ANGLE ADAPTER FOR A POWDER SPRAY DEVICE

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to an angle adapter for a powder spraying device for spraying coating powder.

[0002] In powder coating, the workpiece to be coated is coated with a layer of powder using a powder spray applicator. The powder-coated workpiece is then heated until the powder melts and forms a continuous layer. After the layer has cooled, it forms a continuous, firmly adhering protective layer to the workpiece. A suitable powder spray applicator has a powder-carrying line that opens into a powder spray nozzle on the outlet side. The coating powder to be sprayed is sprayed through the powder spray nozzle.

[0003] In order to achieve optimal coating of the workpiece, it is generally recommended to adapt the spray direction of the powder spray applicator to the geometry of the workpiece to be coated. If the powder spray applicator only sprays the powder forwards in the longitudinal direction, it may happen that certain areas of certain workpieces cannot be sprayed sufficiently. This is the case, for example, if the workpiece has an interior whose surface cannot be sprayed, or not sufficiently, using a powder jet directed only in the longitudinal direction. To avoid this disadvantage, an angle adapter can be provided on the downstream side of the spray applicator. This allows the powder spray direction to be changed so that the spray direction no longer runs in the longitudinal direction, but is pivoted at a defined angle to the longitudinal direction. This angle is referred to below as the pivot angle. State of the art

[0004] From the Inogun A operating manual of Sames Kremlin ( https: / / www.manualslib.de / manual / 730827 / Sames-Kremlin-Inogun-A-Fcc.html#manual) is a powder spray gun for spraying coating powder that can be equipped with such an angle adapter. The angle adapter is available in two versions: a 60° nozzle adapter and a 90° nozzle adapter. When the 60° nozzle adapter is screwed onto the barrel of the spray gun, the spray jet is pivoted at a pivot angle of 60° relative to the longitudinal axis. The nozzle adapter can be rotated around the longitudinal axis of the gun barrel. This allows the angle of rotation of the spray direction to be adjusted. During coating, however, it is not possible to change the pivot angle from 60° to 90°. To achieve this, the 60° angle adapter must be unscrewed and the 90° angle adapter screwed onto the gun barrel. Only then is the powder spray gun ready for use again.This means that the angle of rotation of the powder spray jet can be adjusted with both the 60° angle adapter and the 90° angle adapter, but not its pivoting angle. Document DE 20 2012 004571 U1 shows a tube sleeve for the tribostatic charging of a paint powder, which is carried in a gas stream flowing along a longitudinal axis of the tube sleeve. The tube sleeve comprises an end piece with at least one section that widens on the outflow side, forming an annular gap. The tube sleeve has a plurality of rotary flow bores. The rotary flow bores are arranged to introduce an externally pressurized gas in the same direction as the flow direction and at an acute angle to the inner surface of the tube sleeve. Description of the invention

[0005] An object of the invention is to provide an angle adapter for a powder spraying device in which not only the angle of rotation but also the pivoting angle of the powder spraying direction is adjustable.

[0006] At the same time, it must be ensured that the high voltage, regardless of the set spray direction, can only reach the electrode and not further upstream to the outside, i.e. to the outside of the angle adapter.

[0007] Advantageously, the angle adapter according to the invention ensures that the high voltage can always be guided to the nozzle or the high-voltage electrode, regardless of the set spray direction.

[0008] Advantageously, the angle adapter according to the invention also ensures that gas which is to flow around the high-voltage electrode can always be guided to the high-voltage electrode, regardless of the set spray direction.

[0009] The object is achieved by an angle adapter for a powder spraying device having the features specified in patent claim 1.

[0010] The angle adapter according to the invention for a powder spray device comprises an upstream housing having an upstream powder channel, a connection to the powder spray device, and a longitudinal axis about which the housing is rotatable. The powder spray device also comprises a pivoting body with a downstream powder channel that adjoins the upstream powder channel. The pivoting body is pivotable about a pivot axis, with the pivot axis running obliquely to the longitudinal axis. A nozzle is also provided that adjoins the pivoting body. Several webs and grooves are located on the housing and the pivoting body, with the webs projecting into the grooves and the webs and grooves being designed to form a labyrinth. Furthermore, the angle adapter has a high-voltage line that extends from the upstream housing via the pivoting body into the nozzle, where it is designed as a high-voltage electrode.

[0011] Advantageous further developments of the invention result from the features specified in the dependent patent claims.

[0012] In one embodiment of the angle adapter according to the invention for a powder spray device, the powder channel is designed such that the upstream powder channel tapers in the direction of flow and the downstream powder channel widens. This allows the powder flowing through the angled portion of the powder channel to be more homogeneously distributed in the downstream powder channel.

[0013] In a further embodiment of the angle adapter according to the invention, a gas line is provided, in which one part of the gas line runs through the upstream housing and another part of the gas line runs through the pivoting body. The gas line is provided to transport gas to the high-voltage electrode or nozzle, respectively. This enables a particularly compact design.

[0014] In an additional embodiment of the angle adapter according to the invention, the part of the gas line located in the housing is connected to the labyrinth on the outlet side. This also enables a particularly compact design. If ozone or ionized air forms in the labyrinth, it can be flushed out with the gas transported into the labyrinth.

[0015] In a further development of the angle adapter according to the invention, the part of the gas line arranged in the swivel body is connected to the labyrinth on the inlet side. This also enables a particularly compact design. Furthermore, the gas line can be used to flush the labyrinth and transport the gas to the high-voltage electrode.

[0016] In another refinement of the angle adapter according to the invention, a dielectric is provided in the labyrinth. This increases the electrical insulation toward the outside of the angle adapter.

[0017] In an additional development of the angle adapter according to the invention, the dielectric is an inert gas or high-voltage grease.

[0018] In addition, the angle adapter according to the invention can be provided with the downstream powder channel having a longitudinal axis which runs obliquely to the pivot axis.

[0019] Furthermore, the angle adapter according to the invention can be provided with the upstream powder channel having a downstream channel section and an upstream channel section. The upstream channel section runs concentrically to the longitudinal axis, and the downstream channel section runs concentrically to the pivot axis.

[0020] In a further development of the angle adapter according to the invention, a contact ring is provided at the transition from the upstream housing to the pivoting body. The contact ring serves to connect the part of the high-voltage line located in the upstream housing with the part of the high-voltage line located in the pivoting body.

[0021] In another development of the angle adapter according to the invention, the contact ring is arranged adjacent to the powder channel.

[0022] In an additional development of the angle adapter according to the invention, the contact ring is arranged between the powder channel and the gas line, viewed in the radial direction.

[0023] In one embodiment of the angle adapter according to the invention, a seal is provided in the outer region of the transition from the housing to the swivel body, which seals the labyrinth gas-tight to the outside.

[0024] The angle adapter according to the invention can have a clamping nut which is arranged at the transition from the housing to the swivel body and is intended to fasten the swivel body to the housing.

[0025] In another embodiment of the angle adapter according to the invention, the clamping nut is made of an electrically non-conductive material.

[0026] The labyrinth in the angle adapter according to the invention preferably has a width between 0.1 mm and 0.8 mm. The width refers to the width of the gap within the labyrinth through which gas, such as compressed air, can flow.

[0027] In another embodiment of the angle adapter according to the invention, the outlet of the upstream powder channel and the inlet of the downstream powder channel are designed such that they can be tightly connected to one another.

[0028] With the angle adapter according to the invention, a powder mixer can be provided in the upstream area of ​​the downstream powder channel. This has the advantage of ensuring that the powder is distributed more homogeneously in the powder channel.

[0029] In a further development of the angle adapter according to the invention, the cross section of the powder mixer, viewed in the direction of flow, first tapers and later widens again.

[0030] In another development of the angle adapter according to the invention, the powder mixer has blades in order to give the powder flowing through the powder channel a swirl.

[0031] Advantageously, the contact ring in the angle adapter is designed as a conductive O-ring.

[0032] This O-ring can also be provided to seal the labyrinth in the radial direction towards the powder channel.

[0033] In addition, the angle adapter according to the invention can have a threaded sleeve through which the housing can be connected to a pistol barrel. The threaded sleeve is designed in such a way that, when released, it allows the angle adapter to rotate relative to the pistol barrel.

[0034] Furthermore, a method is proposed for adjusting the direction in which a powder spraying device comprising the angle adapter described above is to spray. The method comprises the following steps: A clamping nut connecting the housing and the swivel body is loosened. In a further step, the swivel body is pivoted relative to the housing into the desired swivel angle position. In an additional step, the clamping nut is tightened.

[0035] The procedure may also include the following steps: The threaded sleeve connecting the housing to the gun barrel is loosened. Then, the angle adapter is rotated to the desired position relative to the gun barrel, and the threaded sleeve is screwed tight. Short description of the drawings

[0036] In the following, the invention is further explained with several embodiments using several figures. Figure 1 shows a first possible embodiment of the angle adapter according to the invention in a first pivot position in a three-dimensional view. Figure 2 shows the first embodiment of the angle adapter in a side view. Figure 3 shows the first embodiment of the angle adapter in longitudinal section. Figure 4 shows the first embodiment of the angle adapter in a second pivot position in a three-dimensional view. Figure 5 shows the first embodiment of the angle adapter in a third pivot position in a three-dimensional view. Figure 6 shows the first embodiment of the angle adapter and part of the gun barrel of a powder spray device in a fourth pivot position in a three-dimensional view. Figure 7 shows the first embodiment of the angle adapter in the fourth pivot position in a partially exploded view. Figure 8 shows the pivot body of the angle adapter in a three-dimensional view.Figure 9 shows the first embodiment of the angle adapter in the fourth pivot position in longitudinal section. Figure 10 shows the first embodiment of the angle adapter in an exploded view. Figure 11 shows a second embodiment of the angle adapter in longitudinal section. Figure 12 shows the second embodiment of the angle adapter in a three-dimensional view. Figure 13 shows a screw-in sleeve comprising a threaded sleeve and a locking sleeve, wherein the screw-in sleeve can be part of the angle adapter, and an assembly tool for the screw-in sleeve in a three-dimensional view. Figure 14 shows the screw-in sleeve and the assembly tool inserted into the screw-in sleeve in a three-dimensional view. Figure 15 shows the screw-in sleeve and the assembly tool partially inserted into the screw-in sleeve in longitudinal section. Figure 16a shows a possible embodiment of a mixer in a three-dimensional view. Figure 16b shows the mixer in longitudinal section.Figure 17a shows a further embodiment of the mixer in a three-dimensional view. Figure 17b shows the further embodiment of the mixer in longitudinal section. Figure 18a shows an additional embodiment of the mixer in a three-dimensional view. Figure 18b shows the additional embodiment of the mixer in longitudinal section. Figure 19 shows a third embodiment of the angle adapter in a three-dimensional view. Figure 20 shows a further embodiment of the nozzle in a three-dimensional view. Figure 21 shows the further embodiment of the nozzle in a side view. Figure 22 shows the further embodiment of the nozzle in longitudinal section. Figure 23 shows a fourth embodiment of the angle adapter in a three-dimensional view. Figure 24 shows a fourth embodiment of the nozzle in a three-dimensional view. Figure 25 shows the fourth embodiment of the nozzle in a front view. Figure 26 shows the fourth embodiment of the nozzle in a side view.Figure 27 shows the fourth embodiment of the nozzle in longitudinal section. Figure 28 shows a fifth embodiment of the nozzle in a three-dimensional view. Figure 29 shows the fifth embodiment of the nozzle in side view. Figure 30 shows the fourth embodiment of the nozzle in longitudinal section. Figure 31 shows a sixth embodiment of the nozzle in a three-dimensional view. Figure 32 shows the sixth embodiment of the nozzle in longitudinal section. Ways to implement the invention

[0037] A first possible embodiment of the angle adapter according to the invention is shown in the Figures 1 to 10 The angle adapter comprises a housing 1, also referred to as the upstream housing, and a swivel body 3, which is connected to the housing 1 on the downstream side.

[0038] The housing 1 has a longitudinal axis LA1, and the swivel body 3 has its own longitudinal axis LA2. The longitudinal axis LA1 is also referred to below as the first longitudinal axis, and the longitudinal axis LA2 is also referred to as the second longitudinal axis.

[0039] In the following, we refer to a rotation when it is a rotary movement around the longitudinal axis LA1 or LA2. We refer to a pivoting movement when it is a rotary movement around the pivot axis DA.

[0040] A powder channel 2 is located inside the housing 1. A powder channel 42 is connected to the downstream end of the powder channel 2, with the two powder channels 2 and 42 preferably being arranged concentrically to the longitudinal axis LA1. The downstream end of the powder channel 42 is rotatably connected to a powder channel 41. The powder channel 41 is arranged concentrically to the pivot axis DA, which is inclined by an angle α with respect to the longitudinal axis LA1. The pivot axis DA therefore runs obliquely to the longitudinal axis LA1, with the angle α defining how oblique the pivot axis DA is to the longitudinal axis LA1. A downstream powder channel 4 is connected to the powder channel 41. The powder channel 4 is arranged in an electrode holder 35 and extends through it. The powder channel 4 is preferably arranged concentrically to the second longitudinal axis LA2. The longitudinal axis LA2 is inclined by an angle β with respect to the pivot axis DA.The longitudinal axis LA2 thus runs at an angle to the pivot axis DA, with the angle β defining how oblique the longitudinal axis LA2 runs to the pivot axis DA. A powder nozzle 5, through which the powder P can be sprayed, is connected to the powder channel 4. The nozzle 5 can also be arranged concentrically to the second longitudinal axis LA2.

[0041] The angle α can be, for example, 135°. The angle β can also be, for example, 135°. The two angles α and β are preferably equal, so that the two longitudinal axes LA1 and LA2 run parallel to each other (see Fig. 3 ). If the two angles α and β are each 135°, the longitudinal axis LA2 can enclose an angle of 0° to a maximum of 90° with the longitudinal axis LA1 (see Fig. 3 and 9 ).

[0042] In the Figures 1 to 3The angle adapter is shown in a first powder spraying position. In this pivoting position, the first longitudinal axis LA1 and the second longitudinal axis LA2 are offset parallel to each other. In this pivoting position, referred to as the zero position, the powder spraying direction is offset parallel to the first longitudinal axis LA1, so that the powder P is sprayed from the nozzle 11 offset parallel to the first longitudinal axis LA1.

[0043] In Figure 4 The angle adapter is shown in a second powder spraying position. In this position, the swivel body 3 is pivoted counterclockwise relative to the housing 1 by a pivot angle of ϑ = 30°. The powder P now flows out of the nozzle 5 at an angle of ϑ = 30° relative to the longitudinal axis LA1.

[0044] In Figure 5The angle adapter is shown in a third powder spraying position. In this position, the swivel body 3 is pivoted counterclockwise by a pivot angle ϑ = 60° relative to the housing 1 or the longitudinal axis LA1. The set pivot angle ϑ can be read off a scale 22 on the housing 1 in conjunction with a mark 23 attached to the swivel body 3.

[0045] The pivoting body 3 has several webs 6 and grooves 7 where it is in contact with the housing 1. The housing 1 also has grooves 19 and webs 18 where it is in contact with the pivoting body 3. This area forms the transition between the housing 1 and the pivoting body 3. The grooves 19 and webs 18 of the housing 1 and the webs 6 and grooves 7 of the pivoting body 3 are designed and arranged such that a web 6 of the pivoting body 3 projects into a groove 19 of the housing 1, and a web 18 of the housing 1 projects into a groove 7 of the pivoting body 3. In this way, the webs 6, 18 and grooves 7, 19 form a joint with which the pivoting body 3 can be pivoted relative to the housing 1. The surface 14 on the housing 1 forms a support surface on which the pivoting body 3 rests movably ( Figure 7 ). The two straight lines 30 and 31 are selected so that they lie within the support surface 14. They define the pivot plane. The pivot axis DA is perpendicular to the pivot plane.

[0046] The interface, which is part of the joint on the housing 1, can have (for example on the outside) one or more locking lugs 1.13 (see Figure 7 and 8 ). The swivel body 3 can also have one or more locking lugs 3.13 in the area of ​​the interface. This allows the swivel angle ϑ to be changed in angular steps predetermined by the locking lugs 1.13 and 3.13. In addition, when the locking lugs 1.13 and 3.13 engage with each other, this prevents the swivel body 3 from being accidentally swiveled relative to the housing 1. The O-ring 39, which establishes the electrical contact between the two high-voltage lines 10.1 and 10.2, is also protected in this way. Otherwise, the wire end of the high-voltage line 10.1 or the wire end 12 of the high-voltage line 10.2 could damage the O-ring 39. The locking mechanism prevents the possibly pointed wire end 12 from being pulled over the O-ring 39.

[0047] A clamping nut 15 is located on the joint. When the clamping nut 15 is loosened, the swivel body 3 can be pivoted relative to the housing 1. When the clamping nut 15 is tightened, however, the swivel body 3 and the housing 1 are rigidly connected. This prevents the swivel body 3 from being accidentally pivoted relative to the housing 1. The clamping nut 15 also ensures that the swivel body 3 cannot fall off the housing 1. Furthermore, the clamping nut 15 extends the path for the high voltage. This means that the high voltage that is carried inside the angle adapter on the high-voltage line 10 has to travel a greater distance before reaching the outside of the angle adapter.

[0048] This increases the creepage distance and thus the insulation resistance and increases operational reliability.

[0049] In one embodiment, the webs 6, 18 and grooves 7, 19 are designed such that the webs 6, 18 protrude into the grooves 7, 19 without touching the grooves 7, 19. The space between the webs 6 and the grooves 19 or between the webs 18 and the grooves 7 forms a labyrinth 8. The labyrinth 8 is intended to increase the distance between the high-voltage line 10 and the outside of the angle adapter. This reduces the risk of electrical discharge. The space or labyrinth can be filled with a dielectric. A dielectric is referred to here as an electrically weakly or non-conductive substance in which the existing charge carriers are not freely movable. The dielectric can be an inert gas or high-voltage grease and serves the purpose of increasing the electrical insulation between the high-voltage electrode 10 carrying the high voltage and the outside of the powder spray device.

[0050] The O-ring 39 can be designed as an electrically conductive ring and form the electrical contact point between the housing 1 and the pivoting body 3 for the high voltage. This ensures that the high-voltage line 10.2 in the pivoting body 3 and the high-voltage line 10.1 in the housing 1 are always connected to each other, regardless of how the pivoting body 3 is pivoted relative to the housing 1. The O-ring 39 can also be provided to seal the labyrinth 8 radially inward, toward the powder channel 2. The O-ring 16 serves to seal the labyrinth 8 radially outward.

[0051] If the labyrinth 8 is not a gas-tight space, but is to be flowed through by a fluid, for example, ordinary air under pressure (compressed air) can be used instead of the dielectric.

[0052] If, however, the labyrinth 8 is designed as a gas-tight chamber, it is advantageous to use a dielectric, such as SF6 or another inert gas, such as nitrogen. To create the gas-tight chamber, the labyrinth 8 can be sealed at its radially inner and outer ends with a seal, for example, with O-rings 16 and 39 ( Fig. 9 ). In this case, the atomizing air is not routed through the labyrinth 8, but via a separate line (not shown in the figures). The atomizing air is intended to atomize the powder in the area of ​​the nozzle orifice. The atomizing air and / or the purge air for the electrode 11 can be transported via the gas line 20.

[0053] The labyrinth 8 can also be filled with a high-voltage grease, such as Vaseline or castor oil. In this case, it doesn't matter whether the labyrinth 8 is designed as a gas-tight or non-gas-tight chamber. However, the labyrinth 8 is preferably designed so that the high-voltage grease cannot easily escape. In this embodiment, the O-ring 16 can be omitted.

[0054] The angle adapter preferably has a gas line 20 through which gas is supplied to the high-voltage electrode 11. The gas can be compressed air or nitrogen, for example. An (upstream) section 20.1 of the gas line 20 runs through the housing 1 and opens into the labyrinth 8. Another (downstream) section 20.2 of the gas outlet 20 begins at the labyrinth 8 and extends through the pivoting body 3 to the electrode holder 35. A third section 20.3 of the gas line 20 is provided in the electrode holder 35, the outlet of which also serves as the outlet of the high-voltage electrode 11. With the help of the gas flowing through the gas outlet 20, the high-voltage electrode 11 is flushed with gas. In this case, the gas serves as purge air.

[0055] The gas can also serve as atomizing air when it comes to influencing the powder cloud.

[0056] The outlet for the gas and the high-voltage electrode 11 is preferably located in the mouth area of ​​the powder spray nozzle 5 and best of all inside the powder spray nozzle 5 (see Figure 3 ). However, it can also be provided that the outlet is arranged even further downstream or even slightly outside the mouth of the powder spray nozzle 5. If the electrode 11 is arranged inside the powder spray nozzle 5, this has the advantage that the powder can be charged better because the flowing out powder is closer to the electrode 11. If the gas serves as purge air and exits close to the electrode 11, the electrode 11 is better flushed and it is better prevented that powder adheres to the electrode 11. If the gas exits outside the powder spray nozzle 5, e.g. in the baffle plate 51 (see Figures 11 and 12), this has the advantage that the size of the powder cloud can be adjusted with the amount of gas (e.g., the atomizing air). Here, too, the gas protects the electrode 11 from powder deposits. The powder cloud is a powder-gas mixture that is essentially conical. The axis of the spray cone defines the powder spray direction. The angle of the spray cone depends, among other things, on the opening width of the powder nozzle 5 and the metering and conveying air volume. In a flat jet nozzle, which typically has a slot-shaped opening, the spray cone is flatter and wider due to the slot-shaped nozzle opening than in a round jet nozzle, which typically has a round opening, or than in a nozzle with a deflector plate. In the straight flat jet nozzle ( Fig. 1 - 10 ) the spray direction is parallel to the longitudinal axis LA2. With an angled flat jet nozzle, or angle nozzle for short, (see Figures 19 - 32), the spray direction is at an angle γ to the longitudinal axis LA2. The angle γ is in the embodiment according to Figures 19 - 22 at 30°, in the embodiment according to Figures 28 to 30 at 45° and in the embodiment according to Figures 23 to 27 at 60°. This allows the powder spray direction to be changed by a further angle and the powder spray direction to be adapted even better to the workpiece geometry.

[0057] The high-voltage line 10 comprises several sections 10.1, 10.2 and 10.3 and, similar to the gas line 20, runs through the housing 1, the pivoting body 3 and the electrode holder 35. Section 10.1 runs through the housing 1, section 10.2 through the pivoting body 3 and section 10.3 through the electrode holder 35.

[0058] To allow the high voltage to flow from the swivel body 3 into the electrode holder 35, a contact pin and a contact ring are provided at the end of section 10.2. This ensures the electrical connection is always maintained, regardless of the orientation of the electrode holder 35 relative to the swivel body 3. The electrode holder 35 can therefore be inserted into the swivel body 3 and fixed in any rotational position using a union nut 9 on the swivel body 3. The rotational position is relative to the longitudinal axis LA2, which in this case forms the axis of rotation around which the electrode holder 35 can be rotated.

[0059] Advantageously, the union nut 9 has an internal thread, and the swivel body 3 has a corresponding external thread. The union nut 9 and the swivel body 3 can be connected to each other via these two threads. Once the union nut 9 is unscrewed from the swivel body 3, the electrode holder 35 can be pulled out of the swivel body 3.

[0060] The powder spray nozzle 5 can be plugged onto the electrode holder 35 and can have a shoulder 5.3. The powder spray nozzle 5 can be held in position with the union nut 9, which forms a positive fit with the shoulder 5.3.

[0061] The powder spray nozzle 5 according to Figures 1 to 10 is designed as a flat jet nozzle. It produces a flat, wide powder jet.

[0062] If the labyrinth 8 is designed as a closed, i.e. as a substantially sealed space, it can be provided that the air duct 20, via which compressed air is guided to the high-voltage electrode 11, does not run through the labyrinth 8, but outside the labyrinth 8 (not shown in the figures).

[0063] In one embodiment of the angle adapter, the part of the gas line 20.2 arranged in the swivel body 3 is - viewed in the radial direction - arranged further inwards on the inlet side than the outlet of the part of the gas line 20.1 arranged in the housing 1 (see Figure 9 ).

[0064] To adjust the powder spray direction, the following procedure is generally followed. First, the clamping nut 15 connecting the housing 1 and the swivel body 3 is loosened. Then the housing 1 and the swivel body 3 are pulled apart in the axial direction (relative to the swivel axis DA). Typically, 1 to 10 mm is sufficient for this. Depending on the design of the interface between the housing 1 and the swivel body 3, 2 to 5 mm may be sufficient. The swivel body 3 can now be swiveled relative to the housing 1 into the desired angular position. Subsequently, the housing 1 and the swivel body 3 are pressed together again, and the clamping nut 15 is screwed tight.

[0065] In order to attach the angle adapter to the gun barrel 40 of a spray applicator, a threaded sleeve 21 can be provided, which is screwed onto a corresponding thread 40.1 of the gun barrel 40 (see Figure 6 ).

[0066] In a further embodiment, it is provided that not only the pivoting body 3 can be pivoted about the pivot axis DA, but the entire angle adapter can be rotated about the longitudinal axis LA1. To make this possible, the threaded sleeve 21 with which the angle adapter is fastened to the gun barrel 40.1 of the spray applicator 40 is first loosened. The angle adapter can then be rotated about the longitudinal axis LA1 into the desired rotational position. To easily adjust the angle of rotation Δ, an angle scale 24 can be attached to the housing 1 of the angle adapter and a corresponding reference mark 40.2 can be attached to the gun barrel 40. Once the angle adapter has reached the desired rotational position, the clamping nut 21 is screwed back onto the gun barrel 40 so that the angle adapter is now fixed in its new position.

[0067] The powder channel 2 may have a taper, which is preferably located upstream of the joint ( Fig. 3). On the downstream side of the joint, the powder channel 4 can widen again. The upstream powder channel 2.1 thus tapers in the direction of flow, and the downstream powder channel 4 widens behind the joint. This allows the powder flow to be homogenized again after the joint.

[0068] Additionally or alternatively, a powder mixer 17 can be provided in the powder channel 2, viewed downstream, behind the powder channel 41. The powder mixer 17 is provided to homogenize the powder flow. This is intended to re-center and direct the powder flowing through the angled section of the powder channel 4 (relative to the longitudinal axis LA2). After the powder-air mixture has passed the taper, it is expanded again and thus evenly distributed across the cross-section of the powder channel 4. To achieve this, the powder mixer 17 has a taper 17.1 in the channel cross-section on the inlet side. This tapered section 17.1 is followed by a section with a constant cross-section 17.2, which in turn is followed by a widening section 17.3.

[0069] Instead of the powder mixer 17, a further embodiment of the angle adapter can also provide a powder mixer 47 which has one or more lamellae or blades to give the powder flowing through the powder channel a swirl. Figures 16a and 16b In the embodiment shown, the powder mixer 47, which is also referred to as the mixer for short, has four blades 47.1, 47.2, 47.3, and 47.4. The blades 47.1, 47.2, 47.3, and 47.4 are shaped such that they enclose an angle ω = 30° with the vertical on the outlet side of the mixer 47. In Figure 16b the flow direction of the powder P is indicated by an arrow.

[0070] Alternatively, the angle adapter can also have a powder mixer 57 or a powder mixer 67. In the case of the powder mixer 57 according to Figures 17a and 17b the angle ω = 40°. For the powder mixer 67 according to Figures 18a and 18bThe angle ω = 50°. The angle ω influences cleanability. The larger the angle ω, the easier the mixer is to clean. However, the angle ω also influences the spin imparted to the powder. The smaller the angle ω, the stronger the spin imparted to the powder.

[0071] With the help of the blades, the powder is swirled inside the mixer and exits the mixer outlet as a homogeneous, directed powder stream.

[0072] The upstream powder channel 2 is preferably arranged in a sleeve 43. The sleeve 43 with the upstream powder channel 2 is inserted into the housing 1 and is preferably clamped in the housing 1 with a securing sleeve 26 ( Figure 9). The locking sleeve 26 has an external thread 26.1, via which it is screwed to an internal thread 1.2 provided in the housing 1. When the locking sleeve 26 is screwed into the housing 1, the downstream end of the locking sleeve 26 presses against a correspondingly formed shoulder 43.3 of the sleeve 43, which is located on the outside of the sleeve 43.

[0073] The locking sleeve 26 is also connected to a threaded sleeve 21 via a snap connection ( Figures 13 to 15 ). For this purpose, the securing sleeve 21 has an annular snap hook on its upstream side, which - when assembled - engages in an annular groove 21.4 of the threaded sleeve 21, which is located at the downstream end of the threaded sleeve 21. The snap connection is designed such that the threaded sleeve 26 can rotate freely relative to the securing sleeve 21 about the longitudinal axis LA1.

[0074] On the inside, the downstream end of the threaded sleeve 21 has an internal thread 21.1 and two grooves 21.2. The webs 60.2 and 60.3 of an assembly tool 60 can be inserted into the grooves 21.2 if the assembly tool 60 is aligned accordingly. To ensure a good grip, the assembly tool is equipped with a handle 60.1.

[0075] To remove the sleeve 43 with the upstream powder channel 2 from the housing 1, the assembly tool 60 is inserted into the threaded sleeve 21 and rotated until the webs 60.2 and 60.3 protrude into the grooves 21.2 provided for them and form a positive connection with them. The assembly tool 60 is then rotated together with the threaded sleeve 21 until the two webs 60.2 and 60.3 also engage the grooves 26.2 of the retaining ring 26 and also form a positive connection with it. In Figure 15, the groove 26.2, the groove 21.2, and the web 60.3 of the assembly tool 60 are aligned such that the web 60.3 can be inserted into the two grooves 21.2 and 26.2. Once the positive connection between the assembly tool 60 and the grooves 21.2 and 26.2 is established, the assembly tool 60 can be rotated, and the locking sleeve 26 can be screwed backwards out of the housing 1 together with the threaded sleeve 21. The external thread 26.1 of the locking sleeve 26 is unscrewed from the internal thread 1.2 in the housing 1.

[0076] The internal thread 21.1 of the threaded sleeve 21 is designed to be screwed onto the external thread 40.1 of the gun barrel 40. Once the threaded sleeve 21 is firmly screwed onto the gun barrel 40, the angle adapter can no longer rotate around the longitudinal axis LA1.

[0077] To assemble the upstream powder channel 2, the sleeve 43 is inserted into the housing 1 from the upstream side. Subsequently, the locking sleeve 26 and the threaded sleeve 21 are inserted into the housing 1. Using the assembly tool 60, the locking sleeve 26 is then screwed to the housing 1.

[0078] In the Figures 11 and 12A second embodiment of the angle adapter according to the invention is shown. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment essentially in the orifice area. Instead of the nozzle 5, a nozzle 50 is installed, which is designed to accommodate a deflector plate 51. This allows a round, conical powder spray jet to be generated. The high-voltage line 10 passes through the nozzle 50 and the deflector plate 51 and ends as the high-voltage electrode 11 on the downstream side of the deflector plate 51.

[0079] In the Figures 19 to 22A third embodiment of the angle adapter is shown. The third embodiment differs from the other embodiments in the orifice area. Instead of the nozzle 5 or 50, a nozzle 150 is installed, which is designed to spray the powder at an oblique angle γ of approximately 30°. The nozzle slot 150.1 extends across the entire width of the powder channel 150.2.

[0080] By means of a groove 150.4 and a correspondingly designed web 35.4 on the electrode holder 35 ( Fig. 10 ), the nozzle 150 can be aligned with the electrode holder 35. In the assembled state, the web 35.4 and the groove 150.4 form a positive fit, so that the nozzle 150 cannot accidentally rotate relative to the longitudinal axis LA2. This also applies analogously to the other nozzles.

[0081] Instead, the angle adapter can also be equipped with a nozzle 250. In the Figures 23 to 27The angle adapter is shown with the nozzle 250. The nozzle 250 is designed to spray the powder at an oblique angle of approximately γ = 60°.

[0082] Alternatively, the angle adapter can also be equipped with a nozzle 350. In the Figures 28, 29 and 30 The nozzle 350 is shown. The nozzle 350 is designed to spray the powder at an oblique angle of approximately γ = 45°. The nozzle slot 350.1 extends across the entire width of the powder channel 350.2.

[0083] Instead, the angle adapter can also be equipped with a nozzle 450. In the Figures 31 and 32 Nozzle 450 is shown. Nozzle 450 is designed to spray the powder at an angle of approximately 45°. Furthermore, the nozzle slot 450.1 does not extend across the entire width of the powder channel, as is the case with nozzles 5, 150, 250, and 350.

[0084] The nozzles 5, 150, 250, 350, and 450 can be adjusted in their rotational position relative to the longitudinal axis LA2. To do this, the union nut 9 is loosened sufficiently so that the nozzle and the electrode holder 35 can be rotated around the longitudinal axis LA2 into the desired rotational position. The union nut 9 is then retightened so that the nozzle and the electrode holder are fixed in their new rotational position. The ability to rotate the nozzles gives the angle adapter an additional degree of freedom. This allows the powder spray direction to be changed by an additional angle.

[0085] The foregoing description of the embodiments according to the present invention is for illustrative purposes only. Various changes and modifications are possible within the scope of the invention. For example, the various Figures 1 to 32The components of the powder spray device or the angle adapter shown can also be combined with each other in a manner other than that shown in the figures. List of reference symbols

[0086] 1 Housing 1.1 Housing outer surface 1.2 Thread 1.4 Stop 1.13 Locking lugs 2 Upstream powder channel 2.1 Channel section 2.2 Channel section 3 Swivel body 3.1 Thread 3.13 Locking lugs 4 Downstream powder channel 5 Nozzle 5.3 Shoulder 5.4 Groove 6 Web on the swivel body 7 Groove on the swivel body 8 Labyrinth 9 Union nut 10 High-voltage line 10.1 Part of the high-voltage line 10.2 Part of the high-voltage line 10.3 Part of the high-voltage line 11 High-voltage electrode 12 Wire end 14 Support surface 15 Union nut 16 Seal 17 Powder mixer 17.1 Tapered section 17.2 Section with constant cross-section 17.3 Widening Section 18Bridge on the housing 19Groove on the housing 20Gas line 20.1Part of the gas line 20.2Part of the gas line 20.3Part of the gas line 21Threaded sleeve 21.1Thread 21.2Groove 21.4Annular groove 22Angle scale 23Reference mark 24Angle scale 26Securing sleeve 26.1Thread 26.2Groove 30Axis 31Axis 35Electrode holder 35.4Bridge on the electrode holder 36Powder mixer 37Sealing ring 39Contact ring orO-ring 40Gun barrel 40.1Thread 40.2Reference mark 41Powder channel 42Powder channel 43Sleeve 43.3Shoulder 47Mixer 47.1Blade 47.2Blade 47.3Blade 47.4Blade 50Nozzle 51Baffle plate 57Mixer 57.1Blade 57.2Blade 57.3Blade 57.4Blade 60Tool 60.1Handle 60.2Bridge 60.3Bridge 67Mixer 67.1Blade 67.2Blade 67.3Blade 150Nozzle 150.1Nozzle slot 150.2Powder channel shoulder 150.4Groove 150.3 250Nozzle 250.1Nozzle slot 250.2Powder channel 250.3Step 250.4Groove 350Nozzle 350.1Nozzle slot 350.2 350.3Powder channel Step 350.4Groove 450Nozzle 450.1Nozzle slot 450.2Powder channel 450.3Step 450.4Groove LA1Longitudinal axis LA2Longitudinal axis DARotation axis PPowder flow x-axis y-axis z-axis αAngle βAngle ϑ ΔSwivel angle Rotation angle γAngle ωAngle.

Claims

1. An angle adapter for a powder spray device, - comprising an upstream housing (1), which has an upstream powder channel (2), a connection to the powder spray device, and a longitudinal axis (LA1), about which the housing (1) can be rotated, - comprising a pivot body (3) comprising a downstream powder channel (4), which connects to the upstream powder channel (2), - in the case of which the pivot body (3) can be pivoted about a pivot axis (DA), - comprising a nozzle (5), which connects to the pivot body (3), - comprising a high voltage line (10), which extends from the upstream housing (1) via the pivot body (3) all the way into the nozzle (5) and which is formed there as high voltage electrode (11), characterized in that the pivot axis (DA) runs obliquely to the longitudinal axis (LA1), wherein the housing (1) and the pivot body (3) have several webs (6, 18) and grooves (7, 19), wherein the webs protrude into the grooves, and the webs and grooves are formed so that they form a labyrinth (8) in order to enlarge the distance between the high voltage line (10) and the outer side of the angle adapter.

2. The angle adapter according to claim 1, in the case of which the upstream powder channel (2) tapers and the downstream powder channel (4) widens again in the pivot body (3).

3. The angle adapter according to claim 1 or 2, - comprising a gas line (20), in the case of which a portion of the gas line (20.1) leads through the upstream housing (1), and another portion of the gas line (20.2) leads through the pivot body (3) and - the gas line (20) is provided in order to transport gas to the high voltage electrode (11).

4. The angle adapter according to claim 3, in the case of which the portion of the gas line (20.1) arranged in the housing (1) is connected to the labyrinth (8) on the outlet side.

5. The angle adapter according to claim 3 or 4, in the case of which the portion of the gas line (20.2) arranged in the pivot body (3) is connected to the labyrinth (8) on the inlet side.

6. The angle adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 5, in the case of which a dielectric is provided in the labyrinth (8).

7. The angle adapter according to claim 6, in the case of which the dielectric is an inert gas or high voltage grease.

8. The angle adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, in the case of which the downstream powder channel (4) has a longitudinal axis (LA2), which runs obliquely to the pivot axis (DA).

9. The angle adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, - in the case of which the upstream powder channel (2) has an upstream channel section (2.1), which runs concentrically to the longitudinal axis (LA1), and - in the case of which the upstream powder channel (2) has a downstream channel section (2.2), which runs concentrically to the pivot axis (DA).

10. The angle adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, in the case of which a contact ring (39) is provided at the transition from the upstream housing (1) to the pivot body (3), in order to connect the portion of the high voltage line (10.1), which is located in the upstream housing (1), to the portion of the high voltage line (10.2), which is located in the pivot body (3).

11. The angle adapter according to claim 10, in the case of which the contact ring (39) is arranged adjacent to the powder channel (2).

12. The angle adapter according to claim 10 or 11, in the case of which the contact ring (39) is arranged between the powder channel (2) and the gas line (20), viewed in the radial direction.

13. The angle adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, in the case of which a seal (16) is provided in the outer region of the transition from the housing (1) to the pivot body (3), which seal seals the labyrinth (8) in a gas-tight manner to the outside.

14. The angle adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a clamping nut (15), which is arranged at the transition from the housing (1) to the pivot body (3) and which is provided to fasten the pivot body (3) to the housing (1).

15. The angle adapter according to claim 14, in the case of which the clamping nut (15) is made of an electrically non-conductive material.

16. The angle adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, in the case of which the labyrinth (8) has a width of between 0.1 mm and 0.8 mm.

17. The angle adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, in the case of which the outlet of the upstream powder channel (2) and the inlet of the downstream powder channel (4) are formed in such a way that they can be tightly connected to one another.

18. The angle adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, in the case of which a powder mixer (17; 47) is provided in the upstream region of the downstream powder channel (4).

19. The angle adapter according to claim 18, in the case of which the cross section of the powder mixer (17) tapers first and widens again later, viewed in the flow direction.

20. The angle adapter according to claim 18, in the case of which the powder mixer (47) has blades (47.1-47.4), in order to provide the powder (P), which flows through the powder channel (2), with a spin.

21. The angle adapter according to any one of claims 10 to 20, in the case of which the contact ring (39) is formed as conductive O ring.

22. The angle adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 21, comprising a threaded sleeve (21), via which the housing (1) can be connected to a gun barrel (40), whereby the threaded sleeve is formed in such a way that it provides for a rotation of the angle adapter with respect to the gun barrel (40) in the released state.

23. A method for setting the spray direction of a powder spray device comprising an angle adapter according to any one of claims 1 to 22 with the steps: - a clamping nut (15), which connects the housing (1) and the pivot body (3) to one another, is released, - the pivot body (3) is pivoted into the desired pivot angle position (ϑ) with respect to the housing (1), and - the clamping nut (15) is screwed down.

24. The method according to claim 23, which comprises the steps: - the threaded sleeve (21), which connects the housing (1) to the gun barrel (40), is released, - the angle adapter is rotated into the desired position with respect to the gun barrel (40), and - the threaded sleeve (21) is screwed down.