GB851248A - Improvements in machines for moulding concrete or like plastic materials - Google Patents

Abstract

851,248. Concrete-beam casting machines. RAPID FLOOR CO. Ltd. July 15, 1959 [July 18, 1958], No. 23197/58. Class 87(2). A moulding machine comprises a rigid frame 1 including two side members which consist each of a channel 12 of larger sections and a channel 13 of smaller section arranged to give vertical plane parallel opposite faces, a horizontal bed 17 comprising a T-section bar and a pair of jacks 24 operable to move the bed between the side faces, the jacks being so spaced that the overall horizontal deviation of the bed under the load of the material whilst it is being raised is a minimum. The channels 13 also guide a plough, not shown, which is moved along the length of the channels, e.g. by a winch and cable, to form a profile on one face of the cast beam. The opposite face is shaped by a pallet, not shown, which rests on the bed 17. When wear takes place the channels 13 are cheaply replaceable. The channels 12 are supported by channels 7 (" feet ") with slots in their webs by which they are attached, by bolts 8, to channels 5 (" saddles "), so providing for adjustment of the width of the mould. The slots have recesses in their sides to give definite locations. In its bottom position the bed 17 rests on angles 14, through vibration-damping rubber pads 20, and there is clearance between it and the mould sides for the escape of excess concrete. The bed 17 is guided between the mould sides by short lengths of angle iron 32 which project from its leg 19 and are sloped so that they pass the point between the members 12, 13 with a scissors action. The rams 28 of the jacks 24 have spaced plates 29 with semi-circular recesses 30 in which rest part circular members 31 secured to the bed 17 and the cylinders 25 of the jacks are pivoted to the base of the frame, so allowing a self-adjusting movement of the bed. In operation, a pallet is lowered on the bed, with ends to determine the shape of the ends of the beam, or of the beams if more than one is cast end to end. The mould is partly filled, reinforcement is positioned on the concrete, and the remaining concrete is poured in. Electrical vibrators 33, bolted to members 34 secured to the leg 19 of the bed, are then operated. The plough (or, alternatively, rollers) is then moved along the top of the mould. The moulded beam is then lifted clear, by elevation of the bed 17, and slid on its pallet from the machine on rails which are hooked on to the side members. The frame 1 is adapted for lifting by a wheel jack by constructions 37, 38 on its ends, for transporation.