Abstract: Configurations and methods are provided in which a bottom head is coupled to a coke vessel via a conveyor and an elevator such that the elevator moves the bottom head vertically relative to the coke vessel, and the conveyor moves the bottom head along a curved path. Contemplated configurations are especially advantageous where a coke vessel deheading device has a hinged or swing-away head and wherein the head and the vessel have a close-fit diametrical tolerance fit.

Abstract: A deheader valve is fitted onto an existing or new coke drum by initially positioning the body and valve, and then raising the valve to mate with the flange using a lifting device other than a chain fall. The vertical positioning of the deheader valve is preferably accomplished with a hydraulic or pneumatic piston, winch, scissor jack, ratchet jack, screw jack, and so forth. The distance traveled by the valve using these devices is more than 2 cm, commonly at least 20 cm, and in some installations up to 40 cm or more. In retrofit situations an oil inlet is provided in a side wall of the drum above the bottom drum flange.