Dewatering method and dewatering plant

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for wringing a rolled strip (2), the method comprising: - / A / Providing a wringing installation comprising two hydrodynamic pads (6), extending lengthwise over a width of the rolled strip (2), - / B / Advancing said rolled strip (2) between two hydrodynamic pads (6) in a defined direction (V) from upstream to downstream, - / C / Applying pressure to the hydrodynamic pads (6) one towards the other on either side of the rolled strip (2), along a clamping plane transverse to the strip, during the advance of said rolled strip (2), the hydrodynamic pads (6) sliding on the rolled strip (2) by means of a layer of fluid, each of the hydrodynamic pads (6) performing a first wringing operation by blocking at least a portion of a lubricant layer of the strip coming From upstream to downstream, - / D / Aspiration,via a suction orifice (9) located downstream of the hydrodynamic pads (6) of at least part of a residual layer of fluid, thus performing a second wringing operation on the belt. The invention also relates to an associated wringing installation.

Description

technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to industrial installations, particularly of the rolling mill type, using lubricant.

[0002] More specifically, according to one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a process for spinning a laminated strip.

[0003] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a spin-drying facility capable of implementing the process according to the first aspect. Previous technique

[0004] Rolling mills are industrial machines that perform a rolling operation, a manufacturing process that involves the plastic deformation of a strip of material, particularly metal. The strip, generally thin relative to its length and width, is moved and compressed between at least two rollers positioned on either side of its thickness. This process reduces the strip's thickness and also makes it uniform along its entire length.

[0005] Such an operation can be performed at very high speeds, potentially involving very rapid linear belt speeds. The forces involved, along with these considerable speeds, necessitate the use of very large quantities of lubricant. For example, a possible lubricant flow rate for such applications can be on the order of several thousand liters per minute. The term "lubricant" is used, but it is understood that this term refers to a liquid capable of performing both lubricating and cooling functions. Typically, this might be a mixture containing oil.

[0006] Using lubricant in such large quantities necessitates at least one scouring operation, meaning an operation to remove a sufficient amount of lubricant from the strip so that it is ready for the next industrial step, such as cutting or packaging. In other words, it is essential that virtually no trace of lubricant remains on the strip as it exits the rolling mill. Furthermore, managing unpredictable lubricant spills is very difficult given the large quantities used.

[0007] For these spinning operations, it is common to use roller centrifuges. These centrifuges use one or more rollers that come into contact with the belt on either side, blocking the lubricant, which then drains away along the lateral sides of the belt. Two types of roller centrifuges can be distinguished for applications on such rolling mills: The first type, known as the "large roller" type (meaning large diameter), is extremely rigid along its length. By its very nature, this type does not allow for perfect contact across the entire width of the belt, thus allowing a significant amount of lubricant to pass through. This imperfection necessitates the use of blowers, but the expelled lubricant sprays uncontrollably, generating considerable noise. However, this solution is very robust, simple to implement, and inexpensive. The second type, known as the "small roller" type, is relatively flexible. These rollers can be slightly deformed by a series of counter-rollers, which are subjected to force by hydraulic cylinders. This allows the small roller to maintain perfect contact across the entire width of the belt, thus better retaining the lubricant.However, such a solution is clearly more complex: it involves controlling multiple actuators, which are costly to maintain because the lubricant, then laden with small metal particles, causes rapid wear of the counter-rollers. This second type of centrifuge has the disadvantage of quickly becoming saturated; that is, the lubricant can reach a level exceeding the height of the small roller if used without a large-roller centrifuge upstream, because the counter-rollers quickly transfer the lubricant downstream or cause the formation of drops that fall onto the belt.

[0008] However, these two types of "roller" centrifuges also have drawbacks regarding wringing efficiency. Although the small-roller centrifuge is more effective, the wringing process remains imperfect, and drops of lubricant can remain, particularly on the edges of the belt as it exits the centrifuge. This excess lubricant on the belt edges then contaminates a larger surface area of ​​the belt when it is wound onto a reel.

[0009] Contact with the roller(s), unavoidable due to the very operating principle of these centrifuges, can also leave undesirable marks on the belt. This phenomenon is particularly problematic with laminated belts, whose surface finish must be impeccable, for example, stainless steel belts, where a "mirror-like" shine is expected on their faces for certain products.

[0010] Also, due to their contact with the belt, these rollers wear out relatively quickly and require inspection and possible replacement. Furthermore, roller wear can exacerbate the potential problem of unwanted belt marking and can also impair spin efficiency.

[0011] The purpose of this disclosure is therefore to mitigate, at least in part, the drawbacks of the state of the art mentioned above. Summary

[0012] According to a first aspect According to this disclosure, the objectives mentioned above are achieved in particular by a process for spinning a laminated strip, the process comprising: / A / Supply of a wringing installation comprising two hydrodynamic pads, extending lengthwise across the width of the rolled strip, / B / Advancement of said rolled strip between the two hydrodynamic pads in a defined direction from upstream to downstream, / C / Application of pressure by the hydrodynamic pads to each other on either side of the rolled strip, along a clamping plane transverse to the strip, during the advance of said rolled strip, the hydrodynamic pads sliding on the rolled strip via layers of fluid, each hydrodynamic pad performing a first wringing operation by blocking at least part of a lubricant layer of the strip from upstream to downstream, / D / Suction, through a suction orifice located downstream of the hydrodynamic pads, of at least part of a residual lubricant layer, thus performing a second wringing operation of the gang.

[0013] Thus, in a particularly efficient manner, the belt is spun without any contact with any part of the spun-drying system. Indeed, the sliding of the hydrodynamic pads on the fluid layer ensures, by locking, an initial spun-drying operation without contact between the pads and the belt, thereby preserving the belt's surface condition and minimizing pad wear. The fluid layer required for pad sliding, significantly reduced compared to the fluid layer present upstream of the spun-drying system, is then drawn through the suction port. As a result, the belt exiting the spun-dryer has a sufficiently low amount of lubricant to proceed to the next industrial stage.

[0014] Depending on optional characteristics, this second aspect of disclosure may have the characteristics set out in the following paragraphs and may optionally be implemented, independently of each other or in combination with each other:

[0015] According to one embodiment, said method comprising, in / C / , a temporary or continuous injection of a feed fluid between the rolled strip and said hydrodynamic pads, said injection being carried out via one or more feed orifices provided in the hydrodynamic pads or via feed nozzles upstream of the hydrodynamic pads, the injection of the feed fluid being carried out in such a way as to ensure the presence of the fluid layer through which the hydrodynamic pads slide on the strip, ensuring a gap between the rolled strip and the hydrodynamic pads, on each side of the strip, said feed fluid being oil, or an emulsion comprising air and oil.

[0016] According to one embodiment, said process comprising: - / E / Blowing, through a blowing orifice located downstream of the suction orifice, of a projection fluid, such as air, in particular hot air, steam, towards the belt so as to detach from the belt at least a part of said residual layer of lubricant and to project it towards the suction orifice.

[0017] According to one embodiment, said process includes an evacuation of at least a part of the lubricant layer blocked by said spin bearings beyond the lateral edges of the rolled strip.

[0018] According to a second aspect, This disclosure relates to a spinning installation suitable for implementing the spinning process of a rolled strip according to the first aspect, the spinning installation comprising: Two hydrodynamic pads, arranged opposite each other on either side of said belt, said belt being configured to advance between the two hydrodynamic pads in a defined forward direction from upstream to downstream, said hydrodynamic pads extending lengthwise over a width of said belt, said hydrodynamic pads being configured to be applied under pressure to each other on either side of the rolled belt, along a clamping plane transverse to the belt, during the advance of said rolled belt, the hydrodynamic pads being configured to slide on the rolled belt by means of fluid layers, each of the hydrodynamic pads being configured to perform a first wringing operation by blocking at least a portion of a lubricant layer of the belt moving from upstream to downstream, At least one suction orifice, located downstream of the hydrodynamic pads,configured to suction at least part of a residual layer of lubricant, thus performing a second belt wringing operation.

[0019] According to one embodiment, said installation may include at least one feed orifice or at least one feed nozzle configured to perform a temporary or continuous injection of a feed fluid (such as oil or an oil and air emulsion) between the laminated strip and said hydrodynamic pads, at least one feed orifice being provided in the hydrodynamic pads or at least one feed nozzle being located upstream of the hydrodynamic pads, the injection of the feed fluid being carried out in such a way as to ensure the presence of the fluid layer through which the hydrodynamic pads slide on the strip, ensuring a gap between the laminated strip and the hydrodynamic pads, on each side of the strip.

[0020] According to one embodiment, said installation may include at least one projection orifice located downstream of the suction orifice, the projection orifice being configured to project a projection fluid (such as air, in particular hot air, or even water vapor) towards the belt so as to detach from the belt at least a part of said residual layer of lubricant and to project it towards the suction orifice.

[0021] According to one embodiment, said hydrodynamic pads comprising an elongated shape and extending continuously over the entire width of the belt and beyond the lateral edges of the belt.

[0022] According to one embodiment, at least one suction orifice may include a suction slot formed in the direction of the width of the band, continuously covering at least the entire width of the band, so as to create a suction blade.

[0023] According to one embodiment, at least one projection orifice may include a projection slot formed in the direction of the width of the strip, continuously covering at least the entire width of the strip, so as to project a sheet of projection fluid.

[0024] According to one embodiment, said installation may comprise at least one pair of two cassettes arranged opposite each other on either side of the belt, each cassette comprising one of the hydrodynamic pads, in particular at least one feed orifice or at least one feed nozzle, and at least one suction orifice, each cassette being movable in translation relative to each other and relative to the belt in a direction normal to a plane formed by the belt, so as to exert pressure on the feed fluid injected between each spin bearing and the belt, each of the at least one feed orifice or at least one feed nozzle and of the at least one suction orifice communicating fluidly with respectively a feed line and a suction line provided in each cassette,The spinning installation comprises at least one pair of transverse beams extending across the width of the belt, each cassette being removably mounted in translation along one of said transverse beams. In particular, each cassette may include at least one projection orifice, at least one projection orifice communicating fluidly with a projection duct formed in the cassette. In particular, each cassette comprises a cover which may be a separate part attached to said cassette, the projection slot being obtained by creating a gap between said cassette and said cover.

[0025] According to one embodiment, at least one projection orifice is oriented at an angle α with the strip of a value less than 90, preferably between 90° and 70°, in particular between 90° and 80° such that 85°. Brief description of the drawings

[0026] Other features, details, and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below and analyzing the attached drawings, on which: Fig. 1 [ Fig. 1 ] shows a schematic representation of an example of a rolling mill that could be equipped with a spinning installation according to this disclosure. Fig. 2 [ Fig. 2 ] shows a schematic representation of a spin-drying installation as an example in this disclosure. Fig. 3 [ Fig. 3 ] shows a schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of a spin-drying installation as an example in this disclosure. Fig. 4 [ Fig. 4 ] shows a close schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of a spin-drying installation as an example in this disclosure. Fig. 5 [ Fig. 5] shows a close-up partial schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of a spin-drying installation according to an example in this disclosure, in which the fluids involved are particularly visible. Fig. 6 [ Fig. 6 ] shows a schematic representation of a cassette according to an example in this disclosure. Description of the implementation methods

[0027] The drawings and description below contain, for the most part, elements of a definite nature. They may therefore not only serve to better explain this disclosure, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary.

[0028] In the various figures, the same reference numerals designate identical or similar elements. For the sake of brevity, only the elements that are useful for understanding the described embodiment are shown in the figures and are described in detail below.

[0029] In the following description, when referring to absolute positional qualifiers, such as "front," "back," "top," "bottom," "left," "right," etc., or relative positional qualifiers, such as "above," "below," "superior," "lower," etc., or to orientational qualifiers, such as "horizontal," "vertical," etc., unless otherwise specified, reference is made to the orientation of the figures or of a rolling mill's spinning installation in its normal operating position. Furthermore, the term "approximately" is to be interpreted as indicating that the result obtained is as accurate as the known method for measuring it.

[0030] The spinning installation is typically positioned downstream of a 100 rolling mill, for example a 20-roll rolling mill, as shown in figure 1 , and comprising: a lower working cylinder 110 and an upper working cylinder, working on either side of the rolled strip, two lower first intermediate cylinders 120, respectively in contact with the lower working cylinder and two upper intermediate cylinders, respectively in contact with the upper working cylinder, three lower intermediate second cylinders 130, in contact two by two, respectively with the two lower first intermediate cylinders, and three upper intermediate second cylinders, in contact two by two, respectively with the two upper first intermediate cylinders, four sets of lower support rollers 140, in contact two by two, with the three lower intermediate second cylinders, and four sets of upper support rollers, in contact two by two, with the three upper intermediate second cylinders.

[0031] The support roller assemblies are typically mounted with eccentric systems, which allow for band clamping and even control of cylinder camber, including camber of working cylinders.

[0032] By controlling the camber, it is possible to give a strip profile to the laminated strip, which can be straight, or, more often than not, curved.

[0033] Such a rolling mill generally has four lubricant spray bars, typically for a mixture of oil and water, at the working rolls. These are arranged in the embodiment shown in figure 1, two ramps in the upper part, on one side of the rolled strip 2, and two ramps in the lower part on the other side of the rolled strip 2. Each ramp comprising, according to its length, transversely to the strip, a series of nozzles, ensuring a projection of lubricant over the width of the strip, and / or on the rollers of the rolling mill.

[0034] The embodiments of the spinning installation 1 disclosed in this document are not limited to use only in the presence of a 20-roll rolling mill as shown figure 1 , which is shown only as an example, but to any industrial installation of the type of strip rolling mills using lubricant.

[0035] Reference is now being made to the figure 2, which shows a schematic representation of a spinning installation 1 according to an example in this disclosure, located downstream of a rolling mill 100, for example a rolling mill of the type previously described. The spinning installation 1 is traversed by the rolled strip 2 advancing in a direction of travel V as defined by an arrow in the figure, from upstream to downstream, after passing through the rolling mill.

[0036] The laminated strip 2 can typically be made of steel, for example, stainless steel. The laminated strip 2 can also be of the magnetic sheet type, comprising an iron-silicon alloy. These material examples are given as examples only and are not exhaustive; the solutions in this disclosure are suitable for any laminated strip using lubricant.

[0037] The rolled strip 2 can have a width between 750mm and 1650mm. The rolled strip 2 can have a thickness, at the exit of the rolling mill 100 and therefore at the entrance of the spinning installation, of between 0.15 and 3.5mm.

[0038] The laminated strip typically comprises two principal surfaces, an upper and a lower one. The principal surfaces are defined as the surfaces joining the two lateral edges 21, 22 of the strip 2. These principal surfaces form a plane, hereinafter defined as the plane of the strip 2.

[0039] The spinning unit 1 is mounted on a fixed structure 3, for example attached to the frame of a rolling mill (not shown) located upstream of the spinning unit. The fixed structure 3 is fixed relative to the rolled strip 2.

[0040] The spin-drying unit 1 comprises two cassettes 4 mounted movably relative to the fixed structure 3. Each cassette advantageously includes elements that participate in the spin-drying operation, which will be described below. The fixed structure 3 includes an actuator configured to drive each cassette 4 in translation relative to the fixed structure 3. The translation of the cassettes 4 occurs along a direction perpendicular to the plane formed by the belt 2. More precisely, each cassette 4 is removably mounted on a transverse beam 5, the transverse beam 5 being connected to the actuator. Thus, it is possible to perform inspection or maintenance on a cassette 4 by removing it from the unit, without having to disassemble more parts than necessary. Alternatively, each cassette 4 could be directly mounted on the actuator, as shown in the examples.

[0041] More specifically, the actuator is configured to allow each cassette 4 to apply a support force, resulting together in a clamping force, on the laminated strip 2, or more precisely on a fluid layer of the laminated strip 2. The cassettes 4 are therefore positioned opposite each other, so that their respective clamping forces are applied in opposite directions and along the same axis. Thus, their actions cancel each other out and do not bend or deform the strip 2. In other words, each cassette applies a support force along a clamping plane perpendicular to the plane formed by the strip 2. Specifically, the clamping plane is transverse to the strip 2. The clamping plane includes the direction of translation of the cassettes 4.

[0042] The upper fixed structure 3 includes cylinders 31, 32 configured to drive the upper cassette 4.1 in translation, guided, for example, as shown, by two guide bars 33, 34, formed in the clamping plane. The actuator is controlled by a controller (not shown). The controller can be configured to control the translation speed of the cassettes 4, and / or to control the pressure exerted by the cassettes 4 on the belt 2.

[0043] Similarly, the lower fixed structure includes cylinders (not shown) configured to drive the lower cassette 4.2 in translation, guided, for example, by two guides (not visible in the figure) provided in the clamping plane. The actuator is controlled by a controller (not shown). The controller can be configured to control the translation speed of cassette 4, and / or to control the clamping force of cassettes 4 on the band 2. Reference is now made to figures 3 And4 which show cross-sectional views of the spin-drying facility 1 according to two separate examples in this disclosure.

[0044] On the figures 3 And 4 , the laminated strip 2 is shown, advancing in the direction of advance V between two cassettes 4, one being the so-called upper cassette 4.1 and the other being the lower cassette 4.2, each being mounted removably on upper transverse beams 5.1 and lower transverse beams 5.2 respectively.

[0045] According to examples, and as shown in these figures, each of the cassettes 4 includes a hydrodynamic pad 6. The hydrodynamic pad 6 is positioned directly opposite the belt 2. The hydrodynamic pad 6 has a substantially flat working surface 61, positioned opposite the belt. The working surface 61 extends in a plane substantially parallel to a plane formed by the belt 2. The working surface 61 is substantially perpendicular to the clamping plane.

[0046] The hydrodynamic pad 6 has a generally rectangular cross-section, comprising two rounded edges 62, 63 adjacent to the working surface 61. Each hydrodynamic pad 6 also has a front side 64 and a rear side 65. The front side, in some examples, helps to block a quantity of lubricant located upstream of the hydrodynamic pads 6. These elements are particularly visible in figure 4 .

[0047] The hydrodynamic pads 6 extend lengthwise over a width of the band 2. This is particularly visible on the figure 2 , the hydrodynamic pads 6 extend at least beyond the lateral edges 21, 22 of the band 2, for example by a distance d, greater than or equal to 30mm.

[0048] According to examples, and as represented in figure 3 The spin-drying installation may include at least one feed port 8. In some examples, each cassette 4 includes at least one feed port 8. This at least one feed port 8 is configured to inject feed fluid so as to form a fluid layer between each hydrodynamic pad 6 and the belt 2. In some examples, this at least one feed port 8 is arranged to open onto the hydrodynamic pad 6. In particular, this at least one feed port may be arranged to open onto the working surface 61 of the hydrodynamic pad 6.

[0049] In some examples, the spin-drying unit 1 has a plurality of inlet ports 8, arranged to open onto the working surface of the hydrodynamic pads 6. In some examples, and as shown in figure 6 The supply ports 8 are distributed, regularly or not, along the length of each hydrodynamic pad 6. Here, the supply ports 8 are regularly distributed. The supply ports 8 are preferably arranged to cover the entire length of the hydrodynamic pads 6, which themselves are long enough to cover at least the entire width of the band 2. It is possible, at the two longitudinal ends of the hydrodynamic pads 6, not to provide a supply port 8, these ends extending beyond the band 2. For example, these ends may be without a supply port 8 for a distance at least greater than the distance d.

[0050] In some examples, the plurality of feed ports is arranged along a median line of the hydrodynamic pads. In other words, each feed port is positioned equidistant from the front and rear sides 64, 65 of the hydrodynamic pad.

[0051] In other examples, the injection of feed fluid is carried out by at least one feed nozzle, separate from the hydrodynamic pads 6, positioned so as to be able to inject a feed fluid between the hydrodynamic pads and the belt 2, for example upstream of the hydrodynamic pads 6. For example, the nozzles may be attached to each of the cassettes 4.

[0052] In examples, notably as depicted on the figure 3At least one feed port 8 is / are fluidly connected to a feed line 81 by one or more intermediate feed lines 82. The feed line 81 is, in this example, a separate part attached to the cassette 4. The feed line 82 may include a recess formed in the cassette 4. The intermediate feed line 82 has a recess configured to fluidly connect the feed port 8 to the feed line 81. In some examples, the intermediate feed line 82 passes through the hydrodynamic skid 6. In some examples, the intermediate feed line 82 passes through a portion of the cassette 4. In some examples, the intermediate feed line 82 has a portion, one end of which forms the feed port, said portion extending along a direction perpendicular to the band 2.

[0053] At least one feed port 8 can be configured to perform temporary or continuous fluid injection. The feed port 8 can be fluidically connected to a pressure source. The fluid injection can be controlled by a controller, for example, configured to control the fluid source or to control a flow control element, such as a valve. The controller can be in functional communication with a sensor system capable of detecting the presence, for example, in sufficient quantity, or the absence of fluid between the hydrodynamic pads 6 and the belt 2 so that the controller can adjust the fluid flow through the feed port 8. The purpose of such a fluid injection is to ensure, at all times during the belt's advance through the spin dryer 1, the presence of a layer of fluid between the hydrodynamic pads 6 and the belt 2.The presence of such a fluid layer makes it possible to avoid contact, in other words to guarantee the absence of contact, between the hydrodynamic pads 6 and the band 2.

[0054] The feed fluid typically contains oil. For example, the feed fluid could be an emulsion containing oil and water. These compositions are given as examples and are not exhaustive; any fluid capable of blocking the lubricant flowing from the upstream side of the centrifuge to the downstream side of the pads can be used.

[0055] In some examples, as an alternative to hydrodynamic pads, aerodynamic pads (not shown) can be used. In these examples, the feed fluid injected between the pads and the belt is air. The air is pressurized between the pads and the belt to block the lubricant flowing from the upstream side of the centrifuge to the downstream side. The absence of contact between the aerodynamic pads and the belt is then ensured by the presence of an air cushion between these two elements.

[0056] As represented in figures 3 And 4The spin-drying installation 1 includes at least one suction port 9. This at least one suction port 9 is located downstream of the hydrodynamic pads 6. For example, when measured parallel to the plane of the belt, the suction port 9 may be located 10 mm from the rear side 65 of the hydrodynamic pad. This at least one suction port 9 is configured to draw in a so-called residual layer Cr of fluid located downstream of the hydrodynamic pads 6.

[0057] Indeed, the hydrodynamic pads 6 perform an initial spinning operation by trapping a so-called "trapped" layer Cb of lubricant, which remains trapped on the upstream side of the hydrodynamic pads 6 and can, in some examples, be discharged through the lateral sides 21, 22 of the belt 2. However, since the hydrodynamic pads 6 are not in contact with the belt 2, a thinner layer of lubricant, called the "residual" layer, passes under the hydrodynamic pads 6 and downstream of them. This is how contact between the hydrodynamic pads 6 and the belt 2 is avoided. If a feed fluid is injected between the hydrodynamic pads 6 and the belt 2, the so-called "residual" layer Cr of lubricant can consist of a mixture of the feed fluid and lubricant that was not trapped upstream of the hydrodynamic pads 6.It is also possible that the blockage is "perfect," and that only the feed fluid reaches the downstream side of the hydrodynamic pads 6; in this case, the residual layer Cr is composed exclusively of feed fluid. Further details will be provided in the discussion of the [section / section]. figure 5 below.

[0058] At least one suction port 9 is fluidly connected to a suction line 91. The suction line, in some examples, is arranged in the cassette 4 and has a recess through which the aspirated fluid can flow. The fluid is, for example, conveyed as droplets suspended in air, drawn in by creating a vacuum in the suction line 91. The suction line 91 is typically connected to a vacuum source (not shown) and is configured to convey the aspirated fluid out of the spinning unit, for example, to a reservoir. In some examples, the aspirated fluid can be reinjected as a lubricant in the rolling mill upstream of the centrifuge, or as a feed fluid in the hydrodynamic pads 6, for example, after a treatment operation such as fluid filtration.

[0059] The suction operation can be controlled by the controller. The source of vacuum, or a means of regulating the airflow, can be controlled by the controller. In particular, it is possible to control the suction based on the quantity of lubricant injected at the rolling mill, and / or based on the quantity of feed fluid injected at the hydrodynamic skids 6, and / or based on the feed speed of the strip 2.

[0060] In some examples, the spin-drying unit 1 has a single suction port 9 on each side of the belt 2. In some examples, the suction port 9 has a suction slot 92. In some examples, each suction slot 92 is provided in each of the cassettes 4, on either side of the belt 2. The suction slot 92 can be provided across the width of the belt 2, for example along the length of the respective cassette 4, and continuously cover at least the entire width of the belt 2. The suction slot 92 is configured to create a suction blade at the level of the belt 2.

[0061] In examples, and as represented in Figures 4 and 5The suction slot 92 is formed by two front surfaces 93 and rear surfaces 94. The front and rear surfaces 93, 94 are less than 5 mm apart. The front and rear surfaces 93, 94 are shaped so that the closer one gets to the opening that forms the suction orifice 9, the closer the surfaces become to each other, until the distance between the front and rear surfaces 93, 94 at the orifice is at most 3 mm. In some examples, the suction orifice 9 is located at a height H3, measured vertically from the plane of the band 2, of at most 5 mm.

[0062] In examples, and especially as represented in Figures 4 and 5 , the front surface 93 of the suction slot 92 is at least partly formed by the rear side 65 of the hydrodynamic pads 6.

[0063] The spin-drying installation 1 may include at least one projection orifice 10, preferably provided on each cassette 4. The at least one projection orifice 10 is located downstream of the at least one suction orifice 9. On each side of the belt 2, for example on each cassette 4, the at least one suction orifice 9 is located between the hydrodynamic skid 6 and the at least one projection orifice 10.

[0064] At least one spray orifice 10 is fluidly connected to a spray line 12. The spray line 12 is typically connected to a pressure source configured to pressurize the spray fluid. The pressure source can be controlled by a controller. The controller can be configured to control the spray fluid flow rate based on feed parameters of the strip 2, for example, its feed speed, and / or based on the suction flow rate of at least one suction orifice and / or, where applicable, the flow rate of at least one feed orifice, and / or the lubricant flow rate sprayed at the rolling mill 100. The controller can thus control the spray flow rate directly by controlling the pressure source, or by controlling flow control means.

[0065] The projection fluid is projected towards the belt so as to detach a quantity of fluid from the residual layer Cr of fluid located upstream of the hydrodynamic pads 6. The detached quantity of fluid is thus projected, by the projection force of the projection fluid, towards at least one suction orifice 9. The detached quantity of fluid is thus sucked up by the suction orifice 9 so as to carry out a second wringing operation.

[0066] In some examples, the spin-drying unit 1 has, on each side of the belt 2, a single projection orifice 10. In some examples, the projection orifice 10 has a projection slot 12. In some examples, each projection slot 12 is provided on each cassette 4. The projection slot 12 can be provided in the width direction of the belt 2, for example in the length of the cassette 4, and continuously cover at least the entire width of the belt 2. The projection slot 12 is configured to create a projection blade 15 at the level of the belt 2.

[0067] The projection slot 12 can be arranged so that the projection blade 15 forms an angle α with the band 2. The angle α is precisely defined as the angle between a lead vector V of the band, with direction and sense as defined by the lead of the band, from upstream to downstream, and the line formed by the projection blade, the angle being measured in an upper area of ​​the band 2 (see figure 5In some examples, the projection blade 15 reaches the band 2 perpendicularly, meaning that the angle α is then equal to 90°. In other examples, the projection blade forms an acute angle with the band; preferably, the angle α is then less than 90°, for example, between 90° and 70°, and in particular between 88° and 80°, such that 85°. Thus, with such values ​​of angle α less than 90°, the projection blade reaches the band 2 against its direction of advance, in other words, against the current of the band 2, so as to increase the effectiveness of the action of removing a quantity of fluid from the residual layer Cr. The effectiveness of the projection of said removed quantity is also increased. Furthermore, reaching band 2 against its direction of travel allows the dislodged fluid to be naturally projected downstream, in other words towards at least one suction port 9, to facilitate the second spinning operation.

[0068] The spraying fluid can typically be air. As examples, the spraying fluid may consist of a mixture of hot air, hot water, or water vapor. Such fluid compositions are given as examples and are not exhaustive; any fluid capable of detaching a quantity of fluid from the residual Cr layer can be used.

[0069] Since each cassette 4 is mobile in translation towards each other, on either side of the belt 2, each of the supply, suction and / or projection lines provided or added to each cassette 4 can be connected by flexible fluid links to tanks or to treatment and / or suction zones which can be fixed relative to the cassettes 4. For example, the flexible fluid links can be fluidly connected to these lines, and be integral with the fixed structure 3 of the spin-drying installation 1. The flexible fluid links are configured to accommodate any movements of the cassettes 4 and maintain their fluid links.

[0070] The removable mounting of the cassettes 4 on the transverse beams 5 is carried out, in the example of the figure 3, using a sliding link 7, configured to allow translational movement of the cassette 4 in a direction parallel to the length of the hydrodynamic pads 6.

[0071] The sliding connection 7 can be obtained by complementary shapes, between a profiled shape fitted on the cassette 4 and a counter-shape fitted on the spin-drying unit 1, or in the example of the figure 3 , on a cross beam 5. The form and counter-form being configured to cooperate and allow translation, for example along the elongation direction of the cassette 4. For example, the form complementarity may be in dovetail, or in T, or obtained by an intermediate piece on one of the cassette 4 or of the spin installation 1.

[0072] The sliding connection 7 can also be obtained by rolling, carried out by any rolling means fitted on either of the cassette 4 or the spin installation 1, the other being able for example to have a rolling surface on which the rolling means can be mobile in translation.

[0073] In examples, notably as represented in figure 3 The cassette 4 includes a roller holder 71, fixed to the cassette 4, for example by a plurality of screws. The roller holder 71 includes a plurality of rollers 72. The spin-drying installation includes a transverse beam 5 fixedly mounted on the installation, on which is provided a T-groove 73 having at least one rolling surface 74 on which the rollers 72 are configured to rest and roll.

[0074] According to one embodiment, at least one of the crossbeam 5 or the cassette 4 includes at least one locking means (not shown), for example a removable stop surface, for temporarily blocking the translational movement of the cassette 4 along the T-slot 73, for example so that the cassette does not slide during the operation of the spin dryer. Such a locking means may, for example, include an element extending at least partially transversely to the direction of the slide joint 70, so as to be able to temporarily obstruct the movement of the cassette 4 along the slide joint 70.

[0075] Reference is now being made to the figure 5Figure 2 shows a detailed view of the laminated strip 2 and the hydrodynamic pad 6 in an example from this disclosure. In particular, this figure, in which the distances between the hydrodynamic pad 6 or the suction ports 9 or discharge ports 10 and the strip 2 have been intentionally exaggerated, illustrates how the different fluids behave. For clarity, only the upper cassette 4.1 is shown and will be described. However, unless otherwise stated, it is implied that similar elements are also present on the lower cassette 4.2, which is not shown, these elements being positioned substantially symmetrically with respect to the plane formed by the strip 2. The example shown does not include a feed port 8, but the described operation is compatible with the presence of such a feed port 8.

[0076] The belt 2, exiting the rolling mill 100 upstream of the spinning unit 1, has a layer of lubricant on its main surface, which typically extends over the entire width of the belt 2. This is particularly the case in the upper zone of the belt 2, but also in the lower zone, where a layer of lubricant may also be present, by adhesion, on the opposite lower main surface of the belt 2.

[0077] Such a layer of lubricant, coming from upstream of the spin dryer 1 during the advance of the belt 2, is at least partially blocked by the hydrodynamic shoe 6 and by the pressurized fluid between the hydrodynamic shoe and the belt 2. More precisely, at least partially by its forward side 64. The quantity of lubricant blocked upstream of the hydrodynamic shoe 6 is then considered to constitute a blocked layer Cb of lubricant. This blocked layer Cb accumulates upstream of the hydrodynamic shoe 6 and can be discharged, in particular, through the lateral sides 21, 22 of the belt 2. The distance between the hydrodynamic shoe 6, more specifically its working surface 61, and the belt 2, although very small, still allows a small quantity of lubricant to pass through. This quantity of lubricant that nevertheless passes downstream of the hydrodynamic shoe constitutes a residual layer Cr of fluid.In cases where the volume separating the hydrodynamic shoe from the belt is supplied with feed fluid through at least one feed port, this residual layer contains both lubricant from upstream of the spin-drying system and feed fluid. In some examples, the residual layer Cr may consist exclusively of feed fluid, with all the lubricant having been blocked upstream of the hydrodynamic shoe.

[0078] The residual layer Cr of fluid is then brought, by the advance of the belt, to at least one suction port 9. A first quantity of fluid from the residual layer Cr is then drawn off and discharged from the spin-drying unit. The suction is powerful enough to dislodge and convey a significant quantity of fluid through the suction line 92. A second quantity of fluid from the residual layer Cr, which was not drawn off by at least one suction port 9, is then brought, by the advance of the belt 2, to at least one spray port 10. This second quantity of fluid is then dislodged by the sprayed fluid and brought back downstream to at least one suction port 9 to be drawn off and discharged. In this way, a second spin-drying operation is carried out, and a satisfactory quantity of lubricant and / or fluid is removed from the belt 2.

[0079] The distance H1 which separates the hydrodynamic pad from the band 2, when measured vertically from the plane formed by the band, is for example on the order of 0.3mm (+ or - 30%).

[0080] The distance H2 which separates the projection orifice from the strip 2, when measured vertically from the plane formed by the strip, is for example on the order of 0.2mm (+ or - 20%)

[0081] In examples, and particularly as represented in the figures 3 , 4 And 6 The projection slot 12 is formed by a gap resulting from the assembly of the cassette 4 and a projection hood 13. The projection hood 13 being a separate part from the cassette 4.

[0082] Reference is now being made to the figure 6This figure shows a view of a lower cassette 4.2. The hydrodynamic skid 6 and the projection hood 13 are thus particularly visible. In this example, the projection hood 13 is attached to the cassette by a plurality of screws 131.

[0083] The figure shows an example in which the spin-drying installation includes a plurality of feed ports 8, provided on the working surface 61 of the hydrodynamic pad 6, the feed ports being regularly distributed over the entire length of the hydrodynamic pad 6.

Claims

1. A method for wringing a rolled strip, the method comprising: - / A / Supplying a wringing installation comprising two hydrodynamic pads, extending lengthwise over a width of the rolled strip, - / B / Advancing said rolled strip between the two hydrodynamic pads in a defined direction of advance from upstream to downstream, - / C / Applying pressure to the hydrodynamic pads, one towards the other, on either side of the rolled strip, along a clamping plane transverse to the strip, during the advance of said rolled strip, the hydrodynamic pads sliding on the rolled strip by means of layers of fluid, each of the hydrodynamic pads performing a first wringing operation by blocking at least part of a lubricant layer of the strip coming from upstream to downstream, - / D / Suction,through a suction port located downstream of the hydrodynamic pads, at least part of a residual layer of lubricant is removed, thus performing a second wringing operation on the belt.

2. Spin drying method according to claim 1, comprising, in / C / , a temporary or continuous injection of a feed fluid between the rolled strip and said hydrodynamic pads, said injection being carried out via one or more feed orifices provided in the hydrodynamic pads or via feed nozzles upstream of the hydrodynamic pads, the injection of the feed fluid being carried out in such a way as to ensure the presence of the fluid layer through which the hydrodynamic pads slide on the strip, ensuring a gap between the rolled strip and the hydrodynamic pads, on each side of the strip.

3. A spin-drying process according to the preceding claim, wherein the feed fluid comprises oil, or an emulsion comprising air and oil.

4. A wringing method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: - / E / Blowing, through a blowing orifice located downstream of the suction orifice, a projection fluid, such as air, in particular hot air, or steam, towards the belt so as to detach from the belt at least a part of said residual layer of lubricant and to project it towards the suction orifice.

5. A spinning method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising evacuating at least a portion of the lubricant layer blocked by said spinning bearings beyond the lateral edges of the rolled strip.

6. A spinning installation suitable for carrying out the spinning process of a rolled strip according to claims 1 to 5, the spinning installation comprising: - Two hydrodynamic pads, arranged opposite each other on either side of said strip, said strip being configured to advance between the two hydrodynamic pads in a defined forward direction from upstream to downstream, said hydrodynamic pads extending lengthwise over a width of said strip, said hydrodynamic pads being configured to be applied under pressure to each other on either side of the rolled strip, along a clamping plane transverse to the strip, during the advance of said rolled strip, the hydrodynamic pads being configured to slide on the rolled strip by means of fluid layers,Each of the hydrodynamic pads is configured to perform a first wringing operation by blocking at least part of a lubricant layer on the belt moving from upstream to downstream; at least one suction orifice, located downstream of the hydrodynamic pads, is configured to draw in at least part of a residual lubricant layer, thus performing a second wringing operation on the belt.

7. Spinning installation according to the preceding claim, comprising at least one feed orifice or at least one feed nozzle configured to effect a temporary or continuous injection of a feed fluid between the rolled belt and said hydrodynamic pads, at least one feed orifice being provided in the hydrodynamic pads or at least one feed nozzle being located upstream of the hydrodynamic pads, the injection of the feed fluid being carried out in such a way as to ensure the presence of the fluid layer through which the hydrodynamic pads slide on the belt, ensuring a gap between the rolled belt and the hydrodynamic pads, on each side of the belt.

8. Spin drying installation according to any one of claims 6 or 7, comprising at least one spray orifice located downstream of the suction orifice, the spray orifice being configured to project a spray fluid towards the belt so as to detach from the belt at least a part of said residual layer of lubricant and to project it towards the suction orifice.

9. Spin-drying installation according to any one of claims 6 to 8, said hydrodynamic pads comprising an elongated shape and extending continuously over the entire width of the belt and beyond the lateral edges of the belt.

10. Spinning installation according to any one of claims 6 to 9, having at least one suction orifice comprising a suction slot formed in the direction of the width of the belt, continuously covering at least the entire width of the belt, so as to make a suction blade.

11. Spin-drying installation according to any one of claims 6 to 9 in combination with claim 8, wherein at least one projection orifice comprises a projection slot formed in the direction of the width of the belt, continuously covering at least the entire width of the belt, so as to project a sheet of projection fluid.

12. Spin-drying installation according to any one of claims 6 to 11, comprising at least one pair of two cassettes arranged opposite each other on either side of the belt, each cassette comprising one of the hydrodynamic pads, at least one feed orifice or at least one feed nozzle when said installation is dependent on claim 7, and at least one suction orifice, each cassette being movable in translation relative to each other and relative to the belt in a direction normal to a plane formed by the belt, so as to exert pressure on the feed fluid injected between each spin-drying bearing and the belt, each of the at least one feed orifice or at least one feed nozzle and of the at least one suction orifice communicating fluidly with respectively a feed line and a suction line provided in each cassette,The spinning installation comprises at least one pair of transverse beams extending across the width of the belt, each cassette being mounted removably in translation along one of said transverse beams.

13. Spin-drying installation according to the preceding claim in combination with claim 8, each cassette comprising at least one projection orifice, at least one projection orifice communicating fluidly with a projection conduit provided in the cassette.

14. Spin-drying installation according to the preceding claim, in combination with claim 11, wherein each of the cassettes comprises a hood being a separate part attached to said cassette, the projection slot being obtained by forming a gap between said cassette and said hood.

15. Installation according to any one of claims 6 to 14 in combination with claim 8, wherein at least one projection orifice is oriented at an angle α with the strip of a value less than 90, preferably between 90° and 70°, in particular between 90° and 80° such that 85°.

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