Spin drying process and spin drying installation

Abstract

TITLE: WRINGING METHOD AND WRINGING INSTALLATION The invention relates to a method for wringing a rolled strip, the method comprising: / A / Providing a wringing installation comprising two hydrodynamic pads, extending lengthwise over a width of the rolled strip, / B / Advancing said rolled strip between 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 a layer of fluid, each of the hydrodynamic pads performing a first wringing operation by blocking at least a part of a lubricant layer of the strip coming from upstream to downstream, / D / Aspiration,through a suction orifice located downstream of the hydrodynamic pads, at least part of a residual layer of fluid is removed, thus performing a second wringing operation on the belt. The invention also relates to an associated wringing installation. Figure 3,

Description

Title of the invention: Spin drying method and spin drying installation technical field

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

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

[0003] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a spin-drying installation capable of implementing the process according to the first aspect. Prior art

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

[0005] Such an operation can be carried out at very high speeds, potentially involving very high linear web speeds. The forces involved, as well as 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. Reference is made to "lubricant," but it is understood that this term refers to a liquid capable of performing both lubricating and cooling functions. Typically, this could be a mixture containing oil.

[0006] Using lubricant in such quantities requires at least one scouring operation, that is, an operation consisting of removing a sufficient quantity of lubricant from the strip so that the strip is ready for the next industrial step, for example, cutting or packaging. In other words, it is necessary that virtually no trace of lubricant remains on the strip as it exits the rolling mill. Furthermore, it is very difficult to manage unpredictable lubricant splashes given the large quantities used.

[0007] For these wringing operations, it is particularly known to use so-called "roller" wringers. These wringers use one or more rollers that come into contact with the belt on both sides of it, so as to block the lubricant which is then discharged to the sides of the belt. Two types of "roller" centrifuges can be distinguished for applications on such rolling mills: - A first type, known as a "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. A second type, known as a "small roller" dryer, uses relatively flexible rollers that can be slightly deformed by multiple counter-rollers. These counter-rollers are subjected to force by hydraulic cylinders, ensuring that the small roller maintains perfect contact across the entire width of the belt, thus better sealing the lubricant. However, this solution is clearly more complex: it involves controlling multiple actuators, which are costly to maintain because the lubricant, laden with small metal particles, causes rapid wear of the counter-rollers. This second type of dryer has the disadvantage of becoming quickly saturated; that is, the lubricant can reach a level exceeding the height of the small roller if used without a large roller dryer upstream. This is because the counter-rollers quickly transfer the lubricant downstream or cause droplets to form and fall onto the belt.

[0008] However, these two types of "roller" wringers also have drawbacks regarding wringing efficiency. Although the small-roller wringer is more efficient, the wringing remains imperfect, and drops of lubricant may remain, particularly on the edges of the belt as it exits the wringer. 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 by the very operating principle of these spin dryers, can also leave undesirable marks on the belt. This phenomenon is particularly problematic with regard to laminated belts, whose surface finish must be impeccable, for example, stainless steel belts, for which a "mirror-like" shine is expected on their faces for certain products.

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

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

[0012] According to a first aspect of 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 spin-drying system comprising two skids hydrodynamic, extending respectively in length over a width of the rolled strip, - / B / Advance of said laminated strip between the two hydrodynamic pads in a defined direction of advance from upstream to downstream, - / C / Application under pressure of hydrodynamic pads, one in the direction on the other side of the rolled strip, following a clamping plane transverse to the strip, during the advance of said rolled strip, the hydrodynamic pads slide 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 layer of lubricant of the strip coming from upstream to downstream, - / D / Suction, through a suction port located downstream of the pads hydrodynamics of at least part of a residual layer of lubricant, thus performing a second belt wringing operation.

[0013]

[0014] Thus, in a particularly efficient manner, the belt is spun without any contact with any part of the spunting system. Indeed, the sliding of the hydrodynamic pads on the fluid layer ensures, by locking, an initial spunting operation without contact between the pads and the belt, thereby preserving the surface condition of the belt and minimizing wear on the pads. The fluid layer required for the pad sliding, significantly reduced compared to the fluid layer present upstream of the spunting system, is then drawn through the suction port. Therefore, the belt exiting the spunting machine has a sufficiently small amount of lubricant to proceed to the next industrial stage.

[0015] Depending on optional features, this second aspect of the disclosure may have the features described in the following paragraphs and may optionally be implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other:

[0016] 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 a or several supply ports provided in the hydrodynamic pads or by supply nozzles upstream of the hydrodynamic pads, the injection of the supply fluid being carried out in such a way as to guarantee the presence of the layer of fluid through which the hydrodynamic pads slide on the strip, guaranteeing a gap between the rolled strip and the hydrodynamic pads, on each side of the strip, said supply being oil, or an emulsion comprising air and oil.

[0017] According to one embodiment, said method 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.

[0018] According to one embodiment, said method comprising an evacuation of at least a part of the lubricant layer blocked by said spin bearings beyond the lateral edges of the rolled strip.

[0019] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a spinning installation suitable for carrying out the process of spinning 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 direction of advance 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, following 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 layers of fluid, each of the hydrodynamic pads being configured to perform a first wringing operation by blocking at least part of a layer of lubricant of the belt coming from upstream to downstream, - At least one suction port, 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.

[0020] According to one embodiment, said installation may include at least one feed port or at least one feed nozzle configured to perform a temporary or continuous injection of a feed fluid (such as oil or an oil-air emulsion) between the rolled strip and said hydrodynamic pads, the unless a feed orifice is provided in the hydrodynamic pads or at least a feed nozzle is located upstream of the hydrodynamic pads, the injection of the feed fluid is carried out in such a way as to guarantee the presence of the fluid layer through which the hydrodynamic pads slide on the strip, guaranteeing a gap between the rolled strip and the hydrodynamic pads, on each side of the strip.

[0021] 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 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.

[0022] According to one embodiment, said hydrodynamic pads comprising an elongated shape and extending continuously over the entire width of the band and beyond the lateral edges of the band.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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 crossbeams extending across the width of the belt, each cassette being removably mounted in translation along one of said crossbeams. In particular, each cassette may include at least one projection orifice, at least one projection orifice communicating fluidly with a projection conduit formed in the cassette. In particular, each cassettes include a cover which may be a separate piece attached to said cassette, the projection slot being obtained by forming a gap between said cassette and said cover.

[0026] 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

[0027] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent from reading the detailed description below and from analyzing the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1

[0028] [Fig.1] shows a schematic representation of an example of a rolling mill that can be equipped with a spinning installation according to the present disclosure. Fig. 2

[0029] [Fig.2] shows a schematic representation of a spin-drying installation according to a example of this disclosure. Fig. 3

[0030] [Fig.3] shows a schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of a spin-drying installation as an example in this disclosure. Fig. 4

[0031] [Fig.4] shows a close-up schematic representation of a cross-sectional view transversal of a spin-drying installation as an example in this disclosure. Fig. 5

[0032] [Fig.5] shows a close-up partial schematic representation of a view in cross-section of a spin-drying installation as an example in this disclosure, in which the fluids involved are particularly visible. Fig. 6

[0033] [Fig.6] shows a schematic representation of a cassette according to an example of the present disclosure. Description of the implementation methods

[0034] The drawings and description below contain, essentially, elements of a definite nature. They may therefore not only serve to better understand this disclosure, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary.

[0035] 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.

[0036] In the following description, when reference is made to absolute positional qualifiers, such as "front," "back," "top," "bottom," "left," "right," etc., or relative positional qualifiers, such as "above," "below," "upper," "lower," etc., or to orientational qualifiers, such as "horizontal," "vertical," etc., reference is made, unless otherwise specified, to the orientation of the figures or of a rolling mill spinning installation in its normal operating position. Furthermore, the term "approximately" is to be interpreted as indicating that the result obtained is as precise as the known method for measuring it.

[0037] The spinning installation is typically positioned downstream of a rolling mill 100, for example a 20-roll rolling mill, as shown in [Fig. 1], and comprising: - a lower working cylinder 110 and an upper working cylinder, working on either side of the rolled strip, - two lower 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 cylinders 130, in contact two by two, respectively with the two lower intermediate cylinders, and three upper intermediate cylinders, in contact two by two, respectively with the two upper 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.

[0038] The support roller assemblies are typically mounted with eccentric systems, which allow for band clamping, and even for control of cylinder camber, including camber of working cylinders.

[0039] By controlling the camber, it is possible to give a strip profile to the rolled strip, which can be straight, or, more often, curved.

[0040] Such a rolling mill generally comprises four lubricant spray bars 150, typically a mixture of oil and water, at the working rollers. In the embodiment shown in [Fig. 1], two bars are arranged in the upper part, on one side of the rolled strip 2, and two bars are arranged in the lower part on the other side of the rolled strip 2. Each bar has, along its length, transversely to the strip, a series of nozzles, ensuring a spray of lubricant over the width of the strip, and / or onto the rollers of the rolling mill.

[0041] The embodiments of the spinning installation 1 disclosed in this document are not limited to use only in the presence of a 20 rolling mill cylinders as shown [Fig.1], which is shown only as an example, but to any industrial installation of the strip rolling mill type using lubricant.

[0042] Reference is now made to [Fig. 2], which shows a schematic representation of a spinning installation 1 according to an example in the present 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.

[0043] The laminated strip 2 may typically comprise steel, for example, stainless steel. The laminated strip 2 may also be of the magnetic sheet type, comprising an iron-silicon alloy. These material examples are given by way of example only and are not limiting; the solutions according to this disclosure are suitable for any laminated strip using lubricant.

[0044] The rolled strip 2 may have a width between 750mm and 1650mm. The rolled strip 2 may have a thickness, at the exit of the rolling mill 100 and therefore at the inlet of the spinning installation, of between 0.15 and 3.5mm.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] The spin-drying unit 1 here comprises two cassettes 4 mounted movably relative to the fixed structure 3, each cassette advantageously including elements involved in the spin-drying operation, which will be described below. The fixed structure 3 includes an actuator configured to drive each of the cassettes 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 specifically, 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 operations on a cassette 4 by removing it from the unit, without having to disassemble more parts than necessary. It is also possible for each cassette 4 to be directly mounted on the actuator, according to some examples.

[0048] More specifically, the actuator is configured to allow the cassettes 4 to apply each 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, one facing the other, so that 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 strip 2. In other words, each of the cassettes applies a support force along a clamping plane perpendicular to the plane formed by strip 2. Specifically, the clamping plane is transverse to strip 2. The clamping plane includes the direction of translation of cassettes 4.

[0049] The upper fixed structure 3 comprises 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 said 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.

[0050] 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 said clamping plane. The actuator is controlled by a controller (not shown). The controller can be configured to control the translation speed of the cassette 4, and / or to control the pressure exerted by the cassettes 4 on the belt 2. Reference is now made to Figures 3 and 4, which show cross-sectional views of the spin-drying installation 1 according to two separate examples in this disclosure.

[0051] In 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.

[0052] According to examples, and as shown in these figures, each of the cassettes 4 comprises 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.

[0053] 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, contributes to blocking a quantity of lubricant located upstream of the hydrodynamic pads 6. These elements are particularly visible in [Fig.4].

[0054] The hydrodynamic pads 6 extend lengthwise over a width of the band 2. Particularly visible in [Fig. 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.

[0055] According to examples, and as shown in [Fig. 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. The at least one feed port 8 is configured to inject feed fluid so as to form a layer of fluid between each hydrodynamic pad 6 and the belt 2. The at least one feed port 8, in some examples, is arranged to open onto the hydrodynamic pad 6. In particular, the at least one feed port may be arranged to open onto the working surface 61 of the hydrodynamic pad 6.

[0056] In some examples, the spin-drying unit 1 has a plurality of feed ports 8, arranged to open onto the working surface of the hydrodynamic pads 6. In some examples, and as shown in [Fig. 6], the feed ports 8 are distributed, regularly or not, along the length of each hydrodynamic pad 6. Here, the feed ports 8 are regularly distributed. The feed ports 8 are preferably arranged to cover the entire length of the hydrodynamic pads 6, which are themselves long enough to cover at least the entire width of the belt 2. It is possible, at the two longitudinal ends of the hydrodynamic pads 6, not to provide a feed port 8, these ends extending beyond the belt 2. For example, these ends may be without a feed port 8 for a distance at least greater than the distance d.

[0057] According to examples, the plurality of supply ports is provided on a median line of the hydrodynamic pads. In other words, each supply port is arranged at an equal distance from the front and rear sides 64, 65 of the hydrodynamic pad.

[0058] In other examples, the injection of the 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.

[0059] In some examples, particularly as shown in [Fig. 3], at 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 skid hydrodynamics 6. According to examples, the intermediate supply pipe 82 crosses a portion of the cassette 4. In examples, the intermediate supply pipe 82 has a portion, one end of which constitutes the supply orifice, said portion extending along a direction perpendicular to the band 2.

[0060] At least one feed port 8 can be configured to perform a temporary or continuous injection of fluid. 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 rate through the feed port 8. The purpose of such a fluid injection is to ensure, at all times during the advance of the belt through the spinning unit 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.

[0061] The feed fluid typically contains oil. For example, the feed fluid may be an emulsion containing oil and water. These compositions are given as non-limiting examples; any fluid capable of blocking the lubricant flowing from the upstream side of the centrifuge to the downstream side of the pads may be used.

[0062] In some examples, as an alternative to using 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 so as to block the lubricant flowing from upstream of the centrifuge downstream. The absence of contact between the aerodynamic pads and the belt 2 is then ensured by the presence of an air cushion between these two elements.

[0063] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the 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 at a distance of 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.

[0064] 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. In the case where 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 [Fig. 5] below.

[0065] At least one suction port 9 is fluidly connected to a suction line 91. The suction line, according to examples, is arranged in the cassette 4 and has a recess through which the aspirated fluid can flow. Indeed, the fluid is, for example, conveyed in the form of 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. According to examples, the aspirated fluid can be reinjected as a lubricant at the rolling mill upstream of the centrifuge, or as a feed fluid at the hydrodynamic pads 6, for example after a treatment operation such as a fluid filtration operation.

[0066] 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 a quantity of lubricant injected at the rolling mill, and / or based on a quantity of feed fluid injected at the hydrodynamic skids 6, and / or based on a feed speed of the strip 2.

[0067] In some examples, the spin-drying unit 1 has, on each side of the belt 2, a single suction port 9. 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 may be provided in the width direction of the belt 2, for example in the length of the respective cassette 4, and continuously cover at least the entire width of band 2. The suction slot 92 is configured to create a suction blade at the level of band 2.

[0068] In some examples, and as shown in [Fig. 4] and [Fig. 5], the suction slot 92 is formed by two front surfaces 93 and rear surfaces 94. The front and rear surfaces 93, 94 are separated by less than 5 mm. The front and rear surfaces 93, 94 are arranged so that the closer one gets to the opening that constitutes 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 level of the orifice, is at most 3 mm. In some examples, the suction orifice 9 is separated from the band 2 by a height H3, when measured vertically from the plane of the band 2, of at most 5 mm.

[0069] In examples, and in particular as shown in [Fig.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 skid 6.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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 quantity of fluid detached is thus projected, by the projection force of the projection fluid, towards at least one suction orifice 9. The quantity of fluid detached is thus sucked up by the suction orifice 9 so as to carry out a second wringing operation.

[0073] 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 includes 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 direction of the width of the tape 2, for example in the length of the cassette 4, and continuously cover at least the entire width of the tape 2. The projection slot 12 is configured to create a projection blade 15 at the level of the tape 2.

[0074] The projection slot 12 can be arranged so that the projection blade 15 forms an angle α with the strip 2. The angle α is precisely defined as the angle between a lead vector V of the strip, with direction and sense such as is defined by the advance of the strip, from upstream to downstream, and the line formed by the projection blade, the angle being measured in an upper region of the strip 2 (see [Fig. 5]). In some examples, the projection blade 15 reaches the strip 2 perpendicularly, i.e., the angle α is then equal to 90°. In other examples, the projection blade forms an acute angle with the strip; 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 angle values ​​a less than 90°, the projection blade reaches band 2 against its direction of travel, in other words, against the flow of band 2, so as to increase the effectiveness of the action of dislodging a quantity of fluid from the residual layer Cr. The effectiveness of the projection of said dislodging quantity is also increased. Furthermore, reaching band 2 against its direction of travel allows the dislodging fluid to be naturally projected downstream, in other words, towards at least one suction orifice 9, to facilitate the second dewatering operation.

[0075] The spraying fluid can typically be air. By way of example, the spraying fluid may consist of a mixture of hot air or hot water, or water vapor. Such fluid compositions are given by way of non-limiting examples; it is possible to use any fluid capable of detaching a quantity of fluid from the residual Cr layer.

[0076] 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 attached to each cassette 4 can be connected by flexible fluid connections to tanks or to treatment and / or suction zones which can be fixed relative to the cassettes 4. For example, the flexible fluid connections can be fluidly connected to these lines, and be integral with the fixed structure 3 of the spin-drying installation 1. The flexible fluid connections are configured to accommodate any movements of the cassettes 4 and maintain their fluid connections.

[0077] The removable mounting of the cassettes 4 on the cross beams 5 is achieved, in the example of [Fig.3], using a sliding link 7, configured to allow a translational movement of the cassette 4 in a direction parallel to the length of the hydrodynamic pads 6.

[0078] 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 [Fig. 3], on a transverse beam 5. The shape and the counter-shape are configured to cooperate and allow translation, for example along the elongation direction of the cassette 4. For example, the complementary shape can be in the form of a dovetail, or a T-shape, or obtained by an intermediate piece on either the cassette 4 or the spin-drying unit 1.

[0079] The sliding connection 7 can also be obtained by rolling, carried out by any rolling means arranged on either of the cassette 4 or the spin-drying installation 1, the other being able for example to have a rolling surface on which the rolling means can be mobile in translation.

[0080] In examples, particularly as shown in [Fig. 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.

[0081] According to one embodiment, at least one of the crossbeam 5 or the cassette 4 comprises 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-drying system. Such a locking means may, for example, comprise 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.

[0082] Reference is now made to [Fig. 5], which shows a detailed view of the laminated strip 2 and the hydrodynamic pad 6 according to an example in this disclosure. In particular, this figure, in which the distances between the hydrodynamic pad 6 or the suction ports 9 or projection ports 10, and the strip 2 have been intentionally exaggerated, allows visualization of 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 features are also present on the lower cassette 4.2. represented, these elements being positioned in a substantially symmetrical way with respect to the plane formed by the strip 2. The example shown does not have a supply port 8, but the operation described is compatible with the presence of such a supply port 8.

[0083] The belt 2, at the exit of the rolling mill 100 upstream of the spinning installation 1, has a layer of lubricant on its main surface, typically extending over the entire width of the belt 2. This is the case in particular in the upper zone of the belt 2, but also in the lower zone, a layer of lubricant may also be present, by adhesion, on the opposite lower main surface of the belt 2.

[0084] 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 separating 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 orifice, this residual layer contains both a quantity of lubricant from upstream of the spin-drying system and a quantity of feed fluid. In some examples, it is possible that the residual layer Cr is composed exclusively of feed fluid, all the lubricant having been blocked upstream of the hydrodynamic shoe.

[0085] The residual layer Cr of fluid is then brought, by the advance of the belt, to the level of at least one suction port 9. A first quantity of fluid from the residual layer Cr is then drawn in 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 has not been drawn in by at least one suction port 9, is then brought, by the advance of the belt 2, to the level of at least one projection port 10. The second quantity of fluid is then dislodged by the projected fluid and brought downstream to the level of at least one suction port 9 to be drawn in 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 strip 2.

[0086] 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%).

[0087] 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%)

[0088] In examples, and in particular as shown in 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.

[0089] Reference is now made to [Fig. 6]. This shows a view of a lower cassette 4.2. Thus, the hydrodynamic skid 6 and the projection hood 13 are particularly visible. In this example, the projection hood 13 is attached to the cassette by a plurality of screws 131.

[0090] 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

Demands

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 fluid layers, each of the hydrodynamic pads performing a first wringing operation by blocking at least a 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. A spinning method according to claim 1, comprising, in / C / , a temporary or continuous injection of a feed fluid between the laminated 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 laminated strip and the hydrodynamic pads, on each side of the strip.

3. A spin-drying method 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, of a projection fluid, such as air, in particular hot air, or even 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. A 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 strip and said hydrodynamic pads, with at least one feed orifice provided in the hydrodynamic pads or at least one feed nozzle located upstream of the hydrodynamic pads, the injection of the feed fluid being carried out in such a way as to guarantee the presence of the fluid layer through which the hydrodynamic pads slide on the strip, guaranteeing a gap between the rolled strip and the hydrodynamic pads, on each side of the strip.

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. Spin-drying 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. A wringing 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 bearing and the belt, each of at least one feed orifice or at least one feed nozzle and at least one suction orifice communicating fluidly with respectively a feed line and a suction line provided in each cassette, the spin installation comprising at least one pair of cross beams extending in the direction of the width of the belt, each cassette being mounted removably in translation along one of said cross 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. An 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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