Compact static mixer and method for mixing at least two fluids

Abstract

A static mixer unit (100, 200, 300, 400) for mixing at least two fluids (F1, F2) comprises a premixing unit (VE) with a downstream main mixing unit (HE), wherein: a) the premixing unit (VE) comprises a premixing chamber (50, 50') which has a plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') for supplying a first fluid (F1) and a plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') for supplying a second fluid (F2) into a cavity (50.1, 50.1') of the premixing chamber (50, 50'), as well as a central outlet (52, 52') for discharging the fluids (F1, F2) from the cavity (50.1, 50.1') of the premixing chamber (50, 50'); b) wherein the plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') and the plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') are arranged in a peripheral region (P) of the premixing chamber (50) around the outlet (52, 52'), wherein alternately one or more first inlets (51a, 51a') and one or more second inlets (51b, 51b') lead into the cavity (50.1, 50.1'), c) wherein the premixing chamber (50, 50') is designed such that the fluids (F1, F2) can be guided to the outlet (52, 52') of the premixing chamber (50, 50') from several different directions lying in a common premixing plane (E), at least into a region of the premixing chamber (50, 50') adjacent to the outlet (52, 52'); d) the outlet (52, 52') of the premixing chamber (50, 50') opens into an inlet (11, 21, 21') of the main mixing unit (HE), so that through the outlet (52, 52') from the cavity (50.1, 50.1') fluids discharged from the premixing chamber (50, 50') can be fed to the main mixing unit (HE); e) the main mixing unit (HE) has at least one static mixer (10, 20, 20') with a plurality of flow-influencing elements (12, 22a, 22b) arranged in a hollow body (14, 24), wherein the static mixer (10, 20, 20') is designed such that a main flow direction (L) of the fluids (F1, F2) in the static mixer (10, 20, 20') runs from the inlet (11, 21, 21') of the main mixing unit (HE) to an outlet (13, 23) of the main mixing unit (HE) substantially perpendicular to the premixing plane (E) of the premixing unit (VE).

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a static mixer unit for mixing at least two fluids, in particular liquids, gases and / or pasty masses, which comprises a static mixer with a plurality of flow-influencing elements arranged in a hollow body. Furthermore, the invention relates to a parts set comprising a static mixer unit and at least two, in particular exactly two, containers, each with an outlet on the containers, wherein the containers each contain one of at least two, in particular exactly two, different fluids. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for mixing at least two fluids, in particular liquids, gases and / or pasty masses, with a static mixer unit and the use of a static mixer unit for mixing two fluids. State of the art

[0002] Static mixers are devices for mixing fluids in which the flow motion alone causes mixing and which do not have any moving elements. They consist of a series of specially shaped flow-influencing elements arranged in a tube or housing. The fluids to be mixed are guided through these elements, which divide, deflect, and recombine them. This creates shear forces, turbulence, or extensional flows that ensure a homogeneous distribution of the fluids to be mixed. Conventional static mixers operate exclusively through the kinetic energy of the flowing media and require no external energy supply for the mixing process.

[0003] Static mixers are widely used in the construction sector, industrial manufacturing and industrial process engineering, among others, and have established themselves in numerous applications as a reliable and efficient solution for mixing liquids, gases and viscous media.

[0004] Common types of static mixers today include designs with screw or helical flow-influencing elements, such as those used in the Sulzer SMV mixer, and mixers with X-shaped elements, typically used in the Sulzer X-mixer. Mixers with specially shaped segments, such as Quadro mixers or mixers with prismatic inserts, have also proven effective in meeting specific mixing requirements.

[0005] Such mixers are described, for example, in the patents US 4,062,524 (Bayer AG), US 2012 / 0106290 A1 (Meijer et al.), US 3,664,638 (Kenics Corp.), EP 0 815 929 B1 (Sulzer Chemtech AG) and EP 2 181 827 B1 (Sulzer Mixpac AG).

[0006] Despite their performance, conventional static mixers have disadvantages in certain applications. Depending on the application and the desired mixing quality, static mixers can be relatively long and bulky. When used manually, for example, as a mixing nozzle on adhesive cartridges, this negatively impacts handling, and in process engineering, additional space is required for the installation of the bulky static mixers. Furthermore, long static mixers increase the material requirements, which not only increases manufacturing costs but also increases environmental impact.

[0007] There is therefore still a need for new static mixers that have fewer or no disadvantages mentioned above. Description of the invention

[0008] The object of the invention is therefore to provide an improved static mixer unit. The static mixer unit should, in particular, combine an efficient mixing effect with a compact and, as far as possible, resource-efficient design.

[0009] The solution to the problem is defined by the features of claim 1. The core of the invention is a static mixer unit for mixing at least two fluids, in particular liquids, gases and / or pasty masses, comprising a premixing unit with a downstream main mixing unit, wherein: a) The premixing unit comprises a premixing chamber having a plurality of first inlets for supplying a first fluid and a plurality of second inlets for supplying a second fluid into a cavity of the premixing chamber, as well as a central outlet for discharging the fluids from the cavity of the premixing chamber; b) wherein the plurality of first inlets and the plurality of second inlets are arranged in a peripheral region of the premixing chamber around the outlet, with one or more first inlets and one or more second inlets opening alternately into the cavity; c) wherein the premixing chamber is designed such that the fluids, in particular in premixed form, can be guided to the outlet from a plurality of different directions lying in a common premixing plane, at least in a region of the premixing chamber adjacent to the outlet;d) the outlet of the premixing chamber opens into an inlet of the main mixing unit, so that fluids discharged from the cavity of the premixing chamber through the outlet can be fed to the main mixing unit; e) the main mixing unit has at least one static mixer with several flow-influencing elements arranged in a hollow body, wherein the static mixer is designed such that a main flow direction of the fluids in the static mixer runs from the inlet of the main mixing unit to an outlet of the main mixing unit substantially perpendicular to the premixing plane of the premixing unit.

[0010] It has been shown that the combination of a premixing unit in which the fluids to be mixed are premixed at least in part in a premixing plane and a downstream main mixing unit with a main flow direction of the fluids running perpendicular to the premixing plane enables extremely efficient mixing of the fluids in the smallest space.

[0011] Compared to a conventional static mixer, the length of the main mixing unit in the inventive static mixer unit can be reduced by up to 90% while maintaining the same mixing quality. This allows the inventive static mixer unit to be constructed more compactly, which further reduces material consumption.

[0012] In other words, the static mixer unit according to the invention achieves an efficient mixing effect while maintaining a compact, resource-saving, and sustainable design. This compact design also improves handling in manual applications and reduces space requirements in industrial applications.

[0013] Furthermore, the premixing unit according to the invention can be combined with a variety of different main mixing units, which allows flexible adaptation to different requirements.

[0014] The term "premixing" in this case specifically encompasses a pre-distribution, in particular a regular spatial pre-distribution, of the at least two fluids and / or a partial mixing of the at least two fluids. Specifically, the mixing quality of the at least two fluids upstream of the premixing unit is lower than downstream of the premixing unit, and / or the mixing quality at the outlet of the premixing unit is lower than the mixing quality of the at least two fluids after passing through the main mixing unit.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the premixing chamber and the static mixer of the main mixing unit are firmly connected to each other and / or manufactured in one piece.

[0016] Preferably, the inlet of the static mixer corresponds in size and / or shape to the outlet of the premixing chamber. This allows the entire inlet opening of the static mixer to be utilized.

[0017] Further preferably, the at least two fluids in the premixing chamber are distributed, preferably evenly, over the entire outlet area of ​​the premixing chamber and / or the entire inlet area or the entire inlet opening. This allows a high mixing quality to be achieved even with local mixing in the downstream main mixing unit, which benefits compactness.

[0018] In an advantageous embodiment, the premixing chamber has no further fluid inlets besides the plurality of first inlets for supplying the first fluid and the plurality of second inlets for supplying the second fluid. In this case, the premixing chamber is designed for mixing exactly two fluids.

[0019] In another embodiment of the invention, however, it is possible for the premixing unit to have a plurality of third inlets for supplying a third fluid into the cavity of the premixing chamber. In this case, the premixing chamber is designed for mixing exactly three fluids.

[0020] For special applications, additional inlets for additional fluids are also conceivable.

[0021] According to point b), one or more first inlets and one or more second inlets alternately open into the cavity. This means that between two of the first inlets, one or more of the second inlets open into the premixing chamber, and / or between two of the second inlets, one or more of the first inlets open into the premixing chamber.

[0022] Particularly preferably, the plurality of first inlets and the plurality of second inlets are arranged such that a first inlet and a second inlet alternately open into the cavity. In this case, between two of the first inlets, exactly one of the second inlets opens into the premixing chamber, and between two of the second inlets, exactly one of the first inlets opens into the premixing chamber.

[0023] This enables particularly good premixing of at least two fluids in the premixing chamber. However, other inlet arrangements can also be implemented for special applications.

[0024] Preferably, the plurality of first inlets and the plurality of second inlets are arranged at regular intervals from one another. This further improves the premixing effect.

[0025] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the plurality of first inlets are arranged on a first circular line and / or the plurality of second inlets are arranged on a second circular line. The center of the circular line(s) is advantageously located on a geometric axis that runs through the center of the central outlet of the premixing chamber and / or coaxial with a longitudinal axis that runs along the main flow direction in the main mixing unit. In this case, the homogeneity of the premixing can be further increased.

[0026] In particular, the plurality of first inlets and the plurality of second inlets are arranged such that the first fluid and the second fluid enter the cavity of the premixing chamber along a common circular line. In this case, too, the center of the circular line advantageously lies on a geometric axis passing through the center of the central outlet of the premixing chamber and / or coaxial with a longitudinal axis running along the main flow direction in the main mixing unit. This allows for optimal and uniform mixing.

[0027] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the plurality of first inlets and the plurality of second inlets are configured such that the first fluid and the second fluid are introduced into the cavity from different directions. This applies in particular to all first and all second inlets. This enables, in particular, a more compact design.

[0028] In particular, with respect to the main flow direction of the fluids in the static mixer of the main mixing unit, the plurality of first inlets and the plurality of second inlets are configured such that the first fluid and the second fluid are introduced into the cavity from opposite directions. This is preferably configured such that the first fluid can be introduced into the cavity in a direction parallel to the main flow direction of the fluids in the static mixer, and the second fluid can be introduced into the cavity from a direction antiparallel to the main flow direction of the fluids in the static mixer. This enables a particularly compact design.

[0029] Furthermore, it may be advantageous if the plurality of first inlets and the plurality of second inlets are designed such that the first fluid and the second fluid can be introduced into the cavity of the premixing chamber from directions perpendicular to one another.

[0030] For example, the plurality of first inlets and the plurality of second inlets can be configured such that the first fluid is introduced into the cavity of the premixing chamber from directions parallel to the premixing plane, and the second fluid can be introduced into the cavity from a direction parallel or antiparallel to the main flow direction of the fluids in the static mixer. This represents another possibility for a particularly compact design.

[0031] With regard to the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet opening and / or the shape of the inlet opening, preferably all first inlets are of identical design and / or all second inlets are of identical design. In particular, all first and second inlets are of identical design.

[0032] In particular, a number of the plurality of first inlets is the same as a number of the plurality of second inlets.

[0033] This ensures a particularly uniform introduction of the fluids into the premixing chamber. However, this is not mandatory. For example, to mix different amounts of fluids, the number, cross-sectional area, and / or shape of the inlet openings can be adjusted or designed differently.

[0034] Furthermore, it is preferred if the cavity of the premixing chamber is axially symmetrical with respect to a central axis which is perpendicular to an opening plane of the outlet, and / or wherein the cavity of the premixing chamber is axially symmetrical with respect to a longitudinal axis which runs along the main flow direction of the fluids in the static mixer.

[0035] In particular, the cavity of the premixing chamber is cylindrical or plate-shaped.

[0036] Cylindrical cavities are, for example, circular cylindrical cavities, elliptical cylindrical cavities or prismatic cavities, circular cylindrical cavities are particularly preferred.

[0037] A "cylinder" is understood here, in particular, to be a body with two parallel, congruent bases and straight generatrix lines of equal length, where the generatrix lines connect the corresponding points on the two bases. The generatrix lines are perpendicular to the bases. The bases do not have to be circular. They can be any closed curve or surface, e.g., elliptical, rectangular, or another shape. The height of the cylinder, measured in a direction perpendicular to the bases, can be arbitrary, in particular, even smaller than the width, length, and / or diameter of the bases.

[0038] A plate-shaped cavity, in particular, has a central cylindrical region and an adjoining peripheral annular region, wherein the central axis of the cylindrical region and the annular region are the same. The transition from the central cylindrical region to the peripheral annular region can be angular or, preferably, rounded.

[0039] In particular, a plate-shaped cavity has a central cylindrical region and an adjoining peripheral hollow spherical layer-shaped region, wherein the two regions preferably merge continuously and / or without edges into one another.

[0040] A plate-shaped cavity has, in particular, a U-shaped cross-section with respect to all cross-sections passing through a center of the cavity.

[0041] Such cavities have a high degree of symmetry and thus enable particularly homogeneous mixing.

[0042] Furthermore, it is preferred if the height of the cavity of the premixing chamber, measured in a direction perpendicular to the premixing plane, in the region of the common premixing plane is >0-20%, in particular 1-10%, in particular 2-5%, of a maximum dimension, in particular a maximum diameter, of the cavity of the premixing chamber. Thus, the cavity is relatively flat, which has proven advantageous in the present case. However, other configurations of the cavity are also possible.

[0043] Particularly preferably, the premixing unit is designed such that the fluids are guided through the cavity as circular sector-shaped fluid streams and / or flow through the cavity. This can be achieved, for example, by the above-described arrangement of the inlets and the design of the cavity of the premixing chamber.

[0044] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the plurality of first inlets are fluidically connected to a first supply chamber, wherein the first supply chamber is preferably designed such that the first fluid present in the first supply chamber is conveyed uniformly through all of the plurality of first inlets when pressurized; and / or wherein the plurality of second inlets are fluidically connected to a second supply chamber, wherein the second supply chamber is preferably designed such that the second fluid present in the second supply chamber is conveyed uniformly through all of the plurality of second inlets when pressurized.

[0045] A feed chamber enables a particularly uniform introduction of the fluids through the corresponding inlets into the cavity of the premixing chamber, which benefits the most homogeneous premixing of the fluids possible.

[0046] It is further preferred if the first supply chamber has a plurality of first outlets which communicate with the plurality of first inlets of the premixing chamber, in particular the plurality of first outlets of the first supply chamber protrude into the plurality of first inlets of the premixing chamber, in particular in a form-fitting manner; and / or wherein the second supply chamber has a plurality of second outlets which communicate with the plurality of second inlets of the premixing chamber, in particular the plurality of second outlets of the second supply chamber protrude into the plurality of second inlets of the premixing chamber, in particular in a form-fitting manner.

[0047] This allows for an effective introduction of the fluids into the cavity of the premixing chamber via the corresponding inlets in a simple manner.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, the first supply chamber and / or the second supply chamber is arranged on a side of the premixing chamber facing away from the downstream main mixing unit.

[0049] Furthermore, for example, the first supply chamber can laterally surround the premixing chamber and / or the second supply chamber, in particular such that the first fluid can be guided around the premixing chamber from the side of the premixing chamber facing away from the downstream main mixing unit and can be conveyed from the side of the premixing chamber facing the downstream main mixing unit through the plurality of first inlets into the cavity of the premixing chamber.

[0050] In particular, the first supply chamber and / or the second supply chamber has an inlet opening on a side facing away from the downstream main mixing unit, through which the first fluid can be conveyed into the first supply chamber and / or the second fluid into the second supply chamber. This allows the fluid(s) to be directed centrally into the respective supply chamber.

[0051] The static mixer of the main mixing unit is designed, for example, as an X-mixer, helix mixer, T-mixer, and / or quadro mixer. X-mixers are particularly preferred, as they allow for a particularly compact design in this context. These terms are familiar to those skilled in the art.

[0052] X-mixers are described, for example, in US 4,062,524 or US 2012 / 0106290 A1. Helix mixers are described in US 3,664,638, while quadro mixers are shown in EP 0 815 929 B1 and T-mixers in EP 2 181 827 B1.

[0053] Specifically, the flow-influencing elements in the static mixer of the main mixing unit are X-shaped crossed webs, curved flat elements, helical elements, and / or screw-shaped elements. X-shaped crossed webs are particularly preferred, as they enable a particularly compact design in this context.

[0054] The hollow body of the static mixer of the main mixing unit is preferably a tubular element.

[0055] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the main mixing unit comprises several static mixers arranged in parallel, wherein the several static mixers are in particular of identical construction. Due to the pre-distribution or pre-mixing of the fluids in the pre-mixing chamber, local mixing is sufficient using static mixers connected in parallel. The parallel connection allows the cross-section of the individual static mixers to be reduced without increasing the pressure loss. With smaller mixer diameters, the length of the mixers can be reduced while maintaining the same mixing quality.

[0056] Furthermore, it is preferred if the static mixer unit has a coupling device, in particular a screw connection, a clamp connection, a bayonet closure and / or a snap-in connection, for connecting the static mixer to one or more containers in which, in particular, the at least two fluids are present, and / or fluid lines from which, in particular, the at least two fluids are supplied.

[0057] This allows the static mixer unit to be connected to containers and / or fluid lines in a simple but reliable manner.

[0058] The static mixer units according to the invention can be manufactured in particular by 3D printing.

[0059] Specifically, the static mixer units according to the invention are made of plastic. However, for special applications, they can also be made of metal and / or other materials.

[0060] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a kit comprising (i) at least two, in particular exactly two, containers, each having an outlet on the containers, wherein the containers each contain one of at least two, in particular exactly two, different fluids, and (ii) a static mixer unit as described above, wherein the outlets of the containers are or can be connected to the static mixer unit in a fluid-conducting manner. This is particularly so that when the fluids are discharged from the containers, the first fluid can be passed through the plurality of first inlets and the second fluid can be passed through the plurality of second inlets into the premixing chamber of the premixing unit and subsequently through the main mixing unit and can be mixed.

[0061] The two containers can also be part of a common packaging, e.g. in a cartridge, and / or be designed as an integral part thereof.

[0062] The static mixer unit preferably has a coupling device, in particular a screw connection, a clamp connection, a bayonet lock, and / or a snap-in connection. Furthermore, the static mixer unit is preferably connected via these to the containers and / or a packaging containing the containers.

[0063] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a method for mixing at least two fluids, in particular liquids, gases and / or pasty masses, with a static mixer unit comprising a premixing unit with a downstream main mixing unit, in particular with a static mixer unit as described above, wherein: A first fluid is introduced into a cavity of a premixing chamber of the premixing unit via a plurality of first inlets and a second fluid is introduced via a plurality of second inlets, and the fluids are discharged from the cavity of the premixing chamber via a central outlet; wherein the plurality of first inlets and the plurality of second inlets are arranged in a peripheral region of the premixing chamber around the outlet, wherein one or more first inlets and one or more second inlets open alternately into the cavity, wherein the fluids are guided to the outlet from a plurality of different directions lying in a common premixing plane, at least in a region of the premixing chamber adjacent to the outlet; the fluids discharged from the cavity of the premixing chamber through the outlet are fed to an inlet of the main mixing unit;wherein the main mixing unit comprises at least one static mixer with a plurality of flow-influencing elements arranged in a hollow body, wherein the static mixer is designed such that a main flow direction of the fluids in the static mixer runs from the inlet of the main mixing unit to an outlet of the main mixing unit substantially perpendicular to the premixing plane of the premixing unit.

[0064] The static mixer unit used in the process is preferably a static mixer unit as described above. In a particular embodiment, it is equipped with one or more of the features described above as optional.

[0065] The fluids are in particular liquids, gases and / or pasty masses.

[0066] The first fluid and the second fluid can form a solution when mixed, one fluid being dissolved in the other, or the first fluid and the second fluid can form a dispersion when mixed, in particular a foam or an emulsion.

[0067] In a dispersion, the two fluids hardly or not at all dissolve in each other and one of the two fluids is finely distributed as a disperse phase, e.g. as a liquid or gaseous phase, in the other fluid, e.g. a liquid, which forms a continuous phase or the dispersion medium.

[0068] The first fluid is, for example, a first component of a two-component adhesive and / or sealant and the second fluid is a second component of a two-component adhesive and / or sealant.

[0069] According to another embodiment, the first fluid is a gas and the second fluid is a liquid, wherein a foam is preferably formed during mixing in the static mixer unit. Foam, in particular, consists of finely distributed gas bubbles in a liquid.

[0070] In a further embodiment, the first fluid is a liquid and the second fluid is a liquid that is not soluble in the first liquid, wherein an emulsion is preferably formed during mixing in the static mixer unit. In an emulsion, in particular, liquid droplets, which form, for example, the first fluid, are finely distributed in another liquid, which forms, for example, the second fluid. The fluids are guided through the cavity in particular as circular sector-shaped fluid streams and / or flow through it in this form.

[0071] An additional aspect of the present invention relates to the use of a static mixer unit as described above for mixing two fluids, in particular liquids, gases and / or pasty masses.

[0072] In particular, the static mixer unit is used to produce a solution or a dispersion, in particular a foam or an emulsion.

[0073] In particular, the first fluid is a first component of a two-component adhesive and / or sealant and the second fluid is a second component of a two-component adhesive and / or sealant.

[0074] According to a further embodiment, one of the at least two fluids is a gas and a second of the at least two fluids is a liquid, and upon mixing, a foam is formed.

[0075] In a further embodiment, the at least two fluids are hardly or not soluble in each other and an emulsion is formed.

[0076] Further advantageous embodiments and combinations of features of the invention emerge from the following detailed description and the entirety of the patent claims. Short description of the drawings

[0077] The drawings used to explain the embodiment show: Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a typical helix mixer as it can be used as the main mixing unit of a static mixer unit according to the invention; Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of a typical X-mixer as it can be used as the main mixing unit of a static mixer unit according to the invention; Fig. 3 is a detailed view of a unit of the flow-influencing elements of the mixer from Fig. 2; Fig. 4 a variant of a mixing unit of an X-mixer where several X-type mixing units as shown in Fig. 3 are shown arranged side by side; Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of a static mixer unit according to the invention with a helix mixer as the main mixing unit; Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of another static mixer unit according to the invention with an X-mixer as the main mixing unit; Figs. 7-9 are partially cut-away representations of a possible implementation of the mixer unit from Fig. 6 from different perspectives; Fig. 10 - 11 partially cutaway views of another possible implementation of the mixer unit from Fig. 6from different perspectives Fig. 12 a schematic representation of a set of parts or an arrangement comprising (i) a cartridge with two containers, each containing a fluid, and (ii) a static mixer unit coupled via a coupling device; Fig. 13 a variant of the static mixer unit from Fig. 5 in which, instead of a single static mixer, six identical static mixers are arranged in parallel as the main mixing unit.

[0078] In principle, identical parts in the figures are provided with identical reference symbols. Ways to implement the invention

[0079] Fig. 1shows a schematic representation of a typical helix mixer 10, such as can be used as the main mixing unit of a static mixer unit according to the invention. The mixer 10 has an inlet 11 at the lower end for two fluids F1, F2 to be mixed, as well as helical flow-influencing elements 12 (= mixing unit) in a tubular hollow body 14. The fluids F1, F2 are conveyed upwards along the longitudinal axis of the tubular hollow body 14 to the outlet 13, where they exit as a mixed stream M. Fig. 2shows a schematic representation of a typical X-mixer 20, as it can be used as the main mixing unit of a static mixer unit according to the invention. The mixer 20 has an inlet 21 at the lower end for two fluids F1, F2 to be mixed, as well as X-shaped crossed webs as flow-influencing elements 22 or X-type mixing unit in a tubular hollow body 24. The fluids F1, F2 are conveyed upwards through the tubular hollow body 24 along the longitudinal axis of the latter to the outlet 33, where they exit as a mixed stream M. Fig. 3 shows a detailed view of a unit of the flow-influencing elements 22 of the mixer 20 from Fig. 2Here, three first webs 22a and three second webs 22b are arranged crosswise, e.g., at an angle of 90°. However, other angles are also possible. The length of the unit in the main flow direction L or along the longitudinal axis of the mixer 20 corresponds approximately to the dimensions transverse to the flow direction. The fluid flow is mixed transversely to the flow direction (symbolized by the horizontal double arrow). The mixing length corresponds approximately to the transverse dimension of the mixing unit. Normally, the X-type mixing unit is installed in the tubular hollow body 24, so that the mixing effect exists over the entire cross section (see Fig. 2). As a result, each mixing unit has a length approximately equal to the diameter of the tubular hollow body 24. For good mixing without premixing, typically around 10 mixing units are required. Successive mixing units are typically rotated 90° relative to each other around the pipe axis L so that the mixing direction changes from mixing unit to mixing unit, perpendicular to the flow direction. Fig. 4 shows a variant of a mixing unit 22' of an X-mixer. In this case, several X-type mixing units as shown in Fig. 3The two nozzles shown are arranged side by side. This results in a mixer whose mixing effect is limited transversely to the flow direction, but whose length in the flow direction is much shorter than its transverse dimensions. If the fluids to be mixed have already been evenly distributed across the mixer's inlet or cross-section, such an arrangement is sufficient to achieve uniform mixing. Fig. 5shows a schematic representation of a static mixer unit 100 according to the invention. This has a premixing chamber 50 with a cylindrical cavity and first inlets 51a for supplying a first fluid F1 and second inlets 51b for supplying a second fluid F2 into the cavity of the premixing chamber 50. A central outlet 52 is arranged in a central region of the premixing chamber 50, which opens into the inlet 11 of the downstream helical mixer 10 (= main mixing unit). This allows the fluids F1, F2 premixed in the premixing chamber 50 to be introduced into the premixing chamber in a distributed manner via the inlet 11.

[0080] The first inlets 51a and the second inlets 51b are arranged alternately in a peripheral region P of the premixing chamber 50, so that the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 enter the cavity of the premixing chamber 50 on a common circular line K.

[0081] As a result, the fluids F1, F2 in the cylindrical cavity of the premixing chamber 50 can be guided to the outlet 52 from several different directions lying in a common premixing plane E.

[0082] The helix mixer 10 is arranged in the region of the central outlet such that a main flow direction L of the fluids F1, F2 in the static mixer of the helix mixer 10 runs from the inlet 11 to the outlet 13 perpendicular to the premixing plane E of the premixing chamber 50 or the premixing unit.

[0083] By adding the two fluids F1, F2 alternately or alternately in the peripheral area P of the premixing chamber 50, typically radial partial flows are created, which flow in a star shape to the outlet 52 or the inlet 11 of the helical mixer 10 or the main mixing unit. Through the premixing or predistribution in the premixing chamber 50, the number of mixing elements required in the helical mixer 10 can be reduced by approximately 30-50% while maintaining the same mixing quality.

[0084] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a further static mixer unit 200 according to the invention. In the area of ​​the premixing unit 50, this is essentially identical in construction to the premixing unit of the static mixer unit 100 from Fig. 5 . Instead of the helix mixer 10, the static mixer unit 200 has an X-type mixer 20' with a mixing unit 22", which consists of several mixing units 22' arranged one above the other. Fig. 4The X-type mixer 20' is slightly larger in diameter than the Helix mixer 10, but significantly shorter. Accordingly, in this case, the outlet 52' of the premixing chamber is slightly larger than that of the mixer unit 100 from Fig. 5 .

[0085] This design is particularly advantageous because the X-mixer can be designed to mix very well locally, but not necessarily across the entire cross-section. In combination with the premixing unit, the X-mixer can be very short and compact while still mixing well. The larger diameter also prevents excessive pressure loss.

[0086] In this way, static mixer units can be realized with a length / diameter ratio of the main mixing unit less than 1, whereas for conventional mixers the length / diameter ratio ≥ 10 is necessary.

[0087] Fig. 7 - 9show partially cutaway representations of an implementation possibility of the mixer unit 200 from Fig. 6 from different perspectives. The mixer unit 300 from the Fig. 7 - 9 has a hollow cylindrical premixing chamber 50, which has the first inlets 51a on the top side for supplying the first fluid F1 and the second inlets 51b on the bottom side for supplying the second fluid F2. The openings of the inlets 51a, 51b are rectangular and alternately open into the cavity of the premixing chamber 50, so that the fluids F1, F2 can be introduced into the cavity alternately from opposite directions or antiparallel.

[0088] All first inlets 51a are fluidly connected to a first supply chamber 52a, so that the first fluid F1 can be introduced into the cavity of the premixing chamber 50 from above or from the side facing the X-type mixer 20'.

[0089] Similarly, all second inlets 51b are fluidly connected to a first supply chamber 52b, so that the second fluid F2 can be introduced into the cavity of the premixing chamber 50 from below or from the side facing away from the X-type mixer 20'. The second supply chamber 52b has a plurality of first outlets 52b.1, which extend into the plurality of first inlets 52b of the premixing chamber 50.

[0090] On a side facing away from the X-type mixer 20', the two supply chambers 52a, 52b each have an inlet opening 53a, 53b through which the first fluid F1 can be conveyed into the first supply chamber 52a and the second fluid F2 into the second supply chamber 52b.

[0091] The second supply chamber 52b is configured as a substantially hollow cylindrical chamber and is arranged on the side of the premixing chamber 50 facing away from the X-type mixer 20'. The first supply chamber 53a is a chamber with a substantially annular cavity and laterally surrounds the premixing chamber 50 and the second supply chamber 53b, so that the first fluid F1 can be directed around the premixing chamber 50 from the side of the premixing chamber 50 facing away from the X-type mixer 20' and can be conveyed from the side of the premixing chamber 50 facing the X-type mixer 20' through the plurality of first inlets 52a into the cavity of the premixing chamber 50.

[0092] Fig. 10 - 11 show partially cutaway representations of another more concrete implementation option of the mixer unit 200 from Fig. 6 from different perspectives. The mixer unit 400 from the Fig. 10 - 11has the same X-mixer 20' as the mixer unit 300 but differs in terms of the premix unit.

[0093] Specifically, the mixer unit 400 comprises a premixing chamber 50' with a plate-shaped cavity with a central cylindrical region in the region of the outlet 52' or the inlet 21' of the X-mixer 20' and a downwardly projecting peripheral annular region, wherein the central axis of the cylindrical region and the annular region are the same. A transition from the central cylindrical region to the peripheral annular region is rounded. The peripheral annular region can also be designed as a hollow sphere-shaped region, which Fig. 10 - 11 protrudes downwards.

[0094] The plurality of first inlets 51a' are arranged such that the first fluid F1 is introduced into the peripheral hollow spherical layer-shaped region of the cavity of the premixing chamber 50' via the inlet 53a' and the hollow cylindrical supply chamber 52a' from radial directions parallel to the premixing plane. The second inlets 51b', in contrast, are arranged such that the second fluid F2 can be introduced into the peripheral hollow spherical layer-shaped region of the cavity of the premixing chamber 50' via the inlet 53b' and the annular supply chamber 52b' from a direction parallel to the main flow direction of the fluids in the X-mixer 20' or from below. As a result, neither of the two fluids needs to be bypassed past the premixing chamber.

[0095] The mixer units shown can be manufactured from plastic using 3D printing.

[0096] Fig. 12shows a parts kit (TS) or assembly comprising a cartridge 500 (= packaging) with two containers 501a, 502b, each containing one of the fluids F1 and F2. The cartridge 500 is connected to the static mixer unit 400 via a coupling device 401, e.g. a screw connection. Fig. 10 - 11 connected thereto. The outlets of the cartridge 500 are fluidically connected to the static mixer unit 400, so that when the fluids are discharged from the containers 501a, 501b, the first fluid can be passed through the plurality of first inlets and the second fluid can be passed through the plurality of second inlets into the premixing chamber (50') of the premixing unit (VE) and subsequently through the main mixing unit (HE) and mixed.

[0097] Fig. 13 shows a variant of Fig. 5in which, instead of a single static mixer, six identical static mixers 10 are arranged in parallel in the main mixing unit HE. The premixing unit VE is essentially identical in construction, as in Fig. 5 , but has a slightly larger outlet in the central area.

[0098] Due to the regular pre-distribution via the inlet of the main mixing unit (HE), local mixing is sufficient to achieve a high mixing quality. Therefore, it is possible to operate multiple static mixers (10) in parallel. This allows the cross-section of each static mixer (10) to be reduced while maintaining the same overall cross-section of all static mixers. With the same overall cross-section, the average fluid velocity in the static mixers (10) and the same pressure drop are also maintained. With smaller mixer diameters, the length of the mixers can be reduced while maintaining the same mixing quality (constant length / diameter ratio).

[0099] The embodiments shown above are to be understood merely as illustrative examples, which can be modified as desired within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. Static mixer unit (100, 200, 300, 400) for mixing at least two fluids (F1, F2), in particular liquids, gases and / or pasty masses, comprising a premixing unit (VE) with a downstream main mixing unit (HE), wherein: a) the premixing unit (VE) comprises a premixing chamber (50, 50') which has a plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') for supplying a first fluid (F1) and a plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') for supplying a second fluid (F2) into a cavity (50.1, 50.1') of the premixing chamber (50, 50'), as well as a central outlet (52, 52') for discharging the fluids (F1, F2) from the cavity (50.1, 50.1') the premixing chamber (50, 50'); b) wherein the plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') and the plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') are arranged in a peripheral region (P) of the premixing chamber (50) around the outlet (52, 52'), wherein alternately one or more first inlets (51a, 51a') and one or more second inlets (51b, 51b') open into the cavity (50.1, 50.1'), c) wherein the premixing chamber (50, 50') is designed such that the fluids (F1, F2) flow from several different directions lying in a common premixing plane (E) to the outlet (52, 52') of the premixing chamber at least in a region of the premixing chamber (50, 50') adjacent to the outlet (52, 52'). (50, 50'); d) the outlet (52, 52') of the premixing chamber (50, 50') opens into an inlet (11, 21, 21') of the main mixing unit (HE), so that through the outlet (52, 52') from the cavity (50.1, 50.1') fluids discharged from the premixing chamber (50, 50') can be fed to the main mixing unit (HE); e) the main mixing unit (HE) has at least one static mixer (10, 20, 20') with a plurality of flow-influencing elements (12, 22a, 22b) arranged in a hollow body (14, 24), wherein the static mixer (10, 20, 20') is designed such that a main flow direction (L) of the fluids (F1, F2) in the static mixer (10, 20, 20') runs from the inlet (11, 21, 21') of the main mixing unit (HE) to an outlet (13, 23) of the main mixing unit (HE) substantially perpendicular to the premixing plane (E) of the premixing unit (VE).

2. Static mixer unit according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') and the plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') are arranged such that a first inlet and a second inlet alternately open into the cavity (50.1, 50.1'), wherein the plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') and the plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') are arranged at regular intervals from one another and wherein the plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') are arranged on a first circular line (K) and / or the plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') are arranged on a second circular line (K).

3. Static mixer unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') and the plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') are designed such that the first fluid (F1) and the second fluid (F2) are introduced into the cavity (50.1, 50.1') of the premixing chamber (50, 50') from different directions.

4. Static mixer unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, with respect to the main flow direction (L) of the fluids (F1, F2) in the static mixer (10, 20, 20') of the main mixing unit (HE), the plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') and the plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') are designed such that the first fluid (F1) and the second fluid (F2) can be introduced into the cavity (50.1, 50.1') from opposite directions, wherein preferably the first fluid (F1) can be introduced into the cavity (50.1, 50.1') in a direction parallel to the main flow direction (L) of the fluids in the static mixer (10, 20, 20') and the second fluid (F2) from a direction antiparallel to the main flow direction (L) of the fluids in the static mixer (10, 20, 20') into the cavity (50.1, 50.1').

5. Static mixer unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') and the plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') are designed such that the first fluid (F1) and the second fluid (F2) can be introduced into the cavity (50.1, 50.1') of the premixing chamber (50, 50') from directions perpendicular to one another.

6. Static mixer unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cavity (50.1, 50.1') of the premixing chamber (50, 50') is axially symmetrical with respect to a central axis which is perpendicular to an opening plane of the outlet (52, 52') of the premixing chamber (50, 50'), and / or wherein the cavity (50.1, 50.1') of the premixing chamber (50, 50') is axially symmetrical with respect to a main flow direction (L) of the fluids in the static mixer (10, 20, 20') of the main mixing unit (HE).

7. Static mixer unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cavity (50.1, 50.1') of the premixing chamber (50, 50') is cylindrical or plate-shaped.

8. Static mixer unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') are fluidically connected to a first supply chamber (52a, 52a'), wherein the first supply chamber (52a, 52a') is designed such that the first fluid (F1) present in the first supply chamber (52a, 52a') is conveyed uniformly through all of the plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') when pressurized, and / or wherein the plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') are fluidically connected to a second supply chamber (52b, 52b'), wherein the second supply chamber (52b, 52b') is designed such that the second fluid (F2) present in the second supply chamber (52b, 52b') is Pressurization is conveyed uniformly through all of the plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b').

9. Static mixer unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the static mixer (20, 20') of the main mixing unit is designed as an X-mixer with X-shaped crossed webs as flow-influencing elements (22a, 22b).

10. Static mixer unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the main mixing unit (HE) comprises a plurality of static mixers arranged in parallel, wherein the plurality of static mixers are in particular of identical construction.

11. Kit of parts (TS) comprising (i) at least two, in particular exactly two, containers (501a, 501b) each having an outlet on the containers, wherein the containers (501a, 501b) each contain one of at least two, in particular exactly two, different fluids (F1, F2), and (ii) a static mixer unit (100, 200, 300, 400) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outlets of the containers (501a, 501b) are or are connected to the static mixer unit (100, 200, 300, 400) in a fluid-conducting manner, in particular such that when the fluids (F1, F2) are discharged from the containers (501a, 501b), the first fluid (F1) is discharged through the plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') and the second fluid (F2) can be passed through the plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') into the premixing chamber (50, 50') of the premixing unit (VE) and then through the main mixing unit (HE) and mixed.

12. A method for mixing at least two fluids (F1, F2), in particular liquids, gases and / or pasty masses, with a static mixer unit (100, 200, 300, 400) comprising a premixing unit (VE) with a downstream main mixing unit (HE), in particular with a static mixer unit according to one of the preceding claims 1 - 10, wherein: - a first fluid (F1) is introduced via a plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') and a second fluid (F2) is introduced via a plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') into a cavity (50.1, 50.1') of a premixing chamber (50, 50') of the premixing unit (VE) and the fluids (F1, F2) are discharged from the cavity (50.1, 50.1') via a central outlet (52, 52').1') of the premixing chamber (50, 50'); - wherein the plurality of first inlets (51a, 51a') and the plurality of second inlets (51b, 51b') are arranged in a peripheral region (P) of the premixing chamber (50, 50') around the outlet (52, 52'), wherein one or more first inlets (51a, 51a') and one or more second inlets (51b, 51b') alternately open into the cavity (50.1, 50.1'), - wherein the fluids (F1, F2) are guided to the outlet (52, 52') from a plurality of different directions lying in a common premixing plane (E) at least in a region of the premixing chamber (50, 50') adjacent to the outlet (52, 52'); - which exits the cavity (50.1, 50.1') the fluids (F1, F2) discharged from the premixing chamber (50, 50') are fed to an inlet (11, 21, 21') of the main mixing unit (HE); - wherein the main mixing unit (HE) has at least one static mixer (10, 20, 20') with a plurality of flow-influencing elements (12, 22a, 22b) arranged in a hollow body (14, 24), wherein the static mixer (10, 20, 20') is designed such that a main flow direction (L) of the fluids (F1, F2) in the static mixer (10, 20, 20') runs from the inlet (11, 21, 21') of the main mixing unit (HE) to an outlet (13, 23) of the main mixing unit (HE) substantially perpendicular to the premixing plane (E) of the premixing unit (VE).

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein: (i) the first fluid (F1) is a first component of a two-component adhesive and / or sealant and the second fluid (F2) is a second component of a two-component adhesive and / or sealant; and / or (ii) one of the at least two fluids is a gas and a second of the at least two fluids is a liquid, and upon mixing, a foam is formed; and / or (iii) the at least two fluids are hardly or not at all soluble in one another and an emulsion is formed.

14. Method according to one of claims 12-13, wherein the fluids (F1, F2) are guided as circular sector-shaped fluid flows through the cavity (50.1, 50.1') and / or flow through it.

15. Use of a static mixer unit (100, 200, 300, 400) according to one of claims 1-10 for mixing at least two fluids (F1, F2), wherein in particular: (i) a first fluid (F1) is a first component of a two-component adhesive and / or sealant and a second fluid (F2) is a second component of the two-component adhesive and / or sealant; and / or (ii) one of the at least two fluids is a gas and a second of the at least two fluids is a liquid, and a foam is formed upon mixing; and / or (iii) the at least two fluids are hardly or not at all soluble in one another and an emulsion is formed.

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