Sealing system for machines used for heat treatment of bulk materials

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a machine for heat treating bulk materials, the machine comprising: a stationary furnace having a support structure, and a plurality of pallet trolleys traveling through the furnace in a direction of travel, the plurality of pallet trolleys together defining a common engagement surface extending through the furnace on their lateral sides, 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: one or more sealing sliders, wherein each of the one or more sealing sliders includes a brush arranged on the sealing slider such that the brush is configured to engage with the common engagement surface such that the one or more sealing sliders cover at least a portion of the gap length.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a machine for heat treating bulk materials. More specifically, this disclosure also relates to a sealing system for use in a machine for heat treating bulk materials. Background Technology

[0002] Machines for heat-treating bulk materials (e.g., sintering or pelletizing systems) are known in the art. These machines are configured to convert bulk materials 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 multiple pallet cars arranged to transport the bulk material into the furnace. These machines include different heating and cooling zones, and the pallet cars are arranged to transport the bulk material through different zones of the machine, thereby producing hardened pellets.

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

[0004] To address this issue, US patent application US2293904 A proposes maintaining a sealing system with a drop bar sealing design between the traveling grate and the gas collecting hood. The drop bar sealing design defines a continuous groove along the side of the traveling grate for venting dust from the hood. US patent application US20150233641 A1 proposes maintaining a sealing system with a spring-loaded sealing strip in contact with a planar sealing surface arranged along the furnace. However, while solutions disclosed by US1183394A and US20150233641A1 exist, improvements in sealing efficiency and durability are needed in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to alleviate, mitigate, or eliminate one or more of the aforementioned defects and disadvantages in the art, either alone or in any combination, and to at least solve the aforementioned problems.

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

[0007] A stationary furnace, which has a supporting structure; and

[0008] Multiple pallet trucks, traveling along a direction of travel, pass through the furnace, the multiple pallet trucks together defining a common mating surface on their lateral sides, the common mating surface extending along the direction of travel through the furnace.

[0009] A gap is defined between the furnace support structure and the common engagement surface of the plurality of pallet carts, the gap having a length along the direction of travel. The machine also includes:

[0010] Sealing system, including:

[0011] One or more sealing sliders are distributed sequentially among each other along the direction of travel;

[0012] Each of the one or more sealing sliders includes a brush disposed on the sealing slider such that the brush is configured to engage with a common engagement surface so that the one or more sealing sliders cover at least a portion of the gap length.

[0013] The term "massive material" as used herein refers to any metallic ore. By way of non-limiting example, massive material can be iron ore, copper ore, zinc ore, phosphate ore, or any other metallic or non-metallic mineral ore commonly processed in the mining industry.

[0014] The term "machine for performing heat treatment" herein refers to any machine that performs any type of treatment involving raising the temperature of a bulk material. The heat treatment can be (but is not limited to) granulation or sintering. For example, the bulk material can be filled into a pallet trolley, which then travels along tracks through a furnace. The furnace may include one or more processing zones. Each processing zone is suited to a specific heat treatment process for the bulk material. As a non-limiting example, heat treatment in different zones may include heating, burning, drying, or cooling the bulk material. The machine may include one or more windboxes arranged in the zone of the furnace, below the tracks of the pallet trolley, and generating a flow of hot air or hot gas passing over the bulk material above the pallet trolley by suction. The machine may be a straight grate furnace.

[0015] The term "support structure" in this document refers to a stable and fixed component within the 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 the furnace wall or a metal frame. Here, the support structure serves to support one or more components of the sealing system.

[0016] The term "sealing slider" refers herein to a fixed, rigid component of a sealing system. The sealing slider may be rectangular in shape, with its length significantly greater than its width and height. Here, the length of the sealing slider refers to its dimension in the direction of travel of the pallet trolley. By way of example only, the sealing slider may be a metal frame of the sealing system. The one or more sealing sliders may be sequentially distributed relative to each other along the direction of travel to form a sealing surface. Each of the one or more sealing sliders may have an elongated extension. Each of the one or more sealing sliders may be aligned such that the elongated extension is parallel to the direction of travel. Each of the one or more sealing sliders may be slidably connected to a support structure of the furnace. Preferably, each sealing slider is slidably connected to the support structure such that the sealing slider is displaceable in a vertical or substantially vertical direction. This means that each sealing slider can be displaced in a direction transverse to the common engagement surface. In some embodiments, the sealing slider may be forced to engage with the common engagement surface by gravity.

[0017] The term "brush" in this document refers to a component of the sealing slider that includes multiple bristles. The bristles are arranged to provide a brush seal. The length of the bristles can be much greater than their thickness. Here, the length of the bristles is a dimension perpendicular to the direction of travel of the pallet truck.

[0018] This sealing system can be advantageous because it seals the gap between the furnace support structure and the common mating surface of the pallet trolley, which appears when the pallet trolley travels through the furnace in the direction of travel. The sealing system can cover at least a portion of the gap length, preventing dust escape and preventing cross-flowing air from entering the hot gas. The sealing system according to this disclosure is particularly advantageous because it combines any conventional sealing slider design with a brush, thus providing a more effective and durable seal compared to conventional arrangements.

[0019] Another advantage of the sealing system disclosed herein is that it achieves a more efficient and flexible sealing system compared to conventional arrangements. This arrangement allows for effective adjustment of the sealing system to uneven surfaces due to the sliding connection and the flexibility of the brush. For example, uneven surfaces may be caused by the uneven vertical positioning of the pallet trolley or its common engagement surface, or by material stuck between the common engagement surface and the brush. Even if an uneven surface causes a single component of the brush to lose contact with the common engagement surface of the pallet trolley, adjacent components of the brush are not affected. Therefore, adjacent components of the brush can continue to contact the common engagement surface, thus maintaining a higher degree of seal compared to conventional sealing systems based on sealing sliders or long flexible seals, which in similar situations would result in greater leakage through the seal because they cannot adjust the seal sufficiently effectively for uneven surfaces.

[0020] Another advantage is that, since the sealing system will be exposed to high temperatures in certain areas of the furnace, cooling air can pass through the brushes, thus cooling the brushes in a simple way. Furthermore, including brushes in the sealing system provides a well-heat-resistant seal, resulting in a more durable seal.

[0021] In this manner, the machine's fuel and energy efficiency is improved. Compared to machines used for heat treatment of bulk materials that do not have this brush-sealed system, this arrangement can provide energy savings of up to 10%.

[0022] Another advantage of this disclosure is that a single brush within the sealing system can be replaced without replacing the entire sealing system. This arrangement facilitates easy maintenance of the sealing system, particularly the brush.

[0023] Another advantage of this design is that the brushes can move well across common mating surfaces, regardless of the pallet truck's direction of travel. Therefore, even if a particular direction of travel is typically used during machine operation, it may still be necessary to run the machine in reverse, for example, during maintenance.

[0024] A brush may include multiple bristles, each attached to a brush element. The brush element may be an elongated structure with a substantially rectangular cross-section, but may alternatively have a circular cross-section.

[0025] In some embodiments, the brush bristles are made of stainless steel. In alternative embodiments, the brush bristles are made of ordinary steel or synthetic polymers such as nylon.

[0026] Preferably, the bristles are made of stainless steel. This material is durable and can withstand high temperatures well. Furthermore, the material has sufficient flexibility to allow the sealing system to effectively adjust to uneven surfaces.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the brush bristle length is at least 20 mm, preferably 20 mm to 100 mm, and more preferably 50 mm.

[0028] According to some embodiments, each sealing slider also includes a sealing slider structure slidably connected to a support structure of the furnace, wherein the brush is carried by the sealing slider structure. This means that the sealing slider structure can correspond to a conventional sealing slider. However, the sealing slider structure can be structurally different from a conventional sealing slider. This is further elaborated herein.

[0029] The term "sliding connection" in this document refers to a connection in which the sealing slider structure is connected to the support structure in such a way that the sealing slider structure can move smoothly relative to the support structure along a surface. Here, the sealing slider structure is allowed to move in the vertical direction, which is perpendicular to the common engagement surface. This connection defines the amount of vertical movement allowed relative to the sealing slider structure. This sliding connection also allows the brush to move in the vertical direction.

[0030] The term "carried by a sealing slider structure" in this document means that the brush is attached to or clamped by a sealing slider structure, wherein the sealing slider structure is arranged to hold the brush in place.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the brush protrudes from the sealing slider structure, thereby creating a gap between the sealing slider structure and the common mating surface.

[0032] According to some embodiments, the gap between the sealing slider structure and the common mating surface is at least 1 mm, preferably 5 mm to 20 mm, and more preferably 10 mm.

[0033] The advantage of these embodiments lies in the more efficient sealing system. With this arrangement, the common mating surface can have an uneven surface when the sealing slider structure does not engage with it. This arrangement reduces wear on the wearing components, thereby increasing the service life of the sealing system.

[0034] According to some embodiments, the sealing slider structure of each of one or more sealing sliders includes a recess configured to receive a brush therein.

[0035] According to some embodiments, each of the one or more sealing sliders further includes a fastening plate configured to attach a brush to the sealing slider structure. The brush can be attached to the sealing slider structure by clamping. The brush can be clamped directly between the fastening plate and the sealing slider structure. Alternatively, the brush can be held by another element that is instead clamped between the fastening plate and the sealing slider structure, as will be described in detail below.

[0036] The term "clamped" in this document refers to the brush being attached or secured between the sealing slider structure and the fastening plate to be held in place. Bolts or screws can be used to clamp the brush toward the sealing slider structure.

[0037] The advantage of these embodiments is that the brush can be attached to or detached from the sealing slider structure in an easy and user-friendly manner.

[0038] According to some embodiments, each of one or more sealing sliders further includes a brush retainer configured to retain a brush, wherein a fastening plate is configured to clamp the brush retainer toward the sealing slider structure.

[0039] The advantage of these embodiments is that attaching or detaching the brush from the sealing slider structure is much easier compared to directly mounting the brush to the sealing slider without using a brush holder. The brush holder can be tailored to precisely fit a specific type of brush. This allows different types of brushes to be mounted onto the exact same sealing slider structure without modification. Alternatively, another type of brush holder capable of holding a specific brush can be selected. These brush holders can then be attached to the sealing slider structure in the exact same way, regardless of the type of brush mounted therein.

[0040] According to some embodiments, the brush is arranged on the sealing slider such that the brush bristles are guided substantially perpendicular to the common joint surface.

[0041] The advantage of these embodiments lies in the ease with which the brush can be inserted into and / or removed from the sealing slider structure. This arrangement allows the brush to effectively seal gaps, especially clearances.

[0042] According to some embodiments, the brush is arranged on the sealing slider such that the brush bristles form an angle with the common engagement surface.

[0043] The advantage of these embodiments is that they provide a more effective sealing system compared to having the bristles guided perpendicular to the common mating surface. This arrangement allows for more flexible brush seals because the bristles can be more easily adjusted to suit the shape of the common mating surface.

[0044] According to some embodiments, the machine also includes another sealing system attached to the support structure of the furnace and arranged along the direction of travel. This other sealing system is arranged to engage with a common mating surface to cover at least a portion of the gap length, and wherein the other sealing system is arranged at a distance spaced from the sealing system to form an elongated cavity therebetween.

[0045] This additional sealing system can be advantageous because it allows for improved overall sealing efficiency. Furthermore, it allows for the creation of a high-pressure zone between the sealing systems to further prevent gas permeation into the sealing system. This can be particularly important, especially when the process or part of the process inevitably operates at pressures higher than the ambient pressure outside the machine. If the double seal is purged using air or another suitable purge gas at pressures higher than both the process pressure and the ambient pressure, the purge gas will leak into the process and into the environment, effectively preventing process gases from reaching the environment.

[0046] According to some embodiments, the other sealing system includes:

[0047] A series of blade members that partially overlap to form a sealing surface, wherein each blade member in the series of blade members is connected to a support structure at its first end and engages with a common engagement surface at its opposite second end.

[0048] The term "blade component" in this document refers to an individual component in a series of blade components that together form a flexible seal. A blade component is a substantially planar component, with its thickness significantly less than its length and width. The width of the blade component is its dimension in the direction of travel of the pallet truck, while the length of the blade component is its dimension in the direction perpendicular to the direction of travel. Blade components can have a substantially rectangular or square shape, but are not limited to these shapes, and can also have elliptical, circular, triangular, or any other planar shape. Blade components can be made of flexible materials to provide spring-like or self-biasing functionality.

[0049] According to some embodiments, the other sealing system includes one or more additional sealing sliders that are sequentially distributed to each other along the direction of travel.

[0050] According to some embodiments, each of the additional one or more sealing sliders includes a brush disposed on the sealing slider such that the brush is configured to engage with a common engagement surface, thereby the additional one or more sealing sliders covering at least a portion of the gap length.

[0051] According to some embodiments, the sealing system and another sealing system are arranged parallel to each other so as to cover the gap along the width of a common gap extending over at least the roasting and cooling areas of the furnace.

[0052] A post-calcination zone can be arranged in the transition section from the calcination zone to the cooling zone. Leaks from this zone may pose a hazard because combustible gases from the furnace may mix with oxidizers in the ambient air, creating a risk of accidental ignition.

[0053] The advantage of these embodiments is that they can minimize or eliminate leakage in these areas, thereby minimizing the risk of accidental ignition or explosion. Therefore, this arrangement can further improve sealing.

[0054] Another advantage of these embodiments is that the same sealing arrangement can continue from the calcination zone to the cooling zone, so that no gap is formed in the transition between the calcination zone and the cooling zone. This arrangement provides a sealing system that minimizes leakage of gas into or out of the furnace.

[0055] Another advantage of these embodiments is that they can reduce the heat load on the outermost of the two sealing systems.

[0056] Another advantage of these embodiments is that the sealing system can be arranged along the entire length of the furnace, and another sealing system can optionally be arranged only in areas where a dual sealing system may be required, such as in the roasting and cooling zones.

[0057] According to some embodiments, a gas flow is provided in an elongated cavity formed between one sealing system and another. The gas in the gas flow 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 zone can be supplied.

[0058] The advantage of these embodiments is that the gas flow can cool the sealing system and the other sealing system, thereby enabling the use of higher temperatures within the furnace than would normally be used to avoid thermal damage to the sealing system and / or the other sealing system.

[0059] Another advantage of these embodiments is that when airflow is provided through a cavity formed between one sealing system and another, the high pressure in the cavity will be more easily maintained at an appropriate level.

[0060] According to a second aspect, a method is provided for attaching a brush to a sealing slider in a sealing system of a machine used for heat treatment of bulk materials.

[0061] The sealing system includes one or more sealing sliders configured to be distributed sequentially among each other along the direction of travel.

[0062] The machine includes a fixed furnace with an attachment structure, and a plurality of pallet trucks traveling through the furnace in a direction of travel, the plurality of pallet trucks together defining a common engagement surface extending through the furnace in the direction of travel on their lateral sides, wherein a gap is defined between the attachment structure of the furnace and the common engagement surface of the plurality of pallet trucks, the method comprising:

[0063] Remove at least one of the one or more sealing sliders from the machine.

[0064] Attach the brush or a brush holder that carries the brush to the at least one sealing slider, and

[0065] Reinstall the at least one sealing slider back onto the machine.

[0066] The brush or brush holder is attached to the sealing slider such that the brush is configured to engage with a common engagement surface when used on a machine.

[0067] According to some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0068] A recess is milled into each of the one or more sealing sliders, and

[0069] Insert the brush or brush holder into the recess.

[0070] According to some embodiments, attaching the brush or brush holder to the at least one sealing slider includes clamping the brush or brush holder toward the at least one sealing slider by means of a fastening plate.

[0071] According to a third aspect, a sealing system for a machine used for heat treatment of bulk materials is provided.

[0072] The machine includes a fixed furnace with an attachment structure, and a plurality of pallet trolleys traveling through the furnace in a direction of travel. The plurality of pallet trolleys together define a common engagement surface extending through the furnace in the direction of travel on their lateral sides. A gap is defined between the attachment structure of the furnace and the common engagement surface of the plurality of pallet trolleys. The sealing system includes:

[0073] One or more sealing sliders, the one or more sealing sliders being distributed sequentially among each other along the direction of travel;

[0074] Each of the one or more sealing sliders includes a brush arranged on the sealing slider such that the brush is configured to engage with a common engagement surface, thereby the one or more sealing sliders covering at least a portion of the gap length.

[0075] The effects and features of the second and third aspects are largely similar to those described above in conjunction with the first aspect. The embodiments mentioned with respect to the first aspect are largely compatible with the second and third aspects. It should also be noted that, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the inventive concept encompasses all possible combinations of features. The further scope of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description given below. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while representing preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, as various changes and modifications within the scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

[0076] Therefore, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific components of the described device or the steps of the described method, as the apparatus and method can be modified. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be restrictive. It must be noted that, when used in the specification and appended claims, the words “a,” “the,” and “the” mean the presence of one or more elements unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. Thus, for example, references to “a unit” or “the unit” can include several devices, etc. Furthermore, the words “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and similar terms do not exclude other elements or steps. Attached Figure Description

[0077] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be better understood from the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals may be used for similar elements, wherein:

[0078] Figure 1AIt is a three-dimensional diagram of a machine used for heat treatment of bulk materials.

[0079] Figure 1B It is the cross-section of a machine used for heat treatment of bulk materials.

[0080] Figures 2A to 2B A sealing system comprising a series of blade components is shown, illustrated in a support structure arranged to be connected to a machine.

[0081] Figure 3 The sealing system is shown, providing some further details regarding the sealing function using the leaf seal concept.

[0082] Figure 4 This illustrates the disadvantages that would arise if more traditional long, flexible sealing components were used.

[0083] Figure 5A The diagram shows a portion of the sealing system comprising a series of blade components.

[0084] Figure 5B Three overlapping blade components are shown.

[0085] Figure 6A The diagram shows portions of the sealing system comprising two series of blade components and a series of flexible blanket components.

[0086] Figure 6B Three overlapping blade components and a flexible blanket component are shown.

[0087] Figure 7 The machine's components, including the sealing system, are shown.

[0088] Figure 8A This is a three-dimensional view of a sealing system, which includes a sealing slider with a sealing slider structure and a brush.

[0089] Figure 8B It shows Figure 8A The front view of the sealing system shown.

[0090] Figure 8C It shows Figure 8A and Figure 8B The cross-section of the sealing system shown is provided, in which the brush forms an angle relative to the common joint surface.

[0091] Figure 9 A cross-section of the sealing system is shown, with the brush perpendicular to the common engagement surface.

[0092] Figures 10A to 10BAn embodiment of a sealing assembly is shown, which includes a sealing system and another sealing system having a series of blade members and a sealing slider.

[0093] Figures 11A to 11B An embodiment of a sealing assembly is shown, which includes a sealing system and another sealing system having a series of blade members and a sealing slider containing a brush.

[0094] Figure 12 An embodiment of a sealing assembly is shown, comprising a sealing system and another sealing system, the sealing system including a sealing slider having a sealing slider structure and a brush, and the other sealing system including a sealing slider.

[0095] Figure 13 An embodiment of a sealing assembly is shown, which includes a sealing system and another sealing system, both of which include a sealing slider having a sealing slider structure and a brush.

[0096] Figure 14 An embodiment of a sealing assembly is shown, which includes a sealing system and another sealing system, both of which include a corresponding series of blade members. The sealing assembly also includes a further sealing system, which includes a sealing slider. Detailed Implementation

[0097] The invention will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate presently preferred embodiments of the invention. 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 so as to provide thoroughness and completeness and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0098] This disclosure relates to a machine for heat treating bulk materials and a sealing system for the machine. Referring to this disclosure... Figure 1A-1B This paper will discuss a machine for heat treating bulk materials. For clarity, various sealing designs that can be used with this machine will be discussed in the following sections. Refer to this disclosure. Figures 2A to 6B This disclosure will discuss sealing systems including leaf seal designs. Refer to the present disclosure. Figures 7 to 9 This paper will discuss sealing systems including brush seal designs. Reference is made to the present invention. Figures 10A to 14 We will discuss sealing systems that include different combinations of sealing designs.

[0099] In particular, this disclosure relates to, in conjunction with Figures 7 to 9The discussion concerns a single sealing system. Furthermore, this disclosure also relates to dual sealing systems or sealing assemblies, which are combined... Figures 2A to 9 Any combination of sealing systems discussed throughout this disclosure.

[0100] Figures 1A to 1B A portion of a machine 100 for heat treatment of bulk materials (e.g., metal ores) is shown. However, it should be understood that only a portion of machine 100 is shown in the figures, and therefore machine 100 may include more features than discussed herein. Machine 100 may be any machine known in the art for heat treatment of bulk materials.

[0101] Machine 100 includes a stationary furnace 10 configured to process bulk materials. In this document, processing materials refers to using the stationary furnace 10 to dry, heat, or cool bulk materials.

[0102] Machine 100 also includes a plurality of pallet trolleys 12. The pallet trolleys 12 are configured to convey bulk material through a stationary furnace 10. The pallet trolleys 12 travel through the stationary furnace 10 on a set of guide rails (not shown). The pallet trolleys 12 travel through the stationary furnace 10 along a direction of travel TD. The direction of travel TD extends in a substantially horizontal direction.

[0103] The pallet trolley 12 has holes in its base plate for receiving airflow through the base plate. Although in Figures 1A to 1B Not shown, but machine 100 includes an arrangement located below the track of pallet trolley 12 that generates a flow of hot air or gas above pallet trolley 12 through the block material and pallet trolley 12 via suction. This arrangement may be, but is not limited to, a bellows. Alternatively, the generation of the gas or air flow may be used to cool the block material in other parts of said machine 100.

[0104] The stationary furnace 10 has a support structure 16. The support structure 16 is a stable and fixed component of the furnace 10, located on any lateral side of the furnace 10. The support structure 16 is arranged such that when multiple pallet trucks 12 travel through the furnace 10, the lateral sides of the pallet trucks 12 pass in the vicinity of the support structure 16. Together with the pallet trucks 12, the support structure 16 defines a portion of the boundary between the interior of the furnace 10 and the ambient air.

[0105] Multiple pallet trucks 12 together define a common mating surface 14. The common mating surface 14 extends through the stationary furnace 10 along the travel direction TD. The common mating surface 14 and the support structure 16 of the furnace 10 together define a gap 18 between them. The gap 18 has a gap length L along the travel direction TD through the stationary furnace 10.

[0106] Machine 100 also includes a sealing system ( Figure 1A-1B(Not shown in the image). The sealing system is configured to seal the gap defined between the common mating surface 14 and the support structure 16 to prevent gas, droplets, and / or particles from passing through the gap 18. Figures 2A to 11B Let's discuss the sealing system in more detail.

[0107] Figure 2A A sealing system 200 is shown, which is arranged to be connected to a support structure 16 of the machine 100. (As in combination) Figures 1A to 1B As discussed, a gap 18 is defined between the support structure 16 of the furnace 10 and the common mating surface 14 of the plurality of pallet carts 12. The purpose of the sealing system 200 is to seal the gap 18 between the support structure 16 and the common mating surface 14 to prevent gas, droplets, and / or particulate matter from passing through the gap 18. In this example embodiment, the sealing system 200 includes a series of blade members 212 210, which 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 supports 220. Figure 2A Two supports 220 are shown in the diagram, but it should be understood that only a portion of machine 100 is shown; therefore, the number of supports 220 throughout machine 100 may vary. Each support 220 includes an attachment surface 222 on which a first end 214 of each blade member 212 is attached to the support 220. Furthermore, the support 220 is attached to the support structure 16. In this example embodiment, the attachment surface 222 of each support 220 is angled relative to the engagement surface 14. The angled attachment surface 222 provides self-biasing of the attached blade member 212 toward the common engagement surface 14. The angled attachment surface 222 may form an angle of 10 to 50 degrees relative to the common engagement surface. However, larger or smaller angles are also conceivable.

[0108] The blade components disclosed herein, such as blade component 212, can be made of thin spring steel. This type of spring steel is characterized by its elasticity, and therefore can return to its original shape despite deflection and torsion. However, the blade components of the present invention can alternatively be made of other types of materials. For example, the blade components can be made of (but not limited to) stainless steel, iron, copper, polytetrafluoroethylene or fluoropolymers (such as those used in Teflon™), plastics, and composite materials (e.g., steel with rubber tips).

[0109] like Figure 2AAs shown, the originally planar blade members 212 are curved due to the angled attachment surface 222, such that the second end 216 of each blade member 212 that engages with the engagement surface 14 is pushed against the engagement surface 14 by the elastic force of the blade member 212. With this arrangement, the gap 18 between the support structure 16 and the common engagement surface 14 is covered and thus sealed, thereby preventing gas, droplets and / or particulate matter from entering the ambient air from the interior of the furnace, and vice versa.

[0110] Figure 2B It shows the relationship from different perspectives. Figure 2A The same sealing system 200. In addition to what has already been discussed above. Figure 2B It is also shown that a large portion of the length of each blade member 212 is arranged to overlap with the common engagement surface 14. As multiple pallet carts 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 planarly, the wear of the edge 218 would eventually lead to a loss of contact between the blade member 212 and the common engagement surface 14, thereby compromising the seal at the gap 18. However, because the blade members 212 are arranged to engage with the common engagement surface 14 under self-biased conditions, even with wear of the edge 218, the elasticity of each blade member 212 will push the second end 216 of the blade member 212 toward the common engagement surface 14. This arrangement maintains contact between the blade members 212 and the common engagement surface 14, thereby ensuring a continuous seal.

[0111] Figure 3 The sealing system 200 is shown, providing some further details regarding its sealing function using the concept of a blade seal. A potential problem with sealing the gap 18 between the common mating surface 14 and the support structure 16 is that the mating surfaces 14a, 14b, 14c of the individual pallet trucks 12 (not shown in this figure) may be vertically displaced relative to each other. This displacement could be due to slight variations in the manufacture of the pallet trucks 12, or more likely, the pallet trucks 12 may have saged over time, partly due to the combination of heavy loads, harsh environments, and extreme temperatures within the furnace 10. Figure 3 This vertical displacement is illustrated, where the various mating surfaces 14a, 14b, and 14c have different vertical positions. The blade member 212 is arranged to have good physical contact with the flat mating surfaces 14a, 14b, and 14c. However, at the transition from one mating surface 14a to another mating surface 14b, due to the difference in vertical position, the common surface is no longer flat. Therefore, due to the elasticity of the material used to manufacture the blade member 212, the blade member 212 deforms to accommodate the surface displacement structure. Figure 3The deformation shown occurs primarily at the transitions of the individual blade members 212, while adjacent blade members 212 are largely unaffected by the transitions and thus maintain contact with the mating surfaces 14a, 14b, 14c. This device produces only small gaps 30 at the transitions caused by the deformation of individual blade members 212. Therefore, differences in the vertical position of the pallet trolley 12 can only result in very small leaks, thus maintaining high sealing efficiency.

[0112] Figure 4 This illustrates the disadvantages that would arise if a more conventional long, flexible sealing member 210' were used. This situation is similar to what was just discussed regarding... Figure 3 The described situation involves the mating surfaces 14 of the individual pallet trucks 12 being displaced vertically relative to each other. Because the long flexible sealing member 210' is continuous, it is affected by this displacement not only near the transition between the individual pallet trucks 12 but also along a larger portion of the common mating surface 14. This results in a significantly larger gap 30' between the long flexible sealing member 210' and the common mating surface 14, leading to significantly greater leakage through the seal compared to a sealing system 200 based on a series of blade members 212 of 210.

[0113] Now return to the reference Figure 3 This illustrates another situation that can occur in the sealing system of a machine 100 used for heat treatment of bulk materials: pellets may sometimes become stuck under the seal. Figure 3 The diagram shows a pellet 20 wedged between a series of blade members 212 and a single mating surface 14b. The wedged pellet 20 can cause some of the blade members 212 to lift, thus deforming them upwards. This deformation occurs primarily on the individual blade members 212 in contact with the pellet 20, while adjacent blade members 212 are largely unaffected by the wedged pellet 20 and thus remain in contact with the mating surfaces 14a, 14b, 14c. Similar to the transitions between the individual pallet trucks 12, this arrangement results in a small gap 40 near the pellet 20 only due to the deformation of one or a few individual blade members 212. Therefore, the wedged pellet 20 can only cause very small leaks, thus maintaining high sealing efficiency.

[0114] Figure 5AThe sealing system 200 is shown as viewed along the direction of travel TD. The blade member 212 is shown attached to the bracket 220 by means of bolts 224 and nuts 226. Bolts 224 are inserted into through-holes in the bracket 220 and through-holes 217 in the blade member 212. Nuts 226 are tightened onto the other end of bolts 224, thereby attaching the blade member 212 to the bracket 220. To simplify replacement of the individual blade members, bolts 224 may be pre-welded to the bracket 220. It should be understood that other means for attaching the blade member 212 to the bracket 220 are also conceivable.

[0115] exist Figure 5A The image further illustrates that the support 220 includes an attachment surface 222 on which the blade member 212 is attached. The attachment surface 222 is angled relative to the mating surface 14. This arrangement provides a blade member 212 with a curvature resulting from the elasticity of the material used to manufacture the blade member 212, resulting in a self-biased state that pushes the second end 216 of the blade member 212 toward the mating surface 14.

[0116] Figure 5B Three blade members 212a, 212b, and 212c are shown as viewed along a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel TD. These three blade members 212a, 212b, and 212c partially overlap, such that the through-hole 217 of blade member 212a coincides with the through-hole 217 of the adjacent blade member 212b, and so on. The overlap ratio may vary in different embodiments. Figure 5B As shown in this embodiment, the overlap between blade member 212a and subsequent blade member 212b is typically less than 50%.

[0117] Figure 6A A sealing system 300 is shown as viewed along the direction of travel TD. The sealing system includes supports 220, each support 220 having an attachment surface 222. A first series 310 of blade members 312 are attached to the attachment surfaces 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 may be of the same type as the blade members 212 of the series 210 in the sealing system 200, or they may be of different types.

[0118] Furthermore, the sealing system 300 includes a series of 330 flexible blanket members 332. Each of the series of 330 flexible blanket members 332 is connected to a support at a first end 334 of the flexible blanket member 332. The series of 330 flexible blanket members 332 are positioned adjacent to the blade members 312 of the first series 310 to cover the overlapping edges of adjacent blade members 312. The flexible blanket members of this disclosure may be made of (but are not limited to) diving material (i.e., neoprene), welded blankets of woven biomass, synthetic polymers (e.g., nylon), woven or non-woven fiber blanket materials, or gasket materials made of polytetrafluoroethylene or fluoropolymers (e.g., those used in Teflon™).

[0119] Furthermore, 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 a support at a first end 344 of the blade member 342. It should be understood that the blade members 342 of the second series 340 may be of the same type as the blade members 312 of the first series 310, or they may be of different types. The blade members 342 of the second series 340 are positioned adjacent to a series 330 of flexible blanket members 332 on the side opposite to 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.

[0120] Blade components 312, 342 and flexible blanket component 332 are shown connected to bracket 220 by means of bolts 224 and nuts 226. Bolts 224 are inserted into through holes in bracket 220 and into through holes 317 in blade components 312, 342 and flexible blanket component 332. Nuts 226 are tightened onto the other end of bolts 224, thereby attaching blade components 312, 342 and flexible blanket component 332 to bracket 220. To simplify replacement of the individual blade components, bolts 224 may be pre-welded to bracket 220. It should be understood that other means for connecting blade components 312, 342 and flexible blanket component 332 to bracket 220 are also conceivable.

[0121] exist Figure 6AThe diagram further illustrates that the support 220 includes an attachment surface 222 on which blade members 312, 342 and a flexible blanket member 332 are connected. The attachment surface 222 is angled relative to the engagement surface 14. This arrangement provides blade members 312, 342 and flexible blanket member 332 with curvature resulting from the elasticity of the materials they are made of, resulting in a self-biased state that pushes the second ends 316, 336, 346 in a direction toward the engagement surface 14. In the illustrated example embodiment, the length of the flexible blanket member 332 is shorter than that of 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 with the common engagement surface 14. An advantage of this invention is that it provides a good sealing effect because it ensures engagement of the blade member 312 with the common engagement surface 14, which constitutes the primary seal.

[0122] Figure 6B Three blade members 312a, 312b, and 312c are shown as viewed along a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel TD. These three blade members 312a, 312b, and 312c partially overlap, such that the through-hole 317 of blade member 312a coincides with the through-hole 317 of the adjacent blade member 312b, and so on. The overlap ratio may vary in different embodiments. Figure 6B As shown in this embodiment, the overlap between blade member 312a and subsequent blade member 312b is typically less than 50%. Compared to these three blade members 312a, 312b, and 312c, Figure 6B Flexible blanket component 332 is also shown. (See also: Regarding...) Figure 6A As explained, the flexible blanket member 332 is also arranged by bolts 224 and nuts 226 and connected using through holes 317 in the flexible blanket member. In this embodiment, the flexible blanket member 332 is wider than the blade member 312, such that the flexible blanket member 332 covers the three blade members 312a, 312b, and 312c.

[0123] Figure 7 A sealing system 400 is shown, along with a support structure 16 arranged to be connected to 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 system having an elongated extension 401 (such as...). Figure 8A The sealing slider 402 (as shown) is arranged along the travel direction TD to form a sealing surface S (as shown). Figure 8A (As shown). However, it should be understood that, due to the fact that... Figure 7Only a portion of the sealing system 400 is shown, therefore 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 sequentially to each other along the travel direction TD to form a sealing surface S.

[0124] The sealing slider 402 includes a sealing slider structure 404 and a brush 406, wherein the brush includes a plurality of bristles 407 (e.g., ...). Figure 8A (As shown). Brush 406 is carried by a sealing slider structure 404, such that brush 406 is configured to engage with the common engagement surface 14 of pallet trolley 12. In this example embodiment, brush 406 is forced to engage with the common engagement surface 14 by gravity. However, other engagement means are conceivable, such as biasing by, for example, a spring. (Refer to...) Figure 8C and Figure 9 Further discussion is given on the attachment of the brush to the sealing slider structure.

[0125] The sealing slider structure 404 includes a connecting device 410 for connecting the sealing system 400 to the machine 100. (As in...) Figure 8A and Figure 8B As best shown in this exemplary embodiment, the sealing slider structure 404 includes four connecting devices 410; however, it should be understood that since only a portion of the machine 100 and sealing system 400 is shown in the figures, the sealing slider structure 404 may include any number of connecting devices 410. Connecting devices for the sealing slider are well known in the art and can be implemented, for example, by engagement between pins 411 and elongated openings 413, such as... Figure 8A As shown.

[0126] The sealing slider structure 404 and the brush 406 together form a sealing surface S, which covers at least a portion of the gap length L of the gap 18.

[0127] Figure 8A The sealing system 400 is shown separately, with further details provided. The sealing system 400 includes a sealing slider 402, which includes a sealing slider structure 404 and a brush 406. In this example embodiment, the sealing slider 402 also includes a brush holder 416 configured to retain the brush 406. A fastening plate 420 is configured to clamp the brush holder 416 toward the sealing slider structure 404. The fastening plate 420 is clamped toward the sealing slider structure 404 by means of screws or bolts 422. Figure 8A The diagram further illustrates how the brush 406 is configured to engage with the common engagement surface 14 of the pallet truck 12 (shown here as surfaces 14a and 14b of two adjacent pallet trucks). In this example embodiment, the brush 406 is further shown extending on an elongated extension 401 to form a sealing surface S.

[0128] The problem with sealing the gap 18 between the common mating surface 14 and the support structure 16 may be that the mating surfaces 14a, 14b of the individual pallet trucks 12 (not shown in this figure) may shift vertically relative to each other. This shift could be due to slight manufacturing differences in the pallet trucks 12, or more likely, the pallet trucks 12 may have sunk over time, partly due to the combination of heavy loads, harsh environments, and extreme temperatures within the furnace. Figure 8A This vertical displacement is illustrated, where the various mating surfaces 14a, 14b (each pallet trolley) have different vertical positions. The bristles 407 of brush 406 are arranged to make good physical contact with the flat mating surfaces 14a, 14b. However, at the transition from one mating surface 14a to another mating surface 14b, due to the difference in vertical position, the surface is no longer flat. Therefore, due to the elasticity of the material used to manufacture the bristles 407 of brush 406, the bristles 407 deform to accommodate the offset structure of the surface. Figure 8A As shown, the deformation occurs primarily on one or more bristles located at this transition, independent of adjacent bristles, which are largely unaffected by the transition and thus remain in contact with the mating surfaces 14a, 14b. This arrangement produces only a small gap 412 at the transition caused by the deformation of one or more bristles of brush 406. Therefore, differences in the vertical position of the pallet trolley can only result in very small leaks, thus maintaining high sealing efficiency.

[0129] Figure 8B It shows Figure 8A The image shows a front view of the sealing system 400. In addition to what has already been discussed above, Figure 8B The diagram shows each connecting device 410 arranged at a certain distance from each other. In this example embodiment, each connecting device 410 is arranged at the same distance from each other, but it should be understood that each connecting device 410 may also be arranged at different distances from each other.

[0130] Figure 8C The sealing system 400 is shown as viewed along the direction of travel TD. In addition to what has been discussed above, Figure 8CThe diagram shows in more detail how brush 406 is carried by sealing slider structure 404 by means of a dedicated brush holder 416. Brush holder 416 has an upper extension arranged to be sandwiched between sealing slider structure 404 and fastening plate 420. The lower end of brush holder 416 is shaped to partially surround brush 406 to hold brush 406 in a secure grip. In this example embodiment, brush element 409 is shaped to be held in a secure position by brush holder 416. Brush holder 416 is fastened relative to sealing slider structure 404 such that brush 406 protrudes from the bottom end of sealing slider structure 404 toward common engagement surface 14, so that brush 406 engages with common engagement surface 14. This defines a gap 418 between sealing slider structure 404 and common engagement surface 14. As shown in the figure, the gap 418 is covered by the brush 406, and the elastic properties of the brush 406 allow the sealing slider 402 to maintain a more effective seal compared to a sealing slider without a brush.

[0131] The brush retainer 416 is arranged such that the brush 406 forms an angle α with the common engagement surface 14. This angle can preferably be in the range of 20-40 degrees, but can alternatively be smaller or larger.

[0132] Figure 9 A sealing system 500 according to an alternative embodiment is shown. The sealing system 500 has a plurality of [missing information - likely related to sealing systems]. Figures 8A to 8B The sealing system 400 shown has the same features as the sealing slider 502, which includes a sealing slider structure 504 and a brush 506. However, in this example embodiment, the sealing slider structure 504 also includes a recess 514 for receiving the brush 506. In this embodiment, a fastening plate 520 is received in another recess 515 in the sealing slider structure 504. Thus, the sealing slider structure 504 and the fastening plate 520 will have upper surfaces flush with each other. Figure 9 As shown, a brush 506, including brush element 509 and bristles 507, can be clamped toward the sealing slider structure 504 using bolts or screws 522. The brush 506 is arranged relative to the sealing slider structure 504 such that the bristles 507 of the brush 506 are guided perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the common engagement surface 14.

[0133] like Figure 8C In that way, Figure 9 The gap 418 between the sealing slider structure 504 and the common engagement surface 14 is shown, so that the brush 506 is a component of the sealing system 500 that engages with the common engagement surface 14.

[0134] Figure 8C and Figure 9Two different example embodiments of a brush-based sealing system according to this disclosure are shown, wherein brushes 406, 506 are arranged in different ways. 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, brushes may be angled toward or away from the sealing slider structure in any direction, but may also be along the sealing slider structure. Alternative embodiments may 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 angle of inclination with a common engagement surface.

[0135] Figures 10A to 14 Different embodiments of a sealing system are shown, which is arranged in parallel with another sealing system to define the sealing components of a machine.

[0136] The other sealing system may be about Figures 2A to 9 Any sealing system discussed, or alternatively, another sealing system not disclosed herein. This other sealing system is connected to the support structure 16 of the furnace 10 and is arranged along the direction of travel TD. The purpose of this other sealing system is to seal the gap 18 between the support structure 16 and the common mating surface 14 to prevent gas, droplets, and / or particulate matter from passing through the gap 18. This other sealing system is arranged at a distance spaced from the first sealing system, thereby forming an elongated cavity.

[0137] Figures 10A to 10B An embodiment of a sealing assembly 600 is shown, comprising a sealing system 200 parallel to a sealing system 70, and shown arranged to be connected to a support structure 16 of a machine 100. The sealing system 70 includes a sealing slider 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 described herein. The sealing system 70 is arranged on the inner 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 and 200. It will be contemplated by those skilled in the art that, although shown herein as a sealing system 200, the sealing system may alternatively be based on… Figures 6A to 6B The sealing system 300 of the disclosed embodiment.

[0138] Figures 11A to 11B An embodiment of a sealing assembly 700 is shown, which 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 as previously referenced. Figures 7 to 8A-8C discloses a sealing slider 402 in detail, which includes a sealing slider structure 404 and a brush 406. The sealing system 400 is slidably connected to the support structure 16 via each sealing slider structure 404. The sealing system 400 is arranged on the inner side of the furnace 10 at a distance spaced from the sealing system 200, such 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 herein as sealing system 200 can alternatively be based on... Figures 6A to 6B The sealing system 300 is disclosed in the embodiment. Similarly, it will be conceivable to those skilled in the art that the sealing system shown herein as sealing system 400 could alternatively be based on... Figure 9 The sealing system 500 of the disclosed embodiment.

[0139] Figure 12 An embodiment of a sealing assembly 800 of a sealing system 400 parallel to a sealing system 70 is shown, along with a support structure 16 arranged to be connected to a machine 100.

[0140] Sealing system 400 includes according to Figure 7 and Figures 8A to 8C The disclosed sealing system embodiment includes a sealing slider 402 comprising a sealing slider structure 404 and a brush 406. Sealing system 70 includes a sealing slider 60 of a conventional type known in the art. Therefore, the main difference between sealing system 70 and sealing system 400 is that sealing system 70 does not have a brush.

[0141] Sealing system 70 is arranged on the inner side of furnace 10, at a distance from sealing system 400, such that an elongated cavity 850 is formed between the two sealing systems 70 and 400. It will be contemplated by those skilled in the art that sealing system 400 and sealing system 70 can be arranged in opposite directions, such that sealing system 400 faces pallet 12 and sealing system 70 is arranged on the opposite side facing the interior of furnace 10. Sealing system 400 is connected to a first side of support structure 16, and sealing system 70 is connected to a second side of support structure 16 opposite to the first side, such that sealing system 400 and sealing system 70 face each other. It will be contemplated by those skilled in the art that, although shown herein as sealing system 400, the sealing system may alternatively be based on… Figure 9 The sealing system 500 of the disclosed embodiment.

[0142] Figure 13An embodiment of a sealing assembly 900 of a sealing system 400a parallel to another sealing system 400b is shown, illustrating a support structure 16 arranged to be connected to the machine 100. In this example embodiment, sealing systems 400a and 400b are similar to sealing system 400, which includes components according to... Figures 7 to 8A The sealing slider 402 of an embodiment of the sealing system disclosed in -8C 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 to the first side, such that sealing systems 400a and 400b face each other. It will be conceivable to those skilled in the art that, although shown herein as sealing system 400, any of the sealing systems may alternatively be based on... Figure 9 The sealing system 500 of the disclosed embodiment.

[0143] Figure 14 An embodiment of a sealing assembly 1000 of a sealing system 200 parallel to another sealing system 200' is shown, illustrating a support structure 16 arranged to be connected to a machine 100. In this example embodiment, sealing systems 200 and 200' are of similar type. Specifically, both sealing systems 200 and 200' include blade members 212, 212' of corresponding series 210, 210', which partially overlap to form corresponding sealing surfaces. The bracket 220' differs from bracket 220 in that it provides corresponding attachment surfaces 222, 222' for each series of blade members 212, 212'. A cavity 1050 is formed between the two sealing systems 200, 200'. Figure 14 As shown, the sealing assembly 1000 also includes a sealing system 70 based on a conventional sealing slider 60. Therefore, for the sealing assembly 1000, another cavity 1050' is formed between the sealing system 70 and the sealing system 200. The sealing system 200 and the sealing system 200' may share common features, such as the shape and structure of the blade members 212, 212'. However, it is also conceivable that the sealing system 200 and the sealing system 200' may differ from each other in one or more ways.

[0144] pass Figures 10A to 14The disclosed embodiments can further improve the sealing. This is advantageous in the roasting and cooling zones of machine 100, particularly in the transition zone between them (referred to as the post-roasting zone), where the risk of leakage could otherwise be high. Leaks in this zone can be hazardous because combustible gases from furnace 10 could mix with oxidants from ambient air, creating a risk of accidental ignition. Therefore, minimizing leakage in these zones is of particular concern.

[0145] Furthermore, this arrangement allows the innermost sealing system to protect the outermost sealing system from excessive heat load.

[0146] Furthermore, gas flow can be provided in the elongated cavities 650, 750, 850, 950, 1050, and 1050' between the sealing systems to reduce high temperatures. With this arrangement, the sealing systems can be cooled by gas, thereby enabling the use of higher temperatures within the furnace than would have been possible to avoid thermal damage to the sealing systems.

[0147] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is by no means limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, many modifications and variations can be made within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, in practicing the invention, those skilled in the art can understand and implement variations to the disclosed embodiments from a study of the drawings, the summary of the invention, and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A machine for heat treating bulk materials, comprising: A stationary furnace, which has a supporting structure; as well as Multiple pallet trucks travel through the furnace in a direction of travel, the multiple pallet trucks together defining a common mating surface on their lateral sides that extends through the furnace in the direction of travel. The furnace's support structure and the common engagement surface of the plurality of pallet trolleys define a gap therebetween, the gap having a gap length along the direction of travel. The machine also includes: Sealing system, including: One or more sealing sliders, the one or more sealing sliders being distributed sequentially among each other along the direction of travel; Each of the one or more sealing sliders includes a brush disposed on the sealing slider such that the brush is configured to engage with the common engagement surface, thereby the one or more sealing sliders covering at least a portion of the gap length.

2. The machine according to claim 1, wherein the brush bristles are made of stainless steel.

3. The machine according to claim 1, wherein the length of the brush bristles is at least 20 mm.

4. The machine according to claim 3, wherein the length of the brush bristles is 20 mm to 100 mm.

5. The machine according to claim 4, wherein the length of the brush bristles is 50 mm.

6. The machine of claim 1, wherein each sealing slider further comprises a sealing slider structure slidably connected to the support structure of the furnace, wherein the brush is carried by the sealing slider structure.

7. The machine of claim 6, wherein the brush protrudes from the sealing slider structure such that a gap is formed between the sealing slider structure and the common engagement surface.

8. The machine according to claim 7, wherein the gap between the sealing slider structure and the common engagement surface is at least 1 mm.

9. The machine according to claim 8, wherein the gap between the sealing slider structure and the common engagement surface is 5 mm to 20 mm.

10. The machine according to claim 9, wherein the gap between the sealing slider structure and the common engagement surface is 10 mm.

11. The machine of claim 6, wherein the sealing slider structure of each of the one or more sealing sliders includes a recess configured to receive the brush therein.

12. The machine of claim 6, wherein each of the one or more sealing sliders further comprises a fastening plate configured to connect the brush to the sealing slider structure.

13. The machine of claim 12, wherein each of the one or more sealing sliders further comprises a brush retainer configured to retain the brush, and wherein the fastening plate is configured to clamp the brush retainer toward the sealing slider structure.

14. The machine of claim 1, wherein the brush is arranged on the sealing slider such that the bristles of the brush are guided perpendicular to the common engagement surface.

15. The machine of claim 1, wherein the brush is arranged on the sealing slider such that the bristles of the brush form an angle with the common engagement surface.

16. The machine of claim 1, wherein the machine further comprises a second sealing system connected to the support structure of the furnace and arranged along the direction of travel, the second sealing system being arranged to engage with the common engagement surface to cover at least a portion of the gap length, and wherein the second sealing system is arranged at a distance spaced from the first sealing system such that an elongated cavity is formed therebetween.

17. The machine of claim 16, wherein the other sealing system comprises: A series of blade members that partially overlap to form a sealing surface, wherein each blade member in the series of blade members is connected to the support structure at its first end and engages with the common engagement surface at its opposite second end.

18. The machine of claim 16, wherein the other sealing system comprises one or more additional sealing sliders, the other one or more sealing sliders being distributed sequentially among each other along the direction of travel.

19. The machine of claim 18, wherein each of the additional one or more sealing sliders includes a brush disposed on the sealing slider such that the brush is configured to engage with the common engagement surface, thereby the additional one or more sealing sliders covering at least a portion of the gap length.

20. The machine of claim 16, wherein the sealing system is arranged parallel to the other sealing system to cover the gap along a common gap width extending over at least the roasting and cooling areas of the furnace.

21. A method for attaching a brush to a sealing slider in a sealing system of a machine for heat treating bulk materials. The sealing system includes one or more sealing sliders, which are sequentially distributed among each other along the direction of travel. The machine includes a fixed furnace with a support structure, and a plurality of pallet trucks traveling through the furnace in a direction of travel, the plurality of pallet trucks together defining a common engagement surface extending through the furnace in the direction of travel on their lateral sides, wherein the support structure of the furnace and the common engagement surface of the plurality of pallet trucks define a gap therebetween, the method comprising: Remove at least one of the one or more sealing sliders from the machine. Attach the brush or a brush holder carrying the brush to the at least one sealing slider, and Reinstall the at least one sealing slider back onto the machine. The brush or the brush holder is attached to the sealing slider such that the brush is configured to engage with the common engagement surface when used on the machine.

22. The method of claim 21, further comprising: A recess is milled into each of the one or more sealing sliders, and Insert the brush or the brush holder into the recess.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein attaching the brush or the brush holder to the at least one sealing slider comprises: The brush or the brush holder is clamped toward the at least one sealing slider by means of a fastening plate.

24. A sealing system for use in a machine for heat treatment of bulk materials. The machine includes a fixed furnace with a support structure, and a plurality of pallet trucks traveling through the furnace in a direction of travel, the plurality of pallet trucks together defining a common engagement surface extending through the furnace in the direction of travel on their lateral sides, wherein the support structure of the furnace and the common engagement surface of the plurality of pallet trucks define a gap therebetween, and the sealing system includes: One or more sealing sliders are configured to be distributed sequentially to each other along the direction of travel; Each of the one or more sealing sliders includes a brush disposed on the sealing slider such that the brush is configured to engage with the common engagement surface, thereby the one or more sealing sliders covering at least a portion of the gap length.

Images