EP1781839A2 - Small-sized service module for aluminium electrolysis factories - Google Patents

Small-sized service module for aluminium electrolysis factories

Info

Publication number
EP1781839A2
EP1781839A2 EP05778791A EP05778791A EP1781839A2 EP 1781839 A2 EP1781839 A2 EP 1781839A2 EP 05778791 A EP05778791 A EP 05778791A EP 05778791 A EP05778791 A EP 05778791A EP 1781839 A2 EP1781839 A2 EP 1781839A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
service module
telescopic arm
turret
telescopic
service
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP05778791A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1781839B1 (en
Inventor
Alain Van Acker
Stéphane DAVID
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.)
Fives ECL SAS
Original Assignee
ECL SAS
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 ECL SAS filed Critical ECL SAS
Publication of EP1781839A2 publication Critical patent/EP1781839A2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1781839B1 publication Critical patent/EP1781839B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • 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
    • C25C3/14—Devices for feeding or crust breaking
    • 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

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis according to the Hall-Héroult method. It relates more particularly to service modules used in aluminum production plants.
  • Aluminum is produced industrially by igneous electrolysis in electrolysis cells according to the well-known Hall-Héroult process.
  • the plants contain a large number of electrolysis cells arranged in line, in buildings called halls or electrolysis rooms, and electrically connected in series using connecting conductors.
  • the cells are generally arranged to form two or more parallel lines that are electrically bonded together by end conductors.
  • an electrolysis plant requires interventions on the electrolysis cells including, in particular, the replacement of spent anodes with new anodes, the removal of liquid metal from the cells and the removal or addition of electrolyte.
  • the most modern factories are equipped with one or more service units comprising a movable bridge that can be translated over the electrolysis cells, and along the series of cells, and one or more a plurality of service machines each comprising a trolley and a service module provided with handling and intervention devices (often called "tools”), such as shovels and hoists, and able to be moved on the movable bridge.
  • tools handling and intervention devices
  • electrolysis service machines These service units are often called “electrolysis service machines” or “MSE”("PTA” or “Pot Tending Assembly” or “PTM” or “Pot Tending Machine” in English).
  • MSE electrolysis service machines
  • the electrolysis cells are arranged as close as possible to each other and close to one of the lateral sides of the rooms.
  • electrolysis and a traffic lane as narrow as possible is arranged near the other lateral side of the rooms. This provision requires that the distance between the walls of the electrolysis room and the limits of the working area of each of the tools of the service machines is as small as possible, especially for access to the electrolysis cells. This distance is called “tools approach”.
  • the position of the cells in the electrolysis room and the total area of the room that results depend substantially on the volume occupied by the service machines and the possibilities of approach and movement of their tools.
  • the known service modules occupy a large volume which prohibits a reduced approach to the sides of the electrolysis rooms, including the lateral sides, and which substantially limits their movements near these sides.
  • the volume of the modules can be reduced by a reconciliation of the tools.
  • this solution substantially increases the risk of damage to tools during maintenance operations.
  • the subject of the invention is a service module that can be used in an igneous electrolysis aluminum production plant and comprises a chassis that can be fixed to a carriage and a turret mounted on the chassis so as to be able to pivot about an axis.
  • vertical A in use and equipped with a plurality of handling and intervention devices, and characterized in that it comprises a set of tools, in that each tool of said assembly is mounted on a telescopic arm attached to the turret by an articulated support that allows pendular movements of the telescopic arm relative to a specific point of articulation while prohibiting the rotational movement of the telescopic arm about a reference axis, called "main axis", associated with this telescopic arm, and in that the telescopic arms of the determined set of tools are interconnected by a mechanical connection device capable of maintaining in a given tolerance range the relative angular difference between the pendular movements of the telescopic arms.
  • the Applicant has had the idea of allowing pendulum movements without rotation of the support means of certain tools, in order to give these tools a freedom of positioning which does not change their basic orientation, and to synchronize these pendular movements while at the same time conferring a limited independence of movement (thanks to said determined tolerance domain), which makes it possible to prevent them from colliding without rigidly linking them to one another. Said flexibility makes it possible in particular to prevent the jolts suffered by one of the tools from directly affecting the other tools in the set.
  • the service module according to the invention can thus be both compact and flexible, which makes it possible to make tight approaches with tools protected against significant accidental efforts. Indeed, the invention avoids the disadvantages of rigid attachment to the turret, which makes high risk of damage by false maneuver.
  • the set of tools typically comprises at least one tool selected from crustal shovels, anode handling tongs and stingers.
  • the invention also relates to a service machine comprising a carriage and a service module as described above.
  • the invention also relates to a service unit of an igneous electrolysis aluminum production plant comprising a mobile bridge and at least one service machine according to the invention.
  • the invention also relates to the use of a service unit according to the invention for the interventions on electrolytic cells for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a typical electrolysis room, seen in section, for the production of aluminum and comprising a service unit shown schematically.
  • Figure 2 illustrates, in a simplified manner and in perspective, a turret of a service module provided with standard tools.
  • Figure 3 illustrates an embodiment of the connecting device according to the invention, seen in perspective.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of the connecting device according to the invention, seen from below.
  • Figure 5 illustrates the turret of a service module according to one embodiment of the invention, seen from below and in perspective.
  • Electrolysis plants for aluminum production include a liquid aluminum production zone that includes one or more electrolysis rooms (1).
  • each electrolysis room (1) comprises electrolysis cells (2) and at least one "service unit” or “service machine” (3).
  • the electrolysis cells (2) are normally arranged in rows or rows, each row or line typically having more than one hundred cells.
  • the cells (2) are arranged so as to clear a circulation aisle (31) along the electrolysis room (1).
  • the cells (2) comprise a series of anodes (21) provided with a metal rod (22) for fixing and electrically connecting the anodes to a metal anode frame (not shown).
  • the service unit (3) is used to carry out operations on the cells (2) such as the anode changes or the filling of the ground bath supply hoppers and the AIF 3 of the electrolysis cells. It can also be used to handle various loads, such as tank elements, pockets of liquid metal or anodes.
  • the invention particularly relates to the service units that can be used to effect the anode changes.
  • the service unit (3) comprises a movable bridge (4) which can be translated over and along the electrolysis cells (2), and a service machine (5) comprising a trolley mobile (6) movable on the movable bridge (4) and a service module (7) equipped with several handling and intervention devices
  • the movable bridge (4) rests and circulates on raceways (30, 30 ') arranged parallel to each other and to the main axis of the room (and the queue of cells). The movable bridge (4) can thus be moved along the electrolysis room (1).
  • the service module (7) comprises a frame (8), typically a platform, adapted to be fixed to a carriage (6) and a turret (9) mounted on the frame (8) so as to be pivotable about a vertical axis A in use.
  • the turret (9) is generally equipped with a balcony or a control cabin (19) comprising controls for maneuvering the module (7) and said handling and intervention members (10).
  • the tools are normally on the same side of the turret (9), namely the side that is below the turret in use.
  • the turret (9) is equipped with a crust scoop (101), anode handling tongs (102) and a breaker (103).
  • These tools are intended for anode change operations of electrolysis cells.
  • the breaker (103) serves to break the crust of alumina and solidified bath which generally covers the anodes of the cell
  • the scallop (101) serves to clear the location of the anode, after the removal of the spent anode by removal of solids (such as pieces of crust and alumina) therein
  • the anode handling tongs (102) serves to grip and manipulate the anodes by their rods, in particular for the removal of spent anodes from an electrolytic cell and the placement of new anodes in the cell.
  • the anode handling tongs (102) may be associated with an anode connector handling tongs (102a).
  • the turret (9) can also be equipped with other tools, such as a second anode handling gripper (104), possibly associated with a second anode connector handling gripper (104a), a feed device alumina or ground bath (not shown) having a retractable conduit (not shown), or a hoist (not shown).
  • a second anode handling gripper (104) possibly associated with a second anode connector handling gripper (104a)
  • a feed device alumina or ground bath (not shown) having a retractable conduit (not shown) having a retractable conduit (not shown), or a hoist (not shown).
  • the turret (9) of a service module according to the invention is equipped with a set of tools (101, 102, 103), to which may be added one or more other tools.
  • the set of tools is a crust scoop (101), a first anode handling pliers (102) and a breaker (103).
  • Each tool of the assembly is mounted on a telescopic arm (111, 112, 113) fixed to the turret by an articulated support (121, 122, 123) which allows pendular movements of the telescopic arm relative to a point of articulation. determined (Pl,
  • the articulated supports (121, 122, 123) are typically selected from ball joints, cardan joints and pretensioned springs. In the context of the invention, it is advantageous to use cardan joints because they are simple.
  • the articulated supports (121, 122, 123) can be fixed to the telescopic arms by any known means, such as sleeves (1221,
  • the telescopic arms (111, 112, 113) of the determined set of tools are interconnected by a mechanical connection device (200) able to maintain in a given tolerance range the relative angular difference between the pendular movements of the telescopic arms.
  • Said tolerance range determined is ⁇ 10 °, that is to say that the angular difference between the main axes of any two telescopic arms of said set remains less than 10 ° in absolute value.
  • the term "telescopic arm” means any device comprising at least a first member referred to as “lead member” (5 H Ia 112a, 113a), typically a drum or elongated frame, and second member called “moving member” (111b, 112b, 113b), typically a rod or a barrel, adapted to be moved relative to the first member along a given axis, which is generally parallel to the main axis of the first member; member.
  • the first member (111a, 112a, 113a) is intended to be attached to the turret.
  • the tool is attached to the second member (111b, 112b, 113b), generally at one end thereof.
  • the telescopic arms comprise a first shank (11a, 112a, 113a) of substantially square section and a second shank (111b, 112b, 113b) of substantially square section capable of sliding at inside the first barrel; the main axis of the first and second barrels coincide.
  • the telescopic arm may comprise one or more complementary intermediate members located between the first and second members and slidable relative thereto.
  • the main axis (A1, A2, A3, A4) of the telescopic arms (111, 112, 113, 114) is intended to be substantially vertical in use and is typically parallel to the axis of the first limb of the telescopic arms.
  • the main axis of the first and second members are generally parallel to each other.
  • each telescopic arm (111, 112, 113) is attached to the corresponding hinged support (121, 122, 123) by a first member (111a, 112a, 113a), typically at one end. thereof, and the mechanical connecting device (200) is attached to the first member (11a, 112a, 113a) of each g telescopic arms (111, 112, 113) of said assembly and is located below said hinge points (P1, P2, P3) in use.
  • the first member (111a, 112a, 113a) of each telescopic arm of the set determined is a tut and the mechanical connecting device (200) is attached to these ruts.
  • the connecting device (200) typically comprises a rigid body (210) connected directly or indirectly to each of said telescopic arms (111, 112, 113).
  • the rigid body (210) is typically made of steel (preferably non-magnetic steel).
  • the device may further comprise connecting elements (201, 202, 203) fixedly attached to the rigid body (210) and intended to facilitate the assembly of the device and its mounting on the telescopic arms.
  • the connecting device (200) is fixed to the turret, directly or indirectly, by at least one extensible connecting means (301, 302), such as an elastic means and / or a actuator.
  • the connecting device (200) is advantageously fixed to a frame (310) secured to the turret by at least one extensible connecting means (301, 302).
  • the frame (310) is advantageously fixed to a foot (300) integral with the turret (9).
  • the connecting device (200) comprises:
  • a first extensible connecting means (301) which is oriented along a first stress axis C1 at rest and is connected, directly or indirectly, on the one hand to said frame (310) and on the other hand to a first telescopic arm ( 111);
  • a second extensible connecting means (302) which is oriented along a second stress axis C2 at rest, perpendicular to the first stress axis C1 at rest, and is connected, directly or indirectly, to said frame (310) and secondly to a second telescopic arm (112).
  • Said first and second extensible connecting means (301, 302) are typically respectively connected to said first and second telescopic arms (111, 112) via connecting elements (201, 202).
  • the connecting device (200) advantageously further comprises a rigid body (210) and said connecting elements (201, 202) are also connected to the rigid body (210).
  • said rigid body (210) is further connected, directly or indirectly, to a third telescopic arm (113).
  • This link is typically made via a link element (203).
  • the connection of the device to three separate telescopic arms produces an isostatic system in which it is possible to ensure the flatness of the rigid connection points (2012, 2022, 2032) of the rigid body (210).
  • Said extensible connecting means (301, 302) are typically selected from resilient means (such as prestressed springs and springs), actuators (such as pneumatic, hydraulic or mechanical cylinders) and combinations thereof.
  • resilient means such as prestressed springs and springs
  • actuators such as pneumatic, hydraulic or mechanical cylinders
  • prestressed springs which allow displacements only from a threshold of predetermined excitation force, makes it possible to effectively maintain said angular difference in said tolerance range.
  • pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders makes it possible to give voluntary movements to the tools and possibly to automatically control these movements.
  • the elastic means can be used alone or in combination with an actuator (typically placed in parallel with the elastic means); likewise, the actuator can be used alone or in combination with an elastic means (typically placed in parallel with the actuator).
  • the extensible connecting means (301, 302) allow a limited clearance of the telescopic arms which aims to maintain in said determined tolerance range the relative angular difference between the pendular movements of the telescopic arms.
  • Figures 3 to 5 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • the device comprises a frame (310), secured to the turret (9) by a foot (300), and a rigid body (210) connected to three telescopic arms (111, 112, 113) by intermediate of connecting elements (201, 202, 203) each having a first articulated connection point (2011, 2021, 2031) attached to the telescopic arms (111, 112, 113) and a rigid connection point (2012, 2022 , 2032) attached to the rigid body (210).
  • the rigid body (210) is connected to the frame (310) by springs (301, 302), perpendicular to each other, which are fixed to the rigid body via the first and second connecting elements (201 , 202) which each have a second articulated connection point (2013, 2023).
  • the springs can be replaced by actuators or combined with actuators.
  • the device may comprise one or more connecting rods (201a) complementary between the connecting elements and the telescopic arms, linked by articulated connection points (2011a, 2011b) and intended to facilitate the mounting of the device on the telescopic arms.
  • the turret (9) may comprise at least one complementary telescopic arm (114) fixed to the turret (9) by an articulated support (124) and a connecting means between this telescopic arm and one of the three other telescopic arms (111). , 112, 113) or between this telescopic arm and the connecting device (200).
  • Said connecting means may be elastic (such as a spring) or articulated (such as a connecting rod).
  • the articulated support (124) allows pendular movements of the telescopic arm relative to a specific articulation point (P4) while prohibiting the rotational movement of the telescopic arm about its main axis (A4).
  • the connecting device (200) limits the amplitude of the pendular movements of the telescopic arms. It is thus possible to bring the tools closer to each other without the risk that they will collide during use.
  • connecting device (200) with an inclination detection system fixed on one of the telescopic arms or with a displacement detector placed on one of the elastic systems (ie say on the said springs or actuators), which allows to know the displacements of the telescopic arms and to cut if necessary the supply of the motor which creates the displacement of the tools.
  • the service module (7) may optionally comprise a gateway fixed to said frame (310).

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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)
  • Arc Welding In General (AREA)
  • Forklifts And Lifting Vehicles (AREA)
  • Pressure Welding/Diffusion-Bonding (AREA)
  • Forging (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a service module for factories producing aluminium by fusion electrolysis. The turret (9) of the inventive service module (7) is provided with a determined tool set, wherein each tool (101, 102, 103) is mounted on a telescopic arm (111, 112, 113) which is fixed to the turret (9) by a hinge support (121, 122, 123) which enables said telescopic arm to be perpendicularly movable with respect to a determined hinge point without rotating around the main axis thereof. Said telescopic arms are interconnected by a mechanical connection device (200) which maintains the relative angular deviation between the perpendicular movements thereof within a given tolerance range. Said invention makes it possible to bring the tools closer without striking each other during the use thereof.

Description

MODULE DE SERVICE COMPACT DESTINÉ AUX USINES DE PRODUCTION D'ALUMINIUM PAR ÉLECTROLYSE COMPACT SERVICE MODULE FOR ALUMINUM PRODUCTION PLANTS BY ELECTROLYSIS
Domaine de l'inventionField of the invention
L'invention concerne la production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée selon le procédé de Hall-Héroult. Elle concerne plus particulièrement les modules de service utilisés dans les usines de production d'aluminium.The invention relates to the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis according to the Hall-Héroult method. It relates more particularly to service modules used in aluminum production plants.
Etat de la techniqueState of the art
L'aluminium est produit industriellement par électrolyse ignée dans des cellules d'électrolyse suivant le procédé bien connu de Hall-Héroult. Les usines contiennent un grand nombre de cellules d'électrolyse disposées en ligne, dans des bâtiments appelés halls ou salles d'électrolyse, et raccordées électriquement en série à l'aide de conducteurs de liaison. Les cellules sont généralement disposées de manière à former deux ou plusieurs files parallèles qui sont électriquement liées entre elles par des conducteurs d'extrémité.Aluminum is produced industrially by igneous electrolysis in electrolysis cells according to the well-known Hall-Héroult process. The plants contain a large number of electrolysis cells arranged in line, in buildings called halls or electrolysis rooms, and electrically connected in series using connecting conductors. The cells are generally arranged to form two or more parallel lines that are electrically bonded together by end conductors.
Le fonctionnement d'une usine d'électrolyse nécessite des interventions sur les cellules d'électrolyse parmi lesquelles figurent, notamment, le remplacement des anodes usées par des anodes neuves, le prélèvement de métal liquide des cellules et les prélèvements ou ajouts d'électrolyte. Afin d'effectuer ces interventions, les usines les plus modernes sont équipées d'une ou plusieurs unités de service comprenant un pont mobile qui peut être translaté au-dessus des cellules d'électrolyse, et le long des séries de cellules, et une ou plusieurs machines de service comprenant chacune un chariot et un module de service muni d'organes de manutention et d'intervention (souvent appelés « outils »), tels que des pelles et des palans, et apte à être déplacée sur le pont mobile. Ces unités de service sont souvent appelées "machines de service électrolyse" ou "M.S.E" ("PTA" ou "Pot Tending Assembly" ou "PTM" ou "Pot Tending Machine" en langue anglaise). Afin d'optimiser l'espace dans les salles d'électrolyse et de réduire le coût des investissements, les cellules d'électrolyse sont disposées de manière aussi rapprochée que possible les unes des autres et à proximité de l'un des côtés latéraux des salles d'électrolyse et une allée de circulation aussi étroite que possible est aménagée à proximité de l'autre côté latéral des salles. Cette disposition impose que la distance entre les murs de la salle d'électrolyse et les limites de la zone de travail de chacun des outils des machines de service soit la plus réduite possible, notamment pour l'accès aux cellules d'électrolyse. Cette distance est appelée "approche des outils". La position des cellules dans la salle d'électrolyse et la surface totale de la salle qui en résulte dépendent sensiblement du volume occupé par les machines de service et des possibilités d'approche et de mouvement de leurs outils. Or, les modules de service connus occupent un volume important qui interdit une approche réduite des côtés des salles d'électrolyse, notamment des côtés latéraux, et qui limite sensiblement leurs mouvements à proximité de ces côtés. Le volume des modules peut être réduit par un rapprochement des outils. Toutefois, cette solution augmente sensiblement les risques d'endommagement des outils lors des opérations d'entretien.The operation of an electrolysis plant requires interventions on the electrolysis cells including, in particular, the replacement of spent anodes with new anodes, the removal of liquid metal from the cells and the removal or addition of electrolyte. In order to carry out these interventions, the most modern factories are equipped with one or more service units comprising a movable bridge that can be translated over the electrolysis cells, and along the series of cells, and one or more a plurality of service machines each comprising a trolley and a service module provided with handling and intervention devices (often called "tools"), such as shovels and hoists, and able to be moved on the movable bridge. These service units are often called "electrolysis service machines" or "MSE"("PTA" or "Pot Tending Assembly" or "PTM" or "Pot Tending Machine" in English). In order to optimize the space in the electrolysis rooms and to reduce the cost of the investments, the electrolysis cells are arranged as close as possible to each other and close to one of the lateral sides of the rooms. electrolysis and a traffic lane as narrow as possible is arranged near the other lateral side of the rooms. This provision requires that the distance between the walls of the electrolysis room and the limits of the working area of each of the tools of the service machines is as small as possible, especially for access to the electrolysis cells. This distance is called "tools approach". The position of the cells in the electrolysis room and the total area of the room that results depend substantially on the volume occupied by the service machines and the possibilities of approach and movement of their tools. However, the known service modules occupy a large volume which prohibits a reduced approach to the sides of the electrolysis rooms, including the lateral sides, and which substantially limits their movements near these sides. The volume of the modules can be reduced by a reconciliation of the tools. However, this solution substantially increases the risk of damage to tools during maintenance operations.
La demanderesse a donc recherché des unités de service qui permettent d'éviter ces inconvénients.The plaintiff has therefore sought service units which make it possible to avoid these drawbacks.
Description de l'inventionDescription of the invention
L'invention a pour objet un module de service utilisable dans une usine de production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée et comprenant un châssis apte à être fixé à un chariot et une tourelle montée sur le châssis de manière à pouvoir pivoter autour d'un axe vertical A en utilisation et équipée d'une pluralité d'organes de manutention et d'intervention, et caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un ensemble déterminé d'outils, en ce que chaque outil dudit ensemble est monté sur un bras télescopique fixé à la tourelle par un support articulé qui permet des mouvements pendulaires du bras télescopique par rapport à un point d'articulation déterminé tout en interdisant les mouvements de rotation du bras télescopique autour d'un axe de référence, appelé "axe principal", associé à ce bras télescopique, et en ce que les bras télescopiques de l'ensemble déterminé d'outils sont reliés entre eux par un dispositif de liaison mécanique apte à maintenir dans un domaine de tolérance déterminé l'écart angulaire relatif entre les mouvements pendulaires des bras télescopiques.The subject of the invention is a service module that can be used in an igneous electrolysis aluminum production plant and comprises a chassis that can be fixed to a carriage and a turret mounted on the chassis so as to be able to pivot about an axis. vertical A in use and equipped with a plurality of handling and intervention devices, and characterized in that it comprises a set of tools, in that each tool of said assembly is mounted on a telescopic arm attached to the turret by an articulated support that allows pendular movements of the telescopic arm relative to a specific point of articulation while prohibiting the rotational movement of the telescopic arm about a reference axis, called "main axis", associated with this telescopic arm, and in that the telescopic arms of the determined set of tools are interconnected by a mechanical connection device capable of maintaining in a given tolerance range the relative angular difference between the pendular movements of the telescopic arms.
La demanderesse a eu l'idée de permettre des mouvements pendulaires sans rotation des moyens de support de certains outils, afin de conférer à ces outils une liberté de positionnement qui ne change pas leur orientation de base, et de synchroniser ces mouvements pendulaires tout en leur conférant une indépendance de mouvement limitée (grâce audit domaine de tolérance déterminé), ce qui permet d'éviter qu'ils s'entrechoquent sans pour autant les lier rigidement l'un à l'autre. Ladite souplesse permet notamment d'éviter que les à-coups subis par l'un des outils se répercutent directement sur les autres outils de l'ensemble.The Applicant has had the idea of allowing pendulum movements without rotation of the support means of certain tools, in order to give these tools a freedom of positioning which does not change their basic orientation, and to synchronize these pendular movements while at the same time conferring a limited independence of movement (thanks to said determined tolerance domain), which makes it possible to prevent them from colliding without rigidly linking them to one another. Said flexibility makes it possible in particular to prevent the jolts suffered by one of the tools from directly affecting the other tools in the set.
Le module de service selon l'invention peut ainsi être à la fois compact et souple, ce qui permet de faire des approches serrées avec des outils protégés contre les efforts accidentels importants. En effet, l'invention permet d'éviter les inconvénients d'une fixation rigide sur la tourelle, qui rend élevés les risques d'endommagement par fausse manœuvre.The service module according to the invention can thus be both compact and flexible, which makes it possible to make tight approaches with tools protected against significant accidental efforts. Indeed, the invention avoids the disadvantages of rigid attachment to the turret, which makes high risk of damage by false maneuver.
L'ensemble déterminé d'outils comprend typiquement au moins un outil choisi parmi les pelles à croûtes, les pinces de manutention des anodes et les piqueurs.The set of tools typically comprises at least one tool selected from crustal shovels, anode handling tongs and stingers.
L'invention a également pour objet une machine de service comprenant un chariot et un module de service tel que décrit précédemment.The invention also relates to a service machine comprising a carriage and a service module as described above.
L'invention a encore pour objet une unité de service d'une usine de production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée comprenant un pont mobile et au moins une machine de service selon l'invention. L'invention a encore pour objet l'utilisation d'une unité de service selon l'invention pour les interventions sur des cellules d'électrolyse destinées à la production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée.The invention also relates to a service unit of an igneous electrolysis aluminum production plant comprising a mobile bridge and at least one service machine according to the invention. The invention also relates to the use of a service unit according to the invention for the interventions on electrolytic cells for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis.
L'invention est décrite en détail ci-après à l'aide des figures annexées.The invention is described in detail below with the aid of the appended figures.
La figure 1 illustre une salle d'électrolyse typique, vue en section, destinée à la production d'aluminium et comprenant une unité de service représentée de manière schématique.Figure 1 illustrates a typical electrolysis room, seen in section, for the production of aluminum and comprising a service unit shown schematically.
La figure 2 illustre, de manière simplifiée et en perspective, une tourelle d'un module de service munie d'outils standards.Figure 2 illustrates, in a simplified manner and in perspective, a turret of a service module provided with standard tools.
La figure 3 illustre un mode de réalisation du dispositif de liaison selon l'invention, vu en perspective.Figure 3 illustrates an embodiment of the connecting device according to the invention, seen in perspective.
La figure 4 illustre un mode de réalisation du dispositif de liaison selon l'invention, vu du dessous.Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment of the connecting device according to the invention, seen from below.
La figure 5 illustre la tourelle d'un module de service selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, vue du dessous et en perspective.Figure 5 illustrates the turret of a service module according to one embodiment of the invention, seen from below and in perspective.
Les usines d'électrolyse destinées à la production d'aluminium comprennent une zone de production d'aluminium liquide qui comprend une ou plusieurs salles d'électrolyse (1). Tel qu'illustré à la figure 1, chaque salle d'électrolyse (1) comporte des cellules d'électrolyse (2) et au moins une "unité de service" ou "machine de service" (3). Les cellules d'électrolyse (2) sont normalement disposées en rangées ou files, chaque rangée ou file comportant typiquement plus d'une centaine de cellules. Les cellules (2) sont disposées de manière à dégager une allée de circulation (31) sur le long de la salle d'électrolyse (1). Les cellules (2) comprennent une série d'anodes (21) munies d'une tige métallique (22) destinée à la fixation et au raccordement électrique des anodes à un cadre anodique métallique (non illustré). L'unité de service (3) sert à effectuer des opérations sur les cellules (2) telles que les changements d'anode ou le remplissage des trémies d'alimentation en bain broyé et en AIF3 des cellules d'électrolyse. Elle peut également servir à manutentionner des charges diverses, telles que des éléments de cuve, des poches de métal liquide ou des anodes. L'invention concerne tout particulièrement les unités de service utilisables pour effectuer les changements d'anode.Electrolysis plants for aluminum production include a liquid aluminum production zone that includes one or more electrolysis rooms (1). As illustrated in Figure 1, each electrolysis room (1) comprises electrolysis cells (2) and at least one "service unit" or "service machine" (3). The electrolysis cells (2) are normally arranged in rows or rows, each row or line typically having more than one hundred cells. The cells (2) are arranged so as to clear a circulation aisle (31) along the electrolysis room (1). The cells (2) comprise a series of anodes (21) provided with a metal rod (22) for fixing and electrically connecting the anodes to a metal anode frame (not shown). The service unit (3) is used to carry out operations on the cells (2) such as the anode changes or the filling of the ground bath supply hoppers and the AIF 3 of the electrolysis cells. It can also be used to handle various loads, such as tank elements, pockets of liquid metal or anodes. The invention particularly relates to the service units that can be used to effect the anode changes.
L'unité de service (3) comprend un pont mobile (4) qui peut être translaté au-dessus des cellules d'électrolyse (2), et le long de celles-ci, et une machine de service (5) comprenant un chariot mobile (6) apte à être déplacé sur le pont mobile (4) et un module de service (7) équipé de plusieurs organes de manutention et d'interventionThe service unit (3) comprises a movable bridge (4) which can be translated over and along the electrolysis cells (2), and a service machine (5) comprising a trolley mobile (6) movable on the movable bridge (4) and a service module (7) equipped with several handling and intervention devices
(10), tels que des outils (pelles, clés, piqueurs,...). Le pont mobile (4) repose et circule sur des chemins de roulement (30, 30') disposés parallèlement l'un à l'autre et à l'axe principal de la salle (et de la file de cellules). Le pont mobile (4) peut ainsi être déplacé le long de la salle d'électrolyse (1).(10), such as tools (shovels, keys, biters, ...). The movable bridge (4) rests and circulates on raceways (30, 30 ') arranged parallel to each other and to the main axis of the room (and the queue of cells). The movable bridge (4) can thus be moved along the electrolysis room (1).
Le module de service (7) comporte un châssis (8), typiquement une plate-forme, apte à être fixé à un chariot (6) et une tourelle (9) montée sur le châssis (8) de manière à pouvoir pivoter autour d'un axe vertical A en utilisation. La tourelle (9) est généralement équipée d'un balcon ou d'une cabine de commande (19) comportant des commandes destinées à manœuvrer le module (7) et lesdits organes de manutention et d'intervention (10). Les outils se situent normalement d'un même côté de la tourelle (9), à savoir le côté qui se trouve en dessous de la tourelle en utilisation.The service module (7) comprises a frame (8), typically a platform, adapted to be fixed to a carriage (6) and a turret (9) mounted on the frame (8) so as to be pivotable about a vertical axis A in use. The turret (9) is generally equipped with a balcony or a control cabin (19) comprising controls for maneuvering the module (7) and said handling and intervention members (10). The tools are normally on the same side of the turret (9), namely the side that is below the turret in use.
Dans l'exemple illustré à la figure 2, la tourelle (9) est équipée d'une pelle à croûtes (101), d'une pince de manutention des anodes (102) et d'un piqueur (103). Ces outils sont destinés aux opérations de changement d'anodes des cellules d'électrolyse. Dans ces opérations, le piqueur (103) sert à briser la croûte d'alumine et de bain solidifié qui couvre généralement les anodes de la cellule, la pelle à croûtes (101) sert à dégager l'emplacement de l'anode, après le retrait de l'anode usée, par enlèvement des matières solides (telles que des morceaux de croûte et de l'alumine) qui s'y trouvent, et la pince de manutention des anodes (102) sert à saisir et à manipuler les anodes par leur tige, notamment pour l'enlèvement des anodes usées d'une cellule d'électrolyse et la mise en place d'anodes neuves dans la cellule d'électrolyse. La pince de manutention des anodes (102) peut être associée à une pince de manutention des connecteurs d'anode (102a).In the example illustrated in Figure 2, the turret (9) is equipped with a crust scoop (101), anode handling tongs (102) and a breaker (103). These tools are intended for anode change operations of electrolysis cells. In these operations, the breaker (103) serves to break the crust of alumina and solidified bath which generally covers the anodes of the cell, the scallop (101) serves to clear the location of the anode, after the removal of the spent anode by removal of solids (such as pieces of crust and alumina) therein, and the anode handling tongs (102) serves to grip and manipulate the anodes by their rods, in particular for the removal of spent anodes from an electrolytic cell and the placement of new anodes in the cell. 'electrolysis. The anode handling tongs (102) may be associated with an anode connector handling tongs (102a).
La tourelle (9) peut également être équipée d'autres outils, tels qu'une deuxième pince de manutention des anodes (104), éventuellement associée à une deuxième pince de manutention des connecteurs d'anode (104a), un dispositif d'alimentation en alumine ou en bain broyé (non illustré) comportant un conduit escamotable (non illustré), ou encore un palan (non illustré).The turret (9) can also be equipped with other tools, such as a second anode handling gripper (104), possibly associated with a second anode connector handling gripper (104a), a feed device alumina or ground bath (not shown) having a retractable conduit (not shown), or a hoist (not shown).
La tourelle (9) d'un module de service selon l'invention est équipée d'un ensemble déterminé d'outils (101, 102, 103), auquel peuvent éventuellement être ajoutés un ou plusieurs autres outils. Dans l'exemple de réalisation illustré à la figure 5, l'ensemble déterminé d'outils est une pelle à croûtes (101), une première pince de manutention des anodes (102) et un piqueur (103).The turret (9) of a service module according to the invention is equipped with a set of tools (101, 102, 103), to which may be added one or more other tools. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the set of tools is a crust scoop (101), a first anode handling pliers (102) and a breaker (103).
Chaque outil de l'ensemble est monté sur un bras télescopique (111, 112, 113) fixé à la tourelle par un support articulé (121, 122, 123) qui permet des mouvements pendulaires du bras télescopique par rapport à un point d'articulation déterminé (Pl,Each tool of the assembly is mounted on a telescopic arm (111, 112, 113) fixed to the turret by an articulated support (121, 122, 123) which allows pendular movements of the telescopic arm relative to a point of articulation. determined (Pl,
P2, P3) tout en interdisant les mouvements de rotation du bras télescopique autour de son axe principal (Al, A2, A3). Les supports articulés (121, 122, 123) sont typiquement choisis parmi les rotules, les joints de cardan et les ressorts précontraints. Dans le cadre de l'invention, il est avantageux d'utiliser des joints de cardan car ces derniers sont simples. Les supports articulés (121, 122, 123) peuvent être fixés aux bras télescopiques par tout moyen connu, tels que des manchons (1221,P2, P3) while prohibiting the rotational movements of the telescopic arm about its main axis (Al, A2, A3). The articulated supports (121, 122, 123) are typically selected from ball joints, cardan joints and pretensioned springs. In the context of the invention, it is advantageous to use cardan joints because they are simple. The articulated supports (121, 122, 123) can be fixed to the telescopic arms by any known means, such as sleeves (1221,
1231, 1241) ou des embouts (1212). Tel qu'illustré à la figure 3, les supports articulés1231, 1241) or nozzles (1212). As shown in Figure 3, the articulated supports
(121, 122, 123) peuvent être déportés latéralement par rapport à l'axe principal (Al, A2, A3) des bras télescopiques (111 , 112, 113). Les bras télescopiques (111, 112, 113) de l'ensemble déterminé d'outils sont reliés entre eux par un dispositif de liaison mécanique (200) apte à maintenir dans un domaine de tolérance déterminé l'écart angulaire relatif entre les mouvements pendulaires des bras télescopiques. Ledit domaine de tolérance déterminé est de ± 10°, c'est-à-dire que l'écart angulaire entre les axes principaux de deux bras télescopiques quelconques dudit ensemble reste inférieur à 10° en valeur absolue.(121, 122, 123) can be offset laterally with respect to the main axis (Al, A2, A3) of the telescopic arms (111, 112, 113). The telescopic arms (111, 112, 113) of the determined set of tools are interconnected by a mechanical connection device (200) able to maintain in a given tolerance range the relative angular difference between the pendular movements of the telescopic arms. Said tolerance range determined is ± 10 °, that is to say that the angular difference between the main axes of any two telescopic arms of said set remains less than 10 ° in absolute value.
Dans le cadre de l'invention, le terme "bras télescopique" s'entend de tout dispositif comportant au moins un premier membre appelé "membre principal" (H Ia5 112a, 113a), typiquement un fût ou un châssis allongé, et un deuxième membre appelé "membre mobile" (111b, 112b, 113b), typiquement une tige ou un fût, apte à être déplacé par rapport au premier membre le long d'un axe déterminé, qui est généralement parallèle à l'axe principal du premier membre. Le premier membre (111a, 112a, 113a) est destiné à être fixé à la tourelle. L'outil est fixé au deuxième membre (111b, 112b, 113b), généralement à une extrémité de celui-ci. Dans les exemples de réalisation illustrés aux figures 3 à 5, les bras télescopiques comportent un premier fût (11 la, 112a, 113a) de section sensiblement carrée et un deuxième fût (111b, 112b, 113b) de section sensiblement carrée apte à coulisser à l'intérieur du premier fût ; l'axe principal des premier et deuxième fûts coïncident. Le bras télescopique peut comporter un ou plusieurs membres intermédiaires complémentaires situés entre le premier et le deuxième membres et aptes à coulisser par rapport à ces derniers.In the context of the invention, the term "telescopic arm" means any device comprising at least a first member referred to as "lead member" (5 H Ia 112a, 113a), typically a drum or elongated frame, and second member called "moving member" (111b, 112b, 113b), typically a rod or a barrel, adapted to be moved relative to the first member along a given axis, which is generally parallel to the main axis of the first member; member. The first member (111a, 112a, 113a) is intended to be attached to the turret. The tool is attached to the second member (111b, 112b, 113b), generally at one end thereof. In the exemplary embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5, the telescopic arms comprise a first shank (11a, 112a, 113a) of substantially square section and a second shank (111b, 112b, 113b) of substantially square section capable of sliding at inside the first barrel; the main axis of the first and second barrels coincide. The telescopic arm may comprise one or more complementary intermediate members located between the first and second members and slidable relative thereto.
L'axe principal (Al, A2, A3, A4) des bras télescopiques (111, 112, 113, 114) est destiné à être sensiblement vertical en utilisation et est typiquement parallèle à l'axe du premier membre des bras télescopiques. L'axe principal des premier et deuxième membres sont généralement parallèles l'un à l'autre.The main axis (A1, A2, A3, A4) of the telescopic arms (111, 112, 113, 114) is intended to be substantially vertical in use and is typically parallel to the axis of the first limb of the telescopic arms. The main axis of the first and second members are generally parallel to each other.
Dans un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, chaque bras télescopique (111, 112, 113) est fixé au support articulé correspondant (121, 122, 123) par un premier membre (111a, 112a, 113a), typiquement à une extrémité de celui-ci, et le dispositif de liaison mécanique (200) est fixé au premier membre (11 la, 112a, 113a) de chacun g des bras télescopiques (111, 112, 113) dudit ensemble et est situé en dessous des desdits points d'articulation (Pl, P2, P3) en utilisation. Dans les exemples de réalisation illustrés aux figures 3 à 5, le premier membre (111a, 112a, 113a) de chaque bras télescopique de l'ensemble déterminé est un tut et le dispositif de liaison mécanique (200) est fixé à ces ruts.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each telescopic arm (111, 112, 113) is attached to the corresponding hinged support (121, 122, 123) by a first member (111a, 112a, 113a), typically at one end. thereof, and the mechanical connecting device (200) is attached to the first member (11a, 112a, 113a) of each g telescopic arms (111, 112, 113) of said assembly and is located below said hinge points (P1, P2, P3) in use. In the exemplary embodiments illustrated in Figures 3 to 5, the first member (111a, 112a, 113a) of each telescopic arm of the set determined is a tut and the mechanical connecting device (200) is attached to these ruts.
Le dispositif de liaison (200) comporte typiquement un corps rigide (210) relié directement ou indirectement à chacun desdits bras télescopiques (111, 112, 113). Le corps rigide (210) est typiquement en acier (de préférence en acier amagnétique). Le dispositif peut en outre comprendre des éléments de liaison (201, 202, 203) fixés rigidement au corps rigide (210) et destinés à faciliter l'assemblage du dispositif et son montage sur les bras télescopiques.The connecting device (200) typically comprises a rigid body (210) connected directly or indirectly to each of said telescopic arms (111, 112, 113). The rigid body (210) is typically made of steel (preferably non-magnetic steel). The device may further comprise connecting elements (201, 202, 203) fixedly attached to the rigid body (210) and intended to facilitate the assembly of the device and its mounting on the telescopic arms.
Dans une variante avantageuse de l'invention, le dispositif de liaison (200) est fixé à la tourelle, directement ou indirectement, par au moins un moyen de liaison extensible (301, 302), tel qu'un moyen élastique et/ou un actionneur. Dans un mode de réalisation préféré de cette variante, le dispositif de liaison (200) est avantageusement fixé à un cadre (310) solidaire de la tourelle par au moins un moyen de liaison extensible (301, 302). Le cadre (310) est avantageusement fixé à un pied (300) solidaire de la tourelle (9).In an advantageous variant of the invention, the connecting device (200) is fixed to the turret, directly or indirectly, by at least one extensible connecting means (301, 302), such as an elastic means and / or a actuator. In a preferred embodiment of this variant, the connecting device (200) is advantageously fixed to a frame (310) secured to the turret by at least one extensible connecting means (301, 302). The frame (310) is advantageously fixed to a foot (300) integral with the turret (9).
De manière avantageuse, le dispositif de liaison (200) comporte :Advantageously, the connecting device (200) comprises:
- un premier moyen de liaison extensible (301) qui est orienté selon un premier axe de contrainte Cl au repos et est relié, directement ou indirectement, d'une part audit cadre (310) et d'autre part à un premier bras télescopique (111) ;a first extensible connecting means (301) which is oriented along a first stress axis C1 at rest and is connected, directly or indirectly, on the one hand to said frame (310) and on the other hand to a first telescopic arm ( 111);
- un deuxième moyen de liaison extensible (302) qui est orienté selon un deuxième axe de contrainte C2 au repos, perpendiculaire au premier axe de contrainte Cl au repos, et est relié, directement ou indirectement, d'une part audit cadre (310) et d'autre part à un deuxième bras télescopique (112). Lesdits premier et deuxième moyens de liaison extensibles (301, 302) sont typiquement reliés respectivement aux dits premier et deuxième bras télescopiques (111, 112) par l'intermédiaire d'éléments de liaison (201, 202).a second extensible connecting means (302) which is oriented along a second stress axis C2 at rest, perpendicular to the first stress axis C1 at rest, and is connected, directly or indirectly, to said frame (310) and secondly to a second telescopic arm (112). Said first and second extensible connecting means (301, 302) are typically respectively connected to said first and second telescopic arms (111, 112) via connecting elements (201, 202).
Dans ce mode de réalisation, le dispositif de liaison (200) comporte avantageusement en outre un corps rigide (210) et lesdits éléments de liaison (201, 202) sont aussi reliés au corps rigide (210).In this embodiment, the connecting device (200) advantageously further comprises a rigid body (210) and said connecting elements (201, 202) are also connected to the rigid body (210).
De préférence, ledit corps rigide (210) est en outre relié, directement ou indirectement, à un troisième bras télescopique (113). Cette liaison est typiquement faite par l'intermédiaire d'un élément de liaison (203). La liaison du dispositif à trois bras télescopiques distincts produit un système isostatique dans lequel il est possible de garantir la planéité des points de liaisons rigides (2012, 2022, 2032) du corps rigide (210).Preferably, said rigid body (210) is further connected, directly or indirectly, to a third telescopic arm (113). This link is typically made via a link element (203). The connection of the device to three separate telescopic arms produces an isostatic system in which it is possible to ensure the flatness of the rigid connection points (2012, 2022, 2032) of the rigid body (210).
.Lesdits moyens de liaison extensibles (301, 302) sont typiquement choisis parmi les moyens élastiques (tels que les ressorts et les ressorts précontraints), les actionneurs (tels que les vérins pneumatiques, hydrauliques ou mécaniques) et les combinaisons de ceux-ci. L'utilisation de ressorts précontraints, qui n'autorisent les déplacements qu'à partir d'un seuil d'effort d'excitation prédéterminé, permet de maintenir efficacement ledit écart angulaire dans ledit domaine de tolérance. L'utilisation de vérins pneumatiques ou hydrauliques permet de donner des mouvements volontaires aux outils et, éventuellement, de contrôler automatiquement ces mouvements. Selon l'invention, le moyen élastique peut être utilisé seul ou en combinaison avec un actionneur (typiquement placé en parallèle au moyen élastique) ; de même, l'actionneur peut être utilisé seul ou en combinaison avec un moyen élastique (typiquement placé en parallèle à l'actionneur).Said extensible connecting means (301, 302) are typically selected from resilient means (such as prestressed springs and springs), actuators (such as pneumatic, hydraulic or mechanical cylinders) and combinations thereof. The use of prestressed springs, which allow displacements only from a threshold of predetermined excitation force, makes it possible to effectively maintain said angular difference in said tolerance range. The use of pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders makes it possible to give voluntary movements to the tools and possibly to automatically control these movements. According to the invention, the elastic means can be used alone or in combination with an actuator (typically placed in parallel with the elastic means); likewise, the actuator can be used alone or in combination with an elastic means (typically placed in parallel with the actuator).
Les moyens de liaison extensibles (301, 302) permettent un débattement limité des bras télescopiques qui vise à maintenir dans ledit domaine de tolérance déterminé l'écart angulaire relatif entre les mouvements pendulaires des bras télescopiques. Les figures 3 à 5 illustrent un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention. Dans ce mode de réalisation, le dispositif comporte un cadre (310), solidarisé à la tourelle (9) par un pied (300), et un corps rigide (210) relié à trois bras télescopique (111, 112, 113) par l'intermédiaire d'éléments de liaison (201, 202, 203) possédant chacun un premier point de liaison articulé (2011, 2021, 2031) fixé aux bras télescopique (111, 112, 113) et un point de liaison rigide (2012, 2022, 2032) fixé au corps rigide (210). Le corps rigide (210) est relié au cadre (310) par des ressorts (301, 302), perpendiculaires l'un à l'autre, qui sont fixés au corps rigide par l'intermédiaire des premier et deuxième éléments de liaison (201, 202) qui possèdent chacun un deuxième point de liaison articulé (2013, 2023). Les ressorts peuvent être remplacés par des actionneurs ou combinés à des actionneurs. Tel qu'illustré à la figure 4, le dispositif peut comprendre une ou plusieurs bielles de liaison (201a) complémentaires entre les éléments de liaison et les bras télescopiques, liés par des points de liaison articulés (2011a, 2011b) et destinés à faciliter le montage du dispositif sur les bras télescopiques.The extensible connecting means (301, 302) allow a limited clearance of the telescopic arms which aims to maintain in said determined tolerance range the relative angular difference between the pendular movements of the telescopic arms. Figures 3 to 5 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the device comprises a frame (310), secured to the turret (9) by a foot (300), and a rigid body (210) connected to three telescopic arms (111, 112, 113) by intermediate of connecting elements (201, 202, 203) each having a first articulated connection point (2011, 2021, 2031) attached to the telescopic arms (111, 112, 113) and a rigid connection point (2012, 2022 , 2032) attached to the rigid body (210). The rigid body (210) is connected to the frame (310) by springs (301, 302), perpendicular to each other, which are fixed to the rigid body via the first and second connecting elements (201 , 202) which each have a second articulated connection point (2013, 2023). The springs can be replaced by actuators or combined with actuators. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the device may comprise one or more connecting rods (201a) complementary between the connecting elements and the telescopic arms, linked by articulated connection points (2011a, 2011b) and intended to facilitate the mounting of the device on the telescopic arms.
La tourelle (9) peut comporter au moins un bras télescopique complémentaire (114) fixé à la tourelle (9) par un support articulé (124) et un moyen de liaison entre ce bras télescopique et l'un des trois autres bras télescopiques (111, 112, 113) ou entre ce bras télescopique et le dispositif de liaison (200). Ledit moyen de liaison peut être élastique (tel qu'un ressort) ou articulé (tel qu'une bielle). De préférence, le support articulé (124) permet des mouvements pendulaires du bras télescopique par rapport à un point d'articulation déterminé (P4) tout en interdisant les mouvements de rotation du bras télescopique autour de son axe principal (A4).The turret (9) may comprise at least one complementary telescopic arm (114) fixed to the turret (9) by an articulated support (124) and a connecting means between this telescopic arm and one of the three other telescopic arms (111). , 112, 113) or between this telescopic arm and the connecting device (200). Said connecting means may be elastic (such as a spring) or articulated (such as a connecting rod). Preferably, the articulated support (124) allows pendular movements of the telescopic arm relative to a specific articulation point (P4) while prohibiting the rotational movement of the telescopic arm about its main axis (A4).
Le dispositif de liaison (200) permet de limiter l'amplitude des débattements pendulaires des bras télescopiques. Il est ainsi possible de rapprocher les outils les uns des autres sans risquer qu'ils se percutent en cours d'utilisation.The connecting device (200) limits the amplitude of the pendular movements of the telescopic arms. It is thus possible to bring the tools closer to each other without the risk that they will collide during use.
II est avantageusement possible d'associer le dispositif de liaison (200) à un système de détection d'inclinaison fixé sur l'un des bras télescopiques ou à un détecteur de déplacement placé sur l'un des systèmes élastiques (c'est-à-dire sur les dits ressorts ou actionneurs), ce qui permet de connaître les déplacements des bras télescopiques et de couper si nécessaire l'alimentation du moteur qui crée le déplacement des outils.It is advantageously possible to associate the connecting device (200) with an inclination detection system fixed on one of the telescopic arms or with a displacement detector placed on one of the elastic systems (ie say on the said springs or actuators), which allows to know the displacements of the telescopic arms and to cut if necessary the supply of the motor which creates the displacement of the tools.
Le module de service (7) selon l'invention peut éventuellement comprendre une passerelle fixée audit cadre (310). The service module (7) according to the invention may optionally comprise a gateway fixed to said frame (310).

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Module de service (7) utilisable dans une usine de production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée et comprenant un châssis (8) apte à être fixé à un chariot (6) et une tourelle (9) montée sur le châssis (8) de manière à pouvoir pivoter autour d'un axe vertical A en utilisation et équipée d'une pluralité d'organes de manutention et d'intervention (10), et caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un ensemble déterminé d'outils (101, 102, 103), en ce que chaque outil (101, 102,1. Service module (7) for use in an igneous electrolysis aluminum production plant comprising a frame (8) adapted to be fixed to a carriage (6) and a turret (9) mounted on the frame (8) so as to be pivotable about a vertical axis A in use and equipped with a plurality of handling and intervention members (10), and characterized in that it comprises a set of tools (101, 102, 103), in that each tool (101, 102,
103) dudit ensemble est monté sur un bras télescopique (111, 112, 113) fixé à la tourelle (9) par un support articulé (121, 122, 123) qui permet des mouvements pendulaires du bras télescopique par rapport à un point d'articulation déterminé (Pl, P2, P3) tout en interdisant les mouvements de rotation du bras télescopique autour d'un axe de référence (Al, A2, A3), appelé "axe principal", associé à ce bras télescopique, et en ce que les bras télescopiques (111, 112, 113) de l'ensemble déterminé d'outils (101, 102, 103) sont reliés entre eux par un dispositif de liaison mécanique (200) apte à maintenir dans un domaine de tolérance déterminé l'écart angulaire relatif entre les mouvements pendulaires des bras télescopiques.103) of said assembly is mounted on a telescopic arm (111, 112, 113) fixed to the turret (9) by an articulated support (121, 122, 123) which allows pendular movements of the telescopic arm relative to a point of determined articulation (P1, P2, P3) while prohibiting the rotational movements of the telescopic arm about a reference axis (Al, A2, A3), called "main axis", associated with this telescopic arm, and in that the telescopic arms (111, 112, 113) of the determined set of tools (101, 102, 103) are connected to each other by a mechanical connection device (200) able to maintain the difference in a given tolerance range relative angle between the pendular movements of the telescopic arms.
2. Module de service (7) selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les supports articulés (121, 122, 123) sont choisis parmi les rotules, les joints de cardan et les ressorts précontraints.2. Service module (7) according to claim 1, characterized in that the articulated supports (121, 122, 123) are selected from the ball joints, cardan joints and preloaded springs.
3. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que ledit domaine de tolérance déterminé est de ± 10°.3. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that said tolerance range determined is ± 10 °.
4. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que chaque bras télescopique (111, 112, 113) est fixé au support articulé correspondant (121, 122, 123) par un premier membre (111a, 112a, 113a) et le dispositif de liaison mécanique (200) est fixé audit premier membre (111a, 112a, 113a) de chacun des bras télescopiques (111, 112, 113) et est situé en dessous des desdits points d'articulation (Pl, P2, P3) en utilisation.4. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that each telescopic arm (111, 112, 113) is attached to the corresponding articulated support (121, 122, 123) by a first member (111a, 112a, 113a) and the mechanical connecting device (200) is attached to said first member (111a, 112a, 113a) of each of the telescopic arms (111, 112, 113) and is located below said hinge points (P1, P2, P3) in use.
5. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de liaison (200) comporte un corps rigide (210) relié directement ou indirectement à chacun desdits bras télescopiques (111, 112, 113).5. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the connecting device (200) comprises a rigid body (210) connected directly or indirectly to each of said telescopic arms (111, 112 , 113).
6. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de liaison (200) est fixé à la tourelle, directement ou indirectement, par au moins un moyen de liaison extensible (301, 302).6. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the connecting device (200) is fixed to the turret, directly or indirectly, by at least one extensible connecting means (301 , 302).
7. Module de service (7) selon la revendication 6, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de liaison (200) est fixé à un cadre (310) solidaire de la tourelle par au moins un moyen de liaison extensible (301, 302).7. Service module (7) according to claim 6, characterized in that the connecting device (200) is fixed to a frame (310) secured to the turret by at least one extensible connecting means (301, 302).
8. Module de service (7) selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que le cadre (310) est fixé à un pied (300) solidaire de la tourelle (9).8. Service module (7) according to claim 7, characterized in that the frame (310) is fixed to a foot (300) integral with the turret (9).
9. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 6 à 8, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de liaison (200) comporte :9. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the connecting device (200) comprises:
- un premier moyen de liaison extensible (301) qui est orienté selon un premier axe de contrainte Cl au repos et est relié, directement ou indirectement, d'une part audit cadre (310) et d'autre part à un premier bras télescopique (111) ;a first extensible connecting means (301) which is oriented along a first stress axis C1 at rest and is connected, directly or indirectly, on the one hand to said frame (310) and on the other hand to a first telescopic arm ( 111);
- un deuxième moyen de liaison extensible (302) qui est orienté selon un deuxième axe de contrainte C2 au repos, perpendiculaire au premier axe de contrainte Cl au repos, et est relié, directement ou indirectement, d'une part audit cadre (310) et d'autre part à un deuxième bras télescopique (112).a second extensible connecting means (302) which is oriented along a second stress axis C2 at rest, perpendicular to the first stress axis C1 at rest, and is connected, directly or indirectly, to said frame (310) and secondly to a second telescopic arm (112).
10. Module de service (7) selon la revendication 9, caractérisé en ce que lesdits premier et deuxième moyens de liaison extensibles (301, 302) sont reliés respectivement aux dits premier et deuxième bras télescopiques (111, 112) par l'intermédiaire d'éléments de liaison (201, 202).10. Service module (7) according to claim 9, characterized in that said first and second extensible connecting means (301, 302) are connected respectively to said first and second telescopic arms (111, 112) via connecting elements (201, 202).
11. Module de service (7) selon la revendication 10, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de liaison (200) comporte en outre un corps rigide (210) et en ce que lesdits éléments de liaison (201, 202) sont aussi reliés au corps rigide (210).11. Service module (7) according to claim 10, characterized in that the connecting device (200) further comprises a rigid body (210) and in that said connecting elements (201, 202) are also connected to the rigid body (210).
12. Module de service (7) selon la revendication 11, caractérisé en ce que ledit corps rigide (210) est en outre relié, directement ou indirectement, à un troisième bras télescopique (113).12. Service module (7) according to claim 11, characterized in that said rigid body (210) is further connected, directly or indirectly, to a third telescopic arm (113).
13. Module de service (7) selon la revendication 12, caractérisé en ce que la tourelle (9) comporte au moins un bras télescopique complémentaire (114) fixé à la tourelle (9) par un support articulé (124) et un moyen de liaison entre ce bras télescopique et l'un des trois autres bras télescopiques (111, 112, 113) ou entre ce bras télescopique et le dispositif de liaison (200).13. Service module (7) according to claim 12, characterized in that the turret (9) comprises at least one complementary telescopic arm (114) fixed to the turret (9) by an articulated support (124) and a means of connection between this telescopic arm and one of the three other telescopic arms (111, 112, 113) or between the telescopic arm and the connecting device (200).
14. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 6 à 13, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de liaison extensibles (301, 302) sont choisis parmi les moyens élastiques, les actionneurs et les combinaisons de ceux-ci.14. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 6 to 13, characterized in that said extensible connecting means (301, 302) are selected from elastic means, actuators and combinations thereof.
15. Module de service (7) selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce que les moyens élastiques sont choisis parmi les ressorts et les ressorts précontraints.15. Service module (7) according to claim 14, characterized in that the elastic means are selected from the prestressed springs and springs.
16. Module de service (7) selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce que les actionneurs sont choisis parmi les vérins pneumatiques, les vérins hydrauliques et les vérins mécaniques.16. Service module (7) according to claim 14, characterized in that the actuators are selected from pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic cylinders and mechanical cylinders.
17. Module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 16, caractérisé en ce que l'ensemble déterminé d'outils (101, 102, 103) comprend au moins un outil choisi parmi les pelles à croûtes (101), les pinces de manutention des anodes (102, 104) et les piqueurs (103).17. Service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the determined set of tools (101, 102, 103) comprises at least minus one tool selected from crust scoops (101), anode handling tongs (102, 104) and stingers (103).
18. Machine de service (5) comprenant un chariot (6) et un module de service (7) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 17.18. Service machine (5) comprising a carriage (6) and a service module (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 17.
19. Unité de service (3) d'une usine de production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée comprenant un pont mobile (4) et au moins une machine de service (5) selon la revendication 18.19. Service unit (3) of an igneous electrolysis aluminum production plant comprising a movable bridge (4) and at least one service machine (5) according to claim 18.
20. Utilisation d'une unité de service (3) selon la revendication 19 pour les interventions sur des cellules d'électrolyse (2) destinées à la production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée. 20. Use of a service unit (3) according to claim 19 for interventions on electrolysis cells (2) for the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis.
EP05778791A 2004-06-25 2005-06-22 Small-sized service module for aluminium electrolysis factories Active EP1781839B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0406956A FR2872175B1 (en) 2004-06-25 2004-06-25 COMPACT SERVICE MODULE FOR ALUMINUM PRODUCTION FACILITIES BY ELECTROLYSIS
PCT/FR2005/001571 WO2006010816A2 (en) 2004-06-25 2005-06-22 Small-sized service module for aluminium electrolysis factories

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1781839A2 true EP1781839A2 (en) 2007-05-09
EP1781839B1 EP1781839B1 (en) 2010-04-21

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EP05778791A Active EP1781839B1 (en) 2004-06-25 2005-06-22 Small-sized service module for aluminium electrolysis factories

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US (1) US7857954B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1781839B1 (en)
CN (1) CN101133189B (en)
AR (1) AR053087A1 (en)
AT (1) ATE465282T1 (en)
AU (1) AU2005266288B2 (en)
BR (1) BRPI0512381A (en)
CA (1) CA2570757C (en)
DE (1) DE602005020807D1 (en)
FR (1) FR2872175B1 (en)
MY (1) MY142557A (en)
NO (1) NO20070095L (en)
RU (1) RU2377343C2 (en)
UA (1) UA90681C2 (en)
WO (1) WO2006010816A2 (en)
ZA (1) ZA200610582B (en)

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CN101133189B (en) 2010-05-05
ATE465282T1 (en) 2010-05-15
BRPI0512381A (en) 2008-03-11
AU2005266288A1 (en) 2006-02-02
CN101133189A (en) 2008-02-27
UA90681C2 (en) 2010-05-25
DE602005020807D1 (en) 2010-06-02
US20080075572A1 (en) 2008-03-27
NO20070095L (en) 2007-01-05
AR053087A1 (en) 2007-04-25
RU2007102681A (en) 2008-07-27
FR2872175B1 (en) 2006-07-28
EP1781839B1 (en) 2010-04-21
CA2570757C (en) 2013-04-23
CA2570757A1 (en) 2006-02-02
ZA200610582B (en) 2008-06-25
AU2005266288B2 (en) 2009-09-17
US7857954B2 (en) 2010-12-28
WO2006010816A2 (en) 2006-02-02
WO2006010816A3 (en) 2007-05-31
RU2377343C2 (en) 2009-12-27
MY142557A (en) 2010-12-15
FR2872175A1 (en) 2005-12-30

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