Metallurgical Vessel Bearing Stand Lifting for Faster Bearing Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for replacing or maintaining bearings in metallurgical vessels are complex, requiring large and difficult-to-access lifting devices, significant effort, and expensive equipment, leading to prolonged downtimes and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A lifting device is integrated directly onto each bearing stand, allowing the support pin to be raised vertically for bearing replacement, with a drive mechanism connected to the support pin, and additional measures to prevent tilting during the lifting process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If conventional lifting devices are used to replace bearings in metallurgical vessels, then the bearing replacement can be performed, but the equipment becomes large, difficult to access, and time-consuming to setup
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the lifting function into separate, modular components: a first lifting device for raising the support pin and a second lifting device for raising the drive. This segmentation allows each device to be smaller and more accessible, eliminating the need for one large complex lifting system while maintaining the ability to perform complete bearing replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting functions are extracted from the conventional single large lifting device and distributed to multiple smaller devices. The first lifting device is extracted to handle only the support pin lifting, while the second lifting device handles only the drive lifting, making each component more manageable and easier to access during maintenance operations.
2Ease of repair
If conventional lifting devices with hydraulic cylinders are used, then the bearing can be replaced, but the equipment becomes expensive and requires special support structures
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting system is segmented into multiple independent lifting devices that can be standard, off-the-shelf components rather than custom-built hydraulic systems. This segmentation reduces equipment cost while maintaining the necessary lifting capability for bearing replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables the bearing replacement process to be performed with simpler, more accessible equipment that can be self-contained or easily assembled, reducing dependence on expensive special equipment and support structures while maintaining the ability to complete the maintenance task.
3Ease of repair
If the entire system is lifted for bearing replacement, then the bearing can be accessed, but the time required for setup and replacement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting operation is segmented into two independent phases: first raising the support pin with the first lifting device, then raising the drive with the second lifting device. This segmentation allows for more flexible and faster setup compared to lifting the entire system, reducing maintenance downtime while maintaining bearing accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The first lifting device can be positioned and activated before the second lifting device, allowing the support pin to be raised in advance. This preliminary action enables more efficient sequencing of the maintenance operation and reduces the total time required for bearing replacement.
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
Significantly reduces the effort and time required for bearing replacement, minimizing downtime and costs by simplifying the process and eliminating the need for extensive equipment.
Implementation Method 1
The lifting device preferably has at least one hydraulic piston-cylinder element for generating a lifting movement.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) comprising a metallurgical vessel (2) pivotably mounted about a horizontal axis (a), wherein the vessel (2) has two support pins (3) extending from two opposite sides of the vessel (2), each of the two support pins (3) being received by a bearing (4), the bearing (4) being received in a bearing holder (5), and the bearing holder (5) being arranged on a stationary bearing stand (6). To significantly reduce the effort required for replacing or maintaining worn bearings, the invention provides that a lifting device (7) is arranged directly or indirectly on each bearing stand (6), the lifting device being configured to raise the support pin (3) vertically (V) from the bearing stand (6) by a stroke (h).