US3802629A

US3802629A - Engine block scrap processor

Info

Publication number: US3802629A
Application number: US00214014A
Authority: US
Inventors: R Flanagan
Original assignee: Mobil Auto Crushers Corp
Current assignee: Mobil Auto Crushers Corp; MAC Corp of America
Priority date: 1971-12-30
Filing date: 1971-12-30
Publication date: 1974-04-09
Anticipated expiration: 1991-04-09

Abstract

A method and apparatus for processing scrapped internal combustion engines is disclosed wherein the various component engine parts are separated for reclamation according to material. The method includes applying a shearing force to the cast iron engine block causing the block to be split open generally along a line parallel to the crankshaft so as to release and separate the internal steel components such as the pistons, rods, crankshaft, and camshaft from the block. The associated transmission may also be severed in an initial step and subsequently fragmented along with the separated internal engine components. The apparatus includes an anvil or die block for supporting the engine in the proper alignment for processing. A blade powered by a hydraulic cylinder is positioned to engage the engine block along a line generally parallel to the engine crankshaft and hold the engine while a plate is pivoted downwardly by a hydraulic cylinder to sever the transmission. A compartment located below the anvil receives the severed transmission. The blade is then lowered farther to split the block and strip the crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, etc., into the compartment. Another plate movable within the compartment then crushes the components over a conveyor which removes the separated and crushed materials.

Description

United States Patent 1191 Flanagan Apr. 9, 1974 ENGINE BLOCK SCRAP PROCESSOR Robert L. Flanagan, Dallas, Tex.

[73] Assignee: Mobil Auto Crushers Corporation of America, Oklahoma City, Okla.

22 Filed: Dec. 30, 1971 21 Appl. No.: 214,014

[75] Inventor:

Primary Examiner-Granville Y. Custer, Jr.

Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Richards, Harris & Medlock [57] ABSTRACT A method and apparatus for processing scrapped internal combustion engines is disclosed wherein the various component engine parts are separated for reclamation according to material. The method includes applying a shearing force to the cast iron engine block causing the block to be split open generally along a line parallel to the crankshaft so as to release and separate the internal steel components such as the pistons, rods, crankshaft, and camshaft from the block. The associated transmission may also be severed in an initial step and subsequently fragmented along with the separated internal engine components. The apparatus includes an anvil or die block for supporting the engine in the proper alignment for processing. A blade powered by a hydraulic cylinder is positioned to engage the engine block along a line generally parallel to the engine crankshaft and hold the engine while a plate is pivoted downwardly by a hydraulic cylinder to sever the transmission. A compartment located below the anvil receives the severed transmission. The blade is then lowered farther to split the block and strip the crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, etc., into the compartment. Another plate movable within the compartment then crushes the components over a conveyor which removes the separated and crushed materials.

14 Claims, 13 Drawing Figures MENTEDAFR 9 I974 SHEET 3 OF 4 FIG. 5

FIG. 8

FIG. 7

l ENGINE BLOCK SCRAP PROCESSOR BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION case are usually cast iron or aluminum. The internal components such as the piston rods, pistons, valves,

camshaft, crankshaft and the like are usually manufactured from forged steel. Prior art methods of processing scrap engines have not attempted or have not been successful in separating the various engine components according to material for subsequent reclamation. With most prior art methods the entire engine is simply crushed and baled into a mixture of metals and materials with little or no separation of the components and materials. Such methods of processing scrap are unsatisfactory in'that the ultimate usage of the scrap is severely limited because of the resulting mixture of metals. Accordingly, such mixed scrap brings a low salvage price. For example, salvage or scrap separated by material may yield twice as much as baled mixed scrap. Manual separation by material is practiced, but is so inefficient as to be uneconomical.

SUMMARYOF THE INVENTION The present invention overcomes the inadequacies of the prior art as set forth above. The apparatus and process of the present invention result in the systematic destruction of the engine so that the engine is separated into its component materials for efficient reclamation of these materials. The machine described is designed to accept a combustion engine and transmission assembly onto an anvil or die block mounted on the machine. The engine may be a V-8, 6 cylinder or other type of combustion engine commonly manufactured. After the engine is positioned in place on the anvil block, a hy draulic powered blade firmly engages the block along a line parallel to the crankshaft. With the engine secured, at secondary cylinder is actuated which pivots a cover plate against the transmission housing to sever it from the engine causing the transmission to fall into a lower crushing chamber.

The main blade cylinder is reactuated and it continues its downward stroke causing the cast iron cylinder block to be split apart and fall away stripping the steel internal engine components such as the pistons, rods and crankshaft into the crushing chamber. The severed portions of the cylinder block are removed by an appropriate conveyor system for further separate processing as cast iron material. The internal engine components and the transmission are commonly crushed and fall onto a conveyor for removal from the machine as substantially steel material. Actuation of each of these steps carried out by the apparatus may be automatic or performed manually by the machine operator. If desired, the separated materials may be subjected to av further manual separation and subsequent cleaning and degreasing to reduce contamination.

It will be seen that the apparatus and method of the present invention produce a segregated scrap separated according to material highly suitable for reclamation or recycling.

Because of the classification, the value of the scrap to the processor is upgraded by at least fifty percent. Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following de scription of which the attached drawings form a part, in which:

FIG. I is a perspective view of the machine of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view partly in section of the apparatus of FIG. 1 showing an engine positioned in the machine for processing;

FIG. 3 is a view taken generally along lines 33 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a view taken generally along lines 4-4 of FIG. 2;

FIGS. 5 through 9 illustrate sequentially the scrap processing method of the present invention;

FIGS. 10 through 12 illustrate in enlarged detail a portion of the apparatus and showssequentially the shearing of an engine block and the resultant separation of the component parts;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged partial sectional view taken along line l313 of FIG. 3. i

The processing apparatus of the present invention is generally indicated by the numeral 10 and includes a generally rectangular base portion 11 which has laterally extending supports 50, in the form of concrete abutments or steel channels, between which extend parallel channels 15 and 16. Adjacent base member 11 is deck member 12 having an access ramp 13. Preferably for ease of construction, the base 11 and deck member 12 are constructed of concrete but obviously could be made of steel or other material. The surface of deck 12 is at an elevation to facilitate unloading from a truck or rail head and preferably would be rough and untreated for best traction. Deck 12, although not absolutely essential, provides a very convenient means of access for loading and stocking salvaged engines to be processed into the machine.

Upstanding from base 11 are

main frame members

19 and 20 each having a vertical beam member 18 and a short horizontal member 21 extending inward from the upper end. Parallel

side frame members

27 and 28 extend across the base I1 and are supported on members so that channels 15 and 16 extend laterally beneath them.

Members

27 and 28 are laterally spaced apart to form a working chamber 25 between them and are secured, respectively, to the inner sides of

main frame elements

19 and 20. A suitable opening orcut away section 17 is provided in each of the

side frame members

27 and 28 for access to the working chamber 25. The side and main frame members may be steel beams or channels or other suitable structural materials and secured together by welding, riveting or other appropriate means.

As best seen in FIGS. 4 and 13, horizontally mounted between

side plates

27 and 28 is table 45 which sup ports anvil 30. Anvil 30 is of a suitable alloy steel so that it can withstand repeated impact during operation. The supporting table is of heavy structural plate. Anvil block 30 is comprised of two halves spaced apart to accommodate aligning and positioning of the engine for processing. The spacing between the halves is slightly less than the width of the lower portion of the engine block assembly so the engine to be processed can rest on the anvil surface supported at the bottom of the block with the oil pan depending. The length of the anvil is sufficient to accommodate most engines. An additional tier or set of mounting brackets 31 may be provided on the upper surface of the anvil and oppositely arranged to accommodate engines of larger sizes or other shapes. An opening 29 is provided in table 45 between the anvil block portion to provide an access way to the subjacent chamber as will be more fully explained.

The above-described construction of the supporting anvil plate is important in that engines to be processed can easily be placed therein with a minimum of aligning by the operator as the anvil itself centers and indexes the engine in the proper position to be sheared. It is particularly important that the engine be properly positioned and aligned to receive application of one shearing force at a location parallel to the main longitudinal axis of'the engine so that the engine will be severed to expose the internal components and permit their easy removal. The location of the application of force will normally be along a line on the engine block directly overhead or approximately overhead the engine crankshaft.

Subjacent opening 29 in anvil plate 30 is collection and crusher chamber 36. Crusher chamber 36 is generally rectangular in vertical cross section and extends longitudinally between the lower portion of

side frame members

27 and 28. Chamber 36 is defined by parallel

opposite side walls

43 and 44 and partially enclosed at the top by anvil table 45. Opening 38 is provided in the top surface at the outer end and has associated pivotal cover plate 39 as will be more fully described. Horizontal bottom wall 32 of chamber 36 is provided with a discharge opening 37 at a location above channel 16 in base 11. The outer end of chamber 36 is closed by a heavy steel plate 35 vertically positioned therein which serves as an anvil.

A rectangular recess 14 in deck 12 aligns horizontally with crusher chamber 36. Recess 14 is covered by suitable safety plate or grating to facilitate servicing and support loading vehicle or equipment. Horizontally mounted within recess 14 is compression cylinder 46 having extensible rod 47. As is seen in FIG. 4, cylinder rod 47 is in axial alignment with the center of compression chamber 36. The outer end of extensible rod 47 is provided with a flanged collar 49 which serves as a mounting for vertical crushing plate 48. Plate 48 approximately corresponds in shape to the cross section of chamber 31 and is movable along the length of chamber 31. In the cylinder retracted position, as shown in FIG. 13, plate 48 is positioned at the inner end of chamber 36 to permit free communication to chamber 36 from the working chamber through

openings

38 and 29. When cylinder 46 is pressurized causing rod 47 to extend, plate 48 is driven outwardly toward engagement with anvil end plate 35 above sized discharge opening 37 in bottom 32 of chamber 36. This construction permits separated engine parts to fall from the working chamber into chamber 36 for crushing by cylinder 46. After the materials are crushed and reduced to a size permitting clearance through opening 37, the crushed material within chamber 38 will drop onto subjacent conveyor 51 to be discharged from the machine. Conveyor 51, shown as a roller mounted belt conveyor, extends laterally across base 11 below opening 37 in channel 16 provided therefor and discharges at some selected location remote from the processing apparatus 10.

The main shearing operation is performed by hydraulic primary cylinder 22 which is vertically mounted be tween members 21 and between

frame members

27 and 28 by appropriate longitudinally spaced collars 33. Strengthening gussett plates may also be included for added structural support. The outer end of rod 23 of cylinder 22 is provided with a shearing blade 24. Blade 24 is generally rectangular having a beveled edge 26 of a length conforming approximately to the length of an engine. Blade 24 is formed of an alloy steel and can be welded to cylinder rod 23 or removably affixed to the rod by a suitable chuck.

Cylinder 22 and blade 24 are mounted so that cutting edge 26 is in appropriate alignment with the longitudinal center of anvil table 30. Upon actuation, the length of the stroke of cylinder rod 23 is sufficient to cause blade 24 to extend below the surface of anvil table and depend into crusher chamber 36.

Secondary cylinder 41 is mounted between

frame members

27 and 28 in a vertical position by appropriate mounting means 34 in the form of a flanged collar extending between

frame members

27 and 28. This cyl inder provides the power to sever the transmission housing from the engine in the processing cycle. The outer end of rod 42 of cylinder 41 is pivotally attached to the upper side of cover plate 39 as by a pin connection 52. As is best seen in FIG. 13, plate 39 is vertically pivotal about hinges 40. vWhen rod 41 is fully extended, plate 39 is in a closed horizontal position forming part of the upper surface of chamber 36 and enclosing the open portion 38 extending between the outer end and the anvil 30. In the retracted position, rod 42 causes plate 39 to pivot upwardly about hinge 40 into an open position permitting an access passage through opening 38 into subjacent chamber 36.

Means are provided to facilitate removal of the severed engine block portions. Extending laterally from side frame members are drop plates 53 .which serve to eject the severed, falling engine block portions onto conveyor 54 which extends beneath the machine in channel 16 to receive engine block portions at both sides. Inclined chute plate 70 guides the severed engine block portion from the anvil 31 to above drop plate 53 where abutment 71 is encountered causing the sliding engine portion to change direction onto plate 53 and from there to the conveyor.

Although the chute 70 and drop plate 53 are shown as being rigidly affixed to the machine frame, alternately they can be arranged so that motion is imparted thereto to assist in removal of the engine portion. For example,

plates

70 and 53 could be pivotal about their respective points of attachment and oscillatable through cam means timed to the operational sequence of the machine to assist in ejection of the severed engine portions.

Openings 17 at the sides of the machine are partially covered by safety screen 60 to contain flying metal particles and reduce the possibility of injury to the operator and observers. These screens are removable to permit access to the machine for servicing. Similarly, another protective screen extending between

members

19 and 20 is provided which is vertically movable and follows the movement of cylinder rod 23. Screen member 55 has a protective cover-59 which is generally rectangular extending between

frame members

19 and 20 with inwardly extending side members 58. Upper and

lower links

56 and 57 are provided and are pivotally attached to the sides 58 of the screen and

frame members

18 and 19. A V-shapedyoke 61 of cable or chain extends from each of the lower link members 57 to a collar 62 movable along vertical rod 63. Rod 63, in turn is vertically movable with cylinder rod 23 and is provided with 'a fixed collar 64. As main shear cylinder rod 23 is retracted, protective screen member 55 will be caused to be raised to the position shown in FIG. 2 as collar 64 engages collar 62 and raises isthereby pivoting links 56 and 57upwardly. In this inactive position convenient access to the anvil table is provided. When the main shearingram 22 is caused to be extended lowering rod 63 and collar 64, protective cover 55 accordingly is permitted to drop by gravity downwardly pivoting

links

56 and 57, lowering cover 55 into position between anvil plate and the adjacent clock. This position shields the shearing-operationand contains metal splatter and chips within the confines of the machine. The design of the connection between the rod and screen permits lost motion because, as will be appreciated, the vertical travel of the rod is greater than that of screen 55. t

A better understanding of the present invention will be had from the following description of operation.

OPERATION The operational sequence of events is best seen in FIGS. 5 through 9 which illustrate the processing operation with the apparatus shown in simplified form. The engine block to be processed, shown as a conventional V-8 type automobile engine having the transmission housing attached to the rear of the engine, is placed in position on anvil table by a suitable fork lift or other loading device. Prior to loading into the machine, the complete engine to be processed will probably be partially stripped by removal of the carburetor, ignition wires, starter, alternator or generator, belts, and pulleys, and similar-accessory equipment. These items are usually removed inxthe normal course of scrapping an engine as they have some resale value as parts whereas the primary salvage value of the junked block is as metal. The intake and exhaust manifolds may be left secured to the engine block as they are usually of cast iron or aluminum.

Loading dock 12 provides ready access to anvil table 30 by the operator. Engines to be processed, which have been previously stripped as discussed above, can be transported up access ramp l3 and onto the surface of deck 12 and stacked ready for loading into the machine 10 by the operator. The deck 12, being elevationally aligned with the anvil, is particularly useful as it accommodates a forklift, crane, or other machine to assist the operator and expedite loading the machines with engines. Although the present description of operation is with reference to a standard V-8 automobile engine, the machine of the present invention is easily adaptable to almost any type of combustion engine as, for example, a V-6, opposed piston or in-line engine.

The engine and attached transmission are placed on the anvil 30 as is seen in FIG. 5 with the bottom of the block resting on the anvil and the oil pan cover depending into the opening 29 provided in the anvil and the transmission extending over opening 38. Anvil 30 is indexedto position the engine properly with the crank shaft of the engine to be processed in alignment or parallel to the edge 26 of shearing blade 24. In a condition to accept an engine, both

cylinders

22 and 41 are retracted. Themachine is activated by the operator and either a totally automatic sequence ,of steps or manual control of each separate step inthe cycle of the machine is begun. The control panel for the machine is not shown but would be located for convenient access by the operator from the platform. The machine power may be supplied either by a gasoline or diesel engine driving a hydraulic pump to supply the hydraulic cylinders. It may also be highly desirable to providea safety control system using interlock devices or the like to shutdown the machine in case of malfunction or emerg y Downward extension of primary shearcylinder 22 is initiated androd 23 extends untilblade member 24 firmly engages the top of the engine block at a location above or parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the engine between the 'piston banks with sufficient force to secure the block in position. This force is maintained against the block in preparation for the succeeding step in the sequence of operation. Secondary cylinder 42 is now actuated from its retracted'position causing cover plate 39 to pivot about hinge 40 downwardly until the lower side of plate 38 strikes the transmission housing causing the housing along with its contained gears to be broken away from the engine block and fall into subjacent chamber 36. Door 39 pivots to a closed position enclosing chamber 36 as seen in FIG. 6 with the engine still firmly engaged by plate 24.

Referring now to FIG. 7, main cylinder 22 is again actuated and the rod continues its downward stroke pushing blade member 24 into the engine block severing it and causingit to fracture longitudinally along a line parallel to the crankshaft. The downward movement of the blade 24 causes the engine to, be totally split in half and the internal engine components such as the crankshaft, piston and rod assemblies, and camshaft to be released and forced from the engine through the opening in the anvil and into lower chamber 31. In the full extended position, blade 24 assumes a position below the anvil surface within chamber 36. his preferable that the stroke of the primary shear cylinder extends to this position because as the tool descends upon the splitting block it will engage the crankshaft, piston and rod assemblies, and the crankshaft, gradually pushing them from the block and into the lower chamber 36 through the access opening in the anvil block. Also, this operation will cause the sheet steel oil pan to be torn from the underside of the block to be deposited in chamber 36. This latter sequence of operation is best seen in enlarged detail in FIGS. 10 through 12, in which the structure has been altered for better illustration of the method. FIG. 10 shows the blade engaging the engine at the proper position on the block. In FIG. 11, the blade has partially sheared the block and the severed halves begin to fall away and the blade is in contact with the cam and crankshaft which are released and accessible for removal. In FIG. 12, the internal components along with the oil pan have been pulled from the engine and deposited in the compression chamber by the force exerted by the descending blade. The engine block halves, now being free, will fall along chute and against drop plates 53 at either side of the anvil plate and be deposited onto conveyor 54 to be carried away to the storage area for cast iron material. Shearing cylinder 22 is now retracted and cutting tool 24 is lifted clear of the anvil.

Referring back to FIG. 9 showing the next step of the operating sequence, compression cylinder 46 is actuated causing rod 47 to horizontally extend into chamber 31. The materials in the chamber (transmission housing, gears, piston and rod assemblies, crankshaft, and camshaft) are collected ahead of the extending ram and compressed against the anvil 33 at the end of the chamber by crushing plate 48. The cast materials, being relatively brittle, will be crushed and reduced into small pieces. The crushing action also completes the separation of assemblies such as the breaking away of the pistons from the piston rods and the rods from the crankshaft. Destruction of the transmission case also released the internal parts of this unit. The reduction of size of the materials in the compression chamber and the breaking up of the connected assemblies permit the materials to fall by gravity through opening 37 in the bottom of chamber 36 immediately adjacent anvil plate 35 and onto discharge conveyor 51 located below the opening. The size of opening 37 partially determines the size of the material discharge from the chamber because as the parts are reduced in size they will, as their size permits, drop from chamber 36 through opening 37. Thus discharge from the chamber may occur continuously during the crushing operation so that balling of materials within the chamber is minimized. Conveyor 51 located below the opening removes the material to a suitable storage or other area for further processing.

When chamber 36 is empty after all materials therein have been discharged, cylinder 41 is pressurized to cause its associated rod 42 to retract, returning cover plate 39 to an open position. Concurrently, compression cylinder 46 is also retracted. The machine is now ready to accept another engine block for processing.

The components of the hydraulic control system such as the pumps, control valves, cylinders and the like are well known and are commercially available and, accordingly, further explanation regarding them is not deemed necessary. Similarly, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art to automate the sequence of operation through the use of appropriate electrical components such as solenoid operated valves, limit switches and relays or through pneumatic or hydraulic logic circuitry.

Although in the preferred form, hydraulics are used to operate the machine of the present invention because of simplicity and controllability, other means could be used, for example, mechanical means utilizing jacks might be incorporated. Other means of supplying the necessary power will be obvious to those skilled in the art.

In addition to the above-described method, other processing steps may be incorporated with the present design to enhance the quality of the scrap reclaimed. For example, the severed engine block portions may be carried by conveyor 54 to a degreasing area where oil and dirt accumulations on the engine parts will be removed by suitable application of steam, detergent or the like. After the cleaning process, the block portions will be conveyed to a storage area ready for use or shipment. Additional crushing may be desirable along with provision for removal of any included steel parts such as the valves, springs, and rocker arm assemblies.

The materials discharged from chamber 31 and removed by conveyor 51 consist of a mixture of crushed cast iron and aluminum particles as well as gears, pistons and other steel parts. Accordingly, conveyor 51 may remove these materials to a manual classification area. Appropriately stationed personnel may visually and manually select and remove the aluminum and cast iron particles placing them in suitable containers. A cleansing step to remove grease, oil and dirt from the parts may also be included. The remaining steel parts on the conveyor are dumped into appropriate storage containers for this type of material.

As a normal result of the processing of the engine blocks with the present invention, several gallons of oil (common crank case lubricating oil and transmission fluid) will be released as a result of rupturing the cylinder block and the transmission housing. Appropriate guttering and drain lines can be provided, for example, from crusher chamber 36 to a sump for collecting this fluid. The collected oil can also be reclaimed and recycled for reuse. Collection of the oil in this way eliminates expensive waste disposal systems and reduces or eliminates pollution resulting from the processing of the engines. Similarly, cleansing agents used to degrease and clean the reclaimed parts may also be recycled for economical and environmental benefits. It is apparent from the foregoing that the present invention provides a method and apparatus for economically salvaging a segregated valuable scrap from junk automobile engines to permit reclamation of the materials. It is also apparent that the present invention is ecologically efficient and minimizes waste and pollution and increases disposal efficiency. The present method and process are easily adaptable to various engine configurations and types.

The design of the present machine is effective and simple so that the machine can be easily manufactured and assembled. it will be highly feasible, for example, to shop fabricate all the major components and then ship the components to the site for field erection and assembly. The major components all adapt themselves to shipment by truck or rail within allowable size limits.

Although a preferred embodiment of the invention has been described in detail herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art to make various changes, substitutions, and alterations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

I claim:

1. A method of processing an engine having an outer block, internal components and an attached transmission housing for separately recovering the block and components comprising:

aligning the block in a working position on a fixed anvil; severing said transmission housing from the engine;

applying sufficient shearing force to said block to cause said block to be severed into at least two major portions releasing said internal components; and

separating substantially all the internal components from the block portion.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein said severed transmission and said removed engine internal components are commonly collected and subjected to a force to crush the collected materials.

3. A method of processing an engine having an engine block of one material and internal components including at least a crankshaft assembly of other materials for separately reclaiming the block and the internal components, said method comprising the steps of:

placing the engine to be processed in a working position on an anvil block adapted to receive the ens applying sufficient shearing force to said engine block along a line approximately parallel to said crankshaft and normal thereto to cause said engine to fracture into at least two pieces along said line thereby releasing said internal components;

continuing application of said force to cause-substantially all said internal engine components to be separated from said block;

crushing said separated components and removing the crushed components to a first separate location; and

removing said block portions to a second location separate from said components.

4. The method of claim 3 wherein said engine includes a transmission housing attached to the block and including the additional steps of applying force to said transmission to cause it to be severed from said block, and removing said transmission to said second location to be crushed with saidcomponents.

5. A method for reclaiming combustion engines having a block portion of substantially one material and an attached transmission housing and internal components of other materials wherein said materials are to be separately reclaimed, said process comprising:

placing and aligning the engine and attached transmission housing in a working position on a working surface;

applying sufficient force with first power means to said engine block to secure said engine in said working position; severing said transmission housing from said block with second power means and removing said severed transmission to afirst collection location;

continuing the application of force by said first power means to said block at a location to cause said block to be severed into at least two major portions along a fracture approximately parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the engine to permit re moval of the internal engine components;

removing the engine block portions to a second collection location;

removing substantially all said internal components to said first collection location; and

commonly crushing said transmission housing and said removed components in said first collection location.

6. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion engines having a block portion and internal components, said apparatus comprising:

a supporting frame;

anvil block means mounted on said frame including oppositely positioned spaced apart sections adapted to substantially align said block in a position for processing supporting said block along opposite lower sides of the block;

first power means mounted on said frame and adapted and constructed to exert a shearing force on said engine at a position approximately parallel to the major longitudinal axis of the engine whereby said block is severed into at least two portions releasing said internal engine components; collection means below said anvil block adapted to receive said released internal engine components; 5 and third power means having a ram portion cooperable with said collection means to crush the contents of said collection means.

7. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion l0 engines having a block portion and internal components, said apparatus comprising:

a supporting frame;

first power means mounted on said frame and adapted and constructed to exert a shearing force on said engine at a position approximately parallel to the major longitudinal axis of the engine whereby said block is severed into at least two portions releasing said internal engine components; and

second power means mounted on said frame including means movable to exert a breaking force adjacent the anvil to cause an engine mounted transmission to be severed from the engine.

8. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion 30 engines having a block portion and internal compo nents, said apparatus comprising:

a supporting frame;

first power means mounted on said frame and adapted and constructed to exert a shearing force on said engine at a position approximately parallel to the major longitudinal axis of the engine whereby said block is severed into at least two portions releasing said internal engine components;

collection means below said anvil block adapted to receive said released internal engine components and said severed transmission; and

third power means having a ram portion reciprocable in said collection means to exert a force to crush the contents of said collection means.

9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said first and second power means comprise hydraulic actuators.

10. An apparatus for processing scrapped eombustion engines having an engine block and internal components including a crankshaft assembly and attached transmission, said apparatus comprising:

a supporting frame including a base member and spaced apart vertically extending side member defining a working chamber therebetween;

stationary anvil block means mounted substantially horizontally in said working chamber and having indexing means associated therewith for position ing and aligning said engine thereon during processing, said anvil means having first discharge means associated therewith to accommodate the severed engine block portion and second discharge means associated therewith to accommodate separated internal engine components;

collection box means located subjacent said anvil means and in communication through said second discharge means to accept said internal engine parts, said collection box means having an upper opening adjacent said anvil means at a location to receive the severed transmission and a lower discharge opening;

cover means for said upper opening, said cover adapted for pivotal movement;

first ram means mounted on said frame having an extensible rod member, said rod member having blade means associated therewith adapted and constructed to exert a shearing force on said engine along a line approximately parallel to said crankshaft when said engine is positioned on said anvil whereby said block is caused to rupture into at least two portions apart from said internal engine components;

second ram means mounted on said frame and having an extensible rod attached to said collection box cover means whereby said cover can be pivoted to the closed position severing the transmission from the associated engine positioned on said anvil block;

third ram means associated with said collection box and having a rod extensible into said collection box to cooperate with said collection box to compress the contents of same;

means associated with said collection box discharge means for removal of the crushed materials; and

means associated with said anvil first discharge means for removal of the severed engine block portions.

11. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion engines having a block portion and internal components said apparatus comprising:

a supporting frame;

anvil block means mounted on said frame having spaced apart supports to receive and position said engine for processing,

first power means mounted on said frame to exert a shearing force on said engine at a position approximately parallel to the major longitudinal axis of the engine whereby said block is severed into at least two portions releasing said internal engine components,

second power means mounted on said frame to exert breaking force adjacent the anvil to cause an engine mounted transmission to be severed from th engine,

collection means adjacent the anvil block means to receive said released internal engine components and said severed transmission,

third power means to crush the contents of said collection means; and

means for separately conveying said crushed components and said severed engine block portions from said apparatus.

12. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion engines having an engine block and internal components including a crankshaft assembly and attached transmission, said apparatus comprising:

anvil block means mounted substantially horizontally in said working chamber for positioning of said engine thereon during processing, said anvil means having first discharge means associated therewith to accommodate the severed engine block portion and second discharge means associated therewith to accommodate separated internal engine components;

said anvil block having an indexed surface to accommodate positioning various engine configurations;

cover means for said upper opening, said cover adapted for pivotal movement;

first ram means mounted on said frame having an extensible rod member, said rod member having a blade means associated therewith to exert a shearing force on said engine along a line approximately parallel to said crankshaft when said engine is positioned on said anvil whereby said block is caused to rupture into at least two portions apart from said internal engine components;

second ram means mounted on said frame and having an extensible rod attached to said collection box cover means whereby said cover can be pivoted to the closed position severing the transmission from the associated engine positioned on said anvil.

block;

13. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion engines having an engine block and internal components including a crankshaft assembly and attached transmission, said apparatus comprising:

cover means for said upper opening, said cover being pivotally movable;

first ram means mounted on said frame having an extensible rod member, said rod member having blade means associated therewith adapted and con structed to exert a shearing force on said engine along a line approximately parallel to said crankshaft when said engine is positioned on said anvil and second discharge means associated therewith to accommodate separated internal engine components;

collection box means located subjacent said anvil whereby Said block is caused to rupture at means and in communication through said second least two portions apart from said internal engine discharge means to accept Said internal engine components; parts, said collection box means having an upper Second ram means mounted 531d frame havmg opening adjacent said anvil means at a location to an tenable rod attached to sand collacflon box receive the severed transmission and a lower discover means whereby said cover can be pivoted to Charge opening; the closed position severing the transmission from Cover means for Said upper Opening Said cover being the associated engine positioned on said anvil pivotany movable; m first ram means mounted on said frame having an exthird ram means associated with said collection box tensible rod member said rod member having i havmgaztl ag i gfitgigfi i g i g zgg 2;: blade means associated therewith adapted and cont; eooptert e f p structed to exert a shearing force on said engine e con en s 0 samealong a line approximately parallel to said crankigs i tgfi fiix i gg gg gg giz shaft when said engine is positioned on said anvil where said bl ck is caused to ru ture into at means associated with said anvil first discharge by o f a p I means for removal of the severed engine block porleast two Pomons apart mm sald mtema engme tions, and components; safety shield means extending across the working second 2 Tg g g g i g' g chamber, said shield being vertically slidable and e m F CO 9 cooperable with first ram means whereby said cover means whereby i cover can bplfloted to shield is lowered into a shielding position when said the posmo f h 'P m first ram extends and said shield is raised to a posithe assoc'ated engme postloned on 531d tion to permit access to the working chamber when mock; Said first ram is retracte third ram means associated with sa d collect on box 1 An apparatus for processing Scrapped combus; and having a rod extensible into said collection box tion engines having an engine block and internal comto cooperate Wlth 531d Collecnon bOX to Compress ponents including a crankshaft assembly and attached the Commits 0f safnfi; l t a i i id apparatus i i means associated with said collection box discharge a supporting frame including a base member d means for removal of the crushed materials; and

spaced art v rti ll extending id member d means associated with said anvil first discharge fining a working chamber therebetween; means for removal of the severed engine block anvil block means mounted substantially horizontally POTIIOnS; and

in said working chamber for positioning of said endeck means associated with said apparatus approxigine thereon during processing, said anvil means mately elevationally aligned with said working having first discharge means associated therewith 4O chamber to permit access to said working chamber. to accommodate the severed engine block portion

Claims

2. The method of claim 1 wherein said severed transmission and said removed engine internal components are commonly collected and subjected to a force to crush the collected materials.
3. A method of processing an engine having an engine block of one material and internal components including at least a crankshaft assembly of other materials for separately reclaiming the block and the internal components, said method comprising the steps of: placing the engine to be processed in a working position on an anvil block adapted to receive the engine; applying sufficient shearing force to said engine block along a line approximately parallel to said crankshaft and normal thereto to cause said engine to fracture into at least two pieces along said line thereby releasing said internal components; continuing application of said force to cause substantially all said internal engine components to be separated from said block; crushing said separated components and removing the crushed components to a first separate location; and removing said block portions to a second location separate from said components.
4. The method of claim 3 wherein said engine includes a transmission housing attached to the block and including the additional steps of applying force to said transmission to cause it to be severed from said block, and removing said transmission to said second location to be crushed with said components.
5. A method for reclaiming combustion engines having a block portion of substantially one material and an attached transmission housing and internal components of other materials wherein said materials are to be separately reclaimed, said process comprising: placing and aligning the engine and attached transmission housing in a working position on a working surface; applying sufficient force with first power means to said engine block to secure said engine in said working position; severing said transmission housing from said block with second power means and removing said severed transmission to a first collection location; continuing the application of force by said first power means to said block at a location to cause said block to be severed into at least two major portions along a fracture approximately parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the engine to permit removal of the internal engine components; removing the engine block portions to a second collection location; removing substantially all said internal components to said first collection location; and commonly crushing said transmission housing and said removed components in said first collection location.
6. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion engines having a block portion and internal components, said apparatus comprising: a supporting frame; anvil block means mounted on said frame including oppositely positioned spaced apart sections adapted to substantially align said block in a position For processing supporting said block along opposite lower sides of the block; first power means mounted on said frame and adapted and constructed to exert a shearing force on said engine at a position approximately parallel to the major longitudinal axis of the engine whereby said block is severed into at least two portions releasing said internal engine components; collection means below said anvil block adapted to receive said released internal engine components; and third power means having a ram portion cooperable with said collection means to crush the contents of said collection means.
7. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion engines having a block portion and internal components, said apparatus comprising: a supporting frame; anvil block means mounted on said frame including oppositely positioned spaced apart sections adapted to substantially align said block in a position for processing supporting said block along opposite lower sides of the block; first power means mounted on said frame and adapted and constructed to exert a shearing force on said engine at a position approximately parallel to the major longitudinal axis of the engine whereby said block is severed into at least two portions releasing said internal engine components; and second power means mounted on said frame including means movable to exert a breaking force adjacent the anvil to cause an engine mounted transmission to be severed from the engine.
8. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion engines having a block portion and internal components, said apparatus comprising: a supporting frame; anvil block means mounted on said frame including oppositely positioned spaced apart sections adapted to substantially align said block in a position for processing supporting said block along opposite lower sides of the block; first power means mounted on said frame and adapted and constructed to exert a shearing force on said engine at a position approximately parallel to the major longitudinal axis of the engine whereby said block is severed into at least two portions releasing said internal engine components; collection means below said anvil block adapted to receive said released internal engine components and said severed transmission; and third power means having a ram portion reciprocable in said collection means to exert a force to crush the contents of said collection means.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said first and second power means comprise hydraulic actuators.
10. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion engines having an engine block and internal components including a crankshaft assembly and attached transmission, said apparatus comprising: a supporting frame including a base member and spaced apart vertically extending side member defining a working chamber therebetween; stationary anvil block means mounted substantially horizontally in said working chamber and having indexing means associated therewith for positioning and aligning said engine thereon during processing, said anvil means having first discharge means associated therewith to accommodate the severed engine block portion and second discharge means associated therewith to accommodate separated internal engine components; collection box means located subjacent said anvil means and in communication through said second discharge means to accept said internal engine parts, said collection box means having an upper opening adjacent said anvil means at a location to receive the severed transmission and a lower discharge opening; cover means for said upper opening, said cover adapted for pivotal movement; first ram means mounted on said frame having an extensible rod member, said rod member having blade means associated therewith adapted and constructed to exert a shearing force on said engine along a line approximately parallel to said crankshaft when said engine is positioned on said anvil whereby said block is Caused to rupture into at least two portions apart from said internal engine components; second ram means mounted on said frame and having an extensible rod attached to said collection box cover means whereby said cover can be pivoted to the closed position severing the transmission from the associated engine positioned on said anvil block; third ram means associated with said collection box and having a rod extensible into said collection box to cooperate with said collection box to compress the contents of same; means associated with said collection box discharge means for removal of the crushed materials; and means associated with said anvil first discharge means for removal of the severed engine block portions.
11. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion engines having a block portion and internal components said apparatus comprising: a supporting frame, anvil block means mounted on said frame having spaced apart supports to receive and position said engine for processing, first power means mounted on said frame to exert a shearing force on said engine at a position approximately parallel to the major longitudinal axis of the engine whereby said block is severed into at least two portions releasing said internal engine components, second power means mounted on said frame to exert breaking force adjacent the anvil to cause an engine mounted transmission to be severed from the engine, collection means adjacent the anvil block means to receive said released internal engine components and said severed transmission, third power means to crush the contents of said collection means; and means for separately conveying said crushed components and said severed engine block portions from said apparatus.
12. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion engines having an engine block and internal components including a crankshaft assembly and attached transmission, said apparatus comprising: a supporting frame including a base member and spaced apart vertically extending side member defining a working chamber therebetween; anvil block means mounted substantially horizontally in said working chamber for positioning of said engine thereon during processing, said anvil means having first discharge means associated therewith to accommodate the severed engine block portion and second discharge means associated therewith to accommodate separated internal engine components; said anvil block having an indexed surface to accommodate positioning various engine configurations; collection box means located subjacent said anvil means and in communication through said second discharge means to accept said internal engine parts, said collection box means having an upper opening adjacent said anvil means at a location to receive the severed transmission and a lower discharge opening; cover means for said upper opening, said cover adapted for pivotal movement; first ram means mounted on said frame having an extensible rod member, said rod member having a blade means associated therewith to exert a shearing force on said engine along a line approximately parallel to said crankshaft when said engine is positioned on said anvil whereby said block is caused to rupture into at least two portions apart from said internal engine components; second ram means mounted on said frame and having an extensible rod attached to said collection box cover means whereby said cover can be pivoted to the closed position severing the transmission from the associated engine positioned on said anvil block; third ram means associated with said collection box and having a rod extensible into said collection box to cooperate with said collection box to compress the contents of same; means associated with said collection box discharge means for removal of the crushed materials; and means associated with said anvil first discharge means for removal of the severed engine block portions.
13. An apparaTus for processing scrapped combustion engines having an engine block and internal components including a crankshaft assembly and attached transmission, said apparatus comprising: a supporting frame including a base member and spaced apart vertically extending side member defining a working chamber therebetween; anvil block means mounted substantially horizontally in said working chamber for positioning of said engine thereon during processing, said anvil means having first discharge means associated therewith to accommodate the severed engine block portion and second discharge means associated therewith to accommodate separated internal engine components; collection box means located subjacent said anvil means and in communication through said second discharge means to accept said internal engine parts, said collection box means having an upper opening adjacent said anvil means at a location to receive the severed transmission and a lower discharge opening; cover means for said upper opening, said cover being pivotally movable; first ram means mounted on said frame having an extensible rod member, said rod member having blade means associated therewith adapted and constructed to exert a shearing force on said engine along a line approximately parallel to said crankshaft when said engine is positioned on said anvil whereby said block is caused to rupture into at least two portions apart from said internal engine components; second ram means mounted on said frame and having an extensible rod attached to said collection box cover means whereby said cover can be pivoted to the closed position severing the transmission from the associated engine positioned on said anvil block; third ram means associated with said collection box and having a rod extensible into said collection box to cooperate with said collection box to compress the contents of same; means associated with said collection box discharge means for removal of the crushed materials; means associated with said anvil first discharge means for removal of the severed engine block portions; and safety shield means extending across the working chamber, said shield being vertically slidable and cooperable with first ram means whereby said shield is lowered into a shielding position when said first ram extends and said shield is raised to a position to permit access to the working chamber when said first ram is retracted.
14. An apparatus for processing scrapped combustion engines having an engine block and internal components including a crankshaft assembly and attached transmission, said apparatus comprising: a supporting frame including a base member and spaced apart vertically extending side member defining a working chamber therebetween; anvil block means mounted substantially horizontally in said working chamber for positioning of said engine thereon during processing, said anvil means having first discharge means associated therewith to accommodate the severed engine block portion and second discharge means associated therewith to accommodate separated internal engine components; collection box means located subjacent said anvil means and in communication through said second discharge means to accept said internal engine parts, said collection box means having an upper opening adjacent said anvil means at a location to receive the severed transmission and a lower discharge opening; cover means for said upper opening, said cover being pivotally movable; first ram means mounted on said frame having an extensible rod member, said rod member having blade means associated therewith adapted and constructed to exert a shearing force on said engine along a line approximately parallel to said crankshaft when said engine is positioned on said anvil whereby said block is caused to rupture into at least two portions apart from said internal engine components; second ram means mounted on said frame and having an extensible rod attached to said colleCtion box cover means whereby said cover can be pivoted to the closed position severing the transmission from the associated engine positioned on said anvil block; third ram means associated with said collection box and having a rod extensible into said collection box to cooperate with said collection box to compress the contents of same; means associated with said collection box discharge means for removal of the crushed materials; and means associated with said anvil first discharge means for removal of the severed engine block portions; and deck means associated with said apparatus approximately elevationally aligned with said working chamber to permit access to said working chamber.