Method and apparatus for adjusting the distance between the poles of electrolysis cells

Abstract

A method and apparatus for adjusting the distance between the anodes and cathodes in an electrolysis cell includes first and second anode beams, movably disposed in an upper and lower relationship. The anode beams are interconnected by a spindle having upper and lower portions which are oppositely threaded such that rotating the spindle in a first direction moves the beams towards each other and rotating the spindle in the other direction moves the beams away from each other. Cell anodes are selectively attached to one of the anode beams, dependant on the desired direction of adjustment. By attaching the anodes to one or the other anode beam, as they are cycled towards and away from each other, individual anode adjustment in either direction can be achieved. If desired, an essentially constant downward motion may also be provided, without requiring a halt in cell operation. Consequently, cell efficiency is increased and the cell remains on-line for longer periods, increasing production capacity.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.