Traction cooling system and circulating water control method for high-speed secondary coating of optical fiber

Abstract

The present invention discloses a traction cooling system and a circulating water control method for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers, which belongs to the field of optical fiber technology. The system includes a first water tank, a hot water tank, a second water tank, a traction cooling mechanism, and a third water tank. By utilizing the structural form of each water tank and the corresponding arrangement of the corresponding water supply channel, water outlet, and water pipeline, a circulating supply of cooling water can be realized, and multi-stage cooling of the sheathed optical fiber can be achieved while effectively shortening the length of the traction cooling system. The traction cooling system in the present invention has a compact structure, and can effectively shorten the structural setting length of the traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers while ensuring the cooling effect of the sheathed optical fibers, and can be compatible with the sheathing processing in both conventional and high-speed modes. The system has high flexibility in adjustment and strong compatibility, can meet different sheathing processing requirements, and reduce the equipment cost of the secondary sheathing processing of optical fibers, and has good practical value and application prospects.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of optical fibers, and in particular relates to a traction cooling system and a circulating water control method for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers. Background Art

[0002] In the field of optical fiber and cable manufacturing, secondary sheathing is an essential step in the cable manufacturing process. This involves using a suitable polymer material and an extrusion process to coat the fiber with a loose tube of a suitable length. During extrusion, the space between the tube and the fiber is typically filled with a mixture known as fiber paste. This mixture exhibits long-term chemical and physical stability, suitable viscosity, excellent waterproof properties, and long-term fiber protection, all while being fully compatible with the tube material. This secondary sheathing significantly enhances the fiber's resistance to tension and lateral pressure.

[0003] During the secondary sheathing process of optical fiber, in order to ensure the stable molding of the optical fiber sheath, a traction cooling system must be set up to realize the cooling molding of the extruded loose tube.

[0004] At present, the length of traditional optical fiber secondary coating production lines is often around 40m. If the pulling speed of the production line is further increased, in order to ensure that the casing has sufficient cooling time, it is necessary to further increase the length of the cooling water tank, resulting in a further increase in the length of the growth line, reaching 50m or even longer, which leads to great restrictions in the setting of the production line. Therefore, when actually designing an optical fiber secondary coating production line, it is necessary to balance the pulling speed of the production line and the length of the cooling system, resulting in certain restrictions on the design of the pulling speed of the production line. In addition, when the length of the water tank of the cooling system is increased, the contact distance between the casing and the water tank becomes longer, resulting in a significant increase in the resistance encountered during the pulling process of the casing, which in turn affects the stability of the excess length. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In response to one or more of the above-mentioned defects or improvement needs of the prior art, the present invention provides a traction cooling system and a circulating water control method for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers, which can reliably realize traction and cooling during the secondary sheathing process of optical fibers, ensure the cooling process of the secondary sheathing of optical fibers, and greatly shorten the length of the traction cooling system and the secondary sheathing production line, reducing the workload and difficulty of on-site installation of the equipment.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, one aspect of the present invention provides a traction cooling system for high-speed secondary coating of optical fiber, comprising a first water tank, a hot water tank, and a second water tank arranged in sequence in a first direction; the system also includes a traction cooling mechanism and a third water tank;

[0007] The temperatures of the cooling water in the first water tank, the second water tank, and the third water tank decrease in sequence; one end of the first water tank corresponds to the discharge position of the secondary sheathing of the optical fiber, and the other end is connected to the hot water tank, which controls the water level and temperature in the first water tank;

[0008] The traction cooling mechanism is arranged at one end of the second water tank away from the hot water tank, and is used for traction of the coated optical fiber; the third water tank is arranged between the traction cooling mechanism and the hot water tank, and is arranged in parallel with the second water tank in the second direction; and

[0009] The second water tank and the third water tank are respectively connected to the hot water tank through a first through hole and a second through hole opened on the wall of the hot water tank, forming a first water supply channel and a second water supply channel; and a plurality of third water supply channels are formed between the second water tank and the third water tank;

[0010] The first water tank is provided with at least one water outlet connected to the third water tank by a water pipeline, which is used to discharge cooling water after absorbing heat and heating in the first water tank; the first water level in the second water tank is higher than the lowest level of the first water supply channel, which is used to continuously supply the cooling water in the second water tank to the hot water tank; and the second water level in the third water tank is higher than the lowest level of the third water supply channel, which is used to continuously supply the cooling water in the first water tank to the second water tank; the lowest level of the second water supply channel is higher than the lowest level of the third water supply channel, which is used to directly replenish water from the third water tank to the hot water tank after the water level in the third water tank rises;

[0011] The third water tank is provided with a cooling module for cooling the hot water introduced into the first water tank to the working temperature of the cooling water in the third water tank; and the third water tank is provided with at least two branching wheels, each branching wheel includes at least one coaxially arranged wire wheel unit, so that the sheathed optical fiber transmitted by flat wheel traction and winding can be pulled into the third water tank for winding and cooling.

[0012] As a further improvement of the present invention, the traction cooling mechanism includes two flat wheel tractions spaced apart in the first direction; and

[0013] At least one cooling water nozzle is provided corresponding to at least one of the flat wheel tractions; the cooling water nozzle is connected to the water outlet provided in the second water tank by a pipeline, and is used to spray cooling water onto the sheathed optical fiber wound on the flat wheel traction.

[0014] As a further improvement of the present invention, the first water tank is a hot water tank, wherein the cooling water is supplied by the hot water tank, and wherein the temperature of the cooling water is 25° C. to 80° C.;

[0015] and / or

[0016] The second water tank is a warm water tank, wherein the cooling water temperature is 20°C~50°C;

[0017] and / or

[0018] The third water tank is a cold water tank, and the temperature of the cooling water therein is 10°C ~ 20°C.

[0019] As a further improvement of the present invention, a direct water supply pipeline is further provided between the hot water tank and the third water tank, for the third water tank to directly supply cooling water to the hot water tank.

[0020] As a further improvement of the present invention, at least one water outlet is provided at one end of the first water tank away from the hot water tank;

[0021] The water outlet is connected to the chiller via a water pipeline, and the chiller is connected to the third water tank via a pipeline, so as to cool the cooling water after absorbing heat and heating it and then input it back into the third water tank;

[0022] or

[0023] The water outlet is connected to the cooling water inlet pipeline of the third water tank through a water delivery pipeline; the cooling water inlet pipeline is connected to the bottom of the third water tank, and a cooling module is provided at the bottom of the third water tank.

[0024] As a further improvement of the present invention, the second water tank and the third water tank are respectively connected to the same side wall of the hot water tank at their ends; and

[0025] The second water trough and the third water trough are arranged side by side and closely together in the second direction, and the third water supply channel is formed by through holes respectively opened on the walls of the two water troughs and connected to each other;

[0026] or

[0027] The second water trough is embedded in the third water trough, and the third water supply channel is a third through hole opened on at least one side wall of the second water trough.

[0028] As a further improvement of the present invention, a plurality of wire wheel units are coaxially arranged on each of the wire distribution wheels, so that the sheathed optical fiber can be wound multiple times in the third water tank for traction cooling;

[0029] and / or

[0030] A cold water tank is provided corresponding to the third water tank. The cold water tank has a built-in chiller and is connected to the third water tank via a cooling water inlet pipeline for replenishing cooling water to the third water tank.

[0031] As a further improvement of the present invention, a drying mechanism is provided on the side of the third water tank away from the hot water tank, which is used to dry the sheathed optical fiber after cooling.

[0032] Another aspect of the present invention further provides a circulating water control method for the traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers, characterized in that it includes the following steps:

[0033] (1) In normal mode, the water outlet rate of the first water tank is set corresponding to the pulling rate of the coated optical fiber, the second water level is controlled to be between the center position and the lowest position of the third water supply channel, and water is continuously supplied to the second water tank to control the first water level between the highest position and the lowest position of the first water supply channel. The second water tank continuously supplies water to the hot water tank, thereby realizing the circulating water control of the entire pulling cooling system;

[0034] (2) In high-speed mode, the pulling rate of the sheathed optical fiber increases. At this time, the water output rate of the first water tank is accelerated, and the rate of water replenishment to the hot water tank is increased at the same time. The process of replenishing water to the hot water tank includes:

[0035] The second water level is controlled to rise, and the amount of cooling water flowing into the second water tank through the third water supply channel increases. The first water level is controlled to rise, and the amount of cooling water flowing into the hot water tank through the first water supply channel increases. At this time, the second water level has not yet reached the lowest level of the second water supply channel.

[0036] The second water level is controlled to continue to rise and pass the lowest level of the second water supply channel, and the cooling water in the third water tank is directly supplied to the hot water tank through the second water supply channel; and the first water level continues to rise, further increasing the amount of water supplied to the hot water tank;

[0037] By increasing the water supply of the second water tank per unit time or replenishing water to the hot water tank from the second and third water tanks at the same time, the water replenishment amount in the hot water tank and the water output from the first water tank reach a dynamic balance, thereby realizing the control of circulating water.

[0038] Another aspect of the present invention further provides a circulating water control method for the traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers, characterized in that it includes the following steps:

[0039] (1) In normal mode, the water outlet rate of the first water tank is set corresponding to the pulling rate of the coated optical fiber, the second water level is controlled to be between the center position and the lowest position of the third water supply channel, and water is continuously supplied to the second water tank to control the first water level between the highest position and the lowest position of the first water supply channel. The second water tank continuously supplies water to the hot water tank, thereby realizing the circulating water control of the entire pulling cooling system;

[0040] (2) In high-speed mode, the pulling rate of the sheathed optical fiber increases. At this time, the water output rate of the first water tank is accelerated, and the rate of water replenishment to the hot water tank is increased at the same time. The process of replenishing water to the hot water tank includes:

[0041] The direct water replenishment pipeline is controlled to directly replenish the cooling water in the third water tank into the hot water tank. During the entire water replenishment process, the water levels in the third water tank and the second water tank are maintained within a set threshold range.

[0042] The above-mentioned improved technical features can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0043] In general, the above technical solutions conceived by the present invention have the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art:

[0044] (1) The traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers of the present invention comprises a first water trough, a hot water tank, a second water trough, a traction cooling mechanism and a third water trough. By utilizing the structural forms of the water troughs and the corresponding settings of the corresponding water supply channels, water outlets and water pipelines, a circulating supply of cooling water can be realized, and multi-stage cooling of the sheathed optical fibers can be achieved while effectively shortening the length of the traction cooling system, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the circulating supply of cooling water and improving the efficiency and quality of cooling of the sheathed optical fibers after sheathing. Moreover, by correspondingly setting the second water supply channel between the third water trough and the hot water tank and cooperating with the preferred setting position, the rate of replenishing water to the second water trough and the hot water tank can be achieved by controlling the water level in the third water trough, thereby meeting the working requirements of the traction cooling system in different modes, improving the use flexibility and compatibility of the traction cooling system and reducing the equipment cost during the production of secondary sheathing of optical fibers.

[0045] (2) The traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers of the present invention can realize another water replenishment method besides increasing the water level in the third water tank by setting a direct water replenishment pipeline between the hot water tank and the third water tank, thereby improving the flexibility of the operation and control of the traction cooling system and meeting the application requirements of different applications; at the same time, by setting a heating module in the hot water tank, the water temperature of the cooling water in the hot water tank and the first water tank can be controlled, thereby ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the first-level cooling of the sheathed optical fiber.

[0046] (3) The traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers of the present invention can meet the requirements of different application scenarios by optimizing the configuration of the second and third water tanks, thereby improving the flexibility of the design and layout of the traction cooling system and meeting different design and application requirements. At the same time, by the corresponding configuration of the cold water tank and the configuration of the cooling water inlet pipe, porous partition and other mechanisms in the third water tank, the accuracy of the cooling water temperature control and water level control in the entire cooling system can be further improved to meet the application requirements of different application scenarios.

[0047] (4) The traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers in the present invention has a compact structure. While ensuring the cooling effect of the sheathed optical fibers, it can effectively shorten the structural length of the traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers and reduce the plant floor space occupied by the traction cooling system. At the same time, the circulating water control method of the traction cooling system in the present invention is simple and can be compatible with the sheathing process in both conventional and high-speed modes. The system has high flexibility in adjustment and strong compatibility, can meet different sheathing processing requirements, further reduce the equipment cost of optical fiber secondary sheathing processing, and has good practical value and application prospects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative work.

[0049] Figure 1 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a traction cooling system for high-speed secondary coating of optical fiber according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 2 This is a simplified structural diagram of a traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 3 、 Figure 4 Schematic diagram of two combinations of the second water tank and the third water tank in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 5 This is an enlarged view of the structure of part I of the traction cooling system in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 6 is a sectional view taken along line BB of a portion I of a traction cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 7 is a CC sectional view of a part I of the traction cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] In all the drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same technical features, specifically:

[0056] 1. First water tank; 2. Hot water tank; 3. Second water tank; 4. Third water tank; 5. Traction cooling mechanism; 6. Drying mechanism; 7. Plastic-coated optical fiber; 8. Cold water tank;

[0057] 201. Water level gauge; 202. Temperature control module; 203. First through hole; 204. Second through hole; 301. Water outlet; 302. Third through hole; 303. First water level; 401. Line distributor; 402. First motor; 403. Cooling water inlet pipe; 404. Second water level; 405. Cooling module; 406. Porous partition; 501. Flat wheel traction; 502. Second motor; 503. Cooling water nozzle; 504. Shift fork. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] In order to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the present invention more clearly understood, the present invention is further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only intended to illustrate the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. In addition, the technical features involved in the various embodiments of the present invention described below may be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0059] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" and the like to indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0060] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of the technical features being referred to. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In the description of the present invention, "plurality" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0061] In the present invention, unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "installed," "connected," "connect," "fixed," etc. should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connection, detachable connection, or integration; mechanical connection, electrical connection; direct connection, or indirect connection through an intermediate medium; internal communication between two components, or interaction between two components, unless otherwise specified. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on specific circumstances.

[0062] In the present invention, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, when a first feature is "above" or "below" a second feature, it may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediary. Furthermore, when a first feature is "above," "above," or "above" a second feature, it may mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is at a higher level than the second feature. When a first feature is "below," "below," or "below" a second feature, it may mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is at a lower level than the second feature.

[0063] Example:

[0064] See also Figures 1 to 7 In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers comprises a first water tank 1, a hot water tank 2, a second water tank 3, and a traction cooling mechanism 5, which are arranged in sequence with the sheathed optical fiber 7 being drawn in a first direction. A third water tank 4 is disposed between the traction cooling mechanism 5 and the hot water tank 2, and a blow-drying mechanism 6 is disposed on one side of the tail end of the third water tank 4. Simultaneously, the temperature of the cooling water in the multiple water tanks is gradually reduced, so that the sheathed optical fiber 7, which has completed secondary sheathing, can be cooled step by step through the first water tank 1, the hot water tank 2, the second water tank 3, the traction cooling mechanism 5, and the third water tank 4 under the traction of the traction cooling mechanism 5. After completing the multi-stage cooling, the fiber is dried by the blow-drying mechanism 6 before the corresponding fiber coiling process or subsequent processing steps are carried out.

[0065] Specifically, one end of the first water tank 1 in the preferred embodiment corresponds to the extrusion molding station of the loose tube, so that the coated optical fiber 7 that has just completed the loose tube extrusion molding can complete a primary cooling in the first water tank 1. In order to avoid a sudden drop in temperature of the coated optical fiber 7 after extrusion molding, the water temperature in the first water tank 1 should not be too low. In actual configuration, the first water tank 1 is preferably a hot water tank, the water temperature of which is within the range of 25°C to 80°C.

[0066] In actual settings, the water temperature and water level in the first water tank 1 are maintained by the hot water tank 2, that is, the cooling water in the first water tank 1 is provided by the hot water tank 2, and the water temperature and water level in the first water tank 1 are regulated by the cooling water in the hot water tank 2.

[0067] Of course, it is understandable that since the cooling water in the first water tank 1 will continuously contact the sheathed optical fiber 7 and absorb heat and heat up, there will be certain differences in the water temperature of each area in the first water tank 1, resulting in a certain difference in the water temperature of different areas in the first water tank 1 and the water temperature in the hot water tank 2. It only needs to be controlled within the aforementioned water temperature range.

[0068] In a specific configuration, the first water tank 1 extends along a first direction, with one end corresponding to the discharge port of the extruder and the other end connected to the hot water tank 2, so that the hot water tank 2 can continuously supply water to the first water tank 1 and regulate the water level of the first water tank 1. To ensure accurate control of the temperature of the cooling water in the hot water tank 2 and the first water tank 1, a temperature control module 202 is preferably provided in the hot water tank 2 to control the water temperature of the first water tank 1 to be within a normal range. At the same time, a water level gauge 201 is also preferably provided in the hot water tank 2 to monitor the water level of the hot water tank 2 (i.e., the water level in the first water tank 1) in real time to ensure that the water level is within a normal set range.

[0069] Furthermore, a water supply mechanism is provided corresponding to the hot water tank 2 for continuously supplying cooling water to the hot water tank 2 .

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, the water supply mechanism is preferably a second water tank 3, and further includes a third water tank 4. The second water tank 3 is preferably coaxially arranged with the first water tank 1, with the two being arranged at the same height and with their axes collinear, so that the jacketed optical fiber 7, after cooling in the first water tank 1, passes through the hot water tank 2 and then enters the second water tank 3.

[0071] In a specific configuration, the end of the second water tank 3 is directly connected to the outer end surface of the hot water tank 2, and a first through hole 203 is provided in the hot water tank 2, extending through the inside and outside of the hot water tank 2, forming a first water supply channel. This allows the hot water tank 2 and the second water tank 3 to communicate via the first through hole 203. Furthermore, the lowest level of the first through hole 203 is lower than the operating water level in the second water tank 3 during normal operation, that is, lower than the first water level 303. This ensures that the cooling water in the second water tank 3 can flow smoothly into the hot water tank 2 without the need for additional water pipelines, completing the cooling water replenishment in the hot water tank 2.

[0072] In more detail, in the preferred embodiment, the water temperature in the second water tank 3 is controlled within the range of 20°C to 50°C. By adding it to the second water tank 3, mixed cooling of the cooling water in the hot water tank 2 can be completed, and the water temperature control in the hot water tank 2 can be achieved while completing the cooling water replenishment.

[0073] In actual operation, since the end of the first water tank 1 away from the hot water tank 2 first contacts the extruded coated optical fiber 7, the cooling water temperature on this side rises fastest and has the highest temperature. In this regard, in a preferred embodiment, at least one water outlet is provided at this end of the first water tank 1, such as Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the water outlet is connected to the cooling water inlet pipe 403 of the third water tank 4, which is used to continuously send the cooling water heated by the sheathed optical fiber 7 in the first water tank 1 to the third water tank 4. Correspondingly, the cooling water in the second water tank 3 is continuously replenished into the hot water tank 2 to achieve a dynamic balance of cooling water replenishment.

[0074] In more detail, in actual configuration, a pumping device is provided on the cooling water transmission pipeline corresponding to the water outlet on the first water tank 1 to achieve dynamic control of the water outlet flow rate.

[0075] Of course, it is understood that, under special circumstances, the cooling water in the first water tank 1 can also be automatically drawn out by its own weight. In this case, it is necessary to ensure that the water level of the mechanism connected to the transmission pipeline is lower than the water level in the first water tank 1. Further preferably, a one-way valve is provided on the transmission pipeline to effectively prevent the cooling water from flowing back into the first water tank 1.

[0076] In addition, the highest position of the first through hole 203 is higher than the first water level 303 during normal operation, so that in actual operation, the flow rate of water replenished from the second water tank 3 to the hot water tank 2 can be changed by adjusting the height of the first water level 303 to adapt to different water replenishment needs.

[0077] Furthermore, if Figure 2 As shown in FIG, the second water trough 3 and the third water trough 4 in the preferred embodiment are arranged side by side in the second direction, and the second direction corresponds to the transverse direction of the pulling and feeding direction of the sheathed optical fiber 7, that is, Figure 1 At the same time, the third water tank 4 is set closely to the second water tank 3, and one end of the third water tank 4 is connected to the side wall surface of the hot water tank 2, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown in .

[0078] Preferably, the third water tank 4 and the second water tank 3 are connected to the same side wall of the hot water tank 2. A second through hole 204 is provided on the end surface of the hot water tank 2, connecting the third water tank 4 with the interior cavity of the hot water tank 2, thereby forming a second water supply channel. Thus, when the water level in the third water tank 4 (i.e., the second water level 404) exceeds the lowest level of the second through hole 204, the cooling water in the third water tank 4 can enter the hot water tank 2 through the second through hole 204, forming a second stream of mixed water that can regulate the temperature of the cooling water in the hot water tank 2.

[0079] Specifically, the lowest level of the second through hole 204 in the preferred embodiment is higher than the second water level 404 in the third water tank 4 in the normal mode, so that water replenishment in the hot water tank 2 in the normal mode is completed only through the second water tank 3.

[0080] It should be noted that the aforementioned "normal mode" is mainly used to distinguish it from the "high-speed mode", and does not mean that the pulling speed of the sheathed optical fiber 7 under the "normal mode" is not the high-speed traction understood by the industry. In fact, under the normal mode of the present invention, the pulling speed of the sheathed optical fiber 7 can reach more than 500m / min, and the pulling speed under the high-speed mode is faster, reaching close to 800m / min, or even faster. This is mainly related to the actual model of the sheathed optical fiber 7, and also has a certain relationship with the sheathing material, which will not be elaborated here.

[0081] In addition, during the actual cooling operation, the cooling quality of the plastic-coated optical fiber 7 is mainly related to the cooling water temperature and the contact time with the cooling water. When the cooling traction path remains unchanged, if the traction speed of the plastic-coated optical fiber 7 becomes faster, the contact time between the plastic-coated optical fiber 7 and the cooling water will be shortened. In this case, in order to ensure the same cooling effect, the cooling water temperature needs to be controlled at a lower value, and the cooling water after cooling and heating needs to be discharged faster.

[0082] When the cooling water in the first water tank 1 is discharged from the water outlet at the end of the first water tank 1 at a faster rate, in order to ensure that the water level in the first water tank 1 is maintained within the normal working range, more cooling water needs to be added to the hot water tank 2 per unit time. At this time, it is also necessary to ensure that more cooling water is delivered to the second water tank 3 per unit time.

[0083] More specifically, in actual configuration, the cooling water in the second water tank 3 is supplied by the third water tank 4, which has a lower water temperature. The cooling water in the third water tank 4 is preferably at a temperature of 10°C to 20°C. Because the two water tanks are arranged side by side in the second direction, in a preferred embodiment, a third through hole 302 is provided on the side wall of the second water tank 3 to form a third water supply channel.

[0084] When the second water tank 3 is arranged outside the third water tank 4, a fourth through hole communicating with the third through hole 302 is also required to be provided on the side wall of the third water tank 4 so that the cooling water in the third water tank 4 can flow into the second water tank 3 through the two through holes. Figure 3 As shown in .

[0085] When the second water tank 3 is embedded in the third water tank 4, it is only necessary to open a plurality of third through holes 302 on the side wall of the second water tank 3 to achieve communication between the two water tanks. Figure 4 As shown in .

[0086] In addition, in a preferred embodiment, the hot water tank 2, the second water tank 3, and the third water tank 4 are respectively arranged in a directly connected manner. It can be understood that in actual settings, any two objects may not be directly connected, but may be connected through an additional water supply channel. The specific setting of the water supply channel corresponds to the setting form of the aforementioned through holes (mainly the height position), and will not be elaborated here.

[0087] Furthermore, the third through hole 302 is positioned higher than the first water level 303 to prevent the (medium-temperature) cooling water in the second water tank 3 from directly flowing back into the third water tank 4. Accordingly, in normal mode, the cooling water level in the third water tank 4 (i.e., the second water level 404) is higher than the lowest point of the third through hole 302 and is preferably located between the highest and lowest points of the third through hole 302, and more preferably between the lowest point and the center of the third through hole 302. This allows the amount of cooling water replenished to the second water tank 3 per unit time to be increased in high-speed mode by increasing the height of the second water level 404.

[0088] At the same time, in the preferred embodiment, the lowest level of the second through hole 204 is higher than the second water level 404 in the normal mode, and is further preferably aligned with the center of the third through hole 302. Thus, when the cooling water level in the third water tank 4 rises to the center of the third through hole 302, the third water tank 4 and the second water tank 3 simultaneously supply cooling water to the hot water tank 2. At this point, the first water level 303 in the second water tank 3 preferably reaches the highest level of the first through hole 203. Thereafter, even if the water level in the second water tank 3 rises, the amount of water replenished to the hot water tank 2 per unit time will not change significantly. This is why the third water tank 4 is required to replenish the hot water tank 2.

[0089] In more detail, the highest level of the first through hole 203 is lower than the lowest level of the third through hole 302 , ensuring that the first water level 303 in the second water tank 3 is always lower than the lowest level of the third through hole 302 .

[0090] Furthermore, in actual operation, when the second water level 404 in the third water tank 4 reaches the highest point of the third through hole 302, the first water level 303 in the second water tank 3 preferably reaches the highest point of the first through hole 203. Simultaneously, the second water level 404 also exceeds the lowest point of the second through hole 204. Cooling water is then simultaneously added to the hot water tank 2 from the third water tank 4 and the second water tank 3, lowering the water temperature in the first water tank 1 and ensuring the cooling quality of the jacketed optical fiber 7. Accordingly, in the aforementioned "high-speed mode," the pumping rate of the "water pumping pipeline" corresponding to the water outlet of the first water tank 1 should also be increased, or the number of active water outlets should be increased.

[0091] Specifically, in normal mode, the third water tank 4 replenishes (low-temperature) cooling water into the second water tank 3 through the third through-hole 302. This water mixes with the cooling water in the second water tank 3 to regulate the temperature rise in the second water tank 3 caused by contact with the jacketed optical fiber 7, ensuring that the temperature remains within a predetermined range. Simultaneously, the cooling water in the second water tank 3 is continuously fed into the hot water tank 2 through the first through-hole 203. The water level and temperature in the second water tank 3 are maintained by introducing cold water from the third water tank 4 and discharging the heated water from the second water tank 3. Accordingly, the water level in the first water tank 1 is maintained by replenishing water from the second water tank 3, while the water temperature in the first water tank 1 is controlled by introducing warm water from the second water tank 3, discharging the heated water from the first water tank 1, and controlling the temperature control module 202 in the hot water tank 2.

[0092] Accordingly, in high-speed mode (which achieves faster traction speeds than normal mode), the third water tank 4 replenishes (low-temperature) cooling water into the second water tank 3 through the third through-hole 302. This water is mixed with the cooling water in the second water tank 3 to regulate the temperature rise in the second water tank 3 caused by contact with the jacketed optical fiber 7, ensuring that the temperature remains within a predetermined range. By introducing more cold water from the third water tank 4 and draining more warm water from the second water tank 3, the water level in the second water tank 3 is maintained and the water temperature therein is lowered. Simultaneously, warm water from the second water tank 3 is continuously fed into the hot water tank 2 through the first through-hole 203, and cold water from the third water tank 4 is continuously fed into the hot water tank 2 through the second through-hole 204. The water supply from these two water tanks maintains the water levels in both the hot water tank 2 and the first water tank 1 due to the increased drainage flow, while also reducing the water temperature in the first water tank 1 to a certain extent. This process ensures cooling quality as traction speeds increase.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment, the (hot) cooling water discharged from the first water tank 1 is transported to the cooling water inlet pipe 403 in the third water tank 4 via the water outlet and the drainage pipe, and is introduced into the bottom of the third water tank 4. Accordingly, a cooling module 405 is provided at the bottom of the third water tank 4 for cooling the input cooling water and reducing its temperature to the operating temperature in the third water tank 4.

[0094] In order to avoid rapid diffusion of the cooling water after input, a porous partition 406 is preferably provided at the bottom of the third water tank 4, which encapsulates the cooling water inlet pipe 403 at the bottom of the third water tank 4. Figure 3 、 Figure 4 As shown in .

[0095] In another preferred embodiment, a cold water tank 8 is also provided, in which a chiller is integrated. The (hot) cooling water from the first water tank 1 is transmitted through a pipeline to the cold water tank 8 and is cooled in the cold water tank 8; accordingly, the third water tank 4 is connected to the cold water tank 8 through a cooling water inlet pipe 403, which is used to transmit the cooled cooling water to the third water tank 4.

[0096] Furthermore, a direct water supply line is preferably provided between the cold water tank 8 and the hot water tank 2 to replenish the cold water into the hot water tank 2 without changing the water levels of the second and third water tanks 3 and 4, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the entire system. Furthermore, in the preferred embodiment, the temperature control module 202 provided in the hot water tank 2 is further preferably a heating module, which can be specifically preferably an electric heating rod provided at the bottom of the hot water tank 2 or an electric heating assembly composed of multiple electric heating rods.

[0097] When the direct water supply pipeline and the second water tank 3 are simultaneously replenishing cooling water into the hot water tank 2, the water output rate of the first water tank 1 needs to be increased to ensure that the water level of the first water tank 1 meets the actual set water level. At the same time, the temperature control module 202 monitors the water temperature in the hot water tank 2 in real time.

[0098] like Figure 2 As shown in the figure, the traction cooling mechanism 5 in the preferred embodiment is arranged on the side of the second water tank 3 away from the hot water tank 2, which includes a pair of flat wheel traction 501, which is used for winding and traction of the sheathed optical fiber 7 after cooling by cooling water in the second water tank 3.

[0099] It can be understood that in order to realize the driving of the flat wheel traction 501, in the preferred embodiment, a motor is provided for at least one flat wheel traction 501, that is, Figure 1 At the same time, at least one cooling water nozzle 503 is provided corresponding to at least one flat wheel traction 501 for spraying cooling water on the jacketed optical fiber 7 wound on the flat wheel traction 501, thereby completing the cooling of the jacketed optical fiber 7 during the winding process.

[0100] In a specific embodiment, the cooling water nozzles 503 are respectively provided on both sides of the flat wheel traction 501. Figure 1 At the same time, each cooling water nozzle 503 further points to the winding arc surface of the flat wheel traction 501, and the cooling water in each cooling water nozzle 503 is further drawn out from the second water tank 3.

[0101] In actual setting, at least one drain port 301 is provided at the tail end of the second water trough 3 (the end away from the hot water tank 2), so that each cooling water nozzle 503 is connected to the drain port 301 respectively, thereby introducing the cooling water in the second water trough 3 into the cooling water nozzle 503 for spraying, thereby achieving further cooling of the sheathed optical fiber 7.

[0102] In actual settings, it is preferred to provide at least one fork 504 between the two flat wheel tractions 501 for adjusting the pulling direction of the sheathed optical fiber 7, so that the sheathed optical fiber 7 can be pulled in a direction with a certain angle to the first direction, thereby realizing the change in the pulling direction of the sheathed optical fiber 7 and providing adjustment conditions for the delivery of the sheathed optical fiber 7 to the third water trough 4.

[0103] In a preferred embodiment, the sheathed optical fiber 7 is wound on the two flat wheel traction 501 in the traction and cooling mechanism 5, and the traction and feeding of the sheathed optical fiber 7 are completed by the second motor 502. After the traction and cooling in the traction and cooling mechanism 5, the sheathed optical fiber 7 is correspondingly pulled into the third water tank 4, and the last level of cooling is completed here.

[0104] like Figure 2 As shown in , in the preferred embodiment, at least two dividing wheels 401 are provided corresponding to the third water trough 4, and each dividing wheel 401 includes at least one wheel unit, and further preferably includes a plurality of independent and coaxially arranged wheel units, so that the sheathed optical fiber 7 that has completed the previous cooling operation can be wound on the two dividing wheels 401 for multiple turns, so as to ensure that the sheathed optical fiber 7 wound on the two dividing wheels 401 can fully contact the cooling water in the third water trough 4, and by winding multiple turns, the cooling path of the sheathed optical fiber 7 in the third water trough 4 is extended, thereby effectively ensuring the cooling effect of the sheathed optical fiber 7 while shortening the length of the third water trough 4.

[0105] It can be understood that, in actual configuration, a first motor 402 is provided for driving the line dividing wheel 401 .

[0106] After being cooled by the cooling water in the third water tank 4, the sheathed optical fiber 7 completes the entire cooling process. Thereafter, the sheathed optical fiber 7 that has completed cooling is pulled out of the cooling system by the subsequent traction mechanism, and the sheathed optical fiber 7 is dried by the drying mechanism 6 located at the tail end of the third water tank 4.

[0107] For the traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers in the preferred embodiment, the cooling water control process preferably includes the following:

[0108] (1) In normal mode, the water discharge rate of the first water tank 1 is set corresponding to the pulling rate of the sheathed optical fiber 7, and the hot water in the first water tank 1 heated by the sheathed optical fiber 7 is transferred to the third water tank 4 or the cold water tank 8 for cooling; at this time, the second water level 404 in the third water tank 4 is controlled to be between the center position and the lowest position of the third through hole 302, and (cold) cooling water is continuously supplied to the second water tank 3; at the same time, the first water level 303 in the second water tank 3 is between the highest position and the lowest position of the first through hole 203, and (warm) cooling water is continuously supplied to the hot water tank 2. In addition, the water discharge rate of the water outlet in the first water tank 1 is controlled to realize the circulating water control of the entire pulling cooling system, and accurately complete the cooling operation of the sheathed optical fiber 7.

[0109] Taking into account the cooling water loss caused by leakage, evaporation and other factors during the cooling water circulation transmission process, a water level meter 201 is further provided in the third water tank 4 in the preferred embodiment to monitor the water level of the third water tank 4 in real time to ensure the accuracy of the entire system operation.

[0110] (2) In the high-speed mode, the pulling speed of the sheathed optical fiber 7 is further increased. At this time, the water discharge speed of the first water tank 1 is accelerated, and at the same time, the water replenishment rate to the hot water tank 2 is increased. Combined with the above records, it can be seen that the process of accelerating the water replenishment to the hot water tank 2 preferably has the following two methods and three processes:

[0111] The first method is to increase the water levels in the third water tank 4 and the second water tank 3 to increase the amount of cooling water added to the hot water tank 2.

[0112] In the first process, the second water level 404 of the third water tank 4 rises, and the amount of cooling water flowing into the second water tank 3 through the third through-hole 302 increases. The first water level 303 rises, and the amount of cooling water flowing into the hot water tank 2 through the first through-hole 203 increases, thereby compensating for the amount of cooling water discharged due to the rapid draining of the first water tank 1. At this time, the second water level 404 has not yet reached the lowest level of the second through-hole 204.

[0113] The second process: the second water level 404 continues to rise and rises to the highest position of the third through hole 302 or close to the highest position. At this time, the first water level 303 in the second water tank 3 rises to the highest position of the first through hole 203 or close to the highest position. Thereafter, continuing to increase the height of the second water level 404 will not significantly increase the water level in the second water tank 3, and the amount of water per unit time added to the hot water tank 2 by the second water tank 3 reaches the maximum value; at this time, the second water level 404 exceeds the lowest position of the second through hole 204, and water begins to be directly added to the hot water tank 2 from the third water tank 4, thereby achieving a dynamic balance between water loss and water replenishment in the hot water tank 2 and completing the circulation control of the cooling water.

[0114] The second method is to not change or not significantly change the water levels in the third water tank 4 and the second water tank 3 , and directly replenish cooling water into the hot water tank 2 through the direct water replenishment pipeline.

[0115] At this time, the second water level 404 does not exceed the lowest level of the second through hole 204. Since the cooling water is directly replenished into the hot water tank 2 from the third water tank 4, and the water temperature difference between the cold water tank 8 and the hot water tank 2 is large, the temperature of the cooling water in the hot water tank 2 may drop significantly. In this case, the temperature control module 202 can dynamically control the water temperature in the hot water tank 2.

[0116] Through the design of the above-mentioned circulating water control method, the circulation control of the cooling water in the traction cooling system can be accurately realized, ensuring that the traction cooling system meets the traction cooling requirements of the sheathed optical fiber 7 in conventional mode and high-speed mode, ensuring that the sheathed optical fiber 7 in different traction modes can meet the cooling requirements, ensuring the cooling quality of the sheathed optical fiber 7, and improving the yield and forming efficiency of the sheathed optical fiber 7.

[0117] The traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers in the present invention has a compact structure. While ensuring the cooling effect of the sheathed optical fibers, it can effectively shorten the structural setting length of the traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fibers and reduce the plant floor space of the traction cooling system. At the same time, the traction cooling system in the present invention is easy to control and can be compatible with the sheathing processing processes in both conventional and high-speed modes. The system has high flexibility in adjustment and strong compatibility, can meet different sheathing processing requirements, further reduce the equipment cost of optical fiber secondary sheathing processing, and has good practical value and application prospects.

[0118] It will be easily understood by those skilled in the art that the above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included in the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fiber, comprising a first water tank, a hot water tank, and a second water tank arranged in sequence in a first direction; characterized in that: It also includes a traction cooling mechanism and a third water tank; The temperatures of the cooling water in the first water tank, the second water tank, and the third water tank decrease in sequence; one end of the first water tank corresponds to the discharge position of the secondary sheathing of the optical fiber, and the other end is connected to the hot water tank, which controls the water level and temperature in the first water tank; The traction cooling mechanism is arranged at one end of the second water tank away from the hot water tank, and is used for traction of the coated optical fiber; the third water tank is arranged between the traction cooling mechanism and the hot water tank, and is arranged in parallel with the second water tank in the second direction; and The second water tank and the third water tank are respectively connected to the hot water tank through a first through hole and a second through hole opened on the wall of the hot water tank, forming a first water supply channel and a second water supply channel; and a plurality of third water supply channels are formed between the second water tank and the third water tank; The first water tank is provided with at least one water outlet connected to the third water tank by a water pipeline, which is used to discharge cooling water after absorbing heat and heating in the first water tank; the first water level in the second water tank is higher than the lowest level of the first water supply channel, which is used to continuously supply the cooling water in the second water tank to the hot water tank; and the second water level in the third water tank is higher than the lowest level of the third water supply channel, which is used to continuously supply the cooling water in the first water tank to the second water tank; the lowest level of the second water supply channel is higher than the lowest level of the third water supply channel, which is used to directly replenish water from the third water tank to the hot water tank after the water level in the third water tank rises; The third water tank is provided with a cooling module for cooling the hot water introduced into the first water tank to the working temperature of the cooling water in the third water tank; and the third water tank is provided with at least two branching wheels, each branching wheel includes at least one coaxially arranged wire wheel unit, so that the sheathed optical fiber transmitted by flat wheel traction and winding can be pulled into the third water tank for winding and cooling.

2. The traction cooling system for high-speed secondary coating of optical fiber according to claim 1, characterized in that: The traction cooling mechanism includes two flat wheel tractions spaced apart in a first direction; and At least one cooling water nozzle is provided corresponding to at least one of the flat wheel tractions; the cooling water nozzle is connected to the water outlet provided in the second water tank by a pipeline, and is used to spray cooling water onto the sheathed optical fiber wound on the flat wheel traction.

3. The traction cooling system for high-speed secondary coating of optical fiber according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first water tank is a hot water tank, wherein the cooling water is supplied by the hot water tank, and the temperature of the cooling water is 25°C to 80°C; and / or The second water tank is a warm water tank, wherein the cooling water temperature is 20°C~50°C; and / or The third water tank is a cold water tank, and the temperature of the cooling water therein is 10°C ~ 20°C.

4. The traction cooling system for high-speed secondary coating of optical fiber according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: A direct water supply pipeline is further provided between the hot water tank and the third water tank, for the third water tank to directly supply cooling water to the hot water tank.

5. The traction cooling system for high-speed secondary coating of optical fiber according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The first water tank is provided with at least one water outlet at one end thereof facing away from the hot water tank; The water outlet is connected to the chiller via a water pipeline, and the chiller is connected to the third water tank via a pipeline, so as to cool the cooling water after absorbing heat and heating it and then input it back into the third water tank; or The water outlet is connected to the cooling water inlet pipeline of the third water tank through a water delivery pipeline; the cooling water inlet pipeline is connected to the bottom of the third water tank, and a cooling module is provided at the bottom of the third water tank.

6. The traction cooling system for high-speed secondary coating of optical fiber according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The second water tank and the third water tank are respectively connected to the same side tank wall of the hot water tank at their ends; and The second water trough and the third water trough are arranged side by side and closely together in the second direction, and the third water supply channel is formed by through holes respectively opened on the walls of the two water troughs and connected to each other; or The second water trough is embedded in the third water trough, and the third water supply channel is a third through hole opened on at least one side wall of the second water trough.

7. The traction cooling system for high-speed secondary coating of optical fiber according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: A plurality of wire wheel units are coaxially arranged on each of the wire distribution wheels, so that the sheathed optical fiber can be wound multiple times in the third water tank for traction and cooling; and / or A cold water tank is provided corresponding to the third water tank. The cold water tank has a built-in chiller and is connected to the third water tank via a cooling water inlet pipeline for replenishing cooling water to the third water tank.

8. The traction cooling system for high-speed secondary coating of optical fiber according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: A drying mechanism is provided on the side of the third water tank away from the hot water tank, which is used for drying the sheathed optical fiber after cooling.

9. The circulating water control method for a traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fiber according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The process includes the following: (1) In normal mode, the water outlet rate of the first water tank is set corresponding to the pulling rate of the coated optical fiber, the second water level is controlled to be between the center position and the lowest position of the third water supply channel, and water is continuously supplied to the second water tank to control the first water level between the highest position and the lowest position of the first water supply channel. The second water tank continuously supplies water to the hot water tank, thereby realizing the circulating water control of the entire pulling cooling system; (2) In high-speed mode, the pulling rate of the sheathed optical fiber increases. At this time, the water output rate of the first water tank is accelerated, and the rate of water replenishment to the hot water tank is increased at the same time. The process of replenishing water to the hot water tank includes: The second water level is controlled to rise, and the amount of cooling water flowing into the second water tank through the third water supply channel increases. The first water level is controlled to rise, and the amount of cooling water flowing into the hot water tank through the first water supply channel increases. At this time, the second water level has not yet reached the lowest level of the second water supply channel. The second water level is controlled to continue to rise and exceed the lowest level of the second water supply channel, and the cooling water in the third water tank is directly supplied to the hot water tank through the second water supply channel; and the first water level continues to rise, further increasing the amount of water supplied to the hot water tank; By increasing the water supply of the second water tank per unit time or replenishing water to the hot water tank from the second and third water tanks at the same time, the water replenishment amount in the hot water tank and the water output from the first water tank reach a dynamic balance, thereby realizing the control of circulating water.

10. The circulating water control method for a traction cooling system for high-speed secondary sheathing of optical fiber according to claim 4, characterized in that: The process includes the following: (1) In normal mode, the water outlet rate of the first water tank is set corresponding to the pulling rate of the coated optical fiber, the second water level is controlled to be between the center position and the lowest position of the third water supply channel, and water is continuously supplied to the second water tank to control the first water level between the highest position and the lowest position of the first water supply channel. The second water tank continuously supplies water to the hot water tank, thereby realizing the circulating water control of the entire pulling cooling system; (2) In high-speed mode, the pulling rate of the sheathed optical fiber increases, at which time the water output rate of the first water tank is accelerated, and at the same time, the water replenishment rate to the hot water tank is increased; The process of replenishing water to the hot water tank includes: The direct water replenishment pipeline is controlled to directly replenish the cooling water in the third water tank into the hot water tank. During the entire water replenishment process, the water levels in the third water tank and the second water tank are maintained within a set threshold range.

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