FILTER MODULE FOR REMOVAL OF CONTAMINANTS FROM A RAW GAS FLOW

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a filter module for separating impurities from a raw gas stream containing impurities, in particular for use in a painting system for painting workpieces, in particular vehicle bodies. State of the art

[0002] DE 102011050915 A1 discloses a paper mesh filter module with an outer frame and a three-dimensionally arranged paper mesh filter with spacers arranged between individual sections of the paper mesh filter. The use of the paper mesh filter increases the effective area of ​​the filter module or a paint mist separation module.

[0003] Furthermore, DE 102011050915 A1 discloses a paper mesh filter module with an outer frame and a three-dimensionally arranged paper mesh filter in the form of a multiply folded web. The paper mesh filter is fixed to the frame in the area of ​​the turning points of the multiply folded web, the so-called bends. In this embodiment, the effective area of ​​the filter module is also increased by using a paper mesh filter.

[0004] DE 2615884 A1 discloses a filter module with a zigzag-shaped filter mat arranged in a replaceable cage that holds the filter mat in a zigzag pattern and is removable from the fan. The filter mat extends beyond the cage at the sides, so that it seals itself around the entire circumference of the cage in the duct section, and the conveying air must flow through the filter mat.

[0005] To ensure a distance between the mutually facing sides of the multiply folded paper scrim filter web, no spacers are required; rather, such a distance is achieved by fixing the paper scrim filter web with suitable fixing means at regular intervals on the frame in the area of ​​bends resulting from folding. Disclosure of the invention

[0006] The object of the invention is to provide a filter module with a filter structure body which comprises a small number of individual parts while having a large filter surface and is easy to assemble.

[0007] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments and advantages of the invention emerge from the further claims, the description, and the drawings.

[0008] A filter module for separating contaminants from a contaminant-containing raw gas stream is proposed. The filter module comprises a three-dimensional filter structure body through which the raw gas stream can be conducted, and which has a support structure divided into segments and a filter layer arranged thereon, in particular fixed thereto. In particular, the filter structure body can have an inherently rigid support structure divided into inherently rigid segments and a filter layer arranged thereon, in particular fixed thereto.

[0009] At least two of the segments are connected via a connecting region. The filter module further comprises an outer frame for accommodating the filter structure. The segments, with the filter layer arranged thereon, are arranged with their flat segment sides in a stacking direction.

[0010] The filter structure body is firmly fixed in the outer frame.

[0011] The segments have spacer and / or stiffening elements that can be folded away transversely to the segment flat sides and / or spacer and / or stiffening elements that can be folded out from the segment flat sides.

[0012] With the help of the fold-out spacer and / or stiffening elements, which are arranged within the segment flat sides opposite the filter layer, the individual segments can be kept at a mutual distance. In particular, the filter structure body can be significantly stiffened in this way, so that the individual segments can be held fixed in their position in the outer frame. Spacer and / or stiffening elements can advantageously be pre-stamped and / or pre-punched in the segment flat sides and / or the edge regions of the segment flat sides. Furthermore, the segments can also be kept at a distance by the fold-away spacer and / or stiffening elements, which point on the same side as the filter layer, and the entire filter structure body is stiffened and fixed in the outer frame.In addition, when the filter structure body is installed at an edge, the foldable spacer and / or stiffening elements are flush with the outer frame when installed as intended in the outer frame of a filter module in such a way that a raw gas side opening of the filter module is gas-tightly separated from a clean gas side opening of the outer frame and the filter layer can be flowed across by the raw gas.

[0013] In an advantageous embodiment, the filter module comprises only two components: the filter structure and the outer frame. This represents a significant reduction in the number of components compared to the prior art and therefore offers a significant advantage in terms of logistics costs and error-proneness during assembly, particularly when the filter modules are used globally. In an advantageous embodiment, only two components, for example the filter structure and the outer frame, can be sent from a central shipping location to the destination and assembled on-site. Furthermore, the components used can be easily assembled. This also makes replacing components during maintenance relatively simple, since only the filter structure needs to be replaced.

[0014] Advantageously, the filter structure body, optionally with segments not yet assembled into U-profiles or V-profiles, could be transported to the destination for final assembly of the filter module as a flat support structure or a strip-shaped roll with a filter layer. This allows the support structure to be unwound from the roll only during final assembly and, with the segments assembled into U-profiles or V-profiles, completed as a filter structure body, which can then be installed into the outer frame.

[0015] By fixing the filter structure body in the outer frame in a force-fitting manner, the filter structure body can advantageously be fixed in the outer frame without the need for fasteners.

[0016] Preferably, the filter structure body is inserted into the outer frame in such a way that the outer frame accommodates the filter structure body in the form of a press fit. Due to the circumferential press fit between the outer frame and the filter structure body, an additional form-fitting connection between the two components for fixation can advantageously be dispensed with.

[0017] In this case, simply closing the outer frame can ensure adequate support and fixation of the internal structure. Any unwanted leaks between the filter structure and the outer frame can be reduced or completely eliminated during operation of the filter module, as these can become clogged by deposits from the raw gas stream.

[0018] A favorable filter structure body for a filter module according to the invention for separating contaminants from a raw gas stream containing contaminants comprises a support structure divided into segments and a filter layer arranged thereon, in particular fixed thereto. In particular, the filter structure body can comprise a filter structure divided into inherently rigid segments, which has an inherently rigid support structure and a filter layer arranged thereon, in particular fixed thereto.

[0019] The segments can be arranged one after the other in a stacking direction with their flat sides for installation in a frame with the filter layer arranged thereon. Advantageously, the support structure and filter layer in the segments lie flat against each other, preferably over a large area, in particular over the entire surface.

[0020] Two or more of the segments can be connected. Optionally, two or more of the segments can also be individual elements that can be subsequently connected to each other.

[0021] The filter structure body can advantageously have a filter layer on a support structure, preferably made of cardboard, which can be selected depending on the properties of the contaminants and / or particles of the raw gas stream to be separated and which is fixed to the support structure, for example, by clamping, sewing, riveting, gluing or the like. This support structure, which is divided into individual segments, can preferably be brought into a geometry such that the effective filter surface is significantly larger compared to a vertical flow against the filter layer. For this purpose, the individual segments are set up and arranged, for example in the form of U-profiles, parallel with their flat segment sides next to one another in the stacking direction with an end face facing away from the incoming raw gas.Advantageously, the flat sides of the segments can be at least partially flowed through when the filter module is fully assembled, so that a large filter area is available.

[0022] This filter structure body designed in this way, also referred to as the internal structure below, can be mounted as intended in an outer frame, which represents the housing of a filter module, so that the most effective possible separation of contaminants from the raw gas stream is possible.

[0023] By means of a press fit between the contact surfaces of the filter structure body and the outer frame, it can optionally be ensured during assembly that the raw gas flow takes a predetermined path through the filter module.

[0024] Alternatively or in addition to a press fit, a sealing element in the form of a sealing compound and / or an adhesive tape can be used to seal the transition areas between the filter structure body and the outer frame.

[0025] Any undesirable leaks between the filter structure body and the outer frame can be reduced or completely eliminated during operation of the filter module by deposits from the raw gas stream at these leaks.

[0026] In this way, the construction of a filter structure body is described in which various filtering separators, in particular fiber filters such as random fiber mats, paper or plastic fleeces, but also paper scrim mats or the like, can be used as the filter layer. The assembly of the filter structure body is simple and can be carried out outside the outer frame of the filter module. Furthermore, the free filter surface of the filter module is increased by requiring as few as possible, or optionally no separate support or holding structures of the filter module that could cover or block the filter surface. Furthermore, preferably recyclable materials that are relatively easy to dispose of and that can, for example, be incinerated largely residue-free can be used.

[0027] It has been shown that adjusting the ratio of filter surface to raw gas-side flow cross-section, which represents the upstream space in front of the filter structure, can have a beneficial effect on filter service life depending on the properties of the contaminants and / or particles to be filtered and thus, for example, depending on the type of atomized paint used in a painting system, the application used, and the prevailing air conditions. Therefore, it is advantageous in the solution according to the invention to be able to adapt this ratio as easily as possible to the properties of the particles to be separated. It is also advantageous to be able to adapt the structure, type, and number of filter layers used as easily as possible to the properties of the particles to be separated.

[0028] Therefore, various designs of filter structural bodies are described below. All of them are based on the same concept and are assembled in the same way. These are therefore different variants of a filter structural body that allow for flexible adaptation of the most important filter properties to the particles to be separated.

[0029] Key advantages include a flexible design of the filter structure, which allows the use of a wide variety of fiber filters and / or paper mesh filters as filter layers. One or more filter layers can be mounted / fixed on the support structure, which can then be easily folded to form the filter structure. Each filter layer can consist of one or more filter layer layers. This allows multiple filter structures to be flexibly connected in series, for example. Adjustment of both the raw gas and clean gas flow cross-sections is possible without changing the design. For example, simply adapting a cardboard cutout as a support structure is all that is required.

[0030] When using a cardboard box as a support structure, for example, hardly any waste is generated during production, as punched sections can be used to stiffen the filter module. This allows for low unit costs in the production of the filter module. Pre-assembly of the filter structure body is possible outside the outer frame of the filter module, enabling easy assembly, for example, directly at the point of use. Filter structure bodies can also be easily replaced on-site.

[0031] In a favorable design, no (additional) support or stiffening is required on the raw gas side. This ensures the greatest possible free flow to the filter surface.

[0032] Different variants of the filter structure body can be assembled in the same way. A preferred flow direction of the filter layer can be taken into account if necessary. Furthermore, the filter module can be expanded with one or more identical filter structures.

[0033] Advantageously, a plurality of consecutive segments can also be connected by means of a connecting region, each of which is folded back and forth in a zigzag pattern in the form of U-profiles or V-profiles. In this way, the U-profiles or V-profiles are arranged next to one another, so that they can be aligned with an end face in the direction of flow or opposite to the direction of flow. It is advantageous if the support structure in the connecting region between two segments, which as the end face opposes the direction of flow, is provided with smaller perforations or openings than the support structure of a connecting region arranged downstream, in order to achieve a favorable filtering and separation effect.By arranging the segments in the form of U-profiles or V-profiles, the effective filter surface is significantly increased compared to the use of a vertically flowing filter layer, thus significantly increasing the effectiveness and service life of the filter structure body.

[0034] The filter layer is preferably arranged on one side of the support structure. After bending and / or folding the support structure into a U-shape or V-shape and installing the filter structure body into the outer frame, the filter layer is then arranged alternately on an inner side and an outer side of the bent and / or folded connecting area of ​​the support structure.

[0035] According to an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that mutually facing spacer and / or stiffening elements of adjacent segments are at least partially connectable to one another, in particular, latchable or clampable. Another possibility for spacing and stiffening the individual segments from one another is to design the spacer and / or stiffening elements so that they can be connected to one another, in particular, latchable or clampable.

[0036] This also makes it easier to assemble the filter structure body by folding the support structure, for example, since the segments can be connected to one another by means of the spacer and / or stiffening elements during the erection of the segments from the originally flat support structure and thus remain in the extended position by themselves until the entire filter structure body is formed in such a way that it can be mounted in the outer frame.

[0037] According to an advantageous embodiment, mutually facing spacer and / or stiffening elements of adjacent segments can have at least one locking element which, in a properly folded-out state, can be locked to a locking counter-element of an opposite spacer and / or stiffening element of an adjacent segment. The provision of locking elements and locking counter-elements in the spacer and / or stiffening elements enables the individual segments to be connected without the need for additional connecting means, which represents a significant logistical advantage during assembly of the filter structure. Furthermore, this minimizes the risk of the locking elements becoming loose and falling off over the service life of the filter structure, which could potentially impair subsequent processes on the clean gas side.

[0038] According to an advantageous embodiment, the filter layer can be designed with a surface orientation that is preferred in terms of flow. A surface orientation that is preferred in terms of flow is present when a preferred direction for particularly efficient separation and / or flow is present.

[0039] In an advantageous embodiment, the surface orientation can, for example, cause the raw gas stream to flow through the filter layer obliquely at an angle to the filter layer surface rather than perpendicularly, which effectively corresponds to an increase in the filter layer thickness and results in improved filtering efficiency. Depending on the structure of the filter layer used, it can be quite advantageous to always flow against it in countercurrent to the surface orientation of the filter layer in order to improve the filter properties of the filter structure body, such as separation rate and absorption capacity. The filter layer can, in particular, comprise a fiber filter layer, such as a fiber filter mat, a random fiber mat, a paper fiber mat, a plastic nonwoven mat, or a scrim filter layer, such as a paper scrim mat.

[0040] According to an advantageous embodiment, the filter layer can have a flow-alternating surface orientation of the filter layer on the adjacent segment flat sides. In this way, a symmetrical flow through a pair of segments arranged, for example, in the form of a U-profile or V-profile is advantageously achieved if the adjacent segment flat sides are aligned parallel to one another and parallel to the flow direction of the raw gas. In this way, identical filtering and separation boundary conditions are achieved for both legs of a U-profile or V-profile of two segments, which advantageously allows for homogeneity of the filter and / or separation parameters of the filter structure body. This also advantageously enables favorable homogenization of the gas flow as it flows through the filter structure body.

[0041] According to an advantageous embodiment, the filter layer can be interrupted between segments. The surface orientation of the filter layer can thus be advantageously changed between the segments by interrupting the filter layer. A segment-by-segment alternating surface orientation of the filter layer can then be achieved by arranging an adjacent filter layer piece with an opposite surface orientation on the flat side of the segment.

[0042] According to an advantageous embodiment, the filter layer can be formed from at least two filter layer layers. This allows for extremely flexible adaptation and design of the filter structure body with regard to the filter layer used, depending on the particles to be separated. If necessary, several different filter layers can be arranged one behind the other in the flow direction and fixed together to the support structure. Due to the limited free flow cross-section on the raw gas side, the total thickness of the multiple filter layers must be dimensioned accordingly.

[0043] According to an advantageous embodiment, the connecting region can have openings separated by webs transversely to a longitudinal extension, wherein the webs are preferably positioned such that they are substantially aligned with the folded-out spacer and / or stiffening elements. In particular, the folded-out spacer and / or stiffening elements of the connecting regions in the filter structure body are located in the shadow of the webs in the flow direction, preferably in a flow shadow of the webs.

[0044] In an exemplary intended installation state of the filter structure in the filter module and of the filter module on site, in which the connecting areas with the webs are arranged vertically, the webs can have a greater vertical extension than the unfolded spacer and / or stiffening elements. In this case, the webs and the unfolded spacer and / or stiffening elements, apart from any greater extension of the webs, are at the same height with respect to gravity.

[0045] In an exemplary intended installation state of the filter structure body in the filter module and of the filter module on site, in which the connection areas with the webs are arranged horizontally, the webs can have a greater horizontal extent than the folded-out spacer and / or stiffening elements.

[0046] Depending on the particles to be filtered and thus the type of atomized paint when using the filter structure in a paint shop, the application used, and the prevailing air conditions, it may be appropriate to provide openings in the connecting area of ​​the support structure to achieve lower flow resistance. These openings are separated by webs. To further reduce flow resistance and achieve favorable stiffening of the filter structure, it is advantageous to arrange these webs at the height of the folded-out spacer and / or stiffening elements. According to the proposed design of the filter structure, this only requires adjusting the punching of the support structure accordingly.

[0047] According to an advantageous embodiment, the openings in a connecting area facing the raw gas side can have a smaller cross-section than those in a connecting area facing the clean gas side. This achieves the most favorable flow and separation rate possible through the filter layer and thus also a high efficiency of the filter structure body due to the lower flow resistance resulting from such an arrangement.

[0048] According to an advantageous embodiment, the support structure can be made of cardboard. Cardboard is inexpensive to process, for example, by punching, and is lightweight. Furthermore, a filter layer can be easily secured to it using staples, sewing, riveting, gluing, or similar methods, since the material is relatively soft. Furthermore, cardboard is recyclable and can be incinerated with virtually no residue.

[0049] The segments formed in the support structure of the filter structure body are separated by folded edges, particularly in the connecting areas of the segments, which allow the segments to be positioned at the folded edges and arranged in the form of U-profiles or V-profiles. For this purpose, the folded edges of the segments are advantageously arranged at an angle, particularly perpendicular to the flow direction.

[0050] In an alternative embodiment, a filter structure body for a filter module for separating contaminants from a raw gas stream containing contaminants can comprise an inherently rigid filter structure divided into inherently rigid segments, which comprises at least one inherently rigid filter layer, wherein the segments can be arranged successively with their segment flat sides in a stacking direction for installation in an outer frame with the filter layer.

[0051] The filter layer itself can form the filter structure. An additional support structure can be omitted if necessary. The filter layer can advantageously comprise expanded metal and / or metal mesh. At least two of the segments can be formed contiguously across a connecting region, wherein, arranged in the stacking direction, at least two of the consecutive segments can form legs of a U-profile or V-profile with their segment flat sides. The filter layer can be formed with a surface orientation that is preferred in terms of flow.

[0052] The filter layer may be interrupted between segments. The filter layer may be formed from at least two filter layer layers.

[0053] According to an advantageous embodiment, two or more filter structural bodies can be arranged in series in the flow direction transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the stacking direction. In particular, if particle separation occurs primarily in the depth of the filter layer (depth filter) rather than at the surface, the absorption capacity of the filter layer is directly dependent on the filter layer thickness. In order to achieve a high filter layer thickness and, at the same time, a sufficiently wide flow cross-section on the raw gas side, a second filter structural body of the filter module can be connected directly to the outlet side of the first filter structural body.

[0054] According to an advantageous embodiment, the two or more filter structural bodies can be arranged one behind the other in the flow direction, mirror-symmetrically to their contact surface. To achieve favorable flow guidance, it is expedient to arrange the filter structural bodies one behind the other in the flow direction such that, for example, the gas flow enters a U-shaped profile of the filter structural body through the front filter layer in the flow direction and exits the U-shaped profile of the filter structural body located behind it through the filter layer. This advantageously allows the lowest possible flow resistance to be achieved.

[0055] According to an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the connecting region has openings separated by webs transversely to a longitudinal extent, and the openings in a connecting region facing a raw gas side have a smaller cross-section than in a connecting region facing a clean gas side. In the filter structure body, the filter layer is arranged alternately on inner and outer sides, relative to the respective profiles, by folding the support structure into U-profiles and / or V-profiles. At bends where the filter layer is arranged on the inner side, the openings between the webs of the respective connecting regions are advantageously larger than at bends where the filter layer is arranged on an outer side.This achieves the best possible flow and separation rate of the filter layer and thus also a high efficiency of the filter module due to the lower flow resistance resulting from such an arrangement.

[0056] It may also be advantageous to arrange a plurality of filter modules in the form of a filter module wall in order to meet larger filter requirements and, above all, to ensure favorable maintainability of the filter arrangement in large filter arrangements with the resulting modularity.

[0057] In an alternative embodiment, a filter module can comprise a filter structure body for separating contaminants from a contaminant-containing raw gas stream, an inherently rigid filter structure divided into inherently rigid segments, which comprises at least one inherently rigid filter layer. The segments can be arranged consecutively with their segment flat sides in a stacking direction for installation in an outer frame with the filter layer. The filter layer itself can form the filter structure. An additional support structure can be omitted if necessary. The filter layer can comprise expanded metal and / or metal mesh.

[0058] According to an advantageous embodiment of the filter module, a collecting device can be provided on its underside. The collecting device can be made, in particular, of a tear-resistant, liquid-resistant material, such as a dimensionally stable tray, suitably shaped and attached bags, sacks, foil cutouts, or the like.

[0059] Depending on the paint properties and process conditions, the consistency of the paint separated in the filter module may still be fluid, which can lead to separated paint escaping from the filter. A liquid-tight, soak-proof collecting device, such as a tray that encloses the base of the filter module in the application, can create an enlarged, leak-proof reservoir that increases the paint storage capacity of the filter module while simultaneously preventing contamination of the filter environment. The collecting device increases the service life of the filter module compared to the limited intrinsic storage volume of the filter module for still-flowing separated paint.

[0060] InIn a favorable embodiment, a one-piece tray can be used, which can be formed into a desired geometry, particularly by folding. The tray can be formed by folding a rectangular or square section of the tray material in a conventional manner so that it has a seamless, closed shape that tightly encloses the outer frame of the filter module.

[0061] The collecting device can advantageously be made of a sufficiently tear-resistant, liquid-resistant material, which is preferably thin enough that the external dimensions of the filter structure or the filter module are not significantly altered. The collecting device is preferably made of water-resistant coated paper or cardboard, or of a thin plastic. Advantageously, the material used for the collecting device can be a cardboard material coated with polyethylene on one or both sides, which is often also referred to as milk carton paper or milk carton.

[0062] The collection device can conveniently be slipped over the outer frame of the filter module after the filter structure has been installed in the outer frame. Optionally, multiple filter modules can be installed in a common collection device. Optionally, a filter module can be installed as the main filter stage with any associated downstream filter stages together in a collection device. Alternatively, the collection device can also be integrated into the filter module, for example, arranged in the outer frame.

[0063] In In a further embodiment, the collecting device can also be designed to protrude beyond the outer frame on the inflow side of the filter module, so that paint running down on the inflow side as well as paint dripping or running down from above the filter module is collected and the storage volume is increased again.

[0064] InIn a further embodiment, the collecting device can be designed with an overflow or drain through which separated paint that is still easy to flow can be drained from the filter module at a defined point.

[0065] The outflow can be directed into a filter module or a collection container located below. Direct discharge of the draining paint from the paint booth via a conveying device, such as a siphon, a pump, a screw, or the like, is also possible. In this embodiment, a collecting device, such as a tray, is preferably used that protrudes beyond the outer frame of the filter module on the inflow side. The outflow can be realized through a hole in the bottom of the protruding collecting device part.

[0066] In a favorable embodiment, at least one further filter stage can be provided downstream of the filter module as a post-filter stage. The filter medium of the post-filter stage is preferably inserted into a separate outer frame. For example, filtering separators can be used, in particular fiber filters such as random fiber mats or synthetic fleece. These can be fixed to a support structure analogous to the structure of the filter module and inserted into the associated outer frame. Ideally, in this case, the outer frame of the post-filter stage is deeper than the segments of the filter structure body, preferably a few centimeters, for example 5 cm to 15 cm. The support structure of the post-filter stage can then be moved in the outer frame towards the outflow side of the post-filter stage on the clean gas side.This provides the advantage of creating a free space between the outflow point from the filter medium of the filter module as the main filter stage and the inflow point into the filter medium of the post-filter stage, allowing the air flow to become more uniform. This ensures that the filter surface of the post-filter stage is subjected to a correspondingly even load.

[0067] Alternatively, the filter material of the post-filter stage can simply be installed or inserted into an outer frame, flat and perpendicular to the flow direction. Depending on the nature of the filter material, it may be sufficient to support it if the outer frame is designed in a grid pattern on the outflow / clean gas side. In this case, the use of a support structure is unnecessary.

[0068] If support for the flatly installed filter material is required, a frame on the raw gas side or retaining pins or clamps attached to the clean gas side grid can be used to secure the filter medium. Even with flat installation of the filter mat in the post-filter stage, a certain distance is preferably provided between the outflow side of the filter module and the inflow side of the post-filter stage. This distance can advantageously be achieved by an outer frame of the post-filter stage that is deeper than the filter medium.

[0069] The height and width of the outer frames of the secondary filter stages, however, can preferably be identical to those of the main filter stage with one or more filter modules. This allows the secondary filter stages to be installed together with the main filter stage in a filter module holder, i.e., a filter frame. The filter stages can be installed individually, i.e., one after the other, or together as a single component in the filter module holder. Preferably, the filter stages are inserted into the filter module holder as a single component and are connected to one another, e.g., with adhesive tape, ideally in an airtight manner, prior to installation.

[0070] Optionally, for easy removal from a filter module holder and / or to protect the filter module holder from contamination, one or more filter modules can be inserted into a protective cover, for example a sack, bag or the like.

[0071] The protective sheath, which is open on both sides, clean gas side and raw gas side, after the filter module or filter modules have been installed in the filter module holder, can preferably be closed on the upstream side, i.e. raw gas side, before the saturated filter module is dismantled. The protective sheath can be removed from the filter module holder together with the filter module or filter modules by pulling on the closure, for example. For this purpose, a web can expediently be provided on the clean gas side of the protective sheath to transfer force to the filter module or filter modules. To increase the stability of the protective sheath, it can be made from a fabric material, e.g. plastic fabric. Alternatively, several filter modules or filter stages can be bundled together with pallet straps during installation in the filter module holder, for example using pallet straps. Once saturated, they can be pulled out of the filter module holder together with the protective sheath.

[0072] Optionally, the protective cover can be reusable. Alternatively, disposable protective covers can be used. In this case, the filter module(s) can be delivered to the filter module receptacle already in the protective cover.

[0073] Preferably, several filter modules are placed together in a protective cover. To evenly distribute the weight of filter modules arranged vertically one above the other, horizontal dividers, such as those made of metal, wood, or cardboard, are used. If several vertical rows of filter modules are integrated into a protective cover, vertical dividers can also be installed. Together with the horizontal dividers, these then preferably form a stiffening cross, ensuring that the stacked filter modules remain a stable unit even with increasing saturation.

[0074] To ensure a positive fit of the filter module in the filter module holder or the filter module frame, it can be advantageous if the cross-section of the outer frame has a tapered shape in the flow direction. This effectively secures the filter module even when exposed to high negative pressure. Alternatively, the filter module can also have a flared shape.

[0075] A filter module holder can be arranged stationary or movable. In particular, a movable filter module holder can be designed, for example, as a cart and / or trolley with wheels. The cart and / or trolley, with one or more filter modules arranged therein, can then be moved manually or automatically between different positions.

[0076] A favorable method for producing a filter structure body for separating contaminants from a raw gas stream containing contaminants comprises applying and fixing a filter layer at least on segment flat sides of segments of a web-shaped support structure, wherein at least two segments are connected by means of connecting regions.

[0077] In a first step, a filter layer selected depending on the properties of the particles to be separated is fixed to a support structure, preferably made of cardboard, outside the outer frame of the filter module, for example by clamping, sewing, riveting, gluing, or similar means. The support structure can be unwound from a roll and immediately rewound after the filter layer has been applied. Thus, the support structure could be delivered as a semi-finished product by a supplier for the final assembly of the filter module.

[0078] In particular, inherently rigid segments can be used.

[0079] According to an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the filter layer is applied to the support structure continuously in a band-like manner and / or piecewise to each segment, in particular in the case of piecewise application with a segment-by-segment alternating surface orientation of the filter layer.

[0080] According to an advantageous embodiment, it can further be provided that after the filter layer has been fixed on the support structure, pre-embossed and / or at least partially pre-punched spacing and / or stiffening elements arranged on and / or in segment flat sides of the segments of the support structure are set up, followed by folding the support structure to form a three-dimensional filter structure body such that the segment flat sides lie successively transversely to a stacking direction.

[0081] The filter structure body, also called the internal structure, is preferably formed into a geometry by simple folding such that the effective filter surface is significantly increased compared to a vertical flow through the filter module. Mutual spacing of the individual erected segments and stiffening of the filter structure body is achieved by placing pre-stamped and / or at least partially pre-punched spacer and / or stiffening elements on and / or in the flat sides of the segments of the support structure. These spacer and / or stiffening elements can also lock or clamp the individual segments together using suitable locking elements.

[0082] For this purpose, these locking elements and locking counter-locking elements in the spacer and / or stiffening elements are designed to be foldable away from and / or out of the segment flat sides. The fully assembled filter structure body is then mounted gas-tight in the outer frame of a filter module.

[0083] It can advantageously be provided that the support structure is unwound and spread out for attaching the filter layer. This allows the filter layer to be easily and conveniently spread out over the support structure and secured. Individual filter layer pieces can also be more easily applied and secured. This ensures a particularly efficient manufacturing process for the filter structure body, since the support structure subsequently only needs to be folded in the appropriate manner into a three-dimensional geometry made up of erected segments.

[0084] Advantageously, the filter structure body could be sent to the destination for final assembly of the filter module as a flat support structure or as a band-shaped support structure wound up on a roll and only unwound from the roll during final assembly and completed as a filter structure body by erecting the segments in U-profile shape or V-profile shape.

[0085] Advantageously, when folding the support structure into a three-dimensional filter structure body, U-shaped or V-shaped profiles can also be formed, which enable particularly effective filtering of raw gas and separation of contaminants. Drawings

[0086] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations. Examples include:

[0087] Fig. 1 shows a developed support structure of a filter module according to an embodiment of the invention in plan view; Fig. 2 shows a support structure with a filter layer fixed thereon according to an embodiment of the invention in an isometric view; Fig. 3 shows a filter structure body according to an embodiment of the invention with two segments arranged to form a U-profile in an isometric view; Fig. 4 shows a filter structure body according to an embodiment of the invention with three U-profiles in plan view; Fig. 5 shows the assembly of a filter structure body according to an embodiment of the invention with three U-profiles in an outer frame; Fig. 6 shows an outer frame of a filter module according to an embodiment of the invention with a mounted filter structure body without a filter layer in an isometric view; Fig. 7 shows a cross-section through the outer frame of Fig. 6with a view in the direction of flow; Fig. 8 shows a filter structure according to an embodiment of the invention with a filter layer made of two filter layer layers in a top view; Fig. 9 shows a filter module according to an embodiment of the invention with a filter structure made of three U-profiles in an isometric view; Fig. 10 shows a filter module according to an embodiment of the invention with a filter structure made of two U-profiles in an isometric view; Fig. 11 shows a part of a U-profile of a filter structure according to an embodiment of the invention with a continuous filter layer in a top view; Fig. 12 shows a part of a U-profile of a filter structure according to an embodiment of the invention with a filter layer interrupted in the connection area in a top view; Fig. 13 shows a filter structure according to an embodiment of the invention with a filter layer made of two filter layer layers with a large thickness in a top view; Fig.Figure 14 shows two filter structural bodies arranged one behind the other according to an embodiment of the invention with opposite orientation in plan view; Figure 15 shows a post-filter stage for a filter module; Figure 16 shows an arrangement with a filter module and post-filter stage; Figure 17 shows an arrangement with a filter module and a collecting device for flowable paint; and Figure 18 shows an arrangement with a filter module and a protective cover. Embodiments of the invention

[0088] In the figures, components of the same type or function similarly are designated by the same reference numerals. The figures are merely examples and are not to be construed as limiting.

[0089] A filter module 10 according to the invention for separating impurities from a raw gas stream containing impurities, as is used for example in Figure 5during assembly, comprises a three-dimensional filter structure body 12 through which the raw gas flow can be conducted, which has a support structure 14 divided into segments 18 and a filter layer 50 arranged thereon, in particular fixed, wherein at least two of the segments 18 are formed connected via a connecting region 34, 35. The support structure 14 and the filter layer 50 arranged thereon form a filter structure 13. The filter module 10 further comprises an outer frame 60 for receiving the filter structure body 12. The segments 18, with the filter layer 50 arranged thereon, are arranged one after the other in a stacking direction 44 with their segment flat sides 20, 22.

[0090] In an alternative embodiment, the filter structure 13, which is formed into the filter structure body 12, can also comprise an inherently rigid filter medium, for example expanded metal and / or metal mesh.

[0091] Figure 1shows a developed support structure 14 of a filter module 10 according to an embodiment of the invention in plan view. In a longitudinal extension 36 of the support structure 14, successive segments 18 are each formed connected via a connecting region 34, 35 so that two connected segments 18 in the form of a U-profile or V-profile can be folded over at the connecting regions 34, 35. The segments 18 have segment flat sides 20, 22. Folding edges 16 are arranged between the connecting regions 34, 35 and the segment flat sides 20, 22 for folding the support structure 14 and erecting the segments 18. Transversely to the segment flat sides 20, 22, foldable spacing and / or stiffening elements 28, 30, 32 as well as spacer and / or stiffening elements 24, 26 that can be folded out of the segment flat sides 20, 22 are formed.When the segments are unfolded to form U-shaped or V-shaped profiles, facing spacer and / or stiffening elements 24, 26, 28, 30, 32 of adjacent segments 18 are at least partially interconnectable, in particular, latchable or clampable. The spacer and / or stiffening elements 30, 32 of an edge segment of the support structure 14 are each configured differently from the other spacer and / or stiffening elements 28, since they serve to fix and stiffen the filter structure body 12 in the outer frame 60.

[0092] The support structure 14 can advantageously be made of cardboard, for example. For space-saving transport, the support structure 14 can be folded, for example, along the marked fold edges 16, resulting in a compact and less bulky element. Alternatively, the support structure 14 can also be wound onto a roll for transport, in particular with the filter layer 50 already fixed in place. It would then be unwound from the roll only upon completion of the filter structure body 12, with the segments 18 being erected into U-profiles or V-profiles.

[0093] The connecting regions 34, 35 have openings 40 separated by webs 38 transversely to a longitudinal extension 36, wherein the webs 38 are preferably positioned such that they are arranged substantially flush with the folded-out spacer and / or stiffening elements 24, 26. The openings 40 in a connecting region 34 facing a raw gas side 80 in the intended assembled state have a smaller cross-section than in a connecting region 35 facing a clean gas side 82 in order to be able to design the U-profiles formed from the segments 18 in a more aerodynamically favorable manner.

[0094] In Figure 2is a detail of the filter structure 13, comprising support structure 14 with filter layer 50 (shown transparently) fixed thereon according to an embodiment of the invention, shown in an isometric view. The support structure 14 is expediently unfolded and spread out for attaching the filter layer 50. The filter layer 50, for example a fiber filter mat, is, as shown in Figure 2 As shown, it is spread out flatly along the longitudinal extension 36 of the web-shaped support structure 14 on the segment flat sides 20, 22 of the segments 18 connected by connecting regions 34, 35 and fixed thereto, for example, with the aid of clamps as a fixing element 58. The type of fixing can vary, among other things, depending on the type of filter layer 50 used (fiber filter, paper mesh filter, etc.).

[0095] Subsequently, the filter structure 13 is successively folded into the intended geometry of the filter structure body 12 by unfolding the support structure 14, including the filter layer 50. The assembly results in a three-dimensional structure of the filter structure body 12, preferably in the form of U-profiles or V-profiles, whereby the effective filter surface can be significantly increased compared to the use of a filter layer 50 subjected to vertical flow. For this purpose, pre-stamped and / or at least partially pre-punched spacing and / or stiffening elements 24, 26, 28, 30, 32 are first arranged on and / or in the flat sides 20, 22 of the segments 18 of the support structure 14.For this purpose, mutually facing spacing and / or stiffening elements 24 of adjacent segments 18 expediently have at least one locking element 90 which, in a properly folded-out state, can be locked to a locking counter-element 92 of an opposite spacing and / or stiffening element 26 of an adjacent segment 18.

[0096] After the spacing and / or stiffening elements 24, 26, 28, 30, 32 have been set up, the support structure 14 is folded into a three-dimensional filter structure body 12 such that the segments 18 lie transversely to the stacking direction 44.

[0097] Figure 31 shows an isometric view of a filter structure 12 according to an embodiment of the invention with two segments 18 arranged to form a U-shaped profile. The unfolded spacing and / or stiffening elements 28, 30, 32 of the segments 18 are clearly visible in their intended state for spacing and / or stiffening the individual segments 18. The segments 18, with their flat sides 20, 22, form the legs of the U-shaped profile.

[0098] In Figure 4 A filter structure body 12 according to an embodiment of the invention with three U-profiles is shown in plan view. In the plan view, the unfolded spacer and / or stiffening elements 24, 26 can be seen between the segments 18, which keep the segments 18 spaced apart and contribute to stiffening the U-profiles.

[0099] After the filter structure body 12 has been completely folded and assembled, the filter structure body 12 can be installed in the outer frame 60. Preferably, the filter structure body 12 is inserted into the outer frame 60 in such a way that the outer frame 60 receives the filter structure body 12 in a force-locking manner in the form of a press fit. Due to the circumferential press fit between the outer frame 60 and the filter structure body 12, an additional form-locking connection between the two components for fixing can be dispensed with. Optionally, the outer frame can already be closed, for example, by means of closure parts 68, as shown in Figure 5 shown, ensure sufficient support or fixation of the filter structure body 12.

[0100] In an alternative embodiment, the filter structure 13, which is folded to form the filter structure body 12, can also comprise an inherently rigid filter layer without a supporting body, for example expanded metal and / or metal mesh.

[0101] Figure 5shows the assembly of a filter structure body 12 according to an embodiment of the invention with three U-profiles into an outer frame 60. The filter structure body 12 is inserted through the open closure parts 68 of the outer frame 60 into the interior 66 of the frame 60. The closure parts 68 are then closed. In this way, the filter structure body 12 can also be replaced as needed during maintenance, so that the filter module 10 does not necessarily have to be replaced as a whole. By means of the inserted filter structure body 12, the raw gas side opening 62 of the outer frame 60 is largely separated from the clean gas side opening 64 of the frame 60 in a gas-tight manner. Any undesired leaks can become clogged with deposits from the raw gas flow during operation and can be partially or completely eliminated. The raw gas can flow transversely against the filter layer 50.

[0102] The filter module 10 can then be inserted into a stationary or movable filter module holder (not shown).

[0103] For a positive fit of the filter module 10 in the filter module receptacle, it may be advantageous if the cross-section of the outer frame 60 has a tapered shape in the flow direction 70. This effectively secures the filter module 10 even when a high negative pressure is applied. Alternatively, the filter module 10 can also have a shape that widens in the flow direction 70.

[0104] Figure 6 shows an outer frame 60 of a filter module 10 according to an embodiment of the invention with mounted filter structure body 12 without filter layer 50 in an isometric view. In Figure 7 is a cross section through the outer frame 60 of Figure 6 shown with a view in flow direction 70.

[0105] In the Figures 6 and 7is shown as an example of how the described press fit between the outer frame 60 and the filter structure body 12 can be realized. For this purpose, both raw gas and clean gas side spacer and / or stiffening elements 24, 26, 28, 30, 32 are used as transverse stiffeners between the segments 18, which on the one hand serve to holistically stiffen both components in the transverse direction, but on the other hand also to stabilize the formed geometry, for example the U-profiles, with increasing filter load due to an increased pressure difference and the absorption of particles. In the longitudinal direction of the filter module 10, the flow direction 70, the fixation of the filter structure body 12 is also realized by a press fit between the outer frame 60 and the filter structure body 12.

[0106] Due to the proposed design of the filter module 10, in addition to increasing the effective filter area due to the three-dimensional structure, the flow cross-section 72 on the raw gas side and thus the absorption volume are also significantly increased.

[0107] Furthermore, it is possible to arrange several filter layer layers of different fiber filters and / or paper mesh filters one above the other and then fix them together on the support structure 14. This makes it possible to adapt and design the filter module 10 with extreme flexibility with regard to the filter layer 50 used, depending on the particles to be separated.

[0108] Figure 8 shows a filter structure body 12 according to an embodiment of the invention with a filter layer 50 made of two superimposed filter layer layers 52, 54 in plan view.

[0109] Depending on the particles to be filtered and thus, for example, depending on the type of atomized paint used in a painting system, the application used, and the prevailing air conditions, it may well be advisable to increase the flow cross-section on the raw gas side and thus the absorption volume for separated particles at the expense of the filter surface in order to achieve a higher absorption capacity. According to the proposed filter module design, this only requires adjusting the punching of the support structure 14. Instead of three U-profiles, for example, only two U-profiles can be used per filter module 10. Filter modules 10 with an enlarged flow cross-section on the raw gas side are particularly suitable for particles that impinge on the filter layer 50 dry or dry out quickly and / or build up or swell on the filter layer 50 and thus block the flow cross-section on the raw gas side relatively quickly.

[0110] So in Figure 9 For example, a filter module 10 according to an embodiment of the invention with a filter structure body 12 made of three U-profiles is shown in an isometric view, while in Figure 10 a filter module 10 with a filter structure body 12 made of two U-profiles is shown in an isometric view. It is clear from the filter module 10 in Figure 10 the enlarged flow cross-section 72 can be seen as free space between the U-profiles of the segments 18.

[0111] Alternatively, it may also be sensible to further enlarge the filter area compared to a basic version and accordingly reduce the raw gas side and / or the clean gas side flow cross section 72.

[0112] Depending on the material used, the filter layer 50 can be designed with a preferred surface orientation 56 in terms of flow. Depending on the structure of the filter layer 50 used, such as a fiber filter or paper mesh filter, it can therefore be quite advantageous to always flow against the filter layer 50 in countercurrent to its surface orientation in order to improve the filter properties such as separation rate and absorption capacity. However, when using a fiber filter mat that continuously surrounds the U-profile, this is not possible, as shown in Figure 11 shown. In Figure 111 shows a plan view of part of a U-profile of a filter structure body 10 according to an embodiment of the invention with a continuous filter layer 50. The surface orientation 56 in the filter layer 50 is marked by hatching, which is oriented in the flow direction 70 on one flat side 20 of the segment and opposite to the flow direction 70 on the other flat side 22 of the segment. The flow paths 74 of particles impinging on the end face 42 in the flow direction 70 are also shown. It can be seen that the flow paths 74 are quite different depending on the segment 18 of the U-profile through which the gas flows, resulting in an inhomogeneous flow profile of the gas flow guided through the filter structure body 12.

[0113] For such filter layers 50, it is therefore proposed, for example, not to fix them in a continuous band-like manner on the support structure 14, but instead to divide them into several parts and apply them piece by piece to the segments 18. Thus, the filter layer 50 can be interrupted between segments 18. The surface orientation 56 can be taken into account during assembly according to the optimal flow pattern, for example, by selecting the surface orientation 56 in alternating segments.

[0114] Figure 12shows a top view of part of a U-profile of a filter structure body 10 according to an embodiment of the invention, with a filter layer 50 interrupted in the connecting region 34. The filter layer 50 thus has a surface orientation 56 of the filter layer 50 that alternates in flow direction on the adjacent segment flat sides 20, 22. The flow paths 74 of the particles impinging on the end face 42 in the flow direction 70 are shown to illustrate the effect. To achieve the desired effect, the end face 42 formed by the connecting region 34 should be impermeable to the raw gas flow.

[0115] To adapt the filter structure body 12 used in the filter module 10 to the particles to be separated, the filter structure body 12 itself can be modified. Alternatively, if required, several different filter layer layers can be arranged one behind the other and then fixed together on the support structure 14. Due to the limited free flow cross-section on the raw gas side, the total thickness of the filter layer layers is limited. For clarification, Figure 13A filter structure 12 according to an embodiment of the invention with a filter layer 50 consisting of two thick filter layer layers 52, 54 is shown in plan view. It is clear that with increasing overall filter layer thickness, the flow cross-section 72 on the raw gas side decreases. During particle separation, these small openings can become blocked, so it is sensible to find a compromise between the thickness of the filter layer layers 52, 54 and the free flow cross-section 72.

[0116] In particular, when particle separation occurs primarily in the depth of the filter layer 50 (depth filter) rather than at the surface, the absorption capacity of the filter module 10 is directly dependent on the thickness of the filter layer 50. In order to achieve a high thickness of the filter layer 50 and, at the same time, a sufficiently wide flow cross-section 72 on the raw gas side, it is therefore proposed to connect a second filter structure body 12 of the filter module 10 directly to the outlet side of the first filter structure body 12 in a mirror-symmetrical manner to its contact surface, i.e., rotated by 180° around the vertical axis of the filter structure body 12. If necessary, the two filter structure bodies 12 can be connected to one another via connecting parts 46, for example clamps, before assembly in the outer frame 60.

[0117] Figure 14shows two filter structural bodies 12 arranged one behind the other according to an embodiment of the invention with opposite orientations in a top view. Two filter structural bodies 12 are arranged in series in the flow direction 70, perpendicular to the stacking direction 44 of the segments 18. As a result, the two filter structural bodies 12 are aligned one behind the other in the flow direction 70, also with the surface orientation 56 of the filter layers 50 opposite to each other. The filter structural bodies 12 are connected via the connecting parts 46 in the edge segments and can thus be installed together in an outer frame 60 after assembly. To clarify the effect, the flow paths 74 of the particles impinging on the end face 42 in the flow direction 70 are shown.It can be seen that a flow path 74 of the gas flow passes directly through the two end faces 42 of the adjacent U-profiles in a straight line, while another flow path 74 of the gas flow enters the U-profile of the front filter structure body 12 through the front filter layer 50 in the flow direction and leaves the U-profile of the filter structure body 12 following in the flow direction through the filter layer 50.

[0118] Figure 15 shows a post-filter stage 100 for one or more filter modules as the main filter stage, and Figure 16 shows an embodiment of a circuit arrangement of filter module 10 as the main filter stage and downstream post-filter stage 100. In this embodiment, a filter module 10 with a post-filter stage 100 is shown. In other embodiments, one or more filter modules 10 and / or one or more post-filter stages 100 may be provided.

[0119] In the post-filter stage 100, a filter medium 104 is installed in a separate outer frame 102. The filter medium 104 may preferably comprise filtering separators, in particular fiber filters such as random fiber mats or synthetic fleeces.

[0120] The filter medium 104 of the post-filter stage 100 is installed or inserted into the outer frame 102 in a flat manner and transversely to the flow direction. Depending on the nature of the filter material, it may be sufficient to support it if the outer frame 102 has a grid 106 on the outflow side (clean gas side). In this case, the use of a support structure analogous to the filter module 10 of the main filter stage can be completely dispensed with.

[0121] If a support for the flatly installed filter medium 104 is required, a frame on the raw gas side or retaining pins or retaining clips, which are fastened to the clean gas side grid 106, can be used to secure the filter medium 104. When the filter medium 104 is installed flat in the post-filter stage 100, a certain distance can be provided between the outflow side of the filter module 10 and the inflow side of the post-filter stage 100. This distance can be achieved by an outer frame 102 of the post-filter stage 100 that is deeper than the filter medium 104. This has the advantage that a free space is formed between the outflow point from the upstream main filter stage and the inflow point into the filter medium 104 of the post-filter stage 100, in which space the air flow can be evened out. This ensures that the filter surface of the post-filter stage 100 is loaded accordingly evenly.

[0122] In an embodiment not shown in the image, the filter medium 104 can be designed analogously to the filter structure body 12 of the filter module 10 and arranged in the frame 102 and have a filter layer arranged on a support structure. In this case, the outer frame 102 of the post-filter stage 100 can be arranged a few centimeters lower in the flow direction 70 than the filter structure body. The support structure of the post-filter stage 100 can then be displaced in the outer frame 102 in the flow direction 70 towards the outflow side, i.e. the clean gas side. This has the advantage that a free space is formed between the outflow point from the upstream main filter stage and the inflow point into the filter medium 104 of the post-filter stage 100, in which free space the air flow can be evened out. As a result, the filter surface of the post-filter stage 100 is loaded accordingly evenly.

[0123] The height and width of the outer frames of the post-filter stage 100 are preferably identical to those of the filter module 10. This allows the post-filter stage 100 to be installed together with the filter module 10 in a filter module holder (not shown). The filter stages can be installed individually, i.e., one after the other, or together as a single component in the filter module holder. For this purpose, the filter stages can be connected to one another, ideally airtight, before installation, for example, with adhesive tape.

[0124] Figure 17 shows an embodiment in which a filter module 10 is coupled to a collecting device 90 in the form of a trough, which is arranged on the underside of the filter module 10.

[0125] After assembly of the filter module 10, the collecting device 90 is placed over the underside of the outer frame 60. Optionally, several filter modules 10, possibly including any post-filter stages, can be inserted into a common collecting device 90. Alternatively, the collecting device 90 can also be integrated into the filter module 10, i.e., arranged within the outer frame 60.

[0126] If, for example, the bottom of the frame 60 becomes waterlogged during operation of the filter module 10 due to accumulating flowable paint, this water can be collected in the collecting device 90, allowing the filter module 10 to continue operating. Optionally, weak points can also be provided in the bottom of the frame 60. These weak points are initially closed and, when flowable paint is present, open in a defined manner toward the collecting device 90, thus draining the flowable paint from the frame 60.

[0127] The collecting device 90 consists of a sufficiently tear-resistant, liquid-resistant material that is preferably so thin that the external dimensions of the filter module 10 are not significantly changed. The collecting device 90 is preferably made of water-resistant coated paper or cardboard material, for example cardboard material coated on one or both sides with polyethylene, or of thin plastic. In addition to the design in the form of a dimensionally stable tray, the tray function can optionally be realized through the use of suitably shaped and attached bags, sacks, or film cutouts. In a preferred embodiment, a one-piece tray is used, which is formed by folding a rectangular or square cutout of the tray material in a known manner such that it has a seamlessly closed shape that tightly encloses the outer frame 60 in the region of its underside.

[0128] In In a further embodiment not shown, the collecting device 90 can also be designed to project beyond the outer frame 60 on the upstream side of the filter module 10, so that paint running down on the upstream side as well as paint dripping or running down from above the filter module 10 is collected and the storage volume of the filter module 10 is increased again.

[0129] InIn a further embodiment not shown, the collecting device 90 can be designed with an overflow or drain through which separated paint that is still free-flowing is drained from the filter module 10 at a defined point. The drain can be into a filter module arranged below or a collection container arranged below. Direct discharge of the flowing paint from the paint booth by means of a siphon, a pump, a screw or other conveying device is also conceivable. In this embodiment, a tray protruding beyond the outer filter frame on the inflow side is preferably used, with the drain being realized through a hole in the base of the protruding tray part.

[0130] Figure 18shows an arrangement consisting of a filter module 10 and a protective cover 110, which is particularly advantageous for easy disassembly of the filter module, but also for protecting a filter module receptacle from contamination. Although this arrangement is described for one filter module 10, it is understood that a plurality of filter modules 10, as well as any post-filter stages, can also be provided in a single protective cover 110.

[0131] After the filter module 10 has been installed in the filter module receptacle (not shown), the protective cover 110 is open on both the clean gas side 82 and the raw gas side 80. The protective cover 110 can preferably be closed on the raw gas side 82 before disassembling the saturated filter module 10. By pulling on the closure, the protective cover 110 can be removed from the filter module receptacle together with the filter module 10. Optionally, a web for transmitting force to the filter module 10 can be provided on the clean gas side 82 of the protective cover 110.

[0132] The protective cover 110 can advantageously be made of a sturdy and tear-resistant fabric material, e.g., a plastic fabric. If multiple components such as filter modules 10 and / or post-filter stages are provided in the protective cover 110, these can be bundled, for example, with pallet straps and, after they are saturated, pulled out of the filter module holder together with the protective cover 110.

[0133] The protective cover 110 can be designed for single use or multiple use. In the case of single-use protective covers 110, filter modules 10 can be delivered to the filter module receptacle already in the protective cover 110.

[0134] Preferably, several filter modules 10 are placed together in a protective casing 110. For even weight distribution, horizontal separating elements, for example made of metal, wood, or cardboard, are used for filter modules 10 arranged vertically one above the other. If several vertical rows of filter modules 10 are integrated into a protective casing 110, vertical separating elements can also be provided. Together with the horizontal separating elements, these then preferably form a stiffening cross such that the stacked filter modules 10 form a stable unit even with increasing saturation.

Claims

1. Filter module (10) for separating impurities from a raw gas stream containing impurities, comprising - a three-dimensional filter structure body (12) by way of which the raw gas stream is able to be directed and which comprises a support structure (14) divided into segments (18) and disposed, in particular fixed, thereon a filter layer (50), wherein at least two of the segments (18) are formed so as to be contiguous by way of a connecting region (34, 35); and - an outer frame (60) for receiving the filter structure body (12), wherein the segments (18) having the filter layer (50) disposed thereon, by way of their segment flat sides (20, 22), are disposed successively in a stacking direction (44), wherein the filter structure body (12) is fixed in a force-fitting manner in the outer frame (60), wherein the segments (18) have spacer and / or reinforcement elements (28, 30, 32) which are able to be folded away transversely in relation to the segment flat sides (20, 22), and / or spacer and / or reinforcement elements (24, 26) which are able to be folded out of the segment flat sides (20, 22).

2. Filter module according to Claim 1, wherein the filter structure body (12) comprises a filter structure (13) which is divided into inherently stiff segments (18) and has an inherently stiff support structure (14) and a filter layer (50) disposed, in particular fixed, thereon.

3. Filter module according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the filter structure body (12) is fixed in the outer frame (60) without connecting means.

4. Filter module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least two of the segments (18) are formed so as to be contiguous across a connecting region (34, 35) and wherein at least two of the successive segments (18), disposed in the stacking direction (44), by way of their segment flat sides (20, 22) form legs of a U-profile or V-profile.

5. Filter module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein mutually facing spacer and / or reinforcement elements (24, 26, 28, 30, 32) of adjacent segments (18) are able to be at least partially connected, in particular latched or clamped, to one another.

6. Filter module according to Claim 5, wherein mutually facing spacer and / or reinforcement elements (24) of adjacent segments (18) have at least one latching element (90) which in a state folded out according to the intended use is able to be latched to a latching counter-element (92) of an opposite spacer and / or reinforcement element (26) of an adjacent segment (18).

7. Filter module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the filter layer (50) is designed with a fluidically preferred surface orientation (56).

8. Filter module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the filter layer (50) on closest adjacent segment flat sides (20, 22) has a fluidically alternating surface orientation (56) of the filter layer (50).

9. Filter module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the filter layer (50) is interrupted between segments (18).

10. Filter module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the filter layer (50) is formed from at least two filter layer tiers (52, 54).

11. Filter module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure (14) is formed from cardboard.

12. Filter module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein two or more filter structure bodies (12) are disposed in series in the flow direction (70) so as to be transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the stacking direction (44).

13. Filter module according to Claim 12, wherein the two or more filter structure bodies (12) are disposed behind one another in the flow direction (70) so as to be mirror-symmetrical in relation to their contact face.

14. Filter module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein provided is a containment device (90) which is formed in particular of tear-resistant, liquid-resistant material.

15. Filter module according to Claim 14, wherein the containment device (90) is formed as an integral tray which can be shaped to an envisaged geometry in particular by folding.