Nozzle Changer Mechanism
Nozzle Changer Mechanism
The Monocon Nozzle Changer Mechanism (NCM) is a flow control device for use on Concast billet tundishes to control and shut off the flow of metal to each strand. The NCM system provides Concast management with additional operational control and flexibility such as:
- Extending tundish sequences by exchanging a worn or clogged metering nozzle with a new nozzle.
- Alternative metering nozzle sizes are used to facilitate casting speed changes as required.
- Using the 'preloaded', safety blank plate the metal stream can be shut off at the push of a button in an emergency situation.
- Safety is of paramount importance and the Monocon NCM minimises operational risks and provides a much safer environment.
- The safety 'blank', plate enables remote emergency shut off as required.
- Hydraulic power for smooth and rapid response.
Design Features
NCM Design Features
The working refractory parts of the NCM include the upper round fixed nozzle and a replaceable metering nozzle.
Two plates are kept firmly in contact with each other by the means of compression or gas springs which operate by means of a lever principle.
Springs are mounted outboard of the metal stream to prevent excessive exposure to heat and a simple adapter plate is required to provide means of attachment to the tundish bottom. These adaptor plates are welded to the tundish bottom accordingly.
The following Monocon NCM ancillary tools are available.
Spring Test Machine
A simple test machine is provided to check the condition of the compression springs.
Lever Bars
Two lever bars are provided to enable the NCM to be opened up following casting to safely remove the metering nozzle.
Safety Benefit
NCM Safety Benefits
The NCM facilitates safer plant operating practices, including;
- Individual strands can be stopped and started as required.
- Safe shut off in the event of an emergency.
- Shut off can be for an individual strand or all strands together.
- Safe shut off at the end of casting.
- Operatives can remain in a safe position away from steel flow during shut off.
- Emergency shut down can be triggered by external signals if required i.e. Mould level detectors.
- Minimal splashing due to pressurised plate contact.
- Rapid nozzle exchange minimises deviation of steel flow.
Technical Specification
Hydraulic Power Pack & Interface Panel
The Monocon NCM is a hydraulically operated piece of equipment, offered in standard and customised configurations. Typically the NCM includes;
- The Power pack typically utilises a 7.5Kw electric Motor which runs at 1000 Rpm.
- Normal Electrical supply is 380V 3PH 50Hz ��� 15 A.
- In an emergency situation all strands can be shut off by the press of a single button.
- The hydraulic interface panel contains all control systems valves and hydraulic accumulator systems required to operate the Nozzle change cylinders.
Main Control Panel
- The main control panel houses the PLC which controls all the functions of the complete system.
- Each Strand can be opened or closed from the Main Control Panel.
- Also on the main panel is an Emergency Shut off push button. Pressing the Emergency Shut - off button activates all NCM�۪s and provides a total shut - off of all Strands.
Strand Control Panel
- A Strand Control panel is provided for each NCM corresponding to each of the strands of the Tundish.
- The panels are located in a suitable position easily accessible by the operator.
- The specific strand panel can open or close its corresponding strand stream.
- Additionally there is an Emergency Shut off button on each strand panel to enable total shut off of all strands.
Supply Options
Cost Benefit
NCM Cost Benefits
- Facilitates longer sequence casting leading to increased production output and reduced operating costs.
- Saving on refractory costs by longer Tundish sequences.
- Saving on energy for Tundish Drying/preheating.
- Saving on production time by longer Tundish sequences.
