Reusable Socket Clamp for Molten Metal Pump Risers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transfer pumps for molten metal require the entire riser and cemented socket to be replaced when the riser becomes worn, leading to inefficiencies and potential loss of components during replacement.
Innovation Solution
A transfer pump design featuring a reusable socket system with a split socket and clamp assembly that allows the riser to be easily removed and reinstalled without cementing, using refractory materials and a swing bolt mechanism for secure attachment to the motor mount.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the riser is cemented to the base and socket is cemented onto the riser, then the attachment is secure and reliable, but the replacement process becomes complex and time-consuming when the riser wears
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is divided into separate components: a first clamp portion fixed to the support structure, a second clamp portion that pivots, and a fastener system. This segmentation allows the clamp to be opened and closed easily for quick socket replacement while maintaining secure attachment during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp transitions from a static cemented connection to a dynamic mechanical fastening system. The second clamp portion can pivot relative to the first, and the fastener can be opened and closed, enabling quick replacement of the socket while maintaining reliability during pumping operations.
2Reliability
If the riser and cemented socket are disposed of together when the riser is worn, then the pump can be maintained, but components are wasted and replacement costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The socket is extracted as a separate replaceable component from the riser assembly. The clamp mechanism allows the socket to be removed and replaced independently, enabling maintenance of only the worn socket while preserving the riser and other functional components, thereby reducing waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The design enables selective replacement of only the worn socket component while recovering and reusing the riser, clamp assembly, and other functional parts. This selective discarding and recovery approach minimizes component waste and reduces replacement costs.
3Productivity
If a reusable socket system with clamp assembly is used, then component replacement becomes efficient and waste is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly serves multiple functions: securing the socket to the riser, enabling quick release for replacement, and maintaining secure attachment during operation. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing both efficient replacement and reliable operation in a single integrated system.
4Ease of manufacture
If cementing is used to attach the riser and socket, then the installation is simple, but the replacement process requires destructive removal and loss of components
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is pre-installed on the support structure and riser before the socket is attached. This preliminary action allows the socket to be quickly secured and later released without destructive removal, facilitating easy replacement while maintaining simple initial installation.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure features a transfer pump for pumping molten metal having a riser with a reusable socket. The pump includes a motor, support structure above a molten metal bath, a motor driven shaft and an impeller on an end of the shaft rotatable in a base. A riser made of refractory material extends from a transfer opening in the base to the support structure. The riser has a passageway for molten metal along a length of the riser. A clamp has a first clamp portion fixedly connected to the support structure and a second clamp portion that is pivotable with respect to the first clamp portion. A fastener is used to open and close the clamp. Sections of a split socket each have a flange and a body portion. The socket is received in the clamp such that the flanges of the socket are disposed above the clamp, and when the clamp is closed the socket holds the riser.