Patent ID: 7887680
Filing Date: 2011-02-15
Classification: C25C

Abstract:
1. Connector for holding and connecting an anode rod in contact with an anode beam of an aluminum electrolytic cell, comprising: a body comprising at least one mobile part comprising a bearing face, the mobile part being arranged for movement such that the bearing face applies pressure on the anode rod along a direction substantially perpendicular to the contact surface of the anode beam; a pair of substantially axial lateral protuberances each projecting beyond the sides of the body, oriented substantially perpendicular to the direction, each protuberance being designed to rest on a hook fixed to the anode beam, on each side of the anode rod; and an actuator that is constructed and arranged to displace the mobile part to bring the mobile part between a clamping position in which the bearing face is in contact with the anode rod and forces the mobile part towards the anode beam when the lateral protuberances rest on the hooks, and a release position in which the bearing face does not apply any pressure on the anode rod; wherein said connector at least partially has a geometry and/or is at least partially composed of a material such that, when the actuator brings the mobile part into the clamping position, the connector is elastically deformed sufficiently so that, if there is a change in the position of the anode rod with respect to the anode beam, the connector remains in contact with the anode rod due to at least partial elastic return towards an unstressed position, and thus continues to hold the anode rod firmly in contact with the anode beam.