Cooler for cooling bulk material, in particular cement clinker

Abstract

The invention relates to a cooler (10) for cooling bulk material (12), in particular cement clinker, having a cooling gas chamber (14) through which a cooling gas flow for cooling the bulk material (12) can flow laterally and a conveying device for conveying the bulk material (12) through the cooling gas chamber (14) in a conveying direction (F), wherein the cooling gas chamber (14) comprises a first cooling gas chamber portion (16) having a first cooling gas flow (26) and a second cooling gas chamber portion (18) having a second cooling gas flow (30), which adjoins the first cooling gas chamber portion in the conveying direction (F) of the bulk material (12), wherein the cooler (10) has a separating device (34) for gas-tight separation of the cooling gas chamber portions (16, 18) from one another, wherein the separating device (34) has a plurality of sealing elements (42) and at least one suspension element (40), to which the plurality of sealing elements (42) is attached.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooler for cooling loose materials, having a separation device for separating cooling airflow within the cooler. Background Technology

[0002] It is known in the prior art that cooling air used to cool cement clinker is directed into a tubular rotary kiln and used as combustion air. To reduce the amount of exhaust gas and eliminate complex cleaning processes, for example, it is known from DE 10 2018 206673A1 to use combustion gas that is as oxygen-rich as possible, resulting in a high CO2 content in the exhaust gas. DE 10 2018 206 673A1 discloses introducing oxygen-rich gas into the inlet region of a cooler to preheat the gas and cool the clinker. Air is typically used as the cooling gas in the downstream region of the cooler.

[0003] The drawback of this design is that the airflow in the cooling inlet area mixes with the airflow in the downstream area, and DE 102018 206 673A1 does not specify any reliable possibility for separating these airflows, especially during the uninterrupted transport of loose materials within the cooler. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Starting from this point, the object of the present invention is to provide a cooler that overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages.

[0005] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved by the cooler of the present invention.

[0006] According to a first aspect, a cooler for cooling loose materials, particularly cement clinker, includes a cooling gas chamber and a conveying device. A cooling gas flow for cooling the loose material is capable of flowing laterally through the cooling gas chamber, and the conveying device conveys the loose material through the cooling gas chamber in a conveying direction. The cooling gas chamber includes a first cooling gas chamber portion having a first cooling gas flow and a second cooling gas chamber portion having a second cooling gas flow, the second cooling gas chamber portion being adjacent to the first cooling gas chamber portion in the conveying direction of the loose material. The cooler has a separation device for airtightly separating the cooling gas chamber portions from each other, wherein the separation device has multiple sealing elements.

[0007] The sealing elements are preferably arranged adjacent to each other, so that the sealing elements particularly completely cover the cross-section of the cooling gas chamber. For example, the sealing elements have a plate-like, cubic or cubic shape, and preferably have an edge length of 10 mm to 40 mm, particularly 40 mm to 150 mm.

[0008] The cooler is preferably a clinker cooler, which is arranged, for example, after the kiln, particularly after a tubular rotary kiln used to produce cement clinker.

[0009] The cooling gas chamber is preferably defined upwards by a cooling gas chamber cover and downwards by a dynamic and / or static grate, preferably a loose material located thereon. In particular, the cooling gas chamber is the entire chamber through which the cooling gas of the cooler flows above the bulk material. The cooling gas flow flows through the dynamic and / or static grate, in particular through the conveying device, through the loose material and into the cooling gas chamber. The first cooling gas chamber section is preferably arranged directly downstream of the cooler inlet in the flow direction of the loose material to be cooled. The loose material preferably falls from the tubular rotary kiln located upstream of the cooler into the first cooling gas chamber section.

[0010] The first cooling chamber section preferably has a static grate and / or a dynamic grate which is arranged below the kiln outlet, as a result of which gravity causes the loose material leaving the tubular rotary kiln to fall onto the static grate. The static grate is for example a grate which rests at an angle of 10° to 35°, preferably 12° to 33°, in particular 13° to 21°, with respect to the horizontal, through which the cooling gas flow flows from below. Preferably, the first cooling gas flow, for example accelerated by a fan, flows only into the first cooling gas chamber section. The second cooling gas chamber section adjoins the first cooling gas chamber section in the conveying direction of the loose material and is separated from the first cooling gas chamber section in an air-tight manner by a separating device. Preferably, the second cooling gas flow, for example accelerated by a fan, flows only into the second cooling gas chamber section.

[0011] The second cooling gas chamber section preferably has a dynamic grate for conveying the loose material through the cooling gas chamber. The dynamic grate comprises a conveying unit for conveying the material in the conveying direction, wherein the conveying unit for example has an air-permeable floor through which the cooling gas can flow and which has a plurality of passage openings for allowing the cooling gas. The cooling gas is for example provided by a fan arranged below the air-permeable floor, as a result of which the cooling gas, for example cooling air, flows transversely to the conveying direction through the loose material to be cooled. The air-permeable floor preferably forms a plane on which the loose material rests. Furthermore, the conveying unit preferably has a plurality of conveying elements which can be moved along the conveying direction and against the conveying direction. The air-permeable floor is preferably partially or completely formed by the conveying elements which are arranged adjacent to one another, forming a plane for receiving the loose material.

[0012] The area of the dynamic grate and / or the static grate in the vicinity of the separating device preferably does not have passage openings for allowing cooling air, as a result of which the loose material in the vicinity of the separating device and below the separating device is not aerated.

[0013] The separating device is preferably arranged between the first cooling gas chamber portion and the second cooling gas chamber portion. The sealing elements have a cuboid, spherical or plate-like shape, for example. The sealing elements of one suspension element are preferably all of the same shape. In particular, the height of each sealing element is significantly smaller than the distance between the conveying unit and the cover of the cooling gas chamber, preferably smaller than the distance between the bulk material and the cover of the cooling gas chamber, as a result of which the plurality of sealing elements is preferably attached to the suspension element next to each other in the vertical direction, for example one above the other. The plurality of suspension elements is preferably arranged next to each other and forms the separating device.

[0014] This separating device permits a reliable separation of the cooling gas flow in the first cooling gas chamber portion from the cooling gas flow in the second cooling gas chamber portion.

[0015] The sealing elements are preferably connected to each other in as gas-tight a manner as possible. Each sealing element is preferably provided with an adjacent sealing element, in particular the sealing elements are connected to each other or abut against each other such that a cooling gas flow cannot flow between the sealing elements. For example, the sum of the gap surfaces between two adjacent sealing elements abutting against each other is less than 10%, preferably less than 5%, most preferably less than 3%. The connection between two adjacent sealing elements is preferably, for example, 90%, in particular 95%, preferably 97% gas-tight.

[0016] According to a first embodiment, each sealing element has a plurality of connection regions, each connection region abutting against at least one connection region of an adjacent sealing element. The connection regions are preferably surface regions of the sealing elements. The connection regions in particular form at least partially or completely the surface of the respective sealing element.

[0017] According to a further embodiment, the connection regions of adjacent sealing elements abutting against each other have at least partially or completely complementary forms. For example, the connection region of a sealing element has a protrusion and the connection region of an adjacent sealing element has a recess, the shape of which corresponds to the protrusion.

[0018] According to a further embodiment, each sealing element is fixedly connected, in particular by a form-fit, to at least one adjacent sealing element via one of its connection regions. The sealing elements arranged next to each other in the vertical direction are preferably connected to each other at least in the vertical direction by a form-fit, wherein the sealing elements are in particular not connected to each other via the suspension element. The sealing elements arranged next to each other in the vertical direction are preferably rotatably connected to each other. It is likewise conceivable that the connection region is directly connected to a plurality of connection regions of an adjacent sealing element, preferably abutting against the plurality of connection regions.

[0019] According to a further embodiment, the separating device has a plurality of sealing elements having a first shape and a plurality of sealing elements having a second shape. For example, the plurality of sealing elements having the second shape are attached to the sealing element having the first shape. The sealing elements having the first shape are, for example, many times longer than the sealing elements having the second shape. Length is to be understood, for example, in the sense transverse to the conveying direction of the bulk material. The sealing elements having the first shape are preferably arranged only in the top region of the separating device, preferably in the upper half of the separating device.

[0020] The separating device has at least one suspension element to which the plurality of sealing elements are attached. The suspension element serves to suspend, in particular to fasten, the sealing elements within the cooling gas chamber. The suspension element is preferably flexible. For example, the separating device has a plurality of suspension elements which are arranged, for example, parallel to one another.

[0021] The sealing elements are, for example, made of a high-temperature-resistant material, in particular a ceramic and / or a high-temperature-resistant metal, for example a high-temperature-resistant steel or a nickel-based alloy. As a result, the separating device has a long service life and a high wear resistance.

[0022] The suspension element is, for example, a flexible element. According to a further embodiment, the suspension element comprises a chain, a rod, a cable, a wire mat and / or a tube. The suspension element preferably extends centrally, in particular through the center of gravity of the respective sealing element. In particular, each sealing element has a hole through which the suspension element extends and, according to a further embodiment, the sealing element is attached to the suspension element so as to be able to move relative to the suspension element. In particular, the sealing element can be moved relative to the suspension element in the vertical direction along the suspension element. This makes it possible, in particular in the event of wear, for adjacent sealing elements to slide downwards under the action of gravity, as a result of which, in the event of wear, in particular in the event of a rupture of the sealing elements, for example due to wear, it is not necessary to replace the separating device. The hole in the sealing element can be configured such that cooling air and / or separation gas can pass through relative to the sealing element in the longitudinal direction and be discharged at the end of the sealing element into the second cooling gas chamber.

[0023] According to a further embodiment, the separating device extends over the entire cross section of the cooling gas chamber. The separating device preferably extends transversely relative to the conveying direction of the bulk material, in particular at an angle of approximately 90° relative to the conveying direction. The cross section of the cooling gas chamber of the cooler is preferably completely or at least 98% covered by the separating device, so that an exchange of gas between the cooling gas chamber sections of the cooling gas chamber is not possible or only to a very small, negligible extent.

[0024] The separating device is in particular at least partially placed on the bulk material. The separating device is preferably placed with a bottom end on the surface of the bulk material and in particular in close contact with the surface of the bulk material. During operation of the cooler, the bulk material is conveyed in the conveying direction, wherein the bulk material slides under the conveying device and the fact that the separating device is partially placed on the bulk material ensures an as airtight as possible closure of the cooling gas chamber portion.

[0025] For example, the at least one sealing element or all sealing elements are placed on the surface of the bulk material. Thus, during operation of the cooler, the sealing elements are highly subject to wear due to the friction with the bulk material and the high thermal load within the cooling gas chamber.

[0026] The separating device preferably comprises at least one portion placed on the surface of the bulk material and at least one further portion which extends transversely with respect to the conveying direction of the bulk material, in particular at an angle of approximately 90° with respect to the conveying direction. Preferably, the top region of the separating device which is attached to the cover is rigidly attached and the bottom portion is attached so as to be movable, in particular pivotable (about a horizontal rotation axis which is arranged transversely with respect to the conveying direction). It is likewise conceivable that the top region of the separating device is a plate which is fixedly or pivotably attached, while the bottom portion is a region which comprises a plurality of sealing elements and is placed on the bulk material.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the first cooling gas stream consists of pure oxygen or a gas having a nitrogen content of less than 35 vol.-%, in particular less than 21 vol.-%, preferably 15 vol.-% or less and an oxygen content of 50 vol.-% or more. The first cooling gas chamber portion preferably directly adjoins the top of a tubular rotary kiln upstream of the cooler, as a result of which the cooling gas is heated in the cooler and then flows into the tubular rotary kiln and is used as combustion air. The second cooling gas stream is for example air.

[0028] The suspension element is for example attached to the cover of the cooling gas chamber. In particular, the suspension element extends to the surface of the bulk material. The separating device is preferably attached to the cover by fastening means. The fastening means are preferably designed such that they permit a pivoting movement, preferably a pivoting movement about a horizontal rotation axis which is arranged transversely with respect to the conveying direction. For example, the fastening means are a pivotable clamp for attaching the suspension element to the cover. This ensures that the entire cross section of the cooling gas chamber is covered by the separating device. The separating device is preferably attached to the cover so as to be pivotable, in particular about a horizontal axis which is arranged transversely with respect to the conveying direction. In particular, the suspension element is attached to the cover of the cooling gas chamber between the first cooling gas chamber and the second cooling gas chamber. For example, the region of the cover to which the separating device is attached is recessed or in the form of a partition wall which protrudes into the cooling gas chamber.

[0029] According to another embodiment, each separation device has a plurality of suspension elements with a corresponding plurality of sealing elements. The suspension elements are attached, for example, over the entire width of the cooling gas chamber. In particular, the suspension elements are uniformly spaced apart from one another. The suspension elements are preferably attached in such a way that the sealing elements of adjacent suspension elements are in contact. Each sealing element preferably contacts the sealing element of an adjacent fastening device.

[0030] According to another embodiment, the cooler has a line for guiding a separation gas to the separation devices. The line preferably leads to a separation gas inlet within the cooling gas chamber, wherein the separation gas inlet is arranged in such a way that the separation gas flows through the separation gas inlet to the separation devices. The separation gas inlet is arranged, for example, in the dynamic / static grid or on the cover of the cooling gas chamber. The separation gas is, for example, C02. The introduction of the separation gas in the vicinity of the separation devices provides an additional gas barrier to prevent gas exchange between the cooling gas chamber sections. It is harmless in terms of process technology to allow C02 as separation gas to be introduced into the first cooling gas chamber section and thus subsequently into the tubular rotary kiln as combustion gas.

[0031] It is likewise conceivable for the line for guiding the separation gas to pass through at least some of the sealing elements. The sealing elements are, for example, hollow or have a hole for guiding the separation gas. The separation gas is preferably introduced through the suspension on the cooler cover of the separation devices, so that the separation gas is pressed through the suspension elements or the sealing elements, as a result of which the heated separation gas stream enters the second cooling gas chamber at the bottom end of the separation devices.

[0032] At least one separation gas outlet is preferably provided on the cover of the cooling gas chamber, through which the separation gas exits the cooling gas chamber. In particular, the separation gas outlet is connected to a fan for extracting the separation gas from the cooling gas chamber.

[0033] The first cooling gas chamber section preferably has a higher gas pressure than the second cooling gas chamber section. Thereby, it is reliably possible to prevent the cooling gas of the second cooling gas chamber section from flowing into the first cooling gas chamber section.

[0034] According to a further embodiment, the cooler has a plurality of separation devices which are arranged one after the other in the conveying direction of the bulk material. For example, the separation devices are attached uniformly spaced apart from one another. The plurality of separation devices makes it possible to continue to achieve sufficient sealing action in the event of a single sealing element breaking. The complete separation device can be replaced in such a way that the sealing function is ensured even during the operation of replacing one or more separation devices, so that a new, undamaged separation device is conveyed to the treatment chamber and the damaged separation device is removed from the treatment chamber. It is likewise conceivable for one or more refractory mats to be attached between two adjacent separation devices, which refractory mats are preferably attached to the cover or to two adjacent separation devices in the manner of a curtain and extend at least to the surface of the bulk material. For example, the refractory mats are made of woven ceramic fabric or ceramic fibers.

[0035] The separation devices can be moved out of the cooling gas chamber laterally, in particular removed, preferably through openings arranged in the cooling gas chamber side wall. For example, the separation devices can be replaced via the cover. The separation devices are preferably attached to the cover of the cooling gas chamber in order to be able to be moved laterally, in particular with respect to the flow direction of the bulk material. The separation devices can be wound in the manner of a roller blind, for example in a box, for example within the cover.

[0036] According to a further embodiment, the line for introducing separation gas into the cooling gas chamber is arranged between two adjacent separation devices. The separation gas inlet is preferably attached to the cover of the cooling gas chamber between two adjacent separation devices. A plurality of separation devices with separation gas between adjacent separation devices provides reliable protection against the cooling gas flow mixing through the cooling gas chamber section.

[0037] The invention also comprises a cement production plant having, in the flow direction of the material: a preheater for preheating the material, a tubular rotary kiln for burning the material to form clinker and a cooler as described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0038] In the following, the invention is described in more detail on the basis of a plurality of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings.

[0039] Figure 1 A schematic view of a cooler according to one exemplary embodiment is shown in a longitudinal sectional view.

[0040] Figure 2 A schematic view of a separation device according to one exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0041] Figure 3 A schematic view of a detail of the cooler in a cross-sectional view of Figure 1

[0042] Figure 4 ​A schematic view in longitudinal sectional view showing details of a cooler with a plurality of separation devices arranged one after the other according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0043] Figure 5 and Figure 7 A schematic view in perspective view showing a sealing element according to another embodiment.

[0044] Figure 6 and Figure 8 A schematic view in perspective view showing details of a separation device with sealing elements connected to each other according to another embodiment.

[0045] Figure 9 A schematic view in perspective view showing a sealing element according to another embodiment.

[0046] Figure 10 A schematic view in perspective view and side view showing details of a separation device with sealing elements connected to each other according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Figure 1 A cooler 10 for cooling bulk material 12, such as cement clinker, is shown. The cooler 10 has a cooling gas chamber 14 in which the bulk material 12 is cooled by a cooling gas flow. The bulk material 12 is conveyed through the cooling gas chamber 14 in a conveying direction F.

[0048] The cooling gas chamber 14 has a first cooling gas chamber portion 16 and a second cooling gas chamber portion 18, which adjoins the first cooling gas chamber portion 16 in the conveying direction F. The cooler 10 is preferably part of a cement production facility, which has a preheater (not shown) for preheating raw meal by a plurality of cyclones and a tubular rotary kiln 20, which adjoins the preheater, for burning material to form cement clinker. The cement clinker burned in the tubular rotary kiln 20 is then cooled in the cooler 10. A kiln's roof 36 is arranged at a material outlet side end of the tubular rotary kiln 20 and is connected to the cooler inlet. The tubular rotary kiln 20 is inclined in the conveying direction of the clinker and is connected to the cooler 10 via the kiln's roof 36, as a result of which the clinker burned in the tubular rotary kiln 20 falls into the cooler 10. In the kiln's roof 36, the tubular rotary kiln 20 has a burner 22 for burning material and extends from the kiln's roof 36 into the tubular rotary kiln 20. The fuel discharged via various burners into the tubular rotary kiln facility is burned together with a combustion gas, which is preferably pure oxygen. This results in an exhaust gas, which consists essentially of CO2and water vapor and has the advantage that complex downstream cleaning processes for exhaust gas cleaning can be dispensed with. Furthermore, the amount of process gas is reduced, as a result of which the facility can be provided with a considerably small size.

[0049] The first cooling gas chamber section 16 is arranged below the material outlet of the tubular rotary kiln 20 such that the bulk material 12 falls from the tubular rotary kiln 20 into the first cooling gas chamber section 16. The first cooling gas chamber section 16 constitutes an inlet region of the cooler and preferably has a static grate 24 which receives the bulk material leaving the tubular rotary kiln 20. The static grate 24 is in particular completely arranged in the first cooling gas chamber section 16 of the cooler 10. The bulk material 12 preferably falls directly from the kiln 20 onto the static grate 24. The static grate 24 preferably extends completely at an angle of 10° to 35°, preferably 14° to 33°, in particular 21° to 25°, with respect to the horizontal, as a result of which the bulk material 12 slides on the static grate 24 in the conveying direction.

[0050] The second cooling gas chamber section 18 of the cooler 10 adjoins the first cooling gas chamber section 16. In the first cooling gas chamber section 16 of the cooler 10, the bulk material 12 is cooled in particular to a temperature below 1100°C, wherein the cooling takes place in such a way that the liquid phase present in the bulk material 12 is completely solidified as a solid phase. When the bulk material 12 leaves the first cooling gas chamber section 16 of the cooler 10, the bulk material 12 is preferably completely present as a solid phase and has a temperature of at most 1100°C. In the second cooling gas chamber section 18 of the cooler 10, the bulk material is further cooled, preferably to a temperature below 100°C. The second cooling gas stream can preferably be subdivided into a plurality of partial streams having different temperatures.

[0051] The static grate of the first cooling gas chamber section 16 has, for example, channels through which the cooling gas enters the cooler 10 and the bulk material 12. The cooling gas is generated, for example, by at least one fan arranged below the static grate, as a result of which a first cooling gas stream 26 flows from below through the static grate into the first cooling gas chamber section 16. The first cooling gas stream is, for example, pure oxygen or a gas having a nitrogen content of 15% by volume or less and an oxygen content of 50% by volume or more.

[0052] Within the cooler 10, the bulk material 12 to be cooled is moved in a conveying direction F. The second cooling gas chamber portion 18 preferably has a dynamic, in particular movable, grate 28 which adjoins the static grate 24 in the conveying direction F. The dynamic grate 28 in particular has a conveying unit which conveys the bulk material 12 in the conveying direction F. The conveying unit is for example a sliding floor conveyor which has a plurality of conveying elements for conveying the bulk material. In the case of a sliding floor conveyor, the conveying elements are a plurality of plates, preferably grate plates, which form an aerated floor. The conveying elements are arranged adjacent to one another and can be moved along the conveying direction F and against the conveying direction F. The conveying elements in the form of conveying plates or grate plates, which are arranged over the entire length of the second cooling gas chamber portion 18 of the cooler 10 and form a surface on which the bulk material 12 rests, can preferably be flowed through by the cooling gas stream. The conveying unit can also be a pusher conveyor, wherein the conveying unit comprises a stationary aerated floor which can be flowed through by the cooling gas stream and a plurality of conveying elements which can be moved relative to the aerated floor. The conveying elements of the pusher conveyor are preferably arranged above the aerated floor and have entrainment elements which run transversely to the conveying direction. In order to convey the bulk material 12 along the aerated floor, the conveying elements can be moved along the conveying direction F and against the conveying direction F. The conveying elements of the pusher conveyor and the sliding floor conveyor can be moved in accordance with the "walk floor principle", wherein the conveying elements are all moved along the conveying direction simultaneously and against the conveying direction non-simultaneously. As an alternative thereto, other conveying principles used in bulk material technology can also be conceivable.

[0053] For example, a plurality of fans are arranged below the dynamic grate 28, through which fans the second cooling gas stream 30 is blown from below through the dynamic grate 28. The second cooling gas stream is for example air.

[0054] The comminution device 32 adjoins the dynamic grate 28 of the second cooling gas chamber portion 18, for example as shown in Figure 1 The comminution device 32 is for example a crusher which has at least two comminution rollers which can be rotated in opposite directions and a comminution gap between them in which comminution of the material takes place. A not shown third cooling gas chamber portion of the cooler 10 can adjoin the comminution device 32, for example in order to further cool the bulk material 12. In this configuration, the bulk material 12 preferably has a temperature of greater than 100°C when it enters the third region of the cooler 10. The bulk material preferably has a temperature of 100°C or less when it leaves the cooler 10.

[0055] The cooler 10 also has a separation device 34 which is arranged between the first cooling gas chamber portion 16 and the second cooling gas chamber portion 18 and serves to separate the cooling gas chamber portions 16, 18 from one another in a gas-tight manner, such that an exchange of gas between the cooling gas chamber portions 16, 18 is not possible, or only possible to a very small, preferably negligible extent.

[0056] Figures 2 to 4 A detailed view of the separation device 34 and its arrangement in the cooler 10 is shown. Figure 2 The separation device 34, through which the cooling gas chamber portions 16 and 18 are separated from one another, is shown. The separation device 34 rests with its bottom region on the surface of the bulk material 12. The end of the separation device 34 which is opposite the bulk material 12 is attached, for example, to a cover 38 of the cooling gas chamber 14 of the cooler 10. It is likewise conceivable for the separation device 34 to be attached to another component of the cooler 10, preferably within the cooling gas chamber 14.

[0057] The separation device 34 has at least one suspension element or a plurality of suspension elements 40, to each of which a plurality of sealing elements 42 is attached. As an example, Figure 2 A chain or a cable as a suspension element 40 is shown. It is likewise conceivable for the suspension element to be a rod, a wire mat and / or a tube. In Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the sealing elements 42 are, as an example, discs, for example cylindrical elements with a central opening which is attached, in particular screwed, to the cable. The sealing elements can be, for example, cuboidal or spherical, or have a rectangular, triangular or polygonal cross section. The sealing elements 34 are, for example, abutted against one another and are not fastened to one another. Fastening means 42 preferably extend through the centre point, in particular the centre of gravity of the sealing elements 42. In particular, the suspension elements 40 extend through holes formed in the sealing elements 42, whereby the sealing elements 42 are attached, in particular screwed, to the suspension elements 40 relative to one another and preferably relative to the suspension elements 40. Retaining means which prevent the sealing elements 42 from slipping out of the suspension elements 40 are attached, for example, to the bottom bulk material side end of the suspension elements 40. At the opposite end, the suspension elements 40 are attached, for example, to the cover 38 by means of fastening means 44, for example clamps.

[0058] The sealing elements 42 preferably have a height which is significantly smaller than the distance between the surface of the bulk material and the cover of the cooling gas chamber 12. In particular, the sealing elements 42 have a height of, for example, 2 to 20 cm, preferably 5 to 15 cm, in particular 10 cm. A plurality of, for example at least 10, preferably at least 50, in particular at least 100 sealing elements 42 are preferably attached to one suspension element 40. The separation device 34 comprises, for example, a plurality of suspension elements 40, each of which has a plurality of sealing elements 42. InFigure 2 In the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 1 1, the plurality of suspension elements 40 with the respective sealing elements 42 are attached next to each other over the entire cross section of the cooling gas chamber 14, such that the sealing elements 42 of adjacent suspension elements 40 are in contact.

[0059] The separation device 42 preferably extends over the entire cross section of the cooling gas chamber 14. It is likewise conceivable that the separation device precisely has one suspension element 40 to which a plurality of sealing elements 42 are attached. In this case, the suspension element 40 is for example a wire mat which preferably extends over the entire cross section of the cooling gas chamber 14.

[0060] Figure 3 Fig. 1 1 shows a detail of the separation device 34 with two sealing elements 42 according to Fig. 1 1. The same elements have the same reference signs. Figure 1 Fig. 1 1 shows a detail of the separation device 34 with two sealing elements 42 according to Fig. 1 1. The same elements have the same reference signs. Figure 3 The separation device 34 of Fig. 1 1 has a plurality of, for example 10, suspension elements 40 with sealing elements 42 arranged next to each other such that the sealing elements 42 of adjacent suspension elements 40 are in contact and the entire cross section of the cooling gas chamber 14 is completely covered by the separation device 34, as a result of which preferably no cooling gas can flow through the separation device 34.

[0061] Figure 4 Fig. 1 1 shows another embodiment of the cooler 10 with separation devices 34 compared to Fig. 1 1, wherein Figure 1 The plurality of separation devices 34 are arranged one after the other in the conveying direction F of the bulk material. Each separation device 34 is preferably designed as described above and in particular arranged parallel to each other. For example, Figure 4 The cooler 10 of Fig. 1 1 has five separation devices 34. Optionally, between two adjacent separation devices 34 there can be a separation gas inlet (not shown in Fig. 1 1 ) for allowing a separation gas, for example CO2, to enter the cooling gas chamber 18. Figure 4

[0062] Figure 5 Fig. 1 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a sealing element 42, Figure 6 Fig. 1 1 shows a detail of the separation device 34 with two sealing elements 42 according to Fig. 1 1. The same elements have the same reference signs. Figure 5 Fig. 1 1 shows a detail of the separation device 34 with two sealing elements 42 according to Fig. 1 1. The same elements have the same reference signs.

[0063] For example, Figure 5 ​The sealing element 42 has a top connecting region 46a for connecting the sealing element 42 to another sealing element 42 located above it. The top connecting region 46a has, for example, a recess disposed therein and a substantially horizontal web. For example, the web is laterally flat. The sealing element 42 also has a bottom connecting region 46b for connecting the sealing element 42 to another sealing element 42 located below it. The bottom connecting region 46b preferably has a hook shape, which is designed to engage in the top connecting region 46a of the sealing element 42 disposed below it, particularly in the web and the recess. The connecting regions 46a of adjacent sealing elements 42 are preferably connected to each other according to the principle of bayonet connection, such that they are preferably rotatable about the web. Figure 6 The diagram shows two sealing elements 42 connected to each other. For example, sealing elements 42 adjacent only in the vertical direction are fixedly connected to each other, particularly by form-fit connection, wherein sealing elements 42 adjacent in the horizontal direction abut each other only by corresponding lateral connection regions 46c, 46c. The lateral connection regions 46c, 46c, d are, for example, the horizontally facing sides of the sealing elements 42. It is also conceivable that only one connection region 46a-d or all connection regions 46a-d are connected to the connection regions 46a-d of adjacent sealing elements 42 by form fit. The separation device 34 preferably has a plurality of sealing elements 42 connected to each other. In particular, all sealing elements 42 of the separation device 34 have the same shape.

[0064] Figure 7 Details of a separation device 34 having six sealing elements 42 are shown as an example. Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 Cross-sectional view. See reference. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As described, Figure 7 Each sealing element 42 also has a plurality of connection regions 46a-d, which are identified, for example, on a single sealing element 42. The connection regions 46a-d of the sealing element 42 are, for example, convex, particularly hemispherical protrusions or recessed, particularly hemispherical depressions, abutting against corresponding complementary connection surfaces 46a-d of adjacent sealing elements 42. The construction of different connection regions 46a-d is also conceivable.

[0065] also, Figure 7 The sealing elements 42 are connected to each other via a suspension element 40 (not shown). Each sealing element 42 has a particularly vertical through-hole 48, see reference. Figures 1 to 4The respective suspension elements 40 described are preferably extended through the through-holes 48. Cooling air can also be guided through the through-holes 48. To this end, the through-holes 48 can also be conical, so that the mutual connection of the through-holes 48 also functions in the deflected state of the separation device with respect to the cooling air.

[0066] Figure 9 Another exemplary embodiment of a sealing element 50 is shown, Figure 10 a plurality of sealing elements 50 and 52 according to Figure 5 and 9 of the separation device 34 are shown. Figure 10 The separation device 34 shown has a plurality of sealing elements 50, 52 of different design, which comprises a plurality of sealing elements 50 having a first shape and sealing elements 52 having a second shape. As Figure 9 is shown, the first sealing elements 50 have a plurality of connection regions 46a-d as described with respect to Figures 5 to 8 . Figure 10 The connection regions 46a and 46b of the sealing elements 50 are shown as being connected to a plurality of further sealing elements 52, respectively. For example, the sealing elements 52 having the second shape correspond to Figure 5 and Figure 6 the sealing elements 50 shown. The sealing elements 50 having the first shape have a length, for example, which corresponds to the length of five sealing elements 52 having the second shape. The sealing elements 50 having the first shape are arranged, for example, only in the top region of the separation device 34 facing the cooler cover. The sealing elements 50, 52 are arranged in rows alternately in Figure 10 by way of example. For example, the sealing elements 50 having the first shape are attached only in the upper half of the separation device 34. This permits a greater mobility of the bottom region of the separation device 34, which is at least partially placed on the bulk material.

[0067] List of reference signs

[0068] 10 cooler

[0069] 12 bulk material

[0070] 14 cooling gas chamber

[0071] 16 first cooling gas chamber portion of the cooling gas chamber 14

[0072] 18 second cooling gas chamber portion of the cooling gas chamber 14

[0073] 20 tubular rotary kiln

[0074] 22 burner

[0075] 24 static grid

[0076] 26 first cooling gas stream

[0077] 28 dynamic grid

[0078] 30 second cooling gas stream

[0079] 32 pulverizing device

[0080] 34 separating apparatus

[0081] 36 top of the kiln

[0082] 38 cover of the cooling gas chamber 14

[0083] 40 suspension element

[0084] 42 sealing element

[0085] 44 fastening means

[0086] 46a-d connection areas

[0087] 48 through hole

[0088] 50 first sealing element

[0089] 52 second sealing element

[0090] F conveying direction

Claims

1. A cooler (10) for cooling loose material (12), comprising: A cooling gas chamber (14) is provided, through which a cooling gas stream for cooling the loose material (12) can flow laterally. A conveying device for conveying the loose material (12) through the cooling gas chamber (14) in the conveying direction (F). in, The cooling gas chamber (14) includes a first cooling gas chamber portion (16) having a first cooling airflow (26) and a second cooling gas chamber portion (18) having a second cooling airflow (30), the second cooling gas chamber portion being adjacent to the first cooling gas chamber portion in the conveying direction (F) of the loose material (12). The cooler (10) includes a separation device (34) that provides an airtight separation between the cooling gas chamber sections (16, 18). Its features are, The separation device (34) extends laterally with respect to the conveying direction (F) of the loose material and has a plurality of sealing elements (42) and at least one suspension element (40), the plurality of sealing elements (42) being attached to the suspension element, and wherein the cooler (10) has a line for guiding the separation gas to the separation device (34), the sealing elements (42) being arranged one after another such that the sealing elements cover the cross-section of the cooling gas chamber (14), and the sealing elements being hollow or having orifices for guiding the cooling gas and / or the separation gas.

2. The cooler (10) according to claim 1, wherein, Each sealing element (42) has a plurality of connection regions (46a-d), each of the plurality of connection regions abutting against at least one connection region (46a-d) of an adjacent sealing element (42).

3. The cooler (10) according to claim 2, wherein, The abutting connection areas (46a-d) of adjacent sealing elements (42) have complementary forms.

4. The cooler (10) according to any one of claims 2-3, wherein, Each sealing element (42) is fixedly connected to at least one adjacent sealing element (42) via one of its connection regions (46a-d) by form fit.

5. The cooler (10) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The separation device (34) has a plurality of sealing elements (50) having a first shape and a plurality of sealing elements (52) having a second shape.

6. The cooler according to claim 5, wherein, The suspension element (40) includes chains, rods, cables, pads and / or pipes.

7. The cooler (10) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The separation device (34) extends across the entire cross-section of the cooling gas chamber (14).

8. The cooler (10) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The separation device (34) is placed at least partially on the loose material (12).

9. The cooler (10) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The first cooling airflow (26) consists of a gas containing less than 35% nitrogen by volume and 50% or more oxygen by volume.

10. The cooler (10) according to claim 9, wherein, The first cooling gas flow (26) consists of a gas with a pure oxygen content of less than 21% or less by volume and an oxygen content of 50% or more by volume.

11. The cooler (10) according to claim 9, wherein, The first cooling gas flow (26) consists of a gas containing less than 15% or less nitrogen by volume and 50% or more oxygen by volume.

12. The cooler (10) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The sealing element (42) is attached to the suspension element (40) so that it can move relative to the suspension element.

13. The cooler (10) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, Each separation device (34) includes multiple suspension elements (40) with corresponding multiple sealing elements (42).

14. The cooler (10) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The cooler (10) has a plurality of separation devices (34) arranged one after another in the conveying direction (F) of the loose material (12).

15. The cooler (10) according to claim 14, wherein, The pipeline for guiding the separated gas to the cooling gas chamber (14) is arranged between two adjacent separation devices (34).

16. The cooler (10) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The loose material (12) is cement clinker.

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