Device for the accurately fitting sealing of an opening, surrounded by a non-flat sealing face, of an apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for the accurately fitting sealing of an opening (2), surrounded by a non-flat sealing face (3), of an apparatus (1), comprising an adapter (4) with a first end face (5) as a contact surface which has a first surface profile (6) that corresponds to the accurately fitting negative profile of the non-flat sealing face (3), and at least one flat seal (8) that is arranged between the non-flat sealing face (3) of the apparatus (1) and the first end face (5) of the adapter (4). Furthermore, the invention relates to a sealing system with such a device, use of such a device, a method for producing such a device and a method for producing an adapter (4) for such a device.

Description

[0001] Device for the precise sealing of an opening of an apparatus surrounded by a non-planar sealing surface

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a device for the precise sealing of an opening of an apparatus surrounded by a non-planar sealing surface, comprising an adapter with a first end face as a support surface, which has a first surface profile that corresponds to the precise negative profile of the non-planar sealing surface. Furthermore, the invention relates to a device for the precise sealing of an opening of an apparatus surrounded by a non-planar sealing surface, comprising an adapter with a first end face as a support surface, which has a first surface profile, wherein the first surface profile is irregular.

[0004] It is generally known that seals exist for an opening in an apparatus surrounded by a non-flat sealing surface. For example, there are annular sealing elements that are generally mass-produced as standard products. The seal and flange dimensions of annular seals and flanges are generally subject to corresponding standards. Flat gaskets are generally used as flange sealing rings. A key criterion when using a flange sealing ring or an associated flange is the surface pressure acting on the sealing surfaces, which must be suitably adjusted depending on the sealing material. If the surface pressure is too high, there is a fundamental risk of the flange sealing ring being destroyed, whereas if the surface pressure is too low, the sealing effect is insufficient.In addition, seals can also be exposed to harsh chemical conditions, so the chemical resistance of the seal is also of great importance.

[0005] The document DE 102013 002 753 B3 discloses a method for producing a sealing element for sealing a connection between two flanges, at least one of which has a non-planar sealing surface, wherein at a plurality of circumferential positions in the circumferential direction of at least one flange, which are located one behind the other in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential tangent, in particular in a radial direction, a respective distance value between the opposing sealing surfaces of the flanges is determined and from the plurality of distance values ​​of each circumferential position, a single thickness value is determined and depending on all thickness values ​​dependent on the circumferential position, a sealing element is manufactured which has a thickness dependent on the circumferential position, which at each circumferential position corresponding to the flanges in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential tangent,is constant in particular in the radial direction and corresponds to the determined thickness value of the respective circumferential position.,

[0006] A disadvantage of this implementation is that, in the case of significant deviations in the distance value perpendicular to the circumferential tangent, sealing cannot usually be achieved, since only one thickness value per circumferential position in the radial direction is considered. Furthermore, the sealing element can wear or fatigue due to physical or chemical stress, requiring the complex manufacture and installation of a new sealing element.

[0007] Document DE 102011056835 B4 discloses a flange sealing ring with an annular metallic base body and sealing surfaces formed by sections of the base body. The metallic base body is formed in at least three parts, comprising an upper part, a lower part, and an intermediate part. The intermediate part has at least one cavity in which a non-electrical pressure sensor is inserted. The pressure sensor is arranged on both sides of the intermediate part, concealed by the upper part and the lower part, and sealed from an inner circumference of the flange sealing ring. The pressure sensor detects a local pressure within the flange sealing ring, allowing the local surface pressure at the pressure sensor to be determined.

[0008] A disadvantage of this implementation is that if there are significant deviations of the distance value in the radial and / or perpendicular direction to the circumferential tangent, no tightness can be achieved, even if the surface pressure can be optimally adjusted by the pressure sensor.

[0009] The task therefore arose to provide a device for sealing a non-planar sealing surface that can be replaced easily, quickly, cost-effectively and without significant positional deviation in the event of chemical decomposition, significant wear or material fatigue. A further task was to ensure that the spare parts usually required can be provided easily, quickly and cost-effectively in the event of a device repair. A further task was to provide a device for the reliable sealing of a non-planar sealing surface, even if the distance values ​​in the radial and / or perpendicular direction to the circumferential tangent of the non-planar sealing surfaces deviate significantly. Ensuring mechanical integrity is a fundamental prerequisite for reliable sealing.

[0010] These objects are achieved according to the present invention by a device for precise sealing according to claim 1 or 2, by a sealing system according to claim 11, by a use of the device according to claim 17, by a method for producing the device or the sealing system according to claim 18, and by a method for producing an adapter suitable for the device according to claim 19. Advantageous embodiments of the device are given in claims 3 to 10, and advantageous embodiments of the sealing system are given in claims 12 to 16.

[0011] The device according to the invention for the precise sealing of an opening of an apparatus surrounded by a non-planar sealing surface comprises an adapter with a first end face as a support surface, which has a first surface profile that corresponds to the precise negative profile of the non-planar sealing surface or is irregular, and at least one flat seal that is arranged between the non-planar sealing surface of the apparatus and the first end face of the adapter.

[0012] This offers the advantage that, due to the precisely fitting negative profile and the irregular surface profile, excessive local surface pressures, which would otherwise lead to physical damage to the flat gasket, are not achieved. The flat gasket, positioned between the adapter and the non-flat sealing surface, can thus be pressed across its entire surface with a homogeneous surface pressure suitable for the respective gasket type, thus creating a technically tight sealing surface. Furthermore, the flat gasket is readily available commercially, as it does not require special manufacturing for the non-flat sealing surface.

[0013] In this document, the term "apparatus" is to be understood as a general term for a technical device composed of several components that performs specific functions. Thus, an "apparatus" can be, for example, a mixer, a column, a reactor, or a heat exchanger.

[0014] In this document, the term "non-planar sealing surface" refers to an uneven, three-dimensional surface that can be connected to a corresponding device or component in such a way that technical tightness is achieved, thus preventing any or only an insignificant flow of fluid from escaping at the non-planar sealing surface. An insignificant flow of escaping fluid can be understood as the maximum flow permitted by the TA-Luft standard condition. The TA-Luft standard condition is specified in the technical instructions for air quality control, the revised version of which is available in the first general administrative regulation on the Federal Immission Control Act at the Federal Environment Agency: https: / / www.umweltbundesanit.de / (accessed on July 4, 2022).

[0015] The device preferably has a coating, at least in part. More preferably, the coating is an enameled layer. The non-planar sealing surface is formed, in particular, on the coating. The device, in particular, has an enameled layer, and more preferably, the non-planar sealing surface is formed on the enameled layer. The non-planar sealing surface arises, in particular, due to the manufacturing process, by forming or applying the coating. Thus, the non-planar sealing surface is, in particular, a surface of a coated, in particular an enameled, device.

[0016] In this document, the term “opening of an apparatus” is understood to mean, for example, a manhole of an apparatus or the opening of an apparatus surrounded by a flange.

[0017] The term “adapter” in this document is to be understood as a component that can be positioned on a sealing surface covered with a flat gasket in order to achieve technical tightness after the adapter has been pressed onto the sealing surface.

[0018] In this document, the term "surface profile" is understood to mean, for example, the geometric surface of the non-planar sealing surface to be sealed. The first surface profile is, in particular, irregular. Thus, the first surface profile has, in particular, elevations and depressions, wherein the elevations and depressions preferably deviate differently from a mean level of the first surface profile. Furthermore, adjacent elevations and / or depressions preferably have different distances from one another. A difference between a maximum surface profile height and a minimum surface profile height is preferably less than 10 mm, more preferably less than 7 mm. The first surface profile is typically determined by the surface of the coating of the apparatus. Thus, the first surface profile is, in particular, determined by the formation or application of the coating of the apparatus.

[0019] In this document, the term "negative profile" refers to a calculated surface profile that corresponds to the mirrored surface profile of the non-planar sealing surface to be sealed. Thus, the heights in the negative profile correspond to the depths in the surface profile, and vice versa. This calculated negative profile can then be created on the end face of an adapter using a machining tool, such as a CNC milling machine. After machining, the surface profile of this end face corresponds to the calculated negative profile, taking measurement and manufacturing tolerances into account.

[0020] The term "flat gasket" in this document refers to a gasket that can be installed, for example, in mechanical, equipment, and pipeline construction as a sealing element between two flanges of a component or device. A flat gasket is typically annular, preferably circular. The gasket is primarily subjected to pressure, temperature, and the fluid to be sealed. Chemical and physical stresses must generally be taken into account.

[0021] The term “support surface” in this document is to be understood as an example of a surface or a supporting surface on which, for example, a flat gasket can be placed.

[0022] The accuracy of the precisely fitting negative profile can be given, for example, by the definite integral F of the antiderivative f(r, phi): F = $ Af(r,phi) dA, where dA is the surface element and the integration is carried out over the end face A of the adapter. The antiderivative determines the absolute values ​​of the individual local gap heights that result between the non-planar sealing surface and the end face of the adapter when the adapter is positioned on the non-planar sealing surface, whereby the respective locations of the individual local gap heights are defined by the radial coordinate r and the circumferential coordinate phi. Within the antiderivative, the thickness of the flat gasket is preferably subtracted from the individual local gap heights in order to calculate the fit accuracy as if the adapter were positioned on the non-planar sealing surface without a flat gasket. The value of the fit accuracy can be calculated by integrating the definite integral F over the end face A of the adapter.

[0023] In another example for calculating the fit accuracy value, the fit accuracy value is the maximum local gap height that occurs between the non-planar sealing surface and the end face of the adapter when the adapter is positioned on the non-planar sealing surface. The thickness of the flat gasket can preferably be subtracted from the maximum local gap height to calculate the fit accuracy value as if the adapter were positioned on the non-planar sealing surface without a flat gasket.

[0024] The accuracy of fit is primarily determined by the manufacturing tolerances during adapter production and / or by the measurement accuracy of the non-planar sealing surface of a device and / or by the accuracy of the adapter's positioning. The maximum permissible value for fit is specific to each application. The type of flat gaskets, the material of the flat gaskets, and the size of the non-planar sealing surface can influence the maximum permissible value for fit.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the adapter is made of a metal or a metal alloy, or of different metals or metal alloys. Stainless austenitic, superaustenitic, or austenitic-ferritic steels or nickel-based alloys are preferred.

[0026] This offers the advantage that the adapter is harder than the flat gasket, thus maintaining the surface profile of the precisely fitting negative profile on the adapter even during sealing, and the flat gasket essentially only deforms. Furthermore, the adapter is highly rigid, allowing for high surface pressures and promising a longer service life. A long service life can also be achieved by using a sufficiently corrosion-resistant material, such as a metal or metal alloy.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the flat gasket contains at least partially graphite or at least partially perfluoroalkoxy polymers (PFA). These materials are particularly preferred for chemical processes because they exhibit high chemical resistance to, for example, acidic substances.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the device is equipped with flat gaskets made of graphite with tanged sheet metal or expanded metal inserts, or with flat gaskets made of PFA, for a precise seal. This ensures the use of suitable flat gaskets that can withstand use in combination with the adapter because the material of the flat gasket has sufficient deformability to adapt to the surface profile of the adapter and the surface profile of the non-planar sealing surface.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the adapter comprises an outer circumferential surface adjoining the first end face at an angle, to which at least two positioning elements are fixedly fixed. The positioning elements each have a guide rail designed such that, when positioning the adapter onto the first non-planar sealing surface of the device covered with the flat gasket, the respective guide rail is guided by a protrusion on the device, preferably by a fitting screw on the device, and the adapter thereby reaches its predetermined position. This results in the advantage that radial displacement or displacement in the circumferential direction is avoided during positioning.This allows the adapter to be positioned as easily as possible in its intended position relative to the non-planar sealing surface, ensuring a precise seal for the device opening surrounded by the non-planar sealing surface. In a preferred embodiment, the guide rail is modular so that it can be removed after positioning. This allows, for example, clamping screws to be used to clamp the device to the non-planar sealing surface of the device without interference.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the guide rail includes a locking tab, which preferably includes a slotted hole. This enables a simple construction that also allows for simple and sufficiently precise positioning.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the respective positioning element is fixedly fixed to the outer surface of the adapter by at least one fastening element, preferably a screw, particularly preferably a fitting screw, or the outer surface of the adapter has a groove for each positioning element and the positioning element comprises at least one screw and a spring, wherein the respective spring fits into the respective groove of the outer surface of the adapter, and the screw fixes the groove in place with the spring. This ensures very precise fixing of the adapter to the non-planar sealing surface. The groove can preferably be a multi-edged groove, such as a triangular groove or a square groove.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the adapter is a cover, preferably a manhole or a blind cover.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the adapter has a second end face as a further bearing surface, which is located on the opposite side of the first end face and has a second surface profile, wherein the second surface profile of the adapter corresponds to the precisely fitting negative profile of a sealing surface arranged on a component and surrounding an opening, and wherein the device contains at least one further flat gasket arranged between the sealing surface of the component and the second end face of the adapter. The second surface profile is in particular irregular. For example, the second surface profile has, in particular, elevations and depressions, wherein the elevations and depressions preferably deviate differently from a mean level of the second surface profile. Furthermore, adjacent elevations and / or depressions preferably have different distances from one another.A difference between a maximum surface profile height and a minimum surface profile height is preferably less than 10 mm, more preferably less than 7 mm. The component preferably has a coating at least partially. More preferably, the coating is an enamelled layer. The sealing surface arranged on the component and surrounding an opening is formed in particular on the coating. The component in particular has an enamelled layer and more preferably the sealing surface arranged on the component and surrounding an opening is formed on the enamelled layer. The sealing surface arranged on the component and surrounding an opening is created in particular as a result of production by forming or applying the coating. Thus, the sealing surface arranged on the component and surrounding an opening is in particular a surface of a coated, in particular an enamelled, component.

[0034] The second surface profile is typically determined by the surface of the component's coating. Thus, the second surface profile is determined in particular by the formation or application of the component's coating. Preferably, the first surface profile and / or the second surface profile are irregular.

[0035] In particular, the adapter has a second end face as a further bearing surface, which is located on the opposite side of the first end face and has a second surface profile, wherein the second surface profile is irregular, and wherein the device contains at least one further flat gasket which is arranged between the sealing surface of the component and the second end face of the adapter.

[0036] These preferred embodiments enable two-sided sealing by means of an adapter that has a negative profile of the non-planar sealing surface on both of its end faces. This allows, for example, two pipelines to be connected to each other.

[0037] In an alternative and preferred embodiment, two adapters are used for two components, for example, to connect two pipelines, two equipment flanges, or one pipeline to one equipment. One adapter is used for each component to seal the sealing surface surrounding an opening on the respective component. An additional seal is then preferably inserted between the two adapters to ensure the technical tightness of the two adapters during use.

[0038] The invention further relates to a sealing system comprising an apparatus and a device according to the invention. In a first preferred embodiment, the sealing system comprises an apparatus, a component, and a device according to the invention, wherein the component is preferably a pipeline with a flange or a connecting device with a flange. The device allows the component to be attached to the apparatus in a fluid-tight manner.

[0039] In a further preferred embodiment, the sealing system comprises an apparatus, a component, and a device according to the invention, wherein the apparatus has a flange, preferably an enameled flange, whose opening is surrounded by the non-planar sealing surface. In this case, the component is preferably a pipeline with a flange or a connecting device with a flange.

[0040] Flanges are typically present on equipment and must generally be sealed as soon as operation begins. The non-flat sealing surface of an enameled flange can exhibit particularly large deviations, as the enameled layer on the flange can vary considerably in thickness and the flange can exhibit shape and position deviations relative to the adapter due to manufacturing. Shape and position deviations, the maximum surface profile height, and / or the minimum surface profile height are each determined in accordance with DIN 28007-2:2017-04.

[0041] The coating of the apparatus and / or component is preferably an oxide layer, in particular an enameled layer. The coating, in particular the enameled layer, preferably contains oxides of silicon, boron, sodium, potassium, cobalt, nickel and / or aluminum, and optionally oxides of titanium, zirconium and / or molybdenum. The coating, in particular the enameled layer, more preferably contains SiO2, B2O3, Na2O, K2O and / or Al2O3.

[0042] In a further preferred embodiment, the sealing system comprises an apparatus and a device according to the invention, wherein the apparatus has a flange, preferably an enamelled flange, whose opening is surrounded by the non-planar sealing surface.

[0043] In a further preferred embodiment of the sealing system, the apparatus or the connecting apparatus is a stirred vessel, a mixing apparatus, a column, a phase separator, a separator, a pipeline or a reactor, preferably a chemical reactor or a chemical reaction column, particularly preferably a chemical reaction column for producing acrylates.

[0044] A further object of the invention is the use of the device or sealing system according to one of the above corresponding embodiments by use in chemical processes, in particular in processes for producing acrylates or in processes involving acrylates. In such applications, the device should exhibit increased chemical resistance to the chemical substances in order to prevent chemical decomposition of the adapter and / or one or both flat gaskets.

[0045] Another object of the invention is a method for producing a device according to the invention or a sealing system according to the invention, the method comprising the following steps:

[0046] • Providing at least one opening of an apparatus, a flat seal and an adapter surrounded by a non-planar sealing surface,

[0047] • Detecting the shape and position deviation of the at least one non-planar sealing surface from a first end face of the adapter by means of a 3D scan, preferably a 3D laser scan,

[0048] • Reconstruction of the adapter as a CAD design based on the measurement data of the 3D scan, whereby for the reconstruction of the adapter the negative profile of at least one non-planar sealing surface is created and in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces as support surfaces a negative profile is created for each of the two non-planar sealing surfaces,

[0049] • Producing a first surface profile on the first end face of the adapter by a machining tool, preferably by a CNC milling machine, particularly preferably a 5-axis CNC milling machine, wherein the data of the negative profile of the non-planar sealing surface of the CAD design are transmitted to the machining tool via an interface, preferably a CAD / CAM interface, wherein in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces as support surfaces, the first surface profile for the first end face of the adapter and a second surface profile for a second end face of the adapter are produced by the machining tool, wherein the data of the two negative profiles of the two non-planar sealing surfaces of the CAD design are transmitted to the machining tool via the interface, and

[0050] • Positioning the adapter on the non-planar sealing surface, wherein the flat seal is arranged between the first end face of the adapter and the non-planar sealing surface, and in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces as support surfaces, a flat seal is arranged between the respective end face of the adapter and the corresponding non-planar sealing surface.

[0051] Detecting the shape and position deviation of the non-planar sealing surface from the first end face of the adapter using a 3D scan or a 3D laser scan is very precise and, depending on the measuring device, can enable measurement tolerances in the double-digit or even single-digit micrometer range. In a preferred embodiment of the method for producing a device according to the invention or a sealing system according to the invention, the detection of the shape and position deviation of the at least one non-planar sealing surface from a first end face of the adapter using a 3D scan, preferably a 3D laser scan, is implemented in detail such that one or more elevations are present on the device, which define a reference system for the shape and position deviation of the non-planar sealing surface. The elevations are preferably fitting screws, with particularly preferably exactly two fitting screws being fixedly mounted on the device.

[0052] The adapter comprises an outer surface that adjoins the first end face at an angle. Preferably, an equal number of positioning elements are fixed to the outer surface of the adapter, corresponding to the number of elevations on the device. Each positioning element has a guide rail designed such that, when the adapter is positioned on the first non-planar sealing surface of the device covered with the flat gasket, the respective guide rail is guided by an elevation, preferably a fitting screw, on the device, thereby allowing the adapter to reach its predetermined position.

[0053] Taking into account the reference system and the positions of the positioning elements of the adapter, the 3D scan determines the shape and position deviation of the non-planar sealing surface from the first end face of the adapter, whereby the non-planar sealing surface is preferably optically exposed during the measurement of the shape and position deviation by the 3D scan.

[0054] Transferring the measurement data to CAD software allows the negative profile to be created quickly and error-free. Combining the individual process steps makes it possible to establish a fully automated manufacturing process for the fixture.

[0055] A further subject of the invention is a method for producing a sealing system according to the invention, wherein the method preferably comprises the following steps:

[0056] • Providing at least one opening of an apparatus, a flat seal and an adapter surrounded by a non-planar sealing surface,

[0057] • Detecting the shape and position deviation of the at least one non-planar sealing surface from a first end face of the adapter by means of a 3D scan, preferably a 3D laser scan,

[0058] • Reconstruction of the adapter as a CAD design based on the measurement data of the 3D scan, whereby for the reconstruction of the adapter the negative profile of at least one non-planar sealing surface is created and in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces as support surfaces a negative profile is created for each of the two non-planar sealing surfaces,

[0059] • Producing a first surface profile on the first end face of the adapter by a machining tool, preferably by a CNC milling machine, particularly preferably a 5-axis CNC milling machine, wherein the data of the negative profile of the non-planar sealing surface of the CAD design are transmitted to the machining tool via an interface, preferably a CAD / CAM interface, wherein in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces as support surfaces, the first surface profile for the first end face of the adapter and a second surface profile for a second end face of the adapter are produced by the machining tool, wherein the data of the two negative profiles of the two non-planar sealing surfaces of the CAD design are transmitted to the machining tool via the interface.

[0060] • Positioning the adapter on the non-planar sealing surface, wherein the flat seal is arranged between the first end face of the adapter and the non-planar sealing surface, and in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces as support surfaces, a flat seal is arranged between the respective end face of the adapter and the corresponding non-planar sealing surface, and

[0061] • Clamping the sealing system by means of at least one clamping element, preferably by means of a plurality of clamping bracket screws, wherein the clamping element clamps the non-planar sealing surface of the apparatus to the adapter and, in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces as support surfaces, at least one clamping element clamps both non-planar sealing surfaces of the apparatus to the adapter.

[0062] Analogous to the method for manufacturing the device, the combination of the individual process steps for manufacturing the sealing system according to the invention enables a fully automated manufacturing process.

[0063] Another object of the invention is a method for producing an adapter for a device according to the invention or a sealing system according to the invention, the method comprising the following steps:

[0064] • Providing at least one opening of an apparatus and a blank for an adapter surrounded by a non-planar sealing surface,

[0065] • Detecting the shape and position deviation of the at least one non-planar sealing surface from a first end face of the blank by means of a 3D scan, preferably a 3D laser scan, • Reconstruction of the adapter as a CAD design based on the measurement data of the 3D scan, wherein for the reconstruction of the adapter the negative profile of the at least one non-planar sealing surface is created and in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces as support surfaces a negative profile is created for each of the two non-planar sealing surfaces, and

[0066] • Producing a first surface profile on a first end face of the blank by a machining tool, preferably by a CNC milling machine, particularly preferably a 5-axis CNC milling machine, wherein the data of the negative profile of the non-planar sealing surface of the CAD design are transmitted to the machining tool via an interface, preferably a CAD / CAM interface, and the blank is thereby machined to form the adapter, wherein in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces as support surfaces, the first surface profile for the first end face of the blank and a second surface profile for a second end face of the blank are produced by the machining tool, wherein the data of the two negative profiles of the two non-planar sealing surfaces of the CAD design are transmitted to the machining tool via the interface and the blank is thereby machined to form the adapter.

[0067] Analogous to the method for producing the device or the sealing system, the combination of the individual method steps for producing an adapter for a device according to the invention or a sealing system according to the invention enables a fully automated manufacturing process.

[0068] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings. The drawings are to be understood as schematic representations. They do not represent a limitation of the invention, for example, with regard to specific dimensions or design variants.

[0069] They show:

[0070] Fig. 1: A first embodiment of a sealing system according to the invention with an adapter and a component, wherein the adapter can be positioned on a non-planar sealing surface of an apparatus.

[0071] Fig. 2: A second embodiment of a sealing system according to the invention with an adapter in the form of a lid, wherein the adapter can be positioned on a non-planar sealing surface of an apparatus. Fig. 3: A third embodiment of a sealing system according to the invention with a two-sided adapter, wherein the adapter has a first end face with a first surface profile and a second end face with a second surface profile and can be positioned such that it enables a connection of a component to an apparatus.

[0072] Fig. 4: The measured surface profile of the non-planar sealing surface for the flange from Example 1 in the form of a smoothed two-dimensional representation.

[0073] Fig. 5: The measured surface profile of the non-planar sealing surface for the flange from Example 2 in the form of a two-dimensional representation.

[0074] Fig. 6: Further details of the first embodiment of the sealing system according to the invention according to Fig. 1.

[0075] Fig. 7: Further details of the second embodiment of the sealing system according to the invention according to Fig. 2.

[0076] Fig. 8: Further details of the third embodiment of the sealing system according to the invention according to Fig. 3.

[0077] List of reference symbols used:

[0078] 1 device

[0079] 2 Opening a device

[0080] 2' Opening of a component

[0081] 3 Non-flat sealing surface of a device

[0082] 3' Non-planar sealing surface of a component

[0083] 4 adapters

[0084] 5 first front face

[0085] 5' second front face

[0086] 6 first surface profile

[0087] 6' second surface profile

[0088] 7 Shell surface

[0089] 8 Flat gasket

[0090] 9 positioning elements

[0091] 10 Guide rail

[0092] 11 Survey

[0093] 12 components

[0094] 13 Locking tab Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a sealing system according to the invention with an exemplary embodiment of a device according to the invention, an apparatus 1 and a component 12.

[0095] The left side of Fig. 1 shows a section along the longitudinal axis of the sealing system, whereas the right side of Fig. 1 shows an enlarged section near a positioning element 9, designated as detail "B" in the left figure. For clarity, the individual components are shown spaced apart in the unclamped state.

[0096] An adapter 4 is positioned on a non-planar sealing surface 3 of the apparatus 1, which is covered with a flat gasket 8, wherein an opening 2 of the apparatus 1 is surrounded by the non-planar sealing surface 3. Furthermore, on the opposite side of the adapter 4, a component 12 is positioned on the adapter 4, which is covered with a further flat gasket 8. The adapter 4 is also equipped with a first end face 5 as a support surface, which has a first surface profile 6 that corresponds to the precisely fitting negative profile of the non-planar sealing surface 3. Furthermore, the adapter 4 has an outer circumferential surface 7 adjoining the first end face 5 at an angle, and two opposing positioning elements 9, which are each fixed in place on the outer circumferential surface 7 of the adapter 4.The positioning elements 9 each have a guide rail 10 designed such that when positioning the adapter 4 on the first non-planar sealing surface 3 of the device 1 covered by the flat gasket 8, the respective guide rail 10 is guided by a fitting screw 11 on the device 1, thereby allowing the adapter 4 to reach its predetermined position. In this exemplary embodiment, the guide rail 10 includes a locking tab 13 provided with an elongated hole.

[0097] Fig. 2 shows a second embodiment of a sealing system according to the invention with an exemplary embodiment of a device according to the invention and an apparatus 1.

[0098] The left side of Fig. 2 shows a section along the longitudinal axis of the sealing system, whereas the right side of Fig. 2 shows an enlarged section near a positioning element 9, designated as detail "B" in the left figure. For clarity, the individual components are shown spaced apart in the unclamped state.

[0099] An adapter 4 is positioned on a non-planar sealing surface 3 of the apparatus 1, which is covered with a flat gasket 8, wherein an opening 2 of the apparatus 1 is surrounded by the non-planar sealing surface 3. In this embodiment, the adapter 4 is a cover. The adapter 4 is also equipped with a first end face 5 as a support surface, which has a first surface profile 6 that corresponds to the precisely fitting negative profile of the non-planar sealing surface 3. Furthermore, the adapter 4 has an outer circumferential surface 7 adjoining the first end face 5 at an angle, and two opposing positioning elements 9, each of which is fixed in place on the outer circumferential surface 7 of the adapter 4.The positioning elements 9 each have a guide rail 10 designed such that when positioning the adapter 4 on the first non-planar sealing surface 3 of the device 1 covered by the flat gasket 8, the respective guide rail 10 is guided by a fitting screw 11 on the device 1, thereby allowing the adapter 4 to reach its predetermined position. In this exemplary embodiment, the guide rail 10 includes a locking tab 13 provided with an elongated hole.

[0100] Fig. 3 shows a third embodiment of a sealing system according to the invention with an exemplary embodiment of a device according to the invention, an apparatus 1 and a component 12.

[0101] The left side of Fig. 3 shows a section along the longitudinal axis of the sealing system, whereas the right side of Fig. 3 shows an enlarged section near a positioning element 9, designated as detail "B" in the left figure. For clarity, the individual components are shown spaced apart in the unclamped state.

[0102] An adapter 4 is positioned on a non-planar sealing surface 3 of the apparatus 1, which is covered with a flat gasket 8, wherein an opening 2 of the apparatus 1 is surrounded by the non-planar sealing surface 3. In addition, on the opposite side of the adapter 4, a component 12 is positioned on a non-planar sealing surface 3' covered with a flat gasket 8, wherein the adapter 4 has a first and a second end face 5, 5' with corresponding surface profiles 6, 6' in order to be able to connect the component 12 to the apparatus 1. Furthermore, the adapter 4 has an outer circumferential surface 7 adjoining the first end face 5 at an angle, and two opposing positioning elements 9, which are each fixed in place on the outer circumferential surface 7 of the adapter 4.The positioning elements 9 each have a guide rail 10 which is designed such that when the adapter 4 is positioned on the first non-planar sealing surface 3 of the apparatus 1 covered with the flat gasket 8, the respective guide rail 10 is guided by a fitting screw 11 on the apparatus 1 and the adapter 4 thereby reaches its predetermined position. In this exemplary embodiment, the guide rail 10 contains a locking tab 13 which is provided with an elongated hole. Fig. 6 shows further details of the first embodiment of the sealing system according to the invention according to Fig. 1. In particular, the bottom left of Fig. 6 presents a plan view of the adapter 4, whereas the bottom right of Fig. 6 shows a perspective sectional drawing of the sealing system according to Fig. 1.In addition, the guide rail 10, fitting screw 11, outer surface 7 and locking tab 13 belonging to the sealing system are shown in the lower part of the figure.

[0103] Fig. 7 shows further details of the second embodiment of the sealing system according to the invention shown in Fig. 2. In particular, the bottom left of Fig. 7 shows a plan view of the adapter 4, whereas the bottom right of Fig. 7 shows a perspective sectional view of the sealing system shown in Fig. 2. In addition, the guide rail 10, fitting screw 11, outer surface 7 and locking tab 13 belonging to the sealing system are also shown in the lower part of the figure.

[0104] Fig. 8 shows further details of the third embodiment of the sealing system according to the invention shown in Fig. 3. In particular, the bottom left of Fig. 8 shows a plan view of the adapter 4, whereas the bottom right of Fig. 8 shows a perspective sectional view of the sealing system according to Fig. 3. In addition, the guide rail 10, fitting screw 11, outer surface 7 and locking tab 13 belonging to the sealing system are also shown in the lower part of the figure.

[0105] Example 1

[0106] Component test of the sealing system

[0107] In this example 1, an embodiment of the sealing system according to the invention comprising a flange, a flat gasket 8, and an adapter 4 was tested for the mechanical integrity of the flat gaskets 8 used after pressing. Both the adapter 4 and the flange were made of EN 1.4541 steel. The nominal diameter of the flange was DN50, and the flange had a non-flat sealing surface 3.

[0108] The measured surface profile 6 of the non-planar sealing surface 3 is shown in Fig. 4 in the form of a smoothed two-dimensional representation, with the surface profile 6 of the non-planar sealing surface 3 being displayed in grayscale according to the scale located on the left side of Fig. 4. The individual numerical values ​​indicated on the surface profile 6 are measured in millimeters. As can be seen from Fig. 4, the maximum surface profile height is 3.6 mm and the minimum surface profile height is 4.3 mm. The maximum and minimum values ​​are located predominantly in the edge areas of the surface profile 6 of the non-planar sealing surface 3.

[0109] During the tests, various circular, annular flat gaskets 8 with a nominal diameter of DN 50 were tested according to Table 1. The inner diameter was 61 mm and the outer diameter was 107 mm.

[0110] The adapter 4 was positioned with the corresponding flat gasket 8 against the non-flat sealing surface 3 of the flange and then clamped. The clamping corresponded to a tightening torque of 75 Nm specified for the nominal size DN 50. The coefficient of friction p was 0.13.

[0111] Table 1: Flat gaskets for mechanical tests

[0112] The tests have shown that the flat gaskets 8 with graphite inserts, both Sigraflex Universal Pro and Novaphit SSTC TaL, can adequately adapt to the unevenness of the non-flat sealing surface 3 without suffering mechanical damage. The same applies to the gasket made of PFA. The PFA was purchased from Simona, and the technical data sheet is available at the following link. (accessed on 30.06.2022) available.

[0113] Example 1 shows that the flat gaskets 8 can adapt sufficiently when the adapter 4 is pressed onto the non-flat sealing surface 3, thus ensuring mechanical integrity. Mechanical integrity is a basic prerequisite for reliable sealing. Example 2:

[0114] Carrying out leak tests

[0115] In this example 2, an embodiment of the sealing system according to the invention with an enameled flange, a flat gasket 8, and an adapter 4 was tested for the technical tightness of the sealing system after pressing. Fig. 2 corresponds to the sealing system of this example. The test apparatus represents apparatus 1 and the corresponding surface of the flange, the non-planar sealing surface 3 of apparatus 1.

[0116] The adapter 4 was manufactured from EN 1.4541 steel. The nominal diameter of the enamelled flange was DN50, and the enamelled flange featured a non-planar sealing surface 3. During production, the shape and position deviation of the non-planar sealing surface 3 from the first end face 5 of the adapter 4 was first determined using a 3D laser scan. The measurement data from the 3D scan were transferred to CAD software. A replica of the adapter 4 was then calculated as a CAD design, with the negative profile of at least one non-planar sealing surface 3 being created for the replica of the adapter. The CAD design data was then transferred to a CNC milling machine via a CAD / CAM interface, enabling the CNC milling machine to create the precisely fitting negative profile of the non-planar sealing surface 3 on the first end face 5 of the adapter 4.

[0117] The measured surface profile 6 of the non-planar sealing surface 3 is shown in Fig. 5 in the form of a two-dimensional representation, with the surface profile 6 of the non-planar sealing surface 3 being displayed in grayscale according to the scale located on the left side of Fig. 5. The individual numerical values ​​indicated on the surface profile 6 are measured in millimeters. As can be seen from Fig. 5, the maximum surface profile height is 0.2 mm and the minimum surface profile height is -0.4 mm. The maximum and minimum values ​​are located more frequently at the edge areas of the surface profile 6 of the non-planar sealing surface 3.

[0118] During the tests, various flat gaskets 8 were tested according to Table 2. In each case, a circular, annular flat gasket 8 was used for a leak test to enable an assessment of whether all process steps for producing a sealing system can be implemented in such a way that sufficient technical tightness can be achieved.

[0119] For the leak tests, a test device with a vacuum-tight hood was used, through which the space around the flange was evacuated by a helium mass spectrometer. Helium at room temperature was introduced as the test medium from the bottom of the test device into opening 2 of the flange. An overpressure of 10 bar was set. The leakage rates were determined using a helium mass spectrometer. The measured leakage rates for the tested seals are shown in Table 2.

[0120] Table 2: Test results / leakage rates

[0121] The measured leakage rates in Table 2, compared to the commonly used PTFE gasket Gylon Style 3504E, show that the tested flat gaskets Sigraflex and PFA provide comparable levels of leak tightness. The permissible leakage rate for leakage class 0.01 under the standard conditions of TA-Luft corresponds to a leakage rate of 1*10' 2 mg / (s*m), whereby the standard condition TA-Luft is given by the technical instructions for air quality control, the revised version of which is available in the first general administrative regulation on the Federal Immission Control Act at the Federal Environment Agency: https: / / www.umweltbundesamt.de / (accessed on 4 July 2022).

[0122] All tests show a lower leakage rate than the TA-Luft standard requirement for technical tightness. All tests therefore meet the technical tightness criterion.

[0123] Example 2 demonstrates that reliable technical tightness is achieved when sealing a non-planar sealing surface 3 using the illustrated embodiments of the device and the sealing system according to the invention. An exemplary embodiment of the method for producing the device according to the invention was applied and successfully implemented.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Device for the precise sealing of an opening (2) of an apparatus (1) surrounded by a non-planar sealing surface (3), comprising an adapter (4) with a first end face (5) as a support surface, which has a first surface profile (6) which corresponds to the precise negative profile of the non-planar sealing surface (3), and at least one flat seal (8) which is arranged between the non-planar sealing surface (3) of the apparatus (1) and the first end face (5) of the adapter (4).

2. Device for the precise sealing of an opening (2) of an apparatus (1) surrounded by a non-planar sealing surface (3), comprising an adapter (4) with a first end face (5) as a support surface, which has a first surface profile (6), and at least one flat seal (8) which is arranged between the non-planar sealing surface (3) of the apparatus (1) and the first end face (5) of the adapter (4), wherein the first surface profile (6) is irregular.

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the adapter (4) is made of a metal or a metal alloy or of different metals or metal alloys.

4. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the flat seal (8) contains at least partially graphite or at least partially perfluoroalkoxy polymers (PFA).

5. Device according to claim 4, wherein the device is equipped with flat seals (8) made of graphite with skewed sheet or expanded metal inserts or with flat seals made of PFA.

6. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the adapter (4) comprises an outer circumferential surface (7) adjoining the first end face (5) to form an angle, at least two positioning elements (9) are fixed in place on the outer circumferential surface (7) of the adapter (4), and the positioning elements (9) each have a guide rail (10) which is designed such that when the adapter (4) is positioned on the first non-planar sealing surface (3) of the apparatus (1) covered with the flat seal (8), the respective guide rail (10) is guided by a projection (11) on the apparatus (1), preferably by a fitting screw on the apparatus (1), and the adapter (4) thereby reaches its predetermined position.

7. Device according to claim 6, wherein the respective positioning element (9) is fixed in place to the outer surface (7) of the adapter (4) by means of at least one fastening element, preferably a screw, particularly preferably a fitting screw, or the outer surface (7) of the adapter (4) has a groove for each positioning element (9) and the positioning element (9) comprises at least one screw and one spring, wherein the respective spring fits into the respective groove of the outer surface (7) of the adapter (4), and the screw fixes the groove with the spring in a fixed position.

8. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the adapter (4) is a cover, preferably a manhole or a blind cover.

9. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the adapter (4) has a second end face (5') as a further bearing surface, which is located on the opposite side of the first end face (5) and has a second surface profile (6'), wherein the second surface profile (6') of the adapter (4) corresponds to the precisely fitting negative profile of a sealing surface (3') arranged on a component (12) and surrounding an opening (2'), and wherein the device contains at least one further flat seal (8') which is arranged between the sealing surface (3') of the component (12) and the second end face (5') of the adapter (4).

10. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first surface profile (6) and / or the second surface profile (6') is irregular.

11. Sealing system comprising an apparatus (1) and a device according to one of claims 1 to 10.

12. Sealing system according to claim 11, wherein the apparatus (1) has a coating and the non-planar sealing surface (3) is formed on the coating.

13. Sealing system according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the apparatus (1) has an enamelled layer.

14. Sealing system according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the sealing system comprises a device according to one of claims 1 to 10 and a component (12), wherein the component (12) is preferably a pipeline with a flange or a connecting apparatus with a flange.

15. Sealing system according to one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the apparatus (1) has a flange, preferably an enamelled flange, whose opening (2) is surrounded by the non-planar sealing surface (3).

16. Sealing system according to one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the apparatus (1) or the connecting apparatus is a stirred vessel, a mixing apparatus, a column, a Phase separator, a separator, a pipeline or a reactor, preferably a chemical reactor or a chemical reaction column, particularly preferably a chemical reaction column for the production of acrylates.

17. Use of a device according to one of claims 1 to 10 or of a sealing system according to one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the device or the sealing system is used in chemical processes, in particular in processes for producing acrylates or in processes in which acrylates occur.

18. A method for producing a device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or a sealing system according to any one of claims 11 to 16, comprising the steps: • Providing at least one opening (2) of an apparatus (1), a flat seal (8) and an adapter (4) surrounded by a non-planar sealing surface (3), • Detecting the shape and position deviation of the at least one non-planar sealing surface (3) from a first end face (5) of the adapter (4) by means of a 3D scan, preferably a 3D laser scan, • Reconstruction of the adapter (4) as a CAD design based on the measurement data of the 3D scan, wherein for the reconstruction of the adapter (4) the negative profile of the at least one non-planar sealing surface (3) is created and in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces (3, 3') as support surfaces a negative profile is created for each of the two non-planar sealing surfaces (3, 3'), • Producing a first surface profile (6) on the first end face (5) of the adapter (4) by a machining tool, preferably by a CNC milling machine, particularly preferably a 5-axis CNC milling machine, wherein the data of the negative profile of the non-planar sealing surface (3) of the CAD design are transmitted to the machining tool via an interface, preferably a CAD / CAM interface, wherein in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces (3, 3') as support surfaces, the first surface profile (6) for the first end face (5) of the adapter and a second surface profile (6') for a second end face (5') of the adapter are produced by the machining tool, wherein the data of the two negative profiles of the two non-planar sealing surfaces (3, 3') of the CAD design are transmitted to the machining tool via the interface, and • Positioning the flat seal (8) between the non-planar sealing surface (3) of the apparatus (1) and the first end face (5) of the adapter (4), wherein, in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces (3, 3'), a further flat seal (8) is provided as support surfaces, wherein one of the two flat seals (8) is arranged between the first non-planar sealing surface (3) and the first end face (5), and the other flat seal (8) is arranged between the second non-planar sealing surface (3') and the second end face (5'). A method for producing an adapter (4) for a device according to one of claims 1 to 10, comprising the steps: • Providing at least one opening (2) of an apparatus (1) and a blank for an adapter, surrounded by a non-planar sealing surface (3), • Detecting the shape and position deviation of the at least one non-planar sealing surface (3) from a first end face (5) of the blank by means of a 3D scan, preferably a 3D laser scan, • Reconstruction of the adapter (4) as a CAD design based on the measurement data of the 3D scan, wherein for the reconstruction of the adapter (4) the negative profile of the at least one non-planar sealing surface (3) is created and in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces (3, 3') as support surfaces a negative profile is created for each of the two non-planar sealing surfaces (3, 3'), and • Producing a first surface profile (6) on a first end face (5) of the blank by a machining tool, preferably by a CNC milling machine, particularly preferably a 5-axis CNC milling machine, wherein the data of the negative profile of the non-planar sealing surface (3) of the CAD design are transmitted to the machining tool via an interface, preferably a CAD / CAM interface, and the blank is thereby machined to form the adapter (4), wherein in the case of two non-planar sealing surfaces (3, 3') as support surfaces, the first surface profile (6) for the first end face (5) of the blank and a second surface profile (6') for a second end face (5') of the blank are produced by the machining tool, wherein the data of the two negative profiles of the two non-planar sealing surfaces (3, 3') of the CAD design are transmitted to the machining tool via the interface and the blank is thereby machined to form the adapter (4).

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