This invention relates to an improved apparatus and method for electrolytic
descaling of steel strips. The apparatus comprises electrodes integrated
with nozzles having jet openings for dispensing electrolyte onto the
surface of the steel strips. By jetting the electrolyte to the steel strip
in the air and applying a voltage to the electrode, the scale on the
surface of the steel strip is removed. This jetting of electrolyte reduces
the size requirement of the electrolyte tank storing the electrolyte
because the required quantity of electrolyte decreases. The present
invention does not require immersion of the electrodes in the electrolyte
and thus avoids the problem of short-circuiting that occurs with submerged
electrodes. This results in a significant improvement in electric power
efficiency. By individually adjusting the jet pressure of the electrolyte
jets, the waving and the flexure of the steel strip is prevented and the
electrodes can be arranged close to the steel strip to reduce required
electric power. With the reduction in short circuit currents, many
electrodes can be provided and the speed of the descaling can be increased
as a result of the increase in electric current to the steel strip.
