AIR FLOW SCRATCHING ELEMENT

Description

[0001] The innovation proposed here concerns the technical field of separating particles carried along with an air stream (raw gas stream), in particular the separation of paint or varnish particles carried along with a so-called paint mist as a raw gas stream, i.e. the technical field of paint mist separation.

[0002] Devices, namely airflow separators (in short: separators), for this purpose are already known, for example in the form of the separator described in EP 2 532 409 B and referred to there as a filter module or in the form of the separator described in DE 10 2014 003 608 A1 and also referred to there as a filter module.

[0003] One objective of the proposed innovation is to specify a new form of an airflow separator element intended for use with or in an airflow separator device, or at least suitable for separating particles carried along with a raw gas stream.

[0004] Airflow separator elements are also already known. These are planar elements that either have their own frame-like rim or are provided with a frame-like rim and are combined with other airflow separator elements and / or an airflow separator device by means of this rim. An airflow separator element has a plurality of openings (holes) for the passage of the raw gas stream. The specific arrangement and number of holes result in / determine the hole pattern of the respective airflow separator element.

[0005] From DE 10 2014 004 608 A1, an airflow separator device is known, comprising a plurality of airflow separator elements arranged one behind the other in the direction of flow of a raw gas stream. The individual airflow separator elements have planar separation areas with flow openings and lateral connecting tabs, the connecting tabs extending perpendicular to the separation areas and the airflow separator elements being spaced apart from one another. From EP 2 722 092 A1, air filters are known in which filter media are inserted into a frame. From EP 3 325 128 A1, a filter structure body for a filter module is known, comprising a support structure divided into segments and a filter layer arranged thereon. US patents 4,561,587 and 7,537,632 disclose frames with closable corners designed to hold an air filter, which are created by folding a flat, one-piece piece of cardboard.From US patent 2009 / 0183477 A1, frames with laterally projecting and overlapping segments for air filters are known, wherein the segments allow multiple frames to be stacked and enable adjustment of the frames relative to each other within the stack. From CN 113842715 B, airflow separator elements are known which can be combined with each other in groups by means of comb-like connecting pieces, so that the airflow separator elements are arranged parallel to each other and staggered one behind the other. From CN 209985061 U, a single airflow separator element is known which can be placed in front of an airflow separator device with its own frame. From CN 216149343 U, airflow separator elements are known which can be placed one behind the other in a staggered arrangement within a common frame.A separator device is known from CN 111714992 A, in which a plurality of walls are arranged one behind the other with respect to an airflow. These walls have, in part, guide openings that are used solely to create a labyrinth. An airflow separator element and an airflow separator device formed therewith are described in the unpublished DE 20 2022 102 215.1. US 3,744,222 A shows separator elements with lateral spacer tabs.

[0006] The problem outlined above is solved according to the invention by means of a device, referred to here and in the following as an airflow separator element and sometimes simply as a separator element, having the features of claim 1.

[0007] The airflow separator element is designed and configured to separate particles carried along with a raw gas stream. A possible alternative long form for the name of the airflow separator element is raw gas stream particle separator element / air particle separator element, or – in the case of separating particles from a paint mist – paint mist separator element. However, for the sake of readability, the short form "separator element" will often be used in the following text, whereby every mention of this term also implies the term airflow separator element and the longer forms mentioned above.The same applies accordingly to terms introduced further below, namely separation combination (possible long forms: airflow separation combination; raw gas flow / air particle separation combination or paint mist separation combination) or separation device (possible long forms: airflow separation device; raw gas flow / air particle separation device or paint mist separation device).

[0008] The separating element (airflow separator) comprises a separation area (airflow separation area), insertion areas, and connecting elements adjoining or extending from the separation area, hereinafter referred to as connecting tabs or simply tabs. Connecting tabs adjoining the separation area are, for example, integrally connected to it. Connecting tabs extending from the separation area are attached to it, for example, by gluing, stapling, or similar methods.

[0009] The insertion areas and connecting tabs are designed and configured for the detachable connection of one separation element to another, namely another separation element as described here and below. The insertion areas are located within the separation area (within the area of ​​the separation area) or at the edge of the separation area (at the edge of the area of ​​the separation area). A separation element has at least one number of insertion areas corresponding to the number of connecting tabs, and possibly more, for example, four insertion areas with two opposing connecting tabs.

[0010] The special feature of the separator element is that it has at least one door within the separation area and, corresponding to the number of doors, at least one door insertion area. Each door has at least one insertion section that can be inserted into a door insertion area, in particular a slotted door insertion area (door insertion slot), of another separator element to secure the door in the open position. An open door in a separation area guides the raw gas flow, especially in the case of several separator elements arranged in a staggered sequence, each with at least one open door. The resulting guidance of the raw gas flow leads to changes in direction, turbulence formation, and / or local changes in flow velocity, which improves the separation efficiency of a separator element as well as that of several separator elements arranged in a staggered sequence.

[0011] The device – the separating element (airflow separator) – is designed and configured for separating particles, particularly paint particles, carried along with a raw gas stream. Furthermore, the separating element is intended for use in or with a separating device. For example, a separating device of the type mentioned above or the like could be used with a separating device.

[0012] Because the separator element is designed to remove particles, particularly paint particles, carried along in a raw gas stream, the proposed separator element can also be referred to as a raw gas stream particle separator, specifically as a paint particle separator / air particle separator, or—in the case of separating particles from a paint mist—as a paint mist separator. In any case, the proposed separator element is intended for use in an air stream and is used in an air stream when used as intended. The designation as an air stream separator emphasizes both its use / suitability for use in an air stream and its suitability for removing particles carried along by the respective air stream. These particles include, for example, paint particles carried by the air stream.This highlights the designation paint mist separation element.

[0013] A separator element of the type proposed here can be quickly and easily connected to another separator element using the connecting tabs. As a result, two or each pair of separators of the type proposed here are connected to each other. Further separators can then be connected to these connected separators using the connecting tabs. Such a combination of separators is referred to below as an airflow separator combination or simply as a separator combination. A separator combination comprises at least two separators of the type described here and below, connected to each other using the connecting tabs (two, three, four, or more separators).Since the separation combination comprises at least two such separation elements, each assembly contains identical separation elements (identical parts; each separation element comprises a separation area, connecting tabs and insertion areas within the separation area, and optionally at least one door; beyond this, the separation elements may differ without losing their designation as identical parts, for example, in the design of the respective separation areas). A separation combination can also be created by connecting two separation combinations together. Such a connection is also made by means of the connecting tabs. In a separation combination, the separation elements it comprises are arranged in a staggered sequence, with intervals determined by the respective effective length of the connecting tabs.The separation areas of the separation elements encompassed by the separation combination lie in parallel or at least substantially parallel planes (straight lines along normals erected at the centroid of the separation areas coincide or at least substantially coincide). In other words, if a further separation element (second separation element) is connected to a further separation element (first separation element), a projection of the separation area of ​​the first separation element perpendicular to the surface of this separation area covers the separation area of ​​the second separation element or at least substantially covers it.

[0014] Qualifying terms used in the description presented here, such as "parallel or at least essentially parallel," are due to possible tolerances in the manufacturing of the separating elements, as well as possible tolerances in joining two separating elements. Such tolerances, especially those in joining two separating elements, can never be completely eliminated. Therefore, one cannot always speak of perfect parallelism, even though ideally, perfect parallelism is indeed achieved.

[0015] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the further claims. References within the claims indicate the further development of the subject matter of the referenced claim by the features of the respective dependent claim. They are not to be understood as a waiver of the right to obtain independent, substantive protection for the features or combinations of features of a dependent claim. Furthermore, with regard to the interpretation of the claims and the description, when specifying a feature in a dependent claim in more detail, it should be assumed that no such limitation exists in the preceding claims or in a more general embodiment of the device in question. Therefore, any reference in the description to aspects of dependent claims is to be read, even without specific indication, as a description of optional features.

[0016] The connecting tabs of a separator element determine the distance between two separator elements connected by them. This distance is determined by the effective length of each connecting tab.

[0017] The connecting tabs of a separating element are folded over, for example against the surface of the separating area, to connect the separating element to another separating element. The dimension of each connecting tab, measured from the plane of the separating area, is considered its length. The effective length of each connecting tab determines the distance between two separating elements, specifically the distance between their separating areas.

[0018] Each connecting tab is articulated to the separation area. For this purpose, the separation element has a bend in the transition area between the separation area and the respective tab, which is defined, for example, by a perforation, a fold, a notch, or a groove. To adjust the effective length, in an advantageous embodiment of the separation element, each connecting tab is divided into at least two sections. This division is advantageously in the form of a (further) bend, which is again defined, for example, by a perforation, a fold, a notch, or a groove. One of the at least two sections (first section) connects directly to the separation area via its bend. A further section (second section) of the at least two sections connects directly to this first section, particularly via its additional bend.

[0019] The creases are linear creases. Each connecting tab has at least two linear creases: one between the separation area and the connecting tab, and at least one between the at least two sections of the connecting tab. The linear creases of each connecting tab are parallel or at least substantially parallel to each other.

[0020] Each section enclosed by a connecting tab has an insertion section. Each insertion section is designed and configured to be inserted into an insertion area of ​​another separation element. These insertion areas are, for example, slots in the separation area. Such slots are parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the linear kinks.

[0021] By providing each section of the connecting tabs with an insertion section, by allowing the effective length of each connecting tab to be shortened by folding at least one section, and by allowing each insertion section to be inserted into an insertion area of ​​another separation element, different distances between any two separation elements connected by the connecting tabs are easily achievable. A maximum distance is achieved when none of the fold lines between adjacent sections of the connecting tabs are used, and accordingly, the successive sections of the connecting tabs are aligned in a straight line or at least substantially in a straight line, all sections of the connecting tabs together determine their effective length, and the insertion sections at the end of the connecting tabs are inserted into the insertion areas of the other separation element.A minimum distance is achieved when the connecting tabs are folded over along the bend between the first section immediately adjacent to the separation area and the section following it, the first sections of the connecting tabs determine their effective length, and the insertion sections at the end of each first section of the connecting tabs are inserted into the insertion areas of the other separation element. Further defined distances are possible between the maximum and minimum distances, for example, if the connecting tabs have more than two sections, all connecting tabs of a separation element are folded over at corresponding bends, and the respective insertion sections are inserted into the insertion areas of the other separation element.

[0022] In such an embodiment of the separating element, each connecting tab encompassed by the separating element has a linear bend between two consecutive sections of the connecting tabs, and an insertion section originates in the region of this bend. When a connecting tab is bent at the bend, the insertion section extending from the bend becomes a free end of the connecting tab, and this insertion section can be inserted into an insertion area of ​​another separating element.To connect two separation elements (first separation element, second separation element) using the connecting tabs, all connecting tabs of the first separation element are folded over at the same point – each along the same section – and the insertion sections extending from the resulting folds become the free ends of the connecting tabs and can be inserted into a corresponding insertion area of ​​the second separation element. This results in a smaller gap between the two separation elements than would be the case without such folding.

[0023] The special feature of a separating element with connecting tabs having at least two sections is that the distance between two separating elements connected by means of the connecting tabs can be changed. InA separation unit can thus create areas with different flow characteristics, for example, areas where the raw gas flows at high velocity and areas where it flows at lower velocity. The respective flow characteristic or velocity is determined between the separation zones of two successive separation elements. Areas with a first flow characteristic or lower flow velocity result from a large or maximum distance between two successive separation elements, while areas with a second flow characteristic or higher flow velocity result from a smaller or minimum distance between two successive separation elements.The ability to easily create areas with different flow characteristics, especially different flow velocities, within a separation combination improves the suitability of the respective separation combination for separating particles carried along with the raw gas stream.

[0024] In an advantageous embodiment of a separating element with at least one door and at least one door insertion area, the door(s) is subdivided into at least two door sections to allow for adjustment of the effective length of the respective door. This subdivision functionally corresponds to the previously mentioned subdivision of the connecting tabs. However, the subdivision of the door(s) of a separating element into at least two door sections is fundamentally independent of whether the connecting tabs of the separating element are actually subdivided into at least two sections. In other words, a separating element can have the door(s) subdivided into at least two door sections even though such a subdivision is not provided for in the connecting tabs of the separating element, or vice versa. Alternatively, both the door(s) and the connecting tabs can be subdivided into at least two sections.Door sections may be subdivided.

[0025] In the case of a separating element with at least one door, wherein the door or each door is divided into at least two door sections, the possibility of different distances between each pair of separating elements connected by means of the connecting tabs can also be used in separating elements with at least one door each.

[0026] The descriptions of the connecting tab sections (tab sections) apply accordingly to the door sections, and the door, which is divided into at least two door sections, comprises a first door section directly adjacent to the separation area and a second door section directly adjacent to the first door section. Each door section, enclosed by a door, has a door insertion section that can be inserted into a door insertion area of ​​another airflow separation element. Inserting the door insertion section into a door insertion area secures the door in the open position.

[0027] At least one separator element, each with at least one door, can also be combined with at least one separator element without a door, namely by means of the respective connecting tabs. A separator combination resulting from this combination no longer comprises exclusively identical separator elements, but rather groups of mutually identical separator elements (identical parts).The small number of identical parts, for example exactly one type of separator element (with or without a door), exactly two types of separator elements (with and without tabs for adjusting a distance between two consecutive separator elements; without a door and with a door), exactly three types of separator elements (without a door, as well as with and without tabs for adjusting a distance between two consecutive separator elements; with a door and with tabs without the possibility of adjusting a distance between two consecutive separator elements), and exactly four types of separator elements (without a door and with a door, as well as each with and without tabs for adjusting a distance between two consecutive separator elements), and the number of possible variations is a major advantage of the innovation proposed here.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the separating element, it has a rectangular separation area (airflow separation area, particle separation area), in particular a square separation area, and the separating element can be connected to another separating element in at least two different orientations (four different orientations in the case of a square separation area) by means of the connecting tabs.In other words, in a preferred embodiment of the separating element, which has a rectangular, in particular square, separating area, is connectable to a further separating element in a first orientation and at least one further orientation, wherein the separating element, when attached to the further separating element in the first orientation, is rotated by 180° relative to an attachment in the at least one further orientation (by a multiple of 90° in the case of a square separating area).

[0029] For use in separating particles carried along with a raw gas stream, a separator combination formed with, or comprising, at least two separator elements of the type described here and below, is preferably placed in a frame. The frame holds the separator elements comprised by the separator combination together, and the frame and the separator combination placed in the frame (the separator combination received by the frame) together form a separator (airflow separator) for separating particles carried along with a raw gas stream. Advantageously, such a separator can be used alone or with at least one other, similar separator and / or with at least one separator of the type mentioned above for separating particles carried along with a raw gas stream.

[0030] The use of such a separation device is preferably in a paint shop or in connection with a paint shop or the like. There, in an extraction wall or the like with a plurality of receiving compartments, at least one separation device of the type described here and below is placed in at least some of the receiving compartments.

[0031] The claims filed with the application are proposed formulations without prejudice to obtaining further protection. Since the features of the dependent claims, in particular, may constitute independent inventions with regard to the prior art on the priority date, the applicant reserves the right to make these or further combinations of features, previously disclosed only in the description and / or drawings, the subject matter of independent claims or divisional declarations. These may also include independent inventions that have a design independent of the subject matter of the respective referenced claims.

[0032] The innovation proposed here also involves the use of a separation element as described here and below, a separation device as described here and below, and a painting system, each for separating particles carried along with a raw gas stream.

[0033] Finally, the innovation proposed here is also a method for separating particles carried along with a raw gas stream, in particular paint particles (paint mist separation), and according to the method the raw gas stream is passed through at least one separation element (air stream separation element), at least one separation combination (air stream separation combination) or at least one separation device (air stream separation device) of the type described here and below.

[0034] An advantageous embodiment of the invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing. Corresponding objects or elements are designated with the same reference numerals in all figures. For elements that occur multiple times, such as tabs and slots, not all elements are often designated with the respective reference numeral for the sake of clarity. In such cases, reference is made to the designated elements or to any designation of the same element in other figures.

[0035] The exemplary embodiment is not to be understood as a limitation of the invention. Rather, within the scope of the present disclosure, additions and modifications are entirely possible, in particular those which, for example, can be deduced by a person skilled in the art from the solution of the problem by combining or modifying individual features in conjunction with those described in the general or specific descriptive part and contained in the claims and / or the drawing, and which, through combinable features, lead to a new subject matter or to new process steps or sequences of process steps.

[0036] They show Figs. 1 to 3 show a separating element with means for detachable connection to another similar separating element; Figs. 4 to 7 show the separating element according to Figs. 1 to 3in a first configuration prepared for use, namely in a configuration which results in a comparatively large distance between interconnected separation elements, Fig. 8 to Fig. 11 the separation element according to Figs. 1 to 3 in a second configuration prepared for use, namely in a configuration which, with interconnected separation elements, leads to a result that is different from the configuration in Figs. 4 to 7 smaller distance leads, Fig. 12 the separation element according to Fig. 1 Figures 13 and 14 are snapshots taken during the joining of separation elements; Figures 15 and 16 each show one due to the situation in Fig. 13 or Fig. 14 Resulting combination (separation combination), Fig. 17 a snapshot when connecting several separation elements together, resulting in different distances, Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 which are due to the situation in Fig. 17Resulting separation combination in an isometric view or in a side view, Fig. 20, Fig. 21 and Fig. 22; a special embodiment of a separation element, in particular a separation element according to Figs. 1 to 12 , namely each a separating element with a door, Figs. 23 to 28 the separating element according to Fig. 21 , 22 in a configuration prepared for use, Fig. 29 and Fig. 30, a plurality of separating elements according to Fig. 21 , 22 staggered one after the other, Fig. 31 a snapshot during the connection of several separation elements according to Fig. 21 , 22 together, Fig. 32 and Fig. 33, a separation combination with separation elements according to Fig. 21 , 22 In an isometric view or in a side view, Fig. 34, a separation combination (separation device) placed in a frame with separation elements according to Figs. 1 to 12 and / or according to Figs. 20 to 28, Fig. 35 a structural element functioning, for example, as an extraction wall of a painting system, with compartments for receiving a separation device each, and Fig. 36 a painting system with an extraction wall.

[0037] The representations in Figures 1 to 12 Figure 10 shows an embodiment of a separation element (airflow separation element). Suitable materials include, for example, cardboard, paperboard (especially solid board or corrugated board), plastic, metal (especially pyrolysis-resistant metal) or the like.

[0038] The representation in Figure 1 Figure 1 shows a separating element 10 in a possible transport / delivery configuration, namely in a flat state. The illustration in Figure 2 shows the separating element 10 according to Figure 1 with a highlighted area and the display in Figure 3 shows the in Figure 2 highlighted area in an enlarged view.

[0039] The representations in Figure 4 and Figure 5show the separating element 10 according to Figure 1 in a configuration prepared for use, namely in an isometric view and substantially from the front or substantially from the rear. The representations in Figure 6 and Figure 7 show the separating element 10 in the configuration as shown in Figure 4, Figure 5 in a front view or in a side view.

[0040] The representations in Figures 8 to 11 show the separating element 10 according to Figure 1 also in a ready-to-use configuration, but compared to the representations in Figures 4 to 7 utilizing the fundamentally optional feature of the separating element 10, namely the subdivision of the connecting tabs 12 into at least two sections 22, 24, which makes it possible in a simple way to achieve different distances between each pair of separating elements 10 connected by means of the connecting tabs 12. The illustrations in Figure 8 and Figure 9show isometric views of the deposition element 10 and the representations in Figure 10 and Figure 11 show the partition element 10 in a front view or a side view.

[0041] For a better overview of the in Figure 1 The relationships shown are repeated in Figure 12 the representation from Figure 1 essentially without reference numerals.

[0042] A separating element 10 has means for detachably connecting it (connecting means 12) to another separating element 10, in particular exactly one other separating element 10. In the embodiment shown, a separating element 10 has four connecting tabs 12 adjoining a central separating area 14, which are often referred to simply as tabs 12 in the following. This is merely an example. In general, a separating element 10 has several (at least two) connecting tabs 12. A separating element 10 can therefore, for example, have exactly four connecting tabs 12, in particular one connecting tab 12 adjoining or extending from each outer edge of the separating area 14, or, for example, have exactly two connecting tabs 12, in particular one connecting tab 12 adjoining or extending from each opposite outer edge of the separating area 14.Furthermore, a separating element 10 can subsequently have more than one connecting tab 12 extending from or onto each outer edge of the separating area 14. Preferably, each tab 12 adjoins or extends centrally from each outer edge of the separating area 14.

[0043] The further description is continued - without relinquishing any further general validity - on the basis of tabs 12 as means for detachable connection (connecting means 12) with a further separation element 10, in particular exactly one further separation element 10, and on the basis of four tabs 12 evenly spaced along a circumferential line of the separation area 14.

[0044] The tabs 12 enclose the separation area 14. The separation area 14 has a separation surface for separating with a raw gas stream R ( Fig. 18 The separating element 10 collects the particles carried along with it. It comprises the central separating area 14 and the adjoining tabs 12, preferably – as in the illustrated embodiment – ​​in a single piece. In other words, each tab 12 is integrally connected to the separating area 14 (tabs 12 adjoining the separating area 14). The following description continues – again without relinquishing any broader general applicability – with reference to the exemplary embodiment shown, i.e., a single-piece separating element 10 comprising a central separating area 14 and adjoining tabs 12 integrally connected to it.

[0045] Each tab 12 is articulated to the separation area 14. To obtain a configuration as shown in Figures 4 to 7As shown, each tab 12 is folded over against the plane of the separation area 14. For this purpose, the separation element 10 has a marking, perforation, fold (or fold line), notch (or notch line), groove, or the like – hereinafter collectively referred to as the fold point 16 – as a hinged connection in the area of ​​the transition between the separation area 14 and the respective tab 12. The folding over of each tab 12 in the area of ​​the respective fold point 16 and against the plane of the separation area 14 occurs – as shown – at an angle of approximately 90° (more precisely: slightly over 90°, for example, 100°; see Fig. 7 ).

[0046] By folding over the tabs 12, the previously flat separating element 10 acquires a three-dimensional shape ( Figs. 4 to 7 or Figs. 8 to 11As long as the tabs 12 are not folded over, i.e., in the case of flat separator elements 10, they occupy only a very small volume. This is a great advantage, especially when transporting a large number of separator elements 10 to their respective places of use.

[0047] In addition to the tabs 12, a separating element 10 has insertion areas 18 in the separating area 14 or at the edge of the separating area 14. A separating element 10 has at least one number of insertion areas 18 corresponding to the number of tabs 12, and possibly more, for example, four insertion areas 18 with two opposing tabs 12. Advantageously, the separating element 10 – as in the embodiment shown – has four insertion areas 18 evenly spaced along a circumferential line of the separating area 14, each centrally located to the outer edges of the separating area 14 and aligned with the tabs 12.

[0048] In the exemplary embodiment shown, slots 18 in the separation area 14 function as insertion areas 18. The slots 18 each run parallel to the hinged connection between the nearest tab 12 and the separation area 14, i.e., parallel to the bend 16 between the nearest tab 12 and the separation area 14. The further description continues here, also without relinquishing any broader general applicability, based on the exemplary embodiment shown, namely with exactly four slots 18 functioning as insertion areas 18.

[0049] The separation area 14 is rectangular, preferably square. The separation area 14 is structured and has, hereinafter collectively referred to as holes 20, cutouts, holes, or the like. The holes 20 allow, when the separation element 10 is used for separating with a raw gas stream R ( Fig. 18) entrained particles allow the oncoming raw gas stream R to pass through. The type and number of holes 20 and any surface structure and / or hole pattern resulting from the type and number of holes 20 are irrelevant, and accordingly, any surface structure or hole pattern is possible and is to be considered as covered by the description presented here.

[0050] Now, a single tab 12 and a preferred, essentially optional embodiment thereof will be considered. For this purpose, reference is made to the illustration in Figure 3 referred to, which in enlarged form the in Figure 2 The area marked B is shown. The following applies accordingly to all other tabs 12 of the separating element 10.

[0051] In the preferred embodiment, each tab 12 comprises at least two sections 22, 24, in particular at least two sections 22, 24 integrally connected to one another. By comprising at least two sections 22, 24, each tab 12 is subdivided into at least two sections 22, 24, or can be considered as being subdivided into at least two sections 22, 24. These are a first section 22 directly adjacent to the separation area 14 and a second section 24 directly adjacent to the first section 22. In the illustration in Figure 3The corresponding reference numbers are placed above curly brackets, which represent the area of ​​sections 22 and 24, and are also indicated by reference lines ending on the surfaces of sections 22 and 24. Each tab 12 can encompass more than the two sections 22 and 24 shown as an example; for instance, it can encompass three, four, or more sections.

[0052] Between two adjacent sections 22, 24, there is a marking, a perforation, a fold (or fold line), a notch (or notch line), a groove, or the like – hereinafter collectively referred to as the fold point 16. The fold point 16 is designed for the defined folding of a section (together with any subsequent sections) against the section immediately preceding it in the direction of the separation area 14. With exactly two sections 22, 24 (first section 22; second section 24), there is accordingly exactly one fold point 16, namely a fold point 16 between the first section 22 and the second section 24, and this is designed for the defined folding of the second section 24 against the first section 22.

[0053] The at least two sections 22, 24 each serve to adjust an effective length of the respective tab 12 and each tab 12 is subdivided into the at least two sections 22, 24 for the purpose of adjusting an effective length of the respective tab 12.

[0054] The length of a tab 12 and the length of each section 22, 24 encompassed by it is - in the case of a still flat separation element 10 - measured in a direction D emanating from the center of the separation area 14 (see Fig. 2 ) measured or - in the case of tabs 12 already folded over against the plane of the separation area 14 - in a direction D emanating from the plane of the separation area 14 (see Fig. 7 , Fig. 11The total length of a tab 12 is measured in this direction, starting from the bend 16 between the separation area 14 and the first section 22. The length of a tab 12 is therefore independent of whether it is bent at the bend 16 between the separation area 14 and the first section 22 or not.

[0055] A deliberate distinction is made between a length on the one hand and an effective length on the other. The length of a tab 12 always corresponds to the sum of the lengths of the sections 22, 24 encompassed by the tab 12. The effective length of a tab 12 depends on whether the tab 12 is folded over at a bend 16 between any two adjacent sections 22, 24. The effective length of a tab 12 always corresponds to the sum of the lengths of the sections 22, 24 encompassed by the tab 12 that are aligned with the section 22 (first section 22) adjacent to the separation area 14. If the tab 12 is not subdivided into sections 22, 24, or if all sections 22, 24 encompassed by the tab 12 are aligned with the first section 22, the length of the tab 12 and the effective length of the tab 12 are equal.The designation of the effective length as effective is justified by the fact that the effective length of the tabs 12 determines the distance between the respective separation areas 14 in the case of two separation elements 10 connected to each other by means of the tabs 12.

[0056] In the Figure 3 In the situation shown, tab 12 clearly has an effective length that corresponds to the sum of the lengths of the two sections 22 and 24. In the Figures 4 and 5 and Figure 7 In the situation shown, the tabs 12 also have an effective length that corresponds to the sum of the lengths of the two sections 22, 24 they each encompass. In the Figures 8 and 9 and Figure 11In the situation shown, the tabs 12 have an effective length that corresponds to the length of the first section 22. The effective length of the tabs 12 is therefore correspondingly shorter here, and the adjustment of the effective length of the tabs 12 has been achieved by folding them over at the fold 16 between the two sections 22 and 24.

[0057] In the representation in Figure 7 in the tab 12 shown there in the top view, as well as in the illustration in Figure 3 Two sections, 22 and 24, are each recognizable. In the representation in Figure 7 Both sections of the tabs 12 shown in the side view are also recognizable. However, due to the view, the fold 16 between the two sections 22 and 24 is not visible.

[0058] In the representation in Figure 11 Of the tab 12 shown in the top view, only section 22, which directly adjoins the separation area 14, is visible. Of the Figure 11In the side view shown, both sections 22 and 24 are visible in the tabs 12, whereby the section 22 (first section 22) immediately adjoining the separation area 14 is folded over against the separation area 14, and the section 24 immediately adjoining the first section 22 is folded over against the first section 22. For the tab 12 shown in the top view and the one shown in the illustration in Figure 11 The same applies to the completely invisible tab 12 (the second section 24 folded over against the first section 22).

[0059] The subdivision of the tabs 12 into at least two sections 22, 24 allows for adjustment of their effective length. For the purpose of connecting one separating element 10 to another separating element 10 by means of the tabs 12, each section 22, 24 encompassed by a tab 12 has an insertion section 26, namely an insertion section 26 that can be inserted into a slot 18 in the other separating element 10. Each tab 12 has an insertion section 26 at its end. In the case of a tab 12 with exactly two sections 22, 24 (first or inner section 22, adjacent to the separating area 14; second or outer section 24, adjacent to the inner section 22), the insertion section 26 is located at the end of the second section 24. This insertion section 26 is used when connecting to another separation element 10 if a large distance between the separation elements 10 is desired.

[0060] Because each tab 12 has an insertion section 26 on each of the sections 22, 24 it encompasses (preferably in the middle), after a section of the tab 12 is folded over against the section immediately preceding it, the insertion section 26 of this immediately preceding section is released and can be used when connecting it to another separation element 10. In the case of a tab 12 with exactly two sections 22, 24 (first or inner section 22, adjacent to the separation area 14; second or outer section 24, adjacent to the inner section 22), after the outer section 24 is folded over against the inner section 22, the insertion section 26 of the inner section 22 is released (is detached from the surface of the outer section 24) and can be used for connecting it to another separation element 10.Now the effective length of the tab 12 is reduced to the length of the first, inner section 22 and the connection with the further separation element 10 is made with a smaller distance.

[0061] The insertion sections 26 are designed to fit the slots 18, which function as insertion areas 18, such that insertion, in particular positive-locking insertion, of an insertion section 26 into the insertion area / slot 18, namely the insertion area / slot 18 of another separation element 10, is possible. Optionally, the insertion sections 26 are – as shown – slightly oversized in sections compared to the length of a slot 18, so that, due to the oversize, resulting lugs or the like on the side of the insertion section 26, when inserted into a slot 18, fix the insertion section 26 in the slot 18 and thus to another separation element 10.

[0062] The representations in Figure 13 and Figure 14The figures show exemplary snapshots of separator elements 10 being connected to one another. Three separator elements 10 are shown in each figure. The separator elements 10 shown on the far left are already connected to each other by means of the tabs 12, and the two already connected separator elements 10 can then be connected to the next separator element 10 using the remaining free tabs 12 of the already connected separator elements 10. Another separator element 10 can be connected to the remaining free tabs 12 (and this can, in principle, be continued indefinitely), or a special terminal separator element 11 (a separator element without tabs 12) can be connected. The sequence in which several separator elements 10 are connected to each other is arbitrary.This applies to a larger number of separating elements 10 and to groups of two or more separating elements 10 connected to each other that result.

[0063] The representation in Figure 13 This shows a situation where this connection occurs with a comparatively large distance between the separation areas 14 of the individual separation elements 10. The illustration in Figure 14 shows a situation where this connection is compared to the situation in Figure 13 A smaller distance is maintained between the separation areas 14 of the individual separation elements 10. These distances result from the effective length of the tabs 12. In the situation in Figure 13 The effective length of the tabs 12 results from the length of the sections 22, 24 encompassed by the tabs 12. In the situation in Figure 14The effective length of the tabs 12 results from the length of the section 22 of the tabs 12 immediately adjoining the separation area 14.

[0064] The representations in Figure 15 and Figure 16 each show one due to the situation in Figure 13 or Figure 14 Resulting combination. Such a combination, namely a combination comprising at least two separation elements 10 connected to one another as here and in the following, is a separation combination 30 and is referred to below as separation combination 30. A separation combination 30 comprises a plurality (at least two) of separation elements 10 connected to one another and, in the connected state, arranged staggered one behind the other.

[0065] The representation in Figure 17 Figure 1 shows an exemplary snapshot of several separation elements 10 being connected together, using different effective lengths of the tabs 12. The illustrations in Figure 18 and Figure 19 show the situation in Figure 17 The resulting separation combination 30 is shown in an isometric view or in a side view. The different distances between the separation areas 14 of the separation elements 10, resulting from the different effective lengths of the tabs 12, are clearly visible there.

[0066] In the representation in Figure 19 The direction of a raw gas stream R, which flows towards the separator combination 30 when the separator combination 30 is used, is also shown by the block arrow pointing in the direction of the separator combination 30. This stream flows towards the separator combination 30 and passes through the separator areas 14 of the separator elements 10 it encompasses, i.e., it flows through the individual separator areas 14. During this flow, the separation of particles carried along with the raw gas stream, in particular paint particles, takes place on the surface of the separator areas 14 and on the boundary lines and / or edge surfaces of the holes 20 in the separator areas 14.

[0067] In the representation in Figure 19For ease of reference, the separating elements 10 are assigned Roman numerals. The first separating element 10 – Roman numeral I – is the one shown on the far left. This is the first element encountered by the incoming raw gas stream R. The second separating element 10 – Roman numeral II – is located downstream of the first separating element 10 (behind it) with respect to the flow path of the raw gas stream R and is connected to the first separating element 10 by means of the tabs 12. The third separating element 10 – Roman numeral III – is located downstream of the second separating element 10 (behind it) with respect to the flow path of the raw gas stream R and is connected to the second separating element 10, and so on.The final separating element 11, which functions like a separating element 10 and is connected to a separating element 10, namely to the separating element 10 designated by Roman numeral VII, is to be regarded, at least with regard to the separation of particles carried along with the raw gas stream R, as one of the other separating elements 10.

[0068] The separation elements 10 comprised of a separation combination 30 are connected to one another by inserting the insertion sections 26 of the tabs 12 of one separation element 10 into the slots 18 of another separation element 10 following along the staggered arrangement (following in the sense of the sequence one after the other and as described below). No tabs 12 of another separation element 10 are inserted into the slots 18 of a front, first separation element 10 of a separation combination 30. A rear, last separation element 10 of a separation combination 30 either has no tabs 12 (it is then a separation element 10 in the form of a final separation element 11) or its tabs 12 are free, i.e., not inserted into the slots 18 of another separation element 10. In the case of each, if applicable,Between the first and the last separating element 10, the insertion sections 26 of the tabs 12 of another (preceding) separating element 10 are inserted into its slots 18 and its insertion sections 26 are inserted into the slots 18 of another (subsequent) separating element 10.

[0069] The use of terms like first or front separating element 10, last or rear separating element 10, and overall preceding and subsequent separating elements 10 is justified in light of the subsequent use of the separating combination 30: When used as intended, for example in a paint shop, the separating combination 30 is exposed to a raw gas stream R loaded with particles, and the raw gas stream R flows through the separating combination 30, specifically through the holes 20 in the separation areas 14 of the individual separating elements 10. The first or front separating element 10 (separating element I) is the separating element 10 that the raw gas stream R first encounters.The last or rear separating element 10 (or final separating element 11; separating element VII) is accordingly the separating element 10, 11 that the raw gas stream R last encounters and through whose holes 20 the raw gas stream R last flows. A separating element 10 preceding another separating element 10 is located upstream of that separating element 10 in the direction of the raw gas stream R. Conversely, a separating element 10 following another separating element 10 is located downstream of that separating element 10 in the direction of the raw gas stream R.

[0070] Because a separation combination 30 by definition comprises a plurality (at least two) of separation elements 10 connected to each other by means of the tabs 12 (by means of the insertion sections 26 of the tabs 12 and the slots 18 of the separation areas 14), the first two separation elements 10 (separation elements) also form, for example I,II) or the first three separating elements 10 (separating elements I, II, III) a separation combination 30. In general, in the case of interconnected separation elements 10, all separation elements 10 encompassed by the assembly constitute a separation combination 30, but also within such a separation combination 30, each group of at least two interconnected separation elements 10 (separation element group) is a separation combination 30. In the representation in Figure 19 Accordingly, the second and third separating elements 10 (separating elements) are also II, III), the second, third and fourth separating element 10 (separating elements II, III, IV), the third and fourth separating element 10 (separating elements III, IV) etc., each together a separation combination 30 or a separation element group. For configurations other than in Figure 19As shown, this applies accordingly in the case of more or fewer separating elements 10.

[0071] In the representation in Figure 19 On the left side, particles, particularly paint particles, are generated, for example, due to the operation of a paint shop or similar process. These particles are to be separated by the separation elements 10. Accordingly, on the left side of the diagram, the raw gas stream R is loaded with such particles (the raw gas stream R carries these particles; this side is the so-called dusty air side). On the right side of the diagram, the quantity of particles carried by the raw gas stream R is significantly reduced (this side is the so-called clean air side) because at least some of the particles carried by the raw gas stream R – usually a large proportion – have been separated by the separation elements 10.

[0072] Due to varying distances between the separation zones 14 of the separation elements 10 encompassed by a separation combination 30, areas with different flow velocities are created when a raw gas stream R flows through them. When the raw gas stream R encounters a separation zone 14 and there the material sections between the holes 20, the raw gas stream R is deflected and vortices are formed. The resulting vortices can form between any two successive separation zones 14. At larger distances between two successive separation zones 14, the vortex formation, and thus also the flow velocity of the raw gas stream R in this area, differs from that at smaller distances between two successive separation zones 14.Even though this has not yet been definitively verified by measurement at the time of writing this description, it is assumed that in an area with larger distances between two successive separation areas 14, the flow velocity of the raw gas stream R is lower than in an area with smaller distances between two successive separation areas 14. By means of the tabs 12, which are divided into at least two sections to adapt to an effective length, precisely this different vortex formation and / or flow velocity, depending on the respective distance, is intended and achieved.

[0073] The representations in Figure 13 and Figure 14 as well as those on the in Figure 13 and Figure 14The further figures, based on the situations shown, illustrate an advantageous, yet optional, embodiment with separating elements 10 having different hole patterns, namely separating elements 10 with separating areas 14, each with a different hole pattern. A particular hole pattern is determined, for example, by the number and size of the holes 20 in the separating area 14. In the situations shown, the number of holes 20 increases along the separating elements 10, which are arranged staggered one behind the other in the interconnected state (progressive increase). Optionally, the size of the holes 20 also decreases in the same direction. With an increasing number of holes in this sense, at least, a separating combination 30 with a progressive structure is obtained.

[0074] In the depictions in Figures 13 to 19 For the sake of clarity, only a few reference numbers are entered. Reference is made to the following: Figures 1 to 11 referred.

[0075] Preferably, all tabs 12 of a separating element 10 comprise the same number of sections 22, 24. Optionally, the corresponding sections 22, 24 of the tabs 12 are of the same size, or at least of the same length. In such a case, for tabs 12 with exactly two sections 22, 24 (first section 22; second section 24), all first sections 22 are of the same length, and likewise, all second sections 24 are of the same length.

[0076] Alternatively, the corresponding sections 22, 24 opposite each other at the separation area 14 are each of the same size, or at least the same length, so that pairs of sections 22, 24 of equal size and at least equal length are formed. Here, tabs 12 with a different number of sections 22, 24 are also possible, for example, one pair of tabs 12 with two sections 22, 24 and another pair of tabs 12 with more than two sections 22, 24, or more generally, one pair of tabs 12 with a first number of sections 22, 24 (at least one) and another pair of tabs 12 with a second number of sections 22, 24 (at least one), where the first and second numbers are different. Additionally or alternatively, instead of sections 22, 24 of equal length, a different subdivision of a single tab 12 is also possible.In the case of a tab 12 with exactly two sections 22, 24, the tab 12 can also be subdivided into sections 22, 24 of unequal length, for example, such that the total length of the tab 12 is divided one-third by one of the sections 22, 24 and two-thirds by the other section 24, 22. This applies accordingly to other fractions (for example, 1 / 4 to 3 / 4; 2 / 5 to 3 / 5, etc.). Furthermore, all of this also applies accordingly in the case of tabs 12 with more than two sections 22, 24. This alternative offers even further possibilities for different distances between separating elements 10 connected to each other by means of the tabs 12.In the case of tabs 12 of equal length in pairs, it is possible that the tabs 12 not used when connecting one separation element 10 with another separation element 10 are torn off or cut off, for example along one of the bends 16, in particular along the bend 16 with the separation area 14.

[0077] The tabs 12 allow a separating element 10 (first separating element 10) to be detachably connected to another separating element 10 (second separating element 10) in a particularly simple and quick manner. In other words, the tabs 12 allow a first separating element 10 to be detachably connected to a second separating element 10; the tabs 12 detachably connect a first separating element 10 to a second separating element 10. For this purpose, the insertion sections 26 of the same section 22, 24 of the tabs 12 of the first separating element 10 are inserted into the slots 18 of the second separating element 10 (one insertion section 26 into each slot 18). The effective length of the tabs 12 determines the distance between the two separating elements 10 thus connected.More precisely: The effective length of the tabs 12 determines the distance between the separation areas 14 of the two interconnected separation elements 10. In such an interconnected configuration, the separation areas 14 of the two separation elements 10 are parallel or at least substantially parallel to each other. A tab 12 therefore also functions as a means of ensuring a defined distance (spacer) between two separation elements 10 and their separation areas 14. A single tab 12 and the entirety of the tabs 12 of a separation element 10 is therefore a spacer and connecting element 12 (spacer connecting element) or a spacer and connecting device (spacer connecting device).

[0078] Just as two separation elements 10 can be connected to each other, as described, further separation elements 10 can be added to such a combination. For this purpose, the insertion sections 26 of the tabs 12 are inserted into corresponding slots 18.

[0079] Connecting the separating elements 10 to each other using the tabs 12 is only possible at their respective points of use, and the connection process is so simple that it can be carried out by untrained personnel. To maintain a proper sequence of separating elements 10 (for example, separating elements 10 with different hole patterns), they are preferably marked with a unique identifier, for example, numbered in the area of ​​the tabs 12 and / or color-coded.

[0080] Each insertion section 26 of a single tab 12 of a separating element 10 can, in principle, be inserted into any slot 18 of another separating element 10. To connect one separating element 10 to another separating element 10 by means of the tabs 12, namely the tabs 12, each comprising at least two sections 22, 24 and correspondingly at least two insertion sections 26, the corresponding insertion sections 26 are inserted into the slots 18 of the other separating element 10. In this sense, corresponding insertion sections 26 are, for tabs 12 with exactly two sections 22, 24 (first section 22; second section 24), on the one hand the insertion sections 26 at the first section 22 and, on the other hand the insertion sections 26 at the second section 24. This applies accordingly to tabs 12 with more than two sections.

[0081] When inserting all corresponding insertion sections 26 of a separation element (first separation element) 10 into a slot 18 of another separation element (second separation element) 10, there are at least two possibilities for connecting the first separation element 10 with the second separation element 10 for separation elements 10 with rectangular separation areas 14, and four (exactly four) possibilities for connecting the first separation element 10 with the second separation element 10 for separation elements 10 with square separation areas 14. These at least two or four connection possibilities result from a possible rotation of the two separation elements 10 relative to each other.For separator elements 10 with square separator areas 14, the first separator element 10 can be connected to the second separator element 10 by rotating it in 90° increments, resulting in four possible orientations for the first separator element 10: 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°, and 360° (= 0°). For separator elements 10 with only rectangular separator areas 14 (excluding the special square shape), the first separator element 10 can be connected to the second separator element 10 by rotating it in 180° increments, resulting in two possible orientations for the first separator element 10: 0°, 180°, and 360° (= 0°).

[0082] This possibility of rotating the separation elements 10 relative to each other is particularly advantageous for corresponding separation areas 14. In such separation areas 14, they each have the same hole pattern, are (at least conceptually) divided into four quarters along the diagonals or the central longitudinal axes (quartered separation area 14), and have a different hole pattern (partial hole pattern) in at least two adjacent quarters, or have different partial hole patterns along a circumferential / edge line of the separation area 14, in particular a different partial hole pattern in each quarter.

[0083] In a separation combination 30 formed with such separation elements 10 and such separation areas 14, the separation elements 10 in a rectangular, in particular square, separation area 14 each have the same hole patterns, the separation elements 10 are rotated relative to each other (by 90° or multiples of 90°), and the separation elements 10 each have a separation area 14 with four quarters (each separation area is at least conceptually divided into four sections (quarters)). Furthermore, the separation elements 10 have a different partial hole pattern in at least two adjacent quarters, or the separation elements 10 have different partial hole patterns along a circumferential / edge line of the separation area 14, in particular a different partial hole pattern in each quarter.

[0084] A symbolic representation of a quartered separation area 14 of a separation element 10 and the partial hole patterns therein is possible as follows, where A, B, C and D symbolically represent different partial hole patterns: A B D C

[0085] For example, three separation elements 10 (first separation element 10, second separation element 10, third separation element 10), which are rotated relative to each other by 90°, a possible resulting configuration can be represented as follows, where the symbolic representation of the separation elements 10 is shown side by side, while in a separation combination 30 the separation elements 10 are arranged staggered one behind the other: AWAY DA CD DC CB BA (first separator element 10) (second separator element 10) (third separator element 10)

[0086] The aim is to demonstrate that even with separator elements 10 having the same hole pattern (here a hole pattern with the partial hole patterns symbolically designated A, B, C, D in each quarter of the separation areas 14), when the separator elements 10 are rotated relative to each other within the separation combination 30, different partial hole patterns lie one behind the other in the direction of flow, thus preventing direct flow through a separation combination 30 formed with such separator elements 10 and arranged in this way. This leads to a deflection of the raw gas flow R and / or to the formation of vortices between the separator elements 10, and this improves the separation effect. A closed surface is also expressly considered a partial hole pattern. In this case, the surface area of ​​the respective quarter is closed and has no holes (partial hole pattern without holes).

[0087] To explain the definition that the separation elements 10 in a quartered separation area 14 each have different partial hole patterns along a circumferential / edge line of the separation area 14, or have a different partial hole pattern in each quarter, several hole patterns with partial hole patterns also symbolically designated A, B, C and D are shown below: AWAY AWAY AWAY BA BC DC

[0088] In the hole pattern shown on the left, which comprises only two different partial hole patterns (A, B), 14 different partial hole patterns result along the perimeter / edge line of the separation area, namely the partial hole patterns A, B, A, B, [A, B, A, B, etc.]. Therefore, no two identical partial hole patterns ever follow one another along the perimeter / edge line.

[0089] The hole pattern shown in the middle, which comprises three different sub-hole patterns (A, B,C), different partial hole patterns also result along the perimeter / edge line of the separation area 14, namely the partial hole patterns A, B, C, B, [A, B, C, B, etc.]. Here too, no two identical partial hole patterns ever follow one another along the perimeter / edge line.

[0090] The hole pattern shown on the right comprises four different sub-hole patterns (A, B, C, D), different partial hole patterns also result along the perimeter / edge line of the separation area 14, namely the partial hole patterns A, B, C, D, [A, B, C, D, etc.]. Here too, no two identical partial hole patterns ever follow each other along the perimeter / edge line. Furthermore, in this hole pattern, all partial hole patterns are different, so that each quarter has a different partial hole pattern.

[0091] The representations in Figure 20 and Figure 21The following descriptions, based on this, now turn to the embodiment of a separation element 10 that is the focus here. This concerns the design of the separation area 14. Accordingly, the separation area 14 has a surface section which, according to its shape and mobility (mobility relative to the rest of the surface of the separation area 14), is hereinafter referred to as door 40.

[0092] A separating element 10 can have exactly one door 40 or a plurality of doors 40 in its separating area 14. The following description continues—expressly without relinquishing any broader general applicability—based on the embodiment shown as an example in the figures, i.e., a separating element 10 with exactly one door 40 in its separating area 14. However, whenever a separating element 10 with exactly one door 40 is mentioned, any possible plurality of doors 40 should always be implied.

[0093] A door 40 in the separation area 14 of the separation element 10 is hingedly connected to the separation area 14. For this purpose, the separation element 10 has a marking, a perforation, a fold (or fold line), a notch (or notch line), a groove, or the like as a hinged connection in the area of ​​the transition between the separation area 14 and the door 40 – hereinafter collectively referred to, and in accordance with the previous terminology, as the hinge point 16.

[0094] A door 40 is either connected in one piece to the separation area 14 in the area of ​​the bend 16 and then connects to the separation area 14 in the area of ​​the bend 16, or is connected to the separation area 14 in the area of ​​the bend 16, for example by gluing, stapling or the like, and then extends from the separation area 14.

[0095] Wherever the term "door 40 in the separation area 14" is used here and in the following, this is justified by the fact that, in the closed state, the door lies in the plane of the separation area 14, or at least substantially in the plane of the separation area 14, and by the fact that, in the open state, i.e., when the door 40 is pivoted out of the plane of the separation area 14 at the bend 16, an opening is created in the surface of the separation area 14, in particular an opening corresponding to the surface of the door 40. This is preferably achieved by limiting the door 40 on the one hand by the bend 16 and on the other hand by an edge line adjoining each end of the bend 16, and by separating the surface section of the separation area 14 forming the door 40 from the adjacent surface sections of the separation area 14 along the edge line by means of a cut or a punching tool.Due to this edge line, free edges of the door 40 result, and due to the same edge line together with the bend 16, the opening that becomes free in the surface of the separation area 14 when the door 40 is opened results.

[0096] Generally, a separating element 10 with at least one door 40 in its separating area 14 also has several (at least two) connecting tabs 12, in particular connecting tabs 12 as described above. To avoid repetition of the features of the connecting tabs 12, reference is made to the previous description.

[0097] In the embodiment shown, the separating element 10 has four connecting tabs 12 adjoining the central separating area 14, which are hereinafter often referred to simply as tabs 12. These tabs 12 can be subdivided into at least two sections 22, 24 for the purpose of adjusting an effective length, with each section 22, 24 encompassed by a tab 12 having an insertion section 26 that can be inserted into an insertion area 18 of another separating element 10. Alternatively, these tabs 12 can be tabs 12 without such subdivision, i.e., each tab 12 has exactly one insertion section 26 at its end that can be inserted into an insertion area 18 of another separating element 10. The illustration in Figure 20Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a separating element 10 with a door 40 and with tabs 12 without a subdivision of the tabs 12 into at least two sections 22, 24. The illustration in Figure 21 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a separating element 10 with a door 40 and with tabs 12, each with at least two sections 22, 24, wherein each section 22, 24 has an insertion section 26 that can be inserted into an insertion area 18 of a further separating element 10.

[0098] If the tabs 12 of a separating element 10 are subdivided into at least two sections 22, 24 for the purpose of adjusting an effective length, the door 40 of the same separating element 10 is also subdivided in the same way into sections, which are designated as door sections 42, 44 for differentiation purposes and are in particular integrally connected to one another, or can at least be considered to be subdivided into such sections. Optionally, the number of sections 22, 24 of the tabs 12 and the number of door sections 42, 44 of a separating element 10 are each equal. For example, if the tabs 12 have exactly two sections 22, 24, then each door 40 also comprises exactly two door sections 42, 44.

[0099] If the tabs 12 do not have a subdivision into several sections 22, 24, such a subdivision is usually also not present in the door 40. However, a subdivision of the door 40 may still be present, and this allows the use of such a separating element 10 with separating elements 10 having connecting tabs 12 of different lengths, but not subdivided into several sections.

[0100] The representation in Figure 21 Figure 1 shows a door 40 divided into two door sections 42 and 44 in the separation area 14 of the separation element 10. The illustration in Figure 20 Figure 40 shows a door in the separation area 14 of the separation element 10 without such a subdivision. For a better overview of the in Figure 21 The relationships shown are repeated in Figure 22 the representation from Figure 21 essentially without reference numerals.

[0101] In the case of a door 40 being subdivided into at least two door sections 42, 44, this is provided for the purpose of adjusting the effective length of the door 40. Functionally, the adjustment of the effective length of the door 40 corresponds to the adjustment of the effective length of a tab 12 described above, and reference is hereby made to that description.

[0102] To adjust the effective length of the door 40, a marking, perforation, fold (or fold line), notch (or notch line), groove, or the like is provided between adjacent door sections 42, 44 – hereinafter collectively referred to, in accordance with the established terminology, as the fold point 16. The fold point 16 is designed for the defined folding of a door section (together with any subsequent door sections) against the door section immediately preceding it in the direction of the separation area 14. With exactly two door sections 42, 44 (first door section 42, second door section 44), there is accordingly exactly one fold point 16 between the door sections 42, 44, namely a fold point 16 between the first door section 42 and the second door section 44, and this is designed for the defined folding of the second door section 44 against the first door section 42.

[0103] For the length of a door 40 and the length of any door sections 42, 44 encompassed therein, as well as for the effective length of a door 40, what was said above for the length of a tab 12 and the length of sections 22, 24 encompassed therein applies accordingly, and reference is hereby made to it in order to avoid repetition.

[0104] The length of a door 40 of a separating element 10 corresponds to the length of the tabs 12 of this separating element 10 adjacent to the separating area 14. This applies regardless of whether the door 40 and the tabs 12 are subdivided into several sections 22, 24 or door sections 42, 44, respectively. If the tabs 12 are subdivided into at least two sections 22, 24 and the door 40 is also subdivided into at least two door sections 42, 44, the tabs 12 and the door 40 have the same number of sections 22, 24 or door sections 42, 44, for example, exactly two sections 22, 24 or door sections 42, 44 each, and the corresponding sections 22, 24 or door sections 42, 44 are each of the same length.

[0105] In the case of a door 40 without a partition, this door has a door insertion section 46 at its free end, preferably in the middle, which functionally corresponds to the insertion section 26 of a tab 12. In the case of a door 40 comprising at least two door sections 42, 44, each door section 42, 44 has such a door insertion section 46, preferably in the middle. For inserting a door insertion section 46, a slot is provided in the separating area 14 as a door insertion area 48, which is hereinafter also referred to as the door insertion slot 48 or simply as the slot 48. The above statements regarding insertion section 26 and insertion area 18 apply accordingly to the door insertion section 46 and the door insertion area 48, respectively, and reference is made hereby to them to avoid repetition.

[0106] The representations in Figure 23 and Figure 24 show isometric views of a deposition element 10 according to Figure 21 and Figure 22in a configuration prepared for use. The representations in Figure 25 and Figure 26 show the separating element 10 according to Figure 21 and Figure 22 in a front view or a side view.

[0107] The separating element 10 is prepared for use by folding the tabs 12 against the surface of the separating area 14 for connection with another separating element 10 and opening the door 40. The open door 40 is pivoted out of the surface of the separating area 14. A situation is shown in which the tabs 12 and the door 40 are pivoted in different directions, but each by 90° or at least substantially by 90° against the surface of the separating area 14. It is also possible for the door 40 and tabs 12 to pivot in the same direction. Then the door 40 with its door insertion section 46 points in the same direction as the tabs 12 with the insertion sections 26 there. In the case of the first or front separating element 10 of a separating combination 30, this either has no door (it is then, for example, a separating element 10 as in DE 20 2022 102 215).1 described), or the door 40 is closed in a separator element 10 with door 40 or the door 40 is removed.

[0108] Connecting a separating element 10 comprising a door 40 (first separating element 10) with another separating element 10 (second separating element 10) is done, for example, as follows: The door insertion section 46 at the end of the open door 40 of the first separating element 10 is inserted into the door insertion slot 48 of the second separating element 10, and the insertion sections 26 of the tabs 12 of the second separating element 10 are inserted into the slots 18 of the first separating element 10. The two separating elements 10 are thus (removably) connected to each other, and the door 40 is fixed in the open position.

[0109] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface section of the separation area 14 forming the door 40 is visibly located – in a fundamentally optional manner – off-center within the separation area 14. Similarly, the door insertion slot 48 is also located off-center within the separation area 14. This allows for the detachable connection of several identical separation elements 10, each comprising a door 40 and a door insertion slot 48. When the door 40 of a separation element 10 is opened within the separation area 14, the opening of the door 40 results in an opening of the separation area 14 and a free space within the separation area 14. A door insertion slot 48 cannot be located in this free space. This is the reason for the off-center placement of both the door 40 and the door insertion slot 48.Due to their off-center placement, when connecting two separation elements 10 (connection by means of the tabs 12), each of which has a door 40 and a door insertion slot 48, the two separation elements 10 (first and front separation element 10, second and rear separation element 10) are rotated 180° relative to each other. This rotation places the door 40 of the rear separation element 10 in a position behind or – depending on the orientation and line of sight – below the door insertion area 48 of the front separation element 10 (this applies if the door 40 is opened in the opposite direction to the folded tabs 12). There, the door insertion section 46 of the opened door 40 can be inserted into the door insertion slot 48 of the front separation element 10.

[0110] In a separating element 10 with a square separating area 14 and more than one door insertion area 48, a rotation of two separating elements 10 relative to each other by 90° or multiples of 90° is also possible. The separating element 10 then has a door insertion area 48 in the separating area 14 with an orientation as shown in the figures, as well as at least one further door insertion area 48 with an orientation perpendicular to it. Optionally, the door insertion areas 48 then have a shorter length compared to the length shown, and each door insertion section 46 is correspondingly shorter. Optionally, each door insertion section 46 borders the respective door section 42, 44 off-center, and the door insertion areas 48 are then positioned in the separating area 14 to receive one door section 42, 44 each.

[0111] When the door 40 opens in the direction of the folded-over tabs 12 - i.e., unlike in Figure 23 and Figure 24 As shown, the rotation brings the door of the front separating element 10 into a position in front of or – depending on the orientation and viewing axis – above the door insertion area 48 of the rear separating element 10. There, the door insertion section 46 of the open door 40 can be inserted into the door insertion slot 48 of the rear separating element 10.

[0112] In the case of a door 40 comprising at least two door sections 42, 44, this subdivision - like the corresponding subdivision of the tabs 12 - serves to adjust an effective length of the door 40 and the door 40 is subdivided into the at least two door sections 42, 44 for the purpose of adjusting its effective length.

[0113] In the Figure 23 and Figure 24In the situation shown, the door sections 42 and 44 enclosed by the door 40 are aligned with each other, and the door 40 clearly has an effective length that corresponds to the sum of the lengths of the two door sections 42 and 44. This effective length of the door 40 is provided and applies when the connection of two separating elements 10, each having a door 40 and a door insertion slot 48, is made by means of tabs 12 with the same effective length. In the Figure 27 and Figure 28 In contrast, the situation shown is a separation element 10 according to Figure 21 , Figure 22 shown, where the effective length of the door 40 is reduced. Likewise, the effective lengths of the tabs 12 are reduced. The effective lengths of the door 40 and the tabs 12 are equal. Otherwise, the illustrations in Figure 27 and Figure 28 - as the representations in Figure 23 and Figure 24 - isometric views of a separation element 10 according to Figure 21 , Figure 22in a configuration prepared for use. Shown is - as in the illustrations in Figure 23 and Figure 24 - a situation in which the tabs 12 and the door 40 are pivoted in different directions against the surface of the separation area 14. A pivoting of door 40 and tabs 12 in the same direction would also be possible.

[0114] The reduction of the effective length of door 40 and tabs 12 is achieved by folding the outer tab section 24 against the inner tab section 22 and the inner tab section 22 against the surface of the separation area 14 in each pair of sections 22, 24 (first or inner tab section 22, adjacent to the separation area 14; second or outer tab section 24, adjacent to the inner tab section 22) or door sections 42, 44 (first or inner door section 42, adjacent to the separation area 14; second or outer door section 44, adjacent to the inner door section 42) and by folding the inner tab section 22 against the surface of the separation area 14 in each pair of sections 22, 24 (first or inner tab section 22, adjacent to the separation area 14; second or outer door section 44, adjacent to the inner door section 42 against the surface of the separation area 14), and similarly, folding the outer door section 44 against the inner door section 42 and the inner door section 42 against the surface of the separation area 14. It is bent over or has bent over. This bending preferably occurs at an angle of approximately 90°.By folding over the outer tab sections 24 or the outer door section 44, the insertion sections 26 of the inner tab sections 22 and the door insertion section 46 of the inner door section 42 are released (they are detached from the surface of the respective outer tab or door section 24, 44). These insertion sections 26 can be inserted into corresponding slots 18 of another separating element 10 and, in the case of two interconnected separating elements 10, are inserted into corresponding slots 18 of the other separating element 10. Similarly, this door insertion section 46 can be inserted into the door insertion slot 48 of the other separating element 10 and, in the case of two interconnected separating elements 10, is inserted into the door insertion slot 48 of the other separating element 10.

[0115] Separation elements 10, each with at least one door 40 and at least one door insertion slot 48, can be connected to each other in pairs in a fundamentally the same way as described above for separation elements 10 without doors, and to avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is again made here to what has been said above regarding the connection of two separation elements 10 or a plurality of separation elements 10 and the formation of a separation combination 30 using at least two separation elements 10.

[0116] The representations in Figure 29 and Figure 30 The figures show a plurality of separation elements 10, each with doors 40. The representation in Figure 29Figure 1 shows these arranged in a staggered sequence in an isometric view, and Figure 30 shows the same sequence of separation elements 10 in a top view with a viewing axis along the surfaces of the respective separation areas 14. The separation elements 10 are designated with Roman numerals (I to VI) for ease of reference.

[0117] It should be emphasized that separating element 10 designated by Roman numeral I up to and including separating element 10 designated by Roman numeral VI are identical separating elements 10. The recognizably different configurations result from different effective lengths of the tabs 12 and the doors 40, as well as from a respective rotation of the separating elements 10 relative to each other.

[0118] It should be further emphasized that the sequence of the separation elements 10 in the illustrations in Figure 29 and Figure 30This is merely an exemplary sequence, and a different number and / or sequence of separation elements 10 is always possible and shall be considered covered by the description presented here. In the illustrations in Figure 29 and in Figure 30 For the sake of clarity, only a few reference numbers were used.

[0119] In the depictions in Figure 29 and in Figure 30 , especially in the illustration in Figure 30, the different positions of the doors 40 resulting from the rotation of each pair of separating elements 10 to be connected (and connected together in a usable state) are clearly visible. Referring to the situation in the illustration in Figure 30 This can be seen in the ones with Roman numerals. II,The separating elements 10 designated by Roman numerals IV and V have their door 40 on the left side, while those designated by Roman numerals III and V have their door 40 on the right side. The separating element 10 designated by Roman numeral I has its door 40 neither open nor separated. An open door would be located on the right side.

[0120] With doors 40 opened in the opposite direction to the direction of the tabs 12 (as in Figure 29, Figure 30 and Figure 31 As shown in the figure, for each pair of separating elements 10 (first separating element 10, second separating element 10) to be connected to each other – and connected to each other in a usable state – the effective length of the tabs 12 of the first separating element 10 and the effective length of the door 40 of the second separating element 10 are equal. This obviously applies to all in Figure 29 , Figure 30 and Figure 31 shown pairs of separating elements 10 (I, II; II, III; III, IV; IV, V and V, VI). For doors opened in the direction of the tabs 12 (not shown), the situation is different. In this case, the effective length of the tabs 12 and the effective length of the door 40 of one and the same separating element 10 are equal.

[0121] The representation in Figure 31 shows - similar to the representation in Figure 17 - a snapshot of the connection of several separation elements 10 together, using different effective lengths of the tabs 12 and the doors 40. The sequence of the separation elements 10 corresponds to the exemplary sequence according to Figure 29 and Figure 30 .

[0122] The representation in Figure 32 shows - similar to the depictions in Figure 15, Figure 16 and Figure 18- a separation combination 30. The separation combination 30 is a separation combination 30 formed with separation elements 10, each with at least one door 40. Separation elements 10 with tabs 12 without subdivision into multiple sections are shown as examples, as are separation elements 10 with one door 40, also without such subdivision into multiple sections. Of course, a separation combination 30 with separation elements 10 is also possible in which the tabs 12 and the at least one door 40 are each subdivided into at least two sections (tab sections 22, 24; door sections 42, 44). A mixed configuration is also possible. In this case, the separation combination 30 comprises at least one separation element 10 with a subdivision of the tabs 12 and the at least one door 40, and also at least one separation element 10 without such subdivision.

[0123] The representation in Figure 33 The dashed line with arrows at the ends shows the flow path of a raw gas stream R through a separation combination 30, in which the separation elements 10 it encompasses each have at least one door 40. The illustration in Figure 33 For example, the separation combination 30 according to Figure 32 in a cutaway side view.

[0124] The separator combination 30 is used as intended, for example in a paint shop ( Fig. 36), is approached by a particle-laden raw gas stream R, and the raw gas stream R flows through the separation combination 30, namely at least through the free areas in the individual separation zones 14 resulting from the open doors 40. Due to the rotation of each pair of separation elements 10 relative to each other (here exemplified by rotations of 180° relative to each other), an alternating sequence of the position of the doors 40 of separation elements 10 located one behind the other in the flow direction of the raw gas stream R results (in the explanation of the illustrations in Figure 29 and Figure 30 This alternating sequence of the position of the doors 40 was described as partly doors 40 located on the left and partly doors 40 located on the right).

[0125] Due to the alternating sequence of the door positions 40, the raw gas flow R undergoes multiple deflections within the separator assembly 30. Following an open door 40, the raw gas flow R encounters the separator area 14, which may optionally have no holes (hole-free) or only a few and / or small holes in the impact area, of the separator element 10 located behind (in the direction of the local flow) the open door 40. Here, the raw gas flow R changes direction and flows essentially along the separator area 14 (and limited by the separator area 14 of the upstream separator element 10) until the next open door 40. Here, the raw gas flow R passes through the door 40 and then again encounters the separator area of ​​the separator element 10 located behind the open door 40, and so on.This multiple deflection leads to multiple changes in the flow direction, resulting in a meandering course of the raw gas flow R through the separation combination 30.

[0126] This multiple deflection, in addition to causing multiple changes in flow direction, leads to vortex formation and / or local changes in flow velocity, thus improving the separation efficiency of a single separation element 10 and the separation combination 30 as a whole. Separation then occurs primarily on the surface sections causing the change in flow direction, specifically on the surfaces of the doors 40 struck by the raw gas stream and on the surface areas of the separation zones 14 located behind each open door 40. Optionally, the separation elements 10 have holes 20 in their separation zones 14, as described above. This intensifies the vortex formation and leads to a further improved separation efficiency, with separation then also occurring on the edges and / or surface areas of the holes 20.

[0127] In the illustrated embodiment, the doors 40 are, in principle optionally, located within the flow path of the resulting raw gas stream R through the separation combination 30. In this case, the doors 40 are structured to allow the raw gas stream R to pass through and have, collectively referred to below as holes 20, cutouts, holes, or the like. When the separation element 10 is used to separate particles carried along with a raw gas stream R, the holes 20 allow the oncoming raw gas stream R to pass through. The type and number of holes 20, as well as any surface structure and / or hole pattern resulting from the type and number of holes 20, are not essential. Accordingly, any surface structure or hole pattern is possible and is hereby considered to be covered by the description presented here.This passage of the raw gas stream R through the doors 40, specifically through the holes 20 enclosed by the doors 40, also leads to an improvement in the separation effect. Separation then also takes place at the edge lines and / or edge surfaces of the holes 20 of the doors 40.

[0128] In the depictions in Figures 23 to 33 The door 40 of a separation element 10 and the connecting tabs 12 of the same separation element 10 are bent in different directions with respect to the plane of the respective separation area 14, so that the door 40 is, in a sense, bent in the direction of an oncoming raw gas stream R ( Fig. 33) and the connecting tabs 12 away from the oncoming raw gas stream R. This is one possibility, and in the figures this possibility was shown for the sake of clarity and better distinguishability – especially in the side views – of the door 40 and the connecting tabs 12. However, it should be emphasized that the door 40 (at least one door 40) and the connecting tabs 12 can also be bent in the same direction, i.e., all towards an oncoming raw gas stream R or all away from the oncoming raw gas stream R.

[0129] The representation in Figure 34 shows, on the one hand, a separation combination 30 according to Figure 15, Figure 16 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 or according to Figure 32and, on the other hand, a frame 50 designed to accommodate the separator combination 30. The frame 50 has large openings in opposing side surfaces, which are designated as inlet opening 52 and outlet opening, respectively, for differentiation and according to their function. The frame 50 has closing means 54 for closing, for example, one or more closing tabs 54.

[0130] Frame 50, for example, is a conventional or essentially conventional folding box (cardboard) – apart from the inlet opening 52 and the outlet opening – i.e., a folding box of the type that could otherwise be used for packaging and / or shipping purposes. Suitable materials for frame 50 include cardboard, corrugated board (especially solid board or corrugated board), plastic, metal (especially pyrolysis-resistant metal), or similar materials.

[0131] The frame 50 receives the separator combination 30 in a form-fitting or at least substantially form-fitting manner. This means that the frame 50, in relation to a respective separator combination 30 or a separator combination 30 and a number of separator elements 10 encompassed and interconnected therein, is designed in such a way that the interior of the frame 50 receives the separator combination 30 and extends to every interior surface of the frame 50, or at least substantially to every interior surface of the frame 50.In any case, a depth of the frame 50 – measured from the inlet opening 52 to the outlet opening – corresponds (corresponds or at least substantially corresponds) to a thickness of a separation combination 30 intended for inclusion in the frame 50, measured from a first separating element 10 to the last separating element 10 (or final separating element 11) in the staggered arrangement. In other words, a separation combination 30 placed in a frame 50 fills it; a separation combination 30 placed in a frame 50 occupies its internal volume completely or at least substantially completely. For a separation combination 30 placed in a frame 50 according to... Figure 15, Figure 16 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 or according to Figure 32As well as the respective description, the first (front) separating element 10 is located immediately behind the inlet opening 52 and the last (rear) separating element 10 is located immediately in front of the outlet opening.

[0132] The representation in Figure 34 Figure 1 shows a separator combination 30 placed in a (closed) frame 50. Parts of the separator combination 30 placed in the frame 50 (the separation area 14 of its front separator element 10 is designated) are visible through the inlet opening 52 in the frame 50.

[0133] A separator combination 30 placed in a frame 50 forms, together with the frame 50, a separator device (airflow separator device) 60. Such a separator device 60, or a plurality of such separator devices 60 arranged in a staggered sequence (staggered in the direction of a raw gas stream R), is usable and intended for separating particles, in particular paint particles, carried along with a raw gas stream R in a manner known per se.

[0134] A separating device 60 comprises identical or identical groups of separating elements 10. The possibility of using identical separating elements 10 to form a separating device 60 complements the advantage of the small space requirement of separating elements 10 in a flat state, already mentioned above, because with identical separating elements 10, only one corresponding type of separating element 10 needs to be supplied to each place of use.

[0135] The representation in Figure 35 shows a structural element 62, in particular an extraction wall 62 of a paint shop (see Fig. 36 ) functioning structural element 62, with several compartments 64, each compartment 64 being provided for receiving at least one separation device 60. In the illustrations in Figure 35 and Figure 36An upright extraction wall (an extraction wall with a vertically oriented airflow surface) is shown. The structural element 62 can also be used in a "horizontal" form, for example, under a grating level of a paint booth with a horizontally oriented airflow surface.

[0136] The representation in Figure 35Figure 62 shows – schematically simplified – a snapshot of the insertion of separator devices 60 into the structural element 62 and the compartments 64 therein. It also shows, by way of example, that exactly one separator device 60 or several separator devices 60 can be inserted into a single compartment 64. The type and number of separator devices 60 in the structural element 62 and the type and number of separator devices 60 in each individual compartment 64 result from the respective application situation. The shape and dimensions of a separator device 60, as well as of the separator element 10 it contains, are adapted to the shape and dimensions of a single compartment 64. A compartment 64, or each compartment 64, can also be considered a receptacle or housing (separator housing) for a separator device 60 (or a plurality of separator devices 60). The terms receptacle, compartment 64, and housing are synonymous in this respect.

[0137] The representation in Figure 36 shows, for example, a structural element 62 functioning as an extraction wall 62 of a painting system according to Figure 35 In each of the compartments 64 of the extraction wall 62, or at least in individual compartments 64 of the extraction wall 62, there is at least one separating device 60 of the type proposed here. With regard to the painting system, an industrial robot functioning as a painting robot is shown as an example in front of the extraction wall 62 ("in front" in the direction of the raw gas flow R through the extraction wall 62 and the separating devices 60 located therein). A specific object to be painted is not shown. In principle, any object, for example, vehicle bodies, vehicle body parts, device housings, device housing parts, etc., can be painted using a painting system.

[0138] Key aspects of the description presented here can be summarized as follows: A separating element (airflow separator) 10 for separating particles carried in a raw gas stream is described. The separating element 10 has a separation area 14 and connecting tabs 12 adjacent to or extending from the separation area 14 for detachably connecting one separating element 10 to another. The separating element 10 also has at least one door 40 and at least one door insertion area 48 in the separation area 14, the door 40 having at least one door insertion section 46. When separation elements 10 are connected to one another, individually defined separation surfaces (impact surfaces) are formed in different planes. The separation area 14 of each separating element 10 is one such separation / impact surface.The different levels result from the distance between the respective separation areas 14 when two separation elements 10 are connected. Optionally, the distance between the separation areas 14 of two separation elements 10 connected by means of connecting tabs 12 can be adjusted. For this purpose, each connecting tab 12 is subdivided into at least two sections 22, 24 to adjust its effective length, and each section 22, 24 encompassed by a connecting tab 12 has an insertion section 26 that can be inserted into an insertion area 18 of the further airflow separation element 10. Finally, a separation combination 30 (airflow separation combination) formed with such separation elements 10 and a separation device (airflow separation device) 60 comprising at least one separation combination 30 are specified.A separating device 60 with separating elements 10 of the type proposed here can also be referred to as a separating module, since such a separating device 60 is modularly combinable with at least one further separating device 60, which also comprises separating elements 10 of the type proposed here, and / or with at least one separating device already known in the prior art, for example a separating device of the type mentioned at the outset or the like. Reference symbol list

[0139] 10 Airflow separator element, separator element 11 Separator element, end separator element 12 Connecting element / tab (on the separator element) 14 Separation area (of the separator element) 16 Bend point 18 Insertion area / slot (in / on the separator area) 20 Hole (in the separator area) 22 (First) section (of a tab / connector) 24 (Second) section (of a tab / connector) 26 Insertion section (on a tab / on a section of a tab) 30 Airflow separator combination, separator combination 40 Door 42 Door section 44 Door section 46 Door insertion section (on a tab / on a door section) 48 Door insertion area, door insertion slot 50 Frame 52 Opening, inlet opening 54 Closure element, tab 60 Airflow separator, separator / separator module 62 Structural element / extraction wall 64 Compartment / receptacle (in structural element / extraction wall)

Claims

1. An air flow separation element (10) for separating particles entrained in a raw gas stream, and comprising a separation region (14) and insertion regions (18) as well as connecting tabs (12) that are adjacent to the separation region (14) or extend from the separation region (14) for detachably connecting an air flow separation element (10) to another air flow separation element (10), comprising at least one door (40) and at least one door insertion region (48) in the separation region (14), wherein the door (40) comprises at least one door insertion portion (46).

2. The air flow separation element (10) according to claim 1, wherein the or each door (40) is divided at least into two door portions (42, 44) for the purpose of adjusting an effective length of the relevant door (40), namely a first door portion (42) directly adjacent to the separation region (14) and a second door portion (44) directly adjacent to the first door portion (42), wherein each door portion (42, 44) comprised by each door (40) comprises a door insertion portion (46) that can be inserted into a door insertion region (48) of the other air flow separation element (10).

3. The air flow separation element (10) according to claim 2, wherein each connecting tab (12) is divided at least into two portions (22, 24) for the purposes of adjusting an effective length of the relevant connecting tab (12), namely a first portion (22) directly adjacent to the separation region (14) and a second portion (24) directly adjacent to the first portion (22), wherein each portion (22, 24) comprised by each connecting tab (12) comprises an insertion portion (26) that can be inserted into an insertion region (18) of the other air flow separation element (10).

4. The air flow separation element (10) according to claim 2 or 3, comprising a bend point (16) between two successive portions (22, 24) of a connecting tab (12) or two successive door portions (42, 44) of a door (40) and comprising an origin of an insertion portion (26) or door insertion portion (46) in the region of the bend point (16).

5. The air flow separation element (10) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a rectangular separation region (14), in particular a square separation region (14), wherein the air flow separation element (10) can be connected to another air flow separation element (10) in at least two different orientations.

6. An air flow separation combination (30) comprising a plurality of air flow separation elements (10) according to any of claims 1 to 5 that are interconnected and arranged to be staggered one behind the other in the process.

7. The air flow separation combination (30) according to claim 6, comprising an alternating sequence of a position of the doors (40).

8. An air flow separation device (60) for separating particles entrained in a raw gas stream, comprising an air flow separation combination (30) according to any of claims 6 or 7 received by a frame (50).

9. A paint-spray line comprising a structural element (62) and a plurality of air flow separation devices (60) according to claim 8, which are placed in receiving compartments (64) of the structural element (62).

10. Use of an air flow separation element (10) according to any of claims 1 to 5, an air flow separation combination (30) according to any of claims 6 or 7, an air flow separation device (60) according to claim 8, or a paint-spray line according to claim 9, for separating particles entrained in a raw gas stream.

11. A method for separating paint particles entrained in a raw gas stream, wherein the raw gas stream is guided through at least one air flow separation element according to any of claims 1 to 5 or through at least one air flow separation combination according to any of claims 6 to 7 or through at least one air flow separation device according to claim 8.