Particle shaping equipment, working method thereof and powder processing system

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides particle shaping equipment, a working method thereof and a powder processing system, relates to the technical field of powder processing, and aims to efficiently obtain powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size. The particle shaping equipment comprises a first container, a first air supply piece, a second air supply piece and a pipeline. The first container comprises a first end face and a second end face which are opposite. The first air supply piece is arranged close to the first end face and used for providing first airflow flowing from the first end face to the second end face. The second air supply piece is arranged close to the second end face and used for providing second airflow flowing from the second end face to the first end face. An outlet of the pipeline extends into the position between the first air supply piece and the second air supply piece and is used for conveying particles to be shaped into the first container. Therefore, the to-be-shaped particles collide with one another in the first container to be crushed and polished, and powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size can be efficiently obtained.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of powder processing technology, and in particular to a particle shaping device and its working method, and a powder processing system. Background Technology

[0002] Powder forming, generally referring to the metal powder processing technology, is a process that densifies metal powder into a blank with a specific shape, size, density, and strength. Types of powder forming include metal injection molding (MIM) and additive manufacturing (AM). Powder forming technology can produce parts with complex geometries and high precision, with high material utilization, reduced material waste, and advantages of environmental friendliness and efficiency. Powder forming technology typically imposes specific requirements on the powder particles used as raw materials. For example, MIM or 3D printing requires powder particles with high sphericity and smaller particle size to ensure that the resulting structural parts have higher density, dimensional accuracy, and structural strength.

[0003] Taking the production of metal powder particles as an example, in order to achieve the required sphericity and particle size, processes such as gas atomization, electric arc heating, and plasma heating are commonly used to form powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size. However, each of these commonly used methods has its drawbacks and it is difficult to efficiently obtain powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size.

[0004] Therefore, how to efficiently obtain powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size is a problem that urgently needs to be solved by technical personnel. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a particle shaping device and its working method, as well as a powder processing system, with the main purpose of efficiently obtaining powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a particle shaping device, which includes a first container, a first air supply member, a second air supply member, and a pipe. The first container includes a first end face and a second end face facing each other. The first air supply member is disposed near the first end face. The first air supply member is used to provide a first airflow from the first end face to the second end face. The second air supply member is disposed near the second end face. The second air supply member is used to provide a second airflow from the second end face to the first end face. The pipe extends into the first container, and the outlet of the pipe is located between the first and second air supply members. The pipe is used to transport particles to be shaped into the first container.

[0008] The particle shaping equipment provided in some embodiments of the first aspect includes a first air supply component and a second air supply component respectively disposed inside opposite ends of a first container. The first and second airflows flow in opposite directions, enabling the airflows to superimpose and converge within the first container in a convective manner. The outlet of the pipe is located between the first and second air supply components, allowing the particles to be shaped, transported into the first container by the pipe, to be driven by the first and second airflows and to collide with each other within the first container under the action of convection. Under the action of high-speed collisions, the particles to be shaped not only break down and reduce their particle size, but also achieve surface polishing, improving sphericity, thereby efficiently obtaining powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size.

[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first container has a channel connecting a first end face and a second end face. The channel includes a first channel. The distance between the first channel and the first end face is greater than zero, and the distance between the first channel and the second end face is greater than zero. The radial area of ​​the first channel is smaller than the radial area of ​​the channel on the first end face or the radial area on the second end face. Thus, the first channel is located in the middle of the channel, allowing the first and second airflows to collide within the first channel. By reducing the size of the radial surface of the first channel, the flow velocities of the first and second airflows within the first channel can be increased, which helps to increase the flow velocities of the first and second airflows in the collision region, thereby increasing the impact velocity of the particles to be shaped and further improving the efficiency of particle shaping.

[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first channel includes a first sub-section near the first end face and a second sub-section near the second end face. The radial area of ​​the first sub-section gradually decreases with distance from the first end face, and the radial area of ​​the second sub-section gradually decreases with distance from the second end face. In this implementation, the size of the radial surface of the first channel gradually decreases from both ends toward the center, which can further limit the collision position of the particles to be shaped to the center of the first container, and can utilize the smoothness of the inner wall surface of the first container to reduce obstruction to airflow (including the first airflow and the second airflow), increase the airflow velocity, and further improve the efficiency of particle shaping.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the side profile of the cross-section of the first sub-part includes a first curved segment along the direction in which the first sub-part extends. The side profile of the cross-section of the second sub-part includes a second curved segment along the direction in which the second sub-part extends. In this implementation, the sides of both the first and second sub-parts are smooth curved surfaces, which helps to increase the airflow velocity.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the angle between the tangent direction at any point on the first curve segment and the direction in which the first sub-part extends is negatively correlated with the distance between that point and the first end face. Similarly, the angle between the tangent direction at any point on the second curve segment and the direction in which the second sub-part extends is negatively correlated with the distance between that point and the second end face. In this implementation, the tangent slope of the first curve segment gradually increases with distance from the first end face, and the tangent slope of the second curve segment gradually increases with distance from the second end face. This not only helps to ensure that the first sub-part and the second sub-part have the same or similar contour curvature at the connection point, but also enables the connection point of the first curve segment and the second curve segment (e.g., the connection point is located in the middle of the first channel) to have a higher tangent slope. This allows for a smooth connection between the side surface of the first sub-part and the side surface of the second sub-part, which is beneficial for guiding the first airflow and the second airflow to collide in the middle of the first channel. For example, making the side surface of the first channel a concave curved surface helps to guide the flow direction of the first airflow and the second airflow, achieving backflow acceleration of the first airflow in the first sub-part and backflow acceleration of the second airflow in the second sub-part, increasing the frequency of collision between the particles to be shaped, thereby further improving the efficiency of particle shaping.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the channel further includes a second channel and a third channel. The second and third channels are located at opposite ends of the first channel. Along the direction of extension of the second channel, the side profile of the cross-section of the second channel includes straight line segments. Alternatively, along the direction of extension of the second channel, the side profile of the cross-section of the third channel includes straight line segments. In this implementation, the second channel can serve as a transition structure between the first sub-part and the first end face, and the third channel can serve as a transition structure between the second sub-part and the second end face, thus rectifying and converging the airflow and increasing the collision speed of the particles to be shaped.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the angle between the extension direction of the straight segment and the extension direction of the channel is not less than the angle between the tangent direction of the first curved segment or the tangent direction of the second curved segment and the extension direction of the channel. In this implementation, the radial dimensions of the second and third channels gradually change, allowing the first airflow to increase its velocity as the size of the second channel contracts, and the second airflow to increase its velocity as the size of the third channel contracts. Since the contraction range of the second channel is smaller than that of the first sub-section, and the contraction range of the third channel is smaller than that of the second sub-section, the first and second airflows can collide more rapidly after entering the first and second sub-sections, thereby improving the efficiency of particle forming.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the radial surface of the channel may be circular or elliptical in shape. This helps to improve the smoothness of the inner wall surface of the first container, reduce obstruction to the first and second airflows, and further improve the efficiency of particle shaping.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first air supply component includes a nozzle, and the second air supply component includes an impeller. In this implementation, the first and second air supply components are of different types. The nozzle can provide a higher-velocity first airflow, which can quickly bring the particles to be shaped into the middle of the first container, while the impeller provides a larger flow area for the second airflow, which can ensure that the particles to be shaped are retained in the middle of the first container and increase the frequency of collisions between the particles.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first air supply component includes a plurality of nozzles. The plurality of nozzles are arranged in a ring spaced apart along the side of the channel. Therefore, by increasing the number of nozzles, the flow rate of the first airflow can be increased, thereby improving the shaping efficiency of the particles to be shaped.

[0018] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, each nozzle intersects with and passes through the container wall of the first container. Along the radial surface of the channel, the angle between the jet direction of each nozzle and the normal direction of the container wall at the intersection is greater than 0°, and the jet directions of multiple nozzles are in the same clockwise direction. Thus, the nozzles can provide a first airflow into the first container through the container wall, and the first airflow can rotate in the same clockwise direction along the container wall of the first container, which helps to integrate the first airflow and increase its velocity. The first airflow drives the particles to be shaped towards the second end face. Since the particles to be shaped collide in a rotating manner within the first container, this implementation can also improve the orderliness of the collisions between the particles to be shaped, thereby helping to further increase the frequency of collisions between the particles and improve the efficiency of particle shaping.

[0019] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the clockwise direction of the nozzle jet is opposite to the direction of the impeller rotation. In this implementation, the rotation direction of the first airflow is opposite to the rotation direction of the second airflow, and the particles to be shaped driven by the first airflow and the particles to be shaped driven by the second airflow collide with each other in opposite rotational directions, which helps to further increase the frequency of collisions between the particles to be shaped.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the outlet of the pipe is located at the center of the radial surface of the channel, and the distance between the outlet of the pipe and each nozzle is equal. In this implementation, the nozzles provide a first airflow, and the particles to be shaped transmitted to the first container through the pipe can be uniformly carried by the first airflow to the center of the first container. This helps to ensure that the number of collisions between multiple particles to be shaped is the same or similar, and to give each particle to be shaped sufficient opportunities for crushing and polishing, thereby improving the uniformity of the particle shaping effect.

[0021] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first container has an opening on its second end face, the size of which is smaller than the size of the particle to be shaped. In this implementation, the opening allows gas inside the first container to be transferred to the outside of the first container, while also intercepting the particle to be shaped and the shaped particle, thus depressurizing the first container and ensuring the particle shaping equipment can operate for extended periods.

[0022] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the particle shaping equipment further includes a second container and a vacuum pump. The first container is disposed within the second container, and a cavity exists between the first and second containers. The vacuum pump is used to extract gas from the cavity. In this implementation, the second container can serve as a vacuum chamber or a pressure relief chamber. During particle shaping within the first container, the vacuum pump evacuates the cavity between the first and second containers, maintaining the cavity in a vacuum or low-pressure state. Utilizing the pressure difference between the inside of the first container and the cavity, the gas within the first container can be quickly expelled, helping to ensure the particle shaping equipment's ability to operate for extended periods.

[0023] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first or second gas flow includes an inert gas. Therefore, the particle shaping equipment can efficiently obtain metal powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size, while the inert gas can prevent oxidation of the surface of the particles during the particle shaping process, ensuring that the particle shaping does not alter the chemical properties of the particles and guaranteeing the effectiveness of the particle shaping.

[0024] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a method for operating a particle shaping device. The method includes: providing a first airflow from a first end face of a first container to a second end face of the first container; providing a second airflow from the second end face to the first end face; conveying particles to be shaped into the first container; and controlling the first and second airflows to cause the particles to be shaped to collide with each other within the first container, forming shaped particles. The diameter of the shaped particles is smaller than the diameter of the particles to be shaped, or the sphericity of the shaped particles is greater than the sphericity of the particles to be shaped.

[0025] The working method of the particle shaping equipment provided in some embodiments of the second aspect involves first providing a first airflow and a second airflow in a first container, which helps to form a convection that can stably overlap and converge. Then, the particles to be shaped are added, enabling them to collide with each other in the stable convection, thereby improving the efficiency of particle shaping. During the collision process driven by the first and second airflows, the particles to be shaped are broken and their surfaces are polished. Thus, without the need for additional mechanical grinding, the particle size can be reduced and the sphericity of the particles can be improved, achieving particle shaping in an environmentally friendly and efficient manner to obtain powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size.

[0026] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the step of the first airflow and the second airflow causing the particles to be shaped to collide with each other within the first container to form shaped particles includes: controlling the first airflow to rotate circumferentially along the container wall of the first container and moving the particles to be shaped towards the second end face; controlling the second airflow to rotate circumferentially along the container wall of the first container and moving the particles to be shaped towards the first end face; and controlling the particles to be shaped to collide with each other within the first container to form shaped particles. The rotation direction of the first airflow is opposite to the rotation direction of the second airflow.

[0027] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the above method further includes: transmitting the gas inside the first container to the outside of the first container through an opening in the container wall of the first container, and intercepting the particles to be shaped and the shaped particles.

[0028] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a powder processing system, which includes a particle forming device and a particle shaping device as described in any of the above embodiments. The particle forming device is used to form a plurality of shaped particles into a structural component with a preset shape.

[0029] Unless otherwise specified, the technical effects of any of the design methods in the second or third aspect can be found in the technical effects of different design methods in the first aspect, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a structural block diagram of a powder processing system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the particle shaping device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the particle shaping device shown along the AA' direction;

[0033] Figure 4 The first container edge provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 2 A sectional view along the AA' direction;

[0034] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the particle shaping equipment shown along the BB' direction;

[0035] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 Another cross-sectional view of the particle shaping equipment shown;

[0036] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the morphology of some particles to be shaped, as shown in the embodiments of this application;

[0037] Figure 8 These are schematic diagrams illustrating the morphology of some shaping particles in embodiments of this application;

[0038] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the working method of a particle shaping device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0039] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0040] 1000 - Powder processing system; 100 - Particle shaping equipment; 200 - Particle forming equipment; 1 - First container; 2 - First air supply component; 3 - Second air supply component; 4 - Pipeline; 5 - Second container; 11 - First channel; 12 - Second channel; 13 - Third channel; 101 - First end face; 102 - Second end face; 111 - First sub-section; 112 - Second sub-section. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0043] To facilitate a clear description of the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used in the embodiments of this application to distinguish identical or similar items with essentially the same function and effect. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and the terms "first" and "second" are not necessarily different.

[0044] In describing some embodiments, the term "connection" and its derivative expressions are used. The term "connection" should be interpreted broadly; for example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium.

[0045] As used herein, “parallel,” “perpendicular,” and “equal” encompass the described situation and situations that are similar to the described situation, within an acceptable range of deviation. For example, “parallel” includes absolute parallelism and approximate parallelism, where an acceptable range of deviation for approximate parallelism could be, for example, within 5°; “perpendicular” includes absolute perpendicularity and approximate perpendicularity, where an acceptable range of deviation for approximate perpendicularity could also be, for example, within 5°; and “equal” includes absolute equality and approximate equality, where an acceptable range of deviation for approximate equality could be, for example, a difference between the two equal cases less than or equal to 5% of either one.

[0046] Powder molding technology has been widely used in various fields due to its ability to produce parts with complex geometries and high precision. For example, foldable electronic devices, including foldable screen phones, utilize folding hinges and related components manufactured using powder molding technology. Manufacturing folding hinges and related components using powder molding not only achieves compatibility with many materials such as iron, aluminum alloys, and titanium alloys with extremely low material waste and high structural design freedom, but also effectively improves the dimensional and assembly accuracy of folding hinges and related components. This, in turn, enhances the durability and thinness of foldable electronic devices.

[0047] Figure 1 This is a structural block diagram of a powder processing system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown in the figure, this application provides a powder processing system 1000, which includes a particle shaping device 100 and a particle forming device 200.

[0049] In this embodiment, the particle shaping equipment 100 is used to reduce the particle size and improve the sphericity of the particles to be shaped, thereby forming shaped particles. The particle forming equipment 200 is used to form multiple shaped particles into structural components with a preset shape.

[0050] In some alternative embodiments, the type of particle forming equipment 200 includes, but is not limited to, metal injection molding equipment, powder metallurgy (PM) equipment, and 3D printing equipment. For example, metal injection molding and 3D printing can be used to print parts for aerospace, instrumentation, machine tools, and electronic equipment. Electronic equipment includes three categories of electronic products: computers, communications, and consumer electronics (3C).

[0051] Taking the workflow of a metal injection molding machine as an example: After the metal powder and binder powder are mixed, they are injected into a mold using an injection molding machine under heating and plasticizing conditions. The material injected into the mold is then cured. The cured workpiece undergoes processes such as binder removal, sintering, and heat treatment to obtain the finished workpiece.

[0052] The workflow of a 3D printing machine is illustrated as follows: Powdered raw materials are laid out layer by layer, and laser sintering is performed in a selected area to shape the powder particles. The shaped workpiece then undergoes heat treatment and other processing steps to obtain the finished product.

[0053] Particle forming equipment 200 uses powder particles as raw materials, which often require high sphericity and small particle size. Powder particles with high sphericity roll more easily, resulting in better flowability and spreadability. High flowability of powder particles is beneficial for the forming process in MIM technology, while high spreadability is beneficial for 3D printing. Furthermore, for MIM forming, smaller powder particle diameters allow for higher packing density and higher powder loading, resulting in higher sintering density. For example, powders used in MIM typically require a particle size of 0–25 μm. For 3D printing, even smaller powder particle diameters enable more precise printing operations. For example, powders used in MIM typically require a particle size of 15–53 μm.

[0054] The current powder particle manufacturing process, while capable of producing powder particles that meet the above requirements, has some drawbacks.

[0055] Taking the formation of powder particles using gas atomization as an example, spherical powder particles are obtained through gas atomization. For instance, for inactive steel powders, crucible melting and atomization are used to form powder particles. For active titanium powders, crucibleless rotating electrodes or plasma wire atomization are used to form powder particles. However, the gas atomization process has low gas fragmentation capability, especially for powder particles with a diameter in the range of 0–30 μm, where the powder yield is insufficient. Furthermore, for active metals such as titanium, crucibles cannot be used for gas atomization of powder particles, making it difficult to obtain a large-flow, stable liquid stream, resulting in low powder particle production efficiency and high production costs.

[0056] Taking the formation of powder particles using processes such as electric arc heating and plasma heating as an example, the spheroidization of powder particles is achieved by heating with a heat source. However, using heating processes requires the powder particles to melt and then re-solidify into spherical shapes, which results in low efficiency and increased particle size due to the fusion of multiple powders. For powder particles with high melting points, the efficiency of gas atomization and heating processes is even lower.

[0057] Taking the spheroidization of powder particles using airflow shaping as an example, this method involves breaking powder particles with high-speed airflow to reduce their diameter, primarily used for crushing brittle materials. However, airflow shaping, mainly applied to brittle materials, limits the types of powder particles that can be processed and is not very effective at spheroidizing powder particles.

[0058] Taking the modification of powder particles by mechanical ball milling as an example, the initial powder particles are in the form of flakes in the early stage of mechanical ball milling. After the powder particles are broken down to a sufficiently small particle size by ball milling, they can be spherical. This process has the disadvantages of low efficiency and high pollution.

[0059] Clearly, how to efficiently obtain powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size is a problem that urgently needs to be solved by technical personnel.

[0060] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the particle shaping device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0061] like Figure 2 As shown, in view of the above, this application provides a particle shaping device 100 for shaping powder particles.

[0062] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The particle shaping device shown is a cross-sectional view along the AA' direction.

[0063] like Figure 3 As shown, the particle shaping equipment 100 includes a first container 1, a first air supply component 2, a second air supply component 3, and a pipe 4.

[0064] For illustrative purposes, Figure 3 The wall structure of the first container 1 and the first air supply component 2 is represented by bold lines.

[0065] like Figure 3 As shown, the first container 1 includes a first end face 101 and a second end face 102 facing each other. In some alternative embodiments, the container wall of the first container 1 is made of metal.

[0066] In some examples, the material of the container wall of the first container 1 may be the same as or not exactly the same as the material of the particles to be shaped. For example, the material of the container wall of the first container 1 may be steel, while the material of the particles to be shaped may be ceramic.

[0067] In some alternative embodiments, the first end face 101 and the second end face 102 are opposite each other, meaning that the first end face 101 and the second end face 102 are spatially opposite each other. For example, the first container 1 is cylindrical in shape. For example, the first end face 101 is the bottom surface of the cylindrical first container 1, and the second end face 102 is the top surface of the cylindrical first container 1.

[0068] In some alternative embodiments, the first end face 101 and the second end face 102 are opposite each other, meaning that the first end face 101 and the second end face 102 are located at opposite ends of the channel of the first container 1. For example, the first container 1 is a container with a V-shaped channel, and the first end face 101 and the second end face 102 are located at the two ends of the V-shaped channel.

[0069] In some alternative embodiments, the first end face 101 includes a plane or a curved surface, and the second end face 102 includes a plane or a curved surface. For example, the first end face 101 may be a circular plane, and the second end face 102 may be an arcuate surface protruding outward from the first container 1. For instance, the second end face 102 may be an arcuate surface.

[0070] For example, the type of the first end face 101 and the type of the second end face 102 can be the same or different. For example, the first end face 101 is a plane and the second end face 102 is a curved surface.

[0071] For example, the type of the first end face 101 and the size of the second end face 102 may be equal or unequal. For example, the area of ​​the first end face 101 is larger than the area of ​​the second end face 102.

[0072] In some optional embodiments, the first container 1 is a sealed container. Exemplarily, the container wall of the first container 1 may be provided with a through hole and a sealing cap for sealing the through hole. With the sealing cap open, the shaped particles that have been shaped can be removed from the sealed container, and the inner wall surface of the sealed container can also be cleaned. With the sealing cap closed, the first container 1 is sealed, and the first container 1 can serve as a reaction vessel for the particles to be shaped, where the particles collide with each other to form shaped particles.

[0073] In some examples, the sealing cap may be disposed on the first end face 101, or the first end face 101 may be the outer or inner surface of the sealing cap.

[0074] The first air supply element 2 is disposed near the first end face 101. The first air supply element 2 is used to provide a first airflow from the first end face 101 to the second end face 102.

[0075] In some alternative implementations, the first air supply element 2 may be disposed within the first container 1.

[0076] In some alternative implementations, the first air supply element 2 may be connected to the container wall of the first container 1. In some examples, the first air supply element 2 is connected to the container wall of the first end face 101, or the first air supply element 2 is connected to the remaining container walls of the first container 1.

[0077] For example, the first air supply element 2 includes a nozzle that passes through the container wall of the first container 1. For example, the container wall intersects with a first end face 101 or a second end face 102.

[0078] The second air supply element 3 is disposed near the second end face 102. The second air supply element 3 is used to provide a second airflow from the second end face 102 to the first end face 101.

[0079] In some alternative implementations, the second air supply element 3 may be disposed within the first container 1.

[0080] In some alternative implementations, the second air supply element 3 may be connected to the container wall of the first container 1. In some examples, the second air supply element 3 is connected to the container wall of the second end face 102, or the second air supply element 3 is connected to the remaining container wall of the first container 1.

[0081] For example, the second air supply component 3 includes an impeller, and the particle shaping device 100 also includes a first motor and an impeller shaft. The impeller is connected to the first motor and rotates around the impeller shaft under the drive of the first motor. The impeller shaft is connected to the second end face 102, which enables the overall structure of the second air supply component 3 to be connected to the second end face 102.

[0082] The second end face 102 can optionally be a curved surface protruding outward from the first container 1, especially a spherical curved surface. This facilitates the housing of the second air supply component 3 in the end region of the channel.

[0083] like Figure 3 As shown, pipe 4 extends into the first container 1, and the outlet of pipe 4 is located between the first air supply component 2 and the second air supply component 3. Pipe 4 is used to transport particles to be shaped into the first container 1. Exemplarily, the outlet of pipe 4 is located inside the first end face 101.

[0084] In some examples, the number of pipes 4 can be chosen to be one or more.

[0085] In some alternative implementations, the material of the particles to be shaped includes metals or non-metals.

[0086] In some examples, the material of the particles to be shaped includes, but is not limited to, metals such as steel, aluminum, and titanium. In still other examples, the material of the particles to be shaped also includes, but is not limited to, metallic compounds or non-metallic materials such as alumina and ceramics.

[0087] The continuous convection formed by the first and second airflows causes the particles to be shaped to collide with each other continuously, breaking them or polishing their surfaces during the collision process. After a period of time, shaped particles with smaller diameters and higher sphericity are obtained.

[0088] In some examples, the operating time of the first air supply component 2 and the second air supply component 3 can be set to 0.5 to 4 hours. For example, the operating time of the first air supply component 2 and the second air supply component 3 can be set to the following durations: 0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 4 hours.

[0089] In some examples, the size range of the particles to be shaped is 10–500 μm, and the size range of the shaped particles is 0–30 μm.

[0090] In some examples, the sphericity of the particles to be shaped ranges from 0.1 to 1, and the sphericity of the shaped particles ranges from 0.3 to 1.

[0091] In this embodiment of the application, the size range and sphericity of the shaped particles can be adjusted by adjusting the working time of the first air supply component 2 and the second air supply component 3, or by adjusting the flow rate of the first airflow and the second airflow per unit time.

[0092] Specifically, by increasing the working time of the first air supply component 2 and the second air supply component 3, or by increasing the flow rate of the first airflow and the second airflow per unit time, the size of the final shaped particles can be reduced and the sphericity of the final shaped particles can be increased.

[0093] Specifically, by reducing the working time of the first air supply component 2 and the second air supply component 3, or by reducing the flow rate of the first airflow and the second airflow per unit time, the size of the final shaped particles can be increased and the sphericity of the final shaped particles can be reduced.

[0094] In the above embodiments, the first air supply component 2 and the second air supply component 3 are respectively disposed on the inner sides of opposite ends of the first container 1, and the flow directions of the first airflow and the second airflow are opposite. For example, the first airflow flows along... Figure 3 The flow is in the Z direction, and the second airflow is along Figure 3 The opposing flow in the Z-direction can superimpose and converge within the first container 1 in the form of convection. The outlet of pipe 4 is located between the first air supply component 2 and the second air supply component 3, allowing the particles to be shaped transported into the first container 1 by pipe 4 to be carried by the first and second airflows, and to collide with each other within the first container 1 under the action of convection. Under the action of high-speed collisions, the particles to be shaped not only break down, reducing their size, but also achieve surface polishing, improving sphericity, thereby efficiently obtaining powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size.

[0095] The above embodiments obtain powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size through the mutual collision of particles. Since there is no need to melt the particles to be shaped, it can be applied to the production of powder particles using high melting point materials.

[0096] In some alternative embodiments, the first container 1 has a channel connecting the first end face 101 and the second end face 102.

[0097] like Figure 3 As shown, the aforementioned channel includes a first channel 11. The distance between the first channel 11 and the first end face 101 is greater than zero, and the distance between the first channel 11 and the second end face 102 is greater than zero. Thus, by placing the first channel 11 in the middle of the channel, the first airflow and the second airflow collide in the first channel 11, that is, the first airflow and the second airflow can collide in the middle of the channel.

[0098] The radial area of ​​the first channel 11 is smaller than the radial area of ​​the channel at the first end face 101 or the radial area at the second end face 102. Therefore, the radial dimension of the channel decreases from both ends towards the middle, which helps to accelerate the collision of the first and second airflows and improve the efficiency of particle shaping.

[0099] In some alternative embodiments, the radial area of ​​the channel on the first end face 101 is equal to the area of ​​the orthographic projection of the first end face 101 onto the first plane. The radial area of ​​the channel on the second end face 102 is equal to the area of ​​the orthographic projection of the second end face 102 onto the first plane. The extension direction of the first plane is perpendicular to the direction from the first end face 101 toward the second end face 102, or in other words, the first plane is parallel to the radial surface of the channel. For example, the extension direction of the first plane is... Figure 2 or Figure 3 The XY directions are shown.

[0100] For example, the first end face 101 is an arc surface, and the orthographic projection of the first end face 101 onto the first plane is a circle.

[0101] In other examples, the radial surface of the channel, the orthographic projection of the first end face 101 onto the first plane, and the orthographic projection of the second end face 102 onto the first plane have similar shapes. For example, the radial surface of the channel, the orthographic projection of the first end face 101 onto the first plane, and the orthographic projection of the second end face 102 onto the first plane have similar rectangular shapes, and the diagonal dimension of the radial surface of the channel is smaller than the diagonal dimension of the orthographic projection of the first end face 101 onto the first plane and the orthographic projection of the second end face 102 onto the first plane.

[0102] like Figure 3 As shown, for example, the radial surface of the channel is circular, the radial dimension of the channel on the first end face 101 is D1, the radial dimension of the channel on the second end face 102 is D1, and the maximum dimension of the radial surface of the first channel 11 is d2, where D1 > d2.

[0103] Through the above embodiments, the first channel 11 is located in the middle of the channel, and the first airflow and the second airflow can collide in the first channel 11. By reducing the size of the radial surface of the first channel 11, the flow velocity of the first airflow and the second airflow in the first channel 11 can be increased, which helps to increase the flow velocity of the first airflow and the second airflow in the collision area, thereby increasing the impact velocity of the particles to be shaped, and further improving the efficiency of particle shaping.

[0104] like Figure 3 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the first channel 11 includes a first sub-section 111 near the first end face 101 and a second sub-section 112 near the second end face 102. The end of the first sub-section 111 away from the first end face 101 is connected to the end of the second sub-section 112 away from the second end face 102.

[0105] The radial area of ​​the first sub-part 111 gradually decreases as it moves away from the first end face 101, and the radial area of ​​the second sub-part 112 gradually decreases as it moves away from the second end face 102.

[0106] In some alternative embodiments, the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 have the same shape and are arranged symmetrically to each other. In some examples, the end of the first sub-part 111 away from the first end face 101 is connected to the end of the second sub-part 112 away from the second end face 102.

[0107] For example, the first sub-part 111 is shaped like a frustum, and the second sub-part 112 is shaped like a frustum.

[0108] In some alternative embodiments, the extending directions of the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 are parallel. In some examples, the channel of the first container 1 is cylindrical. For example, the extending directions of the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 are parallel to... Figure 3 The Z direction is shown. For example, the radial dimensions of this cylindrical channel are not exactly equal at different points.

[0109] In some alternative embodiments, the extending directions of the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 are not parallel. In some examples, the first container 1 has a V-shaped channel, and the first channel 11 is V-shaped. For example, the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 intersect at the ends of the V-shaped channel.

[0110] Through the above embodiments, the two ends of the first container 1 gradually decrease in size towards the middle, which can further limit the position where the particles to be shaped collide with each other to the middle of the first container 1, and can utilize the smoothness of the inner wall surface of the first container 1 to reduce the obstruction of airflow, increase the airflow velocity, and further improve the efficiency of particle shaping.

[0111] Figure 4 The first container edge provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 2 Some sectional views along the AA' direction.

[0112] like Figure 4 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the side profile of the cross-section of the first sub-part 111 includes a first curved segment A1 along the direction extending from the first sub-part 111. The side profile of the cross-section of the second sub-part 112 includes a second curved segment A2 along the direction extending from the second sub-part 112. Thus, the sides of the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 are smooth curved surfaces, which helps to increase the airflow velocity.

[0113] In this embodiment of the application, optionally, the side profile of the channel is the profile of the cross-sectional shape of the channel along the extension direction, and the cross-sectional shape also overlaps with the central axis of the channel.

[0114] like Figure 4 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the tangent direction at any point of the first curve segment A1 is parallel to the direction in which the first sub-part 111 extends (e.g., Figure 4 The angle between (e.g., the Z direction shown) and (e.g.) Figure 4 The size of C1 or C2 shown, and the distance between that location and the first end face 101 (e.g.) Figure 4 The T1 or T2 shown is negatively correlated. The tangent direction at any point on the second curve segment A2 is negatively correlated with the direction of extension of the second sub-section 112 (e.g., Figure 4 The angle between (e.g., the Z direction shown) and (e.g.) Figure 4 The size of C3 or C4 shown is negatively correlated with the distance between that location and the second end face 102.

[0115] For example, such as Figure 4 As shown, if T1 is greater than T2, then C1 is less than C2. If T3 is greater than T4, then C3 is less than C4.

[0116] In this embodiment, as the first curve segment A1 moves away from the first end face 101, the angle between the tangent direction of the first curve segment A1 and the direction in which the first sub-part 111 extends gradually decreases. As the second curve segment A2 moves away from the second end face 102, the angle between the tangent direction of the second curve segment A2 and the direction in which the second sub-part 112 extends gradually decreases.

[0117] In some optional examples, the shapes of the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 can be optionally set to be different. For example, in conjunction with the above embodiments, the side surface of the first sub-part 111 is a straight-edged conical surface, and the side surface of the second sub-part 112 is an arc shape.

[0118] Through the above embodiments, the tangent slope of the first curved segment A1 gradually increases with distance from the first end face 101, and the tangent slope of the second curved segment A2 gradually increases with distance from the second end face 102. This not only helps to ensure that the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 have the same or similar contour curvature at the connection point, improving the smoothness of the sidewall of the first channel 11, thereby improving the flow efficiency of the airflow, but also enables the connection point of the first curved segment A1 and the second curved segment A2 (for example, the connection point is located in the middle of the first channel 11) to have a higher tangent slope. This allows for a smooth connection between the side surface of the first sub-part 111 and the side surface of the second sub-part 112, which is beneficial for guiding the first airflow and the second airflow to collide in the middle of the first channel. For example, as... Figure 4 As shown, making the side surface of the first channel 11 a concave curved surface helps to guide the flow direction of the first airflow (e.g., for...). Figure 4 The Z-direction in the middle) and the direction of the second airflow (e.g., the direction of the second airflow). Figure 4 The airflow is guided in the opposite direction of the Z direction to achieve the reflux acceleration of the first airflow in the first sub-section 111 and the reflux acceleration of the second airflow in the second sub-section 112, thereby increasing the frequency of collision between the particles to be shaped and further improving the efficiency of particle shaping.

[0119] In some alternative embodiments, along the direction in which the first sub-part 111 extends, the side profile of the cross-section of the first sub-part 111 includes a first straight line segment. Along the direction in which the second sub-part 112 extends, the side profile of the cross-section of the second sub-part 112 includes a second straight line segment. Thus, the shape of the first sub-part 111 or the second sub-part 112 is a frustum, and the side surface of the frustum is a straight-edged cone.

[0120] In some examples of the above embodiments, the radial surfaces of the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 are circular, and the side profile of the cross-section of the first sub-part 111 or the second sub-part 112 is curved along the direction from the first end face 101 to the second end face 102. For example, the first sub-part 111 or the second sub-part 112 is a frustum with a side surface that is arc-shaped or curved.

[0121] like Figure 3 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the channel further includes a second channel 12 and a third channel 13. The second channel 12 and the third channel 13 are located at both ends of the first channel 11. Along the direction of extension of the second channel 12, the side profile of the cross-section of the second channel 12 includes straight line segments. Alternatively, along the direction of extension of the second channel 12, the side profile of the cross-section of the third channel 13 includes straight line segments.

[0122] For example, the second channel 12 is shaped like a frustum, and the third channel 13 is shaped like a frustum.

[0123] In some alternative implementations, the lengths of the first channel 11, the second channel 12, and the third channel 13 are equal. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, the length of the first channel 11 is h1, the length of the second channel 12 is h2, and the length of the third channel 13 is h2, where h1 = h2.

[0124] In some alternative implementations, the length of the channel of the first container 1 is equal to the sum of the lengths of the first channel 11, the second channel 12, and the third channel 13. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, the length of the first channel 11 is h1, the length of the second channel 12 is h2, the length of the third channel 13 is h2, and the length of the channel of the first container 1 is H1, where H1 = h1 + h2 + h2.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the second channel 12 can serve as a transition structure between the first sub-part 111 and the first end face 101, and the third channel 13 can serve as a transition structure between the second sub-part 112 and the second end face 102. The second channel 12 and the third channel 13 can rectify and converge the airflow, thereby increasing the collision speed of the particles to be shaped.

[0126] like Figure 4 As shown, in some alternative embodiments, along the direction of extension of the second channel 12, the side profile of the cross-section of the second channel 12 includes a first straight segment B1. Along the direction of extension of the third channel 13, the side profile of the cross-section of the third channel 13 includes a second straight segment B2.

[0127] In the above embodiments, the second channel 12 is shaped like a frustum, and the third channel 13 is shaped like a frustum, with the side surface of the frustum being a straight-edged cone. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, the cone angle of the frustum is (90-α)°.

[0128] In the above embodiments, the second channel 12 and the third channel 13 serve as transition structures, converging the airflow. The first airflow velocity increases as the size of the second channel 12 contracts, and the second airflow velocity increases as the size of the third channel 13 contracts. In the above embodiments, the radial dimensions of the second channel 12 and the third channel 13 gradually change. The first airflow velocity increases as the size of the second channel 12 contracts, and the second airflow velocity increases as the size of the second channel 12 contracts.

[0129] like Figure 4As shown, in some optional examples, the angle C5 between the extension direction of the first straight segment B1 and the extension direction of the channel is not less than the angle between the tangent direction of the first curved segment A1 and the extension direction of the channel (e.g., C1 or C2). The angle C6 between the extension direction of the second straight segment B2 and the extension direction of the channel is not less than the angle between the tangent direction of the second curved segment A2 and the extension direction of the channel (e.g., C3 or C4). Therefore, the shrinkage of the second channel 12 is less than that of the first sub-section 111, and the shrinkage of the third channel 13 is less than that of the second sub-section 112, enabling the first and second airflows to collide more rapidly after entering the first and second sub-sections 111 and 112, thereby improving the efficiency of particle forming.

[0130] In some alternative embodiments, the side profile of the cross-section of the second channel 12 includes a third curved segment along the direction in which the second channel 12 extends. The side profile of the cross-section of the third channel 13 includes a fourth curved segment along the direction in which the third channel 13 extends.

[0131] In some alternative embodiments, the shape of the channel along its radial surface includes polygons, such as squares, rhombuses, regular hexagons, etc.

[0132] In some alternative embodiments, the shape of the channel along the radial surface includes a circle or an ellipse.

[0133] In some alternative embodiments, the extension direction of the first plane is perpendicular to the direction of the first end face 101 toward the second end face 102. The cross-section of the first container 1 along the first plane, the first end face 101, and the second end face 102 have the same or similar shapes. For example, the cross-section of the first container 1 along the first plane, the first end face 101, and the second end face 102 are all circular.

[0134] In the above embodiments, the shape of the channel along the radial surface includes curved shapes such as circles or ellipses. In the circumference of the channel, the inner wall of the first container 1 is a smooth surface, which helps to improve the smoothness of the inner wall surface of the first container 1, reduce the obstruction to the first airflow and the second airflow, and further improve the efficiency of particle shaping.

[0135] In some optional embodiments, the first air supply component 2 includes an impeller, and the second air supply component 3 includes a nozzle. In some examples, the impeller is a bidirectional motor impeller, and the nozzle is a high-speed airflow nozzle. Exemplarily, when the particle shaping device 100 is operating, the sealing cover is closed, and the impeller rotates in a first clockwise direction, allowing the second airflow to collide with the first airflow. After the particle shaping device 100 completes its operation, the sealing cover is opened, and the impeller rotates in a second clockwise direction, causing the shaped particles to be blown out of the first container 1. The first clockwise direction is opposite to the second clockwise direction. For example, the first clockwise direction is a clockwise direction from the first end face 101 to the second end face 102, and the second clockwise direction is a counterclockwise direction from the first end face 101 to the second end face 102. Another example is that the first clockwise direction is a counterclockwise direction from the first end face 101 to the second end face 102, and the second clockwise direction is a clockwise direction from the first end face 101 to the second end face 102.

[0136] For example, the first air supply component 2 includes a single spray group or multiple nozzles, and the second air supply component 3 includes a single impeller group or multiple impeller groups. For example, each impeller group includes multiple blades.

[0137] In the above embodiment, the first air supply component 2 and the second air supply component 3 are of different types. The nozzle can provide a first airflow with a higher speed, which can quickly bring the particles to be shaped into the first channel 11. The impeller provides a second airflow with a larger flow area, which can ensure that the particles to be shaped are retained in the first channel 11 and increase the frequency of collisions between the particles to be shaped.

[0138] In some alternative embodiments, the first air supply element 2 includes a plurality of nozzles. The plurality of nozzles are arranged in a circle at intervals along the container wall of the first container 1.

[0139] For example, the first air supply component 2 includes 12 nozzles, which are arranged in a circle at intervals along the container wall of the first container 1.

[0140] For example, the plane on which the plurality of nozzles are located is a first plane, and the extension direction of the first plane is perpendicular to the direction of the first end face 101 toward the second end face 102.

[0141] Through the above embodiments, the flow rate of the first airflow can be increased by increasing the number of nozzles, thereby improving the shaping efficiency of the particles to be shaped.

[0142] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 The particle shaping device shown is a cross-sectional view along the BB' direction.

[0143] like Figure 5As shown, in some optional embodiments, each nozzle intersects with and passes through the container wall of the first container 1. Thus, the nozzle can deliver a first airflow into the first container 1 through the container wall.

[0144] In some examples, the nozzle also extends through the container wall to the outside of the first container 1.

[0145] like Figure 5 As shown, in some optional embodiments, each nozzle is perpendicular to the container wall, or in other words, the nozzle's channel direction is perpendicular to the tangential direction of the container wall. Here, the tangential direction of the container wall refers to the section of the container wall at the point where it intersects with the nozzle. Figure 5 The arrow shown indicates the initial direction of the first airflow after it exits the nozzle opening, which is also the opening direction of the nozzle. For example... Figure 5 As shown, in some examples, the initial direction of the first airflow is parallel to the first end face 101 and converges to the center of the first container on the first plane, then moves towards the second end face 102 under the interaction. In this embodiment, the nozzle outlet faces the center of the first container 1 on the first plane, and multiple first airflows converge after high-speed collision and flow towards the second end face 102, thereby driving the particles to be shaped towards the second end face 102 and colliding with the particles to be shaped driven by the second airflow.

[0146] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 Another cross-sectional view of the particle shaping equipment shown. Figure 6 The sectional view location can be referenced. Figure 5 The sectional view shown.

[0147] like Figure 6 As shown, in some alternative embodiments, the angle between the jet direction of each nozzle and the normal direction of the container wall at the intersection is greater than 0° along the radial surface of the channel. For example, the angle between the jet direction of each nozzle and the normal direction of the container wall at the intersection is, but is not limited to, one of 20°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 75° along the radial surface of the channel.

[0148] For example, along the radial surface of the channel, the angle between each nozzle and the container wall is less than 90°. For instance, along the radial surface of the channel, the angle between each nozzle and the container wall can be, but is not limited to, one of 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, or 70°.

[0149] like Figure 6 As shown, in some alternative embodiments, the jetting direction of multiple nozzles along the radial surface of the channel is the same clockwise direction.

[0150] In some examples, Figure 6The arrows shown indicate the direction of the first airflow, or the direction of the nozzle's exhaust. For example... Figure 6 As shown, along the radial surface of the channel, the direction of the first airflow or the jet direction of the nozzle is counterclockwise. Alternatively, along the radial surface of the channel, the direction of the first airflow or the jet direction of the nozzle is clockwise.

[0151] Through the above embodiments, the first airflow can rotate in the same clockwise direction along the container wall of the first container 1, which helps to integrate the first airflow and increase its velocity. The first airflow drives the particles to be shaped towards the second end face 102. Since the particles to be shaped collide within the first container 1 in a rotating manner, the above embodiments can improve the orderliness of the collisions between the particles to be shaped, thereby helping to further increase the frequency of collisions between the particles and improve the efficiency of particle shaping.

[0152] In some alternative embodiments, the clockwise direction of the jet from the nozzle is opposite to the direction of rotation of the impeller.

[0153] For example, along the radial surface of the channel, the nozzles spray air in a clockwise direction, while the impeller rotates counterclockwise.

[0154] In the above embodiments, the rotation direction of the first airflow is opposite to that of the second airflow. The particles to be shaped driven by the first airflow and the particles to be shaped driven by the second airflow collide with each other in opposite rotation directions, which helps to further increase the frequency of collision between the particles to be shaped.

[0155] In some alternative embodiments, the outlet of pipe 4 is located at the center of the radial surface of the channel, and the outlet of pipe 4 is equidistant from each nozzle.

[0156] For example, the extension direction of the pipe 4 is perpendicular to the direction of the first end face 101 toward the second end face 102. The part of the pipe 4 that extends into the first container 1 is L-shaped. The direction of the outlet of the pipe 4 is parallel to the direction of the first end face 101 toward the second end face 102. The particles to be shaped are transported to the inside of the first end face 101 along the direction of the second end face 102 toward the first end face 101. The first airflow drives the particles to be shaped to move toward the second end face 102.

[0157] Through the above embodiments, the nozzle provides a first airflow, and the particles to be shaped transmitted from the pipe 4 to the first container 1 can be uniformly carried to the center of the first container 1 by the first airflow. This helps to make the number of collisions between multiple particles to be shaped the same or similar, so as to give each particle to be shaped enough opportunities for crushing and polishing, thereby improving the uniformity of the particle shaping effect.

[0158] In some alternative embodiments, the first container 1 has an opening on the second end face 102, the size of which is smaller than the size of the particle to be shaped.

[0159] In some alternative embodiments, the opening may also be provided on the container wall of the remaining portion of the first container 1.

[0160] In some alternative implementations, the size of the opening is also smaller than the size of most of the shaped particles obtained by the collision of the particles to be shaped with each other. For example, the size of the opening is smaller than the size of 99.9% of the shaped particles.

[0161] In some examples, the size of the opening is in the nanometer range. For example, the size of the particle to be shaped is 10 μm to 500 μm, and the size of the opening is 10 nm to 1000 nm. For example, the size of the particle to be shaped includes, but is not limited to, any of the following: 10 μm, 50 μm, 100 μm, 300 μm, 500 μm, and the size of the opening includes, but is not limited to, any of the following: 10 nm, 100 nm, 300 nm, 500 nm, 1000 nm.

[0162] For example, the container wall of the second end face 102 includes a metal layer and a thin film layer. The metal layer has through holes, which are covered by the thin film layer. The thin film layer has the aforementioned openings distributed on it. The openings are pressure relief vents, allowing inert gas to pass through. Furthermore, the openings can trap the particles to be shaped and the shaped particles inside the first container 1, preventing them from escaping outside the first container 1.

[0163] Through the above embodiments, the opening can transfer the gas inside the first container 1 to the outside of the first container 1, and intercept the particles to be shaped and the shaped particles, thereby depressurizing the first container 1 and ensuring the ability of the particle shaping equipment 100 to operate for a long time. It is understood that other powder particles in the first container 1 with a size smaller than the opening have a small impact on the operation of the particle shaping equipment 100 due to their low content, and can be ignored.

[0164] like Figure 3 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the particle shaping device 100 further includes a second container 5 and a vacuum pump. Exemplarily, the second container 5 is a vacuum chamber or a low-pressure chamber. For example, the second container 5 is cylindrical or cuboid in shape.

[0165] The first container 1 is disposed inside the second container 5, and a cavity exists between the first container 1 and the second container 5. A vacuum pump is used to extract gas from the cavity.

[0166] For example, the particle shaping device 100 also includes an air extraction pipe, and the second container 5 is connected to a vacuum pump through the air extraction pipe. The vacuum pump can extract gas from the cavity through the air extraction pipe.

[0167] Through the above embodiments, the second container 5 can serve as an atmosphere chamber for containing the first container 1. By adding a vacuum pump to the atmosphere chamber, the cavity can be kept in a vacuum or low-pressure state, which facilitates the rapid discharge of gas from the first container 1.

[0168] Through the above embodiments, the second container 5 can serve as a vacuum chamber or a pressure relief chamber. During particle shaping within the first container 1, a vacuum pump evacuates the cavity between the first and second containers 5, maintaining the cavity in a vacuum or low-pressure state. Utilizing the pressure difference between the inside of the first container 1 and the cavity, the gas inside the first container 1 can be quickly expelled, helping to ensure the particle shaping equipment 100 can operate for extended periods. Furthermore, the second container 5 protects the first container 1, preventing the gas and particles inside the first container 1 from directly contacting the outside air, thus reducing the risk of particle oxidation.

[0169] In some alternative embodiments, the first or second gas flow includes an inert gas.

[0170] For example, the first gas flow includes helium (He), neon (Ne), argon (Ar), krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe), and radon (Rn).

[0171] In the above embodiments, the particle shaping equipment 100 can efficiently obtain metal powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size. Inert gas can prevent oxidation of the surface of the particles to be shaped during the particle shaping process, so that the particle shaping does not change the chemical properties of the particles and ensures the effect of particle shaping.

[0172] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the morphology of some particles to be shaped, as shown in the embodiments of this application. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the morphology of some shaping particles in the embodiments of this application.

[0173] like Figure 7 As shown in the embodiment of this application, the particle P1 to be shaped has a large particle size and low sphericity. Figure 8 As shown in the embodiments of this application, the shaped particle P2 has a smaller particle size and higher sphericity.

[0174] Specifically, in this embodiment, the particle size of the shaped particle P2 is smaller than the particle size of the particle to be shaped P1. For example, the overall particle size of the plurality of shaped particles P2 is smaller than the overall particle size of the plurality of particles to be shaped P1. For instance, the average maximum size of the plurality of shaped particles P2 is less than the average maximum size of the plurality of particles to be shaped P1.

[0175] Specifically, in this embodiment, the sphericity of the shaped particle P2 is higher than that of the particle P1 to be shaped. For example, the overall sphericity of the multiple shaped particles P2 is higher than the overall sphericity of the multiple particles P1 to be shaped. For instance, the average sphericity of the multiple shaped particles P2 is higher than the average sphericity of the multiple particles P1 to be shaped.

[0176] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the working method of a particle shaping device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0177] like Figure 9 As shown, this application provides a method for operating a particle shaping device 100, which can be applied to the particle shaping device 100 in any of the above embodiments.

[0178] The method specifically includes:

[0179] Step S31: Provide a first airflow from the first end face 101 of the first container 1 to the second end face 102 of the first container 1.

[0180] Step S32: Provide a second airflow from the second end face 102 to the first end face 101.

[0181] Step S33: Transfer the particles to be shaped into the first container 1.

[0182] Step S34: Control the first airflow and the second airflow to drive the particles to be shaped to collide with each other in the first container 1 to form shaped particles.

[0183] In this case, the diameter of the shaped particle is smaller than the diameter of the particle to be shaped, or the sphericity of the shaped particle is greater than the sphericity of the particle to be shaped.

[0184] In some examples provided in the above embodiments, during the operation of the particle shaping device 100, the first end face 101 of the first container 1 faces downwards, and the second end face 102 of the first container 1 faces upwards. Therefore, under the influence of gravity, the flow velocity of the second airflow can be increased, compensating for the lower flow velocity of the airflow provided by the impeller inside the second end face 102.

[0185] In the above embodiments, a first airflow and a second airflow are first provided in the first container 1, which helps to form a stable convection. Then, the particles to be shaped are added, which allows the particles to collide with each other in the stable convection, thereby improving the efficiency of particle shaping. During the collision process driven by the first and second airflows, the particles to be shaped are broken and their surfaces are polished. Therefore, without the need for additional mechanical grinding, the particle size can be reduced and the sphericity of the particles can be improved, thus achieving particle shaping. This results in powder particles with high sphericity and small particle size in an environmentally friendly and efficient manner.

[0186] In some optional embodiments, step S34 above includes:

[0187] Step S341: Control the first airflow to rotate circumferentially along the container wall of the first container 1 and drive the particles to be shaped to move toward the second end face 102.

[0188] Step S342: Control the second airflow to rotate circumferentially along the container wall of the first container 1 and drive the particles to be shaped to move toward the first end face 101.

[0189] Step S343: Control the particles to be shaped to collide with each other in the first container 1 to form shaped particles. The rotation direction of the first airflow is opposite to the rotation direction of the second airflow.

[0190] In some optional embodiments, the above method further includes:

[0191] Step S35: Through the opening on the container wall of the first container 1, the gas inside the first container 1 is transferred to the outside of the first container 1, and the particles to be shaped and the shaped particles are intercepted.

[0192] This application also provides a powder processing system 1000, which includes the particle shaping device 100 in any of the above embodiments.

[0193] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Furthermore, with the evolution of architectures and the emergence of new scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

Claims

1. A particle shaping device, characterized in that, The particle shaping equipment includes: The first container includes a first end face and a second end face that are opposite to each other; A first air supply component is disposed near the first end face; the first air supply component is used to provide a first airflow from the first end face to the second end face. A second air supply component is disposed near the second end face; the second air supply component is used to provide a second airflow from the second end face to the first end face; A pipe extends into the first container, and the outlet of the pipe is located between the first air supply component and the second air supply component; the pipe is used to transport particles to be shaped into the first container.

2. The particle shaping equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first container has a channel connecting the first end face and the second end face; The channel includes a first channel, the distance between the first channel and the first end face is greater than zero, and the distance between the first channel and the second end face is greater than zero; The radial area of ​​the first channel is smaller than the radial area of ​​the channel on the first end face or the radial area on the second end face.

3. The particle shaping equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first channel includes a first sub-section near the first end face and a second sub-section near the second end face; The radial area of ​​the first sub-part gradually decreases as it moves away from the first end face, and the radial area of ​​the second sub-part gradually decreases as it moves away from the second end face.

4. The particle shaping equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, Along the direction of extension of the first sub-part, the side profile of the cross-section of the first sub-part includes a first curved segment; Along the direction in which the second sub-part extends, the side profile of the cross-section of the second sub-part includes a second curved segment.

5. The particle shaping equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The angle between the tangent direction at any point of the first curve segment and the direction of extension of the first sub-part is negatively correlated with the distance between that point and the first end face. The angle between the tangent direction at any point on the second curve segment and the direction in which the second sub-part extends is negatively correlated with the distance between that point and the second end face.

6. The particle shaping equipment according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, The channel further includes a second channel and a third channel; the second channel and the third channel are located at opposite ends of the first channel; Along the direction in which the second channel extends, the side profile of the cross-section of the second channel includes straight line segments; or, Along the direction extending from the second channel, the side profile of the cross-section of the third channel includes straight line segments.

7. The particle shaping equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The angle between the extension direction of the straight line segment and the extension direction of the channel is not less than the angle between the tangent direction of the first curve segment or the tangent direction of the second curve segment and the extension direction of the channel.

8. The particle shaping equipment according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that, The radial surface of the channel can be circular or elliptical.

9. The particle shaping equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The first air supply component includes a nozzle, and the second air supply component includes an impeller.

10. The particle shaping equipment according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first air supply component includes a plurality of nozzles; the plurality of nozzles are arranged in a circle at intervals along the side of the channel.

11. The particle shaping equipment according to claim 10, characterized in that, Each of the nozzles intersects with and passes through the container wall of the first container; Along the radial surface of the channel, the angle between the jet direction of each nozzle and the normal direction of the container wall at the intersection is greater than 0°, and the jet directions of multiple nozzles are in the same clockwise direction.

12. The particle shaping equipment according to claim 11, characterized in that, The clockwise direction is opposite to the direction of rotation of the impeller.

13. The particle shaping equipment according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that, The outlet of the pipe is located at the center of the radial surface of the channel, and the outlet of the pipe is equidistant from each of the nozzles.

14. The particle shaping equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The first container has an opening on the second end face, and the size of the opening is smaller than the size of the particle to be shaped.

15. The particle shaping equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The particle shaping equipment also includes a second container and a vacuum pump; The first container is disposed inside the second container, and there is a cavity between the first container and the second container; the vacuum pump is used to extract gas from the cavity.

16. The particle shaping equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The first gas flow or the second gas flow includes an inert gas.

17. A method for operating a particle shaping device, characterized in that, The method includes: Provide a first airflow from a first end face of the first container to a second end face of the first container; Provide a second airflow from the second end face to the first end face; Transfer the particles to be shaped into the first container; The first airflow and the second airflow are controlled to cause the particles to be shaped to collide with each other in the first container, forming shaped particles. Wherein, the diameter of the shaping particle is smaller than the diameter of the particle to be shaped, or the sphericity of the shaping particle is greater than the sphericity of the particle to be shaped.

18. The working method of the particle shaping equipment according to claim 17, characterized in that, The step of the first airflow and the second airflow causing the particles to be shaped to collide with each other within the first container to form shaped particles includes: The first airflow is controlled to rotate circumferentially along the container wall of the first container, and the particles to be shaped are moved toward the second end face; The second airflow is controlled to rotate circumferentially along the container wall of the first container, and the particles to be shaped are moved toward the first end face. The particles to be shaped are controlled to collide with each other in the first container to form shaped particles; The rotation direction of the first airflow is opposite to that of the second airflow.

19. The working method of the particle shaping equipment according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that, The method further includes: Through the openings in the container wall of the first container, the gas inside the first container is transferred to the outside of the first container, and the particles to be shaped and the shaped particles are intercepted.

20. A powder processing system, characterized in that, The powder processing system includes a particle forming device and a particle shaping device as described in any one of claims 1 to 16; The particle shaping equipment is used to process the particles to be shaped to obtain shaped particles; The granule forming equipment is used to form multiple shaping granules into structural components with a preset shape.

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