Rotary drum plant with water introduction system

Abstract

A rotary drum plant is disclosed in which a unique system for directing a liquid medium to the rotating drum is utilized. A rotary drum such as a tube mill has a driving shaft connected thereto, with at least one U-shaped inner ring member having a channel-like cross-section positioned about the shaft and mounted for rotation therewith with the opening of the U-shape facing radially outwardly. At least one stationary ring member has a generally rectangular cross-sectional configuration and is positioned about the rotating U-shaped member to form a generally annular chamber with the U-shaped inner ring. A conduit adapted for carrying a liquid medium such as water communicates the chamber to the rotating drum and rotates therewith, while another liquid conduit directs the liquid medium to the chamber via the stationary ring member. The system utilizes unique sealing means attached to the stationary ring member and extending into the U-shaped member while positioned for slideable contact with inner wall surface portions of the radial walls of the inner U-shaped ring. Thus, a liquid medium to be conveyed to the rotating drum is first directed to the annular chamber and thereafter directed via the appropriate rotating liquid conduit to the rotating drum. A housing preferably encompasses the ring member and is connected, as part of the liquid circulation system, to a return overflow line from the housing for liquid from the housing back to the tank.