Electrolytic cells and production equipment for producing rare earth metal materials

Abstract

This invention discloses an electrolytic cell and production apparatus for producing rare earth metal materials. The electrolytic cell of this invention includes an electrolytic cell body, a receiver, an insulating layer, an inner lining layer, and an anode assembly. The receiver is disposed within the cell body and includes a receiver base plate, a receiver adjustment plate, and a pull rod. The electrolytic cell of this invention can improve the reaction rate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an electrolytic cell and production apparatus for producing rare earth metal materials. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the industrial production of rare earth metals mainly employs oxide-fluoride salt electrolysis, and the electrolytic cells used are mostly top-mounted anode and cathode electrolytic cells. CN85100748A discloses a cell structure for the continuous electrolytic production of neodymium metal and neodymium-iron alloys, consisting of a graphite cell, a graphite anode, a molybdenum rod or iron rod cathode, and a molybdenum receiver. The anode of the electrolytic cell is a graphite cylinder with flanges and conductive plates. The distance between the cathode and the cell is 3-5 cm, and the distance between the anode and the metal receiver is 2.5-3.5 cm. This cell type has a relatively small capacity, with a current of around 2000 A, unstable product quality, and a slow reaction rate. CN1301885A discloses an electrolysis device using graphite material as the electrolytic cell and anode, and a tungsten rod or molybdenum rod as the cathode. The anode is designed in sections. The various anode sections are assembled together using anode screws. The assembled anodes are placed in the electrolytic cell to form a ring, and each assembled anode is fixed to the furnace cover plate using clamps and pins. The capacity of this electrolytic cell is approximately 3000–6000A. During use, the anode needs to be replaced, which affects the reaction rate. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, one object of the present invention is to provide an electrolytic cell for producing rare earth metal materials, which can improve the reaction rate. Furthermore, the electrolytic cell of the present invention can reduce the cell voltage and improve energy utilization. Another object of the present invention is to provide a production apparatus for producing rare earth metal materials.

[0004] The above objectives are achieved through the following scheme.

[0005] On one hand, the present invention provides an electrolytic cell for producing rare earth metal materials, including an electrolytic cell body, a receiver, an insulating layer, an inner liner, and an anode assembly;

[0006] The electrolytic cell includes a cell body and a sealing cover; the cell body includes a cell sidewall and a cell bottom plate, and the top of the cell body is open; the sealing cover is configured to cover the top of the cell body.

[0007] The receiver is disposed within the tank body, and the receiver includes a receiver base plate, a receiver adjustment plate, and a pull rod;

[0008] The receiver base plate is fixed to the bottom plate of the tank;

[0009] The receiver adjustment plates are configured in multiple ways, and are respectively disposed on both sides of the receiver base plate; the lower end of the receiver adjustment plate is pivotally connected to the receiver base plate; the included angle between the inner surface of the receiver base plate and the inner surface of the receiver adjustment plate is set to 90° to 180°.

[0010] The pull rod includes a pull rod body;

[0011] One end of the pull rod body is hinged to the outer surface of the receiver adjustment plate; the other end of the pull rod body extends through the side wall of the groove and is provided with a fixing cap.

[0012] An elastic component is fitted onto the portion of the pull rod body outside the groove body. One end of the elastic component abuts against the side wall of the groove body, and the other end of the elastic component abuts against the fixing cap.

[0013] The insulating layer is disposed within the tank body and is configured to contact the side wall of the tank body; the lower end face of the insulating layer is configured to contact the upper end of the receiver adjustment plate;

[0014] A pneumatic adjustment cavity is formed between the insulating layer, the receiver adjustment plate, and the tank body;

[0015] A fluid channel is provided inside the bottom plate of the tank, and the fluid channel is connected to the pneumatic adjustment cavity. The fluid channel is configured to supply gas to the pneumatic adjustment cavity.

[0016] The inner lining layer is disposed within the tank body and is disposed inside the insulating layer; the inner lining layer is configured to contact the insulating layer but not to contact the upper end of the receiver adjustment plate.

[0017] The anode assembly includes an anode body; the anode body is disposed in the tank body and above the receiver base plate.

[0018] According to the electrolytic cell of the present invention, preferably, the anode assembly includes a vertical connecting rod, an anode body, and a transmission component;

[0019] The vertical connecting rod passes through the sealing cover and is fixed to the sealing cover; one end of the vertical connecting rod is located outside the electrolytic cell body, and the other end of the vertical connecting rod is located inside the electrolytic cell body.

[0020] The anode body includes a substrate and a conditioning body;

[0021] The top of the base is connected to the vertical connecting rod;

[0022] The adjustment body is configured as a plurality of such bodies, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the base; the lower part of the adjustment body is hinged to the base;

[0023] The transmission component includes an adjusting sleeve and a hinge rod; the adjusting sleeve is sleeved on the outer periphery of the portion of the vertical connecting rod located in the electrolytic cell body, and the adjusting sleeve is configured to move along the length direction of the vertical connecting rod; one end of the hinge rod is hinged to the adjusting sleeve, and the other end of the hinge rod is hinged to the top of the adjusting body.

[0024] According to the electrolytic cell of the present invention, preferably, the transmission assembly further includes a mounting base and a transmission rod;

[0025] The mounting base is sleeved on the outer periphery of the portion of the vertical connecting rod located outside the electrolytic cell, and the mounting base is configured to move along the length direction of the vertical connecting rod;

[0026] One end of the transmission rod is connected to the adjusting sleeve, and the other end of the transmission rod is connected to the mounting base.

[0027] According to the electrolytic cell of the present invention, preferably, the substrate includes a substrate body and protrusions disposed on both sides of the substrate body, the top of the protrusions being flush with the top of the substrate body, the bottom of the protrusions being flush with the bottom of the substrate body, and two recesses being formed between the substrate body and the protrusions.

[0028] The adjusting body includes a top wall and three side walls, and has a bottom opening and a side opening; the boss extends into the side opening; a portion of two oppositely arranged side walls of the adjusting body is respectively placed in two recesses formed by the same boss and the base body, and the lower part of the two side walls is hinged to the boss.

[0029] According to the electrolytic cell of the present invention, preferably, the sealing cover includes a cover body and a limiting frame;

[0030] The cover is configured to cover the top of the tank body;

[0031] The limiting frame is connected to the outer periphery of the cover and extends downward; the lower end of the limiting frame is fitted onto the outer periphery of the side wall of the groove.

[0032] According to the electrolytic cell of the present invention, preferably, the electrolytic cell further includes a first fluid pipe, a second fluid pipe, a third fluid pipe, a discharge branch pipe, and an exhaust branch pipe;

[0033] The first fluid pipe is located at the bottom of the tank bottom plate and is connected to the fluid channel; the second fluid pipe and the third fluid pipe are respectively located on both sides of the tank bottom plate, the second fluid pipe is connected to the fluid channel, and the third fluid pipe is connected to the fluid channel.

[0034] The discharge branch pipe is installed on the side wall of the tank and is configured to transport electrolytic products.

[0035] The vertical connecting rod is provided with an exhaust channel. One end of the exhaust channel is connected to the inside of the electrolytic cell, and the other end of the exhaust channel is connected to the outside through the exhaust branch pipe.

[0036] According to the electrolytic cell of the present invention, preferably, the electrolytic cell body is formed of graphite, the receiver is formed of tungsten or molybdenum, the insulating layer is formed of one or more materials selected from alumina, magnesium oxide, boron nitride, silicon nitride, nitrided silicon carbide, rare earth oxides, and rare earth fluoride oxides, and the inner liner is formed of graphite.

[0037] According to the electrolytic cell of the present invention, preferably, a fixing seat is provided on the cell body, the fixing seat being used to fix the electrolytic cell;

[0038] A pressure gauge is provided on the outer surface of the sidewall of the tank, and the pressure gauge is configured to measure the pressure inside the pneumatic adjustment chamber.

[0039] On the other hand, the present invention provides a production apparatus for rare earth metal materials, including the above-mentioned electrolytic cell, horizontal bar, first vertical drive mechanism and second vertical drive mechanism;

[0040] The first vertical drive mechanism is configured to drive the sealing cover, causing the sealing cover to move longitudinally;

[0041] The transverse rod connects to the mounting base of each electrolytic cell;

[0042] The second vertical drive mechanism is configured to drive the horizontal rod, causing the horizontal rod to move along the length of the vertical connecting rod;

[0043] The second and third fluid pipes of two adjacent electrolytic cells are connected, thereby connecting the fluid channels of each electrolytic cell.

[0044] The production apparatus according to the present invention preferably further includes a connecting seat, a discharge main pipe, an exhaust main pipe, and an air inlet main pipe;

[0045] The connecting seat is connected to the sealing cover of each electrolytic cell;

[0046] An assembly base is provided on the connecting seat or the sealing cover, and the first vertical drive mechanism is fixed to the assembly base;

[0047] The main discharge pipe is connected to the discharge branch pipes of each electrolytic cell;

[0048] The main exhaust pipe is connected to the exhaust branch pipes of each electrolytic cell;

[0049] The main intake pipe is connected to a second or third fluid pipe of one of the electrolytic cells located at both ends.

[0050] The electrolytic cell of this invention uses graphite as the anode and the receiver and the molten metal that accumulates on it as the cathode. The tilt angles of both the receiver and the anode are automatically adjustable, increasing the reaction zone between them and improving reaction efficiency. The distance between the anode and receiver in the electrolytic cell is adjustable, which helps maintain a high reaction rate throughout the electrolysis process and reduces energy consumption. The electrolytic cell of this invention can reduce cell voltage, improve energy utilization, and reduce anode residual rate. The production apparatus of this invention can achieve synchronous adjustment of the tilt angles of multiple receivers and the anode, increasing production capacity. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of an electrolytic cell according to the present invention.

[0052] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of the electrolytic cell as viewed from another direction.

[0053] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the internal structure of the electrolytic cell.

[0054] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of the receiver.

[0055] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the sealing cap and anode assembly.

[0056] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a production apparatus according to the present invention.

[0057] Figure 7 for Figure 6 The diagram shows the structure of the production unit after the connecting seat has been removed.

[0058] Figure 8 This is a partial structural diagram of the connector.

[0059] The attached figures are labeled as follows:

[0060] 101-Tank body; 102-Insulation layer; 103-Inner lining layer; 104-Receiver; 1041-Receiver base plate; 1042-Receiver adjusting plate; 1043-Pivot shaft; 1044-Tie rod; 1045-Hinge seat; 1046-Spring; 105-Base; 106-Sealing cover; 1601-Cover body; 1603-Limiting frame; 107-Discharge branch pipe; 108-Discharge control valve; 109-Fixed seat; 110-Vertical connecting rod; 111-Exhaust channel; 112-Exhaust branch pipe; 113-Exhaust control valve; 114-Adjusting body; 115-Pneumatic adjusting chamber; 116-Fluid channel; 117-First fluid pipeline; 118-First control valve; 119-Second fluid pipeline; 120-Second control valve; 121-Third fluid pipeline; 200-Connecting seat; 201-Transverse seat; 202-Fixing edge; 203-Adapter seat; 204-Guide hole; 301-First vertical drive mechanism; 302-Assembly seat; 401-Second vertical drive mechanism; 402-Transverse rod; 403-First connecting sleeve; 404-Mounting seat; 405-Second connecting sleeve; 406-Transmission rod; 407-Adjusting sleeve; 408-Hinge rod; 500-Discharge main pipe; 600-Exhaust main pipe; 700-Inlet main pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0061] The present invention will be further described below with reference to specific embodiments, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0062] <Electrolytic cell>

[0063] The electrolytic cell of the present invention includes an electrolytic cell body, a receiver, an insulating layer, an inner liner, and an anode assembly. Each part is described in detail below.

[0064] Electrolytic cell body

[0065] The electrolytic cell of the present invention includes a cell body and a sealing cap.

[0066] The tank body includes tank sidewalls and a tank bottom plate. The top of the tank body is open. The tank body can be formed of graphite.

[0067] A mounting base can be installed on the side wall of the electrolytic cell. The mounting base is used to fix the electrolytic cell. A pressure gauge can be installed on the outer surface of the electrolytic cell side wall. The pressure gauge is used to measure the pressure inside the pneumatic adjustment chamber. Each pneumatic adjustment chamber can correspond to one pressure gauge. A discharge branch pipe can be installed on the side wall of the electrolytic cell. The discharge branch pipe can be located at the lower part of the side wall of the electrolytic cell. The discharge branch pipe is used to transport the electrolytic products. A discharge control valve can be installed on the discharge branch pipe.

[0068] A fluid channel is provided within the bottom plate of the tank. The fluid channel is connected to a pneumatic adjustment chamber. The fluid channel is used to supply gas to the pneumatic adjustment chamber, and further, it is also used to supply cleaning fluid. A first fluid conduit can be installed at the bottom of the tank bottom plate. The first fluid conduit is connected to the fluid channel. A first control valve is installed on the first fluid conduit. A second fluid conduit and a third fluid conduit are respectively installed on both sides of the tank bottom plate. The second fluid conduit is connected to the fluid channel. A second control valve can be installed on the second fluid conduit. The third fluid conduit is connected to the fluid channel.

[0069] The sealing cap covers the top of the tank body. The sealing cap may include a cap body and a limiting frame.

[0070] A cover is placed over the top of the tank body. In some embodiments, the cover includes a horizontal portion and two inclined portions connected to both sides of the horizontal portion. The horizontal portion is substantially parallel to the bottom plate of the tank. The inclined portions are inclined downwards from the end connected to the horizontal portion.

[0071] The limiting frame is connected to the outer periphery of the cover and extends downwards. The lower end of the limiting frame is fitted onto the outer periphery of the side wall of the tank. Specifically, the lower end of the limiting frame is movably fitted onto the upper outer periphery of the side wall of the tank.

[0072] receiver

[0073] The receiver is housed within the tank body. The receiver includes a receiver base plate, a receiver adjustment plate, and a pull rod.

[0074] The receiver base plate is fixed to the bottom plate of the tank. The receiver base plate is made of tungsten or molybdenum.

[0075] Multiple receiver adjustment plates can be configured, each positioned on one side of the receiver base plate. Two receiver adjustment plates can be configured. The lower end of each receiver adjustment plate is pivotally connected to the receiver base plate. The receiver adjustment plate can be pivotally connected to the receiver base plate via a pivot shaft. The included angle between the inner surface of the receiver base plate and the inner surface of the receiver adjustment plate is 90°–180°. During rotation around the pivot point, the included angle between the inner surfaces of the receiver base plate and the receiver adjustment plate can be adjusted between 90° and 180°. A hinge seat can be provided on the outer surface of the receiver adjustment plate. The receiver adjustment plate can be formed of tungsten or molybdenum.

[0076] The pull rod includes the pull rod body.

[0077] One end of the pull rod body is hinged to the outer surface of the receiver adjustment plate. One end of the pull rod body can also be hinged to the hinge seat. The other end of the pull rod body extends out of the side wall of the slot, and a fixing cap is provided at its end.

[0078] An elastic component is fitted around the outer periphery of the portion of the tie rod body located outside the tank body. One end of the elastic component abuts against the side wall of the tank body. The other end of the elastic component abuts against the fixing cap. The elastic component can be a spring, preferably a conical spring. The larger diameter end of the conical spring abuts against the outer surface of the side wall of the tank body. The smaller diameter end of the conical spring abuts against the fixing cap.

[0079] Insulation layer and inner lining layer

[0080] An insulating layer is disposed within the tank body and contacts the tank sidewall. The lower end face of the insulating layer contacts the upper end of the receiver adjustment plate. This prevents the receiver from contacting the tank sidewall.

[0081] The lower end face of the insulation layer is curved. The radial section of this curved surface is centered on the pivot point of the receiver adjustment plate. In this way, during the rotation of the receiver adjustment plate, the upper end of the receiver adjustment plate can always maintain contact with the lower end face of the insulation layer.

[0082] The insulating layer may be formed of one or more materials selected from alumina, magnesium oxide, silicon nitride, boron nitride, nitrided silicon carbide, rare earth oxides, and rare earth fluoride oxides. Preferably, the purity of the alumina is ≥99 wt%. Preferably, the purity of the magnesium oxide is ≥99 wt%.

[0083] A closed pneumatic adjustment cavity is formed between the insulation layer, the receiver adjustment plate, and the tank body.

[0084] The inner liner is disposed within the tank body. The inner liner is disposed inside the insulating layer. The inner liner is in contact with the insulating layer but not with the receiver adjustment plate. Preferably, the lower end face of the inner liner maintains a certain distance from the upper end of the receiver adjustment plate. The inner liner may be formed of graphite.

[0085] Anode assembly

[0086] The anode assembly includes the anode body. The anode assembly may also include a vertical connecting rod and transmission components.

[0087] The anode body is disposed within the tank body and positioned above the receiver base plate. The anode body may include a substrate and an adjustment body.

[0088] The top of the base is connected to a vertical connecting rod. In some embodiments, the base includes a base body and bosses disposed on both sides of the base body. The top of the bosses is flush with the top of the base body, and the bottom of the bosses is flush with the bottom of the base body. Two recesses are formed between the base body and the bosses. The top of the base body is connected to the vertical connecting rod.

[0089] Multiple adjustment bodies are provided, each disposed on one side of the base. Two adjustment bodies may be provided. The lower part of each adjustment body is hinged to the base. In some embodiments, the adjustment body includes a top wall and three side walls. The adjustment body has a bottom opening and side openings. A boss extends into the side openings. A portion of two opposing side walls of the adjustment body is respectively placed in two recesses formed by the same boss and the base body, and the lower parts of these two side walls are hinged to the boss.

[0090] A vertical connecting rod passes through and is fixed to the sealing cover. In some embodiments, the vertical connecting rod passes through the horizontal portion of the sealing cover. One end of the vertical connecting rod is located outside the electrolytic cell, and the other end is located inside the electrolytic cell. An exhaust channel may be provided inside the vertical connecting rod. One end of the exhaust channel communicates with the interior of the electrolytic cell. The other end of the exhaust channel communicates with the outside. The other end of the exhaust channel may be connected to the outside via an exhaust branch pipe. An exhaust control valve may be provided on the exhaust branch pipe.

[0091] The transmission components include an adjusting sleeve and a hinge rod. They may also include a mounting base and a transmission rod.

[0092] The adjusting sleeve is fitted around the outer periphery of the portion of the vertical connecting rod located within the electrolytic cell. The adjusting sleeve can move along the length of the vertical connecting rod.

[0093] One end of the hinge rod is hinged to the adjusting sleeve. The other end of the hinge rod is hinged to the top of the adjusting body. Each adjusting body corresponds to one hinge rod.

[0094] The mounting base is fitted around the outer periphery of the portion of the vertical connecting rod located outside the electrolytic cell. The mounting base is movable along the length of the vertical connecting rod. The mounting base is used to connect to the drive mechanism.

[0095] One end of the transmission rod is connected to the adjusting sleeve. The other end of the transmission rod is connected to the mounting base.

[0096] <Production Unit>

[0097] The production apparatus of this invention includes at least two electrolytic cells, a transverse rod, a first drive mechanism, and a second drive mechanism. It may also include a connecting seat, a discharge main pipe, an exhaust main pipe, and an intake main pipe. The structure of the electrolytic cells is as described above and will not be repeated here.

[0098] The second and third fluid pipes of two adjacent electrolytic cells are connected, thereby connecting the fluid channels of each electrolytic cell.

[0099] A transverse rod connects the mounting bases of each electrolytic cell. In some embodiments, a second connecting sleeve is provided on the mounting base. The transverse rod extends into the second connecting sleeve of each electrolytic cell, thereby connecting the electrolytic cells together.

[0100] The second vertical drive mechanism is configured to drive the horizontal rod, causing it to move along the length of the vertical connecting rod. In some embodiments, a first connecting sleeve is provided on the second vertical drive mechanism. The second vertical drive mechanism is fixed to the horizontal rod via the first connecting sleeve. The second vertical drive mechanism can be a hydraulic cylinder. The first connecting sleeve is located at the end of the hydraulic cylinder rod. Two adjacent electrolytic cells can share one second vertical drive mechanism.

[0101] The first drive mechanism is configured to drive the sealing cover, causing it to move longitudinally. The first vertical drive mechanism can be fixed to the mounting base. The mounting base can be located on the sealing cover of the electrolytic cell at the connecting base or end. The first vertical drive mechanism can be a hydraulic cylinder.

[0102] The exhaust manifold is connected to the exhaust branch pipes of each electrolytic cell.

[0103] The connector is connected to the sealing cover of each electrolytic cell. The connector may include a transverse base, a fixed edge, and an adapter.

[0104] The transverse base encloses the transverse rods, the vertical connecting rods of each electrolytic cell, and the mounting base. The transverse base has through holes. Each second vertical drive mechanism corresponds to one through hole. The second vertical drive mechanism passes through the through holes. In some embodiments, the cylinder rod of the second vertical drive mechanism passes through the through holes. The cylinder body of the second vertical drive mechanism is located outside the transverse base.

[0105] The fixing edge is located at the lower edge of the transverse base and extends outward along the cover. The fixing edge is connected to the cover of each electrolytic cell.

[0106] The adapter is located on top of the horizontal base. Each second vertical drive mechanism corresponds to one adapter. The cylinder body of the second vertical drive mechanism is mounted on the corresponding adapter.

[0107] The intake manifold is connected to the second or third fluid pipe of one of the electrolytic cells located at both ends.

[0108] The main discharge pipe is connected to the discharge branch pipes of each electrolytic cell.

[0109] Example 1

[0110] like Figure 1-3 As shown, the electrolytic cell in this embodiment includes an electrolytic cell body, a receiver 104, an insulating layer 102, an inner liner 103, and an anode assembly.

[0111] The electrolytic cell includes a cell body 101 and a sealing cover 106.

[0112] The tank body 101 includes a tank sidewall and a tank bottom plate. The top of the tank body 101 is open. A fixing seat 109 is provided on the tank body 101. The fixing seat 109 is used to fix the electrolytic cell. The tank body 101 is formed of graphite. A discharge branch pipe 107 is provided on the lower part of the tank sidewall. The discharge branch pipe 107 is used to transport electrolytic products. A discharge control valve 108 is provided on the discharge branch pipe 107.

[0113] The sealing cap 106 includes a cap body 1601 and a limiting frame 1603. The cap body 1601 covers the top of the tank body 101. The cap body 1001 includes a horizontal portion and two inclined portions connected to both sides of the horizontal portion. The horizontal portion is substantially parallel to the bottom plate of the tank. The inclined portions are inclined downward from the end connected to the horizontal portion. The limiting frame 1603 is connected to the outer periphery of the cap body 1601 and extends downward. The lower end of the limiting frame 1603 is movably fitted over the upper end of the side wall of the tank. This seals the top of the tank body 101, isolating the electrolytic tank from the outside environment and preventing external gases and impurities from contaminating the electrolyte.

[0114] The receiver 104 is disposed inside the tank body 101. For example... Figure 4 As shown, receiver 104 includes receiver base plate 1041, receiver adjustment plate 1042 and pull rod 1044.

[0115] The receiver base plate 1041 is fixed to the bottom plate of the tank. The receiver base plate 1041 is made of tungsten or molybdenum.

[0116] Two receiver adjustment plates 1042 are provided. The two receiver adjustment plates 1042 are respectively disposed on both sides of the receiver base plate 1041. The lower end of the receiver adjustment plate 1042 is pivotally connected to the receiver base plate 1041 via a pivot shaft 1043, allowing the included angle between the inner surface of the receiver base plate 1041 and the inner surface of the receiver adjustment plate 1042 to be adjusted between 90° and 180°. A hinge seat 1045 is provided on the outer surface of the receiver adjustment plate 1042. The receiver adjustment plate 1042 is formed of tungsten or molybdenum.

[0117] The pull rod 1044 includes a pull rod body and a fixing cap. One end of the pull rod body is hinged to the hinge seat 1045. The other end of the pull rod body extends out of the tank body 101, and a fixing cap is provided on its end. A spring 1046 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the pull rod body outside the tank body 101. In this embodiment, the spring 1046 is a conical spring. The large-diameter end of the conical spring abuts against the outer surface of the tank sidewall. The small-diameter end of the conical spring abuts against the fixing cap. Compared with a cylindrical spring, the conical spring has a higher compression limit, which can shorten the length of the pull rod 1044 extending out of the electrolytic tank, avoid occupying a large space, and prevent workers from bumping into it.

[0118] like Figure 3As shown, the insulating layer 102 is disposed inside the tank body 101 and contacts the upper part of the tank sidewall. The lower end face of the insulating layer 102 contacts the upper end of the receiver adjustment plate 1042. The lower end face of the insulating layer 102 is an arc-shaped surface. The radial section of this arc-shaped surface is centered on the pivot point between the receiver adjustment plate 1402 and the receiver base plate 1041. Thus, during the rotation of the receiver adjustment plate 1402, the upper end of the receiver adjustment plate 1402 can always maintain contact with the lower end face of the insulating layer 102. The insulating layer 102 can be formed of one or more materials selected from alumina, magnesium oxide, silicon nitride, boron nitride, nitrided silicon carbide, rare earth oxides, and rare earth fluoride oxides. The purity of the alumina is ≥99wt%. The purity of the magnesium oxide is ≥99wt%.

[0119] A closed pneumatic adjustment cavity 115 is formed between the insulating layer 102, the receiver adjustment plate 1042 and the tank body 101.

[0120] Two pressure gauges (not shown) are installed on the outer wall of the tank body 101. These two pressure gauges are used to test the pressure in the two pneumatic adjustment chambers 115 respectively. This allows for real-time monitoring of the pressure in the two pneumatic adjustment chambers 115, ensuring that the pressure in the two pneumatic adjustment chambers 115 remains consistent. The pressure gauge readings can be used to determine the air pressure in the corresponding pneumatic adjustment chamber 115, identify any gas leaks in the pneumatic adjustment chamber 115, and perform timely maintenance.

[0121] like Figure 3 As shown, a fluid channel 116 is provided inside the bottom plate of the tank. The fluid channel 116 is connected to the pneumatic adjustment chamber 115. Figure 1-3 As shown, a first fluid pipe 117 is provided at the bottom of the tank bottom plate. The first fluid pipe 117 is connected to the fluid channel 116. A first control valve 118 is provided on the first fluid pipe 117. A second fluid pipe 119 and a third fluid pipe 121 are respectively provided on both sides of the tank bottom plate. The second fluid pipe 119 is connected to the fluid channel 116. A second control valve 120 is provided on the second fluid pipe 119. The third fluid pipe 121 is connected to the fluid channel 116.

[0122] Inert gas is introduced into the fluid channel 116 through one or more of the first fluid channel 117, the second fluid channel 119, and the third fluid channel 121. The inert gas in the fluid channel 116 is transported to the two pneumatic adjustment chambers 115, increasing the pressure in the pneumatic adjustment chambers 115 and driving the receiver adjustment plate 1042 to rotate a certain angle along the pivot shaft 1043, thereby adjusting the opening and closing degree of the receiver adjustment plate 1042. At the same time, the pull rod 1044 moves with the movement of the receiver adjustment plate 1042, causing the pull rod 1044 to compress the spring 1046, and the spring 1046 to store elastic energy. In this way, on the one hand, as the pressure in the pneumatic adjustment chamber 115 gradually decreases, the receiver adjustment plate 1042 gradually opens outward under the action of the spring 1046, providing energy for the receiver adjustment plate 1042 to return to its original position; on the other hand, during the movement of the receiver adjustment plate 1042, the spring 1046 acts as a buffer to prevent the receiver adjustment plate 1042 from moving too fast.

[0123] When ash or slag appears in the pneumatic adjustment chamber 115, cleaning fluid is introduced into the pneumatic adjustment chamber 115 through the second fluid pipe 119 and / or the third fluid pipe 121. The first control valve 118 is opened to discharge the cleaning fluid from the first fluid pipe 117. Hot air is then introduced into the pneumatic adjustment chamber 115 through the second fluid pipe 119 and / or the third fluid pipe 121 to dry the cleaned pneumatic adjustment chamber 115.

[0124] like Figure 3 As shown, the inner lining layer 103 is disposed within the tank body 101. The inner lining layer 103 is disposed inside the insulating layer 102. The inner lining layer 103 is in contact with the insulating layer 102 but not with the receiver adjustment plate 1042. Preferably, a certain distance is maintained between the lower end face of the inner lining layer 103 and the upper end of the receiver adjustment plate 1042. The inner lining layer 103 is formed of graphite.

[0125] like Figure 3 and 5 As shown, the anode assembly includes a vertical connecting rod 110, an exhaust branch pipe 112, an anode body, and a transmission component.

[0126] A vertical connecting rod 110 passes through and is fixed to the horizontal portion of the cover 1061. One end of the vertical connecting rod 110 is located outside the electrolytic cell, and the other end is located inside the electrolytic cell. An exhaust channel 111 is provided inside the vertical connecting rod 110. One end of the exhaust channel 111 communicates with the interior of the electrolytic cell, and the other end communicates with the outside via an exhaust branch pipe 112. The exhaust channel 111 is used to discharge the generated electrolytic gas from the electrolytic cell. An exhaust control valve 113 is provided on the exhaust branch pipe 112.

[0127] like Figure 3As shown, the anode body is disposed in the tank body 101 and above the receiver base plate 1041. The anode body includes a substrate 105 and an adjusting body 114. The anode body is formed of graphite.

[0128] like Figure 5 As shown, the base 105 includes a base body and bosses disposed on both sides of the base body. The top of the bosses is flush with the top of the base body, and the bottom of the bosses is flush with the bottom of the base body. Two recesses are formed between the base body and the bosses. The top of the base body is connected to a vertical connecting rod 110.

[0129] Two adjustment bodies 114 are provided, one on each side of the base 105. Each adjustment body 114 includes a top wall and three side walls. Each adjustment body 114 has a bottom opening and side openings. A boss of the base 105 extends into the side opening. A portion of each of the two opposing side walls of the adjustment body 114 is placed in two recesses formed by the same boss and the base body, and the lower portions of these two side walls are hinged to the boss.

[0130] The transmission components include an adjusting sleeve 407, a hinge rod 408, a mounting base 404, and a transmission rod 406.

[0131] The adjusting sleeve 407 is fitted around the outer periphery of the portion of the vertical connecting rod 110 located in the electrolytic cell. The adjusting sleeve 407 can move along the length of the vertical connecting rod 110.

[0132] One end of the hinge rod 408 is hinged to the adjusting sleeve 407. The other end of the hinge rod 408 is hinged to the top of the adjusting body 114. Each adjusting body 114 corresponds to one hinge rod 408.

[0133] Mounting base 404 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the portion of the vertical connecting rod 110 located outside the electrolytic cell. Mounting base 404 is movable along the length of the vertical connecting rod 110. Mounting base 404 is used to connect to a drive mechanism.

[0134] One end of the transmission rod 406 is connected to the mounting base 404. The other end of the transmission rod 406 is connected to the adjusting sleeve 407.

[0135] An external force acts on the mounting base 404, driving the transmission rod 406 to move vertically. The transmission rod 406 adjusts the opening and closing degree of the hinge rod 408 through the adjusting sleeve 407. The hinge rod 408 drives the two adjusting bodies 114 to move, thereby adjusting the opening and closing angle of the two adjusting bodies 114 and adjusting the tilt angle of the anode body sidewall, so that the tilt angle of the anode body sidewall is consistent with the tilt angle of the receiver adjusting plate 1042, thus promoting the electrolysis reaction.

[0136] Example 2

[0137] like Figure 6 and 7 As shown, the production apparatus of this embodiment includes multiple electrolytic cells of Embodiment 1, a horizontal rod 402, a first vertical drive mechanism 301, a second vertical drive mechanism 401, a connecting seat 200, a discharge main pipe 500, an exhaust main pipe 600, and an intake main pipe 700.

[0138] The mounting base 404 is provided with a second connecting sleeve 405. The transverse rod 402 extends into the second connecting sleeve 405 of each electrolytic cell, thereby connecting the electrolytic cells together.

[0139] The second vertical drive mechanism 401 is provided with a first connecting sleeve 403. The second vertical drive mechanism 401 is fixed to the horizontal rod 402 through the first connecting sleeve 403. The second vertical drive mechanism 401 drives the mounting base 404 to move along the length direction of the vertical connecting rod 110. In this embodiment, the second vertical drive mechanism 401 is a hydraulic cylinder. The first connecting sleeve 403 is provided at the end of the hydraulic cylinder rod. Two adjacent electrolytic cells can share one second vertical drive mechanism 401.

[0140] The exhaust manifold 600 is connected to the exhaust branch pipes 112 of each electrolytic cell.

[0141] like Figure 6 and 8 As shown, the connector 200 includes a transverse seat 201, a fixed edge 202, and an adapter 203.

[0142] The transverse base 201 encloses the transverse rod 402, the vertical connecting rods 110 of each electrolytic cell, and the mounting base 404. The transverse base 201 has through holes 204. Each second vertical drive mechanism 401 corresponds to one through hole 204. The cylinder rod of the second vertical drive mechanism 401 passes through the through hole 204. The cylinder body of the second vertical drive mechanism 401 is located outside the transverse base 201.

[0143] A fixing edge 202 is provided at the lower edge of the transverse base 201 and extends outward along the cover 1061. The fixing edge 202 is connected to each cover 1061.

[0144] The adapter 203 is located on the top of the horizontal base 201. Each second vertical drive mechanism 401 corresponds to one adapter 203. The cylinder body of the second vertical drive mechanism 401 is mounted on the corresponding adapter 203.

[0145] An assembly base 302 is provided on the sealing cover 106 of the electrolytic cell at one end of the connecting base 200. In this embodiment, the assembly base 302 is provided on the sealing cover 106 of the electrolytic cell at one end.

[0146] The first vertical drive mechanism 301 is fixed on the mounting base 302. The first vertical drive mechanism 301 is used to drive the sealing cover 106 to move in the vertical direction. This allows adjustment of the distance between the anode body and the receiver 104. The first vertical drive mechanism 301 can be a hydraulic cylinder.

[0147] The second fluid pipe 119 and the third fluid pipe 121 of two adjacent electrolytic cells are connected, thereby connecting the fluid channels 116 of each electrolytic cell.

[0148] The intake manifold 700 is connected to the second fluid pipe 119 or the third fluid pipe 121 of one of the electrolytic cells located at both ends.

[0149] The main discharge pipe 500 is connected to the discharge branch pipes 107 of each electrolytic cell.

[0150] This invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Any modifications, improvements, or substitutions that can be conceived by those skilled in the art without departing from the essential content of this invention fall within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. An electrolytic cell for producing rare earth metal materials, characterized in that, The electrolytic cell includes an electrolytic cell body, a receiver, an insulating layer, an inner lining layer, and an anode assembly; The electrolytic cell includes a cell body and a sealing cover; the cell body includes a cell sidewall and a cell bottom plate, and the top of the cell body is open; the sealing cover is configured to cover the top of the cell body. The receiver is disposed within the tank body, and the receiver includes a receiver base plate, a receiver adjustment plate, and a pull rod; The receiver base plate is fixed to the bottom plate of the tank; The receiver adjustment plates are configured in multiple ways, and are respectively disposed on both sides of the receiver base plate; the lower end of the receiver adjustment plate is pivotally connected to the receiver base plate; the included angle between the inner surface of the receiver base plate and the inner surface of the receiver adjustment plate is set to 90° to 180°. The pull rod includes a pull rod body; One end of the pull rod body is hinged to the outer surface of the receiver adjustment plate; the other end of the pull rod body extends through the side wall of the groove and is provided with a fixing cap. An elastic component is fitted onto the portion of the pull rod body outside the groove body. One end of the elastic component abuts against the side wall of the groove body, and the other end of the elastic component abuts against the fixing cap. The insulating layer is disposed within the tank body and is configured to contact the side wall of the tank body; the lower end face of the insulating layer is configured to contact the upper end of the receiver adjustment plate; A pneumatic adjustment cavity is formed between the insulating layer, the receiver adjustment plate, and the tank body; A fluid channel is provided inside the bottom plate of the tank, and the fluid channel is connected to the pneumatic adjustment cavity. The fluid channel is configured to supply gas to the pneumatic adjustment cavity. The inner lining layer is disposed within the tank body and is disposed inside the insulating layer; the inner lining layer is configured to contact the insulating layer but not to contact the upper end of the receiver adjustment plate. The anode assembly includes an anode body; the anode body is disposed in the tank body and above the receiver base plate.

2. The electrolytic cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The anode assembly includes a vertical connecting rod, an anode body, and a transmission component; The vertical connecting rod passes through the sealing cover and is fixed to the sealing cover; one end of the vertical connecting rod is located outside the electrolytic cell body, and the other end of the vertical connecting rod is located inside the electrolytic cell body. The anode body includes a substrate and a conditioning body; The top of the base is connected to the vertical connecting rod; The adjustment body is configured as a plurality of such bodies, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the base; the lower part of the adjustment body is hinged to the base; The transmission component includes an adjusting sleeve and a hinge rod; the adjusting sleeve is sleeved on the outer periphery of the portion of the vertical connecting rod located in the electrolytic cell body, and the adjusting sleeve is configured to move along the length direction of the vertical connecting rod; one end of the hinge rod is hinged to the adjusting sleeve, and the other end of the hinge rod is hinged to the top of the adjusting body.

3. The electrolytic cell according to claim 2, characterized in that, The transmission assembly also includes a mounting base and a transmission rod; The mounting base is sleeved on the outer periphery of the portion of the vertical connecting rod located outside the electrolytic cell, and the mounting base is configured to move along the length direction of the vertical connecting rod; One end of the transmission rod is connected to the adjusting sleeve, and the other end of the transmission rod is connected to the mounting base.

4. The electrolytic cell according to claim 3, characterized in that, The substrate includes a substrate body and protrusions disposed on both sides of the substrate body. The top of the protrusions is flush with the top of the substrate body, and the bottom of the protrusions is flush with the bottom of the substrate body. Two recesses are formed between the substrate body and the protrusions. The adjusting body includes a top wall and three side walls, and has a bottom opening and a side opening; the boss extends into the side opening; a portion of two oppositely arranged side walls of the adjusting body is respectively placed in two recesses formed by the same boss and the base body, and the lower part of the two side walls is hinged to the boss.

5. The electrolytic cell according to claim 3, characterized in that, The sealing cover includes a cover body and a limiting frame; The cover is configured to cover the top of the tank body; The limiting frame is connected to the outer periphery of the cover and extends downward; the lower end of the limiting frame is fitted onto the outer periphery of the side wall of the groove.

6. The electrolytic cell according to claim 5, characterized in that, The electrolytic cell also includes a first fluid pipe, a second fluid pipe, a third fluid pipe, a discharge branch pipe, and an exhaust branch pipe; The first fluid pipe is located at the bottom of the tank bottom plate and is connected to the fluid channel; the second fluid pipe and the third fluid pipe are respectively located on both sides of the tank bottom plate, the second fluid pipe is connected to the fluid channel, and the third fluid pipe is connected to the fluid channel. The discharge branch pipe is installed on the side wall of the tank and is configured to transport electrolytic products. The vertical connecting rod is provided with an exhaust channel. One end of the exhaust channel is connected to the inside of the electrolytic cell, and the other end of the exhaust channel is connected to the outside through the exhaust branch pipe.

7. The electrolytic cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrolytic cell body is formed of graphite, the receiver is formed of tungsten or molybdenum, the insulating layer is formed of one or more materials selected from alumina, magnesium oxide, silicon nitride, boron nitride, nitrided silicon carbide, rare earth oxides, and rare earth fluoride oxides, and the inner liner is formed of graphite.

8. The electrolytic cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, A fixing seat is provided on the main body of the tank, and the fixing seat is used to fix the electrolytic cell. A pressure gauge is provided on the outer surface of the sidewall of the tank, and the pressure gauge is configured to measure the pressure inside the pneumatic adjustment chamber.

9. A production apparatus for rare earth metal materials, characterized in that, The production apparatus includes at least two electrolytic cells as described in claim 6, a horizontal bar, a first vertical drive mechanism, and a second vertical drive mechanism; The first vertical drive mechanism is configured to drive the sealing cover, causing the sealing cover to move longitudinally; The transverse rod connects to the mounting base of each electrolytic cell; The second vertical drive mechanism is configured to drive the horizontal rod, causing the horizontal rod to move along the length of the vertical connecting rod; The second and third fluid pipes of two adjacent electrolytic cells are connected, thereby connecting the fluid channels of each electrolytic cell.

10. The production apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes a connecting seat, a discharge main pipe, an exhaust main pipe, and an intake main pipe; The connecting seat is connected to the sealing cover of each electrolytic cell; An assembly base is provided on the connecting seat or the sealing cover, and the first vertical drive mechanism is fixed to the assembly base; The main discharge pipe is connected to the discharge branch pipes of each electrolytic cell; The main exhaust pipe is connected to the exhaust branch pipes of each electrolytic cell; The main intake pipe is connected to a second or third fluid pipe of one of the electrolytic cells located at both ends.

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