PRESSURE TANK SYSTEM

Description

1. Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a pressure vessel system comprising a pressure vessel with a reaction chamber as a pressure space for triggering and / or promoting chemical and / or physical pressure reactions of samples held in the reaction chamber. 2. Background

[0002] Pressure vessel systems of the type mentioned above are generally known from the prior art. Furthermore, it is known to fluidically connect all valves, sensors, and fluid supply and discharge lines to the reaction chamber via pipe and / or hose connections. The disadvantage of this is that a large number of connections with sealing rings, screw connections, etc. are required, which means that the connections are not permanently leak-tight and are less pressure-resistant. Furthermore, very long lines result in aggressive chemicals that can stagnate or condense for extended periods, thus leading to metallic contamination (introduction of elements) and corrosion of the respective lines. As a result, these lines tend to have relatively high analytical blank values.Furthermore, the relatively large number of pipe and / or hose connections and the devices connected via them makes efficient cleaning of the respective couplings and lines impossible. Furthermore, the installation and maintenance of the devices requiring fluid connections is relatively complex.

[0003] In summary, it can be stated that the pressure vessel systems known from the prior art provide a relatively complex and unsafe fluidic connection of the devices (valves, sensors, fluid inlet, fluid outlet, etc.) to the reaction chamber. WO95 / 13133 discloses a pressure vessel system.

[0004] Based on this prior art, the present invention aims to overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art, in particular to provide a pressure vessel system that can fluidically connect all devices to the reaction chamber more efficiently and safely.

[0005] These and other objects, which will be mentioned upon reading the following description or which may be recognized by a person skilled in the art, are achieved by the subject matter of the independent claim. Advantageous further developments are the subject matter of the dependent claims. 3. Detailed description of the invention

[0006] A pressure vessel system according to the invention comprises: a pressure vessel with a reaction chamber as a pressure space for initiating and / or promoting chemical and / or physical pressure reactions of samples contained in the reaction chamber, and a rigid rail rigidly connected to the pressure vessel or to at least part of the pressure vessel, having a first connection to the fluid inlet, a second connection to the fluid outlet, and a fluid line fluidically connecting the first connection to the second connection. The fluid line is fluidically connected to the reaction chamber via the second connection, and the rail has at least one third connection fluidly connected to the fluid line, which can be connected to a device such that the device is fluidly connected to the fluid line and thus to the reaction chamber.

[0007] In other words, a pressure vessel system is proposed which, by means of a single rigid rail, can preferably support all devices (sensors, fluid supply lines, fluid discharge lines, etc.) and fluidically connect them to the reaction chamber. For this purpose, the fluid line is preferably formed by a cavity - e.g., a bore - in the rigid rail, whereby this cavity connects all connections to one another (fluidically) and thus forms the fluid line connecting the connections. The fluid line or cavity is therefore provided integrally with or in the rigid rail. Furthermore, the rigid, i.e., particularly immovable, non-elastic, and direct mechanical connection between the pressure vessel and the rail ensures that the rail is fluidically and mechanically connected to the pressure vessel or reaction chamber in a particularly firm and easily accessible manner.In this way, all devices can be fluidically connected to the rail and thus to the reaction chamber in a particularly efficient (reducing assembly time, construction materials, installation space, etc.) and secure manner, particularly rigidly. Complex and unsafe pipe and hose connections, as known from the state of the art, can thus be completely eliminated or at least significantly reduced.

[0008] The pressure vessel preferably has a lid that is movable between an open position, in which the reaction chamber is open, and a closed position, in which the reaction chamber is closed, wherein the rail is rigidly connected to the lid (as part of the pressure vessel and thus to the pressure vessel). Since the lid is generally provided at an easily accessible location on the pressure vessel, particularly good, and therefore particularly efficient and safe, accessibility to the rail can be provided. Furthermore, the lid, in particular its side facing away from the reaction chamber, is suitable for particularly good rigid fastening of the rail.

[0009] Preferably, the rail is designed and connected to the lid in such a way that the lid can be moved between the open position and the closed position by moving the rail, preferably by raising and lowering it. In other words, the rail can be provided as a lift rod for the aforementioned movement of the lid. Consequently, further means for moving the lid between the open position and the closed position can be dispensed with, so that the pressure vessel system can be designed to be particularly compact. And since the at least one device can preferably be held in a supporting manner by the rail during this movement, there is no risk that a fluid line (for example a hose) between the rail and the at least one device will influence or disrupt this movement.

[0010] The rail preferably has a fastening area via which the rail can be fastened to a conveying device, for example a lifting and lowering device, for moving or raising and lowering the rail and thus for moving the lid between the open and closed positions. The fastening area ensures, in particular, that the rail can be fastened to the conveying device in a defined position and / or orientation.

[0011] The pressure vessel system can further comprise a conveying device, preferably a lifting and lowering device, for moving or raising and lowering the rail and thus for moving the lid between the open position and the closed position. The rail is preferably attached to the conveying device via the fastening area. Thus, the lid can be moved particularly easily between the open position and the closed position, in particular automatically and / or with the aid of a drive (electric motor, etc.).

[0012] It is preferred if the rail is movable, in particular tiltable, relative to the conveying device with respect to an axis (for example, along a translational axis or about a tilt axis), and the pressure vessel system has a sensor system configured to detect the closed position of the lid based on a relative movement, in particular a tilt movement, of the rail relative to the conveying device and with respect to the axis, wherein the relative movement is effected by moving the lid into the closed position. The closed position of the lid thus detected can then be transmitted, for example, to a control device in order to control the pressure vessel system accordingly.For example, the control device can then control the pressure vessel system in such a way that the pressure reaction is carried out in the reaction chamber and / or the lid is additionally secured for a subsequent pressure reaction in the reaction chamber, for example by means of a closing or securing element.

[0013] Preferably, the sensor system is configured to detect a contact pressure of the lid for closing the reaction chamber in the closed position through the relative movement and to detect the closed position as soon as the contact pressure exceeds a defined threshold contact pressure. This makes it particularly easy to ensure that the lid closes the reaction chamber in the closed position with sufficient contact pressure to reliably carry out the pressure reaction in the reaction chamber. Furthermore, it can be prevented that the lid exerts an excessive closing force, which could lead to damage or bending of the lid and the rail.

[0014] The pressure vessel can have a pressure vessel wall surrounding the reaction chamber (enclosed all the way around), with the rail being rigidly connected to the pressure vessel wall (as part of the pressure vessel and thus to the pressure vessel). This can, in particular, ensure that the rail remains stationary relative to the pressure vessel wall while the lid is moved between the open and closed positions. This can improve the operability of the pressure vessel system, particularly due to the reduced load on the lid and the resulting easier lifting of the lid.

[0015] The pressure vessel wall can have a bore, wherein the fluid line is fluidically connected to the reaction chamber at least via the second connection and the bore, and preferably via a further bore formed in the lid. This allows for a particularly good fluidic connection between the rail or fluid line and the reaction chamber. If the additional bore is also provided, a fluid can advantageously be supplied to the fluid line from above the reaction chamber, while the rail or fluid line is arranged to the side of the reaction chamber to save space.

[0016] The pressure vessel system can have a fastening means for attaching the rail to the pressure vessel or the part of the pressure vessel, preferably to the pressure vessel wall and / or the lid. The fastening means thus provides the rigid connection between the rail and the pressure vessel and can ensure that the rail is fluidly connected to the pressure vessel or the reaction chamber in a self-sealing manner, i.e., without additional sealing elements. The fastening means is preferably designed such that the fluid line is fluidly connected to the reaction chamber via the second connection and the fastening means, for example, via a through-bore extending through the fastening means. Thus, the fastening means can provide both the mechanical and the fluidic connection between the rail and the pressure vessel system. In this way, the assembly effort can be reduced and the installation space can be further optimized.

[0017] The pressure vessel system may further comprise a control device for controlling devices fluidically connected to the rail and / or for controlling the movement of the lid or the rail, in particular the conveying device.

[0018] The control device is preferably configured to supply a fluid to the fluid line via the first connection for flushing the fluid line. Due to the particularly simple, in particular short and straight design of the rail or the fluid line, the fluid line and the connections fluidically connected to the fluid line can thus be flushed particularly efficiently, in particular with only one flushing flow controlled by the control device, for example with a charging fluid for pressurizing (for the pressure reaction) the reaction chamber. The fluid line and the connections or devices fluidically connected to the fluid line are consequently effectively freed, in particular, of aggressive chemicals (condensates, residues, etc., in particular HCl, chlorine, hydrofluoric acid).Particularly preferably, the control device is configured to move the lid toward the open position prior to flushing such that the lid is less open during flushing of the fluid line than in the open position. Flushing with the lid open serves, in particular, to more effectively flush the entire reaction chamber and the lid, while the reduced accessibility of the reaction chamber from the outside (in particular, only a few centimeters) compared to the open position prevents chemicals from splashing out of the reaction chamber. Rather, in this position of the lid, only the flushing fluid or the substances flushed by the flushing fluid escape.

[0019] The pressure vessel system preferably has a valve (fluidically) connected to the third connection, wherein the control device is configured to open the valve before purging so that a pressure prevailing in the reaction chamber is reduced. The pressure reduction by the valve thus causes a pre-purge before the actual purging by means of the fluid supplied to the fluid line. Furthermore, the pressure relief caused by the valve allows the fluid for purging the fluid line and / or the reaction chamber to be supplied particularly easily and thus to purge at least the fluid line and preferably also the reaction chamber particularly efficiently. For a particularly efficient purging process, it is preferred if the control device is configured to close the valve before moving the lid towards the open position. This allows the purging fluid to flow particularly well through the fluid line and into the reaction chamber in order to purge it.

[0020] The at least one third connection can be formed integrally with the rail. This makes it possible, in particular, to ensure that no additional moving parts with respect to the rail are required for fluidically connecting or securing the respective device. The respective device can thus be fluidically connected to the rail and consequently also to the reaction chamber particularly easily.

[0021] Preferably, the at least one third connection has a fastening structure, such as a bore, in particular a through-bore, for fastening the device. The fastening structure preferably has a fastening area, in particular a fastening area corresponding to the device, for example a thread and / or a snap connection, for fastening, preferably for non-positive and / or positive fastening, the device to the third connection. Thus, the respective device can be rigidly connected to or fastened to the at least one third connection in a particularly simple manner.

[0022] Preferably, the at least one third connection is designed to connect the device to the rail in an assembly direction, wherein the assembly direction is substantially perpendicular to a flow direction of the fluid line. This is particularly advantageous for particularly effective removal of chemicals, solvent residues, etc., adhering in the fluid line and / or on or in the third connection, particularly in the form of droplets. This means that the fluid line and the third connection are particularly easily accessible for removing the substances adhering to them. For example, the assembly direction is the extension direction of the fastening structure, in particular of the bore.

[0023] The rail has at least two, preferably three, four, five, or six or more third connections. In principle, the rail can have any number of third connections. The at least two third connections are preferably provided on the same side of the rail relative to the pressure vessel, particularly preferably on a side of the rail facing away from the pressure vessel. Thus, the at least two third connections are particularly easily accessible and arranged in a space-saving manner.

[0024] The first port can be fluidically connected to a compressor. Thus, the compressor can supply a compressed fluid to the reaction chamber via the first port. Preferably, the pressure vessel system comprises a compressor fluidically connected to the first port for supplying a (compressed) fluid to the reaction chamber.

[0025] The pressure vessel system may include a check valve provided upstream of the first connection, which is preferably located between the first connection and the compressor. The check valve is configured to block a flow flowing from the first connection toward the compressor. The check valve, in particular, prevents back diffusion and thus protects the fluid or gas supply and the compressor.

[0026] The pressure vessel system can further comprise a buffer provided upstream of the first connection, preferably upstream of the check valve, particularly preferably between the first connection or check valve and the compressor, with a defined internal volume for buffering fluid flowing from the compressor toward the first connection. The buffer provides additional protection for the pressure vessel system, since its internal volume automatically flushes or re-flushes at least the fluid line of the rail when the pressure in the reaction chamber is reduced, for example, by pressure equalization with the ambient pressure. The buffer therefore serves as a type of flushing vessel that automatically flushes through its pressure or boost pressure.

[0027] Preferably, the buffer comprises a filter for filtering fluid flowing from the compressor toward the first port. The filter ensures, in particular, that the fluid flowing toward or into the reaction chamber is free of unwanted components such as particles or contaminants. The filter thus effectively filters out unwanted components from the fluid flowing toward the first port.

[0028] The pressure vessel system can have an additional check valve provided upstream of the buffer, preferably between the buffer and the compressor, wherein the additional check valve is configured to block a flow from the buffer toward the compressor. In this way, back diffusion can be particularly effectively prevented, thus providing particularly good protection for the fluid or gas supply and the compressor.

[0029] The rail may be made of a high-pressure-resistant material, preferably such that the rail can withstand the pressures prevailing in the reaction chamber for triggering and / or promoting chemical and / or physical pressure reactions, in particular pressures prevailing in the fluid line in the range of up to at least 200 bar, preferably up to at least 500 bar.

[0030] The rail can be made of a chemical-resistant material, and / or the fluid line can have a chemical-resistant lining, in particular a coating and / or a hose, wherein the lining is preferably made of plastic, particularly preferably of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene). Thus, the fluid line can be used in particular for conducting particularly aggressive chemicals such as hydrofluoric acid. The chemical-resistant material and / or the chemical-resistant lining ensure, in particular, that fluids flowing through the fluid line do not chemically and / or physically alter or damage the fluid line, i.e., that the fluid line is not decomposed (corrosion, etc.).

[0031] The rail is preferably made of metal. For particularly simple production of the rail, the rail is preferably made from a single block, preferably a single block.

[0032] The wall thickness of the rail is preferably greater than the cross-section of the fluid line, for example, greater than the height and / or width of the cross-section, in particular greater than the diameter of the fluid line. In other words, the rail is preferably thick-walled to impart its rigid structure to the rail. This allows for a particularly robust rail to be provided, in particular to withstand the prevailing pressures and to reliably fluidically connect the at least one device via the at least one third connection.

[0033] The rail can be elongated, i.e., in particular, have a longitudinal axis running in the direction of the fluid line. Elongated is understood to mean that the length of the rail corresponds to a multiple of the width of the rail.

[0034] The rail can have a round or polygonal, preferably rectangular or square, cross-section. A particular advantage of a square cross-section is that it usually has a straight section and can therefore be mechanically connected to the pressure vessel particularly easily via a corresponding flat area of ​​the rail.

[0035] Preferably, the fluid line extends in only one direction. This allows the fluid line to be provided in the rail particularly easily, for example, by drilling into the rail in only one direction to provide the fluid line.

[0036] The pressure vessel system preferably further comprises at least one device (fluidically) connected to the at least one third connection and particularly preferably carried by the rail. The device can comprise a valve, in particular a valve for the preferably linear or sudden reduction of pressure prevailing in the reaction chamber. By designing the valve for the sudden reduction of pressure, the valve can be used, for example, as an emergency release valve. The device can comprise a pressure measuring device (e.g., a manometer and / or an electrical pressure sensor) for detecting the pressure prevailing in the reaction chamber (in particular in a range of 0-400 bar). The device can comprise a pressure relief device, such as a bursting valve, in particular a bursting membrane, wherein the pressure relief device is preferably disc-shaped.The pressure relief device ensures in particular that the pressure vessel system, in particular the pressure vessel, is not accidentally damaged due to excessive pressure. 4. Description of preferred embodiments

[0037] A detailed description of the figures is given below. The figures show: Figure 1 a schematic sectional view of a preferred first embodiment of a pressure vessel system according to the invention; Figure 2 a schematic sectional view of a preferred development of the Figure 1 embodiment shown, in which the lid is in the closed position; Figure 3A a schematic sectional view of the Figure 2 embodiment shown, wherein the lid is located between the closed position and the open position; Figure 3B which in Figure 2 shown embodiment with a preferred embodiment of a sensor for detecting the closed or open position of the lid; Figure 4 a schematic sectional view of the Figures 2 and 3A shown embodiment, wherein the lid is in the open position; and Figure 5 a schematic sectional view of a preferred second embodiment of a pressure vessel system according to the invention.

[0038] The figures show, by way of example, various embodiments of a pressure vessel system according to the invention. Figure 1shows, by way of example, a first embodiment of a pressure vessel system 1 according to the invention. The pressure vessel system 1 has a pressure vessel 2 with a reaction chamber 3 as a pressure space for triggering and / or promoting chemical and / or physical pressure reactions of samples P held in the reaction chamber 3. The sample P comprises, for example, solids (inorganic and / or organic) such as sand, soil, earth and / or leaves. However, the pressure vessel 2 is not limited to a specific sample P. In particular, any type of sample can be subjected to a pressure reaction in the pressure vessel 2, especially samples with high viscosity or high solid content.

[0039] The pressure vessel 2 can be a (high-pressure) autoclave. The pressure vessel 2 is preferably made of a high-pressure-resistant material such as metal, preferably steel, particularly preferably a corrosion-resistant stainless steel alloy. The pressure vessel 2 is preferably designed such that it can be used at pressures of up to at least 200 bar, preferably up to at least 500 bar, and / or at temperatures of up to and even above 300°C.

[0040] The pressure vessel 2 preferably surrounds the reaction chamber 3 on all sides. The pressure vessel 2 preferably has a pressure vessel wall 4 which (completely) surrounds the reaction chamber 3 and defines an opening through which the samples P can be introduced into the reaction chamber 3 for sample treatment and removed therefrom. The pressure vessel wall 4 thus forms a preferably pot-shaped lower part of the pressure vessel 2 (pressure vessel). The pressure vessel wall 4 is preferably designed as a cooling jacket for cooling the reaction chamber 3, for example to maintain a constant temperature for heating the samples P. The pressure vessel wall 4 preferably has at least one cooling line 4a for cooling by means of the pressure vessel wall 4. The line 4a preferably contains a cooling liquid for cooling by means of the pressure vessel wall 4.The cooling fluid is introduced into the cooling line 4a, preferably via an inlet 4b, and discharged from the cooling line 4a via an outlet 4c. The cooling fluid preferably circulates in the cooling line 4a.

[0041] The pressure vessel 2 preferably has a lid 5, which is movable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the reaction chamber 3 is open, in particular in order to introduce the samples P into the reaction chamber 3 or to remove them therefrom via the aforementioned opening formed by the pressure vessel wall 4. In the open position, which is shown by way of example in the Figure 4As can be seen, the condensates (aggressive chemicals, etc.) adhering to the lid 5 or to the lid part 5c described in more detail below, for example in the form of drops, can fall into the pressure vessel 2 or the reaction chamber 3 without attacking parts of the pressure vessel 2 or the pressure vessel system 1 located to the side of the reaction chamber 3. In the closed position, the reaction chamber 3 is closed, for example in order to carry out the pressure reaction on the samples P. Preferably, the pressure vessel 2 has a closing element 5a which closes the lid 5 with the pressure vessel wall 4 in the closed position. The closing element 5a can, for example, be designed to press the lid 5 sealingly onto the pressure vessel wall 4 in the closed position. Preferably, the pressure vessel wall 4 and the lid 5 each have a flange area 4d or5b, which are encompassed by the closing element 5 in the closed position in order to close the reaction chamber 3 by the lid 5, for example by pressing the lid 5 against the pressure vessel wall 4. The closing element 5a is designed, for example, as a clamp, which preferably has two clamp halves that are movable relative to one another to open and close the clamp in order to remove the clamp from the pressure vessel 2 (open position) or to attach it to the pressure vessel 2 (closed position).

[0042] The pressure vessel 2 or the reaction chamber 3 is preferably designed to hold a liquid or base load 6. The liquid 6 is preferably a liquid that absorbs microwaves strongly. The liquid 6 is provided in particular to heat or warm the samples P located in the pressure vessel 2 or in the reaction chamber 3. This can be done, for example, by at least partially surrounding the respective sample P by the liquid 6 and by a microwave generator (magnetron, etc.) not shown in detail heating the liquid 6 by microwave absorption. The samples P can therefore be heated or warmed indirectly via the liquid 6. Alternatively or additionally, other heat sources can also be used to heat or warm the liquid 6 or samples P. Instead of indirectly heating or warming the samples P, they can also be heated or warmed directly using the aforementioned heat sources.be heated, i.e. without the liquid 6.

[0043] The sample P can be provided in a sample container 7, for example, in a test tube. Preferably, the pressure vessel 2 or the reaction chamber 3 is designed to accommodate at least two samples P or sample containers 7. The pressure vessel 2 can further comprise a sample holder 8, with which the sample container 7 can be held in the reaction chamber 3. The sample holder 8 preferably supports the at least one sample container 7 such that the sample container 7 and thus the sample P are located in the liquid 6. The sample holder 8 preferably comprises a holding device 8a, via which the sample holder 8 can be mechanically connected to the pressure vessel 2. For example, the holding device 8a is designed to be mechanically connected to the lid 5, for example, on the side of the lid 5 facing the reaction chamber 3.The holding device 8a can have a force-fitting and / or form-fitting fastening means for fastening the sample holder 8 to the pressure vessel 2, in particular to the lid 5. This fastening means is preferably designed to mechanically connect the sample holder 8 to the pressure vessel 2 via a corresponding connection. For example, the holding device 8a has a suspension means 8b, which can be suspended in a correspondingly designed receiving means 8c on the side of the pressure vessel 2, in particular on the side of the lid 5, in order to provide the sample holder 8 as intended. The suspension means 8b is preferably designed as a sliding and / or linear guide, particularly preferably as a so-called dovetail guide.

[0044] The pressure vessel 2 can further comprise a stirring device 9 for stirring the liquid 6. By means of the stirring device 9, homogeneous mixing and consequently a homogeneous temperature distribution and efficient heating of the liquid 6 contained in the reaction chamber 3 can be achieved. This also heats the samples P more efficiently. Preferably, the stirring device 9 comprises a stirring means 9a rotatable about a rotation axis, for example the pressure vessel or kettle axis, which is provided in the liquid 6 for stirring the liquid 6. The stirring means 9a is preferably driven via a drive element 9b. For example, the stirring means 9a can be designed as a magnetic disk and / or comprise magnetic elements (fixed magnets, magnetic bars, etc.). The magnetic elements can, for example, be accommodated in the stirring means 9a.In this way, the stirring means 9a entrains the magnetic elements, so that the magnetic elements rotating around the rotation axis also rotate the stirring means 9a around the rotation axis. The stirring means 9a is preferably made of a highly resistant material such as plastic (PTFE, etc.). It is particularly preferred if the magnetic elements are (tightly) welded into the highly resistant material.

[0045] The drive element 9b can be designed to magnetically interact with the magnetic stirring means 9a in such a way that the stirring means 9a is set in rotation about the axis of rotation in order to stir the liquid 5. The drive element 9b preferably has magnets (fixed magnets, etc.) in order to interact with the stirring means 9a to stir the liquid 6. The drive element 9b thus preferably causes a magnetic field rotating about the aforementioned axis of rotation, whereby the magnetic stirring means 9a is also set in rotation about the axis of rotation due to the magnetic interaction with the rotating magnetic field. For example, the magnets of the drive element 9b are provided in a holder that is rotatable relative to the pressure vessel 2 and about the axis of rotation, for example a turntable, in order to effect the rotating magnetic field by means of the rotating holder.The rotatable receptacle can be rotatably mounted on a correspondingly designed pivot bearing. The drive element 9b is preferably provided outside and / or to the side of the reaction chamber 3, particularly preferably outside and / or to the side of the pressure vessel wall 4.

[0046] The respective sample container 7 can have a stirring magnet 10 for stirring the sample P contained in the sample container 7. The stirring magnet 10 is preferably elongated, particularly preferably designed as a stirrer fish. The stirring magnet 10 is preferably provided such that the stirring magnet 10 is set in motion by the rotating magnetic field of the magnetic stirring means 9a and / or by the magnetically driven drive element 9b in order to stir the sample P. If the sample P is stirred with the stirring magnet 10, samples with high viscosity or high solid content, in particular, can be efficiently homogenized.

[0047] The pressure vessel 2 preferably has a liquid-permeable plate 14, in particular a perforated plate, which is provided in the liquid 6 and, together with the reaction chamber 3, defines a space in which the stirring means 9a is accommodated. The plate 14 is preferably made of a microwave-absorbing material such as SiC and / or ceramic, so that it can be heated via microwave radiation and thus (indirectly) warm or heat the liquid 6. In this way, the liquid 6 and consequently also the respective sample P are efficiently heated.

[0048] The pressure vessel 2 can have an inner vessel 3a, which forms the reaction chamber 3 or at least a lower part of the reaction chamber 3. The inner vessel 3a preferably rests on a support 3b provided in the pressure vessel 2. The inner vessel 3a is preferably made of an inert material, for example, plastic, in particular PTFE. The support 3b is preferably designed as a sealing element to seal the bottom region of the pressure vessel 2 from the outside. The support 3b is preferably designed to be pressure-resistant. The support 3b is preferably made of plastic, in particular PTFE, quartz, sapphire, and / or calcium fluoride.

[0049] The pressure vessel 2 preferably has, on the side of the lid 5 or on the side of the lid 5 facing the reaction chamber 3, a lid part 5c which (sealingly) closes the inner container 3a, in particular its opening, in the closed position of the lid 5. Preferably, the lid part 5c has a circumferential, in particular annular, edge extending in the direction of the reaction chamber 3. As shown in Figure 4As can be clearly seen, this edge has the particular effect of ensuring that the condensate adhering to the cover part 5c only falls into the reaction chamber 3, i.e. does not run laterally beyond the reaction chamber 3. The edge thus ensures that the condensate drips off safely, thereby improving the safety of the pressure vessel system 1. Alternatively or in addition to such an edge, it is also conceivable to design the side of the cover part 5c facing the reaction chamber 3 to taper towards the reaction chamber 3, for example in a (truncated) cone shape, in order to ensure that the condensate from the cover part 5c drips off safely into the reaction chamber 3. The cover part 5c is preferably made of plastic, in particular PTFE.

[0050] The pressure vessel 2 can have a temperature measuring device 11 for measuring or detecting the temperature of the samples P. For example, the temperature measuring device 11 has an infrared temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the samples P. The temperature measuring device 11 is preferably provided on the side of a lower part or bottom region of the pressure vessel 2. The temperature measuring device 11 is preferably formed below the bottom region and / or in the bottom region of the pressure vessel 2. The pressure vessel 2 can further have a (further) temperature measuring device 12 for measuring or detecting the temperature prevailing below the bottom of the reaction chamber 3, preferably (directly) below the (bottom of the) inner container 3a. The temperature measuring device 12 preferably has a thermocouple for measuring the aforementioned temperature, wherein the thermocouple is preferably inserted laterally into the pressure vessel wall 4.

[0051] The pressure vessel system 1 can have a plate 13 in which the pressure vessel 2 is accommodated such that the lid 5 or the access to the reaction chamber 3 is provided on a front side of the plate 13, and the essential components for operating the pressure vessel 2 or the pressure vessel system 1 (electrical, electronic and / or mechanical components, etc., in particular the cooling lines 4a, the drive element 9b and / or the temperature measuring device(s) 11 and / or 12) are provided on a rear side of the plate 13. Thus, these essential components are efficiently electrically and mechanically shielded, in particular sealed, from the front side of the plate 13.

[0052] The pressure vessel system 1 further comprises a rigid rail 50, which is rigidly connected to at least part of the pressure vessel 2 or to the pressure vessel 2. The rail 50 is preferably elongated, i.e., preferably has a longitudinal axis that preferably runs horizontally in the pressure vessel system 1 shown as an example in the figures. However, the longitudinal axis can also run vertically or along an axis oblique to the horizontal.

[0053] In the Figures 1 to 4In the preferred first embodiment of the pressure vessel system 1 shown, the rigid rail 50 is rigidly connected to the cover 5 as part of the pressure vessel 2—that is, to the pressure vessel 2. The rail 50 has a first connection 51 to the fluid inlet and a second connection 52 to the fluid outlet. Furthermore, the rail 50 has a fluid line 53 that fluidically connects the first connection 51 to the second connection 52. The fluid line 53 is formed here by a cavity—for example, a bore (when "bore" is mentioned in the context of the invention, this generally refers to any basically comparable (through) opening)—in the rigid rail 50. This cavity (fluidically) connects all connections 51, 52, 55 to one another and thus forms the fluid line 53 connecting the connections. The fluid line 53 or the cavity is thus provided integrally with or in the rigid rail 50.The fluid line 53 is fluidically connected to the reaction chamber 3 via the second connection 52. In the . Figures 1 to 4 In the preferred pressure vessel system 1 shown, the second connection 52 is accordingly provided on the side of the cover 5, i.e., such that the fluid flowing from the second connection 52 flows out via the cover 5 into the reaction chamber 3. In a corresponding manner, a fluid from the reaction chamber 3 can also be admitted into the fluid line 53 via the cover 5 and the second connection 52.

[0054] As in particular the Figures 2 to 4As can be seen, a fastening means 54 can be provided for fastening the rail 50 to the cover 5, in order to thus provide in particular the rigid connection between the cover 5 and the rail 50. The fastening means 54 can be designed to fasten the rail 50 to the cover 5 by means of a frictional connection and / or a positive connection. Preferably, the fastening means 54 is guided through the cover 5 from a side of the cover 5 that faces the reaction chamber 3 - that is, from an inside of the cover 5 - in order to be connected to the rail 50 on a side of the cover 5 that faces away from the reaction chamber 3 - that is, on an outside of the cover 5 - in order to thus fasten the rail 50 to the cover 5. It is preferred if the fastening means 54 is designed to press the rail 50 against the cover 5 in order to thus rigidly (mechanically) connect the rail 50 to the cover 5 or to fasten it thereto.This can be achieved, for example, by providing the fastening means 54 such that the fastening means 54 pulls the rail 50 toward the reaction chamber 3 and thus presses it against the cover 5. The fastening means 54 preferably has a (conical) outer surface 54a, which comes into positive and / or non-positive engagement with the cover 5 when the rail 50 is fastened to the cover 5. This outer surface 54a can be used to exert a counterforce for fastening the rail 50 to the cover 5, so that the cover 5 is clamped between the rail 50 and the fastening means 54 or its outer surface 54a.

[0055] For a particularly compact arrangement, the fluid line 53 is preferably fluidically connected to the reaction chamber 3 via the second connection 52 and the fastening means 54. For example, the fastening means 54 has a through-bore 54b extending through the fastening means 54, via which a fluidic connection can be provided between the reaction chamber 3 and the second connection 52 or fluid line 53. The through-bore 54b is preferably formed centrally in the fastening means 54, for example, aligned with the axis of symmetry of the fastening means 54.

[0056] The fastening means 54 can further have a fastening area 54c, via which the sample holder 8, in particular its holding device 8a or receiving means 8c, can be fastened to the fastening means 54 and thus to the lid 5. Preferably, by fastening the holding device 8a or the receiving means 8c to the lid 5, the lid part 5c is simultaneously fastened to the lid 5, preferably by the holding device 8a or the receiving means 8c pressing the lid part 5c against the lid 5. The holding device 8a or the receiving means 8c preferably fixes the lid part 5c in a defined position relative to the lid 5. The lid part 5c can be fastened to the lid 5 by means of the holding device 8a or the receiving means 8c, for example, via force and / or form closure, for example by means of a corresponding connection (snap connection, etc.) and / or a screw connection.If the sample holder 8 is mechanically connected to the fastening means 54 via the holding device 8a or the receiving means 8c, it can be provided that the through-bore 54b is fluidically connected to the reaction chamber 3 via the holding device 8a or the receiving means 8c, preferably via a bore extending through the receiving means 8c, in particular a through-bore. The latter through-bore is preferably branched, for example, with an inlet and two outlets opening into the reaction chamber 3 (cf. ). Figure 1 ) to evenly discharge a fluid exiting from the second port 52 into the reaction chamber 3.

[0057] The fluid line 53 preferably extends along the longitudinal axis of the rail 50. For example, the fluid line 53 has only one direction of extension, i.e., it preferably extends only straight, for example, only along the longitudinal axis of the rail 50. The fluid line 53 preferably has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the fluid line 53 has the first connection 51, and wherein the second end has the second connection 52.

[0058] The rail 50 further comprises at least one third connection 55, which is fluidically connected to the fluid line 53, i.e., opens into it. The third connection 55 is preferably provided at any location along the longitudinal axis of the rail 50. For example, when viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rail 50, the third connection 55 can be provided between the first connection 51 and the second connection 52, or can be congruent with the first connection 51 or the second connection 52.

[0059] At least one device 56 can be fluidically connected to the fluid line 53 via the at least one third connection 55, so that the device 56 is fluidically connected to the fluid line 53 and thus to the reaction chamber 3. The advantage here is that only one third connection 55 is necessary for a device 56, which can be optimally sealed with appropriate sealing elements (sealing rings, etc.). The device 56 can, for example, have functions for which a fluidic connection to the reaction chamber 3 is necessary, for example, to measure and / or change certain values ​​of the reaction chamber 3. Preferred devices 56 will be discussed in more detail below.

[0060] Preferably, the rail 50 has at least two, three, four, five, six or more third connections 55 in order to fluidically connect a corresponding number of devices 56 to the fluid line 53. The at least two or more third connections 55 are preferably arranged distributed along the longitudinal axis of the rail 50. Preferably, the at least two connections 55 are provided on the same side with respect to the pressure vessel 2, particularly preferably on a side facing away from the pressure vessel 2, i.e. in the Figures 1 to 4 pressure vessel system 1 shown as an example above the pressure vessel 2 or the cover 5. Adjacent third connections 55 can be spaced from each other at equal distances, but can also have different distances from each other.

[0061] The at least one third connection 55 (or each of the at least two third connections 55) is preferably formed integrally with the rail 50. The at least one third connection 55 can have a fastening structure such as a bore, in particular a through-bore, via which the respective device 56 can be fastened to the rail 50. The fluidic connection between the respective device 56 and fluid line 53 preferably also takes place via this fastening structure or bore. The bore preferably has a fastening area which corresponds in particular to the respective device 56, for example in that this fastening area has a thread and / or a snap connection. The respective device 56 can therefore be fastened to the third connection 55 and thus to the rail 50 via this fastening area, for example via a force-fitting and / or form-fitting connection.

[0062] The at least one third connection 55 is preferably designed to connect the respective device 56 to the rail 50 in an assembly direction, wherein the assembly direction is substantially perpendicular to a flow direction of the fluid line 53. In the exemplary embodiment of the pressure vessel system 1 shown in the figures, the assembly direction runs perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rail 50, i.e., in particular, vertically. The assembly direction is preferably the extension direction of the aforementioned bore; i.e., the bore preferably defines the assembly direction.

[0063] The at least one device 56 fluidically connected to the at least one third connection 55 can be a valve. This valve can be provided to reduce the pressure prevailing in the reaction chamber 3. For example, the valve is a valve 56a for the preferably linear reduction of the pressure prevailing in the reaction chamber 3 (i.e., for selectively relieving pressure or closing it), for example, designed as an electrical and / or electrically controllable valve 56a with automatic pressure relief. The valve 56a preferably has an actuating element, in particular an actuating and regulating motor, to selectively close the valve 56a or open it for pressure relief. The valve can also be a valve 56b for the preferably sudden reduction of the pressure prevailing in the reaction chamber 3, for example, in the design of an emergency relief valve. The valve 56b orThe third connection 55 of the pressure vessel 2 is preferably provided such that, viewed from a top view of the pressure vessel 2—that is, when viewed from the side of the lid 5 facing away from the reaction chamber 3—the valve 56b is substantially congruent with the second connection 52. In this way, a particularly good or short fluidic connection can be provided between the valve 56b and the second connection 52 or reaction chamber 3, in order to particularly effectively or quickly reduce the pressure prevailing in the reaction chamber 3 or to equalize it with the ambient pressure of the pressure vessel 2.

[0064] The device 56 can also comprise a pressure measuring device designed to detect the pressure prevailing in the reaction chamber 3. The pressure measuring device comprises, for example, an electrical, preferably piezoelectric pressure measuring device 56c, which can preferably display the corresponding pressure via a digital display and / or transmit the pressure in digital form, for example, for controlling and / or regulating the pressure in the reaction chamber 3. Alternatively or additionally, the pressure measuring device can comprise an analog pressure measuring device 56d, which displays the corresponding pressure in the form of an analog or direct pressure display, for example in the form of a manometer.

[0065] The device 56 can also have a pressure relief device 56e, which is designed to ensure that a specific pressure in the reaction chamber 3, which could damage the pressure vessel 2, is not exceeded. The pressure relief device 56e is preferably designed as a bursting valve, in particular as a bursting membrane and / or has the shape of a disc. The pressure relief device 56e is preferably configured to open at a pressure of approximately 200 bar. In one embodiment, the pressure relief device 56e can also be provided in the fluid line 53 or in the immediate vicinity of the fluid line 53, for example in direct fluidic connection with the third connection 55 of the valve 56a and / or with the first connection 51 (cf. Figure 2 ).

[0066] Preferably, the pressure vessel system 1 has a reservoir (not shown in detail) into which the fluid escaping from valve 56a, valve 56b, and / or pressure relief device 56e (due to pressure relief) can escape. The reservoir has a large buffer volume to dampen the pressure pulse upon pressure relief, thus protecting the pressure vessel 2. The reservoir can be fluidically connected to the valve 56a, valve 56b, and / or pressure relief device 56e via appropriate fluid lines, for example, via a pressure-resistant hose.

[0067] The Figures 1 to 4 reveal a preferred embodiment of the pressure vessel system 1, in which the rail 50 is designed and (mechanically) connected to the cover 5 in such a way that by moving, preferably by lifting and lowering, the rail 50, preferably together with the at least one device 56, the cover 5 can be moved between the open position (cf. Figure 4 ) and the closed position (see Figure 2 ) can be moved. It is preferred if a movement of the rail 50, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rail 50, causes the aforementioned movement of the cover 5 between the open position and the closed position, i.e. in the Figures 1 to 4 a vertical movement (from bottom to top or from top to bottom) of the rail 50.

[0068] The movement of the rail 50 for moving the lid 5 between the open position and the closed position can be carried out manually and / or mechanically and / or automatically. Preferably, the movement of the rail 50 for moving the lid 5 between the open position and the closed position is carried out mechanically, for example by means of a conveyor device 60, preferably by means of a conveyor as shown in the Figures 2 to 4 lifting and lowering device or lift shown as an example. As shown in the Figures 2 to 4Indicated in each case by an arrow or double arrow, it is preferred if the conveying device 60 transmits a linear movement to the rail 50 so that the latter can move the cover 5 between the open position and the closed position. The linear movement of the conveying device 60 is preferably provided by linear guide elements such as a sliding joint, preferably a lift carriage movable along a lift rod. The direction of movement of the linear movement of the conveying device 60 is preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rail 50, i.e. preferably runs vertically. The conveying device 60 preferably has a corresponding drive unit, for example an electric motor, via which the movement, i.e. in particular the linear movement, for moving the cover 5 between the open position and the closed position can be effected.

[0069] The conveying device 60 is preferably provided laterally next to the pressure vessel 2. However, the conveying device 60 can also be provided in a different position with respect to the pressure vessel 2, in which position the conveying device 60 can move the cover 5 by means of the rail 50 as described above. To fasten the rail 50 to the conveying device 60, the rail 50 can have a fastening area 57. The rail 50 can be fastened to the conveying device 60 via the fastening area 57 by means of a force-locking and / or form-locking connection. For example, the fastening area 57 is designed to correspond to a corresponding fastening area of ​​the conveying device 60. Fastening means can be provided which fasten the fastening area 57 and thus the rail 50 to the conveying device 60. Suitable fastening means are, in particular, screws or the like.

[0070] The pressure vessel system 1 preferably has a control device (not shown in detail), which is preferably configured to control the devices 56 fluidically connected to the rail 50 (in particular valves, (pressure) measuring devices, etc.) and / or the movement of the rail 50 for moving the lid 5 between the open position and the closed position, i.e. in particular the conveying device 60. The control device can also be configured to open and close the closing element 5a. For example, the control device can be configured to first open the closing element 5a and then control the conveying device 60 such that the lid 5 is moved from the closed position toward or into the open position.In a corresponding manner, the control device can be configured to close the closing element 5a again (directly) after the conveying device 60 has moved the lid 5 into the closed position, so that, for example, a pressure reaction can subsequently be carried out in the reaction chamber 3.

[0071] Figure 3Bshows a particularly preferred embodiment of the pressure vessel system 1, in which the rail 50 is movable, in particular tiltable, relative to the conveying device 60 - that is to say in particular relative to a part of the conveying device 60 that moves the rail 50 between the open position and the closed position, such as the above-mentioned linear guide elements of the conveying device - and with respect to an axis (translational axis, tilting or rotational axis, etc.), for example about a pivot point DP. The pressure vessel system 1 then further comprises a sensor system 80 that is configured to detect the closed position of the cover 5 on the basis of a relative movement, in particular a tilting movement, of the rail 50 relative to the conveying device 60 and with respect to the axis, made possible by the aforementioned movability or tiltability of the rail 50, wherein the relative movement is brought about by moving the cover 5 into the closed position.This relative movement can be detected, for example, by a proximity sensor integrated in the sensor system 80 (distance sensor, proximity sensor, proximity switch, etc.) and / or the elastic element 81 described in more detail below.

[0072] For example, it can be provided that the rail 50 is inclined in the not yet reached closed position or in the open position with respect to the horizontal or vertical (for example by a small angle, in particular in the range of 1° to 5°, cf. Figure 3B), and as soon as the cover 5 reaches the closed position, the cover 5 rotates the rail 50 about the tilt axis by resting on the opening to be closed, and thus the sensor 80 detects the closed position at least on the basis of this rotation or tilting movement. During this movement of the cover 50 into the closed position, the cover 50 therefore initially rests on a first section of the edge of the pressure vessel wall 4 defining the opening to be closed (in Figure 3B on the outer left edge of the pressure vessel wall 4), so that the cover 50 then rests flat or completely on the edge of the pressure vessel wall 4 defining the opening to be closed (i.e. in Figure 3B also on the right-hand edge of the pressure vessel wall 4). As shown in the Figure 2As can be clearly seen, the rail 50 is preferably not inclined in the closed position with respect to the conveying device 60, for example with its longitudinal axis parallel to the horizontal, in order to lie flat in particular on the opening to be closed or on the pressure vessel wall 4, for example on the flange area 4d.

[0073] The closed position detected by the sensor system 80 can then be transmitted to the control device, which then controls the pressure vessel system 1 accordingly based on this detected closed position. For example, following the detected closed position, the control device can control the closing element 5a so that the closing element 5a closes the lid 5 with the pressure vessel wall 4 in the closed position. Subsequently, it can be provided, for example, that the control device controls corresponding components to carry out the pressure reaction in the reaction chamber 3.

[0074] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor system 80 can be configured to detect the open position of the cover 5 based on a relative movement (opposite to the previously described relative movement), in particular a tilting movement about the pivot point DP, of the rail 50. This occurs in accordance with the detection of the closed position, wherein the relative movement is then effected by moving the cover 5 into the open position. For example, it can be provided that as soon as the cover 5 leaves the closed position, the rail 50 and thus the cover 5 rotate about the tilt axis or the pivot point DP, and consequently the sensor system 80 detects the abandoned closed position or open position at least based on this rotation or tilting movement.

[0075] Preferably, the sensor system 80 is configured to detect a contact force of the lid 5 for closing the reaction chamber 3 in the closed position through the relative movement and to detect the closed position as soon as the contact force exceeds a defined threshold contact force. In other words, it can be provided that the sensor system 80 detects an increasing contact force with progressive adjustment or decreasing inclination of the rail 50 relative to the conveyor device 60 or the horizontal. Thus, the sensor system 80 detects, for example, a contact force exceeding the defined threshold contact force as soon as the rail 50 is not inclined relative to the conveyor device 60 or is parallel to the horizontal with its longitudinal axis (cf. Figure 2 ).

[0076] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the sensor system 80 has an elastic element (spring element, etc.) 81, which compresses due to the relative movement of the rail 50 relative to the conveyor device 60, wherein the contact pressure is detected by the sensor system 80 based on the compression of the elastic element 81 and / or based on the restoring force caused by the compression of the elastic element 81. Preferably, the sensor system 80 is configured to measure a change in the current of the drive (electric motor) of the conveyor device 60, wherein the measured current increases with increasing compression of the elastic element 81, and the sensor system 80 detects an increase in force and consequently an increasing contact pressure based on this increasing current. The sensor system 80 can thus particularly easily determine the degree of opening or remaining closure of the pressure vessel 2.Preferably, the elastic element 81 is provided below the rail 50, for example, on an element 82, which is preferably designed as a rod. Consequently, the rail 50 is preferably tiltable relative to the element 82, or the element 82 is preferably provided horizontally. The element 82 can be rigidly connected to the linear guide elements, such as the sliding joint or lift carriage, so that the rail 50 is movable or tiltable relative to the element 82 in order to be able to functionally interact with the parts provided by the element 82.

[0077] The rail 50 can be driven, for example, by the weight of the rail 50 and / or the cover 5 into the adjusted or inclined position relative to the conveyor device 60. Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the restoring force caused by the compression of the elastic element 81 drives the rail 50 and thus the cover 5 into the adjusted or inclined position relative to the conveyor device 60.

[0078] The mobility, preferably inclination, of the rail 50 relative to the conveyor device 60 is preferably provided via the fastening region 57. This means that the fastening region 57 is preferably designed, on the one hand, to fasten the rail 50 to the conveyor device 60 or to the linear guide elements so that the cover 5 can be moved between the open position and the closed position, and, on the other hand, to provide the relative mobility or inclination of the rail 50 relative to the conveyor device 60. This can be achieved, for example, by providing appropriate fastening means for fastening the rail 50 to the conveyor device 60 such that the degree of freedom for moving or inclining the rail 50 relative to the conveyor device 60 and preferably about the pivot point DP is provided.For example, these fastening means fasten the rail 50 to the conveyor device 60 with a defined play, so that the relative mobility between the rail 50 and the conveyor device 60 is provided.

[0079] Preferably, an adjusting element 83 is also provided, for example in the form of an adjusting screw, wherein the adjusting element 83 is configured to adjust the inclination of the rail 50 in the closed position and / or to serve as a stop for the rail 50 in the closed position. By resting the rail 50 on the adjusting element 83, the sensor system 80 in the drive of the conveyor device 60 detects an additional (strong) current increase, wherein the sensor system 80 detects the final closed position (end detection) of the cover 50 based on this additional current increase. The adjusting element 83 is preferably configured to slightly incline the rail 50 in the closed position with respect to the horizontal in order to compensate for, for example, existing tolerances of the pressure vessel 2 or the pressure vessel wall 4, which defines the opening to be closed, in the closed position.

[0080] The control device can also be configured to receive values ​​from the at least one device 56, in particular the pressure measuring devices 56c and / or 56d, and to forward them for further processing, for example, for display. The control device can also be configured to control the valves 56a and / or 56b in order to control and / or regulate a specific pressure in the reaction chamber 3. The control device can also be configured to control other devices (for example, the stirring device 9 and / or the cooling by means of the pressure vessel wall 4 and / or the heating device, in particular the microwave generator) for carrying out the pressure reactions on the samples P. V

[0081] The rail 50 can be made from a high-pressure-resistant material, preferably in such a way that the rail 50 can withstand the pressures prevailing in the fluid line 53, in particular a pressure in the reaction chamber 3 during a chemical and / or physical pressure reaction on the samples P. The pressures prevailing in the fluid line 53 are generally in the range of up to at least 200 bar, preferably up to at least 500 bar. Alternatively or additionally, the rail 50 can be made from a chemical-resistant material, and / or the fluid line 53 can have a chemical-resistant lining, such as a coating and / or a hose. The aforementioned lining can be made from a plastic, preferably PTFE. The wall thickness of the rail 50 is preferably greater than the cross-section or diameter of the fluid line 53 in order to thus ensure particularly good strength and / orRigidity for the intended use. If the rail 50 is used to move the lid 5 between the closed position and the open position, for example, by means of the conveyor device 60, the rail 50 or the material has a strength or rigidity that at least corresponds to the load of the lid 5. The rail 50 can be dimensioned accordingly smaller if it is not intended to move the lid 5, for example, in the second embodiment of the pressure vessel system 1 described below.

[0082] The rail 50 can be made of metal, in particular steel, preferably of a corrosion-resistant stainless steel alloy, particularly preferably of 1.4571 steel or higher. The rail 50 can be made of a block, preferably of a single block. (Metal) blocks, which are in particular elongated, are easy to provide or produce and are thus particularly advantageous for simple production of the rail 50. The rail 50 preferably has - viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the rail 50 - an angular, in particular rectangular or square cross-section. This is particularly advantageous because the angular cross-section, in particular a straight or flat region of the corresponding part of the rail 50, can be easily mechanically connected to the pressure vessel 2 for a rigid connection.This rigid connection between rail 50 and pressure vessel 2 can, in particular, create a rotationally secure connection between rail 50 and pressure vessel 2 around the longitudinal axis of rail 50. However, the rail 50 is generally not limited to a specific cross-section and can, for example, also have a round cross-section. The rail 50 is preferably substantially uniform in cross-section along the longitudinal axis.

[0083] As in particular the Figures 2 to 4As can be seen, a fluid can be supplied to the fluid line 53 via the first connection 51, for example via a compressor 70, which is fluidically connected to the first connection 51 and thus to the fluid line 53 and the reaction chamber 3. Preferably, the first connection 51 is the only connection of the rail 50 or the fluid line 53 via which a fluid is supplied to the fluid line 53. Correspondingly, the second connection 52 is preferably the only connection of the rail 50 or the fluid line 53 via which a fluid from the fluid line 53 is discharged - when the valves of the rail 50 are closed.

[0084] To compress the fluid supplied to the reaction chamber 3 by means of the compressor 70, the compressor 70 preferably has a compression mechanism 71, for example a compressor. The compressor 70 is preferably fluidically connected to the first connection 51 via at least one flexible connecting element 72, for example via a hose. The connecting element 72 is preferably designed to withstand a pressure of up to 200 bar, preferably in the range from 50 to 70 bar or in the range from 100 bar to 200 bar, particularly preferably a maximum of 100 bar or 200 bar. The flexible connecting element 72 is particularly advantageous when the cover 5 is movable between the closed position and the open position, i.e. in particular when the conveying device 60 is present, since this allows relative movement between the rail 50 and the compressor 70.Alternatively or additionally, however, it is also conceivable that during this movement of the cover 5, the compressor 70, preferably including all components connecting the rail 50 to the compressor 70, moves together with the cover 5, i.e. no relative movement takes place between the cover 5 and the compressor 70.

[0085] The compressor 70 is preferably configured to switch between a loading position and a working position. In the loading position, the compressor 70 supplies the reaction chamber 3 with a loading fluid or charging gas, for example, to pressurize the reaction chamber 3 for a pressure reaction. The loading fluid is preferably provided via a first line 73, which is fluidically connected to the compressor mechanism 71. In the working position, the compressor 70 supplies the reaction chamber 3 with a working fluid or working gas, for example, air. The working fluid is preferably supplied while a pressure reaction is taking place in the reaction chamber 3, for example, to support or maintain the pressure reaction. The working fluid is preferably provided via a second line 74, which is fluidically connected to the compressor mechanism 71.The compressor mechanism 71 is preferably configured to selectively provide a fluidic connection between the reaction chamber 3 and the first line 73 or the reaction chamber 3 and the second line 74 in order to switch between the loading position and the working position.

[0086] Upstream of the first port 51, preferably between the first port 51 and the compressor 70, a check valve 75 may be provided, which is configured to block a flow flowing from the first port 51 toward the compressor 70. It is preferred if the downstream end of the check valve 51 is fluidically connected to the first port 51 and the upstream end of the check valve 51 is fluidically connected to the downstream end of the flexible connecting element 72.

[0087] Upstream of the first connection 51, a buffer 76 can be provided, which has a defined internal volume for buffering fluid flowing from the compressor 71 toward the first connection 51. The internal volume of the buffer 76 is preferably in a range from 0.5 to 5 l. The buffer 76 preferably has an internal volume such that fluid flowing from the compressor 70 into the buffer 76 has a pressure in the range from 10 to 70 bar, preferably in the range from 50 to 70 bar. If the buffer 76 is provided, it is charged by the compressor 70, in particular by its charging fluid, in order to (later) effect automatic flushing of the fluid line 53 and / or the at least one third connection 55 and preferably the at least one device 56 when the reaction chamber 3 is depressurized. The buffer 76 is preferably upstream of the check valve 75, particularly preferably between the first connection 51 orCheck valve 75 and the compressor 70 are provided. The buffer 76 is preferably fluidically connected with its downstream end to the flexible connecting element 72, and the upstream end of the buffer 76 is preferably fluidically connected to the compressor 70.

[0088] Preferably, a further check valve 77 is provided upstream of the buffer 76. The further check valve 77 is configured to block a flow flowing from the buffer 76 toward the compressor 70. The further check valve 77 is preferably provided between the buffer 76 and the compressor 71 and particularly preferably directly connected thereto; the downstream end of the further check valve 77 is preferably fluidically connected to the upstream end of the buffer 76, wherein the upstream end of the further check valve 77 is preferably fluidically connected to the downstream end of the compressor 70.

[0089] The buffer 76 may have a filter (not shown in detail) for filtering the fluid flowing from the compressor 70 toward the first port 51, in order to filter out, in particular, unwanted components from the fluid supplied by the compressor 70 to the reaction chamber 3. The buffer 76 may be configured (for example, by a multi-part design) to allow access to the filter, for example, for filter replacement and / or maintenance.

[0090] The control device is preferably configured to control the compressor 70 according to the above-mentioned functionality, i.e. in particular to change between the working position and the loading position and to supply the respective fluids accordingly.

[0091] The control device can further be configured to supply a fluid to the fluid line 53 via the first connection 51 for flushing the fluid line 53. This flushing preferably takes place after the flushing effected by the buffer 76 has been carried out or after the reaction chamber 3 has been depressurized. The fluid for flushing can, for example, be provided by the compressor 70. The control device is preferably configured to move the lid 5 (slightly) towards the open position before such a flushing, as shown in the Figure 3A or 3B is shown as an example. As the Figures 3A and 3B As can be seen, in this position the cover 5 is less open than in the Figure 4 the example shown open position of the lid 5. During rinsing, the lid is preferably in the position shown in Figure 3Aor 3B. In this position, in which the closing element 5a is open and preferably the conveying device 60 has (slightly) raised the lid 5 by means of the rail 50, the fluid for flushing the fluid line 53 can escape easily from the pressure vessel 2, without substances or chemicals located in the reaction chamber 3 escaping or splashing out of the pressure vessel 2 or reaction chamber 3. More precisely, as in Figure 3A or 3B, a (small) gap is formed between the lid part 5c, preferably its edge, and the inner container 3a, through which the rinsing fluid including the substances rinsed by the rinsing fluid can escape.

[0092] Preferably, the control device is configured to reduce the pressure prevailing in the reaction chamber 3 via a valve connected to the third connection 55, for example via the valve 56a, before flushing when the lid 5 is in the slightly open position. Preferably, the control device is also configured to close this valve again before the lid 5 is moved towards the open position (for flushing). The valve or the pressure reduction brought about by the valve in particular ensures that the fluid for flushing the fluid line 53 can flow towards the reaction chamber 3. Furthermore, the aforementioned pressure relief prevents chemicals located in the reaction chamber 3 from escaping, in particular from splashing out, of the reaction chamber 3 when the lid 5 is open.

[0093] The control device is preferably configured to perform the aforementioned flushing directly after or before a pressure reaction carried out in the reaction chamber 3, so that a sufficiently cleaned fluid line 53 and / or reaction chamber 3 is available for each pressure reaction. The control device can also be configured to (automatically) perform the cleaning or flushing process after the samples P have been removed and while the lid 5 is in the closed position or has been moved down.

[0094] Figure 5 shows an example of a second embodiment of the pressure vessel system 1 according to the invention. All statements relating to the first embodiment described above apply analogously to the second embodiment, unless described otherwise below.

[0095] The pressure vessel system 1 according to the second embodiment differs from the pressure vessel system 1 according to the first embodiment in particular with regard to the connection between the pressure vessel 2 and the rigid rail 50. According to this embodiment, the rail 50 is not rigidly connected to the cover 5, but rather to the pressure vessel wall 4. The rigid (mechanical) connection between the pressure vessel wall 4 and the rail 50 preferably takes place in an upper region of the pressure vessel wall 4, in particular directly below the cover 5 or the securing element 5a. Particularly preferably, the rail 50 is connected to the pressure vessel wall 4 in a region between the cooling line 4a and the flange region 4d, preferably in a region between the cooling line 4a and the flange region 4d.

[0096] The fluidic connection between the reaction chamber 3 and the fluid line 53 is preferably established at least via the pressure vessel wall 4 and the lid 5, in particular via the second connection 52 and a bore 4e formed in the pressure vessel wall 4 and preferably via a further bore 5d formed in the lid 5. In the closed position of the lid 5, the bores 4e and 5d are therefore fluidically connected to one another in order to fluidically connect the fluid line 53 to the reaction chamber 3. In the closed position of the lid 5, the transition from the bore 4e to the bore 5d can be sealed with at least one corresponding sealing element (sealing ring, etc.) or a corresponding sealing coupling, so that no fluid can escape at this transition. Preferably, the clamp 5a presses the at least one sealing element orThe parts of the sealing coupling engage in the closed position in such a way that the sealing effect is achieved at the transition from the bore 4e to the bore 5d. Preferably, the receiving means 8c or its bore provides the fluidic connection between the reaction chamber 3 and the bore 5d.

[0097] However, the present invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described by way of example, as long as it is encompassed by the subject matter of the following claims. All features can be advantageously combined with one another as desired. In particular, the conveyor device 60 can also be used to move the cover 5 of the second embodiment, for example, by mechanically connecting the conveyor device 60 to the cover 5 via a corresponding lifting and lowering element.

Claims

1. Pressure vessel system (1), comprising a pressure vessel (2) having a reaction chamber (3) as a pressure space for initiating and / or promoting chemical and / or physical pressure reactions of samples (P) received in the reaction chamber (3), and a rigid rail (50) which is rigidly connected to a part of the pressure vessel (2) with a first connection (51) for fluid intake, a second connection (52) for fluid outlet and a fluid conduit (53) which fluidically connects the first connection (51) to the second connection (52), wherein the fluid conduit (53) is fluidically connected to the reaction chamber (3) via the second connection (52), and wherein the rail (50) has at least one third connection (55) which is fluidically connected to the fluid conduit (53) and can be connected to a device (56), so that the device (56) is fluidically connected to the fluid conduit (53) and thus to the reaction chamber (3).

2. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pressure vessel (2) has a lid (5) which can be moved between an open position, in which the reaction chamber (3) is open, and a closed position, in which the reaction chamber (3) is closed, and wherein the rail (50) is rigidly connected to the lid (5).

3. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the rail (50) is configured and connected to the lid (5) in such a way that the lid (5) can be moved between the open position and the closed position by moving, preferably by raising and lowering, the rail (50).

4. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the rail (50) preferably comprises a fastening region (57) via which the rail (50) can be fastened to a transport device (60), for example a raising and lowering device for moving or raising and lowering the rail (50) and thus for moving the lid (5) between the open position and the closed position, and / or wherein the pressure vessel system (1) further comprises a transport device (60), preferably a raising and lowering device, for moving or raising and lowering the rail (50) and thus for moving the lid (5) between the open position and the closed position, wherein the rail (50) is preferably fastened via the fastening region (57) to the transport device (60).

5. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the rail (50) can be moved, in particular inclined, relative to the transport device (60) or an axis, and wherein the pressure vessel system (1) has a sensor which is able to recognize the closed position of the lid (5) on the basis of a relative movement, in particular inclination movement, of the rail (50) relative to the transport device (60) and relative to the axis, wherein the relative movement is brought about by moving the lid (5) into the closed position, wherein the sensor is preferably able to measure a contact pressure force of the lid (5) due to the relative movement for closing the reaction chamber (3) in the closed position and to recognize the closed position as soon as the contact pressure force exceeds a defined threshold contact pressure force.

6. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the pressure vessel (2) has a pressure vessel wall (4) surrounding the reaction chamber (3), and wherein the rail (50) is rigidly connected to the pressure vessel wall (4), wherein preferably the pressure vessel wall (4) has a drilled hole (4e), and wherein the fluid conduit (53) is fluidically connected, at least via the second connection (52) and the drilled hole (4e) and preferably via a further drilled hole (5d) present in the lid (5), to the reaction chamber (3).

7. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, further comprising a fastening device (54) for fastening the rail (50) to the part of the pressure vessel (2), preferably to the pressure vessel wall (4) and / or the lid (5), wherein the fastening device (54) is preferably configured so that the fluid conduit (53) is fluidically connected, via the second connection (52) and the fastening device (54), for example via a through-hole (54b) running through the fastening device (54), to the reaction chamber (3).

8. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, further comprising a control device for controlling devices (56) fluidically connected to the rail (50) and / or for controlling the movement of the rail (50), in particular the transport device (60), wherein preferably the control device is configured for introducing a fluid via the first connection (51) into the fluid conduit (53) in order to flush the fluid conduit (53), wherein the control device is further preferably configured for moving the lid (5), before flushing, in the direction of the open position so that the lid (5) is less open than in the open position during flushing the fluid conduit (53), wherein the pressure vessel system (1) preferably further comprises a valve (56a) connected to the third connection (55), wherein the control device is configured for opening the valve (56a) before flushing, so that a pressure prevailing in the reaction chamber (3) is reduced, wherein the control device is preferably configured for closing the valve (56a) before the lid (5) is moved in the direction of the open position.

9. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one third connection (55) is integral with the rail, and / or wherein the at least one third connection (55) has a fastening structure, such as a drilled hole, in particular a through-hole, for fastening the device (56), wherein the fastening structure preferably has a fastening region, in particular a fastening region corresponding to the device, for example a thread and / or a snap connection, for fastening, preferably frictional fastening and / or positive locking, the device (56) to the third connection (55), and / or wherein the at least one third connection (55) is configured for connecting the device (56) to the rail (50) in an assembly direction, wherein the assembly direction is essentially perpendicular to a flow direction of the fluid conduit (53), wherein the assembly direction is preferably the direction of extension of the fastening structure, in particular the drilled hole, and / or wherein the pressure vessel system (1) has at least two, preferably three, four, five or six third connections (55), which are preferably provided on the same side of the rail (50) relative to the pressure vessel (2), particularly preferably on a side of the rail (50) facing away from the pressure vessel (2).

10. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the first connection (51) can be fluidically connected to a compressor (70), wherein the pressure vessel system (1) preferably has a compressor (70) fluidically connected to the first connection (51) for feeding a fluid into the reaction chamber (3).

11. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in claim 10, further comprising a non-return valve (75) which is provided upstream of the first connection (51), preferably between the first connection (51) and the compressor (70), and which is able to block a flow from the first connection (51) in the direction of the compressor (70).

12. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in claim 10 or 11, further comprising a buffer (76) which is provided upstream of the first connection (51), preferably upstream of the non-return valve (75), particularly preferably between the first connection (51) or non-return valve (75) and the compressor (70), and which has a defined intrinsic volume for buffering fluid flowing out of the compressor (70) in the direction of the first connection (51), wherein preferably the buffer (76) has a filter for filtering fluid flowing out from the compressor (70) in the direction of the first connection (51), and / or wherein preferably the pressure vessel system (1) further comprises a further non-return valve (77) provided upstream of the buffer (76), preferably between the buffer (76) and the compressor (70), wherein the further non-return valve (77) is able to block a flow from the buffer (76) in the direction of the compressor (70).

13. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the rail (50) is made of a high-pressure resistant material, preferably so that the rail (50) can withstand the pressures prevailing in the reaction chamber (3) for initiating and / or promoting chemical and / or physical pressure reactions, in particular pressures prevailing in the fluid conduit (53) in the range up to at least 200 bar, preferably up to at least 500 bar, and / or wherein the rail (50) is made of a chemically resistant material, and / or wherein the fluid conduit (53) has a chemically resistant lining, in particular a coating and / or a hose, wherein the lining is, for example, made of polymer, preferably PTFE.

14. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the rail (50) is made of metal and / or of a block, preferably of a single block, and / or wherein the wall thickness of the rail (50) is greater than the cross-section of the fluid conduit (53), and / or wherein the rail (50) is elongated, and / or wherein the rail (50) has a round or angular, preferably a rectangular or square cross-section, and / or wherein the fluid conduit (53) has only one direction of extension.

15. Pressure vessel system (1) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one device (56) connected to the at least one third connection, wherein the at least one device (56) comprises: • a valve, in particular a valve (56a, 56b) for the preferably linear or abrupt reduction of pressure prevailing in the reaction chamber (3), • a pressure measuring device (56c, 56d) for measuring pressure prevailing in the reaction chamber (3), and / or • a pressure safety device (56e), for example a bursting valve, in particular a bursting membrane, wherein the pressure safety device (56e) preferably has a disk-like shape.