Dummy bar disconnecting arrangement

Abstract

A continuous casting installation has a dummy bar which is designed such that its connection with a strand can be broken by moving the dummy bar and the strand relative to one another in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the strand. A straightening roll for the strand is movable in this direction between a raised position and a lowered position. A support roll is mounted in the region of the straightening roll and is pivotable between an elevated position and a depressed position clear of the casting path. In operation, the connection between the dummy bar and the strand is positioned between the straightening roll and the support roll. The straightening roll is in its raised position and is located above the strand while the support roll is in its elevated position and supports the dummy bar. The straightening roll is now lowered to straighten the strand thereby simultaneously breaking the connection between the dummy bar and the strand. The straightened strand continues travelling along the casting path and the leading end of the strand moves into the support roll and pivots the latter to its depressed position. The proximity of the straightening roll and the support roll results in the exertion of only a small moment on the dummy bar during disconnection from the strand. The ability of the support roll to be pivoted to a position clear of the casting path virtually eliminates any danger of this roll stopping the strand and interrupting the casting operation.