With Trough-shaped Outlet, E.g., Runner Patents (Class 266/196)
  • Patent number: 9174802
    Abstract: A wear and shock resistant multi-strata panel for lining a conveyor chute bearing aggregate, coal, and other bulk materials. The panel comprises a plurality of generally planar layers, and a plurality of panels may be used to line a chute. The layers are comprised of and sequentially arranged in a topmost ceramic layer, a corrosion-resistant first metallic layer, an elastomeric cushioning layer, and a bottom-most corrosion-resistant second metallic layer proximal to and in intimate contact with the chute support structure, or chute surface. The layers are consecutively bonded together to form a panel attached integrally to the chute structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: Richwood Industries
    Inventors: Christopher Scott Smith, Glenn Edward Farrow
  • Patent number: 8940226
    Abstract: The invention proposes an arrangement for burning blast furnace off-gas from a bleeder valve. It comprises a bleeder valve (20) having a fixed hollow valve body (22) defining an outlet (26) and a valve seat and a movable obturator (24) that cooperates with the valve seat for closing the bleeder valve and releasing blast furnace off-gas through the outlet. The arrangement includes an apparatus for combustion of blast furnace off-gas released by the bleeder valve (20). This apparatus is characterized by an ignition device (32, 38, 40, 42, 44) that is arranged on or adjacent the valve body or the moveable obturator of the bleeder valve (20) itself. The ignition device (32, 38, 40, 42, 44) has its spatial ignition range located downstream the outlet in a region where blast furnace off-gas released through the outlet mixes with ambient air when the obturator is in an open position so as to allow open-air combustion of blast furnace off-gas released into ambient air at the location of the bleeder valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Paul Wurth S.A.
    Inventors: Jean-Paul Simoes, Jeannot Loutsch, Lionel Hausemer
  • Patent number: 8657164
    Abstract: A vessel used for containing molten metal, e.g. a trough section for conveying molten metal from one location to another. The vessel has a refractory liner made of at least two refractory liner units positioned end to end, with a joint between the units, the units each having an exterior surface and a metal-contacting interior surface. A housing at least partially surrounds the exterior surfaces of the refractory liner units with a gap present between the exterior surfaces and the housing. Molten metal confinement elements, impenetrable by molten metal, are positioned on opposite sides of the joint within the gap, at least below a horizontal level corresponding to a predetermined maximum working height of molten metal held within the vessel in use, to partition the gap into a molten metal confinement region between the elements and at least one other region that may be used to hold equipment such as electrical heaters that may be damaged by contact with molten metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Novelis Inc.
    Inventors: Eric W. Reeves, James Boorman, Robert Bruce Wagstaff, Randal Guy Womack
  • Patent number: 8580186
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to a flow control apparatus for control of molten metal flow through a trough. The apparatus includes a flow control element (e.g. a movable dam or flow restrictor) movable between an operating position and an inactive position. A guide element provides an elongated track having a first part extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the flow control element. One or more track followers are retained by the guide element and are movable along the track. An elongated arm is attached at one end to the flow control element and to the track follower at an opposite end. An actuator operably connects to the track follower to move the track follower along the track. The track causes the flow control element to move away from the operating position with a straight (non-pivoting) motion, but preferably causes the flow control element to pivot as it approaches the inactive position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Novelis Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Hymas, Eric W. Reeves, John Steven Tingey
  • Patent number: 8034284
    Abstract: A shaft furnace bleeder valve for controlling a gas outflow from the interior of a pressurized furnace to the ambient atmosphere through an exhaust conduit is proposed. The bleeder valve comprises a valve seat associated with the exhaust conduit, a movable closure member having a central closure surface and a peripheral sealing surface cooperating with the valve seat, the closure surface comprising a convex surface at least in proximity to the sealing surface. The valve further has an actuating mechanism, which is connected to the closure member for moving the closure member between a closed position on the valve seat and an open position distant from the valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Paul Wurth S.A.
    Inventors: Emile Lonardi, Lionel Hausemer, Lutwin Franziskus
  • Patent number: 7914731
    Abstract: A process for sintering metal-containing materials, such as iron ores or manganese ores, on a sintering machine including a sintering belt for transporting the sinter mix during sintering thereof. The sintering belt has first, second and third portions. Sintering waste gas from the third portion is transported to and unified with sintering waste gas from the first portion in a mixing region to form a mixed gas, wherein the transporting distance of the sintering waste gas from the third portion to the mixing region is greater than the transporting distance of the sintering waste gas from the first portion to the mixing region. An apparatus for carrying out the process is disclosed, including the sintering belt, suction boxes operative at the portions of the belt, and lines for conveying the gas produced and the gases used in the process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Vai Metals Technology GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Karl Laaber, Oskar Pammer, Hans-Herbert Stiasny, Anton Sebanz, Karl Zehetbauer
  • Patent number: 7842228
    Abstract: Disclosed is a continuous refractory ore bioprocessing apparatus for the digestion of metal ore with bacteria. It includes a long trough tank fitted with a screw conveyer that extends along the length of the tank. A shell, having a number of feed ports, covers the screw conveyer. Granules of ore to be bioprocessed pass through the feed ports toward the screw conveyer portion of the reactor wherein the ore is ground by the screw conveyer and is bioprocessed as the screw conveyer rotates to push the ore along the reactor. Gas distribution manifolds are attached to the tank and are configured so that gas may be injected into the tank and onto the surface of the shell so as to encourage agitation of the materials in the tank and in the screw conveyer portion of the bioreactor while discouraging fouling of the shell and clogging of the feed ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Western American Mining Company
    Inventor: Bart Levine
  • Patent number: 7700036
    Abstract: The invention relates to a launder construction for the conveyance of molten metal. The metal flows in the lower part of the launder construction in a channel defined by a refractory mass, the launder being heat-insulated so that, in operating conditions, the metal forms a solid zone in the porous refractory mass. The essential features of the launder construction include a cover part that is provided with electrical resistors, ensuring that the metal remains melted and the launder sufficiently hot throughout the process, and a gas burner that prevents the metal from cooling under the effect of the gas flowing in the launder channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Outotec Oyj
    Inventors: Jussi Sipila, Juha Lumppio
  • Publication number: 20080230965
    Abstract: A handling device for elements of tapping runners on a shaft furnace, in particular for runner covers, the device including a support base arranged on the cast house floor of a blast furnace, laterally of the tapping runner and a frame (14) which is supported by the support base and connected thereto by means of a bearing defining a first axis of rotation, which is essentially vertical and about which the frame can rotate relative to the support base. The device further includes a lifting arm having a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion being connected to the frame by means of at least a first rotational joint defining a second axis of rotation, which is essentially horizontal, about which the lifting arm can pivot in order to lower or lift its second end portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: TMT - TAPPING MEASURING TECHNOLOGY SARL
    Inventors: Robert Gorza, Hans-Otto Kreuz, Ralf Taugerbeck
  • Publication number: 20080079203
    Abstract: An enclosure for a smelt spout of a chemical recovery boiler comprises a skirt having a central region through which smelt flowing from the smelt spout falls in route to a dissolving tank. The central region is defined by a wall and has a trough disposed around its perimeter. The trough is supplied with a fluid that overflows the trough and flows downward across the wall toward the dissolving tank to clean and cool the central region of the skirt. The trough may have a depth substantially equal to the height of the skirt, and the fluid may include at least one of: water, weak wash, and green liquor. Steam may be periodically supplied to the trough to place sediment in the trough into suspension in the fluid, and water may be periodically supplied to the trough in lieu of the fluid to clean the trough. A hood cover has a pair of shields disposed on opposite sides of the rodding doors and a chain curtain extending between the pair of shields to deflect smelt particles ejected through the rodding doors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventor: Steven R. Gibowski
  • Patent number: 7033538
    Abstract: A method of heating molten aluminum flowing in a heated trough member comprising the steps of providing a source of molten aluminum and providing a rough member comprised of a first side and a second side, the first and the second sides having outside surfaces, the sides formed from a ceramic material resistant to attack by molten aluminum. The first side and second side have heating element receptacles provided therein with protection tubes provided in the receptacles. The protection tubes are comprised of a refractory selected from the group consisting of mullite, boron nitride, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, graphite, silicon aluminum oxynitride or a metal selected from Kovar® and titanium. Electric heating elements are positioned in the tubes. Molten aluminum is flowed along the trough member from the source and electric power is passed to the heating elements to heat the molten aluminum as it flows along the trough member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventor: C. Edward Eckert
  • Patent number: 6973955
    Abstract: A trough is described for carrying molten metal, comprising an outer shell defined by a bottom wall and two side walls, an insulating layer filling the outer shell and a conductive U-shaped refractory trough body for carrying molten metal, the trough body being embedded in the insulating layer. At least one heating element is positioned in the insulating layer, adjacent to but spaced apart from the trough body, to provide an air gap between the heating element and the trough body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Novelis Inc.
    Inventors: John S. Tingey, David A. Salee, Wade Lee Bowles
  • Patent number: 6936216
    Abstract: The invention relates to a melt launder (1, 9, 10) comprising a bottom and edged, said melt launder being particularly meant to be used for tapping a molten phase, such as slag, from a smelting furnace, which melt launder is manufactured of copper or copper alloy and provided with cooling channels (8), so that at the bottom (2) of the melt launder (1, 9, 10), there is arranged at least one groove (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Outokumpu Technology Oy
    Inventors: Ilkka Kojo, Ari Jokilaakso
  • Patent number: 6763877
    Abstract: A method and device for the controlled tempering of a casting trough integrated between a supply vessel for a molten metal (e.g., copper or a copper alloy), and at least one continuous casting mold. The trough walls and the trough floor of the casting trough are at least partially provided with a lining layer having a specific electrical resistance between 10−1 &OHgr;·m to 10−6 &OHgr;·m and being resistant to the heat of the molten metal. The lining layer is inductively heated by an electrical heating device arranged around the lining layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: KM Europa Metal AG
    Inventors: Andreas Krause, Dirk Rode, Uwe Quadfasel, Hartmut Olemann, Ralph Frankenberg, Hubertus Brüning
  • Patent number: 6444165
    Abstract: A method of heating molten aluminum flowing in a heated trough member comprising the steps of providing a source of molten aluminum and providing a rough member comprised of a first side and a second side, the first and the second sides having outside surfaces, the sides formed from a ceramic material resistant to attack by molten aluminum. The first side and second side have heating element receptacles provided therein with protection tubes provided in the receptacles. The protection tubes are comprised of a refractory selected from the group consisting of mullite, boron nitride, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, graphite, silicon aluminum oxynitride or a metal selected from Kovar® and titanium. Electric heating elements are positioned in the tubes. Molten aluminum is flowed along the trough member from the source and electric power is passed to the heating elements to heat the molten aluminum as it flows along the trough member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: C. Edward Eckert
  • Patent number: 6428743
    Abstract: The invention includes an article and method for creating an erosion-resistant surface in a trough adapted to receive molten metal. The article includes a trough having a working lining and a pre-cast shape anchored at an erosion zone. The working lining and the precast shape define the interior volume of the trough. The precast shape can be anchored by, for example, mortar, undercuts, mechanical fasteners or, preferably, by combinations thereof. The method comprises casting a working lining within the trough and anchoring the precast shape at the erosion zone. The method includes installing a form in the trough, casting a working lining into the trough, and anchoring the erosion-resistant precast shape at the erosion zone. The form may be removable, and the precast shape may be at least a portion of the form. Conveniently, the form includes undercuts adapted to anchor the precast shape into the trough, and the precast shape includes mortar locks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Vesuvius Crucible Company
    Inventors: George M. Stoupis, Jeffrey S. Chadwick, David O'Connor
  • Patent number: 6123894
    Abstract: Runner for guiding a flow of liquid metal and/or slag, comprising a refractory permanent lining and, inside the latter, a refractory wear lining, in which runner the permanent lining is arranged inside an elongate trough-like steel casing, in which parallel runner ducts through which a gaseous cooling medium is passed run through this permanent lining divided along the circumference and in the vicinity of the bottom and the walls of the steel casing, and in which the wearing and the permanent lining are separated from one another by a deformable layer which is made from the group of materials comprising dry refractory ramming mixture and refractory felt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Hoogovens Technical Services Europe BV
    Inventors: Jacobus Van Laar, Floris Ronald Van Laar
  • Patent number: 6090340
    Abstract: Runner for conveying a hot melt, for example molten pig iron and slag, comprising a wear lining in which the melt flows during normal operation, a safety lining which surrounds the wear lining and a metal encasing which surrounds the safety lining, wherein the safety lining is made essentially of a refractory concrete, and the metal encasing and the safety lining are joined to one another by anchoring means, and wherein a means for keeping the encasing at a higher temperature where it would otherwise have a relatively cool spot is situated locally on the outwardly facing side of the encasing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Hoogovens Technical Services Europe BV
    Inventors: Rudolf Boonacker, Jacobus Van Laar, Coert Johannes Nooij, Gerardus Jozef Tijhuis
  • Patent number: 5871687
    Abstract: Consumable recharging containers for re-introducing cooled molten metal having impurities into a furnace or vessel or producing molten metal. The containers are formed of consumable materials of compatible chemistry with the remelting of molten metal and can be used in single, multiple and central pour configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: Insul Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael D. LaBate, II
  • Patent number: 5744093
    Abstract: A cover is provided for a launder, or an equivalent open-topped vessel for containing molten metal, the cover including a heat-insulative layer spanning the open top of the vessel, with a spacer arrangement to maintain a gap of uniform width between the heat-insulative layer and the open-top. A housing defines an evacuation plenum, and connections are made to allow an exhaust device to remove gaseous materials from the plenum. Adjacent the gap is an air-guide arrangement which directs outside air into the evacuation chamber along a path which is intercepted by any gaseous materials exiting through the gap, whereby such gaseous materials are entrained into the evacuation chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Assignee: Desom Enviromental Systems Limited
    Inventor: John Albert Davis
  • Patent number: 5683652
    Abstract: A process for reducing dust emission and free air access in the tapping region of a blast furnace by applying CO.sub.2 in a solid and/or gaseous state to the molten material and or the runners and vessels associated therewith. This process reduces dust emissions, nitriding of the product and energy costs associated with conventional dust reduction operations as well as wear of the refractory materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide S.A.
    Inventors: Dieter Funders, Harald Winter
  • Patent number: 5673901
    Abstract: A device for transporting molten metal in the pouring bay of a blast furnace and a process for operating this device. At least one main runner with skimmer, which main runner is installed after the tapping door of the blast furnace, is provided as well as runoff gutters arranged downstream with a transfer station into the molten metal transfer cars. A pipe section with connecting branches, which is followed by a second pipe section with a slide, is flanged to the runout in a gas-tight manner. This second pipe section is also connected in a gas-tight manner to the intake opening of the main runner. A T-shaped pipe section, which allows the pig iron to flow into one of the pig iron transfer cars, is arranged at the end of the pipe sections. To keep clear the open cross section of the wear lining of the pipe section, inert gas is blown in, which also keeps the ceramic plate of the sliding shutter clear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: MAN Gutehoffnungshutte Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Peter Heinrich
  • Patent number: 5667201
    Abstract: A smelt spout for a chemical recovery furnace comprises a trough of U-shaped profile fabricated as a casting in a nickel-chromium alloy containing a minor amount of niobium. A system incorporating the spout includes a cooling arrangement which delivers cooling air to the outside surface of the spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Assignee: Asea Brown Boveri Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Beveridge, Andrew K. Jones
  • Patent number: 5505893
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an open top, walled member for containing a molten metal, especially a flowing molten metal or reconstructing a worn or damaged member. The method includes the step of forming the inner walls of a mold which define the inner surfaces of the walled member of an open metal mesh screen which is meltable by the molten metal which is to be contained. The next step is to transfer, usually by pumping, an alumina-silicon carbide casting compound into the space between the open mesh metal screen and the outer walls defining the mold, which outer walls may be in situ structures. If an existing walled member is being repaired, any damaged or worn portions of the existing walled member are removed and the casting compound is poured in to replace these portions. The next step is to apply heat to dry the casting compound while the open mesh screen of the mold remains in place in contact with the casting compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Assignee: Magneco/Metrel, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles W. Connors, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5316071
    Abstract: A low-flexure molten metal distribution launder comprises an elongated structural beam which extends over a plurality of casting stations. A plurality of metal level sensors extend downward from the elongated structural beam to measure molten metal levels in underlying metal casting stations. A plurality of spaced U-shaped refractory hangers are supported within the structural beam to form a refractory channel. Refractory liners are received within the refractory hangers to form a molten metal trough within the structural beam. The hangers are spaced from each other and supported from the structural beam in such a way as to allow them to expand and contract relative to the structural beam without subjecting the structural beam to expansion and contraction. The walls of the refractory hangers are air-cooled to reduce heat transfer from the refractory hangers to the structural beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Assignee: Wagstaff Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew C. Skinner, James A. Imthurn
  • Patent number: 5284328
    Abstract: Containers formed of consumable materials of compatible chemistry with the remelting of molten metal are disclosed, the individual containers being capable of retaining molten metal having impurities and the like therein until the same is solidified and recharged into the furnace along with the individual consumable container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 8, 1994
    Assignee: Insul Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael D. LaBate, II
  • Patent number: 5178818
    Abstract: A metallurgical furnace installation is disclosed which includes a metallurgical furnace for holding a metal melt therein, a melt launder, and a drain launder. The furnace has an outlet for discharging the melt and a drain hole for draining the melt remaining in the furnace. The drain hole is formed at a bottom of the furnace so as to be openable and closable. The melt launder has one end connected to the outlet of the furnace and is inclined downwardly in a direction away from the furnace, whereby the melt in the metallurgical furnace is tapped therethrough toward the other end. The drain launder has one end connected to the drain hole and the other end connected to the melt launder, and is inclined from the one end toward the other end, whereby the drained melt flows therethrough into the melt launder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1993
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Materials Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroaki Ikoma, Shigemitsu Fukushima
  • Patent number: 5129631
    Abstract: To diminish cracking due to differential expansion of refractory channels conducting molten materials, e.g. in an iron runner or iron trough, lateral pressure is exerted inwardly on the wear lining of such a channel through intermediate layers of permanent lining. These may include low friction slide plates and at least one layer having a high thermal conductivity. The means exerting the pressure react against an external frame structure and are preferably such that the pressure exerted is independent of the degree of expansion of the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1992
    Assignee: Hoogovens Groep BV
    Inventor: Jacobus Van Laar
  • Patent number: 5088695
    Abstract: An iron runner for tapping molten crude iron from a blast furnace is proposed, comprising at least a wear lining which forms a boundary carrying the iron during operation and a permanent lining in which the wear lining is contained, an outer boundary and at least an outer lining with a high coefficient of thermal conductivity which is provided between the outer boundary and the permanent lining, wherein the outer lining is provided with a thickening in the direction of the wear lining, which thickening is applied at the level of the inerface-layer being present during operation between the iron being carried through the runner and a slag layer floating on the iron.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Assignee: Hoogovens Groep BV
    Inventor: Jacobus Van Laar
  • Patent number: 5054033
    Abstract: A tiltable arc furnace vessel is provided with a projecting, bay-like extension having a discharge opening closable from the outside only by a pivotable plate; the bay-like extension has a bottom substantially in the same level as the bottom of the remainder of the vessel. The vessel as a whole is titable by a hydraulic drive over a relatively small angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Assignee: Mannesmann AG
    Inventors: Bodo Wronka, Heinrich Schnitzer, Rolf Baare, Hannsgeorg Bauer, Josef Otto
  • Patent number: 5031882
    Abstract: A channel structure, i.e. iron trough or iron runner, for flow of molten pig iron during tapping of a blast furnace, comprises a wear lining which provides the surface along which the iron flows, a permanent lining outside the wear lining and an outer lining of high thermal conductivity outside the permanent lining. The outer lining has a bottom wall and two opposed side walls thermally connected at their lower ends to the bottom wall. To improve resistance to thermal stress, outside and adjoining at least one, but not all, of the walls of the outer lining, there is at least one refractory insulating lining layer, and the other or others of the walls of the outer lining are thermally coupled to heat dissipating means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1991
    Assignee: Hoogovens Groep B.V.
    Inventors: Jacobus van Laar, Frank Kaptein, Ronald J. M. Stokman
  • Patent number: 4828228
    Abstract: A device for changing tap runners in shaft furnaces includes tap runners which have linings subject to wear and therefore such runners must be repaired regularly. Transport of the runner requires a considerable crane capacity with correspondingly heavy building construction. The device according to the invention permits transport of the tap runner without a casting room crane. Instead, the tap runner is raised or lowered between the mill floor, or another level, and a tapping platform by means of hydraulically driven traction elements taking support on runner supports arranged at tapping platform level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Assignee: Man Gutehoffnungshuette GmbH
    Inventors: Bruno Kammerling, Werner Rosker, Eckhard-Karl Scholz, Wolfgang Kowalski
  • Patent number: 4678168
    Abstract: A tilting channel for guiding molten material includes a trough-shaped channel body provided with outlets at opposite ends thereof and a spot of impact for the jet of molten material between said outlets. The channel body is pivotable by means of a pivot drive about a tilting axle from a normal operation position into an emergency operation position, and vice versa. The channel body is formed by two channel parts enclosing an angle O<.phi.<180.degree., and the bottom of the first channel part is arranged at a lower level relative to the bottom of the second channel part. The spot of impact of the jet is located on the first channel part close to where the latter enters into the second channel part, and the vertical middle plane of the first channel part lies in the plane formed by the jet, when the first channel part is in its downwardly inclined normal operating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1987
    Assignee: Voest-Alpine Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Bernhard Enkner, Leopold Amon, Alfred Kubelbock, Wolfgang Trimmel, Paul Nalepka, Leopold Schropp, Helmut Schwaighofer, Reinhard Pum, Manfred Traxler, Franz Tasch
  • Patent number: 4607427
    Abstract: A lightweight, warp-resistant cover for use on runners in steel mills which covers employs a steel exoskeleton on which an expanded metal walls are affixed. The cover is of an overall inverted U-channel shape to which layers of ceramic batting material are laid in planes at right angles to the walls of the cover and are affixed by means of L-shaped hangers attached to the metal mesh and its framework with impalers parallel to the expanded metal walls. The ceramic batting is impaled on the hangers and completely lines the interior of the cover and is preferably sealed by a final coating of ceramic insulation at its inner surface. A plurality of covers may be joined end-to-end to span the full length of a runner with any particular one being easily removable and replaced because of its lightweight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1985
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1986
    Assignee: Crisman Sand Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Hartzell D. Scofield
  • Patent number: 4573668
    Abstract: A runner system for receiving and conveying molten slag at the end of an iron pour includes a permanent trough-like construction in which precast side wall panels are removably positioned together with a rammed in place bottom between the side wall panels to form a runner system capable of resisting the increased corrosive properties of slag and having a predetermined life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1986
    Inventor: Micheal D. LaBate
  • Patent number: 4565525
    Abstract: In a shaft furnace having a metal shell, a refractory furnace lining inside the shell and a taphole construction comprising a drilled taphole extending through a plug located in an aperture in the shell and a taphole brick structure forming part of said furnace lining, the taphole brick structure at least partly consists of at least one taphole brick of high thermal conductivity material selected from the group comprising graphite, semi-graphite and material of equivalent heat conductivity, there further being screening means comprising material of substantially lower heat conductivity coefficient than graphite and semi-graphite located between said taphole brick and said furnace shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1984
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1986
    Assignee: Hoogovens Groep B.V.
    Inventors: Jacobus Van Laar, Jacob Felthuis, Jahannes A.M. Butter, Jacob Rengersen, Albert Sannes
  • Patent number: 4531717
    Abstract: A covered trough for conveying molten metal, wherein the trough includes a channel of refractory material within a metal shell, and the cover includes a layer of refractory insulation to reduce heat loss and means for preheating the trough such as a gas-fired radiant heater. Adjacent trough modules are joined together in an abutting end-to-end fashion, so that metal may flow between modules, by resilient joining means which elongate or contract to absorb differences in thermal expansion between parts of each trough module, to avoid the build up of large thermal stresses which might cause premature failure of the refractory parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1985
    Assignee: Kaiser Aluminum & Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: Georges Hebrant
  • Patent number: 4526351
    Abstract: A runner system for receiving and conveying molten slag at the end of an iron pour includes a permanent trough-like construction in which a precast channel-shaped unitary liner is removably positioned so as to form a runner system capable of resisting the increased corrosive properties of slag and having a predetermined life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1985
    Inventor: Michael D. LaBate
  • Patent number: 4523747
    Abstract: Slag-free discharge of molten metal from a smelting furnace is assured either through slow tilting through a small angular range in case the outlet is located in a lateral bay extension of the furnace such that maximum depth level is retained above the outlet and the furnace is tilted back to a slight negative angle once the formation of eddys that could suck slag into the outlet becomes likely. In the case of a central discharge outlet, maximum depth level is still maintained above the outlet but the slag is stiffened, i.e. rendered highly viscous, so that any eddy will not tear slag particles off and suck it into the outlet. Certain ratios of water cooled surfaces to fire proof surfaces are to be observed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1983
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1985
    Assignee: Mannesmann Ag
    Inventors: Heinrich Schnitzer, Bodo Wronka
  • Patent number: 4522377
    Abstract: Molten slag is poured onto the upper surface of an elongated conveyor member. The surface of the conveyor member is cooled while maintaining it free from contact with liquids. Preferably, this is accomplished by way of a water cooled pan connected to the lower surface of the member. Reciprocal lengthwise motion is imparted to the conveyor member to transport the slag over the cooled surface until the slag is solidified and broken into pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1983
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1985
    Assignee: The Budd Company
    Inventor: Frederick M. Degner
  • Patent number: 4508323
    Abstract: A metallurgical molten-metal runner has a support trough, a trough-shaped temperature-equalizing layer received in and lining the trough, a system for cooling the layer isothermally to about 100.degree. C., a permanent refractory outer lining received in and lining the layer, and a renewable refractory inner lining received in and lining the outer lining and in direct contact with molten metal in the runner. The layer is of greater thermal conductivity than the linings. The cooling system includes conduits in heat-conducting engagement with the layer and an arrangement for circulating a coolant through the conduits. Water or, for safety's sake, oil can be used as the coolant, normally in liquid state to keep the layer below 100.degree. C. The layer according to this invention has a coefficient of thermal conductivity greater than 10 Kcal/M.multidot..degree.C..multidot.h, preferably above 25 Kcal/m.multidot..degree.C..multidot.h and can be composed principally of silicon carbide, semigraphite, or graphite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1985
    Assignee: ARBED S.A.
    Inventor: Georges Fleming
  • Patent number: 4478395
    Abstract: Molten pig iron flows from the hearth of a blast furnace down a runner positioned on the floor of a cast house and into ladles for receiving the iron. The runner is constructed by a plurality of precast refractory side blocks and an interconnecting base of compacted particulate refractory material to form a substantially U-shaped trough extending a preselected distance and along a preselected path from the hearth to one or more ladles for conveying the iron from the blast furnace. The trough has opposed upstanding side walls and a floor extending between the bottom of the side walls. The side walls are formed by individual side blocks positioned in abutting end to end relation on the cast house floor. The compacted base forming the trough floor extends between and interconnects with the side blocks. The adjacent ends of the side blocks are notched to form a joint for receiving castable refractory material which upon setting interlocks the ends of adjacent side blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1982
    Date of Patent: October 23, 1984
    Assignee: BMI, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry R. Dudro, Jr., Frank E. Morris
  • Patent number: 4475720
    Abstract: An emission control system for controlling the emissions released from the pig iron and slag released from a blast furnace and through the troughs in a casthouse. The system comprises tap hole cover means for covering the first end of the main iron trough and for evacuating emissions from the pig iron and slag flowing through the first end of the main iron trough. The tap hole cover means in flow communication with scrubber means for cleaning emissions. Removable cover means for covering the second end of the main iron trough and for evacuating emissions from the pig iron and slag flowing through the second end of the main iron trough. The removable cover means in flow communication with scrubber means for cleaning emissions. Main iron runner cover means for covering the main iron runner to prevent the escape of emissions into the ambient air. Slag runner cover means for covering the slag runner to prevent the escape of emissions into the ambient air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 9, 1984
    Inventors: Gilbert R. Broom, Michael K. Buckley
  • Patent number: 4460165
    Abstract: Apparatus for controlling emissions from the cast house of a blast furnace system includes hood means covering the iron trough from the blast furnace, the hood means having a hatchway formed therein adjacent to the blast furnace discharge notch and closed by a vertically-removable hatch cover which is raised and lowered by cables which extend upwardly over sheaves carried by a yoke assembly mounted on the bustle pipe immediately above the iron trough and then to a remote winch. Means are provided on the yoke assembly for latching the latch cover in its raised position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1983
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1984
    Assignee: Interlake, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Cook, Robert P. Winters
  • Patent number: 4441700
    Abstract: A blast furnace trough and liner for transferring molten metal from a blast furnace or the like to a hot metal runner or the like comprises a metal trough with an expendable one-piece prefabricated liner therein, the liner being formed of refractory based materials in several layers of different densities coalesced by physical force in the form of vibratory motion applied thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1984
    Inventor: Micheal D. LaBate
  • Patent number: 4440534
    Abstract: A ceramic interiorly threaded hollow insert for incorporation in a refractory preformed shape such as hot metal runners into which eyelet carrying bolts may be threaded so that the preformed shapes can be handled by mechanical means. The ceramic insert is made of material similar to that of the preformed shape with which it is used. The ceramic insert is bonded in the preformed shape during the drying and baking formation thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1984
    Inventor: Micheal D. LaBate
  • Patent number: 4429860
    Abstract: An apparatus and method including a runner system for transferring molten metal from a blast furnace to transfer cars. The runner system comprises a single main runner with primary and secondary outlets. In the preferred embodiment the secondary outlet is a nozzle positioned midway between the lower end of the runner and the blast furnace. During tapping the nozzle is opened and closed to control the flow of metal. When the nozzle is closed molten metal flows down the runner, through a primary outlet and into a bottle car. When the nozzle is open, metal flows through the nozzle into a bottle car positioned beneath the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1982
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1984
    Assignee: Republic Steel Corporation
    Inventors: John Fischley, Tom E. Anderson
  • Patent number: 4426067
    Abstract: A runner for conveying molten pig iron and slag from a blast furnace of a steel manufacturing facility, is of wholly metallic construction and is hollowly formed to provide a cooling jacket through which water is circulated. Each runner so formed is an individual section in a string of other, similarly formed runners each of which has its own inlet connected to a source of water under pressure, and its own outlet to a suitable drain or reservoir where water temperature may be measured and observed. Water entering each section through the inlet courses through a tube that extends within the jacket substantially from one end to the other end, adjacent the slag channel of the runner, then extends transversely of the channel to the other side of the runner, thereafter extending longitudinally of said other side. The water flows out of the tube, within the jacket, after having extended along both sides of the channel in heat exchange relation to the slag flowing through the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1984
    Assignee: The Calumite Company
    Inventor: Robert W. Hopkins
  • Patent number: 4402492
    Abstract: Apparatus is described that is particularly adapted for suppressing fume generated in the flow of molten metal through the runner system of a blast furnace cast house. Burners adapted for combusting fuel and air are disposed at longitudinally spaced locations along the runner system. Fuel and air in predetermined amounts are discharged from the burners to create flame and disperse it along the axis of the runners. The flame operates to consume ambient air in the combustion process thereby to starve the region over the metal streams of oxygen that would otherwise combine with metal vapors to create fume-producing metallic oxides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1982
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1983
    Assignee: United States Steel Corporation
    Inventors: Arthur L. Elder, Mack R. Ostergaard, Dennis R. Smith, Reed H. Warner
  • Patent number: 4391434
    Abstract: A ceramic interiorly threaded hollow insert for incorporation in a refractory preformed shape such as hot metal runners into which eyelet carrying bolts may be threaded so that the preformed shapes can be handled by mechanical means. The ceramic insert is made of material similar to that of the preformed shape with which it is used. The ceramic insert is bonded in the preformed shape during the drying and baking formation thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1983
    Inventor: Micheal D. LaBate