Method and plant for operating an industrial production process using a metal melt, and use of the plant

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and a corresponding plant for operating an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc, preferably for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of operating an industrial production process, preferably a metallization process, carried out using a molten metal.

[0002] In particular, the present invention relates to the technical field of metallization of components (i.e., the coating of metallic surfaces of components) using a molten metal, especially the technical field of surface coating of components using a molten metal, in particular by immersion of a component in a molten metal, such as hot-dip galvanizing.

[0003] In particular, the present invention relates to a method and a system for operating an industrial production process using a molten metal, in particular a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc, preferably for decarbonizing an industrial production process using a molten metal, and its uses or applications.

[0004] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular for decarbonizing a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably for decarbonizing a hot-dip galvanizing process using a molten zinc.

[0005] Furthermore, the present invention also relates to the various uses of the apparatus according to the invention, in particular the use of the apparatus according to the invention for the decarbonization of an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular for the decarbonization of a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably for the decarbonization of hot-dip galvanizing, as well as the use of the apparatus according to the invention for operating an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc.

[0006] Metallization of components is an established process for improving the surface properties of materials, particularly with regard to corrosion protection, wear resistance, and electrical conductivity. Generally, a thin metal layer is applied to the surface of a substrate or component to selectively modify its physical and chemical properties. Metallization is used in numerous industrial sectors, such as the automotive industry, aerospace engineering, electronics, mechanical engineering, and medical technology. Especially in environments with aggressive chemical or physical conditions, such as saline or humid environments, corrosion protection plays a crucial role in extending the service life and functionality of components.

[0007] Corrosion of metal components, especially ferrous or iron-based components, poses a significant problem in many industrial applications. It not only impairs the mechanical strength and durability of components but also leads to high repair and replacement costs. Metallic coatings applied to components offer effective protection against corrosion by either creating a barrier between the component and the environment and / or inhibiting corrosion through the formation of passivating oxide layers. Such a metallic coating can be applied through metallization, using materials such as zinc, nickel, chromium, aluminum, tin, magnesium, and their mixtures and alloys.

[0008] In connection with the corrosion protection of ferrous metal components, such as steel components, the so-called hot-dip metallization with zinc (hot-dip galvanizing) is used in particular, which is also known synonymously as hot-dip galvanizing.

[0009] Another advantage of metallization lies in the improvement of the tribological properties of components, such as increased abrasion resistance or reduced friction. This is particularly important in highly stressed mechanical applications, such as engine components or gears.

[0010] Furthermore, the metallization of components can also enable improved electrical conductivity, which is of great importance for the manufacture of electronic components.

[0011] Metallization, i.e., the application of a metal layer to a component, can be achieved through various processes, such as hot-dip fusion, electroplating, chemical vapor deposition, physical vapor deposition, or spray metallization. From a technical perspective, processes that utilize molten metal are primarily used.

[0012] In this context, hot-dip coating is a particularly widespread method for applying metal coatings to components or their surfaces, whereby the component is immersed in a molten metal. In this process, the coating (i.e., metallization) is typically applied through a combination of several mechanisms during immersion of the component in the molten metal, namely mechanical adhesion to the often rough component surface, diffusion processes, alloy formation, and rapid solidification.

[0013] The hot-dip plating process typically involves several steps: First, the component is thoroughly cleaned to remove contaminants that impair the adhesion of the metal layer to the component's surface and thus prevent the formation of a uniform and defect-free metal layer. This cleaning usually involves, depending on the contaminants, a combination of various mechanical and / or chemical cleaning steps, each typically followed by a rinsing step. The component is then immersed in the molten metal.

[0014] In the usual hot-dip process, the (molten) metal melt is held in a boiler which is filled with the metal melt and is usually heated directly with natural gas via a large number of burners.

[0015] One disadvantage of this heating method is the rapid wear and tear on the boiler. This is because the direct heating, and especially the direct contact with the flame, exposes the boiler to locally high temperatures, creating so-called hotspots in the boiler material. These hotspots can eventually lead to defects. Due to these unavoidable hotspots, the typical lifespan of these boilers is only about 7 to 9 years, particularly since the boiler must be replaced early to prevent leaks from which molten metal could escape. It is not possible to repair the hotspots or the thinner areas of the boiler. Replacing the boiler is complex, costly, and results in production downtime. In particular, the entire production process must be stopped and restarted with the new boiler.The removed boiler is no longer usable after removal and must be disposed of.

[0016] Directly heating the boiler with gas, especially natural gas, therefore results in both high operating costs due to the regular replacement of the boiler, which also inevitably leads to a production stoppage, and a poor environmental balance.

[0017] Furthermore, the generally used direct heating with gas, especially natural gas, means that the energy source is fixed and not variable, and consequently, sustainable energy sources and carriers cannot be used. Retrofitting or converting existing heating systems to other energy carriers or sources is also not easily possible from a technical standpoint and is also associated with high costs from an economic perspective.

[0018] However, this method (i.e., direct heating with natural gas) is also difficult to reconcile with the Renewable Energy Sources Act 2023 (EEG 2023), which is the basis for Germany becoming climate-neutral by 2045.

[0019] However, heating the boiler exclusively with electricity, which can be at least partially supplied by renewable energy sources, comes with economic disadvantages and is also generally inefficient from an energy perspective: Since electrical energy is relatively expensive compared to other energy sources such as natural gas or hydrocarbons and has relatively low energy efficiency, operating costs would increase significantly. Furthermore, electric heating systems require considerable amounts of energy and typically have lower efficiency ratings than gas- or oil-fired heating systems. Therefore, energy losses are significantly higher when heating molten metals purely electrically, resulting in a considerably less efficient process.Particularly in large plants where large quantities of metal need to be melted for production and maintenance, this leads to significantly higher energy consumption.

[0020] Furthermore, electrical energy is often less flexible than, for example, natural gas or oil, especially in regions where the power supply is unstable or unreliable. Power outages or grid instability can lead to production interruptions or shutdowns, delaying the entire metallization process, particularly the immersion melting process. This results in an overall inefficient production process and incurs high costs. In the case of sufficiently long power outages or grid instability, the molten metal can even solidify prematurely, potentially necessitating boiler replacement.

[0021] However, the decarbonization of such metallization processes, and thus the shift towards lower carbon turnover, is desirable and is being demanded by policymakers, particularly in Germany and Europe. The long-term goal of decarbonization is, in particular, the creation of a so-called post-fossil economy in order to reduce CO2 emissions, which intensify the greenhouse effect and thus cause global warming.

[0022] Heating a boiler for metal smelting in a metallization process with reduced carbon conversion can be done using renewable energy sources, which, according to the state of the art, are primarily provided by electricity (but mostly without the possibility of switching to alternative energy sources or energy carriers in the event of a scarce electricity supply).

[0023] However, electricity generation based on renewable energies, such as wind power and solar power in particular, is associated with fluctuating availability, so that in addition to the aforementioned disadvantages of increased costs and lower efficiency, a stable supply of electricity based on renewable energies is not possible.

[0024] Furthermore, current technological advancements also focus on the efficient use of hydrogen as an energy source. Thus, hydrogen could represent a renewable energy source in the future (although the problem lies in the fact that the supply of so-called green hydrogen, in particular, is not permanent and / or not available in sufficient quantities).

[0025] For the future, various renewable energy sources are conceivable, but none are currently viable as the sole source from an economic perspective. Above all, the continuous operation of the production process, particularly without undesirable and unforeseen production downtimes, is essential from an economic standpoint. Furthermore, energy costs must also be considered. It is crucial that the furnace containing the molten metal is heated continuously and reliably during the production process to prevent the temperature from falling below the specified metallization or coating temperature and, in the worst case, from solidifying. If the molten metal solidifies almost completely, further use is no longer possible.

[0026] Furthermore, due to the lifespan of metal boilers, committing to a single energy source in the long term is not practical, as from a technical point of view, converting an existing boiler with a corresponding heating system to an alternative or additional energy source is not easily possible.

[0027] The previously described state of the art therefore lacks a way to efficiently decarbonize industrial production processes carried out using a metal melt, such as metallization processes, in particular hot-dip processes (such as hot-dip galvanizing or hot-dip galvanizing processes), without significant economic losses, especially while maintaining production load and uninterrupted production operations.

[0028] Furthermore, the current state of the art lacks a means of flexibly selecting or changing the energy source (and thus also the energy carrier) for heating the metal melting furnace, particularly without incurring production losses during the energy source change. Specifically, current state-of-the-art methods lack the ability to flexibly integrate variable energy sources into the production process or to select the energy source variably and / or flexibly as needed.

[0029] Furthermore, current technology lacks a way to efficiently heat the boiler with molten metal without compromising its structure and integrity, particularly without creating local hotspots on the boiler material. Specifically, it lacks a way to efficiently heat the boiler with molten metal without simultaneously reducing its service life.

[0030] CN 2 22 007 975 U describes a device with a hot-dip coating chamber, below which a heating chamber is arranged with additional heating tubes, in which heated air is supplied via a device, wherein the heated air or the waste heat is drawn in via a vent above the hot-dip coating chamber.

[0031] Furthermore, DE 10 2006 111 725 A1 describes a process for hot-dip galvanizing an iron or steel component, wherein the process comprises a degreasing treatment of the iron or steel component, a pickling treatment and a flux treatment of the pickled iron or steel component and further hot-dip galvanizing of the iron or steel component in a melt.

[0032] Furthermore, DE 10 2023 206 581 A1 relates to a galvanizing furnace and a method for operating a galvanizing furnace with the process steps of tempering zinc arranged in a galvanizing kettle, feeding at least one ungalvanized blank into the melt in the galvanizing kettle, galvanizing the at least one blank and removing the galvanized crude steel from the galvanizing kettle.

[0033] Furthermore, EP 3 252 412 A1 relates to a galvanizing furnace and a method for operating the galvanizing furnace, wherein the galvanizing furnace comprises a galvanizing bath and a furnace housing enclosing the galvanizing bath, which has a rectangular cross-section, wherein at least one first receptacle for a burner is provided in the areas of two diagonally opposite corners of the furnace housing, and wherein a second receptacle for a burner is provided in the areas of the other two diagonally opposite corners of the furnace housing, wherein burners are optionally arranged either in the first receptacles or in the second receptacles, wherein flames generated by the burners are guided in the area between a longitudinal side wall of the furnace housing and an opposite wall of the galvanizing bath.

[0034] The problem underlying the present invention therefore consists in providing a method for operating an industrial production process using a molten metal, in particular a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc, and a corresponding plant (system) for carrying out this process, wherein the disadvantages of the prior art described above are to be avoided at least to a large extent or at least mitigated.

[0035] In particular, such a process or plant (system) shall be provided which enables efficient decarbonization compared to conventional industrial production processes or plants operating using a molten metal, in particular compared to conventional hot-dip coating processes or plants for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably compared to conventional hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc, in particular while maintaining the production load, in particular while maintaining uninterrupted production operation.

[0036] Furthermore, such a process or plant (system) is to be provided which, compared to conventional industrial production processes or plants operating using a molten metal, in particular compared to conventional hot-dip coating processes or plants for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably compared to conventional hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc, offers the possibility of flexibly selecting or changing the energy source for heating the boiler of the molten metal, in particular without production losses occurring when changing the energy source, and / or flexibly integrating variable energy sources into the production process or selecting the energy source variably and / or flexibly in each case.

[0037] Furthermore, such a process or plant (system) shall be provided which, compared to conventional industrial production processes or plants for operating a metal melt, in particular compared to conventional hot-dip coating processes or plants for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a metal melt, preferably compared to conventional hot-dip galvanizing using a zinc melt, provides the possibility of efficiently heating the boiler with the metal melt without impairing the structure and integrity of the boiler, in particular without creating local hot spots on the boiler material, and / or efficiently heating the boiler with the metal melt without simultaneously impairing the boiler service life.

[0038] Finally, such a process or plant (system) is to be provided which, compared to conventional industrial production processes or plants operating using a molten metal, in particular compared to conventional hot-dip coating processes or plants for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably compared to conventional hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc, enables improved process economy and / or a more efficient, in particular more flexible and / or reliable, in particular less error-prone process flow and / or improved economic compatibility and / or improved cost and resource utilization.

[0039] To solve the problem described above, the present invention proposes – according to a first aspect of the present invention – a method for operating an industrial production process using a molten metal, in particular a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably a hot-dip galvanizing process using a molten zinc, preferably for decarbonizing an industrial production process using a molten metal, according to claim 1; further, in particular special and / or advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention are the subject of the corresponding dependent claims.

[0040] Furthermore, according to a second aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to the use of a method according to the first aspect of the present invention for the decarbonization of an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular for the decarbonization of a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably for the decarbonization of hot-dip galvanizing, according to the related independent use claim.

[0041] Furthermore, according to a third aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to a method for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a method for decarbonizing a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably a method for decarbonizing a hot-dip galvanizing process using a molten zinc, according to the relevant independent method claim; further, in particular special and / or advantageous embodiments of the method according to the third aspect of the invention are the subject of the relevant dependent method claim.

[0042] Furthermore, according to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to an installation (system) for operating an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc, preferably for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular an installation for carrying out a process according to the first or third aspect of the invention, according to the independent claim relating thereto; further, in particular special and / or advantageous embodiments of the installation according to the invention are the subject of the dependent claims relating thereto.

[0043] Finally, according to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the uses relate to the uses described in the relevant use claims; further, in particular special and / or advantageous embodiments of the uses according to the fifth aspect of the invention are the subject of the relevant use subclaim.

[0044] It goes without saying that the following explanations state that embodiments, designs, advantages and the like, which are described below for the purpose of avoiding repetition only with regard to one aspect of the invention, naturally also apply to the other aspects of the invention without the need for separate mention.

[0045] With regard to all the relative or percentage weight-related specifications mentioned below, in particular relative quantity or weight specifications, it should also be noted that, within the scope of the present invention, these must be selected by the person skilled in the art in such a way that, in sum, including all components or ingredients, in particular as defined below, they always add up to 100% or 100% by weight; however, this is self-evident to the person skilled in the art.

[0046] Furthermore, it should be noted that the person skilled in the art may, if necessary, deviate from the scope specifications listed below, depending on the application or the specific circumstances, without leaving the scope of the present invention.

[0047] Furthermore, it should be noted that all values ​​or parameters mentioned below, or the like, can generally be determined using standardized or explicitly specified determination methods, or alternatively, using determination or measurement methods that are generally familiar to those skilled in the field.

[0048] Furthermore, for the purposes of describing the present invention, the features of the present invention cited in connection with specific embodiments, configurations, advantages, examples, or the like are also considered disclosed in combination. Thus, higher-order combinations of individual or multiple features cited for specific embodiments, configurations, application examples, or the like are also considered disclosed.

[0049] In particular, with regard to the features characterizing the invention, all possible combinations of these features shall be deemed disclosed, with embodiments of comparable or corresponding preference of the various features in their combination being preferred (e.g. quantities or quantity ranges).

[0050] It is particularly important to note that for the following quantity specifications relating to the various ingredients or the like, especially relative or absolute quantities of the same preference or level of preference, the respective combinations relating to the various ingredients with the corresponding preference or level of preference are also disclosed. Likewise, all other combinations (i.e., combinations based on different preferences or levels of preference) are also disclosed.

[0051] Having said that, the present invention will now be explained in detail below.

[0052] The subject matter of the present invention – according to a first aspect of the present invention – is thus a method for operating an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a hot-dip process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc, preferably for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal. wherein air, in particular fresh air, is first heated in at least one hot air generation chamber, in particular to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 1,400 °C, in particular in the range of 400 °C to 1,200 °C, wherein the heated air is subsequently directed and / or introduced into a mixing chamber, preferably by means of at least one supply line, optionally via at least one intermediate heat storage unit, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air, wherein the mixing chamber, in particular for heating air supplied preferably by means of a supply line, in particular fresh air, comprises a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, and / or is designed as a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, and wherein the air heated by means of the heat exchanger, in particular an air / air heat exchanger, is subsequently directed and / or introduced, preferably by means of at least one supply line, into a boiler chamber, in particular into a hot air space of a boiler chamber, wherein the hot air space surrounds and / or heats a boiler containing a metal melt.

[0053] As explained below, the present invention is associated with a multitude of completely unexpected advantages, features and surprising technical effects, the following description of which makes no claim to completeness, but illustrates the inventive character of the present invention: For, as the applicant has now discovered quite unexpectedly, industrial production processes carried out using a metal melt, such as metallization processes, in particular hot-dip galvanizing processes (such as hot-dip galvanizing or hot-dip galvanizing processes), can be efficiently decarbonized without significant economic losses by means of the inventive method or the inventive plant (system), in particular while maintaining the production load, and in particular while maintaining uninterrupted production operations.

[0054] In particular, the applicant has discovered, quite unexpectedly, that within the framework of the inventive method or plant, it is possible to flexibly select or change the energy source (and thus also the energy carrier) for heating the boiler of the metal melting process, especially without any production losses occurring when switching energy sources. In particular, the applicant has surprisingly succeeded in providing a method or plant in which variable energy sources are flexibly integrated into the production process, or in which the energy source can be selected variably and / or flexibly.

[0055] Furthermore, within the framework of the inventive method or system, it is surprisingly possible to efficiently heat the boiler with the molten metal without impairing the boiler's structure and integrity, and in particular without creating local hotspots on the boiler material. Specifically, the boiler can be efficiently heated with the molten metal without simultaneously reducing its service life.

[0056] Furthermore, within the framework of the inventive method or the inventive system, it is surprisingly possible to achieve improved process economy and / or a more efficient, in particular more flexible and / or reliable, in particular less error-prone process flow and / or improved economic compatibility and / or improved cost and resource utilization compared to conventional industrial production processes or systems for operating an industrial production process or system using a molten metal, in particular compared to conventional hot-dip coating processes or systems for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably compared to conventional hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc.

[0057] Furthermore, within the framework of the inventive method or the inventive system, it is surprisingly possible, on the one hand, to flexibly select the energy supply with regard to the method or the system and, in particular, to decouple it from the heating of the molten metal or the corresponding boiler containing the molten metal, and on the other hand, to select the energy source variably and independently of each other, so that, as required, the most economical, in particular the most cost-effective and / or energy-efficient and / or ecologically compatible, energy source can be selected, preferably also with a view to decarbonizing the production process.

[0058] The inventive method therefore makes it possible to utilize temporarily occurring oversupply quantities in the electricity grid (negative residual load), which account for 440 TWh / a (= 19%) of Germany's total energy demand. In contrast, prior art industrial processes employ burner and furnace systems where heating is achieved either with natural gas, hydrogen, gas mixtures (e.g., of natural gas and hydrogen), or with electricity (inductively or resistance heated). However, the parallel, equivalent, and flexible use of different energy carriers is not provided for in the prior art.

[0059] The targeted and sensible use of surplus electricity, as is possible within the framework of the inventive method, has a system-stabilizing effect and is particularly valuable because imbalances in the system's balancing groups can be compensated for due to continuous operation. This also avoids grid bottlenecks and the associated redispatch measures or grid expansion costs.

[0060] Furthermore, the total amount of energy required can be reduced within the framework of the inventive process or by the inventive system, thus making the process more ecological and economical (especially since the variable selection of the energy source significantly reduces the fossil energy component, and in the best case, even allows it to be completely replaced by renewable energy). In particular, the heated air, which is initially and as intended primarily for heating the molten metal or the boiler containing the molten metal, can optionally also be used subsequently for operating or heating other devices in the overall production process, especially for pretreatment and / or posttreatment, and can also be recycled: During recycling, the air from the boiler chamber or the boiler can be used to heat the molten metal.The still-hot air from the boiler chamber, after being recirculated, is either reheated or mixed with heated air and reused to heat the molten metal or the boiler containing the molten metal. This process allows the remaining heat of this recycled air to be reused, thus reducing the energy required for reheating.

[0061] Overall, the recirculation of the hot air at various points in the process according to the invention enables efficient, in particular ecological and economical process control, which leads to significant energy savings and optimization as well as significant decarbonization, especially when implemented on an industrial scale.

[0062] The present invention thus relates – as described above – to a method for operating an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc, preferably for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal. wherein air, in particular fresh air, is first heated in at least one hot air generation chamber, in particular to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 1,400 °C, in particular in the range of 400 °C to 1,200 °C, wherein the heated air is subsequently directed and / or introduced into a mixing chamber, preferably by means of at least one supply line, optionally via at least one intermediate heat storage unit, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air, wherein the mixing chamber, in particular for heating air supplied preferably by means of a supply line, in particular fresh air, comprises a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, and / or is designed as a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, and wherein the air heated by means of the heat exchanger, in particular an air / air heat exchanger, is subsequently directed and / or introduced, preferably by means of at least one supply line, into a boiler chamber, in particular into a hot air space of a boiler chamber, wherein the hot air space surrounds and / or heats a boiler containing a metal melt.

[0063] In connection with the present invention, the hot air generation chamber and the boiler chamber are thus spatially separated and therefore decoupled, since the air is directed from the hot air generation chamber into the boiler chamber. In other words, the air is not heated in the hot air space of the boiler chamber or in the boiler chamber itself, but in a separate and spatially isolated chamber, and only after heating is the air directed or transported into the hot air space of the boiler chamber. Energy generation or hot air generation on the one hand and the heating of the boiler chamber or boiler on the other are thus functionally decoupled, so that energy generation can be flexibly designed and tailored independently of the boiler heating.

[0064] Decarbonization (also known as carbon removal) refers in particular to the conversion of a production process towards a lower carbon footprint. The ultimate goal of decarbonization is to create a so-called post-fossil economy in order to reduce CO2 emissions, which intensify the greenhouse effect and thus cause global warming.

[0065] Within the scope of the present invention, the supply lines are in particular transport lines which are suitable and designed for the transport of air, wherein they are in particular designed in such a way that a relatively low heat loss occurs.

[0066] In the inventive method or system, the air is either directly conveyed or transported from the hot air generation chamber to the boiler chamber, in particular to the hot air space of the boiler chamber, or indirectly via or through further chambers or devices, as described in detail below. These further chambers or devices can be, in particular, a mixing chamber or a heat storage unit. However, it is also possible to completely decouple the hot air generation circuit from the boiler room heating circuit. For further details, please refer to the following explanations.

[0067] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the air used for heating can be returned from the mixing chamber to the hot air generation chamber and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line, in particular for further and / or reprocessing, especially heating.

[0068] According to the present invention, it may be preferred if the hot air generation chamber is spatially separated from the boiler chamber.

[0069] Furthermore, according to the present invention, it may also be preferred if the hot air generation chamber and the boiler chamber are controlled and / or operated independently of each other.

[0070] In this context, "controlled" means that the hot air generation chamber and the boiler chamber are regulated and operated independently of each other. In other words, the operating conditions can be set separately, and these are usually coordinated with each other during operation. Consequently, in the process according to the invention, the hot air generation and the heating of the molten metal or the boiler with the molten metal are operated in a decoupled manner.

[0071] Within the scope of the present invention, it has proven advantageous if the supply line(s) (each) is / are designed as a pipe and / or a channel.

[0072] All supply and return lines can be designed as pipes and / or ducts. These should be designed to transport (heated) air, preferably with minimal heat loss, to ensure an overall efficient, environmentally friendly, and economical process.

[0073] Furthermore, within the scope of the present invention, it has also proven advantageous if the air heated in the hot air generation chamber is subsequently directed and / or introduced from the hot air generation chamber into the mixing chamber using at least one air conveyor, in particular a fan and / or a pump, preferably by means of the at least one supply line.

[0074] According to the invention, it may be preferred if the heating of the air in the hot air generation chamber is carried out by means of at least one energy source, in particular by means of at least one energy source that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources. In particular, air and energy from at least one energy source are supplied to the hot air generation chamber.

[0075] In the context of the present invention, the term "energy source" is to be understood broadly and serves in particular to generate usable energy. Specifically, the energy source is the element that provides energy by converting it from another form of energy. In other words, in a closed system, the energy source is the element that provides energy by converting it from another form of energy. In contrast, an energy carrier, as used in the present invention, is the quantitatively quantifiable medium that contains and transmits energy. For example, the sun is an energy source that provides energy through nuclear fusion and is the most important energy source for the Earth. This energy is provided and transported by means of the energy carrier, radiation.

[0076] In the case of the present invention, therefore, gas, such as hydrogen, natural gas, etc., electricity, geothermal energy, solar thermal energy and the like are the energy sources which are used to generate heated air or hot air, wherein the resulting heated air or hot air consequently represents the energy carrier and transports or transfers the energy within the system.

[0077] Within the framework of the inventive method, it has proven advantageous if the heating of the air in the hot air generation chamber is carried out by supplying air and energy from at least one energy source, in particular by means of at least one energy source that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources.

[0078] Furthermore, it has also proven advantageous within the framework of the inventive method if air and energy from at least one energy source, in particular by means of at least one energy source that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources, are supplied to the hot air generation chamber.

[0079] When energy is supplied variably from a plurality of different energy sources or from independently selectable energy sources, the process can be operated flexibly and independently of a specific energy source, whereby the selection can be based on economic and ecological conditions.

[0080] The at least one energy source may be selected from the group consisting of (i) fuel gases, in particular natural gas, hydrogen, methane, ethane, propane, butane, acetylene, ethylene, propylene and mixtures thereof, preferably natural gas and / or hydrogen, particularly preferably natural gas and / or regeneratively produced hydrogen (green hydrogen), (ii) electricity, in particular regeneratively produced electricity, preferably electricity generated from wind power, solar power and / or hydropower, (iii) petroleum, (iv) thermal energy, in particular geothermal energy and / or solar thermal energy, (v) wood, (vi) coal, in particular hard coal and / or lignite, and coal products (coal-based products), in particular coal coke, coal dust, coal tar and / or charcoal; and combinations of the aforementioned energy sources.

[0081] Furthermore, the at least one energy source can be selected variably and / or the at least one energy source can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources.

[0082] In particular, the at least one energy source can be selected by means of a control system, preferably automated, especially from a plurality of different energy sources.

[0083] In particular, the at least one energy source can be selected from the group of (i) availability and / or price of the at least one energy source, (ii) process efficiency, in particular energy efficiency, (iii) predetermined degree of decarbonization and combinations thereof from a plurality of different energy sources, depending on at least one selection criterion.

[0084] In the context of the present invention, a selection for the sake of process efficiency can mean choosing an energy source that, for example, enables particularly rapid heating in order to facilitate a particularly efficient and consistent process flow, especially without downtime or production delays. However, the selection can also mean choosing the energy source based on availability or price, provided that these criteria do not significantly impair process efficiency or that the resulting advantage compensates for any slightly reduced process efficiency.

[0085] According to the invention, it may be particularly preferred if the heating of the air in the hot air generation chamber is decoupled and / or independent of the heating of the boiler.

[0086] Furthermore, according to the invention, it may also be preferred if the heating of the air in the hot air generation chamber and the heating of the boiler take place in separate and / or distinct process steps.

[0087] Furthermore, according to the invention, it may be preferred if the boiler is heated indirectly and / or via a heat transfer medium, in particular heated air.

[0088] In the context of the present invention, "indirect" means that the heated air is not generated directly at the same location where it is required. In other words, the heated air is not generated at the point in the system or process where the heat is needed. The heat from the energy source is thus transferred indirectly via a heat transfer medium, namely air. The air is not produced directly at the boiler containing the molten metal, but rather in the hot air generation chamber and then, optionally via a subsequent heat storage chamber and / or a mixing chamber, directed to the boiler chamber, in particular to the hot air space of the boiler chamber, which surrounds and / or heats a boiler containing the molten metal.

[0089] According to the invention, it can be provided in particular that the boiler and / or the molten metal is heated to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 900 °C, in particular in the range of 300 °C to 800 °C, preferably in the range of 325 °C to 750 °C, preferably in the range of 350 °C to 700 °C.

[0090] According to the invention, it has proven advantageous if the hot air space comprises at least two different areas and / or if the hot air space is divided into at least two different areas, in particular areas with different temperatures or temperature zones.

[0091] In particular, the areas may be spatially separated and / or subdivided.

[0092] These areas can be formed in particular by differences in flow and / or by internal components, especially by flow channels and / or guide plates.

[0093] By using multiple areas with different temperatures or temperature zones, temperature reductions caused by components immersed in the molten metal or by diffusion processes can be compensated for. It is also possible to remove deposits by precisely controlling the temperature. For example, in the case of a zinc melt, hard zinc can be selectively precipitated in a lower-temperature area and then skimmed off.

[0094] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, at least one mixing chamber can be arranged and / or provided in the process direction between the at least one hot air generation chamber and the boiler chamber, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air.

[0095] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, at least one mixing chamber is arranged and / or provided, particularly downstream and / or in the process direction to the hot air generation chamber and upstream and / or in the boiler chamber, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air.

[0096] In this context, the mixing chamber allows for precise temperature control and optimization, ensuring that the exact temperature required for heating the boiler with molten zinc at a specific time is available. The mixing chamber thus allows for particularly flexible temperature adjustment of the air introduced into the boiler chamber, especially into the hot air chamber. Such a process and arrangement are also described in detail below. Fig. 1 shown.

[0097] According to a particular embodiment, the mixing chamber, especially for heating fresh air preferably supplied via a supply line, may include a heat exchanger, particularly an air-to-air heat exchanger, and / or be designed as a heat exchanger, particularly an air-to-air heat exchanger. In particular, this embodiment may provide that the air used for heating is returned to the hot air generation chamber and / or recycled, preferably via at least one return line, particularly for further and / or reprocessing, especially heating; and / or that the air heated by the heat exchanger, particularly an air-to-air heat exchanger, is directed and / or introduced into the boiler chamber, particularly into the hot air space of the boiler chamber, preferably via at least one supply line.

[0098] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, at least one heat storage device can be arranged and / or provided in the process direction between the hot air generation chamber and the mixing chamber.

[0099] Furthermore, according to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, at least one heat storage device can be arranged and / or provided downstream and / or in the process direction to the hot air generation chamber and upstream and / or in the mixing chamber.

[0100] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the heated air from the hot air generation chamber can first be directed and / or introduced into at least one heat storage unit, preferably by means of at least one supply line, and subsequently the air from the heat storage unit can be directed and / or introduced into the mixing chamber, preferably by means of at least one supply line.

[0101] It has proven particularly advantageous if the heat storage device is a latent and / or sensible heat storage device.

[0102] The terms latent and sensible heat storage are to be understood broadly within the scope of the present invention. In particular, a sensible heat storage device stores heat through a temperature change of the material, such that the stored heat is directly proportional to the change in the temperature of the storage material. Thus, when the material is heated, its temperature rises; when the material cools, it releases heat, resulting in a temperature decrease. In contrast, a latent heat storage device stores heat through a phase change of the material, without a temperature change occurring as long as the phase (e.g., from solid to liquid or from liquid to gaseous) is not complete. During the phase change, heat is absorbed into or released from the material without directly altering its temperature.

[0103] In this context, it has also proven beneficial if the heat storage medium comprises at least one heat storage material selected from the group of oils, slags, steels, salts, in particular salt mixtures, gravel, stones, in particular fireclay bricks, ceramics and metals.

[0104] According to the invention, it may be particularly preferred if the air from the hot air space of the boiler chamber is recycled and / or circulated.

[0105] Such a process, in particular the recirculation or recycling of the air from the hot air chamber of the boiler, enables the reuse or further utilization of this still-warm air, making the process more economical and environmentally friendly overall. In particular, residual heat can be reused, and less exhaust gas or heat is released.

[0106] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the air from the hot air space of the boiler chamber can be returned to the mixing chamber and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line, in particular for further and / or reprocessing.

[0107] With this approach, the air can be reused, particularly for temperature control of the air from the hot air generation chamber or any heat storage unit before it is introduced into the boiler chamber. This reuse enables a particularly economical and environmentally friendly process, resulting in significantly less exhaust gas or heat emission.

[0108] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the air from the hot air space of the boiler chamber can be supplied, preferably by means of at least one return line, to at least one further device, in particular for pretreatment and / or post-treatment.

[0109] In particular, the air can be directed and / or introduced into the further device by means of at least one return line.

[0110] In this context, the additional device may also be selected from the group of drying devices, heating devices, ovens, pickling devices, flux treatment devices, rinsing devices, washing devices and combinations thereof.

[0111] Furthermore, in this context, the air from the further device can be returned to the mixing chamber and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line.

[0112] The air from the boiler chamber can then be used to heat another device, making a particularly economical and ecological process possible.

[0113] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the supply lines can each be designed as a pipe and / or a channel.

[0114] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the agitator guide lines can each be designed as a pipe and / or a channel.

[0115] Within the scope of the present invention, it may be provided that the degree of decarbonization, in particular the avoidance of CO2 emissions, varies in the range of 20% to 100% with respect to the amount of energy used in the overall process and / or in the industrial production process, particularly in the range of 25% to 90%, especially in comparison to an overall process and / or industrial production process operated entirely with fossil energy sources at identical production load.

[0116] The present invention may also provide for a reduction in the amount of fossil energy sources used in the overall process and / or in the industrial production process compared to an overall process and / or industrial production process operated entirely with fossil energy sources, with identical production load, in the range of 20% to 100%, in particular in the range of 25% to 90%.

[0117] The degree of decarbonization or the reduced amount of fossil energy is to be achieved in comparison to a process with the same production load, and in particular while maintaining uninterrupted production operations. Within the scope of the present invention, decarbonization is to be understood specifically as a reduction in carbon conversion, whereby CO2 emissions are also to be reduced.

[0118] The term fossil energy sources is to be understood broadly within the scope of the present invention and describes in particular natural resources such as coal, petroleum and natural gas, which consist of the organic remains of living organisms that were transformed under geological conditions over a long period of time millions of years ago and are non-renewable.

[0119] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the components are in particular iron-based and / or iron-containing components, preferably steel-based and / or steel-containing components, preferably steel components.

[0120] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the surface of the components is in particular an iron-based and / or iron-containing surface, preferably a steel-based and / or steel-containing surface, preferably a steel surface.

[0121] According to the invention, it can be provided in particular that the metal melt comprises at least one metal selected from the group consisting of zinc, tin, magnesium, aluminium, silicon, lead, nickel, bismuth and their combinations and mixtures.

[0122] Furthermore, according to the invention, it can also be provided that the molten metal contains no iron.

[0123] Furthermore, according to the invention, it can be provided that the metal melt is not an iron-containing metal melt and / or not an iron-containing metal melt.

[0124] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the method and / or the industrial production process may include a melt-dip process.

[0125] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the method and / or the industrial production process may include hot-dip galvanizing.

[0126] Zinc metallization, particularly in the form of hot-dip galvanizing, is widely used in industry, especially for corrosion protection. Metallic components of all kinds made from ferrous materials, especially steel components, often require effective corrosion protection due to their application. Steel components for motor vehicles (e.g., cars, trucks, commercial vehicles), as well as for other technical sectors (e.g., construction, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering), require effective corrosion protection that can withstand long-term stress.

[0127] In this context, it is well known that steel-based components are protected against corrosion by means of galvanizing (galvanizing). During galvanizing, the steel is coated with a generally thin layer of zinc (i.e., metallized with zinc) to protect it from corrosion. Various galvanizing processes can be used to galvanize steel components, i.e., to coat them with a metallic zinc coating. Hot-dip galvanizing (also known as hot-dip galvanizing) is arguably the most important method for protecting steel from corrosion with metallic zinc coatings. Other methods include, for example, spray galvanizing (flame spraying with zinc wire), diffusion galvanizing (Sherard galvanizing), electrogalvanizing (electrolytic galvanizing), non-electrolytic galvanizing using zinc flake coatings, and mechanical galvanizing.There are significant differences between the aforementioned galvanizing processes, particularly with regard to the execution of the process, but also with regard to the nature and properties of the zinc layers or zinc coatings produced.

[0128] In hot-dip galvanizing, steel is continuously (e.g., strip and wire) or piecewise (e.g., components) immersed in a heated kettle of liquid zinc at temperatures of approximately 400 °C to 600 °C (melting point of zinc: 419.5 °C; zinc alloys may have a higher or lower melting point), so that a resistant alloy layer of iron and zinc forms on the steel surface and above that a very firmly adhering pure zinc layer.

[0129] Hot-dip galvanizing is thus a recognized and proven method for many decades to protect components made of ferrous materials, especially steel, from corrosion. As described above, the typically pre-cleaned or pre-treated component is immersed in a bath of molten zinc, where it reacts with the zinc melt and, as a result, forms a relatively thin zinc layer that is metallurgically bonded to the base material.

[0130] Hot-dip galvanizing is divided into batch galvanizing (see, for example, DIN EN ISO 1461 and DIN 50997) and continuous strip and wire galvanizing (see, for example, DIN EN 10143 and DIN EN 10346). Various zinc melt compositions are known, in particular the use of a zinc melt with at least 98 wt% zinc, or the use of a so-called zinc / aluminum melt or an aluminum-alloyed or aluminum-containing zinc melt, which contains increased amounts of aluminum. Components resulting from hot-dip galvanizing with a zinc / aluminum melt typically have corrosion protection coatings with very thin layers (generally well below 50 micrometers and typically in the range of 2 to 20 micrometers) and very low weight, offering high cost-efficiency. This process is commercially available, particularly under the name microZINQ. ® -Procedure applied.

[0131] In both hot-dip galvanizing with so-called pure zinc melts and with aluminum-alloyed zinc melts, the melt must be prepared and continuously maintained. Since zinc has a melting point of 419.5 °C and even a eutectic composition of Zn / Al has a melting point of 382 °C, the furnace for the melt must be heated accordingly, depending on the specific melt used, particularly to temperatures above 300 °C.

[0132] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the method and / or the industrial production process may include hot-dip galvanizing (hot-dip galvanizing), wherein the hot-dip galvanizing process comprises the following steps, preferably in the order listed below: (a) optionally degreasing treatment, preferably alkaline degreasing treatment, of the component, in particular in at least one degreasing bath; then (b) if necessary, rinsing the component degreased in step (a), in particular in at least one rinsing bath; then (c) Pickling treatment, preferably acid pickling treatment, of the component degreased in step (a) and optionally rinsed in step (b), in particular in at least one pickling bath; then (d) if necessary, rinsing the component pickled in step (c), in particular in at least one rinsing bath; then (e) Flux treatment of the component pickled in step (c) and, if applicable, rinsed in step (d) by means of a flux composition in a flux bath; then (f) if necessary, drying treatment of the component that underwent the flux treatment in step (e); then (g) Hot-dip galvanizing of the component which has undergone flux treatment in step (e) and, if applicable, has been dried in step (f) in a kettle filled with molten zinc; then (h) if necessary, cooling treatment of the component hot-dip galvanized in step (g); then (i) if necessary, rework the component which has been hot-dip galvanized in step (g) and cooled in step (h).

[0133] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the metal melt, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, can comprise a zinc melt (“Zn melt”).

[0134] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the metal melt, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, can comprise a zinc melt (“Zn melt”), wherein the zinc melt (“Zn melt”) has an amount of zinc of at least 75 wt.%, in particular at least 80 wt.%, preferably at least 85 wt.%, preferably at least 90 wt.%, and optionally at least one further metal, in particular in amounts of up to 25 wt.% and / or in particular selected from the group consisting of aluminium (Al), bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, wherein all the aforementioned amounts are to be selected such that a total of 100 wt.% results.

[0135] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the metal melt, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt (“Zn melt”), wherein the zinc melt (“Zn melt”) has the following composition, wherein all the quantities mentioned below refer to the zinc melt (“Zn melt”) and are to be selected such that a total of 100 wt.% results: (i) Zinc (Zn), particularly in amounts in the range of 75 to 99.9999 wt.%, particularly in the range of 80 to 99.999 wt.%, preferably in the range of 82.5 to 99.995 wt.%, preferably in the range of 85 to 99.99 wt.%, particularly preferably in the range of 87.5 to 99.98 wt.%, most preferably in the range of 90 to 99.95 wt.%, even more preferably in the range of 92 to 99.9 wt.%, (ii) optionally aluminium (Al), in particular in amounts in the range of 0.0001 to 25 wt.%, in particular in the range of 0.001 to 20 wt.%, preferably in the range of 0.005 to 17.5 wt.%, preferably in the range of 0.01 to 15 wt.%, particularly preferably in the range of 0.02 to 12.5 wt.%, most preferably in the range of 0.05 to 10 wt.%, even more preferably in the range of 0.1 to 8 wt.%, (iii) optionally bismuth (Bi), in particular in amounts of up to 0.5 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.3 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.1 wt.%, (iv) optionally lead (Pb), in particular in amounts up to 0.5 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.2 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.1 wt.%, (v) optionally tin (Sn), in particular in amounts of up to 0.9 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.6 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.3 wt.%, (vi) optionally nickel (Ni), in particular in amounts up to 0.1 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.08 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.06 wt.%, (vii) optionally silicon (Si), in particular in amounts of up to 0.1 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.05 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.01 wt.%, (viii) optionally magnesium (Mg), in particular in amounts of up to 5 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 2.5 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.8 wt.%.

[0136] According to the invention, in a particular embodiment, the metal melt, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt (“Zn melt”), wherein the zinc melt (“Zn melt”) has a temperature in the range of 375 °C to 750 °C, in particular a temperature in the range of 380 °C to 700 °C, preferably a temperature in the range of 390 °C to 680 °C, and even more preferably a temperature in the range of 395 °C to 675 °C.

[0137] According to a further particular embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the component is immersed in the molten metal, in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing in the molten zinc ("Zn melt"), and in particular is immersed and moved therein, in particular for a period of time which is sufficient to ensure effective metallization, in particular hot-dip galvanizing, in particular for a period of time in the range of 0.0001 to 60 minutes, preferably in the range of 0.001 to 45 minutes, preferably in the range of 0.01 to 30 minutes, even more preferably in the range of 0.1 to 15 minutes.

[0138] Within the scope of the present invention, it has proven advantageous if the molten metal, in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing the molten zinc (“Zn melt”), is contacted and / or purged or passed through with at least one inert gas, in particular nitrogen.

[0139] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, the metal melt can comprise a zinc melt (“Zn melt”), wherein the zinc melt is an aluminum-containing, in particular aluminum-alloyed zinc melt (“Zn / Al melt”).

[0140] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, the metal melt can comprise a zinc melt (“Zn melt”), wherein the zinc melt has an aluminum content, based on the zinc melt, in the range of 3 to 8 wt.%.

[0141] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, the metal melt can comprise a zinc melt (“Zn melt”), wherein the zinc melt has the following composition, wherein all the quantities mentioned below refer to the zinc melt and are to be selected such that a total of 100 wt.% results: (i) Zinc (Zn) in amounts of 92 wt.% to 96 wt.%, (ii) Aluminium (Al) in amounts of 4 wt.% to 8 wt.%, (iii) optionally one or more further metals selected from the group consisting of bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in particular in amounts from 0.001 wt.% to 10 wt.%.

[0142] Furthermore, according to a further particular embodiment, the present invention also relates to a method for operating an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably a hot-dip galvanizing process using a molten zinc, preferably for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a method as described above. wherein air, in particular fresh air, is first heated in at least one hot air generation chamber, in particular to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 1,400 °C, in particular in the range of 400 °C to 1,200 °C, wherein the heated air is subsequently directed and / or introduced into a mixing chamber, preferably by means of at least one supply line, optionally via at least one intermediate heat storage unit, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air, wherein the mixing chamber, in particular for heating air supplied preferably by means of a supply line, in particular fresh air, comprises a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, and / or is designed as a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, and The air heated by means of the heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, is subsequently directed and / or introduced, preferably by means of at least one supply line, into a boiler chamber, in particular into a hot air chamber of a boiler chamber, wherein the hot air chamber surrounds and / or heats a boiler containing molten metal; wherein the air used for heating is returned and / or recycled from the mixing chamber to the hot air generation chamber, preferably by means of at least one return line, in particular for further and / or reprocessing, especially reheating. In this way, the circuit for hot air generation in the hot air generation chamber is, so to speak, decoupled from the hot air circuit of the boiler chamber heating.

[0143] A further object - according to a second aspect of the present invention - is the use of a previously described method for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular for decarbonizing a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably for decarbonizing a hot-dip galvanizing process.

[0144] For further details on this use according to the second aspect of the invention, reference can be made to the above statements regarding the method according to the first aspect of the invention, which also apply accordingly to the use according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0145] Furthermore, according to a third aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to a method for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a method for decarbonizing a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably a method for decarbonizing a hot-dip galvanizing process using a molten zinc. wherein air, in particular fresh air, is first heated in at least one hot air generation chamber, in particular to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 1,400 °C, in particular in the range of 400 °C to 1,200 °C, wherein the heated air is subsequently directed and / or introduced into a mixing chamber, preferably by means of at least one supply line, optionally via at least one intermediate heat storage unit, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air, wherein the mixing chamber, in particular for heating air supplied preferably by means of a supply line, in particular fresh air, comprises a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, and / or is designed as a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, and wherein the air heated by means of the heat exchanger, in particular an air / air heat exchanger, is subsequently directed and / or introduced, preferably by means of at least one supply line, into a boiler chamber, in particular into a hot air space of a boiler chamber, wherein the hot air space surrounds and / or heats a boiler containing a metal melt.

[0146] For further details on this method according to the third aspect of the invention, reference can be made to the above statements regarding the method according to the first aspect of the invention and the use according to the second aspect of the invention, which also apply accordingly to the method according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0147] Furthermore, according to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to a plant (system) for operating an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc, preferably for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a plant for carrying out a previously described process. the facility includes: - at least one hot air generation chamber for heating air, in particular fresh air, especially to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 1,400 °C, in particular in the range of 400 °C to 1,200 °C; - arranged downstream in the process direction and / or downstream of the hot air generation chamber, at least one mixing chamber, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air, - arranged downstream in the process direction towards the mixing chamber, a boiler chamber, wherein the boiler chamber comprises a boiler containing a metal melt, which is surrounded by a hot air space; wherein the hot air generation chamber is connected to the mixing chamber by means of at least one supply line for the air heated in the hot air generation chamber, optionally via at least one intermediate heat storage unit, wherein the mixing chamber, in particular for heating air preferably supplied by means of a supply line, in particular fresh air, comprises a heat exchanger, in particular an air / air heat exchanger and / or is designed as a heat exchanger, in particular an air / air heat exchanger and wherein the mixing chamber and the boiler chamber, in particular the hot air space of the boiler chamber, are connected by means of at least one supply line, wherein the supply line is designed to introduce and / or feed the air heated in the mixing chamber into the boiler chamber, in particular into the hot air space of the boiler chamber.

[0148] According to the present invention, it can in particular be provided that the air used for heating is returned from the mixing chamber to the hot air generation chamber and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line, in particular for further and / or reprocessing, especially heating.

[0149] Furthermore, it may also be provided that the system is designed in such a way that the air used for heating is returned from the mixing chamber to the hot air generation chamber and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line, in particular for further and / or reprocessing, especially heating.

[0150] Furthermore, it may also be provided that an additional return line is provided for the return and / or recycling of the air used for heating from the mixing chamber to the hot air generation chamber, in particular for further and / or reprocessing, especially heating, of the returned and / or recycled air.

[0151] According to the present invention, it may be preferred if the hot air generation chamber is spatially separated from the boiler chamber.

[0152] Furthermore, according to the present invention, it may also be preferred if the hot air generation chamber and the boiler chamber can be controlled and / or operated independently of each other.

[0153] In this context, "controlled" means that the hot air generation chamber and the boiler chamber can be regulated and operated independently of each other. In other words, the operating conditions can be set separately, although these are usually coordinated with each other during operation. Consequently, within the framework of the system according to the invention, the hot air generation chamber and the heating of the molten metal or the boiler with the molten metal are decoupled, particularly during operation.

[0154] Within the scope of the present invention, it has proven advantageous if the supply line(s) (each) is / are designed as a pipe and / or a channel.

[0155] All supply and return lines can be designed as pipes and / or ducts. These should be designed to transport (heated) air, preferably with minimal heat loss, to ensure an overall efficient, environmentally friendly, and economical process.

[0156] Furthermore, within the scope of the present invention, it has also proven advantageous if the air heated in the hot air generation chamber is subsequently directed and / or introduced from the hot air generation chamber into the mixing chamber using at least one air conveyor, in particular a fan and / or a pump, preferably by means of the at least one supply line.

[0157] According to the invention, it can be provided in particular that at least one additional air conveyor, in particular a fan and / or a pump, is provided, wherein the air conveyor is designed to direct and / or introduce the air heated in the hot air generation chamber from the hot air generation chamber, preferably by means of the at least one supply line, into the mixing chamber.

[0158] In the system according to the invention, it can be provided in particular that the air heated in the hot air generation chamber can be directed and / or introduced directly and / or indirectly, in particular via at least one mixing chamber and optionally at least one heat storage unit, into the boiler chamber, in particular into the hot air space of the boiler chamber, in particular by means of appropriate supply lines.

[0159] In this context, "indirect" means in particular that the heated air is passed through, for example, a mixing chamber and, if necessary, a heat exchanger, which will be described below, before it is directed and / or introduced into the boiler chamber, especially the hot air space of the boiler chamber.

[0160] Within the framework of the inventive method, it has proven advantageous if the heating of the air in the hot air generation chamber is carried out by means of at least one energy source, in particular by means of at least one energy source that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources; in particular wherein air and energy from at least one energy source are supplied to the hot air generation chamber.

[0161] Furthermore, it has also proven advantageous within the framework of the inventive method if the system is designed in such a way that the heating of the air in the hot air generation chamber is carried out by means of at least one energy source, in particular by means of at least one energy source that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources; in particular wherein air and energy from at least one energy source are supplied to the hot air generation chamber.

[0162] Furthermore, it has also proven advantageous within the framework of the inventive method if the heating of the air in the hot air generation chamber is carried out by supplying air and energy from at least one energy source, in particular by means of at least one energy source that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources.

[0163] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous within the framework of the inventive method if air and energy from at least one energy source, in particular by means of at least one energy source that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources, are supplied to the hot air generation chamber.

[0164] When energy is supplied variably from a plurality of different energy sources or from independently selectable energy sources, a process carried out in the plant according to the invention can be operated flexibly and independently of a specific energy source, whereby the selection can be made on the basis of economic and ecological conditions.

[0165] According to the present invention, the at least one energy source can be selected in particular from the group consisting of (i) fuel gases, in particular natural gas, hydrogen, methane, ethane, propane, butane, acetylene, ethylene, propylene and mixtures thereof, preferably natural gas and / or hydrogen, particularly preferably natural gas and / or regeneratively produced hydrogen (green hydrogen), (ii) electricity, in particular regeneratively produced electricity, preferably electricity generated from wind power, solar power and / or hydropower, (iii) petroleum, (iv) thermal energy, in particular geothermal energy and / or solar thermal energy, (v) wood, (vi) coal, in particular hard coal and / or lignite, as well as coal products (coal-based products), in particular coal coke, coal dust, coal tar and / or charcoal; as well as combinations of the aforementioned energy sources.

[0166] Furthermore, the system according to the present invention can be designed such that the at least one energy source is selected from the group consisting of (i) fuel gases, in particular natural gas, hydrogen, methane, ethane, propane, butane, acetylene, ethylene, propylene and mixtures thereof, preferably natural gas and / or hydrogen, particularly preferably natural gas and / or regeneratively produced hydrogen (green hydrogen), (ii) electricity, in particular regeneratively produced electricity, preferably electricity generated from wind power, solar power and / or hydropower, (iii) petroleum, (iv) thermal energy, in particular geothermal energy and / or solar thermal energy, (v) wood, (vi) coal, in particular hard coal and / or lignite, as well as coal products (coal-based products), in particular coal coke, coal dust, coal tar and / or charcoal; as well as combinations of the aforementioned energy sources.

[0167] Furthermore, the present invention may provide that the at least one energy source is selected variably and / or that the at least one energy source can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources.

[0168] In this process, at least one energy source can be selected by means of a control system, preferably automated, in particular from a plurality of different energy sources.

[0169] Furthermore, in this context, the at least one energy source can be selected from a plurality of different energy sources depending on at least one selection criterion from the group of (i) availability and / or price of the at least one energy source, (ii) process efficiency, in particular energy efficiency, (iii) specified degree of decarbonization and their combinations.

[0170] In the context of the present invention, a selection for the sake of process efficiency can mean choosing an energy source that, for example, enables particularly rapid heating in order to facilitate a particularly efficient and consistent process flow, especially without downtime or production delays. However, the selection can also mean choosing the energy source based on availability or price, provided that these criteria do not significantly impair process efficiency or that the resulting advantage compensates for any slightly reduced process efficiency.

[0171] According to the invention, it may be particularly preferred if the heating of the air in the hot air generation chamber is decoupled and / or independent of the heating of the boiler.

[0172] Furthermore, according to a particular embodiment of the system according to the invention, it may also be preferred if the heating of the air in the hot air generation chamber and the heating of the boiler take place in separate and / or distinct process steps. Thus, according to this embodiment, the system according to the invention is designed in such a way that separate and / or distinct operation is possible.

[0173] Furthermore, according to the invention, it may be preferred if the boiler is heated indirectly and / or via a heat transfer medium, in particular heated air.

[0174] In the context of the present invention, "indirect" means that the heated air is not generated directly at the same location where it is required. In other words, the heated air is not generated at the point in the system or process where the heat is needed. The heat from the energy source is thus transferred indirectly via a heat transfer medium, namely air. The air is not produced directly at the boiler containing the molten metal, but rather in the hot air generation chamber and then, optionally via a subsequent heat storage chamber and / or a mixing chamber, directed to the boiler chamber, in particular to the hot air space of the boiler chamber, which surrounds and / or heats a boiler containing the molten metal.

[0175] According to the invention, it can be provided in particular that the boiler and / or the molten metal is heated to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 900 °C, in particular in the range of 300 °C to 800 °C, preferably in the range of 325 °C to 750 °C, preferably in the range of 350 °C to 700 °C.

[0176] According to the invention, it has proven advantageous if the hot air space comprises at least two different areas and / or wherein the hot air space divides at least two different areas, in particular areas with different temperatures or temperature zones.

[0177] In particular, the areas may be spatially separated and / or subdivided.

[0178] These areas can be formed in particular by differences in flow and / or by internal components, especially by flow channels and / or guide plates.

[0179] By creating multiple zones within the hot air chamber of the boiler, each with a different temperature, temperature variations can be compensated for, for example, temperature reductions caused by components immersed in the molten metal or by diffusion processes. Furthermore, targeted temperature control allows for the removal of deposits. For instance, in the case of molten zinc, hard zinc can be selectively precipitated in a lower-temperature zone and subsequently skimmed off.

[0180] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, at least one mixing chamber can be arranged and / or provided in the process direction between the at least one hot air generation chamber and the boiler chamber, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air.

[0181] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, at least one mixing chamber can be arranged and / or provided downstream and / or in the process direction to the hot air generation chamber and upstream and / or in the boiler chamber, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air.

[0182] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the heated air from the hot air generation chamber can first be directed and / or introduced into at least one mixing chamber, preferably by means of at least one supply line, in particular to adjust the temperature of the heated air, and subsequently the heated air, which may be further processed in the mixing chamber, in particular temperature-adjusted, can be directed and / or introduced into the hot air space of the boiler chamber, preferably by means of at least one supply line.

[0183] In connection with the present invention, the mixing chamber allows the temperature to be precisely set or optimized, so that exactly the temperature required for heating the boiler with the molten zinc at a specific time can be provided. The mixing chamber thus allows for particularly flexible adjustment of the temperature of the air introduced into the boiler chamber, especially the hot air chamber of the boiler chamber. An arrangement according to this particular embodiment of the present invention is also described in detail below. Fig. 1 shown.

[0184] According to a particular embodiment, the mixing chamber, especially for heating fresh air preferably supplied via a supply line, may include a heat exchanger, particularly an air-to-air heat exchanger, and / or be designed as a heat exchanger, particularly an air-to-air heat exchanger. In particular, this embodiment may provide that the air used for heating is returned to the hot air generation chamber and / or recycled, preferably via at least one return line, particularly for further and / or reprocessing, especially heating; and / or that the air heated by the heat exchanger, particularly an air-to-air heat exchanger, is directed and / or introduced into the boiler chamber, particularly into the hot air space of the boiler chamber, preferably via at least one supply line.

[0185] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, at least one heat storage device can be arranged and / or provided in the process direction between the hot air generation chamber and the mixing chamber.

[0186] Furthermore, according to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, at least one heat storage device can be arranged and / or provided downstream and / or in the process direction to the hot air generation chamber and upstream and / or in the mixing chamber.

[0187] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the heated air from the hot air generation chamber can first be directed and / or introduced into at least one heat storage unit, preferably by means of at least one supply line, and subsequently the air from the heat storage unit can be directed and / or introduced into the mixing chamber, preferably by means of at least one supply line.

[0188] It has proven particularly advantageous if the heat storage device is a latent and / or sensible heat storage device.

[0189] The terms latent and sensible heat storage are to be understood broadly within the scope of the present invention. In particular, a sensible heat storage device stores heat through a temperature change of the material, such that the stored heat is directly proportional to the change in the temperature of the storage material. Thus, when the material is heated, its temperature rises; when it cools, it releases heat, resulting in a temperature decrease. In contrast, a latent heat storage device stores heat through a phase change of the material, without a temperature change occurring as long as the phase (e.g., from solid to liquid or from liquid to gaseous) is not complete. During the phase change, heat is absorbed into or released from the material without directly altering its temperature.

[0190] In this context, it has also proven beneficial if the heat storage medium comprises at least one heat storage material selected from the group of oils, slags, steels, salts, in particular salt mixtures, gravel, stones, in particular fireclay bricks, ceramics and metals.

[0191] Furthermore, according to the invention, it may be preferred if the air from the hot air space of the boiler chamber is recycled and / or circulated.

[0192] Furthermore, according to the invention, it may be preferred if the system is designed in such a way that the air from the hot air space of the boiler chamber is recycled and / or circulated.

[0193] Such a system design, particularly one that includes the recirculation or recycling of air from the hot air chamber of the boiler, enables the reuse or further processing of this still-warm air, making the overall process carried out in the system more economical and environmentally friendly. In particular, residual heat can be reused, and less exhaust gas or heat is released.

[0194] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the air from the hot air space of the boiler chamber can be returned to the mixing chamber and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line, in particular for further and / or reprocessing.

[0195] Furthermore, according to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the system can be designed such that the air from the hot air space of the boiler chamber is returned to the mixing chamber and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line, in particular for further and / or reprocessing.

[0196] This type of system design allows the air to be reused during operation, particularly for temperature control of the air from the hot air generation chamber or any heat storage tank before it enters the boiler chamber. This reuse enables a particularly economical and environmentally friendly process, resulting in significantly less exhaust gas or heat emissions.

[0197] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the air from the hot air space of the boiler chamber can be supplied, preferably by means of at least one return line, to at least one further device, in particular for pretreatment and / or post-treatment.

[0198] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the system can comprise at least one further device, in particular for pretreatment and / or post-treatment, wherein the further device is preferably connected to the hot air space of the boiler chamber by means of at least one return line.

[0199] In particular, the air can be directed and / or introduced into the further device by means of at least one return line.

[0200] Furthermore, in connection with this particular embodiment, the additional device may be selected from the group of drying devices, heating devices, ovens, pickling treatment devices, flux treatment devices, rinsing treatment devices, washing devices and combinations thereof.

[0201] Furthermore, in this context, the air from the further device can be returned to the mixing chamber and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line.

[0202] The air from the boiler chamber can therefore, when the system is designed according to the embodiment of the invention described above, subsequently be used to heat another device, thus enabling a particularly economical and ecological process.

[0203] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the supply lines can each be designed as a pipe and / or a channel.

[0204] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the agitator guide lines can each be designed as a pipe and / or a channel.

[0205] Within the scope of the present invention, it can be provided that the degree of decarbonization achievable with the plant, in particular the avoidance of CO2 emissions, varies in the range of 20% to 100% with respect to the amount of energy used in the overall process and / or industrial production process operated in the plant, particularly in the range of 25% to 90%, especially in comparison to an overall process and / or industrial production process operated entirely with fossil energy sources in the plant at identical production load.

[0206] The present invention may also provide for a reduction in the quantity of fossil energy sources used in the overall process and / or industrial production process operated in the plant, compared to an overall process and / or industrial production process operated entirely with fossil energy sources in the plant, with identical production load, in the range of 20% to 100%, in particular in the range of 25% to 90%.

[0207] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the components can be iron-based and / or iron-containing components, preferably steel-based and / or steel-containing components, preferably steel components.

[0208] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the surface of the components can be an iron-based and / or iron-containing surface, preferably a steel-based and / or steel-containing surface, preferably a steel surface.

[0209] According to the invention, it can be provided in particular that the metal melt comprises at least one metal selected from the group consisting of zinc, tin, magnesium, aluminium, silicon, lead, nickel, bismuth and their combinations and mixtures.

[0210] Furthermore, according to the invention, it can also be provided that the molten metal contains no iron.

[0211] Furthermore, according to the invention, it can be provided that the metal melt is not an iron-containing metal melt and / or not an iron-containing metal melt.

[0212] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the system can be designed such that the method and / or the industrial production process is carried out as a hot-dip process.

[0213] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the system can be designed such that the method and / or the industrial production process is carried out as hot-dip galvanizing.

[0214] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the system can be designed such that the method and / or the industrial production process is carried out as hot-dip galvanizing. wherein the hot-dip galvanizing process comprises the following steps, preferably in the order listed below: (a) optionally degreasing treatment, preferably alkaline degreasing treatment, of the component, in particular in at least one degreasing bath; then (b) if necessary, rinsing the component degreased in step (a), in particular in at least one rinsing bath; then (c) Pickling treatment, preferably acid pickling treatment, of the component degreased in step (a) and optionally rinsed in step (b), in particular in at least one pickling bath; then (d) if necessary, rinsing the component pickled in step (c), in particular in at least one rinsing bath; then (e) Flux treatment of the component pickled in step (c) and, if applicable, rinsed in step (d) by means of a flux composition in a flux bath; then (f) if necessary, drying treatment of the component that underwent the flux treatment in step (e); then (g) Hot-dip galvanizing of the component which has undergone flux treatment in step (e) and, if applicable, has been dried in step (f) in a kettle filled with molten zinc; then (h) if necessary, cooling treatment of the component hot-dip galvanized in step (g); then (i) if necessary, rework the component which has been hot-dip galvanized in step (g) and cooled in step (h).

[0215] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, it can be provided that the metal melt, in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt (“Zn melt”).

[0216] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, the metal melt, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, may comprise a zinc melt (“Zn melt”), wherein the zinc melt (“Zn melt”) contains an amount of zinc of at least 75 wt.%, in particular at least 80 wt.%, preferably at least 85 wt.%, preferably at least 90 wt.%, and optionally at least one further metal, in particular in amounts of up to 25 wt.% and / or in particular selected from the group consisting of aluminium (Al), bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, wherein all the aforementioned amounts are to be selected such that a total of 100 wt.% results.

[0217] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, it can be provided that the metal melt, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt (“Zn melt”), wherein the zinc melt (“Zn melt”) has the following composition, wherein all the quantities mentioned below refer to the zinc melt (“Zn melt”) and are to be selected such that a total of 100 wt.% results: (i) Zinc (Zn), particularly in amounts in the range of 75 to 99.9999 wt.%, particularly in the range of 80 to 99.999 wt.%, preferably in the range of 82.5 to 99.995 wt.%, preferably in the range of 85 to 99.99 wt.%, particularly preferably in the range of 87.5 to 99.98 wt.%, most preferably in the range of 90 to 99.95 wt.%, even more preferably in the range of 92 to 99.9 wt.%, (ii) optionally aluminium (Al), in particular in amounts in the range of 0.0001 to 25 wt.%, in particular in the range of 0.001 to 20 wt.%, preferably in the range of 0.005 to 17.5 wt.%, preferably in the range of 0.01 to 15 wt.%, particularly preferably in the range of 0.02 to 12.5 wt.%, most preferably in the range of 0.05 to 10 wt.%, even more preferably in the range of 0.1 to 8 wt.%, (iii) optionally bismuth (Bi), in particular in amounts of up to 0.5 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.3 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.1 wt.%, (iv) optionally lead (Pb), in particular in amounts up to 0.5 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.2 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.1 wt.%, (v) optionally tin (Sn), in particular in amounts of up to 0.9 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.6 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.3 wt.%, (vi) optionally nickel (Ni), in particular in amounts up to 0.1 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.08 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.06 wt.%, (vii) optionally silicon (Si), in particular in amounts of up to 0.1 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.05 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.01 wt.%, (viii) optionally magnesium (Mg), in particular in amounts of up to 5 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 2.5 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.8 wt.%.

[0218] According to the invention, in a particular embodiment, the metal melt, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt (“Zn melt”), wherein the zinc melt (“Zn melt”) has a temperature in the range of 375 °C to 750 °C, in particular a temperature in the range of 380 °C to 700 °C, preferably a temperature in the range of 390 °C to 680 °C, and even more preferably a temperature in the range of 395 °C to 675 °C.

[0219] According to the invention, the system can be designed such that the component is immersed in the molten metal, in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing in the molten zinc ("Zn melt"), and in particular is immersed and moved therein, in particular for a period of time sufficient to ensure effective metallization, in particular hot-dip galvanizing, in particular for a period of time in the range of 0.0001 to 60 minutes, preferably in the range of 0.001 to 45 minutes, more preferably in the range of 0.01 to 30 minutes, and even more preferably in the range of 0.1 to 15 minutes.

[0220] Furthermore, according to a further particular embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the system is designed in such a way that the molten metal, in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing the molten zinc (“Zn melt”), is contacted and / or purged or passed through with at least one inert gas, in particular nitrogen.

[0221] Within the scope of the present invention, it has proven advantageous if, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, the metal melt comprises a zinc melt (“Zn melt”), wherein the zinc melt is an aluminum-containing, in particular aluminum-alloyed zinc melt (“Zn / Al melt”).

[0222] According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, the metal melt can comprise a zinc melt (“Zn melt”), wherein the zinc melt has an aluminum content, based on the zinc melt, in the range of 3 to 8 wt.%.

[0223] According to a further particular embodiment of the present invention, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, the metal melt can comprise a zinc melt (“Zn melt”), wherein the zinc melt has the following composition, wherein all the quantities mentioned below refer to the zinc melt and are to be selected such that a total of 100 wt.% results: (i) Zinc (Zn) in amounts of 92 wt.% to 96 wt.%, (ii) Aluminium (Al) in amounts of 4 wt.% to 8 wt.%, (iii) optionally one or more further metals selected from the group consisting of bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in particular in amounts from 0.001 wt.% to 10 wt.%.

[0224] Furthermore, according to a particular embodiment, the present invention also relates to a system for operating an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc, preferably for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a system for carrying out a previously described process, in particular a previously described system, the facility includes: - at least one hot air generation chamber for heating air, in particular fresh air, especially to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 1,400 °C, in particular in the range of 400 °C to 1,200 °C; - arranged downstream in the process direction and / or downstream of the hot air generation chamber, at least one mixing chamber, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air, - arranged downstream in the process direction towards the mixing chamber, a boiler chamber, wherein the boiler chamber comprises a boiler containing a metal melt, which is surrounded by a hot air space; wherein the hot air generation chamber is connected to the mixing chamber by means of at least one supply line for the air heated in the hot air generation chamber, optionally via at least one intermediate heat storage unit, wherein the mixing chamber, in particular for heating air preferably supplied by means of a supply line, in particular fresh air, comprises a heat exchanger, in particular an air / air heat exchanger and / or is designed as a heat exchanger, in particular an air / air heat exchanger and wherein the mixing chamber and the boiler chamber, in particular the hot air space of the boiler chamber, are connected by means of at least one supply line, wherein the supply line is designed to introduce and / or feed the air heated in the mixing chamber into the boiler chamber, in particular into the hot air space of the boiler chamber; wherein the air used for heating is returned from the mixing chamber to the hot air generation chamber and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line, in particular for further and / or reprocessing, especially heating, and / or wherein the system is designed such that the air used for heating is returned from the mixing chamber to the hot air generation chamber and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line, in particular for further and / or reprocessing, especially heating, and / or Additionally, a return line is provided for the return and / or recycling of the air used for heating from the mixing chamber to the hot air generation chamber, in particular for further and / or reprocessing, especially heating, of the returned and / or recycled air. In this way, the hot air generation circuit in the hot air generation chamber is, so to speak, decoupled from the hot air circuit of the boiler chamber heating system.

[0225] For further details on the plant according to the fourth aspect of the invention, reference can be made to the above statements regarding the method according to the first and third aspects of the invention and the use according to the second aspect of the invention, which also apply accordingly to the plant according to the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0226] Finally, according to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to the uses described below.

[0227] According to this aspect of the invention, the present invention relates to the use of a previously described system for carrying out a previously described method.

[0228] Furthermore, according to this aspect of the invention, the present invention relates to the use of a previously described plant for the decarbonization of an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular for the decarbonization of a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably for the decarbonization of hot-dip galvanizing.

[0229] Furthermore, according to this aspect of the invention, the present invention also relates to the use of a previously described plant for operating an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal, in particular a hot-dip coating process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal, preferably hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc.

[0230] For further details on the uses according to the fifth aspect of the invention, reference can be made to the above statements regarding the method according to the first and third aspects of the invention, the use according to the second aspect of the invention, and the plant according to the fourth aspect of the invention, which also apply accordingly to the uses according to the fifth aspect of the invention.

[0231] The present invention will now be described with reference to drawings or figures illustrating preferred embodiments or configurations, the descriptions of which apply to all aspects of the invention and in which the corresponding preferred embodiments or configurations of the present invention are in no way limiting.

[0232] The depictions of figures show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of the method or the system according to the invention in a particular embodiment; Fig. 2 a schematic representation of the boiler chamber provided in the method or plant according to the invention according to a particular embodiment; Fig.3 a diagram showing the power required in the inventive method during a day and the corresponding daily electricity price trend according to a particular embodiment (inventive method operated as a hot-dip galvanizing process or inventive plant operated as a hot-dip galvanizing plant).

[0233] The figure representation relating to the present invention according to Fig.Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of the inventive method or the inventive system of a particular embodiment. Shown is an inventive system or the process sequence of an inventive method for operating an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal 3C according to a particular embodiment of the present invention, in particular a hot-dip process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a molten metal 3C, preferably hot-dip galvanizing using a molten zinc 3C, preferably for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a molten metal 3C.

[0234] The system comprises at least one hot air generation chamber 2 for heating air 1B, in particular fresh air, especially to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 1,400 °C, particularly in the range of 400 °C to 1,200 °C, wherein the heating of the air 1B in the hot air generation chamber 2 can be carried out by means of at least one energy source 1A, in particular by means of at least one energy source 1A that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources 1A; and, arranged downstream and / or in the process direction from the hot air generation chamber 2, at least one mixing chamber 4, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air; and, arranged downstream in the process direction from the mixing chamber 4, a boiler chamber 3, wherein the boiler chamber 3 comprises a boiler 3B containing a metal melt 3C, which is surrounded by a hot air space 3A.

[0235] The hot air generation chamber 2 is connected to the mixing chamber 4 by means of at least one supply line L2, L5, L6 for the air heated in the hot air generation chamber 2, optionally via at least one intermediate heat storage unit 5. It is particularly provided that the mixing chamber 4 includes a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, and / or is designed as a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, especially for heating air 6, preferably supplied by means of a supply line L4, in particular fresh air.

[0236] Furthermore, it is specifically provided that the mixing chamber 4 and the boiler chamber 3, in particular the hot air space 3A of the boiler chamber 3, are connected by means of at least one supply line L3, wherein the supply line L3 is designed to introduce and / or feed the air heated in the mixing chamber 4 into the boiler chamber 3, in particular into the hot air space 3A of the boiler chamber 3.

[0237] Furthermore, it is specifically provided that at least one heat storage unit 5 is arranged and / or provided downstream and / or in the process direction to the hot air generation chamber 2 and upstream and / or in the mixing chamber 4, wherein the heated air from the hot air generation chamber 2 is first directed and / or introduced into at least one heat storage unit 5, preferably by means of at least one supply line L5, and subsequently the air originating from the heat storage unit 5 is directed and / or introduced into the mixing chamber 4, preferably by means of at least one supply line L6.

[0238] Furthermore, it is specifically provided that the air from the hot air chamber 3A of the boiler chamber 3 is returned to the mixing chamber 4 and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line RL2, in particular for further and / or reprocessing.

[0239] According to the invention, it can further be provided that the air from the hot air chamber 3A of the boiler chamber 3 is supplied, preferably by means of at least one return line RL3a, to at least one further device 7, in particular for pretreatment and / or post-treatment, wherein the air from the further device 7 is returned to the mixing chamber 4 and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line RL3b.

[0240] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 1, according to the illustrated particular embodiment of the inventive system or method, the heated air can first enter the mixing chamber 4 via the supply line L2 and then the boiler chamber 3 via the supply line L3, and / or first enter the heat storage tank 5 via the supply line L5, then the mixing chamber 4 via the supply line L6, and finally the boiler chamber 3 via the supply line L3. It is also possible for several or all of these embodiments to be implemented within the method or system, in particular in parallel and / or at least partially simultaneously or sequentially.

[0241] After leaving boiler chamber 3, the air can then be recycled or directed into mixing chamber 4 via return line RL2 and / or first directed into a further device 7 via return line RL3a and then recycled or directed into mixing chamber 4 via return line RL3b. It is also possible for several or all of these embodiments to be implemented within the process or the system, in particular in parallel and / or at least partially simultaneously or sequentially.

[0242] According to a particular embodiment, the mixing chamber 4 may also include a heat exchanger, particularly an air-to-air heat exchanger, and / or be designed as a heat exchanger, particularly an air-to-air heat exchanger, for heating fresh air 6, preferably supplied by means of a supply line L4. In particular, in this embodiment, it may be provided that the air used for heating is returned and / or recycled to the hot air generation chamber 2, preferably by means of at least one return line RL4, particularly for further and / or re-treatment, especially heating; and / or that the air heated by means of the heat exchanger, particularly an air-to-air heat exchanger, is directed and / or introduced into the boiler chamber 3, particularly into the hot air space 3A of the boiler chamber 3, preferably by means of at least one supply line L3.

[0243] According to the invention, it is preferred if the feed lines L2, L3, L4, L5, L6 are each designed as a pipe and / or channel and / or if the agitator feed lines RL2, RL3a, RL3b, RL4 are each designed as a pipe and / or channel.

[0244] The figure representation relating to the present invention according to Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the boiler chamber 3 provided in the inventive method or in the inventive plant according to a particular embodiment. The boiler chamber 3 preferably comprises a boiler 3B containing a metal melt 3C, which is surrounded by a hot air chamber 3A.

[0245] Furthermore, it is specifically provided that the mixing chamber 4 and the boiler chamber 3, in particular the hot air space 3A of the boiler chamber 3, are connected by means of at least one supply line L3, wherein the supply line L3 is designed to introduce and / or feed the air heated in the mixing chamber 4 into the boiler chamber 3, in particular into the hot air space 3A of the boiler chamber 3.

[0246] Furthermore, it is also specifically provided that the air from the hot air chamber 3A of the boiler chamber 3 is returned to the mixing chamber 4 and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line RL2, in particular for further and / or reprocessing, especially heating.

[0247] Fig.Figure 3 shows a diagram representing the power required in the inventive process during a day and the corresponding daily electricity price profile according to a particular embodiment (inventive process operated as a hot-dip galvanizing process or inventive plant operated as a hot-dip galvanizing plant). In this context, the x-axis represents the hours of the day. The left y-axis shows the normalized power values, and the right y-axis shows the electricity price in € / MWh. The bars represent the normalized power required, while the line shows the electricity price profile.

[0248] In particular, it is assumed that Fig. 3. It is pointed out that favorable electricity prices and the required power, especially in the case of operating the process as hot-dip galvanizing, do not always correlate with each other, so that in conventional and non-inventive operation, large amounts of energy are often required at times of high prices.

[0249] As a result, the figure depictions show Fig. 1 to 3, in particular Fig. 1. The general principle of the present invention: In particular, it shows Fig.1. A method according to the invention and a plant according to the invention suitable for carrying out the method for operating an industrial production process carried out using a metal melt 3C, in particular a hot-dip process for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using a metal melt 3C, preferably hot-dip galvanizing using a zinc melt 3C, preferably for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a metal melt 3C, as described above, wherein air 1B, in particular fresh air, is first heated in at least one hot air generation chamber 2, in particular to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 1,400 °C, in particular in the range of 400 °C to 1.200 °C, and wherein the heated air is subsequently used, optionally via at least one heat storage unit 5, via a mixing chamber 4 for optionally further adjustment of the temperature of the heated air, for heating, in particular indirect heating, of the boiler chamber 3, in particular the hot air space 3A of the boiler chamber 3; wherein the hot air generation chamber 2 and the boiler chamber 3, in particular the hot air space 3A of the boiler chamber 3, are operated and / or arranged separately in terms of space and / or function and / or wherein the hot air generation chamber 2 and the boiler chamber 3, in particular the hot air space 3A of the boiler chamber 3, are controlled and / or operated independently of each other.

[0250] As in Fig.As also shown in Figure 1, according to the present invention, the method and the system according to the invention are operated such that, first, air 1B, in particular fresh air, is heated in at least one hot air generation chamber 2, in particular to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 1,400 °C, in particular in the range of 400 °C to 1,200 °C, and that subsequently the heated air is directed and / or introduced, preferably by means of at least one supply line L2, L5, L6, optionally via at least one intermediate heat storage unit 5, into a mixing chamber 4, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air, wherein the mixing chamber 4, in particular for heating air 6, in particular fresh air, supplied preferably by means of a supply line L4, comprises a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, and / or is designed as a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger.and that subsequently the air heated by means of the heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, is directed and / or introduced, preferably by means of at least one supply line L3, into a boiler chamber 3, in particular into a hot air space 3A of a boiler chamber 3, wherein the hot air space 3A surrounds and / or heats a boiler 3B containing a metal melt 3C. In particular, in this embodiment, it can be carried out such that the air used for heating is returned and / or recycled from the mixing chamber 4 into the hot air generation chamber 2, preferably by means of at least one return line RL4, in particular for further and / or reprocessing, especially reheating.

[0251] Overall, the recirculation of the hot air at various points in the process according to the invention enables efficient, in particular ecological and economical process control, which leads to significant energy savings and optimization as well as significant decarbonization, especially when implemented on an industrial scale.

[0252] For further embodiments, modifications and variations as well as advantages of the previously described methods and the described system and the uses according to the invention, each of which is accompanied by a multitude of advantages and special features as described above, reference is also made to the preceding sections of the general description.

[0253] Further embodiments, modifications and variations as well as advantages of the present invention are readily apparent and achievable for the person skilled in the art when reading the description, without leaving the scope of the present invention.

[0254] The following exemplary embodiments serve only to illustrate the present invention, without limiting the present invention to such embodiments. EXAMPLES OF EXECUTION:

[0255] A non-inventive metallization process in the form of a hot-dip galvanizing process according to the prior art is carried out (comparison), wherein the zinc boiler containing the molten zinc is heated directly by natural gas (i.e., no decoupling of the heating of the molten metal or the corresponding boiler containing the molten metal from the heat generation). The hot-dip galvanizing process has an annual energy requirement of 11,872 MWh, which is covered exclusively by the energy source natural gas. The efficiency of the natural gas energy source is assumed to be 75%.

[0256] Furthermore, a method or plant according to the invention is carried out for a corresponding hot-dip galvanizing process, in particular as described in Fig.Figure 1 and the preceding general description illustrate this process, which also has an annual energy requirement of 11,872 MWh. In the hot-dip galvanizing process designed according to the invention, or in the corresponding plant according to a particular embodiment of the present invention, a portion of the natural gas is replaced by a CO2-neutral energy source in the form of electricity ("green electricity"), with an efficiency of 75% assumed for the electricity (inventive example E1 without heat storage). According to the invention, decoupling the heating of the molten metal or the corresponding boiler containing the molten metal from the heat generation is only possible because the energy source can be selected variably and the hot air generation chamber does not directly surround the boiler containing the molten zinc.

[0257] Furthermore, in three additional processes or corresponding systems, each carried out according to the invention and in the same manner, a heat storage unit with a different storage capacity is used, namely heat storage units with a storage capacity of 10 MWh / a (example E2 according to the invention), 20 MWh / a (example E3 according to the invention), and 40 MWh / a (example E4 according to the invention). An efficiency of 100% is assumed for each of the heat storage units.

[0258] In all examples E1 to E4 according to the invention, electricity (electricity or green electricity) is used as the energy source instead of natural gas, wherein the plant or the process is automatically controlled in such a way that a corresponding substitution of natural gas by electricity is carried out depending on the availability and price of the electricity as well as the storage capacity of the heat storage.

[0259] In the process and system according to the invention as shown in Examples E1 to E4, the energy source 1A, the air supply 1B, in particular fresh air, the hot air generation chamber 2, the boiler chamber 3 with the hot air space 3A and the boiler 3B containing the molten metal 3C, in particular molten zinc, the mixing chamber 4, the heat storage unit 5 (only in Examples E2 to E4), the air supply 6, in particular fresh air, the feed lines L2 to L6 and the return line RL2 are as shown in Fig. 1 shown and in connection with the character description of Fig. 1 described, realized.

[0260] The following table shows the annually substituted gas demand (absolute in MWh / a and relative or percentage) and the degree of decarbonization (absolute in tons of CO2 saved per year or t). CO2 / a and relative or percentage), whereby - as previously stated - the electricity used is generated exclusively in a CO2-neutral manner. Unit Comparison E 1 E 2 E 3 E 4 Power (gas / electricity) MW 3 / 0 3 / 3 3 / 6 3 / 6 3 / 6 Storage capacity MWh / a 0 0 10 20 40 Energy demand MWh / a 11.872 11.872 11.872 11.872 11.872 Efficiency of electricity % - 75 75 75 75 Efficiency of natural gas % 75 75 75 75 75 Efficiency of heat storage % - - 100 100 100 substituted gas demand MWh / a 0 3.218 8.204 9.240 10.187 relative substituted gas demand % 0 27,1 69,1 77,8 85,8 CO₂ savings 2 t CO2 / a 0 - 646,74 - 1.649,07 - 1.857,32 - 2.047,64 relative CO2 savings 2 % 0 - 27,1 - 69,1 - 77,8 - 85,8

[0261] In the inventive method or system, due to the decoupling of the heating of the molten metal or the corresponding boiler containing the molten metal from the heat generation, it is thus possible to select the energy source variably and independently of each other, in particular automatically, preferably via a corresponding control system, and thus to save considerable costs and to significantly reduce the CO2 load, in particular to significantly reduce or ideally completely avoid the use of fossil energy sources, and this with identical production load and uninterrupted operation.

[0262] By providing a mixing chamber arranged or planned in the process direction between the hot air generation chamber and the boiler chamber to adjust the temperature of the heated air, the air treatment can be optimized in terms of energy and economy, in particular also through the further recycling or recirculation of the still hot air originating from the boiler chamber.

[0263] In this context, the mixing chamber allows for precise temperature control and optimization, ensuring that the exact temperature required for heating the boiler with molten zinc at a specific time is available. The mixing chamber thus allows for particularly flexible temperature adjustment of the air introduced into the boiler chamber, especially the hot air chamber. Such a process and arrangement is also described in detail above. Fig. 1 shown.

[0264] The inventive method and the inventive system according to the exemplary embodiments can be described in the figures. Fig. 1 to 3, in particular Fig. 1, are operated, which illustrate the general principle of the present invention: In particular, as also in Fig.Figure 1 shows that the inventive method and the inventive apparatus used to carry out the method are operated in such a way that air 1B, in particular fresh air, is first heated in at least one hot air generation chamber 2, in particular to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 1,400 °C, in particular in the range of 400 °C to 1.200 °C, and that the heated air is subsequently used, optionally via at least one heat storage unit 5, via a mixing chamber 4 for heating, in particular indirect heating, of the boiler chamber 3, in particular of the hot air space 3A of the boiler chamber 3; in particular wherein the hot air generation chamber 2 and the boiler chamber 3, in particular the hot air space 3A of the boiler chamber 3, are operated and / or arranged separately in terms of space and / or function and / or in particular wherein the hot air generation chamber 2 and the boiler chamber 3, in particular the hot air space 3A of the boiler chamber 3, are controlled and / or operated independently of each other.

[0265] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 1, in the embodiments of the invention, the inventive method and the inventive system are operated such that, first, air 1B, in particular fresh air, is heated in at least one hot air generation chamber 2, in particular to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 1,400 °C, in particular in the range of 400 °C to 1,200 °C, and then the heated air is directed and / or introduced, preferably by means of at least one supply line L2, L5, L6, optionally via at least one intermediate heat storage unit 5, into a mixing chamber 4, in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air, wherein the mixing chamber 4, in particular for heating air 6, in particular fresh air, supplied preferably by means of a supply line L4, comprises a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, and / or is designed as a heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger.and that subsequently the air heated by means of the heat exchanger, in particular an air-to-air heat exchanger, is directed and / or introduced, preferably by means of at least one supply line L3, into a boiler chamber 3, in particular into a hot air space 3A of a boiler chamber 3, wherein the hot air space 3A surrounds and / or heats a boiler 3B containing a metal melt 3C. In particular, in this embodiment, it can be carried out such that the air used for heating is returned and / or recycled from the mixing chamber 4 into the hot air generation chamber 2, preferably by means of at least one return line RL4, in particular for further and / or reprocessing, especially reheating.

[0266] Overall, the exemplary embodiments show that, due to the concept according to the invention, a circular flow of the hot air at various points in the process according to the invention enables efficient, in particular ecological and economical process control, which leads to significant energy savings and optimization as well as significant decarbonization, especially when implemented on an industrial scale. Reference symbol list: 1A Energy Source 1 B Air, especially fresh air 2 Hot air generation chamber 3 boiler chamber 3A Hot air room 3B boiler 3C Metal melting, especially zinc melting 4 mixing chamber 5 heat storage units 6. Air, especially fresh air 7 further devices, in particular for pretreatment and / or post-treatment L2 to L6 supply lines RL2, RL3a, RL3b, RL4 Return lines

Claims

[1] Method for operating an industrial production process using a molten metal (3C), wherein air (1B) is first heated in at least one hot air generation chamber (2), wherein the heated air is subsequently directed and / or introduced into a mixing chamber (4) to adjust the temperature of the heated air, wherein the mixing chamber (4) for heating supplied air (6) includes a heat exchanger and / or is designed as a heat exchanger, and wherein the air heated by means of the heat exchanger is subsequently directed and / or introduced into a hot air space (3A) of a boiler chamber (3), wherein the hot air space (3A) surrounds and / or heats a boiler (3B) containing a metal melt (3C). [2] Method according to claim 1, wherein the air used for heating is returned from the mixing chamber (4) to the hot air generation chamber (2) for further and / or reprocessing and / or recycling, preferably by means of at least one return line (RL4). [3] Method according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the hot air generation chamber (2) and the boiler chamber (3) are controlled and / or operated independently of each other. [4] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the air heated in the hot air generation chamber (2) is subsequently directed and / or introduced from the hot air generation chamber (2), preferably by means of the at least one supply line (L2), into the mixing chamber (4) using at least one air conveyor, in particular a fan and / or a pump. [5] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the heating of the air (1B) in the hot air generation chamber (2) is carried out by means of at least one energy source (1A), in particular by means of at least one energy source (1A) that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources (1A); in particular wherein the hot air generation chamber (2) is supplied with air (1B) and energy from at least one energy source (1A). [6] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the heating of the air (1B) in the hot air generation chamber (2) is carried out by supplying air (1B) and energy from at least one energy source (1A), in particular by means of at least one energy source (1A) that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources (1A); and / or wherein air (1B) and energy from at least one energy source (1A), in particular by means of at least one energy source (1A) that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources (1A), are supplied to the hot air generation chamber (2). [7] Method according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the at least one energy source (1A) is selected from the group consisting of (i) fuel gases, in particular natural gas, hydrogen, methane, ethane, propane, butane, acetylene, ethylene, propylene and mixtures thereof, preferably natural gas and / or hydrogen, particularly preferably natural gas and / or regeneratively produced hydrogen, (ii) electricity, in particular regeneratively produced electricity, preferably electricity produced from wind power, solar power and / or hydropower, (iii) petroleum, (iv) thermal energy, in particular geothermal energy and / or solar thermal energy, (v) wood, (vi) coal, in particular hard coal and / or lignite, and coal products, in particular coal coke, coal dust, coal tar and / or charcoal; and combinations of the aforementioned energy sources. [8] Method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the at least one energy source (1A) is selected variably and / or wherein the at least one energy source (1A) can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources (1A); in particular wherein the at least one energy source (1A) is selected by means of a control, preferably automated, in particular from a plurality of different energy sources (1A); and / or in particular wherein the at least one energy source (1A) is selected from the group of (i) availability and / or price of the at least one energy source (1A), (ii) process efficiency, in particular energy efficiency, (iii) predetermined degree of decarbonization and combinations thereof from a plurality of different energy sources (1A) depending on at least one selection criterion. [9] Method according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the heating of the air (1B) in the hot air generation chamber (2) is decoupled and / or independent of the heating of the boiler (3B); and / or wherein the heating of the air (1B) in the hot air generation chamber (2) and the heating of the boiler (3B) are carried out in separate and / or distinct process steps; and / or wherein the heating of the boiler (3B) is carried out indirectly and / or via a heat transfer medium, in particular heated air. [10] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the boiler (3B) and / or the molten metal (3C) is heated to a temperature in the range of 300 °C to 900 °C, in particular in the range of 300 °C to 800 °C, preferably in the range of 325 °C to 750 °C, preferably in the range of 350 °C to 700 °C. [11] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the heated air from the hot air generation chamber (2), preferably by means of at least one supply line (L5), is first directed and / or introduced into at least one heat storage unit (5) and subsequently the air from the heat storage unit (5) is directed and / or introduced into the mixing chamber (4), preferably by means of at least one supply line (L6). [12] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the air from the hot air space (3A) of the boiler chamber (3) is recycled and / or circulated. [13] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the air from the hot air space (3A) of the boiler chamber (3) is returned to the mixing chamber (4) and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line (RL2), in particular for further and / or reprocessing. [14] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the air from the hot air chamber (3A) of the boiler chamber (3) is supplied, preferably by means of at least one return line (RL3a), to at least one further device (7), in particular for pretreatment and / or posttreatment; in particular wherein the air is directed and / or introduced into the further device (7) by means of at least one return line (RL3a); and / or in particular wherein the further device (7) is selected from the group consisting of drying devices, heating devices, ovens, pickling devices, flux treatment devices, rinsing devices, washing devices and combinations thereof; and / or in particular wherein the air from the further device (7) is returned to the mixing chamber (4) and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line (RL3b). [15] Method according to any of the preceding claims, for coating and / or metallizing metallic surfaces of components using molten metal (3C), wherein the components are iron-based and / or iron-containing components, preferably steel-based and / or steel-containing components, preferably steel components; and / or wherein the surface of the components is an iron-based and / or iron-containing surface, preferably a steel-based and / or steel-containing surface, preferably a steel surface. [16] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the metal melt (3C) comprises at least one metal selected from the group consisting of zinc, tin, magnesium, aluminium, silicon, lead, nickel, bismuth and combinations and mixtures thereof. [17] Method according to any of the preceding claims, where the molten metal (3C) contains no iron; and / or where the metal melt (3C) is not an iron metal melt and / or not an iron-containing metal melt. [18] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the method and / or the industrial production process comprises a hot-dip process. [19] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the method and / or the industrial production process includes hot-dip galvanizing. [20] Method according to any of the preceding claims, where the process and / or industrial production process includes hot-dip galvanizing, wherein the hot-dip galvanizing process comprises the following steps, preferably in the order listed below: (a) optionally degreasing treatment, preferably alkaline degreasing treatment, of the component, in particular in at least one degreasing bath; then (b) if necessary, rinsing the component degreased in step (a), in particular in at least one rinsing bath; then (c) Pickling treatment, preferably acid pickling treatment, of the component degreased in step (a) and optionally rinsed in step (b), in particular in at least one pickling bath; then (d) if necessary, rinsing the component pickled in step (c), in particular in at least one rinsing bath; then (e) Flux treatment of the component pickled in step (c) and, if applicable, rinsed in step (d) by means of a flux composition in a flux bath; then (f) if necessary, drying treatment of the component that underwent the flux treatment in step (e); then (g) Hot-dip galvanizing of the component which has undergone flux treatment in step (e) and, if applicable, has been dried in step (f) in a kettle (3B) filled with molten zinc (3C); then (h) if necessary, cooling treatment of the component hot-dip galvanized in step (g); then (i) if necessary, reworking the component which was hot-dip galvanized in step (g) and cooled in step (h). [21] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the metal melt (3C), in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt; and / or wherein the metal melt (3C), particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt, wherein the zinc melt contains an amount of zinc of at least 75 wt.%, in particular at least 80 wt.%, preferably at least 85 wt.%, preferably at least 90 wt.%, and optionally at least one further metal, in particular in amounts of up to 25 wt.% and / or in particular selected from the group consisting of aluminium, bismuth, lead, tin, nickel, silicon, magnesium and combinations thereof, wherein all the aforementioned amounts are to be selected such that a total of 100 wt.% results; and / or wherein the metal melt (3C), in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt, wherein the zinc melt has the following composition, wherein all the quantities mentioned below refer to the zinc melt and are to be selected such that a total of 100 wt.% results: (i) Zinc, in particular in amounts in the range of 75 to 99.9999 wt.%, in particular in the range of 80 to 99.999 wt.%, preferably in the range of 82.5 to 99.995 wt.%, preferably in the range of 85 to 99.99 wt.%, particularly preferably in the range of 87.5 to 99.98 wt.%, most preferably in the range of 90 to 99.95 wt.%, even more preferably in the range of 92 to 99.9 wt.%, (ii) optionally aluminium, in particular in amounts in the range of 0.0001 to 25 wt.%, in particular in the range of 0.001 to 20 wt.%, preferably in the range of 0.005 to 17.5 wt.%, preferably in the range of 0.01 to 15 wt.%, particularly preferably in the range of 0.02 to 12.5 wt.%, most preferably in the range of 0.05 to 10 wt.%, even more preferably in the range of 0.1 to 8 wt.%, (iii) optionally bismuth, in particular in amounts up to 0.5 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.3 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.1 wt.%, (iv) optionally lead, in particular in amounts up to 0.5 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.2 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.1 wt.%, (v) optionally tin, in particular in amounts of up to 0.9 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.6 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.3 wt.%, (vi) optionally nickel, in particular in amounts up to 0.1 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.08 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.06 wt.%, (vii) optionally silicon, in particular in amounts of up to 0.1 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.05 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.01 wt.%, (viii) optionally magnesium, in particular in amounts of up to 5 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 2.5 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.8 wt.%; and / or wherein the metal melt (3C), particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt, wherein the zinc melt has a temperature in the range of 375 °C to 750 °C, particularly a temperature in the range of 380 °C to 700 °C, preferably a temperature in the range of 390 °C to 680 °C, more preferably a temperature in the range of 395 °C to 675 °C; and / or wherein the component is immersed in the molten metal (3C), in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing in the molten zinc, and in particular is immersed and moved therein, in particular for a period of time sufficient to ensure effective metallization, in particular hot-dip galvanizing, in particular for a period of time in the range of 0.0001 to 60 minutes, preferably in the range of 0.001 to 45 minutes, more preferably in the range of 0.01 to 30 minutes, and even more preferably in the range of 0.1 to 15 minutes; and / or wherein the molten metal (3C), in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing the molten zinc, is contacted and / or purged or passed through with at least one inert gas, in particular nitrogen. [22] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, the metal melt (3C) comprises a zinc melt, wherein the zinc melt (3C) is an aluminum-containing, in particular aluminum-alloyed, zinc melt; and / or wherein, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, the metal melt (3C) comprises a zinc melt, wherein the zinc melt (3C) has an aluminum content, based on the zinc melt (3C), in the range of 3 to 8 wt.%; and / or wherein, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, the metal melt (3C) comprises a zinc melt, wherein the zinc melt (3C) has the following composition, wherein all the quantities mentioned below are based on the zinc melt (3C) and are to be selected such that a total of 100 wt.% results: (i) Zinc in amounts of 92 wt.% to 96 wt.%, (ii) Aluminium in amounts of 4 wt.% to 8 wt.%, (iii) optionally one or more further metals selected from the group consisting of bismuth, lead, tin, nickel, silicon, magnesium and combinations thereof, in particular in amounts from 0.001 wt.% to 10 wt.%. [23] Method for operating an industrial production process using a molten metal (3C), wherein air (1B) is first heated in at least one hot air generation chamber (2), wherein the heated air is subsequently directed and / or introduced into a mixing chamber (4) to adjust the temperature of the heated air, wherein the mixing chamber (4) for heating supplied air (6) includes a heat exchanger and / or is designed as a heat exchanger, and wherein the air heated by means of the heat exchanger is subsequently directed and / or introduced into a hot air space (3A) of a boiler chamber (3), wherein the hot air space (3A) surrounds and / or heats a boiler (3B) containing a metal melt (3C); wherein the air used for heating is returned from the mixing chamber (4) to the hot air generation chamber (2) for further and / or reprocessing and / or recycling. [24] Use of a method according to any of the preceding claims for the decarbonization of an industrial production process carried out using a metal melt (3C). [25] Method for decarbonizing an industrial production process carried out using a metal melt (3C), wherein air (1B) is first heated in at least one hot air generation chamber (2), wherein the heated air is subsequently directed and / or introduced into a mixing chamber (4) to adjust the temperature of the heated air, wherein the mixing chamber (4) for heating supplied air (6) includes a heat exchanger and / or is designed as a heat exchanger, and wherein the air heated by means of the heat exchanger is subsequently directed and / or introduced into a hot air space (3A) of a boiler chamber (3), wherein the hot air space (3A) surrounds and / or heats a boiler (3B) containing a metal melt (3C). [26] Method according to claim 25, characterized by at least one of the features of claims 1 to 22. [27] Plant for operating an industrial production process using a metal melt (3C), the facility includes: - at least one hot air generation chamber (2) for heating air (1B); - arranged downstream in the process direction and / or downstream of the hot air generation chamber (2), at least one mixing chamber (4) for adjusting the temperature of the heated air, - arranged downstream in the process direction to the mixing chamber (4), a boiler chamber (3), wherein the boiler chamber (3) comprises a boiler (3B) containing a metal melt (3C), which is surrounded by a hot air space (3A); wherein the hot air generation chamber (2) is connected to the mixing chamber (4) by means of at least one supply line (L2, L5, L6) for the air heated in the hot air generation chamber (2), wherein the mixing chamber (4) comprises a heat exchanger and / or is designed as a heat exchanger for heating supplied air (6) and wherein the mixing chamber (4) and the boiler chamber (3) are connected by means of at least one supply line (L3), wherein the supply line (L3) is designed to introduce and / or feed the air heated in the mixing chamber (4) into the boiler chamber (3). [28] Plant according to claim 27, wherein a return line (RL4) is additionally provided for the return and / or recycling of the air used for heating from the mixing chamber (4) to the hot air generation chamber (2), in particular for further and / or reprocessing, in particular heating, of the returned and / or recycled air. [29] Plant according to claim 27 or claim 28, wherein the hot air generation chamber (2) is arranged spatially separate from the boiler chamber (3). [30] Plant according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the supply line (L2, L3, L5, L6) is designed as a pipe and / or a channel; and / or wherein the return lines (RL2, RL3a, RL3b, RL4) are each designed as a pipe and / or a channel. [31] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one air conveyor, in particular a fan and / or a pump, is additionally provided, wherein the air conveyor is designed to direct and / or introduce the air heated in the hot air generation chamber (2) from the hot air generation chamber (2), preferably by means of the at least one supply line (L2), into the mixing chamber (4). [32] A system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is designed such that the heating of the air (1B) in the hot air generation chamber (2) is carried out by means of at least one energy source (1A), in particular by means of at least one energy source (1A) that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources (1A); in particular wherein air (1B) and energy from at least one energy source (1A) are supplied to the hot air generation chamber (2). [33] Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating of the air in the hot air generation chamber (2) is carried out by supplying air (1B) and energy from at least one energy source (1A), in particular by means of at least one energy source (1A) that can be selected variably and / or independently from a plurality of different energy sources (1A). [34] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating of the boiler (3B) is carried out indirectly and / or via a heat transfer medium, in particular heated air. [35] Plant according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hot air space (3A) comprises at least two different areas and / or wherein the hot air space (3A) divides at least two different areas, in particular areas with different temperatures or temperature zones. in particular wherein the areas are spatially separated and / or subdivided; and / or in particular wherein the areas are formed by flow differences and / or by internal components, in particular by flow channels and / or guide plates. [36] Plant according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one mixing chamber (4) is arranged and / or provided downstream and / or in the process direction to the hot air generation chamber (2) and upstream and / or in the boiler chamber (3), in particular for adjusting the temperature of the heated air. [37] System according to claim 36, wherein the mixing chamber (4) comprises an air / air heat exchanger and / or is designed as an air / air heat exchanger. [38] Plant according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one heat storage device (5) is arranged and / or provided in the process direction between the hot air generation chamber (2) and the mixing chamber (4); and / or wherein at least one heat storage unit (5) is arranged and / or provided downstream and / or in the process direction to the hot air generation chamber (2) and upstream and / or in the mixing chamber (4); and / or wherein the heated air from the hot air generation chamber (2) is first directed and / or introduced into at least one heat storage unit (5) by means of at least one supply line (L5) and subsequently the air from the heat storage unit (5) is directed and / or introduced into the mixing chamber (4) by means of at least one supply line (L6). [39] Plant according to claim 38, wherein the heat storage device (5) is a latent and / or sensible heat storage device; and / or wherein the heat storage medium (5) comprises at least one heat storage material selected from the group consisting of oils, slags, steels, salts, in particular salt mixtures, gravel, stones, in particular fireclay bricks, ceramics and metals. [40] Plant according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plant is designed such that the air from the hot air space (3A) of the boiler chamber (3) is returned to the mixing chamber (4) and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line (RL2), in particular for further and / or reprocessing. [41] Plant according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises at least one further device (7), in particular for pretreatment and / or post-treatment, wherein the further device (7) is preferably connected to the hot air space (3A) of the boiler chamber (3) by means of at least one return line (RL3a); in particular wherein the air is directed and / or introduced into the further device (7) by means of at least one return line (RL3a); and / or in particular wherein the further device (7) is selected from the group consisting of drying devices, heating devices, ovens, pickling devices, fluxing devices, rinsing devices, washing devices and combinations thereof; and / or in particular wherein the air from the further device (7) is returned to the mixing chamber (4) and / or recycled, preferably by means of at least one return line (RL3b). [42] Plant according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the metal melt (3C) comprises at least one metal selected from the group consisting of zinc, tin, magnesium, aluminium, silicon, lead, nickel, bismuth and combinations and mixtures thereof. [43] Plant according to any of the preceding claims, where the molten metal (3C) contains no iron; and / or where the metal melt (3C) is not an iron metal melt and / or not an iron-containing metal melt. [44] Plant according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the metal melt (3C), in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt; and / or wherein the metal melt (3C), particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt, wherein the zinc melt contains an amount of zinc of at least 75 wt.%, in particular at least 80 wt.%, preferably at least 85 wt.%, preferably at least 90 wt.%, and optionally at least one further metal, in particular in amounts of up to 25 wt.% and / or in particular selected from the group consisting of aluminium, bismuth, lead, tin, nickel, silicon, magnesium and combinations thereof, wherein all the aforementioned amounts are to be selected such that a total of 100 wt.% results; and / or wherein the metal melt (3C), in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt, wherein the zinc melt has the following composition, wherein all the quantities mentioned below refer to the zinc melt and are to be selected such that a total of 100 wt.% results: (i) Zinc, in particular in amounts in the range of 75 to 99.9999 wt.%, in particular in the range of 80 to 99.999 wt.%, preferably in the range of 82.5 to 99.995 wt.%, preferably in the range of 85 to 99.99 wt.%, particularly preferably in the range of 87.5 to 99.98 wt.%, most preferably in the range of 90 to 99.95 wt.%, even more preferably in the range of 92 to 99.9 wt.%, (ii) optionally aluminium, in particular in amounts in the range of 0.0001 to 25 wt.%, in particular in the range of 0.001 to 20 wt.%, preferably in the range of 0.005 to 17.5 wt.%, preferably in the range of 0.01 to 15 wt.%, particularly preferably in the range of 0.02 to 12.5 wt.%, most preferably in the range of 0.05 to 10 wt.%, even more preferably in the range of 0.1 to 8 wt.%, (iii) optionally bismuth, in particular in amounts up to 0.5 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.3 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.1 wt.%, (iv) optionally lead, in particular in amounts up to 0.5 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.2 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.1 wt.%, (v) optionally tin, in particular in amounts of up to 0.9 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.6 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.3 wt.%, (vi) optionally nickel, in particular in amounts up to 0.1 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.08 wt.%, preferably in amounts up to 0.06 wt.%, (vii) optionally silicon, in particular in amounts of up to 0.1 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.05 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.01 wt.%, (viii) optionally magnesium, in particular in amounts of up to 5 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 2.5 wt.%, preferably in amounts of up to 0.8 wt.%; and / or wherein the metal melt (3C), particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, comprises a zinc melt, wherein the zinc melt has a temperature in the range of 375 °C to 750 °C, particularly a temperature in the range of 380 °C to 700 °C, preferably a temperature in the range of 390 °C to 680 °C, more preferably a temperature in the range of 395 °C to 675 °C; and / or wherein the system is designed such that a component is immersed in the molten metal (3C), in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing the molten zinc, and is immersed and moved therein, in particular for a period of time sufficient to ensure effective metallization, in particular hot-dip galvanizing, in particular for a period of time in the range of 0.0001 to 60 minutes, preferably in the range of 0.001 to 45 minutes, more preferably in the range of 0.01 to 30 minutes, and even more preferably in the range of 0.1 to 15 minutes; and / or wherein the system is designed such that the molten metal (3C), in particular in the case of hot-dip galvanizing the molten zinc, is contacted and / or purged or passed through with at least one inert gas, in particular nitrogen. [45] Plant according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, the metal melt (3C) comprises a zinc melt, wherein the zinc melt (3C) is an aluminum-containing, in particular aluminum-alloyed, zinc melt; and / or wherein, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, the metal melt (3C) comprises a zinc melt, wherein the zinc melt (3C) has an aluminum content, based on the zinc melt (3C), in the range of 3 to 8 wt.%; and / or wherein, particularly in the case of hot-dip galvanizing, the metal melt (3C) comprises a zinc melt, wherein the zinc melt (3C) has the following composition, wherein all the quantities mentioned below are based on the zinc melt (3C) and are to be selected such that a total of 100 wt.% results: (i) Zinc in amounts of 92 wt.% to 96 wt.%, (ii) Aluminium in amounts of 4 wt.% to 8 wt.%, (iii) optionally one or more further metals selected from the group consisting of bismuth, lead, tin, nickel, silicon, magnesium and combinations thereof, in particular in amounts from 0.001 wt.% to 10 wt.%. [46] Plant for operating an industrial production process using a metal melt (3C), the facility includes: - at least one hot air generation chamber (2) for heating air (1B); - arranged downstream in the process direction and / or downstream of the hot air generation chamber (2), at least one mixing chamber (4) for adjusting the temperature of the heated air, - arranged downstream in the process direction to the mixing chamber (4), a boiler chamber (3), wherein the boiler chamber (3) comprises a boiler (3B) containing a metal melt (3C), which is surrounded by a hot air space (3A); wherein the hot air generation chamber (2) is connected to the mixing chamber (4) by means of at least one supply line (L2, L5, L6) for the air heated in the hot air generation chamber (2), wherein the mixing chamber (4) comprises a heat exchanger and / or is designed as a heat exchanger for heating supplied air (6) and wherein the mixing chamber (4) and the boiler chamber (3) are connected by means of at least one supply line (L3), wherein the supply line (L3) is designed to introduce and / or feed the air heated in the mixing chamber (4) into the boiler chamber (3); wherein the system is designed such that the air used for heating is returned from the mixing chamber (4) to the hot air generation chamber (2) for further and / or reprocessing and / or recycling; and / or wherein a return line (RL4) is additionally provided for the return and / or recycling of the air used for heating from the mixing chamber (4) to the hot air generation chamber (2). [47] Use of a plant according to any of the preceding claims for carrying out a method according to any of claims 1 to 23, 25 and 26. [48] ​​Use of a plant according to any of the preceding claims for the decarbonization of an industrial production process carried out using a metal melt (3C). [49] Use of a plant according to any of the preceding claims for operating an industrial production process carried out using a metal melt (3C).

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