Cement-less Post Mounting Assembly for Molten Metal Pumps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Molten metal pumps with cemented joints are difficult to disassemble and require frequent maintenance due to corrosion and deterioration of refractory materials, leading to downtime and alignment challenges during reassembly.
Innovation Solution
A post mounting assembly for molten metal pumps that eliminates the need for cemented joints by using rotating tabs and pin members for secure alignment and replacement of posts, allowing for easy removal and reinstallation without damaging existing cemented joints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If refractory cement is used to secure posts to the pump base, then the pump structure achieves sufficient rigidity and stability, but the posts become extremely difficult to remove during maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the post and pump base is segmented into two distinct mechanisms: the post socket provides mechanical support and alignment, while the cement provides bonding strength. This segmentation allows the cement to be removed without damaging the post or base structure, enabling easy maintenance while maintaining structural integrity during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The post socket acts as an intermediary component between the post and the pump base. It provides a standardized interface that facilitates both the structural connection and the removal process. The socket's internal geometry (tapered or stepped design) allows the post to be inserted and secured with cement, then easily removed by reversing the insertion process without damaging the cemented joint.
2Reliability
If posts are cemented into bored holes in the base, then the pump achieves stable operation, but disassembly requires chipping, digging or drilling out the cemented portions
Solution Approach 1:
The post socket is designed with dynamic removal capabilities. The tapered or stepped internal geometry allows the post to be easily extracted by applying outward force, reversing the insertion process. This dynamic design enables maintenance personnel to remove posts without resorting to destructive methods like chipping or drilling, significantly reducing disassembly complexity while maintaining operational stability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional cemented joints are used for posts, then the pump structure is rigid and stable, but alignment adjustments become impossible after assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into the removable post (which can be extracted and repositioned) and the fixed post socket (which provides stable mounting). This segmentation allows alignment adjustments to be made by removing and reinserting the post at different angular positions within the socket, while the overall structural stability is maintained through the secure fit and cement bonding.
Data Source
AI summary
A molten metal pump apparatus that includes a base member, at least two (2) support members or posts, and post sockets. The lower end of the posts are mounted to the base and forms a cement-less pump joint which is an objective of the present invention. The upper end of the post is connected to the post socket to form a cement-less pump joint which is a further object of the present invention. The connection joint between the posts and the base member and the post socket does not require cement to form or secure the joint. Therefore a replacement post identical to posts of the present invention may be provided without the need to dig out a cement joint but instead can be more easily removed and replaced.