Radiant heating element with free end

Abstract

Radiant element (1) for heating an oven (200), comprising: - a first end (7); - a second free end (8); - a radiant structure (2) between the first end (7) and the second end (8); - a pipe (5) for supplying power to the inside of the radiant structure (2); - a first fastening leg (20) for mechanically coupling the radiant structure (2) to a support (3), a first coupling means (25) comprising a first portion (25a) arranged to be fastened to the support (3) and a second portion (25b) secured to the first leg (20), wherein the first portion (25a) and the second portion (25b) are mechanically coupled via a first interface (25c) so as to permit a relative movement between the first portion (25a) and the second portion (25b).

Description

Domaine technique

[0001] The invention relates to a radiant heating element for the heat treatment of products, particularly metallic products. The invention also relates to a method of fixing radiant heating elements in a furnace for the heat treatment of products, particularly metallic products. Etat de la technique

[0002] Furnaces for the heat treatment of metal products, in strip form, generally comprise a series of radiant heating tubes arranged one above the other and / or side by side in vertical and / or horizontal rows. Typically, the products to be treated pass vertically and / or horizontally past these radiant heating tubes and / or between them, from which heat is emitted by radiation.

[0003] Each radiant heating tube includes a heat source, which may, for example, be in the form of a burner equipped with at least one inlet for a fuel product, at least one inlet for an oxidizer and at least one outlet for combustion products such that, supplied with a fuel product and an oxidizer, with or without a heat recovery system, the burner develops a flame within the radiant element from which heat then radiates towards the metal products to be treated.

[0004] Radiant heating tubes, designed to heat a metallic product across its entire width and depth, are generally elongated elements defined by two ends and supported between two walls of a furnace at each end. In practice, radiant heating tubes have a first means of attachment at their first end to a first wall of the furnace, which includes a connection for the heat source, and a second means of attachment at their second end.

[0005] A known problem with this type of radiant heating tube is its limited lifespan. This support method, combined with high temperatures, induces structural stresses and deformations within the tube, which, through creep, accelerate its aging. Specifically, a relaxation of stresses is generally observed, accompanied by an increase in deformations. This increase then induces eccentricities, which in turn lead to further stress increases.

[0006] A known solution for limiting structural stresses and deformations in radiant heating tubes is to provide one or more degrees of freedom to the second fastening method on the furnace wall opposite the heat input. The advantage of having a second fastening with one or more degrees of freedom is to reduce certain thermomechanical stresses. This is particularly relevant for the radiant heating tubes described in documents US1001188782 and JP2001330209A.

[0007] In addition, particularly because structural constraints remain significant, and heating tubes therefore need to be replaced regularly, it is desirable to simplify the maintenance of furnaces containing radiant heating tubes.

[0008] There are also radiant heating tubes designed to be fixed under a horizontal wall. A radiant tube of this type is described in document JP2005069595A.

[0009] JPH01150705A discloses a radiant element. Résumé de l'invention

[0010] One of the aims of the present invention is to provide a radiant heating element intended to be placed on a vertical wall and allowing for reduced and particularly easy maintenance.

[0011] To this end, the inventors propose a radiant element intended to be placed on the first vertical wall of a furnace and comprising: a first end situated on a first side of the radiant element; a second end situated on a second side of the radiant element, the second side being opposite the first side; a radiant structure for heating inside said furnace, situated between said first end and second end; a conduit for supplying energy inside said radiant structure, said conduit being situated on the first side of the radiant element; a first fixing leg for mechanically coupling the radiant structure to a support located on said first wall, said first leg being situated on the first side of the radiant element; and a first coupling means for mechanically coupling said first leg to said support; characterized in that the second end is free; and in that said first coupling means comprises: a first part arranged to be fixed with respect to said support, and a second part fixed with respect to said first leg, the first part and the second part being mechanically coupled via a first interface so as to permit relative movement between the first part and the second part.

[0012] The first coupling method allows for relative displacement between the first leg and the support. This reduces, or even eliminates, stresses related to deformations of the radiating element, such as those caused by thermal expansion and contraction. The invention provides mechanical coupling of the radiating structure to the support (itself located on a vertical wall) only at the first end of the radiating element. It therefore differs from known systems where the radiating element is fixed at both ends to facing vertical walls.

[0013] The radiant heating element of the invention, because it is mechanically coupled to a furnace only at the end where the energy supply duct is located, allows for simpler positioning within the furnace compared to a radiant heating tube requiring fixing points at both ends. This is particularly advantageous because, despite extending the lifespan of the radiant heating elements of the invention, they will still need to be replaced after a certain period. It is therefore beneficial to ensure easy access to the fixing components for such replacement. Furthermore, it is advantageous to allow for replacement requiring minimal labor and easy supervision of the fixing point(s) during assembly, while simultaneously extending the lifespan of the radiant element.

[0014] Another advantage of the radiant heating element of the invention is that it allows for its secure mounting in an oven. Indeed, prior art radiant tubes are generally positioned blindly, meaning that the operator cannot see the receptacle intended to receive the second fastening component located at the second end of a prior art radiant heating tube. Consequently, the operator is never certain that the fastening of a prior art radiant heating tube is correctly seated in its receptacle. This major drawback of prior art radiant heating tubes is eliminated when using the radiant heating element of the invention, which has support on only one side and a free second end.

[0015] Another advantage of the radiant heating element of the invention is that it allows for mechanical coupling of the radiant element to the furnace by reducing, or even eliminating, the need for fasteners in a hot zone of the radiant heating element, whether these fasteners are fixed or have a degree of mobility. This is particularly beneficial because it is generally observed that the most significant stresses are concentrated at the interface between a component used for mechanical coupling and the radiant structure of a radiant heating element, leading to accelerated degradation when mechanical coupling occurs in a hot zone. For example, high temperatures can cause diffusion bonding of parts intended to be mobile relative to one another. With the invention, an end support in the hot zone is advantageously eliminated.

[0016] Another advantage of the radiant heating element of the invention compared to prior art radiant heating tubes comprising several fixing means positioned on either side of the radiant heating tube, is to offer a longer service life to the radiant heating element by limiting the structural stresses usually encountered at one or more fixing means, stresses related to the friction of a fixing means, its blocking following for example a twisting, its gluing by diffusion.

[0017] A radiating element is normally subjected to three physical stresses: its own weight (constant), high temperatures and temperature variations, and pressure / vacuum (constant) and pressure / vacuum variations. The combination of these stresses leads to two types of damage: creep and fatigue. Indeed, high temperatures combined with constant pressure / vacuum during operation of the radiating element cause creep under very low stresses. Similarly, high temperatures combined with variations in pressure / vacuum and / or temperature during operation cause fatigue of the radiating element under very low stresses. Fatigue often occurs in areas where stresses concentrate, such as geometric discontinuities like discontinuous changes in cross-section and weld toe areas.

[0018] Another problem that the invention proposes to solve is reducing the discrepancies between the actual lifetime of a radiating element and its estimated lifetime. It has been observed that prior art radiating elements have an actual lifetime that generally does not correspond to their estimated lifetime. The actual lifetime is often much shorter than the estimated lifetime, which poses a problem when selecting the materials used in radiating elements. The uncertainties leading to actual lifetimes significantly shorter than estimated lifetimes can arise from: Absolute deformations experienced by the radiant element are difficult to predict through simulation, while relative deformations occur when the furnace walls deform. For example, the opposing furnace walls, which typically receive the rear support in the hot zone of a prior art radiant heating tube, may have different deformations, inducing stresses. This can be due to the presence of one or more components for fixing / supporting the radiant element in a hot or partially hot zone, or to the blind installation of a component to support the radiant element within the furnace.

[0019] The first side of the radiating element is closer to the first wall than the second side. The first end of the radiating element is closer to the first wall than the second end.

[0020] The interface between the first and second parts of the coupling means can be a mechanical contact, for example, when the first and second parts of the coupling means are surfaces that slide against each other. The interface can also comprise an assembly of several elements forming the coupling between the first and second parts, and including, for example, a roller, a ball, a roller, a joint, etc. The interface can comprise a sliding surface and an assembly of several elements.

[0021] The first part of the coupling means can be the medium itself or a part of the medium.

[0022] Preferably, the first coupling means is a support that allows relative movement between the first leg and the support, for example, in one or more directions relative to the support. For example, the relative movement is parallel to the first wall. It may include a sliding support and / or a rotating support, in particular, a roller or wheel support or a joint. Sliding and roller bearings allow movement in two directions. Roller bearings allow movement in only one direction.

[0023] A free relative displacement is a relative displacement that, (in ideal operation) generates only very small or no mechanical moments. Preferably, the free relative motion is along two directions (for example, parallel to the first wall), and even more preferably along a single direction.

[0024] The energy supply is, for example, the installation of a burner, which is inserted into the duct and produces a flame inside the radiant structure. A heat recovery unit can also be inserted into the duct. The energy supply inside the radiant structure takes the form, for example, of the supply of hot gases from combustion produced outside the radiant structure. For example, the energy supply is the supply of an energy source. In another embodiment, the supply of an energy source corresponds to the passage of an electrical cable to supply electrical energy to electric heating elements positioned inside the radiant structure (electric resistance heaters).

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment of the radiant element, the duct is mechanically coupled to the radiant structure in a fixed manner and to the support in a movable manner, for example, by means of a compensator. A compensator may, for example, be a component accommodating mechanical movement. For example, a compensator may be in the form of a flexible bellows. Preferably, a compensator provides a seal between the furnace atmosphere and the external environment. Preferably, the duct is assembled to the radiant structure; more preferably, it is welded. Even more preferably, the duct is straight.

[0026] Preferably, the radiant structure, the first leg and the duct are different constituents that perform a different function in the radiant element.

[0027] The radiant structure of the invention is, for example, a radiant heating tube. The term radiant heating tube is to be understood in a broad sense; it can refer to a structure based on tubes (double P tubes, for example), radiant enclosures, etc.

[0028] Preferably, the radiating element is an alloy, more preferably steel, and even more preferably refractory steel or nickel-based steel. An alloy is preferably a metallic alloy.

[0029] Preferably, the radiating element comprises a radiating alloy structure fixed at one end (and thus having a free end), which is particularly advantageous for extending the service life of existing radiating elements. The radiating element may be composed of several parts of different compositions and / or alloys. Preferably, the first leg is made of alloy, for example, steel.

[0030] For example, the radiant structure is a metallic radiant tube. For example, the radiant structure is a structure based on metallic radiant tubes. For example, the radiant structure is a metallic radiant housing. Any other material, such as ceramic materials (for example, silicon carbide), is covered by the invention.

[0031] The radiant structure may include at least some of the features of the radiant structure described in document EP3098551.

[0032] The radiant structure is a part of the radiating element capable of radiating heat towards a product, preferably a strip, and even more preferably a metallic strip. Preferably, the duct is oriented along the axis from the first end to the second end, and preferably the duct is connected to the first end. Preferably, there is a permanent support between the first leg and the support, via the first coupling means, to allow relative movement between the first leg and the support.

[0033] The support allows the radiant structure to be coupled to the first wall. The support is an anchoring element; for example, the support is an anchoring element on the first wall of the furnace. The support is preferably vertical. The support is a separate element from the radiant element. It allows the radiant structure to be coupled to the first wall.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the support is a plug, for example, an element used to close an opening in a furnace wall. Preferably, the support is fixed to the furnace wall so as to provide an anchoring point to maintain the position of the radiant heating element in the furnace while allowing free relative movement of the first leg. This free relative movement (under ideal operating conditions) generates only very small or no mechanical moments in the structure of the radiant heating element due to the thermal deformation of one or more components of the radiant heating element, in particular the radiant structure. The functions performed by the support in the form of a plug can be summarized as follows: ensure the support of the radiant heating element; ensure the handling of the radiant heating element; ensure easy assembly; ensure the seal between the inside of the oven and the outside of the oven at the wall to which the radiant heating element is attached.

[0035] In another embodiment, the support is the wall of an oven to which the radiant element of the invention is mechanically coupled so as to provide support for the radiant heating element. In this embodiment, a hook is, for example, fixed to the oven wall.

[0036] In one embodiment, the radiant element is designed so that the first interface is at a lower temperature than the interior of the furnace. Since the relative displacement occurs at the first interface, it is particularly advantageous for it to be at a lower temperature than the furnace to prevent sticking between the first and second parts of the first coupling means, which would impair this relative displacement. This allows the areas of greatest stress to be relocated to a cooler zone, thereby increasing the mechanical strength of the first interface, where particularly high stresses are found.

[0037] For example, an insulator can be arranged to form thermal insulation between (i) the first interface, and (ii) the radiant structure and / or the interior of the furnace. Other means of obtaining a lower temperature are possible within the scope of the present invention, for example, a cooling system.

[0038] In one embodiment, the first leg is designed to be supported or in tension on the support via the first coupling means. It is generally in tension if it is higher than the center of mass of the radiating element. It is generally in support if it is lower than the center of mass of the radiating element. Being in support allows the second part of the first coupling means to come into contact with the first part of the first coupling means by the action of gravity, whereas being in tension generally requires the second part of the first coupling means to be held against the first part. A certain mechanical construction of the first coupling means may be suitable for tension only, support only, or both.

[0039] In one embodiment, the first coupling means is arranged to allow relative movement parallel to said first wall between said first leg and said support. This prevents the second part of the first coupling means from entering or moving away from the support.

[0040] In one embodiment, the first interface allows for sliding and / or rolling, preferably sliding and / or rolling, of the second part relative to the first part. Sliding is particularly advantageous because it is simple to implement and allows for considerable freedom of movement. It is especially well-suited to situations where the leg is supported.

[0041] According to one embodiment, said first leg comprises a first leg wall, in the extension of said radiant structure and / or forming at least a partial envelope of said radiant structure, between said radiant structure and said first coupling means.

[0042] Preferably, the first leg includes at least one opening, which can be called the first opening. This opening helps to reduce stress concentrations. It is preferably located in the wall of the first leg.

[0043] In one embodiment, the second part of the first coupling means comprises a first-leg end plate, which is vertical. If the first part of the first coupling means comprises a roller, the end plate can roll (and optionally slide) on this roller. If the first part of the first coupling means comprises a sliding surface, the end plate can slide on it. If the first part of the first coupling means comprises hooks, the end plate may comprise holes into which the hooks engage.

[0044] Preferably, the radiant element includes a second fixing leg for mechanically coupling the radiant structure to said support, and a second coupling means for mechanically coupling said second leg to said support; said second leg being positioned around said conduit or positioned on a different side of said conduit than the first leg; said second coupling means comprising: a first part arranged to be fixed relative to said support, and a second part fixed relative to said second leg, the first part and the second part being mechanically coupled via a second interface so as to permit relative movement between the first part and the second part.

[0045] Preferably, the first and second coupling means are distinct, i.e., they are separate. For example, the conduit is positioned between the first and second coupling means.

[0046] Preferably, the first and second legs are located between the radiating structure and the support; they ensure the support of the radiating structure on the support while allowing free deformation.

[0047] According to this preferred embodiment, the radiant structure is mechanically coupled to the furnace wall by means of the first and second legs. The first and second legs are not part of the radiant structure itself. They may serve to stiffen the radiant structure. In particular, the first and second legs contribute to securing the radiant structure to the furnace wall via the support, whether in the form of a wall hook and / or a plug.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the first leg is mechanically coupled to the support in a first coupling zone, and the second leg is mechanically coupled to the support in a second coupling zone. This allows for movement of each leg relative to the support so that deformations related to the thermal and / or mechanical deformation of the radiating element (particularly the radiating structure) cause as little stress as possible in the radiating element. Preferably, the second leg is made of an alloy, for example, steel.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the support comprises a second support portion for mechanically coupling the second leg and a first support portion for mechanically coupling the first leg. Preferably, the second and first support portions are joined or even mechanically coupled when attached to a furnace wall.

[0050] Preferably, the second leg is supported or pulled on the support by means of the second coupling means.

[0051] Preferably, there is a hollowed-out area located between the first leg and the second leg.

[0052] Preferably, the radiant element, in particular its second leg, is arranged so that said second interface is at a lower temperature than the inside of the oven, for example by means of an insulator forming a thermal insulation between, on the one hand, the radiant structure and / or the inside of the oven, and, on the other hand, said second interface.

[0053] Preferably, the first coupling zone (in which the first interface is located) and the second coupling zone (in which the second interface is located) are distinct. Distinct means that they are not indistinguishable. Even more preferably, the first and second coupling zones are located on opposite sides of the power supply conduit.

[0054] Preferably, the first and second legs extend beyond the radiating structure towards the first end, in line with the radiating structure. Preferably, the first and second fixing legs overlap at least partially around said conduit.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second fixing legs are attached to the radiant structure, preferably they extend the radiant structure, or in another preferred manner they are welded to it, or in another more preferred manner they are welded to it so as to ensure structural continuity as an extension of the radiant structure.

[0056] In another embodiment, the second leg is positioned around the duct. Preferably, a layer of insulation is positioned between the duct and the first and / or second leg to limit heat transfer.

[0057] According to a preferred embodiment, the first coupling means includes at least one means for anchoring the second leg to the support. Preferably, said second leg is drilled with at least one hole or includes a threaded part intended to be bolted to said support. Anchoring the second leg to the support using bolts, rivets, welds, or any other fastening means is covered by the invention.

[0058] According to another preferred embodiment, the second leg includes a reinforcing assembly for stiffening; more preferably, the reinforcing assembly is attached to the second leg; even more preferably, the reinforcing assembly is welded to the second leg. In a particular embodiment, the reinforcing assembly comprises: a base reinforcing piece, two lateral reinforcing pieces in the form of side walls, and a top reinforcing piece in the form of a wall, the reinforcing assembly being attached to the end plate of the first leg and / or to the second leg.

[0059] Preferably, the reinforcement assembly further includes a stiffener, more preferably at least two stiffeners, even more preferably, the stiffener(s) is / are vertical.

[0060] Preferably, the second leg includes at least one opening, which can be called a second opening. This opening helps to reduce stress concentrations. It is preferably located in the wall of the second leg.

[0061] Preferably, the second leg includes a second leg wall, in line with the radiating structure and / or forming at least a partial envelope of said radiating structure, between the radiating structure and the second coupling means.

[0062] Preferably, the second leg comprises a first wall and a second second leg wall, each of which walls comprises a second opening.

[0063] Preferably, the second leg includes a second leg end plate forming a second leg surface fixed to the second leg wall at the first end of the second leg to mechanically couple the second leg to the support via the second coupling means. A second end of the second leg corresponds to the interface between the second leg and the radiating structure.

[0064] Preferably, the radiant element further includes a third leg positioned between the first leg and the second leg.

[0065] Preferably, the radiating element further includes a third coupling means for mechanically coupling the third leg to the support.

[0066] Preferably, the third leg is supported on the support or in tension via the third coupling means.

[0067] Preferably, the third coupling means is a support means configured to allow free relative movement of said third leg in a direction relative to said support, more preferably the support means is a rotating support means, even more preferably a roller or wheel support means.

[0068] Preferably, the third coupling means is a sliding support means configured to allow free relative movement of the third leg in one direction with respect to said support.

[0069] Preferably, the support includes a layer of insulation positioned so as to surround the first leg and / or second leg and / or third leg and / or the duct at least in part.

[0070] In another embodiment, when the support is a plug, a support insulator is positioned on the support so as to surround at least part of the first and / or second and / or third leg. This is particularly advantageous because such an insulator reduces heat loss to the outside of the oven through the plug. When the support is the oven wall, a support insulator is also positioned around the first and / or second leg.

[0071] Preferably, the radiant structure comprises a first curved wall and a second curved wall connected along a first edge and a second edge so that the radiant structure has, in cross-section, a lenticular section, more preferably presenting a chord.

[0072] Preferably, a first wall and a second wall mechanically coupled at their two ends facing each other so as to form a first edge and a second edge.

[0073] In another embodiment, the radiant structure comprises a single wall folded into a teardrop shape in cross-section. Such a teardrop shape is obtained, for example, by partially rolling a wall to form a U-shaped wall with two facing ends. These ends can then be mechanically coupled (preferably welded) to form an edge. An edge may have a slight flatness or overlap of the two facing ends.

[0074] The invention and all embodiments of the invention can be applied to radiant tubes of different kinds, for example of type: P, double P, U, W, I, etc.

[0075] According to one envisaged embodiment, the radiant element comprises a W-shaped radiant structure developed between the duct and an outlet nozzle.

[0076] The invention also proposes a portion of a furnace comprising a first vertical furnace wall and a first radiant element according to an embodiment of the invention, the support of the first radiant element being solely fixed to or located on the first furnace wall, more preferably the support of the first radiant element being fixed solely to the first furnace wall. In other words, the support is not mechanically coupled to a second furnace wall.

[0077] All embodiments and variants provided for the radiant element according to the invention are applicable to the portion of the furnace according to the invention. mutatis mutandis.

[0078] In one embodiment, the first leg is located lower than the conduit. It is preferably supported by the support. Indeed, due to the torque due to gravity, this lower leg bears against the wall, which simplifies the installation of a movable coupling compared to an upper leg that would be in tension on the wall.

[0079] Preferably, the portion of the oven also includes another radiant element, the support for the second radiant element being fixed to the second oven wall.

[0080] The invention also proposes a furnace comprising a plurality of radiant elements according to the invention, or, a plurality of furnace portions according to the invention, the furnace having a furnace width for thermally treating a strip having a strip width.

[0081] All embodiments and variants provided for the radiant element according to the invention, for the portion of the oven according to the invention, are applicable to the oven according to the invention, mutatis mutandis.

[0082] Preferably, the radiant structures of the plurality of radiant elements occupy essentially the entire width of the furnace.

[0083] The inventors further propose a method for fixing a radiant element to a first vertical wall of a furnace for the heat treatment of a product, said method comprising the following steps: a. provide a radiant element comprising: a first end situated on a first side of the radiant element; a second free end situated on a second side of the radiant element, the second side being opposite the first side; a radiant structure for heating inside said furnace, situated between the first end and second end; a conduit for supplying energy inside said radiant structure, said conduit being situated on the first side of the radiant element; a first fixing leg situated on the first side of the radiant element, a first coupling means comprising: a first part, and a second part fixed relative to said first leg, the first part and the second part being provided to be mechanically coupled via a first interface so as to permit relative movement between the first part and the second part; b.place said radiant element on said first wall such that: the second end is free; the first fixing leg mechanically couples the radiant structure to a support located on said first wall; the first coupling means mechanically couples said first leg to said support; the first part of the first coupling means is fixed relative to said support; and the second part of the first coupling means is mechanically coupled to the first part via the first interface so as to allow relative movement between the first part and the second part.

[0084] Preferably, the radiant element supplied in step a. further includes the support; and step b. includes locating the support on said first wall.

[0085] Preferably, the radiant element supplied in step a. further comprises a second fixing leg for mechanically coupling the radiant structure to said support, and a second coupling means for mechanically coupling said second leg to said support; said second leg being positioned around said conduit or positioned on a different side of said conduit than the first leg; said second coupling means comprising: a first part arranged to be fixed relative to said support, and a second part fixed relative to said second leg, the first part and the second part being mechanically coupled via a second interface so as to permit relative movement between the first part and the second part; and step b.such that the second fixing leg mechanically couples the radiating structure to said support; the second coupling means mechanically couples said second leg to said support; the first part of the second coupling means is fixed relative to said support; and the second part of the second coupling means is mechanically coupled to the first part via the second interface so as to allow relative displacement between the first and second parts of the second coupling means.

[0086] All embodiments and variants provided for the radiant element according to the invention, for the portion of the furnace according to the invention and for the furnace according to the invention are applicable to the method of the invention, mutatis mutandis.

[0087] A product within the meaning of the invention may be a strip, a plate, a slab; metallic or non-metallic; magnetic or non-magnetic. Brève description des figures

[0088] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the detailed description that follows, for an understanding of which reference should be made to the attached figures, among which: there Fig.1 shows one embodiment of the invention; the Fig.2 shows one embodiment of the invention; the Figs.3a, 3b, 3c show preferred embodiments of the invention; Figs.4a, 4b, 4c show preferred embodiments of the invention; Fig.5a, 5b show a preferred embodiment of the invention; Fig.6 et 7 show preferred embodiments of the invention; the Fig.8 shows an embodiment of an oven according to the invention; the Fig.9 shows a detailed embodiment of a leg at the first extremity; the Fig.10 shows a detailed embodiment of a mechanical coupling of a leg with a support according to the invention. The drawings in the figures are not to scale. Generally, similar elements or components are denoted by similar reference numerals in the figures. The presence of reference numerals in the drawings cannot be considered limiting, even when these numbers are stated in the claims. Description détaillée de certains modes de réalisation de l'invention

[0089] There figure 1 shows an example of an embodiment of the radiant element 1 of the invention. The radiant element 1 is intended to be placed on a first vertical wall 71 of a furnace 200, by means of a support 3 which may be an integral part of the first wall 71 or be a part fixed to the first wall 71.

[0090] The radiant element 1 comprises a radiant structure 2 situated between a first end 7 located on a first side 501 of the radiant element 1, and a second end 8 located on a second side 502 of the radiant element 1, the second side 502 being opposite the first side 501. The second end 8 is free, it is therefore not directly mechanically coupled to a wall of a furnace but it is mechanically coupled to the first wall 71 of a furnace, via the support 3, through the radiant structure 2 and the first leg 20 (which will be described below).

[0091] The radiant element 1 includes a conduit 5 connected to the radiant structure 2 so that the conduit 5 allows the supply of an energy source into the interior of the radiant structure 2. The conduit 5 is generally connected to an energy source supply passing through the first wall 71. The conduit 5 is located on the first side 501 of the radiant element 1.

[0092] The radiating element 1 includes a first fixing leg 20 for mechanically coupling the radiating structure 2 to the support 3. The first leg 20 is mechanically coupled to the support 3 via a first coupling means 25. The first coupling means 25 comprises a first portion 25a arranged to be fixed relative to said support 3, and a second portion 25b fixed relative to said first leg 20. Thus, when the first leg 20 moves, the second portion 25b follows the displacement, which is generally due to thermo-mechanical deformations. The first portion 25a is stationary as long as the support 3 is stationary. The second portion 25b is stationary as long as the first leg 20 is stationary. The coupling between the first 25a and the second 25b parts is a first interface 25c which includes all the mechanical contacts between the first 25a and the second 25b parts, including any moving parts ensuring these mechanical contacts.The first interface 25c is located in a first coupling zone 23, and allows a relative displacement between the first leg 20 and the support 3 by making possible a relative displacement between the first part 25a and second part 25b of the first coupling means 25.

[0093] For example, the first coupling means 25 is a support means configured to allow free relative movement of the first leg 20 with respect to the support 3. For example, the support means is a roller support means 40 as shown in figures 4a, 4b ou 4c For example, the support means is a sliding means as illustrated in the figure 1 , where the first part 25a is a surface of the support 3, the second part 25b is an end surface of the first leg 20 which slides on said surface of the support 3, and the interface 25c is the interface between these surfaces. In the example of the figure 1 , the first leg 20 is resting on support 3.

[0094] There figure 1 This also illustrates an insulator 73 used in a preferred embodiment of the invention, forming thermal insulation between, on the one hand, the radiant structure 2 and the interior of the furnace 200, and, on the other hand, the first interface 25c. The end of the second part 25b, which belongs to this first interface 25c, is thus located in a cold zone. The support insulator 73 is preferably positioned at the first end 7 and against the support 3.

[0095] There figure 2 It also allows us to illustrate a second vertical furnace wall 72 with a wall insulation layer 74 represented with a dot texture. In the example of the figure 2 The first leg 20 is in tension on the support 3. The coupling means 25 preferably includes retaining elements, such as fixing holes 101 (illustrated in the figure 9 ) coupled with fastening means, allowing relative movement.

[0096] THE figures 3a, 3b, 3c , 4a, 4b et 4c They show examples of embodiments of the invention, in which the radiating element 1 comprises a second fixing leg 10 mechanically coupling the radiating structure 2 to the support 3. A second coupling means 15 mechanically couples the second leg 10 to the support 3. The second leg 10 is positioned around the conduit 5 or positioned on a different side of the conduit 5 than the first leg 20. The second coupling means 15 comprises a first part 15a arranged to be fixed relative to the support 3, and a second part 15b fixed relative to the second leg 10. The first part 15a and the second part 15b are mechanically coupled via a second interface 15c, preferably so as to allow relative movement between the first part 15a and the second part 15b.

[0097] The second leg 10 and first leg 20 are preferentially separated and connected to the radiating structure 2. There is a hollow area 9 between the first leg 20 and second leg 10. The first leg 20 and second leg 10 are preferentially mechanically coupled via the radiating structure 2. The first leg 20 and second leg 10 protrude from the radiating structure 2. For example, the conduit 5 is positioned between the first leg 20 and second leg 10 for fixing.

[0098] THE figures 3a, 3b, 3c The figures show the second wall 72 of the furnace, which is vertical and located opposite the first wall 71 of the furnace, to which the support 3 is attached. The second end 8 of the radiant element 1 is therefore free with respect to the second wall 72 of the furnace. A layer of support insulation 73 is also provided at the first end 7 of the radiant element 1, against the support 3. This layer of support insulation 73 is shown only in some figures, but according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is present in all embodiments of the invention.

[0099] There figure 3a incorporates certain characteristics of the figure 1 and further includes the second leg 10 which is positioned around the duct 5. According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, a duct insulator is positioned, at least partially, between the duct 5 and the second leg 10 so as to thermally insulate the second leg 10 from the heat emitted by the duct 5.

[0100] THE figures 3b, 3c , 4a, 4b, 4c show the radiant element 1 for which the conduit 5 is positioned between the first leg 20 and the second leg 10.

[0101] There figure 3c It also shows a compensator 59 fixed to the support 3, enabling mechanical coupling of the conduit 5 with the support 3. The compensator 59 is preferably isolated from the conduit 5, except for the part opposite the compensator 59 in contact with the conduit 5. A burner 58 is shown at the end of the conduit 5. The burner 58 is connected to the end of the conduit 5.

[0102] There figure 3c also shows a lower end opening of the leg or first opening 52, located on the first leg 20. This opening 52 is located at the lower end of the first leg 20. In the embodiment of the figure 5b The first opening 52 would, for example, be made in the first wall 202A and in the second wall 202B of the first leg 20. figure 3c It further shows an upper end opening of the leg, or second opening 51, located on the second leg 10. This opening 51 is located at the upper end of the second leg 10. In the embodiment of the figure 5b The second opening 51 would, for example, be made in the first wall 102A and in the second wall 102B of the second leg 10. Furthermore, the figure 3c shows a center leg opening 53 or wall opening 53 located in the second leg 10, in an area away from the ends of the second leg 10. Preferably, the first wall 102A and the second wall 102B of the second leg 10 are shown in figure 5b Each includes a wall opening 53, preferably a wall opening 53 that is essentially of simple shape. Similar center-of-leg openings 53 may be made in the first leg 20 and / or third leg 30 (not shown).

[0103] In figure 4a The second coupling means 15 is a fastening means 16 for fixing the second leg 10 to the support 3 at the level of the second coupling zone 13 in a fixed position. The fastening means 16 is represented by a triangle. The first coupling means 25 is configured to mechanically couple the first leg 20 to the support 3 at the level of the first coupling zone 23 and allows relative movement between the first leg 20 and the support 3, via the interface 25c between the first 25a and second 25b parts of the coupling means 25. For example, the first coupling means 25 is a support means configured to allow free relative movement of the first leg 20 along a single first direction 29 with respect to the support 3, and / or parallel to the first wall 71 (with potentially a component of the direction of movement perpendicular to the figure 4a ). For example, the support means is a roller support 40 or a sliding support. The arrows shown around the first coupling means 25 indicate the first direction 29, vertical, of the relative displacement of the first coupling means 25.

[0104] In figure 4b , the radiant element 1 differs from the embodiment shown in figure 4a in that the second coupling means 15 comprises two coupling devices: a first free coupling device allowing relative movement between the first 15a and second 15b parts of the coupling means. The arrows shown in figure 4b around the coupling means of the second free coupling device show a second direction 19 of the relative displacement of the coupling means; a second coupling device, fixed, comprising a fastening means 16 for fixing the second leg 10 to the support 3.

[0105] In figure 4c The radiant element 1 comprises: a second leg 10 mechanically coupled to the support 3 by means of a second coupling means 15 at the level of the second coupling zone 13, the second coupling means 15 allows relative displacement between the second leg 10 and the support 3. The arrows shown in Fig.4c around the second coupling means 15 show the second direction 19 of the relative displacement of the second coupling means 15; a first leg 20 mechanically coupled to a support 3 via a first coupling means 25 at the level of the first coupling zone 23, the first coupling means 25 allows a relative displacement between the first leg 20 and the support 3. The arrows shown in Fig.4c around the first coupling means 25 show the first direction 29 of the displacement of the first coupling means 25. For example, the first coupling means 25 for this embodiment is a support means, more preferably, this coupling means is a roller support 40 or a sliding support means; a third leg 30 mechanically coupled to the support 3 via a third coupling means 35 at a third coupling zone 33 (illustrated figure 7 ), the third coupling means 35 allows relative displacement between the third leg 30 and the support 3. The arrows shown in Fig.4c around the third coupling means 35 show the third direction 39 of the relative displacement of the third coupling means 35.

[0106] The third coupling means 35 comprises a first part 35a arranged to be fixed relative to the support 3, and a second part 35b fixed relative to the third leg 30. The first part 35a and the second part 35b are mechanically coupled via a third interface 35c to allow relative movement between the first part 35a and the second part 35b. Preferably, the third leg 30 is provided to be supported or in tension on the support 3 via the third coupling means 35. The radiant element is arranged so that the third interface 35c is at a lower temperature than the interior of the furnace 200.

[0107] In figure 4c The second coupling means 15 allows relative displacement between the second leg 10 and the support 3 along the second direction 19, preferably only along this second direction 19. The first coupling means 25 allows relative displacement between the first leg 20 and the support 3, parallel to the first wall 71, for example along the first direction 29, preferably only along this first direction 29. The third coupling means 35 allows relative displacement between the third leg 30 and the support 3 along the third direction 39, preferably only along this third direction 39.

[0108] Preferably, the first direction 29 and the second direction 19 are essentially orthogonal to a principal direction of the radiating structure 2 extending from the first end 7 to the second end 8. Preferably, the first direction 29 and the second direction 19 are vertical, that is, essentially parallel to a vertical wall of a furnace. Preferably, the first direction 29 and the second direction 19 are parallel, or more preferably, coincide. Preferably, the third direction 39 is essentially parallel to a principal direction of the radiating structure 2 extending from the first end 7 to the second end 8. Preferably, the third direction 39 is horizontal, that is, essentially orthogonal to a vertical wall of a furnace. Preferably, the first direction 29 and the second direction 19 are essentially orthogonal to the third direction 39.

[0109] Preferably, the third leg 30 represented in figure 4c understand : a first end of third leg 30 mechanically coupled to said support 3 by means of third coupling means 35; a second end of third leg 30 fixed to the radiating structure 2.

[0110] Preferably, the second end of the third leg 30 comprises two fastening portions for mechanically attaching to the radiating structure 2, such that there is an opening in the third leg 55 between the radiating structure 2 and the two fastening portions of the second end of the third leg 30. The advantage of this opening in the third leg 55, like the one shown in figure 3c The purpose of the recessed area 9, for example, is to reduce stress at the point where the third leg 30 is attached to the radiating structure 2. This opening in the third leg 55 helps limit stress concentrations related to thermo-mechanical deformation. The conduit 5 is partially represented with dashed lines to better show that it is partially covered by the third leg 30. figure 4c is however similar to the conduits 5 shown in figures 3a à 4b .

[0111] In figures 5a et 5b are cross-sectional views of the figure 3b The cross-section shown in section Va on the figure 5a is lenticular. A lenticular section is characterized by a first wall 2A essentially curved and by a second wall 2B essentially curved, the two being mechanically coupled at their two ends facing each other and forming a first edge 61 and a second edge 62.

[0112] A cross-section taken at the level of the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 is shown on the figure 5b It corresponds to the Vb cross-sectional view of the figure 3b The extension of the first lateral 2A and second wall 2B can be closed, for example, by a basic reinforcing piece 103. The second leg 10 includes components of a reinforcing assembly to ensure good rigidity of the second leg 10 and, in particular, to prevent torsional deformations, that is, to prevent deformations in a direction other than the direction from the second leg 10 to the first leg 20. Such a reinforcing assembly for ensuring good rigidity of the second leg 10 is, for example, one or more vertical stiffeners 108. A vertical stiffener 108, shown here in a predominantly longitudinal direction to the second leg 10, can, in another embodiment, be positioned in a predominantly transverse direction to the second leg 10. figure 5b The first leg 20 comprises an extension of the first wall 2A and the second wall 2B, which together form a first wall 202A and a second wall 202B of the first leg 20. Thus, the first leg 20 (or second leg 10) can be formed from the first wall 202A (or second wall 102A) and the second wall 202B (or second wall 102B), optionally with the basic reinforcing piece 103. The embodiment of the figures 5a et 5b , and in particular the embodiment of the radiant structure 2 can be applied to the embodiments of figures 1, 2 , 3a, 3b , 3c , 4a, 4b, 4c .

[0113] There figure 6 shows a particular embodiment of the radiating element of the invention. This radiating element 1 comprises a radiating structure 2 referred to as a double P structure. The double P radiating structure 2 comprises a first straight section 81, a second straight section 82, and a third straight section 83 extending in essentially parallel directions, between said first end 7 and said second end 8, said first straight section 81 and said second straight section 82 being connected in a fluidic manner: ∘ at the level of said first end 7 by a first angled portion 84; ∘ at the level of said second end 8 by a second angled portion 86; the first straight section 81 and the third straight section 83 being connected in a fluidic manner: ∘ at the level of the first end 7 by a third angled portion 85; ∘ at the level of the second end 8 by a fourth angled portion 88.

[0114] The first leg 20 allows the radiating structure 2 to be mechanically coupled to the support 3 at the level of the first coupling zone 23. For example, the first leg 20 is coupled to the third angled portion 85 and / or to the third straight section 83.

[0115] The second leg 10 allows the radiating structure 2 to be mechanically coupled to the support 3 at the level of the second coupling zone 13. For example, the second leg 10 is coupled to the second angled portion 84 and / or to the second straight section 82.

[0116] There figure 7 shows a particular embodiment of the radiating element of the invention. This radiating element 1 comprises a radiating structure 2, referred to as W-shaped, between the duct 5 and an outlet nozzle 95. The W-shaped radiating structure 2 shown comprises a first straight section 91, a second straight section 92, a third straight section 93, and a fourth straight section 94 extending in essentially parallel directions between the first end 7 and the second end 8, such that: the first straight section 91 and the second straight section 92 are connected fluidically by a first bend 96; the second straight section 92 and the third straight section 93 are connected fluidically by a second bend 97; the third straight section 93 and the fourth straight section 94 are connected fluidically by a third bend 98.

[0117] The first straight section 91 is fluidically connected to the conduit 5, and the fourth straight section 94 is fluidically connected to the outlet nozzle 95. The second leg 10 is mechanically coupled to the first straight section 91; for example, it is fixed to it. The second leg 10 allows the first straight section 91 to be mechanically coupled to the support 3; for example, the second leg 10 allows the first straight section 91 to be fixed to the support 3. The first leg 20 allows the fourth straight section 94 to be mechanically coupled to the support 3; for example, the first leg 20 allows the fourth straight section 94 to be fixed to the support 3.

[0118] Preferably, in this embodiment, the second leg 10 at least partially surrounds the first straight section 91 and the first leg 20 at least partially surrounds the fourth straight section 94.

[0119] The second leg 10 is mechanically coupled to the support 3 at the second coupling zone 13 via the second coupling means 15. The first leg 20 is mechanically coupled to the support 3 at the first coupling zone 23 via the first coupling means 25. Preferably, the second coupling means 15 is a fastening means and the first coupling means 25 is a mechanical coupling means allowing relative movement between the first leg 20 and the support 3. For example, the first coupling means 25 is a roller or sliding support means.

[0120] In a preferred embodiment of the radiant element 1 as represented in figure 7 This also includes a third leg 30 mechanically coupled to a second elbow 97, for example the third leg 30 is fixed to the second elbow 97. The third leg 30 is mechanically coupled to the support 3 by means of a third coupling means 35 at the level of a third coupling zone 33 and allowing relative movement between the third leg 30 and the support 3. For example the third coupling means 35 is a roller or sliding support means.

[0121] There figure 8 The figure shows a portion of a furnace 100 comprising two radiant elements 1, 1' according to the invention. The portion of the furnace 100 comprises a first wall 71 and a second wall 72. The portion of the furnace 100 is configured to allow the passage of a belt 99 between the first wall 71 and the second wall 72. The belt 99 runs essentially perpendicular to the first wall 71 and the second wall 72. The first wall 71 and the second wall 72 are separated by a distance representing the furnace width FW. A belt 99 has a width BW. The radiant elements 1, 1' are positioned such that their respective radiant structures 2, 2' allow heat transfer to the passing belt 99. In the context of the present invention, two successive radiant elements can also be fixed to the same first wall 71.

[0122] The first radiant element 1 is fixed to the first furnace wall 71 via its support 3, and the second radiant element 1' is fixed to the second furnace wall 72 via its support 3'. The second leg 10 is fixed to the support 3. The first leg 20 is mechanically coupled to the support 3 to allow relative movement between the first leg 20 and the support 3. The second radiant element 1' is fixed to the second furnace wall 72 via the support 3'. The second leg 10' is fixed to the support 3'. The first leg 20' is mechanically coupled to the support 3' to allow relative movement between the first leg 20' and the support 3'. The duct 5 of the first radiant element 1 opens at the first furnace wall 71. The duct 5' of the second radiant element 1' opens at the second furnace wall 72.

[0123] Regarding the figure 8 All embodiments of the radiant elements 1 described can be applied to the portion of the furnace 100 described. In particular, embodiments comprising a third leg 30 or a radiant structure 2, a duct 5, a first leg 20, and a first coupling means 25 as described with reference to the preceding figures.

[0124] There figure 9 shows an example of an embodiment of a first leg 20 or a second leg 10 at the first end 7. If the leg in question is lower than the conduit 5, the figure will preferably be inverted top-down. The figure 9 This shows a cross-sectional view of a leg (which may be the first 20 or the second 10) in which the radiating structure 2 is extended to form said leg. This embodiment is particularly suitable for a leg in tension on the support 3. The first leg 20 (respectively, the second leg 10) is assembled to the support 3 via a base reinforcement piece 203 (respectively, 103). Two lateral reinforcement pieces 204 (respectively, 104) and a top reinforcement piece 205 (respectively, 105) are assembled to the base reinforcement piece 203 (respectively, 103). The first leg 20 (respectively, the second leg 10) is assembled to the base reinforcement piece 203 (respectively, 103).In a particular embodiment, the base reinforcement piece 203 (respectively 103), the two lateral reinforcement pieces 204 (respectively 104), and the upper reinforcement piece 205 (respectively 105) comprise: a base reinforcement piece 203 (respectively 103), two lateral reinforcement pieces 204 (respectively 104) in the form of walls, and an upper reinforcement piece 205 (respectively 105) in the form of a wall. A first leg end plate 209 (respectively second leg 109) forms a vertical wall that closes the assembly comprising the base reinforcement piece 203 (respectively 103), the two lateral reinforcement pieces 204 (respectively 104), and the upper reinforcement piece 205 (respectively 105).

[0125] This end plate of the first leg 209 (respectively second leg 109) also allows the first leg 20 (respectively second leg 10) to be mechanically coupled to the support 3, via the first coupling means 25 (respectively second leg 15). For example, the end plate of the first leg 209 (respectively second leg 109) is bolted to the support 3. The figure 9 It also shows two vertical stiffeners 208 (respectively 108) positioned opposite the junction of the two lateral reinforcement pieces 204 (respectively 104) with the base reinforcement piece 203 (respectively 103). These vertical stiffeners 208 (respectively 108), shown here in a direction transverse to the cutting plane, can also be configured in a plane longitudinal to the cutting plane. These vertical stiffeners 208 (respectively 108), whether transverse or longitudinal to the cutting plane, allow for improved torsional rigidity of the assembly of the first leg 20 (respectively second leg 10) to the support 3. The figure 9 shows fixing holes 201 (respectively 101) in the end plate 209 (respectively 109) of the first leg 20 (respectively second leg 10) to allow the first leg 20 (respectively second leg 10) to be fixed to the bracket 3 by the use of bolts, rivets or any other means of fixing. figure 9 shows two holes, but it is also possible to use only one hole; therefore, any embodiment with at least one hole is included within the scope of the invention. According to another embodiment, the first leg 20 (respectively the second leg 10) is attached to the support 3 by means of inverted angle brackets positioned on the support 3, which form a hook on which the first leg 20 (respectively the second leg 10) is positioned.

[0126] Thus, the first leg 20 comprises, extending from the radiating structure 2 and / or forming at least a partial envelope of the radiating structure 2, a first leg wall 202A, 202B located between the radiating structure 2 and the first coupling means 25. The vertical end plate 209 is preferably fixed to the first leg wall 202A, 202B. The same may be true for the second leg 10.

[0127] In the case of the radiant heating tube described in figure 5a, 5b The radiant structure includes a first extension to form the wall of the first leg 202A of the first leg 20 and a second extension to form the wall of the first leg 202B of the leg 20. The same may be true for the second leg 10.

[0128] There figure 10 shows an example of an embodiment of a roller support means 40 for mechanically coupling a first leg 20, or a second leg 10, or a third leg 30 to the support 3. The roller support means 40 shown in figure 10 is described in relation to the first leg 20. This roller support means 40 can be used for the second leg 10, or easily adapted for the third leg 30, provided that it is positioned so as to allow movement in an essentially horizontal direction, and provided that a third leg has a third leg end plate 309. The embodiment of the figure 10 therefore applies to a third leg mutatis mutandis.

[0129] The roller support means 40 is included in the first coupling means 25. The roller support means 40 includes a wheel 44 (forming part of the interface 25c) positioned for rotation about a wheel axle 45 (forming part of the first part 25a of the coupling means 25). The wheel axle 45 is fixed to the support 3 by a wheel axle support 46. In the example shown in the figure, the roller support means 40 is positioned in a recess in the support 3, so that the wheel 44 protrudes from the support 3 to allow the first leg 20 to move, relative to the support 3, without friction with the support 3. For example, the wheel 44 protrudes from 0.5 mm to 50 mm, more preferably the wheel 44 protrudes less than 20 mm from the support 3. The roller support means 40 is positioned at the level of a first mechanical coupling zone 23.The first leg 20 includes a first leg end plate 209 forming an essentially flat first leg surface to enter into mechanical contact with the wheel 44 so as to form a linear contact 27 with the wheel 44. The end plate is part of the second part 25b of the coupling means 25.

[0130] According to a particular embodiment presented in figure 4c The second part 25b of the first 25 (respectively second 15, respectively third 35) coupling means comprises an end plate 209 (respectively 109, 309) forming a surface of the first (respectively second, respectively third) leg that is essentially flat for making mechanical contact with the wheel 44 so as to form a linear contact 27 with the wheel 44. Regarding the third leg 30 illustrated in figure 4c , this has a third leg end plate 309 forming a third leg surface essentially orthogonal to the first wall 71, which requires having a roller support means offset from those of the first leg 20 and second leg 10.

[0131] Regarding the third leg 30 illustrated in figure 7 , its third leg end plate 309, forming a third leg surface, is at the same level as the surface of the second leg end plate 109 and the surface of the first leg end plate 209. The first leg 20, the second leg 10 and the third leg 30 are in contact with support means (rotary, roller 40 or sliding) so that they can describe an essentially vertical translation relative to the support 3. The support being fixed to the wall of a furnace in an essentially vertical direction.

[0132] According to a preferred variant of the figure 4c The respective support means for the first leg 20, the second leg 10, and the third leg 30 include stop means (not shown) to prevent excessive displacement of the end of the leg 10, 20, or 30 (its end plate) relative to the support 3 in the first direction 29 for the first leg 20, in the second direction 19 for the second leg 10, or in the third direction 39 for the third leg 30. According to another preferred variant of the figure 4c , the support means include leg guidance means 10; 20; 30 (not shown), which allow translation only in the first direction 29 for the first leg 20, in the second direction 19 for the second leg 10, or in the third direction 39 for the third leg 30.

[0133] The present invention has been described in relation to specific embodiments, which are purely illustrative and should not be considered limiting. In general, the present invention is not limited to the examples illustrated and / or described above. The use of the verbs "include," "comprise," or any other variant thereof, as well as their conjugations, does not in any way preclude the presence of elements or constituents other than those mentioned. The use of the indefinite article "a," "an," or the definite article "the," "a," or "it" to introduce an element or constituent does not preclude the presence of a plurality of such elements or constituents. The reference numbers in the claims do not limit their scope.

Claims

1. A radiant heating element (1) intended to be placed on a first vertical wall (71) of an oven (200) and comprising: - a first end (7) located on a first side (501) of the radiant element (1); - a second end (8) located on a second side (502) of the radiant element (1), the second side (502) being opposite the first side (501); - a radiant structure (2) for heating inside said oven (200), located between said first end (7) and second end (8); - a conduit (5) for an energy feed inside said radiant structure (2), said conduit (5) being located on the first side (501) of the radiant element (1); - a first attachment leg (20) for mechanically coupling the radiant structure (2) to a support (3) located on said first wall (71), said first leg (20) being located on the first side (501) of the radiant element (1); and - a first coupling means (25) for mechanically coupling said first leg (20) to said support (3); characterised in that the second end (8) is free in the mounted state of the radiant element; and in that said first coupling means (25) comprises: - a first portion (25a) arranged to be stationary with respect to said support (3), and - a second portion (25b) stationary relative to said first leg (20), the first portion (25a) and the second portion (25b) being mechanically coupled via a first interface (25c) so as to allow a relative displacement between the first portion (25a) and second portion (25b).

2. The radiant element (1) of claim 1, comprising an insulator (73) arranged to form a thermal insulation between, on the one hand, the radiant structure (2) and / or the interior of the oven (200), and, on the other hand, said first interface (25c), so that said first interface (25c) is at a lower temperature than the interior of the oven (200).

3. The radiant element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that said first leg (20) is provided to be in support or in traction on said support (3) by means of said first coupling means (25).

4. The radiant element (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first coupling means (25) allows a relative displacement parallel to said first wall (71) between said first leg (20) and said support (3).

5. The radiant element (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that said first interface (25c) allows a sliding and / or a rolling, preferably a sliding and / or a rolling of the second portion (25b) with respect to the first portion (25a).

6. The radiant element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that said first leg (20) comprises, in the extension of said radiant structure (2) and / or forming an at least partial envelope of said radiant structure (2), a first leg wall (202A; 202B) located between said radiant structure (2) and said first coupling means (25).

7. The radiant element (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that said second portion (25b) of the first coupling means (25) comprises a vertical first leg end plate (209).

8. The radiant element (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that it comprises a second attachment leg (10) for mechanically coupling the radiant structure (2) to said support (3), and a second coupling means (15) for mechanically coupling said second leg (10) to said support (3); said second leg (10) being positioned around said conduit (5) or positioned on a different side of said conduit (5) than the first leg (20); said second coupling means (15) comprising: - a first portion (15a) arranged to be stationary with respect to said support (3), and - a second portion (15b) stationary with respect to said second leg (10), the first portion (15a) and the second portion (15b) being mechanically coupled via a second interface (15c) so as to allow a relative displacement between the first portion (15a) and the second portion (15b).

9. The radiant element (1) according to the preceding claim characterised in that at least one of the first (20) and second (10) legs comprises at least one opening (51, 52, 53).

10. The radiant element (1) according to any one of claims 8 or 9 characterised in that said second leg (10) comprises, in the extension of said radiant structure (2) and / or forming an at least partial envelope of said radiant structure (2), a second leg wall (102A; 102B) located between said radiant structure (2) and said second coupling means (15).

11. An oven segment (100) of an oven (200) comprising a first vertical oven wall (71) and a first radiant element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, said support (3) of said first radiant element (1) being located only on said first oven wall (71), preferably said support (3) of said first radiant element (1) being attached only to said first oven wall (71).

12. The oven segment according to the preceding claim, characterised in that said first leg (20) is located lower than said conduit (5).

13. An oven (200) comprising a plurality of radiant elements (1, 1') according to any of claims 1 to 10, or a plurality of oven segments (100) according to any of claims 11 and 12.

14. A method for attaching a radiant heating element (1) to a first vertical wall (71) of an oven (200) for heat treating a product (99), said method comprising the following steps: a. providing a radiant element (1) comprising: - a first end (7) located on a first side (501) of the radiant element (1); - a second end (8) located on a second side (502) of the radiant element (1), the second side (502) being opposite the first side (501); - a radiant structure (2) for heating inside said oven (200), located between said first end (7) and second end (8); - a conduit (5) for an energy feed inside said radiant structure (2), said conduit (5) being located on the first side (501) of the radiant element (1); - a first attachment leg (20) located on the first side (501) of the radiant element (1); and - a first coupling means (25) comprising: - a first portion (25a), and - a second portion (25b) stationary with respect to said first leg (20), the first portion (25a) and the second portion (25b) being adapted to be mechanically coupled via a first interface (25c) so as to allow a relative displacement between the first portion (25a) and second portion (25b); b. placing said radiant element (1) on said first wall (71) so that: • the second end (8) is free; • the first attachment leg (20) mechanically couples the radiant structure (2) to a support (3) located on said first wall (71); • the first coupling means (25) mechanically couples said first leg (20) to said support (3); • the first portion (25a) of the first coupling means (25) is stationary relative to said support (3); and • the second portion (25b) of the first coupling means (25) is mechanically coupled to the first portion (25a) via the first interface (25c) so as to allow a relative displacement between the first portion (25a) and second portion (25b).

Images