High pressure grinding roller tyre

Abstract

A high pressure grinding roller tyre comprising cylindrical body having internal surface, outer surface and a profiled ring at each axial end. Each profiled ring comprising an outer ring portion having a plurality of protrusions extending axially away from the arcuate outer surface and an inner ring portion defining a second radial outer surface. The outer ring portion further comprising a radial wall defining a plurality of circumferentially spaced edge stud locations each comprising a neck between each pair of adjacent protrusions, a radially extending bulb portion axially inwards of neck and a pair of transition portions defining a radially extending circumferential and axial alignment portion axially outward of the neck. The combination of the radially extending bulb portion axially and the circumferential and axial alignment portion axially outward of the neck in each edge stud locations provides axial, radial, and circumferential support for any edge stud inserted therein.

Description

[0001] HIGH PRESSURE GRINDING ROLLER TYRE

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] The invention relates to improvements in or relating to a high pressure grinding roller tyre which is used in dual roller grinding machines, such as high pressure grinding rollers (HPGR).

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In HPGR machines, the material to be comminuted is discharged into a gap between two rollers rotating in opposite directions. The material to be comminuted is drawn into the roller gap by the rollers then compacted and crushed.

[0006] Each roller comprises a central shaft having a radially enlarged central portion (which appears to be cylindrical but actually has a slightly conical shape) on which is mounted a removable tyre. The removable tyre has a large number of blind holes in its outer surface, each of which is populated by a stud protruding from the outer surface of the tyre. The stud is made from a wear resistant material, such as tungsten carbide.

[0007] Although the studs protect the outer surface of the tyre, the edges of the tyre experience high wear. For this reason, removable end face reinforcements are used at each end of the tyre. The end face reinforcements protect the edges of the rollers from wear. The studs are received in slots which are machined in the edges of the tyre.

[0008] One type of an end face reinforcement 1 is shown in Fig. 1A which fits into slots in edges of a tyre 2 part of which is shown in Figs. 1 B and 1C. End face reinforcement 1 is single piece pre-fabricated body comprising a planar central section 3, a bulb 4 at one end of the planar central section 3 and a pair of wings 5 extending from opposing sides of the planar central section 3. Part of the central section 3 that protrudes below the wings 5 forms a foot or base 6 which has a generally rectangular shape with a rounded inner portion 7. The end face reinforcement 1 is supported on a support surface 8 of the tyre 2. The support surface 8 comprises a series of circumferentially spaced foot supports 9, having a similar shape to the foot or base 6 of the end face reinforcement, and wing spacings 10, with each foot support 9 being adjacent to two wing spacings 10. The foot supports 9 are recessed / lowered relative to the wing supports which supports the foot or base 6 while the wing spacings 10 are arranged to not be in contact with the wings 4 of the end face reinforcement 1. Due to the small portion of the end face reinforcement 1 being supported by the tyre the life expectancy of the end face reinforcement 1 is significantly reduced.

[0009] It would be advantageous if the support surface of the tyre could be re-designed to reduce the possibility of failure of the end face reinforcement by increasing the portion of the end face reinforcement 1 being supported by the tyre 2.

[0010] SUMMARY This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described in the detailed description below. This summary is not intended to identify indispensable features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended for use as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0011] In this application relative terms are used, such as front, rear, up, down, etc., only for ease of the description and understanding of the embodiments, not by way of limitation. Ordinal numbers (first, second, third, etc.) are assigned arbitrarily herein, and are used to differentiate between parts, and do not indicate a particular order, sequence or importance.

[0012] According to a first aspect there is provided a high pressure grinding roller tyre comprising a generally cylindrical body having (i) an internal surface for mounting around a shaft, (ii) an arcuate outer surface, and (iii) a profiled ring at each axial end of the arcuate outer surface, each profiled ring comprising an outer ring portion defining a first radial outer surface having a plurality of protrusions extending axially away from the arcuate outer surface and an inner ring portion defining (i) a second radial outer surface radially spaced from, and having a smaller radius than the first radial outer surface, and extending axially outwards beyond the protrusions to define a circumferential platform, and (ii) a second axial outer surface extending radially inwards from the second radial outer surface towards the internal surface; the outer ring portion further comprising a radial wall extending between the first radial outer surface and the second radial outer surface, the radial wall defining a plurality of circumferentially spaced edge stud locations, each edge stud location comprising (i) a neck between each pair of adjacent protrusions thereby defining a radially extending bulb portion axially inwards from the neck, and (ii) a pair of transition portions, each extending from the neck circumferentially outwards to an axially outer portion of a respective one of the pair of adjacent protrusion thereby defining a radially extending circumferential and axial alignment portion axially outward of the neck whereby the combination of the bulb portion axially inwards of the neck and circumferential alignment portion axially outward of the neck in each edge stud location provide axial, radial, and circumferential support for any edge stud inserted therein.

[0013] The second radial outer surface may have a shape that is complementary to a shape of the first radial outer surface.

[0014] The second radial outer surface may have a uniform radius. Alternatively, the second radial outer surface associated with each edge stud location may be substantially planar such that the second radial outer surface is substantially polygon shaped.

[0015] The plurality of protrusion of the outer ring portion may preferably be circumferentially spaced in an equidistant manner. In one embodiment, the circumferential platform is of generally uniform radius. Stated differently, the circumferential platform does not include any protrusion or recesses as the transition portions of the edge stud locations provide circumferential support for any edge stud inserted into the edge stud location.

[0016] The pair of transition portions may extend for at least 20% of the axial length of the radially extending bulb portion to provide significant circumferential alignment for any edge stud inserted into the edge stud location.

[0017] The radially extending bulb portion may have a circumferential width between 120% and 140% of the circumferential width of the neck.

[0018] The edge stud location may have an axial length between 50% and 90% of the total axial length of the profiled ring.

[0019] The radial wall may have a contoured profile near the second radial outer surface. The radial wall near the second radial outer surface may have an outer periphery which is smaller than an outer periphery of a remainder of the radial wall. Each of the edge stud locations near the second radial outer surface may therefore be smaller than the remainder of the edge stud location.

[0020] The second radial outer surface between adjacent protrusions and a portion of the second radial outer surface at the circumferential platform aligned with each of the edge stud locations provide a foot support which supports a lower surface of any edge stud inserted into the edge stud location.

[0021] The inner ring portion may include a plurality of radial protrusions extending radially away from the second radial outer surface and axially between the radial wall and the second axial outer surface.

[0022] The second radial outer surface between adjacent protrusions and between adjacent radial protrusions may define the foot support.

[0023] The foot support (the portion of the second radial outer surface which defines the foot support) of each edge stud location may extend circumferentially beyond the neck of the edge stud location. A portion of the of the foot support axially inward and / or axially outward of the neck may extend circumferentially beyond the neck of the edge stud location. The increase in the foot support of each edge stud provides additional radial support for an edge stud received in the edge stud location.

[0024] Where the portion of the foot support axially inward of the neck extends circumferentially beyond the neck of the edge stud location the foot support may include a bulbous shape which has a circumferential width larger than the circumferential width of the neck of the edge stud location. According to a second aspect there is provided a tyre for mounting around a shaft to provide a grinding roller, the tyre comprising a generally cylindrical body having an arcuate outer surface with a profiled ring at each axial end, each profiled ring comprising a first ring portion defining a first radial outer surface and a first axial outer surface, a second ring portion extending axially from the first portion and defining a second radial outer surface having a smaller radius than the first radial outer surface, and a second axial outer surface, a plurality of protrusions extending axially from the arcuate outer surface and radially between the first and second radial outer surface and defining a plurality of circumferentially spaced edge stud locations between adjacent protrusions, each edge stud location including a bulb portion axially spaced from the first axial outer surface and narrowing towards a neck, each edge stud location having an opening in the first axial outer surface for receiving at least a portion of a peripheral wear member; and a plurality of circumferentially spaced foot supports defined by the second radial outer surface for supporting the peripheral wear member received in the edge stud location, and wherein a portion of each foot support extends circumferentially past the neck of the edge stud location. Each foot support includes an axially inner portion defined by the second radial outer surface of the edge stud location (the second radial outer surface between adjacent protrusions) and an axially outer portion defined by a portion of the second radial outer surface. Stated differently, the portion of the foot support axially inward from the first axial surface defines the axially inner portion and the portion of the foot support between the first axial surface and the second axial surface defines the axially outer portion.

[0025] The portion of the foot support which extends circumferentially past the neck of the edge stud location may be located at either the axial inner portion or the axial outer portion. Stated differently, the radial inner surface of the edge stud location which defines a portion of the foot support may extend circumferentially past the neck of the edge stud location. Alternatively, or in addition, the portion of the second radial surface which defines a portion of the foot support may extend circumferentially past the neck of the edge stud location.

[0026] Stated differently, the circumferential width of at least a portion of the foot support may be larger than the circumferential width of the neck of the edge stud location (circumferential width of the opening of the edge stud location at the neck). The circumferential width of the portion of the foot support may be between 110% and 250% larger than the circumferential width of the neck.

[0027] Where the portion of the foot support which extends circumferentially past the neck of the edge stud location is located at the axial inner portion, the radial inner surface of the edge stud location which defines a portion of the foot support may include a bulbous portion. The bulbous portion may include a central portion, which is generally planar, and a pair of curved side sections (on each side of the central portion) having an arcuate shape. Each curved side section may comprise convex portion adjacent to the central portion, a generally planar portion, and a concave portion that merges with the central portion at a neck. The circumferential width of the bulbous portion may be between 110% and 150% larger than the circumferential width of the neck, preferably between 120% and 140% larger.

[0028] Alternatively, or in addition the radial inner surface of the edge stud location which defines a portion of the foot support may include a pair of transition portions which extends circumferentially past the neck of the edge stud location. Each transition portion may have an arcuate shape, which extend from the axially outward to the first axial outer surface. The transition portions may each comprise a curved surface, a polygonal surface, or a surface comprising one or more planar and curved portions.

[0029] Where the portion of the foot support which extends circumferentially past the neck of the edge stud location is located at the axial outer portion, the second radial outer surface which defines a portion of the foot support may include a pair of wing supports. In one embodiment where the foot supports of adjacent edge stud locations are separated by a raised section, the wing support may include an arcuate portion extending from the first axial outer surface generally towards the second axial outer surface, and a planar portion extending from the arcuate portion towards the second axial outer surface. The circumferential width of the foot support at the axial outer portion may be between 200% and 250% larger than the circumferential width of the neck, preferably between 210 % and 230% larger.

[0030] Each foot support may include a central section extending axially inwards from the second axial outer surface. The central section may have a circumferential width which is equal or smaller than the circumferential width of the neck of the edge stud location. Stated differently, the circumferential width of the central section may be equal or smaller that the width of the edge stud location at the neck. Each foot support may further include at least one auxiliary section which extend from the central section circumferentially past the neck of the edge stud location.

[0031] The at least one auxiliary section may include the bulbous portion which surrounds an axially inner portion of the central section and / or a pair of wing supports which extends circumferentially from opposed side of the central section. The bulbous portion may form part of the radial inner surface of the locating surface. The bulbous portion may extend between 10% and 20% of the circumferential width of the central section (or neck of the edge stud location) from opposed sides of the central section. The pair of wing supports may form part of the second radial outer surface. The pair of wing supports may extend between 30% and 70% of the circumferential width of the central section (or neck of edge stud location) from opposed sides of the central section.

[0032] The axial outer portion of each of the foot supports of adjacent edge stud locations may be separated by a section which is raised radially relative to the foot support. Stated differently, the foot support which is defined by the portion of the second radial outer surface of adjacent edge stud locations may be separated by a section which is raised radially relative to the foot support.

[0033] In another embodiment, the axial outer portion of the foot support of adjacent edge stud locations merge with one another.

[0034] Each foot support may be substantially planar such that the second radial outer surface is substantially polygon shaped.

[0035] Each of the edge stud locations may include a radially inner portion which extends radially inward from the remainder of the edge stud location and terminates at the radially inner surface. The radially inner portion and the radially inner surface may be substantially the same shape than the remainder of the edge stud location. The radially inner portion and the radially inner surface may however have an outer periphery which is slightly smaller than an outer periphery of the remainder of the edge stud location. In one embodiment, the radially inner portion may be in the form of a chamfer extending around the outer periphery of the radial inner surface with the radial inner surface and subsequently the foot support recessed relative to the remainder of the edge stud location. In an alternative embodiment, the radially inner portion and the radial inner surface may have a different shape compared to the remainder of the edge stud location. The radially inner portion and the radial inner surface may include a substantially semi circular axially inner portion and a pair of planar portions which extend from the semi circular portion towards the first axial outer surface.

[0036] Each edge stud location includes an inner bulb portion and a pair of transition portions extending from the inner bulb portion towards the first axial outer surface. Each non-planar transition region may comprise a transition surface which comprises a curved surface; a plurality of curved surfaces; a polygon surface, a surface comprising one or more planar portions and curved portions; or the like.

[0037] Where the transition surface comprises one or more planar portions and curved portions it may comprise a planar portion extending at an acute angle to the central axis and an arcuate surface at each end thereof, wherein one arcuate surface is adjacent to, and merges with, the neck of the bulb portion, and the other arcuate surface is adjacent to, and merges with, a respective wing.

[0038] Each non-planar transition region may comprise a transition surface in the form of a curve having a radius between 7mm and 12mm, in some embodiments approximately 9mm. The inner bulb portion may comprise an inner central section and a pair of side surfaces extending axially from the central section towards the first axial outer surface with each side surface comprising a concave portion and a convex portion.

[0039] The bulb portion may comprise a pair of first curved portions at a rear thereof, and a pair of second curved portions adjacent to the neck on opposed sides of edge stud location.

[0040] The first curved portions may have the same shape, for example, the same radius. Alternatively, the first curved portions may have a different shape, for example, different radii. Each curved portion may not have a single radius. The first and second curved portions may be connected, or separated, by a third portion, such as a planar portion or another curved portion.

[0041] The bulb portion may comprise a curved rear surface or rear surface portion with one end of each of the first curved portions connected to one another. Alternatively, or additionally, the bulb portion may comprise a generally flat rear surface or rear surface portion with one end of each of the first curved portions connected to a central planar portion.

[0042] It is to be appreciated that the tyre may consist of a plurality of segments with each segment defining a circumferential portion of the tyre.

[0043] The features of the second aspect of the invention may be combined with the features of the first aspect of the invention. The features of the second aspect have however not been recited under the first aspect due to procedural and administrative efficiency. In addition, any single feature or combination of features in any of the embodiments may constitute additional embodiments.

[0044] According to a third aspect there is provided a grinding roller comprising a tyre of the first, second or third aspect further comprising a bore extending axially through the tyre and a shaft on which the tyre is mounted.

[0045] According to a fourth aspect there is provided a grinding roller comprising a tyre of the first, second or third aspect and a plurality of peripheral wear members mounted around a periphery of each axially spaced end of the tyre to form a generally continuous reinforcement edge for resisting axial and radial wear thereof.

[0046] The grinding roller may comprise a bore extending axially through the tyre. The bore may be configured to allow the tyre to be concentrically mounted onto a shaft. Alternatively, the tyre and the shaft may be of unitary construction.

[0047] According to a fifth aspect there is provided a high pressure grinding roller machine comprising a pair of grinding rollers of the fourth aspect.

[0048] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] These and other aspects of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1A is a perspective view of a prior art peripheral wear member;

[0050] Figs. 1 B and 1C are perspective views of a portion of a prior art tyre for mounting around a shaft to provide a grinding roller;

[0051] Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a grinding roller tyre including a profiled ring at each end, populated with a plurality of circumferentially adjacent peripheral wear members; and

[0052] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of a profiled peripheral end of a tyre according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0053] Fig. 4 is a top view of part of the profiled peripheral end of the tyre of Fig. 3;

[0054] Fig. 5 is a detailed perspective view of a profiled peripheral end of a tyre according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0055] Fig. 6A is a top view of part of the profiled peripheral end of a tyre of Fig. 5;

[0056] Fig. 6B is a perspective view of part of the profiled peripheral end of a tyre of Fig. 5;

[0057] Figs. 7 and 8 are detailed perspectives views showing two different stages in which a peripheral wear member of Fig. 16 is inserted into one of the recesses in the profiled end of a tyre of Fig. 5;

[0058] Fig. 9 is a detailed perspective view of a profiled peripheral end of a tyre according to a second embodiment of the invention;

[0059] Figs. 10 and 11 are detailed perspectives views showing two different stages in which a peripheral wear member of Fig. 17 is inserted into one of the recesses in the profiled end of the tyre of Fig. 9;

[0060] Fig. 12 is a detailed perspective view of a profiled peripheral end of a tyre according to a third embodiment of the invention;

[0061] Figs. 13 and 14 are detailed perspectives views showing two different stages in which a peripheral wear member of Fig. 18 is inserted into one of the recesses in the profiled end of the tyre of Fig. 12;

[0062] Fig. 15 is an underside perspective view of a peripheral wear member for use with the tyre of Fig. 3;

[0063] Fig. 16 is an underside perspective view of a peripheral wear member for use with the tyre of Fig. 5;

[0064] Fig. 17 is an underside perspective view of a peripheral wear member for use with the tyre of Fig. 9; and

[0065] Fig. 18 is an underside perspective view of a peripheral wear member for use with the tyre of Fig. 12. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0066] A high pressure grinding roller (HPGR) tyre 12 for a HPGR is schematically illustrated in Fig. 2 in a perspective view from one axial end 14a. The second axial end 14b is identical to the first end 14a and will therefore not be described.

[0067] The grinding roller tyre 12 has a generally cylindrical body and includes an arcuate outer surface 16 having a plurality of blind holes 17 (shown in Fig. 3), which, in use, are populated with tungsten carbide studs (not shown for clarity) protruding therefrom and terminating at each axial end 14a, 14b. Typically, the grinding roller tyre — approximately 100 mm thick, although it may be radially segmented — includes an internal machined surface 18 defining a frusto-conical bore extending along the axial length (direction 20) of the tyre 12. The angle of slope of the frusto-conical bore is very small (typically less than four degrees). The machined surface 18 mounts on an HPGR shaft (not shown) as an interference fit.

[0068] The grinding roller tyre 12 further comprises a profiled ring portion 22, 22a, 22b, 22c at each axial end (only one of which is shown in Figs. 3 to 14; the other end is identical, being a mirror image). It is to be appreciated that the profiled ring portion 22, 22a, 22b, 22c may consist of a plurality of segmented portions.

[0069] Reference is now made to Figs. 3-14, which show part of the profiled ring 22, 22a, 22b, 22c in accordance with different embodiments of the invention. The profiled ring 22, 22a, 22b, 22c comprises an outer or first ring portion 24, which defines a first radial outer surface 26 raised slightly (a few mm, as shown in Fig. 3) relative to most of the arcuate outer surface 16. The outer ring portion 24 has a plurality of protrusions 27 extending axially away from the acuate outer surface 16. The profiled ring 22 also comprises an inner or second ring portion 30, defining a second radial outer surface 32 radially spaced from, and having a smaller radius than, the first radial outer surface 26, and extending axially outwards beyond the protrusions 27 to define a circumferential platform 33, and a second axial outer surface

[0070] 34 extending radially inwards from the second radial outer surface 32 towards the internal machined surface 18.

[0071] The outer ring portion 24 further comprises a radial wall 35 extending between the first radial outer surface 26 and the second radial outer surface 32. The radial wall 35 defining a plurality circumferentially spaced edge stud locations 36, 36a, 36b, 36c for receiving an edge stud or peripheral wear member 100, 100a, 100b, 100c.

[0072] Each edge stud location 36, 36a, 36b, 36c comprises a neck 50 between each pair of adjacent protrusion 27 defining a radially extending bulb portion 38 axially inward from the neck 50. The radially extending bulb portion 38 extends the length of the edge stud location 36, 36a, 36b, 36c and is defined by the radial wall 35. The portion of the radial wall

[0073] 35 which defines the radially extending bulb portion 38 includes an inner central section 40 (generally planar) and a pair of side sections extending axially from the inner central section 40 towards the neck 50. In this embodiment, the radially extending bulb portion 38 is symmetrical about a centreplane 42 (best seen in Figs. 4 and 6A), but in other embodiments, it may be asymmetrical. Each side section comprises a convex portion 44 adjacent to the inner central section 40, a generally planar portion 46, and a concave portion 48. In an alternative embodiment, the inner central section 40 may be omitted, i.e. , the side sections are adjacent to one another. In further alternatives, the planar portion 46 may be omitted, i.e., the convex portion 44 may blend into the concave portion 48. The bulb portion 38 narrows (in the circumferential direction 51) to the neck 50, which is transverse to the centreplane 42 (best seen in Figs. 4 and 6A), at its furthest outer part, so that the neck 50 is adjacent to and merges with the concave portions 48.

[0074] Each edge stud location 36, 36a, 36b, 36c further includes a pair of transition portions 52, which extend from the neck 50, more specifically from the concave portion 48 at the neck 50, circumferentially outwards to an axially outer portion 28 of a respective one of the pair of adjacent protrusions 27. The transition portions 52 define an arcuate transition surface, which in this embodiment is generally concave. The transition portions 52 of adjacent edge stud locations 36, 36a, 36b, 36c are separated by an axially outer portion 28 of the protrusions 27.

[0075] The concave portions 48 have a radius (R1) larger than the transition surface radius (R2). In particular, the concave portions 48 have a radius (R1) of approximately 10 mm or 12 mm (±10%), whereas the transition surface 52 has a radius (R2) of approximately 9 mm or 11 mm (±10%).

[0076] Each edge stud location 36, 36a, 36b, 36c further defines a radially extending circumferential and axial alignment portion 54 axially outward of the neck 50. The circumferential and axial alignment portion 54 may extend axially from the neck 50 towards the second axial outer surface 34 and radially from the first radial outer surface 26 towards the second radial outer surface 32 or circumferential platform 33. The circumferential and axial alignment portion 54 is therefore located between the transitions portion 52 of adjacent protrusions 27 and at the circumferential platform 33.

[0077] The combination of the radially extending bulb portion 38 axially inwards of the neck 50 and the circumferential and axial alignment portion 54 axially outwards of the neck 50 in each edge stud location 36, 36a, 36b, 36c provides axial, radial, and circumferential support for the edge stud or peripheral wear member 100, 100a, 100b, 100c received in the edge stud location 36, 36a, 36b, 36c.

[0078] Each of the edge stud locations 36, 36a, 36b, 36c extend radially inwards from the first radial outer surface 26 towards the second radial outer surface 32. A portion of the second radial outer surface 32 located between adjacent protrusion 27 and a portion of the circumferential platform 33 which is circumferentially aligned with the edge stud location 36, 36a, 36b, 36c defines a foot support to support a lower portion 102 of the edge stud 100, 100a, 100b, 100c (more specifically, a lower surface thereof) received in the edge stud locations 36..

[0079] The second radial outer surface 32, 32a, 32b, 32c (or foot support) associated with each of the edge stud locations 36, 36a, 36b, 36c includes an axial inner portion between a pair of adjacent protrusions 27 axially inwards from the neck and an axial outer portion axially outward from the neck at the circumferential and axial alignment portion 54.

[0080] Referring to Figs. 3-4, a first embodiment of the profiled ring 22 is shown with the edge stud locations 36 shaped and dimensioned to receive an edge stud or peripheral wear member 100, as shown in Fig. 15. As shown, the second radial outer surface 32 and circumferential platform 33 has a generally uniform radius.

[0081] The second radial outer surface 32 of the profiled ring 22 may be shaped and dimensioned such that a portion of the second radial outer surface 32 which is circumferentially aligned with the edge stud locations 36 define the foot support for each of the edge studs 100 received therein. The foot support may extend circumferentially (direction 51) beyond the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36. In this embodiment, the second radial outer surface 32 which defines the foot support surface extends circumferentially beyond the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36 axially inward and outward of the neck 50. In other words, the second radial outer surface 32 of the profiled ring 22 between adjacent protrusions 27 and at the circumferential and axial alignment portion 54 may have a circumferential width larger than the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36.

[0082] The second radial outer surface 32 at the circumferential and axial alignment portion 54 is located between the pair of transition portions 52 and at circumferential platform 33. As shown in Fig.4 the circumferential and axial alignment portion 54 may be defined circumferentially by the portion between C1 and C2, and axially by the portion between the neck 50 and the second axial outer surface. As shown, the distance between C1 and C2 (circumferential width of the second radial outer surface 32 or foot support for each of the edge studs axially outward from the neck 50) is larger than the circumferential width of the neck 50.

[0083] Stated differently, each edge stud location may include a foot support defined by a portion of the second radial outer surface 32 circumferentially aligned with each of the edge stud locations 36 (i.e., the portion of the second radial outer surface 32 between two adjacent protrusions 27 and a portion of the second radial outer surface 32 axially outward from the protrusions 27). Each of the support surfaces may include a central section 56 having a width similar to that of the neck 50 of the edge stud locations 36 and which extends axially inwards from the second axial outer surface 34. The central section 56 is defined circumferentially by the portion between C3 and C3 (see Fig. 4) and axially by the portion between the second axial outer surface 34 and A2 (see Fig. 4). It will be appreciated that this definition is primarily to aid clarity and understanding; the boundaries of the central section 56 could be adjusted to some extent.

[0084] The foot support further includes auxiliary sections 58,60 that extend circumferentially beyond the neck (i.e. , having a circumferential width greater than that of the neck 50). In this embodiment, the auxiliary sections 58,60 are located axially inward and axially outward from the neck 50.

[0085] The auxiliary section 58 located axially outward from the neck 50 is defined by the second radial outer surface 32 at the circumferential and axial alignment portion 54 extending laterally from opposite sides of the central section 56. The auxiliary section 60 axially inward from the neck 50 is defined by the second radial outer surface 32 between adjacent protrusions 27 which has a bulbous shape extending around an axial inner portion of the central section 56.

[0086] The second radial outer surface 32 defines the foot support, which, in use, supports a peripheral wear member 100 in the radial direction when received in the edge stud location 36. In this configuration, the circumferential platform 33 is generally of uniform radius. The foot support of each edge stud location 36 may be substantially planar such that the second radial outer surface 32 and the circumferential platform 33 of the tyre 12 is substantially polygonal in shape.

[0087] As shown in Fig. 3 the radial wall 35 has a contoured profile near the second radial outer surface 32 in the form of a chamfer between the second radial outer surface 32 and the radial wall 35.

[0088] The profiled ring 22 has a generally tongue-and-groove appearance, with the edge stud locations 36 defining the grooves and alternating with the protrusions 27. The combination of an edge stud location 36 and half (on a circumferential basis) of each adjacent protrusion 37 provides a wear member locating feature. This locating feature allows a wear member 100 having a bulb portion complementary to the radially extending bulb portion 38 to be inserted into the edge stud location 36. Half of each adjacent protrusion 27 encloses a neck of a wear member 100 therebetween to prevent the wear member 100 from moving axially out of the profiled ring 22.

[0089] Referring to Figs. 5-9, a second embodiment of the profiled ring 22a is shown, where the contoured profile 37a of the radial wall 35 near the second radial outer surface 32a has a different design to that of the first embodiment. The circumferential platform 33a of the profiled ring 22a also has a different design. The edge stud locations 36a of the profiled ring 22a are shaped and dimensioned to receive at least part of a peripheral wear member 100a, as shown in Fig. 16.

[0090] The second radial outer surface 32a of the profiled ring 22a is shaped and dimensioned such that a portion of the second radial outer surface 32a which is circumferentially aligned with each of the edge stud locations 36a define the foot support for each of the edge studs 100a received in the edge stud locations 36a. The foot support may extend circumferentially beyond the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36a to provide improved radial support for an edge stud 100a received in the edge stud location 36a. In this embodiment, the second radial outer surface 32 which defines the foot support extends circumferentially beyond the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36a axially outward of the neck 50. Stated differently, the second radial outer surface 32a of the profiled ring 22a at the circumferential and axial alignment portion 54a may have a circumferential width larger than the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36a.

[0091] The second radial outer surface 32a at the circumferential and axial alignment portion 54a is located between the pair of transition portion 52 and axially outward from the neck 50. As shown in Fig. 6 the circumferential and axial alignment portion 54a may be defined circumferentially by the portion between C1 and C2 and axially by the portion between the second axial outer surface 34 the neck 50. As shown, the distance between C1 and C2 (circumferential width of the second radial outer surface 32a or foot support for each of the edge studs’ locations 36a axially outward from the neck 50) is larger than the circumferential width of the neck 50. The circumferential platform 33a may include a plurality of radial protrusion 62a which extends radially outward from the second radial outer surface 32. The plurality of radial protrusion 62a may separate the second radial outer surface 32a or foot support of each of the edge stud locations 36a. Each radial protrusion 62a may comprise a pair of radial walls 64 on opposed sides of the protrusions 62a extending between the radial wall 35 and the second axial outer surface 34. Each of the pair of radial walls 64a may include an arcuate portion and a planar portion extending from the arcuate portion towards the second axial outer surface 34.

[0092] The contoured profile 37a of the radial wall 35 near the second radial outer surface 32a comprises a curved axially inner section 66a and a pair of side sections each extending axially from the curved axially inner section 66a toward one of the radial walls 64a. The curved axially inner section 66a has a substantially semi-circular shape but may include a central planar section with adjacent curved sections. Each of the side sections includes a substantially planar portion 68a extending from the curved axially inner section 66a generally towards neck 50, and a pair of transition portions 70a extending from the substantially planar portions 68a towards the pair of radial walls 64a. Each transition portion 68a may comprise a curved surface, a polygonal surface, or a surface comprising one or more planar and curved portions. In this embodiment, the transition surfaces 68a each comprise a curved surface — more specifically, a concave surface.

[0093] The second radial outer surface between adjacent protrusions 27 and radial protrusions 62a defines the foot support which includes a central section 56a having a width similar to that of the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36a and extending axially inwards from the second axial surface 34. The central section 56a is defined circumferentially by the portion between C3 and C3 (see Fig. 6A) and axially by the portion between the second axial outer surface 34 and A1 (see Fig. 6A). It will be appreciated that this definition is primarily to aid clarity and understanding; the boundaries of the central section 56a could be adjusted to some extent. The second radial outer surface 32a between adjacent radial protrusions 62a which form part of the foot support surface includes auxiliary sections 58a that extend circumferentially beyond the neck 50 (i.e. , having a circumferential width greater than that of the neck). The auxiliary sections 58a is defined by the second radial outer surface which extends laterally from opposite sides of the central section 56a.

[0094] The second radial outer surface 32a between adjacent protrusions 27 and radial protrusions 62a define the foot support, which, in use, supports a peripheral wear member 100a in the radial direction when received in the edge stud location 36a.

[0095] The profiled ring 22a has a generally tongue-and-groove appearance, with the edge stud locations 36a defining the grooves and alternating with the protrusions 27. The combination of an edge stud location 36a and half (on a circumferential basis) of each adjacent protrusion 37 provides a wear member locating feature. This locating feature allows a wear member 100a having a bulb portion complementary to bulb portion 38 to be inserted into the edge stud location 36a. Half of each adjacent protrusion 27 formed by the radial wall 35 encloses a neck of a wear member 100 therebetween to prevent the wear member 100 from moving axially out of the profiled ring 22.

[0096] With the wear member 100a inserted into the edge stud location 36a, a lower portion or base 102a of the wear member 100a is received in the portion of the edge stud location formed by the contoured profile of the radial wall, with a lower surface 108 (both central section 110 and wings 112) supported by the supporting surfaces 54a.

[0097] Once all of the peripheral wear members 100a have been inserted, the profiled ring 22a is fully populated (as shown in Fig. 10), thereby providing high wear resistance in both the radial and axial directions at each end of the grinding roller.

[0098] The profiled ring 22a therefore provides improved stability to the wear member 100a, as the foot support is increased relative to the prior art. Furthermore, the top wear part (upper surface 114) adjacent to wings of the peripheral wear member 100a is supported in height to minimize stress in the peripheral wear member 100a (caused by crushing forces), thereby preventing chipping and breaking. The combination of the radially extending bulb portion 38 axially inwards of the neck 50 and the circumferential and axial alignment portion 54a axially outward of the neck 50 in each edge stud locations 36a provides axial, radial, and circumferential support for any edge stud 100a inserted therein.

[0099] Referring to Figs. 9-11 , a third embodiment of the profiled ring 22b is shown, where the contoured profile 37b of the radial wall near the second radial outer surface 32b and the circumferential platform 33b have a different design to that of the first embodiment. The edge stud locations 36b are shaped and dimensioned to receive at least part of a peripheral wear member 100b, as shown in Fig. 17.

[0100] The profiled ring 22b is shaped such that a portion of the second radial outer surface 32b which is circumferentially aligned with each of the edge stud locations 36b define the foot support for each of the edge studs 100b received in the edge stud locations 36b. The foot support 32b extends circumferentially beyond the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36b to provide improved radial support for an edge stud received in the edge stud location. In this embodiment, the second radial outer surface 32b which defines the foot support extends circumferentially beyond the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36b axially inward of the neck 50. Stated differently, the second radial outer surface 32b of the profiled ring 22b between adjacent axial protrusions 27 has a circumferential width larger than the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36b.

[0101] The circumferential platform 33b may include a plurality of radial protrusions 62b which extends radially outward from the second radial outer surface 32b. The plurality of radial protrusions 62b may separate the second radial outer surface 32b or foot support which is circumferentially aligned with each of the edge stud locations 36b. Each radial protrusion 62b may include a pair of radial walls 64b on opposed sides of the radial protrusions 62b extending between the radial wall 35 and the second axial outer surface 34. The second radial outer surface 32b between the adjacent radial protrusion 62b has a circumferential width similar to the circumferential width of the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36b.

[0102] The second radial outer surface 32b between adjacent axial protrusion 27 and radial protrusions 62 defines the foot support which includes a central portion 64b having a width similar to that of the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36b and extending axially inwards from the second axial surface 34. The central portion 56b is defined circumferentially by the portion between C1 and C2 (see Fig. 9) and axially by the portion between the second axial outer surface 34 and A2 (see Fig. 9). It will be appreciated that this definition is primarily to aid clarity and understanding; the boundaries of the central portion 56b could be adjusted to some extent. The second radial outer surface 32b between adjacent protrusion 37 which defines the foot support includes an auxiliary section 60b that extends circumferentially beyond the neck 50. The auxiliary section 60b has a bulbous shape which surrounds an axial inner portion of the central section 64b.

[0103] With the wear member 100b inserted into the edge stud location 36b, a lower portion or base 102b of the wear member 100b is received within in the portion of the edge stud location formed by the contoured profile 37b of the radial wall 35, with a lower surface 108 (both central section 110 and wings 112) supported by the supporting surfaces 32b.

[0104] This configuration has the advantage of reducing stress in the region of the neck 106 of the wear member 100b caused by crushing forces, by restricting axial movement of the peripheral wear member 100b. The bulbous portion 104 of the base 102 is held in position by the tyre over the total radial height of the bulbous portion 104. By reducing stress in the region of the neck 106, deformation is prevented, which in turn prevents dislocation of the peripheral wear member 100b from the tyre. The combination of the radially extending bulb portion 38 axially inwards of the neck 50 and the circumferential and axial alignment portion 54a axially outward of the neck 50 in each edge stud locations 36b provides axial, radial, and circumferential support for any edge stud 100b inserted therein.

[0105] The peripheral wear member 100b further includes wings 112, which extend laterally from an outer portion of the wear member 100b. With the wear member 100b inserted into the edge stud location 36b, the wings 112 of the wear member 100b sit above the radial protrusions 62b adjacent the support surface 32b.

[0106] Once all the peripheral wear members 100b have been inserted, the profiled ring 22b is fully populated (as shown in Fig. 11), thereby providing high wear resistance in both the radial and axial directions at each end of the grinding roller.

[0107] Referring to Figs. 12-14, a fourth embodiment of the profiled ring 22c is shown, where the contoured profile 37c of the radial wall 35 near the second radial outer surface 32c and the circumferential platform 33c has a different design to that of the first embodiment. The edge stud locations 36c are shaped and dimensioned to receive at least part of a peripheral wear member 100c, as shown in Fig. 18.

[0108] The circumferential platform 33c may include a plurality of radial protrusion 62c which extends radially outward from the second radial outer surface 32c. The plurality of radial protrusion 62c may separate the second radial outer surface 32c or foot support of each of the edge stud locations 36c. Each radial protrusion 62c may comprise a pair of radial walls 64c on opposed sides of the protrusions 62c extending between the radial wall 35 and the second axial outer surface 34. The radial walls 64c may each include an arcuate portion and a planar portion extending from the arcuate portion towards the second axial outer surface 34.

[0109] The second radial outer surface 32c of the profiled ring 22c is shaped and dimensioned such that a portion of the second radial outer surface 32c which is circumferentially aligned with each of the edge stud locations 36c define a foot support for each of the edge studs 100c received in the edge stud locations 36c. The foot support may extend circumferentially beyond the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36c to provide improved radial support for an edge stud 100c received in the edge stud location 36c. In this embodiment, the second radial outer surface 32c which defines the foot support surface extends circumferentially beyond the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36c axially inward and outward of the neck 50. Stated differently, the second radial outer surface 32c of the profiled ring 22 between adjacent protrusions 27 and radial protrusions 62c may have a circumferential width larger than the neck 50 of the edge stud locations 36c.

[0110] The second radial outer surface 32c or foot support of each edge stud location 36c is defined circumferentially by the portion between adjacent radial protrusions 62c (see Fig. 12) and axially by the portion between the second axial outer surface 34 and A2 (see Fig. 12). As shown, the distance between adjacent radial protrusions 62c circumferential width of the second radial outer surface or foot support) is larger than the circumferential width of the neck 50.

[0111] Stated differently, the edge stud location 36c may include a foot support defined by a portion of the second radial outer surface 32c which is circumferentially aligned with the edge stud location 36 (i.e. , the portion of the second radial outer surface 32c between two adjacent protrusions 37 and a portion of the second radial outer surface 32c axially outward between adjacent radial protrusions). Each of the foot supports may include a central section 56c having a width similar to that of the neck 50 of the edge stud location 36c and which extends axially inwards from the second axial surface 34. The central section 56c is defined circumferentially by the portion between C1 and C1 (see Fig. 12) and axially by the portion between the second axial outer surface 34 and A1 (see Fig. 12). It will be appreciated that this definition is primarily to aid clarity and understanding; the boundaries of the central section 56c could be adjusted to some extent.

[0112] The foot support further includes auxiliary sections 58c, 60c that extend circumferentially beyond the neck 50 (i.e., having a circumferential width greater than that of the neck). In this embodiment, the auxiliary sections are located axially inward and outward of the neck.

[0113] The auxiliary section 58c located axially outward of the neck is defined by second radial outer surface 32c at the circumferential and axial alignment portion 54c extending laterally from opposed sides of the central section 56c. The auxiliary section 60c at axially inward from the neck is defined by the second radial outer surface 32c between adjacent protrusions 27 which has a bulbous shape extending around an axial inner portion of the central section 56c.

[0114] With the wear member 100c (as shown in Fig. 18) inserted into the edge stud location 36c, a lower portion or base 102 of the wear member 100c is received in the portion of the edge stud location formed by the contoured profile of the radial wall and between the radial protrusions, with a lower surface or foot 108 of the wear member 100c supported by the foot support. The concave portions 52 of the radially extending bulb portion at the neck 50 enclose a neck 106 of the base 102 therebetween, providing additional support to the wear member 100c and further preventing it from moving axially out of the profiled ring 22c. This contrasts with current designs where the support recess is a substantially rectangular surface that cannot enclose the neck 106 of the base 102.

[0115] The profiled ring 22c further provides improved stability to the wear member 100c, as the foot support surface 54c is increased relative to the prior art. The increased foot support surface 54c allows not only the central section 110 of the base 102 to be supported but also the wings 112 of the wear member 100c.

[0116] The tyre as described above therefore includes a plurality of circumferentially edge stud locations with the second radial outer surface associated with each edge stud location (the portion of the second radial outer surface between adjacent protrusions and the portion extending axially beyond the protrusions) defining a foot support wherein at least a portion of the foot support extend circumferentially past the neck of the edge stud location.

[0117] The portion of the foot support which extends laterally beyond the neck of the edge stud location can be defined as an auxiliary portion and include: a pair of wing supports at the axially outer portion of the foot support and a bulbous portion at the axially inner portion of the foot support (as shown in Figs. 3, 4 and 12-14), a pair of wing support at the axially outer portion of the foot support (as shown in Figs. 5-8), a bulbous portion at the axially inner portion of the foot support (as shown in Figs. 9-11).

[0118] In the foregoing description of certain embodiments, specific terminology has been used for the sake of clarity. However, the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes other technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "upper" and "lower", "above" and "below" and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms, nor to imply a required orientation of the wear member. The word “or” is used to indicate that one or more of the words listed may be present, unless the context requires the disjunctive use.

[0119] In this specification, the word “comprising” is to be understood in its “open” sense, that is, in the sense of “including”, and thus not limited to its “closed” sense, that is the sense of “consisting only of”. A corresponding meaning is to be attributed to the corresponding words “comprise", "comprised" and "comprises" where they appear.

[0120] The preceding description is provided in relation to several embodiments which may share common characteristics and features. It is to be understood that one or more features of any one embodiment may be combined with one or more features of the other embodiments. In addition, any single feature or combination of features in any of the embodiments may constitute additional embodiments.

[0121] In addition, the foregoing describes only some embodiments of the inventions, and alterations, modifications, additions and / or changes can be made thereto without departing from the scope of the disclosed embodiments, the embodiments being illustrative and not restrictive.

[0122] List of reference numerals:

[0123] End face reinforcement 1

[0124] Tyre 2

[0125] Planar central section 3

[0126] Bulb 4

[0127] Pair of wings 5

[0128] Foot or base 6

[0129] Rounder inner portion 7

[0130] Support surface of tyre 8

[0131] Foot support 9

[0132] Wings spacings 10

[0133] Grinding roller tyre 12

[0134] Axial ends (of tyre) 14a, 14b

[0135] Outer surface (of tyre) 16

[0136] Blind holes 17

[0137] Internal machined surface (of tyre) 18

[0138] Axial direction 20

[0139] Profiled ring (of tyre) 22, 22a, 22b, 22c

[0140] Outer or first ring portion 24

[0141] First radial outer surface 26

[0142] Protrusions 27

[0143] Outer portion of protrusion 28

[0144] Second ring portion 30

[0145] Second radial outer surface 32, 32a

[0146] Circumferential platform 33, 33a

[0147] Second axial outer surface 34

[0148] Radial wall 35 Edge stud locations 36, 36a, 36b, 36c

[0149] Contoured profile of radial wall 37a, 37b, 37c

[0150] Radially extending bulb portion (of edge stud location) 38

[0151] Inner central section (of bulb portion) 40

[0152] Centreplane 42

[0153] Convex portion (of bulb portion) 44

[0154] Planar portion (of bulb portion) 46

[0155] Concave portion (of bulb portion) 48

[0156] Neck (of bulb portion) 50

[0157] Circumferential direction 51

[0158] Transition portions (of edge stud location) 52

[0159] Circumferential and axial alignment portion 54, 54a, 54c

[0160] Central section 56, 56s

[0161] Auxiliary sections (axially outward of neck) 58, 58a, 58c

[0162] Auxiliary sections (axially inward of neck) 60, 60b, 60c

[0163] Radial protrusions 62a, 62b, 62c

[0164] Radial wall (of radial protrusions) 64a, 64b, 64c

[0165] Curved inner section 66a

[0166] Planar portion 68a

[0167] Transition portion 70a

[0168] Wear member 100, 100a, 100b, 100c

[0169] Lower portion of wear member 102

[0170] Bulb portion of wear member 104

[0171] Neck 106

[0172] Lower surface 108

[0173] Central section of wear member 110

[0174] Wings of wear member 112

[0175] Top surface 114

Claims

Claims1 . A high pressure grinding roller tyre comprising: a generally cylindrical body having (i) an internal surface for mounting around a shaft (ii) an arcuate outer surface, and (iii) a profiled ring at each axial end of the arcuate outer surface; each profiled ring comprising: an outer ring portion defining a first radial outer surface having a plurality of protrusion extending axially away from the arcuate outer surface, an inner ring portion defining (i) a second radial outer surface radially spaced from, and having a smaller radius than, the first radial outer surface, and extending axially outwards beyond the protrusions to define a circumferential platform, and (ii) a second axial outer surface extending radially inward from the second radial outer surface towards the internal surface, the outer ring portion further comprising a radial wall extending between the first radial outer surface and the second radial outer surface, the radial wall defining a plurality of circumferentially spaced edge stud locations, each edge stud location comprising (i) a neck between each pair of adjacent protrusions (ii) a radially extending bulb portion axially inwards of the neck, and (iii) a pair of transition portions, each extending from the neck circumferentially outward to an axially outer portion of a respective one of the pair of adjacent protrusions thereby defining a radially extending circumferential and axial alignment portion axially outward of the neck; and whereby the combination of the radially extending bulb portion axially inwards of the neck and the circumferential and axial alignment portion axially outward of the neck in each edge stud locations provides axial, radial, and circumferential support for any edge stud inserted therein.

2. The high pressure grinding roller tyre according to claim 1 , wherein the second radial outer surface has a shape that is complementary to a shape of the first radial outer surface.

3. The high pressure grinding roller tyre according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second radial outer surface and circumferential platform have a uniform radius.

4. The high pressure grinding roller tyre according any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second radial outer surface between adjacent protrusions and a portionof the second radial outer surface at the circumferential platform circumferentially aligned with the edge stud location provide a foot support which supports a lower surface of any edge stud inserted into edge stud location.

5. The high pressure grinding roller tyre according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the inner ring portion include a plurality of radial protrusion extending radially away from the second radial outer surface and axially between the radial wall and the second axial outer surface.

6. The high pressure grinding roller tyre according to claim 5, wherein the second radial outer surface between adjacent protrusions and the second radial outer surface between adjacent radial protrusions provide a foot support which supports a lower surface of any edge stud inserted in the edge stud location.

7. The high pressure grinding roller tyre according to any one of claims 4 or 6, wherein the foot support of each edge stud location extends circumferentially beyond the neck of the edge stud location.

8. The high pressure grinding roller tyre according to claim 7, wherein a portion of the foot support axially inward of the neck of each edge stud location extends circumferentially beyond the neck of the edge stud location.

9. The high pressure grinding roller tyre according to claim 8, wherein the portion of the foot support axially inward of the neck of each edge stud location include a bulbous shape which has a circumferential width larger than the circumferential width of the neck of the edge stud location.

10. The high pressure grinding roller tyre according to any one of claim 7 to 9, wherein a portion of the foot support axially outward of the neck of each edge stud location extends circumferentially beyond the neck of the edge stud location.

11. The tyre according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second radial outer surface which defines the foot support of each edge stud location is substantially planar such that the second radial outer surface has a polygon shape.

12. A high pressure grinding roller comprising a high pressure grinding roller tyre according to any preceding claim further comprising a bore extending axially through the tyre and a shaft on which the tyre is mounted.

13. A high pressure grinding roller comprising a tyre according to any one of claims 1 to 11 and a shaft wherein the tyre and shaft are of uniform construction.

14. A high pressure grinding roller comprising a tyre according to any one of claim 1 to 11 and a plurality of peripheral wear members mounted around a periphery of each axially spaced end of the tyre to form a generally continuous reinforcement edge for resisting axial and radial wear thereof.

15. A high pressure grinding roller machine comprising a pair of grinding rollers according to claim 12 to 14.

Images