Feed trough, method for manufacturing a feed trough, and feeder and system including the feed trough

Abstract

A feed trough for an electric arc furnace includes first and second arcuate plates, each having first and second opposing end edges and first and second opposing side edges, the first and second end edges including an arcuate contour, the first and second end edges of the first and second arcuate plates connected, and the first and second side edges of the first and second arcuate plates connected. A channel is disposed between the first and second end edges, the first and second side edges, and the inner surfaces of the first and second arcuate plates, the channel including at least one serpentine channel and at least one peripheral channel, the at least one serpentine channel being disposed toward a centerline of the feed trough, and the at least one peripheral channel being disposed outward of the at least one serpentine channel.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] background This patent relates to a feed trough for use in combination with a feeder in a furnace, such as an electric arc furnace, and a method for manufacturing the feed trough. This patent also relates to a feeder with an attached feed trough, a furnace system including the feed trough and the furnace, and a charging system including a feeder with an attached feed trough and a furnace, such as an electric arc furnace. This patent further relates to methods for manufacturing and operating such feeders, furnace systems, and charging systems. [Background technology]

[0002] In furnaces such as electric arc furnaces, it is necessary to introduce raw materials into the furnace, either periodically or continuously. To this end, a feeder or feeding device may be provided at the entrance of the furnace for introducing the raw materials into the furnace. For example, an electric arc furnace may be fed with scrap material via a feeder that passes through an opening in the top or side of the furnace.

[0003] To prevent the entire feeder from being exposed to the high temperatures at the furnace opening, a feed trough can be provided at the feeder outlet, through which material is introduced into the furnace entrance. The raw material moves across the upper surface of the trough into the furnace. The feed trough may include a jacket through which a fluid passes to cool the trough. In particular, the water jacket may include a first plate (i.e., the plate having the upper surface through which the raw material moves) and a second plate attached below the first plate and providing a channel between them. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] FIG. 1 shows a feed trough according to a conventional manufacturing method. The trough includes a first, upper plate having an upper surface along which the feedstock travels. The trough also includes a second, lower plate attached to the first upper plate at corresponding side and end edges and defining a channel therebetween. The upper and lower plates are each curved in cross section, while the piece connecting the upper and lower plates is planar (or flat). As a result, the junctions between the upper and lower plates and the connecting piece form acute angles, often approaching 90 degrees.

[0005] These sharp corners cause inefficient or limited heat transfer of the fluid moving within the jacket (i.e., within the channels between the upper and lower plates). In particular, the sharp corners can create localized areas of poor or insufficient heat transfer between the plates and the fluid. These localized areas can experience increased thermal fatigue relative to the rest of the feed trough, ultimately necessitating repair or replacement of the feed trough. Naturally, due to the harsh environmental conditions, the feed trough may require replacement over time, but the added thermal fatigue adversely affects the rate at which the feed trough will need to be repaired or replaced.

[0006] Repairing or replacing a feed trough incurs costs to the furnace operator in terms of labor and parts. Additionally, regardless of whether repair or replacement is necessary, the time required to repair or replace the feed trough impacts furnace operation because the furnace cannot operate without material being fed into it. This can result in additional costs to the furnace operator in addition to the labor and parts required for the repair or replacement.

[0007] It would be advantageous to overcome or substantially ameliorate one or more of the disadvantages of existing feed troughs, or at least provide a useful alternative or improvement. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] overview According to one aspect of the present invention, a feed trough for an electric arc furnace includes a first arcuate plate and a second arcuate plate, each having first and second opposing edges and first and second opposing side edges. The first and second edges include an arcuate contour, and a junction between the first edge and each of the first and second side edges also includes an arcuate contour. The trough also includes at least one first spacer attached to the first edge of the first plate and the first edge of the second plate, the first spacer having an arcuate cross section and an arcuate contour. The trough further includes at least one second spacer attached to the junction between the first side edge and the first edge of the first plate and the junction between the first side edge and the first edge of the second plate, and at least one third spacer attached to the junction between the second side edge and the first edge of the first plate and the junction between the second side edge and the first edge of the second plate. The second spacer and the third spacer each have an arcuate cross-section and an arcuate profile. The trough further includes at least one fourth spacer attached from the first side edge of the first plate to the first side edge of the second plate and at least one fifth spacer attached from the second side edge of the first plate to the second side edge of the second plate. The fourth spacer and the fifth spacer have arcuate cross-sections.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a feed trough for an electric arc furnace includes a first arcuate plate and a second arcuate plate, each having first and second opposing edges and first and second opposing side edges. The first and second edges include an arcuate contour, the first and second edges of the first and second arcuate plates are connected, and the first and second side edges of the first and second arcuate plates are connected. A channel is disposed between the first and second edges, the first and second side edges, and the inner surfaces of the first and second arcuate plates, the channel including at least one serpentine channel and at least one peripheral channel, the at least one serpentine channel being disposed toward a centerline of the feed trough, and the at least one peripheral channel being disposed outward of the at least one serpentine channel.

[0010] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a vibratory feeder assembly includes a vibratory feeder having a first end and a second end, and a feed trough according to any of the above aspects of the present disclosure attached to the second end of the vibratory feeder.

[0011] According to a further aspect of the invention, a furnace system includes an electric arc furnace having a charge inlet and a feed trough according to any of the above aspects of the invention, disposed at the charge inlet, with a first edge of the first plate adjacent to the charge inlet.

[0012] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a furnace charging system includes an electric arc furnace having a charging inlet, a vibratory device having an outlet positioned near the charging inlet of the electric arc furnace, and a feed trough according to any of the above aspects of the present disclosure attached to the outlet of the vibratory device and positioned between the outlet of the vibratory device and the charging inlet of the electric arc furnace.

[0013] The present invention will be more fully understood from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Some of the figures may be simplified by omitting certain elements in order to more clearly show other elements. The omission of elements in some of the figures does not necessarily indicate the presence or absence of the particular element in any of the illustrated embodiments, unless expressly stated in the corresponding legend. None of the figures are necessarily to scale. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view of a conventional feed trough. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a partial side view of an embodiment of a system incorporating a vibrating device and a feed trough according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a feed trough according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a partial enlarged perspective view of an embodiment of a feed trough. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is an end view of an embodiment of a feed trough. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a feed trough taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an embodiment of a feed trough with a series of baffles defining at least one serpentine fluid flow path shown in hidden lines. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a side view of an embodiment of a feed trough. [Figure 9] 1 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method for manufacturing an embodiment of a feed trough. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first section of a feed trough having a series of baffles defining at least one serpentine fluid flow path and at least one circumferential fluid flow path, with the top plate removed to better visualize the flow paths, according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a second fitting of the feed trough according to the embodiment of FIG. 10, with the top plate removed to better visualize the flow path. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a first section of a feed trough having a series of baffles defining at least one serpentine fluid flow path and at least one ambient fluid flow path, with the top plate removed to better visualize the flow paths, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a second fitting of the feed trough according to the embodiment of FIG. 12, with the top plate removed to better visualize the flow path. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] 2 partially illustrates an embodiment of a system 100 including a furnace (as shown, an electric arc furnace) and a charging system for supplying raw material, such as scrap steel, to the furnace. The charging system includes a conveyor system 102 with an exit end 104. This illustration is intended to provide background for an embodiment of a feed trough that is part of the charging system, and which is manufactured using an embodiment of the improved method disclosed herein. This illustration is not intended to limit the disclosure to only such a system 100.

[0016] 2 may itself be a subsystem of an expanded or expanded system for recycling scrap material into cast metal billets. According to such an expanded system, scrap material, such as scrap steel, is converted into cast metal billets, such as steel billets, through the use of an electric arc furnace.

[0017] Such an expanded or enlarged system may include a source of scrap material, such as one or more rail cars loaded with scrap material, such as scrap steel, or a pile of scrap metal. The system may also include a transfer system (e.g., in the form of one or more overhead magnets or cranes and loaders) that moves the scrap material from the source to the conveyor system 102, partially shown in FIG. 2. The other end of the system may include one or more casting stations associated with the furnace. The stations may include vehicles (similar to rail cars) that travel along tracks that carry molten metal from the furnace to a caster (configured to form the liquid metal into billets). The stations may also include equipment for removing the formed billets from the molds and for transporting the billets from the casting station.

[0018] With this as background, the conveyor system 102 shown in Figure 2 will now be described. The conveyor system 102 includes at least one vibrating device. As shown, the conveyor system 102 includes at least two vibrating devices 106, 108, with the second vibrating device also referred to as a feeder 108. The conveyor system 102 may, and likely does, include additional conveyors upstream of the first (or left) conveyor 106 to move material into the portion of the system 102 shown in Figure 2.

[0019] The devices 106, 108 of the illustrated conveyor system 102 are substantially similar in construction. Each device 106, 108 includes a deck 110, 112 having a longitudinal axis extending from a first end 114, 116 to a second, opposite end 118, 120, and an exciter assembly (exciter assembly 122 is shown for feeder 108). The exciter assembly 122 includes at least one eccentric mass 126, 128 and at least one motor 130, 132 coupled to the at least one eccentric mass 126, 128, such that the exciter assembly 122 is coupled to the deck 112 and configured to move material along the deck 112. As shown, each vibratory device 106, 108 includes a two-mass system including two motors, with the eccentric masses attached to the motor shafts.

[0020] It is recognized that not all devices need have the same or similar features, and thus the devices may differ from one another according to other embodiments. Also, it is not necessary for any of the devices 106, 108 to comprise a two-mass system, or a two-mass system in which an eccentric mass is attached to the motor shaft with the motor attached to an exciter assembly (as opposed to an arrangement in which the motor is located to the side of the device 106, 108 and coupled to an eccentric mass attached to the exciter assembly).

[0021] The conveyor 106 is positioned higher than the feeder 108, and material entering the conveyor 106 travels along the conveyor 106 and is discharged from the second end 118 to the first end 116 of the feeder 108. Material moving from the first end 116 to the second end 120 of the feeder 108 is discharged from the feeder 108 into the furnace 140, where it is filled.

[0022] As shown, the conveyor system 102 charges the furnace 140 with material. The furnace 140 may be an electric arc furnace. The furnace 140 includes a shell 142 and a roof 144, and the roof 144 may be movable (e.g., moveable) relative to the shell 142. The furnace 140 may have an opening 146 for receiving material from a feeder 108, which is mounted on a movable frame 148 that can move the feeder 108 toward and away from the furnace 140. The furnace 140 may also include one or more openings 150 to allow one or more electrodes 152 to be positioned through the roof 144 of the furnace 140.

[0023] A feed trough (also called a filling pan) 200 is disposed at the second end 120 of the feeder 108. More specifically, the feed trough 200 may be disposed at, or attached to, the second end 120 of the feeder 108 and discharges the raw material directly into the opening 146 of the furnace 140. The structure of the feed trough 200 is shown in Figures 3-6 and is manufactured according to an embodiment of the manufacturing method described herein and illustrated in Figure 9.

[0024] As shown in Figures 3-6, the feed trough 200 includes a first arcuate plate 202 and a second arcuate plate 204. Each arcuate plate 202, 204 has opposing first and second end edges 206, 208, 210, 212 (see Figures 3 and 8, where these numbers are also used to refer to ends) and opposing first and second side edges 214, 216, 218, 220 (see Figures 3 and 5, where these numbers are also used to refer to sides). The first and second end edges 206, 208, 210, 212 have arcuate contours. The first and second side edges 214, 216, 218, 220 have linear contours. The junctions 222, 224, 226, 228 between the first edges 206, 210 and the first and second side edges 214, 216, 218, 220, respectively, also include arcuate profiles (compare Figures 3, 5, and 6).

[0025] The first edge 206 of the first plate 202 is attached to the first edge 210 of the second plate 204 via at least one first spacer 230. As shown, the first edge 206 of the first plate 202 is attached to the first edge 210 of the second plate 204 by a plurality of first spacers 230. Specifically, the first edge 206 and the first edge 210 are attached by three spacers 230 as shown. Each of the first spacers 230 may be cast with an arcuate cross section and arcuate profile (compare Figures 5 and 6). Alternatively, the spacers may be manufactured by cutting a rolled steel cylindrical pipe into two half pipes, or by manufacturing half pipes from rolled steel and then bending them to fit the arcuate profile of the plates 202, 204. As shown in FIG. 5, the central spacer 230 has an arcuate profile of approximately 90 degrees, while the spacers 230 disposed on either side have an arcuate profile of approximately 36.5 degrees.

[0026] The junction 222 between the first edge 206 and the first side edge 214 of the first plate 202 is attached to the junction 226 between the first edge 210 and the first side edge 218 of the second plate 204 by at least one second spacer 232. Similarly, the junction 224 between the first edge 206 and the second side edge 216 of the first plate 202 is attached to the junction 228 between the first edge 210 and the second side edge 220 of the second plate 204 by at least one third spacer 234. The second spacer 232 and the third spacer 234 may be cast with an arcuate cross-section and arcuate profile, respectively. Alternatively, the spacers 232, 234 may be manufactured from half-tubes (such as those described above) bent into an arcuate profile. These spacers 232, 234 are also referred to as elbows.

[0027] The first side edge 214 of the first plate 202 is attached to the first side edge 218 of the second plate 204 by at least one fourth spacer 238. Additionally, the second side edge 216 of the first plate 202 is attached to the second side edge 220 of the second plate 204 by at least one fifth spacer 240. The fourth spacer 238 and the fifth spacer 240 may be cast with an arcuate cross-section (see FIGS. 5 and 6). In an alternative embodiment, the fourth spacer 238 and the fifth spacer 240 may be manufactured from half-pipes (such as those described above).

[0028] 9 illustrates one method 250 embodiment for manufacturing the feed trough 200, which includes providing spacers 230, 232, 234, 238, and 240 at block 252. The method 250 also includes providing a first arcuate plate 202 and a second arcuate plate 204 at block 254.

[0029] The spacers 230, 232, 234, 238, 240 may be cast, or the spacers 230, 232, 234, 238, 240 may be manufactured by cutting a cylindrical pipe into two half-pipe structures, or by rolling a half-pipe and then bending it as needed, as described above. It is currently believed that casting provides the best performance characteristics for the spacers.

[0030] That is, after a cylindrical pipe is cut to form a half-tube structure or after a half-tube structure is formed from rolled steel, at least the first, second, and third spacers 230, 232, 234 must be bent to conform to the contours and joints 222, 224, 226, 228 of the curved first and second plates 202, 204 and attached to the edges of the first and second plates 202, 204. Unfortunately, this bending creates stresses in the material that can lead to material failure. Even more problematic is that these bending stresses can be unpredictable within the material. As a result, structures using bent rolled steel can experience unpredictable areas of increased stress, potentially resulting in greater material failure compared to the rest of the structure. Therefore, using cast metal (steel) spacers can potentially improve performance.

[0031] The method 250 proceeds to block 256 with attaching the first edge 206 of the first plate 202 to the first edge 210 of the second plate 204 using at least a first spacer 230. In blocks 258 and 260, the method 250 continues by attaching the joint 222 between the first edge 206 and the first side edge 214 of the first plate 202 to the joint 226 between the first edge 210 and the first side edge 218 of the second plate 204 with at least a second spacer 232, and attaching the joint 224 between the first edge 206 and the second side edge 216 of the first plate 202 to the joint 228 between the first edge 210 and the second side edge 220 of the second plate 204 with at least a third spacer 234. The method 250 further proceeds to block 262, where at least a fourth spacer 238 is used to attach the first side edge 214 of the first plate 202 to the first side edge 218 of the second plate 204, and at block 258, where at least a fifth spacer 240 is used to attach the second side edge 216 of the first plate 202 to the second side edge 220 of the second plate 204.

[0032] The attachment of blocks 256-264 can be performed using a joining operation such as welding, depending on the material (e.g., steel) used for the plates and spacers. In such a case, attaching each of first, second, third, fourth, and fifth spacers 230, 232, 234, 238, and 240 to first and second plates 202, 204 can include welding each of first, second, third, fourth, and fifth spacers 230, 232, 234, 238, and 240 to first and second plates 202, 204.

[0033] It is understood that the installation steps of blocks 256-264 may be performed in a different order depending on other embodiments. It is currently believed that a desirable order is to begin with the actions of block 256, then perform the actions of blocks 258 and 260 (in either order), and finally perform the actions of blocks 262 and 264 (again, in either order). Alternatively, one could start from the opposite end and work toward the exit end of the feed trough 200 (i.e., the actions of blocks 262 and 264 (in either order) are performed first, then the actions of blocks 258 and 260 (again, in either order), and finally the actions of block 256). Yet another alternative would be to start from one side and work to the other (i.e., the actions are performed in the order of blocks 262, 258, 256, 260, and 264). Therefore, neither blocks 256-264 nor the claims should be limited to a particular order of steps unless the actions are explicitly recited as first, second, third, etc. Similarly, reference to first, second, third, etc. spacers does not result in a particular order of attachment.

[0034] The feed trough 200 and method 250 are believed to offer advantages over conventional feed troughs and methods for manufacturing such feed troughs. In particular, the use of spacers with an arcuate cross-section is believed to provide a smooth transition at the interface between the spacer and the arcuate plate, avoiding the sharp corners present in conventional feed troughs. The smooth transition is believed to reduce or completely eliminate localized "hot spots" that can result from reduced heat transfer between the feed trough structure and the fluid flowing within the channels. Furthermore, manufacturing methods that utilize casting to manufacture the spacers are believed to avoid stresses that can be created by bending the spacer to the required arcuate contour. Because this bending not only creates stresses in the spacer material but can also create stresses in unexpected locations, using cast spacers may offer several advantages.

[0035] In addition to the feed trough 200 and its method of manufacture, it is understood that a furnace system can include the feed trough 200 and the furnace 140. For example, the furnace system can include an electric arc furnace 140 having a charge inlet 146 and a feed trough 200 disposed at the charge inlet 146, with a first edge 206 of a first plate 202 proximate the charge inlet 146. A method of manufacturing such a system, including disposing the feed trough 200 at the charge inlet 146, and a method of operating such a system, including moving material across the feed trough 200 to the charge inlet 146, are also provided.

[0036] Additionally, the charging system can include a feeder 108 having an attached feed trough 200, or a feeder 108 having an attached feed trough 200 in combination with a furnace 140. For example, the charging system can include a vibrating device 108 having ends 116, 120, and a feed trough 200 attached to the end 120 of the device 108. Alternatively, the furnace charging system can include an electric arc furnace 140 having a charging inlet 146, a vibrating device 108 having an outlet 120 positioned near the charging inlet 146 of the electric arc furnace 140, and a feed trough 200 attached to the outlet 120 of the vibrating device 108 and positioned between the outlet 120 of the vibrating device 108 and the charging inlet 146 of the electric arc furnace 140. Methods of manufacturing such a feeding system or furnace feeding system, including positioning the feed trough 200 at the charging inlet 146, and methods of operating such a system, including moving feed material (e.g., scrap metal) across the feed trough 200 to the charging inlet 146, are also provided.

[0037] It is understood that the structure and fabrication of the feed trough may include additional variations beyond those primarily illustrated in FIGS. 3-6 and 9 . For example, FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate an additional variation in which the channels defined between plates 202 and 204 by plates 202 and 204 and spacers 230, 232, 234, 238, and 240 may include one or more baffles. These baffles can be used to move fluid passing through the channels along one or more paths between at least one inlet and at least one outlet; while FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate a serpentine path, in other embodiments, the fluid may follow other paths instead of or in addition to such a serpentine path. It is believed that the movement of the fluid through such a serpentine path further improves heat transfer and enhances cooling of the feed trough.

[0038] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the trough 200 includes at least one inlet 270, 272 for fluid to enter the channel formed between the plates 202, 204. As shown, the trough 200 includes two inlets 270, 272, only one of which (270) is visible in Figure 8. Additional equipment can be coupled to the inlets 270, 272 to introduce fluid into and through the inlets 270, 272 into the channel. For example, one or more pumps can be attached between the inlets 270, 272 and a fluid source (e.g., a fluid tank), and filters can be attached to ensure that the fluid passing through the one or more pumps and the channel is free of contaminants.

[0039] As also shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the trough 200 includes at least one outlet 274, 276 for discharging fluid from the channel formed between the plates 202, 204. As shown, the trough 200 also includes two outlets 274, 276, only one of which (274) is shown in FIG. 8. Additional devices can be connected to the outlets 274, 276 to receive the fluid passing through the channel. For example, one or more tanks can be positioned downstream of the outlets 274, 276 to receive and hold the fluid from the outlets 274, 276, and the one or more tanks can include a fluid source or be coupled to a fluid source to allow for recirculation of the fluid. Filters and other devices can also be included to reduce or limit contaminants in the fluid.

[0040] Disposed between the inlets 270, 272 and the outlets 274, 276 are a number of baffles that, in conjunction with the plates 202, 204 and spacers 230, 232, 234, 238, 240, define the flow path between the inlets 270, 272 and the outlets 274, 276. While embodiments can include at least one baffle or can include multiple baffles, the exact number of baffles disposed between the plates 202, 204 can be less than, equal to, or greater than the number of baffles shown in FIG. 7 . The baffles can be in the form of one or more straight wall pieces, as shown, or can have other shapes (e.g., wavy or sawtooth patterns) in other embodiments. If the trough 200 is made of steel, the baffles can also be made of steel.

[0041] The height of the baffle may be comparable to the spacing between the plates 202, 204. For example, the height of the baffle may be approximately the same as the distance between the inner surfaces of the plates 202, 204. The baffle may be attached to one or both of the plates 202, 204. For example, the baffle may be joined (e.g., by welding) to at least one of the plates 202, 204.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 7 , the baffles may have longitudinal lengths that are shorter than the distance from one end (e.g., end 208) of a plate (e.g., plate 202) to the other end (e.g., end 206). Indeed, as shown, the baffles may have two different lengths: a first baffle 278 having a first length and a second baffle 280 having a second length. The first baffle 278 may extend from or approximately one end (e.g., end 206 or end 208) of the plates 202, 204 to an end 282 that is spaced from the other end (e.g., end 208 or end 206) of the plates 202, 204. The second baffle 280 may have ends 284, 286 that are spaced apart from the respective ends (i.e., ends 206, 208) of the plates 202, 204.

[0043] The exact distance (or spacing) between the ends 282, 284, 286 of the baffles 278, 280 and the ends 206, 208, 210, 212 of the plates 202, 204 (and thus the exact distance from the spacers 230 and / or metal plates joined (e.g., by welding) at the ends 208, 212 of the plates 202, 204) may vary from baffle to baffle, or may be substantially the same for all baffles. As shown, the length of the baffles 278 is the same for all baffles, and is approximately 90-95% of the distance between the ends of the plates 202, 204. Also shown, the length of the baffles 280 is the same for all baffles, and is approximately 80-85% of the distance between the ends of the plates 202, 204.

[0044] As shown, the baffles 278, 280 are arranged to define two serpentine flow paths: a first path between the inlet 270 and the outlet 274, and a second path between the inlet 272 and the outlet 276. Thus, two baffles 278 are positioned outside the inlets 270, 272, and three baffles 280 are positioned between the baffles 278, defining four linear path segments from one end of the trough 200 to the other. The second pair of baffles 278 are positioned outside the first pair of baffles 278, and the first pair of baffles extend from, for example, the ends 208, 212 of the plates 202, 204, while the second pair of baffles extend from the ends 206, 210 of the plates 202, 204. A baffle 280 is positioned between one of the first pair of baffles 278 and the corresponding one of the second pair of baffles 278, defining two straight path segments in a direction opposite to the previous four straight path segments relative to the longitudinal axis of the trough 200. The first four straight path segments are in fluid communication with the two straight path segments on either side by hairpin turns. This pattern is then repeated with a third pair of baffles 278 positioned outward from the second pair of baffles 278, and continues until the paths are connected to the outlets 274, 276.

[0045] 10 and 11 show a further embodiment of the trough, in which the channel defined by the plates and spacers between the plates (sometimes referred to as inner and outer plates) contains one or more baffles. The feed trough is shown split into two sections along the centerline of the trough for ease of illustration, but does not necessarily indicate the method of manufacture.

[0046] The baffles may also be arranged, at least in part, to cause fluid passing through the channels to travel along one or more paths between at least one inlet and at least one outlet. According to this embodiment, at least one of the fluid flow paths is a serpentine path similar to those shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, where the flow path alternates between the ends of the trough. As shown, there are two separate serpentine paths connected to the serpentine path between the inlet and outlet. Furthermore, at least one of the fluid flow paths is a circumferential path in that it extends along the edge of the trough and generally adjacent to a spacer. It is believed that fluid movement through such serpentine and circumferential paths further improves fluid flow, resulting in improved heat transfer and cooling of the feed trough. Therefore, these paths may be an improvement in addition to the spacers used in conjunction with the trough to improve the trough, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0047] It will be understood that while the troughs of Figures 10 and 11 have baffles disposed within the channels to define at least one serpentine path and at least one circumferential path, the remaining features of the troughs of Figures 10 and 11 are similar to those of the troughs shown in Figures 2-8. Accordingly, the above description of the trough embodiment of Figures 2-8 and the method embodiment of Figure 9 also applies to the embodiment of Figures 10 and 11, except for those portions relating to the at least one serpentine path and at least one circumferential path. Additionally, the structures shown in Figures 10 and 11 are similar to the structures shown in Figures 2-8 and are similarly numbered, except that Figures 10 and 11 include prime symbols.

[0048] 11 , the trough 200′ includes at least one inlet 290, 292 for fluid to enter a channel formed between two plates (an inner plate and an outer plate), although only plate 202′ is shown to better visualize the flow path. Additional devices can be coupled to the inlets 290, 292 to introduce fluid into and through the inlets 290, 292 into the channel. For example, one or more pumps can be connected between the inlets 290, 292 and a fluid source (e.g., a fluid tank), and filters can also be used to reduce or limit contaminants in the fluid flowing through the channel.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 10 , the trough 200′ also includes at least one outlet 294, 296 through which fluid exits the channel formed between the plates (again, only plate 202′ is shown). Again, additional devices can be connected to the outlets 294, 296 to receive the fluid passing through the channel. For example, one or more tanks can be positioned downstream of the outlets 294, 296 to receive and hold the fluid from the outlets 294, 296, and these tanks can include the aforementioned fluid source or be coupled to a fluid source to allow for recirculation of the fluid. Filters and other devices can also be incorporated to reduce or limit contaminants in the fluid.

[0050] Disposed between the inlets 290, 292 and the outlets 294, 296 are a number of baffles that, in conjunction with the plates (e.g., 202′) and spacers 230′, 232′, 234′, 238′, and 240′, define a path between the inlets 290, 292 and the outlets 294, 296. While embodiments can include at least one baffle or can include multiple baffles, the exact number of baffles disposed between the plates can be less than, equal to, or greater than the number of baffles shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 . The baffles can be in the form of one or more straight wall pieces, as shown, or can have other shapes (e.g., wavy or sawtooth patterns) in other embodiments. If the trough 200′ is made of steel, the baffles can also be made of steel.

[0051] The height of the baffle may be comparable to the spacing between the plates. For example, the height of the baffle may be approximately the same as the distance between the inner surfaces of the plates. The baffle may be attached to one or both of the plates. For example, the baffle may be joined (e.g., by welding) to at least one of the plates (e.g., plate 202′).

[0052] As described above, the baffles are arranged to define at least one serpentine flow path 298 and at least one peripheral flow path 300. As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the serpentine flow path 298 is arranged toward the center of the trough 200' (i.e., in a direction closer to the centerline of the trough 200'). The peripheral flow path 300 is located outside the serpentine path 298 and is generally adjacent to the spacers 230', 232', 234', 238', and 240'.

[0053] In particular, the peripheral flow path 300 includes a first leg 302 adjacent to the spacer 238′, a second leg 304 adjacent to the spacers 230′, 232′, and 234′, and a third leg 306 adjacent to the spacer 240′. The first and third legs 302, 306 include two parallel passages 308, 310 and 312, 314, respectively, while the second leg 206 includes a single passage. According to other embodiments, all three legs 302, 304, and 306 may have a single passage or multiple passages. Fluid enters the peripheral flow path 300 via the inlet 292, flows along the passages 308, 310 in the first leg 302, along the second leg 304, and along the passages 312, 314 in the third leg 306, and exits via the outlet 296.

[0054] Baffles 316, 318, 320 partially define the legs 302, 304, 306 of the peripheral flow path 300. Baffles 322, 324 separate the passages 308, 310, 312, 314 of the first and third legs 302, 306. Additionally, gate walls (i.e., walls with openings) may be provided at the transitions between the first and third legs 302, 306 and the second leg 304, as well as adjacent the inlet 292 and outlet 296, to provide additional structural support.

[0055] It will be understood that the baffles 316, 318, 320 not only partially define the legs 302, 304, 306 of the peripheral flow path 300, but also separate the serpentine flow path 298 from the peripheral flow path 300. The baffles 316, 318, 320 also partially define the serpentine flow path 298. However, the illustrated embodiment is merely one example of the disclosed subject matter.

[0056] With respect to the serpentine flow paths 298, it will be understood that the flow paths 298 are generally grouped into passage pairs. In each instance, fluid in adjacent passages within each passage pair flows in a common direction toward either a first end (i.e., the discharge end of the trough 200′) or a second end (i.e., the inlet end of the trough 200′). Furthermore, fluid in adjacent passage pairs flows in opposite directions.

[0057] 11 , a first pair of passages 332 extends from the inlet 290 toward the first end of the trough 200′. The passages 332 are in fluid communication with a second pair of passages 334, into which the fluid flows after a first turn. Similarly, the second pair of passages 334 is followed by third, fourth, and fifth pairs of passages 336, 338, and 340, each in fluid communication with the preceding and succeeding pair of passages. The fifth pair of passages 340 is in fluid communication with a sixth pair of passages 342, which is in fluid communication with the outlet 294 through which the fluid exits the trough 200′.

[0058] As described above, the baffles 316, 318, 320 define not only the legs (or sections) of the peripheral flow path 300, but also particular pairs (e.g., 332, 342) of the serpentine flow path 298. Additionally, multiple longitudinal baffles are positioned between and parallel to the baffles 316, 320 to partially define the back-and-forth movement of the fluid flow path between the first and second ends of the trough 200′. Because each passage pair 332, 334, 336, 338, 340, 342 flows in opposite directions, multiple transverse baffles are positioned adjacent either the first or second ends of the longitudinal baffles and, together with the transverse baffle 318, form the bends of the serpentine flow path 298.

[0059] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the longitudinal baffles may have different longitudinal lengths. A first subset of longitudinal baffles 344 extends from adjacent one end (e.g., end 208') of a plate (e.g., plate 202') to the transverse baffles 318 located at the other end (e.g., end 206'). As shown, the remaining baffles may also have different lengths, with a second subset of longitudinal baffles 346 having a shorter length than the first subset, and a third subset of longitudinal baffles 348 having a shorter length than the second subset. A second subset of longitudinal baffles 346 may extend to an end 350 away from the baffles 318 and be positioned at the end 350 to allow fluid flow between the baffles 318 and a first subset of transverse baffles 352 adjacent to the end 350. Each of the third plurality of longitudinal baffles 348 has an end 354 spaced apart from one of the first subset of lateral baffles 352 to allow fluid to flow between the lateral baffles 352 and the ends 354 of the longitudinal baffles 348.

[0060] A second subset of lateral baffles 356 are disposed at ends 358, 360 of the first and second subsets 344, 346 to define the bend between adjacent passages in each passage pair. In particular, baffles 356 may be disposed adjacent end 360 of the baffles of the second subset 346, while end 358 of the first subset 344 may be disposed to allow fluid flow between end 358 and baffle 356. Further, additional walls and / or baffles may be disposed at second end 208' of plate 202' to cooperate with baffles 356 to define the bend between adjacent passages of the passage pair. Additionally, one or more gated walls with openings may be disposed at this end to provide structural reinforcement while allowing fluid flow.

[0061] During operation, fluid circulates through serpentine flow path 298 and fluid circulates through perimeter flow path 300. One type of fluid (e.g., water) can be used for both flow paths, or different types of fluid can be used for flow paths 298, 300. Similarly, the same equipment can be used to move fluid through both flow paths 298, 300, or different equipment (e.g., pump, filter, tank, etc.) can be used for flow path 298 but not for flow path 300. Separate devices may allow for variations in flow rate between path 298 and path 300, for example.

[0062] Figures 12 and 13 show another embodiment of a trough in which the channels defined between the plates (inner and outer) by the plates and spacers contain one or more baffles. As with the embodiment of Figures 10 and 11, the trough is shown divided into two sections along the centerline of the trough for ease of illustration and does not necessarily imply a method of manufacture.

[0063] Similar to the trough embodiments of FIGS. 10 and 11, the troughs of FIGS. 12 and 13 have multiple fluid flow paths, including at least one serpentine fluid flow path and at least one circumferential fluid flow path. The at least one serpentine fluid flow path is disposed between at least one first inlet and at least one first outlet. The at least one circumferential fluid flow path extends along the edge of the trough, generally adjacent the spacer, and is disposed between at least one second inlet and at least one second outlet. As discussed above, it is believed that the movement of fluid through such serpentine and circumferential paths may further improve fluid flow, resulting in improved heat transfer and cooling of the feed trough and potentially improving troughs such as those shown in FIG. 1. Additionally, it is believed that the serpentine fluid flow paths of FIGS. 12 and 13 offer additional advantages over the serpentine fluid flow paths of FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0064] It will be understood that while the troughs of Figures 12 and 13 have baffles disposed within the channels to define at least one serpentine path and at least one circumferential path, the remaining features of the troughs are similar to those of the troughs shown in the other figures, particularly Figures 10 and 11. Accordingly, the above discussion of the trough embodiments of Figures 2-8, 10, and 11, and the method embodiment of Figure 9, also generally applies to the embodiment of Figures 12 and 13. As such, the structures shown in Figures 12 and 13 are similar to the structures shown in Figures 2-8 or 10 and 11, and are similarly numbered, except that Figures 12 and 13 include prime symbols.

[0065] Referring first to FIG. 13, the trough 200′ includes at least one inlet 290′, 292′ for fluid to enter a channel formed between two plates (an inner plate and an outer plate). In this view, only the plate 202′ is shown to more clearly illustrate the flow path. Additional devices can be coupled to the inlets 290′, 292′ to introduce fluid into and through the inlets 290′, 292′ into the channel. For example, one or more pumps can be connected between the inlets 290′, 292′ and a fluid source (e.g., a fluid tank), and filters can also be used to reduce or limit contaminants in the fluid flowing through the channel.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 12, the trough 200′ includes at least one outlet 294′, 296′ for discharging fluid from the channel formed between the plates (again, only plate 202′ is shown). Again, additional devices can be connected to the outlets 294′, 296′ to receive the fluid passing through the channel. For example, one or more tanks can be positioned downstream of the outlets 294′, 296′ to receive and hold the fluid from the outlets 294′, 296′, and these tanks can include the fluid source described above or be coupled to a fluid source to allow for fluid recirculation. Filters and other devices can also be incorporated to reduce or limit contaminants in the fluid.

[0067] Disposed between the inlets 290', 292' and the outlets 294', 296' are a plurality of baffles that, in conjunction with the inner and outer plates (e.g., 202') and spacers 230', 232', 234', 238', 240', define a path between the inlets 290', 292' and the outlets 294', 296'. While embodiments can include at least one baffle or can include multiple baffles, the exact number of baffles disposed between the plates can be less than, equal to, or greater than the number of baffles shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 . The baffles can be in the form of one or more straight or curved wall pieces, as shown, or can have other shapes (e.g., wavy or sawtooth patterns) in other embodiments. If the trough 200' is made of steel, the baffles can also be made of steel.

[0068] The height of the baffle may be comparable to the spacing between the plates. For example, the height of the baffle may be approximately the same as the distance between the inner surfaces of the plates. The baffle may be attached to one or both of the plates. For example, the baffle may be joined (e.g., by welding) to at least one of the plates (e.g., plate 202′).

[0069] As described above, the baffles are positioned to define at least one serpentine flow path 298' and at least one peripheral flow path 300'. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the serpentine flow path 298' is positioned toward the center of the trough 200' (i.e., toward the centerline of the trough 200'). The peripheral flow path 300' is positioned outside the serpentine path 298 and is generally adjacent to the spacers 230', 232', 234', 238', and 240'.

[0070] In particular, the peripheral flow channel 300' includes a first leg 402 adjacent to the spacer 238', a second leg 404 adjacent to the spacers 230', 232', and 234', and a third leg 406 adjacent to the spacer 240'. The three legs 402, 404, and 406 each include two parallel passages 408, 410, 412, 414, 416, and 418. According to other embodiments, the legs 402, 404, and 406 may have a different number of passages or may have only one passage per leg. Fluid enters the peripheral flow channel 300' via the inlet 292', flows along the passages 408 and 410 in the first leg 402, along the passages 412 and 414 in the second leg 404, and along the passages 416 and 418 in the third leg 406, and exits via the outlet 296'.

[0071] In particular, passageway 408 is in fluid communication with passageway 412, which is in fluid communication with passageway 416. Similarly, passageway 410 is in fluid communication with passageway 414, which is in fluid communication with passageway 418. As a result, passageways 408, 412, 416 and 410, 414, 418 can be described as defining two peripheral fluid flow paths: an outer (directly adjacent spacers 230′, 232′, 234′, 238′, 240′) and an inner (directly adjacent the peripheral fluid flow path). As shown, these peripheral fluid flow paths may be isolated from one another except for portions adjacent inlet 292′ and outlet 296′.

[0072] Baffles 420, 422, 424 partially define legs 302, 304, 306 of peripheral flow path 300. Baffles 426, 428, 430 separate passages 408, 410, 412, 414, 416, 418 in legs 402, 404, 406, thereby separating inner and outer peripheral fluid flow paths. As shown, baffles 420, 422, 424 may be formed or joined as a single unit with curved or rounded transitions between baffles 420, 422 and 422, 424. Similarly, baffles 426, 428, 430 may be formed or joined as a single unit with curved or rounded transitions between baffles 426, 428 and 428, 430. Additionally, gated walls (ie, walls with openings) may be provided adjacent the entrance 292' and exit 296' to provide additional structural support.

[0073] It can be seen that the baffles 420, 422, 424 not only partially define the legs 402, 404, 406 of the peripheral flow path 300', but also separate the serpentine flow path 298' from the peripheral flow path 300'. Furthermore, the baffles 420, 422, 424 partially define the serpentine flow path 298'. However, the illustrated embodiment is merely an example of the disclosed subject matter.

[0074] With respect to the serpentine flow paths 298', it can be seen that the flow paths 298' are grouped into pairs of generally U-shaped paths, or loops. In each case, fluid in adjacent paths of each path pair flows longitudinally in a common first direction along the first leg toward either the first end (i.e., the discharge end of the trough 200') or the second end (i.e., the inlet end of the trough 200'), laterally in a common second direction along the second leg, and then flows in a common third direction along the third leg. The fluid flow direction in the third leg is opposite to the fluid flow direction in the first leg. This differs from the path pairs shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, where the fluid flow direction is generally toward either the first end or the second end.

[0075] Also, unlike the serpentine fluid flow path 298 of the embodiment shown in Figures 10 and 11, the serpentine fluid flow path 298' of the embodiment shown in Figures 12 and 13 is arranged in a series of concentric or nested loops, from an outermost loop in fluid communication with the inlet 290' to an innermost loop in fluid communication with the outlet 294'. As shown, there are three nested loops, although according to other embodiments, the number of loops may be more or less than the number shown in Figures 12 and 13. In comparison, the serpentine fluid flow path 298 of the embodiment shown in Figures 10 and 11 is arranged as a series of consecutive passage pairs, also referred to as a back-and-forth pattern.

[0076] Next, starting from the inlet 290' in FIG. 13, a first (outermost) pair of U-shaped loops 432 are separated from the peripheral flow path 300' by baffles 420, 422, 424 and nested immediately adjacent to (or within) the peripheral flow path 300'. The loops 432 are in fluid communication with the inlet 290' at a first end and in fluid communication with a second (inner) pair of U-shaped loops 434 at a junction 436 at a second end. See FIG. 12. The loops 434 are in fluid communication with the loops 432 at a first end and in fluid communication with a third (innermost) pair of U-shaped loops 438 at a junction 440 at the second end. See FIG. 13. The loops 438 are in fluid communication with the loops 434 at a first end and in fluid communication with the outlet 294' at a second end. See FIG. 12.

[0077] As noted above, the baffles 420, 422, 424 define not only legs (or sections) of the peripheral flow path 300′ but also particular loops (e.g., 432) of the serpentine flow path 298′. As noted above, the baffles 420, 422, 424 are formed or joined together as a single U-shaped unit. Disposed within the baffles 420, 422, 424 are multiple U-shaped baffles 442, 444, 446, 448, 450, each of which may include three baffle sections formed or joined together as a single unit, similar to the baffles 420, 422, 424. The multiple U-shaped baffles 442, 444, 446, 448, 450, in combination with a single baffle 452 disposed within the innermost U-shaped baffle 450, partially define pairs of loops 432, 434, 438.

[0078] A plurality of lateral baffles 454, 456 are disposed at junctions 436, 440 to define connections between pairs of adjacent loops 432, 434, 438. In particular, baffle 454 may be disposed adjacent the ends of baffles 442, 444, 446, and baffle 456 may be disposed adjacent the ends of baffles 446, 448, 450. Furthermore, additional walls and / or baffles may be disposed at second end 208' of plate 202' to define turns between adjacent passages within a passage pair in cooperation with baffles 354, 356. Additionally, one or more gated walls with openings may be disposed at this end to provide structural reinforcement while allowing fluid flow.

[0079] The serpentine path 298′ of the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 13 is believed to have certain advantages over the embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 11 . In particular, the passage pairs in the embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 11 are joined to adjacent passage pairs by relatively sharp 180-degree bends defined by a subset of the lateral baffles at either the first or second end of the trough 200′. It is believed that these bends can create regions of non-uniform fluid flow (fluid flow turbulence, localized fluid flow reduction, and possibly recirculation), potentially resulting in non-uniform or reduced heat transfer. In contrast, the loops of the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 13 provide a more gradual change in fluid directionality, particularly in the region nearest the discharge end. This is believed to result in more uniform fluid flow and more uniform (and improved) heat transfer. While the 180-degree bends are still present, they occur at junctions 436, 440 adjacent the inlet end (rather than the discharge end), and their number is more limited. It is therefore presently believed that the embodiment of Figures 12 and 13 may offer additional advantages over the embodiment of Figures 10 and 11, which in itself offers a number of advantages.

[0080] During operation, fluid circulates through serpentine flow path 298' and fluid circulates through circumferential flow path 300'. One type of fluid (e.g., water) can be used for both flow paths, or different types of fluid can be used for paths 298', 300'. Similarly, the same equipment can be used to move fluid through both paths 298', 300', or different equipment (e.g., pumps, filters, tanks, etc.) can be used for paths 298' and 300'. Separate devices may allow for, for example, variations in flow rate between paths 298' and 300'.

[0081] Although the troughs 200, 200' illustrated herein include baffles, it is not a requirement of the present disclosure that all embodiments of the troughs 200, 200' include baffles. Instead, it is believed that the flow paths defined by the baffles may further improve the fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of the troughs 200, 200', but apart from this additional improvement, certain advantages are achieved by the structure and method of manufacture of the troughs 200, 200' described above.

[0082] Furthermore, even if the spacer described and illustrated is not like the embodiment of FIGS. 2-8 (and FIGS. 10 and 11), it is believed that there are advantages to using peripheral flow channels in the channels between the plates. That is, the inclusion of at least one peripheral flow channel and at least one serpentine flow channel is believed to be advantageous when used with a trough having planar or flat walls joining arcuate plates, as shown in FIG. 1. Nevertheless, it is believed that the overall structural integrity of the trough 200' is maintained by including both flow channels between the plates. At the same time, as discussed above, the flow channels 298, 300 can be operated independently of one another, optimizing peripheral flow for localized heat loads along the edges of the trough while optimizing central flow for heat loads transferred over a larger surface area with serpentine heat transfer.

[0083] While the foregoing text provides a detailed description of various embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that the legal scope of the present invention is defined by the language of the claims set forth at the end of this patent. The detailed description is to be construed as exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment of the present invention, as describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible. Numerous alternative embodiments can be implemented, using either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, and still fall within the scope of the claims that define the present invention.

[0084] It should also be understood that unless a term is expressly defined in this patent using a phrase such as "As used herein, the term '___' is defined to mean" or similar language, no intention is made to expressly or impliedly limit the meaning of that term beyond its plain or ordinary meaning, and such term should not be construed as limited in scope based on any statement in any section of this patent (except for claim terms). While terms set forth in the claims at the end of this patent are referenced in this patent in a manner consistent with a single meaning, this is done solely for clarity to avoid confusing the reader, and it is not intended that such claim terms be limited, implicitly or otherwise, to that single meaning. Finally, unless a claim element is defined by the word "means" and a recitation of a function without a recitation of structure, the scope of a claim element is not intended to be construed pursuant to application of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f).

Claims

1. 1. A feed trough for an electric arc furnace, comprising: a first arcuate plate and a second arcuate plate; wherein each arcuate plate has opposing first and second edges and opposing first and second side edges, the first and second edges including an arcuate contour, and a juncture between the first edge and each of the first and second side edges including an arcuate contour; at least one first spacer attached to the first edge of the first plate and the first edge of the second plate; wherein said first spacer has an arcuate cross section and an arcuate profile; at least one second spacer attached to the junction between the first side edge and the first end edge of the first plate and the junction between the first side edge and the first end edge of the second plate; and at least one third spacer attached to the junction between the second side edge and the first edge of the first plate and the junction between the second side edge and the first edge of the second plate; wherein the second spacer and the third spacer each have an arcuate cross section and an arcuate profile; and at least one fourth spacer attached from the first side edge of the first plate to the first side edge of the second plate; and at least one fifth spacer attached to the second side edge of the first plate and the second side edge of the second plate; wherein the fourth spacer and the fifth spacer have an arcuate cross section; Including, a feed trough, the first and second arcuate plates having a channel disposed between inner surfaces of the first and second arcuate plates, the feed trough further including at least one serpentine flow path and at least one peripheral flow path, the at least one serpentine flow path disposed toward a centerline of the trough, and the at least one peripheral flow path disposed outward of the at least one serpentine flow path;

2. The feed trough of claim 1 , wherein the at least one peripheral channel is positioned generally adjacent to the spacer.

3. 3. The feed trough of claim 2, wherein the at least one peripheral channel includes a first leg adjacent the fourth spacer, a second leg adjacent the first, second, and third spacers, and a third leg adjacent the fifth spacer, each leg having at least one passageway.

4. 3. The feed trough of claim 2, wherein the at least one peripheral channel includes a first leg adjacent the fourth spacer, a second leg adjacent the first, second, and third spacers, and a third leg adjacent the fifth spacer, each leg having two parallel passages.

5. 5. The feed trough of claim 1, wherein the at least one serpentine flow path comprises a plurality of concentric or nested U-shaped passages or loops, an outermost loop in fluid communication with the inlet and an innermost loop in fluid communication with the outlet, the outermost loop adjacent to at least one peripheral flow path.

6. 6. The feed trough of claim 5, wherein the plurality of nested loops are arranged in pairs of loops, each pair of loops in fluid communication with the next pair of loops.

7. The feed trough of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one serpentine flow path comprises a series of continuous passages arranged in a reciprocating pattern between an inlet and an outlet.

8. 8. The feed trough of claim 7, wherein the series of consecutive passages are arranged in passage pairs, each pair being in fluid communication with the next pair, and wherein the fluid in each pair flows in an opposite direction to the next pair.

9. 9. The feed trough of claim 1, wherein each of the at least one first spacer, the at least one second spacer, the at least one third spacer, the at least one fourth spacer, and the at least one fifth spacer is cast.

10. 10. The feed trough of claim 1, wherein each of the at least one first spacer, the at least one second spacer, the at least one third spacer, the at least one fourth spacer, and the at least one fifth spacer is welded to the first and second arcuate plates.

11. 1. A feed trough for an electric arc furnace, comprising: a first arcuate plate and a second arcuate plate; wherein each arcuate plate has first and second opposing end edges and first and second opposing side edges; the first and second edges include an arcuate profile, the first and second edges of the first and second arcuate plates are connected, and the first and second side edges of the first and second arcuate plates are connected; a channel disposed between the first and second edge portions, the first and second side edges, and the inner surfaces of the first and second arcuate plates; wherein the channel includes at least one serpentine flow path and at least one peripheral flow path, the at least one serpentine flow path being disposed toward a centerline of the feed trough, and the at least one peripheral flow path being disposed outside the at least one serpentine flow path; Including, a feed trough.

12. The feed trough of claim 11 , wherein the at least one peripheral channel is disposed generally adjacent at least one of the first and second edges and the first and second side edges.

13. 13. The feed trough of claim 12, wherein the at least one peripheral channel includes a first leg adjacent the first side edge, a second leg adjacent at least one of the first edge and the second edge, and a third leg adjacent the second side edge, each leg having at least one passageway.

14. 13. The feed trough of claim 12, wherein the at least one peripheral channel includes a first leg adjacent the first side edge, a second leg adjacent at least one of the first edge and the second edge, and a third leg adjacent the second side edge, each leg having two parallel passages.

15. 15. The feed trough of any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the at least one serpentine flow path comprises a plurality of concentric or nested U-shaped passages or loops, an outermost loop in fluid communication with the inlet and an innermost loop in fluid communication with the outlet, the outermost loop adjacent to at least one peripheral flow path.

16. 16. The feed trough of claim 15, wherein the plurality of nested loops are arranged in pairs of loops, each pair of loops in fluid communication with the next pair of loops.

17. 15. The feed trough of any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the at least one serpentine flow path comprises a series of continuous passages arranged in a reciprocating pattern between an inlet and an outlet.

18. 18. The feed trough of claim 17, wherein the series of consecutive passages are arranged in passage pairs, each pair of passages being in fluid communication with the next pair of passages, and wherein the fluid in each pair of passages flows in an opposite direction to the next pair of passages.

19. a vibratory feeder having a first end and a second end; a feed trough according to any one of claims 1 to 18 attached to the second end of the vibratory feeder.

20. an electric arc furnace having a fill inlet; and the feed trough according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the first edge of the first plate is positioned at the charge inlet with the first edge proximate to the charge inlet.

21. 1. A furnace charging system comprising: an electric arc furnace having a filling inlet; a vibrating device having an outlet positioned proximate the charge inlet of the electric arc furnace; and A feed trough according to any one of claims 1 to 18, attached to an outlet of the vibrating device and arranged between the outlet of the vibrating device and the charge inlet of the electric arc furnace; Furnace charging system, including:

22. 1. A feed trough for an electric arc furnace, comprising: a first arcuate plate and a second arcuate plate; wherein each arcuate plate has opposing first and second edges and opposing first and second side edges, the first and second edges including an arcuate contour, and a junction between the first edge and each of the first and second side edges including an arcuate contour; at least one first spacer attached to the first edge of the first plate and the first edge of the second plate; wherein said first spacer has an arcuate cross section and an arcuate profile; at least one second spacer attached to the junction between the first side edge and the first end edge of the first plate and the junction between the first side edge and the first end edge of the second plate; and at least one third spacer attached to the junction between the second side edge and the first edge of the first plate and the junction between the second side edge and the first edge of the second plate; wherein the second spacer and the third spacer each have an arcuate cross section and an arcuate profile; and at least one fourth spacer attached from the first side edge of the first plate to the first side edge of the second plate; and at least one fifth spacer attached to the second side edge of the first plate and the second side edge of the second plate; wherein the fourth spacer and the fifth spacer have an arcuate cross section; Including, a feed trough.

23. 23. The feed trough of claim 22, wherein each of the at least one first spacer, the at least one second spacer, the at least one third spacer, the at least one fourth spacer, and the at least one fifth spacer is cast.

24. 24. The feed trough of claim 22 or 23, wherein each of the at least one first spacer, the at least one second spacer, the at least one third spacer, the at least one fourth spacer, and the at least one fifth spacer is welded to the first and second arcuate plates.

25. 25. The feed trough of claim 22, wherein the first and second arcuate plates have a channel disposed between inner surfaces of the first and second arcuate plates, and further comprising at least one baffle disposed within the channel.

26. 26. The feed trough of claim 25, wherein the at least one baffle comprises a plurality of baffles disposed within the channel, the plurality of baffles defining at least one serpentine flow path.

27. a vibratory feeder having a first end and a second end; a feed trough according to any one of claims 22 to 26 attached to the second end of the vibratory feeder.

28. an electric arc furnace having a fill inlet; and the feed trough of any one of claims 22 to 26, wherein the first edge of the first plate is positioned at the charge inlet with the first edge proximate to the charge inlet.

29. 1. A furnace charging system comprising: an electric arc furnace having a filling inlet; a vibrating device having an outlet positioned proximate the charge inlet of the electric arc furnace; and A feed trough according to any one of claims 22 to 26, attached to an outlet of the vibrating device and arranged between the outlet of the vibrating device and the charge inlet of the electric arc furnace; Furnace charging system, including:

30. 1. A method for manufacturing a feed trough for an electric arc furnace, the method comprising the steps of: providing a first arcuate plate and a second arcuate plate; wherein each arcuate plate has opposing first and second edges and opposing first and second side edges, the first and second edges including an arcuate contour, and a juncture between the first edge and each of the first and second side edges including an arcuate contour; attaching the first edge of the first plate to the first edge of the second plate with at least one first spacer; wherein said first spacer has an arcuate cross section and an arcuate profile; connecting the junction between the first side edge and the first end edge of the first plate to the junction between the first side edge and the first end edge of the second plate via at least one second spacer, and connecting the junction between the second side edge and the first end edge of the second plate to the junction between the second side edge and the first end edge of the second plate via at least one third spacer; wherein the second spacer and the third spacer each have an arcuate cross section and an arcuate profile. attaching the first side edge of the first plate to the first side edge of the second plate using at least one fourth spacer and attaching the second side edge of the first plate to the second side edge of the second plate using at least one fifth spacer; Here, the fourth spacer and the fifth spacer each have an arched cross section.

31. 31. The method of claim 30, further comprising molding each of the at least one first spacer, the at least one second spacer, the at least one third spacer, the at least one fourth spacer, and the at least one fifth spacer.

32. 32. The method of claim 30 or 31, wherein attaching each of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth spacers to the first and second plates comprises welding each of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth spacers to the first and second plates.

33. 33. The method of any one of claims 30 to 32, further comprising attaching a plurality of baffles to at least one of the first plate and the second plate between inner surfaces of the first plate and the second plate, the plurality of baffles defining at least one serpentine flow path between the inner surfaces of the first plate and the second plate between at least one inlet and at least one outlet.

34. providing an electric arc furnace having a fill inlet; Producing a feed trough according to the method of any one of claims 30 to 33, and placing the feed trough at the charge inlet of the electric arc furnace; A method of manufacturing a furnace system, comprising:

35. Providing a feed trough manufactured according to the method of any one of claims 30 to 33; and moving filler material on the first plate of the feed trough from the second edge to the first edge; wherein the electric arc furnace is positioned near the first edge of the feed trough; 1. A method of filling a furnace system, comprising:

36. 36. The method of claim 35, further comprising passing a cooling fluid through a channel disposed between the inner surfaces of the first and second arcuate plates.

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