Graphite electrode cooling system and graphitization furnace

Abstract

The utility model provides a graphite electrode cooling system and a graphitization furnace, the graphite electrode cooling system comprises a liquid inlet pipeline and a liquid return pipeline, an inner cavity of a graphite electrode is communicated with at least one outlet of the liquid inlet pipeline and at least one inlet of the liquid return pipeline; the graphite electrode cooling system further comprises a pipeline branch led out of the liquid return pipeline, one end of the pipeline branch is communicated with the liquid return pipeline, the other end of the pipeline branch is communicated with the atmosphere to form a drainage port, and a pipeline on-off control mechanism is installed on the pipeline branch. An exhaust device is arranged on the liquid return pipeline and / or the pipeline branch; the opening of the inner cavity of the graphite electrode is provided with a sealing structure; the graphite electrode cooling system further comprises an elastic structure arranged on the side, away from the inner cavity, of the sealing structure and a limiting structure for limiting the elastic structure on the side, away from the sealing structure, of the elastic structure. The elastic structure abuts against the sealing structure so as to seal the inner cavity of the graphite electrode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model belongs to the technical field of graphitization furnaces, and in particular relates to a graphite electrode cooling system. Background Art

[0002] Graphitization furnaces are mainly used for high-temperature processing such as sintering and graphitizing carbon materials, graphitizing PI films, graphitizing thermal conductive materials, sintering carbon fiber ropes, sintering and graphitizing carbon fiber filaments, purifying graphite powder, and other materials that can be graphitized in a carbon environment. The furnace core, consisting of the raw materials to be graphitized and graphite carbon plates, acts as a heating element. When current passes through the furnace core, Joule heat is generated, gradually heating the entire furnace core to above 3000°C, achieving the purpose of graphitizing the raw materials.

[0003] Since the graphitization furnace introduces direct current into the furnace through graphite electrodes, the graphite electrodes themselves generate a significant amount of Joule heat. Furthermore, heat from the 3000°C high-temperature materials within the furnace is continuously transferred to the graphite electrodes. Consequently, since portions of the electrodes are exposed to the air, if efficient and reliable cooling is not implemented to remove this heat promptly, oxidation and burnout of the electrodes can occur, shortening their service life and increasing production costs. Furthermore, if the graphitization furnace is powered on and a water supply is suddenly cut off, or if a power outage or other factors prevent water from flowing through the graphite electrodes, the graphite electrodes cannot be effectively cooled. The temperature of the inner wall of the internal cavity can quickly exceed 300°C, causing the water within the cavity to rapidly vaporize and generate a large amount of high-temperature steam. If this steam is not promptly discharged, excessive pressure can build up inside the electrodes, causing the graphite electrodes or pipes to rupture, leading to more serious consequences such as explosions in the graphitization furnace.

[0004] In order to ensure the cooling effect of graphite electrodes, a certain pressure and flow rate must be maintained. During actual use, the water supply pressure will fluctuate. When the water pressure is too high, the electrodes will be eroded, affecting the electrode life; when the water pressure is too low, the cooling capacity is insufficient, causing the electrode temperature to rise, the electrode to oxidize and burn, and the service life of the electrode to be reduced, which also affects the service life of the electrode.

[0005] Currently, graphite electrodes are cooled using either internal or external cooling. External cooling involves cooling the outer wall of the electrode. However, this method requires space on the outer wall, affecting the connection between the power transmission device and the electrode, thus affecting the electrode's power supply and making it unsuitable for cooling while the electrode is powered. Internal cooling involves introducing a cooling liquid into the inner cavity of the electrode to cool the electrode. However, existing cooling devices that use internal cooling can easily cause excessive pressure in the pipeline when the air in the pipeline expands due to heat, posing a safety hazard. Furthermore, because graphite electrode cooling devices operate in an electromagnetic and high-temperature environment, commonly used electronic pressure relief devices are prone to failure. Utility Model Content

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a graphite electrode cooling system to address the problems in the prior art of excessive pressure inside the pipeline of the cooling device using internal cooling, which poses a safety hazard, and the electromagnetic and high temperature environment which makes the commonly used electronic pressure relief device prone to failure.

[0007] To solve the above technical problems, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is: a graphite electrode cooling system, the graphite electrode cooling system includes a liquid inlet pipe and a liquid return pipe, the graphite electrode has an inner cavity for accommodating cooling liquid, the inner cavity is connected to at least one outlet of the liquid inlet pipe and at least one inlet of the liquid return pipe;

[0008] The graphite electrode cooling system further includes a pipe branch extending from the liquid return pipe, one end of the pipe branch being connected to the liquid return pipe, and the other end of the pipe branch being connected to the atmosphere to form a drain port, and a pipe on / off control mechanism being installed on the pipe branch; an exhaust device being provided on the liquid return pipe and / or the pipe branch;

[0009] The graphite electrode cooling system further comprises a sealing structure provided at the inner cavity opening, an elastic structure provided at a side of the sealing structure away from the inner cavity, and a limiting structure for limiting the elastic structure at a side of the elastic structure away from the sealing structure;

[0010] The elastic structure abuts against the sealing structure, thereby sealing the inner cavity of the graphite electrode.

[0011] Through the above-mentioned arrangement, the liquid inlet pipe delivers the coolant into the electrode cavity to cool the electrode, and then uses the return liquid pipe to guide the coolant out of the electrode cavity, thereby using the coolant to cool the electrode. By setting a pipeline on-off control mechanism in the pipeline branch connected to the atmosphere, when the pressure in the pipeline is too high, the pipeline on-off control mechanism can be opened, so that the return liquid pipeline is connected to the outside atmosphere, thereby releasing the pressure. By setting an exhaust device, the gas in the pipeline can also be discharged to avoid excessive gas increasing the pressure in the pipeline. In addition, by setting a sealing structure, an elastic structure, and a limiting structure, the elastic structure can be used to abut the sealing structure to seal the inner cavity of the graphite electrode. When the pressure in the inner cavity is too high (for example, when the pipeline on-off control mechanism fails), the sealing structure can be pushed outward to compress the elastic structure, thereby releasing the pressure in the inner cavity.

[0012] In the above technical solution, the graphite electrode cooling system also includes a connecting rod extending in the axial direction of the graphite electrode, one end of the connecting rod is connected to the graphite electrode, and the other end of the connecting rod extends outward after passing through the sealing structure, and the connecting rod and the sealing structure are loosely matched; the limiting structure is installed on the part of the connecting rod extending outward, and the elastic structure is sleeved on the connecting rod and clamped between the sealing structure and the limiting structure.

[0013] With this arrangement, the graphite electrode is connected to the connecting rod, which limits the position of the connecting rod. This allows the sealing structure to move toward the limiting structure along the connecting rod's extension direction (i.e., the graphite electrode's axial direction) when excessive pressure in the electrode cavity pushes it open. When the pressure is released, the sealing structure can also return to its original position along the connecting rod's extension direction, avoiding the problem of the sealing structure being difficult to return to its original position after being pushed open.

[0014] In the above technical solution, the outer wall of the graphite electrode is provided with a limiting groove for accommodating the connecting rod so as to limit the movement of the connecting rod in the axial direction of the graphite electrode.

[0015] Through the above arrangement, the connecting rod can be limited by the limiting groove, thereby realizing a detachable connection between the graphite electrode and the connecting rod, making installation and disassembly more convenient.

[0016] In the above technical solution, the limiting groove is a T-shaped groove, and the connecting rod is a T-shaped rod;

[0017] The portion of the connecting rod extending outward has an external thread, and the limiting structure is a nut matched with the external thread.

[0018] Through the above arrangement, the T-slot can limit the position of the T-rod, and the nut can conveniently limit the position of the elastic structure.

[0019] In the above technical solution, the graphite electrode is provided with at least two connecting rods extending in the axial direction of the graphite electrode, and different connecting rods are respectively connected to different side walls of the graphite electrode; the limiting structure corresponding to the connecting rod is installed on the outward-extending part of the corresponding connecting rod, and the elastic structure corresponding to the connecting rod is sleeved on the corresponding connecting rod and clamped between the sealing structure and the corresponding limiting structure.

[0020] Through the above arrangement, different connecting rods are respectively connected to different side walls of the graphite electrode, so that when the inner cavity pressure is large, multiple connecting rods jointly limit the movement direction of the sealing structure, making the movement of the sealing structure more stable and facilitating the return of the sealing structure after the inner cavity pressure is released.

[0021] In the above technical solution, the sealing structure includes a sealing member adapted to the shape of the inner cavity opening and an abutting member arranged on the outside of the sealing member;

[0022] The liquid inlet pipe and the liquid return pipe both pass through the sealing member and extend into the inner cavity;

[0023] One end of the liquid inlet pipe located in the inner cavity is one of the outlets of the liquid inlet pipe;

[0024] One end of the liquid return pipe located in the inner cavity is one of the inlets of the liquid return pipe;

[0025] The extending direction of the abutment is perpendicular to the axial direction of the graphite electrode. The portion of the connecting rod extending outward is the portion of the connecting rod extending outward after passing through the abutment. The connecting rod and the abutment are in clearance fit.

[0026] The elastic structure is clamped between the abutment member and the limiting structure;

[0027] The elastic structure abuts the sealing member against the inner cavity opening through the abutment member;

[0028] The abutting member and the sealing member are independently arranged, or are an integral structure, or are fixedly connected to each other.

[0029] With the above arrangement: when the abutment member and the sealing member are independently provided, the elastic structure utilizes its own elastic force to apply pressure to the abutment member, thereby causing the abutment member to abut the sealing member, thereby sealing the electrode cavity. When the abutment member and the sealing member are an integral structure or fixedly connected to each other, the elastic structure utilizes its own elastic force to apply pressure to the abutment member, thereby also abutting the sealing member, thereby sealing the electrode cavity. The extension direction of the abutment member is perpendicular to the axial direction of the graphite electrode, that is, the abutment member is parallel to the surface of the sealing member, thereby facilitating the abutment member to abut the sealing member.

[0030] In the above technical solution, the liquid inlet pipeline includes a first hard pipe section, a first soft pipe section, and a second hard pipe section;

[0031] The liquid return pipeline includes a third hard pipe section, a second soft pipe section, and a fourth hard pipe section;

[0032] The first hard pipe section extending outward from the graphite electrode after passing through the sealing structure is connected to the second hard pipe section through the first soft pipe section;

[0033] The third hard tube section extending outward from the graphite electrode after passing through the sealing structure is connected to the fourth hard tube section through the second soft tube section;

[0034] The first hard pipe section and the third hard pipe section are both fixedly connected to the sealing structure.

[0035] During research, the applicant discovered that when the pressure in the electrode cavity is too high, causing the sealing structure to be pushed open, the pipe used for the flow of coolant may bend, making the pipe easily damaged. Through the above arrangement, the first hard pipe section and the third hard pipe section passing through the sealing structure serve as components of the liquid inlet pipe and the liquid return pipe, respectively, thereby avoiding the problem that the solution of using a hose to pass through the sealing structure may make processing inconvenient. The hard material of the second hard pipe section and the fourth hard pipe section can make the pipeline more stable. In addition, a first hose section is set between the first hard pipe section and the second hard pipe section, and a second hose section is set between the third hard pipe section and the fourth hard pipe section, so that when the sealing structure is pushed open, the hose section can be bent to a certain extent, and the hose section is not easily damaged by the bending force, thereby avoiding the problem of damage to the hard pipe section caused by applying bending force to the hard pipe section.

[0036] In the above technical solution, the pipeline on-off control mechanism is a valve, and a pressure sensor for detecting pipeline pressure is provided in the return liquid pipeline and / or the pipeline branch. The output of the pressure sensor is electrically connected to the input of the controller, and the output of the controller is electrically connected to the control terminal of the valve. Alternatively, the pipeline on-off control mechanism is a pressure switch.

[0037] With this setup, when a valve is used, the pressure sensor detects excessive pressure in the pipeline and opens the valve to release the pressure. When a pressure switch is used, the pressure switch automatically opens when the pressure in the pipeline is excessive, allowing the pipeline to connect to the outside atmosphere and releasing the pressure. The pipeline on-off control mechanism opens to drain the fluid when the hydraulic pressure in the pipeline is excessive, and to vent the air when the air pressure in the pipeline is excessive.

[0038] In the above technical solution, a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the liquid in the pipe is provided in the liquid return pipe and / or the pipe branch, the temperature sensor is electrically connected to the controller input end, and the controller output end is electrically connected to the pressure reducing valve control end and / or the pump control end for supplying the coolant;

[0039] The pump outlet and the pump inlet are electrically connected to the liquid inlet pipe inlet and the liquid return pipe outlet respectively, and the pressure reducing valve is connected between the pump outlet and the liquid inlet pipe inlet.

[0040] With the above settings, when the liquid temperature is too high, it indicates that the cooling effect is insufficient. The controller can be used to control the pressure reducing valve and / or pump to increase the flow rate and improve the cooling effect.

[0041] According to the same inventive concept, the present invention also provides a graphitization furnace, comprising a graphitization furnace body, a graphite electrode installed in the graphitization furnace body, and the above-mentioned graphite electrode cooling system.

[0042] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0043] 1) The utility model adopts a structural form in which a sealing structure is provided at the opening of the electrode cavity, which has the advantages of low processing and manufacturing cost, fewer leakage risk points, convenient maintenance and replacement, simple and quick installation, low requirements for electrode processing accuracy, and high reliability and safety;

[0044] 2) The utility model has strong applicability and versatility: Since the utility model adopts a compact structure, and a sealing structure is provided on the outside of the electrode, and an elastic structure is used on the outside of the electrode to achieve sealing of the electrode cavity opening, it is not only applicable to electrodes of different shapes and sizes; it is also applicable to different graphitization furnace electrode layout structures and spatial dimensions, and is also applicable to working conditions with different cooling water pressures;

[0045] 3) Simple structure, easy installation and maintenance: Since the sealing structure of the utility model is installed on the outside of the electrode, the convenience of equipment installation and disassembly is enhanced, ensuring the stable implementation of the production plan.

[0046] 4) High degree of automation and reliability: The system incorporates return liquid temperature and pressure detection sensors, as well as a pipeline on-off control mechanism. When the return liquid temperature is high, the controller can control the pressure reducing valve and / or pump, for example, adjusting the outlet pressure or increasing the pump operating frequency to increase the amount of electrode cooling water. When the pipeline pressure is high, the controller can control the pipeline on-off control mechanism to relieve the pressure. Furthermore, the use of an elastic structure achieves mechanical pressure relief, further improving equipment reliability.

[0047] 5) High safety and good cooling effect: The utility model is equipped with an exhaust device. When there is high-temperature steam, air or other gases in the pipeline, they can be discharged in time to avoid water hammer, prevent water from filling the pipeline and electrode cooling cavity, and avoid the problem of electrode oxidation or burning due to inadequate electrode cooling. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative work.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the new graphitization furnace electrode automatic adjustment cooling system and the graphitization furnace of Example 1 of the present utility model;

[0050] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A magnified schematic diagram of the M structure;

[0051] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the middle water sealing device;

[0052] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A magnified schematic diagram of the structure in middle I;

[0053] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the middle connecting rod;

[0054] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the middle abutment member;

[0055] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the graphite electrode;

[0056] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the middle seal and the structure connected to the seal;

[0057] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the temperature sensor, pressure sensor, pump, pressure reducing valve and controller in Example 1 of the present utility model;

[0058] Figure 10 It is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the water sealing device in Example 2 of the present utility model.

[0059] In the above drawings: 1, liquid inlet pipe; 11, horizontal liquid inlet branch; 12, vertical liquid inlet branch; 13, liquid inlet pipeline; 2, liquid return pipe; 21, horizontal liquid return branch; 22, vertical liquid return branch; 23, first liquid return pipeline; 24, second liquid return pipeline; 3, pipeline branch; 31, horizontal extension; 32, vertical extension; 4, temperature sensor; 5, pressure sensor; 6, exhaust device; 7, pipeline on / off control mechanism; 8, graphite electrode; 801, limit Groove; 802, step structure; 803, inner cavity; 9, water sealing device; 10, graphitization furnace body; 91, connecting rod; 911, square steel; 912, round steel; 913, external thread; 92, abutment; 93, sealing; 931, liquid return steel pipe; 932, cylindrical connecting part; 933, liquid inlet steel pipe; 94, sealing gasket; 95, elastic gasket; 96, limiting structure; 97, elastic structure; 100, controller; 200, pump; 300, pressure reducing valve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] The following will be combined with the drawings of this application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0061] Example 1

[0062] like Figures 1-9 As shown, this embodiment 1 provides a graphite electrode cooling system, which includes a liquid inlet pipe 1 and a liquid return pipe 2. The graphite electrode 8 has an inner cavity 803 for accommodating cooling liquid, and the inner cavity 803 is connected to at least one outlet of the liquid inlet pipe 1 and at least one inlet of the liquid return pipe 2.

[0063] The graphite electrode cooling system also includes a branch pipe 3 extending from the liquid return pipe 2. One end 3A of the branch pipe is connected to the liquid return pipe 2, and the other end 3B of the branch pipe is connected to the atmosphere, forming a drain port. A pipe on-off control mechanism 7 is installed on the branch pipe 3. An exhaust device 6 is also provided on the liquid return pipe 2 and / or the branch pipe 3. The pipe on-off control mechanism 7 is used to open or close the branch pipe 3 when the pressure in the pipe exceeds or does not exceed a first pressure threshold.

[0064] like Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 As shown, the graphite electrode cooling system further includes a sealing structure disposed at the opening of the inner cavity 803, an elastic structure 97 disposed on the side of the sealing structure away from the inner cavity 803, and a limiting structure 96 for limiting the position of the elastic structure 97 on the side of the elastic structure 97 away from the sealing structure. The elastic structure 97 can be a spring, preferably a compression spring. The elastic structure 97 abuts the sealing structure, thereby sealing the inner cavity 803 of the graphite electrode 8. The elastic force exerted by the elastic structure 97 on the sealing structure is greater than a first pressure threshold.

[0065] like Figure 3 As shown, the graphite electrode cooling system also includes a connecting rod 91 extending in the axial direction of the graphite electrode 8, one end of the connecting rod 91 is connected to the graphite electrode 8, and the other end of the connecting rod 91 extends outward after passing through the sealing structure, and the connecting rod 91 is loosely matched with the sealing structure; the limiting structure 96 is installed on the part of the connecting rod 91 extending outward, and the elastic structure 97 is sleeved on the connecting rod 91 and clamped between the sealing structure and the limiting structure 96.

[0066] like Figure 7As shown, the outer wall of the graphite electrode 8 is provided with a limiting groove 801 for accommodating the connecting rod 91 so as to limit the movement of the connecting rod 91 in the axial direction of the graphite electrode 8. The limiting groove 801 is a T-shaped groove, and the connecting rod 91 is a T-shaped rod;

[0067] like Figure 4 、 Figure 5 As shown, the portion of the connecting rod 91 extending outward has an external thread 913 , and the limiting structure 96 is a nut that cooperates with the external thread 913 .

[0068] like Figure 7 As shown, the graphite electrode 8 is provided with at least two connecting rods 91 extending in the axial direction of the graphite electrode 8. Different connecting rods 91 are respectively connected to different side walls of the graphite electrode 8. Each connecting rod 91 is provided with a limiting structure 96 and an elastic structure 97. The limiting structure 96 corresponding to the connecting rod 91 is installed on the outwardly extending portion of the corresponding connecting rod 91. The elastic structure 97 corresponding to the connecting rod 91 is sleeved on the corresponding connecting rod 91 and clamped between the sealing structure and the corresponding limiting structure 96.

[0069] The sealing structure includes a sealing member 93 adapted to the opening shape of the inner cavity 803 and an abutting member 92 installed on the outside of the sealing member 93 .

[0070] Both the inlet pipe 1 and the return pipe 2 pass through the seal 93 and extend into the inner cavity 803. The opening of the inner cavity 803 forms a stepped structure 802. A sealing gasket 94 is mounted inside the seal 93, and the seal 93 abuts against the stepped structure 802 via the sealing gasket 94. Elastic gaskets 95 are provided between the sealing structure and the elastic structure 97, and between the limiting structure 96 and the elastic structure 97. The pressure required to activate the seal is greater than the pressure threshold that allows the pipeline on-off control mechanism to open the pipeline. In other words, the seal will only activate under pressure when the pipeline on-off control mechanism fails.

[0071] Two mutually parallel cylindrical connecting members 932 are further installed on the outer side of the sealing member 93 , and the abutting member 92 abuts against the sealing member 93 via the cylindrical connecting members 932 .

[0072] One end of the liquid inlet pipe 1 located in the inner cavity 803 is one of the outlets of the liquid inlet pipe 1 .

[0073] One end of the liquid return pipe 2 located in the inner cavity 803 is one of the inlets of the liquid return pipe 2 .

[0074] The extension direction of the abutment 92 is perpendicular to the axial direction of the graphite electrode 8 . The portion of the connecting rod 91 that extends outward is the portion that extends outward after the connecting rod 91 passes through the abutment 92 . The connecting rod 91 and the abutment 92 are in clearance fit.

[0075] The elastic structure 97 is clamped between the abutment member 92 and the limiting structure 96;

[0076] The elastic structure 97 abuts the sealing member 93 against the opening of the inner cavity 803 via the abutting member 92 .

[0077] In this embodiment 1, the abutment member 92 and the sealing member 93 are provided independently of each other. The connecting rod 91 and the limiting structure 96 on the connecting rod are limited in the axial direction of the graphite electrode 8 by the limiting groove 801. The limiting structure 96 limits the end of the elastic structure 97 away from the graphite electrode 8, so that the elastic structure 97 in a compressed state can abut the abutment member 92.

[0078] The liquid inlet pipeline 1 includes a first hard pipe section, a first soft pipe section, and a second hard pipe section.

[0079] The liquid return pipe 2 includes a third hard pipe section, a second soft pipe section, and a fourth hard pipe section.

[0080] The first hard tube section extending outward from the graphite electrode 8 after passing through the sealing structure is connected to the second hard tube section through the first soft tube section. Both the first soft tube section and the second hard tube section are located outside the graphite electrode 8.

[0081] The third hard tube section extending outward from the graphite electrode 8 after passing through the sealing structure is connected to the fourth hard tube section via the second soft tube section. Both the second soft tube section and the fourth hard tube section are located outside the graphite electrode 8.

[0082] The first hard pipe section and the third hard pipe section are both fixedly connected to the sealing structure.

[0083] The pipeline on-off control mechanism is a valve (i.e., a pressure relief valve). A pressure sensor 5 for detecting pipeline pressure is provided in the return liquid pipeline 2 and / or the pipeline branch 3. The output end of the pressure sensor 5 is electrically connected to the input end of the controller 100, and the output end of the controller 100 is electrically connected to the valve control end; or the pipeline on-off control mechanism 7 is a pressure switch.

[0084] A temperature sensor 4 for detecting the temperature of the liquid in the return pipe 2 and / or the branch pipe 3 is provided. The temperature sensor 4 is electrically connected to the input of a controller 100. The output of the controller 100 is electrically connected to the control terminal of a pressure reducing valve 300 and / or the control terminal of a pump 200 for supplying coolant. The controller 100 may employ a PLC control system.

[0085] The pump 200 outlet and the pump 200 inlet are electrically connected to the inlet of the liquid inlet pipe 1 and the outlet of the liquid return pipe 2 respectively, and the pressure reducing valve 300 is connected between the pump 200 outlet and the inlet of the liquid inlet pipe 1. The pump 200 can be a water pump, and the coolant can be cooling water.

[0086] A graphitization furnace includes a graphitization furnace body 10, a graphite electrode 8 installed in the graphitization furnace body 10, and the above-mentioned graphite electrode cooling system.

[0087] like Figure 1 As shown, the present invention provides a novel graphite electrode cooling system. The system comprises a main device and an electronic control system. The main device includes a second liquid return line 24 located at the graphitization furnace head, a temperature sensor 4, a pressure sensor 5, an exhaust device 6, a pipeline on / off control mechanism 7, a liquid inlet line 1, a first liquid return line 23, a water sealing device 9, and the like. The electronic control system comprises a monitoring system and a PLC control system (i.e., a controller). The monitoring system includes a temperature sensor 4 and a pressure sensor 5.

[0088] The PLC control system can receive the measurement values ​​of the graphitization furnace electrode return liquid temperature and pressure from the monitoring system, thereby controlling the pump and pipeline on-off control mechanism 6, adjusting the cooling system flow, and the pressure of water and high-temperature steam in the pipeline, to achieve effective control of the graphitization furnace electrode temperature and water pressure, and timely discharge of high-temperature steam.

[0089] like Figure 1 、 Figure 2 As shown, the return liquid pipeline 2 of the furnace head includes a second return liquid pipeline 24, a first return liquid pipeline 23, a vertical return liquid branch 22 welded between the first return liquid pipeline 23 and the second return liquid pipeline 24, and a horizontal return liquid branch 21 welded on the vertical return liquid branch 22 and connected to the return liquid steel pipe 931 of the sealing water device 9.

[0090] A temperature sensor 4 and a pressure sensor 5 are installed on the second liquid return line 24 to monitor the return liquid temperature and pressure in real time and transmit the detection results to the controller. Furthermore, a venting device 6, a branch pipe 3, and a pipe on / off control mechanism 7 for controlling the opening and closing of the branch pipe 3 are also installed on the second liquid return line 24.

[0091] When the pressure sensor detects that the pipeline pressure exceeds the upper limit set value, the PLC control system activates the pipeline on-off control mechanism 7 to perform a pressure relief operation, discharging water and high-temperature steam from the pipeline until the pipeline pressure drops to a safe range. Similarly, when the temperature sensor 4 detects that the return liquid temperature exceeds the upper limit set value, the PLC control system can increase the pressure relief valve outlet pressure or increase the pump operating frequency, thereby increasing the liquid flow rate to the electrode 8, allowing the water to remove more heat from the electrode and reducing the temperature of the electrode 8. It is conventional technology for the controller to control the pipeline control mechanism 7 based on whether the pressure threshold is exceeded, and it is conventional technology for the controller to control the water pump operating frequency or the pressure relief valve outlet flow rate based on whether the temperature exceeds the threshold. By providing an exhaust device 6, when high-temperature steam or gases such as air are present in the pipeline, they can be discharged in a timely manner, avoiding water hammer and preventing water from filling the pipeline and the electrode cavity 803. Exhaust device 6 can adopt an existing exhaust valve.

[0092] The liquid inlet pipeline 1 consists of a liquid inlet pipeline 13, a vertical liquid inlet branch pipe 12 welded to the liquid inlet pipeline 13, and a horizontal liquid inlet branch pipe 11 welded to the vertical liquid inlet branch pipe 12 and connected to the liquid inlet steel pipe 933 of the water sealing device 9.

[0093] Three vertical inlet branches 12 divide the cooling water entering the inlet pipe into three channels, supplying cooling to three groups of electrodes. Each row of electrodes forms a group. Each vertical inlet branch 12 also distributes a channel of cooling water to each electrode 8. This water flows through a horizontal inlet branch 11 welded to the vertical inlet branch 12 and connected to the water sealing device 9 into the inlet steel pipe 933. Consequently, the inlet to each electrode 8 is connected in parallel, effectively ensuring cooling for each electrode 8.

[0094] like Figure 3-5 As shown, the water sealing device 9 consists of a connecting rod 91, an abutment member 92, a sealing member 93, a sealing gasket 94, an elastic structure 97, an elastic gasket 95 and a limiting structure 96. The connecting rod 91 is a T-shaped structure welded by square steel 911 and round steel 912 with a thread at one end;

[0095] like Figure 6 As shown, the abutment member 92 has waist-shaped through-holes 921 at both ends. These holes are slightly larger than the outer diameter of the threaded end of the connecting rod 91, facilitating smooth passage of the threaded end of the connecting rod 92. The center-to-center distance between the waist-shaped through-holes 921 at both ends matches the center-to-center distance between the upper and lower sets of retaining grooves 801 of the electrode 8. In this embodiment, the abutment member 92 is constructed of a square steel tube.

[0096] like Figure 3As shown, a liquid return steel pipe 931, two cylindrical connectors 932, a liquid inlet steel pipe 933, and a seal 93 (which can be a steel plate) are welded together. The two cylindrical connectors 932 are welded to one side of the seal 93. The outer diameter of the seal 93 is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the stepped structure 802 of the electrode 8. The side with the two cylindrical connectors 932 welded to it is the outer side of the seal 93, while the other side is the inner side. The liquid inlet steel pipe 933 and the liquid return steel pipe 931 pass through the seal 93 from the outside to the inside of the seal 93, thereby transporting cooling water from the outside to the inside of the seal 93, or vice versa. A sealing gasket 94 is a circular ring structure installed on the inside of the seal 93 to seal the electrode 8. The elastic structure 97 is a compression spring with strong rigidity and small compression stroke. Its inner diameter is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the thread of the round steel 912 of the connecting rod 91 so that it can be smoothly put on the connecting rod 91 and will not bend when compressed.

[0097] The limiting structure 96 can be a nut, preferably a flange nut. By using the flange nut to abut the elastic structure, the end surface of the elastic mechanism is subjected to more uniform force.

[0098] The inner diameter of the elastic gasket 95 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the thread of the round steel 912 of the connecting rod, and the outer diameter of the elastic gasket 95 is larger than the outer diameter of the elastic structure 97 and the outer diameter of the flange of the nut 96.

[0099] like Figure 7 As shown, the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode 8 each have a retaining groove 801 that matches the shape and size of the connecting rod 91. These grooves are designed to accommodate the connecting rod 91 and thereby restrict its axial movement. To increase the contact area between the retaining groove 801 and the connecting rod 91, and to increase the area of ​​force acting on the retaining groove 801 when the connecting rod 91 is pulled in the direction of the center axis of the round steel 912, thereby reducing damage to the electrode 8, the wall where the retaining groove 801 contacts the square steel 911 (i.e., the cross-section perpendicular to the center axis of the round steel 912) can be configured as a rectangle. The graphite electrode 8 has an inner cavity 803 for injecting cooling water. The size of the inner cavity 803 can be determined based on the size of the electrode.

[0100] When installing the seal 93 on the electrode, first place the sealing gasket 94 on the step structure 802, then face the side with two cylindrical connectors 932 welded to it outward, and align the other side with the inner cavity 803 of the electrode 8, and then buckle the seal 93, the liquid inlet steel pipe 933 and the liquid return steel pipe 931 to the step structure 802 and the inner cavity 803.

[0101] like Figure 8As shown, in order to facilitate the distinction between the liquid inlet steel pipe 933 and the liquid return steel pipe 931 at the outer end of the seal 93, the liquid inlet steel pipe 933 is longer than the liquid return steel pipe 931; considering the distribution of high temperature at the bottom of the electrode inner cavity 803 and low temperature outside; at the same time, in order to allow the cooling water to fill the inner cavity 803, the cooling effect on the electrode will be enhanced, the liquid inlet steel pipe 933 is directly inserted into the inner wall of the inner cavity 803, and the liquid return steel pipe 931 is extended into the inner side of the seal, so that the end of the liquid return steel pipe 931 exceeds the inner surface of the seal 93.

[0102] During installation, the high-temperature-resistant sealing gasket 94 and seal 93 are mounted on the stepped structure 802. During installation, the orientation of the two cylindrical connectors 932 of the sealing member 93 is aligned with the orientation of the two limiting grooves 801 on the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode 8. The abutment member 92, which is mounted on the threaded end of the round steel 912, is securely pressed against the two cylindrical connectors 932 using a nut 96 and an elastic structure 97. This securely presses the sealing member 93 and the high-temperature-resistant sealing gasket 94 against the stepped structure 802, sealing the cooling water within the inner cavity 803.

[0103] According to the stiffness of the elastic structure 97 and by adjusting the compression amount of the elastic structure 97 through the nut 96, the adjustment of different pressing forces of the abutment member 92 on the seal 93, that is, the electrode 8, is achieved. That is, through the nut 96 and the elastic structure 97, the adjustment of the active drainage and exhaust pressure threshold of the water sealing device 9 is achieved. The spring compression force acting on the outside of the seal 93 and the water pressure acting on the inside of the seal 93 are in opposite directions. When the water pressure or air pressure in the inner cavity 803 is large, and the water pressure or air pressure acting on the seal 93 is greater than the compression force of the compression spring 97, the seal 93 will be flushed open, and the sealing gasket 94 will fail, achieving pressure relief or exhaust. From a mechanical point of view, it further avoids excessive water pressure, which causes water to flush the electrode 8, and also avoids the harm of high-temperature steam to the electrode 8 and pipelines in the event of sudden water or power outages, thereby improving the reliability of the cooling system.

[0104] The graphite electrodes 8 mounted on the graphitization furnace body 10 constitute a graphite electrode module.

[0105] In this embodiment, the liquid inlet pipeline 1 includes a liquid inlet pipeline 13, three vertical liquid inlet branches 12, and three transverse liquid inlet branches 11. The liquid inlet pipeline 13 is connected to the inlet of each of the three vertical liquid inlet branches 12, and each vertical liquid inlet branch 12 is connected to the inlet of a corresponding transverse liquid inlet branch 11. The liquid inlet pipeline 13 is located below the graphite electrode module and extends in the transverse direction. The vertical liquid inlet branches 12 extend in the height direction of the graphitization furnace body 10. The transverse liquid inlet branches 11 extend in the transverse direction.

[0106] In this embodiment, the transverse liquid inlet branch 11 is further connected to a corresponding liquid inlet steel pipe 933. The liquid inlet steel pipe 933 passes through the seal 93 and extends into the inner cavity 803 of the graphite electrode 8. The outlet of each liquid inlet steel pipe 933 forms one of the outlets of the liquid inlet pipeline 1. In an embodiment not shown in the drawings of this application, the transverse liquid inlet branch 11 can also pass through the seal 93 and extend into the inner cavity 803 of the graphite electrode 8. The outlet of each transverse liquid inlet branch 11 forms one of the outlets of the liquid inlet pipeline 1.

[0107] In this embodiment, the liquid inlet direction is the liquid inlet pipeline 13, the vertical liquid inlet branch pipe 12, the horizontal liquid inlet branch pipe 11, and the liquid inlet steel pipe 933.

[0108] In the liquid inlet pipe 1 of this embodiment, the liquid inlet steel pipe 933 can be the first rigid pipe section, the transverse liquid inlet branch 11 can be the first flexible pipe section, and the vertical liquid inlet branch 12 and liquid inlet pipeline 13 can constitute the second rigid pipe section. Alternatively, the liquid inlet steel pipe 933 can be the first rigid pipe section, the transverse liquid inlet branch 11, the vertical liquid inlet branch 12, and the liquid inlet pipeline 13 can constitute the second rigid pipe section, and a first flexible pipe section (not shown) can be connected between the liquid inlet steel pipe 933 and the transverse liquid inlet branch 11. The first flexible pipe section can be connected to the transverse liquid inlet branch 11 in the transverse direction, or it can be connected to the liquid inlet steel pipe 933 in the longitudinal direction. The liquid inlet steel pipe 933 extends in the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction and the transverse direction can be the width direction and the length direction of the graphitization furnace body 10, respectively, and both are perpendicular to the height direction of the graphitization furnace body 10.

[0109] The liquid return pipeline 2 includes a first liquid return line 23, a second liquid return line 24, three vertical liquid return branches 22, and three transverse liquid return branches 21. The first liquid return line 23 is located below the graphite electrode module and extends in the transverse direction. The second liquid return line 24 is located above the graphite electrode module and extends in the transverse direction. Each vertical liquid return branch 22 is arranged between the first liquid return line 23 and the second liquid return line 24 and connects them. The vertical liquid return branch 22 is connected to the outlet of the corresponding transverse liquid return branch 21. The vertical liquid return branch 22 extends in the height direction of the graphitization furnace body 10. The transverse liquid return branch 21 extends in the transverse direction.

[0110] In this embodiment, the transverse liquid return branch 21 is further connected to a corresponding liquid return steel pipe 931. The liquid return steel pipe 931 passes through the seal 93 and extends into the inner cavity 803 of the graphite electrode 8. The inlet of each liquid return steel pipe 931 forms one of the inlets of the liquid return pipeline 2. In an embodiment not shown in the drawings of this application, the transverse liquid return branch 21 can also pass through the seal 93 and extend into the inner cavity 803 of the graphite electrode 8. The inlet of each transverse liquid return branch 21 forms one of the inlets of the liquid return pipeline 2.

[0111] In the liquid return pipe 2 of this embodiment, the liquid return steel pipe 931 is the third rigid pipe section, the transverse liquid return branch pipe 21 is the second flexible pipe section, and the vertical liquid return branch pipe 22, the first liquid return pipe 23, and the second liquid return pipe 24 constitute the fourth rigid pipe section. Alternatively, the liquid return steel pipe 931 can be the first rigid pipe section, and the transverse liquid return branch pipe 21, the vertical liquid return branch pipe 22, and the first liquid return pipe 23 constitute the second rigid pipe section. A second flexible pipe section (not shown) is connected between the liquid return steel pipe 931 and the transverse liquid return branch pipe 21. The second flexible pipe section can be connected to the transverse liquid return branch pipe 21 in the transverse direction, or the first flexible pipe section can be connected to the liquid return steel pipe 931 in the longitudinal direction. The liquid return steel pipe 931 extends in the longitudinal direction.

[0112] One end of the branch pipe 3 is connected to the junction of the second liquid return pipe 24 and a vertical liquid return branch pipe 22, and the other end of the branch pipe 3 is open to the atmosphere. The branch pipe 3 can be L-shaped, that is, the horizontal extension portion 31 of the L-shaped structure and the second liquid return pipe 24 can form a horizontally extending pipe of the same diameter. The vertical extension portion 32 of the L-shaped structure extends vertically downward from the horizontal extension portion 31, and the end of the vertical extension portion 32 is open to the atmosphere.

[0113] Example 2

[0114] like Figure 10 As shown, the difference between Example 2 and Example 1 is that the cylindrical connecting member 932 is not provided, that is, the abutting member 92 and the sealing member 93 form an integral structure, that is, the abutting member 92 is part of the overall sealing structure. The integral sealing member can be integrally formed, or the abutting member 92 and the sealing member 93 can be processed separately, and then the abutting member 92 is fixed to the end face of the sealing member 93 facing away from the inner cavity 803, that is, the abutting member 92 and the sealing member 93 are fixed together to form an integral sealing structure.

[0115] The above shows and describes the basic principles, main features and advantages of the present invention. It should be noted that the various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, and each embodiment focuses on the differences from other embodiments. The same and similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to in detail.

[0116] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention in detail, but the content is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and cannot be considered to limit the scope of implementation of the present invention. All equivalent changes and improvements made within the scope of the present invention should still fall within the scope of this patent. After reading this utility model, modifications of various equivalent forms of the present invention made by those skilled in the art fall within the scope defined by the claims attached to this application. In the absence of conflict, the embodiments of the present invention and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other.

Claims

1. A graphite electrode cooling system, comprising a liquid inlet pipe (1) and a liquid return pipe (2), wherein the graphite electrode (8) has an inner cavity (803) for accommodating cooling liquid, wherein the inner cavity (803) is connected to at least one outlet of the liquid inlet pipe (1) and at least one inlet of the liquid return pipe (2); characterized in that: The graphite electrode cooling system further comprises a pipe branch (3) extending from the liquid return pipe (2), one end (3A) of the pipe branch being in communication with the liquid return pipe (2), and the other end (3B) of the pipe branch being in communication with the atmosphere to form a discharge port, and a pipe on-off control mechanism (7) being provided on the pipe branch (3); and an exhaust device (6) being provided on the liquid return pipe (2) and / or the pipe branch (3); The graphite electrode cooling system further includes a sealing structure disposed at an opening of the inner cavity (803), an elastic structure (97) disposed on a side of the sealing structure away from the inner cavity (803), and a limiting structure (96) for limiting the elastic structure (97) on a side of the elastic structure (97) away from the sealing structure. The elastic structure (97) abuts against the sealing structure, thereby sealing the inner cavity (803) of the graphite electrode (8).

2. The graphite electrode cooling system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The graphite electrode cooling system further comprises a connecting rod (91) extending in the axial direction of the graphite electrode (8), one end of the connecting rod (91) is connected to the graphite electrode (8), and the other end of the connecting rod (91) extends outward after passing through the sealing structure, and the connecting rod (91) and the sealing structure are loosely matched; the limiting structure (96) is installed on the portion of the connecting rod (91) extending outward, and the elastic structure (97) is sleeved on the connecting rod (91) and clamped between the sealing structure and the limiting structure (96).

3. The graphite electrode cooling system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The outer wall of the graphite electrode (8) is provided with a limiting groove (801) for accommodating the connecting rod (91) so as to limit the movement of the connecting rod (91) in the axial direction of the graphite electrode (8).

4. The graphite electrode cooling system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The limiting groove (801) is a T-shaped groove, and the connecting rod (91) is a T-shaped rod; The portion of the connecting rod (91) that extends outward has an external thread (913), and the limiting structure (96) is a nut that cooperates with the external thread (913).

5. The graphite electrode cooling system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The graphite electrode (8) is provided with at least two connecting rods (91) extending in the axial direction of the graphite electrode (8), and different connecting rods (91) are respectively connected to different side walls of the graphite electrode (8); a limiting structure (96) corresponding to the connecting rod (91) is installed on the outwardly extending portion of the corresponding connecting rod (91); and an elastic structure (97) corresponding to the connecting rod (91) is sleeved on the corresponding connecting rod (91) and clamped between the sealing structure and the corresponding limiting structure (96).

6. The graphite electrode cooling system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The sealing structure comprises a sealing member (93) adapted to the opening shape of the inner cavity (803) and an abutting member (92) arranged outside the sealing member (93); The liquid inlet pipe (1) and the liquid return pipe (2) both pass through the sealing member (93) and extend into the inner cavity (803); One end of the liquid inlet pipe (1) located in the inner cavity (803) is one of the outlets of the liquid inlet pipe (1); One end of the liquid return pipe (2) located in the inner cavity (803) is one of the inlets of the liquid return pipe (2); The extension direction of the abutment member (92) is perpendicular to the axial direction of the graphite electrode (8); the portion of the connecting rod (91) extending outward is the portion of the connecting rod (91) extending outward after passing through the abutment member (92); and the connecting rod (91) and the abutment member (92) are clearance-matched; The elastic structure (97) is clamped between the abutment member (92) and the limiting structure (96); The elastic structure (97) abuts the sealing member (93) against the opening of the inner cavity (803) via the abutting member (92); The abutting member (92) and the sealing member (93) are independently arranged, or are an integral structure, or are fixedly connected to each other.

7. The graphite electrode cooling system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The liquid inlet pipeline (1) comprises a first hard pipe section, a first soft pipe section, and a second hard pipe section; The liquid return pipeline (2) comprises a third hard pipe section, a second soft pipe section, and a fourth hard pipe section; The first hard pipe section extending outward from the graphite electrode (8) after passing through the sealing structure is connected to the second hard pipe section via the first soft pipe section; The third hard tube section extending outward from the graphite electrode (8) after passing through the sealing structure is connected to the fourth hard tube section via the second soft tube section; The first hard pipe section and the third hard pipe section are both fixedly connected to the sealing structure.

8. The graphite electrode cooling system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The pipeline on-off control mechanism (7) is a valve, a pressure sensor (5) for detecting pipeline pressure is provided in the return liquid pipeline (2) and / or the pipeline branch (3), the output end of the pressure sensor (5) is electrically connected to the input end of the controller (100), and the output end of the controller (100) is electrically connected to the valve control end; or The pipeline on-off control mechanism (7) is a pressure switch.

9. The graphite electrode cooling system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: A temperature sensor (4) for detecting the temperature of the liquid in the return pipe (2) and / or the pipe branch (3) is provided, the temperature sensor (4) being electrically connected to an input end of a controller (100), and an output end of the controller (100) being electrically connected to a control end of a pressure reducing valve (300) and / or a control end of a pump (200) for supplying cooling liquid; The pump (200) outlet and the pump (200) inlet are electrically connected to the liquid inlet pipe (1) inlet and the liquid return pipe (2) outlet respectively, and the pressure reducing valve (300) is connected between the pump (200) outlet and the liquid inlet pipe (1) inlet.

10. A graphitization furnace comprising a graphitization furnace body (10) and a graphite electrode (8) mounted on the graphitization furnace body (10), characterized in that: It also includes the graphite electrode cooling system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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