EP3030696B1 - Electrolytic device and anode assembly intended for the production of aluminium, electrolytic cell and apparatus comprising such a device - Google Patents

Electrolytic device and anode assembly intended for the production of aluminium, electrolytic cell and apparatus comprising such a device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3030696B1
EP3030696B1 EP14834965.7A EP14834965A EP3030696B1 EP 3030696 B1 EP3030696 B1 EP 3030696B1 EP 14834965 A EP14834965 A EP 14834965A EP 3030696 B1 EP3030696 B1 EP 3030696B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
anode
support
contact surface
receiver
assembly
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.)
Active
Application number
EP14834965.7A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3030696A4 (en
EP3030696A1 (en
Inventor
Yves Rochet
Frédéric BRUN
Steeve RENAUDIER
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.)
Rio Tinto Alcan International Ltd
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Rio Tinto Alcan International Ltd
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
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Priority claimed from FR1301910A external-priority patent/FR3009564A1/en
Priority claimed from FR1400175A external-priority patent/FR3016900B1/en
Application filed by Rio Tinto Alcan International Ltd filed Critical Rio Tinto Alcan International Ltd
Publication of EP3030696A1 publication Critical patent/EP3030696A1/en
Publication of EP3030696A4 publication Critical patent/EP3030696A4/en
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    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/08—Cell construction, e.g. bottoms, walls, cathodes
    • C25C3/12—Anodes
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/08—Cell construction, e.g. bottoms, walls, cathodes
    • C25C3/10—External supporting frames or structures
    • 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
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/08—Cell construction, e.g. bottoms, walls, cathodes
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25C3/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts
    • C25C3/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of melts of aluminium
    • C25C3/16—Electric current supply devices, e.g. bus bars

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis.
  • the invention relates more particularly to an electrolysis device associated with an electrolysis cell using at least one anode assembly moved vertically during electrolysis, and supplied electrically by anode conductors.
  • Aluminum metal is produced industrially by igneous electrolysis, namely by electrolysis of alumina in solution in a bath of molten cryolite, called electrolyte bath, according to the well-known process of Hall Héroult.
  • the electrolyte bath is contained in cells, called “electrolysis cells", each cell comprising a steel casing having an internal coating generally made from refractory and / or insulating materials.
  • An electrolysis cell comprises cathode assemblies located at the bottom of the cell, each cathode assembly comprising a cathode made of carbonaceous material. Anodes are partially immersed in the electrolyte bath.
  • the anodes are more particularly of the prebaked anode type with prebaked carbon anode blocks, that is to say baked before introduction into the electrolysis tank.
  • the anode blocks are often suspended from an anode support to form with said blocks what is often called the anode assembly.
  • the anode assembly is generally movable relative to the box and can be moved vertically using displacement means in order to compensate for the consumption of the anode blocks during electrolysis and the variations in the level of aluminum accumulating on the cathode.
  • the electrolytic cell can generally receive several anode assemblies distributed along a longitudinal direction of the cell and of its casing, the anodic support of said anodic assemblies extending along a transverse direction of the cell and of its casing .
  • the assembly formed by an electrolytic cell, its anodes and the electrolyte bath is often called an electrolysis cell.
  • An electrolysis installation can comprise a series of several cells extending along the transverse direction of the cell and its casing
  • the anode assemblies and the cathode assemblies of an electrolytic cell are electrically connected by a network of electrical conductors.
  • Cathode conductors are connected to the cathode assemblies to collect current electrolysis at the cathode and to lead it to cathode outlets crossing the bottom or the sides of the box.
  • the cathode outputs are, for their part, electrically connected, via routing conductors, to anode conductors electrically supplying the anode assemblies of the following tank. These routing conductors generally extend in a substantially horizontal direction.
  • the anode conductors are, in turn, electrically connected to the anode assemblies of the next tank.
  • the electrolysis current is thus routed from the cathode of an electrolysis cell to the anode blocks of the next electrolysis cell, via cathode conductors, routing conductors, anode conductors and the anode support for anode sets.
  • the anode assemblies can be moved vertically using the displacement means, in order to compensate for the consumption of the anode blocks.
  • the anode assemblies can also be moved vertically during anode change operations by other means, such as handling tools.
  • the anode blocks are displaced through an opening delimited by the internal coating of the casing of the electrolysis tank.
  • the vertical displacements of the anode assemblies during the anode change maneuvers can be limited by the presence of equipment of the electrolysis cell arranged above this opening.
  • the French patent published under the number 2,694,945 describes a cell superstructure comprising a rigid beam arranged above the electrolysis cell and extending in the longitudinal direction of the box of said cell, the beam supporting an anodic frame to which are connected firstly current risers and on the other hand anode rods.
  • the rigid beam of the superstructure also supports up-down mechanisms of the anodes making it possible to vertically move the anode frame and the anodes fixed to said anode frame.
  • Such an arrangement of the superstructure, the anode frame and the current rises above the electrolysis tank tends to reduce the space available above the box of said tank, and to limit the vertical displacement of the anodes during anode change operations.
  • a flexible conductor is used to bring the electrolysis current to a conductor secured to the anode assembly, this latter conductor being fixed on top of the metal plate to which the anode block is suspended. It follows that, during the anode change maneuvers, the disassembly of the anode assembly seems to require firstly to disconnect the flexible conductor from the anode assembly, and in a second step to separate the anode assembly cylinders. In the same way, the assembly of the anode assembly seems to be done in two stages, by first joining the anode assembly to the jacks and then connecting the flexible conductor to the anode assembly.
  • the disconnection of the flexible conductor can leave the end of this conductor in the passage of the anode block or of the anode assembly, which can cause mechanical interactions with said conductor and lead to wear or damage.
  • the disconnected end of the flexible conductor risks coming into contact with the electrolyte inside the cell. electrolysis, which could lead to damage to said conductors or to other problems related to the operation of said tank.
  • the subject of the present invention is an electrolysis device associated with an electrolysis tank aiming to facilitate the maneuvers for changing the anode and to favor the accessibility of the handling and intervention tools in the electrolysis tank.
  • the invention also aims to make it possible to carry out the anode change maneuvers without stopping the production of aluminum in the tank.
  • the invention also aims to limit wear and damage to the anode conductors during anode change operations.
  • the invention relates to an electrolysis device intended for the production of aluminum comprising a box comprising an internal coating delimiting an opening through which is intended to be moved at least one anode block, said at least one anode block being suspended from an anode support forming with said at least one anode block an anode assembly movable relative to the box, said device further comprising displacement means comprising at least one anode receiver intended to cooperate with said anode support to move the anode assembly according to a substantially vertical direction, said anode support being intended to be connected to anode conductors to bring an electrolysis current to the said at least one anode block, said electrolysis device being characterized in that said at least one anode receiver is arranged outside a space defined by the top of said at least one anode block during its movement through the opening, said at least one anode receiver having a contact surface being able to cooperate with a corresponding anode contact surface of the anode support to establish with said anode support, a electrical contact to conduct the electrolysis
  • said at least one anode receiver is arranged outside a space defined by the top of the at least one anode block during its movement through the opening.
  • said at least one anode receiver is not placed in line with the at least one anode block during its movement through the opening, or else said at least one anode receiver is placed outside a projection vertical path of translation of the at least one anode block during its movement through the opening.
  • the invention thus makes it possible to facilitate the anode change maneuvers, and to promote the accessibility of the handling and intervention tools in the electrolysis tank.
  • the invention also makes it possible to limit the wear and damage of the anode conductors during the anode change maneuvers.
  • the invention also makes it possible to carry out the anode changing maneuvers without stopping the production of aluminum in the electrolysis tank.
  • the electrolysis device according to the invention is intended to receive several anode assemblies distributed along a longitudinal direction of the box, the anode support of said anode sets extending along a transverse direction of said box, said device further comprising compensation means cooperating with the displacement means to absorb the expansion of said anode support along the transverse direction and / or the longitudinal direction.
  • the anode support of said assembly rises in temperature, which causes expansion of said support which is particularly important in the transverse direction.
  • This expansion has the effect of generating mechanical stresses on the anode receiver of the displacement means, which can lead to blocking or damage to these displacement means.
  • These mechanical stresses can not only deform the receiver but also the anode assembly and thus generate flatness defects and therefore electric contact.
  • the compensation means make it possible to tolerate any defect in flatness to ensure good electrical contact by allowing a certain range of deformation, which makes it possible to release the mechanical stresses linked to thermal expansion or the possible torsion of the anode support during handling.
  • compensation means cooperating with the displacement means is meant that there is established between the compensation means and the displacement means at least one functional cooperation, but not necessarily physical cooperation, that is to say that the compensation means act directly or indirectly on the displacement means.
  • the compensation means can have interactions directly with, or be integrated into, the displacement means, in particular the anode receiver of said displacement means.
  • the compensation means may not have interactions directly with the displacement means, for example by being integrated in the anode support of the anode assembly.
  • the contact surface of the at least one anode receiver is arranged above said at least one anode receiver to support the anode assembly. In this way, the electrical contact between the anode receiver and the anode support is improved.
  • the at least one anode receiver comprises a drive part guided in translation in the substantially vertical direction and an electrically conductive part.
  • the drive part can be made of steel.
  • the drive part cooperates with motor means and guide means.
  • the conductive part can, for its part, be made of copper. This configuration makes it possible in particular to limit the electrical resistance.
  • the contact surface of the at least one anode receiver is arranged on the conductive part of said anode receiver.
  • the decoupling between the displacement function and the electricity conduction function is carried out on a major part of the anode receiver, but not on the whole of said anode receiver. In fact, it is only at the level of the contact surface of the anode receiver, that the conductive part alone makes it possible to ensure the double function of displacement and conduction of electricity.
  • the contact surface is substantially horizontal, the compensation means comprising said contact surface. contact and the anodic contact surface of the anodic support cooperating with said contact surface, the expansion of the anodic support along the transverse direction being absorbed by sliding of said anodic contact surface on said contact surface in the transverse direction and / or in the longitudinal direction of said support surface.
  • the contact surface of the at least one anode receiver and the corresponding anode contact surface of the anode support generally have complementary shapes.
  • the contact surface of the at least one anode receiver and the corresponding anode contact surface of the anode support are plane and horizontal.
  • the contact surface of the at least one anode receiver and the corresponding anode contact surface of the anode support can have various shapes, in particular to maximize the extent of these surfaces and thus promote the electrical conductivity between the anode receiver and the support. anodic.
  • the contact surface of the at least one anode receiver can comprise a chute or groove crossing the whole of said contact surface and the main axis of which extends parallel to the transverse direction of the box.
  • This embodiment makes it possible to promote the sliding of the anode contact surface of the anode support on the corresponding contact surface of the anode receiver in the transverse direction of the box.
  • the corresponding anode contact surface has an oblong protruding part intended to cooperate with the chute.
  • the chute and the corresponding oblong projecting part have a transverse profile having the shape of an arc of a circle, for example a semicircle.
  • the main directions of the chute and of the corresponding oblong projecting part can be oriented in the transverse direction of the box for the contact surfaces on one longitudinal edge of the box and oriented in the longitudinal direction for the surfaces on the other longitudinal edge of the box.
  • the compensation means comprise an electrically conductive grease and the sliding of the anodic contact surface of the anodic support on the contact surface is facilitated by the use of this electrically conductive grease applied to one of said surfaces.
  • the compensation means are arranged in said at least one anode receiver.
  • the anode support can then advantageously be fixed on the anode receiver so that the anode contact surface of the anode support is in compression against the contact surface of the anode receiver, without risking a deterioration of the displacement means.
  • the compensation means are arranged between an upper part of the at least one anode receiver carrying the contact surface and the drive part.
  • the compensation means comprise at least one connecting element between the upper part and the drive part making it possible to absorb the expansion of said anode support along the transverse direction or the longitudinal direction, such as a connecting rod type.
  • the displacement means are equipped with at least two anode receivers per anode assembly, arranged on either side of the box relative to the transverse direction, a first connecting element of one of the anode receivers making it possible to 'absorbing any expansion of said anode support along the transverse direction, and a second connecting element of the other anode receptor making it possible to absorb any expansion of said anode support along the longitudinal direction.
  • the compensation means comprise at least one connecting element between the upper part and the drive part making it possible to absorb the expansion of said anode support along the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction, such as a ball-type connecting element.
  • the drive part of the anode receiver comprises a lifting mast driven in translation and a soleplate connected to said lifting mast via the connecting element, the conductive part comprising at least one lateral conductor and a conductive plate disposed on said soleplate electrically connected to said lateral conductor.
  • the drive part comprises a strapping surrounding the electrically conductive part with sufficient clearance to allow said conductive part to deform inside said strapping and to absorb thus the expansion of the anode support along the transverse direction and / or the longitudinal direction.
  • the displacement means are equipped with at least two anode receivers per anode assembly, said anode receivers being respectively arranged along each longitudinal wall of the box, outside said box.
  • the at least two anode receivers per anode assembly are associated with separate motorization means.
  • the electrolysis device comprises guide means arranged along the longitudinal walls of the box, outside of said box, said guide means being arranged in a welded structure forming said box.
  • the opening delimited by the inner lining of the box and the anode assembly is covered by a removable cover.
  • the compensation means are arranged in the anode support.
  • the invention also relates to an anode assembly intended to be installed in an electrolysis device for the production of aluminum, said anode assembly comprising an anode support and at least one anode block suspended from said anode support, said anode support being intended to be connected to anode conductors to bring an electrolysis current to said at least one anode block, said at least one anode block being intended to be moved in a substantially vertical direction through an opening delimited by a box and its internal coating of said electrolysis device using at least one anode receiver for moving said electrolysis device being able to cooperate with said anode support, said anode assembly being characterized in that the anode support comprises at least one anodic contact surface being able to cooperate with a contact surface corresponds ante of said at least one anode receiver for establishing with said at least one anode receiver, an electrical contact for conducting the electrolysis current between said at least one anode receiver and the anode assembly, and a mechanical contact for moving said anode assembly according to the substantially vertical direction,
  • the at least one anode contact surface of the anode support is arranged outside a space defined by the top of said at least one anode block.
  • the at least one anodic contact surface is not disposed in line with the at least one anodic block.
  • such a configuration makes it possible in particular to receive the anode assemblies on anode receptors of the electrolysis device which are arranged outside the path of vertical translation of the anode blocks.
  • the anode support of the anode assembly extends along a main direction corresponding to a transverse direction of the box when the anode assembly is received in the electrolysis device, and said anode support comprises means for compensation for absorbing the expansion of said anode support along said main direction and / or a secondary direction of said anode support corresponding to a longitudinal direction of said box when the anode assembly is installed in said electrolysis device.
  • the compensation means make it possible to correct any flatness defect to ensure good electrical contact and to compensate for thermal expansion or possible torsion of the anode support.
  • the anode support comprises a frame, supporting the at least one anode block, and an electrically conductive part, the at least one anode contact surface of said anode support being arranged in said conductive part.
  • the means for compensating the anode support comprise at least one connecting element, such as a connecting element of the connecting rod type or a sliding type connecting element, disposed between the at least one anodic contact surface. and a main part of the frame, to absorb any expansion of said anode support along the main direction or the secondary direction.
  • the anode support comprises two anode contact surfaces disposed on each side of said anode support relative to the main direction, a first connecting element disposed between one of the anode contact surfaces and the main part of the armature. absorb any expansion of said anode support along the main direction and a second connecting element disposed between the other anode contact surface and the main part of the frame making it possible to absorb any expansion of said anode support along the secondary direction.
  • At least one connecting element makes it possible to absorb the expansion of the anode support along the main direction and the secondary direction, such as a ball-type connecting element.
  • the invention also relates to an electrolysis cell, said cell being characterized in that it comprises an electrolysis device as described above, said electrolysis cell further comprising an electrolysis cell formed by the box and the inner lining of said electrolysis device, an electrolyte bath contained in said tank and at least one anode assembly comprising at least one anode block partially submerged in said electrolyte bath.
  • the figure 1 shows two neighboring electrolysis cells 1 intended for the production of aluminum by electrolysis, each of said cells being associated with an electrolysis device 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention.
  • the electrolytic cell 1 is arranged perpendicular to the length of a line of electrolytic cells to which it belongs. Thus, it extends in length in the longitudinal direction Y, while the line of electrolytic cells extends in length in the transverse direction X.
  • Each of the electrolytic cells 1 comprises a box 3, which can be metallic, for example made of steel, and an internal coating 5, typically made of refractory materials.
  • the box 3 is generally equipped with reinforcing cradles.
  • Each of the electrolytic cells 1 comprises at least one cathode assembly arranged at the bottom of the casing 3, each cathode assembly comprising at least one cathode 7, which can be formed from several cathode blocks of carbonaceous material, as well as cathode conductors 9 intended to collect the electrolysis current to lead it to cathode outputs 11 passing through the box 3.
  • Each of the electrolytic cells 1 also comprises anode assemblies 12 comprising an anode support 13 and at least one anode block 15 or anode supported by the anode support 13.
  • the anode support 13 comprises a support bar 17 which can extend from substantially horizontally between two opposite longitudinal edges of the electrolytic cell and the logs 19.
  • the anode block 15 is hooked to the anode support 13 by means of the logs 19 sealed using cast iron in holes provided for this purpose in the anode block 15.
  • the anode block 15 can be made of carbonaceous material.
  • the anode block 15 is often of the precooked type. In operation, the anode block 15 is immersed in an electrolytic bath 21 contained in each electrolysis tank 1 to be consumed there.
  • each of the electrolytic cells 1 comprises displacement means 23 for translating the anode assemblies 12 vertically downwards. In this way, the anode blocks 15 are lowered, as and when of their consumption, through an opening 16 delimited by the box 3 and its internal coating 5.
  • the displacement means 23 comprise, for each electrolytic cell 1, at least two anode receptors 25 intended to cooperate with the anode support 13, 17 to drive the anode assembly 12.
  • the anode receptors 25 can be actuated by jacks 39 More precisely, each anode receiver 25 has a contact surface 27 cooperating with an anode contact surface 29 of the anode support 13, 17 to establish with said anode support a mechanical contact allowing the anode assembly 12 to be driven vertically. occurrence, the contact surface 27 of the anode receptors 25 is arranged above said anode receptors, so that the anode assembly is supported on these anode receptors. Consequently, it is not necessary to have fixing means for fixing the anode support 13, 17 to the anode receivers 25. As explained in what follows, the absence of fixing means makes it possible to compensate for the transverse or longitudinal dilations of the anode support 13, 17.
  • the anode assemblies and the cathode assemblies of each electrolytic cell are supplied electrically by a network of electrical conductors.
  • the cathode outputs 11 of the electrolytic cells 1 are connected to routing conductors 31 to conduct the electrolysis current collected by the cathode conductors 9 to anodic conductors electrically supplying the anode blocks 15 of the electrolytic cell next.
  • These routing conductors 31 generally extend in a substantially horizontal direction.
  • Anode conductors are electrically connected between the routing conductors 31 and the anode assemblies 12.
  • the anode conductors are intended to conduct the electrolysis current to the anode assemblies 12 and include flexible electrical conductors 33 to adapt, by their flexibility, to displacement in translation vertical anode assemblies 12 and thus allow to maintain the electrical connection during the movement of anode assemblies 12.
  • the flexible electrical conductors 33 can be formed by a superposition of flexible electrically conductive sheets.
  • the cathode conductors 9, the cathode outputs 11 and the routing conductors 31 can be formed by metal bars, for example aluminum, copper or steel.
  • the contact surface 27 of each anode receiver 25 makes it possible to establish with the anode support 13, 17, not only a mechanical contact for vertically moving the anode assembly 12, but also a contact electric to conduct the electrolysis current between each anode receptor and said anode support.
  • each anode receiver 25 includes a drive part 35 which is guided in vertical translation and an electrically conductive part.
  • the drive part 35 which is often made of steel, is driven by the jacks 39 and guided in vertical translation by guide means 51 which can be formed against the box and by the upper part of the box and, where appropriate, by part of a tank superstructure.
  • the conductive part can, for its part, be formed by rigid, non-deformable electrical conductors, for example, formed by a metal bar, in particular steel, copper, aluminum or a steel / copper composite.
  • the conductive part is one of the anode conductors described above, and thus makes it possible to conduct the electrolysis current to an anode assembly 12.
  • the conductive part is electrically connected between, on one side, the flexible electrical conductors 33 , and on the other side, the anode contact surface 29 of the anode support 13, 17.
  • the conductive part 37 On the figure 1 , only the upper end of the conductive part 37 has been shown, that is to say the part of the anode receiver 25 carrying the contact surface 27.
  • the transport of the electrolysis current in the anode support 13, 17, between the anode contact surface 29 of said support and the anode blocks 15, is done using electrical conductors 40, shown in black, integrated in said anode support.
  • the transport of the electrolysis current in the anode support 13, 17 is also done using the logs 19.
  • the contact surfaces 27 of the anode receivers 25 being arranged so as to support the anode assembly 12, the weight of this anode assembly thus makes it possible to strengthen the electrical contact between the anode receiver and the anode support. It follows that the conduction of the electrolysis current is improved.
  • the anode receivers 25 of the displacement means 23 are arranged outside a space defined by the top of the anode blocks 15 during their displacement through the opening 16.
  • the anode receivers 25 are not on the vertical translation path of the anode blocks 15.
  • the anode conductors are also arranged outside the space defined by the top of the anode blocks 15 during their displacement at through the opening 16.
  • compensation means cooperating, at least functionally, with the displacement means are often necessary to absorb the expansion of the anode support 13, 17.
  • the contact surface 27 of the anode receiver 25 is flat and horizontal, which makes it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode support 13, 17 by sliding the anode contact surface 29 of this anode support onto said contact surface of the anode receiver .
  • the compensation means are essentially formed by the contact surface 27 of the anode receiver 25 and the anode contact surface 29 of the anode support 13, 17. This sliding of the contact surface anode 29 of the anode support 13, 17 on the contact surface 27 can be facilitated by the use of an electrically conductive grease applied to one of said surfaces.
  • Each of the electrolysis tanks 1 comprises a confinement enclosure 41 intended for the confinement of the gases generated during the electrolysis reaction.
  • This confinement enclosure delimits a closed volume above the opening 16 through which the anode assembly 12 is moved vertically. It will be noted that the anode assemblies 12 are entirely contained in the confinement enclosure 41.
  • This confinement enclosure is formed, at least in part, by the box 3 and by a removable cover 43.
  • the confinement enclosure 41 may comprise a superstructure receiving the removable cover 43 and disposed above the box 3. In the embodiment shown, the removable cover 43 rests on a fixed part 45 of a superstructure or of an extension of the box 3.
  • the removable cover 43 makes it possible to extract and introduce anode assemblies 12, from above, into each electrolysis tank 1, using handling tools. It also facilitates any intervention in the electrolysis tank 1.
  • the anode receivers 25 of the displacement means 23 are partly in the confinement enclosure 41.
  • An upper part of the anode receivers 25 carrying the contact surface 27 is arranged inside the confinement enclosure 41.
  • a lower part of these same anode receivers 25, fixed to each jack 39 and electrically connected to the flexible conductors 33, is arranged outside the confinement enclosure 41.
  • the flexible electrical conductors 33 and the jacks 39 are arranged outside the containment 41.
  • the upper part of the anode receivers 25 carrying the contact surfaces 27 extends inside the containment 41, so that the electrical connection with the anode support 13, 17 is made inside the confinement enclosure 41.
  • the anode assembly 12 is free from any interaction with the box 3, the removable cover 43, and if necessary the has superstructure which form the confinement enclosure 41. In this way, the confinement enclosure 41 is not likely to be affected, either by the replacement of the anode assembly, or by the displacement of the anode assembly towards the low as the anode blocks are consumed 15.
  • each electrolytic cell 1 includes seals d 'sealing 47 interposed between the removable cover 43 and the fixed part 45 on which said removable cover 43 rests.
  • the removable cover 43 may comprise a plurality of adjacent covers 53 which are substantially longitudinal and mutually parallel, extending in a substantially transverse direction X, between two opposite longitudinal edges of each electrolytic cell 1.
  • the compensation means are arranged in the anode receivers 125, 126 of the displacement means 123 associated with each electrolytic cell 101, that is to say more precisely between the upper part of the anode receptors 125, 126 carrying the contact surfaces 127, 128 and the drive part 135, 136 of these same anode receptors guided in vertical translation.
  • the compensation means comprise connecting elements 161 arranged in the anode receptors 125 arranged on the left of each electrolysis cell and connecting elements 171 of another type arranged in the anode receptors 126 arranged on the right of each cell electrolysis 101.
  • the connecting elements 161 are of the connecting rod type, while the connecting elements 171 are of the ball joint type.
  • the connecting elements 161, 171 of the compensation means are arranged between the upper part and the drive part 135, 136 of the anode receivers 125, 126.
  • the anode support 13, 17 of the anode assemblies 12 shown on the figure 4 is fixed to the anode receivers 125, 126 using fixing means comprising two complementary threads, the cooperation of which allows the fixing of the anode support 13, 17 by simple screwing using the screws 181.
  • the fixing means could comprise any type of connector, for example a screw connector, plating and compressing the anode support 13, 17 against the anode receivers 125, 126.
  • the drive part 135 comprises a lifting mast 163 driven in vertical translation by the jack 39.
  • the drive part also includes a sole 165 of steel connected to the lifting mast 163 by means of the connecting element 161 of the connecting rod type.
  • the conductive part 137 comprises, for its part, two rigid lateral conductors 167 which are connected in their lower part to the flexible conductors 33 represented on the figure 4 .
  • the conductive part 137 further comprises a conductive soleplate 169 made of copper disposed on the soleplate 165 and electrically connected to the two lateral conductors 167.
  • the lateral conductors 167 are mechanically fixed to the steel soleplate 165 and welded to the conductive soleplate 169.
  • the configuration of the anode receptors 126 is similar to the anode receptors 125, except that the connecting element 171 is of the ball joint type.
  • the drive part 136 comprises a lifting mast 173 driven in vertical translation by the jack 39.
  • the driving part also includes a steel sole 175 connected to the lifting mast 173 via the connecting element 171 ball type.
  • the conductive part 138 comprises two rigid lateral conductors 177 which are connected in their lower part to the flexible conductors 33 shown in the figure 4 .
  • the conductive part 138 further comprises a conductive plate 179 made of copper which is disposed on the sole 175 and which is electrically connected to the two lateral conductors 177.
  • the lateral conductors 177 are mechanically fixed to the steel sole 175 and welded to the conductive sole 179.
  • the connecting elements of the connecting rod type 161 and of the ball type 171 thus make it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode supports 13, 17.
  • the connecting element 161 of the connecting rod type is mounted with its axes of rotation oriented in the longitudinal direction Y, which makes it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode support 13, 17 along the transverse direction. If the axes of rotation of the connecting rod type element had been oriented in the transverse direction X, compensation would be applied to absorb any expansion of the anode support along the longitudinal direction.
  • the connecting element 171 of the ball-joint type makes it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode support 13, 17 along the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction.
  • the displacement means are equipped with at least two anode receivers per anode assembly, arranged on either side of the box relative to the transverse direction, a first connecting element of the connecting rod type. being mounted on one of the anode receptors so as to absorb any expansion of said anode support along the transverse direction, and a second connecting element of the connecting rod type being mounted on the other anode receptor so as to absorb any expansion of said support anodic along the longitudinal direction.
  • each anode assembly it is also possible to envisage having at least one connecting element arranged on at least one anode receptor disposed on only one side of the casing of the electrolysis tank.
  • the compensation means are, as in the embodiment of the figure 4 , arranged in the anode receivers of the displacement means associated with each electrolytic cell 201.
  • the anode support 13, 17 of the anode assemblies 12 shown on the figure 9 is fixed to the anode receivers 225 using fixing means comprising two complementary threads, the cooperation of which allows the anode support 13, 17 to be fixed by simple screwing using the screws 281.
  • the drive part 235 of the anode receptor 225 comprises a strapping 283 or casing surrounding the conductive part of this same anode receptor.
  • the strapping 283 is made of rigid steel and constitutes the main part of the drive part 235 of the anode receiver 225.
  • the strapping is driven in vertical translation by means of the jack 39.
  • a clearance is left between the conductive part 237 and the hoop 283, so that said conductive part can move to resume thermal expansion or any other defect in the flatness of the anode support 13, 17.
  • a sliding pivot 285 is arranged in the lower part of the anode receiver 225 to support the conductive part 237.
  • the sliding pivot 285 could also be arranged perpendicular to that presented on the figures 10 and 11 , for example on the anode receiver 225 supporting the same anode assembly and arranged on the other side of the box.
  • the compensation means can also be arranged in the anode support of the anode assembly.
  • Anode assemblies 301, 401 incorporating such anode supports have been shown, for example, on the figures 13 to 18 .
  • the anode support 303, 403 of the anode assemblies 301, 401 extends along a main direction corresponding to the transverse direction X when the anode assembly is installed in the electrolysis device.
  • a Cartesian coordinate system has been represented on the figures 13 and 16 , as an indication, to show the positioning of these anode assemblies in relation to the electrolytic cells.
  • the expansion of the anode supports 303, 403 takes place essentially along the main direction. Expansion occurs, to a lesser extent, along a secondary direction of the anode supports. 303, 403 corresponding to the longitudinal direction Y when the anode assembly is installed in the electrolysis device.
  • the anode supports 303, 403 of the anode assemblies 301, 401 include reinforcements 305, 405 supporting several anode blocks 307, 407 by means of logs 309, 409.
  • the anode supports 303, 403 also comprise a conductive part 311, 411 formed by flexible electrical conductors.
  • Each of the anode supports 303, 403 comprises two anode contact surfaces in the form of soles 313, 413 intended to cooperate with corresponding contact surfaces of the anode receivers to establish an electrical contact and a mechanical contact.
  • the anode contact surfaces 313, 413 are arranged outside a space defined by the top of the anode blocks 307, 407, which makes it possible to support these anode assemblies on anode receivers of an electrolysis device which are arranged in outside the vertical translation path of the blocks anodic.
  • the anodic contact surfaces 313, 413 are arranged in the conductive parts 311, 411 and are essentially constituted by copper soles of said conductive parts. Thus, the electrical contact between the anode receivers and the anode supports is improved.
  • the frames 305, 405 comprise beams whose profile has a shape and a dimensioning making it possible to reduce the bending of said beams under the weight of the anode blocks.
  • the conductive parts 311, 411 can be formed by copper plates or strips which are not mechanically linked continuously with the reinforcements 305, 405 of the anode support. As seen on figures 13 and 16 , the conductive parts 311, 411 are more particularly linked to the reinforcements 305, 405 only at the level of the anodic contact surfaces 313, 413 and of the logs 309, 409. The conductive parts 311, 411 can deform slightly on the sections not linked to the reinforcements 305, 405 so as to absorb any thermal expansion of the anode support 303, 403.
  • the anode support compensation means 301 comprise a connecting element of the connecting rod type 321 disposed between the anode contact surface 313 to the right of the anode assembly 301 and a main part of the frame 305.
  • the support compensation means anodic 303 include another ball-type connecting element 322 disposed between the anodic contact surface 313 to the left of the anodic assembly and a main part of the frame 305. More specifically, the connecting elements 321, 322 are arranged between the beam of the frame 305 and steel flanges 325 supporting the copper flanges forming the anodic contact surfaces 313.
  • the connecting element 321 of the connecting rod type is mounted with its axes of rotation oriented in the secondary direction Y, which makes it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode support 303 along the main direction X.
  • the connecting element of the connecting rod can be called a connecting rod for the longitudinal thermal expansion of the beam constituting the anode support. If the axes of rotation of the connecting rod type element had been oriented in the main direction X, compensation would be applied to absorb any expansion of the anode support along the secondary direction Y.
  • the connecting element 322 of type As for the ball joint it can absorb any expansion of the anode support along the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction.
  • the ball-type connecting element can be called a ball joint for compensating for torsional defects of the beam constituting the anode support.
  • the means for compensating the anode support 301 comprise two connecting elements of the sliding type 421 or of the sliding type, each of said connecting elements being arranged between one or the other of the anodic contact surfaces 413 of the anodic assembly and a main part of the frame 405. More specifically, the connecting elements 421 are arranged between the beam the frame 405 and steel soles 425 supporting the copper soles forming the anodic contact surfaces 413.
  • the connecting elements 421 of the sliding type are formed on one side by the beam of the frame 405 whose profile forms a slide, and on the other side by slides mounted to slide in the slide, each of said slides carrying the copper soleplate of each anode contact surface 413.
  • the connecting element 421 thus makes it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode support 403 along the main direction X. Furthermore, the sliding type connecting elements 421 can also allow a slight rotation or pivot of the soles 425 around a parallel axis. lele to the main direction X, due to the substantially cylindrical shape of the slides. The connecting element 421 thus makes it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode support 403 along the secondary direction Y.
  • the means for compensating the anode assembly could comprise a single connecting element on one side or the other of the anode support.
  • the connection means could also comprise a connection element of the ball or pivot type on one of the sides of the anode support and a connection element of the sliding type on the other side of said anode support.
  • An advantage of the present invention is to facilitate access to the handling and intervention tools in the box, in particular for anode change operations, by proposing a configuration in which the space above the opening delimited by the interior lining of the box is released.
  • Another advantage of the present invention is to facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the anode assembly.
  • Yet another advantage of the present invention is to limit the mechanical interactions with the anode conductors during the anode change operations, which makes it possible to reduce their wear and avoid their damage.
  • Another advantage of the present invention is to allow the maneuvers to change the anode without stopping the production of aluminum in the tank.
  • An advantage of a preferred embodiment of the present invention is to allow any expansion of the anode support to be absorbed, in particular during anode change operations, and this without affecting the operation of the means for moving the anode assembly.

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Description

Domaine de l'inventionField of the invention

L'invention concerne la production d'aluminium par électrolyse ignée. L'invention concerne plus particulièrement un dispositif d'électrolyse associé à une cuve d'électrolyse utilisant au moins un ensemble anodique déplacé verticalement en cours d'électrolyse, et alimenté électriquement par des conducteurs anodiques.The invention relates to the production of aluminum by igneous electrolysis. The invention relates more particularly to an electrolysis device associated with an electrolysis cell using at least one anode assembly moved vertically during electrolysis, and supplied electrically by anode conductors.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

L'aluminium métal est produit industriellement par électrolyse ignée, à savoir par électrolyse de l'alumine en solution dans un bain de cryolithe fondue, appelé bain d'électrolyte, selon le procédé bien connu de Hall Héroult. Le bain d'électrolyte est contenu dans des cuves, dites «cuves d'électrolyse», chaque cuve comprenant un caisson en acier comportant un revêtement intérieur généralement fabriqué à partir de matériaux réfractaires et/ou isolants. Une cuve d'électrolyse comprend des ensembles cathodiques situés au fond de la cuve, chaque ensemble cathodique comportant une cathode en matériau carboné. Des anodes sont partiellement immergées dans le bain d'électrolyte. Les anodes sont plus particulièrement de type anodes précuites avec des blocs anodiques carbonés précuits, c'est-à-dire cuits avant introduction dans la cuve d'électrolyse. Les blocs anodiques sont souvent suspendus à un support anodique pour former avec lesdits blocs ce que l'on convient souvent d'appeler l'ensemble anodique. L'ensemble anodique est généralement mobile par rapport au caisson et peut se déplacer verticalement à l'aide de moyens de déplacement afin de compenser la consommation des blocs anodiques en cours d'électrolyse et les variations du niveau d'aluminium s'accumulant sur la cathode.Aluminum metal is produced industrially by igneous electrolysis, namely by electrolysis of alumina in solution in a bath of molten cryolite, called electrolyte bath, according to the well-known process of Hall Héroult. The electrolyte bath is contained in cells, called "electrolysis cells", each cell comprising a steel casing having an internal coating generally made from refractory and / or insulating materials. An electrolysis cell comprises cathode assemblies located at the bottom of the cell, each cathode assembly comprising a cathode made of carbonaceous material. Anodes are partially immersed in the electrolyte bath. The anodes are more particularly of the prebaked anode type with prebaked carbon anode blocks, that is to say baked before introduction into the electrolysis tank. The anode blocks are often suspended from an anode support to form with said blocks what is often called the anode assembly. The anode assembly is generally movable relative to the box and can be moved vertically using displacement means in order to compensate for the consumption of the anode blocks during electrolysis and the variations in the level of aluminum accumulating on the cathode.

La cuve d'électrolyse peut généralement recevoir plusieurs ensembles anodiques répartis le long d'une direction longitudinale de la cuve et de son caisson, le support anodique desdits ensembles anodiques s'étendant le long d'une direction transversale de la cuve et de son caisson. L'ensemble formé par une cuve d'électrolyse, ses anodes et le bain d'électrolyte est souvent appelé une cellule d'électrolyse. Une installation d'électrolyse peut comprendre une série de plusieurs cuves s'étendant le long de la direction transversale de la cuve et de son caissonThe electrolytic cell can generally receive several anode assemblies distributed along a longitudinal direction of the cell and of its casing, the anodic support of said anodic assemblies extending along a transverse direction of the cell and of its casing . The assembly formed by an electrolytic cell, its anodes and the electrolyte bath is often called an electrolysis cell. An electrolysis installation can comprise a series of several cells extending along the transverse direction of the cell and its casing

Les ensembles anodiques et les ensembles cathodiques d'une cuve d'électrolyse sont connectés électriquement par un réseau de conducteurs électriques. Des conducteurs cathodiques sont connectés aux ensembles cathodiques pour collecter un courant d'électrolyse à la cathode et pour le conduire jusqu'à des sorties cathodiques traversant le fond ou les côtés du caisson. Les sorties cathodiques sont, quant à elles, connectées électriquement, par l'intermédiaire de conducteurs d'acheminement, à des conducteurs anodiques alimentant électriquement les ensembles anodiques de la cuve suivante. Ces conducteurs d'acheminement s'étendent généralement selon une direction sensiblement horizontale. Les conducteurs anodiques sont, quant à eux, connectés électriquement aux ensembles anodiques de la cuve suivante. Le courant d'électrolyse est ainsi acheminé de la cathode d'une cuve d'électrolyse jusqu'aux blocs anodiques de la cuve d'électrolyse suivante, par l'intermédiaire de conducteurs cathodiques, de conducteurs d'acheminement, de conducteurs anodiques et du support anodique des ensembles anodiques.The anode assemblies and the cathode assemblies of an electrolytic cell are electrically connected by a network of electrical conductors. Cathode conductors are connected to the cathode assemblies to collect current electrolysis at the cathode and to lead it to cathode outlets crossing the bottom or the sides of the box. The cathode outputs are, for their part, electrically connected, via routing conductors, to anode conductors electrically supplying the anode assemblies of the following tank. These routing conductors generally extend in a substantially horizontal direction. The anode conductors are, in turn, electrically connected to the anode assemblies of the next tank. The electrolysis current is thus routed from the cathode of an electrolysis cell to the anode blocks of the next electrolysis cell, via cathode conductors, routing conductors, anode conductors and the anode support for anode sets.

Les ensembles anodiques peuvent être déplacés verticalement à l'aide des moyens de déplacement, afin de compenser la consommation des blocs anodiques. Les ensembles anodiques peuvent également être déplacés verticalement lors des manoeuvres de changement d'anode par d'autres moyens, tels que des outils de manutention. Lors de ces déplacements verticaux des ensembles anodiques, les blocs anodiques sont déplacés à travers une ouverture délimitée par le revêtement intérieur du caisson de la cuve d'électrolyse. Les déplacements verticaux des ensembles anodiques pendant les manœuvres de changement d'anode peuvent être limités par la présence d'équipements de la cellule d'électrolyse agencés au-dessus de cette ouverture.The anode assemblies can be moved vertically using the displacement means, in order to compensate for the consumption of the anode blocks. The anode assemblies can also be moved vertically during anode change operations by other means, such as handling tools. During these vertical displacements of the anode assemblies, the anode blocks are displaced through an opening delimited by the internal coating of the casing of the electrolysis tank. The vertical displacements of the anode assemblies during the anode change maneuvers can be limited by the presence of equipment of the electrolysis cell arranged above this opening.

Par exemple, le brevet français publié sous le numéro 2 694 945 décrit une superstructure de cuve comportant une poutre rigide agencée au-dessus de la cuve d'électrolyse et s'étendant selon la direction longitudinale du caisson de ladite cuve, la poutre supportant un cadre anodique auquel sont connectées d'une part des montées de courant et d'autre part des tiges d'anode. La poutre rigide de la superstructure supporte également des mécanismes de montée-descente des anodes permettant de déplacer verticalement le cadre anodique et les anodes fixées au dit cadre anodique. Un tel agencement de la superstructure, du cadre anodique et des montées de courants au-dessus de la cuve d'électrolyse a tendance à réduire l'espace disponible au-dessus du caisson de ladite cuve, et à limiter le déplacement vertical des anodes pendant les manoeuvres de changement d'anode.For example, the French patent published under the number 2,694,945 describes a cell superstructure comprising a rigid beam arranged above the electrolysis cell and extending in the longitudinal direction of the box of said cell, the beam supporting an anodic frame to which are connected firstly current risers and on the other hand anode rods. The rigid beam of the superstructure also supports up-down mechanisms of the anodes making it possible to vertically move the anode frame and the anodes fixed to said anode frame. Such an arrangement of the superstructure, the anode frame and the current rises above the electrolysis tank tends to reduce the space available above the box of said tank, and to limit the vertical displacement of the anodes during anode change operations.

Le brevet américain publié sous le numéro 3,575,827 décrit une cellule d'électrolyse avec un ensemble anodique comprenant une plaque métallique surmontée par une passerelle solidaire de ladite plaque et un bloc anodique suspendu à ladite plaque, ledit ensemble anodique étant ajusté en montée ou en descente à l'aide de vérins fixés sur la face extérieure des parois d'un caisson de ladite cellule sur lesquels l'ensemble anodique repose.The American patent published under the number 3,575,827 describes an electrolysis cell with an anode assembly comprising a metal plate surmounted by a gangway secured to said plate and an anode block suspended from said plate, said anode assembly being adjusted up or down using jacks fixed on the face exterior of the walls of a box of said cell on which the anode assembly rests.

Dans la cellule d'électrolyse décrite dans le brevet américain cité ci-dessus, un conducteur flexible est utilisé pour amener le courant d'électrolyse jusqu'à un conducteur solidaire de l'ensemble anodique, ce dernier conducteur étant fixé sur le dessus de la plaque métallique à laquelle est suspendu le bloc anodique. Il s'ensuit que, pendant les manœuvres de changement d'anode, le démontage de l'ensemble anodique semble nécessiter dans un premier temps de déconnecter le conducteur flexible de l'ensemble anodique, et dans un deuxième temps de désolidariser l'ensemble anodique des vérins. De la même façon, le montage de l'ensemble anodique semble se faire en deux étapes, en solidarisant d'abord l'ensemble anodique aux vérins et en connectant ensuite le conducteur flexible à l'ensemble anodique. En outre, pendant les manœuvres de changement d'anode, la déconnexion du conducteur flexible peut laisser l'extrémité de ce conducteur dans le passage du bloc anodique ou de l'ensemble anodique, ce qui peut entrainer des interactions mécaniques avec ledit conducteur et conduire à son usure ou à son endommagement. De surcroît, en l'absence d'ensemble anodique dans la cellule d'électrolyse, pendant les opérations de maintenance, l'extrémité déconnectée du conducteur flexible risque d'entrer en contact avec l'électrolyte à l'intérieur de la cuve d'électrolyse, ce qui pourrait conduire à l'endommagement dudit conducteurs ou à d'autres problèmes liés au fonctionnement de ladite cuve.In the electrolysis cell described in the American patent cited above, a flexible conductor is used to bring the electrolysis current to a conductor secured to the anode assembly, this latter conductor being fixed on top of the metal plate to which the anode block is suspended. It follows that, during the anode change maneuvers, the disassembly of the anode assembly seems to require firstly to disconnect the flexible conductor from the anode assembly, and in a second step to separate the anode assembly cylinders. In the same way, the assembly of the anode assembly seems to be done in two stages, by first joining the anode assembly to the jacks and then connecting the flexible conductor to the anode assembly. In addition, during the anode change maneuvers, the disconnection of the flexible conductor can leave the end of this conductor in the passage of the anode block or of the anode assembly, which can cause mechanical interactions with said conductor and lead to wear or damage. In addition, in the absence of an anode assembly in the electrolysis cell, during maintenance operations, the disconnected end of the flexible conductor risks coming into contact with the electrolyte inside the cell. electrolysis, which could lead to damage to said conductors or to other problems related to the operation of said tank.

Description de l'inventionDescription of the invention

La présente invention a pour objet un dispositif d'électrolyse associé à une cuve d'électrolyse visant à faciliter les manœuvres de changement d'anode et à favoriser l'accessibilité des outils de manutention et d'intervention dans la cuve d'électrolyse. L'invention vise également à permettre d'effectuer les manœuvres de changement d'anode sans arrêter la production d'aluminium dans la cuve. L'invention vise également à limiter l'usure et les dommages des conducteurs anodiques pendant les manœuvres de changement d'anode.The subject of the present invention is an electrolysis device associated with an electrolysis tank aiming to facilitate the maneuvers for changing the anode and to favor the accessibility of the handling and intervention tools in the electrolysis tank. The invention also aims to make it possible to carry out the anode change maneuvers without stopping the production of aluminum in the tank. The invention also aims to limit wear and damage to the anode conductors during anode change operations.

L'invention concerne un dispositif d'électrolyse destiné à la production d'aluminium comprenant un caisson comportant un revêtement intérieur délimitant une ouverture au travers de laquelle est destiné à être déplacé au moins un bloc anodique, ledit au moins un bloc anodique étant suspendu à un support anodique formant avec ledit au moins un bloc anodique un ensemble anodique mobile par rapport au caisson, ledit dispositif comprenant en outre des moyens de déplacement comportant au moins un récepteur anodique destiné à coopérer avec ledit support anodique pour déplacer l'ensemble anodique selon une direction sensiblement verticale, ledit support anodique étant destiné à être connecté à des conducteurs anodiques pour amener un courant d'électrolyse jusqu'au dit au moins un bloc anodique, ledit dispositif d'électrolyse étant caractérisé en ce que ledit au moins un récepteur anodique est disposé en dehors d'un espace défini par le dessus dudit au moins un bloc anodique pendant son déplacement à travers l'ouverture, ledit au moins un récepteur anodique comportant une surface de contact étant apte à coopérer avec une surface de contact anodique correspondante du support anodique pour établir avec ledit support anodique, un contact électrique pour conduire le courant d'électrolyse entre ledit au moins un récepteur anodique et l'ensemble anodique, et un contact mécanique pour déplacer ledit ensemble anodique selon la direction sensiblement verticale.The invention relates to an electrolysis device intended for the production of aluminum comprising a box comprising an internal coating delimiting an opening through which is intended to be moved at least one anode block, said at least one anode block being suspended from an anode support forming with said at least one anode block an anode assembly movable relative to the box, said device further comprising displacement means comprising at least one anode receiver intended to cooperate with said anode support to move the anode assembly according to a substantially vertical direction, said anode support being intended to be connected to anode conductors to bring an electrolysis current to the said at least one anode block, said electrolysis device being characterized in that said at least one anode receiver is arranged outside a space defined by the top of said at least one anode block during its movement through the opening, said at least one anode receiver having a contact surface being able to cooperate with a corresponding anode contact surface of the anode support to establish with said anode support, a electrical contact to conduct the electrolysis current between said at least one anode receiver and the anode assembly, and a mechanical contact to move said anode assembly in the substantially vertical direction.

Selon l'invention, ledit au moins un récepteur anodique est disposé en dehors d'un espace défini par le dessus du au moins un bloc anodique pendant son déplacement à travers l'ouverture. En d'autres termes, ledit au moins un récepteur anodique n'est pas disposé au droit du au moins un bloc anodique pendant son déplacement à travers l'ouverture, ou encore ledit au moins un récepteur anodique est disposé en dehors d'une projection verticale du chemin de translation du au moins un bloc anodique pendant son déplacement à travers l'ouverture.According to the invention, said at least one anode receiver is arranged outside a space defined by the top of the at least one anode block during its movement through the opening. In other words, said at least one anode receiver is not placed in line with the at least one anode block during its movement through the opening, or else said at least one anode receiver is placed outside a projection vertical path of translation of the at least one anode block during its movement through the opening.

L'invention permet ainsi de faciliter les manœuvres de changement d'anode, et de favoriser l'accessibilité des outils de manutention et d'intervention dans la cuve d'électrolyse. L'invention permet également de limiter l'usure et les dommages des conducteurs anodiques pendant les manœuvres de changement d'anode. L'invention permet en outre d'effectuer les manœuvres de changement d'anode sans arrêter la production d'aluminium dans la cuve d'électrolyse.The invention thus makes it possible to facilitate the anode change maneuvers, and to promote the accessibility of the handling and intervention tools in the electrolysis tank. The invention also makes it possible to limit the wear and damage of the anode conductors during the anode change maneuvers. The invention also makes it possible to carry out the anode changing maneuvers without stopping the production of aluminum in the electrolysis tank.

De préférence, le dispositif d'électrolyse selon l'invention est destiné à recevoir plusieurs ensembles anodiques répartis le long d'une direction longitudinale du caisson, le support anodique desdits ensembles anodiques s'étendant le long d'une direction transversale dudit caisson, ledit dispositif comportant en outre des moyens de compensation coopérant avec les moyens de déplacement pour absorber la dilatation dudit support anodique le long de la direction transversale et/ou de la direction longitudinale.Preferably, the electrolysis device according to the invention is intended to receive several anode assemblies distributed along a longitudinal direction of the box, the anode support of said anode sets extending along a transverse direction of said box, said device further comprising compensation means cooperating with the displacement means to absorb the expansion of said anode support along the transverse direction and / or the longitudinal direction.

En effet, lors du montage de l'ensemble anodique dans le caisson, le support anodique dudit ensemble monte en température, ce qui entraine une dilatation dudit support qui est particulièrement importante dans la direction transversale. Cette dilatation a pour effet de générer des contraintes mécaniques sur le récepteur anodique des moyens de déplacement, ce qui peut conduire au blocage ou à l'endommagement de ces moyens de déplacement. Ces contraintes mécaniques peuvent non seulement déformer le récepteur mais aussi l'ensemble anodique et ainsi générer des défauts de planéïté et donc de contact électrique. De façon générale, les moyens de compensation permettent de tolérer tout défaut de planéité pour assurer un bon contact électrique en autorisant une certaine plage de déformation, ce qui permet de libérer les contraintes mécaniques liées à la dilatation thermique ou la torsion éventuelle du support anodique lors de sa manutention.Indeed, during assembly of the anode assembly in the box, the anode support of said assembly rises in temperature, which causes expansion of said support which is particularly important in the transverse direction. This expansion has the effect of generating mechanical stresses on the anode receiver of the displacement means, which can lead to blocking or damage to these displacement means. These mechanical stresses can not only deform the receiver but also the anode assembly and thus generate flatness defects and therefore electric contact. In general, the compensation means make it possible to tolerate any defect in flatness to ensure good electrical contact by allowing a certain range of deformation, which makes it possible to release the mechanical stresses linked to thermal expansion or the possible torsion of the anode support during handling.

Par « moyens de compensation coopérant avec les moyens de déplacement » on entend qu'il s'établit entre les moyens de compensation et les moyens de déplacement au moins une coopération fonctionnelle, mais pas forcément une coopération physique, c'est-à-dire que les moyens de compensation agissent directement ou indirectement sur les moyens de déplacement. En d'autres termes, les moyens de compensation peuvent avoir des interactions directement avec, ou être intégrés dans, les moyens de déplacement, notamment le récepteur anodique desdits moyens de déplacement. Alternativement, les moyens de compensation peuvent ne pas avoir d'interactions directement avec les moyens de déplacement, par exemple en étant intégrés dans le support anodique de l'ensemble anodique.By “compensation means cooperating with the displacement means” is meant that there is established between the compensation means and the displacement means at least one functional cooperation, but not necessarily physical cooperation, that is to say that the compensation means act directly or indirectly on the displacement means. In other words, the compensation means can have interactions directly with, or be integrated into, the displacement means, in particular the anode receiver of said displacement means. Alternatively, the compensation means may not have interactions directly with the displacement means, for example by being integrated in the anode support of the anode assembly.

De préférence, la surface de contact du au moins un récepteur anodique est agencée au-dessus dudit au moins un récepteur anodique pour supporter l'ensemble anodique. De cette façon, le contact électrique entre le récepteur anodique et le support anodique s'en trouve amélioré.Preferably, the contact surface of the at least one anode receiver is arranged above said at least one anode receiver to support the anode assembly. In this way, the electrical contact between the anode receiver and the anode support is improved.

De préférence, le au moins un récepteur anodique comporte une partie d'entraînement guidée en translation selon la direction sensiblement verticale et une partie conductrice de l'électricité. De cette façon, il est possible d'optimiser le récepteur anodique en découplant la fonction de déplacement, et éventuellement de support, de la fonction conduction de l'électricité, au moins sur une grande partie du récepteur anodique. La partie d'entrainement peut être réalisée en acier. La partie d'entrainement coopère avec des moyens moteurs et des moyens de guidage. La partie conductrice peut, quant à elle, être réalisée en cuivre. Cette configuration permet notamment de limiter la résistance électrique.Preferably, the at least one anode receiver comprises a drive part guided in translation in the substantially vertical direction and an electrically conductive part. In this way, it is possible to optimize the anode receiver by decoupling the displacement function, and possibly the support function, from the electricity conduction function, at least over a large part of the anode receiver. The drive part can be made of steel. The drive part cooperates with motor means and guide means. The conductive part can, for its part, be made of copper. This configuration makes it possible in particular to limit the electrical resistance.

De préférence, la surface de contact du au moins un récepteur anodique est aménagée sur la partie conductrice du dit récepteur anodique. Ainsi, le découplage entre la fonction de déplacement et la fonction conduction de l'électricité est réalisé sur une majeure partie du récepteur anodique, mais pas sur l'ensemble dudit récepteur anodique. En effet, c'est seulement au niveau de la surface de contact du récepteur anodique, que la partie conductrice permet à elle seule d'assurer la double fonction de déplacement et de conduction de l'électricité.Preferably, the contact surface of the at least one anode receiver is arranged on the conductive part of said anode receiver. Thus, the decoupling between the displacement function and the electricity conduction function is carried out on a major part of the anode receiver, but not on the whole of said anode receiver. In fact, it is only at the level of the contact surface of the anode receiver, that the conductive part alone makes it possible to ensure the double function of displacement and conduction of electricity.

Selon un mode de réalisation de la présente invention, la surface de contact est sensiblement horizontale, les moyens de compensation comprenant ladite surface de contact et la surface de contact anodique du support anodique coopérant avec ladite surface de contact, la dilatation du support anodique le long de la direction transversale étant absorbée par glissement de ladite surface de contact anodique sur ladite surface de contact dans la direction transversale et/ou dans la direction longitudinale de ladite surface du support.According to one embodiment of the present invention, the contact surface is substantially horizontal, the compensation means comprising said contact surface. contact and the anodic contact surface of the anodic support cooperating with said contact surface, the expansion of the anodic support along the transverse direction being absorbed by sliding of said anodic contact surface on said contact surface in the transverse direction and / or in the longitudinal direction of said support surface.

Afin d'assurer un bon contact électrique entre le récepteur anodique et l'ensemble anodique, la surface de contact du au moins un récepteur anodique et la surface de contact anodique correspondante du support anodique ont généralement des formes complémentaires.In order to ensure good electrical contact between the anode receiver and the anode assembly, the contact surface of the at least one anode receiver and the corresponding anode contact surface of the anode support generally have complementary shapes.

De préférence, la surface de contact du au moins un récepteur anodique et la surface de contact anodique correspondante du support anodique sont planes et horizontales.Preferably, the contact surface of the at least one anode receiver and the corresponding anode contact surface of the anode support are plane and horizontal.

Alternativement, la surface de contact du au moins un récepteur anodique et la surface de contact anodique correspondante du support anodique peuvent avoir des formes diverses, notamment pour maximiser l'étendue de ces surfaces et favoriser ainsi la conductivité électrique entre le récepteur anodique et le support anodique.Alternatively, the contact surface of the at least one anode receiver and the corresponding anode contact surface of the anode support can have various shapes, in particular to maximize the extent of these surfaces and thus promote the electrical conductivity between the anode receiver and the support. anodic.

Selon un mode de réalisation, la surface de contact du au moins un récepteur anodique peut comporter une goulotte ou rainure traversant l'ensemble de ladite surface de contact et dont l'axe principal s'étend parallèlement à la direction transversale du caisson. Ce mode de réalisation permet de favoriser le glissement de la surface de contact anodique du support anodique sur la surface de contact correspondante du récepteur anodique dans la direction transversale du caisson. Dans ce cas, la surface de contact anodique correspondante présente une partie saillante oblongue destinée à coopérer avec la goulotte. De préférence, la goulotte et la partie saillante oblongue correspondante présentent un profil transversal ayant la forme d'un arc de cercle, par exemple un demi-cercle.According to one embodiment, the contact surface of the at least one anode receiver can comprise a chute or groove crossing the whole of said contact surface and the main axis of which extends parallel to the transverse direction of the box. This embodiment makes it possible to promote the sliding of the anode contact surface of the anode support on the corresponding contact surface of the anode receiver in the transverse direction of the box. In this case, the corresponding anode contact surface has an oblong protruding part intended to cooperate with the chute. Preferably, the chute and the corresponding oblong projecting part have a transverse profile having the shape of an arc of a circle, for example a semicircle.

Dans le cas préférentiel d'un support anodique comportant au moins deux surfaces de contact anodiques destinées à être supportées sur deux surfaces correspondantes de récepteurs anodiques disposés sur chaque bord longitudinal du caisson, les directions principales de la goulotte et de la partie saillante oblongue correspondante peuvent être orientées selon la direction transversale de caisson pour les surfaces de contact sur un bord longitudinal du caisson et orientées selon la direction longitudinale pour les surfaces sur l'autre bord longitudinal du caisson.In the preferential case of an anode support comprising at least two anode contact surfaces intended to be supported on two corresponding surfaces of anode receivers arranged on each longitudinal edge of the box, the main directions of the chute and of the corresponding oblong projecting part can be oriented in the transverse direction of the box for the contact surfaces on one longitudinal edge of the box and oriented in the longitudinal direction for the surfaces on the other longitudinal edge of the box.

De préférence, les moyens de compensation comprennent une graisse conductrice de l'électricité et le glissement de la surface de contact anodique du support anodique sur la surface de contact est facilité par l'utilisation de cette graisse conductrice de l'électricité appliquée sur l'une desdites surfaces.Preferably, the compensation means comprise an electrically conductive grease and the sliding of the anodic contact surface of the anodic support on the contact surface is facilitated by the use of this electrically conductive grease applied to one of said surfaces.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation de la présente invention, les moyens de compensation sont agencés dans ledit au moins un récepteur anodique. Le support anodique peut alors être avantageusement fixé sur le récepteur anodique de sorte que la surface de contact anodique du support anodique soit en compression contre la surface de contact du récepteur anodique, sans risquer une détérioration des moyens de déplacement.According to another embodiment of the present invention, the compensation means are arranged in said at least one anode receiver. The anode support can then advantageously be fixed on the anode receiver so that the anode contact surface of the anode support is in compression against the contact surface of the anode receiver, without risking a deterioration of the displacement means.

De préférence, les moyens de compensation sont agencés entre une partie supérieure du au moins un récepteur anodique portant la surface de contact et la partie d'entrainement.Preferably, the compensation means are arranged between an upper part of the at least one anode receiver carrying the contact surface and the drive part.

Selon une variante, les moyens de compensation comprennent au moins un élément de liaison entre la partie supérieure et la partie d'entrainement permettant d'absorber la dilatation dudit support anodique le long de la direction transversale ou de la direction longitudinale, tel qu'un élément de liaison de type bielle.According to a variant, the compensation means comprise at least one connecting element between the upper part and the drive part making it possible to absorb the expansion of said anode support along the transverse direction or the longitudinal direction, such as a connecting rod type.

De préférence, les moyens de déplacement sont équipés d'au moins deux récepteurs anodiques par ensemble anodique, disposés de part et d'autre du caisson par rapport à la direction transversale, un premier élément de liaison de l'un des récepteurs anodiques permettant d'absorber toute dilatation dudit support anodique le long de la direction transversale, et un second élément de liaison de l'autre récepteur anodique permettant d'absorber toute dilatation dudit support anodique le long de la direction longitudinale.Preferably, the displacement means are equipped with at least two anode receivers per anode assembly, arranged on either side of the box relative to the transverse direction, a first connecting element of one of the anode receivers making it possible to 'absorbing any expansion of said anode support along the transverse direction, and a second connecting element of the other anode receptor making it possible to absorb any expansion of said anode support along the longitudinal direction.

Selon une autre variante, les moyens de compensation comprennent au moins un élément de liaison entre la partie supérieure et la partie d'entrainement permettant d'absorber la dilatation dudit support anodique le long de la direction transversale et de la direction longitudinale, tel qu'un élément de liaison de type rotule.According to another variant, the compensation means comprise at least one connecting element between the upper part and the drive part making it possible to absorb the expansion of said anode support along the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction, such as a ball-type connecting element.

Selon un mode de réalisation de la présente invention, la partie d'entrainement du récepteur anodique comprend un mat de levage entrainé en translation et une semelle connectée au dit mat de levage par l'intermédiaire de l'élément de liaison, la partie conductrice comportant au moins un conducteur latéral et une plaque conductrice disposée sur ladite semelle connectée électriquement au dit conducteur latéral.According to an embodiment of the present invention, the drive part of the anode receiver comprises a lifting mast driven in translation and a soleplate connected to said lifting mast via the connecting element, the conductive part comprising at least one lateral conductor and a conductive plate disposed on said soleplate electrically connected to said lateral conductor.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation de la présente invention, la partie d'entrainement comporte un cerclage entourant la partie conductrice de l'électricité avec un jeu suffisant pour permettre à ladite partie conductrice de se déformer à l'intérieur dudit cerclage et d'absorber ainsi la dilatation du support anodique le long de la direction transversale et/ou de la direction longitudinale.According to another embodiment of the present invention, the drive part comprises a strapping surrounding the electrically conductive part with sufficient clearance to allow said conductive part to deform inside said strapping and to absorb thus the expansion of the anode support along the transverse direction and / or the longitudinal direction.

De préférence, les moyens de déplacement sont équipés d'au moins deux récepteurs anodiques par ensemble anodique, lesdits récepteurs anodiques étant respectivement agencés le long de chaque paroi longitudinale du caisson, à l'extérieur dudit caisson.Preferably, the displacement means are equipped with at least two anode receivers per anode assembly, said anode receivers being respectively arranged along each longitudinal wall of the box, outside said box.

De préférence, les au moins deux récepteurs anodiques par ensemble anodique sont associés à des moyens de motorisations séparés.Preferably, the at least two anode receivers per anode assembly are associated with separate motorization means.

De préférence, le dispositif d'électrolyse comprend des moyens de guidage agencés le long des parois longitudinales du caisson, à l'extérieur dudit caisson, lesdits moyens de guidage étant aménagés dans une structure soudée formant ledit caisson.Preferably, the electrolysis device comprises guide means arranged along the longitudinal walls of the box, outside of said box, said guide means being arranged in a welded structure forming said box.

De préférence, l'ouverture délimitée par le revêtement intérieur du caisson et l'ensemble anodique est recouverte par une couverture amovible.Preferably, the opening delimited by the inner lining of the box and the anode assembly is covered by a removable cover.

Selon encore un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention, les moyens de compensation sont agencés dans le support anodique.According to yet another embodiment of the invention, the compensation means are arranged in the anode support.

L'invention concerne également un ensemble anodique destiné à être installé dans un dispositif d'électrolyse pour la production d'aluminium, ledit ensemble anodique comprenant un support anodique et au moins un bloc anodique suspendu au dit support anodique, ledit support anodique étant destiné à être connecté à des conducteurs anodiques pour amener un courant d'électrolyse jusqu'au dit au moins un bloc anodique, ledit au moins un bloc anodique étant destiné à être déplacé selon une direction sensiblement verticale au travers d'une ouverture délimitée par un caisson et son revêtement intérieur dudit dispositif d'électrolyse à l'aide d'au moins un récepteur anodique de moyens de déplacement dudit dispositif d'électrolyse étant apte à coopérer avec ledit support anodique, ledit ensemble anodique étant caractérisé en ce que le support anodique comporte au moins une surface de contact anodique étant apte à coopérer avec une surface de contact correspondante dudit au moins un récepteur anodique pour établir avec ledit au moins un récepteur anodique, un contact électrique pour conduire le courant d'électrolyse entre ledit au moins un récepteur anodique et l'ensemble anodique, et un contact mécanique pour déplacer ledit ensemble anodique selon la direction sensiblement verticale, la au moins une surface de contact anodique du support anodique étant disposée en dehors d'un espace défini par le dessus dudit au moins un bloc anodique.The invention also relates to an anode assembly intended to be installed in an electrolysis device for the production of aluminum, said anode assembly comprising an anode support and at least one anode block suspended from said anode support, said anode support being intended to be connected to anode conductors to bring an electrolysis current to said at least one anode block, said at least one anode block being intended to be moved in a substantially vertical direction through an opening delimited by a box and its internal coating of said electrolysis device using at least one anode receiver for moving said electrolysis device being able to cooperate with said anode support, said anode assembly being characterized in that the anode support comprises at least one anodic contact surface being able to cooperate with a contact surface corresponds ante of said at least one anode receiver for establishing with said at least one anode receiver, an electrical contact for conducting the electrolysis current between said at least one anode receiver and the anode assembly, and a mechanical contact for moving said anode assembly according to the substantially vertical direction, the at least one anode contact surface of the anode support being disposed outside a space defined by the top of said at least one anode block.

Selon l'invention, la au moins une surface de contact anodique du support anodique est disposée en dehors d'un espace défini par le dessus dudit au moins un bloc anodique. En d'autres termes, la au moins une surface de contact anodique n'est pas disposée au droit du au moins un bloc anodique.According to the invention, the at least one anode contact surface of the anode support is arranged outside a space defined by the top of said at least one anode block. In other words, the at least one anodic contact surface is not disposed in line with the at least one anodic block.

Comme cela est décrit ci-dessus de manière plus complète, une telle configuration permet notamment de recevoir les ensembles anodiques sur des récepteurs anodiques du dispositif d'électrolyse qui sont agencés en dehors du chemin de translation verticale des blocs anodiques.As described above in a more complete manner, such a configuration makes it possible in particular to receive the anode assemblies on anode receptors of the electrolysis device which are arranged outside the path of vertical translation of the anode blocks.

De préférence, le support anodique de l'ensemble anodique s'étend le long d'une direction principale correspondant à une direction transversale du caisson lorsque l'ensemble anodique est reçu dans le dispositif d'électrolyse, et ledit support anodique comporte des moyens de compensation pour absorber la dilatation dudit support anodique le long de ladite direction principale et/ou d'une direction secondaire dudit support anodique correspondant à une direction longitudinale dudit caisson lorsque l'ensemble anodique est installé dans ledit dispositif d'électrolyse.Preferably, the anode support of the anode assembly extends along a main direction corresponding to a transverse direction of the box when the anode assembly is received in the electrolysis device, and said anode support comprises means for compensation for absorbing the expansion of said anode support along said main direction and / or a secondary direction of said anode support corresponding to a longitudinal direction of said box when the anode assembly is installed in said electrolysis device.

De façon générale, les moyens de compensation permettent de corriger tout défaut de planéité pour assurer un bon contact électrique et pour palier la dilatation thermique ou la torsion éventuelle du support anodique.Generally, the compensation means make it possible to correct any flatness defect to ensure good electrical contact and to compensate for thermal expansion or possible torsion of the anode support.

De préférence, le support anodique comporte une armature, supportant le au moins un bloc anodique, et une partie conductrice de l'électricité, la au moins une surface de contact anodique dudit support anodique étant aménagée dans ladite partie conductrice.Preferably, the anode support comprises a frame, supporting the at least one anode block, and an electrically conductive part, the at least one anode contact surface of said anode support being arranged in said conductive part.

Selon un mode de réalisation, les moyens de compensation du support anodique comprennent au moins un élément de liaison, tel qu'un élément de liaison de type bielle ou un élément de liaison de type coulissant, disposé entre la au moins une surface de contact anodique et une partie principale de l'armature, pour absorber toute dilatation dudit support anodique le long de la direction principale ou de la direction secondaire.According to one embodiment, the means for compensating the anode support comprise at least one connecting element, such as a connecting element of the connecting rod type or a sliding type connecting element, disposed between the at least one anodic contact surface. and a main part of the frame, to absorb any expansion of said anode support along the main direction or the secondary direction.

De préférence, le support anodique comporte deux surfaces de contact anodique disposées de chaque côté dudit support anodique par rapport à la direction principale, un premier élément de liaison disposé entre l'une des surfaces de contact anodique et la partie principale de l'armature permettant d'absorber toute dilatation dudit support anodique le long de la direction principale et un second élément de liaison disposé entre l'autre surface de contact anodique et la partie principale de l'armature permettant d'absorber toute dilatation dudit support anodique le long de la direction secondaire.Preferably, the anode support comprises two anode contact surfaces disposed on each side of said anode support relative to the main direction, a first connecting element disposed between one of the anode contact surfaces and the main part of the armature. absorb any expansion of said anode support along the main direction and a second connecting element disposed between the other anode contact surface and the main part of the frame making it possible to absorb any expansion of said anode support along the secondary direction.

De préférence, au moins un élément de liaison permet d'absorber la dilatation du support anodique le long de la direction principale et de la direction secondaire, tel qu'un élément de liaison de type rotule.Preferably, at least one connecting element makes it possible to absorb the expansion of the anode support along the main direction and the secondary direction, such as a ball-type connecting element.

L'invention concerne également une cellule d'électrolyse, ladite cellule étant caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend un dispositif d'électrolyse tel que décrit ci-dessus, ladite cellule d'électrolyse comprenant, en outre, une cuve d'électrolyse formée par le caisson et le revêtement intérieur dudit dispositif d'électrolyse, un bain d'électrolyte contenu dans ladite cuve et au moins un ensemble anodique comportant au moins un bloc anodique immergé partiellement dans ledit bain d'électrolyte.The invention also relates to an electrolysis cell, said cell being characterized in that it comprises an electrolysis device as described above, said electrolysis cell further comprising an electrolysis cell formed by the box and the inner lining of said electrolysis device, an electrolyte bath contained in said tank and at least one anode assembly comprising at least one anode block partially submerged in said electrolyte bath.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à l'aide de la description détaillée de modes de réalisation préférés de celle-ci qui sont exposés ci-dessous, de manière non limitative, et qui sont illustrés à l'aide des figures annexées.

  • La figure 1 représente en coupe, deux cellules d'électrolyse voisines selon l'invention, selon une section transversale A-A de la figure 2 décrite ci-après.
  • La figure 2 représente en coupe, l'une des cellules d'électrolyse de la figure 1, selon une section longitudinale B-B.
  • La figure 3 représente une vue de côté de la même cellule d'électrolyse de la figure 1, le long d'un plan défini par une section longitudinale C-C.
  • La figure 4 représente en coupe, deux cellules d'électrolyse voisines selon un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention.
  • La figure 5 représente en coupe, pour l'une des cellules d'électrolyse de la figure 4, un récepteur anodique des moyens de déplacement comportant un élément de liaison de type bielle et un vérin coopérant avec ledit récepteur anodique.
  • La figure 6 représente en coupe, le récepteur anodique de la figure 5, selon une section longitudinale D-D.
  • La figure 7 représente en coupe, pour l'une des cellules d'électrolyse de la figure 4, un récepteur anodique des moyens de déplacement comportant un élément de liaison de type rotule et un vérin coopérant avec ledit récepteur anodique.
  • La figure 8 représente en coupe, le récepteur anodique de la figure 7, selon une section longitudinale E-E.
  • La figure 9 représente en coupe, deux cellules d'électrolyse voisines selon encore un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention.
  • La figure 10 représente en coupe, un récepteur anodique des moyens de déplacement de l'ensemble anodique de l'une des cellules d'électrolyse de la figure 9 et un vérin coopérant avec ledit récepteur anodique.
  • La figure 11 représente en coupe, le récepteur anodique de la figure 10, selon une section longitudinale F-F.
  • La figure 12 représente en coupe, le récepteur anodique de la figure 10, selon une section longitudinale G-G.
  • La figure 13 représente en coupe, un ensemble anodique selon un mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 14 représente en coupe, le support anodique de la figure 13, selon une section longitudinale I-I.
  • La figure 15 représente en coupe, une partie du support anodique et des moyens de compensation de la figure 13, selon une section longitudinale K-K.
  • La figure 16 représente en coupe, un ensemble anodique selon un autre mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 17 représente en coupe, le support anodique de la figure 16, selon une section longitudinale L-L.
  • La figure 18 représente en coupe, une partie du support anodique et des moyens de compensation de la figure 16, selon une section longitudinale N-N.
The invention will be better understood with the aid of the detailed description of preferred embodiments thereof which are set out below, in a non-limiting manner, and which are illustrated with the aid of the appended figures.
  • The figure 1 represents in section, two neighboring electrolysis cells according to the invention, along a cross section AA of the figure 2 described below.
  • The figure 2 represents in section, one of the electrolysis cells of the figure 1 , along a longitudinal section BB.
  • The figure 3 represents a side view of the same electrolysis cell of the figure 1 , along a plane defined by a longitudinal section CC.
  • The figure 4 shows in section, two neighboring electrolysis cells according to another embodiment of the invention.
  • The figure 5 represents in section, for one of the electrolysis cells of the figure 4 , an anode receiver of the displacement means comprising a connecting element of the connecting rod type and a jack cooperating with said anode receiver.
  • The figure 6 represents in section, the anodic receiver of the figure 5 , according to a longitudinal section DD.
  • The figure 7 represents in section, for one of the electrolysis cells of the figure 4 , an anode receiver of the displacement means comprising a ball-type connection element and a jack cooperating with said anode receiver.
  • The figure 8 represents in section, the anodic receiver of the figure 7 , according to a longitudinal section EE.
  • The figure 9 shows in section, two neighboring electrolysis cells according to yet another embodiment of the invention.
  • The figure 10 represents in section, an anode receiver of the means of displacement of the anode assembly of one of the electrolysis cells of the figure 9 and a jack cooperating with said anode receiver.
  • The figure 11 represents in section, the anodic receiver of the figure 10 , according to a longitudinal section FF.
  • The figure 12 represents in section, the anodic receiver of the figure 10 , according to a longitudinal section GG.
  • The figure 13 shows in section, an anode assembly according to one embodiment.
  • The figure 14 represents in section, the anodic support of the figure 13 , according to a longitudinal section II.
  • The figure 15 represents in section, part of the anodic support and means of compensation of the figure 13 , according to a longitudinal section KK.
  • The figure 16 shows in section, an anode assembly according to another embodiment.
  • The figure 17 represents in section, the anodic support of the figure 16 , according to a longitudinal section LL.
  • The figure 18 represents in section, part of the anodic support and means of compensation of the figure 16 , along a longitudinal section NN.

La figure 1 montre deux cuves d'électrolyse 1 voisines destinées à la production d'aluminium par électrolyse, chacune desdites cuves étant associée à un dispositif d'électrolyse 1 selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention.The figure 1 shows two neighboring electrolysis cells 1 intended for the production of aluminum by electrolysis, each of said cells being associated with an electrolysis device 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention.

La description ci-dessous est réalisée par rapport à un référentiel cartésien, représenté sur la figure 1, qui est lié à chaque cuve d'électrolyse 1, l'axe X étant orienté dans une direction transversale des cuves d'électrolyse, l'axe Y étant orienté dans une direction longitudinale des cuves d'électrolyse, et l'axe Z étant orienté dans une direction verticale des cuves d'électrolyse. Les orientations, directions, plans et déplacements longitudinaux, transversaux, verticaux sont ainsi définis par rapport à ce référentiel.The description below is made in relation to a Cartesian frame of reference, represented on the figure 1 , which is linked to each electrolytic cell 1, the X axis being oriented in a transverse direction of the electrolytic cells, the Y axis being oriented in a longitudinal direction of the electrolytic cells, and the Z axis being oriented in a vertical direction of the electrolytic cells. Longitudinal, transverse, vertical orientations, directions, planes and displacements are thus defined in relation to this reference system.

En référence à la figure 1 et au repère cartésien représenté sur cette même figure, la cuve d'électrolyse 1 est agencée perpendiculairement par rapport à la longueur d'une file de cuves d'électrolyse à laquelle elle appartient. Ainsi, elle s'étend en longueur selon la direction longitudinale Y, tandis que la file de cuves d'électrolyse s'étend en longueur selon la direction transversale X.With reference to the figure 1 and at the Cartesian coordinate system shown in this same figure, the electrolytic cell 1 is arranged perpendicular to the length of a line of electrolytic cells to which it belongs. Thus, it extends in length in the longitudinal direction Y, while the line of electrolytic cells extends in length in the transverse direction X.

Chacune des cuves d'électrolyse 1 comprend un caisson 3, qui peut être métallique, par exemple en acier, et un revêtement intérieur 5, typiquement en matériaux réfractaires. Le caisson 3 est généralement équipé de berceaux de renforts.Each of the electrolytic cells 1 comprises a box 3, which can be metallic, for example made of steel, and an internal coating 5, typically made of refractory materials. The box 3 is generally equipped with reinforcing cradles.

Chacune des cuves d'électrolyse 1 comprend au moins un ensemble cathodique disposé au fond du caisson 3, chaque ensemble cathodique comprenant au moins une cathode 7, pouvant être formée de plusieurs blocs cathodiques en matériau carboné, ainsi que des conducteurs cathodiques 9 destinés à collecter le courant d'électrolyse pour le conduire vers des sorties cathodiques 11 traversant le caisson 3.Each of the electrolytic cells 1 comprises at least one cathode assembly arranged at the bottom of the casing 3, each cathode assembly comprising at least one cathode 7, which can be formed from several cathode blocks of carbonaceous material, as well as cathode conductors 9 intended to collect the electrolysis current to lead it to cathode outputs 11 passing through the box 3.

Chacune des cuves d'électrolyse 1 comprend également des ensembles anodiques 12 comportant un support anodique 13 et au moins un bloc anodique 15 ou anode supporté par le support anodique 13. Le support anodique 13 comprend une barre de support 17 qui peut s'étendre de façon sensiblement horizontale entre deux bords longitudinaux opposés de la cuve d'électrolyse et des rondins 19. Le bloc anodique 15 est accroché au support anodique 13 au moyen des rondins 19 scellés à l'aide de fonte dans des trous prévus à cet effet dans le bloc anodique 15. Le bloc anodique 15 peut être en matériau carboné. Le bloc anodique 15 est souvent de type précuit. En fonctionnement, le bloc anodique 15 est plongé dans un bain électrolytique 21 contenu dans chaque cuve d'électrolyse 1 pour y être consommé. Les ensembles anodiques 12 sont destinés à être enlevés et remplacés périodiquement lorsque les blocs anodiques 15 sont en grande partie consommés. Du fait de la consommation des blocs anodiques 15, chacune des cuves d'électrolyse 1 comprend des moyens de déplacement 23 pour translater verticalement vers le bas les ensembles anodiques 12. De cette façon, les blocs anodiques 15 sont descendus, au fur et à mesure de leur consommation, au travers d'une ouverture 16 délimitée par le caisson 3 et son revêtement intérieur 5.Each of the electrolytic cells 1 also comprises anode assemblies 12 comprising an anode support 13 and at least one anode block 15 or anode supported by the anode support 13. The anode support 13 comprises a support bar 17 which can extend from substantially horizontally between two opposite longitudinal edges of the electrolytic cell and the logs 19. The anode block 15 is hooked to the anode support 13 by means of the logs 19 sealed using cast iron in holes provided for this purpose in the anode block 15. The anode block 15 can be made of carbonaceous material. The anode block 15 is often of the precooked type. In operation, the anode block 15 is immersed in an electrolytic bath 21 contained in each electrolysis tank 1 to be consumed there. The anode assemblies 12 are intended to be removed and replaced periodically when the anode blocks 15 are largely consumed. Due to the consumption of the anode blocks 15, each of the electrolytic cells 1 comprises displacement means 23 for translating the anode assemblies 12 vertically downwards. In this way, the anode blocks 15 are lowered, as and when of their consumption, through an opening 16 delimited by the box 3 and its internal coating 5.

Les moyens de déplacement 23 comportent, pour chaque cuve d'électrolyse 1, au moins deux récepteurs anodiques 25 destinés à coopérer avec le support anodique 13, 17 pour entrainer l'ensemble anodique 12. Les récepteurs anodiques 25 peuvent être actionnés par des vérins 39. Plus précisément, chaque récepteur anodique 25 comporte une surface de contact 27 coopérant avec une surface de contact anodique 29 du support anodique 13, 17 pour établir avec ledit support anodique un contact mécanique permettant d'entrainer verticalement l'ensemble anodique 12. En l'occurrence, la surface de contact 27 des récepteurs anodiques 25 est agencée au-dessus desdits récepteurs anodiques, de sorte que l'ensemble anodique est supporté sur ces récepteurs anodiques. Par conséquent, il n'est pas nécessaire d'avoir des moyens de fixation pour fixer le support anodique 13, 17 sur les récepteurs anodiques 25. Comme cela est expliqué dans ce qui suit, l'absence de moyens de fixation permet de compenser les dilations transversales ou longitudinales du support anodique 13, 17.The displacement means 23 comprise, for each electrolytic cell 1, at least two anode receptors 25 intended to cooperate with the anode support 13, 17 to drive the anode assembly 12. The anode receptors 25 can be actuated by jacks 39 More precisely, each anode receiver 25 has a contact surface 27 cooperating with an anode contact surface 29 of the anode support 13, 17 to establish with said anode support a mechanical contact allowing the anode assembly 12 to be driven vertically. occurrence, the contact surface 27 of the anode receptors 25 is arranged above said anode receptors, so that the anode assembly is supported on these anode receptors. Consequently, it is not necessary to have fixing means for fixing the anode support 13, 17 to the anode receivers 25. As explained in what follows, the absence of fixing means makes it possible to compensate for the transverse or longitudinal dilations of the anode support 13, 17.

D'un point de vue électrique, les ensembles anodiques et les ensembles cathodiques de chaque cuve d'électrolyse sont alimentés électriquement par un réseau de conducteurs électriques. Les sorties cathodiques 11 des cuves d'électrolyse 1 sont reliées à des conducteurs d'acheminement 31 pour conduire le courant d'électrolyse collecté par les conducteurs cathodiques 9 jusqu'à des conducteurs anodiques alimentant électriquement les blocs anodiques 15 de la cuve d'électrolyse suivante. Ces conducteurs d'acheminement 31 s'étendent généralement selon une direction sensiblement horizontale. Les conducteurs anodiques sont, quant à eux, connectés électriquement entre les conducteurs d'acheminements 31 et les ensembles anodiques 12. Les conducteurs anodiques sont destinés à conduire le courant d'électrolyse vers les ensembles anodiques 12 et comportent des conducteurs électriques flexibles 33 pour s'adapter, par leur flexibilité, au déplacement en translation verticale des ensembles anodiques 12 et permettre ainsi de maintenir la connexion électrique pendant le déplacement des ensembles anodiques 12. Les conducteurs électriques flexibles 33 peuvent être formés par une superposition de feuilles souples électriquement conductrices. Les conducteurs cathodiques 9, les sorties cathodiques 11 et les conducteurs d'acheminement 31 peuvent être formés par des barres métalliques, par exemple en aluminium, en cuivre ou en acier.From an electrical point of view, the anode assemblies and the cathode assemblies of each electrolytic cell are supplied electrically by a network of electrical conductors. The cathode outputs 11 of the electrolytic cells 1 are connected to routing conductors 31 to conduct the electrolysis current collected by the cathode conductors 9 to anodic conductors electrically supplying the anode blocks 15 of the electrolytic cell next. These routing conductors 31 generally extend in a substantially horizontal direction. Anode conductors are electrically connected between the routing conductors 31 and the anode assemblies 12. The anode conductors are intended to conduct the electrolysis current to the anode assemblies 12 and include flexible electrical conductors 33 to adapt, by their flexibility, to displacement in translation vertical anode assemblies 12 and thus allow to maintain the electrical connection during the movement of anode assemblies 12. The flexible electrical conductors 33 can be formed by a superposition of flexible electrically conductive sheets. The cathode conductors 9, the cathode outputs 11 and the routing conductors 31 can be formed by metal bars, for example aluminum, copper or steel.

Selon un aspect de l'invention, la surface de contact 27 de chaque récepteur anodique 25 permet d'établir avec le support anodique 13, 17, non seulement d'un contact mécanique pour déplacer verticalement l'ensemble anodique 12, mais également un contact électrique pour conduire le courant d'électrolyse entre chaque récepteur anodique et ledit support anodique.According to one aspect of the invention, the contact surface 27 of each anode receiver 25 makes it possible to establish with the anode support 13, 17, not only a mechanical contact for vertically moving the anode assembly 12, but also a contact electric to conduct the electrolysis current between each anode receptor and said anode support.

Pour ce faire, chaque récepteur anodique 25 comporte une partie d'entrainement 35 qui est guidée en translation verticale et une partie conductrice de l'électricité. La partie d'entrainement 35, qui est souvent en acier, est entrainée par les vérins 39 et guidée en translation verticale par des moyens de guidage 51 qui peuvent être formés contre le caisson et par la partie supérieure du caisson et, le cas échéant, par une partie d'une superstructure de la cuve. La partie conductrice peut, quant à elle, être formée par des conducteurs électriques rigides, non déformables, par exemple, formés par une barre métallique, notamment en acier, en cuivre, en aluminium ou en composite acier/cuivre. La partie conductrice fait partie des conducteurs anodiques décrits ci-dessus, et permet ainsi de conduire le courant d'électrolyse vers un ensemble anodique 12. Plus précisément, la partie conductrice est connectée électriquement entre, d'un côté, les conducteurs électriques flexibles 33, et de l'autre côté, la surface de contact anodique 29 du support anodique 13, 17. Sur la figure 1, seulement l'extrémité supérieure de la partie conductrice 37 a été représentée, c'est-à-dire la partie du récepteur anodique 25 portant la surface de contact 27. Le transport du courant d'électrolyse dans le support anodique 13, 17, entre la surface de contact anodique 29 dudit support et les blocs anodiques 15, se fait à l'aide de conducteurs électriques 40, représentés en noir, intégrés dans ledit support anodique. Le transport du courant d'électrolyse dans le support anodique 13, 17 se fait également à l'aide des rondins 19. Les surfaces de contact 27 des récepteurs anodiques 25 étant agencées de façon à supporter l'ensemble anodique 12, le poids de cet ensemble anodique permet ainsi de renforcer le contact électrique entre le récepteur anodique et le support anodique. Il s'ensuit que la conduction du courant d'électrolyse est améliorée.To do this, each anode receiver 25 includes a drive part 35 which is guided in vertical translation and an electrically conductive part. The drive part 35, which is often made of steel, is driven by the jacks 39 and guided in vertical translation by guide means 51 which can be formed against the box and by the upper part of the box and, where appropriate, by part of a tank superstructure. The conductive part can, for its part, be formed by rigid, non-deformable electrical conductors, for example, formed by a metal bar, in particular steel, copper, aluminum or a steel / copper composite. The conductive part is one of the anode conductors described above, and thus makes it possible to conduct the electrolysis current to an anode assembly 12. More specifically, the conductive part is electrically connected between, on one side, the flexible electrical conductors 33 , and on the other side, the anode contact surface 29 of the anode support 13, 17. On the figure 1 , only the upper end of the conductive part 37 has been shown, that is to say the part of the anode receiver 25 carrying the contact surface 27. The transport of the electrolysis current in the anode support 13, 17, between the anode contact surface 29 of said support and the anode blocks 15, is done using electrical conductors 40, shown in black, integrated in said anode support. The transport of the electrolysis current in the anode support 13, 17 is also done using the logs 19. The contact surfaces 27 of the anode receivers 25 being arranged so as to support the anode assembly 12, the weight of this anode assembly thus makes it possible to strengthen the electrical contact between the anode receiver and the anode support. It follows that the conduction of the electrolysis current is improved.

Selon un autre aspect de l'invention, les récepteurs anodiques 25 des moyens de déplacement 23 sont disposés en dehors d'un espace défini par le dessus des blocs anodiques 15 pendant leur déplacement à travers l'ouverture 16. En effet, lors des déplacements verticaux de l'ensemble anodique 12, que ce soit par l'intermédiaire des moyens de déplacement 23 afin de compenser la consommation des bloc anodiques 15, ou que ce soit à l'aide d'outils de manutention dans les opérations de changement d'anode, les récepteurs anodiques 25 ne se trouvent pas sur le chemin de translation vertical des blocs anodiques 15. De la même façon, les conducteurs anodiques sont également disposés en dehors de l'espace défini par le dessus des blocs anodiques 15 pendant leur déplacement à travers l'ouverture 16. En effet, l'extrémité des conducteurs anodiques, qui sont en contact avec le support anodique 13, 17, est comprise dans la partie conductrice 37 des récepteurs anodiques 25, cette dernière étant elle-même en dehors de l'espace défini par le dessus des blocs anodiques 15. Il s'ensuit que les manœuvres de changement d'anode s'en trouvent facilitées. Cette configuration permet également de ne pas entraver l'accessibilité des outils d'intervention dans la cuve d'électrolyse. A l'exception d'une couverture amovible décrite ci-après, aucun équipement n'est disposé au-dessus de l'ouverture 16 qui pourrait entraver l'accessibilité dans chaque cuve d'électrolyse 1.According to another aspect of the invention, the anode receivers 25 of the displacement means 23 are arranged outside a space defined by the top of the anode blocks 15 during their displacement through the opening 16. In fact, during displacements vertical of the anode assembly 12, whether by means of displacement means 23 in order to compensate for the consumption of the anode blocks 15, or whether it is using handling tools in change of operations. anode, the anode receivers 25 are not on the vertical translation path of the anode blocks 15. Likewise, the anode conductors are also arranged outside the space defined by the top of the anode blocks 15 during their displacement at through the opening 16. Indeed, the end of the anode conductors, which are in contact with the anode support 13, 17, is included in the conductive part 37 of the anode receivers 25, this the latter itself being outside the space defined by the top of the anode blocks 15. It follows that the maneuvers for changing the anode are thereby facilitated. This configuration also makes it possible not to hinder the accessibility of the intervention tools in the electrolysis tank. With the exception of a removable cover described below, no equipment is disposed above the opening 16 which could hinder accessibility in each electrolysis tank 1.

Selon un autre aspect préférentiel de l'invention, des moyens de compensation coopérant, au moins fonctionnellement, avec les moyens de déplacement sont souvent nécessaires pour absorber la dilatation du support anodique 13, 17.According to another preferred aspect of the invention, compensation means cooperating, at least functionally, with the displacement means are often necessary to absorb the expansion of the anode support 13, 17.

Dans le mode de réalisation représenté à la figure 1, la surface de contact 27 du récepteur anodique 25 est plane et horizontale, ce qui permet d'absorber toute dilatation du support anodique 13, 17 par glissement de la surface de contact anodique 29 de ce support anodique sur ladite surface de contact du récepteur anodique. Il s'ensuit que, dans ce mode de réalisation, les moyens de compensation sont essentiellement formés par la surface de contact 27 du récepteur anodique 25 et la surface de contact anodique 29 du support anodique 13, 17. Ce glissement de la surface de contact anodique 29 du support anodique 13, 17 sur la surface de contact 27 peut être facilité par l'utilisation d'une graisse conductrice de l'électricité appliquée sur l'une desdites surfaces.In the embodiment shown in figure 1 , the contact surface 27 of the anode receiver 25 is flat and horizontal, which makes it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode support 13, 17 by sliding the anode contact surface 29 of this anode support onto said contact surface of the anode receiver . It follows that, in this embodiment, the compensation means are essentially formed by the contact surface 27 of the anode receiver 25 and the anode contact surface 29 of the anode support 13, 17. This sliding of the contact surface anode 29 of the anode support 13, 17 on the contact surface 27 can be facilitated by the use of an electrically conductive grease applied to one of said surfaces.

Chacune des cuves d'électrolyse 1 comprend une enceinte de confinement 41 destinée au confinement des gaz générés au cours de la réaction d'électrolyse. Cette enceinte de confinement délimite un volume fermé au-dessus de l'ouverture 16 au travers de laquelle l'ensemble anodique 12 est déplacé verticalement. On notera que les ensembles anodiques 12 sont intégralement contenus dans l'enceinte de confinement 41. Cette enceinte de confinement est formée, au moins en partie, par le caisson 3 et par une couverture amovible 43. L'enceinte de confinement 41 peut comporter une superstructure recevant la couverture amovible 43 et disposée au-dessus du caisson 3. Dans le mode de réalisation représenté, la couverture amovible 43 repose sur une partie fixe 45 d'une superstructure ou d'un prolongement du caisson 3. La couverture amovible 43 permet d'extraire et d'introduire des ensembles anodiques 12, par le dessus, dans chaque cuve d'électrolyse 1, à l'aide d'outils de manutention. Elle permet également de faciliter toute intervention dans la cuve d'électrolyse 1.Each of the electrolysis tanks 1 comprises a confinement enclosure 41 intended for the confinement of the gases generated during the electrolysis reaction. This confinement enclosure delimits a closed volume above the opening 16 through which the anode assembly 12 is moved vertically. It will be noted that the anode assemblies 12 are entirely contained in the confinement enclosure 41. This confinement enclosure is formed, at least in part, by the box 3 and by a removable cover 43. The confinement enclosure 41 may comprise a superstructure receiving the removable cover 43 and disposed above the box 3. In the embodiment shown, the removable cover 43 rests on a fixed part 45 of a superstructure or of an extension of the box 3. The removable cover 43 makes it possible to extract and introduce anode assemblies 12, from above, into each electrolysis tank 1, using handling tools. It also facilitates any intervention in the electrolysis tank 1.

Les récepteurs anodiques 25 des moyens de déplacement 23 sont en partie dans l'enceinte de confinement 41. Une partie supérieure des récepteurs anodiques 25 portant la surface de contact 27 est disposée à l'intérieur de l'enceinte de confinement 41. Une partie inférieure de ces mêmes récepteurs anodiques 25, fixée à chaque vérin 39 et connectée électriquement aux conducteurs flexibles 33, est disposée à l'extérieur de l'enceinte de confinement 41. Les conducteurs électriques flexibles 33 et les vérins 39 sont agencés à l'extérieur de l'enceinte de confinement 41. La partie supérieure des récepteurs anodiques 25 portant les surfaces de contact 27 s'étend à l'intérieur de l'enceinte de confinement 41, de sorte que la connexion électrique avec le support anodique 13, 17 est réalisée à l'intérieur de l'enceinte de confinement 41. Ainsi, l'ensemble anodique 12 est exempt de toute interaction avec le caisson 3, la couverture amovible 43, et le cas échéant la superstructure qui forment l'enceinte de confinement 41. De cette façon, l'enceinte de confinement 41 ne risque pas d'être affectée, soit par le remplacement de l'ensemble anodique, soit par le déplacement de l'ensemble anodique vers le bas au fur et à mesure de la consommation des blocs anodiques 15.The anode receivers 25 of the displacement means 23 are partly in the confinement enclosure 41. An upper part of the anode receivers 25 carrying the contact surface 27 is arranged inside the confinement enclosure 41. A lower part of these same anode receivers 25, fixed to each jack 39 and electrically connected to the flexible conductors 33, is arranged outside the confinement enclosure 41. The flexible electrical conductors 33 and the jacks 39 are arranged outside the containment 41. The upper part of the anode receivers 25 carrying the contact surfaces 27 extends inside the containment 41, so that the electrical connection with the anode support 13, 17 is made inside the confinement enclosure 41. Thus, the anode assembly 12 is free from any interaction with the box 3, the removable cover 43, and if necessary the has superstructure which form the confinement enclosure 41. In this way, the confinement enclosure 41 is not likely to be affected, either by the replacement of the anode assembly, or by the displacement of the anode assembly towards the low as the anode blocks are consumed 15.

Des joints d'étanchéité dynamiques sont disposés autour des récepteurs anodiques 25 au niveau de la traversée de l'enceinte de confinement 41 par le récepteur anodique afin d'empêcher que les gaz générés au cours de la réaction d'électrolyse sortent de l'enceinte de confinement 41. Pour améliorer l'étanchéité de l'enceinte de confinement 41, plus particulièrement au niveau de la jonction entre la couverture amovible 43 et la partie fixe 45, il peut être prévu que chaque cuve d'électrolyse 1 comprenne des joints d'étanchéité 47 intercalés entre la couverture amovible 43 et la partie fixe 45 sur laquelle ladite couverture amovible 43 repose.Dynamic seals are arranged around the anode receptors 25 at the crossing of the confinement enclosure 41 by the anode receptor in order to prevent the gases generated during the electrolysis reaction from leaving the enclosure containment 41. To improve the tightness of the containment 41, more particularly at the junction between the removable cover 43 and the fixed part 45, it can be provided that each electrolytic cell 1 includes seals d 'sealing 47 interposed between the removable cover 43 and the fixed part 45 on which said removable cover 43 rests.

Les figures 2 et 3 permettent de voir que la couverture amovible 43 peut comprendre une pluralité de capots 53 adjacents sensiblement longitudinaux et parallèles entre eux, s'étendant selon une direction X sensiblement transversale, entre deux bords longitudinaux opposés de chaque cuve d'électrolyse 1. Dans le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures 4, 5, 6, 7 et 8, les moyens de compensation sont agencés dans les récepteurs anodiques 125, 126 des moyens de déplacement 123 associés à chaque cuve d'électrolyse 101, c'est à dire plus précisément entre la partie supérieure des récepteurs anodiques 125, 126 portant les surfaces de contact 127, 128 et la partie d'entrainement 135, 136 de ces mêmes récepteurs anodiques guidée en translation verticale. Les moyens de compensation comprennent des éléments de liaison 161 agencés dans les récepteurs anodiques 125 disposés à gauche de chaque cuve d'électrolyse et des éléments de liaison 171 d'un autre type agencés dans les récepteurs anodiques 126 disposés à droite de chaque cuve d'électrolyse 101. Les éléments de liaison 161 sont de type bielle, alors que les éléments de liaison 171 sont de type rotule. Les éléments de liaison 161, 171 des moyens de compensation sont agencés entre la partie supérieure et la partie d'entrainement 135, 136 des récepteurs anodiques 125, 126.The figures 2 and 3 show that the removable cover 43 may comprise a plurality of adjacent covers 53 which are substantially longitudinal and mutually parallel, extending in a substantially transverse direction X, between two opposite longitudinal edges of each electrolytic cell 1. In the mode of realization represented on figures 4 , 5, 6, 7 and 8 , the compensation means are arranged in the anode receivers 125, 126 of the displacement means 123 associated with each electrolytic cell 101, that is to say more precisely between the upper part of the anode receptors 125, 126 carrying the contact surfaces 127, 128 and the drive part 135, 136 of these same anode receptors guided in vertical translation. The compensation means comprise connecting elements 161 arranged in the anode receptors 125 arranged on the left of each electrolysis cell and connecting elements 171 of another type arranged in the anode receptors 126 arranged on the right of each cell electrolysis 101. The connecting elements 161 are of the connecting rod type, while the connecting elements 171 are of the ball joint type. The connecting elements 161, 171 of the compensation means are arranged between the upper part and the drive part 135, 136 of the anode receivers 125, 126.

Contrairement au mode de réalisation représenté à la figure 1, le support anodique 13, 17 des ensembles anodiques 12 représentés sur la figure 4 est fixé sur les récepteurs anodiques 125, 126 à l'aide de moyens de fixation comprenant deux filetages complémentaires dont la coopération permet la fixation du support anodique 13, 17 par simple vissage à l'aide des vis 181. Les moyens de fixation pourraient comprendre tout type de connecteur, par exemple à vis, réalisant un placage et une compression du support anodique 13, 17 contre les récepteurs anodiques 125, 126.Unlike the embodiment shown in figure 1 , the anode support 13, 17 of the anode assemblies 12 shown on the figure 4 is fixed to the anode receivers 125, 126 using fixing means comprising two complementary threads, the cooperation of which allows the fixing of the anode support 13, 17 by simple screwing using the screws 181. The fixing means could comprise any type of connector, for example a screw connector, plating and compressing the anode support 13, 17 against the anode receivers 125, 126.

En référence aux figures 5 et 6, représentant de manière plus détaillée les récepteurs anodiques 125 disposés à gauche de chaque cuve d'électrolyse 101, la partie d'entrainement 135 comprend un mat de levage 163 entrainé en translation verticale par le vérin 39. La partie d'entrainement comprend également une semelle 165 en acier connectée au mat de levage 163 par l'intermédiaire de l'élément de liaison 161 de type bielle. La partie conductrice 137 comporte, quant à elle, deux conducteurs latéraux 167 rigides qui sont connectés dans leur partie inférieure aux conducteurs flexibles 33 représentés sur la figure 4. La partie conductrice 137 comporte, en outre, une semelle conductrice 169 en cuivre disposée sur la semelle 165 et connectée électriquement aux deux conducteurs latéraux 167. Les conducteurs latéraux 167 sont fixés mécaniquement à la semelle 165 en acier et soudés à la semelle conductrice 169.With reference to Figures 5 and 6 , representing in more detail the anode receptors 125 placed to the left of each electrolysis tank 101, the drive part 135 comprises a lifting mast 163 driven in vertical translation by the jack 39. The drive part also includes a sole 165 of steel connected to the lifting mast 163 by means of the connecting element 161 of the connecting rod type. The conductive part 137 comprises, for its part, two rigid lateral conductors 167 which are connected in their lower part to the flexible conductors 33 represented on the figure 4 . The conductive part 137 further comprises a conductive soleplate 169 made of copper disposed on the soleplate 165 and electrically connected to the two lateral conductors 167. The lateral conductors 167 are mechanically fixed to the steel soleplate 165 and welded to the conductive soleplate 169.

En référence aux figures 7 et 8, représentant de manière plus détaillée les récepteurs anodiques 126 disposés à droite de chaque cuve d'électrolyse 101, la configuration des récepteurs anodiques 126 est similaire aux récepteurs anodiques 125, sauf que l'élément de liaison 171 est de type rotule. La partie d'entrainement 136 comprend un mat de levage 173 entrainé en translation verticale par le vérin 39. La partie d'entrainement comprend également une semelle 175 en acier connectée au mat de levage 173 par l'intermédiaire de l'élément de liaison 171 de type rotule. La partie conductrice 138 comporte, quant à elle, deux conducteurs latéraux 177 rigides qui sont connectés dans leur partie inférieure aux conducteurs flexibles 33 représentés sur la figure 4. La partie conductrice 138 comporte, en outre, une plaque conductrice 179 en cuivre qui est disposée sur la semelle 175 et qui est connectée électriquement aux deux conducteurs latéraux 177. Les conducteurs latéraux 177 sont fixés mécaniquement à la semelle 175 en acier et soudés à la semelle conductrice 179.With reference to Figures 7 and 8 , representing in more detail the anode receptors 126 arranged to the right of each electrolytic cell 101, the configuration of the anode receptors 126 is similar to the anode receptors 125, except that the connecting element 171 is of the ball joint type. The drive part 136 comprises a lifting mast 173 driven in vertical translation by the jack 39. The driving part also includes a steel sole 175 connected to the lifting mast 173 via the connecting element 171 ball type. The conductive part 138 comprises two rigid lateral conductors 177 which are connected in their lower part to the flexible conductors 33 shown in the figure 4 . The conductive part 138 further comprises a conductive plate 179 made of copper which is disposed on the sole 175 and which is electrically connected to the two lateral conductors 177. The lateral conductors 177 are mechanically fixed to the steel sole 175 and welded to the conductive sole 179.

Les éléments de liaison de type bielle 161 et de type rotule 171 permettent ainsi d'absorber toute dilatation des supports anodiques 13, 17. L'élément de liaison 161 de type bielle est monté avec ses axes de rotation orientés selon la direction longitudinale Y, ce qui permet d'absorber toute dilatation du support anodique 13, 17 le long de la direction transversale. Si les axes de rotation de l'élément de liaison de type bielle avaient été orientés selon la direction transversale X, la compensation serait appliquée pour absorber toute dilatation du support anodique le long de la direction longitudinale. L'élément de liaison 171 de type rotule permet, quant à lui, d'absorber toute dilatation du support anodique 13, 17 le long de la direction transversale et de la direction longitudinale.The connecting elements of the connecting rod type 161 and of the ball type 171 thus make it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode supports 13, 17. The connecting element 161 of the connecting rod type is mounted with its axes of rotation oriented in the longitudinal direction Y, which makes it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode support 13, 17 along the transverse direction. If the axes of rotation of the connecting rod type element had been oriented in the transverse direction X, compensation would be applied to absorb any expansion of the anode support along the longitudinal direction. The connecting element 171 of the ball-joint type makes it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode support 13, 17 along the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction.

Selon un mode de réalisation non représenté, les moyens de déplacement sont équipés d'au moins deux récepteurs anodiques par ensemble anodique, disposés de part et d'autre du caisson par rapport à la direction transversale, -un premier élément de liaison de type bielle étant monté sur l'un des récepteurs anodiques de façon à absorber toute dilatation dudit support anodique le long de la direction transversale, et un second élément de liaison de type bielle étant monté sur l'autre récepteur anodique de façon à absorber toute dilatation dudit support anodique le long de la direction longitudinale.According to an embodiment not shown, the displacement means are equipped with at least two anode receivers per anode assembly, arranged on either side of the box relative to the transverse direction, a first connecting element of the connecting rod type. being mounted on one of the anode receptors so as to absorb any expansion of said anode support along the transverse direction, and a second connecting element of the connecting rod type being mounted on the other anode receptor so as to absorb any expansion of said support anodic along the longitudinal direction.

Pour chaque ensemble anodique, il est également possible d'envisager d'avoir au moins un élément de liaison agencé sur au moins un récepteur anodique disposé sur un seul côté du caisson de la cuve d'électrolyse.For each anode assembly, it is also possible to envisage having at least one connecting element arranged on at least one anode receptor disposed on only one side of the casing of the electrolysis tank.

Dans le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures 9, 10, 11 et 12, les moyens de compensation sont, comme dans le mode de réalisation de la figure 4, agencés dans les récepteurs anodiques des moyens de déplacement associés à chaque cuve d'électrolyse 201.In the embodiment shown in the figures 9 , 10, 11 and 12 , the compensation means are, as in the embodiment of the figure 4 , arranged in the anode receivers of the displacement means associated with each electrolytic cell 201.

Contrairement au mode de réalisation représenté à la figure 1, le support anodique 13, 17 des ensembles anodiques 12 représentés sur la figure 9 est fixé sur les récepteurs anodiques 225 à l'aide de moyens de fixation comprenant deux filetages complémentaires dont la coopération permet la fixation du support anodique 13, 17 par simple vissage à l'aide des vis 281.Unlike the embodiment shown in figure 1 , the anode support 13, 17 of the anode assemblies 12 shown on the figure 9 is fixed to the anode receivers 225 using fixing means comprising two complementary threads, the cooperation of which allows the anode support 13, 17 to be fixed by simple screwing using the screws 281.

En référence aux figures 10, 11 et 12, représentant de manière plus détaillée les récepteurs anodiques 225, la partie d'entrainement 235 du récepteur anodique 225 comporte un cerclage 283 ou carter entourant la partie conductrice de ce même récepteur anodique. Le cerclage 283 est en acier rigide et constitue l'essentiel de la partie d'entrainement 235 du récepteur anodique 225. Le cerclage est entrainé en translation verticale par l'intermédiaire du vérin 39. Comme cela est visible sur les figures 11 et 12, un jeu est laissé entre la partie conductrice 237 et le cerclage 283, afin que ladite partie conductrice puisse bouger pour reprendre la dilatation thermique ou tout autre défaut de planéité du support anodique 13, 17. Un pivot glissant 285 est agencé dans la partie inférieure du récepteur anodique 225 pour soutenir la partie conductrice 237. Le pivot glissant 285 pourrait également être disposé perpendiculairement par rapport à celui présenté sur les figures 10 et 11, par exemple sur le récepteur anodique 225 supportant le même ensemble anodique et disposé de l'autre côté du caisson.With reference to figures 10, 11 and 12 , representing in more detail the anode receptors 225, the drive part 235 of the anode receptor 225 comprises a strapping 283 or casing surrounding the conductive part of this same anode receptor. The strapping 283 is made of rigid steel and constitutes the main part of the drive part 235 of the anode receiver 225. The strapping is driven in vertical translation by means of the jack 39. As can be seen on the Figures 11 and 12 , a clearance is left between the conductive part 237 and the hoop 283, so that said conductive part can move to resume thermal expansion or any other defect in the flatness of the anode support 13, 17. A sliding pivot 285 is arranged in the lower part of the anode receiver 225 to support the conductive part 237. The sliding pivot 285 could also be arranged perpendicular to that presented on the figures 10 and 11 , for example on the anode receiver 225 supporting the same anode assembly and arranged on the other side of the box.

Les moyens de compensation peuvent également être agencés dans le support anodique de l'ensemble anodique. Des ensembles anodiques 301, 401 intégrant de tels supports anodiques ont été représentés, à titre d'exemple, sur les figures 13 à 18.The compensation means can also be arranged in the anode support of the anode assembly. Anode assemblies 301, 401 incorporating such anode supports have been shown, for example, on the figures 13 to 18 .

En référence aux figures 13 et 16, le support anodique 303, 403 des ensembles anodiques 301, 401 s'étend le long d'une direction principale correspondant à la direction transversale X lorsque l'ensemble anodique est installé dans le dispositif d'électrolyse. Un repère cartésien a été représenté sur les figures 13 et 16, à titre indicatif, pour montrer le positionnement de ces ensembles anodiques par rapport aux cuves d'électrolyse. La dilatation des supports anodiques 303, 403 se fait essentiellement le long de la direction principale. La dilatation se fait, dans une moindre mesure, le long d'une direction secondaire des supports anodiques. 303, 403 correspondant à la direction longitudinale Y lorsque l'ensemble anodique est installé dans le dispositif d'électrolyse.With reference to figures 13 and 16 , the anode support 303, 403 of the anode assemblies 301, 401 extends along a main direction corresponding to the transverse direction X when the anode assembly is installed in the electrolysis device. A Cartesian coordinate system has been represented on the figures 13 and 16 , as an indication, to show the positioning of these anode assemblies in relation to the electrolytic cells. The expansion of the anode supports 303, 403 takes place essentially along the main direction. Expansion occurs, to a lesser extent, along a secondary direction of the anode supports. 303, 403 corresponding to the longitudinal direction Y when the anode assembly is installed in the electrolysis device.

Les supports anodiques 303, 403 des ensembles anodiques 301, 401 comportent des armatures 305, 405 supportant plusieurs blocs anodiques 307, 407 par l'intermédiaires de rondins 309, 409. Les supports anodiques 303, 403 comportent également une partie conductrice 311, 411 formée par des conducteurs électriques flexibles. Chacun des supports anodiques 303, 403 comporte deux surfaces de contact anodique ayant la forme de semelles 313, 413 destinées à coopérer avec des surfaces de contact correspondantes des récepteurs anodiques pour établir un contact électrique et un contact mécanique. Les surfaces de contact anodique 313, 413 sont disposées en dehors d'un espace défini par le dessus des blocs anodiques 307, 407, ce qui permet de supporter ces ensembles anodiques sur des récepteurs anodiques d'un dispositif d'électrolyse qui sont agencés en dehors du chemin de translation verticale des blocs anodiques. Les surfaces de contact anodique 313, 413 sont aménagées dans les parties conductrices 311, 411 et sont essentiellement constituées par des semelles en cuivre desdites parties conductrices. Ainsi, le contact électrique entre les récepteurs anodiques et les supports anodiques s'en trouve amélioré.The anode supports 303, 403 of the anode assemblies 301, 401 include reinforcements 305, 405 supporting several anode blocks 307, 407 by means of logs 309, 409. The anode supports 303, 403 also comprise a conductive part 311, 411 formed by flexible electrical conductors. Each of the anode supports 303, 403 comprises two anode contact surfaces in the form of soles 313, 413 intended to cooperate with corresponding contact surfaces of the anode receivers to establish an electrical contact and a mechanical contact. The anode contact surfaces 313, 413 are arranged outside a space defined by the top of the anode blocks 307, 407, which makes it possible to support these anode assemblies on anode receivers of an electrolysis device which are arranged in outside the vertical translation path of the blocks anodic. The anodic contact surfaces 313, 413 are arranged in the conductive parts 311, 411 and are essentially constituted by copper soles of said conductive parts. Thus, the electrical contact between the anode receivers and the anode supports is improved.

Comme cela est visible sur les figures 14 et 17, les armatures 305, 405 comportent des poutres dont le profil présente une forme et un dimensionnement permettant de réduire la flexion desdites poutres sous le poids des blocs anodiques. Les parties conductrices 311, 411 peuvent être formées par des plaques ou des lamelles en cuivre qui ne sont pas liées mécaniquement de façon continue avec les armatures 305, 405 du support anodique. Comme visible sur les figures 13 et 16, les parties conductrices 311, 411 sont plus particulièrement liées aux armatures 305, 405 uniquement au niveau des surfaces de contact anodique 313, 413 et des rondins 309, 409. Les parties conductrices 311, 411 peuvent se déformer légèrement sur les sections non liées aux armatures 305, 405 de sorte à absorber toute dilatation thermique du support anodique 303, 403.As can be seen on the figures 14 and 17 , the frames 305, 405 comprise beams whose profile has a shape and a dimensioning making it possible to reduce the bending of said beams under the weight of the anode blocks. The conductive parts 311, 411 can be formed by copper plates or strips which are not mechanically linked continuously with the reinforcements 305, 405 of the anode support. As seen on figures 13 and 16 , the conductive parts 311, 411 are more particularly linked to the reinforcements 305, 405 only at the level of the anodic contact surfaces 313, 413 and of the logs 309, 409. The conductive parts 311, 411 can deform slightly on the sections not linked to the reinforcements 305, 405 so as to absorb any thermal expansion of the anode support 303, 403.

En référence aux figures 13, 14 et 15, les moyens de compensation du support anodique 301 comprennent un élément de liaison de type bielle 321 disposé entre la surface de contact anodique 313 à droite de l'ensemble anodique 301 et une partie principale de l'armature 305. Les moyens de compensation du support anodique 303 comprennent un un autre élément de liaison de type rotule 322 disposé entre la surface de contact anodique 313 à gauche de l'ensemble anodique et une partie principale de l'armature 305. Plus précisément, les éléments de liaison 321, 322 sont disposés entre la poutre de l'armature 305 et des semelles en acier 325 supportant les semelles en cuivre formant les surfaces de contact anodique 313.With reference to Figures 13, 14 and 15 , the anode support compensation means 301 comprise a connecting element of the connecting rod type 321 disposed between the anode contact surface 313 to the right of the anode assembly 301 and a main part of the frame 305. The support compensation means anodic 303 include another ball-type connecting element 322 disposed between the anodic contact surface 313 to the left of the anodic assembly and a main part of the frame 305. More specifically, the connecting elements 321, 322 are arranged between the beam of the frame 305 and steel flanges 325 supporting the copper flanges forming the anodic contact surfaces 313.

L'élément de liaison 321 de type bielle est monté avec ses axes de rotation orientés selon la direction secondaire Y, ce qui permet d'absorber toute dilatation du support anodique 303 le long de la direction principale X. L'élément de liaison de type bielle peut être appelé une bielle de rattrapage de la dilatation thermique longitudinale de la poutre constituant le support anodique. Si les axes de rotation de l'élément de liaison de type bielle avaient été orientés selon la direction principale X, la compensation serait appliquée pour absorber toute dilatation du support anodique le long de la direction secondaire Y. L'élément de liaison 322 de type rotule permet, quant à lui, d'absorber toute dilatation du support anodique le long de la direction transversale et de la direction longitudinale. L'élément de liaison de type rotule peut être appelé une rotule de rattrapage des défauts de torsion de la poutre constituant le support anodique.The connecting element 321 of the connecting rod type is mounted with its axes of rotation oriented in the secondary direction Y, which makes it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode support 303 along the main direction X. The connecting element of the connecting rod can be called a connecting rod for the longitudinal thermal expansion of the beam constituting the anode support. If the axes of rotation of the connecting rod type element had been oriented in the main direction X, compensation would be applied to absorb any expansion of the anode support along the secondary direction Y. The connecting element 322 of type As for the ball joint, it can absorb any expansion of the anode support along the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction. The ball-type connecting element can be called a ball joint for compensating for torsional defects of the beam constituting the anode support.

En référence aux figures 16, 17 et 18, les moyens de compensation du support anodique 301 comprennent deux éléments de liaison de type coulissant 421 ou de type glissière, chacun desdits éléments de liaison étant disposé entre l'une ou l'autre des surfaces de contact anodique 413 de l'ensemble anodique et une partie principale de l'armature 405. Plus précisément, les éléments de liaison 421 sont disposés entre la poutre de l'armature 405 et des semelles en acier 425 supportant les semelles en cuivre formant les surfaces de contact anodique 413. Les éléments de liaison 421 de type coulissant sont formés d'un côté par la poutre de l'armature 405 dont le profil forme une glissière, et de l'autre côté par des coulisseaux montés coullissants dans la glissière, chacun desdits coulisseaux portant la semelle en cuivre de chaque surface de contact anodique 413. L'élément de liaison 421 permet ainsi d'absorber toute dilatation du support anodique 403 le long de la direction principale X. Par ailleurs les éléments de liaison de type coulissant 421 peuvent en outre permettre une légère rotation ou pivot des semelles 425 autour d'un axe parallèle à la direction principale X, de part la forme sensiblement cylindrique des coulisseaux. L'élément de liaison 421 permet ainsi d'absorber toute dilatation du support anodique 403 le long de la direction secondaire Y.With reference to Figures 16, 17 and 18 , the means for compensating the anode support 301 comprise two connecting elements of the sliding type 421 or of the sliding type, each of said connecting elements being arranged between one or the other of the anodic contact surfaces 413 of the anodic assembly and a main part of the frame 405. More specifically, the connecting elements 421 are arranged between the beam the frame 405 and steel soles 425 supporting the copper soles forming the anodic contact surfaces 413. The connecting elements 421 of the sliding type are formed on one side by the beam of the frame 405 whose profile forms a slide, and on the other side by slides mounted to slide in the slide, each of said slides carrying the copper soleplate of each anode contact surface 413. The connecting element 421 thus makes it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode support 403 along the main direction X. Furthermore, the sliding type connecting elements 421 can also allow a slight rotation or pivot of the soles 425 around a parallel axis. lele to the main direction X, due to the substantially cylindrical shape of the slides. The connecting element 421 thus makes it possible to absorb any expansion of the anode support 403 along the secondary direction Y.

Selon un mode de réalisation non représenté, les moyens de compensation de l'ensemble anodique pourraient comporter un seul élément de liaison d'un côté ou de l'autre du support anodique. Les moyens de liaison pourraient également comporter un élément de liaison de type rotule ou pivot sur l'un des côtés du support anodique et un élément de liaison de type coulissant sur l'autre côté dudit support anodique.According to an embodiment not shown, the means for compensating the anode assembly could comprise a single connecting element on one side or the other of the anode support. The connection means could also comprise a connection element of the ball or pivot type on one of the sides of the anode support and a connection element of the sliding type on the other side of said anode support.

Un avantage de la présente invention est de faciliter l'accès des outils de manutention et d'intervention dans le caisson, notamment pour les manoeuvres de changement d'anode, en proposant une configuration dans laquelle l'espace au-dessus de l'ouverture délimitée par le revêtement intérieur du caisson est dégagée.An advantage of the present invention is to facilitate access to the handling and intervention tools in the box, in particular for anode change operations, by proposing a configuration in which the space above the opening delimited by the interior lining of the box is released.

Un autre avantage de la présente invention est de faciliter le montage et le démontage de l'ensemble anodique.Another advantage of the present invention is to facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the anode assembly.

Encore un autre avantage de la présente invention est de limiter les interactions mécaniques avec les conducteurs anodiques pendant les opérations de changement d'anode, ce qui permet de réduire leur usure et d'éviter leur endommagement.Yet another advantage of the present invention is to limit the mechanical interactions with the anode conductors during the anode change operations, which makes it possible to reduce their wear and avoid their damage.

Encore un avantage de la présente invention est de permettre d'effectuer les manoeuvres de changement d'anode sans arrêter la production d'aluminium dans la cuve.Another advantage of the present invention is to allow the maneuvers to change the anode without stopping the production of aluminum in the tank.

Un avantage d'un mode préféré de la présente invention est de permettre d'absorber toute dilatation du support anodique, notamment lors des opérations de changement d'anode, et ceci sans affecter le fonctionnement des moyens de déplacement de l'ensemble anodique.An advantage of a preferred embodiment of the present invention is to allow any expansion of the anode support to be absorbed, in particular during anode change operations, and this without affecting the operation of the means for moving the anode assembly.

Claims (26)

  1. An electrolytic device intended for the production of aluminum comprising a casing (3) including an internal liner (5) delimiting an opening (16) through which at least one anode block (15) is intended to be displaced, said at least one anode block being suspended from an anode support (13, 17) forming, with said at least one anode block, an anode assembly (12) movable relative to the casing, said device further comprising displacement means (23) including at least one anode receiver (25; 125, 126; 225) intended to cooperate with said anode support to displace the anode assembly (12) in a substantially vertical direction (Z), said anode support (13, 17) being intended to be connected to anode leads for supplying an electrolysis current to said at least one anode block (15),
    characterized in that said at least one anode receiver (25; 125, 126; 225) is disposed outside a space defined by the top of said at least one anode block (15) during its displacement through the opening (16), said at least one anode receiver (25; 125, 126; 225) including a contact surface (27; 127, 128) being adapted to cooperate with a corresponding anode contact surface (29) of the anode support (13, 17) to establish with said anode support, an electrical contact for conducting the electrolysis current between said at least one anode receiver (25; 125, 126; 225) and the anode assembly (12), and a mechanical contact for displacing said anode assembly (12) in the substantially vertical direction.
  2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is intended to receive several anode assemblies (12) distributed along a longitudinal direction (Y) of the casing (3), the anode support (13, 17) of said anode assemblies (12) extending along a transverse direction (X) of said casing, said device further including compensation means (27, 29; 161, 171) cooperating with the displacement means (23) to absorb the expansion of said anode support (13, 17) along the transverse direction (X) and/or the longitudinal direction (Y).
  3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that the contact surface (27; 127, 128) of the at least one anode receiver (25; 125, 126; 225) is arranged on top of said at least one anode receiver to support the anode assembly (12).
  4. The device according to any of claims 2 and 3, characterized in that the at least one anode receiver (25; 125, 126; 225) includes a drive portion (35; 135, 136; 235) guided in translation in the substantially vertical direction (Z) and an electrically conductive portion (37; 137, 138; 237).
  5. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that the contact surface (27; 127, 128) of the at least one anode receiver (25; 125, 126; 225) is arranged on the conductive portion of said at least one anode receiver (37; 137, 138; 237).
  6. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that the contact surface (27) is substantially horizontal, the compensation means comprising said contact surface (27) and the anode contact surface (29) of the anode support (13, 17) cooperating with said contact surface (27), the expansion of the anode support (13, 17) along the transverse direction (X) being absorbed by sliding of said anode contact surface (29) on said contact surface (27) in the transverse direction (X) and/or in the longitudinal direction (Y) of said surface of the support.
  7. The device according to claim 6, characterized in that the compensation means comprise an electrically conductive grease and in that the sliding of the anode contact surface of the anode support (13, 17) on the contact surface (27) is facilitated by the use of this electrically conductive grease applied on one of said surfaces.
  8. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that the compensation means (161, 171) are arranged in the at least one anode receiver (125, 126; 225).
  9. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that the compensation means (161, 171) are arranged between an upper portion of the at least one anode receiver (125, 126; 225) carrying the contact surface (127, 128) and the drive portion (135, 136).
  10. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that the compensation means comprise at least one connecting element (161) between the upper portion and the drive portion (135, 136) allowing absorbing the expansion of said anode support (13, 17) along the transverse direction (X) or the longitudinal direction (Y), such as a link rod type connecting element.
  11. The device according to claim 10, characterized in that the displacement means (23) are equipped with at least two anode receivers (125, 126) per anode assembly (12), disposed on either side of the casing (3) relative to the transverse direction (X), a first connecting element (161) of one of the anode receivers (125) allowing absorbing any expansion of said anode support (13, 17) along the transverse direction (X), and a second connecting element (171) of the other anode receiver (126) allowing absorbing any expansion of said anode support (13, 17) along the longitudinal direction (Y).
  12. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that the compensation means comprise at least one connecting element (171) between the upper portion and the drive portion (135, 136) allowing absorbing the expansion of said anode support (13, 17) along the transverse direction (X) and the longitudinal direction (Y), such as a ball joint type connecting element.
  13. The device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the drive portion (135, 136) of the at least one anode receiver (125, 126) comprises a lifting mast (163, 173) driven in translation and a base plate (165, 175) connected to said lifting mast (163, 173) via the connecting element (161, 171), the conductive portion (137, 138) including at least one lateral conductor (167, 177) and a conductive plate (169, 179) disposed on said base plate (165, 175) which is electrically connected to said at least one lateral conductor (167, 177).
  14. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that the drive portion (235) includes a hoop (283) surrounding the electrically conductive portion (237) with a sufficient clearance to allow said conductive portion (237) to be deformed inside said hoop (283) and thus absorb the expansion of the anode support (13, 17) along the transverse direction (X) and/or the longitudinal direction (Y).
  15. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the displacement means (23) are equipped with at least two anode receivers (25; 125, 126; 225) per anode assembly (12), said anode receivers being respectively arranged along each longitudinal wall of the casing (3), outside said casing (3).
  16. The device according to claim 15, characterized in that the at least two anode receivers (25; 125, 126; 225) per anode assembly (12) are associated to separate motorization means (39).
  17. The device according to any one of claims 15 or 16, characterized in that it comprises guide means arranged along the longitudinal walls of the casing (3), outside said casing (3), said guide means being arranged in a welded structure forming said casing (3).
  18. The device according to any one of claims 2 to 17, characterized in that the opening (16) delimited by the internal liner (5) of the casing (3) and the anode assembly (12) is covered by a removable cover (43).
  19. An anode assembly (12; 301; 401) intended to be installed in an electrolytic device for the production of aluminum, said anode assembly comprising an anode support (13, 17; 303; 403) and at least one anode block (15; 307; 407) suspended from said anode support, said anode support being intended to be connected to anode leads for supplying an electrolysis current to said at least one anode block (15; 307; 407), said at least one anode block being intended to be displaced in a substantially vertical direction (Z) through an opening (16) delimited by a casing (3) and its internal liner (5) of said electrolytic device using at least one anode receiver (25; 125, 126; 225) of means (23) for displacing said electrolytic device being adapted to cooperate with said anode support,
    characterized in that the anode support (13, 17; 303; 403) includes at least one anode contact surface (29; 313; 413) being adapted to cooperate with a corresponding contact surface (27; 127, 128) of said at least one anode receiver (25; 125, 126; 225) for establishing, with said at least one anode receiver, an electrical contact for conducting the electrolysis current between said at least one anode receiver (25; 125, 126; 225) and the anode assembly (12; 301; 401), and a mechanical contact for displacing said anode assembly (12; 301; 401) in the substantially vertical direction, the at least one anode contact surface (29; 313; 413) of the anode support (13, 17; 303; 403) being disposed outside a space defined by the top of said at least one anode block (15; 307; 407).
  20. The anode assembly according to claim 19, characterized in that the anode support (303; 403) of the anode assembly (301; 401) extends along a main direction corresponding to a transverse direction (X) of the casing (3) when the anode assembly is received in the electrolytic device, and in that said anode support (303; 403) includes compensation means for absorbing the expansion of said anode support (303; 403) along said main direction and/or a secondary direction of said anode support (303; 403) corresponding to a longitudinal direction (Y) of said casing when the anode assembly is installed in said electrolytic device.
  21. The anode assembly according to claim 20, characterized in that the anode support (303; 403) includes a frame (305; 405), supporting the at least one anode block (307; 407), and an electrically conductive portion (311; 411), the at least one anode contact surface (313; 413) of said anode support being arranged in said conductive portion (311; 411).
  22. The anode assembly according to claim 21, characterized in that the means for compensating the anode support comprise at least one connecting element, such as a link rod type connecting element (321) or a sliding type connecting element (421), disposed between the at least one anode contact surface (313; 413) and a main portion of the frame, to absorb any expansion of said anode support (301; 401) along the main direction or the secondary direction.
  23. The anode assembly according to claim 22, characterized in that the anode support (303) includes two anode contact surfaces (313) disposed on each side of said anode support relative to the main direction, a first connecting element (321) disposed between one of the anode contact surfaces and the main portion of the frame (305) allowing absorbing any expansion of said anode support along the main direction and a second connecting element (322) disposed between the other anode contact surface and the main portion of the frame (305) allowing absorbing any expansion of said anode support along the secondary direction.
  24. The anode assembly according to any of claims 22 or 23, characterized in that at least one connecting element (322) allows absorbing the expansion of the anode support (303) along the main direction (X) and the secondary direction (Y), such as a ball joint type connecting element.
  25. An electrolytic cell characterized in that it comprises an electrolytic device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, said electrolytic cell further comprising an electrolytic tank (1; 101; 201) formed at least partially by the casing (3) and the internal liner (5) of said electrolytic device, and at least one anode assembly (12) including at least one anode block (15) intended to be partially immersed in a electrolyte bath (21) contained in said tank.
  26. An electrolysis plant intended for the production of aluminum comprising a plurality of electrolytic devices according to any one of claims 1 to 18.
EP14834965.7A 2013-08-09 2014-07-30 Electrolytic device and anode assembly intended for the production of aluminium, electrolytic cell and apparatus comprising such a device Active EP3030696B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1301910A FR3009564A1 (en) 2013-08-09 2013-08-09 ALUMINUM COMPRISING AN ELECTRIC COMPENSATION CIRCUIT
FR1400175A FR3016900B1 (en) 2014-01-27 2014-01-27 ELECTROLYSIS DEVICE AND ANODE ASSEMBLY FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ALUMINUM, ELECTROLYSIS CELL AND INSTALLATION COMPRISING SUCH A DEVICE.
PCT/CA2014/050720 WO2015017922A1 (en) 2013-08-09 2014-07-30 Electrolytic device and anode assembly intended for the production of aluminium, electrolytic cell and apparatus comprising such a device

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EP3030696A1 EP3030696A1 (en) 2016-06-15
EP3030696A4 EP3030696A4 (en) 2017-03-29
EP3030696B1 true EP3030696B1 (en) 2020-04-29

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US (1) US10151038B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3030696B1 (en)
CN (1) CN105917028B (en)
AU (1) AU2014305611B2 (en)
BR (1) BR112016001955B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2919331C (en)
DK (1) DK179903B1 (en)
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FR3016894B1 (en) * 2014-01-27 2017-09-01 Rio Tinto Alcan Int Ltd ELECTROLYSIS TANK HAVING AN ANODIC ASSEMBLY CONTAINED IN A CONFINEMENT ENCLOSURE
FR3016896B1 (en) * 2014-01-27 2016-01-15 Rio Tinto Alcan Int Ltd ELECTROLYTIC TANK HOUSING.
FR3016895B1 (en) * 2014-01-27 2017-09-08 Rio Tinto Alcan Int Ltd DEVICE FOR LIFTING ANODIC ASSEMBLIES OF AN ELECTROLYSIS TANK.
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BR112016001955B1 (en) 2021-12-07
EA201690341A1 (en) 2016-06-30
EP3030696A4 (en) 2017-03-29
CN105917028A (en) 2016-08-31
BR112016001955A2 (en) 2017-08-01
CA2919331C (en) 2021-11-16
CA2919331A1 (en) 2015-02-12
CN105917028B (en) 2018-10-16
AU2014305611B2 (en) 2018-08-09
AU2014305611A1 (en) 2016-02-11
EA029616B1 (en) 2018-04-30
US20160186343A1 (en) 2016-06-30
WO2015017922A1 (en) 2015-02-12
DK179903B1 (en) 2019-09-17
DK201670129A1 (en) 2016-04-04
EP3030696A1 (en) 2016-06-15
US10151038B2 (en) 2018-12-11

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