Patent ID: 6902121
Filing Date: 2005-06-07
Classification: B22D

Abstract:
1. An immersion nozzle exchanging apparatus for removing a first nozzle and installing a second nozzle, wherein each nozzle having a long axis and a flange, and each flange having an underside, the apparatus comprising: a plurality of key plates, said key plates having outside ends, said plates being disposed in parallel along respective opposite sides of said nozzle flange underside, said plates moving said first nozzle perpendicular to said first nozzle long axis to remove said first nozzle, said plates moving said second nozzle perpendicular to said second nozzle long axis to install said second nozzle; a plurality of lower spring support shafts, said lower support shafts contacting respective outside ends of said key plates; a plurality of upper spring support shafts, said upper support shafts having top ends, said upper support shafts communicating with said lower support shafts; a spring body interposed between said lower and upper spring support shafts, said lower and upper spring support shafts communicating through said spring; a slide frame, said slide frame contacting said top ends of said upper support shafts; a pusher, said pusher being connected to said slide frame, said pusher communicating with said first nozzle and said key plates for removing said first nozzle; a hydraulic cylinder, said cylinder being connected to said slide frame, said cylinder moving said slide frame perpendicular to said first nozzle long axis; and a spring-body supporting seat surface, said supporting seat surface being connected to said slide frame, said supporting seat surface contacting said upper support shafts, said supporting seat surface comprising two horizontal surfaces, said horizontal surfaces being different in length, and said supporting seat surface having a continuously extending taper surface.