MOTORIZED UNIT AND METHOD OF CONTROL OF INTER-ELECTRODE GAP IN MERCURY-POOL CATHODE ELECTROLYZERS Russian patent published in 2005 - IPC

FIELD: protection of mercury-pool cathode electrolyzers against internal short circuits between anode structure and liquid cathode.

SUBSTANCE: proposed unit is used for protection of mercury-pool cathode electrolyzers against short circuits which are likely to occur between anode structure and liquid mercury (amalgam) cathode due to change in level of amalgam caused by accumulation of foreign agent, iron particles in particular or deviation in amalgam flow caused by corrosion of electrolyzer bottom or abnormal operation of mercury recirculation pump. Proposed unit includes frame from which several anodes are suspended which are movable in vertical direction by means of single screw jack set in motion by geared engine for action on double-arm levers. Screw jack with engine leverage system is secured to main frame mounted on electrolyzer bottom by means of supports installed on adjustable columns; movable frame (which is also called as underframe) carrying the anodes is connected to lever arms by means of four hinged joints. Shift of frame and consequently anodes may be controlled by centralized and computerized system depending on measured deviations of voltage and current.

EFFECT: avoidance of short circuits; reduced power requirements.

9 cl, 5 dwg