Fluidization apparatus and method for processing particulate material

Abstract

The invention relates to a fluidization device (1) for processing particulate material (M) and a method of using said fluidization device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a fluidization apparatus for processing particulate materials, comprising a fluidization unit having a longitudinal axis, the fluidization unit having a perforated inlet distribution plate dividing the fluidization unit into a distribution chamber and a fluidization chamber disposed above the distribution chamber, wherein the fluidization chamber includes a material inlet for the material to be processed, and the distribution chamber includes a material discharge section having a material outlet for processed material, the material outlet having a material outlet surface, a lower edge, and an upper edge, wherein the inlet distribution plate is disposed above the upper edge of the material outlet in the working position, and the distribution chamber includes a fluid inlet and the fluidization chamber includes a fluid outlet, for process gas flowing from the fluid inlet through the perforated inlet distribution plate to the fluid outlet to fluidize the material in the fluidization chamber.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for processing particulate materials in a fluidization apparatus having a fluidization unit having a longitudinal axis, the fluidization unit having a perforated inlet distribution plate dividing the fluidization unit into a distribution chamber and a fluidization chamber disposed above the distribution chamber, wherein the fluidization chamber includes a material inlet for the material to be processed, and the distribution chamber includes a material discharge section having a material outlet for processed material, the material outlet having a material outlet surface, a lower edge, and an upper edge, wherein the inlet distribution plate is disposed above the upper edge of the material outlet in the operating position, and the distribution chamber includes a fluid inlet and the fluidization chamber includes a fluid outlet, for a process gas flowing from the fluid inlet through the perforated inlet distribution plate to the fluid outlet to fluidize the material in the fluidization chamber, wherein, in the operating state, the fluidization chamber is first filled with the material to be processed through the material inlet, and then the material is processed by the process gas flowing through the fluidization chamber. Background Technology

[0003] Fluidization equipment, particularly fluidized bed equipment (Wirbelschichtapparate), for processing particulate materials has been known for a long time.

[0004] EP 2611531A1 discloses a fluidized bed apparatus for processing particulate materials, the fluidized bed apparatus comprising: a chamber surrounding a distribution chamber, a perforated inlet distribution orifice plate disposed above the distribution chamber, an inlet and an outlet for process gases, and an outlet having a lower edge and an upper edge defining a height and an opening surface, wherein the inlet distribution orifice plate is positioned above the lower edge of the outlet such that the opening surface of the outlet is divided into an opening surface below the inlet distribution orifice plate and an opening surface above the inlet distribution orifice plate.

[0005] The disadvantage of this approach is that it requires a locking device, such as a valve, to close the fluidized bed apparatus, which needs a complex geometry at the outlet to match the geometry of the fluidized bed apparatus. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to further improve the evacuation speed of fluidization equipment while overcoming the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0007] This task is accomplished in the fluidization apparatus mentioned at the beginning by the following method: an inlet distribution orifice plate is arranged to be movable relative to the fluidization unit, wherein, in the emptied position, the inlet distribution orifice plate is at least partially positioned below the upper edge of the material outlet by the movement of the inlet distribution orifice plate relative to the fluidization unit, thereby forming a fluid connection between the material outlet arranged in the distribution chamber and the fluidization chamber passing by the inlet distribution orifice plate, so as to discharge the processed material from the fluidization unit.

[0008] In the working position, the inlet distribution orifice plate is positioned above the upper edge of the material outlet. When the inlet distribution orifice plate is in the working position, the fluidization device is operational. Therefore, in the working position, the material can be processed within the fluidization chamber without being discharged through the material outlet.

[0009] In the vented position, due to the movement of the inlet distribution orifice plate relative to the fluidization unit, the inlet distribution orifice plate is at least partially positioned below the upper edge of the material outlet. In the vented position, the fluidization device is in a vented state.

[0010] In the preferred fluidization apparatus, in the operating state, in particular, an inlet distribution orifice plate separates the fluidization chamber and the distribution chamber from each other. Therefore, due to the position of the inlet distribution orifice plate in the operating state (operating position), i.e., above the upper edge of the material outlet, sealing the material outlet during the processing of granular materials is no longer absolutely necessary. Thus, the sealing mechanism arranged at the material discharge section can be omitted, resulting in a significantly simpler technical design in terms of structure, and therefore also savings in manufacturing costs. The granular material is fluidized in the fluidization chamber, thereby causing the material to behave essentially like a liquid.

[0011] Advantageously, the relative motion between the inlet distribution orifice plate and the fluidization unit allows the treated particulate material to be emptied through the material discharge section. This relative motion can be achieved in such a way that the process gas supports the emptied material through the material discharge section. In this case, the inlet distribution orifice plate is positioned in the emptying position such that the material outlet surface is divided into a process gas outlet surface below the inlet distribution orifice plate and a material outlet surface above the inlet distribution orifice plate.

[0012] According to an advantageous design of the fluidization apparatus, the fluidization unit has a pivot axis extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the fluidization unit, at which the inlet distribution orifice plate is pivotally arranged. Advantageously, the pivot axis extends perpendicularly to the central longitudinal axis of the fluidization unit. This embodiment allows for simple relative movement, in the form of pivoting about the pivot axis. Thus, on the one hand, the material outlet of the material discharge section arranged in the distribution chamber is opened to drain the material processed in the fluidization chamber, and on the other hand, the draining is facilitated by the inclined position of the inlet distribution orifice plate—as in the case of a liquid. Furthermore, the inlet distribution orifice plate preferably pivots about the pivot axis at an angle between 0° and 60°, advantageously between 5° and 10°. Through pivoting motion, a generally annular or sickle-shaped gap is formed between the inlet distribution orifice plate and the distribution chamber and / or fluidization chamber. This gap cannot be too large, otherwise there is a risk that, in the vented state, although process gas flows through this gap, processed material may still enter the distribution chamber. In principle, this gap is sealed by the process gas.

[0013] In another advantageous alternative design to this fluidization apparatus, the inlet distribution orifice plate is arranged to be axially displaceable along the longitudinal axis. The inlet distribution orifice plate is displaced axially along the longitudinal axis in a linear motion. Advantageously, the inlet distribution orifice plate is displaced until its upper side is flush with or positioned below the lower edge. Preferably, the inlet distribution orifice plate is arranged to be axially displaceable along the longitudinal axis. With this alternative design, the material outlet is also opened to improve evacuation after processing particulate materials.

[0014] Furthermore, advantageously, the fluidization unit has a pivot axis extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the fluidization unit and arranged to be axially displaceable along the longitudinal axis, at which the inlet distribution orifice plate is pivotally arranged. This design of the fluidization device combines the advantages of two alternative designs of preferred fluidization devices (i.e., pivotal movement and linear movement). Moreover, the gap formed between the fluidization unit and the inlet distribution orifice plate is smaller.

[0015] According to an additional advantageous configuration of the fluidization apparatus, the upper side of the inlet distribution orifice plate, in particular, is positioned flush with or at least partially below the lower edge of the material outlet in the emptying position due to the movement of the inlet distribution orifice plate relative to the fluidization unit. Particularly preferred is that the upper side of the inlet distribution orifice plate, in particular, is positioned below the lower edge of the material outlet in the emptying position due to the movement of the inlet distribution orifice plate relative to the fluidization unit. This maximizes the opening of the material outlet surface, allowing the processed material to be emptied effectively and rapidly.

[0016] Furthermore, the material discharge section has a locking device. The locking device allows the material discharge section to be closed or opened. This makes it possible to control the opening timing of the material discharge section.

[0017] Furthermore, the task is accomplished in the method mentioned at the beginning by moving the inlet distribution orifice plate, which is movably arranged relative to the fluidization unit, to the emptying position such that at least a portion of the inlet distribution orifice plate is positioned below the upper edge of the material outlet, thereby forming a fluid connection between the material outlet arranged in the distribution chamber and the fluidization chamber passing by the inlet distribution orifice plate, and the processed material is discharged from the fluidization unit through the material outlet.

[0018] In the working position, the inlet distribution orifice plate is positioned above the upper edge of the material outlet. When the inlet distribution orifice plate is in the working position, the fluidization device is operational. Therefore, in the working position, the material can be processed within the fluidization chamber without being discharged through the material outlet.

[0019] In the vented position, due to the movement of the inlet distribution orifice plate relative to the fluidization unit, the inlet distribution orifice plate is at least partially positioned below the upper edge of the material outlet. In the vented position, the fluidization device is in a vented state.

[0020] In the preferred fluidization apparatus, in the operating state, the inlet distribution orifice plate separates the fluidization chamber and the distribution chamber from each other. Therefore, due to the position of the inlet distribution orifice plate in the operating state (i.e., above the upper edge of the material outlet), sealing the material outlet is no longer absolutely necessary during the processing of granular materials. Consequently, the sealing mechanism arranged at the material discharge section can be omitted, resulting in a significantly simpler technical design and thus savings in manufacturing costs.

[0021] Advantageously, due to the relative motion between the inlet distribution orifice plate and the fluidization unit, the processed particulate material can be vented through the material discharge section. This relative motion, in the form of pivoting and / or linear motion, can be carried out in a manner whereby the process gas supports the vented material through the material discharge section. In this case, the inlet distribution orifice plate is positioned in the venting position such that the material outlet surface is divided into a process gas outlet surface below the inlet distribution orifice plate and a material outlet surface above the inlet distribution orifice plate.

[0022] According to an advantageous improvement to the method, the fluidization unit has a pivot axis extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the fluidization unit. An inlet distribution orifice plate is pivotally arranged at this pivot axis, and after the granular material is processed, the inlet distribution orifice plate pivots about this pivot axis, advantageously by 5° to 10°. This embodiment allows for simple relative movement, in the form of pivoting about the pivot axis. Thus, on the one hand, the material outlet of the material discharge section arranged in the distribution chamber is opened to drain the material processed in the fluidization chamber, and on the other hand, the tilted position of the inlet distribution orifice plate facilitates this draining. Furthermore, the inlet distribution orifice plate preferably pivots about the pivot axis at an angle between 0° and 60°, advantageously between 5° and 10°. Through pivoting motion, a generally sickle-shaped or annular gap is formed between the inlet distribution orifice plate and the distribution chamber and / or fluidization chamber. This gap cannot become too large, otherwise there is a risk that, in the vented state, although process gas flows through this gap, processed material may still enter the distribution chamber. The process gas advantageously seals the gap in the vented state.

[0023] In another advantageous design of the method, the inlet distribution orifice plate is arranged to be axially displaceable along the longitudinal axis, and in a linear motion, advantageously until the inlet distribution orifice plate is positioned below the lower edge. Preferably, the inlet distribution orifice plate is axially displaced along the longitudinal axis. With this alternative design, the material outlet is also opened to improve evacuation after processing granular materials.

[0024] Particularly preferred is that, upon being brought into the venting position, the inflow distribution orifice plate performs both pivoting and linear motion. In this case, the inflow distribution orifice plate pivots about a pivot axis via a pivoting motion, and simultaneously shifts axially along the longitudinal axis via a linear motion. The pivoting and linear motions can be performed sequentially or simultaneously in any order. This allows the advantages of both pivoting and linear motions to be utilized.

[0025] According to an additional advantageous improvement of the method, the inlet distribution orifice plate is moved to the venting position relative to the fluidization unit such that at least a portion of the inlet distribution orifice plate is positioned below the lower edge of the material outlet. Particularly preferably, the inlet distribution orifice plate is moved to the venting position relative to the fluidization unit such that the inlet distribution orifice plate is positioned below the lower edge of the material outlet. Alternatively, the upper edge of the inlet distribution orifice plate is arranged flush with the lower edge of the material outlet. In both cases, the material outlet surface is opened to the maximum extent, thereby allowing for efficient and rapid venting of the processed material.

[0026] Another advantage is that the material discharge section has a locking device that opens the material discharge section once the inlet distribution orifice plate is in the emptied position. Advantageously, the locking device opens the material discharge section once at least a portion of the inlet distribution orifice plate is positioned below the lower edge of the material outlet. This maximizes the opening of the material outlet surface, and the material processed in the fluidization chamber of the fluidization unit can be efficiently and time-savingly discharged from the fluidization unit of the fluidization equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The invention will now be explained in more detail with the aid of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0028] Figure 1 A top view of a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a fluidization device having a cutting plane AA in the working position is shown;

[0029] Figure 2 It shows along Figure 1 The cross-section of the cutting plane AA shown is through a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a fluidization device in a working position, the fluidization device in the working position having an inlet distribution orifice plate arranged on a pivot axis in a horizontal position;

[0030] Figure 3 It shows along Figure 1The cross-section of the cutting plane AA shown is through a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a fluidization device in an empty position, the fluidization device in the empty position having an inlet distribution orifice plate arranged on a pivot axis, the inlet distribution orifice plate being in a position pivoted about the pivot axis by an angle;

[0031] Figure 4 A top view showing a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the fluidization device in the emptied position;

[0032] Figure 5 A top view of a second embodiment of a fluidization device having a cutting plane AA in the working position is shown;

[0033] Figure 6 It shows along Figure 5 The cross-section of the cutting plane AA shown is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a fluidization device in a working position, the fluidization device in the working position having an inlet distribution orifice plate arranged in a plane ZZ in a horizontal position;

[0034] Figure 7 It shows along Figure 5 The cross-section of the cutting plane AA shown is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a fluidization device in an empty position, the fluidization device in the empty position having an inlet distribution orifice plate arranged in a horizontal position in a plane Z′-Z′;

[0035] Figure 8 It shows in Figure 7 An enlarged view of section A shown in the diagram;

[0036] Figure 9 A top view of a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of a fluidization device having a cutting plane AA in the working position is shown;

[0037] Figure 10 It shows along Figure 9 A cross-section of the cutting plane AA, the cutting plane passing through a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the fluidization device in the working position, the fluidization device in the working position having an inlet distribution orifice plate arranged in plane ZZ in a horizontal position; and

[0038] Figure 11 It shows along Figure 9 A cross-section of the cutting plane AA, which is shown in a schematic diagram of the third embodiment of the fluidization device in the venting position, wherein the inflow distribution orifice plate moves axially along the longitudinal axis XX into the plane Z′-Z′ and pivots by an angle about the pivot axis. Detailed Implementation

[0039] Unless otherwise stated, the following description pertains to all embodiments of the fluidization apparatus 1 shown in the figures for processing particulate material M.

[0040] Figure 1 A top view of a first embodiment of a fluidization device 1 with a cutting plane AA is shown, the fluidization device being configured as a fluidized bed device 2. The fluidization device 1 includes a fluidization unit 3 having a central longitudinal axis XX, at which a drain pipe 4 is arranged, the drain pipe including a central axis YY perpendicular to the longitudinal axis XX. The central axis YY and the longitudinal axis XX extend the cutting plane AA. The fluidization device 1 is in an operational state.

[0041] exist Figure 2 The text shows along Figure 1 The cross-section of the cutting plane AA shown is through a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the fluidization device 1 in the working position, which is configured as a fluidized layer device 2.

[0042] The fluidization unit 3 includes a perforated inlet distribution plate 7, which divides the fluidization unit 3 into a distribution chamber 5 and a fluidization chamber 6 arranged above the distribution chamber 5. In the working position, the inlet distribution plate 7 is located in the ZZ plane, which is perpendicular to the cutting plane AA, so that the material M to be processed is arranged in the fluidization chamber 6 above the inlet distribution plate 7. If the inlet distribution plate 7 is in the working position, the fluidization device 1 is in the working state.

[0043] The fluidization unit 3 of the fluidization device 1, which is configured as the fluidization layer device 2, is designed to be rotationally symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis XX. Other geometries, such as rectangles, and especially squares, are implemented in other embodiments not shown.

[0044] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, the dispensing chamber 5 has a cylindrical shape with a constant inner diameter 9 at a height 8. The dispensing chamber 5 has a dispensing chamber wall 10 radially spaced from the longitudinal axis XX. The dispensing chamber wall 10 has an inner surface referred to as the inner wall 11 and an outer surface referred to as the outer wall 12.

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, the fluidization chamber 6 is also constructed as a cylinder, wherein, compared to the distribution chamber 5, the fluidization chamber 6 has a conical shape, the conical shape having an inner diameter 14 of the fluidization chamber that increases from bottom to top along the fluidization chamber height 13. The fluidization chamber 6 has fluidization chamber walls 15 radially spaced from the longitudinal axis XX. The fluidization chamber walls 15 have an inner surface referred to as the inner fluidization chamber wall 16 and an outer surface referred to as the outer fluidization chamber wall 17.

[0046] The fluidization chamber 6 also includes a material inlet 18 for the material M to be processed, and the distribution chamber 5 includes a material discharge section 19 for the processed material M′. The material discharge section 19 is specifically designed as a discharge pipe 4 with a discharge pipe wall 20, in... Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the drain pipe is arranged in the distribution chamber wall 10 with rotational symmetry about the central axis YY, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis XX of the fluidization unit 3. Here, the material outlet 21 of the material discharge section 19 is arranged such that it is flush with the inner wall 11 of the distribution chamber. The material outlet 21 has a material outlet surface 22 and lower and upper edges 23a, 23b for discharging the material M′ processed in the fluidization chamber 6.

[0047] Furthermore, the distribution chamber 5 has a fluid inlet 24, and the fluidization chamber 6 has a fluid outlet 25. Figure 2 In the operating position shown, a perforated inlet distribution plate 7 is arranged horizontally in plane ZZ. Process gas PG enters the fluidization unit 3 at fluid inlet 24 and flows from fluid inlet 24 through the perforated inlet distribution plate 7 to fluid outlet 25, where it exits the fluidization unit 3. The perforated inlet distribution plate 7 advantageously has through-holes (not shown) for the process gas PG, through which pressure loss occurs during flow. In the operating state, i.e., in the operating position of the inlet distribution plate 7, the process gas PG fluidizes the material M to be treated in the fluidization chamber 6.

[0048] The inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is movably arranged within the fluidization unit 3 relative to the fluidization unit 3. In the fluidization device 1... Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the fluidization unit 3 has a pivot axis 26 extending transversely to the longitudinal axis XX of the fluidization unit 3, and the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is pivotally arranged at this pivot axis. In the first embodiment of the fluidization device 1 shown, the pivot axis 26 advantageously extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis XX of the fluidization unit 3 and perpendicularly to the central axis YY of the drain pipe 4. In the fluidization device 1... Figure 2In the operating state shown, the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is arranged above the upper edge 23b. This ensures that no material M is discharged from the fluidization unit 3 of the fluidization device 1 during the treatment of particulate material M with process gas PG in the fluidization chamber 6.

[0049] Figure 3 A fluidization apparatus 1, configured as a fluidizing layer device 2, is shown in its emptied state. After particulate material M is processed in the fluidizing layer device 2, the processed material M′ is discharged from the fluidization apparatus 1 in the emptied state. For this purpose, the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is pivotally moved relative to the fluidization unit 3, thereby being pivotally positioned in the fluidization unit 3 about a pivot axis 26 in the emptied position. In the emptied position, the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is pivoted about the pivot axis 26 at an angle such that at least a portion of the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is positioned below the upper edge 23b of the material outlet 21, thereby forming a fluid connection between the material outlet 21 arranged in the distribution chamber 5 and the fluidization chamber 6 passing by the inlet distribution orifice plate 7, so that the processed material M′ is discharged from the fluidization apparatus 1 from the fluidization unit 3 via the emptied pipe 4. Advantageously, the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is pivoted by an angle of 5° to 10°. Thus, the processed material M′ flows toward the material outlet. The discharge of the processed material M′ is supported by process gas PG, which also flows from fluid inlet 24 through fluidization unit 3 of fluidization device 1 to fluid outlet 25 in the vented state. Preferably, due to the pivoting motion, a portion of the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is positioned below the lower edge 23a. This opens the material outlet surface 22 of material outlet 21 to the maximum extent possible, thereby further promoting better discharge of the processed material M′.

[0050] In the vented position, due to the pivoting motion caused by the pivoting of the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 around the pivot axis 26, a gap 27 is formed between the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 and the fluidization unit 3, particularly between the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 and the inner wall 11 and / or the inner wall 16 of the distribution chamber. This gap extends substantially around the entire circumference of the inlet distribution orifice plate 7. The width of the gap formed in this case is variable. In the vented state, the process gas PG flows through the gap 27, so that the processed material M′ cannot enter or fall into the distribution chamber 5 when it is discharged from the fluidization chamber 6.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the inflow distribution orifice plate 7 is positioned in the venting position such that the material outlet surface 22 of the material outlet 21 is divided into a material outlet sub-surface 28 above the inflow distribution orifice plate 7 and a process gas outlet surface 29 below the inflow distribution orifice plate 7.

[0052] exist Figure 4 The text shows the data based on... Figure 1 This is a top view of a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the fluidization device 1, wherein the fluidization device 1 is in a vented state. In this case, the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is arranged in a position pivoted at an angle about the pivot axis 26, thereby forming a gap 27 with varying gap width between the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 and the fluidization unit 3, particularly the inner wall 11 of the distribution chamber and / or the inner wall 16 of the fluidization chamber. During the venting process, the process gas PG flows through the gap 27, thereby allowing untreated material M′ to enter the distribution chamber 5.

[0053] Figure 5 Corresponding to Figure 1 The diagram shows a top view of a second embodiment of a fluidization device 1 with a cutting plane AA, wherein the fluidization device is configured as a fluidized bed device 2. The fluidization device 1 includes a fluidization unit 3 having a central longitudinal axis XX, at which a drain pipe 4 including a central axis YY perpendicular to the longitudinal axis XX is arranged. The central axis YY and the longitudinal axis XX extend the cutting plane AA. The fluidization device 1 is in an operational state.

[0054] exist Figure 6 The middle shows along Figure 5 The cross-section of the cutting plane AA is shown in the schematic diagram of the second embodiment of the fluidization device 1 in operation. In the operating position, the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is located in the plane ZZ that is perpendicular to the cutting plane AA, so that the material M to be processed is arranged above the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 in the fluidization chamber 6 in the operating state.

[0055] Furthermore, the second embodiment of the fluidization device 1 is structurally constructed substantially the same as the first embodiment of the fluidization device 1. The only difference between the two embodiments lies in the technical design of the relative movement performed between the fluidization unit 3 and the inlet distribution orifice plate 7. In the second embodiment, the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 does not perform a pivoting movement as in the first embodiment, but instead performs a linear movement along the axial direction 30 of the longitudinal axis XX. Therefore, the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is arranged to be movable along the axial direction 30 of the longitudinal axis XX.

[0056] exist Figure 7 The middle shows along Figure 5A cross-section of the cutting plane AA, which is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the fluidization device 1 at the discharge position, the fluidization device having an inlet distribution orifice plate 7 arranged in a horizontal position in a plane Z′-Z′. The plane Z′-Z′ extends parallel to the plane ZZ by a distance d. The inlet distribution orifice plate 7 moves downward a distance d along the axial direction 30 of the central longitudinal axis XX, i.e., from the plane ZZ to the plane Z′-Z′. Advantageously, the upper edge 31 or upper side 32 of the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is arranged at the same height as the lower edge 23a of the material outlet 21. The upper edge 31 and / or upper side 32 are arranged tangentially to the lower edge 23a of the material outlet 21. Therefore, the material outlet surface 22 of the material outlet 21 is fully opened, thereby improving the discharge of the processed material M′.

[0057] Advantageously, discharge ports 33 are arranged in the area of ​​material outlet 21 within the perforated inlet distribution orifice plate 7, and these discharge ports are aligned toward material outlet 21 as shown by arrow 34. This additionally supports the discharge of treated material M′ by process gas PG in the vented state.

[0058] Figure 8 It shows in Figure 7 The enlarged view of section A shown represents the area of ​​material outlet 21. A perforated inlet distribution plate 7 has through-holes 35 through which process gas PG flows to fluidize the particulate material M to be treated in fluidization chamber 6. The through-holes can be arranged arbitrarily, with the number and diameter of the through-holes 35 designed according to specific requirements. Within the area of ​​material outlet 21, an outlet 33 is arranged in the perforated inlet distribution plate 7. Process gas PG flows through outlet 33 in the direction of arrow 34, thus supporting efficient and rapid discharge of the treated material M′ in the venting position. Furthermore, the upper edge 31 and / or upper side 32 of the inlet distribution plate 7 is lowered until it is flush with the height of the lower edge 23a of material outlet 21, thereby additionally facilitating the discharge of the treated material M′ due to the maximum possible material outlet surface 22.

[0059] Figure 9 A top view of a third embodiment of a fluidization device 1 with a cutting plane AA is shown, the fluidization device being designed as a fluidized bed device 2. The fluidization device 1 includes a fluidization unit 3 having a central longitudinal axis XX, at which a drain pipe 4 is arranged. The drain pipe includes a central axis YY perpendicular to the longitudinal axis XX, wherein the central axis YY and the longitudinal axis XX extend through the cutting plane AA. The fluidization device 1 is in an operational state.

[0060] exist Figure 10 The middle shows along Figure 9The cross-section of the cutting plane AA, the cutting plane being through a schematic diagram of the third embodiment of the fluidization device 1 in operation, the fluidization device in operation having an inlet distribution orifice plate 7 arranged in plane ZZ in a horizontal position.

[0061] The third embodiment of the fluidization device 1 is essentially a combination of the first two embodiments. In the third embodiment, the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 can also be moved relative to the fluidization unit 3. Unlike the first and second embodiments, the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 in the third embodiment is adapted to perform pivoting motion about the pivot axis 26 on the one hand, and linear motion along the axial direction 30 of the longitudinal axis XX on the other hand. In the operating state shown, the particulate material M is processed in the fluidization chamber 6.

[0062] When brought into the venting position, the pivoting and linear movements of the inflow distribution orifice plate can be performed sequentially or simultaneously in any order. This allows the advantages of both pivoting and linear movements to be fully utilized.

[0063] Furthermore, the material discharge section 19 has a locking device 36. The locking device 36 is advantageously configured as a flap 37, a valve, or a gate impeller, or the like. The locking device 36, configured as a flap 37, closes or opens the material discharge section 19. Figure 10 In the operating state shown—with the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 positioned above the upper edge of the material outlet 21—the locking device 36 closes the material discharge section. Therefore, neither the process gas PG nor the material M to be processed can flow out or be discharged from the fluidization unit 3 of the fluidization device 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve 37 is arranged to pivot about a pivot axis 38 orthogonal to the central axis YY.

[0064] In the emptied state, the particulate material M′ processed in the fluidization chamber 6 is discharged from the fluidization unit 3 of the fluidization device 1 through the material discharge section 19, which is configured as the emptied pipe 4. In this case, the locking device 36 pivots about the pivot axis 38 and opens the material discharge section 19 in the emptied state—with the inlet distribution orifice plate at least partially below the upper edge of the material outlet 21.

[0065] Figure 11 This is shown along Figure 9 A cross-section of the cutting plane AA, the cutting plane passing through a schematic diagram of the third embodiment of the fluidization device 1.

[0066] The inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is pivoted by an angle α about a pivot axis 26, and the pivot axis 26 is moved axially 30 along the longitudinal axis XX from plane ZZ to plane Z′-Z′, which is parallel to plane ZZ. By lowering the pivot axis 26 of the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 from plane ZZ to plane Z′-Z′, which has been moved parallel by a distance d, and simultaneously pivoting the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 about the pivot axis 26, improved discharge of the treated material M′ from the fluidization chamber 6 is achieved. In the illustrated embodiment, plane Z′-Z′ is arranged below the central axis YY. This makes it possible to keep the pivot angle α of the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 about the pivot axis 26 small, thereby minimizing the gap 27 formed between the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 and the fluidization unit 3. This results in further improved discharge.

[0067] The upper side 32 of the inlet distribution orifice plate 7 is at least partially positioned below the lower edge 23a of the material outlet 21 in the emptied position. The material discharge section 19, which has a locking device 36, is opened by the locking device 36, which pivots about the pivot axis 38, thereby allowing the processed material M′ to be discharged.

Claims

1. A fluidization apparatus (1) for processing particulate materials (M), comprising a fluidization unit (3) having a longitudinal axis (XX), the fluidization unit having a perforated inlet distribution plate (7) dividing the fluidization unit (3) into a distribution chamber (5) and a fluidization chamber (6) disposed above the distribution chamber (5), wherein, The fluidization chamber (6) includes a material inlet (18) for the material to be treated (M), and the distribution chamber (5) includes a material discharge section (19) having a material outlet (21) for the treated material (M'), the material outlet having a material outlet surface (22), a lower edge (23a), and an upper edge (23b), wherein the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is arranged above the upper edge (23b) of the material outlet (21) in the working position, and the distribution chamber (5) includes a fluid inlet (24) and the fluidization chamber (6) includes a fluid outlet (25) for fluid to flow from the fluid inlet (24) through the perforated inlet distribution orifice plate (7) to the fluid outlet. The process gas (PG) for fluidizing material (M) in the fluidization chamber (6) is characterized in that the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is arranged to be movable relative to the fluidization unit (3), wherein the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is positioned at least partially below the upper edge (23b) of the material outlet (21) by means of the movement of the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) relative to the fluidization unit (3), thereby forming a fluid connection between the material outlet (21) arranged in the distribution chamber (5) and the fluidization chamber (6) passing by the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) so as to discharge the processed material (M') from the fluidization unit (3).

2. The fluidization device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fluidization unit (3) has a pivot axis (26) that extends transversely to the longitudinal axis (XX) of the fluidization unit (3), and the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is pivotally arranged at the pivot axis.

3. The fluidization device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The pivot axis (26) extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (XX) of the fluidization unit (3).

4. The fluidization device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inflow distribution orifice plate (7) is arranged to be movable in the axial direction (30) of the longitudinal axis (XX).

5. The fluidization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The fluidization unit (3) has a pivot axis (26) that extends transversely to the longitudinal axis (XX) of the fluidization unit (3) and is arranged to be displaceable in the axial direction (30) of the longitudinal axis (XX), and the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is pivotally arranged at the pivot axis.

6. The fluidization apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, In the emptied position, the inflow distribution orifice plate (7) is positioned flush with or at least partially below the lower edge (23a) of the material outlet (21) due to the movement of the inflow distribution orifice plate (7) relative to the fluidization unit (3).

7. The fluidization device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, In the emptied position, the inflow distribution orifice plate (7) is positioned below the lower edge (23a) of the material outlet (21) due to the movement of the inflow distribution orifice plate (7) relative to the fluidization unit (3).

8. The fluidization apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The material discharge section (19) has a locking device (36).

9. The fluidization device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The upper side (32) of the inflow distribution orifice plate (7) is positioned flush with or at least partially below the lower edge (23a) of the material outlet (21) in the emptied position due to the movement of the inflow distribution orifice plate (7) relative to the fluidization unit (3).

10. The fluidization device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The upper side (32) of the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is positioned below the lower edge (23a) of the material outlet (21) in the emptied position due to the movement of the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) relative to the fluidization unit (3).

11. A method for processing particulate material (M) in a fluidization apparatus (1), said fluidization apparatus having a fluidization unit (3) having a longitudinal axis (XX), the fluidization unit having a perforated inlet distribution plate (7) dividing the fluidization unit (3) into a distribution chamber (5) and a fluidization chamber (6) arranged above the distribution chamber (5), wherein, The fluidization chamber (6) includes a material inlet (18) for the material to be treated (M), and the distribution chamber (5) includes a material discharge section (19) having a material outlet (21) for the treated material (M'), the material outlet having a material outlet surface (22), a lower edge (23a), and an upper edge (23b), wherein the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is arranged above the upper edge (23b) of the material outlet (21) in the working position, and the distribution chamber (5) includes a fluid inlet (24) and the fluidization chamber (6) includes a fluid outlet (25) for process gas (PG) for fluidizing the material (M) in the fluidization chamber (6) flowing from the fluid inlet (24) through the perforated inlet distribution orifice plate (7) to the fluid outlet (25), wherein In the working state, the fluidization chamber (6) is first filled with the material to be processed (M) through the material inlet (18), and then the material (M) is processed by the process gas (PG) flowing through the fluidization chamber (6). The characteristic feature is that after the working state, the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) which is movably arranged relative to the fluidization unit (3) is moved to the emptying position such that at least a portion of the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is positioned below the upper edge (23b) of the material outlet (21), thereby forming a fluid connection between the material outlet (21) arranged in the distribution chamber (5) and the fluidization chamber (6) passing by the inlet distribution orifice plate (7), and the processed material (M') is discharged from the fluidization unit (3) through the material outlet (21).

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The fluidization unit (3) has a pivot axis (26) extending transversely to the longitudinal axis (XX) of the fluidization unit (3), the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is pivotally arranged at the pivot axis, and after the particulate material (M) is treated, the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) pivots about the pivot axis, advantageously pivoting 5° to 10°.

13. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is arranged to be displaceable in the axial direction (30) of the longitudinal axis (XX) and in the form of linear motion in the axial direction (30) of the longitudinal axis (XX), advantageously until the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is positioned below the lower edge (23a).

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that, When brought into the venting position, the inflow distribution orifice plate (7) performs pivoting and linear motion.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, The inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is moved relative to the fluidization unit (3) to the venting position such that at least a portion of the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is positioned below the lower edge (23a) of the material outlet (21).

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The inflow distribution orifice plate (7) is moved relative to the fluidization unit (3) to the venting position such that the inflow distribution orifice plate (7) is positioned below the lower edge (23a) of the material outlet (21).

17. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, The material discharge section (19) has a locking device (36) that opens the material discharge section (19) once the inflow distribution orifice plate (7) is in the emptied position.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, Once at least a portion of the inlet distribution orifice plate (7) is positioned below the lower edge (23a) of the material outlet (21), the locking device (36) opens the material discharge section (19).

Images