WORKPIECE CHARGER FOR HEATING FURNACE

摘要

: A workpiece charging unit for a walking beam furnace comprises an entry table and a charging conveyor positioned exteriorly and interiorly of the entry end opening of the furnace. The charging conveyor can undergo a movement in a generally rectangular path for receipt of a workpiece from the entry table and for subsequent transfer of the workups onto the fixed beams or rails within the heating chamber, where it can be picked up by the walking beam conveyor unit for passage through the heating chamber. The charging conveyor includes charging beams, a plurality of support posts for the support of the charging beams and a frame structure coupled with horizontal and vertical drive mechanisms. The arrangement requires the sliding door at the entry end of the furnace to be open for less time than in prior arrangements, and hence has the advantage of reducing loss of furnace heat.