Transmission shaft assembly, transmission shaft and related method

Abstract

A driveshaft assembly for a rolling stand for use in a metal rolling mill is provided. The driveshaft assembly delivers lubricant through the assembly. The driveshaft assembly includes a shaft having an outer periphery and defining a centrally positioned longitudinal opening extending from a first end to an opposite second end of the shaft. The shaft defines a plurality of internal passages therein. The driveshaft assembly also includes a rotary distributor mounted on an outer periphery of the shaft. The shaft assembly provides a conduit for lubricant through the plurality of internal channels in the shaft.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application No. 201810802750.9, with the application date of July 20, 2018 and the title of "Drive Shaft Assembly, Drive Shaft and Related Methods". Technical Field

[0002] The embodiments described herein generally relate to rolling stands for metal rolling mills, and more particularly to drive shaft assemblies and methods associated with shaft assemblies. Background Art

[0003] The rolling process involves passing a hot steel billet through a "rolling mill", also known as a "rolling mill train". A modern rolling mill train consists of multiple rolling stands arranged in an in-line configuration. Each rolling stand consists of a top roll and a bottom roll, which are driven by an electric motor via a gearbox. The rolls of the stand have profiles or "grooves" machined into them such that the size of the hot billet passing between the grooves is reduced and shaped as it passes through each subsequent stand. The typical motor size for a modern rolling mill is 600 kW to 1200 kW per stand. Generally, 15 to 21 stands are used, depending on the size of the feed billet and the finished product. The currently common finishing speed is 10 - 15 meters per second.

[0004] The tension between each stand must be precisely controlled because the slightest change in tension will affect the shape of the product. Additionally, when the head end of the billet enters each subsequent rolling stand, the speed drop must be quickly restored so as not to affect the tension control.

[0005] As the hot billet passes through the rolling mill train, the hot billet is shaped, sized down, and elongated as it passes through the rolling mill stands. The product is then transferred via a high-speed transfer system (brake slider / baffle) to a walking beam cooling bed (usually 60 - 90 meters long). The shear in the rolling mill train cuts off the head and tail and separates the material to fit the cooling bed.

[0006] As described above, each rolling stand consists of a top roll and a bottom roll, which are driven by an electric motor via a gearbox. Generally, a double universal joint drive shaft transfers rotational energy from the gearbox to the top roll and the bottom roll. The drive shaft separates the gearbox and the electric motor from the high temperature of the billet passing between the rolls.

[0007] Each roll has a rolling element bearing, typically a spherical roller bearing, which needs to be lubricated and withstand the high temperature from the billet.

[0008] A continuous oil lubricated main shaft provides the user with a reliable method of continuously removing the destructive heat from the main shaft during operation. Since the oil flows regularly, there is no need to maintain the grease level and clean the environmentally unfriendly grease. The oil lubrication concept significantly extends the operating life of the main shaft and reduces the rolling mill downtime.

[0009] Clean, temperature-regulated oil from the lubrication system of the rolling mill (or from their own lubrication systems) is introduced into the main shaft from the driven end and conveyed to the roll side. The oil is circulated through the roll side gear drive elements and conveyed back from the roll side to the oil collecting hood installed on the driven side. Then the heated oil is conveyed back to the oil circulation system of the rolling mill for cooling and cleaning.

[0010] The oil collecting hood installed on the driven side usually causes many maintenance problems, increases the downtime, and complicates the entire maintenance operation because it is such a large and complex housing, and increases the final cost of the continuously oil-lubricated gear main shaft. Summary of the Invention

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a drive shaft assembly for a rolling stand used in a metal rolling mill is provided. The drive shaft assembly conveys lubricant through the assembly. The drive shaft assembly includes a shaft having an outer peripheral portion and defining a centrally located longitudinal opening extending from a first end of the shaft to an opposite second end. The shaft defines a plurality of internal channels therein. The drive shaft assembly further includes a rotary distributor mounted on the outer peripheral portion of the shaft. The shaft assembly provides a conduit (delivery passage) for the lubricant through the plurality of internal channels in the shaft.

[0012] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft assembly can be configured such that the rotary distributor includes first and second input ends for inputting lubricant into the distributor and an output end for outputting lubricant from the distributor.

[0013] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft assembly can be configured such that the rotary distributor includes first and second seals. These seals are axially spaced from each other and seal the rotary distributor to the outer peripheral portion of the shaft.

[0014] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft assembly can be configured such that the seals are lip seals.

[0015] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft assembly can be configured such that the plurality of internal channels include a plurality of radially extending channels and a plurality of axially extending channels.

[0016] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft assembly can be configured such that the plurality of internal channels include at least one channel that extends both radially and axially.

[0017] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft assembly can be configured such that the shaft includes a body portion and a sleeve, the body portion defining an inner peripheral portion of the body portion, and the sleeve including an outer peripheral portion of the sleeve that fits into the inner peripheral portion of the body portion.

[0018] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft assembly may be configured such that an inner peripheral portion of the body portion and an outer peripheral portion of the sleeve define a passage therebetween.

[0019] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft assembly may be configured such that the passage between the inner peripheral portion of the body portion and the outer peripheral portion of the sleeve is an axially extending passage.

[0020] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft assembly may be configured such that at least a portion of the passage between the inner peripheral portion of the body portion and the outer peripheral portion of the sleeve is a helical passage.

[0021] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a drive shaft for a rolling stand in a metal rolling mill. The drive shaft includes a body having a generally cylindrical outer peripheral portion and defining a centrally located longitudinal opening extending from a first end of the shaft to an opposite second end. The body further defines a plurality of internal passages in the body.

[0022] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft may be configured such that the plurality of internal passages include a plurality of radially extending passages and a plurality of axially extending passages.

[0023] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft may be configured such that the body defines an inner peripheral portion of the body. The shaft may further include a sleeve, an outer peripheral portion of the sleeve being fitted into the inner peripheral portion of the body.

[0024] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft may be configured such that the body and the sleeve define a passage therebetween.

[0025] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft may be configured such that the passage between the inner peripheral portion of the body portion and the outer peripheral portion of the sleeve is an axially extending passage.

[0026] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the drive shaft may be configured such that at least a portion of the passage between the inner peripheral portion of the body portion and the outer peripheral portion of the sleeve is a helical passage.

[0027] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for lubricating a drive shaft in a rolling mill. The method includes the steps of: providing a drive shaft having a central opening extending to opposite ends of the shaft and internal passages extending inwardly from an outer peripheral portion of the shaft; providing a rotary distributor; fitting the distributor onto the outer peripheral portion of the shaft; inputting lubricant into the rotary distributor; causing the lubricant to pass through the distributor to the internal passages of the shaft; and causing the lubricant to advance from the internal passages of the shaft to opposite ends of the shaft.

[0028] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a method can be provided, namely, the method further includes the step of inserting a sleeve into the central opening of the shaft.

[0029] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a method can be provided, namely, the method further includes the step of providing a passage between the sleeve and the body, and the step of advancing the lubricant from the internal passage of the shaft to opposite ends of the shaft includes advancing the lubricant along the passage between the sleeve and the body.

[0030] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a method can be provided, namely, the step of providing a passage between the sleeve and the body includes providing a spiral passage between the sleeve and the body. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a rolling stand used in a metal rolling mill that can be combined with a drive shaft assembly according to the present invention;

[0032] Figure 2 is a perspective view partially shown in cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention, showing a drive shaft assembly according to the present invention;

[0033] Figure 3 is Figure 2 a partial perspective view of the drive shaft assembly of

[0034] Figure 4 is Figure 2 a partial perspective view of the drive shaft assembly of

[0035] Figure 5A is a plan view of a hydraulic distributor assembled to the drive shaft assembly of Figure 2 ;

[0036] Figure 5B is Figure 5A a partial plan view of the distributor of

[0037] Figure 5C a partial plan view of an alternative distributor using roller bearings, shown in cross-section;

[0038] Figure 5D is Figure 5A a partial plan view of the distributor of

[0039] Figure 6 is Figure 2 a perspective view of a portion of the drive shaft of the drive shaft assembly of

[0040] Figure 7 is Figure 2 a cross-sectional view of a drive shaft assembly, showing the oil path of an axially extending oil passage;

[0041] Figure 8A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the present invention in the form of a drive shaft assembly having a sleeve with a helical oil passage formed in the outer peripheral portion thereof;

[0042] Figure 8B is Figure 8A a cross-sectional view of the drive shaft of the drive shaft assembly, showing a radial hole for connection to an oil passage;

[0043] Figure 8C including a plan view, an end view, and a cross-sectional view of a first sleeve used in the drive shaft assembly of Figure 8A ;

[0044] Figure 8D is Figure 8A an exploded cross-sectional view of a second sleeve and other sleeves used in the drive shaft assembly of

[0045] Figure 9 is Figure 8A a cross-sectional view of the drive shaft assembly;

[0046] Figure 10 is Figure 8A a cross-sectional view of the drive shaft assembly, showing the oil path of an oil passage extending helically; and

[0047] Figure 11 is a flowchart of a method of using a drive shaft assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0048] By using a rolling mill or a rolling process, hot semi-molten steel can be made into a very long shape with a uniform thickness. The rolling process involves passing a hot steel billet through a "rolling mill", also known as a "rolling mill train". A modern rolling mill train consists of a plurality of rolling stands arranged in an in-line configuration.

[0049] Now referring to Figure 1, such a rolling stand 1 consists of an upper roll 2 and a lower roll 3, and the upper roll 2 and the lower roll 3 are driven by a power source (such as an electric motor) via a gearbox 4. The rolls 2 and 3 of the stand 1 can be cylindrical as shown, or can have profiles or "grooves" machined into the rolls. The size of the hot billet passing between the rolls is reduced and can be formed to have profiles or "grooves", and the shape and / or thickness of the profiles or "grooves" are changed by subsequent individual stands. The common motor size for modern rolling mills is 600 kW to 1200 kW per stand. Generally, depending on the size of the feed billet and the finished product, 15 to 21 stands are used. The currently common processing speed of the finished product is 10 - 15 meters per second.

[0050] The upper roll 2 and the lower roll 3 are positioned at a significant distance from the gearbox 4, and the gearbox 4 is used to increase torque and reduce the speed of the power source. The gearbox 4 is positioned at a significant distance from the hot billet so that the gearbox is not damaged by the elevated temperature of the billet.

[0051] Rotary connection members 5 and 6 connect the gearbox 4 to the upper roll 2 and the lower roll 3 respectively. As shown, the rotary connection members 5 and 6 are in the form of a drive shaft assembly or a main shaft, and are supported by bearings and cooled and lubricated by lubricants. These main shafts 5 and 6 located near the hot billet are exposed to high temperatures and heavy loads.

[0052] The main shafts 5 and 6 are main shafts with continuous circulating oil lubrication. The continuously circulating oil provides a reliable way for the user to continuously remove harmful heat from the main shafts during operation. The continuous oil lubrication and cooling concept significantly extends the service life of the main shaft operation and reduces the downtime of the rolling mill.

[0053] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention and now referring to Figures 1-7 , a main shaft or a drive shaft assembly 5 for a rolling stand 1 used in a metal rolling mill is provided. Note that the upper main shaft 5 transfers rotational energy from the gearbox 4 to the upper roll 2. It should be understood that the rolling stand 1 may include other main shafts, for example, a lower main shaft 6 adapted to transfer rotational energy from the gearbox 4 to the lower roll 3. The lower main shaft 6 may be similar or identical to the upper main shaft 5. It should be understood that the rolling mill may include many main shafts, each main shaft being similar or identical to the main shafts 5 and 6.

[0054] As Figure 1 and 2 shown, the main shaft or the drive shaft assembly 5 has a drive shaft rotation center line 7. The gearbox 4 has a gearbox output member, for example and as shown, a gearbox output shaft 4A that transfers torque from the gearbox 4 to the main shaft 5. The upper roll 2 has an upper roll input member, for example and as shown, an upper roll input shaft 2A that transfers torque from the main shaft 5 to the upper roll 2. The gearbox output shaft 4A rotates about a gearbox output shaft center line 8. Similarly, the upper roll input shaft 4A rotates about an upper roll input shaft center line 9.

[0055] To provide a smooth transfer of rotational energy from the gearbox 4 to the upper roll 2, the rotational centerline 7 of the drive shaft, the centerline 8 of the gearbox output shaft, and the centerline 9 of the upper roll input shaft are preferably coincident. It is very difficult to mount the gearbox 4 and the roll 2 in a position such that the centerline 8 of the gearbox output shaft coincides with the centerline 9 of the upper roll input shaft.

[0056] To accommodate non - coincidence or non - collinearity of the centerlines 8 and 9, the rolling mill stand 1 may include a gearbox - side head or joint 8B for connecting the shaft assembly 5 to the gearbox 4 and a roll - side head or joint 9B for connecting the shaft assembly 5 to the roll 2.

[0057] As shown, the gearbox - side head 8B and the roll - side head 9B may be articulated heads such that the centerline 8 of the gearbox output shaft, the centerline 9 of the upper roll input shaft, and the rotational centerline 7 of the drive shaft can be angled with respect to each other and still provide a smooth transfer of rotational energy from the gearbox 4 to the roll 2.

[0058] As Figure 2 shown, the drive shaft assembly 5 includes a shaft 12. The shaft 12 has an outer peripheral portion 14. As shown, the shaft 12 preferably defines a longitudinally - centered opening 16 extending from a first end 18 of the shaft 12 to an opposite second end 20.

[0059] As Figure 2 shown, the drive shaft assembly 5 conveys a lubricant 22 through the assembly 5. The lubricant 22 is used to cool the shaft assembly and provide lubricant 22 to the articulated joints 8B and 9B including the gear torque - transfer surfaces 21 and the support surfaces 23.

[0060] The lubricant 22 may be conveyed through the assembly 5 by a lubrication system 24. The lubrication system 24 circulates the lubricant 22 along a lubricant path 25.

[0061] Referring Figure 6 and 7 , the shaft 12 defines a plurality of internal channels 26 therein. The lubricant 22 flows along the lubricant path 25 in the internal channels 26 of the shaft.

[0062] Referring again Figure 2 , 5A and 6, the drive shaft assembly 5 further includes a rotary distributor 27 mounted on the outer peripheral portion 14 of the shaft 12. As Figure 2 shown, the rotary distributor 27 receives the lubricant 22 from an input lubricant line 28, advances the lubricant 22 into the internal channels 26, receives the lubricant 22 from the internal channels 26, and advances the lubricant 22 to an outlet lubricant line 29. The shaft assembly 5 provides a conduit 30 for the lubricant 22 through the plurality of internal channels in the shaft 12.

[0063] As Figure 2 shown, the lubrication system 24 may also include a lubricant renewal device 31 that can clean and cool the lubricant 22 for reuse in the drive shaft assembly 5. The lubricant renewal device 31 can be any device capable of cooling and cleaning or filtering the lubricant 22. The used lubricant 22 from the shaft 12 is conveyed through the outlet lubricant line 29 to the lubricant renewal device 31. The lubrication system 24 may also include a pump 32 for pushing the lubricant 22 along the lubricant path 25. The pump 32 can be inside or outside the lubricant renewal device 31.

[0064] As Figure 2 and 5A shown, to ensure a flow of fresh lubricant to both the first end 18 and the second end 20 of the shaft 12, the input lubricant line 27 can be in the form of or can be divided into a first input lubricant line 34 for supplying lubricant to the first end 18 of the shaft and a second input lubricant line 36 for supplying lubricant to the second end 20 of the shaft 12. The first input lubricant line 34 and the second input lubricant line 36 can use a common pump or can each have their own pump (not shown). The first input lubricant line 34 can have a gauge 38 in the line 34 for measuring the flow or pressure in the line 34, thereby monitoring the flow of the lubricant 22 to the first end 18 of the shaft 12.

[0065] Similarly, the second input lubricant line 36 can have a gauge 40 in the line for measuring the flow or pressure in the line 36 to monitor the flow of the lubricant 22 to the second end 20 of the shaft. The gauges 38 and 40 and the lines 34 and 36 ensure that a blockage at either end of the shaft will be detected by at least one of the gauges 38 and 40.

[0066] The lubrication system 24 for lubricating the shaft assembly 5 supplies the lubricant 22 to the support surface 23 and the torque transfer surface 21 of the shaft assembly 5.

[0067] For example and as Figure 2As shown, since the shaft assembly is in an application where product changes may require production setup and tool changes, and since the shaft assembly is in a high-temperature environment, the shaft assembly 5 may need to be replaced quickly and easily. The heads 8B and 9B may include torque transfer features in the form of, for example, flat portions 35 that respectively engage mating features in the shafts 4A and 2A. The heads 8B and 9B may be configured to move axially toward and away from each other along the shaft rotation centerline 7. A spring 37 may be positioned in the longitudinal opening 16 of the shaft 12 to urge the heads 8B and 9B apart. As shown, the heads 8B and 9B may axially engage the shafts 4A and 2A. The heads 8B and 9B may be simultaneously pushed to overcome the force of the spring 37 to allow the heads 8B and 9B to slide inwardly on the shafts 4A and 2A. Thereby, the shaft assembly 5 can be radially removed from the shafts 4A and 2A. A central tube 39 may be positioned within the spring 37 to accommodate the movement of the lubricant 22.

[0068] For example and as Figure 2 shown, torque is transmitted from the gearbox-side head 8B to the shaft 12 through a first torque transfer device 42, from the shaft 12 to the first torque transfer device 42, and then from the roll-side head 9B to the shaft 12 through a second torque transfer device 44. As Figure 2 shown, the first torque transfer device 42 may be in the form of a coupling or a coupling device that includes an outer coupling member 45 fixed to the housing 46 of the gearbox-side head 8B and an inner coupling member 47 fixed to the outer peripheral portion 14 of the shaft 12.

[0069] It should be understood that the coupling device 42 may be in the form of a gear set that has an outer coupling member 45 in the form of an outer gear fixed to the housing or sleeve 46 of the gearbox-side head 8B and an inner coupling member 47 in the form of an inner gear fixed to the outer peripheral portion 14 of the shaft.

[0070] Since the gearbox output shaft centerline 8 about which the outer gear 45 rotates may be offset from the drive shaft rotation centerline 7 about which the inner gear 7 rotates, the gears 45 and 47 may have teeth whose curves are formed to accommodate the difference in the respective rotation centerlines of the gears. The gears 45 and 47 are used to support the first end 18 of the shaft 12.

[0071] Similarly, the second torque transfer device 44 may be in the form of a coupling or a gear set that includes an outer gear 48 fixed to the housing or sleeve 49 of the roll-side head 9B and an inner gear 50 fixed to the outer peripheral portion 14 of the shaft 12. The gears 48 and 50 may have teeth whose curves are formed to accommodate the difference in the respective rotation centerlines of the gears. The gears 48 and 50 are used to support the second end 18 of the shaft 12.

[0072] As described above, the lubricant 22 is used to lubricate the mating engagement surfaces of the teeth of the gear sets 42 and 44. To retain the lubricant 22 on the surfaces of the teeth of the gear sets 42 and 44, the lubricant is received in a first cavity 51 formed by the first end 18 and the outer peripheral portion 14 of the shaft 12 and the housing 46 of the gearbox side head 8B and in a second cavity 52 formed between the second end 20 of the shaft 12 and the peripheral portion 14 and the housing 53 of the roller side head 9B.

[0073] Since the gearbox output shaft centerline 8 about which the housing 46 of the gearbox side head 8B rotates can be offset from the drive shaft rotation centerline 7 and the roller input shaft centerline 9 about which the housing 49 of the roller side head 9B rotates, the gearbox side head 8B and the roller side head 9B can each have a gearbox side head seal 53 and a roller side head seal 54 to respectively retain the lubricant 22 in the first cavity 51 and the second cavity 52.

[0074] The gearbox side head seal 53 and the roller side head seal 54 cooperate with the peripheral portion 14 of the shaft 12 to respectively seal the lubricant 22 within the first cavity 51 and the second cavity 52. The seals 53 and 54 can be any seals capable of retaining the lubricant 22. For example, the seals can be configured to accommodate misalignment between the heads 8B and 9B and the shaft 12. The seals 53 and 54 can be permitted to float or move radially when there is misalignment between the heads and the shaft such that the seals 53 and 54 maintain uniform contact with the outer peripheral portion 14 of the shaft 14 around the circumference of the shaft 14.

[0075] Now referring Figure 3 to, the gearbox side head seal 53 within the gearbox side head 8B is shown in more detail. The gearbox side head seal 53 can include an inner seal 55 and an outer seal 56. The seals 55 and 56 can each include a lip seal portion 57 and a seal body 58. The lip seal portion 57 engages the peripheral portion 14 of the shaft 12. As shown, the shaft 12 can include an outer cylindrical sleeve 59. The outer cylindrical sleeve 59 can be made of a material more suitable for engaging the seal 53 and can be replaced when wear makes it necessary.

[0076] The seal bodies 58 of the seals 55 and 56 can be slidably fitted into a recess 60 formed in the housing 46 of the gearbox side head 8B to permit the seals to float axially within the housing, thereby allowing the lip seal portions 57 to better conform to the peripheral portion 14 of the shaft 12 in the case where the housing 46 and the shaft 12 are not perfectly concentric. An O-ring 62 can be positioned in the recess 60 to prevent leakage of the lubricant when the seals 55 and 56 float axially within the recess 60 of the housing 46. Now referring Figure 4 to, 5A, Figures 5C and 5D show the rotary distributor 27 in more detail. The rotary distributor 27 is used to allow lubricant 22 to enter and leave the shaft 12 when the shaft 12 rotates. The rotary distributor can have any configuration that enables the lubricant to pass through the rotating shaft 12 and enter and leave. For example, and as Figure 4 and 5A shown in -D, the rotary distributor 27 can include a body 64 that is fixed in position when the shaft 12 rotates. The body 64 can be rotatably fixed to the anchor 66 by a protrusion in the form of a pin 67 that extends radially outward from the body 64. The pin 67 can be cylindrical and allow the pin to move radially towards the anchor 66 to accommodate any runout that may occur in the shaft 12 when the shaft 12 rotates.

[0077] Now referring to Figure 4 and 5A , in order to allow the lubricant to flow to the gearbox side head 8B and the roller side head 9B respectively, the body 64 of the rotary distributor 27 can include a gearbox side lubricant inlet port 68 and a roller side lubricant inlet port 69. The gearbox side lubricant inlet port 68 is connected to the first input lubricant pipeline 34, and the roller side lubricant inlet port 69 is connected to the second input lubricant pipeline 36.

[0078] To receive the flow of used lubricant, the body 64 of the rotary distributor 27 can include an outlet port 70. The outlet port 70 is connected to the outlet lubricant pipeline 29.

[0079] Although the anchor 66 and the pin 67 prevent the body 64 of the rotary distributor 27 from rotating, it is also desirable to prevent the body 64 from moving axially along the shaft 12. As Figure 4 , 5B and 5D show, the rotary distributor 27 can also include axial movement limiting means in the form of a gearbox side shoulder ring 72 and a roller side shoulder ring 74. The rings 72 and 74 rotate with the shaft 12 and limit the axial movement of the body 64 of the rotary distributor 27.

[0080] As Figure 5B and 5D shown, in order to prevent excessive axial loads on the rotary distributor 27, one of the gearbox side shoulder ring 72 and the roller side shoulder ring 74 is axially fixed and the other is axially floating. As Figure 5B and 5D shown, the gearbox side shoulder ring 72 is floating and the roller side shoulder ring 74 is fixed. A locking ring 75 that is fixedly fastened to the shaft 12 is used to allow the floating of the gearbox side shoulder ring 72. The locking ring 75 allows a limited amount of axial floating towards the gearbox side shoulder ring 72. A gasket 75A can be positioned between the locking ring 75 and the gearbox side shoulder ring 72 to precisely set and / or adjust the axial floating.

[0081] To control the rotation of the shaft within the rotary distributor 27, it is desirable for the bearing support to support the rotary distributor 27 on the shaft. As Figure 5B and 5D shown, the bearing support can be provided by a sleeve bearing in the form of a bronze bushing 76. Note that other materials can also be used, including other metals, polymers, and composite materials or any other material for sleeve bearings.

[0082] The bushing 76 can be fixedly fastened to the body 64 of the rotary distributor 27 as shown. The bushing 76 can include a radially extending sidewall 77, and the sidewall 77 can provide a support surface for the shoulder rings 72 and 74. The bushing 76 can include a groove 78 for receiving a seal, such as an O-ring 80, to contain the lubricant 22.

[0083] The bushing 76 can be lubricated with the lubricant 22 from the first input lubricant line 34 or from the second input lubricant line 36. Alternatively, the bushing 76 can be lubricated with the lubricant 22 from a third input lubricant line (not shown). The body 64 of the rotary distributor 27 can define a body cavity 65 that houses the lubricant 22 for lubricating the bushing 76. The body cavity 65 is in fluid communication with the first input lubricant line 34 or the second input lubricant line 36 through a respective one of the gearbox side lubricant inlet port 68 and the roll side lubricant inlet port 69.

[0084] Now referring to Figure 5C , another embodiment of the present invention is shown as a shaft assembly 105. The shaft assembly 105 is similar to Figures 1-4 , 5A, 5B, and 5D of the shaft assembly 5, except that the shaft assembly 105 includes a bearing support for the rotary distributor 127 in the form of a rolling element bearing 176. As shown, the rolling element bearing 176 is in the form of a tapered bearing set including a gear side bearing 177 and a roll side bearing 179. The bearings 177 and 179 include an inner race 163 fixedly fastened to the shaft 112 and an outer race 165 fixedly fastened to the body 164 of the rotary distributor 127. The shaft 112 can include a sleeve 159 for reducing wear and improving the seal against the lip seal 155. An O-ring 180 can be used to limit the leakage of the lubricant 122.

[0085] Now referring to Figure 6 and 7 , the lubricant path is shown in more detail, including portions of the internal channels along the lubricant path formed in the shaft 12.

[0086] As Figure 6 and 7As shown, the gearbox side head lubricant path indicated by arrow 82 is used to convey fresh lubricant 22A from the first input lubricant line 34 to the gearbox side head 8B to cool and lubricate the gearbox side gear set 42 and return the used lubricant 22B to the outlet lubricant line 29. The path 82 begins at the first input lubricant line 34 and proceeds through the gearbox side lubricant inlet port 68 on the rotary distributor 27.

[0087] The path 82 continues from the port 68 through the rotary distributor lubricant passage 83 to the first radially extending hole 84 formed in the shaft 12. The path 82 extends axially through the first axially extending hole 85 formed in the shaft 12, which is parallel and spaced from the longitudinal opening in the shaft 12. The path extends from the first axially extending hole 85 to a cavity 51 formed in the housing 46 of the head 8B. When in the cavity 51, the path 82 extends to the gearbox side gear set 42, where the fresh lubricant 22A cools and lubricates the gear set 42.

[0088] The used lubricant 22B leaves the cavity 51 along the path 82 through the second axially extending hole 86 formed in the shaft 12, which is parallel and spaced from the longitudinal opening in the shaft 12. The path 82 extends radially through the second radially extending hole 87 formed in the shaft 12 from the second axially extending hole 86. The used lubricant 22B enters the rotary distributor 27 from the second radially extending hole 87 through the rotary distributor lubricant passage 83. The used lubricant 22B then leaves through the outlet port 70 along the path 82 and reaches the outlet lubricant line 29.

[0089] As Figure 6 and 7 shown, the roll side head lubricant path indicated by arrow 88 is used to convey fresh lubricant 22A from the second input lubricant line 36 to the roll side head 9B to cool and lubricate the roll side gear set 44 and return the used lubricant 22B to the outlet lubricant line 29. The path 88 begins at the second input lubricant line 36 and proceeds through the roll side lubricant inlet port 69 on the rotary distributor 27. The path 88 continues from the port 69 through the rotary distributor lubricant passage 83 to the third radially extending hole 89 formed in the shaft 12. The path 88 extends axially through the third axially extending hole 90 formed in the shaft 12, which is parallel and spaced from the longitudinal opening in the shaft 12.

[0090] Path 88 extends radially inward from the third axial extension hole 90 through a fourth radially extending hole 91 formed in the shaft 12 to a cavity 92 formed by the tube 35, the plug 93, and the longitudinal opening 16 in the shaft 12. Path 88 extends radially outward from the cavity 92 through a fifth radially extending hole 93A formed in the shaft 12. Path 88 extends axially from the fifth radially extending hole 93A through a fourth axial extension hole 95 formed in the shaft 12, which is parallel and spaced apart from the longitudinal opening in the shaft 12, and then path 88 extends radially outward to a sixth radially extending hole 96 formed in the shaft 12. Path 88 extends from the sixth radially extending hole 96 into a cavity 52 formed in the housing 49 of the head 9B. When in the cavity 52, path 88 extends to the roller side gear set 44, where fresh lubricant 22A cools and lubricates the gear set 44.

[0091] Used lubricant 22B exits the cavity 52 along path 88, passes through the longitudinal opening in the shaft 12 to a cavity 51 formed in the housing 46 of the head 8B. Path 88 extends from the cavity 51 into a second axial extension hole 86. Path 88 extends radially from the second axial extension hole 86 through a second radially extending hole 87 formed in the shaft 12. Used lubricant 22B enters the rotary distributor 27 from the second radially extending hole 87 via the rotary distributor lubricant passage 83.

[0092] Optionally and with reference to Figure 5D 、 6 and 7, used lubricant 22B can exit the cavity 51 along a longitudinal passage 39A formed in the tube 39 and through an axial opening 39B in the tube 39 and / or through a passage 37A between the tube 39 and the shaft 12. Used lubricant 22B can pass from the passage 37A through an axial opening 39C in the inner bushing 12A and through an axial opening 12B in the shaft, and thus enter the rotary distributor 27 via the rotary distributor lubricant passage 83.

[0093] Used lubricant 22B then exits along path 88 through the outlet port 70 to the outlet lubricant line 29.

[0094] With reference to Figure 8A -D, 9, and 10, another embodiment of the present invention is shown as a shaft assembly 205. The shaft assembly 205 is similar to Figures 1-7 the shaft assembly 5, except that the shaft assembly 205 uses a first sleeve or hollow liner 210 within the longitudinal opening 216 of the shaft 212 as part of a lubricant path 225. Compared with the shaft assembly 5, the shaft assembly 205 reduces the number of long internal channels required for the shaft assembly. Additionally, if the portion of the lubricant path 225 formed by the first sleeve is placed in a helical manner, the helical positioning can act as a pump to assist the flow of lubricant in the path as the shaft rotates.

[0095] With reference toFigure 9 , the shaft assembly 205 is similar to Figures 1-7 the shaft assembly 5 of Figures 1-7 The shaft assembly 205 includes a shaft 212 similar to the shaft 12 of Figures 1-7 except that the shaft 212 does not have some of the internal channels for the axial extension of the shaft 12. The shaft 212 is supported by the gearbox-side head 208B at its first end 218 and by the roll-side head 209B at its second end 220. The heads 208B and 209B are similar to

[0096] the heads 8B and 9B of the shaft assembly 5 of Figures 1-7 The shaft assembly 205 includes a rotary distributor 227 connected to the shaft 212 on the circumferential portion 214 of the shaft 212. The rotary distributor 227 is similar to Figures 1-7 the distributor 27 of

[0097] Now referring to Figure 8A , the first sleeve 210 includes an external groove 211 that extends both radially and axially. It should be understood that the groove 211 can extend only axially. By extending both radially and axially, the first sleeve 210 can be more robust, and the combined radially and axially extending groove 211 can be used as a pump to assist the flow of lubricant in the path when the shaft 212 rotates. As shown, the groove 211 can be helical or helically formed. As shown, the groove can include a helical gearbox-side groove 211A and a helical roll-side groove 211B. As shown, the grooves 211A and 211B have the same orientation. It should be understood that the grooves can have an opposing orientation to assist the movement of the lubricant 222 in the grooves 211A and 211B.

[0098] As Figure 8D and 9As shown, the first sleeve 210 may include a roller-side inlet cylindrical circumferential groove 243 and a gearbox-side inlet cylindrical circumferential groove 241 formed in the outer peripheral portion of the first sleeve 210. The gearbox-side inlet cylindrical circumferential groove 241 provides a lubricant passage between the gearbox-side helical groove 211A and the gearbox-side head lubricant line 234. Similarly, the roller-side inlet cylindrical circumferential groove 243 provides a lubricant passage between the roller-side helical groove 211B and the roller-side head lubricant line 236. The first sleeve 210 may further include a sleeve radial cross-hole 213 passing through the first sleeve 210. The sleeve radial cross-hole 213 provides a lubricant passage between the longitudinal opening 216 of the shaft 212 and the outlet lubricant line 229.

[0099] Referring to Figure 8B , the shaft 212 may include a first radially extending hole 284 for bringing fresh lubricant 222A to the gearbox-side head 208B. The shaft 212 may further include a second radially extending hole 286 for bringing fresh lubricant 222A to the roller-side head 209B. The shaft 212 may further include a third radially extending hole 287 for allowing the used lubricant 222B from the longitudinal opening 216 of the shaft 212 to pass through. The first radially extending hole 284 may be in the form of a first gearbox-side passage 284 for allowing fresh lubricant 222A to come from the longitudinal opening 216 of the shaft 212 into the gearbox-side head cavity 251 in the gearbox head 208B. Although a separate gearbox-side passage may be sufficient, as Figure 8B shown, the shaft 212 includes a second gearbox-side passage 290 positioned opposite to the first gearbox-side passage 284.

[0100] The second radially extending hole 286 may be in the form of a first roller-side passage 286 for allowing fresh lubricant 222A to come from the longitudinal opening 216 of the shaft 212 into the roller-side head cavity 252 in the roller-side head 209B. Although a separate roller-side passage may be sufficient, as Figure 8B shown, the shaft 212 includes a second side roller-side passage 295 positioned opposite to the first side roller-side passage 286. The passages 284, 286, 290, and 295 may be radial or perpendicular to the shaft centerline 7, or axially outwardly inclined as shown to reduce the length of the second sleeve 210A.

[0101] The shaft 212 may further include a distribution gearbox-side radial through-hole 287A for allowing fresh lubricant 222A to come from the rotary distributor 227 to the first sleeve 210 and a distribution roller-side radial through-hole 287B for allowing fresh lubricant 222A to come from the rotary distributor 227 to the first sleeve 210.

[0102] Referring to Figure 8C, more particularly showing the second sleeve 210A. The second sleeve 210A includes a body 215 and an adapter 217. It should be understood that the present invention may be implemented in the case where the first sleeve 210 and the second sleeve 210A are integrally formed with each other. Using separate first sleeve 210 and second sleeve 210A can facilitate manufacturing and assembly. Although the second sleeve 210A may have spiral grooves similar to those of the first sleeve 210, the second sleeve 210A may (as Figure 9 shown) have an outer peripheral portion 219 that is at least partially spaced apart from the shaft 212 to provide a lubricant passage between the shaft and the outer peripheral portion 219 of the second sleeve 210A. It should be understood that the first sleeve 210 may similarly use the space between its outer peripheral portion 210A and the shaft 212 as a lubricant passage.

[0103] Now referring to Figure 9 and 10 , the lubricant paths 225 are shown by arrows 225A, 225B, 225C, and 225D for the gearbox side fresh lubricant path 225A, the gearbox side used lubricant path 225B, the roll side fresh lubricant path 225C, and the roll side used lubricant path 225D, respectively. As Figure 9 and Figure 10 shown, the fresh lubricant 222A flows from a lubricant renewal device 231 similar to Figures 1-7 a device 31. The fresh lubricant 222A from the device 231 is preferably separated so that the flow to both the gearbox side head 208B and the roll side head 209B can be ensured. The fresh lubricant 222A leaving the device 231 enters the gearbox side head lubricant line 234 and enters the roll side head lubricant line 236. The gearbox side head lubricant line 234 may include a gearbox side head lubricant dosage meter or measuring device 238, and the roll side head lubricant line 236 may include a roll side head lubricant dosage meter or measuring device 240. The gauges 238 and 240 may be connected to a monitoring system (not shown) to monitor whether the lubricant is flowing (using a flow measuring device) or has an appropriate pressure (using a pressure gauge).

[0104] Referring again to Figure 10 , the flow of the fresh lubricant 222A along the gearbox side fresh lubricant path is shown by the arrow 225A. The fresh lubricant 222A moves from the lubricant renewal device 231 to the gearbox side head lubricant line 234. The fresh lubricant 222A moves from the gearbox side head lubricant line 234 through the gearbox side inlet port 268 on the rotary distributor 227 to the internal channel 283 formed in the rotary distributor 227. The fresh lubricant 222A moves from the internal channel 283 in the rotary distributor 227 through the distribution gearbox side radial through-hole in the shaft 212 to the gearbox side inlet cylindrical circumferential groove 241.

[0105] Fresh lubricant 222A moves from the gearbox-side inlet cylindrical circumferential groove 241 through the gearbox-side helical groove 211A to the gearbox-side outlet cylindrical circumferential groove 298 formed in the first sleeve 210. Fresh lubricant 222A moves from the gearbox-side outlet cylindrical circumferential groove 298 through the gearbox-side passages 284 and 290 to the gearbox-side head cavity 251. The fresh lubricant in cavity 251 cools, cleans, and lubricates the gearbox-side gear set 242.

[0106] Refer again to Figure 10 , the flow of the used lubricant 222B along the gearbox-side used lubricant path is shown by arrow 225B. The used lubricant 222B moves through the plug passage 298A formed in the gearbox-side plug 299A to the longitudinal opening 216 inside the first sleeve 210. It should be understood that the plug 299A can be integrally formed with the gear-side head housing 246.

[0107] The used lubricant 222B moves from the longitudinal opening 216 through the sleeve radial cross-hole 213 to the outlet cylindrical circumferential groove 241A formed in the first sleeve 210. The used lubricant 222B moves from the outlet cylindrical circumferential groove 241A through the third radially extending hole 287 in the shaft 212 to the internal passage 283 formed in the rotary distributor 227. It should be understood that the outlet cylindrical circumferential groove 241A can be eliminated if the sleeve radial cross-hole 213 is aligned with the third radially extending hole 287 in the shaft 212. The used lubricant 222B moves from the internal passage 283 through the outlet port 270 to the outlet lubricant line 229. The used lubricant 222B returns from the outlet lubricant line 229 to the lubricant renewal device to complete its journey.

[0108] Refer again to Figure 10 , the flow of the fresh lubricant 222A along the roll-side fresh lubricant path is shown by arrow 225C. The fresh lubricant 222A moves from the lubricant renewal device 231 to the roll-side head lubricant line 236. The fresh lubricant 222A moves from the gearbox-side head lubricant line 236 through the roll-side inlet port 269 on the rotary distributor 227 to the internal passage 283 formed in the rotary distributor 227. The fresh lubricant 222A moves from the internal passage 283 in the rotary distributor 227 through the distributor roll-side radial through-hole 287B in the shaft 212 to the roll-side inlet cylindrical circumferential groove 243.

[0109] Fresh lubricant 222A moves from the roll-side inlet cylindrical circumferential groove 243 through the roll-side helical groove 211B to the roll-side outlet cylindrical circumferential groove 298 formed in the first sleeve 210. Fresh lubricant 222A moves from the roll-side outlet cylindrical circumferential groove 298 through the second sleeve passage 297A formed in the second sleeve 210A.

[0110] Fresh lubricant 222A moves from the second sleeve passage 297A through the cylindrical passage 295A formed between the second sleeve 210A and the shaft 212 to the roll-side passages 286 and 295. It should be understood that a helical groove may be used instead of the cylindrical passage 295A and the passage 297A formed in the second sleeve 210A.

[0111] Fresh lubricant 222A moves through and reaches the roll-side head cavity 252 from the roll-side passages 286 and 295. The fresh lubricant in the cavity 252 cools, cleans, and lubricates the roll-side gear set 244.

[0112] Referring again to Figure 10 , the flow of the used lubricant 222B along the roll-side used lubricant path is shown by the arrow 225D. The used lubricant 222B moves through the plug passage 298B formed in the roll-side plug 299B to the longitudinal opening 216 inside the first sleeve 210. It should be understood that the plug 299B may be integrally formed with the roll-side head housing 249.

[0113] The used lubricant 222B moves from the longitudinal opening 216 through the sleeve radial cross-hole 213 to the outlet cylindrical circumferential groove 241A formed in the first sleeve 210. The used lubricant 222B moves from the outlet cylindrical circumferential groove 241A through the third radially extending hole 287 in the shaft 212 to the internal channel 283 formed in the rotary distributor 227. The used lubricant 222B moves from the internal channel 283 through the outlet port 270 to the outlet lubricant pipeline 229. The used lubricant 222B returns from the outlet lubricant pipeline 229 to the lubricant renewal device to complete its journey.

[0114] Now referring to Figure 11 , according to another embodiment of the present invention, a method 300 for lubricating a drive shaft in a rolling mill is provided. The method 300 includes the step 302 of providing a drive shaft and the step 304 of providing a rotary distributor, the drive shaft having a central opening extending to opposite ends of the shaft and an internal channel extending inwardly from the outer peripheral portion of the shaft. The method 300 further includes the step 306 of assembling the distributor on the outer peripheral portion of the shaft and the step 308 of inputting lubricant into the rotary distributor. The method 300 further includes the step 310 of transferring the lubricant from the distributor to the internal channel of the shaft and the step 312 of advancing the lubricant from the internal channel of the shaft to opposite ends of the shaft.

[0115] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a method 300 can be provided, which further includes the step of inserting a sleeve into a central opening of a shaft.

[0116] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a method 300 can be provided, which further includes the step of providing a passage between the sleeve and the body, and the step of advancing lubricant from an internal passage of the shaft to opposite ends of the shaft includes advancing the lubricant along the passage between the sleeve and the body.

[0117] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a method 300 can be provided such that the step of providing a passage between the sleeve and the body includes providing a helical passage between the sleeve and the body.

[0118] The methods, systems, and devices described herein facilitate effective and economical cooling and lubrication of a main shaft. Exemplary embodiments of the methods, systems, and devices are described and / or illustrated in detail herein. The methods, systems, and devices are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather the components of each device and system and the steps of each method can be used independently and separately from the other components and steps described herein. Each component and each method step can also be used in combination with other components and / or method steps.

[0119] When introducing elements / components, etc. of the methods and devices described and / or illustrated herein, the words "a", "an", "the", and "said" are intended to mean that there is one or more of the said elements / components, etc. The terms "comprising", "including", and "having" mean including and imply that there may be additional elements / components, etc. in addition to the listed elements / components, etc.

[0120] This written description uses examples, including the best mode, to disclose the present invention and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the present invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any incorporated method. The patentable scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. If such other examples do not have structural elements different from those described in the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not materially different from the literal language of the claims, then such other examples are considered to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0121] This document describes exemplary methods, systems, and devices for utilizing different coolant inflows and outflows to a spindle, which reduce or eliminate excessive maintenance costs and downtime caused by inefficient and expensive spindle lubrication methods. Additionally, the exemplary methods, systems, and devices achieve increased reliability while reducing investment and maintenance costs. The methods, systems, and devices described herein can be used in any suitable application. However, they are particularly suitable for high-temperature spindle applications, such as rolling mills.

[0122] Exemplary embodiments of spindle devices and systems have been described in detail above. The spindle and associated systems and methods are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather the components of the system can be used independently and separately from other components described herein. For example, the components can also be used in combination with other motor systems, methods, and devices and are not limited to being implemented only using the systems and devices described herein. Instead, the exemplary embodiments can be implemented and utilized in conjunction with many other applications.

[0123] While specific features of various embodiments of the disclosure may be shown in some figures and not in others, this is for convenience only. In accordance with the principles of the disclosure, any feature of a figure can be discussed and / or claimed in combination with any feature of any other figure.

[0124] This written description uses examples, including the best mode, to disclose the invention and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any incorporated method. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that differ from the literal language of the claims by insubstantial differences.

Claims

1. A drive shaft assembly for a rolling stand used in a metal rolling mill, the shaft assembly for conveying lubricant through the drive shaft assembly, the drive shaft assembly comprising: a shaft including an outer peripheral portion and an inner peripheral portion defining a longitudinally extending opening centered and extending from a first end of the shaft to an opposite second end and defining a plurality of internal channels therein; the centered longitudinally extending opening facilitating the transfer of fluid between the first end and the opposite second end; a sleeve including an outer peripheral portion, the outer peripheral portion of the sleeve being fitted to the inner peripheral portion of the shaft; the sleeve being hollow, wherein the space between the inner peripheral portion of the shaft and the outer peripheral portion of the sleeve further defines the plurality of internal channels; a rotary distributor mounted on the outer peripheral portion of the shaft and adapted to provide a conduit for lubricant through the plurality of internal channels in the shaft; a first shoulder ring coupled around the shaft on a first side of the rotary distributor; and a second shoulder ring coupled around the shaft on an opposite second side of the rotary distributor, wherein the first shoulder ring and the second shoulder ring limit the axial movement of the rotary distributor.

2. The drive shaft assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The rotary distributor includes first and second input ports for inputting lubricant into the rotary distributor and an output port for outputting lubricant from the rotary distributor.

3. The drive shaft assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The rotary distributor includes first and second seals axially spaced from each other and adapted to seal the rotary distributor to the outer peripheral portion of the shaft.

4. The drive shaft assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The seals are lip seals.

5. The drive shaft assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of internal channels include a plurality of radially extending channels and a plurality of axially extending channels.

6. The drive shaft assembly according to claim 1, wherein The plurality of internal channels includes at least one channel extending both radially and axially.

7. The drive shaft assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The channels between the inner peripheral portion of the shaft and the outer peripheral portion of the sleeve are axially extending channels.

8. The drive shaft assembly according to claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the channels between the inner peripheral portion of the shaft and the outer peripheral portion of the sleeve are helical channels.

9. The drive shaft assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The outer peripheral portion of the sleeve includes an external groove defining a channel.

10. A method for lubricating the drive shaft assembly according to claim 1 in a rolling mill, the method comprising: inputting lubricant into the rotary distributor; transferring lubricant from the rotary distributor to the plurality of internal channels of the shaft; and advancing lubricant from the plurality of internal channels of the shaft to the first and second ends of the shaft.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, Advancing lubricant from the plurality of internal channels of the shaft to the first and second ends of the shaft includes advancing lubricant along the channels between the sleeve and the shaft.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, At least a portion of the channels between the inner peripheral portion of the shaft and the outer peripheral portion of the sleeve are helical channels through which the lubricant is conveyed.

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