Description:

If an induction furnace is damaged, there is the danger of an uncontrolled leakage of molten metal and cooling fluid. If the liquid metal and cooling fluid come into contact it can cause an explosion. In order to minimize the danger to people and machinery, an emergency collecting pit is required. In accordance with German labour protection law (Arbeitsschutzgesetz) § 4, emergency collecting pits must meet current technological requirements. A further guide is the S80 data sheet produced by the VDG (the Association of German Foundrymen).

Functional principle:

The intake section, which is located under the furnace, cuts off leaking water and directs the liquid metal into the collection area. To achieve this, the intake section is made of a stable foundation plate inclined towards the collection area. Above this is the compensation layer, which is made of porous granuals, which are minerally bonded to create a fixed, strong and highly permeable layer. The collection layer lies with a gradient of 4° to 6° to the filter layer. The filter layer is formed without any gaps and consists of fireproof granuals, which are minerally bonded together to create a fixed, porous and highly permeable layer which, due to its composition securely prevents molten metal from passing through. The surrounding components and the foundations are protected by curbstones made of the same material. The filter material has excellent isolational properties. To protect the filter layer from dirt, it is fitted with a cover sheet. The cover sheet is an aluminimum trapezoidal sheet, positioned at right angles to the incline, which quickly diverts water to the side. The border area is covered with labryinth-like angled sheet steel. This ensures that steam can expand without hinderance and that condensation is avoided.

The collection area is part of the surrounding foundational structure and has a gradient of 0,5° to 2° to allow drainage. Cooling fluid can either be drained using a pump or by the factory's waste water system.