Crucible logistics arrangement with crucible container with position-tolerant mounted riser pipe, as well as method and use

Abstract

When coupling the riser pipe and outer pipe on a crucible container, high (material) stresses occur, particularly due to thermal expansion and the chemical properties of the respective melt, which can lead to high wear, especially on the coupling sections and seals involved.A crucible logistics arrangement is provided, comprising a crucible container (10) with a crucible lid (11) with an adapter opening and a riser pipe opening in the region of the adapter opening and installed in the crucible container, further comprising an adapter connection for introducing / exiting the melt and for pressure-tight coupling with the crucible container in the region of the adapter opening, and at least one actuator for moving and positioning the adapter connection relative to the adapter opening, wherein the crucible logistics arrangement is configured for a technically generable pressure differential for removing and / or emptying the melt; wherein the riser pipe in the region of the adapter opening can be / is mounted in such a positionally tolerant manner relative to the crucible lid that when the crucible container is completely closed by coupling the riser pipe with a coupling partner of the adapter connection, the riser pipe is / is positioned in a positionally tolerant manner.A corresponding procedure will also be provided.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention relates to a crucible logistics arrangement for the mobile handling of at least one crucible container including melt by means of at least one vehicle or a traverse; comprising a crucible container with a crucible lid with an adapter opening and with a riser pipe opening in the region of the adapter opening and installed in the crucible container; comprising an adapter connection for introducing / exiting the melt and for pressure-tight coupling with the crucible container in the region of the adapter opening, as well as at least one actuator for moving and positioning the adapter connection relative to the adapter opening; wherein the crucible logistics arrangement is configured for a technically generable pressure differential for removing and / or emptying the melt.Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for the mobile handling of at least one crucible container with a riser tube, wherein an adapter opening of the crucible container is closed pressure-tight, at least for specific process phases, by coupling an adapter connection with the riser tube arranged in the adapter opening, particularly when the crucible container is arranged on a (crucible) vehicle or on a crossbeam. The invention also relates to a crucible container configured for such a method. Finally, the present invention also relates to the use of a bearing that is at least radially position-tolerant for a riser tube installed in a crucible container to provide a position-tolerant coupling between the riser tube and the adapter connection, or to the use of a correspondingly designed crucible container.In particular, the invention relates to a device and a method according to the preamble of the respective independent claim. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The production and handling of melts using crucibles, such as aluminum melts in relatively large crucibles of extensive electrolysis plants, requires consideration of numerous interconnected requirements. These include, in particular, fast and safe operation, minimal temperature losses and energy efficiency, low stress on the materials used, high quality of the melt produced (high purity and minimal air inclusions), a long service life, especially for the crucible container, and, last but not least, the longest possible maintenance intervals. Handling the media or the melt itself can also be very challenging, particularly with regard to chemical aggressiveness (e.g., in aluminum production), for example, ensuring a reliable seal between adjacent pipes or tubes carrying the melt.

[0003] For the recurring process of extracting the molten metal (or "tapping") from numerous crucibles, furnaces, or electrolysis plants, special crucible vehicles are used. These vehicles allow the molten metal to be extracted, transported (e.g., to a foundry or another furnace), and transferred or emptied, for example, by tipping, or by applying overpressure or using technically generated pressure differentials. In such regularly recurring processes, the focus is on handling large masses or volumes of molten metal as safely as possible, while also ensuring time and energy efficiency. For example, loads of approximately 10 tons [t]. Particularly high demands are placed on the seals and sealing materials involved, especially due to the sometimes highly aggressive chemical media.For example, ensuring tightness or sealing around openings in crucible lids or at the corresponding adapters and associated pipe connections or transitions can be extremely difficult, especially when equipment is installed on the vehicles involved (crucible) transport. It has been shown that, particularly from an energy efficiency perspective, the crucible container is advantageously equipped with only a relatively small opening in the lid. An adapter for completely closing the crucible container, along with the adjoining outer pipe (or suction pipe), is coupled to this opening. Advantageously, a riser pipe also projects into the crucible container. One design feature that has proven advantageous for the (mobile) crucible container is a predefined connection between the riser pipe and the crucible lid, which, for example, allows for...The bath movement (especially with relatively fast mobile handling) can be kept low, and advantages can also be realized regarding the removal process from the crucible (e.g., for emptying into a furnace). For the process of completely closing the crucible container, a relatively precise coupling may be necessary, which can be difficult due to potentially significant temperature changes and the associated thermal expansion. Depending on one of the possible applications, a process can be differentiated between the following two approaches: filling the crucible container, e.g., using a so-called traverse, and emptying the crucible container using a crucible trolley, especially when technically generated overpressure is present in the crucible container (transferring or diverting the melt, e.g., to / into a furnace).

[0004] According to the state of the art, crucible containers with lids are already used in which a comparatively small opening can be either opened or sealed for the corresponding process step, thus eliminating the need to handle a comparatively large lid covering the entire crucible container. The lid adapters provided for this purpose are usually handled together with an attached outer tube. For example, publication WO 86 / 04 839 A1 describes a vehicle with a melt receiving container featuring a comparatively small opening in the lid. This opening can be closed by an adapter that can be moved, for example, by means of hydraulically actuated parallelogram kinematics. The melt can be drawn into this container via an outer tube that is pivotably coupled to the adapter, under a (partial) vacuum.A vacuum is created, whereby a seal of the adapter relative to the opening of the receiving container is to be ensured, in particular by means of interlocking coupling sections of the adapter and opening that can be rotated relative to each other. The outer tube ends in the area of ​​the adapter. The receiving container with the melt is handed over completely after transport, e.g., to a foundry. As an example, publication WO 2003 / 014 646 A1 can also be cited, which describes a coupling of a lid adapter with an external dispensing tube for a horizontal crucible receiving container that is pivotable relative to the crucible receiving container, which is closed except for a small opening. A seal is ensured, in particular, by means of adjacent coupling partners and sealing material in between. Thanks to its suspension on the vehicle, the crucible receiving container, together with the dispensing tube, is relatively variable relative to, for example, the receiving container.It can be positioned in an electrolysis system, whereby emptying from the crucible receiving container can be carried out by overpressure.

[0005] Based on the current state of the art, there is a need for improved designs, particularly with regard to tightness, robustness, and durability, of the components leading to the couplings, especially at least one pipe section, for transporting (crucible) vehicles carrying the melt. This is especially important with regard to tightness under technically generated pressure differentials used to expel the melt from the crucible. Furthermore, there is a particular interest in a highly reliable sealing method and an advantageous coupling process, with a view to minimizing maintenance and repair costs. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The task is to provide a crucible logistics arrangement or a method for the mobile handling of melts, particularly in connection with removal from crucibles and / or emptying into furnaces. This should ensure an advantageous compromise between time and energy efficiency, process effort, process safety, and the tightness and robustness of the components that guide the melt and are coupled together for the mobile handling process. This is especially important during the process of closing or sealing a crucible container lid in an arrangement of the crucible container on a vehicle transporting the melt, particularly in the context of "tapping" operations, e.g., to prepare for the process of emptying the melt from the crucible container into a furnace. It is also a task to provide such a crucible logistics arrangement or method for...The associated process is designed in such a way that the coupling of at least one pipe section in the area of ​​an opening in the crucible container lid, combined with a pressure-tight seal of the crucible container opening, can be carried out in a particularly reliable manner with minimal wear. Finally, it is also a task to design a crucible logistics arrangement with a crucible container in such a way that the introduction and removal of melt can be ensured in a robust and safe manner, even for particularly demanding processes, while maintaining a good service life for the heavily stressed components involved.

[0007] This problem is solved by a crucible logistics arrangement according to claim 1, by a method according to the dependent method claim, and by uses according to the respective dependent use claim. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are explained in the respective dependent claims. The features of the exemplary embodiments described below can be combined with one another unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0008] A crucible logistics arrangement is provided, which is configured for the mobile handling of at least one crucible container including melt, in particular by means of at least one (crucible) vehicle or a traverse configured for moving the corresponding crucible container including melt, comprising a crucible container with a crucible lid with an adapter opening and with a riser pipe opening in the area of ​​the adapter opening and installed in the crucible container; wherein the crucible logistics arrangement has an adapter connection for introducing / discharging the melt and for pressure-tight coupling with the crucible container in the area of ​​the adapter opening, wherein at least one actuator can be provided for moving and positioning the adapter connection relative to the adapter opening, e.g. on the side of the vehicle; wherein the crucible logistics arrangement is configured for a technically generable pressure differential for removing the melt (negative pressure on the side of the crucible container), e.g.from an (electrolysis) plant and / or for emptying the melt (overpressure) from the crucible container, e.g., into a furnace; according to the invention, it is proposed that the riser pipe in the area of ​​the adapter opening can be mounted / supported in such a positionally tolerant (loose, floating) relative to the crucible lid (in particular in the radial direction, radially loosely mounted) that when the crucible container is completely closed by coupling with the adapter connection (in particular for the emptying process), a coupling partner of the adapter connection, in particular a pipe section, can be coupled or is coupled to the riser pipe by positioning the riser pipe relative to the crucible lid.This provides an advantageous compromise between time and energy efficiency in handling the melt, process effort, particularly in the context of closing the adapter opening, and device-related tightness and robustness, especially at the upper pipe transition of the riser pipe opening. Two pipes or conduits that are not mechanically connected can be reliably sealed and positioned relative to each other during the filling and / or emptying of liquid media (possibly chemically complex and aggressive media) at very high temperatures and potentially under a technically generated pressure differential. In particular, an offset of, for example, 5 to 10 mm between adjacent pipe sections can be easily compensated for. Among other effects, improved centering can also be ensured. Therefore, a loose or...Floating bearing relative to the crucible lid, in particular bearing on the crucible lid, also provides self-centering of adjacent pipe sections, especially when closing the crucible lid. The sealing point or sealing area achieved via the adapter connection can be designed to include at least two different types of seals such that there is no, or at least no significant, pressure difference between the inside and outside. Furthermore, this results in a significantly lower consumption of sealing material over the operating life.

[0009] In other words, the present invention relates to a crucible logistics arrangement with a tubular, coupling, end-sealed adapter connection for an opening in the crucible lid, in which a built-in riser pipe projects from the crucible container at least as far as the opening, wherein the riser pipe is advantageously mounted to float at least radially relative to the crucible lid or relative to the lid-forming crucible container wall and can thus be positioned with position tolerance, particularly in the radial direction, relative to the crucible container wall during the coupling process. In other words: The crucible logistics arrangement comprises a crucible container with a riser pipe mounted to float at least radially relative to the crucible lid.This allows for an improved sealing method, particularly at the interface (transition point) between the riser pipe and a connecting pipe (outer pipe) or the corresponding adapter section, advantageously provided by means of the adapter connection. Furthermore, the coupling process itself can be simplified, resulting in less wear and tear, thus minimizing maintenance. The invention therefore facilitates the filling and / or emptying of liquid media / fluids or melts, especially those that must be handled at very high temperatures and conveyed and transported in pipes or similar structures. The invention primarily relates to equipment or devices for crucible vehicles or traverses designed for maneuvering these media and for filling and / or emptying the media at the respective crucible.The present invention focuses in particular on the coupling or interface between the riser tube installed in the crucible container and a lid adapter (or adapter connection) that can be actuated separately relative to the crucible container.

[0010] It should be understood that the embodiment described here, intended for "mobile handling," does not preclude suitability for stationary handling. The present invention is specifically directed toward the process context described herein, which (at least typically) requires mobile handling of the crucible container between the individual steps.

[0011] The present invention can also be described as follows: The invention enables, particularly with regard to process-related pressure differences, improved sealing and reliable tightness, even during long operating periods, in the area of ​​the riser pipe of a crucible container transportable by truck or similar (crucible) vehicle or spreader, especially for filling the crucible container and / or for removing the melt (overpressure, underpressure, thermal expansion during conveying / feeding or emptying of the melt). The riser pipe installed in the crucible container is not screwed to the crucible lid, but is loosely or floatingly mounted relative to the crucible lid, resting, for example, on the crucible lid, particularly in combination with an end-face seal, for example, by means of a ring-shaped receptacle made of steel (also referred to, for example, as a sealing ring receptacle).In this way, two pipes or pipe sections that are not mechanically connected can be reliably sealed during the filling and / or emptying of liquid media such as melts (i.e., potentially chemically complex and aggressive media) at very high temperatures and potentially under technically generated pressure differentials. They can be positioned relative to each other without placing excessive demands on the accuracy of the relative positioning of the coupling partners or on the required tolerances, and without making the sealing technology overly complex. For example, a radial offset of 5 to 10 mm between adjacent pipe sections is compensated for.During coupling, self-centering is advantageously achieved by the relative positioning of the riser pipe in a radial direction, particularly when resting on the crucible lid. This allows adjacent pipe sections to be coupled and sealed against each other in a particularly gentle manner, especially when closing the crucible lid. The coupling is designed such that there is no noticeably adverse pressure difference at the sealing point between the riser pipe and the connecting pipe between the interior (crucible container) and an intermediate chamber or area on the outside of the riser pipe that is at least approximately gas-tight from the environment and defined by the adapter connection.In the area of ​​the crucible lid, adjacent pipe sections of the riser pipe and adapter connection are loosely mounted next to each other, advantageously with loose mounting of the riser pipe on the crucible lid, advantageously with a self-centering effect through the coupling process itself, optionally in combination with a sealing ring-shaped receptacle for the riser pipe (e.g. ring-shaped receptacle made of steel), advantageously in combination with a clamping effect concerning the riser pipe, wherein the clamping can advantageously be realized by means of the optional ring-shaped receptacle.

[0012] The present invention thus allows the concept of a permanently installed riser tube in the crucible container to be retained, while simultaneously providing a particularly elegant method of coupling and sealing, especially of a tube or similar apparatus leading to the crucible lid from the outside. The present invention also ensures that coupling with the adapter (for the purpose of completely closing the crucible container) can be achieved with minimal wear and tear, while maintaining a permanently low-maintenance seal. This also allows for the relatively simple and elegant realization of the advantage that the riser tube can self-center (radial self-centering) as soon as it is coupled axially from above (thanks to the riser tube's positionally tolerant bearing, at least in the radial direction, particularly relative to the crucible lid).within a receptacle provided for the riser pipe; in the axial direction, however, the riser pipe may be predefined and supported, i.e., at least approximately free of play or at least approximately fixed, so that the coupling point can be found as easily as possible despite the floating support).

[0013] The present invention relates in particular to crucible container arrangements in which the riser pipe is advantageously fixed within the crucible container with the lid or a corresponding lid-side wall of the crucible container. This prevents significant bath movement during filling and also facilitates emptying by overpressure. The fixed design of the riser pipe and crucible lid thus promotes advantageous handling of the melt itself and also an advantageous process procedure. In contrast to the prior art, the present invention overcomes the sealing and coupling difficulties associated with fixed mounting of the riser pipe, without foregoing the advantages of the permanently, at least approximately, stationary arrangement of the riser pipe within the crucible container.

[0014] According to the prior art, the riser pipe is rigidly connected to the crucible lid, in particular by screws. In contrast, the present invention is based on the concept of loosely mounting adjacent pipe sections or at least adjacent coupling partners or sections in the area of ​​the crucible lid (in particular including the free end of the riser pipe), advantageously with a kind of self-centering of the riser pipe relative to the adapter connection with respect to the crucible lid, optionally also in combination with a ring-shaped receptacle for the riser pipe (e.g., a ring-shaped steel ring receptacle) that may provide further sealing, and advantageously in combination with a clamping effect with respect to at least one of the coupling partners (in particular the riser pipe), wherein the clamping can optionally be realized at least partially by means of the optional ring-shaped receptacle.

[0015] During the investigations that led to the present invention, it was also shown that inadequately specified tolerances can lead to a detrimental (relative) offset of components, in particular pipe sections.

[0016] A "pressure-tight" arrangement of the adapter connection on the crucible container is understood to mean, in particular, both a fluid-tight arrangement with tightness to the medium being handled (melt) and a gas-tight arrangement with tightness, especially to the environment. In other words, the arrangement described here ensures, on the one hand, that the melt is driven only along the movement path or material flow path intended for the melt (in particular defined by the riser pipe and adapter connection with outer pipe), and on the other hand, that a pressure differential, especially relative to ambient pressure, can be built up (positive or negative pressure differential), wherein, according to the invention, the largest pressure gradient is as geographically separated as possible from the coupling points of adjacent pipe sections carrying the melt.In this respect, the arrangement according to the invention can also ensure that at least a fluid-tight bearing (i.e., a transition tight with respect to the melt) is ensured at a thermally particularly stressed interface or coupling, which, however, allows at least some pressure equalization in the gas phase, namely into an intermediate area or into an intermediate chamber, and that at a less thermally stressed point located radially further outwards, a gas-tight seal is also achieved against the environment, in particular against the crucible lid. The axial bearing or contact force acting on the corresponding sealing components can, depending on the process, also be adjusted or specified by the respective generated pressure difference, or depending on the generated pressure difference (in particular depending on whether it is overpressure or underpressure).

[0017] Where the term "crucible" is used in this disclosure, it is synonymous with a furnace or plant component for the processual generation or further processing of the melt. Where the term "crucible" is used in this disclosure, it is synonymous with a crucible container intended for the mobile handling of the melt, i.e., for holding the melt, but not necessarily for actively heating or keeping it warm. Where the term "crucible logistics arrangement" is used in this disclosure, it is to be understood as components comprising the crucible container and at least one vehicle for it or at least one traverse, for fulfilling at least one logistical requirement, whereby a logistical requirement may, for example, consist of taking the melt from a first location (e.g., electrolysis plant, first furnace) and / or from a second location (e.g.,to empty the crucible container from the second furnace, foundry, or similar location, whereby the vehicle (or the traverse) can at least partially cover the path of the crucible container with molten metal from the first to the second location. The logistics arrangement described here thus implies, at the very least, mobile handling of the crucible container, in particular the transfer of the crucible container from one vehicle to another or, for example, from a traverse to a vehicle, or vice versa; in this respect, the method of coupling and storage of the individual components described here (especially including the adapter connection) also differs from, for example, applications and equipment used in forming processes such as casting (foundry work, the stationary process of forming and casting as such).With reference to an adapter connection, the present disclosure also refers to a connecting pipe (outer pipe) provided by means of the adapter connection, thus directly relating, in procedural terms, to the process of extracting or introducing the melt between different containers / cavities in a logistical context.

[0018] Where the present disclosure refers to a (crucible) vehicle, this term is synonymous with a vehicle equipped for handling or relocating at least one crucible container with or without molten metal, for example, with a molten metal mass of 10 tonnes [t]. References to a (crucible) vehicle also implicitly include references to a spreader beam.

[0019] Where the term "traverse" is used in the present disclosure, it is to be understood synonymously as a crane device or similar support structure, e.g. mounted on the walls of a machine hall, designed for moving the crucible container.

[0020] Where the present disclosure refers to a flange, flange-like section or extension, or similar functional feature relating to the riser tube, this is to be understood synonymously as a section or extension rigidly connected to the tubular section of the riser tube, which is designed and configured to allow support on the crucible lid. Thus, according to the present disclosure, a flange initially only means support, in particular bearing relative to at least one other component, without any fixed fastening / fixation being provided.

[0021] For example, the crucible logistics arrangement can also be configured for transferring crucible containers to another vehicle and / or for transferring / receiving crucible containers to / from a spreader beam and / or to / from another vehicle. For this purpose, actuated support arms or similar lifting and / or support structures can be provided.

[0022] Personalized terms, unless explicitly formulated in the neuter gender, may refer to all genders within the context of this disclosure. Any English terms or abbreviations used herein are industry-standard technical terms and are familiar to those skilled in the art. Any synonymous German terms may be indicated here in parentheses for the sake of completeness, or vice versa, for example, regarding the term "tapping" (dip).

[0023] It is understood that the coupling or coupling partners are advantageously provided, from a functional point of view, primarily by means of a riser pipe and a corresponding tubular connection of the adapter connection, and that sealing is advantageously achieved, from a functional point of view, primarily by end-face support or contact at at least one further contact point between the crucible container and the adapter connection. Based on the present disclosure, the person skilled in the art can specify to what extent and at which contact points / areas the adapter unit (i.e., on the side of the crucible container) should be equipped with parts of coupling partners or essentially ensure a sealing function by means of at least one sealing partner in at least one sealing area.Advantageously, a functional separation is / will be realized between, on the one hand, domes in the area of ​​adjacent tubular sections with axial overlap in conical areas and / or spherically shaped areas, and on the other hand, sealing at at least one end-face contact area.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the riser pipe is supported radially in the region of the adapter opening, floating relative to the crucible lid, in particular by means of a flanged section of the riser pipe, preferably by means of a radially disc-shaped flange extension which forms a bearing on / with the crucible lid. This facilitates, on the one hand, a robust design of the positionally tolerant support, and on the other hand, a sealing function can be advantageously implemented, in particular also being / being at least partially functionally integrated into the riser pipe flange section, provided this proves to be expedient for the specific application.

[0025] According to the invention, an intermediate chamber, at least approximately gas-tight with respect to the environment, is defined between the sections carrying the melt and under technical pressure (overpressure or underpressure) and the environment, particularly at atmospheric pressure, by means of the adapter connection coupled to the crucible lid. This also facilitates a two-stage sealing process: firstly, a coupling at the transition between the riser tube and the adapter connection that is (fluid-)tight with respect to the medium melt (while still allowing pressure equalization for the gas phase), and secondly, a more or less gas-tight sealing of a region located radially between the riser tube and the environment (in particular, the intermediate chamber) from the environment.

[0026] According to one embodiment, at least one approximately gas-tight seal, comprising at least one approximately gas-tight sealing component, is formed between the contacting contact partners between the adapter connection and the crucible lid, particularly with a fabric sealant. This also facilitates pressure-tight / gas-tight sealing in a radially more distant area, which may be subject to less thermal stress and is also unlikely to come into contact with the melt; in this way, the function of achieving the most pressure-tight / gas-tight seal possible can be shifted radially outwards to the top surface of the crucible lid and largely decoupled from the coupling point between the riser pipe and the adapter connection.

[0027] Investigations into the inventive bearing and coupling concept have shown that a particularly good sealing effect can be achieved when the pressure difference between the melt-carrying (pipe) sections and the environment (atmospheric pressure) can be minimized. Therefore, with regard to a particularly advantageous sealing effect, it is also proposed to provide a pressure chamber, defined by the adapter connection and described here, which at least approximately assumes the technical pressure generated in the melt-carrying (pipe) sections, so that no pressure difference is generated that would force the melt outwards from the melt-carrying (pipe) sections.This effect can be advantageously achieved by ensuring that the coupling at the upper end of the riser pipe and / or a support for the riser pipe on the crucible lid is preferably only fluid-tight with respect to the melt, but not gas-tight, so that pressure equalization occurs up to an intermediate chamber, which in turn can be sealed off from the environment at least approximately gas-tight. "At least approximately gas-tight" here refers to a sealing condition which, with the adapter connection on the crucible lid arranged as intended in the context of the process steps described here, achieves a significantly greater gas tightness than the coupling or support between the riser pipe and the crucible lid or the adapter connection. Therefore, the term "gas-tight" here should not be understood as a complete barrier to the gas phase or even individual molecules (unlike, for example,in the field of cleanroom technology), but rather as a gradation implemented at the sealing technology level between, on the one hand, merely fluid-tight (pressure equalization of the gas phase to a certain extent is permissible or even desirable) and, on the other hand, as pressure-tight as possible with regard to pressure differences of such magnitude that the melt can be extracted or introduced due to these technically generated pressure differences. This consideration also makes it clear that the level of gas tightness also depends on other boundary conditions, such as the pumping capacity of (under-)pressure agents or the density or viscosity of the medium being pumped. The formulation "gas-tight" chosen here, or rather...The phrase "at least approximately gas-tight" is particularly appropriate here with regard to the process of closing the crucible lid and handling the adapter connection by means of an arm or similar actuator on a comparatively macroscopic scale; in other words: it would not do justice to the process described here to speak of complete gas tightness, a term that could probably only be applied to connection partners that are firmly connected and attached to each other in a predefined manner.

[0028] According to one embodiment, at least one pair of coupling or sealing components with a material pairing of the same or different materials is provided between the contacting contact partners between the adapter connection and the riser pipe or crucible lid, in particular steel (e.g., cast steel) or at least steel on one side and a relatively softer material on the other for the pipe sections to be brought into contact with each other, which have a conical or spherical shape. Advantageously, one sealing component, which is fluid-tight at least with respect to the molten medium, is made of metal. Advantageously, one sealing component, which is at least approximately gas-tight, is made of a fabric-like material, particularly on the side of the adapter connection.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the pot lid has an adapter unit with a receptacle for a disc-shaped radial flange section or extension of the riser pipe for a radially floating / displaced mounting of the riser pipe. The adapter unit includes at least one sealing component, such as a sealing ring or similar sealing material, and is designed for pressure-tight coupling with the adapter connection, which is handled particularly by the vehicle, to completely close the pot lid. This also allows for a comparatively simple and robust design, which also offers the procedural advantage that a seal and a force-fit (fixed) mounting are ensured from a certain point during coupling, in particular from a certain axial force exerted by the adapter connection on the pot lid and / or adapter unit.The at least one sealing component can also be integrated into the preferably ring-shaped receptacle. Advantageously, the adapter unit, and in particular the receptacle, forms at least a partial support for the adapter connection, especially for sealing purposes. In other words, the adapter connection can utilize the adapter unit, at least partially, as a support, for example, in combination with a more radially outward-positioned support or at least a more radially outward-positioned bearing surface directly on the pot lid.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the riser pipe has a conicity or spherical shape (meaning: at least one conical or spherically shaped section) at the coupling free end, which is geometrically corresponding to a corresponding conicity or spherical shape (meaning: at least one conical or spherically shaped section) of the free end of the adapter connection to be coupled to the riser pipe, in particular with the geometrically corresponding conicities or spherical shapes designed for a force-fit, fluid-tight coupling created by sealing bearing and by contact in the area of ​​the conicities or spherical shapes, wherein the conicity or spherical shape of the adapter connection advantageously encompasses / encloses the conicity or spherical shape of the riser pipe, i.e., is / is slipped over it from above.This also promotes a symbiotic effect of mechanical holding / fixing at the moment of coupling in combination with a sealing effect.

[0031] It should be understood that the coupling described here between the riser pipe and the connection (outer pipe or suction pipe) can optionally be designed as a friction-fit or form-fit coupling or as a friction-fit and form-fit coupling.

[0032] “Geometrically corresponding” can also refer to a pairing of two conicities with slightly different slopes, especially with a deviation in the range of a few degrees in the single digits or in the range of 5-10%, for example with a corresponding deviation starting from or around an angle of 45°.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the crucible logistics arrangement is configured for a relative rotational movement between the crucible lid and the adapter connection when coupled to the riser pipe, particularly with continued end-face sealing. This allows for even greater process variability and flexibility, especially in the context of dispensing and filling, particularly regarding the positioning of the crucible container (or the vehicle) relative to a system or furnace. Optionally, the axial force exerted by the adapter connection on the crucible lid or on the riser pipe and adapter unit can be temporarily reduced for a rotational movement, for example, by sensorily detecting the currently acting axial force (e.g., using at least one force sensor) and outputting it as a control variable to a control unit to specify an axial coupling force exerted by the adapter connection.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the crucible logistics arrangement is configured for at least two-stage radial sealing: a fluid-tight seal radially inwards at corresponding coupling partners, and an at least approximately gas-tight seal radially further outwards against the crucible lid via the adapter connection. An intermediate chamber is formed between the radially inwards and radially outwards sealing areas, and a gas-tight sealing component ensures a pressure differential to the environment during intended use. This also provides an improved sealing effect using comparatively simple means, with a good service life for the sealing materials involved.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the riser pipe, the adapter connection, and the crucible lid (and optionally, an adapter unit) together form a pressure-tight coupled arrangement, creating a bearing and coupling that is mechanically pre-tensioned in the axial direction by a predefined contact force (possibly generated primarily by a vacuum in the crucible container). The riser pipe is preferably clamped, for example, between an adapter unit and the crucible lid, and the adapter unit is sealed between the adapter connection and the crucible lid. This allows for an advantageous combination of coupling, centering, and sealing functions with a comparatively simple design.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the crucible logistics arrangement is configured to generate a pressure differential Δp between the crucible and the adapter connection or the adjacent outer tube from the moment the adapter connection is properly coupled and the crucible is closed, for the purpose of removing and / or emptying the melt. This differential is achieved particularly in relation to instantaneous pressure and / or force measurements, and is specifically controlled / regulated by a control unit of the crucible logistics arrangement. This also promotes a highly efficient process and, consequently, minimizes energy losses.

[0037] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a method according to the corresponding dependent claim, namely by a method for handling at least one crucible container with a riser pipe in connection with logistical measures concerning molten metal taken from or discharged into a crucible of a plant or from a furnace, particularly in aluminum production, wherein the crucible container is moved at least in a process-phase-specific manner, advantageously by means of at least one (crucible) vehicle or a traverse, wherein an adapter opening of the crucible container is closed pressure-tight at least in a process-phase-specific manner by coupling an adapter connection; comprising the steps: S1 Positioning the adapter connection in the area of ​​the crucible lid, in particular by means of at least one actuator of the (crucible) vehicle or the traverse;S2 Coupling the adapter connection with the outer tube (in particular a coupling partner of the adapter connection, in particular a free end of a tube section) with the riser pipe arranged in the adapter opening; S3 Local relocation of the crucible container including the melt; S4 Feeding the adapter connection or an outer tube indirectly provided therewith with the melt, in particular for the purpose of introducing or removing the melt, in particular based on at least one technically generated pressure difference; wherein the riser pipe is positioned at least radially relative to the crucible container during coupling (i.e. in step S2), in particular in a radially floating bearing on the crucible lid, and is centered relative to the adapter connection;In particular, the method is carried out by means of a crucible logistics arrangement according to the present disclosure, especially also when / by using a method of sealing the mutually mounted components as described above. This results in the aforementioned advantages, especially with regard to ease of handling, energy efficiency, and wear minimization. The coupling (step S2) can advantageously first take place on axially overlapping conical or spherical sections of the riser pipe and the connecting pipe of the adapter connection, before contacting and sealing take place, especially in a radially much more outward area, particularly against the crucible lid, especially by means of a fabric sealant, particularly defining an intermediate chamber between the outer surface of the riser pipe and the environment.

[0038] According to one embodiment, during coupling a pressure-tight seal is formed at the end face between the riser pipe and the crucible container on the one hand and the adapter connection on the other, particularly in at least one area concentrically around one / the coupling partner of the adapter connection. This also promotes an advantageous symbiosis with regard to the two functions of coupling the pipe sections and sealing against the environment.

[0039] According to the invention, an intermediate chamber, at least approximately gas-tight from the surroundings, is defined between the sections carrying the melt and under technical pressure and the surroundings, particularly at atmospheric pressure, by means of the adapter connection coupled to the crucible lid, especially in connection with pressurization. In other words: The intermediate chamber is at least approximately gas-tightly defined between the sections carrying the melt and under technical pressure and the surroundings in connection with pressurization.On the one hand, this also promotes an efficient way of automating the process flow, while on the other hand, the coupling function is not overloaded by simultaneously ensuring sealing requirements; rather, with regard to a certain axial overlap, the mechanical coupling itself can first be carried out, in order to then ensure the sealing radially further outwards against the environment, particularly in the temporal context of feeding the pipe sections.

[0040] According to one embodiment, during coupling, at least one sealing component, such as a sealing ring or similar sealant, is brought into contact with the end face between the adapter connection and an adapter unit arranged / arrangable on the crucible lid. This also facilitates a multi-stage seal in the radial direction, particularly in combination with a clamping of the riser pipe, which can also be achieved by the adapter unit. The (axial) interposition of an adapter unit is to be understood as an additional option, for example, to ensure a specific type of clamping of a disc-shaped riser pipe flange section. Based on the present disclosure, a person skilled in the art can specify whether, and if so, in what configuration, an adapter unit with a clamping function is to be provided on the crucible lid.In the area of ​​an adapter unit, it is advantageous to ensure only a fluid-tight, but not a gas-tight, seal.

[0041] According to one embodiment, a pressure differential is technically generated during or for the purpose of filling the system to facilitate the removal and / or emptying of the melt, whereby an intermediate chamber between the sections carrying the melt and under technical pressure and the environment is sealed at least approximately gas-tight. This also provides the advantageous effect of minimizing the pressure gradient in the area of ​​the mechanical coupling of the pipe sections carrying the melt, which is beneficial to fluid tightness, resulting in less corrosion of the components involved by the melt.

[0042] According to one embodiment, during coupling, corresponding conicities or spherical shapes of the riser pipe and adapter connection are axially overlapped, particularly up to a relative axial position in which at least one sealing component comes into contact with the adapter connection and one or more of the adapter units arranged on the crucible lid and / or the crucible lid itself. This axial coupling with contact, both with respect to the mechanical (coupling) interface and at least one sealing point, also facilitates simple and efficient handling, especially for comparatively coarse macroscopic movements / actuation requirements and comparatively large moving masses.

[0043] According to one embodiment, for the intended pressure-tight closure of the adapter opening and for coupling, the riser pipe, the adapter connection, and the pot lid, optionally also an adapter unit, are mechanically pre-tensioned against each other with a predefined axial contact force and coupled together, optionally in combination with a clamping of the riser pipe between the adapter unit and the pot lid, preferably with the adapter unit in a sealing arrangement between the adapter connection and the pot lid. This also promotes a largely self-adjusting coupling and sealing process, namely by the riser pipe self-centering during coupling, and by the pressure-tight seal being achieved, particularly against the top of the pot lid, i.e., radially outside the adapter opening in the pot lid, when axially pressed (whether by an actuator or due to a pressure difference). A connection between the corresponding, e.g.,The axial force currently prevailing between paired contact partners is detected by at least one force sensor and output as a control variable for a control unit (especially of the corresponding vehicle).

[0044] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a crucible container with a riser tube arranged therein and opening into an adapter opening of the crucible container, having a bearing of the riser tube that is at least radially floating relative to the crucible lid, and configured for handling according to a method described herein, wherein a free end of the riser tube to be coupled is designed such that, when coupling with a corresponding coupling partner of an adapter connection, the riser tube is positioned at least radially relative to the crucible lid in the area of ​​the adapter opening and is centered relative to the coupling partner, wherein the crucible container is configured for (at least approximately) gas-tight coupling with at least one sealing component of the adapter connection, in particular on a sealing surface of the crucible lid that surrounds the riser tube in an annular manner, to form an at least approximately gas-tight intermediate chamber;in particular by means of a crucible logistics arrangement described above. This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized, especially with regard to the robustness and long service life of the coupling partners involved and with regard to process aspects when filling mobile crucible containers and when removing melt. In this context, at least one sealing component can also be provided by the crucible container in the area of ​​the coupling, in particular at least approximately concentrically around the riser tube, e.g. in at least one area or on at least one side of one of the adapter units and / or on a radially outer section of the crucible lid.

[0045] The aforementioned problem is also solved by using a bearing that is at least radially floating (relatively position-tolerant) for a riser pipe installed in a crucible container to provide a coupling that is at least radially position-tolerant between the riser pipe and an adapter connection to be pressure-tightly coupled to an adapter opening of the crucible container for guiding (introducing or dispensing) molten metal, particularly when filling or emptying a crucible container arranged on a vehicle or on a crossbeam, wherein an intermediate chamber is formed between the adapter connection and the crucible container that is at least approximately gas-tight from the environment; particularly in a crucible logistics arrangement described above, and particularly in a method described above.This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized, particularly with regard to a beneficial symbiosis of requirements concerning the two functions of coupling and pressure-tight sealing.

[0046] The aforementioned problem is also solved by using a crucible container with an adapter opening and a riser pipe opening therein, wherein the riser pipe is mounted to float at least in the radial direction relative to the crucible container, to provide a coupling between the riser pipe and an adapter connection to be coupled pressure-tight at the adapter opening for guiding (introducing or dispensing) molten metal, in particular when filling or emptying a crucible container arranged on a vehicle or on a crossbeam, wherein the riser pipe is supported on the crucible container by means of a flange section with a radial position tolerance of at least 5 mm, preferably at least 10 mm, wherein the crucible container is configured for gas-tight coupling with at least one sealing component of the adapter connection to form an intermediate chamber that is sealed off at least approximately gas-tight from the environment;especially in a crucible logistics arrangement described above, and particularly in a process described above. This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized, especially with regard to the robustness and long service life of the coupling partners involved and with regard to process aspects when filling mobile crucible containers and when removing melt.

[0047] Summary: When coupling the riser pipe and adapter connection or outer pipe to a crucible container, high (material) stresses occur, particularly due to thermal expansion and the chemical properties of the respective melt, which can lead to high wear, especially on the coupling sections and seals involved.The present invention relates to a crucible logistics arrangement, designed for the mobile handling of at least one crucible container including melt, in particular by means of at least one (crucible) vehicle designed for moving one / the corresponding crucible container including melt, comprising a crucible container with a crucible lid with an adapter opening and with a riser pipe opening in the region of the adapter opening and installed in the crucible container; wherein the crucible logistics arrangement has an adapter connection for introducing / exiting the melt and for pressure-tight coupling with the crucible container in the region of the adapter opening, wherein at least one actuator can be provided for moving and positioning the adapter connection relative to the adapter opening; wherein the crucible logistics arrangement is designed for a technically generable pressure differential for removing the melt (negative pressure on the side of the crucible container), e.g.from an (electrolysis) plant and / or for emptying the melt (overpressure) from the crucible container, e.g. into a furnace; According to the invention, it is proposed that the riser pipe in the region of the adapter opening be mounted in such a positionally tolerant manner (loosely, floating) relative to the pot lid (especially in the radial direction, radially loosely mounted) that when the pot container is completely closed by coupling with the adapter connection (especially for the emptying process), a coupling partner of the adapter connection, in particular a pipe section, can be coupled to the riser pipe by (relatively positionally tolerant) positioning of the riser pipe relative to the pot lid. A corresponding method is also provided, comprising a pressure-tight coupling of the adapter connection with the riser pipe arranged in the adapter opening.This can, on the one hand, facilitate the coupling process, and on the other hand, minimize wear and tear, or ensure a good seal even over a longer period of use. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0048] The invention is described in more detail in the following drawings, whereby reference numerals not explicitly described in a particular drawing are made to the other drawings. They show, in schematic representation: Fig. 1 in a side view an arrangement of a riser pipe on a crucible container according to the prior art; Fig. 2 in a detailed view components of a crucible logistics arrangement according to an embodiment, in particular concerning the coupling between adapter connection and crucible container lid; Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B, Fig. 3C each in a top view a crucible logistics arrangement according to an embodiment, including involved vehicles or similar equipment such as e.g. traverses; Fig. 4 in a top view a crucible logistics arrangement according to a further embodiment, including the vehicle involved; Fig. 5 in a side view components of a crucible logistics arrangement according to a further embodiment; Fig. 6 in a detailed view coupling partners of coupling components of a crucible logistics arrangement according to exemplary embodiments; Fig. 7 in a side view components of a crucible logistics arrangement according to a further embodiment; Fig. 8 in a detailed view coupling partners of coupling components of a crucible logistics arrangement according to a / the corresponding further embodiment; Fig. 9 steps of a method for handling at least one crucible container of a crucible logistics arrangement according to exemplary embodiments; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0049] The invention will first be explained with general reference to all reference numerals and figures. Specific features or individual aspects, or aspects of the present invention that are clearly visible / representable in the respective figure, will be addressed individually in connection with that figure.

[0050] A crucible logistics arrangement 100 is provided for the mobile handling of at least one mobile crucible container 10 including melt 3, for example by means of at least one vehicle 30 (or analogously a traverse 50 provided for this purpose), comprising a crucible container 10 with a crucible lid 11 with an adapter opening 11.1 and with a riser pipe 15 opening in the area of ​​the adapter opening and installed in the crucible container 10, further comprising an adapter connection 17 for introducing / exiting the melt and for pressure-tight coupling with the crucible container 10 in the area of ​​the adapter opening 11.1, wherein at least one actuator 32 is advantageously provided for moving and positioning the adapter connection 17 relative to the adapter opening 11.1, wherein the crucible logistics arrangement 100 is configured for a technically achievable pressure difference Δp for removing and / or emptying the melt; wherein the riser pipe 15 opens in the area of ​​the adapter opening 11.1 is positioned / is positioned in such a way as to be storable / storable relative to the crucible lid 11 in such a way that when the crucible container is completely closed by coupling with the adapter connection 17 in the area of ​​the adapter opening, a coupling partner 17.1 of the adapter connection 17 can be coupled to the riser pipe 15 by (relatively position-tolerant) positioning of the riser pipe 15 relative to the crucible lid 11.

[0051] The crucible lid 11 can be fitted with at least one (at least approximately) gas-tight sealing component 11.5 (sealing ring or similar sealant or sealing surface), in particular in an annular area concentric around the adapter opening, wherein the annular area advantageously accommodates at least the radial tolerance (or is correspondingly radially oversized) required for the self-centering positioning of the riser pipe relative to the adapter connection 17. This results in a comparatively large and relatively radially outwardly located flat bearing surface 11.9 for radial positional tolerance, also for thermal or at least local decoupling from the pipe sections carrying the melt.

[0052] The riser pipe 15, or the upper section visible in the figures, is mounted in the region of one / the free end of the riser pipe 15.1 to be coupled (coupling partner) with a flange section / extension 15.7 of the riser pipe, in particular a disc-shaped flange section, in a positionally tolerance relative to the crucible lid. The flange section defines a flat bearing surface 15.9 at least for the area of ​​the radial positional tolerance.

[0053] Axially overlapping pipe sections of the riser pipe and adapter connection, in their intended coupled arrangement, form a fluid-tight coupling 16 or interface (transition point) between the upper free end 17.1 (coupling partner, coupling section) of the riser pipe and the connection of an outer pipe, which is designed to correspond, particularly in geometric terms. Advantageously, conical or spherical shapes, especially spherical shapes, 15.3, 17.3, of the riser pipe and adapter connection couple with each other, in particular by frictional engagement. However, according to the invention, gas tightness or a pressure-tight seal is not necessary or provided at this point of the interlocking pipe sections. The adapter connection can have an inlet and / or outlet pipe unit 13 (pipe unit, outer pipe) or a corresponding pipe section, either in an integral design or in multiple parts.

[0054] During coupling, self-centering within the centering tolerance range Δxy can be achieved by means of the overlapping areas 15.3 and 17.3. This means that the riser tube is centered relative to the adapter connection when the riser tube is freely supported (where, from a design perspective, a radial position tolerance Δr is ensured laterally to the lid edge within the adapter opening in the crucible lid). In other words, the diameter of the adapter opening is at least the centering tolerance range Δxy, or at least 2x Δr, larger than the outer diameter of the corresponding riser tube section. Therefore, the positioning accuracy on the adapter connection side does not need to be extremely high. The inner diameter D15 of the riser tube is preferably less than or equal to the inner diameter D17 of the tubular section of the adapter connection that couples with the riser tube.

[0055] By coupling the adapter connection 17 to the crucible lid as intended, at least one (at least approximately) gas-tight sealing component 17.5 (sealing ring or similar sealing material, in particular fabric sealant) can be brought into effect, in particular radially far outside / spaced from the riser pipe.

[0056] The coupling described here allows an intermediate chamber 14 or a correspondingly dense area, e.g. a cavity, to be defined between the adapter connection and the crucible lid, in particular predefined by the shape of the adapter connection and the crucible lid, and limited by the riser pipe (radially inside) and the sealing medium (radially outside).

[0057] Pressure generation / pressurization means 20 provide the desired technical pressure / vacuum or the required pressure differential in connection with guiding / directing / aspirating the melt. For this purpose, at least one pressure line 21 or similar pressure-resistant / pressure-tight connection can be provided or constructed in the context of the coupling process. A valve 18, in particular a check valve, can be installed on the crucible lid wall, especially with a (self-)closing position in the event of overpressure in the intermediate chamber above the crucible lid (relative to the pressure in the crucible container).

[0058] In particular, the following components can also be used in the context of the crucible logistics arrangement described here: first (crucible) vehicle 30 with crucible holder 31, kinematics 32 or actuator for adapter connection, arm 32.1 for at least raising or lowering the adapter connection relative to the adapter opening, drive unit 33 with drive train and wheels 33.1, tracks or the like, control unit 35 (vehicle-integrated or system-integrated), measuring unit 37 comprising at least one force sensor or load cell 37.1, support arms 39 in particular for gimbal suspension of the crucible container, as well as at least one second / additional (crucible) vehicle 40 and a crossbeam 50.

[0059] In particular, step S1 can be performed: positioning the adapter connection in the area of ​​the crucible lid; furthermore, step S2 can be performed: coupling the adapter connection to the riser tube; furthermore, step S3 can be performed: mobile handling, in particular relocation, of the crucible container; furthermore, step S4 can be performed: charging the adapter connection or outer tube with medium or melt. A distinction can also be made between the following technical pressures: first technical pressure P1 (actual pressure in the crucible container above the melt), second technical pressure P2 (actual pressure in the intermediate chamber 14), third technical pressure P3 (actual pressure in the riser tube or outer tube, coupled, if not yet charged with melt). According to the invention, the pressure difference ΔP (with P as a capital letter) between P1 and P2 is as small as possible.minimized, thus ensuring that the melt is not driven laterally out of the mechanical coupling 15.3, 17.3. Here, Δp (with p in lowercase) denotes a technically achievable pressure difference, particularly in the context of introducing / discharging melt.

[0060] The following section explains special features of the invention with reference to individual figures or embodiments.

[0061] In Fig. Figure 1 illustrates a previously known crucible container with a previously known crucible lid 7 and a previously known adapter 9, wherein the riser pipe extending in the z-direction is fixed relative to the crucible container opening by means of a previously known fixed connection (e.g., screw connection) 5 between the riser pipe and the lid wall, without positional tolerance in the radial direction (r). With such a design, coupling and sealing are subject to comparatively high wear and material consumption, and the coupling itself is not particularly easy or advantageous to perform.

[0062] In Fig. Figure 2 shows an embodiment with a riser pipe 15, crucible lid 11 and adapter connection 17 for self-centering, position-tolerant floating bearing of the riser pipe relative to the crucible lid, wherein a first sealing point (fluid-tight seal) is formed in the area of ​​the coupling of the interlocking pipe sections, and a second sealing point (pressure-tight or at least approximately gas-tight seal) is formed radially significantly further outwards, wherein an intermediate area 14 is formed between these two radial positions of the two sealing stages / functions, in which pressure conditions can be established that can correspond at least approximately to the instantaneous pressure in the crucible container or in the pipe sections carrying the melt (pressure equalization via the radially more inward fluid-tight sealing point).

[0063] Out of Fig. Section 2 also specifies the radial positional tolerance Δr (in particular, the radial distance between the edge of the opening or crucible lid feedthrough and the outer surface of the riser tube) within the adapter opening in the crucible lid, as well as the associated centering tolerance Δxy. It should be understood that the positional tolerance is explained here using the example of a circular adapter opening or riser tube feedthrough in the crucible lid, but can nevertheless also apply to non-circular adapter openings; that is, the radial positional tolerance Δr is not necessarily equal in magnitude to the centering tolerance Δxy.

[0064] Furthermore, a (radially) position-tolerant, particularly ring-shaped, receptacle 12.7 is provided for a flange section of the riser pipe. It should be understood that this receptacle, as part of an adapter unit 12, can be an optional additional measure, particularly in the context of clamping the riser pipe flange section. Alternatively, the riser pipe flange section can simply rest freely on the crucible lid, i.e., without being (particularly clamped) enclosed by a receptacle or an adapter unit. The receptacle advantageously has an L-shaped cross-sectional profile, at least in some sections. The coupling partner 17.1, which connects to the riser pipe 15, is advantageously provided as the free end of the adapter connection 17.

[0065] Fig. Figure 2 therefore also shows one or the following components of an optional adapter unit 12 that can be additionally switched / inserted between the adapter connection and the pot lid at the top of the pot lid: coupling partner 12.1 and / or fluid-tight sealing partner on the side of the adapter unit, conicity 12.3, fluid-tight sealing component 12.5' ​​(sealing ring or similar sealing material / surface / groove), (radially) position-tolerant retaining receptacle 12.7 for the corresponding riser pipe flange section, L-shaped section 12.71 or L-shaped cross-sectional profile, end-face support 12.73 or sealing surface.

[0066] Alternatively, the sections of the adapter unit 12 and the upper flange section 15.7 brought together for assembly can also have correspondingly designed conical sections or tapers 12.3, in particular for the purpose of optimizing a (self-)centering effect, but advantageously in any case with a lower slope than tapers (or analogous spherical shapes) in the area of ​​adjacent pipe sections 15.1, 17.1.

[0067] It is understandable that the in Fig. The adapter unit 12 shown in Figure 2 (or the components with reference numeral 12) is not necessarily required; rather, it has been shown that the concept according to the invention with an intermediate chamber can also be implemented without an adapter unit. If an adapter unit is provided, it can, for example, be attached, e.g., to the side of the pot lid. If an adapter unit can / should be advantageously implemented, the adapter connection advantageously has at least one groove 17.6 or a similar cavity for arranging at least one sealing component that seals axially against the end face of the adapter unit. Optionally, at least one (further) fluid-tight sealing component 17.5' (sealing ring or similar sealing material) is provided in the groove.

[0068] It is understood that the adapter connection can also have a second coupling partner, namely in a functional design as a blind plug for the free end of the riser pipe, so that the adapter connection can also be used to completely close the crucible lid opening (without an outer pipe coupled to it) for the corresponding process-related logistical steps.

[0069] In Fig. 2. Interacting sealing components or sealing surfaces / sections (be they sealing rings or similar sealing elements, be they sealing grooves or similar sealing surface areas) are indicated for both respective coupling / contact partners; the person skilled in the art can specify, based on the present disclosure, which coupling / contact partner should have which sealing component.

[0070] In Fig. 2. The prevailing pressure conditions P1, P2, P3 are shown in brackets for easier reference, with or without a reference arrow: (P1), (P2), (P3). Fig. Section 2 also lists the following relationships: ΔP = P1 - P2; ΔP approaches zero; Δp = P1 - P3

[0071] In the Fig. Figure 3 illustrates an exemplary process flow for handling molten metal (removing / filling, emptying), each in a top view. The outer tube 13, or similar tubular conveying section for the molten metal, provided by the adapter connection 17, is handled in the context of the crucible container. The individual process steps can optionally be carried out decentrally by the respective vehicle involved (similar to a traverse) or centrally via a control system coordinating the entire process.

[0072] In Fig. Figure 3A illustrates the process of removing molten metal from a (melting) crucible 1. For this purpose, a technical pressure difference between / below the containers involved can be generated. Typically, the molten metal is transferred from a lower level (crucible 1) to a higher level (crucible container 10). Fig. 3A is illustrated as a melting pot 1, e.g., of an electrolysis plant 200, for the application primarily described here. Fig. 3B an oven 300.

[0073] In Fig. 3A also indicates support arms 39, particularly for a gimbal suspension of the crucible container, which interact with support pins 19 of the crucible container, for example, support pins for a gimbal suspension of the crucible container. The crucible container can thus be moved locally while suspended from its support pins 19 in the arms 39, whereby the arms can be actuated, e.g., to pick up or transfer the crucible container. Since this configuration of the suspended mounting of the crucible container on the vehicle is only one of several possibilities, e.g., in combination with or as an alternative to resting it on a crucible receptacle 31, the components 19, 39 are only shown in the Fig. 3B is indicated and otherwise not further discussed in the other figures for the sake of clarity.

[0074] Alternatively, the in Fig. The process indicated in 3A (filling the crucible container) can also be carried out using a traverse 50 or similar support before the crucible container is transferred to a / the vehicle 30 (cf. components indicated by dashed lines on the left). Fig. 3A). Using a traverse instead of a vehicle can offer advantages in terms of process efficiency (especially time efficiency) and also in terms of space requirements. It is understood that a traverse 50 can also be equipped with the actuator 32 or kinematics described here for handling / relocating the adapter connection 17.

[0075] The in Fig. The vehicle sketched in 3A can, according to the dotted line arrow, transport the crucible container to the one in Fig. Move furnace 300, as shown in 3B, in particular to empty the melt from the crucible container there. From Fig. 3B shows that the arm 32.1 or the corresponding kinematics 32 or actuation can be decoupled from the adapter connection 17, e.g. for the complete transfer of the crucible container to a second / additional vehicle, as in Fig. 3C indicated.

[0076] In Fig. Figure 4 shows further components that can constitute the equipment of the respective vehicle involved, for example, for process optimization, particularly in the context of generating a predefined technical pressure. In particular, once a pressure-tight coupling has been established, pressure can be applied. For example, at least one pressure generation / pressurization device 20 (e.g., of the corresponding vehicle) is in operative connection with the adapter connection and / or directly with the crucible container, e.g., via at least one pressure-resistant line (not shown).

[0077] It is understandable that the in Fig. 4. The measuring unit 37, shown as an example / schematic, comprises at least one force sensor and can also be arranged elsewhere, e.g., with at least one force sensor implemented on the actuator of the adapter connection. The same applies to a load cell 37.1 configured to detect an instantaneous mass or configured to indirectly determine an instantaneous melt fill level in the crucible container.

[0078] In Fig. Figure 5 shows a crucible container 10 in a cutaway side view; the riser tube 15 is permanently arranged in the crucible container 10 and rests on the top of the lid; the adapter connection 17 couples and seals at the opening of the crucible lid, defining the intermediate chamber 14 between the adapter connection 17 and the crucible lid. The intermediate chamber 14 communicates with the interior of the crucible container via a valve arranged in the lid wall.

[0079] In Fig. Figure 6 shows in detail the coupling of the pipe sections designed to carry the melt, wherein the radially inner first interface (in the area of ​​reference numerals 15.3, 17.3) is fluid-tight and separates the melt from the intermediate chamber 14, and wherein the radially outer second interface (in the area of ​​reference numeral 17.5) is designed as a more or less gas-tight seal for pressure tightness against the environment. The riser pipe 15 can float radially within the centering tolerance range Δxy or couple in a self-centering manner by means of the free coupling pipe section of the outer pipe.

[0080] In the Fig. 5, Fig. Figure 6 shows an embodiment of the adapter connection without an adapter unit; that is, the adapter connection couples and seals without an additional clamping or at least enclosing adapter unit inserted between the adapter connection and the crucible lid. With this relatively slim design, the advantageous effect described here can be ensured, particularly with a reduced number of components. For comparison, the two following figures show an embodiment with an intermediate adapter unit, wherein the adapter unit optionally performs a clamping function with respect to the riser pipe flange. Based on the present disclosure, a person skilled in the art can provide such an adapter unit as required, depending on the application.

[0081] In Fig. 7 is a structure comparable to that in Fig. Figure 5 shows that, in addition, an adapter unit that accommodates the flange section of the riser pipe is axially inserted within the intermediate chamber.

[0082] In Fig. Figure 8 shows that the adapter unit encircles the flange section of the riser pipe in a ring-like manner (either in contact or clamping) and can be sealed against the adapter connection, namely at the additional (optional) sealing point 12.5', 17.5', which only acts as a fluid seal. The pipe end of the adapter connection to be coupled can operate radially within the ring receptacle; that is, direct interaction of the outer pipe end with the ring receptacle is not provided. Thus, even with this design, an intermediate chamber 14 with pressure equalization is created, whereby pressure tightness to the environment is essentially only achieved at the sealing point 17.5, which is located significantly further out radially. Of course, an additional sealing point 12.5', 17.5' can result in an intermediate pressure stage. The person skilled in the art can specify, depending on the application, to what extent a sealing point 12.5', 17.5', can also be used.7. The sealing point provided may slightly influence pressure equalization; for this purpose, the person skilled in the art may also draw on empirical values ​​based on the present disclosure, depending on the melt being handled or its aggressiveness, and specify a sealing functionality in the area of ​​a radially interposed element accordingly.

[0083] In Fig. Figure 9 illustrates process steps of a / the method disclosed herein for handling at least one crucible container with a riser pipe in connection with logistical measures concerning melt taken from or discharged into a crucible of a plant or from a furnace: Step S1 Positioning the adapter connection in the area of ​​the crucible lid, in particular by means of at least one actuator of the (crucible) vehicle or the traverse; Step S2 Coupling the adapter connection with outer pipe (in particular a coupling partner of the adapter connection, in particular a free end of a pipe section) with the riser pipe arranged in the adapter opening; Step S3 Locally relocating the crucible container including the melt; Step S4 Charging the adapter connection oran outer tube indirectly provided with the melt, particularly for introducing or discharging the melt, especially based on at least one technically generated pressure difference; wherein the riser tube is positioned at least radially relative to the crucible container during coupling (i.e., in step S2), in a radially floating bearing on the crucible lid, and centered relative to the adapter connection; especially also when / by using a previously described method of two-stage sealing of the mutually supported components (radially fluid-tight inside, radially gas-tight outside, with an intermediate pressure chamber). The in . Fig.The nine indicated diamond-shaped fields between the individual steps illustrate standard control measures, particularly in connection with the crossbeams and vehicles described herein, e.g., also concerning the positioning of actuators and / or the gimbal mounting of the crucible container. Based on the present disclosure, a person skilled in the art may propose further application-specific optimizations in this regard. Reference symbol list 1 melting pot 3 Melt 5. Fixed connection (e.g. screw connection) between riser pipe and crucible lid 7 previously known crucible lids 9 previously known adapters 10 mobile crucible containers 11 pot lids 11.1 Adapter opening 11.5 gas-tight sealing component, sealing ring or similar sealant / surface 11.9 Plane contact surface for radial position tolerance 12 Adapter unit on crucible lid 12.1 Coupling partner and / or fluid-tight sealing partner on the side of the adapter unit 12.3 Conicity 12.5' ​​fluid-tight sealing component, sealing ring or similar sealant 12.7 Position-tolerant holding mount for riser pipe 12.71 L-shaped section or L-shaped cross-sectional profile 12.73 Front support, sealing surface 13 Intake and / or outlet pipe unit (pipe unit, outer pipe), corresponding pipe section 14 Intermediate chamber / area, cavity between adapter connection and crucible lid 15 Riser pipe (section) 15.1 Free end of the riser pipe to be coupled (coupling partner) 15.3 Conicity or spherical shape, in particular globular shape 15.7 Flange section / extension of the riser pipe, in particular disc-shaped 15.9 Plane contact surface for radial position tolerance 16 Coupling or interface (transition point) between riser pipe and connection 17 Adapter connection (especially with a tube-like section) 17.1 Coupling partner, in particular the free end of the adapter connection to be coupled 17.3 Conicity or spherical shape, in particular globular shape 17.5 gas-tight sealing component 17.5' fluid-tight (additional) sealing component, sealing ring or similar sealant 17.6 Groove or similar cavity for arranging at least one sealing component 18 Valve, in particular check valve 19 Support pins, especially for gimbal suspension of the crucible container 20 Pressure generation / pressure application devices 21 Pressure pipe or similar pressure-resistant / pressure-tight connection 30 first (crucible) vehicle 31 Crucible holder 32 Kinematics or actuator for adapter connection 32.1 Arm for at least lifting the adapter connection relative to the adapter opening 33 Drive unit with drive train 33.1 Wheels, tracks or the like 35 Control / regulation unit (vehicle-integrated) 37 measuring unit comprising at least one force sensor 37.1 Load cell 39 support arms, especially for gimbal suspension of the crucible container 40 second / additional (crucible) vehicle 50 traverse 100 crucible logistics arrangement 200 electrolysis plant 300 oven D15 inner diameter riser pipe D17 Inner diameter of the tubular section of the adapter connection coupling with the riser pipe P1 first technical pressure (actual pressure in the crucible above the melt) P2 second technical pressure (actual pressure in intermediate chamber) P3 third technical pressure (actual pressure in riser pipe or outer pipe, coupled) ΔP Pressure difference between P1 and P2 Δp technically achievable pressure difference for introducing / exiting the melt Δr radial positional tolerance within the adapter opening in the crucible lid Δxy centering tolerance range Step S1: Positioning the adapter connection in the area of ​​the crucible lid Step S2: Coupling the adapter connection with the riser pipe S3 Step S3 mobile handling, in particular local relocation, of the crucible container Step S4: Feeding the adapter connection or outer tube with medium or melt. r, z radial direction, vertical direction (with the z-axis as the vertical axis)

Claims

[1] Crucible logistics arrangement (100), configured for the mobile handling of at least one crucible container (10) including melt (3), comprising the crucible container (10) with crucible lid (11) with adapter opening (11.1) and with a riser pipe (15) opening in the area of ​​the adapter opening (11.1) and installed in the crucible container (10), further comprising an adapter connection (17) for introducing / exiting the melt and for pressure-tight coupling with the crucible container (10) in the area of ​​the adapter opening (11.1), wherein the crucible logistics arrangement (100) is configured for a technically generable pressure difference (Δp) for removing and / or emptying the melt; characterized by, that the riser tube (15) in the area of ​​the adapter opening (11.1) can be positioned with such tolerance relative to the crucible lid (11) that when the crucible container (10) is completely closed by coupling with the adapter connection (17) in the area of ​​the adapter opening (11.1), a coupling partner (17.1) of the adapter connection (17) can be coupled to the riser tube (15) by positioning the riser tube (15) relative to the crucible lid (11) or is coupled to the riser tube, wherein, by means of the adapter connection (17) coupled to the crucible lid (11), an intermediate chamber (14) is defined between the sections carrying the melt and under technical pressure and the environment, particularly at atmospheric pressure, which is at least approximately gas-tight with respect to the surroundings. [2] Crucible logistics arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein at least one approximately gas-tight seal is formed between contacting contact partners between adapter connection (17) and crucible lid (11), in particular with fabric sealant. [3] Crucible logistics arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the riser tube (15) is mounted in the region of the adapter opening (11.1) floating in the radial direction relative to the crucible lid (11), in particular by means of a flange section (15.7) of the riser tube, preferably by means of a radially disc-shaped flange extension which forms a support on the crucible lid (11). [4] Crucible logistics arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the riser tube (15) has a conicity or spherical shape (15.3) at the coupling free end (15.1) which is geometrically corresponding to a corresponding conicity or spherical shape (17.3) of the free end of the adapter connection (17) to be coupled to the riser tube, in particular with the geometrically corresponding conicities or spherical shapes (15.3, 17.3) configured for a force-fit, fluid-tight coupling created by sealing bearing and by contact in the area of ​​the conicities or spherical shapes, wherein the conicity or spherical shape of the adapter connection advantageously encompasses / encloses the conicity or spherical shape of the riser tube. [5] Crucible logistics arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the crucible logistics arrangement (100) is configured for a relative rotary movement between the crucible lid (11) and the adapter connection (17) in the coupled state to the riser tube (15), in particular with continued end-face sealing. [6] Crucible logistics arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the crucible logistics arrangement is configured for at least two-stage sealing in radial respects, namely radially inner fluid-tight at corresponding coupling partners and radially further outward at least approximately gas-tight by means of the adapter connection (17) against the crucible lid (11), wherein an intermediate chamber (14) is formed between radially inner and radially outer sealing area, wherein a gas-tight sealing component (17.5) ensures a pressure gradient to the environment during intended use. [7] Crucible logistics arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the crucible logistics arrangement is configured to generate a pressure difference (Δp) between the crucible container and the adapter connection or the adjacent outer tube for the purpose of removing and / or emptying the melt (3) from the moment the adapter connection is coupled as intended and the crucible container is closed, in particular depending on instantaneous pressure and / or force measurements, in particular controlled / regulated by means of a control / regulation unit of the crucible logistics arrangement. [8] Method for handling at least one crucible container (10) with a riser pipe (15) in connection with logistical measures concerning melt (3) taken up from or discharged into a crucible of a plant or from a furnace, in particular in aluminium production, wherein the crucible container (10) is relocated at least in a process-phase-specific manner, wherein an adapter opening (11.1) of the crucible container (10) is closed pressure-tight at least in a process-phase-specific manner by coupling an adapter connection (17) with an outer pipe; comprising the steps: S1 Positioning the adapter connection (17) in the area of ​​the crucible lid (11); S2 Coupling the adapter connection (17) with the pipe in the adapter opening (11.1) arranged riser pipe (15); S3 local relocation of the crucible container (10) including melt; S4 feeding the adapter connection (17) with melt (3) in particular for the purpose of introducing or removing the melt, in particular based on at least one technically generated pressure difference; . characterized by , that the riser pipe (15) is positioned at least in the radial direction relative to the crucible container (10) during coupling, in particular in a radial loose bearing on the crucible lid (11), and is centered relative to the adapter connection (17), whereby an intermediate chamber (14) is defined between the sections carrying the melt and under technical pressure and the environment, in particular at atmospheric pressure, by means of the adapter connection (17) coupled to the crucible lid (11). [9] Method according to the preceding method claim, wherein during coupling a pressure-tight seal is formed between the riser pipe (15) and the crucible container (10) on the one hand and the adapter connection (17) on the other hand, in particular in at least one area concentrically around one / the coupling partner (17.1) of the adapter connection (17). [10] Method according to one of the preceding method claims, wherein the intermediate chamber (14) is separated in a process-related manner by pressurization between the sections carrying the melt and under technical pressure and the environment in a gas-tight manner. [11] Method according to one of the preceding method claims, wherein a pressure differential for the removal and / or emptying of the melt (3) is technically generated during or for the feeding process. [12] Method according to one of the preceding method claims, wherein during coupling corresponding conicities or spherical shapes (15.3, 17.3) of riser pipe (15) and adapter connection (17) are coupled axially overlapping, in particular up to a relative axial position in which at least one sealing component (17.5, 17.5') comes into contact with the adapter connection (17) and one of the adapter units (12) arranged on the crucible lid (11) and / or the crucible lid (11). [13] Crucible container (10) with a riser tube (15) arranged therein and opening into an adapter opening (11.1) of the crucible container (10), having a bearing of the riser tube (15) that is at least radially floating relative to the crucible lid (11), and configured for handling according to one of claims 8 to 12, wherein a free end of the riser tube (15) to be coupled is configured such that, when coupling with a corresponding coupling partner (17.1) of the adapter connection (15), the riser tube (15) is positioned at least radially relative to the crucible lid (11) in the region of the adapter opening (11.1) and is centered relative to the coupling partner (17.1), wherein the crucible container is configured for gas-tight coupling with at least one sealing component of the adapter connection, in particular at a sealing surface (11.1) that surrounds the riser tube in an annular manner.5) of the crucible lid, to form the intermediate chamber (14) which is at least approximately gas-tight. [14] Use of a bearing that floats at least in the radial direction for a riser tube (15) installed in a crucible container (10) to provide a coupling that is at least radially position-tolerant between the riser tube (15) and an adapter connection (17) to be coupled pressure-tight to an adapter opening (12) of the crucible container (10) for guiding melt (3), in particular when filling or emptying a crucible container (10), wherein an intermediate chamber (14) is formed between the adapter connection (17) and the crucible container which is sealed at least approximately gas-tight from the environment. [15] Use of a crucible container (10) with an adapter opening (12) and a riser pipe (15) opening therein, wherein the riser pipe (15) is mounted to float at least in the radial direction relative to the crucible container (10), to provide a coupling between the riser pipe (15) and an adapter connection (17) to be coupled pressure-tight to the adapter opening (12) for guiding molten metal (3), in particular when filling or emptying a crucible container (10) arranged on a vehicle (30) or on a crossbeam (50), wherein the riser pipe (15) is supported on the crucible container (10) by means of a flange section (15.7) with a radial position tolerance of at least 5 mm, wherein the crucible container (10) is configured for gas-tight coupling with at least one sealing component of the adapter connection (17) to form an intermediate chamber (14) that is sealed off at least approximately gas-tight from the environment.

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