DEVICE AND METHOD FOR LOADING AND UNLOADING A HEAT TREATMENT FURNACE

The invention relates to a device for loading and unloading a heat treatment furnace and to a corresponding method. Heat treatment furnaces are normally loaded and unloaded by means of a so-called elevator. During unloading, a removed workpiece is usually lowered by means of the elevator into an oil bath, in which it is then removed from the elevator. Oil is then transferred into the furnace chamber via the oil-covered elevator. Such an application of oil is avoided by means of a device comprising a frame rack having a first and a second level, which are disposed parallel above each other, and are connected to each other by means of a plurality of frame braces, wherein the first and the second levels have a plurality of openings and the frame braces have guide means. The device further comprises a plurality of lifting braces that are connected by a lifting mechanism and are supported vertically movably in the guide means, wherein each lifting brace has carriers at a first and a second position, wherein the carriers are aligned on the lifting braces such that they can be moved in the associated levels in or through the openings upon a vertical movement of the lifting braces. The device further comprises a retaining means disposed on a frame brace, which limits the vertical movement of the corresponding lifting brace.