U.S. patent application number 13/031795 was filed with the patent office on 2011-09-15 for apparatus for slipform casting.
Invention is credited to Henrik Stiesdal.
Application Number | 20110223272 13/031795 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42357478 |
Filed Date | 2011-09-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110223272 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stiesdal; Henrik |
September 15, 2011 |
APPARATUS FOR SLIPFORM CASTING
Abstract
Apparatus for slipform casting particularly of a moulded
concrete structure including a slipform yoke having at least one
pair of yoke legs in opposite disposal, at least one pair of form
halves connected to the yoke legs between which form halves
concrete is poured and at least one jack pipe interacting with the
yoke, wherein the jack pipe is hollow.
Inventors: |
Stiesdal; Henrik; (Odense C,
DK) |
Family ID: |
42357478 |
Appl. No.: |
13/031795 |
Filed: |
February 22, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
425/63 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y02B 10/30 20130101;
E04G 11/24 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
425/63 |
International
Class: |
E04G 11/50 20060101
E04G011/50 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 12, 2010 |
EP |
10156341.9 |
Claims
1.-14. (canceled)
15. An apparatus for slipform casting particularly of a moulded
concrete structure, comprising: a slipform yoke having a pair of
yoke legs facing opposite directions; a pair of form halves
connected to the yoke legs between which form halves concrete is
poured; and a hallow jack pipe interacting with the yoke.
16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the hallow jack
pipe comprises a connecting member for connecting the hallow jack
pipe with an additional hallow-jack pipe.
17. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the connecting
member of the hallow jack pipe provides a snap-fit connection with
a connecting member of the additional hallow-jack pipe.
18. The apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the connecting
member is either a snap-fit or a recess adapted to receive a
snap-fit.
19. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the connecting
member of the hallow-jack pipe provides a plug connection with a
connecting member of the additional hallow -jack pipe.
20. The apparatus according to claim 19 wherein the connecting
member is either a groove-like recess or a tongue-like
protrusion.
21. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein one end of a
hallow jack pipe has an increased diameter.
22. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the hallow-jack
pipe is connectable with an additional jack pipe via separate
connecting sleeves having a connecting portion for connecting the
hallow jack pipe with the additional jack pipe.
23. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the connecting
portion provides a snap-fit connection and provides a
plug-connection.
24. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the connecting
portion provides a snap-fit connection or provides a
plug-connection.
25. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the connecting
sleeve has an end with increased diameter.
26. The apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the connecting
sleeve has an end with increased diameter.
27. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein a form half is
movable in a direction perpendicular to a surface of the form
half.
28. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the concrete
structure is a wind turbine tower.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority of European Patent Office
application No. 10156341.9 EP filed Mar. 12, 2010, which is
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to an apparatus for slipform casting
particularly of a moulded concrete structure comprising a slipform
yoke having at least one pair of depending yoke legs in opposite
disposal, at least one pair of form halves connected to the yoke
legs between which form halves concrete is poured and at least one
jack pipe interacting with the yoke legs.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0003] The slipform technique for construction of in particular
concrete structures uses form halves or form tunnels constituting
the mould surfaces between which the concrete is continuously
poured and shaped in the building of a wall or like structures.
Form halves are synchronously moved or slid with the assistance of
hydraulic or screw jacks for instance. As the forming of the
structure progresses, the portion of previously poured concrete
hardens and forms a support-like wall strong enough to withstand
the concrete poured over the top of it. Likewise, essentially
horizontal structures may be built. Pouring continues until the
desired dimensions of the structure have been reached.
[0004] Said jacks are solid and spaced at substantially equal
intervals to lift the form halves in gradual increments depending
on the desired sliding speed. The rate of slide must be fast enough
to prevent the hardened concrete from sticking to the form halves
and smooth enough so as not to disturb the concrete already
compacted but not yet hardened. In order for the jacks to lift the
form halves, they rest on solid support anchors or pipes which are
anchored to the already cast construction and are suitable to carry
the jacks and form halves. Depending of the structure said support
anchors may be extended as the construction carries on so as to
finally reach the desired dimensions. A common slipforming system
is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,314,798 for example.
[0005] Generally, in moulded structures like wind turbine towers
for instance, diverse channels for pre-stressing-wires and/or cable
ducts or the like have to be integrated during the slipforming
process. The channels may protrude entirely through the length or
height of the moulded concrete structure. Additionally, the
channels may be integrated in the structure as the slip forming
process progresses.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 4,095,326 relates to a method of
post-stressing of concrete structures, wherein a tendon comprised
of a plurality of elongated strands is formed by inserting
elongated strands which will eventually form the tendon into a
plurality of parking ducts and then withdrawing the plurality of
strands simultaneously as a group from the parking ducts and into
the duct of the structure to be post-stressed without fouling and
jamming. Once in the ducts of the structure, the strands are
anchored and post-tensioned as a tendon to develop a desired
stress.
[0007] Even further separate channels in terms of electrical cable
ducts for instance may be integrated in the concrete construction
by inserting circular tubs during casting.
[0008] GB 888,275 depicts a concrete flooring element comprising
one or more tubular ducts for inserting of electrical cable,
whereby the flooring element is rebated at one or both ends where
the ducts are readily accessible.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0009] Hence, the incorporation of duct like structures i.e.
channels or the like requires additional effort before or during
the process of slipform casting of concrete structures.
[0010] Therefore, it is an object of the invention to provide an
apparatus for slipform casting which is capable of easy integrating
of duct-like structures or channels in concrete structures.
[0011] This is achieved by the above mentioned apparatus for
slipform casting, wherein the jack pipe is hollow.
[0012] According to the invention, the jack pipe is hollow and
consequently acts as duct-like structure, channel or the like after
the concrete has set i.e. hardened itself. Hence, the integration
of separate duct-like structures or the like during the slipform
casting process is not required anymore, which gives rise to a
facilitated construction and handling of the moulding process.
[0013] In accordance, diverse components of the structure to be
built may readily be inserted in the hollow volume of the jack pipe
and accordingly the hollow of the jack pipe constituting a free
volume may be dimensioned to accommodate all relevant components of
the structure like electric cables and/or pre-stress wires for
instance. Hence, the dimensions of the inventive hollow jack pipes
are adapted to accommodate or suit the amount and dimensions of
cables and other components to be installed after the structure has
been moulded.
[0014] The length of the free volume within jack pipe may vary.
There is no need for "parallel lines" i.e. ducts for
wireless/electrical cables and support pipes for the slipforming
process. It is also possible, that the inner section of a jack pipe
comprises more than one hollow opening, anyhow it is assured, that
the mechanical stability of the jack pipe is still guaranteed.
[0015] The invention gives rise to a reduction of costs as well as
no additional duct-like structures or support pipes for example are
necessary anymore. The inventive apparatus may be used for slipform
casting in either horizontal or vertical direction, i.e. for road
building which is essentially horizontal or building of vertical
high concrete structures for example.
[0016] Since the jack pipes are completely hollow, cables or
pre-stress wires or the like of great length may be inserted and
accommodated within the free volume of the jack pipes. The inserted
components may exceed the length of the jack pipe.
[0017] In exceptional cases the jack pipe may only be partially
hollow. Such jack pipes may be disposed at an initial point. Cables
or the like end in such farmed jack pipes.
[0018] A jack pipe may advantageously comprise at least one
connecting member for connecting the jack pipe with further jack
pipes. Hence, at least two jack pipes may be added together giving
rise to an elongation of the hollow inside the jack pipes as the
hollow of each jack pipe favourably communicates with the hollow of
the jack pipe connected in up- or downstream. In such a manner,
long hollows may be built in vertical or horizontal direction.
Accordingly, notable, particularly long components may be
accommodated within the jack pipes.
[0019] The connecting member of a first jack pipe may provide a
snap-fit connection with a connecting member of a further jack
pipe. Snap-fit connections are known and represent a mechanical
joint system where part-to-part-attachment is accomplished with
locating and locking features corresponding with one or the other
of the components being joined. Joining requires the (flexible)
locking features to move the side for engagement with a
corresponding mating part, followed by return of the locking
feature toward its original position. Located features are
inflexible, providing strength and stability in the attachment.
[0020] Consequently, in this embodiment the connecting member may
either be a snap-fit or the like or a recess or the like adapted to
receive a snap-fit. All shapes of snap-fits and corresponding
recesses are possible. Of course, the snap-fits may be inclined
thereby facilitating connecting the jack pipes. The snap-fit
connection may be detachable or non-detachable. The connecting
member i.e. the snap-fit and the corresponding recess may be
provided at diverse positions along the jack pipe.
[0021] Alternatively or additionally, the connecting member of a
first jack pipe may provide a plug-connection with a connecting
member of further jack pipes. Plug-connections give rise to fast
and easy connecting of jack pipes. The plug-connection may be
detachable or non-detachable. The connecting member is favourably
either are groove-like recess or a tongue-like protrusion and
disposed at the free ends of the jack pipe. Advantageously, a jack
pipe comprises both groove-like recess and tongue-like protrusion
disposed at opposing ends.
[0022] Alternatively or additionally, one end of the jack pipe may
have an increased diameter. Thus, a ready connection of jack pipes
is achievable by solely plugging one end with increased diameter
over an end of another jack pipe with normal, i.e. not increased
diameter. It is possible, that a jack pipe has both of its ends
increased in diameter or only one end. In the former case a jack
pipe is connectable with one or two jack pipes having no increased
diameters regarding their ends, in the latter case a jack pipe is
connectable with similar jack pipes, whereby a connection is
established by plugging one end with not increased diameter in an
end with increased diameter.
[0023] Alternatively or additionally, the jack pipe is connectable
with further jack pipes by means of separate connecting sleeves
having at least one connecting portion for connecting the jack pipe
with further jack pipes. The connecting sleeves act as adapter-like
members giving rise to an easy and rapid connection of two or more
jack pipes. The connecting sleeve is attached to an end of a jack
pipe by means of its connecting portion, which connecting portion
is able to accommodate a further jack pipe, which jack pipe if need
be may host another connecting sleeve and so on. In favour, the
connecting sleeve comprises two connecting portions disposed at
opposite ends of the connecting sleeve. The connecting sleeve is
hollow as well, i.e. cables or the like may be conducted through
the inner of the connecting sleeve.
[0024] The connecting portion may provide a snap-fit-connection
and/or provide a plug connection. Accordingly, the connecting
portions of the connecting sleeves are preferably adapted as a
snap-fit which may readily be attached to a jack pipe by snapping
in the hollow of the jack pipe and/or a plug-connection which is
attainable by shaping the connecting portions in a L- or U-shape
for accommodating the end of a jack pipe for instance. Of course,
the L- or U-shape has a greater diameter than the diameter of a
jack pipe.
[0025] Increasing the diameter towards the end portions of a
connecting sleeve also allows a fast and easy connection of jack
pipes by plugging the connecting sleeve whose ends have a greater
diameter than the jack pipe to the jack pipe.
[0026] Preferably, at least one means for moving one form halve in
a direction perpendicular to the surface of the form halves is
provided. The means are provided favourably on a i.e. in connection
with the yoke legs and the form halves. The position of the
supporting form halves in relation to the cast concrete can be
varied in a direction substantially perpendicular or normal to the
casting direction. The means may be pneumatically, hydraulically or
electro-engine driven operated cylinders for example. The means are
arranged in a way that the pressure of the form halves against the
cast concrete, that is the pressure on the formwork, can be
continuously varied or entirely relieved.
[0027] The invention also relates to a moulded concrete structure,
especially a wind turbine tower, moulded with the above mentioned
apparatus for slipform casting.
[0028] Finally the invention relates to the use of the above
mentioned apparatus for slipform casting for moulding a wind
turbine tower.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] In the following the invention is described in detail as
reference is made to the figures, whereby
[0030] FIG. 1 shows a principle view of an inventive apparatus for
slipform casting;
[0031] FIG. 2 shows a first embodiment of an inventive jack
pipe;
[0032] FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of an inventive jack
pipe;
[0033] FIG. 4 shows a third embodiment of an inventive jack
pipe;
[0034] FIG. 5 shows a first embodiment of a connection of jack
pipes by means of connecting sleeves;
[0035] FIG. 6 shows a second embodiment of a connection of jack
pipes by means of connecting sleeves; and
[0036] FIG. 7 shows a third embodiment of a connection of jack
pipes by means of connecting sleeves.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0037] FIG. 1 shows a principle view of an inventive apparatus 1
for slipform casting. The apparatus 1 comprises a slipform yoke 2,
which is disposed on two opposing yoke legs 3, 4. Each yoke leg 3,
4 is adapted to carry a form halve 5, 6, whereby the inner surfaces
of the form halves 5, 6 face each other. It is also possible, that
the form halves 5, 6 besides being carried by the yoke legs 3, 4
may be carried by stays (not shown) between a working deck 7 and
the yoke legs 3, 4. Concrete or like material is intended to be
poured between the form halves 5, 6. A vertical jack pipe 8 is
inserted in an already cast vertical wall portion 9 of the concrete
structure like a wind turbine tower, which is to be moulded,
intending to project upwards through the slipform yoke 2. A jack 10
or the like is connected to the slipform yoke 2 and is provided to
act as lifting means for the slipform by means of the jack pipe 8.
Consequently, the jack pipe 8 interacts with the jack 10 in terms
of lifting the apparatus 1 in an upward direction. If need be,
appropriate threads are provided outside the jack pipe 8 mating
with threads disposed inside the jack 10.
[0038] According to FIG. 1 a vertical structure like a wind turbine
tower is to be cast, consequently the yoke 2 is substantially
horizontal, the yoke legs 3, 4 are substantially vertical,
respectively. Likewise, for structures to be cast in a certain
angle with a horizontal plane, all details in applicable cases will
assume a corresponding inclination. The same applies to horizontal
structures.
[0039] Means 11 for moving one or both form halve(s) 5, 6 in a
direction perpendicular to the surface of the form halves 5, 6 is
provided at the yoke legs 3, 4. The means 11 may be continuously
driven by an electric motor, for example.
[0040] The process of slipform casting of concrete structures is
widely used and needs no further explanation.
[0041] Not shown as not necessary according to the invention are
usually used separate duct-like structures integrated or
accommodated within the cast vertical wall portion 9, which are
employed to accommodate components like electric cables, pre-stress
wires or the like. This is possible, as the inventive jack pipe 8
is not solid but at least partially hollow i.e. establishes a
volume (hollow 12) inside and is consequently adapted to
accommodate all relevant components like the already mentioned
electric-cables or pre-stress wires for example.
[0042] FIG. 2 shows a first embodiment of an inventive jack pipe 8.
It is discernible, that a jack pipe 8 has one end (here the lower
end of the jack pipes with reference to FIG. 2) with increased
diameter and thus may be connected to further jack pipes 8. As a
result, it is possible to obtain an easy and stable connection of
several jack pipes 8 by solely plugging one jack pipe 8 to a jack
pipe 8 disposed downstream. Of course, the connection is
leak-proof, so that no concrete may pour inside the jack pipes 8.
That is, according to FIG. 2 the jack pipe 8 in the middle was
plugged with its end with increased diameter to the free ending of
the jack pipe 8 disposed below. Further, it is discernible, that
the inventive jack pipe 8 may be completely hollow as well, whereby
the hollows 12 of the jack pipes 8 communicate with one another and
give rise to the integration of cables through the entire structure
to be cast if desired.
[0043] With reference to FIG. 3, it is also possible that
connecting members in the shape of snap-fits 13 and corresponding
recesses 14 are provided at the jack pipes 8. According to FIG. 3 a
first type of jack pipe 8 is equipped with snap-fits 13 and a
second type of jack pipe 8 is only equipped with recesses 14. As
can be seen, snap-fits 13 are provided with an inclination at their
endings giving rise to an easy obtainable connection between the
jack pipes 8. Anyhow and not shown is it also possible that each
jack pipe 8 comprises a snap-fit 13 at one end and/or recesses 14
at its opposing ends.
[0044] FIG. 4 shows a third embodiment of the inventive jack pipe
8. Again, three exemplary jack pipes 8 are connected by use of
connecting members which are in comparison to FIG. 2 groove-like
recesses 15 accommodating according tongue-like protrusions 16
giving rise to an easy obtainable, detachable plug-connection of
several jack pipes 8. Each jack pipe 8 is provided with a
tongue-like protrusion 16 at one end and a groove-like recess 15 at
the opposing end. Anyhow, it is possible to provide a jack pipe 8
only with groove-like protrusions 16 and connecting it with another
jack pipe having only groove-like recesses 15.
[0045] An inventive jack pipe 8 is preferably made of metal
material like iron or iron alloys or maybe also made of advanced
materials as composite materials on base of carbon or glass fibre
for instance.
[0046] Of course, it is possible to provide different connecting
members at a jack pipe 8. The cross section of a jack pipe 8 has
favourably a round or rectangular shape but is not limited to.
[0047] FIG. 5 shows a first embodiment of a connection of jack
pipes 8 by means of connecting sleeves 17. The given connecting
sleeve 17 has an increased diameter towards both of its ends acting
as connecting portion 18. Hence, an easy connection of two or more
jack pipes 8 is achievable by attaching, i.e. plugging, a
connecting sleeve 17 to an end of a jack pipe 8 and attaching a
further jack pipe 8 to the other end of the connecting sleeve 17.
If need be, the connection is also easily detachable.
[0048] FIG. 6 shows a second embodiment of a connection of jack
pipes 8 by means of connecting sleeves 17. In this embodiment
snap-fits 19 are provided at the ends of the connecting sleeve 17
acting as connecting portions 18. Hence, a connection may be
established by attaching i.e. pushing the connecting sleeve 17,
i.e. its snap-fits 19 into the ends of jack pipe 8.
[0049] FIG. 7 shows a third embodiment of a connection of jack
pipes 8 by means of connecting sleeves 17. According to this
embodiment, the connecting portions 18 of the connecting sleeves 17
are adapted as a cross-sectional L-shaped section at the endings of
the connecting sleeve 17. The connecting portion 18, thus, is built
for accommodating the jack pipe 8.
[0050] The connecting sleeves 17 are preferably integrally formed
components made of metal or polymer (plastic) material. Preferably
they are made of the same material as the jack pipes.
* * * * *