REMOVAL AND/OR INSTALLATION OF TOP SECTION OF STEELMAKING VESSEL

摘要

This relates to a method for facilitating the rapid and convenient installation and removal of the top section of a steelmaking vessel of a type that is rotatably mounted i.e. provided with trunnions. The method involves providing the top section with lifting brackets and also providing a hinge connection between the top section and the vessel body. During removal, the vessel body is rotated while lifting forces are applied to the brackets thereby causing the top section to be pivoted relative to the vessel body about the hinge. This process is carried out in such a way as to cause the top section to be moved outwardly over the operating platform following which the top section is gently lowered onto such platform. Following this, the top section is disconnected from the vessel body at the hinge and the necessary repairs to the top section are effected. Following repair, essentially the reverse of the above described procedure is carried out thereby to position the top section accurately on the body of the vessel.