Plant for the treatment and recycling of white slag resulting from a steelmaking process

Abstract

An apparatus (1) for processing and recycling white slag generated from a steelmaking process includes: at least one basic frame (2); at least one working chamber (3) rotatable about an associated axis (A) and configured to receive and process the white slag (S), which moves forward along at least one processing direction (D), the working chamber (3) including: at least one loading section (8) through which the white slag (S) is loaded; at least one cooling section (10) disposed downstream of the loading section (8) and including: at least one processing channel (11) for the white slag (S); and a cooling device (12) including at least one coolant (F) to cool the white slag (S) to obtain at least one recycled powder (R); at least one sorting and separating section (13) for the recycled powder (R), the at least one sorting and separating section being relative to the processing direction. The cooling unit (12) is arranged downstream of the cooling section (10); wherein the cooling section (10) includes a plurality of processing channels (11) separated from each other, each of the processing channels being adapted to receive a portion of the white residue (S) generated due to the rotation of the working chamber (3), and wherein the cooling device (12) includes at least one delivery channel (21) for sending the coolant (F) countercurrently toward the loading section (8) relative to the processing direction (D), at least one return channel (22), and at least one inlet manifold (42), the at least one return channel being arranged to send the coolant (F) around the delivery channel (21) parallel to the processing direction (D) toward the sorting and separating section (13), and the at least one inlet manifold being arranged at the point where the loading section (8) is located and being adapted to transfer the coolant (F) from the delivery channel (21) to the return channel (22).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus for processing and recycling white slag (also known as ladle slag) produced in the steelmaking process (during the refining stage of molten steel). Background Technology

[0002] Further applications can also be found in the treatment of AOD (Argon Oxigen Decarborution) slag generated during the decarburization process of stainless steel.

[0003] Furthermore, the proposed device can be readily adopted to optimally cool and sort any powder or particulate material.

[0004] White slag mainly consists of lime required for the refining process, reaction products from the deoxidation and desulfurization stages of the molten steel bath, and wear-resistant materials from ladle refractory materials. Lime remaining at the end of the refining process can be used, for example, in new steelmaking processes or for other purposes to enhance the steel.

[0005] Current regulations define white slag as special waste, which must be disposed of, resulting in increased production costs and a significant environmental impact.

[0006] To overcome these drawbacks, proposals for recycling white slag have increased considerably over the years. These proposals aim to achieve advantages from a production standpoint, optimizing and saving processes, and from an environmental perspective, by reducing landfill disposal and quarrying for limestone production. Furthermore, the significant savings from reduced carbon dioxide emissions from limestone combustion are not explicitly mentioned here. White slag recycling is typically carried out through a method known as "drying," in which controlled cooling increases the volume of dicalcium silicate (a major component of white slag), leading to the fragmentation and pulverization of the entire matrix constituting the white slag.

[0007] Several types of white slag treatment and recycling equipment are known, but they either have a series of problems, or have not been followed up with appropriate and effective equipment applications, and have been abandoned after their initial trial or industrial trial.

[0008] The first type of equipment is the "static" type, in which the white residue is recovered by cooling it in the chambers of one or more boxes until it is crushed. This solution has poor heat exchange efficiency, so it requires a very long time to achieve the material crushing.

[0009] US 7854785 describes a static type of device.

[0010] These “static” type systems (characterized by slow kinetics requiring significant equipment structures) have been surpassed by rotary reactors, which are externally cooled with water and / or internally cooled with air and thus in direct contact with the slag.

[0011] The advantage of these solutions is that they enable continuous mixing of materials inside the drum, thereby performing continuous renewal of the slag in contact with the cooling wall.

[0012] Among them are several types that are known to be different from each other, as well as different ways of using air inside the reactor to support external water, different ways of carrying out the process (continuous or batch), different types of cooling for water supply (on the outer surface, lining or free), and different forms of drum construction.

[0013] JP S52-13493 and JP S52-17388, EP 2261383 A1, EP 3247811 A1 and EP 3323898 A1 describe some rotating devices.

[0014] Among them, documents JP S52-13493 and JP S52-17388 describe methods for drying materials by indirectly cooling the material through the outer surface of an open tubular reactor in which white slag is placed. Some water is sprayed onto the upper surface of the reactor and then collected in a trough located below the reactor itself. The limitations of this proposal are obvious, and apart from the significant dispersion of water and the ease with which the liquid comes into contact with the slag, causing it to degrade, only the upper surface operates for heat exchange.

[0015] Document EP 2261383 A1 describes a method for recovering white slag in an open tubular reactor, wherein cooling is primarily achieved by airflow affecting the internal region of the drum and a series of nozzles positioned below the rotating drum and capable of spraying water onto the outer surface. The batch operation method also has limitations in terms of reduced exchange surface and the use of air in direct contact with the slag, resulting in significant negative consequences. Documents EP 3247811 A1 and EP 3323898 A1 relate to equipment for treating and recovering white slag through a system of indirect heat exchange with a “closed-loop” coolant.

[0016] Both devices have a rotating chamber in which the white slag is cooled in a controlled manner to allow so-called drying to occur, and the powder obtained by this method is then screened.

[0017] Other equipment for cooling white slag is known from US 1769412 A, CN 1944685 A and IT VE 20100055 A1.

[0018] Document US 1769412 A describes a cooling device, particularly for cooling calcined ores, having a chamber movable about a relevant axis, and within this chamber house multiple processing channels designed to receive the material to be processed. During the rotation of the chamber, each processing channel undergoes cooling through two separate modes. Specifically, in the lower section, the processing channels pass through a water-filled trough under static conditions, and then, as they rise and reach the top in a circular motion, they undergo further cooling by a water spray. Thus, cooling water only skims over the chamber from the outside. Therefore, the heat exchange process is characterized by low efficiency. Furthermore, water loss is considerable due to the evaporation process, the system requires a large amount of "disposable" water, and the working environment is clearly impractical for generating steam and mist.

[0019] Another apparatus for cooling slag is known from CN 1944685 A, which discloses a rotary reactor characterized by an outer annular section in which water flows to keep the outer surface “cold”, and an inner coaxial cylinder. The latter further comprises a number of rollers immersed in water. The material to be cooled is inserted into each roller and into a gap defined between the outer crown and the inner cylinder. Cooling water is sent countercurrently to the forward movement of the material to be cooled, and specifically, the cooling water is introduced at the point where the outlet area of ​​the cooled material is located and exits at the point where the loading area of ​​the material to be cooled is located. A branch of the pipe is split before the main pipe of the cooling water inlet enters the reactor to feed the outer crown. An air blowing system adapted to promote material cooling is also installed at the slag inlet.

[0020] On the other hand, document IT VE 20 100 055 A1 discloses a drying method in an open tubular reactor, in which free water is supplied by spraying onto the upper outer surface of the reactor shell and then collected in a tank located below the same machine. This solution also has some drawbacks, such as slag deterioration, reduced heat exchange surface, loss of cooling liquid, lack of cooling in the hot molten slag loading area, and difficulty in managing process parameters.

[0021] Heat exchange between the slag layer and the reactor wall is managed through a substantially conductive process, characterized by a low exchange coefficient value. This implies a need for a large surface area, and therefore the reactor is characterized by critical dimensions that ensure adequate capacity. Related aspects involve equipment size, which is often a significant issue due to limited available space in the plant.

[0022] Furthermore, the standardization of machines is complex, which leads to increased engineering and construction costs. Summary of the Invention

[0023] The main objective of this invention is to design an apparatus for processing and recycling white slag produced in the steelmaking process, which allows for optimization of the cooling process of the white slag in a confined environment.

[0024] Another object of the present invention is to design an apparatus for processing and recycling white slag produced by the steelmaking process, which allows for the efficient and easy processing of large quantities of white slag in a small reactor.

[0025] Another object of the present invention is to obtain a large exchange surface without limiting the feed paste material and / or the possibility of the presence of coarse-sized solid blocks.

[0026] Another object of the present invention is to design an apparatus for processing and recycling white slag produced by the steelmaking process, which is small in size and allows for adaptation to the plant where it is installed and its production requirements by continuously carrying out the cooling and recycling stages in the same reactor and by selecting dried material.

[0027] Another object of the present invention is to design an apparatus for processing and recycling white slag produced by the steelmaking process, which allows for different equipment capacities, thereby reducing engineering, construction and maintenance costs.

[0028] Another object of the present invention is to design an apparatus for processing and recycling white slag produced by the steelmaking process, which allows for overcoming the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art in a simple, rational, easy-to-use, efficient, and low-cost solution.

[0029] The above objective is achieved by the present device having the features of claim 1 for treating and recycling white slag generated from the steelmaking process. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the description of preferred, but not exclusive, embodiments of an apparatus for treating and recycling white slag produced in steelmaking processes, illustrated by way of exemplary rather than limiting examples in the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0031] Figure 1 This is a partial cross-sectional side view of the apparatus for treating and recycling white residue according to the invention in the first embodiment;

[0032] Figure 2 This is a top view of the device according to the invention in the second embodiment;

[0033] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the III-III orbital plane;

[0034] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the IV-IV orbital plane, showing the path of the coolant;

[0035] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The axonometric view of the cross section, in which the flow involved is identified;

[0036] Figure 6 From Figure 2 The top view of the device in the middle is relative to Figure 2 The second plan view is rotated 45° from the view in the image;

[0037] Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 Cross-sectional view of the VII-VII orbital plane;

[0038] Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the VIII-VIII orbital plane;

[0039] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 An axonometric view of a section in which the coolant path is identified;

[0040] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 Exploded view of the equipment components;

[0041] Figure 11 and Figure 12 They are along Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of the XI-XI and XII-XII track planes. Detailed Implementation

[0042] With particular reference to these accompanying drawings, reference numeral 1 generally indicates equipment for the treatment and recycling of white slag generated from the steelmaking process.

[0043] In the context of this invention, the term "white slag" refers to a byproduct of steelmaking processes used to produce liquid steel.

[0044] The device 1 includes at least one basic frame 2, which can be positioned to rest on a support surface P.

[0045] Specifically, the supporting surface P is substantially horizontal and preferably coincides with the ground.

[0046] The device 1 includes at least one chamber 3 associated with a basic frame 2, rotatable about an associated axis A, and configured to receive and process white slag S produced by the steelmaking process by means of a drying process.

[0047] In the context of this invention, the term "withering process" refers to the controlled cooling of white slag, preferably in a confined atmosphere to avoid its chemical degradation, which results in a change in the lattice volume of one of its main components (dicalcium silicate), accompanied by subsequent fragmentation and pulverization of the material. The resulting lime-rich powder is enhanced by use in new steelmaking processes (recycling the material within the same production cycle) or for other applications.

[0048] Studio 3 has a long and narrow configuration, and axis A is basically coincident with the longitudinal axis of the studio itself.

[0049] The device 1 also includes a moving device 4 for the working chamber 3, which is adapted to set the working chamber itself to be rotating.

[0050] In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the moving device 4 includes:

[0051] At least one crown gear 5, which is externally associated with the chamber 3 and arranged to surround the chamber;

[0052] At least one pinion 6 meshes with a crown gear 5;

[0053] At least one motor 7, which is variable speed, associated with the basic frame 2, and adapted to operate a pinion 6.

[0054] However, it cannot be ruled out that the moving device 4 is a different type and that the rotation of the studio 3 is performed in another way.

[0055] During the drying process, the white residue S moves forward along at least one processing direction D.

[0056] Specifically, the rotation of Studio 3 determines the forward movement of White Slag S.

[0057] The processing direction D is basically parallel to axis A.

[0058] Studio 3 includes:

[0059] At least one loading section 8, which is provided with at least one inlet port 9, through which white slag is loaded;

[0060] At least one cooling section 10, which is arranged downstream of the loading section 8 relative to the processing direction D, includes:

[0061] At least one processing channel 11 for white residue (S); and

[0062] Cooling device 12, comprising at least one coolant F, is adapted to operate in conjunction with processing channel 11 to cool white residue S contained in the processing channel, thereby obtaining at least one recycled powder R.

[0063] At least one sorting and separation section 13 for recovering powder R is arranged downstream of the cooling section 10 relative to the processing direction D;

[0064] In detail, as the white residue S is loaded into the working chamber 3, the white residue S moves continuously along the processing direction D through the aforementioned parts 8, 10, and 13.

[0065] Advantageously, the studio 3 is tilted relative to the horizontal line, with the loading section 8 positioned at a higher level than the selection separation section 13.

[0066] In other words, the sorting and separating section 13 is closer to the support surface P than the loading section 8.

[0067] Therefore, due to the loading of white slag S inside the loading section 8, the flow of white slag S is generated by gravity and guided toward the sorting and separation section 13, that is, guided downward.

[0068] The equipment 1 is also provided with tilt adjustment devices 14 and 15 for adjusting the tilt angle, which are associated with the basic frame 2.

[0069] Adjustment devices 14 and 15 are adapted to allow for easy and simple changes in the tilt of the working chamber 3.

[0070] It is easy to understand that, with the same rotation speed, the greater the inclination of the working chamber 3, the faster the white slag S is transported within the working chamber.

[0071] Therefore, the regulating devices 14 and 15 allow the residence time of the white slag S to be treated in the equipment to be adjusted to the final temperature of the white slag S at the outlet.

[0072] Adjustment devices 14 and 15 include a hinge member 14 and a moving device 15, the hinge member being arranged near one of the loading section 8 or the sorting and separating section 13, and the moving device being, for example, of the type of jack, being arranged near the other of the loading section 8 or the sorting and separating section 13.

[0073] Advantageously, the device 1 includes at least one control and command unit 52, which is operatively connected to at least one of the moving device 4 or the regulating device 14, 15 and is configured to control its operation.

[0074] Conveniently, the control and command unit 52 can also be operatively connected to the slag feeding system to reduce or increase the flow rate of slag introduced into the device 1 according to the loading or unloading temperature to be managed.

[0075] Appropriately, a sensor device (not shown in detail in the figures) is provided, adapted to detect the temperature of the recycled powder R and operatively connected to a control and command unit 52, which is configured to adjust at least one of the moving device 4 or adjusting devices 14, 15 according to the temperature detected by the sensor device. The sensor device is positioned, for example, at the location of the sorting and separating section 13.

[0076] More specifically, the control and command unit 52 is configured to increase the rotational speed of the chamber 3 by operating the moving device 4 and / or change the tilt of the chamber itself by operating the adjusting devices 14, 15 when the temperature detected by the sensor device exceeds a preset reference value.

[0077] The loading section 8 has a basically truncated cone shape that branches off from the inlet port 9.

[0078] This shape facilitates the outflow of white residue S to the next cooling section 10. According to the invention, the cooling section 10 includes a plurality of processing channels 11, which are separated from each other and communicate with the loading section 8. Each processing channel is adapted to receive a portion of the white residue S generated due to the rotation of the working chamber 3, for cooling and conveying the white residue toward the sorting and separating section 13.

[0079] As can be seen from the figure, this implementation allows the white slag S to be processed to be divided into multiple independent streams, thus increasing the exchange surface between the white slag S and the cooling device 12, thereby optimizing the drying process and reducing the size of the device 1.

[0080] Still according to the invention, the cooling device 12 is arranged to at least partially surround the processing channel 11 and includes at least one delivery channel 21 and at least one return channel 22, the at least one delivery channel extending at least through the cooling section 10 to deliver coolant F in a countercurrent manner relative to the processing direction D toward the loading section 8, and the at least one return channel extending at least through the cooling section 10 and arranged to deliver coolant F around the delivery channel 21 in a manner parallel to the processing direction D (i.e., corresponding to the processing direction) toward the sorting and separating section 13.

[0081] A segment of return channel 22 is therefore positioned between delivery channel 21 and processing channel 11. Return channel 22 thus surrounds processing channel 11.

[0082] Then, the cooling device 12 includes at least one inlet manifold 42, which is arranged at the point where the loading section 8 is located and is adapted to transfer coolant F from the delivery channel 21 to the return channel 22.

[0083] More specifically, the inlet manifold 42 is located between the loading section 8 and the cooling section 10.

[0084] Delivery channel 21 and return channel 22 are housed inside studio 3.

[0085] The cooling device 12 and the processing channel 11 rotate together about axis A.

[0086] More specifically, the inlet manifold 42 defines at least one transfer chamber 50 for the coolant F, which communicates with the delivery channel 21 and the return channel 22, and the processing channel 11 passes through the transfer chamber.

[0087] Advantageously, the loading section 8 is arranged opposite to the cooling section 10 relative to the inlet manifold 42, and defines at least one gap 51 communicating with the transfer chamber 50.

[0088] More specifically, the gap 51 includes at least one inlet gap 51a of coolant F communicating with the delivery chamber 50 and at least one outlet gap 51b of coolant F communicating with the return channel 22. The gap 51 is thus adapted to receive coolant F from the delivery channel 21 to cool the slag S introduced therein, and then deliver the coolant itself into the return channel 22.

[0089] Preferably, the cooling device 12 includes at least one internally hollow cooling bushing 18; a delivery channel 21 and a return channel 22 are arranged inside the cooling bushing 18.

[0090] Specifically, the return channel 22 is positioned between the cooling bushing 18 and the delivery channel 21, and the processing channel 11 is inserted into the return channel 22.

[0091] Conveniently, the cooling device 12 also includes an outlet manifold 47 that communicates with the return channel 22 and is adapted to collect coolant F passing through the return channel itself and to deliver coolant F outward. The delivery channel 21 passes through the outlet manifold 47 and exits the chamber 3.

[0092] The outlet manifold 47 is positioned between the cooling section 10 and the sorting and separation section 13.

[0093] exist Figures 2 to 9 In the embodiment shown, both the delivery channel 21 and the return channel 22 exit the chamber 3 via a corresponding pipe at the point where the outlet manifold 47 is located.

[0094] Advantageously, the device 1 includes a supply device 44 for coolant F communicating with a delivery channel 21 and a discharge device 45 for coolant F communicating with a return channel 22, wherein the supply device 44 and the discharge device 45 are located outside the working chamber 3.

[0095] More specifically, the supply device 44 includes at least one fixed supply pipe, and the discharge device 45 includes at least one fixed discharge pipe, both arranged downstream of the sorting and separating section 13 and connected to the delivery channel 21 and the return channel 22 respectively by means of a rotary joint 46. Preferably, the control and command unit 52 is also operatively connected to the supply device 44 and configured to operate thereon to change the flow rate of the coolant F according to the temperature detected by the sensor device.

[0096] Specifically, the control and command unit 52 is configured to increase the flow rate of coolant F when the temperature of the recycled powder R detected by the sensor device exceeds a preset reference value.

[0097] Conveniently, the processing channels 11 are substantially parallel to each other. The dimensions of the processing channels 11 allow even rough workpieces to pass through.

[0098] Furthermore, the processing channels 11 are arranged in a radial pattern relative to axis A, and each processing channel includes a supply port 16 communicating with the loading section 8.

[0099] In the embodiment shown in the figure, the processing channel 11 has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0100] However, it cannot be ruled out that the processing channel 11 may have a shape with different geometries.

[0101] White slag S is distributed into processing channel 11 by gravity due to the rotation of chamber 3.

[0102] In detail, the rotation of the chamber 3 positions each supply port 16 at the point where the white slag S accumulated in the loading section 8 is located, thereby allowing it to split automatically.

[0103] In this regard, the loading section 8 is conveniently equipped with multiple conveying elements 17 adapted to guide the white slag S toward the processing channel 11.

[0104] For example, a rotor blade type conveying element 17 is internally associated with the loading section 8 and extends between the inlet port 9 and the supply port 16.

[0105] Inside each processing channel 11, the white slag S undergoes a continuous and controlled cooling process that causes it to break down in order to obtain recycled powder R.

[0106] Cooling is achieved indirectly through the walls of the processing channel 11 by means of coolant F flowing inside the return channel 22 located around the processing channel 11.

[0107] In this regard, device 1 allows the white slag S to be divided into several separate streams and cooled by means of a significantly increased exchange surface of equal external size, so that a large amount of white slag S can be processed, thus ensuring effective cooling while keeping the size of device 1 significantly reduced.

[0108] Due to the rotation of chamber 3, the white slag S continuously contacts the area of ​​the processing channel 11 cooled by coolant F by moving forward and mixing.

[0109] In fact, the rotation of chamber 3 causes the white slag S to rotate further and always come into contact with the continuous cooling area of ​​processing channel 11.

[0110] In addition, the rotational speed of the working chamber 3 limits the conveying speed of the white slag S in the cooling section 10 and the sorting section 13, thereby establishing the flow rate of the equipment.

[0111] Conveniently, each processing channel 11 includes a plurality of mixing elements 23 that extend along the processing direction D and are adapted to mix the white slag S and convey it toward the sorting and separation section 13.

[0112] For example, the mixing element 23, configured as a wing segment, is preferably arranged axially on the inner wall of each processing channel 11.

[0113] Alternatively or in combination, the mixing element 23 may extend along the corresponding processing direction D on the inner wall of each processing channel 11 in a continuous or semi-continuous spiral pattern.

[0114] As the chamber 3 rotates about axis A, these mixing elements 23 lift and mix the white slag S, thereby promoting its cooling.

[0115] In addition, the mixing element 23 causes the flow of white slag S to move forward along the processing direction D.

[0116] Even though the environment is always limited, in embodiments of the present invention, the device 1 may also include an inerting device (not shown) associated with the working chamber 3 and adapted to generate a controlled atmosphere within at least the cooling section 10.

[0117] Thus, the drying process is carried out in an atmosphere with reduced humidity and carbon dioxide content to avoid possible processes of hydration, carbonation, and thus degradation of the dried white mineral S.

[0118] Each processing channel 11 includes an exit port 24, which is opposite to the inlet port 9 and communicates with the sorting and separation section 13.

[0119] Specifically, the sorting and separating section 13 is adjacent to and integral with the cooling section 10.

[0120] The recovered powder R generated from the drying process of the white residue S leaves the processing channel 11 through the corresponding outlet port 24 and flows out by discharging it into the sorting and separation section 13.

[0121] Conveniently, the sorting and separating section 13 includes a plurality of orifices 25, each orifice being configured to allow the recycled powder R to flow out at least one predetermined size.

[0122] Conveniently, a series of longitudinal blades (not shown here) can be provided inside, which are adapted to lift the powder to avoid any packaging and facilitate powder sorting.

[0123] The fully calibrated orifice 25 allows for the screening of recycled powder R, thus allowing only recycled powder R that has undergone the proper drying process to flow out.

[0124] The device 1 also includes a collection device 26 for the recovered powder R arranged below the sorting and separation section 13. The recovered powder R falls from the sorting and separation section 13 into the collection device 26 by gravity.

[0125] The collection device 26 includes at least one collection member 27, such as a hopper, which is adapted to convey the recycled powder toward other recycling stations.

[0126] Advantageously, below the collection hopper for recovering powder, there is a damper (not shown in detail in the figure) that can be manually operated to allow powder discharge.

[0127] The device 1 is further provided with a powder containment system 28, which is associated with the working chamber 3 and is arranged at least around the sorting and separation section 13.

[0128] Specifically, the containing system 28 includes a powder containing chamber 29 adapted to contain part of the sorting and separating section 13 and the collecting member 27.

[0129] The function of the powder receiving chamber 29 is to prevent the recycled powder R from dispersing into the external environment, and the powder receiving chamber is provided with a rotary seal on the outside.

[0130] For this purpose, the containment system 28 also includes a suction device 30 associated with the powder containment chamber 29.

[0131] Products that remain larger than the predetermined size at the end of the drying process are considered waste products of the process, which are essentially composed of a metal-slag mixture.

[0132] Conveniently, the working chamber 3 includes at least one unloading section 31, which is arranged downstream of the sorting and separating section 13 relative to the processing direction D and is adapted to allow unloading of waste generated by the drying process.

[0133] Preferably, a damper (not shown in detail in the figure) is provided below the unloading section 31, which can be manually operated to allow unloading of waste.

[0134] Through the unloading section 31, the waste leaves the workshop 3 and is transported to a further processing station or recycling station.

[0135] Advantageously, the device 1 includes a plurality of modular elements 32 that can be assembled together to at least define the cooling section 10.

[0136] This implementation makes it possible to modify and adapt the equipment 1 in a simple and easy manner by implementing or reducing the number of modular components based on the amount of white slag S to be treated.

[0137] like Figure 10 As shown, each modular element 32 includes at least one central member 33 that partially defines the chamber 3 and a pair of opposing sides 34, each side being adapted to contact the side 34 of the adjacent modular element 32.

[0138] More specifically, the central member 33 has a substantially cylindrical shape and extends along axis A, while the side members 34 have a substantially circular shape and are substantially perpendicular to axis A.

[0139] Conveniently, device 1 includes a connection device 35 for modular elements 32, which is adapted to connect and hold the modular elements together.

[0140] The connecting device 35 is, for example, a perforated flange associated with the outer wall of each modular element 32.

[0141] More specifically, the connecting device 35 is associated with the side 34 of the modular element 32.

[0142] The device 1 also includes, for example, a sealing device 36 of the type of circular gasket, which is positioned between the modular elements 32 and adapted to operate in conjunction with the connecting device 35 to hermetically connect the modular elements 32.

[0143] The modular component 32 includes at least a cooling module 37 that can be assembled together to define the cooling section 10.

[0144] Therefore, the cooling module 37 is adapted to define the processing channel 11 and the cooling bushing 18.

[0145] Each cooling module 37 also defines the relevant portions of the delivery channel 21 and return channel 22 adapted to contain the coolant F.

[0146] like Figure 11 As shown, each side 34 of the cooling module 37 includes a sealing plate 38, which is provided with:

[0147] Multiple first openings 39 correspond to the number of processing channels 11 for the passage of white slag S;

[0148] At least a second opening 40, communicating with delivery channel 21 for the passage of coolant F; and

[0149] Multiple third openings 43 are connected to the return channel 22 for the passage of coolant F.

[0150] Therefore, the cooling modules 37 are assembled sequentially with each other based on the required equipment capabilities to form the cooling section 10.

[0151] It is easy to understand that as the size of the cooling section 10 increases, the sorting and separation section 13 must also be appropriately sized to allow for effective screening of the recycled powder R.

[0152] For this purpose, these modular components 32 also include sorting modules 41, which can be assembled together to define the sorting separation section 13.

[0153] The central component 33 of the sorting module 41 is provided with a hole 25, and the side 34 is open to allow the passage of recycled powder R and waste.

[0154] The collecting device 26 and the containing system 28 are conveniently made to match the dimensions of the sorting and separating section 13.

[0155] Conveniently, the modular element 32 also includes an inlet manifold 42 connecting the loading section 8 to the subsequent cooling module 37, and an outlet manifold connecting the final cooling module 37 to the first sorting module 41.

[0156] Basically, the inlet manifold 42 and the outlet manifold 47 define the cooling section 10 by limiting it with the cooling module 37.

[0157] like Figure 12 As shown, the side 34 of the inlet manifold 42, which communicates with the loading section 8, includes a sealing plate 38, which is provided with only a plurality of first openings 39 for the passage of white slag S. These first openings correspond to the number of processing channels 11 and define the supply port 16.

[0158] On the other hand, the opposite side 34 is similar to the cooling module 37.

[0159] On the other hand, in the outlet manifold 47, the two sides 34 are similar to Figure 10 The side of the cooling module 37 shown.

[0160] More specifically, in the side 34 communicating with the sorting module 41, the first opening 39 allows the transfer of recycled powder R and waste inside the sorting module 41, while the third opening 43 can be connected to a corresponding rotary discharge pipe to allow the discharge of coolant F.

[0161] The operation of device 1 is as follows.

[0162] First, a supply of white slag S produced by the steelmaking process is provided, and the white slag S is loaded into at least one processing and recycling device 1.

[0163] Specifically, loading is carried out inside the loading section 8.

[0164] Loading can be performed in a manner known to those skilled in the art, such as using augers, conveyor belts, extractors, or other similar systems that extract material from a collection hopper, where the still-hot slag S is initially stored.

[0165] The white residue S is then moved forward along at least one processing direction D to generate at least one flow of white residue S and the flow of the white residue S is controlled to obtain recycled powder R.

[0166] According to the present invention, the loading process includes a stage in which multiple mutually separate material streams split the white slag S along the white slag S.

[0167] Each stream of white slag S is cooled using an indirect heat exchange system.

[0168] Because there are multiple processing channels 11, the moving and cooling stages are carried out inside the cooling section 10.

[0169] Specifically, as described above, multiple streams of white slag S are separated due to the rotation of the chamber 3, and during this rotation, the white slag S flows cyclically into one of the processing channels 11.

[0170] During the transport of white slag S inside the processing channel 11, the coolant F transported inside the return channel 22 arranged outside the processing channel itself allows for controlled cooling of the slag, resulting in the formation of recycled powder R.

[0171] More specifically, as expected above, coolant F is delivered to inlet manifold 42 via delivery channel 21, which is centrally located within chamber 3, and coolant F is delivered along return channel 22 via the manifold itself.

[0172] Subsequently, and continuously, the recycled powder R is sorted and picked from device 1.

[0173] This stage occurs inside the sorting and separation section 13, and with the aid of the collection device 26, the recovered powder R is collected and transported to any and further processing and recycling stations.

[0174] In practice, it has been determined that the described invention achieves its intended purpose, and it is particularly emphasized that the equipment for processing and recycling white slag produced by the steelmaking process according to the invention allows for optimization of the cooling process of the white slag, thereby minimizing the size of the equipment.

[0175] In fact, the presence of multiple processing channels allows the white slag to be split into several separate streams, resulting in an increased exchange surface between the white slag and the coolant.

[0176] The coolant supply system allows for a trade-off between optimizing energy efficiency and structural simplicity.

[0177] Furthermore, the presence of multiple processing channels allows for the efficient and easy handling of large quantities of white slag.

[0178] Finally, this specific solution, which has multiple modular components that can be assembled together, allows the device according to the invention to be easily adapted to the production needs of the equipment on which it is installed, while maintaining its small size.

Claims

1. An apparatus (1) for treating and recycling white slag generated from a steelmaking process, comprising: An apparatus (1) for treating and recycling white slag produced in a steelmaking process includes: At least one basic frame (2), which can be positioned to rest on a support surface (P); At least one chamber (3), associated with the basic frame (2), rotatable about an axis (A), and configured to receive and process white slag (S) produced by the steelmaking process by means of a drying process, wherein the axis (A) coincides with the longitudinal axis of the at least one chamber itself, the white slag (S) moves forward along at least one processing direction (D), and the at least one processing direction (D) is parallel to the axis (A), the chamber (3) comprising: At least one loading section (8) is provided with at least one inlet port (9) for loading the white slag (S). At least one cooling section (10) is arranged downstream of the loading section (8) relative to the processing direction (D), and includes: At least one processing channel (11) for the white residue (S); and A cooling device (12) comprising at least one coolant (F) is adapted to operate in conjunction with the processing channel (11) to cool the white residue (S) contained in the processing channel, thereby obtaining at least one recycled powder (R). At least one sorting and separation section (13) of the recovered powder (R) is arranged downstream of the cooling section (10) relative to the processing direction (D); The cooling section (10) includes a plurality of processing channels (11), which are separated from each other and communicate with the loading section (8). Each processing channel is adapted to receive a portion of the white residue (S) generated due to the rotation of the working chamber (3) for cooling and conveying the white residue toward the sorting and separating section (13). Furthermore, the cooling device (12) is arranged to at least partially surround each of the processing channels (11) and includes at least one delivery channel (21) that extends at least through the cooling section (10) to deliver coolant (F) countercurrently toward the loading section (8) relative to the processing direction (D). At least one return channel (22) extends through at least the cooling section (10) and is arranged to deliver the coolant (F) around the delivery channel (21) toward the sorting and separating section (13) in parallel with the processing direction (D); and at least one inlet manifold (42) disposed at the point where the loading section (8) is located and adapted to transfer the coolant (F) from the delivery channel (21) to the return channel (22). The cooling device (12) and the processing channel (11) rotate together around the axis (A).

2. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, At least one segment of the return channel (22) is positioned between the processing channel (11) and the delivery channel (21).

3. The device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The inlet manifold (42) includes at least one coolant (F) transfer chamber (50) in communication with the delivery channel (21) and the return channel (22), and wherein the processing channel (11) passes through the transfer chamber (50).

4. The device (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The loading section (8) is arranged opposite to the cooling section (10) relative to the inlet manifold (42) and defines at least one gap (51) communicating with the transfer chamber (50).

5. The device (1) according to claim 4, wherein, The gap (51) includes at least one inlet gap (51a) of coolant (F) communicating with the transfer chamber (50) and at least one outlet gap (51b) of coolant (F) communicating with the return channel (22).

6. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The cooling device (12) includes at least one internally hollow cooling bushing (18), wherein the delivery channel (21) and the return channel (22) are arranged inside the cooling bushing (18), wherein the return channel (22) is positioned between the cooling bushing (18) and the delivery channel (21), and the processing channel (11) is inserted into the return channel (22).

7. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The device includes a coolant (F) supply device (44) communicating with the delivery channel (21) and a coolant (F) discharge device (45) communicating with the return channel (22), wherein the supply device (44) and the discharge device (45) are arranged downstream of the sorting and separating section (13).

8. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The device includes a moving device (4) associated with and operable to rotate the working chamber (3) about the axis (A).

9. The device (1) according to claim 8, wherein, The device includes adjustment devices (14, 15) for adjusting the tilt of the axis (A).

10. The device (1) according to claim 9, wherein, The device includes at least one control and command unit (52) operatively connected to at least one of the mobile device (4) or the regulating device (14, 15), wherein the device includes a sensor device (53) adapted to detect the temperature of the recycled powder (R) and operatively connected to the control and command unit (52), which is configured to regulate at least one of the mobile device (4) or the regulating device (14, 15) according to the temperature detected by the sensor device (53).

11. The device (1) according to claim 10, wherein, The control and command unit (52) is configured to increase the rotation speed of the working chamber (3) by means of the moving device (4) and / or increase the tilt of the working chamber (3) by means of the adjusting device (14, 15) when the temperature detected by the sensor device exceeds a preset reference value.

12. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The processing channels (11) are arranged in a radial pattern relative to the axis (A), and each processing channel (11) includes a supply port (16) communicating with the loading section (8).

13. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the processing channels (11) includes a plurality of mixing elements (23) extending along the processing direction (D), the mixing elements being adapted to mix the white residue (S) and convey the white residue toward the sorting and separation section (13).

14. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The working chamber (3) is inclined relative to the horizontal plane, and the loading part (8) is positioned at a higher horizontal plane than the sorting and separating part (13).

15. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The loading section (8) has a substantially truncated cone shape that branches off from the inlet port (9).

16. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The loading section (8) includes a plurality of conveying elements (17) adapted to guide the white residue toward the processing channel (11).

17. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The sorting and separating section (13) includes a plurality of orifices (25), each orifice being provided with at least one predetermined size adapted to allow the recycled powder (R) to flow out.

18. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The equipment includes a collection device (26) for the recovered powder (R) arranged below the sorting and separation section (13), the recovered powder (R) falling from the sorting and separation section (13) to the collection device (26) by gravity.

19. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The device includes at least one unloading section (31) arranged downstream of the sorting and separating section (13) relative to the processing direction (D) and adapted to allow loading of waste generated by the steelmaking process of the drying process.

20. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The device includes a plurality of modular components (32) that can be assembled together to define at least the cooling section (10).

21. The device (1) according to claim 20, wherein, The device includes a connection device (35) for the modular element (32), the connection device being adapted to connect and hold the modular element itself together.

22. The device (1) according to claim 21, wherein, The device includes a sealing device (36) positioned between the modular elements (32) and adapted to engage with the connecting device (35) to hermetically connect the modular elements (32).

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