Automatic capping device for ladle

By designing an automatic ladle capping device, utilizing a hydraulically driven trolley frame and multi-link mechanism, combined with the cooperative structure of a single-plate hook and lifting lugs, the problem of ladle capping relying on manual operation was solved, achieving an efficient and safe capping process, and improving production stability and molten steel quality.

CN224586974UActive Publication Date: 2026-08-04SHANDONG IRON & STEEL CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
SHANDONG IRON & STEEL CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-08-14
Publication Date
2026-08-04

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The ladle capping operation relies on manual labor, which is inefficient, poses high safety risks, and makes it difficult to guarantee the accuracy and timeliness of the operation, thus affecting the quality of molten steel and the stability of the production process.

Method used

An automatic ladle capping device was designed, including a ladle assembly, a capping assembly, a cap plate, a control module, and an identification module. The device achieves automatic grabbing, transportation, and capping of the cap plate through a trolley frame driven by a hydraulic cylinder and a multi-link mechanism. The device combines a single-plate hook with a lifting lug and a dual positioning design of a limit rod and a limit hook to ensure precise docking and balance.

Benefits of technology

The entire process of ladle capping has been automated, which has improved capping efficiency, reduced safety risks, ensured the accuracy and stability of capping, reduced steel temperature fluctuations, and improved casting quality.

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Abstract

This utility model discloses an automatic ladle capping device, including a ladle assembly, a capping assembly, a cap plate, a control module, and an identification module. The ladle assembly includes a conveyor belt with a ladle placed on top of it. The capping assembly includes a trolley frame and a track positioned above the ladle. Third fasteners are threaded to both ends of the trolley frame on both sides. Wheel assemblies are fixedly connected to the trolley frame via the third fasteners. A second hydraulic cylinder is fixedly connected to one side of the trolley frame, and the other end of the second hydraulic cylinder is fixedly connected to the factory building. The track is fixedly connected to the top of the factory building, and the wheel assemblies are slidably connected to the top of the track. Lifting lugs matching single-plate hooks are fixedly connected to both sides of the top of the cap plate. Limit hooks are fixedly connected to both ends of the front and rear sides of the cap plate. The first hydraulic cylinder, the second hydraulic cylinder, and the identification module are all connected to the control module, which is positioned above the ladle. This device automates the entire ladle capping process, replacing manual operation.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of iron and steel smelting technology, and specifically relates to an automatic ladle capping device. Background Technology

[0002] In the steel smelting process, the ladle is a key piece of equipment used to hold high-temperature molten steel. During the transportation, refining and pouring of molten steel, the temperature of the molten steel will continuously drop due to heat loss through radiation and convection. The stability of the molten steel temperature has a crucial impact on the subsequent pouring quality and production efficiency. Therefore, timely and effective covering of the ladle to reduce the heat loss of molten steel is an important part of the steel production process.

[0003] Currently, in some steel enterprises, the capping of steel ladles still relies on manual labor. Manual operation is not only inefficient, but also exposes operators to high-temperature, dusty environments for extended periods, posing significant safety risks and resulting in extremely high labor intensity. Furthermore, the accuracy and timeliness of manual operation are difficult to guarantee, and human error can easily lead to untimely or incomplete capping, thus affecting the quality of molten steel and the stability of the production process. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an automatic ladle capping device. Utility Model Content

[0004] To address some or all of the technical problems existing in the prior art, this utility model provides an automatic ladle capping device, including a ladle assembly, a capping assembly, a cap plate, a control module, and an identification module, wherein:

[0005] The ladle assembly includes a conveyor belt, on top of which a ladle is placed;

[0006] The cover assembly includes a trolley frame and a track set above the ladle. Both ends of the front and rear sides of the trolley frame are threaded with third fasteners. The trolley frame is fixedly connected to a wheel assembly through the third fasteners. A second hydraulic cylinder is fixedly connected to one side of the trolley frame. The other end of the second hydraulic cylinder is fixedly connected to the factory building. The track is fixedly connected to the top of the factory building. The wheel assembly is slidably connected to the top of the track.

[0007] A single hook shaft is fixedly connected to one side of the inner cavity of the trolley frame. A hydraulic cylinder fixing shaft is fixedly connected to the inner cavity of the trolley frame on the same side as the single hook shaft. A double hook shaft is fixedly connected to the other side of the inner cavity of the trolley frame. A hydraulic cylinder drive shaft is fixedly connected to the inner cavity of the trolley frame on the same side as the double hook shaft. Single plate hooks are movably connected to the outer periphery of both the single hook shaft and the double hook shaft. Synchronous connecting rods are movably connected to the tops of the two single plate hooks. A multi-link is movably connected to the top of the single plate hooks connected to the surface of the double hook shaft. The other end of the multi-link is movably connected to the hydraulic cylinder drive shaft. A first hydraulic cylinder is movably connected between the hydraulic cylinder fixing shaft and the hydraulic cylinder drive shaft.

[0008] Both sides of the top of the cover plate are fixedly connected with lifting lugs that match the single plate hook. Both the front and rear ends of both sides of the cover plate are fixedly connected with limit hooks. The first hydraulic cylinder, the second hydraulic cylinder, and the identification module are all connected to the control module. The identification module is located above the ladle.

[0009] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned automatic ladle capping device, a first pin is connected through the single hook shaft and the single plate hook, a first baffle is inserted on one side of the first pin shaft, and a first fastener is threadedly connected to the single hook shaft on the other side of the first baffle.

[0010] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned automatic ladle capping device, a first bearing is sleeved on the outer periphery of the first pin, a grease cup is provided through one end of the first pin, a first retaining ring is sleeved on the other end of the first bearing, and positioning rings are respectively sleeved on the outer periphery of the first pin and at the front and rear ends of the first bearing. The other side of the positioning ring is in contact with the single hook shaft, and the single plate hook is sleeved on the outer periphery of the first bearing.

[0011] In one specific embodiment, in the above-mentioned automatic ladle capping device, the first bearing is a radial spherical bearing, and the first retaining ring is an elastic retaining ring for A-type holes.

[0012] Furthermore, in the aforementioned automatic ladle capping device, both ends of the hydraulic cylinder drive shaft and the double hook shaft are threaded with second fasteners. The outer periphery of the second fastener is threaded with a second baffle. The other side of the second baffle is threaded with a second pin through the second fastener. A second bearing is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second pin. A second retaining ring is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second pin and on one side of the second bearing. The other end of the second pin is fixedly connected to the trolley frame through the first fastener.

[0013] In one specific embodiment, in the above-mentioned automatic ladle capping device, the second bearing is a radial spherical bearing, and the second retaining ring is an elastic retaining ring for A-type holes.

[0014] In one specific embodiment, in the above-mentioned automatic ladle capping device, both sides and the front and rear ends of the ladle are fixedly connected with limiting rods that match the limiting hooks.

[0015] The automatic ladle capping device of this utility model has the following advantages and beneficial effects:

[0016] (1) This device is controlled by a control module to realize the full automation of the ladle capping process, replacing the traditional manual operation. The trolley frame of the capping component slides along the track, and with the multi-link mechanism driven by the hydraulic cylinder, it can accurately complete the grabbing, transportation and capping of the cap. The wheel and track sliding cooperation design ensures smooth operation and accurate positioning. Compared with manual operation, the capping efficiency is greatly improved. At the same time, it avoids the operator from being exposed to high temperature and dust environment, significantly reducing safety risks. The logic control of the control module can also automatically adjust the capping time according to the production rhythm, reduce the temperature fluctuation of molten steel and improve the subsequent casting quality.

[0017] (2) This device adopts a unique single-plate hook and lifting lug combination structure, combined with the dual positioning design of limit rod and limit hook to ensure the precise docking of cover plate and steel ladle. The linkage mechanism of single hook shaft, double hook shaft and synchronous connecting rod keeps the cover plate balanced during the grabbing and putting down process, avoiding shaking or deviation. The drive design of the first hydraulic cylinder provides sufficient grabbing force to prevent the cover plate from falling off. The second hydraulic cylinder controls the translation of the trolley frame to realize the rapid covering action. The device as a whole can adapt to harsh working conditions such as high temperature and vibration, and has a low failure rate. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are only for further understanding of the embodiments of this utility model and constitute a part of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the automatic ladle capping device of this utility model;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a top view schematic diagram of the capping component in the automatic capping device for steel ladles of this utility model;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a side view of the capping component in the automatic capping device for steel ladles of this utility model;

[0022] Figure 4This is a front view schematic diagram of the capping component in the automatic capping device for steel ladles of this utility model;

[0023] Figure 5 This is a front sectional view of the capping component in the automatic capping device for steel ladles of this utility model;

[0024] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0025] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 Enlarged diagram of point B in the middle.

[0026] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0027] 1. Steel ladle assembly; 11. Conveyor belt; 12. Steel ladle; 13. Limiting rod; 2. Cover assembly; 21. Track; 22. Trolley frame; 23. Third fastener; 24. Wheel assembly; 25. Single hook shaft; 26. Hydraulic cylinder fixing shaft; 27. Double hook shaft; 28. Hydraulic cylinder drive shaft; 29. ​​Single plate hook; 210. Synchronous connecting rod; 211. Multi-link; 212. First hydraulic cylinder; 213. Second hydraulic cylinder; 214. First pin; 215. First baffle; 216. First fastener; 217. First bearing; 218. Grease cup; 219. First retaining ring; 220. Positioning ring; 221. Second fastener; 222. Second baffle; 223. Second pin; 224. Second bearing; 225. Second retaining ring; 3. Cover plate; 31. Lifting lug; 32. Limiting hook. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with specific embodiments and corresponding drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this utility model, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this utility model without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0029] like Figures 1 to 7As shown, this utility model discloses an automatic ladle capping device, including a ladle assembly 1, a capping assembly 2, a cover plate 3, a control module (not shown in the figure), and an identification module (not shown in the figure). The ladle assembly 1 includes a conveyor belt 11, with a ladle 12 placed on top of the conveyor belt 11. The capping assembly 2 includes a trolley frame 22 and a track 21 positioned above the ladle 12. The track 21 has a hardened surface to ensure high wear resistance. The trolley frame 22 is welded from high-strength steel plates and has internal reinforcing ribs to ensure structural strength. Third fasteners 23 are threaded to both ends of the front and rear sides of the trolley frame 22. The trolley frame 22 is fixedly connected to the wheel assembly 24 via a third fastener 23. The wheel assembly 24 is made of cast steel. A second hydraulic cylinder 213 is fixedly connected to one side of the trolley frame 22, and the other end of the second hydraulic cylinder 213 is fixedly connected to the factory building. The track 21 is fixedly connected to the top of the factory building by high-strength bolts. This not only makes full use of space and avoids interference from ground equipment, but also shortens the running path of the cover component 2, improving work efficiency. The wheel assembly 24 is slidably connected to the top of the track 21 via wheels. The second hydraulic cylinder 213 directly drives the trolley frame 22, providing stable thrust. The surface of the wheels is inlaid with bronze. The bushing has anti-slip textured surfaces at its contact with the track 21 to improve sliding stability. A single hook shaft 25 is fixedly connected to one side of the inner cavity of the trolley frame 22. A hydraulic cylinder fixing shaft 26 is fixedly connected to the inner cavity of the trolley frame 22 on the side of the single hook shaft 25. A double hook shaft 27 is fixedly connected to the other side of the inner cavity of the trolley frame 22. A hydraulic cylinder drive shaft 28 is fixedly connected to the inner cavity of the trolley frame 22 on the side of the double hook shaft 27. Single plate hooks 29 are movably connected to the outer periphery of both the single hook shaft 25 and the double hook shaft 27. Synchronous connecting rods 210 are movably connected to the top of the two single plate hooks 29. Multiple single plate hooks 29 connected to the surface of the double hook shaft 27 are movably connected to the top of the single plate hooks 29. Link 211, synchronous link 210 and multi-link 211 adopt a box-type structure design to reduce weight while ensuring strength. The other end of multi-link 211 is movably connected to hydraulic cylinder drive shaft 28. A first hydraulic cylinder 212 is movably connected between hydraulic cylinder fixed shaft 26 and hydraulic cylinder drive shaft 28. Lifting lugs 31 matching single plate hook 29 are fixedly connected to both sides of the top of cover plate 3. Lifting lugs 31 provide gripping points for cover plate 3. Limit hooks 32 are fixedly connected to the front and rear ends of both sides of cover plate 3. The first hydraulic cylinder 212, the second hydraulic cylinder 213 and the identification module are all connected to the control module. The identification module is set above ladle 12.

[0030] Furthermore, a first pin 214 is connected through the single hook shaft 25 and the single plate hook 29. A first baffle 215 is inserted into one side of the first pin 214, and a first fastener 216 is threadedly connected to the single hook shaft 25 on the other side of the first baffle 215. The combination design of the first pin 214 and the first baffle 215 facilitates the installation and disassembly of the single plate hook 29. When disassembling, first unscrew the first fastener 216, then remove the first baffle 215 to release the axial limit of the first pin 214, and then remove the first pin 214 to disassemble the single plate hook 29.

[0031] Furthermore, in the automatic ladle capping device of this utility model, a first bearing 217 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the first pin 214, a grease cup 218 is provided through one end of the first pin 214, a first retaining ring 219 is sleeved on the other end of the first bearing 217, and positioning rings 220 are respectively sleeved on the outer periphery of the first pin 214 and at the front and rear ends of the first bearing 217. The other side of the positioning ring 220 contacts the single hook shaft 25, and the single plate hook 29 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the first bearing 217. The first retaining ring 219 can effectively prevent the axial movement of the first pin 214 and ensure the reliability of the connection. The first bearing 217 can limit the swing of the single plate hook 29 within a certain range, compensate for installation errors, and improve the success rate of grabbing the cover plate 3.

[0032] In one specific embodiment, in the automatic ladle capping device of this utility model, the first bearing 217 is a radial spherical bearing, and the first retaining ring 219 is an elastic retaining ring for A-type holes.

[0033] Furthermore, in the automatic ladle capping device of this utility model, both ends of the hydraulic cylinder drive shaft 28 and the double hook shaft 27 are threadedly connected to a second fastener 221. A second baffle 222 is threadedly connected to the outer periphery of the second fastener 221. A second pin 223 is threadedly connected to the other side of the second baffle 222 through the second fastener 221. A second bearing 224 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second pin 223. A second retaining ring 225 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second pin 223 and on one side of the second bearing 224. The other end of the second pin 223 is fixedly connected to the trolley frame 22 through a first fastener 216.

[0034] In one specific embodiment, in the automatic ladle capping device of this utility model, the second bearing 224 is a radial spherical bearing, and the second retaining ring 225 is an elastic retaining ring for A-type holes.

[0035] As a specific implementation, in the automatic ladle capping device of this utility model, both the front and rear ends of the ladle 12 are fixedly connected with limiting rods 13 that match the limiting hooks 32. The limiting rods 13 cooperate with the limiting hooks 32 on the cover plate 3 to achieve pre-positioning of the cover plate 3 during installation, improve the capping accuracy, effectively prevent the cover plate 3 from shifting, and ensure accurate positioning and locking during capping.

[0036] The working principle of the automatic ladle capping device of this utility model is as follows:

[0037] This device is controlled by a control module. The position of the ladle 12 is identified by an identification module. When the ladle 12 reaches the designated capping position, the identification module sends a signal to the control module, which then issues a command to control the second hydraulic cylinder 213 to drive the trolley frame 22 to slide along the track 21 above the ladle 12. The first hydraulic cylinder 212 is then controlled to rotate the single-plate hook 29 through the multi-link 211 mechanism, so that it engages with the lifting lug 31 on the cover plate 3. Subsequently, the second hydraulic cylinder 213 is controlled to move in the opposite direction, lifting and translating the cover plate 3 directly above the ladle 12. The first hydraulic cylinder 212 is controlled again to release the single-plate hook 29 from the lifting lug 31. The cover plate 3 falls under its own weight, and the limit hook 32 cooperates with the limit rod 13 on the ladle 12 to complete the precise positioning and realize the capping action. The entire process is precisely controlled by the control module to control the stroke and timing of each hydraulic cylinder, ensuring that the capping action is efficient, stable, and reliable.

[0038] In summary, compared with the prior art, the automatic ladle capping device of this utility model has the following advantages and beneficial effects:

[0039] (1) This device is controlled by the control module to realize the full automation of the ladle 12 capping process, replacing the traditional manual operation. The trolley frame 22 of the capping component 2 slides along the track 21. With the help of the multi-link 211 mechanism driven by the hydraulic cylinder, the capping plate 3 can be accurately grasped, transported and capped. The sliding cooperation design of the wheels and the track 21 ensures smooth operation and accurate positioning. Compared with manual operation, the capping efficiency is greatly improved. At the same time, it avoids the operator from being exposed to high temperature and dust environment, significantly reducing safety risks. The logic control of the control module can also automatically adjust the capping time according to the production rhythm, reduce the temperature fluctuation of molten steel and improve the subsequent casting quality.

[0040] (2) This device adopts a unique single-plate hook 29 and lifting lug 31 cooperation structure, combined with the dual positioning design of limit rod 13 and limit hook 32 to ensure the precise docking of cover plate 3 and steel ladle 12. The linkage mechanism of single hook shaft 25, double hook shaft 27 and synchronous connecting rod 210 keeps cover plate 3 balanced during the grabbing and putting down process, avoiding shaking or deviation. The drive design of the first hydraulic cylinder 212 provides sufficient grabbing force to prevent cover plate 3 from falling off. The second hydraulic cylinder 213 controls the translation of trolley frame 22 to realize the rapid covering action. The device as a whole can adapt to harsh working conditions such as high temperature and vibration, and has a low failure rate.

[0041] It should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the term "connection" or its synonyms should be interpreted broadly in this document. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection or a detachable connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be the internal communication of two elements or the interaction between two elements. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances. Furthermore, expressions such as "first" and "second" are merely used to distinguish one entity or operation from another entity or operation, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. At the same time, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. In addition, "front," "rear," "left," "right," "upper," and "lower" in this document refer to the placement state shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0042] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this utility model, and not to limit it; although this utility model has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model.

Claims

1. An automatic capping device for a ladle, characterized in that, The automatic ladle capping device includes a ladle assembly, a capping assembly, a cap plate, a control module, and an identification module, wherein: The ladle assembly includes a conveyor belt, on top of which a ladle is placed; The cover assembly includes a trolley frame and a track set above the ladle. Both ends of the front and rear sides of the trolley frame are threaded with third fasteners. The trolley frame is fixedly connected to a wheel assembly through the third fasteners. A second hydraulic cylinder is fixedly connected to one side of the trolley frame. The other end of the second hydraulic cylinder is fixedly connected to the factory building. The track is fixedly connected to the top of the factory building. The wheel assembly is slidably connected to the top of the track. A single hook shaft is fixedly connected to one side of the inner cavity of the trolley frame. A hydraulic cylinder fixing shaft is fixedly connected to the inner cavity of the trolley frame on the same side as the single hook shaft. A double hook shaft is fixedly connected to the other side of the inner cavity of the trolley frame. A hydraulic cylinder drive shaft is fixedly connected to the inner cavity of the trolley frame on the same side as the double hook shaft. Single plate hooks are movably connected to the outer periphery of both the single hook shaft and the double hook shaft. Synchronous connecting rods are movably connected to the tops of the two single plate hooks. A multi-link is movably connected to the top of the single plate hooks connected to the surface of the double hook shaft. The other end of the multi-link is movably connected to the hydraulic cylinder drive shaft. A first hydraulic cylinder is movably connected between the hydraulic cylinder fixing shaft and the hydraulic cylinder drive shaft. Both sides of the top of the cover plate are fixedly connected with lifting lugs that match the single plate hook. Both the front and rear ends of both sides of the cover plate are fixedly connected with limit hooks. The first hydraulic cylinder, the second hydraulic cylinder, and the identification module are all connected to the control module. The identification module is located above the ladle.

2. The automatic capping device of a ladle according to claim 1, characterized in that, A first pin is connected through the single hook shaft and the single plate hook. A first baffle is inserted into one side of the first pin shaft, and a first fastener is threadedly connected to the single hook shaft on the other side of the first baffle.

3. The automatic capping device of a ladle according to claim 2, characterized in that, A first bearing is fitted around the outer periphery of the first pin. A grease cup is inserted through one end of the first pin. A first retaining ring is fitted around the other end of the first bearing. Positioning rings are fitted around the outer periphery of the first pin and at the front and rear ends of the first bearing, respectively. The other side of the positioning ring is in contact with the single hook shaft. The single plate hook is fitted around the outer periphery of the first bearing.

4. The automatic capping device of a ladle according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first bearing is a radial spherical plain bearing, and the first retaining ring is an elastic retaining ring for A-type bores.

5. The automatic capping device of a ladle according to claim 4, characterized in that, Both ends of the hydraulic cylinder drive shaft and the double hook shaft are threaded with second fasteners. The outer periphery of the second fastener is threaded with a second baffle. The other side of the second baffle is threaded with a second pin through the second fastener. The outer periphery of the second pin is fitted with a second bearing. The outer periphery of the second pin and the side of the second bearing is fitted with a second retaining ring. The other end of the second pin is fixedly connected to the trolley frame through the first fastener.

6. The automatic capping device of a ladle according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second bearing is a radial spherical plain bearing, and the second retaining ring is an elastic retaining ring for A-type bores.

7. The automatic capping device of a ladle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steel ladle is fixedly connected to limiting rods that match the limiting hooks at both its front and rear ends.