Importance

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Abstract

The invention involves a cell which may be used for producing molten aluminum by electrolysis of aluminum oxide in a molten bath. The cell includes a cathode and an anode, a bar and a hanger. The bar is connected at an upper end to the hanger and at a lower end to the anode. Flexible means is provided for supplying electrical current through the bar to the anode. A jack means raises and lowers the hanger and thus the anode. Included in the invention, the hanger is mounted at at least two separated points, one higher than the other, in encompassing, sliding relationship, on a single, upright, circular cross-sectioned post passing through the hanger. By this technique, the hanger is constrained to move up and down, without rotation about horizontal axes. The invention additionally involves a clamp including means for providing a backing against which articles to be clamped can be placed, gate means mounted for pivoting about an axis into and out of confrontation with the backing means, the pivot axis passing through the gate means, and means for forcing the gate means toward the backing means at least when the gate means is in confrontation with the backing means. Included in the invention, at least the portion of the gate means at said axis moves toward the backing means during operation of the forcing means in forcing the gate means toward the backing means. Also provided is a tool capable of operating such a clamp. The tool includes a means for operating the forcing means and a means for pivoting the gate means.

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First Claim