Transmission unit sealing structure in zinc electrolysis process
By designing a sealing structure for the transmission unit in the electrolytic zinc process, and using a semi-cylindrical sealing sleeve and a circulating cooling system, the problems of poor sealing and improper cooling were solved, achieving a highly efficient and environmentally friendly production process.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202520213105.9
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-02-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-13
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-02-11
AI Technical Summary
Existing hydrometallurgical zinc refining processes suffer from problems such as poor sealing leading to leakage, improper liquid cooling affecting efficiency, and pressure filtration crystallization during the liquid preparation process, resulting in zinc loss, environmental pollution, and increased energy consumption.
A sealing structure for the transmission unit in the zinc electrolysis process is designed, which adopts a sealing sleeve composed of two half-cylinders, with an elastic sealing ring and a floating pressure ring inside. Combined with a circulating cooling system and a temperature sensor, the sealing performance and temperature monitoring are ensured.
It significantly improves sealing performance, reduces leakage and energy consumption, enhances production stability and equipment lifespan, meets environmental protection requirements, and simplifies operating procedures.
Smart Images

Figure CN223794662U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of machinery, specifically to a sealing structure for a transmission unit in the process of zinc electrolysis. Background Technology
[0002] Hydrometallurgical zinc refining dominates the zinc smelting process, especially in my country, where it is widely used due to its high efficiency, environmental friendliness, and cost-effectiveness. The core process of hydrometallurgical zinc refining includes a solution preparation step and an electrolysis step. In the solution preparation step, zinc concentrate undergoes a series of chemical treatments to transform into a zinc-containing solution, while in the electrolysis step, this zinc-containing solution is deposited as metallic zinc through an electrolytic process.
[0003] However, existing hydrometallurgical zinc smelting processes present several technical challenges in the liquid preparation stage. In particular, controlling the stirring technique is crucial for preventing leakage, liquid cooling, and pressure filtration crystallization. Improper control of stirring conditions can lead to the following problems:
[0004] Leakage: Due to poor sealing or excessive stirring intensity, the leaching solution in wet zinc smelting may leak from the sealing parts of the transmission unit, which not only causes zinc loss but may also pollute the environment.
[0005] Liquid cooling: During the stirring process, the temperature of the leachate may drop due to improper heat dissipation, affecting the efficiency of subsequent electrolysis processes.
[0006] Filtration crystallization: Improper stirring may cause solid particles in the solution to settle and form crystals. These crystals may clog the filter press and affect the normal production process.
[0007] The existence of the above problems, especially in the electrolysis process, may lead to blockage of the electrolysis system, and in severe cases, may even cause the entire electrolysis system to fail, thereby significantly increasing the energy consumption of the electrolysis process and reducing production efficiency.
[0008] To address these issues, existing technologies have attempted various improvements, such as improving sealing materials and optimizing agitator design. However, these measures often only partially solve the problems and may lead to additional maintenance costs and operational complexity.
[0009] Therefore, those skilled in the art are still exploring more effective methods to improve the sealing performance of transmission units in the hydrometallurgical zinc smelting process, reduce energy consumption, and improve production efficiency and economic benefits. Summary of the Invention
[0010] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this utility model provides a sealing structure for the transmission unit in the zinc electrolysis process.
[0011] This utility model is achieved through the following technical solution:
[0012] This utility model discloses a sealing structure for a transmission unit in the process of zinc electrolysis. The transmission unit includes a transmission shaft, one end of which extends from the inside of the zinc electrolysis cell to the outside and is connected to the power mechanism, and the other end is located inside the electrolysis cell and is connected to the stirring mechanism.
[0013] The aforementioned sealing structure includes a first housing and a second housing, each of which is a semi-cylindrical body. They are assembled into a single cylindrical body using bolts and nuts. The cylindrical body serves as a sealing sleeve and is coaxially connected to the drive shaft of the transmission unit.
[0014] The inner wall of the aforementioned sealing sleeve is provided with several equally spaced annular cavities. Each annular cavity is formed by injection molding, and its inner wall fits the outer diameter of the drive shaft. Each annular cavity has an interference fit with an elastic sealing ring. Several of the aforementioned annular cavities are arranged in a linear arithmetic array along the drive shaft.
[0015] The aforementioned sealing ring is sleeved on the drive shaft, with the inner ring surface having an interference fit with the drive shaft, and the outer ring surface being fixedly connected to the annular cavity;
[0016] The lower end face of the aforementioned sealing sleeve is fixedly connected to the body of the electrolytic zinc tank by bolts or welding, and a replaceable flexible sealing ring is provided at the contact surface between the sealing sleeve and the tank body.
[0017] The sealing structure is designed to fully consider the harsh environment of high temperature and corrosive media during electrolytic zinc production, ensuring the stability and reliability of the transmission unit during continuous operation. The transmission shaft is made of a corrosion-resistant and wear-resistant high-performance alloy to withstand long-term working conditions in the electrolyte.
[0018] Furthermore, the first and second housings are respectively provided with integrally formed assembly lugs on their peripheral surfaces. The assembly lugs are made of corrosion-resistant alloy and are fixedly connected to each other by bolts and nuts equipped with anti-loosening devices.
[0019] The first housing and the second housing are respectively provided with fixing lugs at their lower end faces. The first housing and the second housing are fixedly connected to the groove by fixing lugs and set bolts with self-locking function.
[0020] The splicing method of the first and second shells ensures easy installation and maintenance of the sealing sleeve, while the anti-loosening device of the bolts and nuts ensures the stability of the splice under long-term vibration conditions. The design of the fixing lug takes into account the possible thermal expansion of the electrolytic cell, allowing a certain degree of axial and radial displacement, thereby avoiding stress damage caused by thermal expansion.
[0021] Furthermore, a sealing strip made of corrosion-resistant rubber is pressed into the contact surface where the first and second housings are joined. The sealing strip is fixed in the contact surface by an embedded structure and is sealed by pre-tightening force.
[0022] The sealing strip, made of corrosion-resistant rubber, forms an effective seal at the joint surfaces. Its embedded structure and pre-tightening compaction ensure that no leakage occurs even under dynamic operating conditions. The corrosion resistance of the sealing strip guarantees its long service life in electrolyte environments.
[0023] Furthermore, the aforementioned annular cavity is provided with three, and each annular cavity is provided with a sealing ring. The three sealing rings divide the cavity into two independent cavities. The first housing is provided with a circulating fluid inlet and a circulating fluid outlet, which are respectively connected to the two independent cavities. The second housing is provided with a connecting pipe made of corrosion-resistant material, and the two ends of the connecting pipe are respectively connected to the two independent cavities.
[0024] The aforementioned circulating fluid inlet is connected to the circulating fluid source. The circulating fluid forms a circulation channel according to the flow path of inlet, first cavity, connecting pipe, second cavity, and outlet. The circulating fluid is used to reduce the operating temperature of the sealing sleeve.
[0025] The design of the circulating fluid inlet and outlet ensures uniform distribution and effective circulation of the coolant. The two ends of the connecting pipe are connected to two independent cavities respectively, forming a closed loop, which effectively reduces the operating temperature of the sealing sleeve and improves the overall working efficiency of the transmission unit.
[0026] Furthermore, the circulating fluid mentioned above can be water, oil, or a coolant. The selection of the circulating fluid takes into account the environmental protection requirements and cooling efficiency in the electrolytic zinc production process. Water, oil, or a coolant can be flexibly selected according to actual production conditions and environmental requirements, while ensuring the safe operation and ease of maintenance of the circulation system.
[0027] Furthermore, an annular groove is provided on the inner ring surface of the aforementioned sealing ring, and floating pressure rings are respectively provided on the upper and lower sides of the annular groove. The floating pressure rings can automatically adjust their positions with slight displacement of the drive shaft to achieve uniform contact sealing.
[0028] The floating pressure ring design allows the drive shaft to automatically adjust its position even with slight misalignment, ensuring that the sealing ring always maintains uniform contact with the drive shaft, thereby improving the reliability and durability of the seal. The use of elastic metal materials guarantees the elasticity and wear resistance of the floating pressure ring.
[0029] Furthermore, a temperature sensor is installed inside the aforementioned sealing sleeve. The temperature sensor is fixedly mounted on the inner wall of the first housing and can detect the temperature of the circulating fluid in real time, outputting temperature data via a data cable or wireless signal. The installation position and fixing method of the temperature sensor ensure that it can accurately monitor changes in the temperature of the circulating fluid and provide real-time data feedback, allowing operators to adjust the operating status of the cooling system according to temperature changes and ensuring that the transmission unit operates under optimal temperature conditions.
[0030] The beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows:
[0031] Improved sealing performance: The sealing structure design of this invention, by using a sealing sleeve composed of two semi-cylindrical bodies, as well as an internal elastic sealing ring and a floating pressure ring, effectively improves the sealing performance of the transmission unit, significantly reduces the occurrence of leakage, and thus reduces zinc loss and environmental pollution.
[0032] Reduced Energy Consumption: By optimizing the cooling medium and improving the sealing design, this invention effectively reduces heat loss and lowers energy consumption in the electrolytic zinc production process. In particular, when using oil as the cooling medium, the temperature of the circulating oil is lower than that of water cooling, further reducing heat loss.
[0033] Improved production stability: The sealing structure of this invention can adapt to slight offsets in the drive shaft and maintain uniform contact sealing, thereby reducing the risk of blockage in the electrolysis system due to poor sealing and improving the stability and reliability of the entire electrolysis system.
[0034] Real-time monitoring and adjustment: The built-in temperature sensor can monitor the temperature of the circulating fluid in real time and output temperature data through a data cable or wireless signal, so that operators can adjust the cooling system according to the real-time data to ensure that the transmission unit operates under the optimal temperature conditions.
[0035] Extended equipment lifespan: Because the sealing structure of this invention effectively reduces the erosion of the transmission unit by corrosive media and the equipment damage caused by leakage, it significantly extends the service life of the equipment and reduces maintenance costs.
[0036] Easy to operate: The invention has a simple structural design, which is easy to install and maintain, reduces the training needs of operators, and improves production efficiency.
[0037] Environmental benefits: By reducing leakage and energy consumption, this invention not only reduces production costs but also improves environmental benefits, meeting the requirements of green and sustainable development.
[0038] In summary, this invention demonstrates significant advantages in improving sealing performance, reducing energy consumption, enhancing production stability, enabling real-time monitoring and adjustment, extending equipment lifespan, simplifying operation, and providing environmental benefits. It has broad application prospects and economic benefits. Attached Figure Description
[0039] Figure 1 : A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of this utility model;
[0040] Figure 2 Another three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of this utility model;
[0041] Figure 3: A three-dimensional structural cross-sectional view of this utility model;
[0042] Figure 4 : Front view of this utility model;
[0043] Figure 5 : Exploded view of the three-dimensional structure of this utility model;
[0044] Figure 6 : Another exploded view of the three-dimensional structure of this utility model;
[0045] Figure 7 : A three-dimensional structural diagram of the sealing ring of this utility model;
[0046] Figure 8 : A cross-sectional view of the sealing ring of this utility model;
[0047] In the figure: 1-first housing, 2-second housing, 3-assembly lug, 4-fixed lug, 5-sealing ring, 6-circulation channel, 11-sealing ring, 51-annular groove, 52-floating pressure ring, A-groove body, B-drive shaft. Detailed Implementation
[0048] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments:
[0049] Example: Figure 1-8 As shown, a sealing structure for a transmission unit in the process of zinc electrolysis is disclosed. The transmission unit includes a transmission shaft, one end of which extends from the inside of the zinc electrolysis cell to the outside and is connected to the power mechanism, and the other end is located inside the electrolysis cell and is connected to the stirring mechanism.
[0050] The aforementioned sealing structure includes a first housing 1 and a second housing 2, each of which is a half-cylinder. They are assembled into a cylinder by bolts and nuts, and the cylinder is coaxially connected to the transmission shaft of the transmission unit as a sealing sleeve.
[0051] The inner wall of the aforementioned sealing sleeve is provided with several equally spaced annular cavities. Each annular cavity is formed by injection molding, and its inner wall fits the outer diameter of the drive shaft. Each annular cavity is interference-fitted with an elastic sealing ring 5. Several of the aforementioned annular cavities are arranged in a linear arithmetic array along the drive shaft.
[0052] The aforementioned sealing ring 5 is sleeved on the drive shaft, with the inner ring surface having an interference fit with the drive shaft and the outer ring surface being fixedly connected in the annular cavity;
[0053] The lower end face of the aforementioned sealing sleeve is fixedly connected to the body of the electrolytic zinc tank by bolts or welding, and a replaceable flexible sealing ring 11 is provided at the contact surface between the sealing sleeve and the tank body.
[0054] The sealing structure is designed to fully consider the harsh environment of high temperature and corrosive media during electrolytic zinc production, ensuring the stability and reliability of the transmission unit during continuous operation. The transmission shaft is made of a corrosion-resistant and wear-resistant high-performance alloy to withstand long-term working conditions in the electrolyte.
[0055] Furthermore, the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 are respectively provided with integrally formed assembly ear seats 3 on their peripheral surfaces. The assembly ear seats 3 are made of corrosion-resistant alloy and are fixedly connected to each other by bolts and nuts equipped with anti-loosening devices.
[0056] The first housing 1 and the second housing 2 are respectively provided with fixing lugs 4 at their lower end faces. The first housing 1 and the second housing 2 are fixedly connected to the groove by fixing lugs 4 and set bolts with self-locking function.
[0057] The splicing method of the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 ensures easy installation and maintenance of the sealing sleeve, while the anti-loosening device of the bolts and nuts ensures the stability of the splice under long-term vibration conditions. The design of the fixing lug 4 takes into account the possible thermal expansion of the electrolytic cell, allowing a certain degree of axial and radial displacement, thereby avoiding stress damage caused by thermal expansion.
[0058] Furthermore, a sealing strip made of corrosion-resistant rubber is pressed into the contact surface where the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 are joined. The sealing strip is fixed in the contact surface by an embedded structure and is sealed by pre-tightening force.
[0059] The sealing strip, made of corrosion-resistant rubber, forms an effective seal at the joint surfaces. Its embedded structure and pre-tightening compaction ensure that no leakage occurs even under dynamic operating conditions. The corrosion resistance of the sealing strip guarantees its long service life in electrolyte environments.
[0060] Furthermore, the aforementioned annular cavity is provided with three parts, and each annular cavity is provided with a sealing ring 5. The three sealing rings 5 divide the cavity into two independent cavities. The first housing 1 is provided with a circulating fluid inlet and a circulating fluid outlet, which are respectively connected to the two independent cavities. The second housing 2 is provided with a connecting pipe made of corrosion-resistant material, and the two ends of the connecting pipe are respectively connected to the two independent cavities. The circulating fluid inlet is connected to the circulating fluid source. The circulating fluid forms a circulation channel 6 according to the flow path of inlet, first cavity, connecting pipe, second cavity, and outlet. The circulating fluid is used to reduce the operating temperature of the sealing sleeve.
[0061] The design of the circulating fluid inlet and outlet ensures uniform distribution and effective circulation of the coolant. The two ends of the connecting pipe are connected to two independent cavities respectively, forming a closed loop, which effectively reduces the operating temperature of the sealing sleeve and improves the overall working efficiency of the transmission unit.
[0062] Furthermore, the circulating fluid mentioned above can be water, oil, or a coolant. The selection of the circulating fluid takes into account the environmental protection requirements and cooling efficiency in the electrolytic zinc production process. Water, oil, or a coolant can be flexibly selected according to actual production conditions and environmental requirements, while ensuring the safe operation and ease of maintenance of the circulation system.
[0063] Furthermore, an annular groove 51 is provided on the inner ring surface of the sealing ring 5, and floating pressure rings 52 are respectively provided on the upper and lower sides of the annular groove 51. The floating pressure rings 52 can automatically adjust their positions with slight displacement of the drive shaft to achieve uniform contact sealing.
[0064] The design of the floating pressure ring 52 allows the drive shaft to automatically adjust its position when there is a slight offset, ensuring that the sealing ring 5 always maintains uniform contact with the drive shaft, thereby improving the reliability and durability of the seal.
[0065] Furthermore, a temperature sensor is installed inside the aforementioned sealing sleeve. The temperature sensor is fixedly mounted on the inner wall of the first housing 1 and can detect the temperature of the circulating fluid in real time, outputting temperature data via a data cable or wireless signal. The installation position and fixing method of the temperature sensor ensure that it can accurately monitor changes in the temperature of the circulating fluid and provide real-time data feedback, allowing operators to adjust the operating status of the cooling system according to temperature changes and ensuring that the transmission unit operates under optimal temperature conditions.
[0066] The following are the detailed implementation steps and result analysis of this utility model.
[0067] Materials and Construction: Two semi-cylindrical sections are constructed from 316L stainless steel, namely the first shell (shell I) and the second shell (shell II), to ensure excellent corrosion resistance in the electrolytic zinc environment. Shell I and shell II are connected by an O-ring corrosion-resistant rubber sealing strip and secured with M12 bolts and nuts to form a complete sealing sleeve.
[0068] Three annular cavities are equidistantly arranged on the inner wall of the sealing sleeve. Each cavity contains an elastic sealing ring made of fluororubber, which is fitted with an interference fit. The inner surface of the sealing ring is machined with an annular groove, and an integrally formed floating pressure ring is provided on the upper and lower sides of the groove.
[0069] Experimental Procedure: The lower end face of the sealing sleeve was fixed to the electrolytic cell body with bolts to ensure sealing performance. A replaceable flexible graphite sealing ring 11 was installed at the contact surface between the sealing sleeve and the cell body to enhance the sealing effect.
[0070] Circulating cooling system: A circulating liquid inlet and outlet are designed on the upper end face of the sealing sleeve, and the circulation channel is connected by a pipeline. Water is selected as the circulating medium, and a circulating pump realizes the flow from the inlet to the outlet to achieve the purpose of cooling the sealing sleeve.
[0071] Temperature monitoring: A temperature sensor is fixedly installed on the inner wall of housing I. The sensor is connected to the control system via a data cable to monitor and transmit the temperature data of the circulating fluid in real time, so as to adjust the working status of the circulating pump and maintain the stable operation of the sealing sleeve within the predetermined temperature range.
[0072] Results and Discussion: After continuous operation testing, the transmission unit sealing structure of this embodiment demonstrated excellent sealing performance in electrolytic zinc production, with no gas leakage observed. The circulating cooling system effectively reduced the operating temperature of the sealing sleeve, minimizing heat loss and thus improving the energy utilization efficiency of the electrolysis process.
[0073]
Example 2
[0074] Improvement measures: An oil cooler will be added between the inlet and outlet, using water cooling to regulate the temperature of the circulating oil. Precise control of the cooling water flow and temperature will enable precise regulation of the circulating oil temperature.
[0075] Experimental Results: Compared with Example 1, this example uses oil as the cooling medium, and the average operating temperature of the sealing sleeve is reduced by approximately 5°C. This improvement further reduces heat loss and increases energy utilization in the electrolytic zinc production process.
[0076] Conclusion: The above embodiments verify the practicality and energy-saving effect of the transmission unit sealing structure of the present invention in the electrolytic zinc process. Through optimization of the circulating cooling system, sealing performance and thermal management efficiency are significantly improved. This study provides an effective energy-saving and consumption-reducing solution for the electrolytic zinc industry.
[0077] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model. Although the present utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.
Claims
1. A sealed structure for a transmission unit during zinc electrolysis, the transmission unit comprising a transmission shaft, one end of which extends from the interior of the zinc electrolysis cell to the outside and connects to a power mechanism, and the other end located inside the electrolysis cell and connects to a stirring mechanism, characterized in that, The sealing structure includes a first shell (1) and a second shell (2), each of which is a semi-cylindrical body that can be combined into a cylindrical body. The cylindrical body is coaxially connected to the transmission shaft of the transmission unit as a sealing sleeve. The inner wall of the sealing sleeve is provided with several annular cavities. Each annular cavity is fitted with a sealing ring (5). The several annular cavities are arranged in a straight arithmetic array along the transmission shaft. The sealing ring (5) is sleeved on the transmission shaft. The inner ring surface is frictionally fitted with the transmission shaft, and the outer ring surface is fixedly connected to the annular cavity. The lower end face of the sealing sleeve is fixedly connected to the tank body of the electrolytic zinc electrolytic cell. A sealing ring (11) is provided at the contact surface between the sealing sleeve and the tank body.
2. The sealing structure of the transmission unit in the zinc electrolysis process as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The first housing (1) and the second housing (2) are respectively provided with assembly ear seats (3) on their circumferential surfaces, and the assembly ear seats (3) are fixedly connected to each other by bolts and nuts; the first housing (1) and the second housing (2) are respectively provided with fixing ear seats (4) at their lower end surfaces, and the first housing (1) and the second housing (2) are fixedly connected to the groove body by fixing ear seats (4) and set bolts.
3. The sealing structure of the transmission unit in the zinc electrolysis process as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: A sealing strip is pressed onto the contact surface where the first housing (1) and the second housing (2) are joined.
4. The sealing structure of the transmission unit in the zinc electrolysis process as described in claim 3, characterized in that: The annular cavity is provided with three, and each annular cavity is provided with a sealing ring (5). The three sealing rings (5) divide the cavity into two independent cavities. The first housing (1) is provided with a circulating liquid inlet and a circulating liquid outlet, which are respectively connected to the two independent cavities. The second housing is provided with a connecting pipe, and the two ends of the connecting pipe are respectively connected to the two independent cavities. The circulating liquid inlet, the circulating liquid outlet and the two independent cavities together form a circulation channel (6). The circulating liquid inlet is connected to the circulating liquid source.
5. The sealing structure of the transmission unit in the zinc electrolysis process as described in claim 4, characterized in that: The circulating fluid is water, oil, or coolant.
6. The sealing structure of the transmission unit in the zinc electrolysis process as described in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that: The sealing ring (5) has an annular groove (51) on its inner ring surface; floating pressure rings (51) are respectively provided on the upper and lower sides of the annular groove (51), and the floating pressure rings (51) are in contact with the drive shaft for sealing.
7. The sealing structure of the transmission unit in the zinc electrolysis process as described in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that: A temperature sensor is installed inside the sealing sleeve.