Abstract: A furnace charging device with a fixed feed channel is positioned in the center of the furnace head. A distribution spout is pivotably supported under the fixed feed channel and has a control rod attached to the spout. A driving means is provided so that the control rod which consist of two telescopic elements may be lengthened or shortened and at the same time may be rotated along with the spout as one assembly around the vertical axis of the furnace.

Abstract: An installation for charging a shaft furnace equipped with a distribution spout, several storage containers, a sluicing system and a valve cage is presented. The containers are arranged next to each other and are horizontally displaceable between a first position aligned on the vertical axis of the shaft furnace, where the material is unloaded; and a second position laterally separated from the vertical axis of the shaft furnace, where the containers are filled.

Abstract: The movements of an oscillatory member, for example the charge distribution spout of a furnace charging system, are caused to follow the movements of a remotely located control device which may be in the form of an elongated arm. The spout and arm are rotatable about respective pairs of orthogonal axes and any angular deviations between the orientation of the control device arm and spout axis are sensed. Control signals commensurate with the angular deviations are delivered to fluidic actuators which reposition the spout.

Abstract: A water cooling apparatus is presented for use in conjunction with a charging device of a shaft furnace, particularly a shaft furnace having a bell-less top charging apparatus. The cooling apparatus essentially comprises an annular feed vat which is attached to the upper portion of a rotary shell and is movable with the rotary shell. The vat is provided with at least one opening whereby water is gravity fed from the vat through plural cooling coils positioned about a rotary jacket. An annular collecting conduit receives the water flowing from the coils. The rotary jacket supports the suspension mechanism of a distribution spout and also acts as the separating structure between the furnace interior and the component parts of the charging device.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for introducing and distributing a charge within a shaft furnace, the shaft furnace charging apparatus comprising an elongated charge distribution chute, the angle of which being adjustable in relation to the vertical axis of the furnace to allow for distribution of charge to desired areas within the furnace. The charge distribution chute includes a first end for accepting the charge and a second end for distributing the charge within the furnace. The first end of the chute is suspended from a supporting fork which is rotatable about its axis to provide for pivoting of the chute about a first axis when the support fork is rotated. The chute is suspended from the support fork to provide for pivoting of the chute about a second axis which is preferably perpendicular to the first axis. The direction of the chute within the furnace may be adjusted to provide for distribution of the charge to the desired area of the furnace.