Support device for radiant tube

Abstract

A support device (1) for a radiant tube (TR), the support device (1) comprising a support (2) for a radiant tube (TR) and a boiler-side support (3), the support (2) comprising a body having a substantially tubular shape, at least one outer surface (2b) facing the boiler-side support (3) during use, and a thickness (2c), the support device (1) further comprising a plurality of spherical elements (4, 4 ') and a plurality of seats (7, 7'), each seat (7, 7 ') is equipped with a circular opening and accommodates a single spherical element (4, 4'), there being a gap between each spherical element (4, 4 ') and the respective seat (7, 7') during use while allowing it to roll along the entire surface of the spherical element (4, 4 '). The spherical elements (4, 4 ') and the seats (7, 7') are presented on both sides of the support (2) for the radiant tube (TR), and the support (2) has a circular or polygonal cross-section.

Description

[0001] This invention patent application is a divisional application of the PCT international invention patent application entitled "Support device for radiant tubes" with the applicant being Massimiliano Bissen, the application date being June 25, 2019, the application number being 201980054626.1 (the international application number being PCT / IB2019 / 055346). Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a supporting device for radiant tubes used in industrial equipment and the like. The supporting device can be used in boiler or steel and / or other metal heat treatment equipment industries.

[0003] More specifically, the invention relates to a support device for radiant tubes that can be used in general for heat treatment boilers, for continuous electroplating and annealing lines (CGL, AGL, CAPL or CAL lines, etc.) for strips or plates made of metal sheets, bolts, hoses, tubes, components for tubes and fittings, processing and production of "Advanced High Strength Steel" (AHSS) and "New Steel Grades" and / or other products made of steel and / or made of other metals. Furthermore, the support device for radiant tubes according to the invention is used both for new lines of continuous electroplating and annealing (CGL, AGL, CAPL or CAL lines, etc.) and for refurbishing old lines of continuous electroplating and annealing (CGL, AGL, CAPL or CAL lines, etc.), and in general for any heat treatment boiler. Background Art

[0004] In the steel heat treatment industry, in particular the treatment of thin plates and their derivatives, specific types of radiant tubes made of high temperature resistant materials are used so that the thin plates passing in their vicinity in the form of a continuous web can be subjected to the desired heat treatment.

[0005] The radiant tubes commonly used in the industry can adopt different shapes, the most common of which can be defined as "I-shaped", "U-shaped", "double U-shaped", "W-shaped" or "M-shaped", single "P-shaped", "double P-shaped", double "M-shaped". In the continuous production line provided with the galvanizing and annealing equipment described above, due to the high operating temperatures reaching an average value between 500°C and 1250°C, problems arise related to the adhesion of the supports of the radiant tubes to the supports mounted and welded on the boiler side, the so-called "boiler side supports" or "sockets", and also due to the operation of the tubes causing vibrations that determine the lateral movements (right and / or left) of the radiant tubes. In this case, swinging on the socket due to the aforementioned vibrations and expanding due to the high operating temperatures (considering that the natural extension of the radiant tube is generally in the range of 1 to 7 cm at 950°C), the radiant tubes come into contact with the wall of the socket, forming a sliding along this wall, with a consequent increase in friction and temperature at the contact points.

[0006] Sliding and stabilization difficulties related to the expansion and oscillation experienced by the radiant tubes, as well as the friction and increased temperature existing at the contact points between the supports for the radiant tubes and the boiler-side supports, can scratch and damage the contact surfaces, thus leading to possible jamming and abnormal stresses on the radiant tubes therefrom. This determines that the support itself generates a thrust on the radiant tube side (which is usually curved) where the support is applied, thus causing deformation and distortion of this radiant tube side until fracture, followed by the collapse of the radiant tube. This phenomenon is also known as the "jamming" effect of the radiant tube support, and this phenomenon may occur on the base surface and laterally of the boiler-side support when the support for the radiant tube abuts against the side wall of the boiler-side support due to the aforementioned vibration.

[0007] Specifically, due to the difficulty of elongation caused by the adhesion and / or oscillation of the two materials (the support for the radiant tube and the socket), distortion or deformation of the support occurs, which will definitely stop the elongation on the socket and jam the intake on the socket, and thus completely cause the radiant tube to not be able to find space for its natural elongation. In this case, as described above, the tube pushes the support that is "jammed" in the part (usually curved) of the boiler-side support where the hose is installed on the tube, and this part has a lower shock absorption and mechanical resistance capacity due to the high temperature it experiences. As mentioned before, this leads to the complete collapse of the radiant tube.

[0008] Some devices have been proposed so far to overcome these drawbacks. However, none of the attempts developed so far have produced the expected results.

[0009] For example, document KR20050017781A describes a device for supporting a radiant tube, which can be used in a heat treatment boiler. Such a device can extend the life of the radiant tube by interposing a rotating device between a support member positioned on the curved side of the radiant tube and a support member located inside the boiler body. However, the patent describes some variations in which the rotating device is simply positioned between the support member of the radiant tube and the boiler-side support member without any restraint or engagement of these members (such as a simple spacer device). However, in this case, the rotating device moves freely, but due to the possible expansion or movement of the radiant tube and due to displacement during maintenance, there is a risk that the rotating device protrudes from the place where it is positioned (and thus loses its functionality). In the latter case, there are also safety-related risks even for professionals, for example, in the case of intervening in the boiler, these rather heavy rotating devices may fall and hit the maintenance personnel. In addition, the sliding seats of the handle on the free rotating device are never the same, and thus, such a freely rotating device cannot ensure the balance or uniform distribution of the weight on the handle / socket contact area, resulting in greater stress on the system and on the radiant tube.

[0010] Furthermore, due to the disadvantages described above, although there is a rotating device, this solution does not seem to be able to prevent the friction that favors rolling friction caused by the extension and / or expansion movement of the radiant tube. Therefore, also considering that the contact of the rotating device made of steel on the material of the radiant tube (and on similar materials) tends to produce adhesion rather than frictionless sliding, this solution does not seem to be able to effectively prevent the jamming and adhesion phenomena related to the radiant tube.

[0011] Document AT508368A4 describes a device for the heat treatment of metal strips, including at least one radiant tube unit and a support element connected to two bent tubular parts. The above-mentioned radiant tube unit has three tubes arranged in a common plane parallel to the metal strip and connected to each other by two bent tubular parts. The support element is engaged in a socket (on the boiler side) in an axially displaceable manner: there is a flat insert between the two engagement surfaces, which forms a "forced" sliding layer for the support element and the socket. This flat insert is made of a ceramic material or coated with a ceramic material in order to reduce the friction between the handle and the socket, and once damaged due to operation, this flat insert is fixed to the socket by an element that helps with removal. In addition, such a ceramic element or ceramic-coated element necessarily has a very short duration (one year or slightly longer up to a maximum of two or three years) due to operation (i.e., the friction between them and the handle of the radiant tube), and thus requires continuous maintenance or replacement of the ceramic parts.

[0012] Therefore, it is obvious that there is a strong need to provide a device for a radiant tube that can overcome the disadvantages of the prior art as described above.

[0013] Object of the Invention

[0014] Therefore, the technical task of the present invention is to improve the state of the prior art.

[0015] In the context of this technical task, the object of the present invention is to provide a support device for a radiant tube that allows prevention of both central and lateral biting and jamming phenomena of the radiant tube, which are caused by the elongation due to thermal expansion or dilation of the support device for the radiant tube and / or the vibration it undergoes and / or the deformation (in fact, when cooling or cycling changes occur in the production line, the tube stretches and deforms) caused by the fact that the materials of the support device for the radiant tube and the socket melt at high temperatures and thus bond and no longer allow the radiant tube to slide.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a support device for a radiant tube that can move (both by sliding and by radial or lateral displacement) on the boiler side support or socket, always maintaining the same bearing seat portion on at least one of the two elements (socket or shank) to balance the stress generated due to the weight (radiant tube) to be carried.

[0017] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a support device for a radiant tube in which the support of the radiant tube has relative rolling friction with the boiler side support by the presence of a rotating device arranged between them.

[0018] This object and other objects are achieved by a support device for a radiant tube according to claim 1 appended hereto.

[0019] Further features and advantages are described in the dependent claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] From the following description and drawings provided by way of non-limiting examples, the features of the present invention will be clearer to those skilled in the art, in which:

[0021] Figure 1A is a partial side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0022] Figure 1B is according to Figure 1A a partial cross-sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube;

[0023] Figure 2A is a partial side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2B is a partial cross-sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube according to Figure 2A ;

[0025] Figure 3A is a partial side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3B is a partial cross-sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube according to Figure 3A ;

[0027] Figure 4A is a partial side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0028] Figure 4B is a partial cross-sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube according to Figure 4A ;

[0029] Figure 5A is a partial side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0030] Figure 5B is a partial cross-sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube according to Figure 5A ;

[0031] Figure 6A is a partial side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0032] Figure 6B is a partial cross-sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube according to Figure 6A ;

[0033] Figure 7A is a partial side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0034] Figure 7B is a partial cross-sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube according to Figure 7A ;

[0035] Figure 7C is a partial cross-sectional view according to Figure 7A and Figure 7B of a bottom view of the details of the type;

[0036] Figure 8A is a partial side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0037] Figure 8B is a partial cross-sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube according to Figure 8A ;

[0038] Figure 9 and Figure 10A is a partial side sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention, wherein the radiant tube is double U-shaped or double W-shaped;

[0039] Figure 10B is a section taken along the line X-X of the plane Figure 10A of the details;

[0040] Figures 11A to 11F is a sectional view of an element of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0041] Figure 12A is a partial side sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0042] Figure 12B is according to Figure 12A a partial sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube;

[0043] Figure 13A is a partial side sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0044] Figure 13B is according to Figure 13A a partial sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube;

[0045] Figure 14A is a partial side sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0046] Figure 14B is according to Figure 14A a partial sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube;

[0047] Figure 15A is a partial side sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0048] Figure 15B is according to Figure 15A a partial sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube;

[0049] Figure 16A is a partial side sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0050] Figure 16B is according to Figure 16A a partial sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube;

[0051] Figure 17A is a partial side sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0052] Figure 17B is a partial cross-sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube according to Figure 17A ;

[0053] Figure 18A is a partial side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0054] Figure 18B is a partial cross-sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube according to Figure 18A ;

[0055] Figure 19A is a partial side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0056] Figure 19B is a partial cross-sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube according to Figure 19A ;

[0057] Figure 20A is a partial side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a support device for a radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0058] Figure 20B is a partial cross-sectional view of a support device for a radiant tube according to Figure 20A ; DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] Referring to the drawings, a support device for a radiant tube TR in a heat treatment boiler is designated by 1 and is used in a continuous galvanizing and annealing production line for metal strips or sheets and / or other products made of steel and / or other metals, particularly in a CGL, AGL, CAPL or CAL production line, etc.

[0060] The support device 1 includes a support for the radiant tube or shank 2 and a boiler-side support or socket 3.

[0061] In at least one version, the socket 3 includes a compartment in which the shank 2 is positioned and / or moves. Such a socket 3 includes at least one part or surface 3b that is generally adapted to contact the shank 2; in addition, the body of the socket 3 is generally positioned at least below the shank 2 to support the weight of the shank 2 and the radiant tube TR connected to the shank 2. The support for the radiant tube or shank 2 and / or the boiler-side support or socket 3 can be made of a high-temperature-resistant metal material, such as: austenitic steel material, steel material with high or low nickel content (or high-nickel alloy), ceramic material, silicon carbide material, etc.

[0062] Such materials have a thermal expansion between 0 mm and 20 mm or more, depending on the operating temperature and its shape.

[0063] They can also be obtained by methods such as casting, melting, forging, rolling, etc.

[0064] Other materials that can be used are: metallic materials such as nickel and chromium alloys, for example alloys known under the trade names Inconel600, 601, 602, Incoloy 800, Incoloy 800H, AISI-304, -310, -309, -309S, -316, -3l6Ti, -330, -321, AVESTA235MA, ALUFER, ALLOY X; alloys of iron, chromium and aluminum, such as alloys known under the trade name "Kanthal Material" (for example APM, APMT, etc.); metallic materials and / or metallic alloys containing elements such as tungsten, cobalt, yttrium, molybdenum, etc., such as alloys known under the trade name "Mitsubishi Material" (for example MA230, MA250, MA600, MA601, etc.); alloys known under the trade name "Haynes230" or "Inconel" 617, 625, 718, etc.; or cast iron containing a high nickel content known, for example, under the trade name "Ghisamic-Ni" and / or materials derived therefrom by the lost wax technique using silicon carbide, ceramic tubes, etc.

[0065] The support for the radiant tube or the shank 2 and / or the boiler-side support or socket 3 can be made of metallic materials and / or molten materials (such as, for example, molten metallic materials obtained by centrifugation) with or without nickel, chromium, aluminum components, etc., for example materials known under the names Gx40CrNi 26-20, KHR48N, KHR35H, etc. and / or other materials suitable for this purpose. In at least one embodiment of the invention, it is also possible to use the material forming the wall P of the boiler (such as bricks, stones, materials composed of insulating materials, refractory materials, etc.) to obtain the socket 3.

[0066] The radiant tube connected to the shank 2 can be made of one of the materials listed above.

[0067] Furthermore, the support for the radiant tube or the shank 2, the radiant tube and the boiler-side support or socket 3 can comprise any combination of the materials listed above.

[0068] The boiler-side support or socket 3 is a support that is constrained (for example fixed and / or welded) to the wall P of the boiler or obtained therein.

[0069] Thanks to the present invention, the shank 2 can move and / or slide in or on the socket 3.

[0070] The invention also includes at least one rotating device 4, which is adapted to determine the movement of the handle 2 on the socket 3.

[0071] In this sense, at least one rotating device 4 constitutes an element adapted to prevent jamming and / or sticking of the handle 2 on the socket 3, for example, due to the high operating temperature and / or oscillation (as described above) experienced by the radiant tube TR.

[0072] Furthermore, at least one rotating device 4 allows the support and / or sliding and / or oscillating movement of the radiant tube TR.

[0073] The socket 3 determines a first longitudinal direction starting from the wall of the boiler towards the radiant tube TR and a transverse direction perpendicular to this first longitudinal direction.

[0074] Hereinafter, unless otherwise indicated, the expression configuration of the socket 3 will be used to indicate its shape from its cross-sectional view.

[0075] The boiler-side socket 3 includes a body having a generally tubular shape, a generally semi-tubular or curved shape, or a generally flat shape, or any other shape suitable for the purpose of receiving the handle 2 of the radiant tube TR, regardless of its shape.

[0076] Hereinafter, the expression semi-tubular or semi-circular is used to represent a shape corresponding to half of a cylinder or half of a tube, but also, depending on the situation, a shape corresponding to a tube portion or a cylinder portion that is different from half of the tube portion or the cylinder portion (i.e., for example, a spoon, a cup, or other shapes suitable for the above purposes).

[0077] The body of the socket 3 includes a first surface 3a, which is adapted to be constrained and / or face the wall of the boiler during use, to which the socket 3 is constrained.

[0078] The body of the socket 3 also includes a second surface 3b opposite to the first surface 3a.

[0079] The handle 2 is adapted to be supported and / or in contact with and / or move on at least a part of the second surface 3b.

[0080] Basically, the socket 3 constitutes a seat for accommodating and / or receiving the handle 2.

[0081] In a form where the body of the socket 3 has a generally tubular shape, even the first surface 3a and the second surface 3b are generally tubular in shape, where the first surface 3a has a greater extension than the second surface 3b, and the second surface 3b is internal relative to the first surface 3a. Thus, in the form of this embodiment, the first surface 3a and the second surface 3b are coaxial with each other and define the wall of the body of the socket 3. This wall has a thickness 3c. Therefore, the thickness 3c corresponds to the distance between the first surface 3a and the second surface 3b.

[0082] For example, Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 12A 、 Figure 12B and Figure 13A 、 Figure 13B 、 Figure 16A 、 Figure 16B 、 Figure 17A 、 Figure 17B and 18A 、 Figure 18B show this form.

[0083] In this form, the body of the socket 3 forms the compartment as described above, and the handle 2 is positioned and moves within this compartment. In addition, a part of the second surface 3b corresponds to a part that is usually in contact and / or for support between the socket 3 and the handle 2.

[0084] In a form where the body of the socket 3 is generally semi-tubular or curved in shape, the body of the socket 3 has a first surface 3a that is also generally semi-tubular or curved and then a second surface 3b, or the body of the socket 3 at least has a second surface 3b that is generally semi-tubular or curved. Even in this case, these surfaces define the wall of the body of the socket 3 having a thickness 3c. In this form, at least the shape of the second surface 3b and / or the shape of the first surface 3a and / or the shape of the body of the socket 3 can also be generally U-shaped.

[0085] In this case, the thickness 3c may not be constant along the entire surfaces 3a, 3b.

[0086] In this form, the surfaces 3a, 3b can be generally parallel and / or overlapping with each other.

[0087] For example, Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B 、 Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B 、 Figure 6A 、 Figure 6B 、 Figure 14A 、 Figure 14B show this form.

[0088] Finally, in the form where the body of the socket 3 is of a generally flat shape, even the first surface 3a and / or the second surface 3b are of a generally flat shape with a thickness 3c.

[0089] In this form, the surfaces 3a, 3b can be generally parallel and overlapping with each other and separated by a certain thickness.

[0090] In this form, according to an embodiment, at least the second surface 3b, but the first surface 3a may also be generally U-shaped with sharp edges. Thus, in addition to the generally flat first surface 3a and / or second surface 3b, there may also be lateral protrusions 5 extending from the edge of the body of the socket 3 and moving away from the latter (for example, as visible in Figure 5B , Figure 8B , Figure 15B ). Such lateral protrusions 5 can also be present when at least the surface 3b is curved (for example, as observable in Figure 14B ).

[0091] Such lateral protrusions 5 (when present) can have a deployment generally perpendicular to the second surface 3b, or they can define an obtuse angle with the latter.

[0092] In this latter form, the compartment of the socket 3 is composed of both the body of the socket 3 and a part of the wall of the boiler. Even in this case, at least a part of the second surface 3b corresponds to the area that is usually in contact and / or for support between the socket 3 and the handle 2.

[0093] In Figure 7A and Figure 7B the forms shown, the socket 3 has a generally tubular shape, and generally semi-tubular tabs extend from this tubular shape towards the radiant tube TR.

[0094] The space between the lateral protrusions 5 and the second surface 3b, and / or the space covering the second surface 3b constitutes a seat for accommodating, supporting, and / or displacing the handle 2 on the socket 3.

[0095] The handle 2 determines the (first) longitudinal direction from the radiant tube TR towards the socket and the transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0096] Hereinafter, unless otherwise indicated, the expression "configuration of the handle 2" will be used to indicate its shape from its cross-sectional view.

[0097] In at least one form, the longitudinal direction determined by the socket 3 is parallel or coincident with the longitudinal direction determined by the handle 2.

[0098] The handle 2 in turn includes a body having a generally tubular or generally flat shape.

[0099] Thus, the body of the handle 2 has an outer surface 2b which, during use, faces at least a part of the second surface 3b of the socket 3.

[0100] The handle 2 may also include an inner surface 2a opposite the outer surface 2b.

[0101] In a form in which the body of the handle 2 is of generally tubular shape, the outer surface 2b and the inner surface 2a are also of generally tubular shape, thus defining a wall having a thickness 2c.

[0102] For example, in Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 12A 、 Figure 12B and 13A 、 Figure 13B 、 Figure 17A 、 Figure 17B 、 Figure 18A 、 Figure 18B such a configuration is shown.

[0103] For example Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B 、 Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B and Figure 14A 、 Figure 14B a form of the body of the handle 2 shown in is substantially solid or may also be provided in a cylindrical tubular shape. In this case, since the handle 2 is a solid body, it does not have an inner surface 2a. In this case, the thickness 2c corresponds to the width or diameter of the generally cylindrical body of the handle 2. A semi-circular or semi-cylindrical or U-shaped shape of the handle 2 may also be provided (in some forms, the terms semi-circular or semi-cylindrical are used to denote a part of a circle or cylinder and are different from half of a circle or cylinder). For example, Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B 、 Figure 6A 、 Figure 6B 、 Figure 8A 、 Figure 8B and 15A 、 Figure 15B such a form is shown. In this form, the outer surface 2b may be generally semi-circular or curved and / or have more or less inclined edges, and the inner surface 2a may be curved or generally flat. In this form, the inner surface 2a and the outer surface 2b may be parallel to each other and / or overlap each other.

[0104] The body of the handle 2 together with all its inner surface 2a and outer surface 2b defines a wall having a thickness 2c. The thickness 2c may be constant or non-constant along the outer surface 2b.

[0105] Finally, for example in Figure 16A , Figure 16B the body of the handle portion 2 is of a substantially flat shape, and the inner surface 2A and the outer surface 2B are also substantially flat and are separated from each other by a thickness 2c. Thus, the inner surface 2a and the outer surface 2b define a wall having a thickness of 2c. In this case, the outer surface 2b and the inner surface 2a are substantially parallel to each other and / or overlap each other.

[0106] There may be a lateral extension 6 that extends (considering its lateral view) from the edge of the body of the handle portion 2 and away from the latter (visible, for example, in Figure 5B , Figure 6B and Figure 15B ).

[0107] Such a lateral extension 6 (when present) may have a deployment portion that is substantially perpendicular to the outer surface 2b and / or the inner surface 2a, or they may define an obtuse or acute angle with one of the latter.

[0108] Such a lateral extension 6 may also be located at other positions of the handle portion 2 and is adapted to connect the handle portion 2 to the radiation tube TR and / or to another tubular element 13 that exits the radiation tube TR during use.

[0109] Considering its longitudinal extension, such a lateral extension 6 connects the handle portion 2 to the radiation tube TR and has a longitudinal shape that is substantially trapezoidal or triangular or polygonal, with the larger base tending to be located at or near the curved portion of the radiation tube.

[0110] In this case, the handle portion 2 can be considered to be flanged.

[0111] In fact, in some versions, regardless of the shape of the handle portion 2 and / or the socket 3, in order to ensure greater stability of the support device 1, the handle portion 2 does not directly depart from, for example, the curved portion of the radiation tube TR (shown, for example, in Figure 1A , Figure 7A ), but departs from such another tubular element 13 and / or is inserted into the latter. Thus, in this version, the other tubular element 13 is fixed and / or welded and / or constrained to the radiation tube TR (especially at the curved portion of the radiation tube TR), and departs from the radiation tube TR, while the handle portion 2 is fixed and / or welded and / or constrained to the other tubular element 13.

[0112] For greater stability, the handle portion 2 can be at least partially inserted into the other tubular element 13 and also fixed and / or welded and / or constrained to the inner wall of the latter and to its end 13a (during use) facing the socket 3.

[0113] In yet another form, both the handle 2 and another tubular element 13 can be fixed and / or welded and / or constrained to the radiant tube TR, in addition to each other.

[0114] Thus, the support device 1 includes a single handle 2 (i.e., directly welded to the bent portion of the radiant tube or the surface of the radiant tube) or has two handles (or double handles), which is determined by the actual handle 2 and another tubular element 13.

[0115] Another tubular element 13 has a diameter adapted to receive the handle 2, and it also has an extension that does not interfere with the socket 3.

[0116] In this and other forms of the present invention, specifically with reference to the bent portion of the radiant tube, one or more reinforcing elements (not shown) may also be present, arranged within the handle 2 (given that the handle is hollow) or arranged to connect between the handle 2 and / or the radiant tube TR and / or another tubular element 13, such as reinforcing flanges, cross members, thin plates, discs, other structures with special shapes, etc.

[0117] Such reinforcing elements can generally be of a longitudinal shape, such as trapezoidal, triangular, or polygonal.

[0118] These other structures (another tubular element 13 and / or one or more reinforcing elements) help to optimally distribute the weight and stress experienced by the support device 1 over a larger area relative to the area of the handle 2 that will be directly constrained to the radiant tube, thereby obtaining less stress on the radiant tube and achieving better results in preventing jamming and / or sticking of the handle 2 on the socket 3.

[0119] Even in this case, the reinforcing elements are configured not to interfere with the socket 3.

[0120] Such a reinforcing element can, for example, be one or more thin plates made of a high-temperature resistant material, which are positioned, for example, in the tubular handle in a cross-shaped manner.

[0121] Additionally or alternatively, such a reinforcing element in the form of, for example, a triangular, trapezoidal, or polygonal flange can (e.g., from its vertex position) depart from the outer surface 2b of the handle 2 for the purpose of connecting the handle 2 to another tubular element 13 and / or the radiant tube TR.

[0122] In this case, more than one such flange, such as two or three or four, can also be arranged radially with respect to the center of the circular transverse configuration of the handle 2 (whether solid or hollow).

[0123] In one form of the present invention, the transverse extension 6 can also be considered a reinforcing element, or the transverse extension 6 can have a reinforcing element between the transverse extensions 6.

[0124] Still for the purpose of reinforcement, the handle 2 having a circular cross-section can be flanged to the end, for example the end facing the socket 3 during use.

[0125] In some forms, when there is another tubular element 13, the reinforcing element can also be present therein (and / or externally), or when present on the handle 2, the reinforcing element can also continue into the other tubular element 13 (and / or externally).

[0126] In Figure 1A 、 Figure 7A , as described above, the handle 2 and the socket 3 have a circular cross-section and are tubular in shape (however, as described above, although the handle 2 and the socket 3 have shapes different from circular, there can be another tubular element 13).

[0127] Figures 3 and 4 show a support device 1 for a radiant tube shaped in any way, the support device 1 having a handle 2 formed by a solid cylindrical element (i.e. a round bar) whose diameter can vary as required. According to an example, the size of such a diameter can be equal to or greater than 20 mm. Even in this case, although not shown, another tubular element 13 can be provided for the purposes described above.

[0128] In this form, in addition to at least one rotating device 4, there is a receiving element 16 or at least one edge adapted to hold the at least one rotating device 4 in place during use. Such an edge or receiving element 16 can be welded and / or directly constrained to the surface 2b of the handle 2 for the purpose of holding the at least one rotating device 4 in place during use and at the same time allowing rotation and for the purposes described above.

[0129] Figures 5 and 6 show a support device 1 for a radiant tube of any shape, the support device 1 having a handle 2 of the flat or U-shaped form described above. Even in this case, there is one or more edges or receiving elements 16 having the features described above.

[0130] In this form, the socket 3 is flat or U-shaped.

[0131] Figure 8 shows a support device 1 for a radiant tube of any shape, the support device 1 including a handle 2 formed by an extension or "spout" 12 having a circular or curved base (corresponding to the outer surface 2b of the handle), the handle 2 in turn extending from a tubular element 13 constrained to the radiant tube TR. Such a handle 2 can be received by a socket 3 of any shape. For example, in the direction of the radiant tube TR, the image shows a socket 3 protruding from the wall P of the boiler and the socket 3 is generally U-shaped.

[0132] At least one rotating device 4 is positioned in the extension or "nozzle" 12 and / or on its circular or curved base by means of one or more edge or receiving elements 16.

[0133] Figure 9 and Figure 10A There is shown a support device 1 for a radiant tube of any shape, in which a rotating device 4 is inserted into a substantially flat or U-shaped shank 2. In Figure 10A it, regardless of the shape of the shank 2 and the socket 3, the curved portion of the radiant tube (e.g., the lower curved portion below) is joined to another curved portion of the radiant tube (e.g., the upper curved portion above) by a first T-shaped connection structure 14 (as Figure 10B visible in) or a connection structure of another shape, which first T-shaped connection structure or another shape is inserted into a second U-shaped upper support structure 15 or a support structure of another shape. As Figure 10B better observed in, at least one rotating device 4 is inserted into the first T-shaped structure 14 and / or the second U-shaped structure 15, with the aim of preventing direct contact between the two structures and thus preventing blocking and / or friction and / or adhesion phenomena between the two structures.

[0134] In one form of the invention, the second structure 15 can be part of the shank 2.

[0135] The at least one rotating device 4 can be positioned, for example, in the lower surface 14a of the T-shaped element of the first T-shaped structure 14 and / or in the upper surface l5a of the base of the U-shaped element of the second U-shaped structure 15. Figures 12, 14, 15 and 18 show a support device 1 for a radiant tube of any shape, in which the at least one rotating device 4 is directly inserted (in any shape) into the socket 3, in particular on its second surface 3b, thus allowing the reception of a shank 2 (of any shape), which shank 2 thus slides above the at least one rotating device 4, which rotates during and due to the extension of the shank 2 itself.

[0136] The at least one rotating device 4 is inserted at any point where there would normally be contact between the socket 3 and the shank 2: namely, at the vertical pressure point of the shank 2 on the socket 3 and / or at the possible pressure points and / or lateral contacts of the shank 2 on the socket 3. Thus, the at least one rotating device 4 can be mounted in the receiving wall of the socket 3, thus preventing any possible friction and / or adhesion (even lateral) between the parts in question.

[0137] Specifically, in Figure 18, the at least one rotating device 4 is positioned on all the surfaces of the socket 3 facing the shank 2 in order to obtain optimal results.

[0138] Figures 17 and 18 show a round or circular handle 2, the purpose of which is to allow the installation of the radiant tubes in any position desired by the user. Specifically, this concept is useful for horizontal boilers, in which the radiant tubes are usually installed in the lower and upper parts of the boiler (where the tubes are arranged in opposite directions with respect to the lower part and the tube is rotated 180°) (the thin web to be treated passes therebetween). When replacing the existing tubes, since this can only be verified when the boiler is shut down, the user may be unsure about the radiant tubes to be replaced in advance. Given that natural contact between the rotating device mounted on the handle 2 and the socket 3 and / or between the handle 2 and the rotating device 4 mounted on the socket 3 is obtained in any case, and given that at least one rotating device 4 is inserted on the entire circular surface of the handle 2 and / or the socket 3, the installation direction is not important.

[0139] Specifically, in Fig. 17, at least one rotating device 4 is positioned on the entire surface of the handle 2 facing the socket 3 in order to obtain optimal results. More specifically, on the surface of the handle 2 facing the socket 3, a plurality of rotating devices 4 may be positioned in an alternating manner.

[0140] In some cases, as described above, depending on the installation direction in the boiler, the tube is rotated 180°, and this rotation changes the direction on which the handle rests on the socket. Therefore, in some versions, the rotating device 4 may be mounted on the handle 2 in an alternating manner at 360° so that the tube can be installed according to any orientation.

[0141] In fact, a tube having at least one rotating device 4 mounted only on a part of the handle 2 (e.g., as shown in Figure 1A , Figure 2A and Figure 7A ) has a certain orientation and can be adapted to be installed only in the lower part or only in the upper part in this type of boiler.

[0142] Figure 13A and Figure 13B show the support device 1 for radiant tubes of any shape, in which the rotating device 4 is inserted on both the handle 2 (of any shape) and the socket 3 (of any shape), in particular on the second surface 3b of the socket 3 and the outer surface 2B of the handle 2.

[0143] When a plurality of rotary devices 4 are positioned, the positioning of at least one rotary device is performed after non-axial deployment to prevent the rotary devices 4 from overlapping each other. Thus, there are multiple rolling frictions between the handle 2 and the socket 3 through the rotary devices 4. In addition, when using such a solution, the handle 2 is "guided", and there is a certain "guidance" provided by the position of the rotary devices 4, because the handle 2 can generally point to the right or left during the extension of the radiation tube. This solution is particularly effective if the socket 3 does not have a lateral receiving wall, thus preventing the handle 2 from leaving its seat.

[0144] Finally, FIG. 16 shows a support device 1 for a radiation tube of any shape, wherein the socket 3 (having a generally circular cross-section and being generally tubular in shape or a similar structure) includes a flat base 3' positioned in the socket 3, for example, in an intermediate position relative to the socket 3.

[0145] This flat base 3' serves as a support for the handle 2.

[0146] This flat base 3' includes at least one rotary device 4, which is inserted into the flat base 3' (i.e., at least into the thickness of the flat base 3') and / or inserted laterally relative to the flat base 3'.

[0147] In this case, a first surface 3a and a second surface 3b can also be identified on the flat base 3'.

[0148] In this figure (and in other figures where at least one rotary device is positioned laterally relative to the handle 2), at least one rotary device 4' arranged laterally relative to the handle 2 serves as a lateral centering pin, thus preventing any direct contact between the handle 2 and the socket 3.

[0149] Regarding at least one rotary device 4, the rotary device 4 includes a spherical element or a spherical component or a substantially spherical element. Thus, at least one rotary device 4 includes a sphere, a ball, a wheel or a marble; the size and number of at least one rotary element 4 depend on the size and shape of the handle 2 and / or the socket 3.

[0150] According to one form of the invention, at least one rotary device 4 can rotate 360 degrees around its center point.

[0151] According to another form, at least one rotary device 4 can rotate around an axis passing through its center.

[0152] The advantage obtained through at least one rotating device 4 is that the sliding friction (i.e., the frictional force generated due to the sliding / extension of the radiant tube TR and / or its shank 2 on the socket 3, which sliding / extension is due to its expansion caused by the high operating temperature and / or due to the oscillation caused by the vibration of the burner to which the radiant tube is connected and / or due to its operation) is "converted" into rolling friction generated by the presence of at least one rotating device 4. The expression rolling friction is used to denote the friction that occurs when a body moves on another body not by sliding but by rolling, thus continuously changing the contact surface. This is what happens to at least one rotating device 4 during its operation at high temperatures, which will be better elucidated hereinafter. Basically, during the expansion and / or oscillation that occur during the use of the radiant tube TR, due to at least one rotating device 4 that rolls when the radiant tube TR moves and / or slides, rolling friction is generated with respect to the socket 3.

[0153] At the same time, at least one rotating device 4 represents the contact point between the shank 2 and the socket 3, which contact point connects these two components of the support device 1 for the radiant tube TR according to the present invention.

[0154] Specifically, as described above, the present invention allows eliminating the direct contact between the shank 2 and the socket 3 and limiting the contact itself to a single reliance point (or small area) corresponding to the reliance point (or small area) of at least one rotating device 4 on the shank 2 and / or the socket 3. This point or small contact area is approximately measured in a few millimeters.

[0155] In one form of the present invention, at least one rotating device 4 is at least partially inserted into the wall of the body of the shank 2 and / or at least partially inserted into the thickness 2c of the shank 2.

[0156] In another form, at least one rotating device 4 is at least partially inserted into the wall of the body of the socket 3 and / or at least partially inserted into the thickness 3c of the socket 3.

[0157] In yet another form, at least one rotating device 4 is inserted into the wall of the body of the shank 2 and / or into the thickness 2c of the shank 2 and into the wall of the body of the socket 3 and / or into the thickness 3c of the socket 3.

[0158] In the latter form, at least one rotating device 4 is asymmetrically mounted so as to prevent the rotating element 4 from contacting another rotating element 4. As described above, this allows ensuring the "guidance" of the sliding of the shank 2 in or on the socket 3.

[0159] Furthermore, at least one rotating device 4 projects a distance d from the outer surface 2b of the shank 2 and / or from the second surface 3b of the socket 3.

[0160] Thus, this allows preventing the handle 2 and the socket 3 from coming into direct contact with each other. In fact, they only come into contact via at least one rotating device 4.

[0161] By doing so, the materials of the socket 3 and the handle 2 (which are similar) do not adhere to each other (an effect observed when the two parts come into direct contact with each other), and this also allows preventing the formation of friction (caused by the movement of the handle on the socket) and the consequent stress, which, as described above, causes the deformation of the radiant tube TR and ultimately leads to collapse.

[0162] Figures 19A to 20B Other examples of the present invention are shown, in which the handle 2 and the socket 3 are both of a generally tubular shape with a circular cross-section. However, this type can also be applied to handles 2 and / or sockets 3 of different shapes.

[0163] At least one rotating device 4 inserted into the seat 7 and / or the insert 9 faces the other of the handle 2 and the seat 3 with respect to the element (the handle 2 or the seat 3) obtaining the corresponding seat 7 and / or the corresponding insert 9.

[0164] In fact, in this case, the insert 9 is fixed and / or welded and / or applied to the outer surface 2b of the handle 2 and / or the second surface 3b of the socket 3, for example, by a second zone 10 of the insert. Thus, the opening present in the seat 7 and / or the insert 9 is opposite to the second zone 10, from which at least one rotating device 4 projects and / or protrudes, and the latter comes into contact with and / or is fixed and / or is applied to the handle and / or the socket.

[0165] Thus, in this type, the seat 7 and / or the insert 9 and / or at least one rotating device 4 are actually positioned outside the socket 3 and / or the handle 2, that is, for example, in the space included and / or interposed between the handle 2 and the socket 3, and the latter two should be of a tubular shape.

[0166] In this case, the insert 9 (for example, made of rolled steel) can be welded to the second surface 3b of the socket 3 and / or the outer surface 2b of the handle 2; the insert 9 can alternatively be forged / centrifuged (if made of, for example, forged or cast materials).

[0167] In one type of the present invention, at least one rotating device 4 is made of a composite material. The thermal expansion of at least one rotating device can vary between 0 mm (thus zero) and about 5 cm, or between 0 and 5 mm, or between 0 and 15 mm, depending on the dimensions of the material used.

[0168] The composite material of at least one rotary device 4 has resistance to a vertical stress (i.e., the weight to be borne) of up to or exceeding 20 tons per inch or 20 tons per 2.54 cm, and / or resistance to a temperature exceeding 1300 °C (from a peak of about 400 °C to 2000 °C or higher), and / or resistance to a hardness between 20 HRC and 70 HRC or higher (with a maximum of up to about 75 / 80 HRC). The hardness is measured according to the Rockwell scale, and the measurement is carried out through the HRC scale. According to the HRC scale, the penetrator is a diamond cone with an opening angle equal to 120° and a connecting radius of 0.2 mm. This method is preferably used for very hard materials with a Brinell (HB) hardness value of up to 200 or greater than 200.

[0169] In at least one embodiment of the present invention, these resistance parameters of at least one rotary device 4 ensure its use on any type of radiant tube (made of cast / melt / centrifuged thin sheets with silicon carbide, including materials made of iron, chromium, aluminum known, for example, under the trade names Kanthal APM and APMT or another name) with any weight between 5 kg and greater than 1000 kg, and in particular ensure its sealing, even in the case of failures caused by any type of event (such as deformation or others) on the tube and / or the handle / socket. In fact, this hardness is much greater than that of any other material used to manufacture the radiant tube and / or the handle and / or the socket, so that at least one rotary device can resist abnormal pressure, load, and / or temperature without being damaged even in the absence of rolling friction.

[0170] Furthermore, the material used for this solution is selected from materials that prevent any type of adhesion between the handle and the socket of the radiant tube, especially even between them and the materials of the elements (socket and handle) to which they can be applied. Only the operation of the system according to these technical characteristics allows ensuring the conversion of sliding friction into rolling friction. In fact, due to the lack of all technical aspects and the presence of suitable materials in the present invention under discussion that are suitable for allowing this physical aspect, previous inventions could never ensure functional rolling friction, but only theoretical rolling friction.

[0171] To confirm the above, in at least one embodiment of the present invention, at least one rotary device is not made of steel or rigid material, or not made only of ceramic material. This is due to the fact that steel or rigid material has a coefficient of thermal expansion and / or a coefficient of electrical resistance that is incompatible with its operation; only ceramic material is too brittle relative to its weight, thus requiring at least one rotary device 4 to support it.

[0172] According to another form, at least one rotating device 4 can be made of at least one treatment or other similar treatment or left untreated anti-friction material that may be subjected to a treatment known, for example, under the trade name Cerbec, such anti-friction material being, for example, an iron-containing or non-iron-containing material including nickel, and / or a ceramic particle containing materials such as zirconium, silica, nitride, alumina or other materials suitable for preventing adhesion to the handle and / or the socket, with the aim of visibly polishing and / or smoothing and / or scratch-proofing etc. at least one rotating device 4.

[0173] In order to ensure the operation of the device 1 at temperatures up to 1300 °C and higher, special attention is paid to studying the extension differences of the materials used for each component. This allows finding the appropriate measurement of the space (or clearance) that should be maintained between at least one rotating device 4 and its receiving seat 7.

[0174] This allows ensuring all the advantages provided by the present invention, regarding the fact that at least one rotating device 4 is (at least partially) fixed and / or installed in the wall and / or in the thickness of the handle 2 and / or the socket 3, and at the same time rotates freely 360°. This allows always ensuring the rolling friction between the handle 2 and the socket 3. In fact, a tolerance (even very small, of the order of a small quantity) is ensured between at least one rotating device 4 and the seat 7 for inserting the rotating device 4, in order to allow rolling friction.

[0175] On the contrary, if the space between the rotating device 4 and the seat 7 cannot be ensured, during the heating of the materials forming the device 1, some of the latter (for example those with greater extension and / or expansion) may "close" and / or occupy such a space, eliminating the rolling friction, and thus determining the blocking of the system.

[0176] Similarly, regarding a given material, at least one rotating device 4 can be "blocked" in its seat 7 when cold. Then, at a given temperature that reaches a rate suitable for extending and / or expanding one of the materials involved at a rate higher than that of at least one rotating device 4 (for example the "softest" of the materials involved), a rotating space allowing at least one rotation is generated (thus ensuring the rolling friction).

[0177] Given that at least one rotating device is at least partially inserted into the wall of the body of the handle 2 and / or into the thickness 2c of the handle 2 and / or into the wall of the body of the socket 3 and / or the thickness 3c of the socket 3, such at least one seat 7 for receiving at least one rotating device 4 exists in such a wall and / or thickness.

[0178] Therefore, such at least one seat 7 is obtained in the wall of the body of the handle 2 and / or in the thickness 2c of the handle 2 and / or in the wall of the body of the socket 3 and / or in the thickness 3c of the socket 3.

[0179] This at least one seat 7 allows at least one rotating device 4 to be fixed but not blocked in the handle 2 and / or the socket 3. This allows preventing the possibility of accidental release, loss, and / or removal of at least one rotating device 4.

[0180] Furthermore, each rotating device 4 has its receiving seat 7.

[0181] The at least one seat 7 constitutes a "plug" or "cap" with an innovative design that follows the shape of the at least one rotating device 4 and allows it to roll and / or rotate during the "advancing" step of the radiation tube TR (i.e., during the extending step), while supporting its weight.

[0182] The shape of the at least one seat 7 also depends on the specific shape of the handle 2 and / or the socket 3 receiving the handle 2.

[0183] However, the shape of the receiving seat 7 generally corresponds to the shape of the rotating device 4 and has a slightly larger size relative to the latter.

[0184] The at least one rotating device 4 can have a diameter of 0.1 cm to 10 cm or 12.5 cm, preferably 0.1 cm to 6 cm, even more preferably 1 cm to 4 cm, or further 1 cm to 2 cm, or it is measured to be approximately 1.2 cm. This measurement depends on the dimensions of the handle 2 and / or the socket 3 and / or the radiation tube TR. Importantly, the size of the rotating device 4 allows preventing contact between the handle 2 and the socket 3.

[0185] The at least one seat 7 can be obtained directly in the wall and / or thickness 2c and / or thickness 3c of the handle 2 and / or the socket 3.

[0186] Alternatively, the at least one seat 7 can be obtained by an insert 9, which in turn is partially inserted into the wall and / or thickness 2c and / or thickness 3c of the handle 2 and / or the socket 3.

[0187] If such an insert 9 exists, the insert 9 is made of a rigid and / or cold-rolled and / or hot-rolled material obtained by diffusion and / or forging, and / or a composite material and / or a ceramic material and / or a material resistant to high temperatures, and / or a material among those listed above for the radiation tube TR. In at least one version of the invention, the material constituting the insert 9 and / or the seat 7 has a thermal expansion coefficient corresponding to that of the handle 2 and / or the socket 3 into which the handle 2 is inserted.

[0188] The size and shape of the at least one seat 7 (and / or its insert 9) are adapted to at least partially accommodate the at least one rotating device 4 and fix the rotating device 4 in place while allowing it to roll and / or rotate.

[0189] The shape of at least one seat 7 and / or its insert 9 also depends on the shape of the handle 2 and / or the socket 3 into which the handle 2 is inserted.

[0190] More specifically, at least one seat 7 includes a first zone or cavity 8.

[0191] This first zone or cavity 8 has a shape that generally corresponds to the shape of at least one rotating device 4.

[0192] Thus, if the shape of at least one rotating device 4 resembles a sphere, ball or marble, the first zone or cavity 8 has a generally spherical cap-shaped surface. The spherical cap has the dimensions and / or shape of at least one hemisphere, i.e., the spherical cap has a dimension and / or shape corresponding to or greater than that of a hemisphere. In addition, the dimensions of at least one seat 7 and / or its first zone or cavity 8 must be slightly larger than the dimensions of at least one rotating device 4. In this way, the latter is held in at least one seat 7 and / or its first zone or cavity 8, but at the same time can rotate freely to perform its function.

[0193] This first zone or cavity 8 and / or this at least one seat 7 is bounded by a circular opening. This circular opening is located at the respective outer surface 2b of the handle 2 and / or the second surface 3b of the socket 3.

[0194] For example, according to at least one variant of the invention, at least one rotating device 4 is inserted externally into the seat 7 and / or into the zone or cavity 8 in the handle 2 and / or the socket 3 by approximately half (or slightly more) of its volume (or its diameter, e.g., considering the cross-section of a sphere, ball or marble) - and is thus in the wall of the handle 2 and / or the socket 3 - and slightly more than half. Thus, the circular opening will have a cross-section smaller than the cross-section at the equatorial plane of at least one rotating device 4 and / or a diameter smaller than the diameter of at least one rotating device 4.

[0195] The distance d corresponds to the diameter of at least one rotating device 4 minus the cross-sectional dimension of the portion held within the seat 7.

[0196] In one variant of the invention, at least one seat 7 has a first zone or cavity 8 shaped to have a curved section or a flat section, each flat section possibly being inclined with respect to adjacent sections (curved and / or flat) in order to create a space in which at least one rotating device 4 can be held and at the same time allowed to rotate in order to perform its function.

[0197] In one variant of the invention, at least one seat 7 has a first zone or cavity 8 with a curved shape or a curved section in order to create a space in which at least one rotating device 4 can be held and at the same time allowed to rotate in order to perform its function.

[0198] The first zone or cavity 8 may (preferably) have a smooth surface or a roughness and / or knurling more or less as required.

[0199] As described above, such at least one seat 7 can be obtained inside the handle 2 and / or the socket 3, and thus its outer surface 2b and / or the second surface 3b have one or more recesses determined by such at least one seat 7.

[0200] In the form in which the at least one seat 7 is obtained by an insert 9 inserted into the wall and / or thickness 2c and / or thickness 3c of the handle 2 and / or the socket 3, the first zone or cavity 8 is obtained in the insert 9.

[0201] The first zone or cavity 8 in any case faces the other between the handle 2 or the socket 3 with respect to the components (handle 2 and / or socket 3) of the first zone or cavity 8. Thus, the at least one rotating device 4 faces the other directly (and / or always) between the handle 2 or the socket 3 with respect to the component (handle 2 and / or socket 3) on which the at least one rotating device 4 is positioned. In addition, the at least one rotating device is positioned at least at the contact or possible contact surface between the handle and the socket in the absence of a rotating device.

[0202] Such an insert 9 is shown, for example, in Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 7A , Figure 7B , Figure 13A , Figure 13B , Figure 17A , Figure 17B and 18A , Figure 18B and Figures 11A to 11F and so on.

[0203] Therefore, the insert 9 is an independent element with respect to the handle 2 and / or the socket 3, and the insert 9 is inserted and / or applied and / or connected and / or fixed and / or mounted on the handle 2 and / or the socket 3.

[0204] As previously mentioned, the first zone or cavity 8 can be shaped as a spherical cap or a different shape.

[0205] In addition, in addition to the first zone or cavity 8, the insert 9 further includes a second zone 10 opposite to the first zone or cavity 8 and a circular opening, and the at least one rotating device 4 extends from the circular opening.

[0206] The second zone 10 is curved or convex.

[0207] In one form of the present invention, the second zone 10 has a shape with curved segments and / or flat segments, each flat segment possibly being inclined relative to adjacent curved segments and / or flat segments so as to create a space in which at least one rotating device 4, 4' can be held and at the same time allowed to rotate. In a preferred form of the present invention, the second zone 10 has a shape with substantially flat segments, each substantially flat segment being inclined relative to adjacent substantially flat segments.

[0208] The insert 9 has a solid geometric integral shape, such as cylindrical, conical, polyhedral, prismatic, frustoconical or frustopyramidal, spherical, spherical segment, etc.

[0209] Generally, a seat 7 in the form of, for example, a sphere and / or the insert 9 in which the rotating device 4 needs to be safely held can be shaped as Figure 11A , Figure 11B , Figure 11C , Figure 11D , Figure 11E , Figure 11F shown, or any other geometric shape required to achieve the purpose (even depending on the adaptation followed according to the shape of the socket and shank elements discussed as needed at any time), i.e., any geometric shape suitable for the purpose.

[0210] The insert 9 can also have a mixed integral shape, for example, a cylinder or prism (cube) such as a frustum cone or frustum pyramid or different prisms with different solid geometric figures covering the top, such as Figures 11C to 11F shown.

[0211] For example, the insert 9 can be a cylindrical part with a frustum cone covering the top or a prismatic part with a frustopyramid covering the top.

[0212] The first zone or cavity 8 is arranged at the base of the insert 9.

[0213] This shows that at least one seat 7 and / or its insert 9 can have any geometric shape, size, length, width or depth according to specific needs.

[0214] Figures 11A to 11F The shape of the insert 9 and / or at least one seat 7 shown can be applied to any other form of the present invention described and / or shown herein without any limitation.

[0215] Moreover, as can be seen, for example, in Figures 13A to 15B , at least one seat 7 can be obtained in a recessed zone 11 relative to the second surface 3b of the socket 3. A similar situation can also occur with respect to the shank 2 and / or with respect to its outer surface 2B, where at least one seat 7 can be obtained in a recessed zone 11' relative to the outer surface 2B of the shank 2 (for example, asFigures 3A to 6B as shown

[0216] In this case, the recessed area 11 and / or the base extension of at least one seat 7 have dimensions suitable for receiving at least one rotating device 4 and / or at least one insert 9.

[0217] The depth of the recessed area 11 has a measured value d', which is less than or equal to the distance d by which at least one rotating device 4 projects.

[0218] In an alternative form, the distance d' is greater than the distance d by which at least one rotating device 4 projects.

[0219] Given d' < d, there may be at least one edge or receiving element 16 that holds at least one rotating device 4 in place but allows it to rotate according to all the solutions described above. In this case, the opening through which at least one rotating device projects also involves the edge or receiving element 16.

[0220] Therefore, it is still necessary to prevent or minimize direct contact between the handle 2 and the socket 3.

[0221] Regarding Figure 16A and Figure 16B the solution shown, the socket 3 is obtained by a base 3' having a flat shape, and at least one seat 7 is present on the second surface 3b of the socket 3, in which at least one rotating device 4 is received. Such at least one seat and at least one rotating device 4 are arranged in the area where the handle 2 usually rests.

[0222] As can be observed from the figure, an insert 9' is arranged, provided with at least one seat 7', having at least one rotating device 4' and at least one first area or cavity 8' arranged transversely to the area where the handle 2 usually rests, so as to prevent lateral contact between the handle 2 and the lateral area of the socket 3. Thus, in the case of lateral swinging, the handle 2 contacts the rotating device 4' received in the lateral insert 9'. Therefore, in this case, rolling friction of the handle 2 on the socket 3 is also allowed. In addition, the handle 2 and the socket 3 do not contact each other, even in the case of lateral swinging.

[0223] Unless otherwise specified, the features of at least one rotating device 4', at least one seat T and / or at least one insert 9' are similar to the features of at least one rotating device 4, at least one seat 7 and / or at least one insert 9.

[0224] As observed, thanks to the present invention, at least one rotating device 4, 4' although rotates freely 360° along its entire spherical surface, but is not "free" or unconstrained, but is constrained to the handle 2 and / or the socket 3, thus obtaining the above advantages.

[0225] In a preferred form of the present invention, each rotary device 4, 4' is single, i.e., it is surrounded by the seat portions 7, 7' and / or the inserts 9, 9', but is not in direct contact with other rotary devices 4, 4'.

[0226] This allows each rotary member to be independent of the other rotary member, and thus to be able to act and rotate freely without being affected by other adjacent rotary devices. Thus, in this way, if one of such rotary devices fails, the other rotary devices can continue to rotate independently, thereby completing the preset task. Therefore, the rotary device 4 is (at least partially) inserted into the wall of the handle 2 and / or the socket 3.

[0227] In addition, the positioning of at least one rotary device 4 and the setting and / or installation of at least one seat portion 7 occur directly in the workshop for manufacturing the radiant tube TR and the socket, without having to intervene in the boiler. In the prior art solutions where there are rotary elements released from the handle and / or the socket, this advantage cannot be obtained because during the shutdown time of the boiler, a specialized operator is forced to install such a solution from inside the boiler, and by climbing or using scaffolding by specialized personnel, even to a quite high height, exposing them to a considerable safety risk. In addition, whether vertical or horizontal, such an operator is exposed to the toxic gases and flue gases in the boiler.

[0228] In addition, when the tube is cooled, for example, the tube will undergo loss of balance and thus be lifted a few centimeters due to the loss of its weight. In this case, the possible elements released from the handle and / or the socket of the prior art devices may fall out or come out of their seat portions, which poses a further risk to the operator and causes it to malfunction.

[0229] The present invention still allows to obtain some main advantages:

[0230] - A significant reduction in the frictional stress usually transmitted between the handle and the socket to the radiant tube. Thanks to the present invention, the radiant tube exerts a much smaller force due to expansion / elongation during the heating and expansion steps compared to traditional solutions;

[0231] - The long-term retention of the mechanical creep strength characteristics of the material (i.e., for example, the resistance to tensile strength and / or sliding, and / or torsion and / or elongation);

[0232] - The resulting greater durability of the radiant tube - support device system of the radiant tube according to the present invention;

[0233] - A significant reduction in the typical defects of the radiant tube due to the stresses present in the current system;

[0234] - Cost reduction due to reduced maintenance requirements for the boiler;

[0235] - Greater safety for operators who operate and / or perform maintenance operations in the boiler.

[0236] In fact, regarding the latter point, thanks to the present invention, the maintenance operations on the boiler have significantly decreased, thus reducing the risk of accidents that may occur to the operator. In addition, given the longer service life of the radiant tubes, the present invention allows a significant reduction or cut in the need to replace the radiant tubes due to defects in the radiant tubes.

[0237] At least one rotating device 4 according to the present invention does not have restraint devices such as pinions, shafts, circlips or retaining rings, as they are held in place only by at least one seat 7 and / or its insert 9 and are thus constrained to the shank and / or socket.

[0238] Furthermore, at least one rotating device 4 has lasted for many years, it does not require any maintenance, and once the tube reaches the end of its natural life, it can be reused in order to be reinstalled onto the shank and / or socket of a new radiant duct.

[0239] In at least one embodiment of the present invention, at least one seat 7 and / or its insert 9 is made of several parts, for example two halves, in order to obtain a housing for at least one rotating device 4 therein.

[0240] The insert 9 can be installed by inserting it into a special opening or a suitable hole obtained in the wall of the shank 2 and / or socket 3.

[0241] In this case, the opening or hole (or the circular opening as described above) can be obtained by laser cutting, machine cutting, by a machine tool, etc.

[0242] Moreover, if the thickness 2c and / or 3c allows, the insert 9 can be applied to the inner surface 2a (when present) and / or the first surface 3a. In this case, at the cavity 8, the cavity 8 is arranged to be in contact with such a surface. In addition, a special opening is obtained in the surface in question, and the rotating device 4 projects from the special opening by a distance d.

[0243] In at least one embodiment of the present invention, the seat 7 and / or the insert 9 are subjected to precision machining, the purpose of which is to ensure fixation and / or restraint in the shank 2 and / or socket 3.

[0244] In at least one embodiment, the insert 9 is welded and / or fixed and / or obtained in holes specifically formed on the shank and / or socket or on the shank and / or socket (in particular welded and / or fixed to the outer surface 2a of the shank 2 and / or to the second surface 3b of the socket 3) by melting, centrifuging or other methods of the material. Even this operation takes into account the heating of the material forming the component in question and the consequent possible expansion in order to prevent deformation.

[0245] On the other hand, having a minimum or zero expansion with respect to other materials (specifically due to the type of material they are made of), the rotating devices do not suffer any problems in this sense.

[0246] Furthermore, in at least one embodiment of the present invention, between at least one rotating device 4 and at least one seat 7 and / or its insert 9, due to the specific materials used (for example, considering a specific magnetic material that also has the hardness and high-temperature resistance required by the present invention, the socket can be made of a certain material, while the shank can be made of any other specific material), a natural magnetism can be established. In fact, such materials can generate magnetism that allows them to repel each other. For example, both materials can be positively charged (or negatively charged), repel each other and / or be charged separately in order to generate a magnetic field.

[0247] The materials in question can be pre-magnetized materials, and they generate their own magnetic field. Materials that can be magnetized are called ferromagnetic; for example, they include iron, nickel, cobalt, etc.

[0248] For example, permanent magnetic materials consist of "hard" ferromagnetic materials that, during their production, are subjected to special treatment in a strong magnetic field, which aligns their internal microcrystalline structure and makes them extremely difficult to demagnetize.

[0249] This can allow the generation of a support of air or a suitable inert gas (or a support of a mixture thereof) by means of magnetic materials or other materials indicated in this specification, which support allows at least one rotating device 4 to be kept spaced apart from the corresponding at least one seat 7 and / or insert 9 and / or from the surface on which such at least one rotating device 4 rolls. According to one embodiment of the present invention, such a support can be obtained by air or pressurized inert gas. For example, jets of pressurized air or inert gas can be present in the shank 2 and / or socket 3 (jets flowing in from special openings not shown in the drawings, for example connected to a compressor that delivers air or gas at a pressure of, for example, 100 atmospheres and / or above). This allows preventing adhesion between at least one rotating device 4 and the surface on which it rolls, and furthermore creates a distance between at least one rotating device 4 and its seat 7 or insert 9. At the same time, thanks to the pressurized air or gas, the sliding area can be kept clean, free of dust or other debris, thus further enhancing the prevention of adhesion between the various components.

[0250] Taking into account the atmosphere that may be present in some boilers, the gas may be, for example, nitrogen (or a mixture of air and nitrogen, for example up to 95% nitrogen).

[0251] Moreover, by using pressurized nitrogen and such elements applied to the shank 2 and / or the socket 3, in addition to the supporting effect as described above, it is also possible to determine the cooling of the surfaces involved, thereby further preventing the phenomenon of friction or adhesion between the respective surfaces. The surfaces thus cooled may have a temperature below approximately 850 °C. This further ensures the accommodation, fixation and / or engagement of at least one rotating device 4 in at least one seat 7. This allows preventing the accidental release of the latter two components.

[0252] Moreover, if at least one rotating device 4 is mounted in a seat 7 obtained directly in the shank 2 and / or the socket 3, a cavity 8 adapted to receive the rotating device 4 is provided in at least one of such components. Then, an edge or receiving element 16 that restricts at least one rotating device 4 to a proper position but allows it to rotate according to all the scenarios described above can be fixed to the side of the cavity 8.

[0253] When at least one rotating device has to be inserted directly into a seat 7 (or recess 11) obtained in the wall of the shank 2 and / or the socket 3, the opening or hole (of the cavity 8) must be at least slightly larger than the cross-section passing through the equator, or, considering its cross-section, larger than the diameter of at least one rotating device 4. As described above, at least one edge or receiving element 16 will also be provided for holding at least one rotating device 4 in place. In this case, the opening of the edge or receiving element 16 of the present invention will have a diameter smaller than the diameter of the rotating element 4, such that its protruding distance d, but it will not be released from the seat 7.

[0254] In at least one embodiment, such an edge or receiving element 16 is machined using a machine tool and / or made of a material having a minimum extension at high temperatures.

[0255] Obviously, such an edge or receiving element has a special hole or opening, from which, as described above, a part of the rotating device 4 protrudes a distance d. Holes for the flow-through and / or suction of air can be provided at the seat 7 and / or the insert 9 and / or at least one edge or receiving element 16 at such a component, and thus at the rotating device 4: This allows for the recirculation of air during operation at high temperatures (and thus a given degree of cooling, albeit small, in the area under discussion).

[0256] Such holes can also be provided to ensure the cleanliness of the system in case dust or other substances present in the atmosphere of the boiler may enter the system, and / or thus mechanically remove dust that may have deposited over time in such seats, for example by blowing high-pressure air when the boiler is shut down to remove the deposited dust and / or residues.

[0257] An example of such a hole is designated by reference numeral 19 and is shown in Figures 11C to 11F (which is considered applicable also to Figure 11A , Figure 11B and other versions of the present invention), wherein the hole is positioned at the apex of at least one seat 7 and / or at least one insert 9.

[0258] Such a hole 19 passes through the cavity 8 and / or puts the cavity 8 in communication with the external space of at least one seat 7 and / or at least one insert 9.

[0259] Thus, as can be observed from the above description, at least one rotating device is positioned between the shank 2 and the socket 3.

[0260] Generally, the cross-section of the socket 3 is mostly but not necessarily larger than the cross-section of the shank 2 to allow the latter to be inserted and / or received in or near the socket 3.

[0261] Conversely, at least one rotating device has a smaller overall size or dimensions with respect to the size of the socket or the shank.

[0262] For example, the distance d by which the rotating device 4 projects can be included between 1 and 10 mm or between 0.1 mm and 3 cm (usually between 3 and 6 mm).

[0263] Thus it has been observed that the present invention achieves the preset purpose.

[0264] Although the present invention has been described in accordance with preferred embodiments, equivalent variations are conceivable without departing from the scope of protection provided by the appended claims. Moreover, without departing from the scope of protection provided by the appended claims, the characteristics described with respect to one type or embodiment or construction of a component of the present invention can be present in other variations or embodiments or constructions of one or more of the components of the present invention.

Claims

1. A support device (1) for a radiant tube (TR), which can be used in a heat treatment boiler, a continuous production line for galvanizing and annealing strips or plates made of sheet metal, or for renovating an existing boiler. The support device includes a support (2) for the radiant tube and a boiler-side support (3). Among them, The support (2) for the radiant tube includes a body having a generally tubular shape, at least one outer surface (2b), and a thickness (2c) of the support (2) for the radiant tube. The at least one outer surface (2b) faces the boiler-side support (3) during use. The support device (1) further includes a plurality of spherical elements (4, 4') and a plurality of seats (7, 7'), where each of the seats (7, 7') is equipped with a circular opening and houses a single spherical element. Wherein, each spherical element (4, 4') rotates freely 360 degrees by means of each seat (7, 7') within the thickness (2c) of the support (2) for the radiant tube, and is rotationally constrained within the at least one seat (7, 7') and projects a distance (d) from the circular opening and from the at least one outer surface (2b) of the support (2) for the radiant tube, such that it determines the support of the support (2) for the radiant tube on the boiler-side support (3) and the rolling friction between the support (2) for the radiant tube and the boiler-side support (3). The seats (7, 7') are obtained by means of inserts (9, 9') subsequently mounted on the support (2) for the radiant tube and include a first zone or cavity (8, 8') having a generally spherical cap-shaped surface corresponding to the shape of the spherical element. Wherein, there is a gap between each spherical element (4, 4') and the corresponding seat (7, 7') during use. While allowing it to roll along the entire surface of the spherical element (4, 4'). It is characterized in that The spherical elements and the seats (7, 7') are present on both sides of the support (2) for the radiant tube, and The support (2) for the radiant tube has a circular cross-section or a polygonal cross-section.

2. The support device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, During use, on at least a part of the second surface (3b) of the boiler-side support (3), the support (2) for the radiant tube is supported or contacted or moved by inserting the at least one rotating device (4, 4'). Wherein, the support (2) for the radiant tube can move within or on the boiler-side support (3) by means of the at least one rotating device (4, 4'). Wherein, the at least one rotating device (4, 4') is adapted to allow the support of the radiant tube (TR) or its sliding or swinging movement.

3. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The circular opening of the at least one receiving seat (7, 7') is positioned between the support (2) for the radiant tubes or the boiler-side support (3) such that the support (2) for the radiant tubes or the boiler-side support (3) on which the circular opening is located faces the other one.

4. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The at least one seat (7, 7') is obtained in the thickness (2c) of the support (2) for the radiant tubes and / or in the thickness (3c) of the boiler-side support (3), wherein the at least one seat (7, 7') is obtained in a recessed area (11) recessed with respect to the second surface (3b) of the boiler-side support (3), wherein the recessed area (11) has a depth (d') greater than or less than or equal to the distance (d), or wherein the insert (9, 9') is made of steel or cold-rolled material or hot-rolled material obtained by diffusion or forging, or a composite material or a ceramic material, and has a coefficient of thermal expansion corresponding to that of the support for the radiant tubes or the boiler-side support (3) into which the insert is inserted or which is made of a metallic material.

5. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The at least one rotating device (4, 4') is inserted into the at least one seat (7, 7') or the first zone or cavity (8) outside the support (2) for the radiant tubes and the boiler-side support (3) by approximately half or slightly less than half of its volume or its diameter, thereby determining the distance (d).

6. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The at least one seat (7, 7') and / or the at least one insert (9, 9') includes a first zone or cavity (8, 8') having a shape with curved or flat sections, each flat section being inclined with respect to an adjacent curved or flat section so as to create a space capable of holding the at least one rotating device (4, 4') therein and at the same time allowing it to rotate, wherein the at least one seat (7, 7') or the at least one insert (9, 9') includes a first zone or cavity (8, 8') having a curved shape and a second zone (10) opposite the first zone or cavity (8, 8') having a shape with curved or flat sections, each flat section being inclined with respect to an adjacent curved or flat section so as to create a space capable of holding the at least one rotating device (4, 4') therein and at the same time allowing it to rotate.

7. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The at least one seat (7, 7') and / or the insert (9, 9') are made of two halves so as to allow the accommodation of the at least one rotating device (4, 4') therein, wherein the at least one insert (9, 9') is inserted into a suitable opening or a suitable hole made in the support (2) for the radiant tubes or in the boiler-side support (3), the at least one insert (9, 9') being applied in the inner surface (2a) or in the first surface (3a), the cavity (8, 8') being arranged to be in contact with the inner surface (2a) or the first surface (3a), and in the inner surface (2a) or the first surface (3a), there is a corresponding circular opening at the cavity (8, 8'), the at least one rotating device (4, 4') protruding the distance (d) from the circular opening.

8. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The boiler-side support (3) includes a body having a generally tubular or generally flat shape to allow the reception of the support (2) for the radiant tubes, wherein the support (2) for the radiant tubes includes a body having a generally tubular or U-shaped or generally flat shape, wherein the support (2) for the radiant tubes includes an inner surface (2a) opposite to the outer surface (2b), wherein at least one of the outer surface (2b) and the inner surface (2a) has a generally tubular or U-shaped or generally flat shape, wherein the outer surface (2b) and the inner surface (2a) are substantially parallel and overlap each other, and wherein the thickness (2c) corresponds to the distance between the outer surface (2b) and the inner surface (2a) or the diameter or the width of the body of the support (2) for the radiant tubes.

9. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first surface (3a) is opposite to the second surface (3b) of the boiler-side support (3), wherein the first surface (3a) and the second surface (3b) of the boiler-side support (3) have a generally tubular and / or curved or generally flat shape so that they are parallel and overlap each other, wherein the first surface (3a) and the second surface (3b) are coaxial with each other, and the thickness (3c) corresponds to the distance between the first surface (3a) and the second surface (3b).

10. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, At the outer surface (2b) of the support (2) for the radiant tubes, there is at least one edge or receiving element (16) that holds the at least one rotating device (4, 4') in place during use.

11. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The at least one rotating device (4, 4') is made of a composite material having a coefficient of thermal expansion included between 0 mm and 5 cm, or between 0 and 5 mm, or between 0 and 15 mm.

12. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The at least one rotating device (4, 4') is made of a composite material having a resistance to a vertical stress equal to or exceeding 20 tons per inch or 20 tons per 2.54 centimeters.

13. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The at least one rotating device (4, 4') is made of a composite material having resistance to temperatures up to a maximum of 1300 °C or up to 2000 °C or higher, and includes a hardness between 20 HRC and 70 HRC or up to a maximum of about 75 / 80 HRC.

14. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The at least one rotating device (4, 4') repels the at least one seat (7, 7') or the insert (9, 9').

15. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, There is a support of air or inert gas between the at least one rotating device (4, 4') and the at least one seat (7, 7') or insert (9, 9'), wherein the air or the inert gas is pressurized in order to keep the at least one rotating device (4, 4') spaced apart from the at least one seat (7, 7') or from the insert (9, 9') or from the surface on which the at least one rotating device (4, 4') rolls.

16. The support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The at least one rotating device (4, 4') is made of silicon nitride, with or without at least one treatment, and has resistance to a vertical stress equal to or exceeding 20 tons per inch or 20 tons per 2.54 cm and / or includes a hardness between 20 HRC and 70 HRC.

17. A system, comprising: a plurality of spherical elements (4, 4'); a plurality of corresponding seats (7, 7') for receiving the plurality of spherical elements (4, 4'), wherein each seat (7, 7') is equipped with a circular opening and receives a single spherical element; inserts (9, 9') mounted on the support (2) for the radiant tubes and for determining each seat (7, 7'), including a first zone or cavity (8, 8') having a generally spherical cap-shaped surface corresponding to the shape of the spherical element; wherein, during use, there is a gap between the spherical element (4, 4') and the seat (7, 7'), which gap allows its maintenance within the seat (7, 7'), and wherein each spherical element (4, 4') is positioned within the thickness (2c) of the support (2) for the radiant tubes by means of the seat (7, 7') such that the spherical element (4, 4') projects a distance (d) from the circular opening and from at least one outer surface (2b) of the support (2) for the radiant tubes, thereby determining the support of the support (2) for the radiant tubes on the boiler-side support (3) and the rolling friction between the support (2) for the radiant tubes and the boiler-side support (3), while allowing it to roll freely 360 degrees along the entire surface of the spherical element (4, 4'), wherein the spherical element (4, 4') is rotationally constrained within the seat (7, 7'), characterized in that the spherical element and the seat (7, 7') are present on both sides of the support (2) for the radiant tubes, and the support (2) for the radiant tubes has a circular cross-section or a polygonal cross-section.

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