HOSE ARRANGEMENT AND COMPRESSED GAS TREATMENT SYSTEM FOR HOSE ARRANGEMENT

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a hose arrangement according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a compressed gas treatment system according to the preamble of the independent claim.

[0002] Hose assemblies of the type mentioned above are known from the prior art, for example in the form of commercially available hose assemblies equipped with a compressed gas line ("compressed air hoses"). Such hose assemblies can be fed by compressed gas treatment systems for the provision of treated compressed gas. One such compressed gas treatment system is known, for example, from DE 10 2018 118 206 A1, in which the compressed gas is humidified before it is provided. This allows an improved spraying result to be achieved, especially under ideal conditions. Thus, a compressed gas can be treated by humidification and guided to the extraction point via the hose assembly. However, the compressed gas guided in the compressed gas line is subject to the influence of ambient conditions (air pressure and temperature).This can lead to undesirable heating or cooling of the compressed gas line and the compressed gas, causing the humidified compressed gas to condense in the compressed gas line. This creates the risk of droplet formation. Solutions using electric heating coils are only suitable for specific applications, and their use in explosion-proof areas ("Ex-protection areas") is problematic and may not be possible at all. Therefore, there is a need for optimization.

[0003] A device for controlling the temperature of a gas line is known from document WO2004 / 108300 A1.

[0004] The invention is based on the object of enabling the provision of compressed gas of high and consistent quality using simple design means. It is desirable to prevent condensation and droplet formation in humidified compressed gas.

[0005] The invention solves this problem by a hose arrangement having the features of claim 1.

[0006] The hose arrangement is used to supply compressed gas to a spray device, in particular painting gas (painting gas supply line arrangement). The hose arrangement has a compressed gas line (painting gas line) extending from a connection-side end to a free end, wherein a fluid line is provided for temperature control (e.g. heating) of the compressed gas line. The fluid line is arranged in the compressed gas line and extends along the compressed gas line. The fluid line has a supply section extending from the connection-side end to the free end, which merges into a return section at the free end, wherein the return section extends from the free end to the connection-side end.

[0007] Thus, temperature control can be implemented on a hose arrangement using simple design means by providing a fluid line located in the compressed gas line and serving, for example, by supplying it with heated liquid (e.g., heated water), to control the temperature of the compressed gas line or the compressed gas contained therein. This allows for liquid-based hose heating. Condensation in the compressed gas line can therefore be avoided when the compressed gas is moist or humidified. By supplying compressed gas to a device, a high-quality spray result can be achieved.

[0008] At the connection-side end of the hose assembly, a connection element of the compressed gas line and, optionally, both connections of the fluid line (supply and return connection elements) can be located. The connection-side end can face or be connected to a compressed gas treatment system. In other words, a compressed gas treatment system can be arranged upstream of the connection-side end of the hose assembly.

[0009] At the free end of the hose assembly, another connection element of the compressed gas line can be located. Downstream of the free end, a spray device (receiver) can be connected to the connection element. The spray device can be a coating system or a coating gun. Independently, the connection elements can have a screw connection, a coupling plug, or a coupling, or can be designed as such elements.

[0010] Preferably, the fluid line can be curved in an arcuate manner, in particular U-shaped, at the transition from the supply section to the return section and can wrap around a holding element (e.g. a fixing mandrel) which secures the transition of the fluid line at the free end, in particular against movement towards the connection-side end. The transition is thus secured in a simple manner at the connection-side end. The section of the fluid line which is curved in an arcuate manner at the transition can have an angle of 180° or more. The holding element can have a rounded section, in particular a semicircular section, towards the free end, which determines the curvature of the fluid line at the transition. The holding element can have a tapered section, in particular a pointed section, towards the connection-side end, which brings the supply section and the return section of the fluid line closer together in this area.The radius of curvature at the transition can be equal to or greater than the mean distance between the central longitudinal axes of the flow section and return section of the fluid line between the free end and the connection-side end, for example in a pressure hose of the compressed gas line.

[0011] As already indicated, the compressed gas line can have a connection element at the free end for connecting a spray device to supply it with (treated) compressed gas or painting gas. The transition of the fluid line from the supply section to the return section can be arranged at least largely, preferably entirely, in the connection element. Thus, the temperature of the compressed gas line can be controlled by the fluid line almost over the entire length of the hose arrangement, especially where the risk of condensation is greatest, namely at the connection element located at the free end.

[0012] Advantageously, the compressed gas line can have a further connection element at the connection-side end for connection to an outlet of a compressed gas treatment system (provision of compressed gas), and the fluid line can have a supply connection element and a return connection element at the connection-side end for connection to a heating device of the compressed gas treatment system, wherein the further connection element, the supply connection element, and the return connection element are arranged next to one another and are led out of the hose arrangement at the connection-side end. This leads to a comparatively compact design of the connection-side end, which also facilitates temperature control of the compressed gas line by means of the fluid line at the connection-side end. The supply connection element is connected or fluidly connected to the supply section of the fluid line.The supply connection element is designed and / or intended for connection to a supply connection of a compressed gas treatment system. The return connection element is connected or fluidly connected to the return section of the fluid line. The return connection element is designed and / or intended for connection to a return connection of a compressed gas treatment system.

[0013] Within the scope of a preferred embodiment, a connecting piece having an end wall can be provided at the connection-side end, wherein the further connecting element, the supply connection element, and the return connection element are guided side by side, in particular parallel to one another, through the end wall and / or are fastened to the end wall. This promotes a stable and compact design of the hose arrangement at the connection-side end. The connecting piece, which is made of metal, for example, can optionally have insulation, e.g., an insulating layer on the inside and / or outside.

[0014] The connector can expediently have a circumferential wall extending along the longitudinal direction of the connector, which defines an interior space and a portion (axial section) of the compressed gas line. This allows for a structurally advantageous adaptation of the connection-side end and the further course of the hose arrangement, eliminating the need to route a separate compressed gas line through the connector. This facilitates a compact design of the connector.

[0015] Preferably, the connector piece can have its cross-section tapered axially in sections toward the free end. This facilitates the arrangement or connection of the connecting elements at the connection-side end, with the hose arrangement tapering further along, which promotes compactness and handling. The connector piece can have three axial sections: a section adjacent to the end wall with a first outer diameter, the tapered section, and a further section with a second outer diameter, wherein the second outer diameter is smaller than the first outer diameter. A pressure hose can be connected to the further section of the connector piece, e.g., pushed or pressed onto it.

[0016] Advantageously, the compressed gas line can have a pressure hose that connects the (connection-side) connector to the connecting element at the free end of the hose assembly. This contributes to a lightweight, flexible, and easy-to-handle design of the hose assembly. The pressure hose (carrying the compressed gas) can be connected, for example, by being pushed and / or pressed onto, socket-shaped connecting sections on the connector (further section, see above) and the connecting element.

[0017] A pressure-limiting device can be conveniently provided that limits the pressure in the compressed gas line to a defined maximum pressure. This contributes to the safety of using the hose assembly. The pressure-limiting device can be designed as a predetermined breaking point or as a pressure relief valve. The defined maximum pressure can be, for example, 15 bar.

[0018] A temperature and / or humidity sensor can be installed in the compressed gas line of the hose assembly, which is connected wirelessly or wired to the control system of the compressed gas treatment system. This allows temperature and / or humidity to be measured directly in the hose and transmitted wirelessly or wired, for example, to a control system of a supply unit. Since the risk of condensation increases with the length of the line, it is advantageous to install the temperature and / or humidity sensor in the front third (at the free end) of the compressed gas line or hose assembly.

[0019] A droplet separator can be installed in the compressed gas line of the hose assembly. This prevents the undesirable release of liquid droplets by capturing them in the droplet separator. It is advantageous to position the droplet separator in the front third of the compressed gas line (at the free end), if possible. For ease of handling, it is preferable to position the droplet separator approximately 60 to 100 centimeters from the free end of the compressed gas line. Optionally, the droplet separator can be equipped with a viewing window for visual inspection.

[0020] The object mentioned at the outset is also achieved by a compressed gas processing system for providing processed compressed gas to a hose arrangement having the features of the independent claim.

[0021] The compressed gas processing system serves to supply conditioned compressed gas to a hose arrangement comprising a compressed gas line and a fluid line, in particular a hose arrangement with one or more of the aspects described above. The compressed gas processing system has an inlet for connecting a compressed gas source (arranged internally or externally relative to the compressed gas processing system) and an outlet for supplying the conditioned compressed gas. The inlet and outlet are fluidly connected to one another, and a humidification device for humidifying the compressed gas is arranged in the flow connection.The compressed gas treatment system has a heating device for heating a liquid, wherein the heating device has a flow connection for delivering heated liquid to a flow section of the fluid line and a return connection for feeding returned liquid from a return section of the fluid line.

[0022] This allows for the provision of compressed gas as well as a heated liquid, which can be used to control the temperature of the compressed gas. A hose arrangement with a compressed gas line and a fluid line for controlling the temperature of the compressed gas can be connected to the compressed gas conditioning system (hose heating), particularly a hose arrangement as described above. This creates a liquid-based hose heating system. The risk of condensation and droplet formation in the compressed gas line is thus significantly reduced. Adequate explosion protection can be achieved. The high and consistent quality of the compressed gas enables better spraying results, for example, a better coating or painting finish.

[0023] Advantageously, the compressed gas processing system can comprise one or more reservoirs for an injection fluid, wherein the reservoir(s) are each connected to the humidification device via an injection line so that the humidification device can be supplied with injection fluid. Thus, the humidification device can be supplied with injection fluid through the reservoir(s) independently of an external fluid supply. The reservoir(s) can be pressurized to supply the humidification device with injection fluid, for example, by a pump provided on the reservoir or by a respective flow connection between the reservoir and the inlet or a compressed gas source connected to the inlet, for example, a compressed gas tank or a compressor. This allows the interior of the reservoir to be pressurized (overpressure of, for example, 0.5 bar).The reservoir(s) are in particular liquid reservoirs.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the compressed gas treatment system can be configured such that when no compressed gas is withdrawn at the outlet, the supply of injection fluid to the humidification device is stopped.

[0025] This counteracts excessive humidification of the compressed gas. This reduces the risk of condensation and droplet formation downstream of the humidification unit. The compressed gas conditioning system can be configured so that when compressed gas is drawn off at the outlet (compressed gas connection), the liquid supply to the humidification unit is activated.

[0026] Preferably, if the compressed gas treatment system has multiple reservoirs, each reservoir can contain different injection fluids. This allows the compressed gas to be not only humidified but also further treated, for example, by adding appropriate additives. One reservoir can contain water, particularly demineralized water, as a first injection fluid, and a further reservoir can contain a liquid with an antistatic effect as a further injection fluid.

[0027] Preferably, a frequency generator can be arranged between the reservoir(s) and the humidification device, through which the injection line(s) pass to excite the injection fluid (using one or more frequencies). This allows the spray behavior of the conditioned compressed gas to be optimized. The frequency generator is configured in particular such that no excitation (frequency generator deactivated), a targeted excitation of only one injection line or injection fluid (frequency generator activated only at one injection line), and / or an excitation of both or more injection lines or injection fluids (frequency generator fully activated) can occur.

[0028] Conveniently, the injection line or lines can each have one or more injection nozzles, through which the injection lines each open into the humidification device. A nozzle backflushing device is provided on each injection nozzle for cleaning, in particular permanently, the injection nozzle. This reduces the risk of contamination and droplet formation.

[0029] Specifically, the nozzle backflushing device can have a backflushing line for returning excess injection fluid to the respective injection fluid reservoir. This allows for a structurally simple return of the injection fluid.

[0030] Advantageously, a flow measuring device can be integrated into each of the injection lines to measure the flow rate of the injection fluid. This allows the amount of injection fluid to be precisely measured and, if necessary, fine-tuned. The flow measuring device can have a measuring sensor that outputs the measured values ​​to a dedicated indicator, e.g., a display. Alternatively or additionally, the measuring sensor can be wirelessly or wired connected to a control system of the compressed gas treatment system to output the measured values ​​to the control system.

[0031] A valve, for example a proportional valve, can expediently be arranged in each of the injection lines, by means of which the supply of the injection fluid can be regulated. This implements the control of the liquid supply. The valve preferably has an electrically or electronically controllable actuator by means of which the valve can be actuated. The valve or actuator can be connected to a control system of the compressed gas treatment system via a wireless or wired connection. Thus, the valve can be controlled (actuated) depending on the flow rate determined by the flow measuring device or depending on a flow determined by a flow switch, wherein the flow switch is connected upstream in the flow connection between the inlet and outlet of the humidification device.

[0032] Advantageously, a condensate trap can be integrated into the flow connection between the humidification device and the outlet. This allows excess injection fluid to be collected before the humidified compressed gas reaches the outlet. This can reduce the load on a drip catcher in the hose arrangement or even make it unnecessary.

[0033] The heating device can expediently have a supply line fluidly connected to the supply connection, wherein a heating element for heating the liquid (liquid for heating the fluid line of the hose arrangement) is integrated into the supply line. The heating element can heat the carrier medium (liquid, e.g., water) before it is discharged to the fluid line via the supply connection. The heating element can be designed as an electric heating element, heat pump heating, wood heating (wood chips or pellets), or solar heating. Independently of this, a pump for conveying the liquid and / or a pressure compensation element can be provided in the supply line. The pump serves to drive or circulate the carrier medium. Pressure compensation can be achieved through the pressure compensation element.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the heating device can have a return line fluidly connected to the return connection, wherein a heat exchanger for absorbing thermal energy from the fluid conveyed in the return line is integrated into the return line. This allows thermal energy to be extracted from the fluid returned via the return connection and transferred, for example, to a heater connected upstream of the humidification device in the flow connection and / or to the heating device integrated into the flow line. This contributes to environmentally friendly operation. Independently of this, a pump for conveying the fluid can be provided in the return line.

[0035] Preferably, the heat exchanger and the heating element can be thermally coupled in such a way that heat energy absorbed by the heat exchanger can be transferred to the heating element in the supply line. This further contributes to environmentally friendly operation.

[0036] Specifically, the supply line can be fluidically connected to a fluid source for supplying fluid. This allows new fluid to be supplied to the supply line.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, the return line can be connected to a fluid sink for draining fluid. This allows used or consumed fluid to be drained away from the return line.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, the supply line and the return line can be fluidly connected to each other.

[0039] This allows fluid returned to the return line, which may contain residual heat, to be fed into the supply line and, for example, after passing through the heating element, made available again at the supply connection. If the fluid line of the hose assembly, with its supply section and its return section, is connected to the supply connection and the return connection, respectively, the supply line, the fluid line, and the return line form a heating circuit through which the fluid can flow. If the return line and the supply line are fluidly connected, a heat exchanger on the return line can be omitted.

[0040] A control system for the compressed gas treatment system can be expediently provided. This enables control, regulation, and / or monitoring of the compressed gas treatment system. Switches, sensors, and / or actuators contained in the compressed gas treatment system can be connected to the control system wirelessly (radio, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth) or wired (electrical or electronic connection).

[0041] Advantageously, the supply connection, the return connection, and the outlet can be arranged adjacent to one another in a common (outlet-side) connection area of ​​the compressed gas treatment system. This can facilitate handling by creating a single connection terminal.

[0042] A flow switch can be installed in the flow connection between the inlet and outlet to determine whether compressed gas is being drawn at the outlet. The flow switch can be installed upstream of the humidification device. It can detect flow in the section of the flow connection between the inlet and the humidification device (dry gas line). The flow switch can be connected to the control system of the compressed gas treatment system via a wireless or wired connection.

[0043] A temperature and / or humidity sensor can be provided, which is located outside the pressure treatment system, in particular outside the housing of the compressed gas treatment system, and is connected wirelessly or wired to the control system of the pressure treatment system. Using this sensor, the temperature and / or humidity prevailing outside the pressure treatment system can be measured and transmitted as a signal to the control system. In addition to the weather, the season can also be taken into account. The sensor can be connected wirelessly or wired to the control system. The control system can be configured such that the signals detected by the sensor ("atmospheric situation") are used as a controlled variable.

[0044] The compressed gas source that can be connected to the inlet of the compressed gas treatment system can be a compressed gas supply (e.g., a compressed gas tank) or a compressor. A filter unit and / or a pressure regulator, particularly a manual pressure regulator, can be connected upstream of the inlet (inlet-side connection) of the flow connection.

[0045] An inlet-side pressure sensor can also be connected to the inlet (inlet-side connection) of the flow connection, which measures the inlet pressure of the compressed gas treatment system. The pressure sensor can be connected to the control system wirelessly or wired to transmit the inlet pressure to a control system of the compressed gas system.

[0046] A branch can be provided between the inlet (inlet-side connection) of the flow connection and the humidification device, at which the flow connection branches into a first line branch (dry gas line) and a second line branch (humidification line).

[0047] The flow switch described above can be arranged in the first line branch (dry gas line). A control valve, in particular a proportional valve, can be arranged in the second line branch (humidification line), which regulates the pressure prevailing in this line to a slightly higher level than in the first line branch, in particular by +0.5 bar. The reservoir(s) described above, which can be filled with injection fluid, can be arranged in the second line branch (humidification line). The reservoir(s) are pressurized (second line branch) and can therefore be referred to as "pressure vessels." With two or more reservoirs, the first line branch is divided into several line branches or injection lines.

[0048] In the second line branch, a valve, a flow meter, and / or a frequency generator can be connected to the reservoir in the injection lines, as described above. The second line branch or the injection lines can each lead into the humidification device via one or more inlets, particularly via atomizing nozzles. The humidification device can also be referred to as a "mixing chamber," since the (relatively) dry compressed gas from the first line branch (dry gas line) and the humidified compressed gas from the second line branch (humidification line) are mixed there.

[0049] At the humidification unit, the first branch (dry gas line) and the second branch (humidification line) are joined. Another section of the flow connection leads to the outlet of the compressed gas treatment system. The condensate trap can be located in this section, as described above.

[0050] A heater can be installed upstream of the humidification device to regulate the temperature of the compressed gas. A temperature and / or humidity sensor can also be arranged on or downstream of the heater. This sensor and the heater can be connected to the control system of the compressed gas treatment system. The control system can thus regulate the heater output according to the temperature and / or humidity measured by the temperature and / or humidity sensor.

[0051] At the outlet, i.e. at the outlet end of the flow connection of the compressed gas treatment system, a (common) connection area, in particular a connection terminal, can be provided in which the outlet (compressed gas outlet), the flow connection and / or the return connection are arranged, as described above.

[0052] The hose arrangement described above can be connected to the outlet, the supply connection, and the return connection. A receiver of the humidified compressed gas, e.g., a spray device, in particular a coating system or a coating gun, can be connected downstream to the hose arrangement.

[0053] The compressed gas treatment system may comprise a housing, for example a box or a cabinet, in particular made of metal, in which at least a large part of the components of the compressed gas treatment system are accommodated.

[0054] The above-mentioned task is also solved by a combination of a hose arrangement and a compressed gas treatment system, each as described above.

[0055] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures, in which identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with identical reference numerals. They show: Fig.1 shows an embodiment of a hose arrangement; and Fig.2 shows an embodiment of a compressed gas treatment system for providing treated compressed gas to the hose arrangement from Figure 1 .

[0056] Figure 1 shows a hose arrangement for supplying compressed gas or painting gas to a spray device, the hose arrangement being designated overall by the reference numeral 10.

[0057] The hose assembly 10 has a connection-side end 12 and a free end 14. At the connection-side end 12, the hose assembly 10 can be connected to a compressed gas treatment system 100, which will be described below. At the free end 14, a compressed gas-consuming component can be connected to the hose assembly 10, for example, a coating gun (not shown).

[0058] The hose arrangement 10 has a compressed gas line 16 extending from the connection-side end 12 to the free end 14, wherein a fluid line 18 is provided for tempering (e.g., heating) the compressed gas line 16. The fluid line 18 is arranged in the compressed gas line 16 and extends along the compressed gas line 16. The fluid line 18 has a feed section 20 extending from the connection-side end 12 to the free end 14, which merges into a return section 22 at the free end 14, wherein the return section 22 extends from the free end 14 to the connection-side end 12.

[0059] In the example, the fluid line 18 is curved in an arcuate manner, particularly U-shaped, at the transition 24 from the supply section 20 to the return section 22 and wraps around a retaining element 26. The retaining element 26 secures the transition of the fluid line 18 at the free end 14, particularly against movement toward the connection-side end 12. In the example, the arcuately curved section at the transition 24 has an angle of more than 180°.

[0060] In the example, the holding element 26 has a rounded, in particular semicircular, section 28 toward the free end 14, which defines the curvature of the fluid line 18 at the transition 24. The holding element 26 has a tapered, in particular pointed, section 30 toward the connection-side end 12, which brings the supply section 20 and the return section 22 closer together. In the example, the radius of curvature r at the transition 24 is greater than the average distance between the central longitudinal axes 32, 34 of the supply section 20 and the return section 22 of the fluid line 18 between the free and the connection-side ends, e.g., in a pressure hose of the compressed gas line 16.

[0061] The compressed gas line 16 has a connection element 36 at its free end 14 for connecting a spray device (not shown) to supply it with compressed gas. The transition 24 of the fluid line 18 from the supply section 20 to the return section 22 is arranged entirely in the connection element 36 in the example. The connection element 36 has a connection section 38, which can be designed, for example, as a screw connection, coupling, or coupling plug.

[0062] In the example, the compressed gas line 16 has a further connection element 40 at the connection-side end 12 for connection to an outlet of a compressed gas treatment system (provision of compressed gas). The fluid line 18 has a supply connection element 42 and a return connection element 44 at the connection-side end 12 for connection to a heating device of the compressed gas treatment system. The further connection element 40, the supply connection element 42, and the return connection element 44 are arranged side by side in the example and lead out of the hose arrangement 10 at the connection-side end 12. The supply connection element 42 is connected or fluidly connected to the supply section 20, and the return connection element 44 is connected to the return section 22.

[0063] In the example, a connection piece 46 is provided at the connection-side end 12, which has an end wall 48. The further connection element 40, the supply connection element 42, and the return connection element 44 are guided side by side, in particular parallel to one another, through the end wall 48 and fastened to the end wall 48. The connection piece 46, which is formed, for example, from metal, can optionally have insulation, as explained above (not shown).

[0064] In the example, the connecting piece 46 has a circumferential wall 52 extending along the longitudinal direction 50 of the connecting piece 46, which delimits an interior space 54 and defines a part (axial section) of the compressed gas line 16. In the example, the connecting piece 46 has three axial sections: a section 56 adjacent to the end wall 48 with a first outer diameter, a section 58 tapering towards the free end, and a further section 60 with a second outer diameter, wherein the second outer diameter is smaller than the first outer diameter.

[0065] The compressed gas line 16 has a pressure hose 62 that connects the connector 46 to the connection element 36 at the free end 14 of the hose assembly 10. The pressure hose 62 (carrying the compressed gas) is connected at one end to the further section 60 of the connector 46 and at the other end to a connection section 64 formed on the further connection element 40. The pressure hose 62 can be pushed and / or pressed onto the further section 60 and the connection section 64 at its ends.

[0066] A pressure limiting device (not shown) may be provided on the hose assembly 10, which limits the pressure in the compressed gas line 16 to a defined maximum pressure, for example, to a maximum pressure of 15 bar. The pressure limiting device may be connected to the connecting piece 46 or to the further connecting element 40, wherein the pressure limiting device is fluidly connected to the compressed gas line 16. The pressure limiting device may, for example, be designed as a pressure relief valve.

[0067] A temperature and / or humidity sensor can optionally be arranged in the compressed gas line 16, as described above (not shown). A droplet separator can also optionally be arranged in the compressed gas line 16, as described above (not shown).

[0068] Figure 2shows a compressed gas treatment system 100 for providing treated compressed gas to the hose assembly 10 described above, which has a compressed gas line 16 and a fluid line 18. The hose assembly 10 is configured and intended to be connected to the compressed gas treatment system 100.

[0069] The compressed gas treatment system 100 has a housing 102 in which a majority of the components of the compressed gas treatment system 100 are arranged.

[0070] The compressed gas treatment system 100 has an inlet 104 to which a compressed gas source 106 can be connected, for example, a compressed gas reservoir or a compressor. Furthermore, the compressed gas treatment system 100 has an outlet 108 for supplying the treated compressed gas, for example, to a spraying device connected to the hose arrangement 10, in particular a coating gun (not shown).

[0071] The inlet 104 and the outlet 108 are fluidly connected to each other by a flow connection 110. This will be explained below. The compressed gas treatment system 100 has a controller 112, which serves to control, regulate, and / or monitor components of the compressed gas treatment system 100. Sensors, actuators, switches, or the like can be connected to the controller 112 (only partially shown in the figure for clarity).

[0072] A filter unit 114 and / or a preferably manual pressure regulator 116 can optionally be connected upstream of the inlet 104. A pressure sensor 118 is connected to the inlet 104 (inlet-side connection 104), which detects the inlet pressure prevailing at the inlet 104. The pressure sensor 118 is wirelessly or wiredly coupled to the controller 112 (not shown).

[0073] Between the inlet 104 and a humidification device 120 arranged in the flow connection 110, a branch 122 is provided, at which the flow connection 110 branches into a first line branch 124 (dry gas line 124) and a second line branch 126 (humidification line 126).

[0074] A flow switch 128 is arranged in the first line branch 124 and determines whether compressed gas is being drawn at the outlet 108. To do this, the flow switch 128 detects the flow prevailing in the first line branch 124. The flow switch 128 is wirelessly or wiredly coupled to the controller 112 (not shown).

[0075] A heater 130 is provided in the first line branch 124 for controlling the temperature of the compressed gas flowing in this line branch 124. After passing the heater 130, the line branch opens into the humidification device 120 (mixing chamber 120). The heater 130 can be wirelessly or wiredly coupled to the controller 112 (not shown).

[0076] A control valve 132, in particular a proportional valve 132, is arranged in the second line branch 126 (humidification line 126). The control valve 132 regulates the pressure prevailing in the second line branch 126 to a pressure level slightly higher than that in the first line branch 124, for example, by +0.5 bar. The control valve 132 can be coupled to the controller 112 wirelessly or by wire (not shown).

[0077] At least one reservoir 134 for an injection fluid is also provided in the second line branch 126. In the example, two reservoirs 134, 136 for an injection fluid are provided in the second line branch 126. In the example, the second line branch 126 divides into two sub-branches 126', 126" or injection lines 126', 126" upstream of the two reservoirs 134, 136.

[0078] The reservoirs 134, 136 can each be filled with a liquid injection fluid. For example, the first reservoir 134 can be filled with water, in particular demineralized water, as the injection fluid. The second reservoir 136 can be filled with a different injection fluid, e.g., with a liquid with an antistatic effect (additive). The reservoirs 134, 136 are also pressurized due to the pressure prevailing in the second line branch 126. Alternatively, a pump for pressurizing the reservoirs 134, 136 can be provided, as explained above.

[0079] In the second line branch 126, a valve 138, 140 is connected downstream of each of the reservoirs 134, 136, by means of which the flow can be regulated. The valves 138, 140 can each have a controllable actuator (not shown) by means of which the respective valve 138, 140 can be actuated. The valves 138, 140 or their actuators can be connected wirelessly or by wire to the controller 112 (not shown). The controller 112 can control the flow by controlling the valves 138, 140 or their actuators, for example, depending on the flow determined by the flow switch 128 and / or depending on the flow rates detected by flow measuring devices in the injection lines 126', 126" (explained below).

[0080] In the second power branch 126, a flow measuring device 142, 144 is also connected downstream of the reservoirs 134, 136 for measuring the flow rate of the respective injection fluid. The flow measuring device 142, 144 can have a measuring sensor system that is wirelessly or wiredly coupled to the controller 112 (not shown). Using the flow measuring devices 142, 144, the quantity of injection fluid in the injection lines 126', 126" can be precisely measured and, if necessary, fine-tuned, for example, by controlling the valves 138, 140 or their actuators using the controller 112.

[0081] In the second power branch 126, a frequency generator 146 is also connected downstream of the reservoirs 134, 136, through which the injection lines 126', 126" each pass to excite the injection fluid (by means of one or more frequencies). This allows the injection behavior to be optimized. The frequency generator 146 is configured in particular such that no excitation (frequency generator deactivated), a targeted excitation of only one injection line 126', 126" or an excitation of both injection lines 126', 126" can occur, as explained above.

[0082] The injection lines 126', 126" in the second power branch 126 each have one or more injection nozzles or atomizer nozzles (not shown), by means of which the injection lines 126', 126" each open into the humidification device 120 at inlets 148, 150. A nozzle backflushing device is provided at each injection nozzle for cleaning, in particular permanently, the injection nozzle (not shown). In the example, the nozzle backflushing device each has a backflushing line 152, 154 for returning excess injection fluid to the respective reservoir 134, 136 for injection fluid. In the humidification device 120, the (relatively) dry compressed gas from the first line branch 124 and the humidified compressed gas from the second line branch 126 are mixed with one another.

[0083] A further section 156 of the flow connection 110 leads from the humidification device 120 to the outlet 108. In section 156, a condensate collecting device 158 is integrated, with which excess injection fluid can be collected before the humidified compressed gas reaches the outlet 108.

[0084] In section 134, a pressure and / or temperature sensor 160 is provided, which detects the pressure and / or temperature downstream of the humidification device 120 or downstream of the condensate collection device 158 and is coupled to the controller 112 via a wireless or wired connection 162. Furthermore, a pressure and / or temperature sensor 164 is provided outside the compressed gas treatment system 100, in particular outside the housing 102, and is connected to the controller 112 via a wireless or wired connection 166.

[0085] The compressed gas treatment system 100 has a heating device 170 for heating a liquid, wherein the heating device 170 has a supply connection 172 for delivering heated liquid to the supply section 20 of the fluid line 18 of the hose arrangement 10 and a return connection 174 for feeding returned liquid from a return section 22 of the fluid line 18 of the hose arrangement 10.

[0086] The heating device 170 has a feed line 176 fluidly connected to the feed connection 172, wherein a heating element 178 for heating the liquid (liquid for heating the fluid line 18 of the hose arrangement 10) is integrated into the feed line 176. The heating element 178 can heat the carrier medium (liquid, e.g., water) before it is discharged to the fluid line 18 via the feed connection 172. Independently of this, a pump 180 for conveying the liquid and / or a pressure compensation element (not shown) can be provided in the feed line 176.

[0087] The heating device 170 has a return line 182 fluidly connected to the return connection 174, wherein a heat exchanger 184 is integrated into the return line for absorbing thermal energy from the liquid conveyed in the return line 182. As a result, thermal energy can be extracted from the liquid returned via the return connection 174 and delivered, for example, to a heater 130 arranged upstream of the humidification device 120 in the flow connection 110 and / or to the heating element 178 integrated into the flow line 176. Independently of this, a pump 186 for conveying the liquid can be provided in the return line 182.

[0088] In particular, the heat exchanger 184 and the heating element 178 can be thermally coupled to one another (thermal connection 188) in such a way that heat energy absorbed by the heat exchanger 184 can be transferred to the heating element 178 on the flow line 176.

[0089] The supply line 176 can be fluidly connected to a fluid source 190 for supplying fluid. The return line 182 can be fluidly connected to a fluid sink 192 for removing fluid.

[0090] Optionally, the supply line 176 and the return line 182 can be fluidly connected to each other (flow connection 194). This allows fluid returned via the return line 182, which may contain residual heat, to be fed to the supply line 176 and, for example, after passing through the heating element 178, made available again at the supply connection 172.

[0091] If the fluid line 18 of the hose assembly 10, with its supply section 20 and its return section 22, is connected to the supply connection 172 and the return connection 174, respectively, the supply line 176, the fluid line 18, and the return line 182 form a heating circuit through which the fluid can flow. If the return line 182 and the supply line 176 are fluidly connected to each other, the heat exchanger 184 on the return line 182 can be omitted.

[0092] In the example, the supply connection 172, the return connection 174, and the outlet 108 are arranged adjacent to one another in a common (outlet-side) connection area 196 of the compressed gas treatment system 100. This allows the hose assembly 10 to be easily connected to the compressed gas treatment system.

[0093] The hose assembly 10 is configured and / or intended for connection to the compressed gas treatment system 100. When the hose assembly 10 is connected to the compressed gas treatment system 100, the outlet 108 is fluidly connected to the compressed gas line 16 via the connection element 40, the supply connection 172 is fluidly connected to the supply section 20 of the fluid line 18 via the supply connection element 42, and the return connection 174 is fluidly connected to the return section 20 of the fluid line 18 via the return connection element 44.

Claims

1. Hose arrangement (10) for supplying compressed gas to a spray device, comprising a compressed gas line (16) extending from a connection-side end (12) to a free end (14), a fluid line (18) being provided for controlling the temperature of the compressed gas line (16), characterized in that the fluid line (18) is arranged in the compressed gas line (16) and extends along the compressed gas line (16), the fluid line (18) having a supply portion (20) extending from the connection-side end (12) to the free end (14), which portion merges at the free end (14) into a return portion (22), the return portion (22) extending from the free end (14) to the connection-side end (12).

2. Hose arrangement (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the fluid line (18) is curved in an arc shape, in particular in a U-shape, at the transition (24) from the supply portion (20) to the return portion (22) and wraps around a holding element (26) which secures the transition (24) of the fluid line (18) at the free end (14).

3. Hose arrangement (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the compressed gas line (16) has a connection element (36) at the free end (14) for connecting a spray device, the transition (24) of the fluid line (18) from the supply portion (20) to the return portion (22) being at least largely, preferably completely, arranged in the connection element (36).

4. Hose arrangement (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the compressed gas line (16) has a further connection element (40) at the connection-side end (12) for connection to an outlet (108) of a compressed gas processing plant (100) and in that the fluid line (18) has a supply connection element (42) and a return connection element (44) at the connection-side end (12) for connection to a heating device (170), the further connection element (40), the supply connection element (42) and the return connection element (44) being arranged next to one another and on the connection-side end (12) being led out of the hose arrangement (10) at the front end.

5. Hose arrangement (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that a connection piece (46) is provided at the connection-side end (12), which piece has a front wall (48), the further connection element (40), the supply connection element (42) and the return connection element (44) being guided next to one another, in particular parallel to one another, through the front wall (48) and / or being fastened to the front wall (48).

6. Hose arrangement (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that the connection piece (46) has a circumferential wall (52) which extends along the longitudinal direction (50) of the connection piece (46), delimits an interior space (54) and defines a part of the compressed gas line (16) and / or in that the connection piece (46) tapers its cross section axially in portions in the direction of the free end (14).

7. Hose arrangement (10) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the compressed gas line (16) has a pressure hose (62) which connects the connection piece (46) to the connection element (36) at the free end (14) and / or in that a pressure limiting device is provided which limits the pressure in the compressed gas line (16) to a defined maximum pressure.

8. Compressed gas processing plant (100) for providing processed compressed gas to a hose arrangement (10) according to any of the preceding claims, the compressed gas processing plant (100) having an inlet (104) for connecting a compressed gas source (106) and an outlet (108) for providing the processed compressed gas to a compressed gas line (16), the inlet (104) and the outlet (108) being fluidly connected to one another and a humidification device (120) for humidifying the compressed gas being arranged in the flow connection (110), characterized in that the compressed gas processing plant (100) has a heating device (170) for heating a liquid, the heating device (170) having a supply connection (172) for delivering heated liquid to a supply portion (20) of the fluid line (18) and a return connection (174) for feeding returned liquid from a return portion (22) of the fluid line (18).

9. Compressed gas processing plant (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that the compressed gas processing plant (100) has one or more reservoirs (134, 136) for an injection fluid, the reservoir or reservoirs (134, 136) each being connected to the humidification device (120) by means of an injection line (126', 126") so that the humidification device (120) can be fed with injection fluid.

10. Compressed gas processing plant (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that the compressed gas processing plant (100) is designed such that when no compressed gas is removed at the outlet (108), the supply of injection fluid to the humidification device (120) is stopped and / or in that, in the case of a plurality of reservoirs (134, 136), different injection fluids are contained in the reservoirs (134, 136).

11. Compressed gas processing plant (100) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the injection line or the injection lines (126', 126") each pass a frequency generator (146) for exciting the injection fluid and / or in that the injection line or the injection lines (126', 126") each have one or more injection nozzles by means of which the injection lines (126', 126") each open into the humidification device (120), a nozzle backflushing device being provided on the injection nozzles in each case for in particular permanently cleaning the injection nozzle.

12. Compressed gas processing plant (100) according to claim 11, characterized in that the nozzle backflushing device has a backflushing line (152, 154) for returning excess injection fluid to the relevant reservoir (134, 136) for injection fluid.

13. Compressed gas processing plant (100) according to any of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that a flow measuring device (142, 144) for detecting the flow rate of the relevant injection fluid is integrated into each of the injection lines (126', 126") and / or in that a valve (138, 140) is arranged in each of the injection lines (126', 126"), by means of which valve the supply of the injection fluid can be controlled by means of closed-loop control.

14. Compressed gas processing plant (100) according to any of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that a condensate collecting device (158) is integrated into the flow connection (110) between the humidification device (120) and the outlet (108) and / or in that the heating device (170) has a supply line (176) which is fluidly connected to the supply connection (172), a heating element (178) for heating the liquid being integrated into the supply line (176).

15. Compressed gas processing plant (100) according to any of claims 9 to 14, characterized in that the heating device (170) has a return line (182) which is fluidly connected to the return connection (174), a heat exchanger (184) for absorbing thermal energy from liquid guided in the return line (182) being integrated into the return line (182).

16. Compressed gas processing plant (100) according to claims 14 and 15, characterized in that the heat exchanger (184) and the heating element (178) are thermally coupled to one another in such a way that thermal energy absorbed by the heat exchanger (184) can be delivered to the heating element (178) on the supply line (176).

17. Compressed gas processing plant (100) according to any of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the supply line (176) is fluidly connected to a fluid source (190) for supplying liquid, in that the return line (182) is fluidly connected to a fluid sink (192) for discharging liquid and / or in that the supply line (176) and the return line (182) are fluidly connected to one another.

18. Compressed gas processing plant (100) according to any of claims 8 to 17, characterized in that an open-loop control device (112) is provided for the compressed gas processing plant (100) and / or in that the supply connection (172), the return connection (174) and the outlet (108) are arranged adjacent to one another in a connection region (196).