FORMING STATION, FIBER FORMING PLANT AND METHOD FOR THE MANUFACTURE OF FORMED PARTS FROM FIBER MATERIAL

Description

Field of invention

[0001] The invention relates to a first forming station for shaping and pre-shaping molded parts made of fiber material, a fiber forming plant with such a first forming station and a method for operating this first forming station or the fiber forming plant and a molded part produced by such a method. Background of the invention

[0002] It is desirable to protect citizens and the environment from plastic pollution. In particular, single-use plastic products such as packaging materials, plastic cutlery, and plastic tableware generate a large amount of waste. Therefore, there is a growing need for alternative materials for plastic packaging and containers, enabling the production of these products from recyclable plastics, materials with a lower plastic content, or even plastic-free materials.

[0003] The idea of ​​using natural fibers instead of conventional plastics in extrusion processes has existed at least since the early 1990s; see, for example, EP 0 447 792 B1. The raw material basis here, as in most fiber processing processes, is pulp. In principle, pulp consists of water, natural fibers, and a binder such as industrial starch (potato starch) and has a pasty consistency.

[0004] Since consumers are interested in a wide variety of environmentally friendly products in different sizes, shapes, and with varying requirements, and do not necessarily demand them in very large quantities, it would be desirable to have a manufacturing process for environmentally friendly molded parts made from natural fibers and a suitable machine available to produce these products (molded parts) effectively, flexibly, and with good reproducibility. Furthermore, it is very important that the molded parts can be produced in the shortest possible time and in large quantities, so systems or stations with high throughput are desirable.

[0005] Further relevant prior art is disclosed in the following documents: US 6 245 199 B1 and WO 2020 / 132776 A1. Summary of the invention

[0006] The invention is based on the objective of providing fiber forming stations or fiber forming systems for shaped pieces made of fiber material and a corresponding manufacturing process with which these products (shaped pieces) can be produced effectively, flexibly, with good quality and the highest possible throughput and reproducibly.

[0007] The problem is solved by a first forming station for a fiber forming system for shaping and pre-forming a molded part from fiber material, preferably environmentally biodegradable fiber material, in a fiber forming process comprising: a reservoir containing a pulp as a liquid solution comprising the fiber material for the molded part; a first and second suction tool as a molding station, each with a plurality of suction heads for drawing the fiber material for molding the part from the reservoir containing the pulp; a pre-compression station with a pre-compression tool having a contour adapted or adaptable to the first and second suction tools for pre-forming the molded parts located in the first and second suction tools, respectively, wherein the molded parts are pressed onto the pre-compression tool with a pre-compression pressure to reduce moisture content in the molded part and to stabilize the shape of the molded part;and a transport device comprising a carrier with the first suction tool arranged on a first side of the carrier and the second suction tool arranged on the opposite second side of the carrier, wherein the respective suction heads are arranged on a side of the suction tools facing away from the carrier, wherein the carrier can be rotated by means of the transport device, preferably independently of each other, and moved at least from a first position for receiving fiber material from the reservoir of pulp by means of one of the suction tools to a second position for applying the pre-compression pressure to the molded parts located in the suction tool along a travel path.

[0008] The term "fiber material" refers to all types of fiber materials suitable for forming molded parts, which may also decompose under environmental influences such as humidity, temperature, and / or light. The decomposition process occurs over time, possibly even in the short term, for example, within a range of days, weeks, or a few months. Preferably, neither the fiber material nor the decomposition products pose any environmental hazard or contamination. Fiber materials within the meaning of the present invention are, for example, synthetic fibers or natural fibers obtained from pulp, paper, cardboard, wood, grass, plant fibers, sugar cane residues, hemp, etc., or from their components or parts thereof, and / or appropriately recycled material. An environmentally biodegradable fiber material can also include artificially produced fibers such as PLA (polylactic acid), etc.Designated as fiber materials that correspond to or possess the properties of the aforementioned fiber materials. Preferably, the fiber material is compostable. Preferably, the fiber material and the containers manufactured from it are suitable for inclusion in the German organic waste recycling system and as a resource for biogas plants. Preferably, the fiber materials and the containers manufactured from them are biodegradable according to EU standard EN 13432.

[0009] The term "pulp" refers to liquid masses containing fibers, specifically the fiber material. The term "liquid" here describes the state of matter of the pulp, where the liquid pulp comprises the fiber material in the form of fibers (a liquid solution containing the fiber material). The fibers can be present as individual fibers, as fiber structures, or as groups of several interconnected fibers. The fibers constitute the fiber material regardless of whether they are present as individual fibers, fiber structures, or fiber groups within the pulp. The fibers are dissolved in the liquid solution in such a way that they remain suspended in the liquid solution at as uniform a concentration as possible, independent of their location, for example, as a mixture or suspension of the liquid solution and the fiber material. In some embodiments, the pulp can be appropriately temperature-controlled and / or circulated to achieve this. The pulp preferably has a low density, i.e.,a fiber material content of less than 8%. In one embodiment of the inventive process, a pulp with a fiber material content of less than 5%, preferably less than 2%, and particularly preferably between 0.5% and 1.0%, is used. The preceding percentages are to be understood as weight percentages. This low fiber material content can, among other things, prevent clumping of the fiber material in the liquid solution, so that the fiber material can still be formed with good quality at the suction tool. Although clumped fiber material can be drawn in by the suction tool, it would likely result in a molded part with fluctuating layer thickness, which should be avoided in the production of the molded parts if possible. Therefore, the fiber material content in the pulp should preferably be small enough so that clumping or chaining does not occur or only occurs to a negligible extent.The liquid solution can be any solution suitable for the fiber forming process. For example, the pulp can be an aqueous solution containing the fiber material. An aqueous solution is, among other things, easy to handle.

[0010] The fiber forming process refers to the process steps involved in forming the molded part, starting with the provision of the pulp, the forming of the molded part in the forming station of the first molding station from the fiber material from the pulp, the preforming of the molded part in the preforming station of the first molding station, the hot pressing of the molded part in the hot pressing station of the second molding station and, if necessary, the coating of the molded part with functional layers, whereby the coating can be arranged at any point in the fiber forming process suitable for the respective layer to be applied.

[0011] The molded parts can have any shape, also referred to here as contour, provided that this shape (or contour) can be produced using the method according to the invention or that the method is suitable for producing this shape (or contour). The components used for the fiber forming process can be adapted to the respective shape (or contour) of the molded part. For different molded parts with different shapes (or contours), different appropriately adapted components, such as the suction tool, the suction head, the pre-pressing station, the hot pressing station, etc., can be used. Preferably, the desired contour of the molded part, and thus the corresponding forming components, is designed such that all surfaces of the molded part have an angle α of at least 3 degrees to the pressing direction during hot pressing.Final molded parts can represent a wide variety of products, such as cups, containers, vessels, lids, bowls, portion containers, sleeves or outer containers for a wide variety of purposes.

[0012] The suction tool, in this context, refers to the tool in which the suction head(s) for forming the molded part are arranged. Several suction heads are arranged within the common suction tool, so that when the suction tool is moved, the individual suction heads move simultaneously. The media supply to the suction tool with multiple suction heads is routed through the tool body to the individual suction heads in a suitable manner.

[0013] The placement of the suction tool on the pulp refers to contacting the pulp with all suction heads located within the tool, which are designed for forming molded parts. The vacuum or suction pressure applied to the pulp by the suction tool draws the fiber material out of the pulp, or the pulp containing dissolved fiber material is drawn in. Partial immersion in the pulp involves not only placing the suction tool on the pulp but also immersing it into the pulp. The immersion depth of the suction tool into the pulp depends on the specific application and the fiber forming process and can vary depending on the application and, if applicable, the molded part being formed.

[0014] Each suction head comprises a three-dimensionally shaped suction surface, the form of which is adapted to the contour of the future molded part. The molded part is formed onto the suction surface by means of negative pressure within the suction tool. The suction head can be a negative mold. A negative mold is a mold where the suction surface of the suction head—that is, the surface where the fiber material is deposited due to the suction action of the suction head, thus forming the molded part—is located on the inside of the suction head. This means that after the suction head is placed on the pulp or immersed in the pulp, this inside surface forms a cavity into which the pulp and fiber material are drawn. With a negative mold, the outside of the future molded part faces the inside of the suction head. Therefore, after forming, the molded part sits on the inside of the suction head. The suction head can also be a positive mold.A positive mold is a mold where the suction side of the suction head—that is, the side where the fiber material is deposited due to the suction action of the suction head, thus forming the molded part—is located on the outside of the suction head. This ensures that, after the suction head is placed on or immersed in the pulp, this outside side does not form a cavity. In a positive mold, the inside of the future molded part faces the outside of the suction head. Therefore, after forming, the molded part sits on the outside of the suction head.

[0015] The initial shaping of the molded part refers to a first pre-formation of the part, in which it is formed from fiber material previously distributed randomly in the pulp by the deposition of the fiber material onto the contour of the suction head with the corresponding contour. The initial molded part still contains a large proportion, for example 70% - 80% (by weight), of liquid solution, such as water, and is therefore not yet dimensionally stable.

[0016] The forming station allows for the simple formation of a molded part from a pulp containing a fiber material. Depending on the design of the suction head, the station can flexibly produce molded parts with a wide variety of contours. The ratio of width or diameter to height of the molded part is not a limiting or critical parameter for the quality of the manufactured parts. The forming station according to the invention enables the highly reproducible production of molded parts with great accuracy and quality regarding the shape and layer thickness of the individual molded part sections. The forming station is capable of processing fibers of various types, provided they can be dissolved in such a way that excessive clumping of the fibers in the liquid solution prior to processing is avoided.In particular, stable molded parts can be produced simply, effectively and flexibly from environmentally friendly biodegradable fiber material with good quality and good reproducibility in this way.

[0017] In another embodiment, the suction head's suction side is formed from a porous screen on a suction-side surface of the suction head. In a further embodiment, the suction tool comprises a plurality of suction channels that terminate on the suction-side surface below the screen and are distributed across the suction-side surface in such a way as to ensure substantially uniform suction performance in all areas between the screen and the suction-side surface. In a further embodiment, the shapes of the suction heads in the suction tool can differ, at least partially; preferably, suction heads of the same shape are arranged adjacent to one another in the suction tool. The different shapes can, for example, be arranged modularly within the suction tool. Such a sawing tool is capable of producing different shaped parts simultaneously in the same fiber forming process.For example, containers such as cups and their corresponding lids can be simultaneously formed and further processed in the same suction tool.

[0018] The preforming station enables the simple production of a mechanically unstable molded part into a sufficiently stable preformed part with a further reduced liquid solution content, suitable for further processing. This preforming station facilitates the highly reproducible production and processing of molded parts with high accuracy and quality regarding the shape and layer thickness of the individual molded part sections. In one embodiment, preforming can be carried out at a temperature of less than 80°C, preferably less than 50°C, and most preferably at room temperature. Preforming reduces the liquid content in the molded part to approximately 55%–65% (by weight) and pre-strengthens the part to such an extent that it is sufficiently dimensionally stable for tool transfer.Excessive temperature would reduce the liquid content in the molded part too much, potentially making the material too stiff for subsequent hot pressing. The combination of pre-pressing and hot pressing significantly improves reproducibility in the production of high-quality molded parts with a low reject rate. In another embodiment, pre-pressing is carried out at a pressure between 0.2 N / mm² and 0.3 N / mm², preferably between 0.23 N / mm² and 0.27 N / mm². These moderate pressures, lower than those used for hot pressing, allow for gentle solidification of the molded part with moderate liquid reduction, which is advantageous for a low-reject hot pressing process.The pre-compression station includes a pre-compression tool whose shape is adapted to the molded part remaining in the suction tool so that it can be positioned between the pre-compression tool and the suction tool, allowing the suction tool to press onto the pre-compression tool with pre-compression pressure. The suction tool can be pressed onto a stationary pre-compression tool, or the pre-compression tool can be pressed onto a suction tool that is stationary in the second position. In one embodiment, the suction tool is placed onto the pre-compression tool in the second position and pressed onto it via the carrier by means of the transport device. Alternatively, the suction tool can also be attached to a robot arm, which itself exerts the pre-compression pressure on the pre-compression tool via the suction tool.Alternatively, pre-pressing can be carried out using a membrane press, where the pre-pressing tool is a flexible membrane and the pre-pressing pressure is applied to the membrane as gas pressure, which is then pressed onto the outer contour of the molded part. Membrane pressing is particularly suitable for molded part geometries where pressure needs to be applied over a large area. With a membrane press, surfaces can also be subjected to the same pressure simultaneously, even if they are perpendicular to each other in any spatial orientation, since the pre-pressing pressure in membrane pressing is generated by gas pressure, for example, compressed air, which acts on the membrane regardless of direction.Pre-compression tools made of an elastomer, or at least partially made of elastomer, are also advantageous, as the elastomer can still be slightly deformed under pressure and thus adapts flexibly to a suction tool that may bend under the pre-compression pressure, thereby improving the homogeneity of the forming of the various molded parts in the suction tool. For elevated pre-compression temperatures below 100°C, silicone, for example, is also well-suited as an elastomer, being a temperature-resistant material in this range.

[0019] The carrier has a first side and a second side opposite it, each of which is equipped with a suction tool and a multitude of suction heads for forming a multitude of molded parts. The suction tools can be fixed or reversibly mounted on the carrier. In the latter case, automatic changing of the suction heads is possible. The respective suction heads are positioned on the side of the suction tools facing away from the carrier, ensuring they are easily accessible for forming and pre-pressing the molded parts. Because suction tools are located on both sides of the carrier, one tool can be used for forming and the other for pre-pressing. Since forming and pre-pressing require a certain amount of processing time, the molded parts can be either removed from the other suction tool or processed further during this time.This significantly increases the throughput of a single first forming station compared to a purely sequential process of forming, pre-pressing, and transferring the formed parts to a transfer unit using only one suction tool. Therefore, the first forming station according to the invention can significantly increase the throughput of a corresponding fiber forming system.

[0020] To achieve this process acceleration, the transport device for rotating and moving the carrier, and thus the suction heads mounted on it, serves as a forming station between a first position for receiving fiber material from the pulp reservoir using one of the suction tools and a second position for applying pre-compression pressure to the molded parts located in the suction tool. The distance between the first and second positions is referred to as the travel path, which, depending on the design of the first forming station, can be a linear travel path or a differently shaped path depending on the requirements. The transport device can be designed differently depending on the requirements and the weight of the suction tools, as well as the pre-compression pressure to be applied. For example, the carrier can be suspended from a rail system and moved along the rails by means of a motor, cable, chain, or other suitable means.For rotation of the support, it can, for example, be rotatably mounted on a shaft in appropriate bearings. In this case, the support's bearings would move along the travel path. The rotation of the support can be achieved with a suitable rotary motor, whereby the rotation can be transmitted to the support directly from the motor or via chains, gears, etc. A person skilled in the art is able to provide such mechanisms for moving a component along a travel path and for rotating it.

[0021] The first forming station according to the invention is thus able to provide shaped pieces made of fiber material in a way that is effective, flexible, high-quality and reproducibly produced with the highest possible throughput.

[0022] In one embodiment, the transport device is designed to move the carrier, after pre-pressing with one of the suction tools, from the second position to the first position without rotating the carrier. This allows molded parts from the pulp reservoir to be formed in the suction tool that was facing away from the pre-pressing tool during the initial pressing. Both suction tools are thus loaded with molded parts, enabling the pre-pressed parts to be removed from the other suction tool in a time-saving manner during the subsequent transfer of the formed parts.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the transport device is provided to rotate the carrier at a suitable position between the first and second positions after the pre-pressing of the molded parts with one of the suction tools and after the molding of the molded parts in the other of the suction tools, and to transfer the pre-pressed molded parts to a transfer unit of the transport device in order to remove them from the carrier's path for transfer to subsequent processes.

[0024] In another embodiment, the transport device is designed to eject the pre-pressed molded parts from the suction tool by means of a pressure pulse and thus transfer them to the transfer unit. The molded parts are generally held in the suction tool by the vacuum in the suction heads. If the vacuum were to be released in a downward-facing suction tool, the molded parts would have to detach from the tool due to gravity. However, since the pre-pressing process may cause the molded parts to be too tightly held in the suction heads, a pressure pulse from the suction tool can reliably release them, ensuring a smooth and dependable transfer of all molded parts from the suction tool to the transfer unit.

[0025] The transfer unit can incorporate a variety of contours on the side facing the suction tool, adapted to the shape and number of molded parts, for transferring the molded parts onto these contours. The secure fit of the molded parts on the contour of the transfer unit ensures a safe and reliable transfer of the molded parts to the second molding station.

[0026] In a further embodiment, the first forming station additionally comprises a spray unit, which is at least designed to spray the suction tool with the molded parts with a liquid before pre-pressing, during the carrier's travel to the second position. This spraying serves to clean the suction tool of fiber material in areas outside the molded parts. While spraying can also be carried out after pre-pressing, the contaminants could adhere too strongly to the suction tool due to the pre-pressing pressure. Therefore, spraying and thus cleaning before pre-pressing is advantageous.

[0027] In a further embodiment, the spray unit is additionally designed and intended to provide the molded parts with a functional coating after pre-pressing on the carrier's path towards the first position, preferably also by spraying. Functional layers could, for example, be wax layers for moisture resistance of the molded parts. Other materials for other purposes can also be applied.

[0028] In one embodiment, the first and second suction tools are connected via the carrier to a gas piping system such that a vacuum generated in the gas piping system by one or more vacuum pumps is provided as suction pressure at the respective suction heads for drawing in the fiber material. The vacuum pump can be positioned remotely from the suction tool and distribute the generated vacuum to the suction heads via the gas piping system. In another embodiment, the gas piping system also includes pressurized gas lines for supplying compressed air to the suction heads. A burst of compressed air can eject the molded parts from the suction tool, for example, for transfer to subsequent processes such as the transfer unit.

[0029] In another embodiment, the transport device is provided by a robot arm with a mounted carrier that can move freely in space. This allows the carrier or the forming station to be easily and flexibly transferred to the preforming station and, if necessary, also as a transfer unit to the second forming station. In this way, the manufacturing process can be further accelerated or modified depending on the required production rate.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the first forming station comprises a tool changer system for automatically exchanging the suction tools and the pre-compression tool. This system includes a tool carrier, movable from within the first forming station, for removing the replaced tools. The tool carrier can then reverse the process to insert new tools. Outside the first forming station, the tool carrier can be unloaded and reloaded with other tools, for example, by a robot or manually. When tools are mentioned in this context, the suction tools and the pre-compression tool are specifically meant.

[0031] In another embodiment, the carrier, as part of the tool change system, is designed to remove the suction tools and the pre-compression tool from their positions in the forming and pre-compression stations during tool changes and transfer them to the tool carrier, or to perform a reverse sequence when inserting new tools. Since the carrier itself holds the suction tools and is moved to the pre-compression tool in the second position, it is particularly suitable for tool changes.

[0032] For this purpose, the carrier includes, for example, at least one end face between the first and second sides, which is equipped with a receiving and unlocking device for removing the pre-pressing tool from the pre-pressing station and for holding it during transport to the tool carrier. Arranging the tool-changing device on the end face is particularly advantageous because this face is not used for the actual forming process, and the receiving and unlocking devices can be positioned there without disrupting the forming process. Possible unlocking devices could be, for example, mechanisms that lock after an initial press and unlock after a further press. These unlocking devices could be one or more pins protruding from the end face of the carrier. Receiving devices could be, for example, recesses into which one or more pins of the pre-pressing tool engage to hold it in place.Locking and unlocking mechanisms following a linear movement in one direction would also be possible, for example. A person skilled in the art is able to select suitable mechanisms.

[0033] In a further embodiment, the transport device is designed to rotate the carrier between the first and second positions so that its end face is directed towards the pre-pressing tool, and then the carrier's receiving and release means are brought into contact with corresponding counterparts on the pre-pressing tool, thus releasing the pre-pressing tool from its holder in the pre-pressing station. Once the receiving and release means of the carrier have been selected, the counterparts on the pre-pressing tool are correspondingly complementary mechanisms.

[0034] In a further embodiment, the transport device is designed to place the removed pre-pressing tool into the tool carrier by continuing the rotation of the carrier; preferably, the carrier includes a pre-pressing tool release mechanism for the held pre-pressing tool so that the pre-pressing tool is released for takeover by the tool carrier.

[0035] In a further embodiment, the carrier is designed to, after positioning one of the suction tools above the tool carrier, release the held suction tool for takeover by the tool carrier by means of a suction tool release mechanism, and to position the other of the suction tools above the already taken-over suction tool by means of a rotation of the carrier and to release it likewise for takeover by the tool carrier by means of the suction tool release mechanism.

[0036] In a further embodiment, the first forming station comprises at least one additional reservoir containing pulp and a pulp exchange system configured to provide one or the other reservoir with different pulp for forming the molded parts before the carrier reaches the first position, depending on the process. This allows the fiber forming process to be designed variably, since molded parts made of different materials can be produced in an uninterrupted forming process by exchanging the reservoir of pulp for another reservoir with different pulp at a timely point without process delay.

[0037] In another embodiment, the pulp exchange system comprises rails on which the reservoirs containing pulp can be moved, and a drive mechanism (for example, a motor) for moving the reservoirs containing pulp, which is controlled by the transport device depending on the process. In this case, the reservoirs could be self-propelled. This enables a simple and quick reservoir exchange.

[0038] In a further embodiment, the transport device is designed to move the carrier along the travel path between the first and second positions such that, at a first point in time in the first position, the molded part is formed in one of the suction tools from a first of the reservoirs containing pulp, and the same suction tool, at least at a second point in time later than the first point in time before pre-pressing, further forms the molded part from at least a second of the reservoirs containing different pulp. In this way, molded parts with a multi-layer structure of different fiber materials can be produced.

[0039] The first forming station can include a corresponding control system for all the movements or rotations of the respective components described above. Alternatively, this control task can also be handled by the control system of the fiber forming machine.

[0040] The invention further relates to a fiber forming plant for producing a molded part from fiber material by means of a fiber forming process carried out in the fiber forming plant, comprising at least one first forming station according to the invention for shaping and pre-shaping the molded part and a second forming station comprising a hot pressing station for final shaping of the molded part by hot pressing the pre-shaped molded part.

[0041] By combining pulp forming with a suction tool, pre-pressing in the first forming station, and hot pressing in the second, a molded part is easily produced from a fiber material. Depending on the design of the suction head contour, this part can be flexibly manufactured with a wide variety of contours. The combination of the suction tool for forming, the pre-forming, and the hot pressing stations allows for highly reproducible production of the molded parts with high accuracy and quality regarding the shape and layer thickness of the individual molded part sections. The fiber forming system according to the invention is capable of processing fibers of various types, provided they can be dissolved in such a way that excessive clumping of the fibers in the liquid solution prior to processing is avoided.In particular, this method allows for the simple, efficient, and flexible production of stable molded parts from environmentally biodegradable fiber material with good quality and reproducibility. Furthermore, the transport device of the first molding station, equipped with a double suction tool, enables the molded parts to be produced efficiently, flexibly, with good quality, and with the highest possible throughput.

[0042] After pre-pressing in the first forming station, the pre-formed part is transferred to the hot pressing station via the transfer unit. Hot pressing takes place at a high temperature and significantly higher pressure than pre-pressing. During hot pressing of the pre-formed part, the part is further reduced in size, for example, to less than 10% (by weight), preferably to approximately 7% (by weight), after which it is stable and dimensionally stable. Preferably, the lower and upper hot pressing dies are made of metal. Hot pressing is carried out at a hot pressing pressure higher than the pre-pressing pressure, for example, at a hot pressing pressure between 0.5 N / mm² and 1.5 N / mm², preferably between 0.8 N / mm² and 1.2 N / mm².The hot pressing pressure can be applied for a pressing time of less than 20 seconds, preferably more than 8 seconds, particularly preferably between 10 and 14 seconds, and even more preferably 12 seconds. The hot pressing pressure is applied to the hot pressing station hydraulically, for example, via a piston rod. This piston rod presses, for example, on the upper hot pressing tool, which in turn presses on the stationary lower hot pressing tool, with the molded part in between. The arrangement could also be reversed. In a further embodiment, the hot pressing station is designed to heat the hot pressing surfaces of the station to temperatures above 150°C, preferably between 180°C and 250°C. This allows a rapid and reliable reduction of the liquid (or moisture) content in the molded part to below 10% (by weight).

[0043] The hot pressing station enables the simple production of a finished, molded part with a significantly reduced liquid solution content from a pre-formed, slightly variable molded component using hot pressing. The hot pressing station allows for the highly reproducible production and processing of molded parts with high accuracy and quality regarding the shape and layer thickness of the individual molded part sections. In particular, this method allows for the simple, efficient, and flexible production of high-quality, end-stable molded parts from environmentally biodegradable fiber material with good reproducibility.

[0044] In one embodiment, the hot pressing station is thermally decoupled from other components of the second forming station; preferably, an actively cooled separation is arranged between the hot pressing station and the other components of the second forming station. This measure protects the other components from aging effects and ensures a reliable operating time for the fiber forming system.

[0045] In a further embodiment, the second forming station comprises at least two hot pressing stations which, depending on the process, selectively hot press the preformed parts from the first forming station, preferably with different hot pressing parameters. This allows for greater flexibility in the production of the molded parts.

[0046] In another embodiment, the fiber forming plant further comprises a pulp preparation and supply unit for replenishing the pulp reservoir. Consistent pulp quality further improves reproducibility in the production of the forming parts and allows for reliable adjustment of product quality.

[0047] In another embodiment, the fiber forming system additionally includes a punching station for removing excess fiber material from the finished molded part. Some molded parts have an uneven edge due to the fiber forming process, which can be smoothed out by removing these irregularities. In this case, the punching station can already be integrated into the fiber forming system (inline). Alternatively, fiber forming systems can be retrofitted with a punching station, which is then arranged, for example, outside the actual machine direction from the forming stage to the ejection of the finished molded parts (offline). In this variant, the molded parts can be transferred to the stationary station after hot pressing, for example, by a robot, and then returned to the original machine direction of the original fiber forming system.

[0048] In one embodiment, the fiber forming system comprises a control unit for controlling at least the forming station, the preforming station, and the hot pressing station, as well as other components such as the punching station. The control unit can be implemented as a processor, a separate computer system, or web-based, and is suitably connected to the components of the fiber forming system to be controlled, for example, via data cables or wirelessly using WLAN, radio, or other wireless transmission methods.

[0049] In a further embodiment, the fiber forming system additionally includes an output unit for ejecting the finished molded part. The output unit ejects the molded part for further transport or processing, for example to subsequent cutting, marking, printing, stacking and / or packaging stations, for example by means of a conveyor belt.

[0050] The invention further relates to a method for producing molded parts from fiber material, preferably environmentally biodegradable fiber material, by means of a fiber forming process in a fiber forming system according to the invention, comprising a first forming station and a second forming station according to the invention, and comprising the following steps: Forming the molded part from a reservoir containing a pulp as a liquid solution with the fiber material using a first and / or second suction tool as a forming station of the first forming station; pre-forming of the formed molded part in a pre-pressing station in the first forming station; final forming of the pre-formed molded part in the second forming station using hot pressing; and ejection of the final molded part from the fiber forming system.

[0051] In one embodiment of the method, this additionally includes the step of separating excess fiber material from the finished molded part by means of a punching station arranged behind the second forming station in the machine direction.

[0052] It should be expressly noted that, for the sake of readability, expressions like "at least" have been avoided wherever possible. Instead, an indefinite article ("one", "two", etc.) should normally be understood as "at least one", "at least two", etc., unless the context makes it clear that "exactly" the specified number is meant.

[0053] It should also be noted here that, within the context of the present patent application, the term "in particular" is always to be understood as introducing an optional, preferred feature. The term is therefore not to be understood as "namely" or "namely".

[0054] It is understood that features of the solutions described above or in the claims can also be combined, if necessary, in order to implement the advantages and effects achievable here in a cumulative manner. Brief description of the characters

[0055] In addition, further features, effects and advantages of the present invention are explained with reference to the accompanying drawing and the following description. Components that are at least substantially identical in their function in the individual figures are identified by the same reference numerals, although the components need not be numbered and described in all figures.

[0056] The drawing shows: Fig. 1: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the first forming station according to the present invention in a process sequence for the fiber forming process from (a) to (h); Fig. 2: Schematic representation of a further embodiment of the first forming station according to the present invention in a process sequence for the automatic tool change from (a) to (m); Fig. 3: Schematic representation of a further embodiment of the first forming station according to the present invention with a pulp exchange system; Fig. 4: An embodiment of the fiber forming system according to the invention; and Fig. 5: An embodiment of the method according to the invention for producing molded parts from fiber material. Examples of implementation

[0057] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of the first forming station 1 according to the present invention in a process sequence for the fiber forming process from (a) - (h). Fig. 1a - h show the forming station 1 for shaping 210 (see Fig. 1b , 1g ) and preforms 220 (see Fig. 1f ) of a molded part 10 (see Fig. 1f ) made of fibrous material comprising a reservoir 6 with a pulp as a liquid solution comprising the fibrous material for the molded part 10, a first and second suction tool 2, 2a, 2b as a molding station 20 (between the correspondingly marked lines) each with a plurality of suction heads 21 for drawing the fibrous material for molding 210 of the molded part 10 from the reservoir 6 with the pulp; a pre-compression station 30 (between the correspondingly marked lines) with a pre-compression tool 31 having a contour adapted or adaptable to the first and second suction tools 2, 2a, 2b for pre-forming 220 the molded parts 10 located in the first and second suction tools 2, 2a, 2b respectively, wherein the molded parts 10 are subjected to a pre-compression pressure VD (see Fig. 1f) are pressed onto the pre-compression tool 31 to reduce the moisture content in the molded part 10 and to stabilize the shape of the molded part 10, and a transport device 4 comprising a carrier 40 (here a cuboid of a certain thickness) with the first suction tool 2, 2a arranged on a first side 40a of the carrier 40 and the second suction tool 2, 2b arranged on the opposite second side 40b of the carrier 40, wherein the respective suction heads 21 are arranged on a side of the suction tools 2, 2a, 2b facing away from the carrier 40, wherein the carrier 40 is rotated by means of the transport device 4, preferably independently of each other (see white arrow D) and at least from a first position P1 for receiving fiber material from the reservoir 6 on pulp by means of one of the suction tools 2, 2a, 2b to a second position P2 for exerting the pre-compression pressure VD on the in the suction tool 2, 2a,The molded parts 10 located 2b can be moved along a travel path F (white arrow F, B). The first and second suction tools 2, 2a, 2b are connected via the carrier 40 to a gas line system 42 such that a negative pressure generated in the gas line system 40 by means of one or more vacuum pumps 43 is provided as suction pressure at the respective suction heads 21 for drawing in the fiber material. The location of the vacuum pump 43 can also be chosen differently. Here, the gas line system 42 is arranged in the vertical guide rails of the transport device 4. The carrier 40 is moved vertically along the rails B and can be rotated independently between the first and second positions P1, P2 D.

[0058] In Fig. 1a The second suction tool 2b comprises 10 pre-pressed molded parts. Fig. 1bAfter pre-pressing 220, the carrier 40 is moved to the first position P1 without rotation D of the carrier 40, so that molded parts 10 from the reservoir 6 with pulp are now formed in the first suction tool 2a, which is facing away from the pre-pressing tool 31. Fig. 1c After the forming process 210, the carrier 40 is moved and rotated D at a suitable position between the first and second positions P1, P2 to align the pre-pressed forming parts 10 of the second suction tool 2b. Fig.1d to transfer to the transfer unit 41 of the transport device 4 in order to remove it from the travel path F of the carrier 40 for onward transfer to subsequent processes (see Fig. 1e, 1fHere, the pre-pressed molded parts 10 can be ejected from the suction tool 2b by means of a pressure pulse and thus transferred to the transfer unit 41. Meanwhile, a spray unit 7 sprays the first suction tool 2a with the molded parts 10 before pre-pressing 220 during the travel path F of the carrier 40 to the second position P2 with a liquid. The spray unit 7 is controlled in a lateral movement across the surface of the first suction tool 2a. Fig.1d and 1e Only the respective end positions of this movement for the spray unit 7 are shown. Afterwards, the carrier 40 moves again to the first position, where the molded parts are now formed in the second suction tool 2b (see diagram). Fig.1g After the Fig.1h The steps for the rotation shown D are carried out as described above for the same purpose.

[0059] Fig. 2Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a further embodiment of the first forming station 1 according to the present invention in a process sequence for the automatic tool change from (a) to (m). The first forming station 1 comprises a change system 5 for automatically changing the suction tools 2a, 2b and the pre-compression tool 31, wherein the change system 5 includes a tool carrier 51 movable from the first forming station 1 for removing the changed tools 2a, 2b, 31 from the first forming station 1, and the tool carrier 51 can perform a reverse sequence for inserting new tools 2a, 2b, 31.Here, the carrier 40, as part of the exchange system 5, is designed to remove the suction tools 2a, 2b and the pre-compression tool 31 from their positions in the forming and pre-compression stations 20, 30 during exchange and transfer them to the tool carrier 51, or to perform a reverse process when inserting new tools 2a, 2b, 31. For this purpose, the carrier 40 includes an end face 40c between the first and second sides 40a, 40b, which is equipped with a receiving and unlocking means 52a, 52b for removing the pre-compression tool 31 from the pre-compression station 30 and for holding it during transport to the tool carrier 51.

[0060] In Fig. 2a, 2b The tool carrier 51 moves into its position below the support to receive the tools 2a, 2b and 31. For this purpose, the support 40 is rotated between the first and second positions P1, P2 so that its end face 40c faces the pre-pressing tool 31 ( Fig. 2c). The carrier 40 then moves towards the second position P2 and brings its receiving and unlocking means 52a, 52b into contact with corresponding counterparts 53a, 53b of the pre-pressing tool 31, so that the pre-pressing tool 31 is released from its holder in the pre-pressing station 30 ( Fig.2d , 2e ). Then the carrier 40 rotates half a turn in the direction of the tool carrier 51 ( Fig.2f ), in order to place the removed pre-pressing tool 31 into the tool holder 51 ( Fig.2g The carrier 40 includes a pre-compression tool release mechanism 54 for the held pre-compression tool 31, so that the pre-compression tool 31 is released for takeover by the tool carrier 51. With a further rotation, the second suction tool 2b is positioned above the tool carrier 51 and released for takeover by the tool carrier 51 by means of a suction tool release mechanism 55 ( Fig.2h , 2i). By a further rotation D of the carrier 40, the first suction tool 2a will now be positioned above the already acquired suction tool 2b and will also be released by the suction tool release mechanism 55 for acquisition by the tool carrier 51 ( Fig. 2j - 2l ). Subsequently, the tool carrier 51 with the tools 2a, 2b and 31 is moved out of the first forming station 1 for the exchange of the tools 2a, 2b, 31, see arrow ( Fig.2m ).

[0061] Fig. 3Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a further embodiment of the first forming station 1 according to the present invention with a pulp exchange system 8, wherein the first forming station 1 comprises at least one further reservoir 6, 6b containing pulp, and the pulp exchange system 8 is configured to provide one or the other reservoir 6, 6a, 6b with different pulp for forming the molded parts 10 before the carrier 40 reaches the first position P1, depending on the process. In this embodiment, the pulp exchange system 8 comprises rails 81 on which the reservoirs 6, 6a, 6b containing pulp are movable, and a drive means 82 for moving the reservoirs 6, 6a, 6b containing pulp, which is controlled by the transport device 4 or the first forming station 1 or the fiber forming system 100, depending on the process. The transport device 4 or the first forming station 1 or the fiber forming system 100 is controlled by the transport device 4 or the first forming station 1.The control system of the first forming station or the fiber forming system is designed to move the carrier 40 along the travel path F between the first and second positions P1, P2 such that, at a first time point in the first position P1, the molded part 10 is formed in one of the suction tools 2a from a first of the reservoirs 6, 6a with pulp, and that the same suction tool 2a, at least at a second time point later than the first time point before the pre-pressing 220, further forms the molded part 10 from at least a second of the reservoirs 6, 6b with different pulp. The same is also possible with suction tool 2b.

[0062] Fig. 4Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the fiber forming system 100 according to the invention for producing a molded part 10 from fiber material by means of a fiber forming process carried out in the fiber forming system 100. The system comprises a first forming station 1 according to the invention for shaping and pre-shaping the molded part 10 and a second forming station 60 comprising a hot pressing station 65 for final shaping of the molded parts 10 by hot pressing the pre-shaped molded parts 10. The fiber forming system 100 further comprises a pulp preparation and supply unit 50 for supplying the pulp to the reservoir 6, which is visible here at the bottom of the first forming station 1. The hot pressing station 65 can be thermally decoupled from other components of the second forming station 60; preferably, an actively cooled separation is arranged between the hot pressing station 65 and the other components of the second forming station 60.The second forming station 60 can also include at least two hot pressing stations 65 (not shown in detail here), which selectively hot press the pre-formed parts 10 from the first forming station 1, preferably with different hot pressing parameters, depending on the process. The fiber forming system 100 additionally includes a punching station 70 for separating excess fiber material from the finished part 10, which is arranged downstream (behind) the second forming station 60 in the machine direction M. Furthermore, the fiber forming system 100 includes a control unit 90.

[0063] Fig. 5Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the inventive method 200 for producing molded parts 10 from fiber material by means of a fiber forming process in an inventive fiber forming plant 100 with an inventive first forming station 1 and a second forming station comprising the following steps of forming 210 of the molded part 10 from a reservoir 6 with a pulp as a liquid solution with the fiber material by means of a first and / or second suction tool 2, 2a, 2b as forming station 20 of the first forming station 1; preforming 220 of the formed molded part 10 in a pre-pressing station 30 in the first forming station 1; final forming 230 of the preformed molded part 10 in the second forming station 60 by means of hot pressing; and finally ejecting 240 of the final formed molded part 10 from the fiber forming plant 100.In this process, within the fiber forming system, excess fiber material can be separated from the finished formed part 10 by a punching station 70 arranged in the machine direction behind the second forming station 60.

[0064] It is understood that the embodiment described above is merely a first embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiment of the invention is not limited to this embodiment. List of reference symbols used

[0065] 1 First forming station 2, 2a First suction tool 2, 2b Second suction tool 10 Molded part made of fiber material 20 Forming station 21 Suction head 30 Pre-compression station 31 Pre-compression lower tool 4 Transport device 40 Carrier 40a First side of the carrier 40b Second side of the carrier 41 Transfer unit 41 Side of the transfer unit facing the suction tool 42 Gas piping system 43 Vacuum pump 5 Changeover system 51 Tool carrier 52a, 52b Carrier's receiving and release mechanism 53a, 53b Corresponding counterparts of the pre-compression tool to the carrier's receiving and release mechanism 54 Carrier's pre-compression tool release mechanism 55 Carrier's suction tool release mechanism 6 Reservoir with pulp 6a, 6 First or second reservoir with pulp 7 Spray unit 8 Pulp exchange system 81 Rails of the pulp exchange system 82 Drive mechanism of the pulp exchange system 100 Fiber forming system 50 Pulp preparation and supply unit 60 Second forming station 65 Hot pressing station of the second forming station 70 Punching station 90 Control of the fiber forming system 200 Process for manufacturing molded parts from fiber material using a fiber forming process in a fiber forming plant 210 Forming the molded part from a reservoir containing pulp 220 Pre-forming the formed molded part in a pre-pressing station 230 Final forming of the pre-formed molded part in a second forming station 240 Ejecting the final molded part from the fiber forming plant 250 Separating excess fiber material from the final molded part B Moving the beam along the travel path D Rotating the beam F Travel path M Machine direction P1 First position P2 Second position VD Pre-compression pressure

Claims

1. A first molding station (1) for a fiber molding machine (100) for molding (210) and pre-molding (220) a molded part (10) from fiber material, preferably sustainable, degradable fiber material, in a fiber molding process comprising: - a reservoir (6) having a pulp as a liquid solution comprising the fiber material for the molded part (10) to be molded; - a first and second suction tool (2, 2a, 2b) as a molding station (20), each having a plurality of suction heads (21) for suctioning the fiber material for molding (210) the molded part (10) from the reservoir (6) having the pulp; - a pre-pressing station (30) having a pre-pressing tool (31) comprising a contour adapted or adaptable to the first and second suction tools (2, 2a, 2b) for pre-molding (220) the molded parts (10) located in the first and second suction tools (2, 2a, 2b), wherein the molded parts (10) are pressed onto the pre-pressing tool (31) via a pre-pressing pressure (VD) in order to reduce moisture content in the molded part (10) and to stabilize the shape of the molded part (10); and - a transport device (4) comprising a carrier (40) having the first suction tool (2, 2a) arranged on a first side (40a) of the carrier (40) and the second suction tool (2, 2b) arranged on the opposite second side (40b) of the carrier (40), the respective suction heads (21) being arranged on a respective side of the suction tools (2, 2a, 2b) facing away from the carrier (40), wherein the carrier (40) can be rotated (D) by means of the transport device (4), preferably independently of one another, and moved (B) along a path (F) at least from a first position (P1) for receiving fiber material from the pulp reservoir (6) by means of one of the suction tools (2, 2a, 2b) to a second position (P2) for exerting the pre-pressing pressure (VD) on the molded parts (10) located in the suction tool (2, 2a, 2b).

2. The first molding station (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the transport device (4) is intended to move the carrier (40) into the first position (P1) after pre-pressing (220), one of the suction tools (2, 2a, 2b) being in the second position (P2) without rotation (D) of the carrier (40), so that molded parts (10) from the pulp reservoir (6) can now be molded in the suction tool (2, 2a, 2b) facing away from the pre-pressing tool (31) during pre-pressing (220).

3. The first molding station (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the transport device (4) is intended, after pre-pressing (220) of the molded parts (10) has taken place via one of the suction tools (2, 2a, 2b) and after the molding (210) of the molded parts (10) has taken place in the other of the suction tools (2, 2a, 2b), to rotate (D) the carrier (40) at a suitable position between the first and second positions (PI, P2) and to transfer the pre-pressed molded parts (10) to a transfer unit (41) of the transport device (4) in order to remove them from the path (F) of the carrier (40) for transfer to subsequent processes.

4. The first molding station (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the transport device (4) is intended to eject the pre-pressed molded parts (10) from the suction tool (2, 2a, 2b) by means of a pressure surge and thus transfer them to the transfer unit (41).

5. The first molding station (1) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the transfer unit (41) comprises a contour adapted to the shape and number of molded parts (10) on the side (41a) facing the suction tool (2, 2a, 2b) for transferring the molded parts (10) to this contour.

6. The first molding station (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first molding station (1) further comprises a spraying unit (7) which is provided at least for spraying the suction tool (2, 2a, 2b) having the molded parts (10) with a liquid before pre-pressing (220) during the path (F) of the carrier (40) to the second position (P2).

7. The first molding station (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the spraying unit (7) is furthermore designed and intended to provide the molded parts (10) with a functional coating after pre-pressing (220) on the path (F) of the carrier (40) in the direction of the first position (P1), preferably also by means of spraying.

8. The first molding station (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and second suction tools (2, 2a, 2b) are connected via the carrier (40) to a gas line system (42) in such a way that a negative pressure generated in the gas line system (40) by means of one or a plurality of vacuum pumps (43) is made available as suction pressure at the respective suction heads (21) for suctioning the fiber material.

9. The first molding station (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport device (4) is provided via a robot arm which is freely movable in space and comprises a mounted carrier (40).

10. The first molding station (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contour of the pre-pressing tool (31) adapted to the first and second suction tool (2, 2a, 2b) is at least partially made of an elastomer, preferably silicone, or in that the pre-pressing tool (31) comprises a flexible membrane for covering the molded parts (10) and the pre-pressing pressure (VD) is applied as gas pressure to the membrane, which is then pressed onto the outer contour of the molded part (10).

11. The first molding station (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first molding station (1) comprises a exchange system (5) for automatically changing the suction tools (2, 2a, 2b) and the pre-pressing tool (31), wherein a tool carrier (51) movable out of the first molding station (1) is provided in the exchange system (5) for transporting the changed tools (2, 2a, 2b, 31) out of the first molding station (1) and the tool carrier (51) can pass through a reverse process for inserting new tools (2, 2a, 2b, 31).

12. The first molding station (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the carrier (40), as part of the exchange system (5), is designed to remove the suction tools (2, 2a, 2b) and the pre-pressing tool (31) from the positions in the molding and pre-pressing station (20, 30) during the exchange and to transfer them to the tool carrier (51) or to perform a reverse process when inserting new tools (2, 2a, 2b, 31).

13. The first molding station (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that the carrier (40) comprises, between the first and second sides (40a, 40b), at least an end face (40c) which is equipped with a receiving and unlocking device (52a, 52b) for removing the pre-pressing tool (31) from the pre-pressing station (30) and for holding it during transportation of the pre-pressing tool (31) to the tool carrier (51).

14. The first molding station (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that the transport device (4) is designed to rotate the carrier (40) between the first and second positions (P1, P2) for removing the pre-pressing tool (31) from the pre-pressing station (30) such that its end face (40c) faces the pre-pressing tool (31) and then brings the receiving and unlocking device (52a, 52b) of the carrier (40) into contact with corresponding counterparts (53a, 53b) of the pre-pressing tool (31), so that the pre-pressing tool (31) is released from its holder in the pre-pressing station (30).

15. The first molding station (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the transport device (4) is further designed to deposit the removed pre-pressing tool (31) in the tool carrier (51) by continuing the rotation (D) of the carrier (40), preferably the carrier (40) comprises a pre-pressing tool release mechanism (54) for the held pre-pressing tool (31), so that the pre-pressing tool (31) is released for transfer by the tool carrier (51).

16. The first molding station (1) according to any of the claims 11 to 15, characterized in that the carrier (40) is further designed, after positioning one of the suction tools (2, 2a, 2b) above the tool carrier (51), to release it by means of a suction tool release mechanism (55) for the held suction tool (2, 2a, 2b) to be acquired by the tool carrier (51), and to position the other of the suction tools (2, 2a, 2b) above the suction tool (2, 2a, 2b) already acquired by means of a rotation (D) of the carrier (40) and also to release it by means of the suction tool release mechanism (55) for the suction tool (2, 2a, 2b) held for acquisition by the tool carrier (51).

17. The first molding station (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first molding station (1) comprises at least a further reservoir (6, 6b) having pulp and a pulp exchange system (8) which is designed to provide a or a plurality of reservoirs (6, 6a, 6b) with different pulp for molding the molded parts (10) before the carrier (40) reaches the first position (P1), depending on the process.

18. The first molding station (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that the pulp exchange system (8) for this purpose comprises rails (81) on which the pulp reservoirs (6, 6a, 6b) can be displaced, and a drive (82) for displacing the pulp reservoirs (6, 6a, 6b), which is controlled by the transport device (4) in a process-dependent manner.

19. The first molding station (1) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the transport device (4) is provided for moving the carrier (40) on the path (F) between first and second positions (P1, P2) in such a way that, at a first point in time in the first position (P1), the molded part (10) is molded in one of the suction tools (2, 2a, 2b) from a first of the pulp reservoirs (6, 6a) and that in one of the suction tools (2, 2a, 2b), at least at a second point in time which is later than the first point in time and prior to pre-pressing (220), the molded part (10) is further molded with other pulp from at least a second of the reservoirs (6, 6b).

20. A fiber molding machine (100) for producing a molded part (10) from fiber material by means of a fiber molding process carried out in the fiber molding machine (100), comprising at least a first molding station (1) according to any of the claims 1 to 19 for molding and pre-molding the molded part (10) and a second molding station (60) comprising a hot-pressing station (65) for final molding of the molded part (10) via hot pressing of the pre-molded part (10).

21. The fiber molding machine (100) according to claim 20, characterized in that the fiber molding machine (100) further comprises a pulp preparation and subsequent delivery unit (50) for the subsequent delivery of pulp for the reservoir (6).

22. The fiber molding machine (100) according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the hot-pressing station (65) is thermally decoupled from other components of the second molding station (60), preferably an actively cooled partition is arranged between the hot-pressing station (65) and the other components of the second molding station (60).

23. The fiber molding machine (100) according to claim 20 to 22, characterized in that the second molding station (60) comprises at least two hot-pressing stations (65) which, depending on the process, selectively hot-press the pre-molded parts (10) of the first molding station (1), preferably having different hot-pressing parameters.

24. The fiber molding machine (100) according to claim 20 to 23, characterized in that the fiber molding machine (100) also comprises a punching station (70) for separating excess fiber material from the final molded part (10).

25. A method (200) for producing molded parts (10) from fiber material, preferably sustainable, degradable fiber material, by means of a fiber molding process in a fiber molding machine (100) according to any of the claims 20 to 24, comprising a first molding station (1) according to any of the claims 1 to 19 and a second molding station (60) comprising the following steps: - Molding (210) of the molded part (10) from a reservoir (6, 6a, 6b) having a pulp as a liquid solution comprising the fiber material by means of a first and / or second suction tool (2, 2a, 2b) as a molding station (20) of the first molding station (1); - Pre-molding (220) of the pre-molded part (10) in a pre-pressing station (30) in the first molding station (1); - Final molding (230) of the pre-molded part (10) in the second molding station (60) by means of hot pressing; and - Release (240) of the final molded part (10) from the fiber molding machine (100).

26. The method (200) according to claim 25, also comprising the step of separating (250) excess fiber material from the final formed molded part (10) via a punching station (70) arranged downstream of the second molding station (60) in the machine direction.