Vertical Tapping Channel Cleaning Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for cleaning tapping channels in metal production furnaces are limited by the travel of the second tubular member, unable to effectively remove obstructions both inside and above the channel due to space constraints, which interferes with the furnace's operation.
Innovation Solution
A device with a bearing structure and an L-shaped operating arm, equipped with a linear positioner and idle movement means, allows for a telescopic movement of the rod to extend beyond the traditional limits, enabling it to reach and clear obstructions within the tapping channel efficiently while maintaining a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a fixed tubular member with a mobile tubular member is used to clean the tapping channel, then the device structure is simple, but the travel of the mobile member is limited by available space
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from a horizontal telescopic arrangement to a vertical suspension arrangement. The mobile tubular member hangs vertically from the furnace roof, allowing it to travel downward along the tapping channel. This dimensional change from horizontal to vertical space utilization enables significantly greater travel distance without increasing the horizontal footprint or interfering with furnace loading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile tubular member is designed with dynamic movement capabilities, allowing it to extend and retract along the vertical axis. The member can be positioned at different depths within the tapping channel as needed, providing flexible access to obstructions at various locations. This dynamic positioning capability enables the rod to reach both inside and above the channel effectively.
2Reliability
If the rod protrudes well above the refractory lining to remove upper residues, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the device interferes with furnace loading cycle
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile tubular member and rod assembly is designed to be dynamically positionable, allowing it to be extended only when cleaning is required and retracted or moved aside during the furnace loading cycle. The member can be suspended at different heights and positions, enabling it to reach upper residues when needed while clearing the path for loading operations when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning operation is performed periodically when obstructions are detected, rather than continuously. The mobile tubular member is deployed to clean the tapping channel, then retracted or positioned out of the way during normal furnace operations including loading cycles. This periodic action ensures cleaning effectiveness while minimizing interference with furnace productivity.
3Device complexity
If a single linear positioner moves both support means and operating arm, then device complexity is reduced, but coordinated movement control becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces idle movement means (passive mechanical linkages, guide rails, or transmission elements) as intermediaries between the single linear positioner and the moving components. These passive elements translate the single actuator's motion into coordinated movement of both the support means and operating arm, maintaining proper spatial relationships without requiring additional motorizations or complex control systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device achieves enhanced travel and oxy-fuel cutting capabilities to clear obstructions within the tapping channel effectively, the tapping channel efficiently and reduces the need for manual intervention with the furnace's operation, ensuring the operation of the furnace's operation, and the furnace's operation, enhancing the furnace's operation, and the furnace's operation.
Implementation Method 1
a rod (18) configured to mechanically free, and possibly to heat, the tapping channel and/or oxy-fuel cut an occluding material that partly or totally blocks the tapping channel
Implementation Method 2
a linear positioner (13) configured to move the support means (12) along an elongation axis (X)
Implementation Method 3
The sand falls due to gravity and the sintered cap breaks due to the action of the pressure exerted by the liquid bath
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6a~7
AI summary
Device (10) for maintaining efficient a tapping channel (110) of a furnace (100) for the production of metal, comprising a bearing structure (11), mobile support means (12) associated with said bearing structure (11), an operating arm (17) associated with said support means (12) and terminally provided with a rod (18), and a linear positioner (13) configured to move said support means (12) along an elongation axis (X). The invention also concerns a corresponding method for maintaining efficient a tapping channel (110) of a furnace (100) for the production of metal.