Device for pressing material

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for pressing material (2), comprising a control device (3), at least one first endless band (4), which forms a first pressing means; at least one second pressing means (5), wherein a pressing zone (6) for pressing material (2) is formed between the first endless band (4) and the second pressing means (5) and a longitudinal direction (7) is defined, wherein the longitudinal direction (7) is arranged parallel to the first endless band (4) and, in a direction with respect to the pressing zone (6), starting from a beginning (8) of the pressing zone (6) to an end (9) of the pressing zone (6), and at least one pressure-exerting device (10) is provided, by means of which a pressing pressure (11) on an inner surface (12) of the at least one first endless band (4) can be built up in the direction of the pressing zone (6), which inner surface (12) is directed away with respect to the pressing zone (6), wherein the pressure-exerting device (10) is designed in such a way that at least one fluid (13) can be urged onto the inner surface (12) of the at least one first endless band (4) in the direction of the pressing zone (6), by means of which fluid (13) the pressing pressure (11) can be built up.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for pressing material, e.g. fibrous material.

[0002] The device comprises at least a first endless belt, which forms a first pressing means, and at least a second pressing means, in particular a second endless belt, wherein a pressing zone for pressing material is formed between the first endless belt and the second pressing means and a longitudinal direction is defined, wherein the longitudinal direction is parallel to the first endless belt and in a direction with respect to the pressing zone, starting from a beginning of the pressing zone to an end of the pressing zone.

[0003] In an operating state of the device, the material is conveyed along the rotational direction of the endless belt towards the pressing zone, where it is subsequently pressed. For this purpose, at least one pressure device is provided by means of which a pressing pressure can be built up on an inner surface of the at least one first endless belt in the direction of the pressing zone, this inner surface being oriented away from the pressing zone.

[0004] Such devices are widespread in the prior art and include various pressure devices, e.g. pressure rollers, by means of which the material is pressed in the pressing zone.

[0005] US 5141583 A discloses a method for producing a laminate, which includes, among other things, a double-belt press according to the preamble of claim 1 with a pressure mold. In one embodiment, the pressure mold comprises a pressure chamber formed with an annular seal on an endless belt of the double-belt press. Synthetic oil can be used as the pressure medium, which is used as the pressure medium in the pressure chamber formed on the belt.

[0006] US4420359 A discloses a device for manufacturing a plastic film laminate, which has two opposing belts for pressing the laminate together. To generate pressure, two opposing pressure devices are also provided, which seal against the respective belts. Compressed air can be applied to the belts by means of each pressure device in the direction of the laminate, so that they are pressed together. For this purpose, the pressure devices have several channels for supplying the compressed air, which open into a surface of the pressure device facing the belts and are enclosed in this area by a (rectangular) ring seal.

[0007] DE8308788 U1 discloses a pressing device in which at least one circulating press belt can be pressed against a workpiece by means of a pressure medium which can be introduced into a pressure chamber adjacent to the press belt and sealed by means of a band-shaped seal. The seal is guided in a groove of an adjacent pressure plate by means of a socket which receives this seal with clearance and which is pressed against the circulating press belt by means of a pressure medium, wherein a pressure medium hose running parallel to it is mounted in the groove on the back of the socket.

[0008] A disadvantage of prior art designs is that the pressure devices and possible abrasion often lead to wear and tear, even damage and premature wear of the endless belt, resulting in lower process stability and cost-effectiveness of the device.

[0009] The object of the present invention was to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a device by means of which a user is able to minimize wear and tear of the endless belt and to ensure a longer service life.

[0010] This problem is solved by a device having the features of claim 1.

[0011] The device according to the invention is characterized in that the pressure device is designed in such a way that at least one liquid fluid can be applied to the inner surface of the at least one first endless belt in the direction of the pressing zone, by means of which fluid the pressing pressure can be built up.

[0012] The design according to the invention largely prevents wear of the endless belt caused by the pressure device, since the pressing pressure is generated by a fluid and contact with solids on the inner surface of the endless belt in the pressing zone is prevented. Furthermore, at least one spacer element is provided, which is located downstream of a fluid outlet of the pressure device with respect to the fluid flow direction. This spacer element creates a lubricating gap on the inner surface of the endless belt for the fluid. An advantage is that the lubricating gap of the spacer element allows the pressing pressure downstream of the pressure device to be maintained easily. Additionally, the spacer element makes it easier to determine and adjust the distance between the pressure device and the endless belt.

[0013] It should be noted by way of introduction that the lubrication gap or lubricating film of the device according to the invention in the area or within the pressing zone does not merely refer to a simple wetting of the inner surface of the endless belt, but can also be a fluid film that forms a significantly larger fill level on the endless belt. Seals can preferably be provided to laterally limit the lubricating film, thus preventing unintentional escape of the fluid from the endless belt. Furthermore, the lubricating film can also be formed for the circulating endless belt after the pressing zone by means of the spacer element.

[0014] The flow direction of the fluid refers to the path that is created by the application or flow of the fluid in the direction of the pressure zone and can then be guided further in the transport direction of the endless belt.

[0015] One possible embodiment is characterized in that the at least one spacer element comprises a frame arrangement, wherein the frame arrangement is positioned between the pressure device and the inner surface of the endless belt and has at least one fluid passage, the fluid passage being designed in the direction from the pressure device towards the inner surface. A frame arrangement allows for the simple mounting of various pressure devices or pressure vessels onto the frame, which is always adapted to the width of the endless belt. Furthermore, a frame facilitates the application of sealing agents for a fluid.

[0016] The fluid passage serves to apply the fluid through the spacer element or frame arrangement onto the inner surface of the endless belt and can form an extension of the fluid outlet of the pressure device.

[0017] Preferably, the frame arrangement can have at least one further fluid passage, wherein the at least one further fluid passage is formed in at least one frame segment. This design has the advantage that the frame can, for example, supply the frame areas facing the inner surface of the endless belt with lubricant via the fluid passage. The fluid passage can, for example, be formed by an opening or a channel. In one embodiment, the frame arrangement can form the pressure zone, whereby the further fluid passage is solely for the lubrication of the belt.

[0018] Furthermore, the spacer element can be at least partially made of a porous material, the porous material being permeable to the fluid in at least one direction. Using this design, the area below the spacer element or the area downstream of the spacer element in a given flow direction can be easily supplied with lubricant or the fluid.

[0019] It should be noted that the porous material can preferably be selected in such a way that the porosity of the material allows the fluid to seep through, but does not significantly affect the pressure of the printing device.

[0020] In a possible further development, at least one spacer element could be wedge-shaped with respect to the longitudinal direction, so that the gap between the spacer element and the inner surface of the first endless belt decreases with respect to the longitudinal direction. This design offers the advantage that the fluid can be conveyed more easily or in a more targeted manner longitudinally through the endless belt if, for example, turbulent flow occurs when exiting the pressure device.

[0021] Furthermore, the spacer element can include a rolling element, in particular a cylindrical roller, which is rotatably mounted with respect to an axis of rotation that is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and substantially parallel to the inner surface of the first endless belt. A further advantage here is the targeted deflection of the fluid in the longitudinal direction by the rolling element.

[0022] Furthermore, an adjustment device may be provided, allowing the distance between the inner surface of the first endless belt and the pressure device to be adjusted. This design offers the advantage that, for example, the pressure device can be brought closer to the endless belt if the belt moves away from it due to the pressure. It may also be provided that the distance of the pressure device is adjustable with respect to regulating the pressure, for example, if the pressure can be generated by gravity.

[0023] In one possible embodiment, the spacer element can be designed to be height-adjustable, allowing the distance between the spacer element and the inner surface of the first endless belt to be adjusted. This measure is advantageous because it allows the lubrication gap to be controlled, for example, depending on the rotational speed of the endless belt or the pressure applied by the pressure device.

[0024] Furthermore, the pressure device may be arranged across the entire pressing zone. This design is advantageous, for example, if the pressing zone is relatively short, e.g., with a pressure roller as a second pressing element.

[0025] Furthermore, the fluid is intended to be liquid, specifically water or oil. An advantage of this is that the pressing pressure can be generated using compressed air or a gas, allowing for simple structural modifications. Using a liquid fluid, particularly water or oil, results in a cost-effective design and simultaneously provides a lubricant for the endless belt.

[0026] It can be particularly advantageous if at least one sealing element arrangement is provided in the pressing zone, which sealing element arrangement is located at least on the inner surface of the endless belt. This design has the advantage of preventing unwanted fluid leakage into the designated area.

[0027] Furthermore, it can be provided that, in the pressing zone, at least one sealing element arrangement is arranged on the inner surface of the first continuous strip with respect to a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction at a first edge section and an opposing second edge section of the first continuous strip, which sealing element arrangement is arranged with respect to the longitudinal direction at least over a length of the pressing zone. This advantageous design ensures a limitation or sealing of the fluid in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction, thereby facilitating the maintenance of the pressing pressure.

[0028] In a further development, it may be provided that at least one sealing element arrangement includes a pressing device by means of which the sealing element arrangement can be pressed against the at least one first endless belt. This measure can improve the sealing effect and optimize the adaptation of the sealing element arrangement to an endless belt deformed by the pressing pressure.

[0029] It can be advantageous if the spacer element and / or the frame assembly includes at least one sealing element assembly. This measure can ensure improved sealing in the area of ​​the compression zone. Furthermore, in one possible embodiment, the spacer element can be formed by the sealing element assembly, which is arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction, for example with a pressure device, whereby a lubrication gap of the spacer element can also be controlled by the pressure device. In addition, the frame assembly can also include or be formed by several sealing element assemblies.

[0030] Furthermore, the control device can be configured to adjust the pressing pressure of the printing device depending on the rotational speed of the first endless belt. This design contributes to optimizing the pressing behavior.

[0031] Furthermore, the control device can be configured to adjust the distance between the inner surface of the first endless belt and the pressure device depending on the rotational speed of the first endless belt. This configuration can be particularly advantageous if, for example, the pressing pressure is generated and regulated by the hydrostatic pressure of the fluid.

[0032] It can be advantageous if the control device is configured to regulate the contact pressure of the pressure device on the sealing element assembly depending on the pressure of the pressure device and / or the amount of fluid introduced into the lubrication gap as a lubricant. This measure allows for dynamic adjustment of the sealing behavior depending on the pressure. Furthermore, it enables the configuration and dimensioning of the lubrication gap.

[0033] To better understand the invention, it is explained in more detail with reference to the following figures.

[0034] They each show, in a highly simplified, schematic representation: Fig. 1 a device according to the invention for pressing material; Fig. 2 a possible embodiment of a spacer element; Fig. 3 another possible embodiment of a spacer element; Fig. 4 a top view of an inner surface of an endless belt; Fig. 5 a cross-section through an endless belt with a sealing element arrangement; Fig. 6 a possible embodiment of a device for pressing material; Fig. 7 a possible embodiment of the pressure device; Fig. 8 a sectional view of an embodiment of a spacer element; Fig. 9 another possible embodiment of a spacer element; Fig. 10 a top view of a possible embodiment of a frame arrangement of a spacer element with a pressure device not shown.

[0035] It should be noted at the outset that in the differently described embodiments, identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals or component designations, and the disclosures contained in the entire description can be applied analogously to identical parts with the same reference numerals or component designations. Furthermore, the positional designations chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refer to the figure directly described and illustrated, and these positional designations must be applied analogously to the new position if the position changes.

[0036] In Fig. 1A device 1 for pressing material 2, in particular fibrous material, is shown. This device 1 comprises a first endless belt 4, which forms a first pressing element, and a second pressing element 5, which, as shown, can also be designed as an endless belt. Preferably, a control device 3 is provided for controlling the device 1.

[0037] A pressing zone 6 for pressing material 2 is formed between the first continuous belt 4 and the second pressing element 5. A longitudinal direction 7 is arranged, which is parallel to the first continuous belt 4 and extends from a beginning 8 of the pressing zone 6 to an end 9 of the pressing zone 6 with respect to the pressing zone 6. In an operating state of the continuous belt 4, the longitudinal direction 7 also corresponds to a transport direction of the material 2 in the pressing zone 6, which is created by the transport of the material 2 by a circulating first continuous belt 4. The first continuous belt 4 can be supported by at least two rollers, at least one of which is driveable.

[0038] The second pressing element 5 can also be a second endless belt, as shown, which is driven, for example, by at least one roller. However, the second pressing element 5 can also be a pressure roller 35, as indicated by the dashed line, or a sliding surface, or be configured in some other way. Depending on the configuration of the second pressing element 5, the length 25 of the pressing zone 6 can vary accordingly.

[0039] As shown, the second endless belt can have a counter-holding element in the pressing zone 6, so that the second endless belt has improved resistance to pressing pressure. The two endless belts can each also be supported or guided over more than two rollers.

[0040] Furthermore, a pressure device 10 is provided, by means of which pressure device 10 can build up a pressure 11 on an inner surface 12 of the first endless belt 4 in the direction of the pressure zone 6, which inner surface 12 is turned away from the pressure zone 6.

[0041] According to the invention, at least one fluid 13 can be applied to the inner surface 12 of the first endless belt 4 in the direction of the pressing zone 6 by means of the pressure device 10, by means of which fluid 13 the pressing pressure 11 can be built up.

[0042] The fluid 13 can preferably be in the form of a liquid and have known lubricant compositions which are known from the prior art for the aforementioned devices.

[0043] Regardless of the design of the device 1 shown, the pressure device 10 can, for example, comprise at least two fluids 13, wherein a first fluid may, for example, be intended for "slow" operation or start-up of the device and may have improved lubricating properties at low speeds, and a second fluid may be intended for the operating condition at increased speeds and may have improved running properties for this purpose.

[0044] In this regard, an external supply can be provided to supply the pressure device with fluid.

[0045] The endless belt 4 behaves similarly to a hydrodynamic sliding bearing with respect to the pressure device 10, wherein a lubricating wedge is formed between the pressure device 10 and the circulating first endless belt 4.

[0046] Similar to a plain bearing, where, for example, a shaft in the operating state distances itself from the bearing shell by means of the lubricant carried along, the first endless belt 4 also carries the fluid 13 along in the longitudinal direction 7 by means of fluid friction and thereby distances itself from the pressure device 10 or downstream components, such as a spacer element.

[0047] In a section of the pressure device 10, the pressure 11 on the inner surface 12 can be generated by means of hydrostatic pressure or process pressure of the fluid 13. For example, the pressure device 10 can include pressure means by which the fluid 13 can be pressurized to a process pressure. Further pressure means can be provided for this purpose, by means of which the pressure of the pressure device can be monitored and adjusted. In a possible embodiment, the control device 3 can be configured to adjust the pressure 11 of the pressure device 10 depending on the rotational speed of the first endless belt 4.

[0048] Downstream of a fluid outlet 15 of the pressure device 10 with respect to the longitudinal direction 7, components can be provided by means of which a continuous pressing pressure can be exerted on the endless belt by means of a lubricating film 29 of the fluid 13. For example, a plate can be downstream, which plate has a width that is essentially less than or equal to the width of the first endless belt 4, so that pressure on the endless belt is maintained between the plate and the belt by means of the fluid 13. Alternatively, the pressure device 10 itself can also be arranged over the entire pressing zone 6, or over the length 25 of the pressing zone 6. As shown, the lubricating film 29 in the pressing zone 6 can form a higher fluid level on the endless belt 4 than a lubricating film 29a downstream of the end 9 of the pressing zone 6.

[0049] For the sake of completeness, it should be mentioned that the depicted pressure zone 6 and its length 25 serve only for illustrative purposes and can be arranged over a smaller or larger area of ​​the endless belt 4. Similarly, an exaggerated deformation of the endless belt 4 due to the pressure is also shown in the diagram for easier understanding.

[0050] As indicated by the dashed lines, an adjusting device 19 can be provided in a region of the pressure device 10, by means of which adjusting device 19 a distance 20 between the inner surface 12 of the first endless belt 4 and the pressure device 10 can be adjusted. In a further embodiment, the distance 20 can be adjusted by means of the control device 3 depending on a rotational speed of the first endless belt 4.

[0051] In a first and second edge section of the endless belt opposite the longitudinal direction 7, sealing body arrangements for lateral limitation of the fluid film can preferably be arranged, which sealing body arrangements will be discussed in more detail later.

[0052] Furthermore, a fluid collector 27 can be arranged downstream of the pressing zone 6, which can reabsorb at least a portion of the fluid 13, so that no excess lubricant remains on the endless belt downstream of the pressing zone 6. The fluid collector 27 can be designed as a type of scraper device, which directs a collected quantity of fluid into a collection container or returns it to a circuit of the pressure device 10.

[0053] Furthermore, at least one spacer element 14 can be arranged, which spacer element 14 is located downstream of a fluid outlet 15 of the pressure device 10 with respect to the fluid flow direction. A lubrication gap 16 can be formed on the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4 for the fluid 13 by means of the spacer element 14. Preferably, the spacer element 14 extends over a width of the endless belt over which width the fluid forms a lubricating film 29. If no additional component for maintaining the pressure or a lubrication gap is located downstream of the spacer element 14, the spacer element 14 can also extend to the end 9 of the pressing zone 6, or even form its end.

[0054] In one possible embodiment, the spacer element 14 can be rigidly connected to the pressure device 10 and adjustable via the adjustment device 19. In another embodiment, the spacer element 14 can be arranged as a separate component and be adjustable. As mentioned earlier, the spacer element can also include a frame assembly located between the pressure device and the inner surface of the endless belt, which has a fluid passage. This frame assembly will be discussed in more detail later.

[0055] In the Fig. 2 A possible embodiment of a spacer element 14 is shown. The spacer element 14 is wedge-shaped with respect to the longitudinal direction 7, such that a gap 17 between the spacer element 14 and the inner surface 12 of the first continuous belt 4 decreases in the direction of the longitudinal direction 7. The pressure device 10 can comprise several spacer elements 14, as shown.

[0056] In the Fig. 3 Another possible embodiment of a spacer element 14 is shown.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the spacer element 14 is designed as a rolling body and is rotatably mounted with respect to a rotation axis 18, which rotation axis 18 is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction 7 and substantially parallel to the inner surface 12 of the first endless belt 4. This design has the advantage of creating a lubrication gap and simultaneously preventing the accumulation or build-up of fluid 13 or lubricant in front of the spacer element 14, caused by the fluid being carried along by the circulating endless belt.

[0058] Regardless of the embodiment of the spacer element 14 shown in the Figs. 2 and 3 The spacer element 14 can be designed to be height-adjustable, wherein a distance 21 between the spacer element 14 and the inner surface 12 of the first endless belt 4 is adjustable, as shown in Fig. 3 indicated. The height adjustment can be carried out, for example, by means of the adjustment device 19.

[0059] Furthermore, a pressure monitoring unit 37 can be provided for the spacer element 14, by means of which a pressure between the spacer element 14 and the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4 or also a pressure exerted by the fluid 13 on the spacer element 14 can be monitored, which pressure monitoring unit 37 can transmit a value to the control device 3, by means of which value an adjustment of the distance 21 can in turn be made.

[0060] In Fig. 4 and 5 Possible embodiments and arrangements of a sealing element arrangement 24 are shown in top and sectional view.

[0061] In Fig. 4Figure 1 shows a top view of the inner surface 12 of the continuous strip 4, wherein at least one sealing element arrangement 24 is arranged on the inner surface 12 in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction 7 at a first edge section 22 and an opposite edge section 23 of the continuous strip 4, which sealing element arrangement 24 is arranged with respect to the longitudinal direction 7 at least over the length 25 of the pressing zone 6. The sealing element arrangement 24 preferably abuts the pressure device 10 in a sealing manner or can be flexibly connected to it, so that the sealing effect is ensured even if the pressure device 10 is adjusted. Depending on the design of the pressure device 10, the sealing element arrangement 24 can also abut or be connected to a spacer element 14 in a sealing manner.

[0062] In an embodiment not shown, it is also conceivable that the sealing element arrangement 24 is rigidly connected to the pressure device 10 or the spacer element 14 if these are not adjustable.

[0063] Furthermore, regardless of the design of the sealing element arrangement 24, a fluid collector 27 can be arranged, which, as shown, is designed as a scraper and can be arranged, for example, inclined between the two edge sections 22, 23, so that the fluid 13 is diverted towards an edge section where it can be collected again, for example, in a tank or container 41 and returned to a circuit leading to the pressure device 10. With regard to the fluid collector 27, the sealing element arrangement 24 can also have an outlet opening 33 in a region of the fluid collector, through which the fluid can be returned to a circuit. The fluid collector 27a can also have other geometric shapes, e.g., be triangular, as indicated by the dashed lines.

[0064] As can be seen from the presentation in Fig. 4As can be seen, the pressure device 10 or a possible spacer element 14 is preferably designed such that it extends substantially along a width 34 of the endless belt 4 up to the sealing element arrangements 24 in order to ensure optimal pressure distribution.

[0065] In the Fig. 5 A cross-section through a first continuous strip transverse to the longitudinal direction 7 and possible embodiments of a sealing element arrangement 24 are shown.

[0066] A lubricating film 29 is formed on the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4, which is transported in the longitudinal direction 7 or a transport direction during an operating state of the endless belt. The sealing element arrangement 24 serves to laterally limit the fluid 13 and to maintain the pressure 11.

[0067] The sealing element arrangement 24 is arranged in the pressing zone 6 at least on the inner surface 12 of the first continuous strip 4 with respect to a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction 7 at a first edge section 22 and an opposing second edge section 23, which sealing element arrangement 24 is arranged with respect to the longitudinal direction 7 at least over a length of the pressing zone 6. Preferably, the sealing element arrangement 24 can have a sliding coating 32 at least with respect to the inner surface 12, or can consist of a sliding material.

[0068] In the illustration shown, different embodiments of the sealing element arrangement 24 are shown at the respective edge sections 22, 23.

[0069] The left-hand illustration shows a first possible embodiment of a sealing element arrangement 24. The sealing element arrangement 24 can be designed as an elastic seal which rests against the continuous strip 4, in particular with two areas on the inner surface 12 and an opposing outer surface 28, and is preferably integrally designed so that when the continuous strip 4 is displaced or deformed by the pressure 11 in the direction of the pressure zone 6, it is also deformed, as indicated by the dashed lines, thereby improving the maintenance of a sealing effect. The sealing element arrangement can also have a sliding coating in the area of ​​the inner surface 12 and / or the outer surface 28.

[0070] In a further embodiment, as shown in the right-hand illustration, the sealing body assembly 24 can include a pressure device 26 by means of which a sealing element 36 of the sealing body assembly 24 can be pressed against the inner surface 12 of the continuous belt 4. The pressure device 26 can, for example, be designed as a flexible inflatable body by means of which the sealing body assembly 24 is pressed against the continuous belt 4. Alternatively, the sealing element 36 of the sealing body assembly 24 can itself be designed as an inflatable body, as indicated by the dashed lines, whereby the pressure device 26a can be arranged in the sealing element 36. Furthermore, the sealing element 36 can have a sliding coating in the area of ​​the continuous belt 4 or be made of a sliding material.

[0071] In a further development, it may be provided that a contact pressure of the pressure device 26 is adjustable depending on the pressure 11 of the pressure device 10 and / or on a rotational speed of the first endless belt 4, whereby in particular the control device 3 may be equipped to make this adjustment.

[0072] Furthermore, an elastic connecting bridge 31 can be arranged between the sealing element assembly 24 and the pressure device 10, by means of which an elastic connecting bridge seals a contact area between the pressure device 10 and the sealing element assembly 24, so that, for example, a seal is ensured when the pressure device 10 is adjusted. A spacer element 14 of the pressure device 10, which is indicated, can also be connected to the elastic connecting bridge 31.

[0073] Regardless of the sealing element arrangement 24 in both edge sections 22, 23, the spacer element 14 itself can comprise a sealing element arrangement 24, or can itself be designed as a sealing element arrangement 24 and, for example, comprise a pressure device 26 and a sealing element 36, as shown in the right-hand illustration, which, however, are arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction 7.

[0074] In an alternative embodiment, not shown, a sealing lip can also be formed on the two edge sections 22, 23, at least on the inner surface of the endless belt and over its entire circumference, with regard to a lateral seal of the belt. Fig. 6Figure 1 shows a possible embodiment of a device 1 for pressing material 2, in which the device 1 comprises a first endless belt 4 and a second endless belt 4' designed as a second pressing means 5; each of which endless belts 4, 4' comprises at least one pressure device 10, by means of which pressure device 10 a pressing pressure 11 can be built up on an inner surface 12 of the respective endless belt in the direction of the pressing zone 6, wherein at least one fluid 13 can be applied to the inner surface 12 of the endless belts in the direction of the pressing zone 6 by means of each of the pressure devices 10, and by means of which fluid 13 the pressing pressure 11 can be built up. Spacer elements 14, fluid collectors 27, as well as adjusting devices 19 and other arrangements can again be provided as described above, which can be designed identically or differently on both endless belts.

[0075] The device can be arranged in a vertical orientation as shown, but also in a horizontal arrangement, similar to the one in Fig. 1 .

[0076] In Fig. 7 Figure 10 shows a possible embodiment of a pressure device 10, which is arranged over the length 25 of the pressing zone 6. In the illustrated form, the fluid 13 of the pressure device 10 is gaseous and is pressurized by the pressure device 10 onto the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4 in the direction of the pressing zone 6 to build up a pressing pressure 11. At least one pressure medium 30 can be provided for this purpose, by means of which the process pressure can be monitored and adjusted.

[0077] At the lateral edge sections 22, 23, embodiments of the aforementioned sealing element arrangements 24 can again be provided. Preferably, an adjustment device 19 can again be provided, by means of which a distance 20 between the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4 and the pressure device 10 can be adjusted.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the pressure device 10 can, for example, comprise several nozzles or other measures known from the prior art for supplying compressed air or process gases by means of which the gaseous fluid 13 can be pressurized in the direction of the pressure zone 6. Several pressure devices 10 can also be arranged with respect to the longitudinal direction 7 or in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction 7, as indicated by dashed lines.

[0079] In the embodiment shown, a process chamber can be formed in the area of ​​the pressure device 10 or around the entire system, particularly when using special process gases.

[0080] In the Figures 6 and 7 Another embodiment of the device 1 or the printing device 10, which may be independent, is shown, again using the same reference numerals or component designations for identical parts as in the preceding figures. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding figures.

[0081] In the Fig. 8Figure 14 shows a sectional view of an embodiment of a spacer element 14, in which the spacer element 14 comprises a frame arrangement 38, wherein the frame arrangement 38 is arranged between the pressure device 10 and the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4 and has at least one fluid passage 39, wherein the fluid passage 39 is configured in the direction from the pressure device 10 to the inner surface 12. Preferably, the fluid passage 39 can be formed by means of an opening created or surrounded by the frame.

[0082] The frame arrangement 38 can preferably be designed such that the pressure device 10 can be placed on it or coupled to it, thereby creating a fluid-tight connection between them, so that no fluid can escape over its circumference or edge connection areas.

[0083] Regardless of the design of the frame arrangement 38, it can be height-adjustable with the pressure device 10 or on its own, again by means of an adjustment device 19.

[0084] In at least one frame segment 40, a further fluid passage 39a can be formed, for example by means of a breakthrough or a channel.

[0085] The frame segments 40a-c form the three visible sections of the frame arrangement 38, with the fourth segment lying outside the image plane due to the cut.

[0086] In one possible embodiment, the pressure device 10 may be designed such that a separate area 42 is provided in the pressure device 10 for the frame segment 40, through which area 42 a quantity of fluid can be supplied in the direction of the frame segment 40, so that it exits through the further fluid passage 39a.

[0087] In this regard, a valve may be arranged to introduce the fluid into its own area 42 from the pressure device 10, or the area 42 may be able to be filled with the fluid independently of the pressure device 10.

[0088] Preferably, the pressure device 10 can be arranged over the entire pressing zone 6, whereby a lubricating film can be formed after the pressing zone 6 on the endless belt 4 by means of the further fluid passage 39a in the frame segment 40a, or can also serve for lubrication between the frame arrangement 38 and the endless belt 4, as indicated by the fluid passage 39b in the frame segment 40c.

[0089] A frame segment 40 can also have multiple fluid passages.

[0090] In Fig. 9Another possible embodiment of the spacer element 14 is shown, in which the spacer element 14 is at least partially formed from a porous material, wherein the porous material is permeable to the fluid 13 in at least one direction.

[0091] For example, a frame segment 40 or a frame section of the previously described frame arrangement 38 can also consist of porous material, allowing the fluid 13 to seep through. A further fluid passage 39a, as previously mentioned, can also be formed through the porous material. Furthermore, a previously described area 42 can be provided in the pressure device 10 for this purpose.

[0092] Furthermore, the spacer element 14 or part of the frame arrangement 38 can consist of at least one sealing body arrangement 24, as mentioned at the outset, independently of the aforementioned porous material.

[0093] As shown, the sealing element arrangement 24 can in turn comprise a pressure device 26 and a sealing element 36. The illustrated sealing element arrangement 24 can also be arranged in place of the porous material in the frame segment 40a, so that a lubrication gap can be formed on the inner surface 12 by means of the sealing element arrangement 24.

[0094] Likewise, sliding coatings may be provided, or the frame segments 40 or the frame arrangement 38 may consist of a sliding material.

[0095] In Fig. 10 A top view of a possible embodiment of a frame arrangement 38 of a spacer element 14 with a pressure device not shown is shown, wherein the lateral frame segments 40b and 40d in the first and second edge sections 22, 23 of the continuous strip 4 can be formed by the sealing body arrangements 24, and the frame segments 40a and 40c arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction 7 consist, for example, of porous material.

[0096] In a further embodiment, all frame segments can be formed from the porous material. For example, the frame arrangement can be designed to "float" relative to the endless belt by means of a quantity of fluid that passes through the frame segments or the porous material towards the inner surface of the endless belt.

[0097] Other combinations from the preceding figures are also conceivable. For example, the frame arrangement 38 can consist of 4 sealing element arrangements 24. Furthermore, a sealing element arrangement for adjusting the lubrication gap can be provided.

[0098] Furthermore, one of the frame segments arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction can also have a Fig. 3 described rolling bodies.

[0099] In the Figures 8 to 10Further and, where applicable, independent embodiments of the spacer element 14 or the frame arrangement 38 are shown, whereby the same reference numerals or component designations are used for identical parts as in the preceding figures. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding figures.

[0100] The exemplary embodiments show possible embodiment variants, whereby it should be noted at this point that the invention is not limited to the specifically illustrated embodiment variants, but rather various combinations of the individual embodiment variants are also possible and this possibility of variation lies within the skill of the person skilled in this technical field due to the teaching on technical action by the present invention.

[0101] The scope of protection is defined by the claims. However, the description and drawings must be consulted for the interpretation of the claims. Individual features or combinations of features from the different embodiments shown and described can, in themselves, represent independent inventive solutions. The problem underlying these independent inventive solutions can be found in the description.

[0102] All references to value ranges in this description are to be understood as encompassing any and all sub-ranges thereof, e.g., the reference 1 to 10 is to be understood as including all sub-ranges, starting from the lower limit 1 and the upper limit 10, i.e., all sub-ranges begin with a lower limit of 1 or greater and end with an upper limit of 10 or less, e.g., 1 to 1.7, or 3.2 to 8.1, or 5.5 to 10.

[0103] Finally, for the sake of clarity, it should be noted that, for a better understanding of the structure, some elements have been shown not to scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size. Reference numeral list 1 device 30 Pressure medium 2 material 31 Connecting bridge 3 Control device 32 Sliding coating 4 first endless tape 33 outlet opening 5 second pressing agent 34 Width 6 Press zone 35 pressure roller 7 Longitudinal direction 36 Sealing element 8 Beginn 37 Pressure monitoring unit 9 End 38 Framework arrangement 10 Printing device 39 Fluid passage 11 Pressure 40 Frame segment 12 Inner surface 41 container 13 Fluid 42 Area 14 Spacer 15 Fluid outlet 16 Lubrication gap 17 gap 18 axis of rotation 19 Adjustment device 20 Distance 21 distance 22 first marginal section 23 second border section 24 Sealing element arrangement 25 length 26 pressure device 27 Fluid collector 28 Outdoor area 29 Lubricating film

Claims

1. Device (1) for pressing material (2), comprising: - a control device (3) for controlling the device (1); - at least one first endless band (4), which first endless band (4) forms a first pressing means - at least one second pressing means (5), in particular a second endless band; - wherein a pressing zone (6) for pressing material (2) is formed between the first endless band (4) and the second pressing means (5) and a longitudinal direction (7) is defined, wherein the longitudinal direction (7) is arranged parallel to the first endless band (4) and in a direction with respect to the pressing zone (6), starting from a beginning (8) of the pressing zone (6) to an end (9) of the pressing zone (6); - at least one pressure-exerting device (10), wherein by means of the pressure-exerting device (10) a pressing pressure (11) can be built up on an inner surface (12) of the at least one first endless band (4) in the direction of the pressing zone (6), which inner surface (12) is directed away with respect to the pressing zone (6); and wherein the pressure-exerting device (10) is designed in such a way that at least one liquid fluid (13), the fluid comprising in particular water or oil, can be applied onto the inner surface (12) of the at least one first endless band (4) in the direction of the pressing zone (6), by means of which fluid (13) the pressing pressure (11) can be built up, characterized in that at least one spacer element (14) is provided, wherein the spacer element (14) is located downstream of a fluid outlet (15) of the pressure-exerting device (10) with respect to a flow direction of the fluid (13), by means of which spacer element (14) a lubrication gap (16) can be formed on the inner surface (12) of the endless band (4) for the fluid (13).

2. Device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one spacer element (14) comprises a frame arrangement (38), the frame arrangement (38) being arranged between the pressure-exerting device (10) and the inner surface (12) of the endless band (4) and provided with at least one fluid passage (39), the fluid passage (39) being formed in the direction, starting from the pressure-exerting device (10), towards the inner surface (12).

3. Device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the frame arrangement (38) is provided with at least one further fluid passage (39), the at least one further fluid passage (39) being formed in at least one frame segment (40).

4. Device (1) according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the spacer element (14) is formed at least partially from a porous material, the porous material being penetrable by the fluid (13) in at least one direction.

5. Device (1) according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the at least one spacer element (14) is wedge-shaped with respect to the longitudinal direction (7), wherein a gap width (17) between the spacer element (14) and the inner surface (12) of the first endless band (4) decreases with respect to the longitudinal direction (7).

6. Device (1) according to any claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the spacer element (14) comprises a rolling body, in particular a cylindrical roller, which rolling body is rotatably mounted with respect to an axis of rotation (18), which axis of rotation (18) is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (7) and substantially parallel to the inner surface (12) of the first endless band (4).

7. Device (1) according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that an adjustment device (19) is provided, a distance (20) between the inner surface (12) of the first endless band (4) and the pressure-exerting device (10) being adjustable by means of the adjustment device (19).

8. Device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the control device (3) is configured to adjust the distance (20) between the inner surface (12) of the at least one first endless band (4) and the pressure-exerting device (10) depending on a rotational speed of the first endless band (4).

9. Device (1) according to any claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the spacer element (14) is height-adjustable, wherein a distance (21) between the spacer element (14) and the inner surface (12) of the first endless band (4) is adjustable.

10. Device (1) according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the pressure-exerting device (10) is arranged over the entire pressing zone (6).

11. Device (1) according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that at least one sealing body arrangement (24) is provided at least in the pressing zone (6), which sealing body arrangement (24) is arranged at least on the inner surface (12) of the endless band (4).

12. Device (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the at least one sealing body arrangement (24) is arranged in the pressing zone (6) at least on the inner surface (12) of the first endless band (4) with respect to a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction (7) on a first edge section (22) and an opposite second edge section (23) of the first endless band (4), the sealing body arrangement (24) being arranged with respect to the longitudinal direction (7) at least over a length (25) of the pressing zone (6).

13. Device (1) according to any of claims 11 or 12, characterized in that the at least one sealing body arrangement (24) comprises a pushing device (26), wherein the sealing body arrangement (24) can be pressed against the at least one first endless band (4) by means of the pushing device (26).

14. Device (1) according to any of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the spacer element (14) comprises the at least one sealing body arrangement (24).

15. Device (1) according to any of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the control device (3) is configured to control a pushing pressure of the pushing device (26) on the sealing body arrangement (24) depending on the pressing pressure (11) of the pressure-exerting device (10) and / or a quantity of fluid introduced into the lubrication gap (16) and serving as lubricant.

16. Device (1) according to any of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the control device (3) is configured to adjust the pressing pressure (11) of the pressure-exerting device (10) depending on a rotational speed of the first endless band (4).

Images