FLUID COOLING FILTER ASSEMBLY

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid cooling filter arrangement for a machine for processing plastics and other plasticizable materials according to the preamble of claim 1, a method for filtering and cooling a fluid for a machine for processing plasticizable materials according to the preamble of claim 10, and a machine for processing plastics and other plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine according to the preamble of claim 15.

[0002] To produce precise molded parts, e.g. made of plastic, machines for processing plastics and other plasticizable materials, in particular injection molding machines, are used. These machines usually have several components, e.g. an injection unit and a clamping unit or other hydraulic components, which must be cooled and / or lubricated by means of a fluid. The fluid should not exceed a certain temperature, as otherwise the cooling effect of the fluid for the corresponding components or consumers may be insufficient and the components may be damaged, which has a negative impact on the production process of the molded part. Furthermore, the fluid must have a certain level of purity so that the cooled components and / or their fluid circuit are not blocked by impure or dirty fluid, which would also result in insufficient cooling or lead to component failure.

[0003] For cooling and filtering fluids, such as oil, conventional concepts such as return filtration are known in the prior art. This involves returning the fluid from the consumers to the tank via a filter-cooler system. The advantage of return filtration is the low cost of the system, but the disadvantage is that the components in the filter-cooler system must be designed to withstand the high peak loads.

[0004] Alternatively, bypass filtration is used, in which the fluid from the consumer is returned to the tank. A continuous flow is drawn from the tank by an additional pump and fed back into the tank via a filter-cooler line. Advantageously, the continuous flow allows for smaller components in the filter-cooler line. The disadvantage is that the contaminated and air-enriched fluid in the tank mixes with the already filtered and cooled fluid, reducing efficiency.

[0005] For example, DE 42 03 062 C1 discloses a hydraulic system with a main and bypass flow circuit and bypass flow filtration, consisting of a fluid reservoir with an intermediate wall for the limited shielding of the fluid flows entering and leaving the fluid reservoir. The feed line to the bypass flow filter pump in the fluid reservoir is arranged directly next to the incoming leakage fluid lines, with this area being partially shielded from the rest of the fluid reservoir. The disadvantage of this solution is that it leads to mixing of the returning fluid and the already filtered and cooled fluid. Although the fluid reservoir is partially shielded, the arrangement of the components prevents a clean separation between the return flow and the intake area. Due to the lack of a fluid line with a settling zone, stratification problems arise in the fluid reservoir.Another disadvantage of this solution is that the cooled and filtered fluid is immediately sucked back in, so that the fluid does not have time to "settle down" and degas any dissolved air via a settling section.

[0006] DE 20 2017 100 053 U1 discloses a hydraulic system with a fluid tank consisting of two chambers: a return chamber and a supply chamber. A pump draws oil from the cool supply chamber and pumps it to the consumer circuits. Return oil is fed from the consumer circuits, which heat the oil, into the hot return chamber. The oil levels in the chambers are measured by corresponding level sensors and connected to a control device. The pump's flow rate is increased depending on the fill level difference and the oil temperature.

[0007] EP 2 840 239 B1 discloses a fluid cooling filter arrangement with a controllable pump motor. The speed of the pump motor can be controlled depending on the load condition of a machine powered by the fluid, with a sensor device measuring the fluid pressure and temperature, and a computing unit determining the load condition from a measured value.

[0008] DE 39 31 699 A1 discloses a method for cold-starting mobile work machines with an internal combustion engine. Oil preheating is intended to achieve the required oil viscosity for the work machine. A diesel engine drives a feed circuit pump, which draws hydraulic oil from the dirty side of a hydraulic tank. The hydraulic oil flows through a five-way valve to the oil filter and from there to the clean side of the hydraulic tank. From the clean side of the hydraulic tank, the hydraulic oil is returned to the dirty side of the hydraulic tank via return lines by pumps driven by the diesel engine. Here, too, a disadvantage is that the fluid is immediately drawn in again, so that it has no time to "settle" and degas.The tank is pressurized, the clean and dirty sides are connected via a pressure relief valve, so that the oil has no calming path due to the permanent overpressure.

[0009] Document DE 101 51 058 A1 discloses a fluid circuit comprising a fluid storage tank, a fluid pump, and a fluid filter. The fluid circuit is pressurized in its supply line behind the fluid pump and pressureless in its return line. The fluid filter is arranged as a main-flow filter in the pressureless return line of the fluid circuit.

[0010] DE 41 403 85 A1, JP 2002 327713 A, JP H02 176544 A, CN 215 039 687 U, CN 214 499 593 U and CN 210829984 U show examples of multi-chamber fluid containers accommodated in the machine frame.

[0011] Based on this prior art, the present invention is based on the object of enabling an advantageously effective and reliable cooling for a machine for processing plastics and plasticizable materials, in particular for an injection molding machine.

[0012] This object is achieved by a fluid cooling filter arrangement for a machine for processing plastics and plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine, having the features of claim 1, by a method for filtering and cooling a fluid for a machine for processing plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine, having the features of claim 10, and by a machine for processing plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine, having the features of claim 15.

[0013] Advantageous further developments are the subject of the dependent patent claims. The features listed individually in the patent claims can be combined with one another in a technologically expedient manner and can be supplemented by explanatory facts from the description and details from the figures, thereby demonstrating further embodiments of the invention.

[0014] The fluid cooling filter arrangement for a machine for processing plastics and plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine, has a first pump, e.g. a variable displacement pump with a predeterminable delivery volume, which is designed to pump at least one fluid, e.g. oil, from a first container, e.g. a tank, oil tank, into a circuit, e.g. a working circuit. The circuit supplies at least one consumer, e.g. a machine for processing plastics and plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine, with fluid. The consumers are cooled and / or lubricated with the fluid. The fluid can also be used for energy transmission, since the fluid is also used to move consumers, for example. In principle, the circuit can have various consumers, in particular an injection molding machine, parts or components of the injection molding machine, e.g.a clamping unit, an injection molding unit, as well as corresponding peripherals, such as a robot.

[0015] The fluid cooling and filter arrangement also has a second pump, e.g. a variable displacement pump with a predeterminable delivery volume, which is designed to pump the fluid via at least one cooling and / or filtering device into the first container. In order to advantageously enable effective and reliable cooling, at least one second container, e.g. a tank, oil tank, is provided which is separate from the first container and collects the fluid from the circuit and from which the second pump pumps the fluid via the cooling and / or filtering device into the first container. Separated in this context means that the containers and / or their contents are completely and entirely separated from one another so that fluid cannot flow from one container to the other and mix. For example, the containers can be arranged spatially separate from one another.This advantageously prevents the contents of one of the containers from mixing with each other, even if one of the containers overflows. It is also possible to arrange the containers next to each other, as long as the contents of the containers cannot mix with each other.

[0016] The "used" and / or warm fluid from the circuit is first collected in the second container. This container collects the dirt from the circuit and the consumer that the fluid absorbs. The fluid is then pumped by the second pump via the cooling and / or filtering device into the first container. Using the second pump advantageously prevents the dirt from being sucked back into the circuit by the first pump, which could potentially cause damage to consumers and / or components.

[0017] Further advantageously, the second container, which is separate from the first container, can be used to extract the dirt using suitable measures before the fluid is fed to the cooling and / or filtering device, which advantageously results in more effective cooling and filtering of the cooling and / or filtering device, since less dirt can clog the cooling and / or filtering device. For example, initial coarse dirt particles can be bound using magnets, which advantageously prevents this contamination from entering the circuit. Further advantageously, the second container also centrally collects the heated fluid from the return flow of the pumps, e.g. "hot" leak oil. Due to the higher temperature difference between the fluid from the return flow and the cooling medium of the cooling and / or filtering device, a higher cooling performance can be achieved, thereby increasing efficiency.

[0018] In the circuit, the fluid absorbs air over time. Another advantage is that the fluid in the second container has time to expel the air it has absorbed. Because the dirt collects in the second container, the first pump is essentially supplied with clean, cooled, and degassed fluid, which positively impacts the service life and efficiency of the first pump. Furthermore, the first container can be made smaller, as the second container provides a larger overall volume for the fluid.Furthermore, the separation of the tanks allows for a reduction in the total fluid volume. The geometric arrangement of the tanks prevents a mixing temperature from occurring. The inflow of cooled and filtered fluid, as far away as possible from the first pump, allows the fluid sufficient time to outgas despite its advantageously smaller volume, thus preventing cavitation in the intake line of the first pump. The total tank volume (in both tanks) can thus be advantageously reduced by approximately 20% compared to a conventional non-separated design.

[0019] The first and / or second container has at least one settling zone, which has at least one obstacle, e.g., a wall, that forces the fluid to travel a predetermined distance. This advantageously gives the fluid time to expel the absorbed air and degas. For example, vertical outlet plates can be provided as obstacles, forcing the fluid to rise up one plate and descend down another, which advantageously promotes degassing via air bubbles.

[0020] The separation of the containers can preferably be achieved by arranging them at a spatial distance from one another. However, it is also possible for the containers to be arranged side by side and / or accommodated in another container and separated from one another by a partition.

[0021] However, the first and / or second containers can each have a volume that at least corresponds to the total fluid volume used, so that at least one of the containers can advantageously accommodate the entire volume. This is advantageous, for example, if the fluid is completely changed once, since only one container needs to be emptied. In principle, however, other container volumes are also conceivable, e.g., a smaller volume, since the entire fluid volume is usually not contained in a single container, but is distributed across the containers, the circuit, and the consumers.

[0022] To advantageously prevent the first container and / or the second container from overflowing with fluid, at least the second pump can be controlled at least as a function of the fluid collected from the circuit in the second container and / or as a function of the fluid level in the first container. If, for example, more fluid is collected from the circuit by the second container than the second pump can pump into the first container, it is possible to control the second pump accordingly. For example, the pumping power can be increased. Furthermore, if, for example, the first container is designed with a small volume so that the fill level is too "high," the second pump can also be controlled so that the first container does not overflow with fluid, thereby advantageously preventing contamination and saving fluid.Furthermore, if, for example, the fill level in the first container decreases, the second pump can also be controlled accordingly, for example by reducing the pumping power. It is also possible for sensors to record the fill level in the first and / or second container and for the pumping power of the first and / or second pump to be controlled accordingly. It is also conceivable for the first and / or second pump to be controlled depending on the work step or cycle section of the machine. For example, the pumps can also be controlled accordingly during a machine idle state when little fluid is required, for example by reducing the pumping power or switching the pumps off to save energy. Furthermore, the controllability of the pumps also advantageously creates the structural prerequisites for the fluid to remain in the container for longer, for examplethe first and / or second container and thus has more time to outgas.

[0023] The second container and the first container are preferably arranged in series in fluid technology terms. In this context, fluid technology means that the arrangement of the containers is comparable, for example, to a series-connected electrical circuit. For example, the fluid from the circuit, e.g. the working circuit, is collected in the second container and from there is pumped by the second pump into the first container, which in turn pumps the fluid into the circuit. Advantageously, the dirt in the fluid is first collected in the second container before the fluid is pumped into the first container. The series connection can look like this, for example: circuit (output) - second container - second pump - cooling and / or filter device - first container - first pump - circuit (input).

[0024] It is also possible for the first pump to pump the fluid into the circuit via at least one additional cooling and / or filtering device. This advantageously results in improved cooling performance for the consumers, as the fluid is filtered and / or cooled again. The series connection could, for example, look like this: circuit (output) - second tank - second pump - cooling and / or filtering device - first tank - first pump - additional cooling and / or filtering device - circuit (input).

[0025] An additional cooling and / or filtering device can also be arranged so that the fluid from the circuit is first collected by the second tank via the additional cooling and / or filtering device. The series connection can be as follows, for example: circuit (output) - additional cooling and / or filtering device - second tank - second pump - cooling and / or filtering device - first tank - first pump - circuit (input).

[0026] The additional cooling and / or filtering devices can also be combined with each other. The series connection could, for example, look like this: circuit (output) - additional cooling and / or filtering device - second tank - second pump - cooling and / or filtering device - first tank - first pump - additional cooling and / or filtering device - circuit (input).

[0027] Further preferably, at least the second pump can be controllable at least as a function of the fluid collected in the second container from the circuit and / or as a function of the fill level of the fluid in the first and / or second container. Further preferably, the first pump can be controllable as a function of the consumers and / or the required fluid demand in the circuit. It is optionally also possible for the first and / or second pump to be controlled as a function of the delivery volume of the first and / or second pump and / or the fill level of the first and / or second container. If, for example, the production of a consumer cooled with the fluid or of a corresponding machine is increased, the consumer may require more fluid from the circuit in a shorter time. In order to supply the demand, the first pump can be controlled accordingly.The second pump would then also have to be controlled accordingly, since otherwise the first pump would no longer be able to pump fluid after a certain time because not enough fluid is pumped from the second pump into the first container.

[0028] For an advantageous, space-saving design, the first container and / or the second container are preferably arranged in a machine frame, e.g., a machine frame for a machine for processing plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine. It is also possible, for example, for the machine frame to already be equipped with corresponding containers. The first and second containers can be arranged side by side or spatially separated from one another.

[0029] For an advantageous, particularly space-saving and integrated design, the first container and the second container are parts of a third container and are separated from one another by at least one partition. For example, the third container can be provided to collect the fluid from the circuit. The fluid is collected at a specific point in the third container. The third container can be divided into two containers or into the first and second containers by a partition, e.g. a partition wall or sheet metal wall. For example, the machine frame can function as the third container, with the first and second containers being separated from one another by a partition wall. It is also possible for the third container to comprise the first and second containers.The first and second containers may be integral components of the third container, for example, the third container may be made from at least one piece, the third container having at least one partition dividing the third container into the first and second containers.

[0030] To advantageously prevent the first and / or second containers from overflowing with fluid and thus pumping "contaminated" fluid into the circuit, the first and / or second containers can preferably be designed in such a way that overflow of the containers is prevented. For example, the first and / or second containers can contain at least the total volume of the fluid used.

[0031] The quality of the fluid used can change over time. To advantageously issue maintenance recommendations in the event of a deterioration in the quality of the fluid, the first and / or second container preferably has at least one fluid sensor, e.g., a particle sensor, a fluid condition sensor, or an oil condition sensor. This advantageously allows important parameters of the fluid quality to be monitored. Furthermore, the fluid sensor can also detect the fluid fill level, for example, in a container.

[0032] Preferably, the capacity of the first and / or second pump is dimensioned depending on the first and / or second container. For example, if a large amount of fluid is pumped by the second pump from the second container into the first container and / or if not much fluid flows from the circuit into the second container, the second container can be designed to be correspondingly small.

[0033] To advantageously achieve automated control, the second pump is preferably controllable and / or regulated depending on at least one pump control variable. The pump control variable can, for example, adjust the pump's performance as well as other pump-specific variables, such as flow rate, opening settings, and operating modes. For example, the pump control variable can be determined based on data from sensors, thus controlling and / or regulating the pump accordingly.

[0034] Preferably, the pump control variable is selected such that neither the first container nor the second container overflows or becomes underfilled. If, for example, the fluid level in the containers and / or the pumped fluid volume is recorded, the pump size can be selected accordingly so that no container overflows, which also prevents contamination by or waste of fluid. Likewise, if, for example, the first pump needs to provide more fluid to the circuit, the second pump can be controlled accordingly so that no underfill occurs in the first container. Preferably, the pump control knows the accruing fluid volumes and the current fluid level of the containers (e.g.what fluid flows back from the consumers into the second tank depending on the cycle progress and what fluid demand does the first pump supply into the circuit), so that the controller can control the performance of the second pump accordingly based on the current status.

[0035] More preferably, the pump control variable depends on at least one of the following fluid volumes per unit of time: a fluid volume that flows back from the circuit into the second container; a fluid volume that is pumped from the second container into the first container; and a fluid volume that is pumped from the first container into the circuit. For example, it is possible to select the pump control variable based on the volume absorbed by the containers per unit of time and / or the fluid fill level using suitable sensors. If, for example, the fill level in the first container is high and only a small amount of fluid is collected in the second container from the circuit, the pump control variable can, for example, be controlled and / or regulated such that less fluid is pumped from the second container into the first container.

[0036] Preferably, the fluid flows into the first and / or second container as far away from the first and / or second pump as possible, which advantageously gives the fluid time to expel the absorbed air and outgassing. As far away as possible means that the fluid has to travel as far as possible between flowing into the container and suction by the corresponding pump, so that the fluid has enough time to outgassing. For example, it is possible to increase the distance for the fluid between the fluid flowing in and the suction of the fluid by the pump by making the container larger. It is also possible to control the pumps preferentially in order to control the flow accordingly. For example, the pump output can be reduced so that the fluid stays in the container longer and thus has more time to outgassing. The structural requirements for this are met by the controllable pumps.

[0037] Further preferably, at least one settling zone, in which the fluid outgasses, is provided between the inflow of the fluid into the first and / or second container and the first and / or second pump. If, for example, the fluid flows into the first and / or second container, the settling zone can be provided in the first and / or second container between the inflow of the fluid and the suction of the fluid by means of the second pump. For example, obstacles, e.g. walls, can be inserted into the container, which guide the fluid and form a path as a settling zone and thus force the fluid over the greatest possible distance. Advantageously, the fluid is thus given more time to expel the absorbed air and to outgas. For example, it is also possible for the fluid to travel a winding path, e.g. a meandering path, within the container. For example, an obstacle, e.g.A metal sheet is attached to the bottom and another obstacle, e.g., another cross-shaped plate, is attached at the level of the upper fluid level. The fluid is thus forced, e.g., to rise in a meandering fashion along the lower sheet and flow downward along the upper sheet. The vertical surfaces of the obstacles further promote outgassing, as the air bubbles settle on the walls of the sheet and rise upwards. The settling zone is preferably in contact with the environment, ensuring sufficient exchange with the environment and allowing the fluid to outgas.

[0038] The object is further achieved by a method for filtering and cooling a fluid for a machine for processing plastics and plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine, wherein at least one fluid is pumped from a first container into a circuit and fluid is pumped via a cooling and / or filtering section into the first container. The fluid is collected from the circuit in a second container, which is separate from the first container, and is pumped from the second container via the cooling and / or filtering section into the first container. Advantageously, all the dirt from the circuit and the consumer is collected in the second container, wherein the separation of the containers prevents the dirt from being sucked back in by the first pump. Using suitable measures, the contamination can be extracted from the second container before the fluid is fed to the cooling and / or filtering section.This results in greater effectiveness and a longer service life of the cooling and / or filter system.

[0039] Another advantage of the second container is that it also centrally collects the heated fluid from the return flow of the pumps, e.g. "hot" leakage oil, whereby a higher cooling performance and efficiency is achieved due to a higher temperature difference between the return fluid, e.g. return oil, and the cooling medium.

[0040] In the circuit, the fluid absorbs air over time. Another advantage is that the fluid in the second reservoir has time to expel the air it has absorbed. Because the dirt collects in the second reservoir, the first pump is essentially supplied with only clean, cooled, and degassed fluid, which positively impacts the service life and efficiency of the first pump.

[0041] The pumping of the fluid from the second container into the first container is controlled depending on the fluid collected in the second container from the circuit, the fluid fill level in the first container and / or in the second container and / or the fluid pumped from the first container into the circuit. This advantageously makes it possible to react to a wide variety of changes in the fluid circuit. For example, if consumption in the circuit increases, more fluid can be made available in the first container under the assumption that there is enough fluid available in the second container. Furthermore, the controllability of the pumps advantageously creates the conditions for the fluid to remain in the container for longer and thus have more time to outgas. For example, the flow rate of the pumps can be controlled so that the fluid remains in the container for longer and thus has more time to outgas.

[0042] The fluid in the first and / or second container is forced along at least one path relative to at least one settling zone. Advantageously, the fluid remains in the first and / or second container longer and thus has more time to degas.

[0043] Preferably, the second container and the first container are connected in series for fluid technology purposes. In this context, "fluid technology" means that the arrangement of the containers is comparable, for example, to a series-connected electrical circuit. For example, the fluid from the circuit is collected in the second container and from there is pumped by the second pump into the first container, which in turn pumps the fluid into the circuit. Advantageously, the dirt in the fluid is initially collected in the second container. For example, magnets can be used to bind coarse dirt particles before the fluid is pumped into the first container, preventing this dirt from entering the circuit. It is important that the "dirty" fluid is passed through at least one filter section before it is pumped into the circuit, e.g., the working circuit, by the first pump.For example, the circuit may contain control components that are sensitive to even the smallest contamination. Filtration therefore serves both to improve the service life of the first pump and to protect the sensitive control components. The series connection could, for example, look like this: circuit (output) - second tank - second pump - cooling and / or filter device - first tank - first pump - circuit (input).

[0044] To advantageously prevent contamination by and waste of fluid, at least the same amount of fluid is pumped from the second container into the first container as fluid flows from the circuit into the second container. For example, on average, at each operating point, more fluid is withdrawn from the second container than flows back from the circuit into the second container. This advantageously ensures a uniform flow of fluid, so that a consistent cooling effect is achieved. This also advantageously ensures that the second container does not overflow, thereby preventing contamination by and / or waste of fluid.

[0045] Preferably, the second pump is controlled such that the second pump pumps at least the same amount of fluid from the second container to the first container as the amount of fluid flowing from the circuit into the second container. For example, the volume of the containers, in particular of the first container, can be smaller and the total amount of fluid required can be reduced the more uniformly the fluid is transferred from the second container to the first container, thereby advantageously conserving resources.

[0046] Preferably, the pumping of the fluid from the second container into the first container is controlled as a function of at least one pump control variable. The pump control variable can be derived from several data and / or information sources, for example from sensors. For example, the pump control variable can be derived from the fill level of the containers, the flow rate of the pumps, and the fluid material.

[0047] To prevent contamination from overflowing fluid, the pump control variable is preferably selected so that no fluid flows from the first tank into the second tank. For example, if the tanks are located close to each other or separated by a wall, it may happen that "dirty" fluid flows from the second tank into the first tank uncooled and unfiltered.

[0048] Further preferably, for advantageously increased effectiveness, the fluid remains in the first and / or second container at least until the air absorbed in the fluid has been expelled. The fluid is given a certain amount of time in the first and / or second container to expel the air absorbed in the fluid over time. For example, the fluid can remain in the container for a longer period of time by controlling the first and / or second pump, for example by reducing the pumping power. It is also possible to change the flow velocity of the fluid and / or change, preferably increase, the distance traveled by the fluid from its inflow into the first and / or second container to the first and / or second pump.

[0049] The object is also achieved by a machine for processing plastics and other plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine, wherein the machine has at least one fluid cooling filter arrangement described above and / or is designed, configured and / or set up to carry out at least one method described above.

[0050] Further advantages emerge from the dependent claims and the following description of a preferred embodiment. The features listed individually in the claims can be combined with one another in a technologically expedient manner and can be supplemented by explanatory facts from the description and details from the figures, whereby further embodiments of the invention are shown.

[0051] The invention will be explained in more detail below using an exemplary embodiment illustrated in the accompanying figures. They show: Fig. 1 a cooling-filter arrangement, Fig. 2 - 5 schematic, isometric views of a cooling-filter arrangement, Fig. 6 a schematic, isometric view of a cooling-filter arrangement with fluid flow indicated, Fig. 7 a schematic (fluid-technical) view of a cooling-filter arrangement, Fig. 8a - d each a schematic representation of a container arrangement, Fig. 9 a cooling-filter arrangement with a calming zone, Fig. 10 a cooling-filter arrangement with a calming zone. Description of preferred embodiments

[0052] The invention will now be explained in more detail by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the inventive concept to a specific arrangement.

[0053] Before describing the invention in detail, it should be noted that it is not limited to the specific components of the device and the specific method steps, as these components and methods may vary. The terms used herein are intended solely to describe particular embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. Furthermore, when the singular or indefinite articles are used in the description or claims, this also refers to the plural of these elements, unless the overall context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0054] An example of implementation is shown in Fig. 1 a cooling-filter arrangement 10 for a machine for processing plastics and other plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine, with a first pump 12, which is designed to pump at least one fluid from a first container 14 into a circuit 24, and a second pump 16, which is designed to pump the fluid via at least one cooling 19 and / or filter device 21 into the first container 14. The first container 14 and the second container 18 are in Fig. 1 completely separated from each other by a partition 26, for example a wall. The fluid is pumped by the second pump 16 from the second container 18 via the cooling 19 and / or filter device 21 into the first container 14. In a further embodiment, the first container 14 and the second container 18 can be at least part of a third container 28, as is also shown schematically in Fig. 2 Furthermore, the first pump 12 and the second pump 14 as well as the cooling 19 and / or filter device 21 can also be arranged in the third container 28, which itself is arranged, for example, in a machine stand 22. In Fig. 1 Fluid from hoses 30 from the circuit 24 is collected in the second container 18. The fluid flows, for example, along the arrows 32 in the second container 18 to the second pump 16 or is sucked in by the second pump 16. The second pump 16 pumps the fluid via the cooling device 19 and / or filter device 21 into the first container 14, from where it is pumped into the circuit 24 by the first pump 12.

[0055] The Figuren 2 - 6 each show further embodiments of a schematic, isometrically illustrated cooling filter arrangement 10 from different perspectives, wherein in the Fig. 4 and 5For clarity, a piece of a wall of the machine stand 22 was cut out. In Fig. 6 The fluid flow is indicated by arrows 32. In the embodiment according to Fig. 6 First, from the circuit 24 via a hose 30 into the second container 18. From there, the fluid is pumped by the second pump 16, first through the filter device 21 and the cooling device 19 into the first container 14. From there, it is pumped into the circuit 24 by the first pump 12.

[0056] Fig. 7 shows a further embodiment and a schematic (fluidic) representation of the cooling-filter arrangement 10. The first container 14 and the second container 18 are arranged in series for fluidic purposes. The fluid is first collected from the circuit 24 by the second container 18 and then pumped by the second pump 16 via the cooling 19 and / or filter device 21 into the first container 14, from where it is pumped into the circuit 24 by the first pump 12.

[0057] In the example in Fig. 1 At least the second pump 18 is controllable at least as a function of the fluid collected in the second container 18 from the circuit 24 and / or as a function of the fill level of the fluid in the first container 14. For example, this can be done via a control system (not shown) and / or via a machine control system.

[0058] For an advantageous space-saving design, in a further embodiment according to Fig. 1 the first container 14 and / or the second container 18 are arranged in a machine stand 22, for example in a machine stand of a machine for processing plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine.

[0059] In another embodiment in Fig. 7 The first container 14 and the second container 18 are parts of a third container 28 and are separated from each other by at least one partition 26. The third container 28 can, in a further preferred embodiment, be constructed according to Fig. 1 be arranged in a machine stand 22 or be part of the machine stand 22. In Fig. 1 The machine stand 22 forms, so to speak, the third container 28, while the partition 26, e.g., a wall, divides the third container into the first container 14 and the second container 18. However, it is also possible for the machine stand 22 to have the first container 14 and the second container 18 or to be designed accordingly.

[0060] In order to advantageously enable monitoring of the fluid with regard to better quality, in a further embodiment according to Fig. 7 the first container 14 and / or the second container 18 has at least one fluid sensor 34.

[0061] In a further embodiment according to Fig. 1 At least the second pump 16 can be controlled and / or regulated depending on at least one pump control variable. For example, depending on the fluid return from the circuit 24, the pump control variable can be used to adjust the second pump 16 to pump more or less fluid from the second container 18 into the first container 14. In a further embodiment, the pump control variable is preferably selected such that neither the first container 14 nor the second container 18 overflows or becomes underfilled.

[0062] In a further embodiment, the pump control variable depends on at least one of the following fluid volumes per unit of time: a fluid volume which flows back from the circuit 24 into the second container 18, a fluid volume which is pumped from the second container 18 into the first container 14, a fluid volume which is pumped from the first container 14 into the circuit 24.

[0063] In an embodiment according to Fig. 7 A method for filtering and cooling a fluid for a machine for processing plastics and plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine, is shown, wherein at least one fluid is pumped from a first container 14 into a circuit 24 and fluid is pumped via a cooling 19 and / or filter device 21 into the first container 14. The fluid from the circuit 24 is collected in a second container 18, which is separate from the first container 14, and pumped from the second container 18 via the cooling 19 and / or filter device 21 into the first container 14.

[0064] In a further embodiment according to Fig. 7 the second container 18 and the first container 14 are fluidically connected in series.

[0065] The pumping of the fluid from the second container 18 into the first container 14 is carried out in the embodiment in Fig. 7 controlled as a function of the fluid collected in the second container 14 from the circuit 24, the fluid level in the first container 14 and / or in the second container 18 and / or the fluid pumped from the first container 14 into the circuit 24.

[0066] In a further embodiment according to Fig. 7 at least the same amount of fluid is pumped from the second container 18 into the first container 14 as fluid from the circuit 24 enters the second container 18.

[0067] The second pump 16 is in a further embodiment according to Fig. 7 controlled so that at least the same amount of fluid is pumped from the second container 18 into the first container 14 as fluid from the circuit 24 enters the second container 18.

[0068] The pumping of the fluid from the second container 18 into the first container 14 is carried out in a further embodiment according to Fig. 7 controlled depending on at least one pump control variable.

[0069] In a further embodiment according to Fig. 1 the pump control variable is selected so that no fluid flows from the first container 14 into the second container 18.

[0070] To advantageously prevent "contaminated" fluid from being pumped into the circuit 24, in a further preferred embodiment, the first container 14 and / or the second container 18 can be selected or designed in such a way as to prevent overflow of the containers 14, 18. For example, the containers 14, 18 can be designed to be at least as large as the total fluid volume used.

[0071] In the Figuren 8a - 8d Further preferred embodiments are shown, which show the arrangement of the containers 14, 18 and 28 relative to one another.

[0072] In Fig. 8a The first container 14 and the second container 18 are arranged side by side and separated from each other by a partition 26, e.g., a wall. For example, the containers 14, 18 can be pushed together so that their walls physically touch, thus forming the partition 26. However, an additional partition 26 can also be provided.

[0073] In Fig. 8b The first container 14 and the second container 18 are each part of the third container 28 and are separated from each other by a partition 26. In principle, it is also conceivable for the first container 14 and the second container 18 to form the third container 28 as a whole and to be separated from each other by a partition 26. It is also conceivable for the third container 28 to form the first container 14 and the second container 18 through the partition 26.

[0074] In Fig. 8c The first container 14 and the second container 18 are parts of the third container 28, wherein the first container 14 and the second container 18 are arranged spatially separate from one another and thus no separation 26 is required. For example, the containers 14, 18 can be arranged in the third container 28 without their walls physically touching. Advantageously, even if one of the containers 14, 18 overflows, the respective contents do not mix. It is also advantageous that in the event of one of the containers 14, 18 overflowing, the overflow is collected in the third container 28.

[0075] In Fig. 8d The first container 14 and the second container 18 are arranged spatially separated from each other, so that no separation 26 is required. Advantageously, in the event of an overflow from one of the containers 14, 18, the respective contents do not mix.

[0076] In a further preferred embodiment according to Fig. 4 the fluid flows into the first 14 and / or second container 18 as far away as possible from the first 12 and / or second pump 16. For example, the fluid flows into Fig. 4 The fluid enters the first container 14 from a hose 40 at the "bottom left" and is pumped further at the "top right" by the first pump 12. Understandably, the location of the fluid's inflow and the location of its further pumping may vary depending on the container design.

[0077] In the embodiment according to Fig. 9 In a settling zone 36, an obstacle 38, e.g. a sheet, is attached to the floor and another obstacle 38, e.g. another cross plate, is attached to the height of the upper fluid level in the first container 14. The fluid flow is in Fig. 9 represented by arrows. The fluid is thus forced to rise up the lower plate and flow down the upper plate, whereby the vertical surfaces of the obstacles advantageously further promote outgassing, as the air bubbles settle on the walls of the plates and rise upwards. In principle, any number of obstacles 38 can be provided depending on the space in the container. In principle, the second container 18 or the first container 14 and the second container 18 can also have a settling zone 36. It is also possible for several settling zones 36 to be provided in the first container 14 and / or the second container.

[0078] In a further preferred embodiment according to Fig. 10 The first container 14 has a settling zone 36, which has three obstacles 38, e.g., walls. In principle, however, any number of obstacles 38 can be provided. The fluid is thus forced along a longer path, e.g., a meandering path, allowing the fluid more time to degas. In principle, the second container 18, or the first container 14 and the second container 18, can also have a settling zone 36. It is also possible for multiple settling zones 36 to be provided in the first container 14 and / or the second container.

[0079] In a further preferred embodiment, the embodiments according to Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 can also be combined with each other. The fluid is thus forced by obstacles 38, e.g., sheets on the floor and cross sheets, to rise up the lower sheet and flow down the upper sheet, while simultaneously forcing the fluid along a winding path.

[0080] In a further preferred embodiment according to Fig. 10 Between the inflow of the fluid into the first 14 and / or the second container 18 and the first 12 and / or second pump 16, at least one calming zone 36 is provided, in which the fluid outgasses. Bezugszeichenliste

[0081] 10Fluid cooling filter arrangement 12First pump 14First tank 16Second pump 18Second tank 19Cooling device 21Filter device 22Machine stand 24Circuit 26Separation 28Third tank 30Hose 32Arrow 34Fluid sensor 36Settling zone 38Obstacle 40Hose

Claims

1. A fluid cooling / filtering arrangement (10), configured for a machine for processing plastics and other plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine, comprising a first pump (12), which is configured for pumping at least one fluid out of a first container (14) into a circuit (24), and a second pump (16), which is configured for pumping the fluid into the first container (14) by way of at least one cooling (19) and / or filtering device (21), characterized in that there is provided at least one second container (18), which is separated from the first container (14) and which collects the fluid from the circuit (24) and out of which the second pump (16) pumps the fluid into the first container (14) by way of the cooling (19) and / or filtering device (21), and in that at least the second pump (18) is controllable at least depending on the fluid collected in the second container (18) from the circuit (24) and / or depending on the filling level of the fluid in the first (14) and / or the second container (18), and that the first (14) and / or the second container (18) comprises at least one calming zone (36) and the calming zone comprises at least one obstacle that forces the fluid onto a predetermined path.

2. The arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the second container (18) and the first container (14) are arranged fluidically in series.

3. The arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first container (14) and / or the second container (18) are arranged in a machine base (22).

4. The arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first container (14) and the second container (18) are parts of a third container (28) and are separated from one another by at least one partition (26).

5. The arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first container (14) and / or the second container (18) comprise at least one fluid sensor (34).

6. The arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the second pump (16) is controllable by open- and / or closed-loop control depending on at least one pump variable.

7. The arrangement according to claim 6, characterized in that the pump variable is selected such that neither the first container (14) nor the second container (18) can overflow or undergo a shortfall.

8. The arrangement according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the pump variable depends on at least one of the following fluid volumes per unit time: - a fluid volume that flows back into the second container (18) from the circuit (24); - a fluid volume that is pumped out of the second container (18) and into the first container (14); - a fluid volume that is pumped out of the first container (14) and into the circuit (24).

9. The arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one calming zone (36) is provided between the inflow of the fluid into the first container (14) and / or the second container (18) and the first pump (12) and / or the second pump (16).

10. A method for filtering and cooling a fluid for a machine for processing plastics and other plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine, wherein at least one fluid is pumped out of a first container (14) and into a circuit (24), and fluid is pumped into the first container (14) by way of a cooling (19) and / or filtering device (21), characterized in that the fluid is collected from the circuit (24) in a second container (18) which is separated from the first container (14), and in that the fluid is pumped out of the second container (18) and into the first container (14) by way of the cooling (19) and / or filtering device (21), and in that pumping the fluid from the second container (18) into the first container (14) is controlled depending on the fluid collected from the circuit (24) in the second container (14), the fluid filling level in the first (14) and / or the second container (18), and / or the fluid that is pumped into the circuit (24) from the first container (14), and that the fluid in the first (14) and / or the second container (18) is forced on at least one path in respect of at least one calming zone (36), wherein the at least one calming zone comprises at least one obstacle that forces the fluid onto the path.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that the second container (18) and the first container (14) are connected fluidically in series.

12. The method according to one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that at least as much fluid is pumped from the second container (18) into the first container (14) as reaches the second container (18) from the circuit (24).

13. The method according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that pumping the fluid from the second container (18) into the first container (14) is controlled depending on at least one pump variable, which is preferably selected such that no fluid flows out of the first container (14) into the second container (18).

14. The method according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the fluid remains in the first (14) and / or the second container (18) at least until the air taken up in the fluid has been discharged.

15. A machine for processing plastics and other plasticizable materials, in particular an injection molding machine, characterized in that the machine comprises at least one fluid cooling / filtering arrangement (10) as claimed in one of claims 1 to 9 and / or takes a form, is configured and / or is set up to carry out a method as claimed in one of claims 10 to 14.