Sealing systems for machines for the thermal treatment of bulk materials

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a machine for heat treating bulk material, the machine comprising: a stationary furnace having a support structure, and a plurality of pallet trucks that travel through the furnace, the plurality of pallet trucks together defining a common engagement surface at lateral sides thereof that extends through the furnace, wherein a gap is defined between the support structure of the furnace and the common engagement surface, the gap having a gap length, the machine further comprising: a sealing system comprising a series of blade members, the blade members partially overlapping, wherein each blade member of the series of blade members is connected to the support structure at a first end thereof and is self-biased into engagement with the engagement surface at an opposing second end thereof such that the series of blade members together cover the gap over at least a portion of the gap length.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a machine for heat treating bulk materials. More particularly, the present disclosure also relates to a sealing system for use in a machine for heat treating bulk materials. Background Art

[0002] Machines for heat treating bulk material, such as sintering or pelletizing systems, are known in the art. These machines are configured to convert bulk material or pelletized concentrate into hardened pellets, which can be used, for example, as blast furnace feed or direct reduction furnace feed. These machines include a furnace and a plurality of pallet trucks, wherein the pallet trucks are arranged to transport the bulk material to the furnace. These machines include different heating and cooling zones, and the pallet trucks are arranged to transport the bulk material through the different zones of the machine, thereby producing hardened pellets.

[0003] The problem with these machines is that when the pallet truck travels through the furnace, a gap is defined between the pallet truck and the furnace. The disadvantage of this gap is that dust and other particulate matter as well as harmful gases can escape from the furnace, while cross-flowing air can enter the hot gases inside the furnace.

[0004] To address this problem, U.S. patent application US2293904 A suggests that a sealing system having a drop bar sealing design be maintained between the traveling grate and the gas collecting hood. The sealing slider sealing design defines a continuous groove along the side of the traveling grate for discharging dust from the hood. U.S. patent application US20150233641 A1 suggests that a sealing system having a spring-loaded sealing strip be maintained in contact with a planar sealing surface arranged along the furnace. However, despite the solutions disclosed by US1183394A and US20150233641A1, there is still a need in the art for improvements in improving sealing efficiency and improving durability. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to alleviate, mitigate or eliminate one or more of the above-mentioned deficiencies and disadvantages in the art, alone or in any combination, and to at least solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0006] According to a first aspect, there is provided a machine for heat treating bulk material, the machine comprising:

[0007] a stationary furnace having a support structure; and

[0008] a plurality of pallet trucks which travel through the furnace in a direction of travel, the plurality of pallet trucks together defining a common engagement surface at their lateral sides, the common engagement surface extending through the furnace in the direction of travel,

[0009] wherein a gap is defined between a support structure of the furnace and a common engagement surface of the plurality of pallet trucks, the gap having a gap length along the direction of travel, the machine further comprising:

[0010] A sealing system, comprising:

[0011] A series of blade members partially overlapping to form a sealing surface, wherein each blade member of the series of blade members is connected to the support structure at a first end thereof and is self-biased into engagement with the engagement surface at an opposite second end thereof such that the series of blade members together cover the gap over at least a portion of the gap length.

[0012] The term "bulk material" herein refers to any metal ore. As non-limiting examples, the bulk material may be iron ore, copper ore, zinc ore, phosphate ore, or any other metallic or non-metallic mineral ore commonly handled within the mining industry.

[0013] The term "machine for performing a heat treatment" as used herein refers to any machine that performs any type of treatment that includes increasing the temperature of bulk material. The heat treatment may be, but is not limited to, granulation or sintering. For example, the bulk material may be loaded into a pallet truck, which then travels along tracks through a furnace. The furnace may include one or more treatment zones. Each treatment zone is adapted for a specific heat treatment process for the bulk material. As non-limiting examples, the heat treatment in the different zones may include heating, burning, drying or cooling the bulk material. The machine may include one or more windboxes that are arranged in the furnace zone, below the tracks of the pallet truck, and that generate, by suction, a flow of hot air or hot gas that passes over the bulk material above the pallet truck. The machine may be a straight grate furnace.

[0014] The term "support structure" as used herein refers to a stable, fixed component within a stationary furnace that allows other components to be mounted or attached to it. By way of example only, a support structure may be a portion of a furnace wall or a metal frame. Here, a support structure is used to support one or more components of a sealing system.

[0015] The term "blade member" herein refers to a single member of a series of blade members that together form a flexible seal. A blade member is a substantially planar member, wherein the thickness of the blade member is significantly less than the length and width of the blade member. The width of the blade member is the dimension of the blade member in the direction of travel of the pallet truck, while the length of the blade member is the dimension of the blade member in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel. The blade member can have a substantially rectangular or square shape, but is not limited to these shapes and can also have an elliptical, circular, triangular, or any other planar shape. The blade member can be made of a flexible material to provide a spring-like or self-biasing function.

[0016] The term "self-biased" as used herein refers to the tendency of an object to tilt against another object due to its own force and / or the manner in which it is mounted. Thus, the blade member is self-biased into engagement with the engagement surface, meaning that the blade member is mounted such that the blade member tilts against the engagement surface so that when the engagement surface moves in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel of the pallet truck, the blade member will follow this movement, thereby maintaining contact between the blade member and the engagement surface without requiring the blade member to be attached to the engagement surface. For example, a planar blade member made of a flexible material can be connected to a support structure such that the blade member assumes a curved shape when engaged with the engagement surface, whereby the blade member follows the movement of the engagement surface by elastically flexing back and forth, thereby maintaining contact with the engagement surface.

[0017] The advantage of this sealing system over conventional arrangements is that it provides a more effective seal for the gap defined between the furnace's support structure and the common engagement surface of multiple pallet trucks. The sealing system prevents hot gases from escaping from the furnace and prevents ambient air from entering the furnace. The sealing system also prevents particulate matter, such as pellets, soot, or dust, from passing through the seal.

[0018] Another advantage of a sealing system including blade members is that, using individual blade members, the seal can be effectively adjusted to uneven surfaces. For example, an uneven surface can be caused by uneven vertical positioning of the pallet truck or its engaging surface, or by material (e.g., pellets) becoming lodged between the engaging surface and the blade seal. If an uneven surface causes a single blade member to lose contact with the pallet truck's engaging surface, adjacent blade members are not affected. Consequently, adjacent blade members can continue to maintain contact with the engaging surface, maintaining a higher degree of seal than conventional sealing systems based on sealing slides or long, flexible seals, which, under similar circumstances, can result in greater leakage through the seal because they cannot adjust the seal effectively enough to the uneven surface.

[0019] In the above manner, the fuel and energy efficiency of the machine is improved. Compared to a machine for heat treating bulk materials without such a sealing system with blade members, energy savings of up to 10% can be provided by the present arrangement.

[0020] Yet another advantage of a sealing system including blade members is that the individual blade members can be easily replaced. If an individual blade member becomes worn or otherwise damaged, it can be replaced without having to replace the entire seal or a larger section of the seal. Blade members can also be replaced while the machine is operating, provided that regulations in the area in which the machine is operating permit this. This arrangement minimizes machine downtime, thereby reducing the costs of such downtime by maintaining production operations.

[0021] Another advantage of a sealing system comprising blade members is that blade members of different ages can work together. During operation of the machine, the tips of the blade members wear and may become of slightly different lengths. However, due to the self-biasing of the blade members, the blade members continue to maintain pressure against the engaging surface, thereby continuing to seal.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the sealing system further comprises a series of flexible blanket members, wherein each flexible blanket member in the series of flexible blanket members is connected to the support structure at a first end thereof and is positioned adjacent to the series of blade members to cover overlapping edges of adjacent blade members.

[0023] The term "flexible blanket member" herein refers to a substantially planar member whose thickness is significantly less than the length and width of the member. The flexible blanket member may have a substantially rectangular or square shape, but is not limited to these shapes and may also have an elliptical, circular, triangular, or any other planar shape. The flexible blanket member may be made of a flexible material so as to provide a spring-like or self-biasing function. The flexible blanket member may be arranged to abut the blade member on a side of the blade member that faces the furnace interior.

[0024] An advantage of these embodiments may be that the flexible blanket member may prevent, or at least reduce, gas flow through the seal in the gaps between adjacent blade members. During machine operation, as the engaging surface of the pallet truck moves, the gaps between adjacent blade members may increase, and the flexible blanket member may prevent leakage through the gaps that might otherwise occur.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the series of blade members constitute a first series of blade members, and wherein the sealing system further comprises a second series of blade members, wherein each blade member of the second series of blade members is connected to the support structure at a first end thereof and is arranged on an opposite side of the series of flexible blanket members relative to the first series of blade members so as to sandwich the series of flexible blanket members between the first series of blade members and the second series of blade members.

[0026] It will be understood that the blade members of the second series of blade members may be of the same type as the blade members of the first series, or they may be of a different type. The term "different type" in this context means that they may be made of different materials, or have different sizes, or any other characteristics of the blade members may be different, or a combination of these differences. The blade members of the second series may partially overlap each other. However, it is also conceivable that the blade members of the second series do not overlap each other.

[0027] An advantage of these embodiments may be that sealing may be further improved. With this arrangement, the second series (group) of blade members may provide a force on the flexible blanket member, causing it to engage with the first series (group) of blade members. Consequently, the flexible blanket member may more effectively seal gaps between adjacent blade members.

[0028] According to some embodiments, adjacent flexible carpet members in the series of flexible carpet members partially overlap.

[0029] According to some embodiments, each flexible carpet member extends over at least three blade members.

[0030] An advantage of these embodiments may be that there are fewer gaps between adjacent flexible carpet members in the series of flexible carpet members. In the above manner, a sealing system may be provided that further reduces leakage.

[0031] According to some embodiments, each blade member is made of stainless steel or spring steel.

[0032] The term "spring steel" as used herein refers to a steel selected from a variety of steels commonly used to make springs for suspensions in industrial and automotive applications. The characteristic of such spring steel is that it is elastic and therefore can return to its original shape even after deflection and twisting.

[0033] It should be understood that, according to other embodiments, the blade members may be made of other types of materials. For example, the blade members may be made of (but not limited to) stainless steel, iron, copper, polytetrafluoroethylene or fluoropolymers (such as Teflon). TM (Teflon TM)), plastics and composite materials such as steel with rubber tips.

[0034] An advantage of these embodiments may be that the blade member may be durable and may be mounted in a self-biased state for extended periods of time without losing the resilience to return to a planar shape, thereby maintaining the self-biased state.

[0035] According to some embodiments, each flexible carpet member is made of a self-biasing material and is arranged to be biased into engagement with the series of blade members.

[0036] An advantage of these embodiments may be that engagement of the flexible carpet member with the blade member is ensured, thereby improving the sealing effect.

[0037] According to some embodiments, there is a pressure differential across the gap, and wherein the series of flexible blanket members are arranged on a high pressure side of the series of blade members such that gas pressure on the high pressure side forces the series of flexible blanket members into engagement with the series of blade members.

[0038] It should be understood that the pressure differential generally results from underpressure within the furnace compared to the ambient pressure outside the furnace. However, in certain areas of the furnace, overpressure may exist within the furnace. By arranging the flexible blanket member on the side of the blade member facing the furnace, the pressure within the furnace can exert a force on the flexible blanket member.

[0039] An advantage of these embodiments may be that engagement of the flexible carpet member with the blade member may be ensured, thereby improving the sealing effect.

[0040] According to some embodiments, each flexible blanket member is made of a thermally insulating material and is arranged on a side of the series of blade members facing the interior of the stationary furnace.

[0041] An advantage of these embodiments may be that the flexible blanket member may protect the blade member from the heat within the furnace.By means of the present arrangement a sealing system may be provided with an extended blade member life.

[0042] According to some embodiments, each flexible blanket member is made of a ceramic fiber blanket material.

[0043] However, it is also contemplated that the flexible carpet member may be made of other types of materials. For example, the flexible carpet member may be made of, but not limited to, neoprene (i.e., polychloroprene), a woven carpet of biomass, a welded carpet, a synthetic polymer such as nylon, a woven or non-woven fiber carpet material, a gasket material made of polytetrafluoroethylene or a fluoropolymer such as that used in Teflon®. TM Made in China).

[0044] An advantage of these embodiments may be that the flexible carpet member may be durable and therefore may not need to be replaced as often.

[0045] Another advantage of these embodiments may be that the ceramic fiber blanket material is a thermally insulating material. Thus, the flexible blanket member may protect the blade member from the heat within the furnace. By this arrangement, a sealing system having an extended blade member life may be provided.

[0046] According to some embodiments, each flexible carpet member is shorter than each blade member so as to allow the second end of each blade member to directly engage the engagement surface.

[0047] The term "shorter" in this context refers to the length of the blade member. The flexible carpet member may be arranged so that the flexible carpet member does not extend all the way to the second end of the blade member. This arrangement may ensure that the second end of the blade member engages with the engagement surface.

[0048] An advantage of these embodiments may be that a good sealing effect is provided because the engagement of the blade member with the engagement surface constitutes the primary seal.

[0049] According to some embodiments, the overlap of adjacent blade members is 1% to 50% of the width of each blade member in the direction of travel, and preferably 1% to 20% of the width of each blade member, and more preferably 2% to 10% of the width of each blade member. For embodiments with more than one series of blade members, each series of blade members can have its own overlap. Thus, the overlap of adjacent blade members in a first series of blade members can be different from the overlap of adjacent blade members in the first (or other) series of blade members.

[0050] According to some embodiments, each blade member has a substantially rectangular shape, and wherein the width of each blade member in the direction of travel is 50% to 80%, and preferably 60% to 70%, of the length of each blade member in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel.

[0051] According to some embodiments, the sealing system further comprises one or more brackets attached at a first end thereof to the support structure and at a second end thereof to each blade member of the series of blade members.

[0052] The bracket may be detachably attached to the support structure. Alternatively, the bracket may be securely attached to the support structure. The blade member may be detachably attached to the bracket.

[0053] An advantage of these embodiments may be that attachment and removal of the blade members may be facilitated. By designing the bracket to select a blade member attachment method that provides easy access to the attachment means and is suitable for quick and easy attachment and removal of the blade members, a sealing system with easily replaceable blade members may be provided.

[0054] In accordance with some embodiments, each of the one or more brackets has an attachment surface to which the blade members of the series of blade members are attached, and wherein the attachment surface is angled relative to the engagement surface such that the blade members attached to the attachment surface are self-biased toward the common engagement surface.

[0055] According to some embodiments, one or more blade members of the series of blade members are semipermeable so as to allow a portion of the gas to flow through the sealing system.

[0056] It should be understood that under certain circumstances or operating conditions, a completely or at least nearly airtight sealing system may cause the temperature to rise above the desired temperature level. In other words, the sealing system may be deemed too effective. Under such circumstances or operating conditions, the temperature within the furnace may be too high, which may result in unsatisfactory pellet sintering. It is contemplated that the blade members can be tailored to allow a controlled amount of gas to escape through the seal in order to regulate the temperature.

[0057] An advantage of these embodiments may be that the temperature may be prevented from rising to excessively high temperatures.

[0058] Another advantage of these embodiments may be that optimal conditions for pellet sintering may be maintained.

[0059] According to some embodiments, the one or more blade members each have at least one through hole.

[0060] According to some embodiments, the one or more blade members are each provided with at least one indentation.

[0061] According to some embodiments, the machine further comprises a further sealing system connected to the support structure of the furnace and arranged along the direction of travel, the further sealing system being arranged to engage with the common engagement surface so as to cover the gap over at least a portion of its length, and wherein the further sealing system is arranged at a distance from the sealing system such that an elongated cavity is formed therebetween.

[0062] This alternative sealing system can be advantageous because it allows for an increase in overall sealing efficiency. Furthermore, it allows for the creation of a high-pressure zone between the sealing systems to further prevent gas from penetrating the sealing systems. This can be particularly important in situations where it is unavoidable to operate the process, or a portion of the process, of the machine at a higher pressure than the ambient pressure outside the machine. If the dual seal arrangement is purged with air or another suitable purge gas at a pressure higher than both the process and ambient external pressures, the purge gas will leak into the process and outward into the environment, effectively preventing process gases from reaching the environment.

[0063] According to some embodiments, the further sealing system comprises:

[0064] a plurality of sealing sliders, each of which has an elongated extension, the plurality of sealing sliders being distributed one after another along the travel direction to form a sealing surface;

[0065] Each of the plurality of sealing slides is slidably connected to an attachment structure of the furnace such that the sealing slides are configured to engage a common engagement surface such that the plurality of sealing slides cover the gap over at least a portion of the gap length.

[0066] The term "sealing slider" herein refers to a fixed, rigid component of a sealing system. The sealing slider may be rectangular in shape, wherein the length of the sealing slider is substantially greater than both the width and height of the sealing slider. Here, the length of the sealing slider refers to its dimension in the direction of travel of the pallet truck. By way of example only, the sealing slider may be a metal frame of the sealing system. In some embodiments, the sealing slider may be forced into engagement with the common engagement surface by gravity.

[0067] According to some embodiments, each sealing slider of the plurality of sealing sliders includes a brush extending on the elongated extension.

[0068] The term "brush" herein refers to a component of the sealing slide that includes a plurality of bristles. The bristles are arranged to provide a brush seal. The length of the bristles can be much greater than their thickness. Here, the bristle length is the dimension perpendicular to the direction of travel of the pallet truck.

[0069] According to some embodiments, the other sealing system includes an associated series of blade members that partially overlap to form a sealing surface, wherein each blade member of the associated series of blade members is connected to a support structure at a first end thereof and is self-biased into engagement with an engagement surface at an opposite second end thereof so that the associated series of blade members together cover the gap over at least a portion of the gap length.

[0070] The sealing system and the further sealing system can advantageously be combined with a further sealing system. For some embodiments, the further sealing system comprises a sealing slider of a conventional type known in the art. The sealing system and the further sealing system can advantageously be arranged outside the sealing system based on the sealing slider.

[0071] According to some embodiments, the sealing system and the further sealing system are arranged parallel to each other so as to cover the gap along a common gap width extending over at least the firing zone and the cooling zone of the furnace.

[0072] In the transition from the firing area to the cooling area, a post-firing area can be arranged. Leakage from this area can be dangerous because combustible gases from the furnace can mix with oxidants in the ambient air, creating a risk of accidental ignition.

[0073] An advantage of these embodiments may be that leakage in these areas may be minimized or eliminated, thereby minimizing the risk of accidental ignition or explosion.

[0074] Another advantage of these embodiments may be that the same sealing arrangement can be continued from the firing zone to the cooling zone, so that no gap is formed in the transition between the firing zone and the cooling zone. By this arrangement, a sealing system can be provided that minimizes gas leakage into the furnace or gas leakage out of the furnace.

[0075] Yet another advantage of these embodiments may be that the thermal load on the outermost of the two sealing systems may be reduced.

[0076] Yet another advantage of these embodiments may be that a sealing system may be arranged along the entire length of the furnace, and another sealing system may optionally be arranged only in areas where a dual sealing system may be required, such as in the firing area and the cooling area.

[0077] According to some embodiments, a gas stream is provided in an elongated cavity formed between a sealing system and another sealing system. The gas in the gas stream can be (but is not limited to) air or an inert gas (such as nitrogen) or any other suitable gas. As a non-limiting example, gas from a pressurized air supply can be supplied to the elongated cavity, or air from a cooling area can be supplied. The gas stream can be provided at a pressure higher than the pressure outside the elongated cavity so that the gas stream will be forced through the sealing system and the other sealing system.

[0078] An advantage of these embodiments is that the gas flow may cool the sealing system and the further sealing system, thereby enabling the use of higher temperatures within the furnace than would otherwise be possible in order to avoid thermal damage to the sealing system and / or the further sealing system.

[0079] According to a second aspect, there is provided a sealing system for use in a machine for heat treating bulk material,

[0080] wherein the machine comprises a stationary furnace having an attachment structure, and a plurality of pallet trucks that travel through the furnace in a direction of travel, the plurality of pallet trucks together defining a common engagement surface at lateral sides thereof that extends through the furnace in the direction of travel, wherein a gap is defined between the attachment structure of the furnace and the common engagement surface of the plurality of pallet trucks, the sealing system comprising:

[0081] a series of blade members that partially overlap to form a sealing surface; and

[0082] at least one bracket configured to be attached to an attachment structure of the furnace;

[0083] Each blade member in the series of blade members is attached to the at least one bracket at a first end thereof and is configured to self-bias into engagement with an engagement surface at an opposite second end thereof such that the series of blade members together cover the gap over at least a portion of the gap length.

[0084] The effects and features of the second aspect are largely similar to the effects and features described above in conjunction with the first aspect. The embodiments mentioned about the first aspect are compatible with the second aspect to a large extent. It should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly stated, the inventive concept relates to all possible combinations of features. From the detailed description given below, the further scope of application of the present invention will become apparent. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, when representing preferred embodiments of the present invention, are only given as illustrations, because for those skilled in the art, various changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description.

[0085] Therefore, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific components of the described devices or the steps of the described methods, as the devices and methods can vary. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. It must be noted that when used in the specification and the appended claims, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the words "a", "the" and "said" mean that there are one or more elements. Thus, for example, reference to "a unit" or "the unit" may include several devices, etc. In addition, the words "comprising", "including", "containing" and similar words do not exclude other elements or steps. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0086] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals may be used for similar elements, and in which:

[0087] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a machine for heat treating bulk materials.

[0088] Figure 1B is a cross section of a machine used for heat treatment of bulk materials.

[0089] Figures 2A to 2B A sealing system is shown comprising a series of blade members arranged to be connected to a support structure of a machine.

[0090] Figure 3 The sealing system is shown, providing some more details on the sealing function using a leaf seal concept.

[0091] Figure 4 It shows the disadvantages that would occur if a more conventional long flexible sealing member were to be used.

[0092] Figure 5A A portion of a sealing system comprising a series of blade members is shown.

[0093] Figure 5B Three overlapping blade members are shown.

[0094] Figure 6A A portion of a sealing system comprising two series of blade members and a series of flexible blanket members is shown.

[0095] Figure 6B Three overlapping blade members and a flexible carpet member are shown.

[0096] Figure 7 The part of the machine including the sealing system is shown.

[0097] Figure 8A is a perspective view of a sealing system including a sealing slider having a sealing slider structure and a brush.

[0098] Figure 8B Shown Figure 8A Front view of the sealing system shown.

[0099] Figure 8C Shown Figure 8A and Figure 8B A cross section of a sealing system is shown where the brushes form an oblique angle relative to the common engagement surface.

[0100] Figure 9 A cross section of the sealing system is shown with the brushes perpendicular to the common engagement surface.

[0101] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B An embodiment of a seal assembly is shown that includes a seal system having a series of vane members and another seal system having a seal slide.

[0102] Figures 11A to 11B An embodiment of a seal assembly is shown that includes a seal system having a series of blade members and another seal system having a seal slide including a brush.

[0103] Figure 12 An embodiment of a sealing assembly is shown that includes a sealing system including a sealing slider including a sealing slider structure and a brush, and another sealing system including a sealing slider.

[0104] Figure 13 An embodiment of a seal assembly is shown that includes a seal system and another seal system, both of which include a seal slider having a seal slider structure and a brush.

[0105] Figure 14 An embodiment of a seal assembly is shown that includes a seal system and another seal system, both of which include a respective series of blade members, and a further seal system that includes a seal slide. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0106] The present invention will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which presently preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided to be thorough and complete and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0107] The present disclosure relates to a machine for heat treating bulk materials and a sealing system for the machine. Figures 1A-1B , a machine for heat treating bulk materials will be discussed. For the sake of clarity, a number of different seal designs that can be used in conjunction with this machine will be discussed in the following sections. Figures 2A to 6B , a sealing system including a leaf seal design will be discussed. Figures 7 to 9 , a sealing system including a brush seal design will be discussed. Figures 10A to 14, sealing systems including different combinations of seal designs will be discussed.

[0108] In particular, the present disclosure relates to Figures 2A to 6B In addition, the present disclosure also relates to a double sealing system or sealing assembly, which is a combination of Figures 2A to 9 Any combination of the sealing systems discussed throughout this disclosure.

[0109] Figure 1A to Figure 1B A portion of a machine 100 for heat treating bulk material (e.g., metal ore) is shown. However, it should be understood that only a portion of the machine 100 is shown in the figures, and thus the machine 100 may include more features than discussed herein. The machine 100 may be any machine known in the art for heat treating bulk material.

[0110] The machine 100 comprises a stationary furnace 10 configured to process bulk material. In this context, processing material means using the stationary furnace 10 to dry, heat or cool the bulk material.

[0111] The machine 100 also includes a plurality of pallet trucks 12. The pallet trucks 12 are configured to transport bulk material through the stationary furnace 10. The pallet trucks 12 travel through the stationary furnace 10 on a set of guide rails (not shown). The pallet trucks 12 travel through the stationary furnace 10 along a travel direction TD. The travel direction TD extends along a substantially horizontal direction.

[0112] The pallet truck 12 is provided with holes on the bottom plate for receiving the gas flow through the bottom plate. Figure 1A to Figure 1B Although not shown, the machine 100 includes an arrangement located below the tracks of the pallet truck 12 that generates a flow of hot air or gas by suction, passing over the bulk material and the pallet truck 12. This arrangement may be, but is not limited to, a wind box. Furthermore, the generation of the gas or air flow may alternatively be used to cool the bulk material in other parts of the machine 100.

[0113] The stationary furnace 10 has a support structure 16. The support structure 16 is a stable and fixed component of the furnace 10 that is located on either lateral side of the furnace 10. The support structure 16 is arranged so that when a plurality of pallet trucks 12 travel through the furnace 10, the lateral sides of the pallet trucks 12 pass adjacent to the support structure 16. The support structure 16, together with the pallet trucks 12, defines a portion of the boundary between the interior of the furnace 10 and the ambient air.

[0114] The plurality of pallet trucks 12 together define a common engagement surface 14. The common engagement surface 14 extends through the stationary furnace 10 along the direction of travel TD. The common engagement surface 14 and the support structure 16 of the furnace 10 together define a gap 18 therebetween. The gap 18 has a gap length L along the direction of travel that extends through the stationary furnace 10 along the direction of travel TD.

[0115] The machine 100 also includes a sealing system ( Figures 1A-1B The sealing system is configured to seal the gap defined between the common joining surface 14 and the support structure 16 to prevent gas, droplets and / or particulate matter from passing through the gap 18. Figures 2A to 11B The sealing system is discussed in more detail.

[0116] Figure 2A A sealing system 200 is shown which is arranged to be connected to the support structure 16 of the machine 100. Figure 1A to Figure 1B As discussed, a gap 18 is defined between the support structure 16 of the furnace 10 and the common engagement surface 14 of the plurality of pallet trucks 12. The purpose of the sealing system 200 is to seal the gap 18 between the support structure 16 and the common engagement surface 14 to prevent gases, droplets and / or particulate matter from passing through the gap 18. In this example embodiment, the sealing system 200 includes a series 210 of blade members 212 that partially overlap to form a sealing surface. The blade members 212 in this embodiment have a rectangular shape, however, it is contemplated that the blade members in other embodiments may have different shapes. The sealing system 200 of this embodiment also includes a plurality of brackets 220. In Figure 2A , two brackets 220 are shown, but it should be understood that only a portion of the machine 100 is shown and, therefore, the number of brackets 220 in the entire machine 100 may be different. Each bracket 220 includes an attachment surface 222 on which the first end 214 of each blade member 212 is connected to the bracket 220. In addition, the brackets 220 are attached to the support structure 16. In this example embodiment, the attachment surface 222 of each bracket 220 is angled relative to the engagement surface 14. The angled attachment surface 222 provides self-biasing of the blade member 212 attached thereto toward the common engagement surface 14. The angled attachment surface 222 can form an angle of 10 to 50 degrees relative to the common engagement surface. However, larger or smaller angles are also contemplated.

[0117] The blade members of the present disclosure, such as blade member 212, can be made of thin spring steel. A characteristic of such spring steel is that it is resilient, so that despite deflection and distortion, it can return to its original shape. However, the blade members of the present disclosure can alternatively be made of other types of materials. For example, the blade members can be made of, but are not limited to, stainless steel, iron, copper, polytetrafluoroethylene, or a fluoropolymer (such as that used in Teflon). TM Made of plastic, and composite materials such as steel with rubber tips.

[0118] like Figure 2A As shown, the originally planar blade members 212 are curved due to the angled attachment surfaces 222, so that the second end 216 of each blade member 212, which engages the engagement surface 14, is urged against the engagement surface 14 by the spring force of the blade members 212. By this arrangement, the gap 18 between the support structure 16 and the common engagement surface 14 is covered and thereby sealed, thereby preventing the ingress of gases, liquid droplets and / or particulate matter from the interior of the furnace into the ambient air, and vice versa.

[0119] Figure 2B Shown from different perspectives Figure 2A Same sealing system 200. In addition to what has been discussed above, Figure 2B It is also shown that a significant portion of the length of each blade member 212 is arranged in a manner that overlaps the common engagement surface 14. As multiple pallet trucks 12 travel through the furnace, the edge 218 of the second end 216 of each blade member 212 may wear. If the blade members 212 were arranged in a planar manner, the wear of the edge 218 would eventually lead to a loss of contact between the blade members 212 and the common engagement surface 14, thereby compromising the seal across the gap 18. However, because the blade members 212 are arranged to self-bias into engagement with the common engagement surface 14, the resilience of each blade member 212 pushes the second end 216 of the blade members 212 toward the common engagement surface 14 even if the edge 218 wears. With this arrangement, contact between the blade members 212 and the common engagement surface 14 is maintained, thereby ensuring a continuous seal.

[0120] Figure 3A sealing system 200 is shown, providing some further detail on the sealing function using the concept of a vane seal. A problem with sealing the gap 18 between the common engagement surface 14 and the support structure 16 can be that the engagement surfaces 14a, 14b, 14c of the various pallet trucks 12 (the pallet trucks are not shown in this figure) can shift vertically relative to one another. This shifting can be due to slight differences in the manufacture of the pallet trucks 12, or more likely, the pallet trucks 12 can sag over time, due in part to a combination of the heavy loads carried and the harsh environment and extreme temperatures in the furnace 10. Figure 3 , where the respective engagement surfaces 14a, 14b, 14c have different vertical positions. The blade member 212 is arranged to be in good physical contact with the flat engagement surfaces 14a, 14b, 14c. However, at the transition from one engagement surface 14a to another engagement surface 14b, the common surface is no longer flat due to the difference in vertical position. Therefore, due to the elasticity of the material from which the blade member 212 is made, the blade member 212 deforms to accommodate the shifted structure of the surface. Figure 3 , it is shown that deformation primarily occurs at the transition portion of each blade member 212, while adjacent blade members 212 are largely unaffected by the transition portion and thus maintain contact with the engagement surfaces 14a, 14b, 14c. This arrangement only creates a small gap 30 at the transition portion due to deformation of a single blade member 212. Therefore, differences in the vertical position of the pallet truck 12 may result in only minimal leakage, maintaining a high sealing efficiency.

[0121] Figure 4 This illustrates the disadvantages that would arise if a more conventional long flexible sealing member 210' were to be used. Figure 3 The present invention describes a situation in which the engagement surfaces 14 of the individual pallet trucks 12 are displaced vertically relative to one another. Because the long flexible sealing member 210' is continuous, it is affected by the displacement not only near the transitions between the individual pallet trucks 12, but also along a larger portion of the common engagement surface 14. This can result in a significantly larger gap 30' between the long flexible sealing member 210' and the common engagement surface 14, thereby resulting in significantly greater leakage through the seal compared to a sealing system 200 based on a series 210 of blade members 212.

[0122] Now return to reference Figure 3 , shows another situation that may occur in the sealing system of the machine 100 for heat treating bulk material, namely that the pellets may sometimes get stuck under the seal. Figure 3, a pellet 20 is shown trapped between a series 210 of blade members 212 and a single engagement surface 14b. The trapped pellet 20 can lift some of the blade members 212, causing them to deform and bend upward. This deformation primarily occurs in the individual blade members 212 in contact with the pellet 20, while adjacent blade members 212 remain largely unaffected by the trapped pellet 20 and thus maintain contact with the engagement surfaces 14a, 14b, and 14c. Similar to the transitions between individual pallet trucks 12, this arrangement only creates a small gap 40 near the pellet 20 due to deformation of one or a few individual blade members 212. Consequently, a trapped pellet 20 can only cause minimal leakage, maintaining a high sealing efficiency.

[0123] Figure 5A The sealing system 200 is shown viewed along the direction of travel TD. The blade member 212 is shown connected to the bracket 220 by means of a bolt 224 and nut 226 arrangement. The bolt 224 is inserted into a through hole in the bracket 220 and into a through hole 217 in the blade member 212. The nut 226 is tightened onto the other end of the bolt 224, thereby attaching the blade member 212 to the bracket 220. To simplify replacement of individual blade members, the bolt 224 can be pre-welded to the bracket 220. It should be understood that other means for connecting the blade member 212 to the bracket 220 are also contemplated.

[0124] exist Figure 5A , it is further shown that the bracket 220 includes an attachment surface 222 on which the blade member 212 is connected to the bracket 220. The attachment surface 222 is angled relative to the engagement surface 14. The present arrangement provides the blade member 212 with a curvature that is due to the elasticity of the material from which the blade member 212 is made, resulting in a self-biased condition that urges the second end 216 of the blade member 212 toward the engagement surface 14.

[0125] Figure 5B Three blade members 212a, 212b, 212c are shown viewed along a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel TD. The three blade members 212a, 212b, 212c partially overlap, such that the through hole 217 of the blade member 212a coincides with the through hole 217 of the adjacent blade member 212b, and so on. The ratio of overlap may be different in different embodiments. Figure 5B In the present embodiment shown, the blade member 212a typically overlaps the subsequent blade member 212b by less than 50%.

[0126] Figure 6AThe sealing system 300 is shown viewed along the direction of travel TD. The sealing system includes brackets 220, each bracket 220 having an attachment surface 222. A first series 310 of blade members 312 are connected to the attachment surface 222. In the first series 310 of blade members 312, the blade members 312 partially overlap to form a sealing surface. It should be understood that the blade members 312 of the first series 310 can be the same type as the blade members 212 of the series 210 in the sealing system 200, or they can be of a different type.

[0127] In addition, the sealing system 300 includes a series 330 of flexible blanket members 332. Each flexible blanket member 332 in the series 330 of flexible blanket members 332 is connected to the bracket at a first end 334 of the flexible blanket member 332. The series 330 of flexible blanket members 332 are positioned adjacent to the first series 310 of blade members 312 so as to cover the overlapping edges of adjacent blade members 312. The flexible blanket members of the present disclosure may be made of, but are not limited to, neoprene (i.e., neoprene), a welded blanket of woven blanket biomass, a synthetic polymer (e.g., nylon), a woven or non-woven fiber blanket material, a gasket material made of polytetrafluoroethylene or a fluoropolymer (e.g., Teflon) or the like. TM Made in China).

[0128] In addition, the sealing system 300 includes a second series 340 of blade members 342. Each blade member 342 in the series 340 of blade members 342 is connected to the bracket at a first end 344 of the blade member 342. It should be understood that the blade members 342 of the second series 340 can be the same type as the blade members 312 of the first series 310, or they can be a different type. The blade members 342 of the second series 340 are positioned adjacent to the series 330 of flexible blanket members 332 on a side opposite the blade members 312 of the first series 310 so as to sandwich the series 330 of flexible blanket members 332 between the first series 310 and the second series 340.

[0129] The blade members 312, 342 and the flexible blanket member 332 are shown connected to the bracket 220 by means of a bolt 224 and a nut 226 arrangement. The bolt 224 is inserted into a through hole in the bracket 220 and into the through hole 317 of the blade members 312, 342 and the flexible blanket member 332. The nut 226 is tightened onto the other end of the bolt 224, thereby attaching the blade members 312, 342 and the flexible blanket member 332 to the bracket 220. To simplify replacement of the individual blade members, the bolt 224 can be pre-welded to the bracket 220. It should be understood that other means for connecting the blade members 312, 342 and the flexible blanket member 332 to the bracket 220 are also contemplated.

[0130] exist Figure 6A , the bracket 220 is further shown to include an attachment surface 222 at which the blade members 312, 342 and the flexible blanket member 332 are connected to the bracket 220. The attachment surface 222 is angled relative to the engagement surface 14. This arrangement provides the blade members 312, 342 and the flexible blanket member 332 with a curvature due to the elasticity of the material from which they are made, resulting in a self-biased state that urges the second ends 316, 336, 346 toward the engagement surface 14. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the flexible blanket member 332 is shorter than the blade members 312, 342, such that the flexible blanket member 332 does not extend to the edge 318 of the second end 316 of the blade member 312. This arrangement allows the second end 316 of the blade member 312 to directly engage the common engagement surface 14. An advantage of the present invention is that it provides a good sealing effect because the blade member 312 is ensured to engage the common engagement surface 14, which constitutes the primary seal.

[0131] Figure 6B Three blade members 312a, 312b, 312c are shown viewed along a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel TD. The three blade members 312a, 312b, 312c partially overlap, such that the through hole 317 of the blade member 312a coincides with the through hole 317 of the adjacent blade member 312b, and so on. The ratio of overlap may be different in different embodiments. Figure 6B It is shown that in this embodiment, the blade member 312a overlaps the subsequent blade member 312b by typically less than 50%. Compared to these three blade members 312a, 312b, 312c, Figure 6B Also shown is a flexible blanket member 332. Figure 6A As explained, the flexible carpet member 332 is also connected by the bolt 224 and nut 226 arrangement and using the through hole 317 in the flexible carpet member. In this embodiment, the flexible carpet member 332 is wider than the blade members 312 so that the flexible carpet member 332 covers the three blade members 312a, 312b, 312c.

[0132] Figure 7 The sealing system 400 is shown arranged to be connected to the support structure 16 of the machine 100. Figures 8A to 8C The sealing system 400 is also shown separately. In this example embodiment, the sealing system 400 includes a sealing member having an elongated extension 401 (e.g., Figure 8A The sealing slider 402 is arranged along the travel direction TD to form a sealing surface S (as shown). Figure 8A However, it should be understood that due to the Figure 74. Only a portion of the sealing system 400 is shown in FIG. 4, so the sealing system 400 may include more than one sealing slider 402. If the sealing system 400 includes more than one sealing slider 402, the more than one sealing slider 402 are distributed one after another along the travel direction TD to form a sealing surface S.

[0133] The sealing slider 402 includes a sealing slider structure 404 and a brush 406, wherein the brush includes a plurality of bristles 407 (such as Figure 8A ). The brush 406 is carried by the sealing slider structure 404 such that the brush 406 is configured to engage the common engagement surface 14 of the pallet truck 12. In this example embodiment, the brush 406 is forced into engagement with the common engagement surface 14 by gravity. However, other engagement means are contemplated, such as biasing by, for example, a spring. Figure 8C and Figure 9 The attachment of the brushes to the sealing slider structure is discussed further.

[0134] The seal slide structure 404 includes a connection device 410 for connecting the sealing system 400 to the machine 100. Figure 8A and Figure 8B As best shown in FIG. 4 , in this exemplary embodiment, the sealing slider structure 404 includes four connecting devices 410, but it should be understood that since only a portion of the machine 100 and the sealing system 400 are shown in the figure, the sealing slider structure 404 may include any number of connecting devices 410. The connecting devices of the sealing slider are well known in the art and may be implemented, for example, by engagement between a pin 411 and an elongated opening 413, as shown in FIG. Figure 8A shown.

[0135] The sealing slide arrangement 404 and the brush 406 together form a sealing surface S that covers the gap 18 over at least a portion of the gap length L.

[0136] Figure 8A Seal system 400 is shown separately and further details are provided. Seal system 400 includes a seal slider 402, wherein seal slider 402 includes a seal slider structure 404 and a brush 406. In this example embodiment, seal slider 402 also includes a brush holder 416 configured to hold brush 406. A fastening plate 420 is configured to clamp brush holder 416 toward seal slider structure 404. Fastening plate 420 is clamped toward seal slider structure 404 by means of screws or bolts 422. Figure 8A It is further shown how the brushes 406 are configured to engage with the common engagement surface 14 (here shown by surfaces 14a and 14b of two adjacent pallet trucks) of the pallet truck 12. In this example embodiment, it is further shown that the brushes 406 extend over the elongated extension 401 to form a sealing surface S.

[0137] A problem with sealing the gap 18 between the common engagement surface 14 and the support structure 16 can be that the engagement surfaces 14a, 14b of the various pallet trucks 12 (the pallet trucks are not shown in this figure) can shift vertically relative to each other. This shifting can be due to slight variations in the manufacturing of the pallet trucks 12, or more likely, the pallet trucks 12 can sag over time, due in part to a combination of the heavy loads they carry and the harsh environment and extreme temperatures within the furnace. Figure 8A Such a vertical displacement is shown in , where the respective engagement surfaces 14a, 14b (respective pallet trucks) have different vertical positions. The bristles 407 of the brush 406 are arranged to be in good physical contact with the flat engagement surfaces 14a, 14b. However, at the transition from one engagement surface 14a to the other engagement surface 14b, the surfaces are no longer flat due to the difference in vertical position and, therefore, due to the elasticity of the material from which the bristles 407 of the brush 406 are made, they deform to adapt to the offset structure of the surface. Figure 8A As shown in FIG, the deformation occurs primarily at one or more bristles located at such a transition, independent of adjacent bristles. Adjacent bristles are largely unaffected by the transition and therefore remain in contact with the engagement surfaces 14a, 14b. This arrangement creates only a small gap 412 at the transition, caused by the deformation of one or more bristles of the brush 406. Consequently, differences in the vertical position of the pallet truck may result in only minimal leakage, maintaining a high sealing efficiency.

[0138] Figure 8B Shown Figure 8A In addition to what has been discussed above, Figure 8B It is shown that each connection device 410 is arranged at a certain distance from each other. In this exemplary embodiment, each connection device 410 is arranged at the same distance from each other, but it should be understood that each connection device 410 can also be arranged at different distances from each other.

[0139] Figure 8C The sealing system 400 is shown viewed along the direction of travel TD. In addition to the above discussion, Figure 8CDetailed description is provided of how the brush 406 is carried by the seal slider structure 404 by means of a dedicated brush holder 416. The brush holder 416 has an upper extension and is arranged to be sandwiched between the seal slider structure 404 and the securing plate 420. The lower end of the brush holder 416 is shaped to partially surround the brush 406 to hold the brush 406 in a secure grip. In this exemplary embodiment, the brush element 409 is shaped to be held in a secure position by the brush holder 416. The brush holder 416 is secured relative to the seal slider structure 404 so that the brush 406 protrudes from the bottom end of the seal slider structure 404 toward the common engagement surface 14 so that the brush 406 engages the common engagement surface 14. This defines a clearance 418 between the seal slider structure 404 and the common engagement surface 14. As shown, the gap 418 is covered by the brush 406, and the resilient nature of the brush 406 allows the seal slide 402 to maintain a more effective seal than a seal slide without the brush.

[0140] The brush holder 416 is arranged such that the brush 406 forms an oblique angle a with the common engagement surface 14. This angle may preferably be in the range of 20-40 degrees, but may alternatively be smaller or larger.

[0141] Figure 9 A sealing system 500 is shown according to an alternative embodiment. The sealing system 500 has many Figures 8A to 8B , namely, a sealing slider 502 comprising a sealing slider structure 504 and a brush 506. However, in this example embodiment, the sealing slider structure 504 further comprises a recess 514 for receiving the brush 506. In this embodiment, the fastening plate 520 is received in another recess 515 in the sealing slider structure 504. In this way, the sealing slider structure 504 and the fastening plate 520 will have upper surfaces that are flush with each other. Figure 9 As shown, a brush 506 comprising a brush element 509 and bristles 507 can be clamped toward the sealing slide structure 504 using bolts or screws 522. The brush 506 is arranged relative to the sealing slide structure 504 so that the bristles 507 of the brush 506 are directed perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the common engagement surface 14.

[0142] like Figure 8C That way, Figure 9 A gap 418 is shown between the seal slider structure 504 and the common engagement surface 14 , so the brush 506 is the component of the sealing system 500 that engages the common engagement surface 14 .

[0143] Figure 8C and Figure 9Two different example embodiments of a brush-based sealing system according to the present disclosure are shown, wherein the brushes 406, 506 are arranged in different manners. However, it should be understood that these embodiments are merely examples and the arrangement of the brushes is not limited to these embodiments. Thus, for example, the brushes can be angled in any direction toward or away from the sealing slider structure, but can also be along the sealing slider structure. Alternative embodiments can include a sealing slider having two or more brushes arranged parallel to each other. For example, in one embodiment, the sealing slider includes two brushes arranged on opposite sides of the sealing slider, wherein each brush forms a corresponding oblique angle with a common engagement surface.

[0144] Figures 10A to 14 Different embodiments of a sealing system are shown, which is arranged in parallel with another sealing system to define a sealing assembly of a machine.

[0145] The other sealing system may be about Figures 2A to 9 Any of the sealing systems discussed herein, or alternatively another sealing system not disclosed herein. The other sealing system is connected to the support structure 16 of the furnace 10 and is arranged along the travel direction TD. The purpose of the other sealing system is to seal the gap 18 between the support structure 16 and the common joint surface 14 to prevent gas, droplets and / or particulate matter from passing through the gap 18. The other sealing system is arranged at a distance from the other sealing system, thereby forming an elongated cavity.

[0146] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B An embodiment of a sealing assembly 600 is shown which comprises a sealing system 200 arranged parallel to a sealing system 70, which is shown arranged to be connected to the support structure 16 of the machine 100. The sealing system 70 comprises a sealing slide 60 of a conventional type well known in the art. The sealing system 70 is slidably connected to the support structure in a manner similar to that already described herein. The sealing system 70 is arranged at the interior side of the furnace 10 at a distance from the sealing system 200 such that an elongated cavity 650 is formed between the two sealing systems 70, 200. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that although shown here as a sealing system 200, the sealing system may alternatively be a sealing system according to Figures 6A to 6B The sealing system 300 of the embodiment disclosed in FIG.

[0147] Figures 11A to 11B An embodiment of a sealing assembly 700 is shown that includes a sealing system 200 parallel to the sealing system 400 previously disclosed herein. For the sealing assembly 700, the two sealing systems 200, 400 are arranged parallel to each other along the direction of travel TD. The sealing system 400 includes the sealing system 200 as previously disclosed with reference to FIG. Figures 7 to 8A-8C discloses in detail a sealing slide 402 comprising a sealing slide structure 404 and a brush 406. The sealing system 400 is slidably connected to the support structure 16 via each sealing slide structure 404. The sealing system 400 is arranged at an inner side of the furnace 10 at a distance from the sealing system 200, so that an elongated cavity 750 is formed between the two sealing systems 200, 400. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the sealing system shown here as the sealing system 200 may alternatively be a sealing system according to Figures 6A to 6B Similarly, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the sealing system shown here as sealing system 400 may alternatively be a sealing system according to the embodiment disclosed in FIG. Figure 9 The sealing system 500 of the embodiment disclosed in FIG.

[0148] Figure 12 An embodiment of a seal assembly 800 of the sealing system 400 is shown in parallel with the sealing system 70 , shown arranged to be connected to the support structure 16 of the machine 100 .

[0149] The sealing system 400 includes Figure 7 and Figures 8A to 8C 4. The embodiment of the sealing system disclosed in FIG. 4 includes a sealing slider 402, which includes a sealing slider structure 404 and a brush 406. The sealing system 70 includes a sealing slider 60 of a conventional type known in the art. Thus, the primary difference between the sealing system 70 and the sealing system 400 is that the sealing system 70 does not have a brush.

[0150] The sealing system 70 is arranged at an interior side of the furnace 10 at a distance from the sealing system 400 such that an elongated cavity 850 is formed between the two sealing systems 70, 400. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the sealing system 400 and the sealing system 70 can be arranged in an opposite manner such that the sealing system 400 is arranged facing the pallet truck 12 and the sealing system 70 is arranged at an opposite side facing the interior of the furnace 10. The sealing system 400 is connected to a first side of the support structure 16 and the sealing system 70 is connected to a second side of the support structure 16 opposite the first side such that the sealing system 400 and the sealing system 70 face each other. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that although shown here as the sealing system 400, the sealing system may alternatively be according to Figure 9 The sealing system 500 of the embodiment disclosed in FIG.

[0151] Figure 13An embodiment of a sealing assembly 900 of a sealing system 400a is shown in parallel with another sealing system 400b, shown arranged to be connected to the support structure 16 of the machine 100. In this example embodiment, the sealing systems 400a and 400b are similar to the sealing system 400, which includes a sealing assembly 900 according to Figures 7 to 8A -8C discloses a sealing slider 402 of an embodiment of a sealing system, which includes a sealing slider structure 404 and a brush 406. Sealing system 400a is connected to a first side of support structure 16, while sealing system 400b is connected to a second side of support structure 16 opposite the first side, such that sealing system 400a and sealing system 400b face each other. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that although shown here as sealing system 400, any of the sealing systems may alternatively be based on Figure 9 The sealing system 500 of the embodiment disclosed in FIG.

[0152] Figure 14 An embodiment of a sealing assembly 1000 of a sealing system 200 is shown in parallel with another sealing system 200', shown arranged to be connected to a support structure 16 of a machine 100. In this example embodiment, the sealing system 200 and the sealing system 200' are of similar type. In particular, the sealing system 200 and the sealing system 200' both comprise blade members 212, 212' of a respective series 210, 210', which blade members respectively partially overlap to form a respective sealing surface. The bracket 220' differs from the bracket 220 in that the bracket 220' provides a respective attachment surface 222, 222' for each blade member 212, 212' of the series 210, 210'. A cavity 1050 is formed between the two sealing systems 200, 200'. As Figure 14 As shown, seal assembly 1000 also includes a seal system 70 based on a conventional seal slider 60. Thus, for seal assembly 1000, another cavity 1050' is formed between seal system 70 and seal system 200. Seal systems 200 and 200' may share common features, such as the shape and structure of blade members 212, 212'. However, it is also contemplated that seal systems 200 and 200' may differ from one another in one or more ways.

[0153] pass Figures 10A to 14The embodiments disclosed in

[15] further improve sealing. This is advantageous in the firing and cooling areas of the machine 100, particularly in the transition between them (referred to as the post-firing area), where the risk of leakage can otherwise be high. Leakage in this area can be dangerous, as combustible gases from the furnace 10 can mix with oxidants from the ambient air, creating the risk of accidental ignition. Therefore, minimizing leakage in these areas is of particular concern.

[0154] Furthermore, with this arrangement the innermost sealing system can protect the outermost sealing system from excessive thermal loads.

[0155] In addition, the elongated cavities 650, 750, 850, 950, 1050, 1050' between the sealing systems can be provided with a gas flow to reduce the high temperatures. With this arrangement, the sealing systems can be cooled by the gas, thereby enabling the use of higher temperatures within the furnace than would otherwise be possible in order to avoid thermal damage to the sealing systems.

[0156] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention is by no means limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, numerous modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and implemented by a skilled artisan in practicing the invention from a study of the drawings, the present disclosure, and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A machine for heat treating bulk material, comprising: a stationary furnace having a supporting structure; as well as a plurality of pallet trucks traveling through the furnace in a direction of travel, the plurality of pallet trucks together defining at their lateral sides a common engagement surface extending through the furnace in the direction of travel, wherein a gap is defined between the support structure of the furnace and the common engagement surface of the plurality of pallet trucks, the gap having a gap length along the direction of travel, the machine further comprising: Sealing system, including: a first series of blade members that partially overlap to form a sealing surface, wherein each blade member of the first series of blade members is connected to the support structure at a first end thereof and is self-biased into engagement with the engagement surface at an opposing second end thereof such that the first series of blade members together cover the gap over at least a portion of the gap length; a series of flexible carpet members, wherein each flexible carpet member of the series of flexible carpet members is connected to the support structure at a first end thereof and is positioned adjacent to the first series of blade members to cover overlapping edges of adjacent blade members; and a second series of blade members, wherein each blade member of the second series of blade members is connected to the support structure at a first end thereof and is arranged on an opposite side of the series of flexible blanket members relative to the first series of blade members so as to sandwich the series of flexible blanket members between the first and second series of blade members.

2. The machine of claim 1 , wherein adjacent flexible carpet members in the series of flexible carpet members partially overlap.

3. The machine of claim 1 , wherein each flexible carpet member extends over at least three blade members.

4. The machine of claim 1, wherein each blade member is made of stainless steel or spring steel.

5. The machine of claim 1 , wherein each flexible carpet member is made of a self-biasing material and is arranged to be biased into engagement with the first series of blade members.

6. The machine of claim 1 , wherein a pressure differential exists across the gap, and wherein the series of flexible blanket members are disposed on a high pressure side of the first series of blade members such that gas pressure on the high pressure side forces the series of flexible blanket members into engagement with the first series of blade members.

7. The machine of claim 1, wherein each flexible blanket member is made of a thermally insulating material and is arranged on a side of the first series of blade members facing the interior of the stationary furnace.

8. The machine of claim 7, wherein each flexible blanket member is made of a ceramic fiber blanket material.

9. The machine of claim 1, wherein each flexible blanket member is shorter than each blade member to allow the second end of each blade member to directly engage the engagement surface.

10. The machine of claim 1, wherein the overlap of adjacent blade members is from 1% to 50% of the width of each blade member in the direction of travel.

11. The machine of claim 10, wherein the overlap of adjacent blade members is from 1% to 20% of the width of each blade member in the direction of travel.

12. The machine of claim 11, wherein the overlap of adjacent blade members is from 2% to 10% of the width of each blade member in the direction of travel.

13. The machine of claim 1, wherein each blade member has a rectangular shape, and wherein a width of each blade member in the direction of travel is 50% to 80% of a length of each blade member in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel.

14. The machine of claim 13, wherein the width of each blade member in the direction of travel is 60% to 70% of the length of each blade member in a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel.

15. The machine of claim 1, wherein the sealing system further comprises one or more brackets attached at a first end thereof to the support structure and at a second end thereof to each blade member of the first series of blade members.

16. The machine of claim 15 , wherein each of the one or more brackets has an attachment surface to which blade members of the first series of blade members are attached, and wherein the attachment surface is angled relative to the engagement surface to provide self-biasing of the blade members to which they are attached toward the common engagement surface.

17. The machine of claim 1 further comprising a further sealing system connected to the support structure of the furnace and arranged along the direction of travel, the further sealing system being arranged to engage with the common engagement surface so as to cover the gap over at least a portion of the gap length, and wherein the further sealing system is arranged at a distance from the sealing system so as to form an elongated cavity therebetween.

18. The machine of claim 17, wherein the further sealing system comprises: a plurality of sealing sliders, distributed one after another along the travel direction to form a sealing surface; Each of the plurality of sealing slides is slidably connected to a support structure of the furnace, whereby the sealing slides are configured to engage the common engagement surface such that the plurality of sealing slides cover the gap over at least a portion of the gap length.

19. The machine of claim 18, wherein each of the plurality of sealing slides includes a brush configured to engage the common engagement surface.

20. A machine according to claim 17, wherein the other sealing system includes an associated series of blade members, which partially overlap to form a sealing surface, and wherein each blade member of the associated series of blade members is connected to the support structure at a first end thereof and is self-biased into engagement with the engagement surface at an opposite second end thereof so that the associated series of blade members together cover the gap over at least a portion of the gap length.

21. The machine of claim 17, wherein the sealing system and the further sealing system are arranged parallel to each other so as to cover the gap along a common gap width extending over at least a firing zone and a cooling zone of the furnace.

22. A sealing system for use in a machine for heat treating bulk material, wherein the machine comprises a stationary furnace having a support structure, and a plurality of pallet trucks that travel through the furnace in a direction of travel, the plurality of pallet trucks together defining at their lateral sides a common engagement surface extending through the furnace in the direction of travel, wherein a gap is defined between the support structure of the furnace and the common engagement surface of the plurality of pallet trucks, the sealing system comprising: a first series of blade members that partially overlap to form a sealing surface; at least one bracket configured to be attachable to a support structure of the furnace, wherein each blade member of the first series of blade members is attached to the at least one bracket at a first end thereof and is configured to self-bias into engagement with the engagement surface at an opposing second end thereof such that the first series of blade members together cover the gap over at least a portion of its length; a series of flexible carpet members, wherein each flexible carpet member of the series of flexible carpet members is connected to the support structure at a first end thereof and is positioned adjacent to the first series of blade members to cover overlapping edges of adjacent blade members; as well as a second series of blade members, wherein each blade member of the second series of blade members is connected to the support structure at a first end thereof and is arranged on an opposite side of the series of flexible blanket members relative to the first series of blade members so as to sandwich the series of flexible blanket members between the first and second series of blade members.

Images