Nozzle device

Abstract

The invention relates to a nozzle arrangement, in particular for a fluidized bed agglomeration process, comprising a base body (10) and at least one nozzle (50) having a first outlet (56), wherein the nozzle device (100) has at least one first fluid channel (14) for a first fluid in fluid communication with the first outlet (56), at least one second fluid channel (12) for a second fluid, and at least one cleaning channel (16) for a cleaning medium, and wherein the nozzle (50) is surrounded by a nozzle cap (200) which extends from the base body (10) to the first outlet (56) of the nozzle (50), the invention relates to a nozzle device (100) comprising a base body (10) and having a nozzle cap tip (210), a nozzle cap body (242) and a nozzle cap base (230) facing the base body (10), the nozzle device having at least one cleaning opening (605, 705, 805), the cleaning channel (16) being in fluid communication with the cleaning opening (605, 705, 805), characterized in that the at least one cleaning opening (605, 705, 805) is arranged on an outer surface of the nozzle cap body (242) or between the nozzle cap base (230) and the base body (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a nozzle device and, in particular, a method for preparing agglomerated materials using the nozzle device. Background Technology

[0002] In the agglomeration of solid particles in a fluidized bed, nozzle devices, especially spray guns with dual-material nozzles, are typically used due to the fine droplet spectra during agglomeration. A typical problem with existing spray systems is the easy formation of solid deposits in the supply line, inside the nozzle, in the nozzle cap area, and at the nozzle orifice. These deposits significantly affect the droplet size distribution of the atomized medium. To ensure reliable operation, the spray gun must be frequently disassembled for cleaning, which leads to shortened service life and increased costs. Another typical problem is that deposits increase compressed air consumption, resulting in high operating costs.

[0003] According to the prior art in patent document DE102014003877, a low-pressure compressed air (i.e., a so-called air curtain) is continuously introduced for purging and cleaning. This document describes an air curtain operating at a continuously low pressure, applicable to flue gas containing a large number of particles. However, in fluidized bed applications, the contact between the moist particles and the nozzle structure is significantly more dense, rendering this air curtain, designed to keep the nozzle opening unobstructed, ineffective. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical objective of this invention is to provide a spray gun and a method for overcoming the above-mentioned technical problems, and in particular to provide a spray gun that can reduce scaling in and around the nozzle cap during operation (especially in a fluidized bed) and can be cleaned without disassembling the spray gun.

[0005] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention proposes independent claims, dependent claims, and the technical solutions described in the specification.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention specifically proposes a nozzle device, particularly for a fluidized bed agglomeration method. The nozzle device includes a substrate and at least one nozzle having a first outlet. The nozzle device has at least one first fluid channel for a first fluid, at least one second fluid channel for a second fluid, and at least one cleaning channel for a cleaning medium, all in fluid communication with the first outlet. The nozzle is surrounded by a nozzle cap extending from the substrate to the first outlet of the nozzle and having a nozzle cap tip, a nozzle cap cover, and a nozzle cap base facing the substrate. The nozzle device has at least one cleaning port, with the cleaning channel in fluid communication with the cleaning port. The nozzle device is characterized in that at least one cleaning port is disposed on the outer surface of the nozzle cap cover or between the nozzle cap base and the substrate. This, in particular, prevents scaling of the nozzle device, especially scaling of the nozzle cap, adjacent substrate, nozzle cap tip, and nozzle. Furthermore, this extends the service life. This nozzle device can operate for a longer period before requiring maintenance and / or disassembly. Overall, a cleaning effect that allows the nozzle device to operate for extended periods is achieved. The nozzle device provided by the present invention allows a first fluid (e.g., a jet liquid, especially water) to be atomized with a second fluid (e.g., an atomizing gas, especially air), thereby enabling solid particles located in a fluidized bed to agglomerate without causing disruptive scaling on the nozzle device.

[0007] The nozzle device is preferably constructed as a spray gun. In this context, the substrate particularly refers to the elongated feed arm of the spray gun (especially relative to the actual nozzle).

[0008] In this context, "nozzle cap substrate" specifically refers to the lower end of the nozzle cap facing the substrate.

[0009] The nozzle device preferably has a central axis. Here, the central axis preferably corresponds to the main flow direction when the first fluid flows out and / or the extension direction of the first fluid channel within the first outlet region.

[0010] Preferably, the first fluid channel is constructed as a liquid channel configured to allow the first fluid to flow through and guide it to a first outlet, wherein the first fluid is preferably a jet liquid that can be drawn out through the first outlet. Here, the nozzle device is preferably configured to apply the first fluid, particularly in the form of droplets (i.e., preferably in dispersed volume units).

[0011] Preferably, the second fluid channel is constructed as an atomizing gas channel, configured to allow the second fluid to flow through the atomizing gas channel and guide the second fluid to the second outlet, wherein the second fluid is preferably an atomizing gas that can be atomized and applied through the second outlet, that is, preferably capable of atomizing the jet liquid released from the first outlet.

[0012] Preferably, the first fluid is under pressure as it flows through the first fluid channel, and / or the second fluid is under pressure as it flows through the second fluid channel. For this purpose, the nozzle device preferably has at least one pressure generating device, particularly a compressor, configured to pressurize the first and / or second fluids. This improves the jetting action and / or atomization effect, thereby producing smaller volume units, especially smaller droplets, during atomization.

[0013] Both the first fluid and the second fluid can be gas, gas mixture, air (especially compressed air), liquid and / or liquid mixture.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first fluid and / or the second fluid may contain solids, wherein the solid form does not substantially affect the fluid properties of the first fluid and the second fluid. In particular, the solids form a suspension or dispersion with the first fluid and / or the second fluid.

[0015] In one embodiment, the first fluid and / or the second fluid may contain the material to be agglomerated, particularly carbohydrates or mixtures of carbohydrates, especially isomaltitol and / or mixtures containing isomaltitol. The liquid component of the first fluid and / or the second fluid may preferably contain a drier liquid (particularly water) in the first or second fluid.

[0016] Preferably, the first fluid does not contain any solids.

[0017] Preferably, the first fluid is a jet liquid, especially water or a mixture of liquid water-based adhesives.

[0018] Preferably, the second fluid does not contain any solids.

[0019] Preferably, the second fluid is an atomized gas, especially air.

[0020] Preferably, the cleaning channel is constructed as a cleaning medium channel, configured to allow the cleaning medium to flow through the cleaning medium channel and guide the medium to at least one cleaning port, wherein the cleaning medium is preferably a cleaning gas mixture that can be drawn out through at least one cleaning port.

[0021] The cleaning medium can preferably be a gas, a gas mixture, air (especially compressed air), a liquid, and / or a liquid mixture. Preferably, only gas mixtures (especially air, especially compressed air) are used as the cleaning medium, thereby providing an economical, effective, and safe cleaning medium.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning medium contains solids, wherein preferably, after the solids are drawn out from the cleaning port, they are separated from the material to be agglomerated in a subsequent process. Particularly preferably, solids that are harmless to food when in contact with it are used.

[0023] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first fluid channel may be implemented as an atomizing gas channel for atomizing gas, and the second fluid channel may be implemented as a liquid channel for jetting liquid, each channel being configured to allow the first fluid (especially the atomizing gas) and the second fluid (as jetting liquid) to flow through the channel.

[0024] Particularly preferably, the nozzle device has a second outlet in fluid communication with the second fluid channel. Here, the second fluid supplied via the second fluid channel can be led out via the second outlet. Alternatively or additionally, the nozzle device is configured to supply the second fluid to the first fluid channel, particularly slightly ahead of the flow relationship at the first outlet. Atomization can be achieved, in particular, by the first fluid and / or the second fluid being under pressure and / or undergoing a chemical reaction, especially a chemical reaction between them.

[0025] Preferably, the second outlet is configured and / or arranged relative to the first outlet to effectively atomize the first fluid (especially a jet liquid) discharged from the first outlet during operation of the nozzle device. Particularly preferably, the second outlet is oriented into the flow path of the first fluid (especially after the first fluid has been discharged from the first outlet) and / or arranged in a position adjacent to the first outlet in the surrounding environment. In this way, the nozzle device has a compact structure and exhibits good atomization performance.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second outlet is configured as an atomizing port and / or the first outlet is configured as a jetting port. Here, the first fluid is preferably a jetting liquid, and the second fluid is preferably an atomizing gas. This forms an effective atomization system.

[0027] Alternatively, the first outlet is preferably configured as an atomizing port for atomizing the medium to be atomized (especially a jet liquid) supplied via the second fluid channel and / or discharged from the second outlet.

[0028] The first and second fluid channels work together in an atomization system, where the fluid to be atomized (here, the first or second fluid) is atomized by the atomizing fluid (here, the second or first fluid). Atomization can be initiated outside or inside the fluid channels, and in particular, a second outlet is not required.

[0029] Preferably, the nozzle is assembled (especially by screwing) to the base, and particularly preferably, in the assembled state, the first thread of the base is engaged with the second thread of the nozzle. This allows the nozzle to be securely fastened to the base and is replaceable, thus enabling easy replacement of the nozzle in the event of defects, particularly when the first outlet and / or the first fluid passage is blocked.

[0030] Preferably, a supplying device is provided for supplying a first fluid, a second fluid, and / or a cleaning medium, and these supplying devices are in fluid communication with the first fluid channel, the second fluid channel, and / or the cleaning channel. In particular, the nozzle device has a compressed air tank, a jet liquid tank, and / or a cleaning medium tank, all of which are in fluid communication with the fluid channels, and especially establish a fluid connection with the fluid channels.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, the first fluid or the second fluid corresponds to the cleaning medium. Particularly preferably, the cleaning medium is supplied at least segmentally via the first fluid channel or the second fluid channel, wherein the cleaning channel branches off from the first fluid channel or the second fluid channel. If the first fluid is an atomizing fluid, the cleaning medium preferably corresponds to the first fluid. Conversely, if the second fluid is an atomizing fluid, the cleaning medium preferably corresponds to the second fluid.

[0032] Here, the branch is specifically located within the nozzle area. This eliminates the need to construct additional cleaning channels within the substrate. Furthermore, this reduces the channel path length. Moreover, existing nozzle devices with known substrates can be retrofitted to the nozzle device of this invention with minimal investment, as the existing substrate can continue to be used.

[0033] Preferably, the cleaning channel, especially in the branch area, has a valve to decouple the cleaning channel from the first or second fluid channel in terms of pressure technology.

[0034] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, a pressure control device is provided, configured to control the pressure in the cleaning channel, specifically the pressure amplitude and / or the pressure profile over time, in a manner independent of the pressures in the first and second fluid channels. This allows the cleaning medium to be applied at a pressure different from that of the first or second fluid.

[0035] The cleaning medium used is a fluid selected from the first and second fluids and suitable for atomization, especially an atomizing gas, wherein fluid flow is established between the cleaning channel and the first or second fluid channel. Both the cleaning medium and the atomizing fluid are preferably pressurized gases, especially mixed gases, particularly compressed air. In this way, the nozzle device can operate with low investment because operation requires only two different substances instead of three: the cleaning medium (which can also be used as the first or second fluid) and the medium to be agglomerated.

[0036] Preferably, the nozzle cap at least partially (preferably completely) surrounds the nozzle in the flow direction of the nozzle and / or in the direction around the central axis. From the base of the nozzle cap, the nozzle cap tapers, particularly tapering in a conical shape towards the tip of the nozzle cap, at least segmentally (preferably continuously). Here, the nozzle cap can be constructed as a single piece or in multiple pieces, thus creating a protective cover for the nozzle.

[0037] An opening is preferably constructed at the tip of the nozzle cap (preferably located within the first outlet region), through which the first fluid exiting the first outlet can flow before or after leaving the first flow channel. The first outlet retracts relative to the opening at the tip of the nozzle cap, passing through the tip of the nozzle cap or flush with the opening at the tip of the nozzle cap. Here, a gap is preferably provided between the nozzle (especially its first outlet) and the nozzle cap itself within the region of the nozzle cap tip. Alternatively, the nozzle cap is preferably located immediately adjacent to the nozzle within the region of the nozzle cap tip.

[0038] The nozzle cap base faces the substrate, and a gap is preferably provided between the substrate and the nozzle cap base, in which additional components, particularly at least one flow guiding component, especially a docking member and / or a dispensing member, are preferably arranged. Alternatively, the nozzle cap base is adjacent to the substrate, thereby forming contact between the substrate and the nozzle cap base, which effectively protects the nozzle behind the nozzle cap.

[0039] The cleaning channel is in fluid communication with at least one cleaning port. Preferably, multiple cleaning ports are provided, particularly two or three. Particularly preferably, all of the at least one cleaning port is in fluid communication with the cleaning channel, thus achieving good overall cleaning of the nozzle device.

[0040] Preferably, the first cleaning port is constructed adjacent to the substrate, the second cleaning port is constructed adjacent to the nozzle cap base, and / or the third cleaning port is constructed adjacent to the nozzle cap tip. More preferably, the fourth cleaning port is constructed on the outer surface (especially the conical outer surface) of the nozzle cap cover. In this way, the various areas of the substrate, the nozzle cap base, the nozzle cap cover, and the nozzle cap tip can be cleaned effectively, especially the first outlet of the nozzle.

[0041] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, a dispensing element (especially an annular dispensing element) is arranged between the nozzle cap base and the substrate. This dispensing element defines a dispensing channel at least in segments, which is particularly annular, surrounding the nozzle and in fluid communication with the cleaning channel. This ensures that the cleaning medium is distributed particularly evenly around the nozzle.

[0042] Preferably, the dispensing channel is partially defined by a dispensing element (especially a separately constructed dispensing element) and partially by a substrate (especially a cavity constructed in the substrate), wherein the dispensing element is at least partially embedded in the cavity, and the cavity preferably extends in a circumferential manner, at least segmentally (preferably completely), within the substrate. Here, the cavity and the dispensing element together (preferably completely) encircle the nozzle. In this way, the cleaning medium can smoothly flow to all sides of the nozzle, thereby producing a very uniform cleaning effect.

[0043] According to an alternative embodiment, the dispensing channel is entirely constructed within the dispensing member. Here, the dispensing member is configured to be at least partially inserted into a recess in the substrate. Alternatively, the dispensing member can be assembled onto the surface of the substrate.

[0044] The components are preferably constructed as independent parts, which simplifies the maintenance and manual cleaning of the nozzle equipment.

[0045] Alternatively, the dispenser is preferably integrally formed with the substrate or nozzle cap and made of the same material. For example, such a substrate or nozzle cap can be prepared by a manufacturing method that improves stability and reduces the number of components.

[0046] Preferably, in the region adjacent to the nozzle cap, especially on its outer surface, the dispenser is configured as a tapered extension of the nozzle cap. Here, the outer surface of the nozzle cap is preferably configured to be parallel to the outer surface of the dispenser, thus achieving good flowability and further preventing scaling.

[0047] Preferably, the dispensing channel and the cleaning channel are at least indirectly connected so that the cleaning medium can be introduced into the dispensing channel. If the nozzle device is configured to use the cleaning medium as the atomizing gas, there may not be a direct connection between the cleaning channel and the dispensing channel, but only an indirect connection via a first fluid channel or a second fluid channel.

[0048] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, at least one inlet is provided at the nozzle cap base of the nozzle cap for allowing cleaning medium from the distribution channel to enter the nozzle cap. This allows cleaning medium (especially cleaning gas) to be supplied to the nozzle cap, and in particular, to be guided to a cleaning port constructed on or adjacent to the nozzle cap base.

[0049] Here, the inlet is preferably located on the lower side of the nozzle cap base, which is opposite to and parallel to the base.

[0050] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the nozzle cap has an outer wall and an inner wall, the inner wall of which is connected to the outer wall, particularly by bridging ribs, and together they define a nozzle cap cavity (particularly a sleeve-shaped cavity). Such a nozzle cap cavity allows cleaning media to flow through the nozzle cap, thereby simplifying the supply of cleaning media, especially to the corresponding cleaning port, in the region at the tip of the nozzle cap. Here, the preferred bridging ribs improve stability.

[0051] The nozzle cap cavity is preferably sleeve-shaped, such that the nozzle cap cavity and the overall nozzle cap at least partially (preferably completely) surround the nozzle. Preferably, the outer wall of the nozzle cap extends at least segmentally parallel to the inner wall of the nozzle cap. The sleeve-shaped nozzle cap cavity is preferably constructed with substantially uniform thickness, thereby avoiding localized pressure increases or flow bottlenecks, except for the bridging ribs and the area adjacent to at least one cleaning port.

[0052] Particularly preferably, the nozzle cap cavity provides fluid flow between the inlet and the cleaning port (especially the third cleaning port) at the tip of the nozzle cap and / or the cleaning port (especially the fourth cleaning port) at the nozzle cap cover. Here, the nozzle cap cavity constitutes at least one section of the cleaning channel.

[0053] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, a first gap in fluid communication with the dispensing channel is constructed between the substrate and the dispensing member (especially an annular dispensing member). This first gap reduces scaling between the dispensing member and the substrate.

[0054] The first gap preferably has a first cleaning port and is defined by the substrate and the dispensing component. The first cleaning port is particularly located at the end, especially at the flow-related end of the first gap. Here, the first gap is geometrically defined by the first cleaning port, which does not represent a flow-related definition but is configured to allow the first fluid to permeate. The dispensing component is arranged between the nozzle cap base and the substrate, and therefore the first gap is also arranged between the nozzle cap base and the substrate.

[0055] The first gap extends radially from the dispensing channel to the bottom surface of the substrate, which surrounds the nozzle cap, dispensing element, and nozzle.

[0056] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, a second gap in fluid communication with the dispensing channel is constructed between the dispensing component and the outer wall of the nozzle cap. This minimizes scaling in the area between the nozzle cap and the dispensing component, and also minimizes scaling, particularly on the outer wall of the conical nozzle cap and on the nozzle cap as a whole.

[0057] The second gap preferably has a second cleaning port. The second cleaning port is particularly located at the end, especially at the flow-related end of the second gap. Here, the second gap is geometrically defined by the second cleaning port, which does not represent a flow-related definition but is configured to allow the second fluid to permeate. More preferably, one side of the second gap is defined by a nozzle cap (especially the outer wall of the nozzle cap) and the other side by a dispensing member. Here, the second gap is arranged between the nozzle cap base and the substrate.

[0058] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, a third gap is constructed in the tip of the nozzle cap, which is in fluid communication with the dispensing channel via the nozzle cap cavity. This reduces scaling in both the nozzle cap tip region and the first outlet region.

[0059] The third gap preferably has a third cleaning port. The third cleaning port is particularly located at the end, especially at the flow-related end of the third gap. Here, the third gap is geometrically defined by the third cleaning port, which does not represent a flow-related definition but is configured to allow the cleaning medium to penetrate. More preferably, the third gap is constructed within the nozzle cap itself, and is defined solely by the nozzle cap up to the third cleaning port. In particular, the third gap is defined by the inner wall of the nozzle cap in the direction towards the nozzle, and by the outer wall of the nozzle cap in the opposite direction to the nozzle.

[0060] More preferably, in the region at the top of the nozzle cap, a second outlet (especially an atomizing port) is arranged on the inner side of the inner wall of the nozzle cap (the inner side facing the nozzle radially upwards), wherein the nozzle having the first outlet (especially the spray port) is connected to the second outlet (especially the second outlet having an annular structure) in a radially inward direction. In this way, a particularly fine droplet size distribution can be achieved during the operation of the nozzle device, while producing a high degree of cleaning effect.

[0061] According to an improved embodiment of the present invention, the top of the nozzle body may protrude beyond the top of the nozzle cap, that is, protrude beyond the top of the nozzle cap when viewed from the spray direction, or the top of the nozzle body and the top of the nozzle cap may be flush on the same plane. Particularly preferred is that the top of the nozzle body protrudes beyond the top of the nozzle cap.

[0062] Preferably, a plurality of individual first gaps, a plurality of individual second gaps, and / or a plurality of individual third gaps are distributed around the nozzle. Particularly preferably, the first gaps, second gaps, and / or third gaps are configured as annular gaps that at least segmentally (preferably completely) surround the nozzle.

[0063] The first gap, the second gap, and / or the third gap preferably form a cleaning channel section that allows the cleaning medium to flow to the first cleaning port, the second cleaning port, and / or the third cleaning port.

[0064] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the inner wall of the nozzle cap protrudes relative to the outer wall of the nozzle cap at its end facing the nozzle cap base. This allows for fluid communication with the second cleaning port and / or the second gap with minimal construction input, thereby preventing inlet blockage between the outer and inner walls of the nozzle cap, especially blockage due to assembly errors.

[0065] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the inner wall of the nozzle cap is fitted onto a dispensing member, which is particularly independent of the base and / or the nozzle cap construction, and an annular cavity is formed between the outer wall of the nozzle cap and the dispensing member, through which the second gap and the dispensing channel are in fluid communication. Thus, the second gap (particularly when constructed as an annular gap) can be reached circumferentially around the nozzle.

[0066] Preferably, the inner wall of the nozzle cap abuts against and, in particular, seals against the dispensing member. This seals the cleaning channel relative to the internal region, which in particular is provided with fastening structures (especially threads) for securing the nozzle to the substrate.

[0067] Here, the annular cavity represents the branch that allows the cleaning medium (on the path from the distribution channel to the third gap and, more particularly, to the third cleaning port) to the second gap during the operation of the nozzle device.

[0068] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the dispenser has a dispenser shaft and a dispenser head protruding from the dispenser shaft and a dispenser shoulder surrounding it, thus creating a dispenser that is simple to construct and provides proper flow guidance.

[0069] The shaft of the sub-assembly is preferably oriented parallel to the main flow direction of the nozzle and / or the first fluid, the second fluid, and / or the cleaning medium. More preferably, the shaft has a tubular structure with its outer surface facing the cleaning channel (especially the dispensing channel) and its inner surface facing the nozzle (especially the fastening area).

[0070] The head of the component is preferably shield-shaped, extending radially outward from the shaft and / or at an angle to the shaft (especially perpendicular to the shaft). The shoulder preferably protrudes towards the radially outer region of the head (especially at its radially outer end).

[0071] Preferably, the second gap is at least partially formed between the distributor shoulder and the circumferential surface (especially the radially outward circumferential surface) of the nozzle cap. Here, since the distributor shoulder protrudes relative to the distributor head, the second gap preferably extends and / or opens in a direction transverse to, in particular, the tapered outer surface. Particularly preferably, the section of the second gap containing the cleaning port is oriented parallel to the central axis of the nozzle device.

[0072] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the shoulder of the dispensing member has a rib that is particularly annularly surrounding the part, thus forming a boundary that particularly defines the second gap, thereby improving the cleaning effect of the second cleaning port.

[0073] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the dispenser has at least one opening, through which a dispensing channel is in fluid communication with the nozzle cap cavity of the nozzle cap. Thus, the dispenser, which supplies cleaning media from the substrate to the nozzle cap cavity, can be manufactured with minimal construction input.

[0074] At least one opening of the dispensing component is preferably constructed in the dispensing head, extending through the dispensing head, and preferably forms a transition from the dispensing channel to the nozzle cap cleaning channel in a direction parallel to the central axis.

[0075] Preferably, a plurality of openings are provided circumferentially around the nozzle and spaced apart from each other. Particularly preferably, the openings are configured as through holes. Alternatively, at least one opening is in the form of annular segments or is fully annular, wherein the annulus is particularly used to interrupt fastening ribs that secure the inside of the dispenser to the outside of the dispenser.

[0076] According to an alternative improvement of the present invention, the inlet is located immediately adjacent to the distribution channel. Here, no opening is required in the distribution component to create a connection between the inlet and the distribution channel.

[0077] According to a preferred embodiment of the nozzle device, the dispensing channel has at least one outlet aligned with at least one opening of the dispensing member. Cleaning media can be supplied via this outlet from the dispensing channel of the nozzle cap and / or the annular cavity (particularly the second and third gaps) between the outer wall of the nozzle cap and the dispensing member, thereby avoiding pressure loss and flow turbulence in the transition region.

[0078] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the inlet is at least segmented and annular in structure. Preferably, the inlet is completely annular. This allows for particularly uniform supply of the cleaning medium to the third and fourth cleaning ports, in particular.

[0079] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the nozzle cap particularly has a nozzle cap shaft, which is especially threaded externally. This makes the nozzle cap easy to remove from and easy to assemble back onto the base, significantly reducing maintenance time.

[0080] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the nozzle cap is made of polytetrafluoroethylene (especially graphitized polytetrafluoroethylene). This prevents scaling on the nozzle cap and simplifies the removal of any existing scale buildup. Furthermore, agglomeration can occur even within potentially explosive chambers.

[0081] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the nozzle device has a control unit associated with the cleaning gas passage and capable of performing compressed air pulse cleaning. This control unit is configured to pulse-discharge the cleaning medium from the cleaning port, at least in pulse mode. This effectively prevents scaling and removes any existing scale buildup. Furthermore, less compressed air is required for operation in pulse mode.

[0082] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the nozzle and nozzle cap are constructed to be reversibly introduced (especially screwed into) into a recess in the substrate. This allows for quick and easy fastening of the nozzle and nozzle cap to the substrate.

[0083] The recess preferably corresponds to a recess, particularly annular, in the aforementioned matrix. In this context, "recess" specifically refers to a recessed portion drilled or milled out.

[0084] Preferably, an internal thread is constructed on the inner wall of the radially inward recess, which is constructed as an external thread embedded in the nozzle cap shaft.

[0085] The recess (also referred to in this context as the "outer recess") preferably has a second-level structure, which takes the form of an inner recess separately constructed at the bottom of the outer recess. The inner recess preferably has an additional fastening mechanism (especially a screw mechanism) to reversibly fasten the nozzle to the base.

[0086] Preferably, the inner wall of the radially inward concave portion has an internal thread, which is configured to work in conjunction with the external thread formed on the nozzle shaft to secure the nozzle.

[0087] According to an improved embodiment of the present invention, the nozzle device is constructed as a dual-material nozzle (especially an externally mixed or internally mixed dual-material nozzle), a single-material nozzle, and / or a high-pressure nozzle. This effectively prevents scaling during operation of such nozzle devices.

[0088] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the nozzle device, particularly at its end facing away from the substrate, has a third cleaning port, a second outlet, and a first outlet, wherein the radially inwardly located first outlet is configured as a circular opening, which is preferably adjacent to and surrounded in a radially outward direction by a second outlet, which is particularly annular in configuration, wherein the second outlet is preferably adjacent to and surrounded in a radially outward direction by a third cleaning port, which is particularly annular in configuration. This allows for particularly effective cleaning and reduced scaling in the nozzle tip region.

[0089] In this context, "adjacent" specifically refers to the fact that, apart from the boundary structures that form each opening, no other, especially avoidable, structures exist between the openings.

[0090] According to another preferred improvement of the invention, at least one section of a second fluid path is constructed between the nozzle (especially the conical nozzle body) and the nozzle shroud (especially the conical region of the nozzle shroud). Particularly preferably, this section is defined (especially directly defined) by the nozzle shroud and / or the nozzle, thus achieving a very compact configuration, reducing the number of necessary components, accelerating maintenance, and extending service life.

[0091] Preferably, the second fluid channel extends around the nozzle in at least a partial sleeve-like and / or conical shape. Particularly preferably, the second fluid path between the nozzle shroud and the nozzle has at least a partial conical orientation.

[0092] More preferably, the nozzle is arranged at least in segments (preferably most, especially preferably at various points) along its longitudinal extension (i.e., along the central axis) from the nozzle cap, which can improve the flow of the second fluid.

[0093] Specifically, the first fluid channel is constructed in at least segments within the nozzle cavity, the second fluid channel is constructed in at least segments between the nozzle and the nozzle cap, and the cleaning channel is constructed in at least segments within the nozzle cap cavity (especially the nozzle cap cavity). This achieves a compact overall configuration, in which the first fluid, the second fluid, and the cleaning medium all possess good flowability.

[0094] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention specifically proposes an alternative nozzle device, particularly for fluidized bed agglomeration methods. This nozzle device includes a substrate and at least one nozzle having a first outlet. The alternative nozzle device has at least one first fluid channel for a first fluid, at least one second fluid channel for a second fluid, and at least one cleaning channel for a cleaning medium, all in fluid communication with the first outlet. The nozzle is surrounded by a nozzle cap extending from the substrate to the first outlet of the nozzle and having a nozzle cap tip, a nozzle cap cover, and a nozzle cap base facing the substrate. The nozzle device has at least one cleaning port, with the cleaning channel in fluid communication with the cleaning port. This alternative nozzle device is characterized by having a control device configured to pulse-apply the cleaning medium from the cleaning port, at least in pulse mode. Pulsed application of the cleaning medium has been proven to be particularly effective in preventing or eliminating scaling. Thus, such nozzle devices have long service life, short maintenance time, and low maintenance costs. Furthermore, less compressed air is required for operation in pulse mode.

[0095] Here, the control device is preferably equivalent to the aforementioned control unit that is assigned to the cleaning channel and can perform compressed air pulse cleaning.

[0096] Preferably, this alternative nozzle device has at least one feature (preferably all features) of the aforementioned nozzle device embodiments.

[0097] Preferably, the control device is configured to adjust and / or change the pressure amplitude, pulse rate, pulse length, and / or the interval between two pulses. This allows the nozzle device to be adapted to the fluid and cleaning medium used.

[0098] Preferably, the nozzle device (especially the control device) is configured to receive and / or supply cleaning media to the cleaning channel in a pulsed manner. If the pulsed cleaning media is already supplied in a pulsed manner, the components required to generate the pulses can be eliminated. This reduces the manufacturing cost of the nozzle device.

[0099] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention also provides a fluidized bed method for preparing agglomerated solid particles from a material to be agglomerated, wherein the material to be agglomerated is agglomerated by means of a nozzle device according to the invention, particularly in a fluidized bed agglomerator. This effectively suppresses scaling in the fluidized bed method, resulting in relatively fewer and shorter interruptions during the execution of the method.

[0100] In a preferred embodiment, the material to be agglomerated is introduced into a fluidized bed agglomerator and agglomerated by spraying atomized liquid through the nozzle device of the present invention, thereby forming agglomerated solid particles, and preferably these solid particles are discharged from the agglomerator.

[0101] Preferably, the material to be agglomerated is a carbohydrate or a mixture of carbohydrates, especially sugar, a mixture of sugars, sugar alcohols, or a mixture of sugar alcohols.

[0102] Preferably, the material to be agglomerated is isomaltulitol or a mixture containing isomaltulitol, especially a solid, particularly a powder or ground solid, or an aqueous mixture of these materials.

[0103] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the material to be agglomerated is in solid form, especially ground solid or powdered solid, especially dried solid, and is introduced into a fluidized bed in this form for agglomeration.

[0104] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the material to be agglomerated contains a liquid component, particularly water, especially in the form of a wetted solid, solution, dispersion, emulsion, or suspension, and is introduced into a fluidized bed in one of these forms for agglomeration. Particularly preferably, these forms of liquid component are formed from water.

[0105] The material to be agglomerated may also contain additional liquid, especially water. For aqueous isomaltitol (e.g., moistened isomaltitol) or aqueous isomaltose mixtures (e.g., moistened isomaltose mixtures), the advantages of the present invention are particularly prominent compared to conventional existing methods and nozzle equipment, especially in efficiently avoiding the formation of structures in the moistened material.

[0106] The reunion can preferably be carried out in batches or continuously.

[0107] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, for agglomeration, a fluidized bed is constructed at a temperature of 30°C to 90°C, particularly 50°C to 70°C, and especially 60°C. After reaching the desired temperature, a liquid heated above room temperature (especially a binder solution or binder suspension) is sprayed into the fluidized bed using the apparatus of the invention, for example, at a spraying temperature of about 70°C to 80°C, preferably 75°C. The temperature of the sprayed liquid (especially the binder solution) is selected according to the binder used so that the sprayed liquid can be sprayed, i.e., the temperature is equal to or higher than the melting point of the binder. The spraying pressure for the sprayed liquid is preferably 0.15 MPa to 0.60 MPa, especially 0.20 MPa to 0.45 MPa.

[0108] After agglomeration, another preferred embodiment of the invention proposes drying, and in yet another preferred embodiment, drying is carried out at a constant supply temperature (e.g., 70°C to 90°C, particularly preferably 80°C). Another preferred embodiment proposes that drying can be carried out at an exhaust air temperature of 50°C to 70°C (preferably 60°C), wherein ambient air is preferably used for product cooling.

[0109] According to an improved embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning medium is pulsedly output from the nozzle device. Pulsating application of the cleaning medium enhances the dirt removal effect.

[0110] For the purposes of this invention, the term "isomalt" or "hydrogenated isomaltulose" preferably refers to a mixture comprising 1,1-GPM (1-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl-D-mannitol) and 1,6-GPS (6-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl-D-sorbitol), particularly a mixture comprising 22 wt.% to 61 wt.% of 1,1-GPM and 78 wt.% to 39 wt.% of 1,6-GPS, especially an equimolar or near-equimolar mixture comprising 1,1-GPM and 1,6-GPS, or a mixture thereof (all based on the dry matter of isomalt).

[0111] Accordingly, isomaltitol can also refer to a mixture comprising 1,1-GPM and 1,6-GPS or composed thereof, wherein the molar ratio of 1,1-GPM to 1,6-GPS is not equal, but rather the content of 1,1-GPM is higher than that of 1.6-GPM or the content of 1.6-GPM is higher than that of 1,1-GPM. Therefore, isomaltitol can also represent a mixture of 10 wt.% to 50 wt.% of 1,6-GPS, 2 wt.% to 20 wt.% of 1,1-GPS, and 30 wt.% to 70 wt.% of 1,1-GPM, or a mixture of 5 wt.% to 10 wt.% of 1,6-GPS, 30 wt.% to 40 wt.% of 1,1-GPS, and 45 wt.% to 60 wt.% of 1,1-GPM. As previously mentioned, isomaltitol can also refer to mixtures rich in 1,6-GPS or 1,1-GPM, i.e., mixtures as described in DE19532396C2, the quantitative and qualitative composition of the mixtures and their preparation methods in that document are incorporated into the disclosure of this teaching. Mixtures rich in 1,6-GPS are characterized by a 1,6-GPS content of 57 to 99 wt.% and a 1,1-GPM content of 43 wt.% to 1 wt.%; while mixtures containing 1,1-GPM are characterized by a 1,6-GPS content of 1 wt.% to 43 wt.% and a 1,1-GPM content of 57 wt.% to 99 wt.%.

[0112] In a preferred embodiment, isomalt contains no other components besides 1,1-GPM and 1,6-GPS.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment, isomaltulitol contains one or more other components in addition to 1,1-GPM and 1,6-GPS, such as mannitol, sorbitol, sucrose, 1,1-GPS (1-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl-D-sorbitol), glycosides, deoxydiol, GPI (glucopyranosyl-idutitol), isomaltose, isomaltulose, isomalutose, hydrogenated or non-hydrogenated oligosaccharides (especially hydrogenated or non-hydrogenated trisaccharides), and / or other substances.

[0114] For the purposes of this invention, the terms "isomaltulose" and "paraginose" are used. ® Used as a synonym.

[0115] In this context, "jet liquid" refers to a liquid suitable for causing the material to be agglomerated to aggregate after atomization. Pressurized liquids, such as water, solutions, or suspensions, are particularly preferred as jet liquids. Specifically, water or liquid (especially aqueous) binder mixtures can be used as jet liquids. Particularly preferred are jet liquids that can also be in the form of solid suspensions or solid dispersions.

[0116] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the liquid binder mixture is a solution or suspension (especially an aqueous solution) of isomaltitol, gelatin and fat, water-soluble colloids (e.g., polyvinylpyrrolidone), starch, sugars (e.g., sucrose, glucose, lactose), natural or synthetic colloids (e.g., gum arabic), cellulose, talc, microcrystalline cellulose, polyreducing sugars, pectin, preservatives, agar, acidifiers, inulin, alkalized carboxymethyl cellulose, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate (HSH), partially or completely purified and / or partially or completely neutralized polydextrose, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, etc. Of course, other binders may also be used, preferably physiologically compatible and / or non-cariogenic binders with low calorific value.

[0117] In this context, "atomizing gas" refers to a gas suitable for atomizing liquids (especially jet liquids) into tiny droplets. Pressurized gases, especially gas mixtures, particularly air, and especially compressed air are particularly preferred as atomizing gases.

[0118] For the purposes of this invention, "mixture containing isomaltulose" should refer to a mixture containing isomaltulose (especially a mixture containing isomaltulose and trehalose), particularly obtained by enzymatically reacting sucrose with sucrase to form a mixture of sucrose isomers containing isomaltulose (especially isomaltulose and trehalose), and optionally containing one or more other substances selected from sucrose, fructose, glucose, melinothiose, Leuconostibhiose, isomaltose, melitriose, isominotriose, 6-glycoside isomaltulitol and 1-glycoside isomaltulitol.

[0119] For the purposes of this invention, the term "and / or" means that all members in a group connected by the word "and / or" can be substituted for each other and can be added together in any combination. Therefore, the expression "A, B and / or C" means: (a) A or B or C; or (b) A and B; or (c) A and C; or (d) B and C; or (e) A and B and C.

[0120] For the purposes of this invention, the terms "comprising" and "having" mean that other elements, not explicitly mentioned, may appear in addition to the elements expressly covered by the terms. For the purposes of this invention, these terms can also be understood to cover only the expressly mentioned elements and not the other elements. In this particular embodiment, the terms "comprising" and "having" are synonymous with the term "consisting of". Additionally, the terms "comprising" and "having" also cover compositions that include other, though not mentioned, elements that are functionally or qualitatively secondary, in addition to the expressly mentioned elements. In this embodiment, the terms "comprising" and "having" are synonymous with the term "substantially consisting of".

[0121] For other advantageous designs of the invention, please refer to the dependent claims. Attached Figure Description

[0122] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings. In the figures: Figure 1 A longitudinal section view of a nozzle device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown (along... Figure 2 (The cross section AA shown) Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the nozzle device substrate is shown; Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A magnified partial view of the perspective shown; Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 The local area and its visualized flow path are shown; Figure 5 An exploded view of the nozzle device is shown; Figure 6 A side view of the base of the nozzle device is shown; Figure 7A top view of the substrate is shown (section BB is depicted in this figure); Figure 8 It shows along Figure 7 The matrix of section BB shown; Figure 9 The nozzle cap of the nozzle device is shown; Figure 10 A semi-transparent side view of the nozzle cap is shown; Figure 11 A semi-transparent bottom view of the nozzle cap is shown; Figure 12 A top view of the nozzle device's distribution components is shown; Figure 13 A semi-transparent side view of the distribution component is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0123] Figure 1 A nozzle device 100, particularly for fluidized bed agglomeration methods, is shown. It includes a substrate 10 and at least one nozzle 50 having a first outlet 56. The nozzle device 100 has at least one first fluid channel 14 in fluid communication with the first outlet 56 for a first fluid (particularly water or a liquid binder), at least one second fluid channel 12 for a second fluid (particularly compressed air), and at least one cleaning channel 16 for a cleaning medium (particularly compressed air). The nozzle 50 is surrounded by a nozzle cap 200 extending from the substrate 10 to the first outlet 56 of the nozzle 50, and has a nozzle cap tip 210, a nozzle cap cover 242, and a nozzle cap base 230 facing the substrate 10. The nozzle device has at least one cleaning port 605, 705, 805, with the cleaning channel 16 in fluid communication with the cleaning ports 605, 705, 805. The nozzle device 100 is characterized in that at least one cleaning port is disposed on the outer surface of the nozzle cap cover 242 or between the nozzle cap base 230 and the substrate 10. This avoids scaling of agglomerated materials (e.g., isomaltitol particles) in the fluidized bed of the agglomerator (not shown in this figure), particularly in the cleaning port area and the general nozzle device 100 area, especially at the nozzle cap shroud 242, nozzle cap tip 210, nozzle cap base 230, and the first outlet 56, and especially at the second outlet 530 for the second fluid. Furthermore, this extends operational life, simplifies maintenance, reduces maintenance frequency, and ultimately extends the service life of the nozzle device 100 and its components.

[0124] Here, the substrate 10 is particularly tubular in structure, with multiple channels extending through it along its longitudinal direction, namely a first fluid channel 14, a second fluid channel 12, and a cleaning channel 16. The second fluid channel 12 is not located in... Figure 1 In the cross-section shown, therefore it is in Figure 1 It is not visible in the middle.

[0125] The nozzle 50 has a nozzle body tip 54 at its end facing away from the base 10, wherein the nozzle is secured to the base 10 at its end facing the base 10 by means of threads 59 attached to the nozzle body base 58 that engage with corresponding threads on the base 10. This allows for easy replacement of the nozzle, for example, when the nozzle 50 becomes clogged or for other maintenance purposes. Figure 1 It can be seen that the nozzle body top 54 protrudes from the nozzle cap top 210 along the central axis M, so that the first outlet 56 is arranged above the nozzle cap top 210, the second outlet 530 and the third cleaning port 805.

[0126] Here, the nozzle device 100 has a central axis M, and preferably, the nozzle 50, nozzle cap 200, and / or dispensing member 400 extend around this central axis M (especially concentrically). This enables a very uniform atomization and cleaning effect.

[0127] Figure 1 A dispensing member 400 disposed between the nozzle cap base 230 and the base 10 is also shown. Here, the dispensing member 400 has an annular structure, specifically annularly surrounding the nozzle 50. The dispensing member 400 is used to dispense cleaning media. Therefore, the dispensing member 400 defines a dispensing channel 500, which is in fluid communication with the cleaning channel 16. In particular, the dispensing channel 500 is configured as a segment of the cleaning channel 16, wherein the cleaning channel 16 extends through the base 10 via the dispensing channel 500 to cleaning ports, specifically the first cleaning port 605, the second cleaning port 705, and the third cleaning port 805. This enables uniform dispensing of the cleaning media, thereby preventing or suppressing scaling on each side of the nozzle 50.

[0128] from Figure 1 It can also be seen that at least one inlet 270 is arranged at the nozzle cap base 230 for allowing cleaning gas to enter the nozzle cap 200 from the distribution channel 500, thereby supplying gas to the cleaning channel arranged in the nozzle cap 200 (especially the cleaning channel leading to the third cleaning port 805).

[0129] In the embodiment shown in this figure, the cleaning channel leads, in particular, to an opening 410 constructed in the dispensing member 400 via an outlet 510 of the dispensing channel 500. Through this opening 410, the dispensing channel 500 is in fluid communication with the nozzle cap cavity 260 of the nozzle cap 200. Here, the nozzle cap cavity 260, the dispensing channel 500, the dispensing member 400, the inlet 270 and / or the opening 410 in the dispensing member 400 are preferably constructed to at least segmentally surround (especially completely surround) the nozzle 50. This allows for uniform dispensing of the cleaning medium around the nozzle 50. Particularly preferably, these elements are annularly surrounding the nozzle 50, thereby producing excellent flowability during dispensing of the cleaning medium.

[0130] Here, the nozzle cap cavity 260 is defined, particularly on the inner side (i.e., towards the nozzle 50), by the inner wall 250 of the nozzle cap, and on the outer side (i.e., away from the nozzle 50), by the outer wall 240 of the nozzle cap. To connect the outer wall 240 of the nozzle cap to the inner wall 250, the nozzle cap 200 is preferably provided with bridging ribs 275, which are not located on... Figure 1 On the cross section shown, therefore in Figure 1 It is not visible in the middle. The nozzle cap cavity 260 is constructed between the inner wall 250 and the outer wall 240 of the nozzle cap, especially in the section representing the cleaning channel 16.

[0131] More preferably, a fourth cleaning port (not shown in this figure) is constructed in the nozzle cap body 242. This prevents scaling on the nozzle cap body. This is achieved in particular by having a channel section from the nozzle cap cavity 260 pass through the outer wall 240 of the nozzle cap and lead to the fourth cleaning port arranged on the outer surface of the nozzle cap body 242.

[0132] from Figure 1 It can also be seen that an additional cavity 550 is constructed between the nozzle 50 and the inner wall 250 of the nozzle cap (especially the inner and outer surfaces 252 of the inner wall 250 of the nozzle cap). Preferably, this additional cavity 550 is annularly surrounding the nozzle 50. This additional cavity 550 is configured as a section of the second fluid channel 12 so that the second fluid can flow through this additional cavity 550 to the nozzle cap tip 210 and the second outlet 530. Here, the nozzle device 100 preferably has a second outlet 530 to guide the second medium (especially the atomizing medium) to the nozzle cap tip 210, where it interacts with the first fluid flowing out from the first outlet 56, thereby causing atomization of the first fluid or (as appropriate) the second fluid. Preferably, the first fluid (especially the jet liquid) is atomized, wherein the second fluid is preferably an atomizing gas (especially compressed air).

[0133] The second outlet 530 preferably concentrically surrounds the nozzle 50 and / or the first outlet 56. The second outlet 530 is preferably annular in shape. This allows for uniform atomization of the sprayed liquid.

[0134] A cleaning port is constructed radially outward of the second outlet 530, which preferably also has an annular (especially concentric) shape surrounding the two inner openings, namely the first outlet 56 and the second outlet 530. This ensures that the uniform atomization of the sprayed liquid is not disturbed, and in particular, further enhances uniform atomization. In addition, this also avoids or eliminates scaling on both sides.

[0135] Figure 1It is also shown that the nozzle device 100 has a first gap 600 in fluid communication with the dispensing channel 500 between the base 10 and the dispensing member 400. This first gap 600 branches directly from the dispensing channel 500, with the dispensing member 400 arranged in a radially outer region spaced from the base 10, this region extending radially outward from the central axis M along the opening 410 of the dispensing member. This specifically means that the dispensing member 400 will not directly contact the base 10, at least within the region of the first gap 600. Thus, the cleaning medium can flow through the dispensing channel 500 through the first gap 600 and be discharged through the first cleaning port 605, thereby effectively preventing scaling, especially in the outlet region.

[0136] Preferably, a second gap 700 is formed between the dispensing component 400 and the outer wall 240 of the nozzle cap 200, which is in fluid communication with the dispensing channel 500. The dispensing component 400 is spaced apart from the outer wall 240 of the nozzle cap within the second gap 700 region. This ensures that the intermediate region between the nozzle cap 200 and the dispensing component 400 and its adjacent regions (especially the entire outer surface of the nozzle cap cover 242) are thoroughly cleaned, thereby preventing scaling.

[0137] More preferably, a third gap 800 is constructed in the nozzle cap tip 210, which is in fluid communication with the distribution channel 500 via the nozzle cap cavity 260. In this way, the nozzle cap tip 210 can be cleaned, and scaling can be avoided in the first outlet area, the second outlet area and their adjacent areas.

[0138] Figure 1 It is also shown that the nozzle cap 200's nozzle cap shaft 280 is reversibly introduced into the recess of the base 10, wherein the thread 285 of the nozzle cap shaft 280 (especially being constructed as an external thread) is embedded in the corresponding internal thread of the base 10. In this way, the nozzle cap 200 is easy to assemble and can be quickly replaced in case of maintenance or failure.

[0139] Here, the recess of the base 10 is particularly of a two-piece structure, wherein in the deep section of the recess (such as...) Figure 1 (As shown below), nozzle 50 is screwed to base 10, in the upper section of the recess (as shown below). Figure 1 (As shown above), the nozzle cap 200 is screwed to the base 10. The cross-section of the deep section of the recess is smaller than the cross-section of its upper section.

[0140] Figure 2 The figure shows a cross-section of the nozzle device 100 through the base 10. Three supply channels are visible in this figure: a cleaning channel 16, a first fluid channel 14, and a second fluid channel 12. The figure also shows... Figure 1 The cross section AA is shown. Combined with... Figure 1It can be seen that, in addition to the cleaning channel 16 and the first fluid channel 14, the second fluid channel 12 also extends along the base 10 to the nozzle 50 region. Here, the second fluid channel 12 is particularly prominent in relation to... Figure 1 It extends along a longitudinal section parallel to the cross section shown.

[0141] Figure 3 The nozzle 50 and the dispensing component 400 are shown relative to each other. Figure 1 An enlarged view. This figure clearly shows that the distributor 400 has a distributor shaft 406, a distributor head 405 protruding from the shaft 406, and a distributor shoulder 407 surrounding the head 405. The distributor shoulder 407 has a rib 460 arranged in annular rings.

[0142] from Figure 3 It can be clearly seen that the inner wall 250 of the nozzle cap protrudes from the outer wall 240 of the nozzle cap 200 at its end facing the nozzle cap base 230. In the axial direction of the central axis M, the lower end of the inner wall 250 and the lower end of the outer wall 240 are offset from each other, and in the area thus formed, a cavity 810, particularly annular, is constructed between the nozzle cap 200 and the dispensing member 400. Here, the inner wall 250 of the nozzle cap is particularly positioned on the dispensing member 400, thereby sealing the cleaning channel radially inward. Figure 3 As shown on the right, the annular cavity 810 is in particular in fluid communication with the nozzle cap cavity 260 and the opening 410 in the distributor 400, thereby collectively forming a section of the cleaning channel 16. Here, fluid flow is established with the second gap 700 via this annular cavity 810. In this way, the cleaning medium can be guided to the second cleaning port 705 and scale formation can be avoided there.

[0143] Figure 4 The flow path of the first fluid, the second fluid, and the cleaning medium is shown, where similar to... Figure 3 An enlarged view of the nozzle 50 and nozzle cap 200 is shown. Here, in particular, the embodiment of the nozzle device 100 is the same as the embodiments shown in the other figures.

[0144] The dashed arrow P, extending particularly along the central axis M of the nozzle device 100, indicates the flow path of the first fluid, which extends through the first fluid channel 14 to the first outlet 56.

[0145] Additionally, the dashed arrow S indicates the flow path of the second fluid, such as... Figure 4As shown on the left and right sides of the nozzle 50, the flow path extends through the second fluid channel 12, and in particular through the cavity 550 between the nozzle 50 and the nozzle cap 200. The second fluid channel preferably concentrically surrounds the nozzle 50 and / or the central axis M, so the flow paths of the second fluid shown in this figure are preferably in fluid communication with each other, thereby creating a single-path flow (especially a concentric flow) around the nozzle to the second outlet 530 via the second fluid channel when the nozzle device 100 is in operation.

[0146] The double-dash arrow D indicates different flow paths for the cleaning medium. This diagram particularly illustrates the first flow path, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown below, the flow path extends laterally below the dispenser 400 via a first cleaning port 605. Here, the flow passes through a first gap 600 constructed between the dispenser 400 and the substrate 10 (not shown in this figure).

[0147] The second flow path of the cleaning medium continues through the opening 410 through the distributor 400 into the annular cavity 810, from which it laterally branches into the second gap 700. The cleaning medium flowing along the second flow path is then discharged through the second cleaning port 705 between the nozzle cap 50 and the distributor 400, thereby reducing fouling there. In particular, fouling along the surface of the nozzle cap shroud 242 is also reduced, because during operation of the nozzle device 100, the outflow flows at least partially along the surface, thus preventing or at least reducing the settling of the material to be agglomerated, and consequently preventing or at least reducing fouling.

[0148] The third flow path continues from the annular cavity 810 between the nozzle cap 200 and the distributor 400, through the nozzle cap cavity 260, and reaches the nozzle cap tip 210. The nozzle cap tip 210 has a third gap 800 and a third cleaning port 805, through which the cleaning medium exits the nozzle cap 200. Here, the convergence of different flows is achieved within the region of the nozzle cap tip 200. This prevents scaling from occurring in the entire region of the nozzle tip 50 and the nozzle cap tip 200, and extends the service life.

[0149] Figure 5 The structure of the nozzle device 100 is shown in an exploded view, with the base 10 cut off at an angle to the viewer. It can be clearly seen from this figure that the central region of the nozzle 50 has a tapered nozzle body 52, which, in the assembled state, faces the outer surface 252 of the inner wall 250 of the nozzle cap, thereby creating a cavity 550 between the nozzle 50 and the nozzle cap 200.

[0150] For assembly, especially after maintenance and manual cleaning of the nozzle device, the nozzle 50 can be reversibly introduced into the recess of the base 10, particularly screwed into it. Here, the thread 59 constructed on the nozzle body base 58 (i.e., the nozzle body shaft) is engaged with the corresponding internal thread of the base 10. The dispenser 400, constructed as a dispenser ring, can be guided over the assembled nozzle 50 and placed in the recess of the base 10, thereby forming a dispenser channel 500, particularly between the dispenser 400 and the base 10.

[0151] In the embodiment of the nozzle device 100 shown in this figure, in particular, no additional screwed portion is provided between the dispenser 400 and the base 10, thereby simplifying assembly.

[0152] The dispenser 400 is thus secured such that the nozzle cap is fitted onto it and tightened (especially screwed in) into the recess of the base. Here, the dispenser 400 is secured between the nozzle cap 200 and the base 10, particularly in the circumferential direction around the central axis M, by force and / or form fit. Here, the nozzle cap is reversibly introduced into the recess and tightened to the base 10, wherein the aforementioned screw connection is provided in the upper section of the recess for tightening.

[0153] Figure 6 A top view of a nozzle device 100 is shown, in which it can be seen that the nozzle device 100 is configured, in particular, as a spray gun, wherein the base 10 is elongated and extends along the longitudinal axis L. The nozzle device 100 specifically has a first interface 15 for a first fluid, a second interface 13 for a second fluid, and a third interface 17 for a cleaning medium. These interfaces are configured and connected to one or more supply devices (in particular high-pressure supply devices) to supply the first fluid to a first fluid channel 14, the second fluid to a second fluid channel 12, and the cleaning medium to a cleaning channel 16.

[0154] also, Figure 6 The nozzle device 100 is also shown to have a control unit 90, which is coupled to the cleaning gas passage 16 and enables compressed air pulse cleaning. Here, the control unit 90 is specifically located behind the flow-related third interface 17 on the cleaning passage 16. The control unit 90 can pulse-apply the cleaning medium from the cleaning passage 16 via cleaning ports (here, the first cleaning port 605, the second cleaning port 705, and the third cleaning port 805). Pulsed application significantly enhances the cleaning effect of the cleaning medium, thereby effectively inhibiting scaling.

[0155] also, Figure 6 The nozzle device 100 is also shown, particularly a nozzle structure having multiple nozzles 50 and nozzle caps 200. From Figure 6It can be seen that there are two such nozzle structures. According to the preferred embodiment, there can also be more than two nozzle structures.

[0156] Figure 7 This figure shows a top view along the longitudinal axis L of the base 10 from one side of the interface section. The control unit 90, the first interface section 15, the second interface section 13, and the third interface section 15 are again visible in this figure. Furthermore, this figure also shows section BB. Figure 8 The longitudinal section created along section BB is shown. As can be seen from this figure, channels (especially the first fluid channel 14, the second fluid channel 12, and the cleaning channel 16) extend through the base 10 along its longitudinal extension, wherein the first nozzle structure 70 and the second nozzle structure 80, in particular, can supply the first fluid, the second fluid, and the cleaning medium. Figure 8 Only the recess 81 for the second nozzle structure 80 is shown, in which the nozzle 50, nozzle cap 200, and dispenser 400 can be assembled. The agglomeration of the material to be agglomerated can be improved by using multiple nozzle structures on the substrate 10, preferably nozzle structures spaced apart from each other on the substrate.

[0157] Figure 9 An external perspective view of the nozzle cap 200 is shown, which clearly shows that the nozzle cap 200 is conical. Figure 10 In the semi-transparent side view of the nozzle cap 200 shown, it can also be seen that the inner wall 250 of the nozzle cap is offset relative to the outer wall 240 of the nozzle cap in the direction of the central axis M. Here, especially in conjunction with Figure 11 It can be seen that a bridging rib 275 is constructed between the outer wall 240 and the inner wall 250 of the nozzle cap, which connects the outer wall 240 and the inner wall 250 of the nozzle cap. Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 The diagram shows a bottom view of the nozzle cap 200, where the nozzle cap 200 is rotated relative to the observer. Figure 10 The rotation positions selected are the same. Thus, especially in conjunction with this figure, it can be clearly seen how the bridging rib 275 connects the outer wall 240 of the nozzle cap to the inner wall 250 of the nozzle cap.

[0158] Figure 12 A top view of the dispenser 400 is shown, in which an opening 410 can be seen passing through the dispenser 400. This figure particularly shows a plurality of such openings 410, which are circumferentially distributed and spaced apart from each other, with the individual openings 410 being equidistant from each other. Furthermore, this figure also shows a raised rib 460 surrounding the radially outer end of the dispenser 400, which in particular annularly defines the upper side 450 of the dispenser 400.

[0159] exist Figure 13The side view of the dispenser shown also reveals the outer surface 420, inner surface 430, and lower side 440 of the dispenser 400. Generally, the dispenser 400 is composed of rotationally symmetrical components, with an opening 410 formed in the dispenser head 405. This allows for excellent flowability, thereby uniformly and effectively preventing scaling in the first outlet 56, cleaning port, nozzle cap 242, and the area of ​​the base 10 surrounding the dispenser 400 and nozzle cap 200.

[0160] List of reference numerals 10 Matrix 12 Second fluid channel (especially the atomizing gas channel for atomizing gas) 14 First fluid passage (especially the liquid passage for jetting liquid) 16 Clean gas passage 13 Second interface section for atomizing gas 15 First interface section for jetting liquid 17 Third interface section for cleaning gas 50 nozzles 52 Nozzle body 54 Nozzle body top 56. First outlet of the nozzle 58 Nozzle body substrate 59 Nozzle body base thread 70 First Nozzle Structure 80 Second Nozzle Structure 81 Recess for the second nozzle structure 90 Pulse Control Unit 100 Nozzle Equipment 200 Nozzle Cap 210 Nozzle cap top 230 Nozzle Cap Base 240 Nozzle Cap Outer Wall 242 Nozzle cap body 250 Nozzle Cap Inner Wall 252 Outer surface of the inner wall of the nozzle cap (facing the nozzle body) 260 Nozzle cap cavity 270 Clean gas inlet of nozzle cap cavity 275 Bridging rib between the inner wall and outer wall of the nozzle cap 280 Nozzle Cap Shaft 285 Nozzle cap shaft thread 400 parts 405 Parts Head 406 Parts Shaft 407 Parts Shoulder 410 Parts Opening 420 component outer surface 430 Parts Inner Surface 440 Parts Lower Side 450 parts on the top 460-degree sub-parts collar edge with raised ribs on the upper outer perimeter. 500 allocation channels 510 Distribution channel outlet for clean gas 530 Second outlet (for second fluid) 550 Additional cavity (between the nozzle and the nozzle cap) 600 First gap (between pipe and distribution ring) 605 First Cleaning Port 700 Second gap (between the distribution ring and the outer wall of the nozzle cap) 705 Second Cleaning Port 800 Third gap (between the outer wall and inner wall of the nozzle cap) 805 Third Cleaning Port 810 Annular Cavity M Central axis P (dashed arrow) S-shaped dashed arrow D Double-strike arrow L longitudinal axis

Claims

1. A nozzle device, particularly for fluidized bed agglomeration methods, comprising a substrate (10) and at least one nozzle (50) having a first outlet (56), wherein, The nozzle device (100) has at least one first fluid channel (14) for a first fluid, at least one second fluid channel (12) for a second fluid, and at least one cleaning channel (16) for a cleaning medium in fluid communication with the first outlet (56), and wherein the nozzle (50) is surrounded by a nozzle cap (200) extending from the base (10) to the first outlet (56) of the nozzle (50), and has a nozzle cap tip (210), a nozzle cap cover (242), and a nozzle cap base (230) facing the base (10). The nozzle device has at least one cleaning port (605, 705, 805), and the cleaning channel (16) is in fluid communication with the at least one cleaning port (605, 705, 805). Its features are, At least one of the cleaning ports (605, 705, 805) is disposed on the outer surface of the nozzle cap body (242) or between the nozzle cap base (230) and the base (10).

2. The nozzle device according to claim 1, wherein, A distribution member (400), particularly annular, is arranged between the nozzle cap base (230) and the base (10). The distribution member (400) defines a distribution channel (500) at least in segments. The distribution channel (500) is particularly annular, surrounding the nozzle (50) and in fluid communication with the cleaning channel (16).

3. The nozzle device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, At least one inlet (270) is provided at the base (230) of the nozzle cap for allowing cleaning gas to enter the nozzle cap (200) from the distribution channel (500).

4. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The nozzle cap (200) has an outer wall (240) and an inner wall (250), the inner wall (250) being connected to the outer wall (240) in particular by a bridging rib (275) and together defining the nozzle cap cavity (260).

5. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A first gap (600) is formed between the substrate (10) and the distribution member (400) and is in fluid communication with the distribution channel (500).

6. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A second gap (700) is formed between the distributor (400) and the outer wall (240) of the nozzle cap (200) to be in fluid communication with the distribution channel (500).

7. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The nozzle cap tip (210) has a third gap (800) that is in fluid communication with the distribution channel (500) via the nozzle cap cavity (260).

8. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The inner wall (250) of the nozzle cap protrudes from the outer wall (240) of the nozzle cap (200) at its end facing the base (230) of the nozzle cap.

9. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The inner wall (250) of the nozzle cap is located on the distribution member (400), and an annular cavity (810) is constructed between the outer wall (240) of the nozzle cap and the distribution member (400), and the second gap (700) and the distribution channel (500) are in fluid communication via the annular cavity (810).

10. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The distributor (400) has a distributor shaft (406) and a distributor head (405) protruding from the distributor shaft (406), the distributor head (405) having a surrounding distributor shoulder (407).

11. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The distributor shoulder (407) of the distributor (400) has a rib (460) that is particularly annularly circumferential.

12. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The dispenser (400) has at least one opening (410), and the dispenser channel (500) is in fluid communication with the nozzle cap cavity (260) of the nozzle cap (200) via the opening (410).

13. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The entrance (270) is at least segmented into a ring structure.

14. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The nozzle device (100) has a control unit (90) that is associated with the cleaning gas passage (16) and is capable of performing compressed air pulse cleaning.

15. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The nozzle (50) and the nozzle cap (200) are configured to be reversibly introduced, in particular, to be screwed into the recess of the substrate (10).

16. The nozzle device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The nozzle (50) is a dual-material nozzle, especially an externally mixed or internally mixed dual-material nozzle or a high-pressure nozzle (single-material nozzle).

17. A nozzle device, particularly for fluidized bed agglomeration methods, comprising a matrix (10) and at least one nozzle (50) having a first outlet (56), wherein, The nozzle device (100) has at least one first fluid channel (14) for a first fluid, at least one second fluid channel (12) for a second fluid, and at least one cleaning channel (16) for a cleaning medium, all in fluid communication with the first outlet (56). The nozzle (50) is surrounded by a nozzle cap (200) extending from the base (10) to the first outlet (56) of the nozzle (50) and having a nozzle cap tip (210), a nozzle cap cover (242), and a nozzle cap base (230) facing the base (10). The nozzle device (100) has at least one cleaning port (605, 705, 805), and the cleaning channel (16) is in fluid communication with the at least one cleaning port (605, 705, 805). Its features are, The nozzle device (100) has a control device (90) configured to pulse-draw cleaning medium from the at least one cleaning port (605, 705, 805) at least during pulse operation.

18. A fluidized bed method for preparing agglomerated solid particles from a material to be agglomerated, wherein, The material to be agglomerated is agglomerated by means of the nozzle device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. The fluidized bed method according to claim 18, wherein, The material to be agglomerated is isomaltitol or a mixture containing isomaltitol.

20. The fluidized bed method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein, The cleaning medium is pulsated and supplied to the nozzle device (100).

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