Working method of three-chamber spraying pump for powder coating

Abstract

The invention relates to a powder coating application pump comprising three suction pressure chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3) for a thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coating coating process. In addition to having a regular flow of paint, the invention also allows precise control of powder paint. Although the three suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3) in the invention operate with the same work cycle (WT), the start times of these cycles are different from each other. When the first pressure suction chamber (EB1) starts to operate at the moment T = 0, the second pressure suction chamber (EB2) starts to operate after one third of the work cycle (T = WT / 3), and the third pressure suction chamber (EB3) starts to operate after two thirds of the work cycle (T = 2WT / 3).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a working method for a powder coating pump used in thermosetting / thermoplastic / enameled powder coating processes, said pump comprising three suction and compression chambers. BACKGROUND

[0002] When the research in the field is examined, it is generally seen that powder coating injectors based on the Venturi principle and powder coating pumps based on the suction and compression principle are used to take the powder coating from the container and to send it to the powder coating gun, thus applying the powder coating to the workpiece.

[0003] The injectors based on the Venturi principle provide a more regular coating flow compared to the pumps based on the suction and compression principle, and are frequently used in the industry due to their moderate cost. Although the pumps based on the suction and compression principle cannot provide a regular flow like the powder coating injectors since the powder coating is delivered in stages, the deficiencies of the powder coating injectors at high flow rates open up application areas for the powder coating pumps.

[0004] The conventional method of spraying the powder coating from the gun is to use an injector structure that works on the Venturi principle. The function of sending the powder coating from the container to the powder coating gun is provided by a component called injector, which works according to its structural principle. The document with the patent number EP0178120 (B1) discloses these injectors. These structures, which are used to send the coating from the container to the powder coating gun and work on the Venturi principle, have disadvantages such as not being able to solve the problem of delivering the coating to the powder gun at high flow rates, consuming a large amount of air, not being self-cleaning, and having difficulty in coating / air control.

[0005] The patent with the publication number EP1551558A1, which is found in the literature research, discloses two powder delivery chambers; said chambers are arranged parallel to each other, and the compression valves are provided as a mechanical working structure. The direction control is achieved by mechanical extrusion or opening structure. This technology includes a filter tube. Said tube is a structure that allows only air to pass through. This structure is designed to work by filling the powder coating into the filter volume and delivering it on demand. In addition, the known patents regarding the state of the art also include the patents with the publication numbers US2001 / 0003568 A1 and EP1752399A1.

[0006] The patent with the publication number EP2311573B1, which is found in the literature research, has two powder delivery chambers; said chambers are arranged parallel to each other and are equipped with compression valves controlled pneumatically. According to the working method disclosed in this document, it is constituted in a sequential manner in which one chamber sucks air and the other chamber is pressurized. Since this method does not contain intermediate stages, it causes coating splashes that disrupt the continuity at low flow coating spraying demands.

[0007] A patent published in US10604360 B2, discovered during a literature review, relates to a powder coating pump in which a single chamber performs both suction and pressurization, while a second chamber connected in series with this chamber does not perform suction. In the operating method shown in this patent, the coating is delivered in stages, with one chamber filling while another empties. This method not only results in a low powder coating flow rate but also causes uneven coating distribution from the nozzle due to the emptying stage. Other known prior art patents include EP3302819 and EP3585522.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a new type of spray pump for powder coating processes and a suitable operating method that can surpass known existing technologies and eliminate their shortcomings. Summary of the Invention

[0009] This invention is a method of operating a spray pump that surpasses known prior art, eliminates its defects, and also has additional advantages in powder coating processes.

[0010] This invention relates to a method of operating a pump for delivering thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coatings from a container to a powder coating spray gun or another container. It operates precisely and rapidly to ensure uniform spraying of the thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coating from the powder coating spray gun. Here, the powder coating spray gun can be a handheld structure for spraying thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coatings to powder coat a workpiece, or a structure capable of automated spraying.

[0011] This invention utilizes a powder coating pump with three suction and pressure chambers, each operating in a specific phase sequence. This structure, providing continuity during suction and pressurization, solves the problem of uneven flow rate caused by the phased operation of traditional powder coating pumps. In addition to achieving stable coating flow rate, this invention also enables precise control of the powder coating. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The invention will be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, thereby providing a clear understanding of its features. However, it is not intended to limit the invention to these specific embodiments. Rather, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that may be included within the scope defined by the appended claims. It should be understood that the details shown are merely for illustrating preferred embodiments of the invention and are presented to explain the method and to facilitate understanding of the principles and conceptual features of the invention.

[0013] Figure 1 shows a view of the powder delivery unit with three suction chambers included in the present invention, the powder coating equipment that provides the required air and electricity to the pump, the powder coating chamber, the powder coating spray gun, and the workpiece to be coated.

[0014] Figure 2 shows an illustrated view of the suction chambers of the powder coating pump of the present invention operating in a phase-off manner.

[0015] Figure 3 shows a graphical view of the positions of each valve during the WT time in this invention (VT1, VT2, VT3, VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5 and VP6 in the figure, where "0" indicates that the corresponding element is not triggered and "1" indicates that the corresponding element is triggered).

[0016] Figure 4. Detailed cross-sectional view of the powder conveying unit in the pump of the present invention.

[0017] The accompanying drawings, which make the invention clear and easy to understand, are numbered as described in the accompanying drawings, and their names are given below.

[0018] Component number 1. Powder conveying unit 11. Three-chamber connector 111. Three-chamber connecting passage 12. Compression valve chamber 13. Tubular filter chamber 131. First tubular filter 132. Second tubular filter 133. Third-tube filter 2. Pump body T. Time D. Delay time VA. Vacuum opening time WT. Work Cycle HR. Air Conditioner EB1. First suction chamber EB2. Second suction chamber EB3. Third suction chamber VT1. First transmission valve VT2. Second transfer valve VT3. Third transmission valve VV1. First vacuum valve VV2. Second vacuum valve VV3. Third Vacuum Valve VP1. First pinch valve VP2. Second pinch valve VP3. Third pinch valve VP4. Fourth pinch valve VP5. Fifth pinch valve VP6. Sixth Pinch Valve VPUR. Cleaning valve VAC1. First vacuum generator VAC2. Second Vacuum Generator VAC3. Third Vacuum Generator P1. First compression valve P2. Second compression valve P3. Third compression valve P4. Fourth compression valve P5. Fifth compression valve P6. Sixth compression valve A1. Main gas source A2. Compression valve air A3. Transmission gas A4. Mixture A5. Spray gun needle valve air A6. Cavity bottom pneumatic tubing IP. Workpiece H. Chamber H1. Powder Coating H2. Fluidized plate H3. Impermeable portion H4. Suction tube H5. Transmission tube TB. Powder Coating Spray Gun TB1. Powder Coating Spray Gun Trigger 5. Spray gun signal connection 65. Mixer components K. Control Unit K1. Main control board K2. Pump drive board K3. Pressure compensation tank K11. First proportional pressure control valve K12. Second proportional pressure control valve K13. Third proportional pressure control valve VD. Inflation valve BS. Pressure Sensor Detailed Implementation In this detailed description, the powder coating spraying pump, which is the subject of this invention, is described only by way of example without any limiting effect, and is only intended to better understand the content of this invention.

[0019] Figure 1 shows a view of the pump described in this invention, illustrating the powder delivery unit (1), pump body (2), powder coating (H1) chamber (H), powder coating spray gun (TB), workpiece (IP), and control unit (K). Figure 2 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the powder delivery unit (1). Accordingly, the powder delivery unit (1) included in this invention is used to extract powder coating (H1) from the chamber (H) and deliver it to the powder coating spray gun (TB) or another chamber. The pump body (2) included in this invention provides the powder delivery unit (1) with the main air source (A1), compressed valve air (A2), and transmission air (A3), as well as the power to the powder delivery unit (1). The chamber (H) is the part that supplies the powder coating (H1), and the powder coating spray gun (TB) is the part that sprays the powder coating (H1) onto the workpiece (IP). In this invention, the control unit (K) controls the valves and electronic equipment.

[0020] In the powder transfer unit (1) of the pump, which is the subject of this invention, there are three suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3), namely, the first suction chamber (EB1), the second suction chamber (EB2), and the third suction chamber (EB3). The suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3) perform the suction function and ensure that the powder coating (H1) in the chamber (H) is transferred to the powder coating spray gun (TB). In this way, the present invention not only achieves a stable coating flow rate, but also enables precise control of the powder coating (H1).

[0021] In this invention, the suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3) are placed inside the tubular filters (131, 132, 133) within the tubular filter chamber (13). The tubular filters (131, 132, 133) within the tubular filter chamber (13) are preferably connected to each other by a mechanical element (e.g., bolts) to form a single unit. The tubular filter chamber (13) is a structure comprising a first tubular filter (131), a second tubular filter (132), and a third tubular filter (133), which are dustproof and breathable porous structures. In this way, the main air source (A1) or the transfer air (A3) can be supplied to the suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3) without the discharge of powder coating (H1). The geometric arrangement of the tubular filters (131, 132, 133) is such that the distance between them is preferably the shortest and equal. Tubular filters (131, 132, 133) are tubular structures made of a special porous material that allows only air to pass through but not thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coatings. The filters retain the thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coating within their internal volume, preventing it from entering the external volume. These tubular filters (131, 132, 133) can be as described in this invention (…). Figure 2The circular cross-section shown in the figure can also be a tube or pipe-like structure, or a square, rectangular or elliptical cross-section.

[0022] In this invention, each suction and pressure chamber (EB1, EB2, EB3) performs one cycle, fulfilling its function during the suction and pressurization phases. This is referred to as a duty cycle (WT) in milliseconds. The duty cycle (WT) is repeated to ensure stable pump operation. Although the three suction and pressure chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3) in this invention operate with the same duty cycle (WT), the start times of these cycles differ from one another. Figure 2 As shown, when the first suction chamber (EB1) starts operating at time T=0, the second suction chamber (EB2) starts operating after one-third of the working cycle (T=WT / 3), and the third suction chamber (EB3) starts operating after two-thirds of the working cycle (T=2). WT / 3) starts operation. In this way, the phase offset time between each other is obtained. The three parts work together in a phase offset manner. Thanks to the phase offset working method, the continuous operation of the pump is guaranteed due to the action of the suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3). In this invention, in order to increase the paint flow rate and achieve precise operation, a specially designed pneumatic schematic diagram (Fig. 1) is provided inside the pump body (2). As detailed in the claims, the selection of a directional control valve with an external pilot shortens the reaction time of the directional control valve, enabling it to work using air from the vacuum generator and to work using variable air pressure and / or negative pressure acting on the valve. This pneumatic schematic diagram is an essential feature for the operation of thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coating spraying pumps, and the precise and rapid operation of the directional control valve ensures high flow rate and uniform output when spraying powder coating (H1) from the powder coating spray gun (TB).

[0023] For thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coatings, the spray pump operates in two states. Which state will be used and the differences between the states are clearly stated in the claims. The advantage is the ability to operate in different states and to employ the other features described in the claims to spray different types of powder coatings. In addition to these operating states, there is a cleaning state that enables the spray pump to self-clean for thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coatings.

[0024] The three-chamber spray pump starts operating when the spray gun trigger (TB1) is pressed or the powder control box (K) is set to self-start.

[0025] Figure 1The pneumatic diagram shown illustrates the initial position of the directional control valves (VT1, VT2, VT3, VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6, VV1, VV2, VV3, VPUR). Directional changes are achieved by applying an electrical signal to the valves.

[0026] In this invention, the pinch valves (VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6) are components that open and close the compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) by being triggered. For example, by activating the first pinch valve (VP1), the first compression valve (P1) closes. When not triggered, the path of the first compression valve (P1) is open. In this invention, the pinch valves (VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6) and the compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) are arranged in a corresponding manner to each other, i.e., VP2 corresponds to P2, VP3 corresponds to P3, VP4 corresponds to P4, VP5 corresponds to P5, and VP6 corresponds to P6.

[0027] In this invention, vacuum valves (VV1, VV2, VV3) are connected to vacuum generators (VAC1, VAC2, VAC3) via air conditioners (HR) in front of them. When the first vacuum valve (VV1) is not activated, it does not allow air to pass through, and therefore no air is supplied to the first vacuum generator (VAC1). When activated, air passes through it to the first vacuum generator (VAC1). In this way, vacuum power is obtained in the pneumatic lines connected to the first vacuum generator (VAC1). The same arrangement applies to VV2-VAC2 and VV3-VAC3.

[0028] In this invention, the transfer valves (VT1, VT2, VT3) are arranged to be connected to the vacuum generators (VAC1, VAC2, VAC3) when they are not activated. For example, when the first transfer valve (VT1) is not activated but the first vacuum valve (VV1) is activated, the vacuum power generated by the first vacuum generator (VAC1) is transmitted to the first suction chamber (EB1) through the line connected to the first transfer valve (VT1). Since the first tubular filter (131) in the first suction chamber (EB1) only allows air to pass through and not paint, the powder paint (H1) can be drawn into the first suction chamber (EB1) by means of the vacuum power transmitted there. This process is performed when the path of the first compression valve (P1) is closed and the path of the fourth compression valve (P4) is open. When the path of the fourth compression valve (P4) is closed and the path of the first compression valve (P1) is open, the powder paint (H1) is transferred from the first suction chamber (EB1) toward the powder paint spray gun (TB). At this moment, the first transfer valve (VT1) is activated, and the powder coating (H1) that was previously drawn into the first suction chamber (EB1) is delivered to the powder coating spray gun (TB) by means of air from the delivery gas (A3) connected to the other end of the valve. In this invention, the second transfer valve (VT2) is arranged to be connected to the second vacuum generator (VAC2) when it is not activated. When the second transfer valve (VT2) is not activated but the second vacuum valve (VV2) is activated, the vacuum power generated by the second vacuum generator (VAC2) is transmitted to the second suction chamber (EB2) through the line connected to the second transfer valve (VT2). Since the second tubular filter (132) in the second suction chamber (EB2) only allows air to pass through and not coating, the powder coating (H1) can be drawn into the second suction chamber (EB2) by means of the vacuum power transmitted there. This process is performed when the path of the second compression valve (P2) is closed and the path of the fifth compression valve (P5) is open. When the fifth compression valve (P5) is closed and the second compression valve (P2) is open, the powder coating (H1) is conveyed toward the powder coating spray gun (TB). At this moment, the second transfer valve (VT2) is activated, and the powder coating (H1) that was previously drawn into the second suction chamber (EB2) is sent to the powder coating spray gun by means of air from the delivery gas (A3) connected to the other end of the valve.

[0029] In this invention, the third transfer valve (VT3) is arranged to be connected to the third vacuum generator (VAC3) when it is not activated. When the third transfer valve (VT3) is not activated but the third vacuum valve (VV3) is activated, the vacuum power generated by the third vacuum generator (VAC3) is transmitted to the third suction chamber (EB3) through the line connected to the third transfer valve (VT3). Since the third tubular filter (133) in the third suction chamber (EB3) only allows air to pass through and not paint, the powder coating (H1) can be drawn into the third suction chamber (EB3) by means of the vacuum power transmitted there. This process is performed when the path of the third compression valve (P3) is closed and the path of the sixth compression valve (P6) is open. When the sixth compression valve (P6) is closed and the third compression valve (P3) is open, the powder coating (H1) is transferred to the powder coating spray gun (TB). At this moment, the third transfer valve (VT3) is activated, and the powder coating (H1) that was previously drawn into the third suction chamber (EB3) is sent to the powder coating spray gun (TB) by means of the air supply gas (A3) connected to the other end of the valve.

[0030] In this invention, the opening times of the first vacuum valve (VV1), the second vacuum valve (VV2), and the third vacuum valve (VV3) determine the amount of coating material drawn into (filling) the suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3). The vacuum opening time (VA) is a quantity in milliseconds and is set on the control unit (K). In this invention, the delay time (D) and the vacuum opening time (VA) are set such that their sum cannot exceed WT / 2 time.

[0031] In this invention, pressing the powder coating gun trigger (TB1) on the powder coating gun (TB) or setting the control unit (K) to automatic operation achieves the working state at time T=0 as shown in Figures 2 and 3. Releasing the powder coating gun trigger (TB1) on the powder coating gun (TB) or stopping it on the control unit (K) means that time T=0 (initial state). Restarting is performed under the condition of T=0.

[0032] In this invention, the second suction chamber (EB2) operates with a phase shift of WT / 3 relative to the first suction chamber (EB1), and the third suction chamber (EB3) operates with a phase shift of 2 WT / 3 relative to the first suction chamber (EB1). The phase shift operation of WT / 3 ensures continuous intake and delivery of the coating. The phase shift is performed once within one WT cycle when the system starts running. Then, all suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3) repeat the WT cycle as shown in Figure 2.

[0033] The operation of the pump will be explained in two main parts: normal operation and cleaning function. Normal operation will be explained in three parts.

[0034] Normal operation: First suction chamber (EB1): From time T=0 to time T=WT / 2, the first transfer valve (VT1) and the fourth pinch-off valve (VP4) are not triggered, while the first pinch-off valve (VP1) is triggered. Since the fourth pinch-off valve (VP4) is not triggered but the first pinch-off valve (VP1) is triggered, the first compression valve (P1) closes, and the fourth compression valve (P4) opens. After time T=0, after a delay time (D), the first vacuum valve (VV1) is triggered. The first vacuum valve (VV1) will remain open for a continuous vacuum opening time (VA) and then close. Simultaneously, the powder coating (H1) in the suction tube (H4) is filled into the first suction chamber (EB1).

[0035] From time T=WT / 2 to time T=WT, the first transfer valve (VT1) and the fourth pinch-off valve (VP4) are triggered. The first pinch-off valve (VP1) is not triggered. Because the fourth pinch-off valve (VP4) is triggered while the first pinch-off valve (VP1) is not triggered, the first compression valve (P1) opens and the fourth compression valve (P4) closes. Simultaneously, the powder coating (H1) filled into the first suction chamber (EB1) during the period from T=0 to T=WT / 2 is transferred towards the powder coating spray gun (TB). Details are as follows... Figure 3 As shown. Afterwards, the pump returns to the state at T=0 and operates in continuous cycles. In this way, as shown... Figure 2 The periodic work cycle is shown.

[0036] Second suction chamber (EB2): like Figure 2 As shown in the diagram, the operation of the second suction chamber (EB2) is offset by a time interval T = WT / 3 relative to the first suction chamber (EB1). Figure 2 As shown, the time offset is executed once. Figure 3 As shown, from T=0 to T=WT / 3, the second pinch-off valve (VP2) is not triggered, while the fifth pinch-off valve (VP5) and the second transfer valve (VT2) are triggered. Because the second pinch-off valve (VP2) is not triggered while the fifth pinch-off valve (VP5) is triggered, the second compression valve (P2) opens, and the fifth compression valve (P5) closes. After T=WT / 3, the operation of the second suction chamber (EB2) cycles in the following sequence; Duration WT / 2 time, The second transfer valve (VT2) and the fifth pinch-off valve (VP5) are not triggered, but the second pinch-off valve (VP2) is triggered. Since the second pinch-off valve (VP2) is triggered while the fifth pinch-off valve (VP5) is not triggered, the second compression valve (P2) is closed, and the fifth compression valve (P5) is opened. After a delay time (D), the second vacuum valve (VV2) is triggered. The second vacuum valve (VV2) is triggered for a sustained vacuum opening time (VA). Simultaneously, the powder coating (H1) in the suction pipe (H4) is filled into the second suction chamber (EB2).

[0037] Then, continue for WT / 2 time. The second transfer valve (VT2) and the fifth pinch-off valve (VP5) are triggered, while the second pinch-off valve (VP2) is not triggered. Because the second pinch-off valve (VP2) is not triggered while the fifth pinch-off valve (VP5) is triggered, the second compression valve (P2) opens, and the fifth compression valve (P5) closes. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, WT continues to operate with its total time remaining constant. Simultaneously, the powder coating (H1) filled into the second suction chamber (EB2) in the previous stage (time WT / 2 before) is transferred towards the powder coating spray gun (TB).

[0038] Third suction chamber (EB3): like Figure 3 As shown, from time T=0 to time T=WT / 6, the third transfer valve (VT3) and the sixth pinch-off valve (VP6) are not triggered, but the third pinch-off valve (VP3) is triggered. Because the sixth pinch-off valve (VP6) is not triggered while the third pinch-off valve (VP3) is triggered, the sixth compression valve (P6) opens, and the third compression valve (P3) closes. From time T=WT / 6 to time T=2... WT / 3, the third transfer valve (VT3) and the sixth pinch valve (VP6) are triggered, while the third pinch valve (VP3) is not triggered.

[0039] like Figure 2 As shown in the diagram, the operation of the third suction chamber (EB3) is offset by T=2 relative to the first suction chamber (EB1). WT / 3 time. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the time offset is executed once.

[0040] At T=2 After WT / 3, the operation of the third suction chamber proceeds in the following sequence; Duration WT / 2 time, The third transfer valve (VT3) and the sixth pinch-off valve (VP6) are not triggered, but the third pinch-off valve (VP3) is triggered. Because the sixth pinch-off valve (VP6) is not triggered while the third pinch-off valve (VP3) is triggered, the sixth compression valve (P6) opens, and the third compression valve (P3) closes. After a delay time (D), the third vacuum valve (VV3) is triggered. The third vacuum valve (VV3) will be triggered for a sustained vacuum opening time (VA). Simultaneously, the powder coating (H1) in the suction pipe (H4) is filled into the third suction chamber (EB3).

[0041] Duration WT / 2 time, The third transfer valve (VT3) and the sixth pinch-off valve (VP6) are triggered, while the third pinch-off valve (VP3) is not triggered. Because the sixth pinch-off valve (VP6) is triggered while the third pinch-off valve (VP3) is not triggered, the sixth compression valve (P6) closes, and the third compression valve (P3) opens. Simultaneously, the powder coating (H1) that was previously filled into the third suction chamber (EB3) is transferred towards the powder coating spray gun (TB). Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, WT continues to run in a manner where its total time remains constant.

[0042] Cleanliness status: In this invention, cleaning can be performed from the pump to the paint chamber (H), or from the pump to the powder coating gun (TB), and / or both simultaneously.

[0043] When powder coating needs to be removed, a three-chamber powder coating pump can perform cleaning. During this process, a different operating mode than normal operation will be applied. When the cleaning operation is activated via the control unit (K) or the powder coating gun (TB), the operation is as follows: In cleaning mode, the first vacuum valve (VV1), the second vacuum valve (VV2), and the third vacuum valve (VV3) are not activated (not triggered).

[0044] Cleaning is performed from the pump to the chamber by triggering the cleaning valve (VPUR), the first pinch-off valve (VP1), the second pinch-off valve (VP2), the third pinch-off valve (VP3), the first transfer valve (VT1), the second transfer valve (VT2), and the third transfer valve (VT3). At this time, the first compression valve (P1), the second compression valve (P2), and the third compression valve (P3) are closed, and the fourth compression valve (P4), the fifth compression valve (P5), and the sixth compression valve (P6) are open.

[0045] The cleaning process from the pump to the powder coating spray gun (TB) is executed by triggering the cleaning valve (VPUR), the fourth pinch-off valve (VP4), the fifth pinch-off valve (VP5), and the sixth pinch-off valve (VP6), the first transfer valve (VT1), the second transfer valve (VT2), and the third transfer valve (VT3). At this time, the first compression valve (P1), the second compression valve (P2), and the third compression valve (P3) are open, and the fourth compression valve (P4), the fifth compression valve (P5), and the sixth compression valve (P6) are closed. These operations can be performed continuously and / or multiple times as needed.

[0046] The pump body (2) includes pneumatic valves (VT1, VT2, VT3, VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6, VV1, VV2, VV3, VPUR), a vacuum generator (VAC1, VAC2, VAC3), a valve island housing the valves, and an air conditioner (HR). The air conditioner (HR) is used to regulate the air required by the vacuum generators (VAC1, VAC2, VAC3).

[0047] The transfer valves (VT1, VT2, VT3) are externally piloted three-way two-position (3 / 2) valves. Using these valves makes the pneumatic diagram meaningful. If the pneumatic diagram ( Figure 1 The diagram shows an internal pilot valve, not an external pilot directional control valve. This is because an internal pilot directional control valve, where the valve core is actuated by inlet air pressure, will prevent the spray pump for thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coatings from functioning properly, or even from operating at all. This is because in an internal pilot directional control valve, a portion of the compressed air entering the valve is used for valve core movement. This phenomenon causes the directional control valve to react differently under different pressures, resulting in delays, and / or failure to operate at all when air pressure changes. By using an external pilot valve, rapid and stable operation of the directional control valve is achieved, offering significant advantages over other known designs in the art. Thanks to these external pilot directional control valves, paint flow rate is increased, and powder coating control is particularly advantageous, allowing for uniform and uninterrupted spraying of powder coating from the powder coating gun (TB).

[0048] In this invention, the control of the transmission gas (A3), the air path of the mixer component (A4), and the signal connection of the spray gun (5) is accomplished through the screen on the control unit (K). The control unit (K) consists of a main control board (K1), a pump drive board (K2), proportional pressure control valves (K11, K12, K13), a pressure compensation tank (K3), and an air charging valve (VD). In this invention, the signal generated by the pump drive board (K2) controls the directional control valves (VT1, VT2, VT3, VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6, VV1, VV2, VV3, VPUR).

[0049] In this invention, the main control board (K1) controls the proportional pressure control valves (K11, K12, K13) and ensures that the total gas, transmission gas (A3), spray gun needle valve gas (A5), and mixed gas (A4) from the main gas source (A1) are regulated and their pressures are adjusted as needed.

[0050] In this invention, the transmission gas (A3) ensures that the thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coatings drawn into the suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3) in the previous stage are delivered towards the powder coating spray gun (TB) by triggering the transmission valves (VT1, VT2, VT3). In this invention, pneumatic gas (A4) is connected to the mixer assembly (65). The mixer assembly (65) is directly connected to the powder coating spray gun (TB) when not in use, or can be adjusted to be shut off by the control unit (K) if not in use.

[0051] In this invention, the spray gun signal connection (5) sends an electrical signal to the powder coating spray gun (TB) via the main control board (K1) in the control unit (K). Furthermore, trigger (TB1), cleaning, and / or other electrical signals from the powder coating spray gun (TB) are transmitted to the main control board (K1) in the control unit (K) via the spray gun signal connection (5).

[0052] In this invention, a pressure sensor (BS) is integrated onto a pump drive board (K2) located within a control unit (K). Here, the pressure sensor (BS) is a sensor that converts the analog pressure information it reads into an electrical signal and / or for this purpose. The pressure sensor (BS) measures the air pressure in the pressure compensation tank (K3) and transmits this pressure value as electrical information to the pump drive board (K2). If this air pressure is lower than a value set in the control unit (K), when the pump drive board (K2) generates a trigger signal, the inflation valve (VD) opens and remains open until the pressure reaches the preset value measured by the pressure sensor (BS). When the desired value is reached, the inflation valve (VD) closes. In this way, the air in the pressure compensation tank (K3) is maintained at the desired pressure. The air maintained at the required pressure in the pressure compensation tank (K3) is used to close the compression valve (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) by triggering the pinch valve (VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6) of the pump drive plate (K2).

[0053] This invention comprises two compression valve chambers (12). The first is located above the tubular filter chamber (13) (inlet section), and the second is located below the tubular filter chamber (13) (outlet section). The lower compression valve chamber (12) contains a first compression valve (P1), a second compression valve (P2), and a third compression valve (P3), while the upper compression valve chamber (12) contains a fourth compression valve (P4), a fifth compression valve (P5), and a sixth compression valve (P6). The compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) are responsible for opening and closing the relevant paths required to perform suction and discharge actions within the suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3). The compression valve chambers (12) are arranged such that compression valves (P1, P2, P3) and (P4, P5, P6) can be installed therein. The chamber (12) housing the three compression valves is geometrically arranged such that the distances between the compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) are minimized and equal. The compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) have a flexible structure, similar to a hose, that closes when compressed air is applied and returns to its initial position when air is released. The compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) can be made of flexible materials, such as silicone, EPDM, or special formulations of their alloys.

[0054] The compression valve chamber (12) and the tubular filter chamber (13) are preferably connected to each other by a mechanical element (e.g., a bolt) and form a single unit. The three-chamber connector (11), the compression valve chamber (12), and the tubular filter chamber (13) are preferably made of metal and / or rigid plastic materials. There are two three-chamber connectors (11) in this invention. The first is located at the inlet of the powder transfer unit (1), and the other is located at its outlet. In this invention, powder coating (H1) from the chamber (H) is fed from the suction pipe (H4) to the three-chamber connector (11) and then through the three-chamber connector channel (111) to the compression valves (P1, P2, P3) in the compression valve chamber (12). The three-chamber connector channel (111), which makes the three coating paths in the three-chamber connector (11) into one path, is preferably arranged with the shortest and equidistant geometry. When the compression valves (P1, P2, P3) are compressed by the compression valve air (A2), the powder coating (H1) is transferred to the suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3) in the tubular filter chamber (13). In the suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3), the powder coating (H1) is supplied to the three-chamber connector channel (111) in the lower three-chamber connector (11) via the main air source (A1) and the compression valves (P4, P5, P6) in the lower compression valve chamber (12), and from there transferred to the transmission pipe (H5). In this invention, the compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) are made of flexible material and are in a state of compression and closed path when air is supplied, and expand and open the path when air is released. In this way, the suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3) can perform both suction and thrust (expulsion) functions. With the aid of the three suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3) and six compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) of this invention, the pump provides a regular flow of powder coating and allows for precise control of the powder coating (H1). The suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3) provide the powder coating (H1) flow in a continuous manner by performing suction and discharge processes at different time intervals.

[0055] In this invention, a chamber (H) contains powder coating (H1). Below the powder coating (H1) in the chamber (H), there is a fluidizing plate (H2). The fluidizing plate (H2) is permeable to air but not to the powder coating (H1). In this way, an impermeable portion (H3) is formed at the bottom of the container (H). In this invention, the powder coating (H1) is transported to the suction pipe (H4) through air from the bottom pneumatic conduit (A6) of the impermeable portion (H3). When compressed air is supplied from the bottom pneumatic conduit (A6) to the impermeable portion (H3) of the chamber (H), the thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder (H1) begins to bubble and exhibit fluid properties. The thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coating (H1), which has obtained air from below and begun to exhibit fluid properties, can be absorbed through the suction pipe (H4). The powder coating (H1) taken by the suction pipe (H4) passes through the powder transfer unit (1) and is transferred to the transfer pipe (H5). It is then transferred through the transfer pipe (H5) to the powder coating spray gun (TB). In this invention, the powder coating spray gun (TB) includes a powder coating trigger (TB1), which sprays the powder coating (H1) when pressed. The powder coating (H1) is pressurized by air from the spray gun needle valve gas (A5) line, sprayed onto the workpiece (IP) at the tip of the powder coating spray gun (TB). In this invention, the powder coating spray gun (TB) is integrated into the control unit (K) via the spray gun signal connection (5). In this invention, a part of the powder coating spray gun (TB) has a mixer component (65). The function of the mixer component (65) is to ensure that the powder coating (H1) taken from the transfer pipe (H5) is uniformly mixed with the air from the mixing gas (A4) line. When not in use, the mixer component (65) is directly connected to the powder coating gun (TB), or it can be turned off by adjusting the control unit (K) if it is not in use.

[0056] In this invention, the main air source (A1) is constant-pressure air generated by a compressor or generator and regulated as needed in a regulator. The transmission air (A3) ensures that the thermosetting / thermoplastic / enamel powder coatings drawn into the internal volume of the tubular filters (131, 132, 133) are delivered towards the powder coating spray gun (TB). The compression valve air (A2) is used to compress or release the compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6).

[0057] In this invention, the control of the main air source (A1), compressed valve air (A2), transmission air (A3), mixed air (A4), spray gun needle valve air (A5), bottom pneumatic pipeline (A6), air and spray gun signal connection (5) is completed by the screen or computer in the control unit (K).

Claims

1. A method of operating a powder coating pump, the powder coating pump having at least one powder transfer unit (1) that transfers powder coating (H1) drawn into a chamber (H) through a suction pipe (H4) to a transfer pipe (H5) for delivery to a powder coating spray gun (TB) or chamber (H). • Three suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3), • A compression valve chamber (12), located at the inlet section of the powder transfer unit (1), includes a fourth compression valve (P4), a fifth compression valve (P5), and a sixth compression valve (P6) made of flexible material. • A compression valve chamber (12), located at the outlet section of the powder conveying unit (1), includes a first compression valve (P1), a second compression valve (P2), and a third compression valve (P3) made of flexible material. • A tubular filter chamber (13), formed between the compression valve chamber (12) of the inlet and outlet sections, includes a first suction chamber (EB1), a second suction chamber (EB2), and a third suction chamber (EB3) for drawing powder coating (H1) from the suction pipe (H4) and transferring it to the transfer pipe (H5), and also includes a first tubular filter (131), a second tubular filter (132), and a third tubular filter (133). • At least one pump body (2), through its main air source (A1), provides compression valve air (A2) to the compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) to achieve clamping and loosening, and provides transfer air (A3) to the powder coating (H1) in the compression valve chamber (12) at the outlet of the tubular filter chamber (13) from the suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3). • At least one control unit (K) that controls the air circuit (A2, A3, A4, A5), the spray gun signal connection (5), and the electronic equipment required for the operation of the powder coating spray gun (TB). This includes the following steps: ■ The start time of the working cycle (WT) of the second suction chamber (EB2) is set to T=WT / 3 after the first suction chamber (EB1) starts working; ■ The start time of the working cycle (WT) of the third suction chamber (EB3) is set to T=2WT / 3 after the first suction chamber (EB1) starts working. ■ The first suction chamber (EB1), the second suction chamber (EB2), and the third suction chamber (EB3) continuously operate in a repeating cycle to maintain specified time (T) offset values ​​of T=WT / 3 and T=2WT / 3. ■ Air and pressure within the pump are directed by triggering the directional control valves (VT1, VT2, VT3, VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6, W1, W2, W3, VPUR) at appropriate times to provide the cleaning action of the circulation and pump.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process includes the following steps: • From time T=0 to time T=WT / 2, the first pinch valve (VP1) is triggered. • After a delay time (D) following T=0, the first vacuum valve (W1) is triggered and remains open for a continuous vacuum opening time (VA). • Simultaneously, the powder coating (H1) in the suction tube (H4) is filled into the first suction chamber (EB1). • From time T=WT / 2 to time T=WT, the first transfer valve (VT1) and the fourth pinch valve (VP4) are triggered. • The powder coating (H1) that will be filled into the first suction chamber (EB1) during the period from T=0 to T=WT / 2 will be conveyed toward the powder coating spray gun (TB).

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process includes the following steps: • From time T=0 to time T=WT / 3, the fifth pinch valve (VP5) is triggered. • After T=WT / 3, for a period of WT / 2, the second pinch valve (VP2) is triggered. • After a delay time (D), the second vacuum valve (VV2) is triggered and remains open for a vacuum period (VA). • Simultaneously, the powder coating (H1) in the suction tube (H4) is filled into the second suction chamber (EB2). • Subsequently, the second transfer valve (VT2) and the fifth pinch valve (VP5) are activated, lasting for WT / 2 time. • The powder coating (H1) that was filled into the second suction chamber (EB2) before WT / 2 time is conveyed toward the powder coating spray gun (TB).

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process includes the following steps: • From time T=0 to time T=WT / 6, the third pinch valve (VP3) is triggered. • From time T=WT / 6 to time T=2WT / 3, the third transfer valve (VT3) and the sixth pinch valve (VP6) are triggered. • Trigger the third pinch valve (VP3) for a duration of WT / 2. • After a delay time (D), the third vacuum valve (W3) is triggered, and the vacuum remains open for a duration of (VA). • Simultaneously, the powder coating (H1) in the suction tube (H4) is filled into the third suction chamber (EB3). • Subsequently, the second transfer valve (VT2) and the fifth pinch valve (VP5) are activated, lasting for WT / 2 time. • The powder coating (H1) that was filled into the third suction chamber (EB3) before WT / 2 time is conveyed toward the powder coating spray gun (TB).

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that: Cleaning is performed from the pump to the chamber (H), or from the pump to the powder coating gun (TB), or both, by triggering the cleaning valve (VPUR) and pinch valves (VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6).

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that: The cleaning valve (VPUR) performs a cleaning process from the pump to the chamber (H) by triggering the first pinch valve (VP1), the second pinch valve (VP2), the third pinch valve (VP3), the first transfer valve (VT1), the second transfer valve (VT2), and the third transfer valve (VT3).

7. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that: The cleaning valve (VPUR) performs the cleaning process from the pump to the powder coating spray gun (TB) by triggering the fourth pinch valve (VP4), the fifth pinch valve (VP5), the sixth pinch valve (VP6), the first transfer valve (VT1), the second transfer valve (VT2), and the third transfer valve (VT3).

8. A powder coating pump having at least one powder transfer unit (1) that draws powder coating (H1) from a chamber (H) through a suction pipe (H4) and transfers it to a transfer pipe (H5) for delivery to a powder coating spray gun (TB) or a chamber (H). • At least one powder conveying unit (1), • Three suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3), • A compression valve chamber (12), located at the inlet section of the powder transfer unit (1), includes a fourth compression valve (P4), a fifth compression valve (P5), and a sixth compression valve (P6) made of flexible material. • A compression valve chamber (12), located at the outlet section of the powder conveying unit (1), includes a first compression valve (P1), a second compression valve (P2), and a third compression valve (P3) made of flexible material. • A tubular filter chamber (13), formed between the compression valve chamber (12) of the inlet and outlet sections, includes a first suction chamber (EB1), a second suction chamber (EB2), and a third suction chamber (EB3), which draws powder coating (H1) from the suction pipe (H4) and transports it to the transfer pipe (H5), and also includes a first tubular filter (131), a second tubular filter (132), and a third tubular filter (133). • At least one pump body (2), through its main air source (A1), provides compression valve air (A2) to the compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) to achieve clamping and loosening, and provides transfer air (A3) to the powder coating (H1) in the compression valve chamber (12) at the outlet of the tubular filter chamber (13) from the suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3). • At least one control unit (K) that controls the air circuit (A2, A3, A4, A5), the spray gun signal connection (5), and the electronic equipment required for the operation of the powder coating spray gun (TB). in, include: ■ Transmission valves (VT1, VT2, VT3), located on the pump body (2), are used to transmit the vacuum power generated by the vacuum generators (VAC1, VAC2, VAC3) to the suction chambers (EB1, EB2, EB3). ■ Vacuum valves (W1, W2, W3) are used to create a vacuum in the vacuum generators (VAC1, VAC2, VAC3) using air supplied from the air conditioner (HR). ■ Pinch valves (VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6) are triggered to open and close the compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6). ■ By triggering the directional control valves (VT1, VT2, VT3, VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6, W1, W2, W3, VPUR), the first suction chamber (EB1) starts operating at time T=0, the second suction chamber (EB2) starts operating at time WT / 3 after the first suction chamber (EB1) starts operating, and the third suction chamber (EB3) starts operating at time 2WT / 3 after the first suction chamber (EB1) starts operating.

9. The pump according to claim 8, characterized in that: The pump body (2) includes at least one cleaning valve (VPUR) that performs cleaning from the pump to the chamber (H), or from the pump to the powder coating gun (TB), or both, by triggering pinch-off valves (VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6).

10. The pump according to claim 8, characterized in that, include: • The main control card (K1) controls the proportional pressure control valves (K11, K12, K13) in the control unit (K), and allows the total gas from the main gas source (A1) to be adjusted as needed into delivery gas (A3), spray gun needle valve gas (A5), and mixed gas (A4), and adjusts their pressures. • Pump drive board (K2), controlling directional control valves (VT1, VT2, VT3, VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6, VV1, W2, VV3, VPUR), • Proportional control valves (K11, K12, K13) are used to pressurize the total gas from the main gas source (A1), the delivery gas (A3), the spray gun needle valve gas (A5), and the mixed gas (A4). • The pressure compensation tank (K3) provides the pressure required to close the compression valves (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6) by triggering the pinch valves (VP1, VP2, VP3, VP4, VP5, VP6). • The pressure sensor (BS) measures the air pressure in the pressure compensation tank (K3) and transmits this pressure value as an electrical signal to the pump drive board (K2). • The inflation valve (VD) is used to maintain the air in the pressure compensation tank (K3) at the required pressure.

11. The pump according to claim 8, characterized in that, The transmission valves (VT1, VT2, VT3) are three-way two-position (3 / 2) valves and are externally piloted valves.

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