Tilting Ladle Carrier

A carrier for supporting a metallurgical vessel during a cleaning process of the vessel includes a base, a pallet, and a cradle. The base has a longitudinal axis along a length of the base. The pallet is coupled to the base between (i) a first position where a longitudinal axis of the pallet is at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base, and (ii) a second position where the longitudinal axis of the pallet is at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base, the second angle greater than the first angle. The cradle is disposed at the pallet and supports the vessel when positioned at the carrier for the cleaning process. Pivoting the pallet between the first position and the second position adjusts an angle of the longitudinal axis of the vessel relative to the longitudinal axis of the base.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to a carrier for supporting a metallurgical vessel during a cleaning process of the metallurgical vessel, and more particularly to a tilting carrier for supporting and tilting the metallurgical vessel during the cleaning process.

BACKGROUND

Vessels used in metallurgical and foundry settings, such as steel mills, are used to transport, dispense, and treat molten metals. For example, a vessel may hold molten steel for pouring the molten steel into casting molds, for transporting the molten steel between processes, or for allowing a chemical change to occur to the steel when additives are combined with the molten steel within the vessel. Vessels used in such settings, such as ladles, typically have a hollow cone or bucket-shaped construction, may weigh several hundred tons or more, and have openings with diameters of 15 feet or greater.

Generally, a vessel includes a permanent outer shell and one or more linings, such as refractory linings. Over time, the refractory linings of the vessel may deteriorate and molten metal may solidify and accumulate within the vessel, reducing the capacity of the vessel and introducing impurities to the molten metal. Thus, to extend the life span of the vessel, it is necessary to “clean” the vessel by removing the hardened metal, deteriorated refractory linings, and other waste materials. However, due to the size of the vessels, the heat of the waste materials, and the forces necessary to loosen and remove such materials, these removal and cleaning processes are typically arduous and require use of specialized tools.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the disclosure provides a carrier for supporting a metallurgical vessel during a cleaning process of the metallurgical vessel. The carrier includes a base, a pallet, and a cradle. The base has a longitudinal axis along a length of the base. The pallet is coupled to the base and pivotable between (i) a first position where a longitudinal axis along a length of the pallet is at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base, and (ii) a second position where the longitudinal axis of the pallet is at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base. The second angle is greater than the first angle. The cradle is disposed at the pallet and is configured to support the metallurgical vessel when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the carrier for the cleaning process. Pivoting the pallet between the first position and the second position adjusts an angle of a longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel relative to the longitudinal axis of the base.

Implementations of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some implementations, the pallet is pivotable between the first position and the second position via operation of a tilting mechanism. In further implementations, the tilting mechanism includes a hydraulic system disposed at the carrier. The hydraulic system is operable to pivot the pallet between the first position and the second position responsive to a user input at a control of the hydraulic system. In even further implementations, the control of the hydraulic system is remote from the carrier and in wireless communication with the carrier for operation of the hydraulic system.

In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the base is parallel to a ground surface at which the carrier is disposed. In some examples, the longitudinal axis of the pallet is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base when the pallet is in the first position.

In some implementations, the second angle is at least 10 degrees greater than the first angle. In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pallet when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the carrier.

In some examples, the cradle engages an outer surface of the metallurgical vessel to support the metallurgical vessel at the carrier. In further examples, the cradle includes (i) a first support configured to engage the outer surface of the metallurgical vessel at a first axial position and defines a first radius of curvature corresponding to a first diameter of the metallurgical vessel at the first axial position, and (ii) a second support configured to engage the outer surface of the metallurgical vessel at a second axial position and defines a second radius of curvature corresponding to a second diameter of the metallurgical vessel at the second axial position.

In other further examples, the cradle includes a first anti-rotation support along a first side of the pallet that prevents the metallurgical vessel from rotating in a first direction when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the carrier and engages the first anti-rotation support.

In some implementations, a series of flanges disposed along a first edge of the pallet are pivotally coupled to adjacent corresponding flanges disposed along an upper surface of the base to pivotally attach the pallet to the base. In some embodiments, the base includes (i) a raised platform having a length that defines the longitudinal axis of the base, (ii) a first support structure extending along a first edge region of the raised platform and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base, and (iii) a second support structure extending along a second edge region of the raised platform opposite the first edge region and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base. In further embodiments, a respective runner is disposed along a length of each of the first support structure and the second support structure.

In some examples, the carrier is positioned proximal to a receptacle so that, when the longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel is adjusted, material within the metallurgical vessel may fall to the receptacle.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a carrier for supporting a metallurgical vessel during a cleaning process of the metallurgical vessel. The carrier includes a base, a pallet, a tilting mechanism, and a cradle. The base includes (i) a raised platform having a length that defines a longitudinal axis of the base, (ii) a first support structure extending along a first edge region of the raised platform and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base, and (iii) a second support structure extending along a second edge region of the raised platform opposite the first edge region and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base. The pallet is pivotally disposed at the base and pivotable between (i) a first position where a longitudinal axis along a length of the pallet is at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base, and (ii) a second position where the longitudinal axis of the pallet is at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base, the second angle greater than the first angle. The tilting mechanism is disposed at the carrier and operable to pivot the pallet between the first position and the second position responsive to a user input at a control of the tilting mechanism. The cradle is disposed at the pallet and configured to support the metallurgical vessel when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the carrier for the cleaning process. Pivoting the pallet between the first position and the second position adjusts an angle of a longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel relative to the longitudinal axis of the base. This aspect may include one or more of the following optional features.

In some implementations, the tilting mechanism includes a hydraulic system disposed at the carrier. In some embodiments, the control of the tilting mechanism is remote from the carrier and in wireless communication with the carrier for operation of the tilting mechanism. In some examples, the longitudinal axis of the base is parallel to a ground surface at which the carrier is disposed.

In some implementations, the longitudinal axis of the pallet is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base when the pallet is in the first position. In some embodiments, the second angle is at least 10 degrees greater than the first angle. In some examples, the cradle is configured to align the longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pallet when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the carrier.

In some implementations, the cradle is configured to engage an outer surface of the metallurgical vessel to support the metallurgical vessel at the carrier. In further implementations, the cradle includes (i) a first support configured to engage the outer surface of the metallurgical vessel at a first axial position and that defines a first radius of curvature corresponding to a first diameter of the metallurgical vessel at the first axial position, and (ii) a second support configured to engage the outer surface of the metallurgical vessel at a second axial position and that defines a second radius of curvature corresponding to a second diameter of the metallurgical vessel at the second axial position.

In other further implementations, the cradle includes a first anti-rotation support along a side portion of the pallet that prevents the metallurgical vessel from rotating in a first direction when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the carrier and engages the first anti-rotation support.

In some embodiments, a series of flanges disposed along a first edge of the pallet are pivotally coupled to adjacent corresponding flanges disposed along an upper surface of the base to pivotally attach the pallet to the base. In some examples, a respective runner is disposed along a length of each of the first support structure and the second support structure. In some implementations, the carrier is positioned proximal to a receptacle so that, when the longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel is adjusted, material within the metallurgical vessel may fall to the receptacle.

Yet another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for removing waste material from a metallurgical vessel during a cleaning process of the metallurgical vessel. The method includes positioning a metallurgical vessel at a tiltable carrier. The tiltable carrier includes a base, a pallet, and a cradle. The base has a longitudinal axis along a length of the base. The pallet is pivotally disposed at the base and pivotable between (i) a first position where a longitudinal axis along a length of the pallet is at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base, and (ii) a second position where the longitudinal axis of the pallet is at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base. The second angle is greater than the first angle. The cradle is disposed at the pallet and configured to support the metallurgical vessel when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the tiltable carrier. With the metallurgical vessel positioned at the tiltable carrier and with the pallet in the first position, the method includes loosening waste material from an interior surface of the metallurgical vessel. After loosening waste material from the interior surface of the metallurgical vessel, the method includes pivoting the pallet to the second position to dispense loosened waste material from the metallurgical vessel. Pivoting the pallet between the first position and the second position adjusts an angle of a longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel relative to the longitudinal axis of the base. This aspect may include one or more of the following optional features.

In some implementations, the pallet is pivotable between the first position and the second position via operation of a hydraulic system disposed at the carrier. The hydraulic system is operable to pivot the pallet between the first position and the second position responsive to a user input at a control of the hydraulic system. In some embodiments, the tiltable carrier is positioned proximal to a receptacle so that, while dispensing the loosened waste material from the metallurgical vessel, the waste material may fall to the receptacle. In further embodiments, the receptacle includes a conveyor or a hopper and the method includes operating the conveyor or the hopper to move fallen waste material away from the tiltable carrier.

In some examples, the second angle is at least 10 degrees greater than the first angle. Optionally, the method may include, while loosening waste material from the interior surface of the metallurgical vessel, pivoting the pallet between the first position and the second position to adjust the angle of the longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel to improve accessibility to the interior surface of the metallurgical vessel.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG.1is an environmental view of a carrier supporting a metallurgical vessel during an example cleaning process of the vessel, during which an operator may loosen and remove waste material from the vessel using a boom attachment and an excavator.

FIGS.2and3are views of the carrier and vessel ofFIG.1where the carrier is in a first or resting position.

FIGS.4and5are views of the carrier and vessel ofFIG.1where the carrier is in a second or tilting position.

FIGS.6-8are views of an example metallurgical vessel suitable to be supported at the carrier.

FIGS.9-12are views of a base of the carrier with the pallet, cradle, and tilting mechanism removed.

FIGS.13and14are views of the carrier ofFIG.1without the metallurgical vessel where the carrier is in the first position.

FIGS.15and16are views of the carrier ofFIG.1without the metallurgical vessel where the carrier is in the second position.

FIGS.17-20are views of the pallet and cradle of the carrier.

FIG.21is an environmental view of the carrier and vessel ofFIG.1where the carrier is in the tilting position so that loosened material may fall from the vessel to a receptacle positioned at or near the carrier.

FIG.22is a flowchart of a method for removing waste material from a vessel with use of the carrier.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Large metallurgical vessels, such as ladles, used in industrial or foundry or production facilities, such as steel mills, must undergo cleaning processes to remove hardened metal, deteriorated refractory linings, and other waste materials. Such removal and cleaning processes often require time-consuming procedures where the vessel is held in a stationary position so that an operator may use specialized equipment to reach into the interior of the vessel to loosen the waste materials. For example, and as shown inFIG.1, the industrial or foundry environment10may include an excavator12with a boom attachment14(such as a hydraulic hammer, ram, chisel, jackhammer, or the like) that may be used to reach into a vessel100to apply forces to loosen the waste material. These processes require the vessel100to be removed from service within the environment10, either by physically moving the vessel100to a dedicated cleaning location, or by pausing operational activities and cleaning the vessel100in its working area. After the waste materials are loosened, they are removed from the vessel100and the vessel100may be returned to service.

Due to the size of the vessel100used in such industrial environments10and the magnitude of the forces necessary to loosen the waste materials, the vessel100is typically cleaned in a stationary position, and usually at or near ground level, which can make it difficult to manipulate the vessel100and/or cleaning tools (i.e., the excavator12and boom attachment14) for accessing the interior of the vessel100and for removal of the loosened material from the vessel100. Further, such processes are generally undertaken before the vessel100and waste materials have fully cooled from the associated metallurgical processes, so that the waste metal and refractory linings may be more pliable and easier to remove, which makes it dangerous for human operators to access the interior of the vessel100to loosen hard-to-reach materials and remove loosened material from the vessel100. Additionally, if the vessel100is removed from its working area (where, for example, the vessel100may be suspended from an overhead crane, disposed on a rail car, etc.) within the environment10to a dedicated cleaning location, movement before and after the cleaning process generally requires additional, costly equipment that may be difficult to maneuver around the environment10. If the vessel100is not removed from its working area to undergo cleaning processes, time spent loosening and removing waste materials drastically affects the production efficiencies of the facility.

Thus, it is an aspect of the present disclosure to provide a carrier200for supporting a metallurgical vessel100during a cleaning process of the metallurgical vessel100where the carrier200provides a tilting function and, optionally, a mobility feature to improve mobility of the vessel100within the facility environment10. The tilting function allows for improved access to the interior of the vessel100and easier removal of loosened material from the vessel100. For example, titling the vessel100during the cleaning process may provide improved accessibility for cleaning tools to the interior of the vessel100. Tilting the vessel100after loosening of waste material may allow for the waste material to be dumped from the vessel100rather than removed through use of cleaning tools. Therefore, the carrier200increases the production efficiency of operations at the facility.

As described further below, the carrier200includes a support structure or base300and a tilting structure or pallet400disposed atop the base300, with a mounting structure or cradle500mounted to the pallet400. The cradle500is configured to receive the vessel100when the vessel100is positioned at the carrier200to undergo the cleaning process and secure or maintain a position of the vessel100at the carrier200. During the cleaning process, the carrier200supports the vessel100in a substantially horizontal position so that an opening of the vessel100is substantially perpendicular to the ground surface. Thus, standard cleaning tools (such as the excavator12with boom attachment14) and processes may be used to remove waste materials from the vessel100while the carrier200supports the vessel100in the horizontal position. The base300elevates the pallet400and cradle500above the ground surface for improved access to the interior of the vessel100. Furthermore, the base300, pallet400, and cradle500are collectively configured to support the weight and size of any large, industrial ladle or vessel and withstand the substantial forces that may be applied to the vessel100and waste material during the cleaning process.

During and/or after the cleaning process, the pallet400may be tilted relative to the base300and ground surface. Tilting the vessel100provides easier access to the interior of the vessel100for the cleaning tools, increased visibility to the interior of the vessel100for the operator of the cleaning tools, and allows for easier removal of loosened material from the vessel100. For example, after the operator loosens material from the interior surface of the vessel100, the pallet400and vessel100may be tilted relative to the base300to dump loosened material from the vessel100. Movement of the pallet400may be accomplished by a tilting mechanism600, such as a hydraulic lift system, incorporated into the carrier200and operated by controls at the carrier200or remote from the carrier200and in communication with the tilting mechanism600. Thus, the present disclosure provides a carrier200configured to receive any suitable metallurgical vessel or ladle to support the vessel100during cleaning processes and to provide a tilting feature of the vessel100during and/or after such cleaning processes, improving safety and efficiency.

As shown inFIGS.2-5, in some implementations, a carrier200for supporting a metallurgical vessel100during a cleaning process of the vessel100includes the base300, the pallet400, and the cradle500. The pallet400is pivotally disposed atop the base300and is pivotable between a first position202(FIGS.2and3) and a second position204(FIGS.4and5). Movement of the pallet400relative to the base300may be accomplished via operation of a tilting mechanism600, such as a hydraulic lift system (FIGS.2and4). The cradle500is disposed at the pallet400and is configured to support the vessel100at the carrier200for the cleaning process. When the carrier200is in the first or retracted or resting position202, the pallet400is at a first angle θ202relative to the base300(FIG.3). When the carrier200is in the second or extended or tilting or dumping position204, the pallet400is at a second angle θ204relative to the base300(FIG.5), where the second angle θ204is greater than the first angle θ202. Thus, pivoting the pallet400between the first position202and the second position204adjusts an angle θ100of the vessel100relative to the base300.

Adjusting the angle θ100of the vessel100during and/or after the cleaning processes provides for easier access to the interior cavity of the vessel100for loosening of waste material and for dumping of loosened waste material. Due to the size and weight of metallurgical vessels and magnitude of the forces necessary to loosen waste materials, typical systems for supporting the vessel during the cleaning process do not offer a tilting function. While the vessel100may be cleaned in its working area (e.g., supported by an overhead crane, disposed on a rail car, etc.) to utilize the tilting functions of such locations, this greatly reduces the efficiencies of the production environment as the vessel100cannot be replaced by a previously cleaned vessel at the working area.

The carrier200may be configured to support and tilt and provide mobility to any suitable metallurgical vessel or ladle100. As shown inFIGS.6-8, the vessel100has a hollow, cylindrical or bucket-shaped construction defined by side walls102extending from a circular, planar bottom surface104along a longitudinal axis A100of the vessel100. An outer edge or lip106of the side walls102opposite the bottom surface104defines a circular opening108to the vessel100such that access to the inner cavity or volume110may only be provided via the opening108. An inner surface112of the side walls102defines the cavity110and the cavity110is configured to receive molten material when the vessel100is in use in the environment10.

The side walls102of the vessel100may extend from the bottom surface104perpendicular to the bottom surface (such as to form a straight-sided vessel) or the side walls102may extend at an oblique angle relative to the bottom surface104to form a tapered or at least partially conical-shaped vessel. In other words, the side walls102may extend from the bottom surface104at any suitable angle relative to the longitudinal axis A100of the vessel100. Thus, and as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the vessel100may have a first outer diameter D100aat a first position along the longitudinal axis A100of the vessel100and a second outer diameter D100bat a second position along the longitudinal axis A100of the vessel100where the first outer diameter D100aand the second outer diameter D100bhave different values. For example, if the second outer diameter D100bis measured at a position along the longitudinal axis A100of the vessel100closer to the opening108of the vessel100than the first outer diameter D100a, the second outer diameter D100bwill be greater than the first outer diameter D100a. The longitudinal axis A100may extend through both a center point C104of the circular and planar bottom surface104and a center point C108of the circular opening108.

The inner surface112of the vessel100may be lined with a non-permanent refractory lining, such as brick, to protect the structure of the vessel100during use. As discussed above, this refractory lining may deteriorate during use and/or molten material may cool and harden within the vessel100, adhering to the refractory lining or inner surface112. Thus, the refractory lining must be removed and replaced during the life cycle of the vessel100and removal can only be accomplished via access to the cavity110of the vessel100through the opening108. Although shown as having a circular opening108, the opening to the vessel100(i.e., the outer edge106of the side walls102) may optionally include a spout or pouring mechanism for directing molten material from the vessel100when the vessel100is tipped to dispense the molten material.

As shown inFIGS.9-12, the base300supports the pallet400and the cradle500above the ground surface at a given height H300of the base300and a longitudinal axis A300of the base300extends along a length L300of the base300. The base300is configured to support the weight of the vessel100, pallet400, cradle500, and tilting mechanism600and provides the pivoting attachment for the pallet400to enable pivoting of the pallet400and vessel100relative to the base300.

For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the base300includes a raised planar member or platform302supported at the height H300by a first support or support structure or leg320and a second support or support structure or leg322. The first support320extends along a first side304of the platform302along a length L302of the platform302and the second support322extends along a second side306of the platform302where the first side304and second side306define opposing sides of the platform302parallel to the longitudinal axis A300of the base300. The length L302of the platform302may define or share the longitudinal axis A300of the base300. The supports extend along the respective first side304and second side306along the length L302of the platform302between a third or front end308and a fourth or rear end310, where the front end308and the rear end310define opposing ends of the platform302perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A300of the base300. The front end308and the rear end310are equal in length and define a width W302of the platform302, and therefore a width W300of the base300. Thus, the base300and the platform302have a substantially rectangular construction.

Although shown as extending from the respective sides of the platform302, the first support320and the second support322may extend from a lower or first surface312of the platform302that faces (and is parallel with) the ground surface and is opposite an upper or second surface314of the platform302. As discussed further below, the cradle500may be mounted to or integrally formed with the upper surface314of the platform302.

The platform302includes a series of cross-members spanning the length L302and the width W302of the platform302between respective edges of the platform. Thus, a series of longitudinal cross-members316are parallel to the longitudinal axis A300of the base300and span the length L302of the platform302and a series of lateral cross-members318are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A300of the base300and span the width W302of the platform302. The cross-members provide strength and rigidity to the base300and may be configured to support other components of the carrier200. For example, and as discussed further below, the cross-members may provide mounting positions for the cradle500, or for pivoting elements pivotally attaching the pallet400to the base300and/or mounting positions for a hydraulic system operable to tilt the pallet400relative to the base300.

The first support320and the second support322are substantially similar and extend along opposing sides of the platform302. Further, each support may include one or more mobility structures (not shown) or elements that enable mobility of the carrier200within the facility. For example, one or more wheels or treads or the like may be mounted at the first support320and the second support322and contact the ground surface for providing mobility to the carrier200. The mobility elements may be self-propelled (such as by a motor disposed at the base300) or may be movable only under external forces.

In the illustrated embodiment, the mobility structure includes a first skid or runner324forming a ground contacting surface of the first support320and a second skid or runner326forming a ground contacting surface of the second support322. The respective runners324,326extend along the length of the respective supports and provide a wider ground-contacting surface for the supports320,322so that the carrier200may more easily slide along the ground. Thus, the carrier200may be moved within the environment10by sliding the carrier200along the ground on the respective runners326. The runners326may increase the width W300of the overall base300to be greater than the width W302of the platform302, whereas without the runners, the respective supports may align with the first side304and the second side306of the platform302so that the width W300of the base300and the width W302of the platform302are equal. Additionally, the structure of the carrier200allows for the carrier200and vessel100to be more easily moved within the facility. Typically specialized equipment is required to move the vessel100within the facility, such as a slag pot carrier capable to grab and carry the vessel100by trunnions118protruding from the outer surface114of the vessel100on opposing sides of the vessel100. This specialized equipment can be costly, require advanced training, and be difficult to maneuver within the facility. Positioning the vessel100at the carrier200allows for more standardized equipment, such as flat beds, cranes, or the like, to engage the carrier and move the carrier200and vessel100within the facility. Additionally, because the carrier200provides the tilting function that may normally be provided by equipment such as a slag pot carrier, the vessel100need not be transferred between equipment between cleaning and dumping processes.

The first support320extends vertically from the first runner324to the first side304of the platform302and the second support320extends vertically from the second runner326to the second side306of the platform302. The first support320and the second support322may be formed as trusses that include a series of support structures or beams328extending between the respective runners and the platform302. One or more horizontal ties or cross-beams330may extend between adjacent support beams328to further support the weight of the carrier200and vessel100during the cleaning process and/or movement of the vessel100within the environment10.

Optionally, the supports may include any suitable number of supports extending from the lower surface312of the platform302towards the ground surface to support the base300. For example, the supports may include legs or stilts extending from each corner of the platform302or a solid-construction base providing continuous ground-contacting support across the length L300and width W300of the base300. Further, the base300may rest directly on the ground surface, or substantially at ground surface, such that the platform302rests on the ground surface or the pivoting brackets and hydraulic connectors connected to the platform302are directly connected to the ground surface. In other words, while the illustrated embodiment includes a base300for supporting and attaching the pallet400, the pallet400(and any tilting mechanism) may be disposed at the ground surface of the environment10.

As shown inFIGS.13-20, the pallet400is pivotally coupled to the base300and is pivotable between the first position202(FIGS.13and14), where a longitudinal axis A400along a length L400of the pallet400is at the first angle θ202relative to the base300, and the second position204(FIGS.15and16), where the longitudinal axis A400is at the second angle θ204relative to the base300. As will be described further below, the cradle500is mounted or attached or disposed at the pallet400so that, when the vessel100is supported by the cradle500and the pallet400is tilted relative to the base300, the vessel100tilts relative to the base300.

Similar to the platform302of the base300, the pallet400has a rectangular construction that includes a first side402and a second side404opposing the first side402, where the first side402and the second side404are parallel to the longitudinal axis A400of the pallet400. The first side402and the second side404extend between a front end406and a rear end408, where the front end406and the rear end408are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A400of the pallet400. The first side402and the second side404(i.e., the side edges) define the length L400of the pallet400and the front end406and the rear end408define a width W400of the pallet400.

The pallet400includes a lower or first surface412that, with the carrier200in the first position202, faces the upper surface314of the platform302, and an upper or second surface414opposite the lower surface412. The cradle500is mounted or attached to the upper surface414of the pallet400.

In the illustrated embodiment, the pallet400includes a series of cross-members spanning the length L400and the width W400of the pallet400between respective edges of the pallet400. Thus, a series of longitudinal cross-members416are parallel to the longitudinal axis A400of the pallet400and span the length L400of the pallet400and a series of lateral cross-members418are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A400of the base300and span the width W400of the pallet400. In other words, the longitudinal cross-members416extend between the front end406and the rear end408and the lateral cross-members418extend between the first side402and the second side404.

Optionally, a recess410may be formed at the rear end408such as to accommodate for components of the tilting mechanism600. For example, and as best shown inFIG.18, rather than having a rectangular perimeter, the pallet400may have a recess410along the rear end408that provides a gap or space between outer portions of the rear end408. This gap or space may allow for components to be mounted to the platform302of the base300(such as the hydraulic system600) that remain stationary while the pallet400pivots relative to the base300or for machinery to more easily manipulate the vessel100without inadvertently contacting the carrier200. Here, the recess410is defined by a rearmost lateral cross-member418athat is offset from the rear end408, portions of longitudinal cross-members416between the rear end408and rearmost lateral cross-member418a, and respective diagonal members417connecting between the respective longitudinal cross-members416and the rearmost lateral cross-member418a.

Pivoting members mount the pallet400to the base300so that the pallet400may pivot relative to the base300when moved between the first position202and the second position204. In the illustrated embodiment, the pivoting members include a series of pivoting brackets or flanges420along the front end406of the pallet400that align with corresponding pivoting brackets or flanges332along the upper surface314of the platform302near or at the first side304of the platform302. For example, each flange420extending from the front end406of the pallet400may be received within a slot between two corresponding flanges332extending from the upper surface314at the front end308of the platform302, such as one of the cross-members of the base300. A pivoting member422, such as a hinge pin or bearing, may extend through and connect the pallet flanges420and platform flanges332to allow the pallet400to pivot relative to the base300about the series of hinge pins422connecting the corresponding flanges. The width W400of the pallet400may be equal to or less than the width W300of the base300. However, the length L400of the pallet400is less than the length L300of the base300to allow for room for the pivoting members to pivotally attach the pallet400to the upper surface314of the base300.

As will be discussed further below, the pallet400further includes brackets or mounting members424for connecting the tilting mechanism600to the pallet400for effectuating movement of the pallet400via operation of the tilting mechanism600. For example, the tilting mechanism600may mount to the base300via brackets or mounting members334disposed at the base300, such as at one of the cross-members of the base300, and to the brackets424disposed at the pallet400, such as at one of the cross-members of the pallet400. Thus, the tilting mechanism600may be attached to portions of both the base300and the pallet400for tilting the pallet400relative to the base300by lifting one end of the pallet400away from the base300while the opposite end remains pivotally attached to the base300via the hinge pins422and associated brackets.

With continued reference toFIGS.13-20, the cradle500is disposed at the upper surface414of the pallet400and is configured to receive and support the vessel100when the vessel100is positioned at the carrier200to undergo the cleaning process. Optionally, the cradle500may be integrally formed with the pallet400. The cradle500may have any suitable configuration for supporting the vessel100in a substantially horizontal position when the carrier200is in the first position202and that secures the vessel100, or precludes the vessel100from sliding or moving relative to the cradle500when the pallet400is tilted relative to the base300. For example, the cradle500may engage the outer surface114of the vessel100at one or more positions along the outer surface114to retain the vessel100at the carrier200.

As best shown inFIG.17, the cradle500includes a first arcuate support or curved portion502that is configured to engage the outer surface114of the vessel100at an axial position along the outer surface114that corresponds to the first diameter D100aand a second arcuate support or curved portion512that is configured to engage the outer surface114of the vessel100at an axial position along the outer surface114that corresponds to the second diameter D100b. Each arcuate support502,512includes a respective curved recess having a radius of curvature that corresponds to the respective outer diameter of the vessel100at the axial position of engagement. In other words, the cradle500is configured to conform to the vessel100or match the shape of the outer surface114of the vessel100at given locations to ensure the vessel100is consistently placed at the carrier200each time it is to undergo the cleaning process.

The first arcuate support502includes a plate or planar member504extending vertically from the upper surface414of the pallet400, such as from one of the lateral cross-members418of the pallet400. The plate504includes an arcuate or curved recess506along an upper edge of the plate504furthest from the pallet400, where the curved recess506has a first radius of curvature R506that corresponds to the first diameter D100aof the vessel100. One or more holes508may be formed through the plate504, such as to receive fasteners or tie down straps for securing the vessel100to the carrier200or the like. The plate504is supported on opposing sides or faces of the plate504by one or more support gussets510that each extend from one of the planar faces of the plate504to a respective longitudinal cross-member416of the pallet400. In the illustrated embodiment, the plate504includes three support gussets510extending from each side of the plate504and attaching to three individual longitudinal cross-members416. Both the plate504and the support gussets510may be mounted to the upper surface414of the pallet, such as via welding or bolted attachment.

Similar to the first arcuate support502, the second arcuate support512includes a plate or planar member514that extends vertically from the upper surface414of the pallet400at a position remote from the first arcuate support502, such as a different one of the lateral cross-members418. The plate514includes an arcuate or curved recess516along an upper edge of the plate504furthest from the pallet400and the curved recess516has a second radius of curvature R516that corresponds to the second diameter D100bof the vessel100. One or more holes518are also formed through the plate514to, for example, receive fasteners or tie down straps for securing the vessel100to the carrier200. The second arcuate support512is supported by respective support gussets520that extend from both sides or faces of the plate514and mount or attach to respective longitudinal cross-members416of the pallet400. In the illustrated embodiment, the plate514includes four support gussets520extending from each side of the plate514and attaching to four individual longitudinal cross-members416, where both the plate514and the support gussets520may be mounted to the upper surface414of the pallet400.

Further, the cradle500may include anti-rotation supports or risers522configured to engage elements of the vessel100on opposing sides of the vessel100so that, during the cleaning process, the vessel100is prevented from rotating or spinning about its longitudinal axis A100. In the illustrated embodiment, the anti-rotation supports522are positioned along the first side402and the second side404of the pallet400and extend vertically from the upper surface414of the pallet400to engage respective protrusions116on opposing sides of the vessel100. Optionally, the anti-rotation supports522may be configured to engage respective trunnions118(the vessel100may be suspended from a crane when in the working area by the trunnions118) on opposing sides of the vessel100. Thus, during the cleaning process, if forces urge the vessel100to rotate or spin, the engagement of the anti-rotation support522on opposing sides of the vessel100precludes the vessel100from rotating or spinning in either direction (clockwise or counter-clockwise) about its longitudinal axis A100.

Each anti-rotation support522includes a vertical beam or pillar524extending from (and mounted to or integrally formed with) the upper surface414of the pallet400, such as at the respective first side402or second side404or at respective cross-members near the respective sides. An engagement plate526may be disposed at the distal ends of the respective beams524, distal from the pallet400. When the vessel100is positioned at the carrier200, the engagement plates526are configured to receive the opposing protrusions116of the vessel100. The vertical beams524are supported by respective braces528extending from opposing front and rear-facing sides of the respective beams524. The braces528may extend at an angle from the vertical beams524so as to mount or attach in front of and behind (along the longitudinal axis A400of the pallet400) the beams524.

Although shown as including only a single anti-rotation support522on each side of the vessel100, the cradle500may include any suitable number of anti-rotation supports522along the length of the vessel100. Further, the height of the vertical beam524and the configuration of the engagement surface526may be tailored to the configuration of the vessel100. For example, the engagement portion526may include a hook or loop or arcuate cradle configured to engage and support the trunnion118of the vessel100.

As shown inFIGS.19and20, the second arcuate support512is shorter than the first arcuate support502to accommodate the increase in diameter of the vessel100from the first position and first outer diameter D100ato the second position and second outer diameter D100b. In other embodiments, the heights and configurations of the respective arcuate supports may be tailored to the dimensions of the vessel100and the desired resting and tilted angle positions of the pallet400and vessel100relative to the base300and ground surface.

Additionally, the components of the cradle500may be configured to accommodate unique configurations of the vessel100. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the vessel100includes one or more lips or flanges120extending from the outer surface114of the vessel100and the second arcuate support512is positioned to engage the vessel100between adjacent flanges120. Thus, when the carrier200tilts the vessel100, the second arcuate support512may engage one of the flanges120to prevent the vessel100from sliding off the carrier200.

One or more portions of the cradle500, such as the first arcuate support502, second arcuate support504, and the respective anti-rotation supports522, may be removable and repositionable at the upper surface414of the pallet400to adjust the configuration of the cradle500to receive different vessels. For example, arcuate supports having different radii of curvature may be swapped for one another to accommodate vessels having different outer diameters at an engagement position of the outer surface of the vessel. Similarly, the anti-rotation supports522may be repositioned at the pallet400to accommodate positioning of protrusions116and trunnions118of the vessel100.

Optionally, the cradle500and the pallet400may be integrally formed such that the pallet400(with cradle integrated) may be removed from and replaced at the base300to accommodate the differing vessels. In such scenarios, the tilting mechanism600may be integrated with the base300and mount to the pallet400when the accommodating pallet400is pivotally mounted at the base. Thus, the differing pallets may share universal flanges420or pivoting members configured to pivotally attach at the base300and universal brackets424configured to receive and attach to the tilting mechanism600.

As discussed above, the pallet400and cradle500(and therefore vessel100) may be tiltable or pivotable or adjustable relative to the base300via operation of a tilting mechanism600, such as a hydraulic system. In the illustrated embodiment, the hydraulic system600is integrated into the base300of the carrier200. In other words, the control, pump, and any associated hoses or other hardware of the hydraulic system600are disposed at the base300. Particularly, a hydraulic power unit610of the hydraulic system600may be supported at the rear end310of the base302in an area associated with the recess410of the pallet400. Thus, when the pallet400is in the first position (i.e., horizontal against the base300), the hydraulic system600is received within the recess410of the pallet400. This configuration allows the carrier200to provided as an integrated unit that can be easily transported. Additionally, positioning the hydraulic power unit610within the recess410provides improved protection and minimizes the complexity of the hydraulic routing between the hydraulic power unit610and the cylinder601, discussed below.

The hydraulic system600includes a pair of hydraulic cylinders601each including a cylinder barrel602are mounted or otherwise attached to the pallet400and a hydraulic piston rod604is mounted or otherwise attached to the base300so that, when the hydraulic system600is operated, the piston rod604may extend from the cylinder barrel602, biasing the rear end408of the pallet400away from the base300. Any suitable hydraulic system may be utilized.

Here, a head of the cylinder barrel602pivotally attaches to the pallet400and the piston rod604pivotally attaches to the base300so that the linear motion of the hydraulic system600may be translated to pivotal movement of the pallet400relative to the base300. For example, and as shown inFIGS.17and18, the head of the cylinder barrel602may be received between adjacent flanges or brackets424of the pallet400and pivotally connected to the flanges424by way of a hinge pin426. The flanges424may extend from adjacent cross-members of the pallet400where the piston rod604extends from the cylinder barrel602through a gap between the adjacent cross-members. The piston604may be received between adjacent flanges or brackets334of the base300and pivotally connected to the flanges334by way of a hinge pin336. The flanges334may extend from respective mounting positions along the platform302of the base300, such as one or more of the cross-members or the respective first side304or second side306. Thus, the cylinder barrel602and the piston rod604are pivotable relative to the pallet400and the base300during linear translation of the piston rod604from the cylinder barrel602to accommodate the pivotal relationship between the pallet400and the base300.

While the illustrated example of the hydraulic system600shows the cylinder barrel602attached to the pallet400and the piston rod604attached to the base300, this configuration may be reversed so that the cylinder barrel602is pivotally coupled at the brackets334of the base300and the piston rod604is pivotally attached at the brackets424of the pallet. Thus, during operation the cylinder barrel602remains stationary relative to the base300while the piston rod604extends and retracts with the pallet400. Accordingly, when the hydraulic power unit610is supported on the frame300, the hydraulic lines will connect to the cylinder barrel602and will remain stationary. This configuration allows for a fixed-length hydraulic lines to be used to eliminates the need for movable couplings and lines.

Optionally, the hydraulic system600may include a control606in communication with the hydraulic system600and operable to transmit signals to the hydraulic system600to control the tilting action of the carrier200responsive to user inputs received at the control606. For example, the control606may include a control panel disposed at the carrier200that receives inputs from the user to operate the hydraulic system600. Optionally, the control606may be remote from the carrier200and in wireless communication with the hydraulic system600so that the user may be distanced from the carrier200(such as in a control room of the facility or a cab of the excavator12) during operation of the titling function and communicate with the hydraulic system via wireless signal608transmitted between the control606and the hydraulic system600(seeFIG.4). This may improve safety as the user need not approach the vessel100, heated waste material, or carrier200to tilt the vessel between the resting and dumping positions.

The tilting mechanism600may be operable to adjust position of the carrier200and vessel100to any suitable angle. For example, when the carrier200is in the first position202, the longitudinal axis A400of the pallet400and the longitudinal axis A300of the base may be parallel to one another such that the first angle θ202of the pallet400relative to the base300at the first position202is 0 degrees. Optionally, the first angle θ202, or default or resting position202of the carrier200, may be greater or less than 0 degrees such as to slightly tilt the vessel100upwards or downwards along its longitudinal axis A100when positioned at the carrier200. The tilting mechanism600may pivot the pallet400to any suitable angle relative to the base300so that the cavity110of the vessel100may be more easily accessed and waste material may be more easily loosened and removed from the vessel100. For example, the pallet400may be pivoted 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees, or more relative to the base300. Thus, when the carrier200is in the second position204, the longitudinal axis A400of the pallet400and the longitudinal axis A300of the base may be at a second angle θ204relative to one another that is greater than the first angle θ202, such as 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees, or more than the first angle θ202.

The carrier200as described herein may be suitable for use in a number of industrial environments and may enhance cleaning processes of metallurgical vessels100in a variety of ways. For example, the carrier200may be operated to tilt the metallurgical vessel100during and/or after the cleaning process to improve accessibility to the cavity110of the vessel and make removal of waste material from the vessel100easier. This improves efficiency within the facility as the vessel100may be more quickly cleaned and returned to service. Additionally, the carrier200may improve mobility of the vessel100within the facility as the carrier200may have an integrated mobility feature, such as skids or runners or wheels or tracks, or may be more easily moved within the facility by industrial equipment.

Further, because the carrier200supports the vessel100in a stationary, repeatable, and consistent position, the carrier200may be suitable for use with an automated cleaning process, where an automated cleaning machine or tool is used to provide repeatable cleaning results without intervention from an operator.

Optionally, and as shown inFIG.21, a conveyor or hopper or other receptacle2100may be positioned proximal to the carrier200(or optionally the carrier may be positioned proximal to the receptacle2100) so that, when the vessel100is tilted (i.e., the carrier200is moved to the dumping position204), loosened material within the vessel100may fall from the interior cavity110of the vessel100and into or onto the receptacle2100for easier removal of the material from the cleaning area.

The carrier200and its associated components may be fashioned from any material suitable to withstand the weight of the vessel100, forces applied upon the vessel100and waste material during the cleaning process, and heat from the vessel100, waste material, and industrial environment10. Additionally, the coupling or attachment of components to one another, such as the pivotal attachment of the pallet400and base300or fixed attachment of the cradle500to the pallet400, may be accomplished in any manner suitable to withstand the forces and extreme temperatures to which the carrier200may be subjected. For example, the carrier200may be formed primarily from hollow or solid tubing of heat resistant metallic alloys.

FIG.22is a flowchart of an example arrangement of operations of a method2200for removing waste material from a vessel100in a metallurgical or foundry setting10with use of the tiltable carrier200as described herein. The method2200may employ the use of a human operator or be a computer-implemented method stored on memory and executed by data processing hardware in communication with the memory, such as the control606in communication with the hydraulic system600. At operation2202, the method2200includes positioning the vessel100at the carrier200. The carrier200may exhibit any number of the features described above. At operation2204, with the vessel100positioned at the carrier200and with the carrier200in the first position202, the method2200includes loosening waste material from the inner surface112of the vessel100. For example, the waste material may be loosened using the excavator12and boom attachment14. Optionally, at operation2206the method2200may include pivoting the pallet400between the first position202and the second position204(and optionally discrete positions between the first position202and the second position204) to adjust the angle θ100of the longitudinal axis A100of the vessel100to improve accessibility to the interior surface112of the vessel100. At operation2208, after loosening the waste material from the inner surface112of the vessel100, the method2200includes pivoting the pallet400to the second position204to dispense waste material from the vessel100. A receptacle2100and/or removal mechanism, such as a conveyor or hopper, may be positioned proximal to the carrier200and vessel100during the cleaning process so that, at optional operation2210, the method2200includes operating the conveyor or hopper of the receptacle2100to move fallen waste material away from the carrier200.

Clause 1: A carrier for supporting a metallurgical vessel during a cleaning process of the metallurgical vessel, the carrier including a base comprising a longitudinal axis along a length of the base; a pallet coupled to the base and pivotable between (i) a first position where a longitudinal axis along a length of the pallet is at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base, and (ii) a second position where the longitudinal axis of the pallet is at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base, the second angle greater than the first angle; and a cradle disposed at the pallet and configured to support the metallurgical vessel when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the carrier for the cleaning process, whereby pivoting the pallet between the first position and the second position adjusts an angle of a longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel relative to the longitudinal axis of the base.

Clause 2: The carrier of clause 1, wherein the pallet is pivotable between the first position and the second position via operation of a tilting mechanism.

Clause 3: The carrier of clause 2, wherein the tilting mechanism comprises a hydraulic system disposed at the carrier, the hydraulic system operable to pivot the pallet between the first position and the second position responsive to a user input at a control of the hydraulic system.

Clause 4: The carrier of clause 3, wherein the control of the hydraulic system is remote from the carrier and in wireless communication with the carrier for operation of the hydraulic system.

Clause 5: The carrier of clause 1, wherein the longitudinal axis of the base is parallel to a ground surface at which the carrier is disposed.

Clause 6: The carrier of clause 1, wherein the longitudinal axis of the pallet is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base when the pallet is in the first position.

Clause 7: The carrier of clause 1, wherein the second angle is at least 10 degrees greater than the first angle.

Clause 8: The carrier of clause 1, wherein the longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pallet when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the carrier.

Clause 9: The carrier of clause 1, wherein the cradle engages an outer surface of the metallurgical vessel to support the metallurgical vessel at the carrier.

Clause 10: The carrier of clause 9, wherein the cradle comprises (i) a first support configured to engage the outer surface of the metallurgical vessel at a first axial position and defines a first radius of curvature corresponding to a first diameter of the metallurgical vessel at the first axial position, and (ii) a second support configured to engage the outer surface of the metallurgical vessel at a second axial position and defines a second radius of curvature corresponding to a second diameter of the metallurgical vessel at the second axial position.

Clause 11: The carrier of clause 9, wherein the cradle comprises a first anti-rotation support along a first side of the pallet that prevents the metallurgical vessel from rotating in a first direction when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the carrier and engages the first anti-rotation support.

Clause 12: The carrier of clause 1, wherein a series of flanges disposed along a first edge of the pallet are pivotally coupled to adjacent corresponding flanges disposed along an upper surface of the base to pivotally attach the pallet to the base.

Clause 13: The carrier of clause 1, wherein the base comprises (i) a raised platform having a length that defines the longitudinal axis of the base, (ii) a first support structure extending along a first edge region of the raised platform and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base, and (iii) a second support structure extending along a second edge region of the raised platform opposite the first edge region and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base.

Clause 14: The carrier of clause 13, wherein a respective runner is disposed along a length of each of the first support structure and the second support structure.

Clause 15: The carrier of clause 1, wherein the carrier is positioned proximal to a receptacle so that, when the longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel is adjusted, material within the metallurgical vessel may fall to the receptacle.

Clause 16: A carrier for supporting a metallurgical vessel during a cleaning process of the metallurgical vessel, the carrier comprising: a base comprising (i) a raised platform having a length that defines a longitudinal axis of the base, (ii) a first support structure extending along a first edge region of the raised platform and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base, and (iii) a second support structure extending along a second edge region of the raised platform opposite the first edge region and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base; a pallet pivotally disposed at the base and pivotable between (i) a first position where a longitudinal axis along a length of the pallet is at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base, and (ii) a second position where the longitudinal axis of the pallet is at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base, the second angle greater than the first angle; a tilting mechanism disposed at the carrier and operable to pivot the pallet between the first position and the second position responsive to a user input at a control of the tilting mechanism; and a cradle disposed at the pallet and configured to support the metallurgical vessel when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the carrier for the cleaning process, whereby pivoting the pallet between the first position and the second position adjusts an angle of a longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel relative to the longitudinal axis of the base.

Clause 17: The carrier of clause 16, wherein the tilting mechanism comprises a hydraulic system disposed at the carrier.

Clause 18: The carrier of clause 16, wherein the control of the tilting mechanism is remote from the carrier and in wireless communication with the carrier for operation of the tilting mechanism.

Clause 19: The carrier of clause 16, wherein the longitudinal axis of the base is parallel to a ground surface at which the carrier is disposed.

Clause 20: The carrier of clause 16, wherein the longitudinal axis of the pallet is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base when the pallet is in the first position.

Clause 21: The carrier of clause 16, wherein the second angle is at least 10 degrees greater than the first angle.

Clause 22: The carrier of clause 16, wherein the cradle is configured to align the longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pallet when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the carrier.

Clause 23: The carrier of clause 16, wherein the cradle is configured to engage an outer surface of the metallurgical vessel to support the metallurgical vessel at the carrier.

Clause 24: The carrier of clause 23, wherein the cradle comprises (i) a first support configured to engage the outer surface of the metallurgical vessel at a first axial position and that defines a first radius of curvature corresponding to a first diameter of the metallurgical vessel at the first axial position, and (ii) a second support configured to engage the outer surface of the metallurgical vessel at a second axial position and that defines a second radius of curvature corresponding to a second diameter of the metallurgical vessel at the second axial position.

Clause 25: The carrier of clause 23, wherein the cradle comprises a first anti-rotation support along a first side of the pallet that prevents the metallurgical vessel from rotating in a first direction when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the carrier and engages the first anti-rotation support.

Clause 26: The carrier of clause 16, wherein a series of flanges disposed along a first edge of the pallet are pivotally coupled to adjacent corresponding flanges disposed along an upper surface of the base to pivotally attach the pallet to the base.

Clause 27: The carrier of clause 16, wherein a respective runner is disposed along a length of each of the first support structure and the second support structure.

Clause 28: The carrier of clause 16, wherein the carrier is positioned proximal to a receptacle so that, when the longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel is adjusted, material within the metallurgical vessel may fall to the receptacle.

Clause 29: A method for removing waste material from a metallurgical vessel during a cleaning process of the metallurgical vessel, the method including: positioning a metallurgical vessel at a tiltable carrier, the tiltable carrier having: a base comprising a longitudinal axis along a length of the base; a pallet pivotally disposed at the base and pivotable between (i) a first position where a longitudinal axis along a length of the pallet is at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base, and (ii) a second position where the longitudinal axis of the pallet is at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base, the second angle greater than the first angle; and a cradle disposed at the pallet and configured to support the metallurgical vessel when the metallurgical vessel is positioned at the tiltable carrier; with the metallurgical vessel positioned at the tiltable carrier and with the pallet in the first position, loosening waste material from an interior surface of the metallurgical vessel; and after loosening waste material from the interior surface of the metallurgical vessel, pivoting the pallet to the second position to dispense loosened waste material from the metallurgical vessel, whereby pivoting the pallet between the first position and the second position adjusts an angle of a longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel relative to the longitudinal axis of the base.

Clause 30: The method of clause 29, wherein the pallet is pivotable between the first position and the second position via operation of a hydraulic system disposed at the tiltable carrier, the hydraulic system operable to pivot the pallet between the first position and the second position responsive to a user input at a control of the hydraulic system.

Clause 31: The method of clause 29, wherein the tiltable carrier is positioned proximal to a receptacle so that, while dispensing the loosened waste material from the metallurgical vessel, the waste material may fall to the receptacle.

Clause 32: The method of clause 31, wherein: the receptacle comprises a conveyor or a hopper; and the method includes operating the conveyor or the hopper to move fallen waste material away from the tiltable carrier.

Clause 33: The method of clause 29, wherein the second angle is at least 10 degrees greater than the first angle.

Clause 34: The method of clause 29, wherein the method includes, while loosening waste material from the interior surface of the metallurgical vessel, pivoting the pallet between the first position and the second position to adjust the angle of the longitudinal axis of the metallurgical vessel to improve accessibility to the interior surface of the metallurgical vessel.