Brice Van Houtte

Title: The Innovative Mind of Brice Van Houtte

Introduction: Brice Van Houtte, an esteemed inventor based in Embourg, Belgium, has made significant contributions to the field of engineering, particularly in the hot-dip coating industry. With a total of two patents to his name, Brice has demonstrated his commitment to innovation and functionality in manufacturing processes.

Latest Patents: Among his most notable inventions is the "Double beam for sink roll," which describes an installation for the hot-dip coating of a metal strip with a liquid metal. This invention features a pot containing a bath of liquid metal, with an immersed sink roll that deflects the strip entering the bath. Additionally, it incorporates an extra roll to control strip flatness. The design includes a metal frame known as a double beam, which comprises a removable beam connected to an intermediate beam anchored securely to the base by supports, enhancing the overall efficiency of the coating process.

Another innovative patent from Brice is the "System for reducing the wiping gas consumption in an air knife." This device focuses on controlling the thickness of a liquid film coating on a moving strip. It features an automated structure that reduces gas flow at nozzle sides, utilizing a moving carriage with a retractable cable. This design offers a significant reduction in gas consumption, while effectively maintaining coating thickness through a novel pulley system within the nozzle chamber.

Career Highlights: Brice Van Houtte is currently employed at Cockerill Maintenance & Ingénierie S.A., a company noted for its engineering excellence and innovation in metal processing technologies. His experience and expertise in this sector position him as a key contributor to the advancements in coating technologies and manufacturing efficiency.

Collaborations: Throughout his career, Brice has collaborated with various professionals, including his coworker Michel Dubois. These collaborations highlight the importance of team dynamics in research and development, fostering an environment of creativity and innovation in their projects.

Conclusion: Brice Van Houtte exemplifies what it means to be an innovator in today’s industrial landscape. With his latest patents addressing crucial aspects of coating technology, he plays a pivotal role in the ongoing evolution of manufacturing processes. His work at Cockerill Maintenance & Ingénierie S.A. not only reflects his individual talent but also underscores the collaborative spirit that drives innovation in engineering.