Drying device and material feeding system
By integrating drying equipment and material feeding system, the problem of high moisture content in lithium battery powder has been solved, achieving efficient drying and cooling of powder within the same equipment. This simplifies the process, reduces costs, and improves production efficiency, while meeting the moisture requirements of solid-state batteries.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CONTEMPORARY AMPEREX TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-25
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-16
AI Technical Summary
The existing lithium battery industry powder has a high moisture content, which cannot be used directly in solid-state batteries. It requires step-by-step drying and transportation, resulting in a complex process, high equipment costs, and instability.
Design an integrated drying device that combines heating and cooling pipelines to complete the drying and cooling of powder materials within the same equipment. A temperature control system is formed by a mold temperature controller and a chiller. Combined with a vibration motor and an elastic support structure, the material feeding system is optimized to realize the complete process flow of powder materials within the same equipment.
The process was simplified, equipment costs and labor consumption were reduced, production efficiency was improved, uniform drying and cooling of powder were ensured, the risk of powder getting damp was reduced, and the stringent moisture requirements of solid-state batteries were met.
Smart Images
Figure CN224365216U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of lithium battery manufacturing technology, and in particular to a drying device and a material feeding system. Background Technology
[0002] Currently, the powder materials used in the lithium battery industry have a relatively high moisture content, while solid-state batteries require the moisture content of raw materials to be below 40ppm. Therefore, existing powder materials cannot be used directly for solid-state batteries and must undergo a drying process before they can be weighed and transported. This process is complex and the equipment costs are high. Utility Model Content
[0003] The main purpose of this application is to propose a drying device and a material feeding system, which aims to at least improve the technical problems of complex process flow and high equipment cost of material feeding systems.
[0004] To achieve the above objectives, according to some embodiments of this application, this application provides a drying apparatus, which includes a cylinder, a heating pipe, and a cooling pipe. The cylinder is provided with a cavity and an inlet and an outlet respectively communicating with the cavity. The heating pipe is located on the outer wall of the cylinder, and its two ends are provided with a first inlet and a first outlet. The cooling pipe is located on the outer wall of the cylinder, and its two ends are provided with a second inlet and a second outlet.
[0005] By simultaneously incorporating spiral heating and cooling pipes on the outer wall of the drying cylinder, this drying device integrates both heating and cooling functions. This allows the powder to complete the entire process of heating, drying, and cooling within the same equipment, eliminating the need to transfer it to a dedicated cooling chamber after drying. This simplifies the process, improves production efficiency, reduces labor costs, and also reduces equipment usage, floor space requirements, and overall equipment costs.
[0006] In some embodiments, the heating pipe is arranged around the outer wall of the cylinder along its central axis; and / or,
[0007] The cooling pipe is arranged around the outer wall of the cylinder along the central axis of the cylinder.
[0008] By setting heating pipes along the central axis of the cylinder and surrounding the outer wall of the cylinder, or cooling pipes along the central axis of the cylinder and surrounding the outer wall of the cylinder, and by alternating the cooling pipes and heating pipes on the entire outer wall of the cylinder, the area to be heated or cooled can be increased, thereby improving the drying or cooling efficiency.
[0009] In some embodiments, both the heating pipe and the cooling pipe are spiral-shaped and alternately arranged on the outer wall surface of the cylinder.
[0010] By alternating heating and cooling pipes, the temperature distribution on the cylinder surface becomes more uniform, reducing the risk of localized overheating or overcooling. This ensures consistent heating and cooling of the powder and allows both heating and cooling pipes to cover the entire outer wall of the cylinder as much as possible, improving the overall drying and cooling effect. Simultaneously, the spiral pipe layout increases the heat exchange area and enhances heat exchange efficiency.
[0011] In some embodiments, the drying device further includes a mold temperature controller and a chiller. The oil outlet of the mold temperature controller is connected to the first inlet via an oil inlet pipe, and the oil return port of the mold temperature controller is connected to the first outlet via an oil outlet pipe. The water outlet of the chiller is connected to the second inlet via a water inlet pipe, and the water return port of the chiller is connected to the second outlet via a water outlet pipe.
[0012] By connecting the drying unit with a mold temperature controller and a chiller, a complete temperature control system is formed. The mold temperature controller and chiller can provide heating or cooling media with stable temperature and flow rate, thereby achieving more precise and stable control of the cylinder temperature and meeting the requirement that the powder drying and cooling processes be completed in one cylinder.
[0013] In some embodiments, the first inlet and the second inlet are respectively disposed at the bottom of the cylinder, and the first outlet and the second outlet are respectively disposed at the top of the cylinder; and the first inlet and the first outlet are respectively disposed at both ends of the cylinder along the central axis, and the second inlet and the second outlet are respectively disposed at both ends of the cylinder along the central axis.
[0014] By placing the first and second inlets at the bottom and the first and second outlets at the top, the heating or cooling medium can be ensured to completely and uniformly fill the entire spiral pipe under the combined action of gravity and pumping pressure. This reduces the risk of air resistance or flow dead zones at the top or in certain areas of the pipe, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency. Positioning the inlets and outlets at opposite ends of the central axis of the cylinder further optimizes the flow path of the medium along the length of the cylinder, allowing for more comprehensive coverage of the cylinder surface. This reduces the risk of temperature gradients on the cylinder surface and improves the uniformity of temperature distribution. This inlet and outlet layout enables the drying device to achieve efficient and uniform heat exchange in both heating and cooling modes, thus ensuring the consistency and stability of powder processing results.
[0015] In some embodiments, the oil inlet pipe is provided with a first air connector, and the water inlet pipe is provided with a second air connector.
[0016] By setting up a first air connector and a second air connector, compressed air can be used to purge and empty the medium in the heating and cooling pipes. For example, when switching from heating mode to cooling mode, compressed air can be introduced into the water inlet pipe through the second air connector to force the residual chilled water in the cooling pipe back to the chiller, preventing the residual chilled water from affecting the subsequent heating process. The reverse is also true. This design ensures rapid evacuation of the medium in the pipes during mode switching, improving the response speed and accuracy of temperature control, and reducing the interference of medium mixing or residue on the temperature control effect.
[0017] In some embodiments, the drying apparatus further includes a vibration motor connected to the cylinder to drive the cylinder to vibrate.
[0018] By using a vibrating motor to drive the drum to vibrate, the powder inside the drum can be kept in a fluidized or tumbling state during the drying process. This increases the contact area between the powder and the inner wall of the drum, as well as between the powder particles, improving heat exchange efficiency and making the drying more uniform and efficient. At the same time, vibration also helps the powder move smoothly towards the discharge port, preventing powder from accumulating or bridging inside the drum.
[0019] In some embodiments, the drying device further includes a base, the base being provided with an elastic element, one end of the elastic element being connected to the base, and the other end of the elastic element being connected to the cylinder.
[0020] By installing an elastic element between the base and the cylinder, the cylinder is elastically supported on the base. When the vibratory motor drives the cylinder to vibrate, the elastic element can effectively reduce the transmission of vibration to the base, reducing the impact and noise on the foundation and surrounding equipment. At the same time, it provides the necessary degree of freedom for the cylinder's vibration, ensuring the realization of the vibration effect.
[0021] In some embodiments, the base includes a base plate and a support column disposed on the base plate, a connecting column is disposed on the side of the cylinder facing the base plate, one end of the elastic member is connected to the support column, and the other end of the elastic member is connected to the connecting column.
[0022] The structure of support columns and connecting columns provides a clear installation position and a stable connection method for the elastic components. This design makes the elastic connection structure between the cylinder and the base more robust and reliable, better able to withstand the weight of the cylinder and vibration loads, ensuring the long-term stability and safety of the equipment.
[0023] In some embodiments, the feed inlet is located at the top of the cylinder, the discharge outlet is located near the bottom of the cylinder, and the feed inlet and the discharge outlet are respectively located at both ends of the cylinder along the central axis.
[0024] With this layout of inlet at the top and outlet at the bottom, the material can flow from top to bottom under the influence of gravity. Under the combined action of vibration and gravity, the material stays in the cylinder for a sufficient time to complete drying, and then is discharged from the outlet near the bottom, achieving a smooth and continuous feeding and discharging process.
[0025] According to some embodiments of this application, this application also provides a material feeding system, including a feeding component, a buffer bin, a sending bin, and a mixing bin, as well as the aforementioned drying device. The discharge port of the feeding component is connected to the inlet, the feeding port of the buffer bin is connected to the outlet, the feeding port of the sending bin is connected to the discharge port of the buffer bin, and the discharge port of the sending bin is connected to the feeding port of the mixing bin.
[0026] By connecting the drying unit with the feeding assembly, buffer silo, sending silo, and mixing silo in a specific sequence, a complete and closed material transport path is constructed from raw material processing to end use. This integrated system combines drying, storage, and conveying functions, eliminating intermediate steps such as cooling, packaging, and unpacking after drying in traditional processes. This simplifies the process flow, reduces the risk of material contamination and moisture absorption, and improves overall production efficiency.
[0027] In some embodiments, the feeding assembly includes an automatic transport vehicle, an automatic unpacking machine, a vacuum feeder, and a feeding pipe. The automatic transport vehicle is used to transport materials to the automatic unpacking machine. The automatic unpacking machine includes a storage chamber. The feeding pipe connects the storage chamber and the feeding port of the vacuum feeder. The discharging port of the vacuum feeder is connected to the inlet.
[0028] By introducing automated transport vehicles and automated unpacking machines, the powder unpacking process has been fully automated, completely replacing manual unpacking and significantly reducing labor costs. The weighing function of the automated unpacking machine enables accurate measurement. The vacuum feeder uses negative pressure to directly feed the powder into the drying device through a closed pipeline. The entire process is carried out in a closed environment, reducing dust spillage, improving the working environment, and also reducing the powder's contact with air, thus lowering the risk of moisture and contamination.
[0029] In some embodiments, the material feeding system further includes a screw feeder, the feeding port of which is connected to the discharge port of the buffer bin, and the discharge port of which is connected to the feeding port of the sending bin.
[0030] By installing a screw conveyor between the buffer silo and the delivery silo, quantitative and stable conveying of powder can be achieved. The screw conveyor can precisely control the amount of powder entering the delivery silo from the buffer silo, avoiding blockages or uneven flow that may be caused by direct material discharge, and improving the reliability and metering accuracy of material supply to the delivery silo.
[0031] In some embodiments, the material feeding system further includes a blower connected to a buffer chamber for extracting gas from the buffer chamber.
[0032] By using a fan to evacuate the buffer chamber, a certain negative pressure can be maintained inside the chamber. This helps to promptly remove the hot air and a small amount of dust that accompany the powder as it falls from the drying unit into the buffer chamber.
[0033] In some embodiments, the material feeding system further includes a conveying pipeline, which includes a main pipeline and a first branch pipeline and a second branch pipeline respectively connected to one end of the main pipeline. The first branch pipeline is also connected to the discharge port, and the second branch pipeline is also connected to the atmospheric environment. The other end of the main pipeline is connected to the inlet of the buffer silo.
[0034] This three-way conveying pipe design cleverly utilizes airflow principles. When the powder falls from the outlet, because the second branch pipe is connected to the atmosphere, air is drawn into the main pipe by the fan, creating an airflow. This airflow carries the powder more smoothly and quickly through the main pipe into the buffer chamber, effectively preventing powder from accumulating and clogging the pipe, thus improving conveying efficiency. Simultaneously, the introduced external air also helps to initially cool the dried, hot powder. Attached Figure Description
[0035] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.
[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the drying apparatus, including the cylinder, heating pipe, and cooling pipe, in some embodiments of this application.
[0037] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the drying apparatus, including the cylinder, heating pipe, and cooling pipe, according to some embodiments of this application.
[0038] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a drying apparatus according to some embodiments of this application;
[0039] Figure 4 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the drying apparatus according to some embodiments of this application;
[0040] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a material feeding system according to some embodiments of this application.
[0041] Explanation of icon numbers:
[0042] 1000. Material feeding system;
[0043] 100. Drying device; 200. Buffer silo; 300. Sending silo; 400. Mixing silo; 500. Feeding assembly; 510. Automatic unpacking machine; 520. Vacuum feeder; 530. Feeding pipe; 600. Screw feeder; 700. Conveying pipe; 710. Main pipe; 720. First branch pipe; 730. Second branch pipe; 800. Fan; 900. Dust collector;
[0044] 1. Mold temperature controller; 2. Cylinder; 21. Cavity; 22. Inlet; 23. Outlet; 24. Outer wall; 3. Heating pipe; 31. First inlet; 32. First outlet; 4. Cooling pipe; 41. Second inlet; 42. Second outlet; 5. Chiller; 6. Oil inlet pipe; 7. Oil outlet pipe; 8. Water inlet pipe; 9. Water outlet pipe; 10. First air connector; 11. Second air connector; 12. Vibration motor; 13. Base; 131. Base plate; 132. Support column; 14. Elastic element; 15. Connecting column.
[0045] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation
[0046] The technical solutions in this embodiment will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0047] It should be noted that all directional indications in this embodiment are only used to explain the relative positional relationships and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.
[0048] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first," "second," etc., in this application is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.
[0049] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "fixed" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can mean a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can mean the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.
[0050] Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments of this application can be combined with each other, but only if they are feasible to those skilled in the art. If a combination of technical solutions contradicts each other or cannot be implemented, it should be considered that such a combination does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed in this application. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of this application and are not intended to limit this application.
[0051] The descriptions of directions such as "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", and "right" in this application are based on the directions shown in the accompanying drawings and are only used to explain the relative positional relationships between the components in the posture shown in the accompanying drawings. If the specific posture changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly.
[0052] Currently, judging from market trends, the application of power batteries is becoming increasingly widespread. Power batteries are not only used in energy storage systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power, and solar power plants, but also widely applied in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric cars, as well as in aerospace and other fields. With the continuous expansion of power battery applications, market demand is also constantly increasing.
[0053] Currently, in the lithium battery industry, the positive and negative electrode powders used in conventional lithium batteries have a relatively high moisture content, typically around 500 ppm. However, solid-state batteries have extremely stringent requirements for the moisture content of raw materials, generally needing to be controlled below 40 ppm. This is because moisture can undergo side reactions with solid electrolyte materials, affecting ionic conductivity and even generating harmful gases, severely impairing the battery's cycle life and safety performance. Therefore, existing conventional powders cannot be directly used in the slurry process of solid-state batteries and must be dried during the material preparation stage.
[0054] In existing production processes, two independent systems are typically required to achieve deep drying of powder and its delivery to the homogenization stage. The first system is a powder drying and packaging system, used to dry high-moisture raw materials to the required level before packaging. The second system is a powder feeding system, which unpacks the dried powder and delivers it to the homogenization equipment. This step-by-step, multi-system layout presents several problems in actual operation. First, labor costs are high, as both systems require more personnel. Second, plant and equipment costs are exorbitant. For example, with a 380L vibrating dryer, the drying and packaging system requires a two-story plant with a height of 9 meters, resulting in a large total floor area for both systems. Furthermore, the large number of devices necessitates additional configurations such as a 1000L silo, a 500L cooling chamber, a packaging room, and a manual unpacking station, increasing initial investment and reducing overall system stability due to the numerous connection points.
[0055] The inventors noted that the crux of the existing technical solutions lies in separating drying and conveying into two independent processes. This results in the powder, after drying, needing to undergo packaging, storage, and repackaging before entering the conveying stage. This process not only introduces more manual operation and intermediate equipment but also increases the risk of the powder becoming damp again during transport. Furthermore, through in-depth research on solid-state battery production lines, the inventors realized that the high sensitivity of solid-state batteries to moisture makes the drying process not only optional but also mandatory and extremely demanding, further amplifying the drawbacks of the existing segmented layout. To meet the demands of large-scale solid-state battery production, the entire material preparation process must be re-examined and optimized.
[0056] Based on the above considerations, and in order to solve the problems of high production costs, low efficiency, and difficulty in consistently meeting the low moisture requirements of raw materials for solid-state batteries caused by the separation of powder drying and conveying processes in existing technologies, the inventors, after in-depth research, designed an integrated drying device and material feeding system. This system, through optimized overall layout, integrates drying and conveying functions into a novel drying device.
[0057] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to some embodiments of this application, this application provides a drying device 100, which includes a cylinder 2, a heating pipe 3 and a cooling pipe 4. The cylinder 2 is provided with a cavity 21 and a feed inlet 22 and a discharge outlet 23 respectively communicating with the cavity 21. The heating pipe 3 is provided on the outer wall surface 24 of the cylinder 2, and the two ends of the heating pipe 3 are provided with a first inlet 31 and a first outlet 32. The cooling pipe 4 is provided on the outer wall surface 24 of the cylinder 2, and the two ends of the cooling pipe 4 are provided with a second inlet 41 and a second outlet 42.
[0058] The central axis of cylinder 2, as shown Figure 2As shown in Figure L. The cylinder 2 is the main structure for containing and drying powder. Its internal cavity 21 holds the powder to be dried, the top inlet 22 receives the powder, and the bottom outlet 23 discharges the dried powder. The heating pipe 3 is a conduit for the flow of a heating medium, such as heat transfer oil. The heating pipe 3 is as follows... Figure 1 The section marked with diagonal lines indicates that the heating pipe 3 has a first inlet 31 and a first outlet 32 at its two ends, which are used to connect to an external heating source and form a circulation loop for the heating medium. The cooling pipe 4 is a pipe for circulating a cooling medium, such as chilled water. It is also wound around the outer wall 24 of the cylinder 2, with a second inlet 41 and a second outlet 42 at its two ends, which are used to connect to an external cold source. The heating pipe 3 and the cooling pipe 4 can be arranged alternately to achieve precise temperature control of the cylinder 2.
[0059] By simultaneously installing heating pipes 3 and cooling pipes 4 on the outer wall of the cylinder 2, the drying device 100 integrates both heating and cooling functions. This allows the powder to complete the entire process of heating and drying as well as cooling within the same device, eliminating the need to transfer it to a dedicated cooling chamber after drying. This simplifies the process, improves production efficiency, reduces labor costs, and also reduces equipment usage, floor space requirements, and overall equipment costs.
[0060] In some embodiments, the heating pipe 3 is arranged around the outer wall surface 24 of the cylinder 2 along the central axis of the cylinder 2; and / or, the cooling pipe 4 is arranged around the outer wall surface 24 of the cylinder 2 along the central axis of the cylinder 2.
[0061] The cylinder 2 can be a side part of a cylinder. The central axis of the cylinder 2 is actually the central axis of the cylinder or the central axis of the side part. The heating pipe 3 and the cooling pipe 4 can be formed by rotating around the central axis and are set on the outer wall surface 24 of the cylinder 2.
[0062] By setting heating pipes 3 around the outer wall 24 of the cylinder 2 along the central axis of the cylinder 2, or cooling pipes 4 around the outer wall 24 of the cylinder 2 along the central axis of the cylinder 2, and alternating between cooling pipes 4 and heating pipes 3, the area to be heated or cooled can be increased, thereby improving drying or cooling efficiency.
[0063] Reference Figure 1 In some embodiments, the heating pipe 3 and the cooling pipe 4 are both spiral-shaped and alternately arranged on the outer wall surface 24 of the cylinder 2.
[0064] The heating pipe 3 and the cooling pipe 4 each extend in a spiral shape, and they are arranged alternately and at intervals on the outer wall 24 of the cylinder 2. For example, the heating pipe 3 is wound several times, followed by the cooling pipe 4 being wound several times, and so on. Alternatively, it can be said that the heating pipe 3 is flanked by the cooling pipe 4 on both sides, and the cooling pipe 4 is flanked by the heating pipe 3 on both sides.
[0065] By alternating the heating pipes 3 and cooling pipes 4, the temperature distribution on the surface of the cylinder 2 becomes more uniform, reducing the risk of localized overheating or overcooling. This ensures consistent heating and cooling of the powder and allows both the cooling pipes 4 and the heating pipes 3 to cover the entire outer wall 24 of the cylinder 2 as much as possible, improving the overall drying and cooling effect. Simultaneously, the spiral pipe layout increases the heat exchange area and improves heat exchange efficiency.
[0066] In some embodiments, the first inlet 31 and the second inlet 41 are respectively disposed at the bottom of the cylinder 2, and the first outlet 32 and the second outlet 42 are respectively disposed at the top of the cylinder 2; and the first inlet 31 and the first outlet 32 are respectively disposed at both ends of the cylinder 2 along the central axis, and the second inlet 41 and the second outlet 42 are respectively disposed at both ends of the cylinder 2 along the central axis.
[0067] The central axis is also the central axis of the cylinder 2. The first inlet 31 is the port where the heating medium enters the heating pipe 3, and the second inlet 41 is the port where the cooling medium enters the cooling pipe 4. In this embodiment, both inlets are located at the bottom of the cylinder 2. Correspondingly, the first outlet 32 is the port where the heating medium flows out of the heating pipe 3, and the second outlet 42 is the port where the cooling medium flows out of the cooling pipe 4; both outlets are located at the top of the cylinder 2. Furthermore, viewed from the direction of the central axis of the cylinder 2, the first inlet 31 and the first outlet 32 are located at opposite ends of the cylinder 2 along the central axis. For example, referring to… Figure 1 If the cylinder 2 is a horizontally placed cylinder with its central axis in the horizontal direction, then the first inlet 31 can be close to one end of the cylinder 2, such as the bottom right end, while the first outlet 32 is close to the other end of the cylinder 2, such as the top left end. Similarly, the second inlet 41 and the second outlet 42 also follow the same layout principle, that is, the second inlet 41 is located at the bottom of the cylinder 2 near one end, and the second outlet 42 is located at the top of the cylinder 2 near the other end, and this end can be the same as or different from the end where the first inlet 31 is located. In a specific embodiment, the heating pipe 3 and the cooling pipe 4 are both single continuous pipes spirally wound from one end of the bottom of the cylinder 2 to the other end of the top. This arrangement means that, whether heating or cooling, the medium enters from the lower position of the bottom of the cylinder 2, flows upward along the spiral path in the pipe, can flow around the cylinder 2 several times, and finally flows out from the higher position of the top of the cylinder 2.
[0068] During operation, for example in heating mode, high-temperature heat transfer oil enters the heating pipe 3 through the first inlet 31 located at the bottom. Since the first inlet 31 is at the bottom, the heat transfer oil naturally fills the entire spiral heating pipe 3 and flows within it, finally exiting from the first outlet 32 located at the top. This bottom-up flow path ensures sufficient heat exchange between the heating medium and the entire cylinder 2, as the medium maintains contact with the cylinder 2 throughout its ascent. Similarly, in cooling mode, chilled water enters the cooling pipe 4 through the second inlet 41 located at the bottom, flows through the entire cooling pipe 4, and exits from the second outlet 42 at the top. Positioning the inlet and outlet at both ends of the cylinder 2 along its central axis creates a flow path for the medium along the length of the cylinder 2. For example, the heating medium enters from the bottom right end, flows upwards and to the left along the spiral tube, and finally exits from the top left end. This ensures coverage of the medium both vertically and horizontally during flow, resulting in uniform heating or cooling of the entire surface of the cylinder 2.
[0069] By placing the first inlet 31 and the second inlet 41 at the bottom, and the first outlet 32 and the second outlet 42 at the top, it is ensured that the heating or cooling medium can completely and uniformly fill the entire spiral pipe under the combined action of gravity and pumping pressure. This reduces the risk of air resistance or flow dead zones at the top or in certain areas of the pipe, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency. Placing the inlets and outlets at both ends of the cylinder 2 along its central axis further optimizes the flow path of the medium along the length of the cylinder 2, allowing the medium to more comprehensively cover the outer wall 24 of the cylinder 2. This reduces the risk of temperature gradients on the outer wall 24 of the cylinder 2 and improves the uniformity of temperature distribution. This inlet and outlet layout enables the drying device 100 to achieve efficient and uniform heat exchange in both heating and cooling modes, thus ensuring the consistency and stability of the powder processing effect.
[0070] Please refer to Figure 3 In some embodiments, the drying device 100 further includes a mold temperature controller 1 and a chiller 5. The oil outlet of the mold temperature controller 1 is connected to the first inlet 31 through the oil inlet pipe 6, and the oil return port of the mold temperature controller 1 is connected to the first outlet 32 through the oil outlet pipe 7. The water outlet of the chiller 5 is connected to the second inlet 41 through the water inlet pipe 8, and the water return port of the chiller 5 is connected to the second outlet 42 through the water outlet pipe 9.
[0071] The mold temperature controller 1 is a device used to control the temperature of the heating medium. Its oil outlet is connected to the first inlet 31 of the heating pipe 3 via the oil inlet pipe 6, for sending heated heat transfer oil into the heating pipe 3. The heated heat transfer oil flows within the heating pipe 3, transferring heat to the cylinder 2, causing the temperature inside the cylinder 2 to rise, which is used to dry the powder inside the cylinder 2. After heat exchange is completed, the cooled heat transfer oil flows out from the first outlet 32 of the heating pipe 3 and returns to the oil return port of the mold temperature controller 1 via the oil outlet pipe 7, where it is reheated and recycled. The chiller 5 is a device used to provide a low-temperature cooling medium. Its water outlet is connected to the second inlet 41 of the cooling pipe 4 via the water inlet pipe 8, for sending chilled water into the cooling pipe 4. The chilled water absorbs heat from the cylinder 2, causing its temperature to rise, which causes the temperature inside the cylinder 2 to drop, which is used to cool the dried powder inside the cylinder 2. This embodiment replaces the related technology of sending the dried powder into the cooling chamber for cooling. The dried and cooled powder can directly enter the buffer chamber 200. Finally, the chilled water flows out from the second outlet 42 of the cooling pipe 4 and returns to the return water port of the chiller 5 through the water outlet pipe 9, where it is cooled and recycled again.
[0072] By connecting the drying device 100 to the mold temperature controller 1 and the chiller 5, a complete temperature control system is formed. The mold temperature controller 1 and the chiller 5 can provide heating or cooling media with stable temperature and flow rate, thereby achieving more precise and stable control of the temperature of the cylinder 2, meeting the requirement that the powder drying and cooling processes be completed within one cylinder 2.
[0073] Please refer to Figure 3 In some embodiments, the oil inlet pipe 6 is provided with a first air connector 10, and the water inlet pipe 8 is provided with a second air connector 11.
[0074] The first air connector 10 is an interface installed on the oil inlet pipe 6 for connecting to a compressed air source. The second air connector 11 is an interface installed on the water inlet pipe 8, also for connecting to a compressed air source. The first air connector 10 and the second air connector 11 correspond to different compressed air sources. Of course, in some other embodiments, the first air connector 10 can also be provided on the oil outlet pipe 7, or the second air connector 11 can be provided on the water outlet pipe 9. Those skilled in the art can make the configuration according to actual needs.
[0075] By setting up a first air connector 10 and a second air connector 11, compressed air can be used to purge and empty the medium in the heating pipe 3 and the cooling pipe 4. For example, when switching from heating mode to cooling mode, compressed air can be introduced into the water inlet pipe 8 through the second air connector 11 to force the residual chilled water in the cooling pipe 4 back to the chiller 5, preventing the residual chilled water from affecting the subsequent heating process. The reverse is also true. This design ensures rapid evacuation of the medium in the pipes during mode switching, improves the response speed and accuracy of temperature control, and reduces the interference of medium mixing or residue on the temperature control effect.
[0076] Please refer to Figure 4 In some embodiments, the drying device 100 further includes a vibration motor 12, which is connected to the cylinder 2 to drive the cylinder 2 to vibrate.
[0077] The vibratory motor 12 can be a power source that converts rotational motion into linear vibration. It is mechanically connected to the cylinder 2, and when it is working, it drives the entire cylinder 2 to generate high-frequency vibration.
[0078] By setting a vibration motor 12 to drive the cylinder 2 to vibrate, the powder inside the cylinder 2 can be kept in a fluidized or tumbling state during the drying process. This increases the contact area between the powder and the inner wall of the cylinder 2, as well as between the powder particles, improving heat exchange efficiency and making the drying more uniform and efficient. At the same time, vibration also helps the powder move smoothly to the discharge port 23, preventing the powder from accumulating or bridging inside the cylinder 2.
[0079] Please refer to Figure 4 In some embodiments, the drying device 100 further includes a base 13, the base 13 is provided with an elastic element 14, one end of the elastic element 14 is connected to the base 13, and the other end of the elastic element 14 is connected to the cylinder 2.
[0080] The base 13 serves as the supporting foundation for the entire drying device 100, and is used to place it on the ground or other structures. The elastic element 14 is a component with a certain degree of rigidity and elasticity, such as a spring. One end of it is fixedly connected to the base 13, and the other end is fixedly connected to the cylinder 2.
[0081] By providing an elastic element 14 between the base 13 and the cylinder 2, the cylinder 2 is elastically supported on the base 13. When the vibration motor 12 drives the cylinder 2 to vibrate, the elastic element 14 can effectively reduce the transmission of vibration to the base 13, reduce the impact and noise on the foundation and surrounding equipment, and at the same time provide the necessary degree of freedom for the vibration of the cylinder 2, ensuring the realization of the vibration effect.
[0082] Please refer to Figure 4In some embodiments, the base 13 includes a base plate 131 and a support column 132 disposed on the base plate 131. A connecting column 15 is disposed on the side of the cylinder 2 facing the base plate 131. One end of the elastic member 14 is connected to the support column 132, and the other end of the elastic member 14 is connected to the connecting column 15.
[0083] The base 13 may include a base plate 131 and a support column 132 fixed to the base plate 131, the support column 132 extending upward. A connecting column 15 extending downward is provided on the side of the cylinder 2 facing the base plate 131, i.e., the bottom. One end of the elastic member 14 is connected to the top end of the support column 132, and the other end is connected to the bottom end of the connecting column 15.
[0084] The structure of the support column 132 and the connecting column 15 provides a clear installation position and a stable connection method for the elastic element 14. This design makes the elastic connection structure between the cylinder 2 and the base 13 more robust and reliable, better able to withstand the weight and vibration load of the cylinder 2, and ensure the stability and safety of the equipment during long-term operation.
[0085] Please refer to Figure 4 In some embodiments, the feed inlet 22 is located at the top of the cylinder 2, and the discharge outlet 23 is located near the bottom of the cylinder 2. The feed inlet 22 and the discharge outlet 23 are respectively located at both ends of the cylinder 2 along the central axis.
[0086] The feed inlet 22 is located at the very top of the cylinder 2, allowing materials to enter the cavity 21 from top to bottom by gravity. The discharge outlet 23 is located on the side wall of the cylinder 2 near the bottom, rather than at the very bottom.
[0087] With this layout of inlet 22 at the top and outlet 23 at the bottom, the material can flow from top to bottom under the action of gravity. Under the combined action of vibration and gravity, the material stays in the cylinder 2 for a sufficient time to complete drying, and then is discharged from the outlet 23 near the bottom, realizing a smooth and continuous feeding and discharging process.
[0088] According to some embodiments of this application, this application also provides a drying device 100, which includes a cylinder 2, a heating pipe 3, a cooling pipe 4, a mold temperature controller 1, a chiller 5, a vibration motor 12, and a base 13. The cylinder 2 is provided with a cavity 21 and an inlet 22 and an outlet 23 respectively communicating with the cavity 21. The inlet 22 is located at the top of the cylinder 2, and the outlet 23 is located near the bottom of the cylinder 2. The heating pipe 3 is wound around the outer wall 24 of the cylinder 2 along the central axis of the cylinder 2. The two ends of the heating pipe 3 are set as a first inlet 31 and a first outlet 32. The cooling pipe 4 is wound around the outer wall 24 of the cylinder 2 along the central axis of the cylinder 2. The two ends of the cooling pipe 4 are set as a second inlet 41 and a second outlet 42. The heating pipe 3 and the cooling pipe 4 are both spiral and are alternately arranged on the outer wall 24 of the cylinder 2. The oil outlet of the mold temperature controller 1 is connected to the first inlet 31 via the oil inlet pipe 6, and the oil return port of the mold temperature controller 1 is connected to the first outlet 32 via the oil outlet pipe 7. The water outlet of the chiller 5 is connected to the second inlet 41 via the water inlet pipe 8, and the water return port of the chiller 5 is connected to the second outlet 42 via the water outlet pipe 9. The oil inlet pipe 6 is equipped with a first air connector 10, and the water inlet pipe 8 is equipped with a second air connector 11. The base 13 includes a base plate 131 and a support column 132 disposed on the base plate 131. A connecting column 15 is disposed on the side of the cylinder 2 facing the base plate 131. One end of the elastic element 14 is connected to the support column 132, and the other end of the elastic element 14 is connected to the connecting column 15. The vibration motor 12 is connected to the cylinder 2 to drive the cylinder 2 to vibrate. This drying device 100 reduces the process flow and lowers equipment costs.
[0089] Please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 According to some embodiments of this application, this application also provides a material feeding system 1000, including a feeding component 500, a buffer bin 200, a sending bin 300 and a mixing bin 400, as well as the aforementioned drying device 100. The discharge port of the feeding component 500 is connected to the inlet 22, the feeding port of the buffer bin 200 is connected to the outlet 23, the feeding port of the sending bin 300 is connected to the discharge port of the buffer bin 200, and the discharge port of the sending bin 300 is connected to the feeding port of the mixing bin 400.
[0090] The material feeding system 1000 is a complete integrated system from material unpacking and drying to conveying it to the final point of use for mixing and homogenization. The feeding assembly 500 is responsible for removing the raw powder from its packaging and conveying it to the drying unit 100. The drying unit 100, as described above, is used to dry and cool the powder. The buffer silo 200 is an intermediate storage container whose top opening is connected to the outlet 23 of the drying unit 100. It receives and temporarily stores the dried and cooled powder, serving to buffer and balance the flow rates of upstream and downstream processes. The sending silo 300 is a pressure vessel whose top inlet is connected to the bottom outlet of the buffer silo 200. It receives powder from the buffer silo 200. The mixing silo 400 is the homogenization equipment, and its inlet is connected to the bottom outlet of the sending silo 300. The powder is pressurized within the sending silo 300 and then conveyed to the mixing silo 400 through pipelines. The buffer chamber 200 can be equipped with a first weighing device, and the sending chamber 300 can be equipped with a second weighing device for weighing the powder.
[0091] By connecting the drying unit 100 with the feeding assembly 500, buffer silo 200, sending silo 300, and mixing silo 400 in a specific sequence, a complete and closed material conveying path from raw material processing to end-use is constructed. This integrated system combines drying, storage, and conveying functions, eliminating intermediate steps such as cooling, packaging, and unpacking after drying in traditional processes, simplifying the process flow, reducing the risk of material contamination and moisture absorption, and improving overall production efficiency.
[0092] Please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the feeding assembly 500 includes an automatic transport vehicle, an automatic unpacking machine 510, a vacuum feeder 520, and a feeding pipe 530. The automatic transport vehicle is used to transport materials to the automatic unpacking machine 510. The automatic unpacking machine 510 includes a storage chamber. The feeding pipe 530 connects the storage chamber and the feeding port of the vacuum feeder 520. The discharging port of the vacuum feeder 520 is connected to the inlet 22.
[0093] Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are used to automatically transport packaged powder from a warehouse to a designated location. An automatic unpacking machine 510 is a device that automatically unpacks powder and pours out the powder. It has an internal storage chamber for temporarily storing the powder and can also have a weighing function. A vacuum feeder 520 is a device that uses negative pressure to transport powder. A feeding pipe 530 is a sealed pipeline connecting the storage chamber of the automatic unpacking machine 510 and the feeding port of the vacuum feeder 520. The discharge port of the vacuum feeder 520 is connected to the inlet 22 of the drying device 100.
[0094] By introducing an automated transport vehicle and an automated unpacking machine 510, the powder unpacking process is fully automated, completely replacing manual unpacking and significantly reducing labor costs. The weighing function of the automated unpacking machine 510 enables accurate measurement. The vacuum feeder 520 uses negative pressure to directly feed the powder into the drying device 100 through a closed pipeline. The entire process is carried out in a closed environment, reducing dust spillage, improving the working environment, and also reducing the contact between the powder and air, thus lowering the risk of moisture and contamination.
[0095] Please refer to Figure 5 In some embodiments, the material feeding system 1000 further includes a screw feeder 600, the feeding port of the screw feeder 600 being connected to the discharging port of the buffer bin 200, and the discharging port of the screw feeder 600 being connected to the feeding port of the sending bin 300.
[0096] The screw conveyor 600 is a device that conveys materials by pushing them with rotating screw blades. Its feed port is connected to the bottom discharge port of the buffer bin 200, and its discharge port is connected to the top feed port of the sending bin 300.
[0097] By installing a screw conveyor 600 between the buffer silo 200 and the delivery silo 300, quantitative and stable conveying of powder can be achieved. The screw conveyor 600 can precisely control the amount of powder entering the delivery silo 300 from the buffer silo 200, reducing the risk of blockage or uneven flow caused by direct material discharge, and improving the reliability and metering accuracy of material supply to the delivery silo 300.
[0098] Please refer to Figure 5 In some embodiments, the material feeding system 1000 further includes a blower 800, which is connected to the buffer chamber 200 and is used to extract gas from the buffer chamber 200.
[0099] The blower 800 is a gas conveying machine that is connected to the internal space of the buffer chamber 200 via a pipe, and draws air out of the buffer chamber 200 during operation. In addition, a dust collector 900 connected to the cylinder 2 can be installed to remove dust from the cavity 21.
[0100] By using the blower 800 to evacuate the buffer chamber 200, a certain negative pressure can be maintained inside the buffer chamber 200. This helps to promptly remove the hot air and a small amount of dust that accompany the powder falling from the drying device 100 into the buffer chamber 200.
[0101] Please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5In some embodiments, the material feeding system 1000 further includes a conveying pipe 700, which includes a main pipe 710 and a first branch pipe 720 and a second branch pipe 730 respectively connected to one end of the main pipe 710. The first branch pipe 720 is also connected to the discharge port 23, and the second branch pipe 730 is also connected to the atmospheric environment. The other end of the main pipe 710 is connected to the inlet of the buffer silo 200.
[0102] The conveying pipeline 700 is a piping system used to transport the dried powder from the drying unit 100 to the buffer silo 200. It consists of a main pipeline 710 and two branch pipelines. One end of the main pipeline 710 is connected to the feed port of the buffer silo 200. The other end of the main pipeline 710 is connected to the two branch pipelines, namely the first branch pipeline 720 and the second branch pipeline 730. The other end of the first branch pipeline 720 is connected to the discharge port 23 of the drying unit 100. The other end of the second branch pipeline 730 is open to the atmosphere.
[0103] By designing this three-way conveying pipe 700, the principle of airflow is cleverly utilized. When the powder falls from the outlet 23, because the second branch pipe 730 is connected to the atmosphere, air is drawn into the main pipe 710 under the action of the fan 800, forming an airflow. This airflow can carry the powder more smoothly and quickly through the main pipe 710 into the buffer chamber 200, effectively preventing powder from accumulating and clogging in the pipe, and improving conveying efficiency. At the same time, the introduced external air also helps to initially cool the dried hot powder.
[0104] According to some embodiments of this application, this application also provides a material feeding system 1000, including an automatic transport vehicle, an automatic unpacking machine 510, a vacuum feeder 520, a feeding pipe 530, a buffer silo 200, a screw feeder 600, a fan 800, a conveying pipe 700, a sending silo 300, a mixing silo 400, and the aforementioned drying device 100. The automatic transport vehicle is used to transport materials to the automatic unpacking machine 510. The automatic unpacking machine 510 includes a storage chamber. The feeding pipe 530 connects the storage chamber and the feeding port of the vacuum feeder 520. The discharging port of the vacuum feeder 520 is connected to the inlet 22. The feed inlet of buffer silo 200 is connected to discharge outlet 23. The feed inlet of screw conveyor 600 is connected to discharge outlet of buffer silo 200. The discharge outlet of screw conveyor 600 is connected to feed inlet of conveying silo 300. The discharge outlet of conveying silo 300 is connected to feed inlet of mixing silo 400. The conveying pipeline 700 includes a main pipeline 710 and a first branch pipeline 720 and a second branch pipeline 730 connected to one end of the main pipeline 710. The first branch pipeline 720 is also connected to discharge outlet 23, and the second branch pipeline 730 is also connected to the atmosphere. The other end of the main pipeline 710 is connected to feed inlet of buffer silo 200. Fan 800 is connected to buffer silo 200 and is used to extract gas from buffer silo 200.
[0105] The above description is merely an optional embodiment of this application and does not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the content of the specification and drawings of this application under the concept of this application, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of this application.
Claims
1. A drying apparatus, characterized in that, include: A cylindrical body, wherein the cylindrical body is provided with a cavity and an inlet and an outlet respectively communicating with the cavity; A heating pipe is provided on the outer wall surface of the cylinder, and the heating pipe has a first inlet and a first outlet; A cooling pipe is provided on the outer wall of the cylinder, and the cooling pipe has a second inlet and a second outlet.
2. The drying apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating pipe is arranged around the outer wall of the cylinder along its central axis; and / or The cooling pipe is arranged around the outer wall of the cylinder along the central axis of the cylinder.
3. The drying apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the heating pipe and the cooling pipe are spiral-shaped and are alternately arranged on the outer wall of the cylinder.
4. The drying apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drying device further includes a mold temperature controller and a chiller. The oil outlet of the mold temperature controller is connected to the first inlet through an oil inlet pipe, and the oil return port of the mold temperature controller is connected to the first outlet through an oil outlet pipe. The water outlet of the chiller is connected to the second inlet through a water inlet pipe, and the water return port of the chiller is connected to the second outlet through a water outlet pipe.
5. The drying apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The oil inlet pipe is equipped with a first air connector, and the water inlet pipe is equipped with a second air connector.
6. The drying apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first inlet and the second inlet are respectively located at the bottom of the cylinder, and the first outlet and the second outlet are respectively located at the top of the cylinder; and the first inlet and the first outlet are respectively located at both ends of the cylinder along the central axis, and the second inlet and the second outlet are respectively located at both ends of the cylinder along the central axis.
7. The drying apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The drying device also includes a vibration motor, which is connected to the cylinder to drive the cylinder to vibrate.
8. The drying apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The drying device also includes a base, the base being provided with an elastic element, one end of the elastic element being connected to the base, and the other end of the elastic element being connected to the cylinder.
9. The drying apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, The base includes a base plate and a support column disposed on the base plate. A connecting column is disposed on the side of the cylinder facing the base plate. One end of the elastic element is connected to the support column, and the other end of the elastic element is connected to the connecting column.
10. The drying apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The feed inlet is located at the top of the cylinder, and the discharge outlet is located near the bottom of the cylinder. The feed inlet and the discharge outlet are respectively located at both ends of the cylinder along the central axis.
11. A material feeding system, characterized in that, The device includes a feeding assembly, a buffer chamber, a sending chamber, and a mixing chamber, as well as a drying apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the discharge port of the feeding assembly is connected to the inlet, the feeding port of the buffer chamber is connected to the outlet, the feeding port of the sending chamber is connected to the discharge port of the buffer chamber, and the discharge port of the sending chamber is connected to the feeding port of the mixing chamber.
12. The material feeding system according to claim 11, characterized in that, The feeding assembly includes an automatic transport vehicle, an automatic unpacking machine, a vacuum feeder, and a feeding pipe. The automatic transport vehicle is used to transport materials to the automatic unpacking machine. The automatic unpacking machine includes a storage chamber. The feeding pipe connects the storage chamber and the feeding port of the vacuum feeder. The discharging port of the vacuum feeder is connected to the inlet.
13. The material feeding system according to claim 11, characterized in that, The material feeding system also includes a screw feeder, the feeding port of which is connected to the discharge port of the buffer bin, and the discharge port of which is connected to the feeding port of the sending bin.
14. The material feeding system according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, The material feeding system also includes a blower, which is connected to the buffer chamber and is used to extract gas from the buffer chamber.
15. The material feeding system according to claim 14, characterized in that, The material feeding system also includes a conveying pipeline, which includes a main pipeline and a first branch pipeline and a second branch pipeline respectively connected to one end of the main pipeline. The first branch pipeline is also connected to the discharge port, and the second branch pipeline is also connected to the atmospheric environment. The other end of the main pipeline is connected to the inlet of the buffer silo.