Adjustable sintering box

Abstract

The utility model relates to the positive electrode material preparation technical field discloses a kind of adjustable sintering sagger, comprising: sagger body and several baffle, sagger body is equipped with the placement part for placing baffle, baffle is detachably installed on placement part, to adjust the internal space of sagger body. Through detachable baffle design, according to the volume, form or process requirement of sintered material freely adjust sagger internal space structure. Significantly improve the versatility of equipment, without purchasing multiple specifications sagger can adapt to different batches of sintering task, substantially reduce equipment procurement and management cost. Meanwhile, space adjustability optimizes material loading density, avoids energy loss due to space waste, improves sintering efficiency. Modular design is also convenient for maintenance and component replacement, prolongs overall service life.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of cathode material preparation technology, specifically to an adjustable sintering sagger. Background Technology

[0002] The high-temperature sintering process of lithium battery cathode materials must use a sagger as a support container. Its main function is to isolate the material from the furnace environment at high temperatures, prevent contamination, and withstand repeated thermal shocks.

[0003] Industrial production lines typically use large-sized saggers to increase loading capacity, but due to their lower thermal conductivity, they are prone to creating temperature gradients during sintering, affecting the uniformity of material reaction. Laboratory settings usually require smaller saggers, but the sintering environment differs significantly from that of industrial saggers. Smaller saggers, with their larger surface area and faster heat conduction, may cause localized overheating or reaction rates deviating from actual production conditions. The difference in sagger types necessitates custom-designing saggers for different operating conditions, resulting in high costs and low efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides an adjustable sintering sagger to solve the problem of the inflexible adjustment of the amount of material loaded into the sagger.

[0005] This utility model provides an adjustable sintering sagger, comprising:

[0006] The sagger body and several partitions are provided. The sagger body is provided with a placement part for placing the partitions. The partitions are detachably installed on the placement part to adjust the internal space of the sagger body.

[0007] Beneficial effects: The detachable partition design allows for free adjustment of the internal space structure of the sagger according to the volume, shape, or process requirements of the sintering material. This significantly improves the equipment's versatility, eliminating the need to purchase multiple sagger sizes to accommodate different batches of sintering tasks, thus greatly reducing equipment procurement and management costs. Simultaneously, the adjustable space optimizes material loading density, avoiding energy loss due to wasted space and improving sintering efficiency. The modular design also facilitates maintenance and component replacement, extending the overall service life.

[0008] In one alternative embodiment, the placement part consists of several parallel slots formed on the inner wall of the sagger body, through which the partition is inserted into the sagger body.

[0009] Beneficial effects: The parallel slot structure standardizes partition installation and allows for quick assembly and disassembly without auxiliary tools, greatly improving operational convenience. The precise fit between the slots and partitions creates a mechanical self-locking mechanism, effectively resisting vibration and thermal stress during sintering and preventing material mixing accidents caused by partition tilting or detachment. The slot design also facilitates cleaning of residual materials, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

[0010] In one alternative embodiment, the partition is made of a heat-resistant material and has several through holes on its surface.

[0011] Beneficial effects: The heat-resistant material ensures the partition maintains structural stability in high-temperature environments, preventing seal failure caused by thermal deformation. Surface perforations create heat flow channels, guiding airflow to diffuse evenly along the partition surface and addressing insufficient heat radiation in corner areas. The perforated structure also reduces the partition's heat capacity, shortening the heating or cooling cycle.

[0012] In one alternative embodiment, the sagger body is rectangular in shape, and its bottom and sidewalls are made of heat-resistant and corrosion-resistant materials.

[0013] Beneficial effects: The rectangular groove structure can be manufactured using standardized molds to reduce production costs; it forms a stable contact surface when stacked; and its right-angle structure facilitates precise positioning by robotic arms and is compatible with automated production lines.

[0014] In one alternative implementation, the number of partitions is n, and the internal space of the sagger body is divided into at most n partitions by increasing or decreasing the number of partitions. 2 A separate region.

[0015] Beneficial effects: Independent sealed chambers completely prevent cross-contamination of materials, and the free combination of partition sizes can accurately match the volume differences of multiple samples, avoiding the problem of uncontrolled sintering atmosphere caused by small samples occupying a large space.

[0016] In one alternative embodiment, the height of the partition does not exceed the opening height of the sagger body, and the partitions are arranged in parallel along the length or width direction.

[0017] Beneficial effects: The height-limiting partition design ensures unobstructed visibility during material loading; real-time monitoring of the sintering process is unobstructed; and the risk of burns from protruding high-temperature partitions is avoided during material unloading. Bidirectional arrangement in length or width provides orthogonal partitioning options.

[0018] In one alternative embodiment, the through holes are evenly distributed on the surface of the partition.

[0019] Beneficial effects: Uniformly distributed through holes balance airflow permeability and structural strength, improving sintering consistency.

[0020] In one alternative implementation, the inner wall of the sagger body is provided with graduation markings.

[0021] Beneficial effects: The scale markings improve positioning accuracy and compensate for calibration offsets caused by thermal deformation. This also reduces the deviation of crucible parameters between different batches.

[0022] In one alternative implementation, the sagger body is custom-sized to accommodate laboratory pilot tests or large-scale sintering requirements in production lines.

[0023] Beneficial effects: The customized size system covers the needs of all scenarios and can be adapted for use in both laboratory and large-scale sintering production lines.

[0024] In one alternative implementation, the sagger body is used to load the lithium battery cathode material, and the sagger environment of the production line sintering is simulated by adjusting the position of the separator.

[0025] Beneficial effects: By adjusting the spacing between the partitions, the problem of large-scale sagger requirements in laboratories and production lines can be solved, and the sintering behavior of materials under different conditions can be simulated. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of this utility model or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a side view of the adjustable sintering sagger of this utility model;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a top view of the adjustable sintering sagger of this utility model.

[0029] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0030] 1. Sagger body; 11. Placement section; 2. Divider. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0032] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0033] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0034] Furthermore, the technical features involved in the different embodiments of this utility model described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0035] The high-temperature sintering of lithium-ion battery cathode materials places extremely high demands on the purity and thermal stability of the reaction environment. The crucible, as the supporting container, primarily functions to isolate the material from corrosive gases or impurities within the furnace, preventing contamination of the electrode material components or unintended reactions. Furthermore, the crucible must possess excellent thermal shock resistance to withstand stress cracking during repeated temperature fluctuations. In industrial mass production, large-sized crucibles are typically used to increase the loading capacity per sintering cycle; however, their thick-walled structure and low thermal conductivity lead to slow heat transfer, creating a significant temperature gradient between the center and edges of the crucible. This inhomogeneity can cause localized differences in the crystal phase structure of the cathode material, ultimately reducing the battery's energy density and cycle life.

[0036] To save on raw materials and energy, laboratories often use small saggers, but their thermodynamic behavior differs fundamentally from that of large industrial saggers. Due to their larger specific surface area and lower heat capacity, small saggers experience a significantly faster heat transfer rate during sintering, potentially leading to localized overheating or deviations in reaction kinetics from actual production conditions. This difference forces researchers to repeatedly adjust process parameters for different operating conditions, and even customize special saggers, increasing both R&D costs and extending the process validation cycle.

[0037] The following is combined with Figures 1 to 2 The following describes embodiments of the present invention.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an adjustable sintering sagger is provided, comprising: a sagger body 1 and a plurality of partitions 2. The sagger body 1 is provided with a placement part 11 for placing the partitions 2. The partitions 2 are detachably installed on the placement part 11 to adjust the internal space of the sagger body 1.

[0039] The removable partition 2 design allows for free adjustment of the internal space structure of the sagger according to the volume, shape, or process requirements of the sintering material. This significantly improves the equipment's versatility, eliminating the need to purchase multiple sagger sizes to accommodate different batches of sintering tasks, thus greatly reducing equipment procurement and management costs. Simultaneously, the adjustable space optimizes material loading density, avoiding energy loss due to wasted space and improving sintering efficiency. The modular design also facilitates maintenance and component replacement, extending the overall service life.

[0040] The dimensions of the sagger body 1 are customized to suit the needs of laboratory pilot tests or large-scale sintering in production lines. The customized size system covers all scenarios and can be used in both laboratory and large-scale production line sintering.

[0041] Furthermore, the placement section 11 comprises several parallel slots formed on the inner wall of the sagger body 1, through which the partition plate 2 is inserted into the sagger body 1. The parallel slot structure standardizes the installation of the partition plate 2 and allows for quick assembly and disassembly without the need for auxiliary tools, greatly improving operational convenience. The precise fit between the slots and the partition plate 2 forms a mechanical self-locking mechanism, effectively resisting vibration and thermal stress during the sintering process and preventing material mixing accidents caused by the partition plate 2 tilting or falling off. The slotted design also facilitates the cleaning of residual materials, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

[0042] As one feasible approach, a resilient snap-fit ​​structure is added to the slot within the inner wall of the sagger body 1, with corresponding grooves provided on the edge of the partition 2. The connection between the slot and the partition 2 is changed from simple insertion to resilient snap-fit ​​fixation. The resilient snap-fit ​​provides bidirectional locking force, further preventing displacement of the partition 2 due to high-temperature vibration, making it particularly suitable for continuous sintering applications. The elastic deformation of the snap-fit ​​allows for thermal expansion of the partition 2, avoiding the risk of slot cracking due to material thermal deformation. Disassembly and assembly are simple; just press the partition 2 to release the snap-fit, improving operational efficiency compared to traditional slots.

[0043] Specifically, the sagger body 1 is rectangular in shape, and its bottom and side walls are made of heat-resistant and corrosion-resistant materials. The rectangular trough structure allows for the use of standardized molds to reduce production costs; it forms a stable contact surface when stacked; and its right-angled structure facilitates precise positioning by robotic arms, making it compatible with automated production lines.

[0044] In some embodiments, the partition 2 is made of a heat-resistant material with several through holes on its surface. The heat-resistant material ensures that the partition 2 maintains structural stability in high-temperature environments, preventing sealing failure caused by thermal deformation. The surface through holes form heat flow channels, guiding airflow to diffuse evenly along the surface of the partition 2 and solving the problem of insufficient heat radiation in the corner areas. The through-hole structure also reduces the heat capacity of the partition 2, shortening the heating or cooling cycle. The through holes are evenly distributed on the surface of the partition 2, balancing airflow permeability and structural strength, and improving sintering consistency.

[0045] Furthermore, combined Figure 2 As shown, the number of partitions 2 is n. By increasing or decreasing the number of partitions 2, the internal space of the sagger body 1 is divided into at most n partitions. 2 Each area is an independent, sealed chamber that completely prevents cross-contamination of materials. The freely combinable dimensions of the partitions can precisely match the volume differences of multiple samples, avoiding the problem of uncontrolled sintering atmosphere caused by small samples occupying a large space.

[0046] It is worth noting that, in combination Figure 2 As shown, the height of partition 2 does not exceed the opening height of the sagger body 1, and partition 2 is arranged parallel to each other along its length or width. The height-limited design of partition 2 ensures unobstructed visibility during material loading; unobstructed view during real-time monitoring of the sintering process; and avoids the risk of burns caused by the protruding high-temperature partition 2 when unloading materials. The bidirectional arrangement mode in length or width provides an orthogonal separation option.

[0047] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the sagger body 1 is provided with scale markings. The scale markings improve positioning accuracy and compensate for calibration offsets caused by thermal deformation. This reduces the deviation of sagger parameters between different batches.

[0048] In some embodiments, the sagger body 1 is used to load lithium battery cathode material, and the sagger loading environment of the production line sintering is simulated by adjusting the position of the separator 2. By adjusting the spacing of the separator 2, the problem of saggers required for large-scale production in the laboratory is solved, and the sintering behavior of materials under different conditions is simulated.

[0049] As a feasible approach, a removable sealing strip is added to the edge of the separator 2. The sealing strip is made of graphene-reinforced silicone. The sealing strip remains elastic at high temperatures, completely blocking the diffusion between adjacent chambers and reducing the contamination rate. The graphene coating improves the corrosion resistance of the sealing strip, enabling it to withstand the acidic atmosphere generated by the lithium battery cathode material.

[0050] Obviously, the above embodiments are merely examples for clear illustration and are not intended to limit the implementation. Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and all such modifications and variations fall within the scope defined by the present invention.

Claims

1. An adjustable sintering sagger, characterized in that, include: The sagger body (1) and several partitions (2) are provided on the sagger body (1), and the partitions (2) are detachably installed on the partitions (2) to adjust the internal space of the sagger body (1). The placement part (11) consists of several parallel slots opened on the inner wall of the sagger body (1), and the partition (2) is inserted into the sagger body (1) through the slots.

2. The adjustable sintering sagger according to claim 1, characterized in that, The partition (2) is made of heat-resistant material and has several through holes on its surface.

3. The adjustable sintering sagger according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sagger body (1) is rectangular groove-shaped, and its bottom and side walls are made of heat-resistant and corrosion-resistant materials.

4. The adjustable sintering sagger according to claim 3, characterized in that, The number of partitions (2) is n, and the internal space of the sagger body (1) is divided into at most n² independent regions by increasing or decreasing the number of partitions (2).

5. The adjustable sintering sagger according to claim 4, characterized in that, The height of the partition (2) does not exceed the opening height of the sagger body (1), and the partition (2) is arranged in parallel along the length or width direction.

6. The adjustable sintering sagger according to claim 5, characterized in that, The through holes are evenly distributed on the surface of the partition (2).

7. The adjustable sintering sagger according to claim 6, characterized in that, The inner wall of the sagger body (1) is marked with scale markings.

8. The adjustable sintering sagger according to claim 6, characterized in that, The dimensions of the sagger body (1) are customized to meet the needs of laboratory pilot tests or large-scale sintering in production lines.

9. The adjustable sintering sagger according to claim 6, characterized in that, The sagger body (1) is used to load lithium battery cathode material, and the sagger environment of the production line sintering is simulated by adjusting the position of the separator (2).

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