Extruder cooling nozzle

Abstract

The invention relates to a food or feed extruder cooling nozzle (1) having an annular slit-shaped extrudate flow channel (6) with an inner wall (14) and an outer wall (9), wherein the outer wall (9) of the extrudate flow channel (6) is composed of at least a first section (10) and a second section (11), and the inner wall (14) is connected at a first location to a first support structure (13) which extends over the entire length of the cooling tool (1) and at at least one second location to a second support structure (13'). The invention also relates to a food or feed extruder comprising such a cooling nozzle, and a method for manufacturing a wet-textured product using such a cooling nozzle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a cooling nozzle for an extruder. Background Technology

[0002] Some food products, such as meat substitutes, are typically produced using an extrusion step, in which the corresponding starting materials are processed and conveyed in an extruder under the required pressure and temperature conditions using at least one extruder shaft.

[0003] So-called wet extrusion often occurs during the extrusion of food and / or animal feed, in which fibrous structures are formed. This happens, for example, when extruding products containing animal or plant proteins. Achieving fibrous structures is not always easy because the extrudate typically expands at the extruder exit, which is not conducive to a dense, compact fibrous product structure.

[0004] To form a fibrous structure, existing technologies typically use cooling nozzles, which are arranged at the outlet of the extruder, to reduce the expansion of the extrudate, or, if necessary, to completely suppress the expansion of the extrudate.

[0005] Cooling nozzles come in a variety of designs.

[0006] For example, flat cooling nozzles are known in US-4,910,040, WO 96 / 36242, WO 99 / 13735, and EP-1 059 040 A1. However, such flat cooling nozzles must be designed to be quite wide, especially at high throughputs, much wider than the extruder outlet opening. This adversely affects the uniformity of flow rate within the cooling nozzle, which in turn negatively impacts the appearance and texture of the product. Furthermore, such cooling nozzles are structurally disadvantageous because the forces generated by the product pressure create bending moments on the flat walls of the cooling nozzle, necessitating a more robust wall structure.

[0007] On the other hand, for example, DE 24 06 146 and US-3,925,566 disclose designs for cooling nozzles with continuous annular extruder flow channels. In this case, securing the inner shell is problematic because it is separated by the continuous annular extruder flow channels. For example, it could be secured by a web, but the web must pass through the annular extruder flow channels, which disrupts product flow. Even if the web is still arranged in the inlet region of the cooling nozzle, such as in a dispenser, once separated, the strands of extruder, especially those containing proteins, will not reconnect uniformly, negatively impacting appearance and texture. The web in the end region of the cooling nozzle is also disadvantageous because it must be designed to be large for strength reasons, but this significantly reduces the cross-section of the product channel and also negatively impacts the product's appearance and texture.

[0008] EP-3 524 059 A1 describes a cooling nozzle in which an extruder flow channel is configured with an annular cut and extends longitudinally through the cooling nozzle. A portion of the extruder flow channel is interrupted by a support structure that extends substantially along the entire length of the cooling nozzle for securing the inner wall of the extruder flow channel (i.e., the inner shell). The outer wall of the extruder flow channel is composed of at least two segments that are hinged and / or pivotally secured to the support structure (13). By pivoting the segments, the extruder flow channel is opened and can be cleaned in a simple manner.

[0009] However, the cooling nozzle in EP-3 524 059 A1 is not ideal for extrusions operating at high pressures (e.g., 50 bar, compared to 30-35 bar previously used). The cooling nozzle cannot reliably withstand the resulting higher loads, at the expense of process safety.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for a cooling nozzle that has excellent cooling performance and cleanliness, but also very good process safety even under high pressure. Summary of the Invention

[0011] This invention solves the problem.

[0012] Specifically, the present invention relates to a cooling nozzle for a food or feed extruder, which has An extruder flow channel having an inner wall and an outer wall, wherein the extruder flow channel extends from the inlet end of the cooling nozzle to the outlet end of the cooling nozzle and is formed as an annular cut in the cross section (XX) relative to the main flow direction; At least one coolant flow channel, and an extrudate flow channel connected to its heat transfer; The outer wall of the extrudate flow channel (6) is composed of at least a first section and a second section, and The inner wall is connected at the first location to a first support structure that extends along the entire length of the cooling tool. Its features are, The inner wall is connected to the second support structure at at least one second location, and The sections of the outer wall are connected to the supporting structure via mechanical connecting elements.

[0013] According to the invention, a cooling nozzle for a food or feed extruder has an inlet end that can be fastened to the food or feed extruder (2) and can be introduced into the cooling tool through the extrudate. The fastening is preferably designed to be removable so that the cooling nozzle can be easily replaced or removed for maintenance or cleaning. Fastening is preferably performed using screws (e.g., hexagonal screws), clamping bars, or tensioning buckles, by which a defined contact force can be achieved in a conventional manner.

[0014] The cooling nozzle also has an outlet end on which the cooled extrudate can be discharged. The cooled extrudate can be shaped in the area of ​​the outlet end, as described below.

[0015] The extrudate flow channel extends between the inlet and outlet ends of the cooling tool. The extrudate flow channel is configured with an annular cut in its cross-section (XX) relative to the main flow direction. Within the scope of this invention, the annular cut can be, in particular, circular, elliptical, polygonal, spline curve, or a combination thereof. A circular annular cut is preferred. The annular cut design allows for particularly uniform product distribution, uniform flow velocity, and uniform cooling. Furthermore, it has been proven that thinner-walled structures than those in the prior art are possible because product pressure essentially generates only tensile forces, while bending forces are negligible.

[0016] The extrudate flow channel has an inner wall and an outer wall.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment of the cooling tool, the inner wall of the extrudate flow channel is substantially cylindrical, particularly hollow cylindrical. From a manufacturing perspective, this design is particularly easy to manufacture.

[0018] The inner wall of the extrudate flow channel is preferably a one-piece design. This ensures simple manufacturing and good cleanability because, as described below, the outer surface of the inner wall (which is also the boundary of the extrudate flow channel) can be exposed by folding the outer wall.

[0019] The outer wall of the extrudate flow channel is composed of at least a first segment and a second segment in cross-section relative to the main flow direction. Two segments are particularly preferred, but it may also consist of three, four or more segments.

[0020] According to the present invention, the segment is preferably manufactured by sand casting. Sand casting (also known as sand mold process) is a known casting process in which materials such as metal are poured into a sand mold, and the sand mold is removed after the material solidifies.

[0021] A particularly preferred design is one in which the outer wall of the extrudate flow channel is composed of two segments mechanically connected to the support structures described below, preferably two support structures. These segments can be further subdivided into sub-segments, which are preferably interconnected by mechanical connecting elements. Screws (e.g., hexagonal screws), clamping rods, or tensioning clips are also suitable mechanical connection methods; screw connections are particularly preferred.

[0022] The outer wall is constructed of removable, and particularly foldable, sections, which makes the extrudate flow channels and the entire cooling tool exceptionally simple and reliable to clean. The inner surface of the outer wall forms the boundary of the extrudate flow channels. Removing the outer wall exposes the extrudate flow channels (and thus the outer surface of the inner wall), allowing for cleaning.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the outer wall of the extrudate flow channel is cylindrical, particularly hollow cylindrical, in the working state (i.e., in the state where the outer wall is not disassembled).

[0024] Each section of the outer wall may have handles or similar elements to make it easier to move each section.

[0025] According to the invention, the inner wall is connected at a first location to a first support structure extending along the entire length of the cooling tool. This first location is preferably chosen such that it is situated on the bottom surface of the cooling nozzle during operation. Therefore, the first support structure can preferably be arranged on a suitable substrate, such as a maintenance and transport vehicle. Preferably, the first support structure is screwed onto the transport vehicle. Even during operation, the arrangement on the transport vehicle remains advantageous.

[0026] The first support structure interrupts the extruder flow channel because it is connected to the inner wall (which represents the internal boundary of the extruder flow channel).

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a first and a second section of the outer wall of the extrudate flow channel are hinged and / or pivotally fastened to a first support structure, for example, via hinges. As described above, this hinge or pivoting exposes the extrudate flow channel, and the extrudate flow channel can be cleaned with minimal disassembly effort.

[0028] The seal between the outer wall segment and the first support structure is preferably achieved through a purely metallic seal via pressure contact between the segment and the first support structure. In an alternative embodiment, the seal may be achieved or supported by an elastomeric seal, particularly inserted into a recess.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, pipelines may be provided in the first support structure, through which coolant can be introduced and discharged into the coolant flow channels.

[0030] According to the invention, the inner wall is further connected to a second support structure at at least one second location.

[0031] Preferably, the inner wall is connected to the support structure at two opposite locations. In a preferred embodiment, the inner wall is a one-piece cylinder, preferably a hollow cylinder, and the support structure is arranged on the inner wall such that the support structure forms an angle of 180°.

[0032] The second support structure also interrupts the extruder flow channel because it is connected to the inner wall (representing the internal boundary of the extruder flow channel).

[0033] Therefore, the annular extruder flow channel is interrupted by corresponding support structures at at least two locations. This means that the extruder flow channel is formed by two annular cuts, preferably circular annular cuts, which are separated from each other by support structures.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the inner wall is a one-piece cylindrical shape, preferably a hollow cylindrical shape, and the support structure is arranged on the inner wall such that the center of the support structure (e.g., in the case of a mirror-symmetric support structure, through the mirror plane of the support structure) forms an angle of 180°, and the extrudate flow channel is substantially in the form of two annular cuts in cross-section relative to the main flow direction, particularly circular annular cuts, wherein the angle of each cut is less than 180° (because a portion of the usable area is occupied by the support structure).

[0035] If the arrangement ratio of the supporting structures is different, the angle covered by each annular cut will also change accordingly.

[0036] It is also conceivable to install two or more of the aforementioned support structures on the inner wall of the cooling nozzle. In this case, the extrudate flow channel is further interrupted by other support structures and divided into correspondingly more and smaller annular slits.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first and second sections of the outer wall of the extrudate flow channel are detachably fastened to a second (and any other) support structure by mechanical connecting elements. Screws (e.g., hexagonal screws), clamping rods, or tensioning buckles are also suitable mechanical connections; screw connections are particularly preferred. The seal between the sections of the outer wall and the second support structure is preferably achieved by pressure contact between the sections and the second support structure in a purely metallic manner. In alternative embodiments, the seal may be achieved or supported by an elastomeric seal, particularly inserted into a recess.

[0038] By providing a second support structure, the process reliability of the cooling nozzle is improved even under high pressures, such as 50 bar. This is because the cooling nozzle is designed to be more stable. According to the cooling nozzle of EP-3 524 059 A1, the inner wall is stabilized together with the entire support structure through more connecting structures (such as seams, such as welds, or point connections, such as screw connections). These connection points can have smaller dimensions because stability is achieved through more points, and thermal deformation is better preserved in the case of welded connections.

[0039] Furthermore, by providing a second support structure, a more uniform flow of the extrudate through the cooling nozzle is achieved. Although the cooling nozzle according to EP-3 524 059 A1 exhibits a so-called parabolic effect (the extrudate flows faster as the distance from the support structure increases, thus forming a parabolic flow profile), this effect is mitigated by the cooling nozzle according to the invention because there are two support structures, the distance between the extrudate and the support structures is small, and there is no significant difference in flow velocity.

[0040] The shape of the support structure is limited to its function of reliably supporting the cooling nozzles and keeping them closed during operation. For example, the support structure can be a profile element, and preferably has the cross-section of a track profile. The shapes of the support structures can differ from one another.

[0041] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the support structure is connected together by at least one strut passing through the inner wall, preferably 1 to 20 struts, more preferably 2 to 10 struts.

[0042] These supports provide additional stability, resulting in a more robust support structure. At least one support can be fastened to or into each support structure in the usual manner.

[0043] The cooling nozzle according to the invention has at least one coolant flow channel, to which the extrudate flow channel is connected for heat transfer. Heat transfer is preferably carried out by convection.

[0044] According to the present invention, two coolant flow channels are preferably provided, wherein the coolant flow channel that is thermally connected to the extrudate flow channel is located inside the extrudate flow channel, and the other coolant flow channel is located outside the extrudate flow channel.

[0045] Inside the extrudate flow channel, the coolant flow channel is preferably formed in the inner wall, and particularly preferably in a spiral shape. Outside the extrudate flow channel, the coolant flow channel is preferably formed meanderingly in various sections of the outer wall.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the support structure is interconnected by at least one strut passing through the inner wall, and the coolant flow channel is formed in a spiral shape around at least one strut inside the extrusion flow channel.

[0047] The coolant flow channels are preferably completely closed, and preferably welded, so that even during disassembly, replacement or maintenance can only be performed through the coolant inlet and outlet. This structurally avoids product contamination. The inlet and outlet are preferably designed as nozzles, with the coolant flowing counter-currently against the main flow direction of the product.

[0048] Particularly preferably, as described above, at least one coolant flow channel on the inner side of the extrudate flow channel can be supplied with coolant through the first support structure. This ensures a particularly reliable supply, even during disassembly (e.g., for cleaning the extrudate flow channel), without the need to open or remove it.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment of the cooling nozzle according to the invention, a particularly replaceable distributor is provided in the region at the inlet end. The distributor is configured such that the extrudate can be supplied through a single distribution channel from the outlet channel (typically not annular or annular cut) of the food or feed extruder to the extrudate flow channel of the annular cut.

[0050] Preferably, the distribution channel has a constant cross-sectional area for at least 50%, preferably at least 70%, and more preferably at least 90% of its length (from the outlet of the extruder to the inlet of the extrudate flow channel). This allows for a uniform flow rate.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a material distributor, preferably a wedge-shaped element, is provided in front of the support structure in the distribution channel. This ensures that the extruded material is evenly distributed along the annular cut in the extrudate flow channel.

[0052] Unlike known finger dispensers, which are typically 10 cm or longer (especially 20 cm or longer, and often even 40 cm or longer), this design of dispenser does not cause any adverse changes to the product's appearance and texture, changes that in the prior art are likely based on extrusion strands that are separated in the finger dispenser and are no longer uniformly connected in the cooling section. Compared to finger dispensers, the dispenser of the present invention also offers significantly improved removability and cleanability.

[0053] Dispensers are best constructed to be interchangeable, for example, screw-on.

[0054] By changing the distributor, product characteristics can be specifically influenced. It has been found that, in particular, by inducing shear contraction within the product, thereby introducing energy into the product, a certain fibrous structure can be achieved within it.

[0055] Preferably, the dispenser includes a dispensing element preferably configured as a cone. Forming a cone is particularly advantageous. Of course, it can also be designed as a truncated cone, especially a truncated circular cone. In the case of a conical or conical structure, the dispenser can also have a tip with a spherical cross-sectional shape, thereby allowing for targeted influence on flow behavior and adaptation to the extrudate. The backflow pressure in the extruder affects the degree of shear in the product. The dispensing element can be securely applied to the cooling nozzle (e.g., by welding). According to another embodiment, the dispensing element is detachably disposed on the cooling nozzle; for example, it can be inserted into a recess and held in that recess by the pressure of the product flowing to the dispensing element; thus, interchangeability is particularly easily achieved.

[0056] Therefore, the present invention also relates to a dispensing element comprising a tapered front portion and at least one means on the rear portion for securing the dispensing element to a cooling nozzle, characterized in that a coolant zone is provided in the dispensing element for supplying coolant.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the dispenser is configured with one or more cooling channels for cooling the dispensing channels from the outside and / or inside. Cooling the dispensing channels prevents localized overheating in this area. It has been found that the extrudate may be heated more in this area of ​​the dispenser than in other areas. This can be effectively offset by targeted cooling. To determine the temperature of the extrudate within the dispenser's area, a temperature sensor can be provided, preferably embedded in the wall so that it does not substantially impede the flow of the extrudate. Based on the measured temperature, cooling can be controlled and / or regulated, for example, by adjusting the coolant temperature and / or the coolant flow rate.

[0058] According to the invention, a temperature control zone is preferably present in the distributor in the axial direction (i.e., along the extrudate flow direction). This temperature control zone is preferably formed in the distribution element. As described above, the distribution element has a tapered front portion. For example, coolant can be introduced into this front portion through a coolant inlet (preferably a cooling water inlet). For example, the coolant inlet can be connected to one of the coolant flow channels of the cooling nozzle, thereby supplying coolant to it. However, coolant can also be supplied to at least one coolant flow channel of the cooling nozzle and the coolant inlet of the distribution element through a common supply line or a separate supply line.

[0059] Preferably, the coolant inlet of the distribution element is located at the center of the distribution element and ends with an outlet at the conical front. Therefore, the coolant preferably enters directly into the conical end of the distribution element. Preferably, the end portion of the conical end of the distribution element is connected to the remaining internal space of the distribution element only through one or more elements that generate a rotating water column as the coolant passes through. Examples of such elements include tubular lines (e.g., 2 to 10, preferably 2 to 6 tubular lines), guide plates, or axial fans. The coolant can only flow back through these elements, and turbulence occurs in the process. The distribution element acts as a static mixer. The coolant can then be discharged from the distribution element through at least one coolant outlet, preferably located in the rear region of the distribution element. Apart from the coolant inlet and outlet, the internal region of the distribution element is enclosed.

[0060] In other preferred embodiments, an orifice plate may be provided in the end region of the dispenser facing away from and / or towards the extruder, thereby narrowing the dispensing channel. Preferably, such an orifice plate may be configured as a perforated plate or an orifice plate with slits formed as circular segments. Here, the circular or annular segments may be configured as segments of a single circle or ring, or as segments of different circles or rings.

[0061] Using such an orifice plate, product characteristics, especially fibrous properties, can be selectively influenced; long and short fibers, as well as amorphous or uniform structures, can be obtained. The thickness of the orifice plate in the main flow direction is 0.1 to 1.0 cm, preferably 0.15 to 0.9 cm, more preferably 0.2 to 0.8 cm. For an orifice plate of such short length (narrow), the known disadvantages of finger dispensers are not observed.

[0062] In another preferred embodiment, a cutting web is provided at the outlet end of the cooling tool in the region of the extrudate flow channel so that the cooled extrudate can be immediately split into strands upon exit. The cutting web can be arranged on a cutting plate assembled at the outlet end of the cooling tool, located upstream of the extrudate flow channel. Furthermore, a cutting device can be provided downstream of the cutting web to divide the strands according to length. This can be achieved, for example, by a rotating blade. Such a cutting device is known, for example, from EP-3 539 748 A1.

[0063] Using this cooling nozzle, extrusion capacities of 125 to 2000 kg / h (especially 175 to 1500 kg / h, even more especially 225 to 1000 kg / h) can be achieved, while the cooling nozzle is small in size, typically 0.5 to 2.5 m in length (especially 0.75 to 2.25 m, even more especially 1 to 2 m) and 100 to 800 mm in diameter (especially 200 to 600 mm, even more especially 300 to 400 mm).

[0064] The cooling nozzles in areas that come into contact with food or feed, particularly in the extrusion flow channels, are made of stainless steel (e.g., models 1.43xx or 1.44xx according to EN 10088). These materials offer high food safety. The preferred material roughness ranges from Ra 1.6 to Ra 0.8 (according to DIN EN ISO 4287:1998).

[0065] The present invention also relates to a food or feed extruder that includes a cooling nozzle as described above.

[0066] According to the invention, any conventional extruder can be equipped with the cooling nozzle according to the invention. Extruders are well known in the art. For example, reference can be made to Bühler's WO 2012 / 158023 A1 or extruders, particularly twin-screw extruders. The L / D ratio (total length to screw diameter) of such extruders is preferably in the range of 20 to 60, more preferably 25 to 50, and particularly preferably 25 to 40. According to the invention, the extruder is preferably operated at a speed of 100 to 1000 rpm, more preferably at a speed of 300 to 500 rpm, and even more preferably at a speed of 350 to 400 rpm.

[0067] To connect the cooling nozzle of the present invention to the extruder, a suitable conventional connection device, such as screws, can be used to detachably arrange the cooling nozzle at the extruder outlet. According to the present invention, the cooling nozzle preferably has a flange with a screw opening at its inlet end. As mentioned above, if a distributor is arranged at the inlet end of the cooling nozzle, the distributor has corresponding connection options.

[0068] According to the present invention, the cooling nozzle (or the distributor disposed thereon) is connected to the extruder in such a way that the outlet channel of the extruder is in flow communication with the inlet channel of the cooling nozzle. The extrudate discharged from the extruder is directly introduced into the cooling nozzle (or the distributor disposed thereon).

[0069] The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a wet textured product, the method comprising the following steps: a) Wet extrusion of raw materials in a food or feed extruder. b) A cooling nozzle, as described above, is installed at the outlet of the food or feed extruder to allow the wet extruded material to pass through.

[0070] For example, suitable starting materials and extrusion conditions are described in WO 2021 / 032866 A1, WO 2023 / 156681 and WO 2023 / 099413.

[0071] Preferably, the above method can produce products that mimic the characteristics of meat and fish and their nutritional role.

[0072] This product is preferably based on raw materials containing proteins, preferably plant proteins, insect proteins, cellular proteins (including cellular proteins from yeast, bacteria, microalgae, fungi, etc.), fermentation products produced by fermentation of one of the above organisms, molds, etc., or mixtures of different proteins. Attached Figure Description

[0073] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to non-limiting embodiments and accompanying drawings. The drawings show: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a food or feed extruder according to the present invention is shown, which is provided with cooling nozzles; Figure 2 The cooling nozzle according to the invention is shown along Figure 3 The cross-section of plane XX in the middle; Figure 3 The cooling nozzle according to the invention is shown along Figure 2 The longitudinal section of plane YY in the middle; Figure 4a A cooling nozzle according to the invention is shown, the section of its outer wall being folded; Figure 4b A cooling nozzle according to the invention is shown, wherein segments of its outer wall are connected together; Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a longitudinal section of an embodiment of the inlet region of a cooling nozzle according to the present invention is shown; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the outlet plate of the cooling nozzle according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0074] In the figures, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0075] Figure 1An extruder E is schematically shown, consisting of sections (2a-2g) (also called the barrel). Raw material V is supplied via a gravimetric meter B. Water or steam is supplied via a supply S. A cooling nozzle is labeled 1. The extrudate enters the cooling nozzle 1 from the extruder's outlet channel 16. The cooling medium is preferably supplied downstream of the cooling nozzle and discharged upstream of it. Thus, the flow direction of the cooling medium is opposite to the flow direction of the extrudate through the cooling nozzle. The temperature of the coolant can be regulated (controlled or adjusted) by a temperature regulator; this is illustrated by the controller C. The temperature regulator is particularly preferably designed to control, and preferably substantially completely suppress, the expansion of the cooled extrudate. However, for some products, it is reasonable and possible to allow a certain degree of expansion of the cooled extrudate. For example, this may be desirable for products requiring subsequent marinating, as this allows the marinade to adhere better. Sensory characteristics will also be affected, for example, resulting in a texture similar to "pulled pork." This too can be controlled or adjusted by the temperature regulator.

[0076] Figure 2 The cooling tool 1 is shown along Figure 3 The cross-section of plane XX shown (along the viewing direction). Flange 21 can be seen in the area at the inlet end of the cooling tool. This flange 21 contains a through-piece 22 in which mechanical connecting elements such as screws can be arranged to connect the distributor 15 or the extruder E (e.g., Figure 3 and Figure 5 (As shown). Handles 21a and 12b are also located on flange 21. Flange cover. Figure 1 The entire front surface of the cooling nozzle 1 is shown. However, in Figure 2 In the image, the middle area of ​​flange 21 is omitted, and the outer periphery of flange 21 is shown only in shaded areas to show the components behind it.

[0077] Figure 2 The lower region shows the first support structure 13 (behind the outer periphery of the flange 21, indicated by dashed lines in this region). The first support structure 13 is adjacent to annularly shaped extrusion flow channels 6 on both sides. Mechanical connecting elements 12 are provided on both sides of the first support structure 13 (in... Figure 2 Only one mechanical connecting element 12 is visible on the left side. The mechanical connecting element 12 allows it to detachably fasten the first section 10 and the second section 11 of the outer wall 9 of the extrusion flow channel 6.

[0078] The first support structure 13 is mounted on the transport vehicle 25 (preferably detachable).

[0079] In addition, Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, the first segment 10 and the second segment 11 of the outer wall 9 are mounted on the transport vehicle 25 and are pivotally connected. After releasing the mechanical connecting element 12, the first segment 10 and the second segment 11 of the outer wall 9 can be folded laterally. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, the folding of the first section 10 and the second section 11 of the outer wall 9 is supported by handles 10a and 11a, which are respectively provided on the first section 10 and the second section 11 of the outer wall 9.

[0080] exist Figure 2 The second support structure 13' is shown in the upper region (behind the outer periphery of flange 21, indicated by dashed lines in this region). Annularly shaped extrusion flow channels 6 are also adjacent to the second support structure 13' on both sides. Mechanical connecting elements 12' are arranged on both sides of the second support structure 13' (in... Figure 2 In the middle, mechanical connecting element 12' is only visible on the left side. Mechanical connecting element 12' is used to detachably fasten the first section 10 and the second section 11 to the outer wall 9 of the extrudate flow channel 6.

[0081] The annular cut-shaped extrusion flow channel 6 is interrupted only by the first support structure 13 and the second support structure 13'.

[0082] The outer wall 9 is constructed as a hollow wall; it contains coolant flow channels 7b and 7b'. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, it is meandering.

[0083] The extrudate flow channel 6 also has an inner wall 14. The inner wall 14 is also constructed as a hollow wall; it further contains a coolant flow channel 7a. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, it is spiral-shaped. The coolant flow channel 7a in the inner wall 14 is uninterrupted.

[0084] Preferably, the coolant flow channels 7a of the inner wall 14 and 7b and 7b' of the outer wall 9 can be supplied with coolant independently of each other, and the temperature of each coolant can be controlled and / or regulated independently of each other. For example, the coolant flow channels 7b and 7b' of the outer wall 9 can be supplied with coolant through inlet 23 (see Figure 3 The coolant is supplied through the coolant flow channel 7a of the inner wall 14 via the first support structure 13 (not shown). However, the coolant can also be supplied thereas, preferably via the first support structure 13 (not shown).

[0085] Figure 2 Coolant inlet 28 is also shown, to which coolant can be supplied, for example, via support structure 13, and to which coolant is directed. Figure 5 In the distribution element 15a shown.

[0086] In addition, Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the first support structure 13 and the second support structure 13' are connected to each other via a central pillar 4. The pillar 4 is preferably fixedly arranged in the first support structure 13 and the second support structure 13', and additionally stabilizes the cooling nozzle 1.

[0087] Figure 2 The support column 2 is shown. However, multiple such supports column 4 can be arranged sequentially in the longitudinal direction of the cooling nozzle 1.

[0088] Figure 3 The cooling tool is shown along Figure 2 The figure shows a longitudinal section of plane YY. The coolant inlet 23 and outlet 24 are visible in the lower region. Internal coolant flow channel 7a and external coolant flow channels 7b and 7b' are both supplied through inlet 23. In the left-hand region of the figure, at the inlet end 3 of the cooling tool 1, a distributor 15 and distribution element 15a are provided. The extrudate enters the distributor 15 from the outlet channel 16 of the extruder (not shown), is then guided to the distributor channel 17, and then into the extrudate flow channel 6 of the cooling tool 1. The main flow direction is denoted as 8; the outlet end 5 of the cooling tool is correspondingly arranged in the right-hand region of the figure. Pressure sensor 27 and temperature sensor 26 are also provided in the distributor 15. The determined pressure or temperature values ​​can be advantageously used to control or regulate operating parameters (e.g., coolant temperature of extruder E and / or cooling nozzle 1 and / or distributor 15), and can also be used to monitor the process and / or ensure repeatability.

[0089] The second support structure 13' with (here, two) pillars 4 is shown in the middle.

[0090] Figure 4a A cooling nozzle 1 with folded sections 10 and 11 having outer walls is shown; an inlet region 3 with a distributor 15 is located at the rear of the image, and an outlet region 5 is located at the front of the image. The two sections 10 and 11 are hinged to a support structure 13, allowing them to be easily folded onto a suitable substrate, such as a maintenance and transport vehicle 25, after prior disengagement from the second support structure 13'. The entire extrusion flow channel is then free, and the inner wall 14 can be ideally accessed for cleaning purposes. The first support structure 13 is screwed onto the transport vehicle 25. The arrangement on the transport vehicle 25 remains intact even during operation. The transport vehicle 25 occupies minimal space and can be easily adjusted and modified at any time.

[0091] Figure 4b The cooling nozzle 1 and its sections 10 and 11 are shown. Sections 10 and 11 are supported by pneumatic dampers for easy maintenance.

[0092] Figure 5The distributor 15 and inlet end 3 of the cooling tool 1 are shown. Figure 2 The image shows an enlarged view of the longitudinal section of plane YY. Distributor 15 is located in the left part of the image, with its tip facing the opposite direction of the main flow direction to the distribution element 15a. This distribution element 15a is held in place by a simple insertion fastening method. An orifice plate 18, configured as a slit orifice plate, is provided at the tip of the distribution element 15a. Further down the distribution channel 17, another orifice plate 19, configured as a perforated orifice plate, is provided. The holes or slits on the orifice plates 18 and 19 narrow the distribution channel 17 and contribute to the texture of the product. Distributor 15 is cooled by a temperature control zone 20 located within the cone of the distribution element 15a. The temperature control zone 20 is supplied with coolant by a coolant inlet 28. The front region of the coolant zone 20 is separated from the rest of the distribution element interior by only two tubular lines 30. This allows the coolant to be agitated within the coolant zone 20. The coolant can exit the coolant zone 20 through an outlet 24, located in the rear region of the distribution element 15a.

[0093] In distributor 15, pressure sensor 27 and temperature sensor 26 are directed to the top and middle of distribution channel 17, respectively. Material dispensers, preferably wedges 29 and 29', are visible at the top and bottom of distribution channel 17. These transfer the annular distribution channel 17 into the extrusion flow channel 6, which is designed with annular cutouts. Coolant outlet 24 is visible in the lower region.

[0094] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the outlet plate 31 of the cooling nozzle 1 according to the present invention is shown. The outlet plate 31 may be disposed at the outlet end of the cooling nozzle 1, for example, by means of screws. The outlet plate 31 has openings 32 through which the cooled extrudate exits the cooling nozzle 1. These openings 32 may serve as cutting webs so that the cooled extrudate can be immediately shaped and split into strands upon exit. The outlet plate 31 functions as a cutting plate.

Claims

1. A cooling nozzle (1) for a food or feed extruder, the cooling nozzle for the food or feed extruder having: i) An extrudate flow channel (6) having an inner wall (14) and an outer wall (9), wherein, The extrudate flow channel (6) extends from the inlet end (3) of the cooling nozzle (1) to the outlet end (5) of the cooling nozzle (1) and is formed as an annular cut (6', 6'') in the cross section (XX) relative to the main flow direction (8). ii) at least one coolant flow channel (7), the extrudate flow channel (6) being connected to its heat transfer; The outer wall (9) of the extrudate flow channel (6) is composed of at least a first section (10) and a second section (11), and The inner wall (14) is connected at a first location to a first support structure (13) that extends along the entire length of the cooling tool (1). Its features are, The inner wall (14) is connected to the second support structure (13') at at least one second location, and The segments (10, 11) of the outer wall (9) are connected to the support structure (13, 13') by mechanical connecting elements (12).

2. The cooling nozzle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall (14) is connected to the support structure (13, 13') at two opposite locations.

3. The cooling nozzle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The support structure (13, 13') is connected together by at least one strut passing through the inner wall (14), preferably 1 to 20 struts, preferably 2 to 10 struts.

4. The cooling nozzle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The inner wall (14) is an integral cylindrical shape, preferably a hollow cylindrical shape, and is connected to the support structure (13, 13') such that the center of the support structure (13, 13') forms an angle of 180°.

5. The cooling nozzle according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The extrudate flow channel (6) is formed by two annular cuts (6', 6''), preferably circular annular cuts, which are separated from each other by the support structure (13, 13').

6. The cooling nozzle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The segments (10, 11) of the outer wall (9) are hinged and / or pivotally fastened to the first support structure (13) and detachably fastened to the second support structure (13') by means of mechanical connecting elements (12).

7. The cooling nozzle according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, A specially replaceable dispenser (15) is provided in the area of ​​the inlet end (3), which is configured to allow the extrudate to be supplied from the outlet channel of the food or feed extruder (E) to the extrudate flow channel (6) through a single distribution channel (17).

8. The cooling nozzle according to claim 7, characterized in that, A temperature control zone is formed in the distributor (15) along the axial direction.

9. The cooling nozzle according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, In the distribution channel (17), a material distributor (29, 29'), preferably a wedge-shaped element, is provided in front of the support structure (13, 13').

10. The cooling nozzle according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that, At least one perforated plate (18, 19) is provided in the area of ​​the dispenser (15).

11. The cooling nozzle according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The first coolant flow channel (7a) is disposed in the inner wall (14), and the second coolant flow channel (7b) is disposed in the outer wall (9) and is heat-transfer connected to the extrudate flow channel (6).

12. The cooling nozzle according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first coolant flow channel (7a) can be supplied with coolant through one of the support structures (13, 13').

13. A dispensing element (15a), the dispensing element comprising a tapered front portion and at least one means on the rear portion for securing the dispensing element to a cooling nozzle (1), characterized in that, The distribution element (15a) contains a coolant zone (20) that can supply coolant.

14. A food or feed extruder, said food or feed extruder comprising a cooling nozzle according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

15. A method for manufacturing a wet-textured product, the method comprising the following steps: a) Wet extrusion of the raw material in the food or feed extruder. b) A cooling nozzle according to any one of claims 1 to 12 is provided at the outlet of the food or feed extruder to allow the wet-extruded extrudate to pass through.

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