Air penetration device with shroud

Abstract

An air-through apparatus for drying or bonding paper, tissue, or nonwoven webs is provided. The air-through apparatus includes an air-through roll configured to rotate about a first axis, the air-through roll having a first end and a second end. The air-through apparatus includes an exhaust duct / passage adjacent the first end of the air-through roll, and a shroud that encloses a portion of the air-through roll, wherein the shroud defines an effective arc length of the air-through roll that is inside the shroud. The air-through apparatus further includes a first shroud that extends substantially from the exhaust duct to the shroud, the first shroud configured to reduce the amount of process air released from the interior of the air-through apparatus and to reduce the amount of air leaked into the air-through apparatus from the exterior of the apparatus.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an air-penetrating device for manufacturing web products, aimed at improving system thermal efficiency. Background Technology

[0002] "Air-penetration technology" is a term used to describe systems and methods that allow air to flow through paper, tissue paper, or nonwoven webs for the purpose of drying or bonding fibers or filaments. Examples include drying nonwoven products (e.g., tea bags and specialty papers); drying and curing of fiberglass mats, filter papers, and resin-treated nonwovens; thermal bonding and drying of spunbond nonwovens; drying of spunlace webs; thermal bonding of geotextiles with or without bicomponent fibers; drying and curing of lining grades; and thermal bonding of absorbent cores with fusible adhesive fibers. Drying tissue paper is another application of air-penetration technology.

[0003] Systems and methods related to air-penetrating drying are typically referred to using the abbreviation "TAD". Systems and methods related to air-penetrating bonding are typically referred to using the abbreviation "TAB".

[0004] Air penetration equipment typically includes a rigid, permeable web support structure, also known as an air penetration roller. The web is placed on the air penetration roller, and as the roller rotates, a fan blows / draws air through the roller's walls to process the web, depending on the roller's orientation. Air penetration rollers usually have multiple openings to allow air to pass through the structure. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, an air-permeable device is provided for drying or bonding paper, tissue paper, or nonwoven webs. The device includes an air-permeable roller configured for rotational movement about a first axis, the air-permeable roller having a first end and a second end. The device further includes: an exhaust duct adjacent to the first end of the air-permeable roller; a shroud surrounding a portion of the air-permeable roller, wherein the shroud defines an effective arc length of the air-permeable roller within the shroud; and a first shield extending substantially from the exhaust duct to the shroud. The first shield is configured to reduce the amount of processed air released from the interior of the air-permeable device and to reduce the amount of air leaking into the air-permeable device from the exterior. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a traditional air penetration equipment system; Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a conventional air-penetrating device using existing technology; Figure 3A This is a cross-sectional view of an air-penetrating device according to one embodiment; Figure 3B yes Figure 3AThe image shows an end view of the air penetration device. Figures 4A-4H These are detailed sectional and end views of the air-penetrating devices according to various embodiments; Figure 5 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of an air-penetrating device according to one embodiment; Figure 6 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of an air-penetrating device according to another embodiment; Figure 7 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of an air-penetrating device according to another embodiment; Figure 8 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of an air-penetrating device according to another embodiment; Figure 9 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of an air-penetrating device according to another embodiment; Figure 10 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of an air-penetrating device according to another embodiment; Figure 11 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of an air-penetrating device according to another embodiment; Figure 12 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of an air-penetrating device according to another embodiment; Figure 13 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of an air-penetrating device according to another embodiment; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of an air penetration device system with recirculation of air from inside the device, according to one embodiment; Figure 15 This is another schematic diagram of an air penetration device system without an exhaust fan according to one embodiment; and Figure 16 This is another schematic diagram of an air penetration device system in which an air heater / burner is positioned before the main fan, according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0007] This disclosure relates to an air-penetrating apparatus configured to manufacture various products, such as paper, tissue paper, and / or nonwoven webs. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the air-penetrating apparatus may be configured as an air-penetrating dryer (TAD) and / or an air-penetrating bonder (TAB), depending on the context in which it is used. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the air-penetrating apparatus can be used to manufacture various web products wound into a final product form. It will also be recognized that the product may not be wound and / or may be cut into final products. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the air-penetrating apparatus can be configured to manufacture a variety of products, including but not limited to various films, fabrics, or other web-type materials, and that the apparatus can be used in a variety of processes that may include mass transfer, heat transfer, material displacement, web handling, and quality monitoring, including but not limited to drying, thermal bonding, sheet transfer, water extraction, web tensioning, and porosity measurement.

[0008] As described in more detail below, the air-permeable device includes a rigid, permeable air-permeable roller configured for rotational movement about a first axis. A web is placed on the air-permeable roller, and as the web moves, a fan can blow / draw air through the wall of the air-permeable roller to process the web, depending on its orientation. The air-permeable roller typically has multiple openings to allow air to pass through the roller. It should be understood that the embodiments described below can be incorporated into various types of air-permeable device constructions employing air-permeable rollers configured for rotational movement, as this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0009] In one embodiment, the web (i.e., the product) is typically in sheet form and partially wound around the cylindrical housing of the air-permeable device (i.e., the air-permeable roller). The portion of the web wound around the roller extends from, for example, 90° to 360°, typically between 180° and 300°. The cylindrical walls of the air-permeable roller typically have multiple openings configured for air passage. A fan / blower is used to circulate air across the product, and the air-permeable roller is typically positioned within a housing to optimize airflow characteristics. As the product travels through the effective area of ​​the device with the rotating roller, the fan / blower circulates air through the walls of the cylindrical housing to process the product. A heater may be provided so that heated air circulates through the air-permeable roller.

[0010] Figure 1A schematic diagram of a conventional air penetration device system is shown. As shown, the air penetration device 100 includes an air penetration roller 120 configured to rotate within a housing 130. The system includes a main fan 140 that guides system air (also referred to as process air) through a duct 170 and into the housing 130, subsequently drawing the air into the air penetration roller 120. As shown, an air heater 150 may also be connected to the duct 170 to guide heated air into the air penetration roller 120. The system may also include an exhaust fan 190 to extract air from the device 100 through the duct 170 and discharge it into the atmosphere. Figure 1 As shown, a closed-loop system airflow exists, flowing from the main fan 140 through duct 170, into the enclosure 130, through the air penetration roller 120, and out through the exhaust duct and back through duct 170. It should be understood that in another embodiment, the air penetration device may be a single-pass system, wherein the system air is not recirculated in the loop. Furthermore, in another embodiment, it is contemplated that the air penetration device may be configured such that heated air is supplied from a different heat source, as this disclosure is not limited thereto. Other air penetration device system configurations are discussed in more detail below.

[0011] Air penetration equipment 100 is typically a very large machine. For example, air penetration roller 120 may have a length between 1 foot and 30 feet and a diameter between 1 foot and 22 feet. The cylindrical walls of roller 120 may be formed of an open, rigid structure to allow airflow through it. In one embodiment, air penetration roller 120 may be a Honeycomb Roll from Valmet Corporation. ® .

[0012] The air-penetrating device 100 has an effective airflow area configured to receive system air for processing the web. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the effective airflow area 122 is partially defined by the portion of the air-permeable roller 120 configured to receive the web product (and also by the portion of the air-permeable roller 120 positioned within the housing 130). Figure 1 It is also shown that the air penetration device also has an ineffective airflow area 124, which is partially defined by a portion of the air penetration roller 120 that is neither configured to receive the web product nor to receive the processing airflow. As described in more detail below, these effective and ineffective areas 122, 124 can vary depending on how the web is wound around the air penetration roller 120. It should be understood that when the air penetration roller 120 is configured to rotate clockwise, the hood inlet can be defined at 134, and the hood outlet can be defined at 136 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 1 ).

[0013] The inventors recognized problems associated with conventional air-permeable devices 100. Specifically, the inventors recognized that: (1) the amount of processed air released from inside the air-permeable device 100 is not ideal; and (2) the amount of ambient air leaking into the air-permeable device 100 from outside is not ideal. As described in more detail below, there is typically a space or gap between the air-permeable roller 120 and adjacent components of the air-permeable device 100 to allow movement of the air-permeable roller carrying the web. This gap is typically between about 0.06 inches and 8.0 inches. In addition, shroud seals may be provided with a spacing of 0.05-0.50 inches. One or more sealing elements (discussed below) may be provided on these adjacent components to reduce ambient air leakage. Nevertheless, ambient air infiltration into the air-permeable device and the release of processed air to the outside of the air-permeable device still occur at these locations. The inventors recognize that the current limits on the size of the sealing gap exist due to various factors such as the size and width of the air-permeable roller, operating vacuum, rotational speed, manufacturing tolerances, thermal expansion loads, roller deflection, and other forces. As detailed in more detail below, aspects of this disclosure aim to reduce and control this undesirable phenomenon of air inflow and outflow from the air-permeable device, thereby improving system thermal efficiency.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a conventional air-permeable device 100. As shown, the air-permeable roller 120 is configured for rotational movement about a first axis 20. An exhaust duct 40 is adjacent to one end of the air-permeable roller 120, and a cover 130 surrounds a portion of the air-permeable roller 120. Figure 1 As best shown, the shroud 130 defines the effective arc length of the air-permeable roller 120 positioned within the shroud 130. In conventional air-permeable devices, both the exhaust duct 40 and the shroud 130 are stationary relative to the rotating air-permeable roller 120. Furthermore, in conventional device 100, both the shroud 130 and the exhaust duct 40 have non-contact sealing elements, meaning that a gap exists between the stationary component (i.e., the exhaust duct 40 or the shroud 130) and the rotating air-permeable roller 120. This gap serves as a passage for ambient air to enter the system under vacuum operation, or as a passage for processed air to escape from the system under pressure operation. The applicant recognizes that the ambient air entering the system requires heat and / or energy to reach the processing temperature, while the escaping processed air causes heat / energy loss to the surrounding environment. Energy is lost in both scenarios.

[0015] As described in more detail below, aspects of this disclosure are intended to capture escaping heat treatment air and / or prevent ambient air from entering the system. The applicant recognizes that the resulting air-penetration device can (1) improve personnel safety and (2) save energy, thereby improving system thermal efficiency.

[0016] As described in more detail below, aspects of this disclosure include an air penetration device 200, which includes a shroud 60 that extends substantially from an exhaust duct 40 to a housing 130, wherein the shroud 60 is configured to reduce the amount of processing air released from inside the air penetration device 200 and to reduce the amount of air leaking into the air penetration device from outside the device.

[0017] Now go to Figure 3A and Figure 3B An embodiment of an air-penetrating device 200 having a first shield 60 will be described. Figure 3A A sectional view is shown. Figure 3B An end view is shown. As shown, a first shield 60 is positioned on the first end 126 of the air-permeable roller 120, and the first shield 60 extends substantially from the exhaust duct 40 to the shroud 130. As described above and as... Figure 2 As shown, in conventional air penetration devices, this area is typically open, thus explaining the entry of ambient air into the system and / or leakage / escape of treated air from the system. In contrast, the first shroud 60 is shaped and constructed to enclose and / or surround the area between the exhaust duct 40 and the shroud 130 on the first end 126 of the air penetration roller 120.

[0018] The applicant has envisioned various shapes and materials for the shield 60, many of which are discussed in further detail below. For example... Figure 3A As shown, in one particular embodiment, the first shield 60 has a generally frustoconical shape, with the smaller first end 62 of the first shield 60 adjacent to the exhaust duct 40 and the larger second end 64 adjacent to the cover 130. In one embodiment, the shield 60 may have a sloping shape similar to an Elizabethan collar designed for pets. It should be understood that the specific size and shape of the shield 60 may vary based on the size and shape of the exhaust duct / passage 40 and the cover 130, as well as the geometry and constraints of the physical space. Various shapes of shield 60 are discussed in more detail below. In one embodiment, the shield 60 is used as a flange or skirt positioned between the exhaust duct 40 and the cover 130.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first shield 60 may be configured to extend radially about at least the effective arc length (i.e., the effective area of ​​the device) of the air-permeable roller 120. As discussed above, the housing 130 defines the effective arc length of the air-permeable roller 120 as the arc length by which the air-permeable roller 120 is positioned within the housing 130. In one embodiment, the effective arc length is, for example, between 90° and 360°, typically between 180° and 300°. As will be further explained in more detail below, it should also be understood that in other embodiments, the first shield 60 may be configured differently.

[0020] Figures 4A-4HVarious embodiments of the first guard 60 are shown in more detail. As shown, in one embodiment, one end of the roller 120 is connected to the motor and drive assembly (i.e., the drive side), while the opposite end of the roller 120 may be referred to as the maintenance side. Figure 4A The end view of the maintenance side is shown. Figure 4D This shows an end view of the drive side. (As shown) Figure 4B and Figure 4C As shown, in one embodiment, the first end 62 of the first shield 60 is configured to be substantially aligned with the outer edge 44 of the exhaust duct. In one embodiment, the exhaust duct 40 has a cylindrical shape, so the outer edge 44 of the exhaust duct 40 is generally circular. Therefore, in one embodiment, the first end 62 of the first shield 60 may also be generally circularly arched and / or partially generally circular when the first shield 60 does not extend 360° around the air penetration roller 120.

[0021] like Figure 4B and Figure 4C As shown, in one embodiment, the second end 64 of the first shield 60 is configured to be substantially aligned with the outer edge 134 of the shroud 130. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the specific shape and size of the first and second ends 62, 64 of the first shield 60 may depend on the shape, size, and / or construction of the exhaust duct 40 and / or the shroud 130, and therefore this disclosure is not limited in this respect. While a circular cross-sectional shape of the shield 60 has been mentioned above, other shapes are contemplated, such as, but not limited to, square, rectangular, elliptical, and irregular shapes.

[0022] like Figure 4B and Figure 4C As shown, the first shroud 60 can extend substantially between the exhaust duct and the shroud to reduce the amount of processed air released from the interior of the air-permeable device and to reduce the amount of air leaking into the air-permeable device from the exterior. Figure 4B and Figure 4C As shown, in one embodiment, the first end 62 of the first shield directly contacts the exhaust duct 40, and the second end 64 of the first shield 60 directly contacts the cover 130, preventing air from entering or leaving the air penetration device at this location. In another embodiment, it is envisioned that the first shield 60 is attached and / or secured to the exhaust duct 40 and / or the cover 130 using mechanical connections such as, but not limited to, rivets, welding, screws, etc. Figure 4B and Figure 4C They are basically similar, except Figure 4B The illustrated embodiment shows a shroud 60 with multiple expansion joints to allow for thermal expansion of the exhaust duct 40 and the shroud 130, while Figure 4C The embodiment in the example does not include an expansion joint in the cover 60.

[0023] like Figure 3AAs shown, in one embodiment, the air penetration device 200 has a first shroud 60 positioned on a first end 126 of the air penetration roller 120 and a second shroud 70 positioned on a second end 128 of the air penetration roller 120. As shown, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the exhaust duct 40' and the shroud 130 are positioned adjacent to the second end 128 of the air penetration roller 120. As shown, the second shroud 70 extends substantially from the exhaust duct 40' to the shroud 130, and is configured to reduce the amount of processed air released from inside the air penetration device 200 and to reduce the amount of air leaking into the air penetration device from outside. Figure 3A As shown, in one embodiment, the second shield 70 has a generally frustoconical shape, with the smaller first end 72 of the second shield 70 adjacent to the exhaust duct 40' and the larger second end 74 adjacent to the shroud 130. In one embodiment, the second shield 70 may be configured to extend radially about at least the effective arc length of the air penetration roller 120. This feature is... Figure 3B As shown in the end view, the second shield 70 extends radially about the effective arc length of the air penetration roller 120. It should be understood that the exhaust duct 40' may be part of the exhaust duct 40, and / or they are also envisioned as separate exhaust ducts 40, 40', as this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0024] As described in more detail below, in another embodiment, the cover 130 defines an ineffective arc length of the air-permeable roller 120 positioned outside the cover, and the first cover 60 may extend radially about at least the ineffective arc length of the first end 126 of the air-permeable roller 120. Similarly, in one embodiment, the second cover 70 may extend radially about at least the ineffective arc length of the second end 128 of the air-permeable roller 120. Further details regarding the radial extension of the first and second covers 60, 70 about the ineffective arc length of the air-permeable roller 120 (i.e., the ineffective area of ​​the device) will be discussed in more detail below.

[0025] like Figure 3A As shown, in one embodiment, the air penetration device 200 includes a third shroud 80. In this particular embodiment, the device 200 includes a first stationary bearing 202 adjacent to a first end 126 of the air penetration roller 120, and the third shroud 80 extends substantially between the exhaust duct 40 and the first stationary bearing 202, wherein the third shroud 80 is configured to reduce the amount of processed air released from inside the air penetration device 200 and to reduce the amount of air leaking into the air penetration device from outside the device 200. In one illustrative embodiment, the third shroud 80 has a generally annular shape, with a first end 82 of the third shroud 80 adjacent to the exhaust duct 40 and a second end 84 of the third shroud 80 adjacent to the first stationary bearing 202. In another embodiment, the third shroud 80 may have a semi-circular donut shape. Other shroud shapes and configurations are discussed in more detail below.

[0026] In addition, in such Figure 3A In one embodiment shown, the air penetration device 200 includes a fourth shroud 90. In this particular embodiment, the device 200 includes a second stationary bearing 204 adjacent to the second end 128 of the air penetration roller 120, and the fourth shroud 90 extends substantially between the exhaust duct 40 and the second stationary bearing 204, wherein the fourth shroud 90 is configured to reduce the amount of processed air released from inside the air penetration device 200 and to reduce the amount of air leaking into the air penetration device from outside the device 200. In an illustrative embodiment, the fourth shroud 90 has a generally annular shape, with a first end 92 of the fourth shroud 90 adjacent to the exhaust duct 40' and a second end 94 of the fourth shroud 90 adjacent to the second stationary bearing 204. Other shroud shapes and configurations are discussed in more detail below. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, in one embodiment, the first and third shields 60, 80 are connected via a channel / passage 210 that allows air supply or extraction, and similarly, the second and fourth shields 70, 90 are also connected via a channel / passage 210' that allows air supply or extraction. The channels / passages 210, 210' are discussed in more detail below.

[0027] In one embodiment, the exhaust duct 40 and the shroud 130 are configured to be stationary relative to the rotating air-permeable roller 120. Therefore, the air-permeable roller 120 can rotate relative to these stationary components during operation. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the exhaust duct 40 and the shroud 130, and their associated sealing elements 42, 132 (in... Figure 5 and Figure 6 (As shown in the detailed view) It can be made of various materials, such as, but not limited to, Teflon, metals, and plastics. In one embodiment, the sealing element is removable from the exhaust duct 40 and the housing 130, while in another embodiment, one or more sealing elements may be integrally formed with the exhaust duct 40 or the housing 130. As described in more detail below, in one embodiment, sealing elements 42, 132 are the end locations and / or edges of the exhaust duct 40 and the housing 130. In one embodiment, the exhaust duct 40 and the housing 130 may be configured to be substantially stationary during the operation of the air-permeable device, but one or both of the exhaust duct 40 and the housing 130 may be configured to be retractable and / or movable in non-operational conditions, for example for maintenance purposes and / or for easier access to specific components of the air-permeable device.

[0028] In one embodiment, the first and / or second shields 60, 70 may be removable and / or retractable relative to the exhaust duct 40 and / or the shroud 130. For example, it may sometimes be advantageous to remove and / or retract all or part of the shields 60, 70 to facilitate easier access to the interior of the air-permeable device. It should be understood that in another embodiment, the first and / or second shields 60, 70 may be secured to the exhaust duct 40 and / or the shroud 130 and are not designed to be removable and / or retractable in whole or in part.

[0029] In one embodiment, the first and / or second shields 60, 70 may be made of a flexible material to allow thermal expansion of the exhaust duct 40 and the shroud 130 during operation of the air-permeable device. Various flexible shield materials include, but are not limited to, expansion joints (with or without lining / reinforcing elements), overlapping joints, or any other joints that allow movement in one or both planes. For example, such as... Figure 4B , Figure 4E and Figure 4G As shown, the shield 60 may include one or more expansion joints, indicated by wavy lines. Figure 4B and 4C In the middle, the shield 60 has a roughly truncated cone shape. Conversely, in Figure 4E and Figure 4F In the illustrated embodiment, the shield 60 has a rectangular cross-sectional shape. Figure 4G and Figure 4H In the illustrated embodiment, the shield 60 has a flat plate-like cross-sectional shape. As shown, the expansion joint can be located in a horizontal plane, a vertical plane, or both.

[0030] Furthermore, in another embodiment, the first and / or second shields 60, 70 are envisioned to be retractable / slidable using spring-loaded components, and / or may incorporate labyrinth seals to further enhance the thermal efficiency of the device. In one embodiment, the first and / or second shields 60, 70 may be made of an overlapable, stretchable material.

[0031] As shown in Figure 4, the air-permeable roller 120 may include a perforated plate 11. Those skilled in the art will understand that, similar to the air-permeable roller 120, the roller perforated plate 11 may have a generally cylindrical shape, and the perforated plate 11 may include a plurality of openings therethrough to provide the required airflow characteristics through the air-permeable roller 120. As indicated by the arrows, in one embodiment, process air flows from the outside of the air-permeable roller 120 into the interior of the housing 130, through to the center of the air-permeable roller 120, and then out through the exhaust duct 40. In one embodiment, the air-permeable roller 120, which rotates relative to the roller perforated plate 11, may be stationary; however, in another embodiment, it is contemplated that the roller perforated plate 11 is coupled to and configured to rotate together with the air-permeable roller 120, as this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0032] like Figure 5 As shown by arrow B in the detailed view, in one embodiment, the first shroud 60 is positioned such that process air can flow through the shroud perforated plate 121, bypass the air penetration roller 120 and the roller perforated plate 11, travel along the length of the first shroud 60, and exit from the exhaust duct 40. It can be understood that the first shroud 60 serves to deflect the process air, thereby reducing the amount of process air released from the equipment and also reducing the amount of external air leaking into the equipment.

[0033] Figure 5 The illustrated embodiment shows that the exhaust duct sealing element 42 may be located at the end and / or edge of the exhaust duct 40. Similarly, Figure 5 It is also shown that the cover sealing element 132 may be located at the end position and / or edge of the cover 130. For example... Figure 5 As indicated by arrow B, the shield 60 can be configured such that the processing air is directed around the two sealing elements 42, 132.

[0034] like Figure 6 As shown, in one embodiment, the first shield 60 may include at least one channel (i.e., passage) 210 configured to direct air into the air-permeable device. Figure 6 As indicated by arrow C, channel 210 can be configured to recirculate system air from another portion of the air-permeable device back into the air-permeable device. As shown by arrow C, air can pass through channel 210 past the first shroud 60 and circulate towards the air-permeable roller 120 before entering the exhaust duct 40. Further details regarding channel 210 are described in more detail below. Figure 6 As indicated by the middle arrow C, the shield 60 can be configured such that the processing air is directed around the two sealing elements 42, 132.

[0035] As described in more detail below, aspects of this disclosure include the first shroud 60 and / or the second shroud 70 having at least one channel 210 configured to guide air into the air penetration device. As described below, air can be guided through the shrouds 60, 70 to a shroud sealing element and / or an exhaust duct sealing element to reduce ambient air infiltration into the air penetration device. As described below, the air guided through the channel 210 can originate from a variety of locations, including but not limited to recirculated system air from another part of the air penetration device system. In one embodiment, the air originates from the exhaust line of the air penetration device. Other air sources are also contemplated and discussed below. For example, unspecified heated and unheated air sources within the air penetration device system may also be used. As described below, at least one channel 210 may be provided in the shrouds 60, 70 to guide this air to a shroud sealing element 132 and / or an exhaust sealing element 42.

[0036] In one embodiment, the shroud 60 includes a valve configured to selectively close the first passage 210. Various types of valves can be used, including but not limited to gate valves, as this disclosure is not limited thereto. As described in more detail below, airflow through passage 210 can be controlled by adjusting fan speed, damper position, or variable flow restriction within the passage, or by other means, to allow for uniform air distribution through passage 210. As discussed in more detail below, in situations such as Figures 14-15 In one embodiment shown, various flow control devices 404, such as valves, baffles, etc., may be positioned in the air penetration device system to selectively close channel 210.

[0037] The inventors envision that this disclosure offers several advantages. First, the concepts of this disclosure can be used to improve the energy efficiency of air-permeable devices by recovering exhaust gas, minimizing internal heat loss, and / or reducing ambient air infiltration into the air-permeable device. Second, the concepts discussed herein can be used to help regulate and / or control the system air humidity level within the air-permeable device. Third, compared to conventional air-permeable devices, the concepts of this disclosure allow for a larger gap / space between the sealing element and the load-bearing web structure.

[0038] The general concept of including a channel configured to guide air into an air-permeable device is disclosed in the applicant's previously filed patent application US17 / 335,365 (filed June 1, 2021), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. This disclosure develops upon that previously filed patent application, and the concept is discussed in more detail below.

[0039] Now go to Figure 7 and Figure 8 Another embodiment of the air-penetrating device 300 having at least a first shield 162 extending substantially from the exhaust duct 40 to the roller dead zone (ineffective arc / region / area 124). As described above, in one embodiment, the first shield 60 extends radially about at least the effective arc length of the air-penetrating roller 120. In another embodiment, as described in more detail below, the portion of the air-penetrating roller 120 positioned outside the shield 130 defines the ineffective arc length, and the first shield 160 extends radially about both the effective and ineffective arc lengths on the drive side of the air-penetrating roller 120.

[0040] Figure 7 An embodiment of a cross-section of the first shroud 160 is shown in the dead zone at the exhaust duct 40, specifically at the shroud inlet and shroud outlet. As described above and as... Figure 1 As shown, when the air penetration roller 120 is configured to rotate clockwise, the hood inlet can be limited to position 134, and the hood outlet can be limited to position 136. Figure 7As shown, the first shield 160 may include a first segment 162 extending adjacent to the exhaust duct 40 and a second segment 164 adjacent to the shield body 130. In one embodiment, the first shield 160 includes a rib 166 configured to radially seal components of an air-permeable device, such as the roller head 142. In one embodiment, the first shield 160 further includes a third segment 168 positioned adjacent to the air-permeable roller 120. In one embodiment, the second and third segments 164, 168 of the first shield 160 serve as shield body sealing elements, and the upper surface of the second segment 164 is configured to axially seal a dead zone with the roller head 142. This disclosure contemplates that in one embodiment, the second and / or third segments 164, 168 of the first shield 160 may be movable and / or pivotable / slidable relative to the stationary first segment 162 of the first shield 160. As described above, the shield 160 may be removable and / or retractable relative to the exhaust duct 40 and / or the shroud 130 to provide easier access to the interior of the air-penetrating device.

[0041] As described above, the specific shape and construction of the shield 160 can vary depending on the specific embodiment. For example... Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment, the shroud 160 includes a first segment 162, which may have a generally frustoconical shape, with the smaller end adjacent to the exhaust duct 40 and the larger end adjacent to the shroud body 130. Figure 7 As shown, the shield 160 includes a second segment 164 having a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the shield 160 also includes a third segment 168 adjacent to the second segment 164, having a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape.

[0042] Figure 8 and Figure 7 The detailed views shown are similar, except... Figure 8 The diagram shows the cross-sectional shape of an embodiment of the first shield 160 at the exhaust duct 40 between the shield inlet 134 and the shield outlet 136, within the ineffective arc length (i.e., ineffective zone or dead zone) of the air penetration roller 120. Figure 8 As shown, in one embodiment, in the ineffective arc length, the shield 160 includes a first segment 162, which may have a generally frustoconical shape, with the smaller end adjacent to the exhaust duct 40 and the larger end adjacent to the ineffective roller region / arc 124. Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the shield 160 may further include a second segment 164' and an upwardly extending rib 166 positioned between the first and second segments 162, 164'. This configuration may be desirable because the rib 166 helps to radially seal the dead zone with the roller head 142, and the second segment 164' axially seals the dead zone with the roller head 142.

[0043] like Figure 5-8As shown, in one embodiment, the first shields 60, 160 may have a first cross-sectional shape within the effective arc length (see, for example...). Figure 5 and Figure 6 Furthermore, the first shields 60 and 160 may have a second cross-sectional shape in the ineffective arc length (see, for example...). Figure 8 ( ), where the shape of the first cross-section is different from the shape of the second cross-section. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the first protective covers 60 and 160 may also be located at the cover inlet 134 and cover outlet 136 (the cover inlet 134 and cover outlet 136 are shown in the figure). Figure 1 It has a third cross-sectional shape, wherein the third cross-sectional shape is different from the first or second cross-sectional shape.

[0044] Now go to Figure 9 and Figure 10 Another embodiment of an air-penetrating device 400 having at least a first shield 260, which extends substantially from the exhaust duct 40 to the ineffective arc / region 124 of the roller, will be described. In some aspects, Figure 9 and Figure 10 The embodiments shown are consistent with those described above. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The embodiments shown are similar, therefore the same reference numerals are used. More specifically, Figure 9 An embodiment of a cross-section of the first shroud 260 in the dead zone at the exhaust duct 40 at the shroud inlet and shroud outlet is shown. Figure 10 The cross-sectional shape of one embodiment of the first shield 260 is shown in the exhaust duct 40 between the shield inlet 134 and the shield outlet 136 in the ineffective arc length (i.e., ineffective region or dead zone) of the air penetration roller 120.

[0045] and Figure 7 and Figure 8 The embodiments shown are the opposite. Figure 9 and Figure 10 The illustrated embodiment includes a first shield 260 having at least one channel 210 configured to guide air into an air-permeable device. As described above, Figure 6 A first shield 60 is shown having a channel 210 extending radially with an effective arc length around the air-penetrating roller 120. Conversely, Figure 10 A first shroud 260 extending radially around the ineffective arc length of the air-penetrating roller is shown, wherein at least one channel 210 in the first shroud 260 is configured to guide air into the air-penetrating device, and Figure 9 A first shield 260 is shown, which has at least one channel 210 configured to guide air into an air penetration device, the channel extending within two transitions between an effective region and an ineffective region (i.e., at the shield inlet and shield outlet).

[0046] like Figure 9 As shown, the first shield 260 may include a first segment 162 extending adjacent to the exhaust duct 40 and a second segment 164 adjacent to the roller ineffective arc / region 124. In one embodiment, the first shield 260 includes a rib 166 configured to radially seal components of an air-permeable device, such as the roller head 142. In one embodiment, the first shield 260 also includes a third segment 168 adjacent to the air-permeable roller 120. In one embodiment, the second and third segments 164, 168 of the first shield 160 serve as shield sealing elements, and the upper surface of the second segment 164 is configured to axially seal the dead zone with the roller head 142. This disclosure contemplates that in one embodiment, the second and / or third segments 164, 168 of the first shield 260 may be movable and / or pivotable / slidable relative to the stationary first segment 162 of the first shield 160. As described above, the shield 260 may be removable and / or retractable relative to the exhaust duct 40 and / or the shroud 130 to facilitate easier access to the interior of the air-penetrating device.

[0047] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown, the first shroud 260 may include at least one channel 210. As illustrated, in this embodiment, channel 210 is configured to guide air to the end seal 280 of the air penetration roller 120. As illustrated, in one embodiment, the first shroud 260 includes another channel 210' configured to guide air into the shroud 130 of the air penetration device. In one embodiment, one channel 210' is positioned in a third segment 168 of the first shroud 260 to guide air into the shroud 130, and a second channel 210 is positioned in a second segment 164 of the first shroud 260 to guide air to the end seal 280 of the air penetration roller 120. In this embodiment, channels 210, 210' are oriented to guide air in a cross-machine direction (i.e., perpendicular to the axis of rotation 20 of the air penetration roller 120). As described below, the air guided through channels 210, 210' may originate from a variety of locations, including but not limited to recirculated air from another part of the air penetration device system.

[0048] Figure 10 A first shroud 260 extending radially around the ineffective arc length of the air-penetrating roller is shown, wherein at least one of the first shrouds 260 is configured to guide air into the air-penetrating device 210. In other words, Figure 10 The cross-sectional shape of one embodiment of the first shield 260 is shown at the exhaust duct 40 between the shield inlet 134 and the shield outlet 136, within the ineffective arc length (i.e., ineffective region or dead zone) of the air penetration roller 120. As shown Figure 10As shown, in an invalid arc length, in one embodiment, the shroud 260 includes a first segment 162, which may have a generally frustoconical shape, with the smaller end adjacent to the exhaust duct 40 and the larger end adjacent to the shroud 130. Figure 10 As shown, in this embodiment, the shield 160 may further include a second segment 164 and an upwardly extending rib 166 positioned between the first and second segments 162, 164. This configuration may be desirable because the rib 166 helps to radially seal the dead zone with the roller head 142, and the second segment 164' seals the dead zone axially with the roller head 142.

[0049] In addition, such as Figure 10 As shown, the first shield 260 may include at least one channel 210. As illustrated, in this embodiment, the channel 210 is configured to guide air to the end seal 280 of the air penetration roller 120. As described below, the air guided through the channel 210 may originate from a variety of locations, including but not limited to recirculated air from another part of the air penetration device system.

[0050] Figure 11 A detailed cross-sectional view of an air-penetrating device according to yet another embodiment is shown. Figure 11 A shroud 360 is shown in an embodiment with a single-ended exhaust duct, wherein the shroud 360 is located at the end of the air-permeable roller 120 that does not have an exhaust duct. The shroud 360 may extend radially about the ineffective arc length of the air-permeable roller 120. Figure 11 As shown, the shield 360 may include a segment 164 having upwardly extending ribs 166. This configuration may be desirable because the ribs 166 can help to radially seal the dead zone with the roller head 142, and the segment 164 can axially seal the dead zone with the roller head 142. Figure 11 As shown, the shield 360 also includes at least one channel 210 configured to guide air to the end slurry seal 280 of the air penetration roller 120.

[0051] Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a detailed cross-sectional view of an air penetration device according to another embodiment having dual-ended exhaust ducts 40, 40'. Figure 12 Show the maintenance side, Figure 13 The driving side is shown, and the two can be essentially mirror images of each other. For example... Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, there are guards 460 and 470 at each end of the air penetration roller 120. Figure 12 and Figure 13 The cross-sectional shape of one embodiment of the first shield 460 and second shield 470 is shown at the exhaust duct 40 between the shield inlet 134 and the shield outlet 136, within the ineffective arc length (i.e., ineffective region or dead zone) of the air penetration roller 120. Figure 12and Figure 13 As shown, in an embodiment of invalid arc length, each shield 460, 470 includes a first segment 162, which may have a generally frustoconical shape, with the smaller end adjacent to the exhaust duct 40 and the larger end adjacent to the roller 120. Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the guards 460, 470 may further include a second segment 164 and an upwardly extending rib 166 positioned between the first and second segments 162, 164. This configuration may be desirable because the rib 166 helps to radially seal the dead zone with the roller head 142, and the second segment 164 axially seals the dead zone with the roller head 142. As shown, each guard 460, 470 may include at least one channel 210 configured to guide air to the end slurry baffle seal 280 of the air penetration roller 120.

[0052] As outlined above, this disclosure contemplates various embodiments including one or more shields extending between the exhaust duct 40 and the shroud 130, and the shields may include one or more channels 210 configured to direct air into the air-permeable device. Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of an air penetration device system according to one embodiment, wherein air recirculation from inside device 200 is used to guide air through channel 210.

[0053] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of one embodiment of an air penetration device system is shown, wherein heated air is passed through a booster fan 204.

[0054] And pipeline 202 delivers to channel 210. With Figure 1 Similarly, the air penetration device 100 includes an air penetration roller 120 configured to rotate within a housing 130. As shown, a main fan 140 directs system air into the air penetration device 100 via duct 170, and an air heater 150 may be used to direct heated air into the air penetration device 100. Additionally, an exhaust fan 190 may be used to extract air from the device 100. In another embodiment, a booster fan 204 may not be necessary, and duct line 202 may be positioned downstream of the exhaust fan 190, such that the exhaust fan 190 can be used to direct air into duct line 202 and through channel 210.

[0055] Figure 15 Another schematic diagram of an air penetration device system according to another embodiment is shown. Figure 15 The illustrated embodiments and Figure 14 Similar to the one shown, but without the exhaust fan 190. Those skilled in the art will understand that the specific construction of the air penetration device system can vary, as this disclosure is not limited in this respect. It should be understood that... Figure 14 and Figure 15The structure of the air system, known as the burner, located downstream of the main fan, is described. For example... Figure 16 As shown, in another embodiment, a similar configuration can be provided, designed with the burner located before the main fan. As illustrated, in Figure 16 In the disclosed embodiments, the burner / air heater 150 is positioned directly in front of / upstream of the main fan 140. Conversely, in Figure 14 and Figure 15 In the disclosed embodiments, the burner / air heater 150 is located after / downstream of the main fan 140.

[0056] This disclosure also envisions a configuration where the air directed to channel 210 is not specifically derived from an exhaust line. For example, in one embodiment, the air directed to channel 210 is delivered via a main fan 140. In one embodiment, duct 202 may include one or more flow control devices 404, such as baffles or valves, to control the amount of air flowing toward the sealing element, which enables control / regulation of the humidity level of the system air.

[0057] In another embodiment, air is delivered to channel 210 via a heated air source, which may be located outside the system air of the air penetration device system. Unheated heat sources are also contemplated, as this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, in one embodiment, the air source may include preheated ambient air, other heated airflows in a paper machine or mill environment, or any other source of hot air. Other embodiments may include unheated air sources, as this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0058] This disclosure envisions various configurations for obtaining air from different sources (both within the air penetration device system and from external sources other than the system air of the air penetration device system), the air then being guided into the air penetration device through channel 210.

[0059] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that, in one embodiment, the air-penetrating device described above can be used in an air-penetrating dryer, while in another embodiment, the air-penetrating device described above can be used in an air-penetrating adhesive machine, as this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0060] The various embodiments of the invention described herein may be used in conjunction with one or more other embodiments, unless they are technically incompatible.

[0061] Although several embodiments of the invention have been described and illustrated herein, those skilled in the art will readily conceive of various other means and / or structures for performing the functions and / or obtaining the results and / or one or more advantages described herein, and each such variation and / or modification is considered to be within the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to determine many equivalents of the specific embodiments of the invention described herein through experiments not exceeding conventional methods. Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only, and that the invention may be practiced in ways different from the specific descriptions and claims within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. The invention relates to each individual feature, system, article, material, and / or method described herein. Furthermore, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, and / or methods, provided that such features, systems, articles, materials, and / or methods do not contradict each other, is included within the scope of the invention.

[0062] All definitions as defined and used herein should be understood as control dictionary definitions, definitions in incorporated documents by reference, and / or the general meaning of the defined terms.

[0063] The indefinite articles “a” and “an” used in this specification and claims, unless expressly stated otherwise, shall be understood to mean “at least one”.

[0064] The phrase “and / or” as used in this specification and claims should be understood to mean “any one or both” of the elements so connected, that is, elements that are associated in one case and separate in another. Other elements may optionally exist in addition to those specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether or not they are related to those specifically identified, unless the contrary is explicitly stated.

[0065] All references, patents and patent applications and publications cited or referenced in this application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Claims

1. An air-penetrating device for drying or bonding paper, tissue paper, or nonwoven webs, said device comprising: An air-permeable roller, the air-permeable roller being configured to rotate about a first axis, the air-permeable roller having a first end and a second end; An exhaust duct, the exhaust duct being adjacent to the first end of the air-penetrating roller; A cover that surrounds a portion of the air-permeable roller, wherein the cover defines an effective arc length in which the air-permeable roller is positioned within the cover; as well as A first shield extends substantially from the exhaust duct to the enclosure, the first shield being configured to reduce the amount of processing air released from the interior of the air-permeable device and to reduce the amount of air leaking from the exterior of the device into the air-permeable device.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The exhaust duct and the cover are configured to be stationary.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first shield has a generally truncated cone shape, with the smaller first end of the first shield adjacent to the exhaust duct and the larger second end of the first shield adjacent to the cover.

4. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first shield extends radially about at least the effective arc length of the first end of the air-penetrating roller.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The cover defines an ineffective arc length by which the air-penetrating roller is positioned outside the cover, wherein the first cover extends radially about at least the ineffective arc length of the first end of the air-penetrating roller.

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The air penetration device includes an effective area and an ineffective area, wherein the first shield extends radially around the first end of the air penetration roller in the effective area of ​​the air penetration device.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, At least a portion of the exhaust duct and the shroud are adjacent to the second end of the air-permeating roller, and the device further includes: A second shield, extending substantially from the exhaust duct to the enclosure, is configured to reduce the amount of processed air released from the interior of the air-permeable device and to reduce the amount of air leaking into the air-permeable device from the outside; and The first protective cover is positioned on the first end of the air-penetrating roller, and the second protective cover is positioned on the second end of the air-penetrating roller.

8. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that, Also includes: A first stationary bearing is located adjacent to the first end of the air-penetrating roller; as well as A third shield, which extends substantially between the exhaust duct and the first stationary bearing, is configured to reduce the amount of processing air released from the interior of the air-permeable device and to reduce the amount of air leaking into the air-permeable device from the outside.

9. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The third shield has a generally annular shape, with a first end adjacent to the exhaust duct and a second end adjacent to the first stationary bearing.

10. The device according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, Also includes: A second stationary bearing is located adjacent to the second end of the air-penetrating roller; A fourth shield, which extends substantially between the exhaust duct and the second stationary bearing, is configured to reduce the amount of processing air released from the interior of the air-permeable device and to reduce the amount of air leaking from the exterior of the device into the air-permeable device. and The third protective cover is positioned on the first end of the air-penetrating roller, and the fourth protective cover is positioned on the second end of the air-penetrating roller.

11. The device according to any one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that, The second shield has a generally truncated cone shape, with the smaller first end of the second shield adjacent to the exhaust duct and the larger second end of the second shield adjacent to the shroud.

12. The device according to any one of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that, The second shield extends radially about at least the effective arc length of the second end of the air-penetrating roller.

13. The device according to any one of claims 7 to 12, characterized in that, The cover defines an ineffective arc length by which the air-penetrating roller is positioned outside the cover, wherein the second cover extends radially about at least the ineffective arc length of the second end of the air-penetrating roller.

14. The device according to any one of claims 7 to 13, characterized in that, The air penetration device includes an effective area and an ineffective area, wherein the second shield extends radially around the second end of the air penetration roller in the effective area of ​​the air penetration device.

15. The device according to claim 10 or any of its dependent claims, characterized in that, The fourth shield has a generally annular shape, with a first end adjacent to the exhaust duct and a second end adjacent to the second stationary bearing.

16. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The first shield includes at least one channel configured to guide air into the air-penetrating device.

17. The device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The at least one channel is configured to recirculate system air from another portion of the air-penetrating device into the air-penetrating device.

18. The device according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, The at least one channel is configured to allow heated air from at least one of the following: exhaust gas from a Yankee hot air system, exhaust gas from a vacuum pump, exhaust gas from a turbine, or any other heated airflow, to flow into the air penetration device.

19. The device according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that, The airflow through the channel is controlled by adjusting the fan speed, the position of the baffle, or the variable flow limit within the channel, or by other means, so as to allow the air to be evenly distributed through the channel.

20. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that, The first shield is made of a flexible material to allow for thermal expansion of the exhaust duct and the shield.

21. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that, The first shield is removable and / or retractable relative to the exhaust duct and / or the cover.

22. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that, The cover defines an ineffective arc length by which the air-penetrating roller is positioned outside the cover, wherein the first cover extends radially about both the effective arc length and the ineffective arc length around the first end of the air-penetrating roller.

23. The device according to claim 22, characterized in that, The first shield has a first cross-sectional shape in the effective arc length and a second cross-sectional shape in the ineffective arc length, wherein the first cross-sectional shape is different from the second cross-sectional shape.

24. The device according to claim 23, characterized in that, The cover has a cover inlet and a cover outlet, wherein the first cover has a third cross-sectional shape at the cover inlet and the cover outlet, wherein the third cross-sectional shape is different from the first or second cross-sectional shape.

25. The device according to claim 16 or any of its dependent claims, characterized in that, The at least one channel in the first shield includes a channel configured to guide air to an end slurry seal at the first end of the air-permeable roller.

26. The device according to claim 16 or any of its dependent claims, characterized in that, The at least one channel in the first shroud includes a first channel configured to guide air into the shroud of the air-penetrating device, and a second channel configured to guide air to an end seal at the first end of the air-penetrating roller.

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