Abstract: A method and device for removing solid residues from a gas purification installation are presented. After discharge of a batch of solid residues into a first closed vessel, the vessel is isolated with respect to the gas purification installation. At least one pressurized purge gas is then passed through this batch of solid residues, so as to create a static or fluidized bed of the solid residues. The purge gases are then removed in a controlled manner from the first closed vessel. The solid residues are removed into a transport pipe and are transported through the pipe in suspension in a pressurized gas.

Abstract: An apparatus for guiding and positioning the tool of a machine for plugging or drilling blast furnace tapholes, the apparatus comprising an inclined main pivot, a support arm which is rotatably mounted at one end on the inclined main pivot and having a tool pivotally fitted by an auxiliary pivot to the free end of the support arm, a guide rod mounted to the working tool and mounted to a fixed point in the vicinity of the main pivot, and a driving mechanism serving to pivot the tool and the support arm about the main pivot from a retracted position to an operational position, the longitudinal axis of the auxiliary pivot being oblique with respect to the longitudinal axis of the main pivot to provide for a low profile trajectory of the working tool.