • the set of refractory to be changed is moved at the same time as frames 20 and 22.
  • FIG 4 the drawer of Fig 3 in the open position.
  • the latch 50 is placed in said second position in which it secures the frame drive 20 of the fixed plate 14 with the drive frame 22 of the plate mobile 16.
  • the jack 28, the rod 44 of which is connected to the block 22 for driving the movable plate was used to push the assembly constituted by the two frames drive (fixed and mobile) and the plates housed in the openings of these frames (fixed plate 14 and movable plate 16). This movement was continued enough to that the set of refractories be entirely freed from the action of pressure means 26.
  • the set of refractories can be freely removed without having to open a door as is generally done in prior art devices. No connection or disconnection is required because the cylinder rod remains fixed to the frame during these operations drive plate.
  • the set to change constituted as we said previously of the fixed refractory plate 14, of the movable refractory plate 16, of the casing 38 of the fixed plate 14 and the casing 40 of the movable plate 16 is evacuated in a single operation by means of a gripper.
  • a set of replacement, comprising new refractories, is then brought by means of the same different manipulator or gripper.
  • the jack is then actuated to pull the assembly which penetrates laterally relative to to the pouring opening under the locking means 26, which positions the two plates without further operation.
  • the fixed plate 14 is slid under pressure means 30 before the fixed plate 14 begins to cover the pouring opening.
  • this embodiment has a double advantage.
  • it allows, according to the invention, to change the set of refractories in a single operation at instead of having to successively manipulate the various refractory plates.
  • this is an important advantage in the case where the set of refractories has two plates as in the example shown.
  • This characteristic saves time important. This time saving is increased when two grippers are used, one for remove the used refractories, the other to install a set of new refractories.
  • the two grippers do not perform the same function because it is easier to remove the set of used refractories than to install a new set of refractory.
  • the gripper used for removal therefore does not need to be very sophisticated.
  • the embodiment shown has yet another advantage.
  • This slide constitutes the connection which makes it possible to set up and / or remove the fixed refractory plate and the movable refractory plate in a single operation of the flow shutter. It goes without saying in the case where the set of refractory plates has more than two plates, each of these plates may have an envelope clean metal, each refractory plate being made integral with the plate neighboring refractory by means of a slide similar to that which has just been described.
  • FIG. 6 there is shown in Figure 6 an alternative embodiment of the device shown in Figure 5.
  • the fixed refractory plate 14 comprises an envelope metallic 110, in an identical manner to what has been described with reference to FIG. 5.
  • the mobile refractory plate 16 and the pouring nozzle 42 are placed in a rigid metal frame 120.
  • This metal frame has a groove 122in which houses the flange 114 of the metal casing 110 of the plate fixed refractory so as to constitute a slide, as described above.
  • this slide can also be equipped with limit stops.
  • the relative position predetermined can also be obtained by ensuring a mechanical setting strong enough to maintain the relative positions of the two plates during the handling and low enough to be destroyed by means of drives (wedge in the slide, pin between the metal frames ).
  • FIG. 7 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention. In this case
  • FIG. 7 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention.
  • the frame is constituted by a fixed frame 60 and by a door 62 mounted on articulated hinges 64 on the fixed frame 60.
  • the set of refractories to be exchanged is consisting of a fixed refractory plate 14 and a movable refractory plate 16. These plates have through holes arranged in alignment with each other.
  • a manipulator 66 includes a gripper 68, the end of which can be inserted into the holes.
  • the gripper 68 constitutes the means which makes it possible to link the plates 14 and 16 constituting the game so that they can be inserted and / or removed in one surgery.
  • the means which allow to link the plates together are external to the set of refractories. This is however sufficient because it is only necessary that the plates are linked together only during their handling.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Casting Support Devices, Ladles, And Melt Control Thereby (AREA)
  • Devices For Post-Treatments, Processing, Supply, Discharge, And Other Processes (AREA)
  • Sliding Valves (AREA)

Abstract

Set of ceramic (refractory) elements for a casting gate (10), comprising a metallic reinforcement (12) mounted on a metallurgical vessel (1), a stationary ceramic plate (14) including a port (14a), a movable ceramic plate (16) including a port (16a), a collector nozzle (42), displacement means for displacing the movable plate (14) with respect to the stationary plate (16) so as to control the covering-over of the port of the stationary plate by the port of the movable plate. Pressure means (26) make it possible to press the movable plate against the stationary plate, a stationary ceramic plate (14) and a movable ceramic plate (16) and the collector nozzle (42) are capable of being linked together so as to constitute a set which may be introduced into and/or removed from the casting gate (10) in a single operation. <IMAGE>

Description

L'invention concerne un jeu d'éléments réfractaires, notamment pour un obturateur de coulée, ledit obturateur de coulée comportant une armature métallique montée sur un conteneur métallurgique, au moins une plaque réfractaire fixe, comportant au moins un orifice de coulée, au moins une plaque réfractaire mobile, comportant au moins un orifice de coulée, au moins une busette collectrice rendue solidaire de la plaque mobile, des moyens de déplacements pour déplacer ladite au moins une plaque mobile par rapport à ladite au moins une plaque fixe de manière à commander le recouvrement de l'orifice de la plaque fixe et de la plaque mobile ; des moyens de pression qui permettent de serrer ladite au moins une plaque mobile contre ladite au moins une plaque fixe (connu par exemple par: Stahl und Eisen 94(1974) No. 2, pages 70-72).The invention relates to a set of refractory elements, in particular for a shutter of casting, said casting shutter comprising a metal frame mounted on a metallurgical container, at least one fixed refractory plate, comprising at least one pouring orifice, at least one movable refractory plate, comprising at least one pouring orifice, at least one collecting nozzle made integral with the movable plate, displacement means for displacing said at least one movable plate by relative to said at least one fixed plate so as to control the recovery of the orifice of the fixed plate and the movable plate; means of pressure which allow to clamp said at least one movable plate against said at least one fixed plate (known for example by: Stahl und Eisen 94 (1974) No. 2, pages 70-72).

Dans un dispositif de ce type les parties métalliques de l'obturateur (armature métallique notamment) ont généralement une durée de vie de plusieurs centaines, voire de plusieurs milliers de coulées. Par contre les éléments réfractaires (plaques fixe et mobile, ainsi que la busette de coulée) présentent une durée de vie de quelques coulées et doivent donc être changées fréquemment.In a device of this type, the metal parts of the shutter (frame metallic in particular) generally have a lifespan of several hundred or even of several thousand flows. However, the refractory elements (fixed plates and mobile, as well as the pouring nozzle) have a lifetime of a few pourings and therefore must be changed frequently.

Deux méthodes sont actuellement utilisées pour changer ces réfractaires.Two methods are currently used to change these refractories.

Suivant une première méthode, chaque élément réfractaire est changé individuellement. Dans certaines réalisations, la busette collectrice peut être atteinte de l'extérieur de l'armature métallique mais l'accès aux plaques à changer nécessite d'ouvrir cette armature métallique. Par exemple l'obturateur de coulée comporte une porte montée sur des charnières. Cette porte peut s'ouvrir pour donner accès aux réfractaires. Chaque plaque réfractaire est retirée individuellement et remplacée par une plaque neuve (avec ou sans enveloppe métallique). Cette méthode est bien adaptée lorsque les éléments réfractaires à manipuler sont suffisamment légers pour qu'il soit facile de les remplacer manuellement et à condition que les conditions d'accès et d'ambiance permettent à l'opérateur d'y accéder facilement et sans danger.According to a first method, each refractory element is changed individually. In certain embodiments, the collecting nozzle can be reached from outside the metal frame but access to the plates to be changed requires opening this metal frame. For example, the flow shutter has a door mounted on hinges. This door can be opened to give access to the refractories. Each refractory plate is removed individually and replaced with a new plate (with or without metal casing). This method is well suited when the elements refractories to handle are light enough to be easy to replace manually and provided that the access and ambient conditions allow the operator has easy and safe access.

En revanche, dans le cas des gros obturateurs, tels que ceux qui sont utilisés pour les fours d'aciéries, les convertisseurs ou les grandes poches de coulée, chaque élément réfractaire peut atteindre un poids de plusieurs dizaines de kilos. De plus, particulièrement dans le cas des fours et des convertisseurs qui, contrairement aux poches et aux répartiteurs, ne peuvent être déplacées hors de leur ambiance de travail, le changement des éléments réfractaires doit être effectué sur place dans des conditions très pénibles pour l'opérateur, notamment en raison de la température. Ces conditions sont encore aggravées car on ne peut généralement pas attendre le refroidissement de l'obturateur parce que le temps nécessaire au changement de plaques, qui implique un arrêt de production, donc une perte, doit être réduit au minimum. Les conditions de travail sont donc particulièrement pénibles.On the other hand, in the case of large shutters, such as those used for steel furnaces, converters or large ladles, each element refractory can reach a weight of several tens of kilos. Moreover, particularly in the case of ovens and converters which, unlike pockets and distributors, cannot be moved outside their working environment, the change of refractory elements must be carried out on site under conditions very painful for the operator, especially due to the temperature. These conditions are further exacerbated because one cannot usually wait for the cooling of the shutter because the time required to change plates, which involves a production stoppage, therefore a loss, must be minimized. The conditions of work are therefore particularly strenuous.

On pourrait envisager d'assister les opérateurs par des outils tels que des robots ou des manipulateurs. Pour de tels outils, le poids n'est pas un inconvénient. Le facteur critique est constitué par le nombre de manipulations à effectuer. Le temps de manipulation nécessaire pour effectuer un changement de plaques à l'aide d'un manipulateur serait très supérieur à ce qui serait nécessaire à un opérateur pour effectuer le même changement manuellement. Chaque préhenseur doit être adapté à l'objet à manipuler. Une telle solution serait donc extrêmement coûteuse, complexe et longue.We could consider assisting operators with tools such as robots or manipulators. For such tools, the weight is not a disadvantage. The postman critical consists of the number of manipulations to perform. Time to handling required to change plates using a manipulator would be far superior to what an operator would need to make the same change manually. Each gripper must be adapted to the object to handle. Such a solution would therefore be extremely expensive, complex and long.

Selon une seconde méthode connue, l'obturateur de coulée complet est retiré du conteneur et remplacé par un nouvel obturateur contenant des réfractaires neufs. Cette méthode présente également de nombreux inconvénients. En effet l'obturateur complet pèse beaucoup plus que les réfractaires à échanger, par exemple vingt fois plus. Ainsi, si les réfractaires pèsent 100 kg, il faudra manipuler un élément de deux tonnes, ce qui implique des outils puissants et un temps de manutention accru.According to a second known method, the complete casting shutter is removed from the container and replaced by a new shutter containing new refractories. This method also has many disadvantages. Indeed the complete shutter weighs much more than the refractory to exchange, for example twenty times more. So, if the refractories weigh 100 kg, it will be necessary to handle a two-ton element, which requires powerful tools and increased handling time.

Il est en outre nécessaire de déconnecter et de reconnecter le vérin qui sert à l'entraínement de la plaque mobile, d'ôter et de remettre les divers boucliers de protection, etc... Au total, le temps nécessaire et le nombre d'opérations sont accrus. D'autre part, l'obturateur contenant les réfractaires usagés doit être transporté dans un atelier où l'on procède au remplacement des réfractaires usagés par des réfractaires neufs. Les conditions de travail sont alors plus faciles, notamment en ce qui concerne la température et l'accessibilité. Le temps également est un facteur moins critique parce que la production peut se poursuivre pendant ce temps. Toutefois le nombre d'opérations à effectuer pour échanger les éléments réfractaires reste le même et de plus il faut financer les transports et l'atelier. It is also necessary to disconnect and reconnect the cylinder which is used to the moving plate drive, remove and replace the various shields of protection, etc ... In total, the time required and the number of operations are increased. On the other hand, the shutter containing the used refractories must be transported in a workshop where used refractories are replaced by refractories new. The working conditions are then easier, in particular as regards temperature and accessibility. Time is also a less critical factor because that production can continue during this time. However the number of operations to be carried out to exchange the refractory elements remains the same and more transport and the workshop must be financed.

La présente invention a pour objet un jeu d'éléments réfractaires comprenant les éléments réfractaires à échanger dans un obturateur de coulée qui remédie aux inconvénients des deux méthodes exposées précédemment. Elle a également pour objet un procédé pour effectuer le remplacement de ce jeu d'éléments réfractaires.The present invention relates to a set of refractory elements comprising the refractory elements to be exchanged in a flow shutter which remedies disadvantages of the two methods described above. Its purpose is also a method for replacing this set of refractory elements.

Le jeu d'éléments réfractaires conforme à l'invention se caractérise en ce que la busette collectrice est solidarisée de la plaque mobile et en ce que ladite au moins une plaque réfractaire fixe et ladite au moins une plaque réfractaire mobile sont aptes à être liées entre elles de manière à constituer un jeu qui peut être introduit dans et/ou retiré de l'obturateur en une seule opération.The set of refractory elements according to the invention is characterized in that the nozzle collector is secured to the movable plate and in that said at least one plate fixed refractory and said at least one movable refractory plate are capable of being linked between them so as to constitute a set which can be introduced into and / or removed from the shutter in a single operation.

Le procédé de remplacement du jeu d'éléments réfractaires d'un obturateur de coulée, ledit obturateur comprenant une armature métallique montée sur un conteneur métallurgique, au moins une plaque réfractaire fixe comportant au moins un orifice, au moins une plaque réfractaire mobile comportant au moins un orifice, des moyens de déplacement pour déplacer la plaque mobile par rapport à la plaque fixe de manière à commander le recouvrement de l'orifice de la plaque fixe et de la plaque mobile ; des moyens de pression qui permettent de serrer la plaque mobile contre la plaque fixe se caractérise en ce que l'on met en place et/ou retire le jeu réfractaire en une seule opération.The method of replacing the set of refractory elements of a flow shutter, said shutter comprising a metal frame mounted on a container metallurgical, at least one fixed refractory plate comprising at least one orifice, at the at least one movable refractory plate comprising at least one orifice, means for movement to move the movable plate relative to the fixed plate so as to order the covering of the orifice of the fixed plate and of the movable plate; of pressure means which allow the movable plate to be clamped against the fixed plate characterized in that one sets up and / or removes the refractory clearance in a single surgery.

Dans une première étape on retire en une seule opération, le jeu de réfractaires usagés, et dans une seconde étape on remet en place un nouveau jeu de réfractaires neufs. Il s'ensuit qu'un seul préhenseur et un seul mouvement sont suffisants, alors que selon l'art antérieur, un préhenseur et un mouvement spécifique par élément réfractaire étaient nécessaires. Le temps de manipulation est fortement réduit du fait que la manutention de chacun des éléments est remplacé par une manutention globale unique. L'automatisation est facilitée par l'unicité du mouvement. Le nombre de manipulations à effectuer est réduit dans un rapport de 2 à 3.In a first step, the set of used refractories is removed in a single operation, and in a second step we put back a new set of new refractories. he it follows that a single gripper and a single movement are sufficient, whereas according to the prior art, a gripper and a specific movement by refractory element were necessary. The handling time is greatly reduced because the handling of each of the elements is replaced by a single overall handling. Automation is made easier by the uniqueness of the movement. The number of manipulations to be performed is reduced in a ratio of 2 to 3.

Du fait que la manutention est plus rapide et plus simple, il est possible de l'effectuer sur place (in situ) sans avoir à utiliser la deuxième méthode de l'art antérieur précédemment décrite dans laquelle l'ensemble de l'obturateur de coulée est retiré pour être démonté dans un atelier spécial. En conséquence, l'avantage de la première méthode est conservé. Le poids de la partie à manipuler se limite au poids des éléments réfractaires éventuellement associés à une enveloppe métallique directement montée sur chacun de ces éléments. Ceci est avantageux parce que l'outil de manutention ne doit pas être adapté à une charge excessivement lourde.Because handling is faster and simpler, it is possible to perform it on site (in situ) without having to use the second method of the prior art previously described in which the entire shutter is removed for be dismantled in a special workshop. As a result, the benefit of the first method is retained. The weight of the part to be handled is limited to the weight of the refractory elements possibly associated with a metal casing directly mounted on each of these elements. This is advantageous because the handling must not be adapted to an excessively heavy load.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaítront encore à la lecture de la description qui suit d'exemples de réalisation donnés à titre illustratif et nullement limitatif en référence aux figures annexées sur lesquelles :

  • la figure 1 est une vue d'ensemble d'un convertisseur et d'un obturateur à tiroir monté sur ce convertisseur ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue d'ensemble en coupe longitudinale d'un obturateur de coulée, tel que celui représenté sur la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 3 est une vue en coupe selon a plan perpendiculaire à celui de la figure 1 et qui montre le détail des moyens de liaison de la plaque réfractaire fixe et de la plaque réfractaire mobile ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue de l'obturateur des fig. 2 et 3 représenté dans une autre position.
  • la figure 5 est une vue schématique d'une variante de réalisation dans laquelle les moyens de liaison sont disposés sur l'enveloppe des plaques réfractaires ;
  • la figure 6 est une variante de réalisation dans laquelle les moyens de liaison sont situés sur l'enveloppe métallique de la plaque fixe et sur un cadre dans lequel est enchâssée la plaque mobile ;
  • la figure 7 est une vue de l'extrémité d'un préhenseur destiné à être utilisé dans une variante du procédé de l'invention ;
Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the following description of embodiments given by way of illustration and in no way limitative with reference to the appended figures in which:
  • Figure 1 is an overall view of a converter and a slide valve mounted on this converter;
  • Figure 2 is an overall view in longitudinal section of a flow shutter, such as that shown in Figure 1;
  • Figure 3 is a sectional view along a plane perpendicular to that of Figure 1 and showing the detail of the connecting means of the fixed refractory plate and the movable refractory plate;
  • Figure 4 is a view of the shutter of Figs. 2 and 3 shown in another position.
  • Figure 5 is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment in which the connecting means are arranged on the envelope of the refractory plates;
  • Figure 6 is an alternative embodiment in which the connecting means are located on the metal casing of the fixed plate and on a frame in which is embedded the movable plate;
  • FIG. 7 is a view of the end of a gripper intended for use in a variant of the method of the invention;

On a représenté sur la figure 1 une vue d'ensemble d'un convertisseur 1 pour l'élaboration de l'acier. Un obturateur à tiroir, désigné par la référence générale 10, est fixé sous le convertisseur 1. L'acier contenu dans ce convertisseur est versé dans une poche 3 par un trou de coulée.FIG. 1 shows an overview of a converter 1 for the development of steel. A drawer shutter, designated by the general reference 10, is fixed under the converter 1. The steel contained in this converter is poured into a pocket 3 through a tap hole.

On a représenté sur la figure 2 une vue en coupe de l'obturateur à tiroir 10 monté sur le convertisseur 1. Cet obturateur se compose d'une armature métallique 12 fixée sur la paroi extérieure du convertisseur. Dans cette armature on trouve un ensemble de deux plaques, à savoir une plaque fixe 14 et une plaque mobile 16. Chacune de ces plaques comporte un orifice, respectivement 14a, 16a pour le passage du métal. Des moyens de pression permettent de presser la plaque mobile 16 contre la plaque fixe 14 et celle-ci contre une plaque 36 montée dans un évidement de l'armature 12. Ces moyens de pression seront décrits plus en détail en référence à la figure 3.There is shown in Figure 2 a sectional view of the drawer shutter 10 mounted on the converter 1. This shutter consists of a metal frame 12 fixed on the outside wall of the converter. In this frame we find a set of two plates, namely a fixed plate 14 and a movable plate 16. Each of these plates has an orifice, respectively 14a, 16a for the passage of the metal. Of pressure means press the movable plate 16 against the fixed plate 14 and this one against a plate 36 mounted in a recess of the frame 12. These pressure means will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3.

La plaque fixe est placée dans un cadre, dit cadre d'entraínement de la plaque fixe 20, et la plaque mobile dans un cadre d'entraínement 22 de la plaque mobile 16. La tige 44 du vérin est retenue dans un logement du cadre d'entraínement de la plaque mobile 22. Le vérin permet de déplacer la plaque mobile sur la plaque fixe.The fixed plate is placed in a frame, said frame for driving the fixed plate 20, and the movable plate in a drive frame 22 of the movable plate 16. The rod 44 of the cylinder is retained in a housing of the drive frame of the movable plate 22. The jack allows the movable plate to be moved on the fixed plate.

Ce déplacement permet, de manière connue, de faire varier le recouvrement des orifices 14a et 16a des deux plaques de manière à contrôler ou à arrêter totalement le passage du métal. On remarquera que, dans l'exemple représenté, l'obturateur comporte en tout trois plaques, à savoir la plaque de jonction 36, la plaque fixe 14 et la plaque mobile 16. Mais seules les plaques fixe 14 et mobile 16 sont des plaques de travail qui supportent une érosion au contact du métal liquide. Au contraire, la plaque de jonction 36 ne voit pas l'acier dans le sens où elle n'est changée que lorsque le convertisseur 1 est vide. Bien que, dans l'exemple représenté, l'obturateur à tiroir comporte deux plaques de travail seulement en sus de la plaque de jonction, il pourrait en comporter davantage, par exemple trois ou plus.This displacement makes it possible, in a known manner, to vary the overlap of the orifices 14a and 16a of the two plates so as to control or completely stop the passage metal. It will be noted that, in the example shown, the shutter comprises in all three plates, namely the junction plate 36, the fixed plate 14 and the plate mobile 16. But only the fixed plates 14 and mobile 16 are working plates which support erosion on contact with liquid metal. On the contrary, the junction plate 36 does not see steel in the sense that it is only changed when converter 1 is empty. Although, in the example shown, the drawer shutter has two work plates only in addition to the junction plate, it could include more, for example three or more.

Par jeu d'éléments réfractaires on désigne, dans l'exemple représenté, la plaque fixe 14, éventuellement entourée d'une enveloppe métallique 38, et la plaque mobile 16 associée à la busette de coulée 42, la plaque 16 et la busette de coulée 42 étant montées dans une enveloppe métallique 40. En revanche le jeu de réfractaire ne comprend pas la plaque de jonction 36 fixée à la busette interne 36a.By set of refractory elements is meant, in the example shown, the fixed plate 14, possibly surrounded by a metal casing 38, and the associated movable plate 16 to the casting nozzle 42, the plate 16 and the casting nozzle 42 being mounted in a metal casing 40. On the other hand, the refractory set does not include the junction plate 36 fixed to the internal nozzle 36a.

L'enveloppe 40 assemble la plaque mobile 16 et la busette 42. Elle assure à l'ensemble une rigidité suffisante pour servir de surface d'appui à des moyens de pression qui seront décrits ultérieurement. Elle comporte en outre un bouclier 40a qui protège contre le rayonnement et les projections.The envelope 40 assembles the movable plate 16 and the nozzle 42. It provides the assembly sufficient rigidity to serve as a bearing surface for pressure means which will be described later. It further comprises a shield 40a which protects against radiation and projections.

Le poids du jeu de réfractaires est réduit au minimum compatible avec ces fonctions. On a représenté sur la figure 3, une vue en coupe du mode de réalisation de la figure 2 selon un plan perpendiculaire. Cette figure montre le détail des moyens de pression, désignés dans leur ensemble par la référence générale 26. Ils comprennent un levier 100. A une extrémité le levier est fixé à une barre de torsion 102 représentée en section transversale. A son autre extrémité le levier 100 est appliqué sur une glissière 104. La glissière 104 est fixée à l'enveloppe métallique 40. L'effort du levier est transmis à la plaque 16, puis à la plaque 14 qui prend appui sur la plaque de jonction 36. Une étanchéité statique est ainsi assurée entr la plaque fixe 14 et la plaque de jonction 36 et une étanchéité dynamique est assurée entre les plaques 14 et 16. On notera que les moyens de serrage de la plaque fixe contre la surface de jonction de l'orifice de coulée sont les mêmes que les moyens de pression pour presser la plaque fixe 14 contre la plaque mobile 16. Les mêmes moyens remplissent donc deux fonctions distinctes.The weight of the refractory set is reduced to the minimum compatible with these functions. There is shown in Figure 3, a sectional view of the embodiment of Figure 2 along a perpendicular plane. This figure shows the detail of the pressure means, generally designated by the general reference 26. They include a lever 100. At one end the lever is fixed to a torsion bar 102 shown in section transverse. At its other end, the lever 100 is applied to a slide 104. The slide 104 is fixed to the metal casing 40. The force of the lever is transmitted to the plate 16, then to plate 14 which is supported on the junction plate 36. A static sealing is thus ensured between the fixed plate 14 and the junction plate 36 and a dynamic seal is ensured between the plates 14 and 16. It will be noted that the means for clamping the fixed plate against the junction surface of the pouring orifice are the same as the pressure means for pressing the fixed plate 14 against the movable plate 16. The same means therefore fulfill two distinct functions.

Conformément à l'invention, l'enveloppe métallique 38 qui entoure la plaque fixe 14 comporte un logement 38a. Une languette 106 est fixée sur l'enveloppe métallique 40 qui entoure la plaque mobile 16 et la busette collectrice 42. Cette languette 106 vient se verrouiller dans le logement 38a. La languette 106 et le logement 38 constituent les moyens qui permettent de lier les éléments réfractaires de manière qu'ils forment un jeu qui peut être introduit et/ou retiré d'un seul bloc, et par suite, en une seule opération de l'obturateur 10. Plus précisément, dans l'exemple représenté, le jeu comporte non seulement les plaques fixe et mobile elles-mêmes, mais encore les enveloppes 38 et 40 et la busette 42. C'est cet ensemble qui est introduit et/ou retiré en une seule opération. Il est vrai que le poids à manipuler est accru par rapport au poids des réfractaires seuls. Cependant cette augmentation de poids demeure raisonnable.According to the invention, the metal casing 38 which surrounds the fixed plate 14 has a housing 38a. A tongue 106 is fixed to the metal casing 40 which surrounds the movable plate 16 and the collecting nozzle 42. This tongue 106 comes lock in the housing 38a. The tongue 106 and the housing 38 constitute the means for linking the refractory elements so that they form a clearance which can be inserted and / or removed in a single block, and therefore in a single operation of the shutter 10. More specifically, in the example shown, the game comprises no only the fixed and movable plates themselves, but also the envelopes 38 and 40 and the nozzle 42. It is this assembly which is introduced and / or removed in a single surgery. It is true that the weight to be handled is increased compared to the weight of refractory only. However, this increase in weight remains reasonable.

Revenant à la figure 2, on décrira maintenant en détail les moyens pour solidariser le cadre 20 d'entraínement de la plaque fixe soit avec le bâti 1 soit avec le cadre d'entraínement de la plaque mobile 22. Ces moyens sont constitués par un verrou à 2 positions 50. Ce verrou est monté sur le cadre 20 d'entraínement de la plaque fixe. Dans une première position, représentée sur la figure 1, il pénètre dans un logement 51 du bâti 2. Dans son autre position il pénètre dans un logement 3 prévu dans le cadre d'entraínement 22 de la plaque mobile. Dans la première position il immobilise le cadre d'entraínement de la plaque fixe par rapport au bâti et, dans sa seconde position, par rapport au cadre d'entraínement de la plaque mobile. Le vérin présente une course suffisante pour déplacer l'ensemble des deux cadres 20 et 22 suffisamment pour libérer le jeu d'éléments réfractaires de l'emprise des moyens de pression de la plaque fixe contre la surface de jonction de l'orifice de coulée.Returning to FIG. 2, we will now describe in detail the means for securing the frame 20 for driving the fixed plate either with the frame 1 or with the frame for driving the movable plate 22. These means consist of a lock with 2 positions 50. This lock is mounted on the frame 20 for driving the fixed plate. In a first position, shown in Figure 1, it enters a housing 51 of the frame 2. In its other position it enters a housing 3 provided in the drive frame 22 of the movable plate. In the first position it immobilizes the drive frame of the fixed plate relative to the frame and, in its second position, relative to the drive frame of the movable plate. The cylinder presents sufficient travel to move the set of two frames 20 and 22 sufficiently to release the set of refractory elements from the grip of the pressure means of the fixed plate against the junction surface of the pouring orifice.

Grâce au verrou à deux positions, le même moyen, à savoir le vérin réalise successivement deux fonctions distinctes. D'une part il permet de déplacer la plaque mobile sur la plaque fixe (première position du verrou 50). D'autre part il sert lors de l'extraction de la partie à changer de la mise en place d'une nouvelle plaque fixe. Pour cela le verrou est placé dans sa deuxième position, ce qui permet de déplacer d'un seul bloc le cadre d'entraínement de la plaque fixe et le cadre d'entraínement de la plaque mobile solidarisés entre eux par le verrou 50. Le jeu de réfractaire à changer est déplacé en même temps que les cadres 20 et 22.Thanks to the two-position lock, the same means, namely the cylinder achieves successively two distinct functions. On the one hand it allows to move the plate movable on the fixed plate (first position of the latch 50). On the other hand it is used during the extraction of the part to be changed from the installation of a new fixed plate. For this the lock is placed in its second position, which allows to move with one blocks the fixed plate drive frame and the plate drive frame mobile joined together by the bolt 50. The set of refractory to be changed is moved at the same time as frames 20 and 22.

On a représenté sur la fig 4, le tiroir de la fig 3 en position ouverte. On remarque que le verrou 50 est placé dans ladite deuxième position dans laquelle il solidarise le cadre d'entraínement 20 de la plaque fixe 14 avec le cadre d'entraínement 22 de la plaque mobile 16. le vérin 28, dont la tige 44 est connectée au cade 22 d'entraínement de la plaque mobile, a été utilisé pour pousser l'ensemble constitué par les deux cadres d'entraínement (fixe et mobile) et les plaques logées dans les ouvertures de ces cadres (plaque fixe 14 et plaque mobile 16). Ce mouvement a été poursuivi suffisamment pour que le jeu de réfractaires soit entièrement libéré de l'action de moyens de pression 26.There is shown in Fig 4, the drawer of Fig 3 in the open position. We notice that the latch 50 is placed in said second position in which it secures the frame drive 20 of the fixed plate 14 with the drive frame 22 of the plate mobile 16. the jack 28, the rod 44 of which is connected to the block 22 for driving the movable plate, was used to push the assembly constituted by the two frames drive (fixed and mobile) and the plates housed in the openings of these frames (fixed plate 14 and movable plate 16). This movement was continued enough to that the set of refractories be entirely freed from the action of pressure means 26.

Les ouvertures des cadres 20 et 22 étant superposées, le jeu de réfractaires peut être retiré librement sans avoir à ouvrir une porte comme cela se fait généralement dans les dispositifs de l'art antérieur. Il n'est nécessaire d'effectuer ni connexion ni déconnexion parce que la tige du vérin reste fixée, pendant ces opérations, sur le cadre d'entraínement de la plaque mobile. L'ensemble à changer, constitué comme on l'a dit précédemment de la plaque réfractaire fixe 14, de la plaque réfractaire mobile 16, de l'enveloppe 38 de la plaque fixe 14 et de l'enveloppe 40 de la plaque mobile 16 est évacué en une seule opération au moyen d'un préhenseur. Un ensemble de remplacement, comportant des réfractaires neufs, est alors amené au moyen du même manipulateur ou d'un préhenseur différent.The openings of the frames 20 and 22 being superimposed, the set of refractories can be freely removed without having to open a door as is generally done in prior art devices. No connection or disconnection is required because the cylinder rod remains fixed to the frame during these operations drive plate. The set to change, constituted as we said previously of the fixed refractory plate 14, of the movable refractory plate 16, of the casing 38 of the fixed plate 14 and the casing 40 of the movable plate 16 is evacuated in a single operation by means of a gripper. A set of replacement, comprising new refractories, is then brought by means of the same different manipulator or gripper.

Le vérin est alors actionné pour tirer l'ensemble qui pénètre latéralement par rapport à l'orifice de coulée sous les moyens de verrouillage 26, ce qui positionne les deux plaques sans autre opération supplémentaire. La plaque fixe 14 est glissée sous des moyens de pression 30 préalablement à ce que la plaque fixe 14 ne commence à recouvrir l'orifice de coulée.The jack is then actuated to pull the assembly which penetrates laterally relative to to the pouring opening under the locking means 26, which positions the two plates without further operation. The fixed plate 14 is slid under pressure means 30 before the fixed plate 14 begins to cover the pouring opening.

On voit que ce mode de réalisation présente un double avantage. D'une part il permet, conformément à l'invention, de changer le jeu de réfractaires en une seule opération au lieu d'avoir à manipuler successivement les différentes plaques réfractaires. Ceci est un avantage important dans le cas où le jeu de réfractaires comporte deux plaques comme dans l'exemple représenté. Cette caractéristique permet un gain de temps important. Ce gain de temps est accru lorsque l'on utilise deux préhenseurs, l'un pour retirer les réfractaires usagés, l'autre pour mettre en place un jeu de réfractaires neuf. Les deux préhenseurs ne remplissent pas la même fonction parce qu'il est plus facile de retirer le jeu de réfractaires usagé que de mettre en place un nouveau jeu de réfractaires. Le préhenseur qui sert au retrait n'a donc pas besoin d'être très sophistiqué.We see that this embodiment has a double advantage. On the one hand it allows, according to the invention, to change the set of refractories in a single operation at instead of having to successively manipulate the various refractory plates. this is an important advantage in the case where the set of refractories has two plates as in the example shown. This characteristic saves time important. This time saving is increased when two grippers are used, one for remove the used refractories, the other to install a set of new refractories. The two grippers do not perform the same function because it is easier to remove the set of used refractories than to install a new set of refractory. The gripper used for removal therefore does not need to be very sophisticated.

Le fait d'utiliser deux préhenseurs permet de tenir prêt celui des deux qui sert à la mise en place du jeu de réfractaires neuf. Il peut entrer en action dès que les réfractaires usagés ont été évacués. On gagne ainsi un temps précieux, particulièrement dans le cas des convertisseurs pour lesquels il est souhaitable que le temps nécessaire à l'échange des réfractaires reste inférieur à quelques minutes.The fact of using two grippers makes it possible to keep ready that of the two which is used for putting in place of the new set of refractories. It can go into action as soon as the refractory used cars have been evacuated. This saves precious time, especially in the case converters for which it is desirable that the time required for the exchange refractory remains less than a few minutes.

D'autre part, le mode de réalisation représenté présente encore un autre avantage.On the other hand, the embodiment shown has yet another advantage.

En effet, dans les obturateurs de coulée de l'art antérieur, l'accès au réfractaire à échanger est obtenu au moyen d'une porte montée pivotante sur des charnières. Avant de pouvoir accéder aux réfractaires, il est nécessaire d'ouvrir cette porte. Lorsque les réfractaires ont été changés, il faut refermer la porte avant de pouvoir remettre l'obturateur en fonctionnement. Ces deux opérations supplémentaires prennent du temps. En outre elles ne peuvent pas être automatisées aisément.Indeed, in the prior art casting shutters, access to the refractory exchanging is obtained by means of a pivoting door mounted on hinges. Before to be able to access the refractories, it is necessary to open this door. When the refractories have been changed, you must close the door before you can replace the shutter in operation. These two additional operations take time time. Furthermore, they cannot be easily automated.

On voit que, selon le mode de réalisation représenté, il n'est pas nécessaire d'ouvrir et de fermer une porte pour accéder aux réfractaires. Ceux-ci sont évacués et mis en place par un glissement de l'ensemble à changer ce qui supprime une étape. D'autre part cette opération peut être effectuée facilement parce qu'elle ne nécessite pas d'intervention manuelle mais peut au contraire être réalisée de façon simple grâce à un vérin. On remarquera encore que ce vérin est le même que celui qui sert, de manière conventionnelle, à la régulation de la coulée. Il n'est donc pas nécessaire de prévoir de matériel supplémentaire.It can be seen that, according to the embodiment shown, it is not necessary to open and to close a door to access the refractories. These are evacuated and put in place by sliding the whole to change which removes a step. Else apart from that this operation can be performed easily because it does not require manual intervention but can on the contrary be carried out in a simple manner thanks to a cylinder. It will also be noted that this cylinder is the same as that which serves, so conventional, to the regulation of the casting. It is therefore not necessary to plan additional equipment.

On a représenté sur la figure 5 une variante de réalisation de l'invention. Dans cette variante la plaque réfractaire fixe 14 est entourée par une enveloppe métallique 110, par exemple en tôle d'acier. La plaque réfractaire mobile 16 est également entourée par une enveloppe métallique en tôle d'acier 112. Dans l'exemple représenté une busette est solidaire de cette plaque réfractaire fixe. L'enveloppe métallique de la plaque rétractaire fixe est repliée de manière à constituer un rebord 114. L'enveloppe métallique 112 de la plaque réfractaire mobile est repliée par dessus le rebord 114 de l'enveloppe métallique de la plaque réfractaire fixe de façon à constituer une glissière 116. Cette glissière constitue la liaison qui permet de mettre en place et/ou de retirer la plaque réfractaire fixe et la plaque réfractaire mobile en une seule opération de l'obturateur de coulée. Il va de soi dans le cas où le jeu de plaques réfractaires comporte plus de deux plaques, chacune de ces plaques peut comporter une enveloppe métallique propre, chaque plaque réfractaire étant rendue solidaire de la plaque réfractaire voisine au moyen d'une glissière analogue à celle qui vient d'être décrite.FIG. 5 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention. In this variant the fixed refractory plate 14 is surrounded by a metal casing 110, by example in sheet steel. The mobile refractory plate 16 is also surrounded by a metal casing made of sheet steel 112. In the example shown a nozzle is integral with this fixed refractory plate. The metal envelope of the plate fixed retractor is folded so as to constitute a flange 114. The envelope metal 112 of the movable refractory plate is folded over the flange 114 of the metal casing of the fixed refractory plate so as to constitute a slide 116. This slide constitutes the connection which makes it possible to set up and / or remove the fixed refractory plate and the movable refractory plate in a single operation of the flow shutter. It goes without saying in the case where the set of refractory plates has more than two plates, each of these plates may have an envelope clean metal, each refractory plate being made integral with the plate neighboring refractory by means of a slide similar to that which has just been described.

Dans une position de manutention verticale, la glissière pourrait permettre aux deux plaques de se désolidariser. Cet inconvénient est surmonté, conformément à l'invention, en équipant les glissières de butées de fin de course limitant la course du mouvement de glissement. Cette course doit toutefois rester suffisante pour permettre le fonctionnement normal de l'obturateur de coulée lorsque les plaques ont été mises en place.In a vertical handling position, the slide could allow both plates to dissociate. This disadvantage is overcome, in accordance with the invention, by fitting the runners with end-of-travel stops limiting the travel of the sliding movement. This race must however remain sufficient to allow normal operation of the shutter when the plates have been placed in place.

On a représenté sur la figure 6 une variante de réalisation du dispositif représenté sur la figure 5. Dans cette variante la plaque réfractaire fixe 14 comporte une enveloppe métallique 110, de manière identique à ce qui a été décrit en référence à la figure 5.There is shown in Figure 6 an alternative embodiment of the device shown in Figure 5. In this variant the fixed refractory plate 14 comprises an envelope metallic 110, in an identical manner to what has been described with reference to FIG. 5.

En revanche la plaque réfractaire mobile 16 et la busette de coulée 42 sont placées dans un cadre métallique rigide 120. Ce cadre métallique comporte une gorge 122dans laquelle vient se loger le rebord 114 de l'enveloppe métallique 110 de la plaque réfractaire fixe de manière à constituer une glissière, comme décrit précédemment.On the other hand, the mobile refractory plate 16 and the pouring nozzle 42 are placed in a rigid metal frame 120. This metal frame has a groove 122in which houses the flange 114 of the metal casing 110 of the plate fixed refractory so as to constitute a slide, as described above.

Bien entendu cette glissière peut également être équipée de butées de fin de course.Of course, this slide can also be equipped with limit stops.

Lors de l'introduction d'un nouveau jeu de réfractaires, il est nécessaire de maintenir précisément la plaque fixe dans une position prédéterminée par rapport à la plaque mobile. Ceci est obtenu facilement, conformément à l'invention, en collant les deux plaques. Ce collage est détruit par les moyens d'entraínements de la plaque fixe lors de la première mise en fonctionnement de l'obturateur de coulée. La position relative prédéterminée peut également être obtenue en assurant un calage mécanique suffisamment fort pour maintenir les positions relatives des deux plaques durant la manutention et suffisamment faible pour être détruit par les moyens d'entraínements (cale dans la glissière, goupille entre les cadres métalliques ...).When introducing a new set of refractories, it is necessary to maintain precisely the fixed plate in a predetermined position relative to the plate mobile. This is easily obtained, in accordance with the invention, by bonding the two plates. This bonding is destroyed by the drive means of the fixed plate during the first time the shutter is put into operation. The relative position predetermined can also be obtained by ensuring a mechanical setting strong enough to maintain the relative positions of the two plates during the handling and low enough to be destroyed by means of drives (wedge in the slide, pin between the metal frames ...).

On a représenté sur la figure 7 une variante de réalisation de l'invention. Dans cette FIG. 7 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention. In this

On a représenté sur la figure 7 une variante de réalisation de l'invention. Dans cette variante l'armature est constituée par un bâti fixe 60 et par une porte 62 montée sur charnières articulées 64 sur le bâti fixe 60. Le jeu de réfractaires à échanger est constitué d'une plaque réfractaire fixe 14 et d'une plaque réfractaire mobile 16. Ces plaques comportent des trous traversant disposés dans l'alignement l'un de l'autre. Un manipulateur 66 comporte un préhenseur 68 dont l'extrémité peut être introduite dans les trous. Le préhenseur 68 constitue le moyen qui permet de lier les plaques 14 et 16 constituant le jeu de manière à pouvoir les introduire et/ou les retirer en une seule opération. On notera que dans cet exemple de réalisation les moyens qui permettent de lier les plaques entre-elles sont extérieurs au jeu de réfractaires. Ceci est toutefois suffisant car il est seulement nécessaire que les plaques soient liées entre elles seulement pendant leur manutention.FIG. 7 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention. In this variant the frame is constituted by a fixed frame 60 and by a door 62 mounted on articulated hinges 64 on the fixed frame 60. The set of refractories to be exchanged is consisting of a fixed refractory plate 14 and a movable refractory plate 16. These plates have through holes arranged in alignment with each other. A manipulator 66 includes a gripper 68, the end of which can be inserted into the holes. The gripper 68 constitutes the means which makes it possible to link the plates 14 and 16 constituting the game so that they can be inserted and / or removed in one surgery. Note that in this embodiment the means which allow to link the plates together are external to the set of refractories. This is however sufficient because it is only necessary that the plates are linked together only during their handling.

Claims (16)

  1. Set of refractory components, particularly for slide gate valve (10) comprising
    a metallic frame (12) mounted on a metallurgical vessel (1);
    at least one fixed refractory plate (14) having at least one opening (14a);
    at least one movable refractory plate (16) having at least one opening (16a);
    at least one pouring nozzle (42);
    means for displacing the movable plate (14) with respect to the fixed plate (16) in order to control an overlap between the openings of the fixed and movable plate;
    compression means (26) for locking the movable plate against the fixed plate;
    characterized in that said at least one fixed refractory plate (14) and said at least one movable refractory plate (16) and said at least one pouring nozzle (42) can be interconnected so as to form a set which can be introduced and/or removed with respect to the slide gate valve (10) in a single operation.
  2. Set according to claim 1, characterized in that the refractory components constituting the set are interconnected by means permitting a movement of said at least one fixed refractory plate (14) relative to said at least one movable refractory plate (16), the amplitude of said movement being adequate for the operation of the slide gate valve (10).
  3. Set according to one of the claims 1 or 2, characterized in that said at least one fixed refractory plate (14), said at least one movable refractory plate (16) and said pouring nozzle (42) have metal shells (38, 40), the connection between the plates being provided by said shells (38, 40).
  4. Set according to claim 3, characterized in that the connection between said plates (14, 16) is ensured by sliding mechanisms fixed to said metal shells (38, 40).
  5. Set according to any one of the claims 2 to 4, characterized in that it has means for locking the relative movement of said fixed refractory plate relative to said movable refractory plate in a predetermined and in particular superimposed position, said means being destroyed during the first movement of the slide gate valve.
  6. Set according to claim 1, characterized in that the connection between said at least one fixed refractory plate (14) and said at least one movable refractory plate (16) is ensured by bonding, the connection by bonding being destroyed by the first movement of the slide gate valve (10).
  7. Set according to claim 1, characterized in that said plates have means making it possible to maintain them in a predetermined, particularly superimposed, relative position by connecting means external of the sets of refractory plates (14, 16).
  8. Set according to claim 7, characterized in that the external connection means are constituted by a gripping manipulator (66) able to grasp and/or lock the refractory component set in a relative position.
  9. Method for the replacement of the set of refractory components of a slide gate valve, the latter comprising a metallic frame (12) mounted on a metallurgical vessel (1), at least one fixed refractory plate (14) having at least one opening (14a), at least one movable refractory plate (16) having at least one opening (16a), at least one pouring nozzle (42), displacement means for displacing the mobile plate (14) relative to the fixed plate (16), so as to control the overlap of the opening of the fixed plate by the opening of the movable plate, compression means (26) making it possible to lock the mobile plate against the fixed plate, characterized in that said refractory component set is installed and/or removed in a single operation.
  10. Replacement method according to claim 9, characterized in that use is made of a handling tool (66) incorporating a gripper (68), which ensures a connection of the components of the refractory set at the time of the installation and/or deposition of said plates.
  11. Replacement method according to either of the claims 9 and 10, characterized in that use is made of a handling tool for removing the used refractory component set and another handling tool for installing a new refractory component set, so as to reduce the time necessary for replacing the plates.
  12. Replacement method according to any one of the claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the used refractory components are discharged by gravity, the components of the refractory set being connected only on their introduction into the slide gate valve.
  13. Method for the replacement of refractory plates according to any one of the claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the metal shells (38, 40) are replaced at the same time as the refractory set respectively surrounding each of said plates.
  14. Replacement method according to any one of the claims 9 to 13, characterized in that use is made of displacement means (28, 44) of the movable refractory plate (16) for displacing the set of refractory components into a position where it is no longer subject to the action of the compression means (26) making it possible to lock the movable plate (16) against the fixed plate (14), which frees any attachment to the slide gate valve (10), so as to permit access to the handling manipulator without opening the metallic frame (12) of the valve.
  15. Replacement method according to claim 14, characterized in that use is made of a carrying frame (20) for the fixed plate (14) and a carrying frame (22) for the movable plate (16), the fixed plate carrying frame and movable plate carrying frame being joinable by means of a bolt (50) having two positions mounted on said fixed plate carrying frame (20).
  16. Replacement method according to claim 15, characterized in that the fixed plate carrying frame (20) has a central opening into which is introduced the fixed plate (14), and in that the movable plate carrying frame (22) has a central opening into which is introduced the movable plate (16), the central opening of the fixed plate carrying frame and the central opening of the movable plate carrying frame being superimposed during the extraction and insertion of the refractory component set.
EP93401009A 1993-04-19 1993-04-19 Set of ceramic elements for a casting gate and method of changing this set Expired - Lifetime EP0621097B1 (en)

Priority Applications (13)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT93401009T ATE163583T1 (en) 1993-04-19 1993-04-19 CERAMIC KIT FOR A CASTING CAP AND METHOD FOR CHANGING THE SAME
DE69317260T DE69317260T2 (en) 1993-04-19 1993-04-19 Ceramic kit for a pouring closure and method for changing the same
EP93401009A EP0621097B1 (en) 1993-04-19 1993-04-19 Set of ceramic elements for a casting gate and method of changing this set
ES93401009T ES2117110T3 (en) 1993-04-19 1993-04-19 SET OF REFRACTORY ELEMENTS FOR A CAST SHUTTER AND PROCEDURE TO CHANGE SUCH SET.
US08/214,287 US5388733A (en) 1993-04-19 1994-03-17 Slide gate valve having replaceable refractory valve plate assembly and method of replacing the same
CN94190196A CN1057717C (en) 1993-04-19 1994-04-19 Slide gate valve having replaceable refractory valve plate assembly and method of replacing the same
RU94046377A RU2117552C1 (en) 1993-04-19 1994-04-19 Gate closure for controlling melt metal flow, method for changing assembly with refractory plates in said gate closure and method for changing stationary and movable gate refractory plates
CA002137373A CA2137373A1 (en) 1993-04-19 1994-04-19 Slide gate valve having replaceable refractory valve plate assembly and method of replacing the same
MXPA94002806A MXPA94002806A (en) 1993-04-19 1994-04-19 Sliding valve for casting with replaceable conjunct of valve refractory plates and replacement method.
JP52277294A JP3335357B2 (en) 1993-04-19 1994-04-19 Sliding valve with replaceable heat resistant valve plate assembly and method of replacing the sliding valve
PCT/EP1994/001212 WO1994023864A2 (en) 1993-04-19 1994-04-19 Slide gate valve having replaceable refractory valve plate assembly and method of replacing the same
BR9404969A BR9404969A (en) 1993-04-19 1994-04-19 Gate valve to regulate the flow of liquid metal and process for replacing the set of refractory plates and the fixed and movable refractory plates of a gate valve
AU66793/94A AU667275B2 (en) 1993-04-19 1994-04-19 Slide gate valve having replaceable refractory valve plate assembly and method of replacing the same

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP93401009A EP0621097B1 (en) 1993-04-19 1993-04-19 Set of ceramic elements for a casting gate and method of changing this set

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0621097A1 EP0621097A1 (en) 1994-10-26
EP0621097B1 true EP0621097B1 (en) 1998-03-04

Family

ID=8214701

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP93401009A Expired - Lifetime EP0621097B1 (en) 1993-04-19 1993-04-19 Set of ceramic elements for a casting gate and method of changing this set

Country Status (13)

Country Link
US (1) US5388733A (en)
EP (1) EP0621097B1 (en)
JP (1) JP3335357B2 (en)
CN (1) CN1057717C (en)
AT (1) ATE163583T1 (en)
AU (1) AU667275B2 (en)
BR (1) BR9404969A (en)
CA (1) CA2137373A1 (en)
DE (1) DE69317260T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2117110T3 (en)
MX (1) MXPA94002806A (en)
RU (1) RU2117552C1 (en)
WO (1) WO1994023864A2 (en)

Families Citing this family (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2731725B2 (en) * 1994-08-25 1998-03-25 東芝セラミックス株式会社 Regeneration slide gate plate
US5626164A (en) * 1995-08-02 1997-05-06 Vesuvius Crucible Company Crack resistant valve plate assembly for a molten metal slide gate valve
JP3021333B2 (en) * 1995-10-31 2000-03-15 黒崎窯業株式会社 Sliding nozzle device and surface pressure load release method using the same
DE10140202A1 (en) * 2001-08-16 2003-03-06 Bayer Ag Vanadium-imido-phosphoraniminato for olefin polymerization
JP6802033B2 (en) * 2016-10-20 2020-12-16 黒崎播磨株式会社 Plate holding device, holding structure and holding method
CN108823353A (en) * 2018-06-05 2018-11-16 马鞍山利尔开元新材料有限公司 A kind of company's shuttle valve system of high life
KR20210102904A (en) * 2018-12-18 2021-08-20 베수비우스 그룹, 에스. 에이. metallurgical casting equipment

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2043217B (en) * 1979-03-02 1982-10-20 Flogates Ltd Spring device for sliding gate valve
DE2924118C2 (en) * 1979-06-15 1983-03-31 Zimmermann & Jansen GmbH, 5160 Düren Slide gate for a ladle
US4415103A (en) * 1979-09-07 1983-11-15 Uss Engineers And Consultants, Inc. Full throttle valve and method of tube and gate change
US4545512A (en) * 1981-01-19 1985-10-08 Uss Engineers & Consultants, Inc. Full throttle valve and method of tube and gate change
DE3230107A1 (en) * 1982-08-13 1984-03-01 Raimund Dipl.-Ing. 6238 Hofheim Brückner USE OF CERAMIC FIBER MATERIAL IN FIREPROOF WEARING PARTS OF SLIDING CLOSURES FOR CONTAINERS CONTAINING LIQUID METAL MELT AND SLIDING CLOSURE WITH FIRE-RESISTANT WEARING PARTS MADE OF CERAMIC FAS
JPH0335481Y2 (en) * 1984-09-11 1991-07-26
DE3500863C2 (en) * 1985-01-12 1987-01-15 Stopinc Ag, Baar Sliding closure for the pouring of metallurgical vessels
US4892235A (en) * 1988-06-23 1990-01-09 Flo-Con Systems, Inc. Joint and shroud support for pour tube and collector nozzle
US5211857A (en) * 1990-10-31 1993-05-18 Leco Corporation Gate safety arrangement
US5011050A (en) * 1990-10-31 1991-04-30 Leco Corporation Stepped gate safety arrangement
AU9020691A (en) * 1990-11-21 1992-06-25 Broken Hill Proprietary Company Limited, The Continuous casting of molten metal
ATE220588T1 (en) * 1993-04-19 2002-08-15 Vesuvius France Sa DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CASTING WITH A CEMENT-FREE CONNECTION OF THE SLIDING CLOSURE TO THE METALLURGICAL VESSEL

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
BR9404969A (en) 1999-06-15
CN1104830A (en) 1995-07-05
WO1994023864A3 (en) 1994-12-08
ATE163583T1 (en) 1998-03-15
CN1057717C (en) 2000-10-25
MXPA94002806A (en) 2004-08-20
AU6679394A (en) 1994-11-08
RU94046377A (en) 1996-10-20
EP0621097A1 (en) 1994-10-26
CA2137373A1 (en) 1994-10-27
JPH07508224A (en) 1995-09-14
WO1994023864A2 (en) 1994-10-27
AU667275B2 (en) 1996-03-14
JP3335357B2 (en) 2002-10-15
DE69317260D1 (en) 1998-04-09
RU2117552C1 (en) 1998-08-20
DE69317260T2 (en) 1998-06-25
ES2117110T3 (en) 1998-08-01
US5388733A (en) 1995-02-14

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