Press punch for pressing powder or granular materials, and press punch assembly and rotary press

Abstract

The present invention relates to a press ram (10) for pressing powdered or granular materials to form a pressed body, comprising a base body (11) extending along a longitudinal axis (L) and a press head (12) adjacent to the base body (11), wherein the press head (12) comprises a receiving element (13) and a carrier element (30) provided for releasable attachment to the receiving element (13), the press head (12) and / or the base body (11), wherein the carrier element (30) is designed and configured for attachment of a press element (14), and in that the press element (14) comprises an upper side (16) designed as a pressing surface (15) and a lower side (17) configured for attachment to the carrier element (30), wherein the pressing surface (15) of the press element (14) is designed and configured substantially for contact with the powdered or granular materials.The invention also relates to a press ram arrangement (25) and a rotary press.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a press die for pressing powdered or granular materials into a pressed body, comprising a base body extending along a longitudinal axis and a press head adjacent to the base body

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to a press punch arrangement comprising an upper punch, a lower punch and a die.

[0003] Furthermore, the invention relates to a rotary press.

[0004] Compression dies have been known in the art for many years and are used, among other things, for compressing powdered or granulated substances. Such compression dies are regularly used to produce tablets or other pressed bodies, the end product of which is particularly suitable for medical, hygiene, or food applications. Such tablets or pressed bodies are used in a wide variety of ways, including in medicine and in the home, for example, as active ingredient tablets in washing machines or as dishwasher tablets in dishwashers. Such tablets are also known in the field of dietary supplements, where, for example, sugar-containing powders or granules are compressed together to form effervescent tablets or the like.

[0005] The familiar compression punches usually consist of a base body and an adjacent compression head. The common method for producing tablets is the use of compression devices that have a compression die with an upper and a lower punch. The lower punch protrudes into the compression die, creating a dosing chamber that is open on one side. This chamber is filled with the powder or granules to be compressed. The upper punch is inserted through the open side and pressed against the lower punch, forming the material into a compressed tablet or the corresponding compressed body. When using such components, a variety of production-related difficulties repeatedly arise. These are related to the material selection of the component materials used or the products to be compressed. For example,Undesirable adhesion of press components to the press head or press head parts can occur, which can lead to contamination, structural problems or damage to the press bodies being produced.

[0006] For this reason, it is known in the art to provide press punches for the production of tablets from powdered or granular materials with inserts or coatings. The aim of this is to reduce the adhesion of the material to a part of the press punch, particularly to the surface of the press head, during the pressing process, so that the tablets retain their shape and assume their intended properties. Nevertheless, adhesion can still be problematic during production with these known solutions, since, depending on the choice of insert, coating, or granular or powdered materials, adhesion to the pressing surfaces of the punch can be observed.Particularly in dishwashing detergents or food products made from powdered or granulated substances, especially stock cubes or bouillon cubes, an undesirably strong adhesion to the pressing surfaces can be observed due to the fats they contain. This can lead to parts of the tablet or compact remaining stuck to the press or breaking off when removed from the punches. This not only impairs the appearance of the tablet or compact, but also impairs dosing accuracy and quality. Furthermore, it leads to significant contamination of the machine.

[0007] During tabletting, the punches are exposed to high compression and friction forces. Depending on the material properties of the press punches used, this can also lead to abrasive wear of the punch surfaces. In single- or multi-part punches, the pressing surfaces are therefore typically made of metal. These surfaces can be reinforced by hardening or coating with metals or ceramics such as Cr, CrN, TiAlN, TiN, etc. However, such coatings do not always satisfactorily solve the adhesion problem described above, but can sometimes lead to further complications in adhesion.

[0008] Furthermore, punches are known that have a recess in the center of their pressing surface to accommodate an insert made of a durable elastomer. This elastomer part is surrounded by a peripheral surface of the recess, which is intended to hold it laterally. However, the elastomer part is subject to high wear, which necessitates regular and costly replacement of the punch or the elastomer part. Furthermore, this component cannot be removed detachably, so removal is associated with considerable effort. This configuration proves to be unsatisfactory in terms of cost-effectiveness.Since the press dies are made entirely of hard steel, the interaction of these different materials is prone to errors and is usually only possible through the use of particularly active adhesives, which, however, entails the risk of contamination and the introduction of potentially harmful substances into the production process.

[0009] A problem with existing solutions for preventing the raw materials from sticking to the pressed bodies remains the penetration of these inserts or coatings into the final product, which can occur due to an unsuitable selection or design of the non-stick construction or irregular maintenance. This requires, on the one hand, a sufficiently strong bond between the inserts or coatings and the base body and, on the other hand, consistent adherence to maintenance / replacement intervals. However, since replacement or maintenance is associated with a significant amount of time and effort, this is rarely implemented in practice.

[0010] A further disadvantage of the available press dies is that due to wear of the pressing surfaces or the respective adhesion-reducing materials or structures, regular replacement of the press dies, or at least the pressing surfaces or the adhesion-reducing surface, is necessary. The press dies are intended to largely prevent the pressed material from sticking, but their effectiveness diminishes with regular use, which is why regular maintenance, inspection, and replacement are essential. The regular renewal or replacement of the press dies or their pressing surface is associated with a considerable expenditure of labor, money, and time. With conventional press dies, for example, entire components are replaced, which incurs very high costs but keeps setup times short.Furthermore, it is possible to regularly renew or replace individual coatings applied to the corresponding press heads in order to minimize the risk of damage, etc. Since the known coatings are regularly applied directly to the press head using a material bond, particularly adhesives, replacing or renewing them is particularly time-consuming. Such a replacement or renewing requires multiple work steps, such as preparation, disassembly, cleaning, bonding, etc., which complicates the process and makes it prone to errors and injuries. Due to the lack of standardization and the small-scale processing, a high level of manual effort is also required, which makes the process particularly cost-intensive and involves a high level of resource commitment.Since the devices for producing the pressed bodies usually have a large number of pressing dies, appropriate surface renewal or processing must be carried out continuously and periodically.

[0011] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a press die which, on the one hand, is reliable and at the same time easy to handle and ensures a safe arrangement in the intended use, and which, on the other hand, delivers the desired pressing results for the production of required pressed bodies and, at the same time, has a high level of reliability and is cost-effective and intuitive to handle.

[0012] This object is achieved by the press stamp mentioned at the outset in that the press head comprises a receiving element and a carrier element provided for detachable fastening to the receiving element, the press head and / or the base body, wherein the carrier element is designed and configured for attachment of a pressing element, and in that the pressing element comprises an upper side designed as a pressing surface and a lower side configured for attachment to the carrier element, wherein the pressing surface of the pressing element is designed and configured essentially for contact with the powdered or granular substances.

[0013] The press ram according to the invention ensures that a flexible and efficient attachment of the pressing element to the pressing head can be realized by means of the carrier element, which improves the adaptability and versatility of the press ram. The detachable attachment of the carrier element facilitates the replacement or maintenance of the pressing element and thus contributes to the overall efficiency of the pressing process. When modifying the pressing element arranged on the carrier element, it is no longer necessary to disassemble the entire press ram; instead, it is sufficient to detach the detachable carrier element from the press ram, for example, to carry out maintenance or replacement of the pressing element. Furthermore, it is ensured that the receiving element and the pressing element can be precisely and reliably aligned with one another during the pressing process.The appropriately designed pressing surface of the pressing element enables uniform contact with the material to be pressed, resulting in even and consistent compaction. Furthermore, the detachable arrangement between the receiving element and the pressing element arranged on the carrier element enables easy handling and maintenance of the respective pressing element. The detachable arrangement between the receiving element and the carrier element enables quick and uncomplicated assembly and disassembly of the corresponding pressing element on the pressing head. This significantly simplifies the handling of the pressing ram, which in turn saves time and labor. Overall, this pressing ram according to the invention offers an efficient solution for the compression of powdered or granular materials by combining precision, user-friendliness, and performance.Thanks to the press ram according to the invention, the pressing element can be assembled both locally and temporally independent of the required removal of any residues from older pressing elements. Furthermore, the bonding of the pressing element to the carrier element can be performed independently of the required replacement / maintenance of the corresponding pressing elements, thus minimizing production downtime. The properties of this press ram not only simplify the manufacturing process as well as the replacement and maintenance of the pressing element, but also ensure the quality and consistency of the produced pressed bodies.

[0014] In preferred embodiments, it can be provided that the carrier element comprises the pressing element or that the pressing element is directly integrated into the carrier element. In this case, the pressing element is a component of the carrier element. This embodiment enables short-term replacement or rapid maintenance of the entire component in order to ensure efficient and long-lasting use of the press ram according to the invention. In particularly preferred embodiments, the carrier element and / or the pressing element can be formed from several components which, as a whole, form and define the respective carrier element and / or the pressing element. Depending on the intended press ram, the desired pressed bodies and / or the materials to be pressed, the carrier element and / or the pressing element can consist of several sub-elements which also fall under the term carrier element or pressing element.

[0015] In a further preferred embodiment, the actual press stamp can be fastened by means of a central or lateral fastening, wherein it is accordingly equipped with a receptacle for a screw fastening (central) or a carrier extension (lateral).

[0016] "Powdery or granular materials" within the meaning of the invention are understood to mean all starting materials or raw materials suitable for the production of pressed bodies. Such "pressed bodies" can, in particular, be tablet-shaped bodies, which are generally known under the term "tablets," but also under the specific designations "effervescent tablets," "dishwasher tablets," "washing machine tablets," "stock cubes," etc. The pressed bodies / tablets can have various shapes and sizes; however, the pressed bodies produced using the press dies are preferably essentially cuboid-shaped and configured. The "carrier element" can alternatively also be referred to simply as a "carrier" or "carrier."

[0017] In a further embodiment, the carrier element and / or the pressing element comprise at least one adhesive arranged correspondingly thereto, which is designed and configured to support the fixation or alignment of the carrier element and the pressing element relative to one another. This at least one adhesive is, in particular, a double-sided adhesive tape, which can more preferably be arranged flatly on the carrier element and / or on the underside of the pressing element in order to form and establish a fixation with the respective counterpart, at least in some areas, upon contact with the counterpart.

[0018] A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the receiving element has a recess and is designed and configured to substantially completely receive the carrier element, wherein the pressing element, when mounted on the carrier element, substantially completely covers the carrier element. The substantially complete reception of the carrier element in the recess enables stable and secure attachment of the pressing element to the pressing head. Furthermore, the substantially complete coverage of the carrier element by the pressing element ensures uniform pressure distribution during the pressing process. This contributes to improving the quality of the produced pressed bodies and minimizing possible deformations or irregularities.Furthermore, this design facilitates cleaning and maintenance of the press ram, as the pressing element completely covers the support element, thus forming a smooth, easy-to-clean surface and preventing contact of powdered or granular materials with the support element. This contributes to maintaining operational efficiency and minimizes maintenance-related downtime. Overall, this design enables efficient and precise pressing of powdered or granular materials and supports the production of high-quality compacts in industrial applications.

[0019] An advantageous further development is characterized in that the carrier element is designed and configured for attachment to the receiving element, the pressing head, and / or the base body by means of at least one fastening element. In this way, a robust and secure attachment of the carrier element to the receiving element, the pressing head, and / or the base body of the pressing ram can be established. This ensures a stable connection during the pressing process, thereby maintaining even pressure distribution and improving the quality of the produced pressed bodies. Furthermore, the use of a suitable fastening element facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the carrier element, which facilitates maintenance and cleaning of the pressing ram and optimizes operating times. Furthermore, this further development offers increased flexibility in the configuration of the pressing ram.Depending on the requirements of the pressing process or the intended support element, different types of fasteners can be used to achieve optimal performance or support element fastening and effectively press a wide variety of materials. The use of fasteners helps improve the performance, versatility, and ease of maintenance of the press ram, resulting in more efficient and higher-quality production of compacts.

[0020] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the support element is designed and configured for releasable attachment to the receiving element, the pressing head, and / or the base body by means of a force-locking connection and / or a form-locking connection. The formation of a force-locking and / or form-locking connection ensures a secure and stable attachment of the support element to the receiving element, the pressing head, and / or the base body of the pressing ram. These connection methods enable effective and reliable positioning of the support element, ensuring a secure arrangement and preventing unintentional release of the support element during the pressing process. Furthermore, the option of releasable attachment offers easy maintenance and repair of the pressing ram.If necessary, the support element can be removed and replaced quickly and easily without having to disassemble the entire press ram. The combination of force-locking and / or positive connection offers a versatile and reliable solution for securing the support element and increases flexibility in the design of the press ram. Depending on the requirements of the pressing process, various connection methods can be used to achieve optimal performance and efficiently press a wide variety of materials. In a preferred embodiment, the surface intended for arrangement with the pressing element has a flat surface.

[0021] A useful embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the carrier element has at least one opening and that the receiving element, the pressing head and / or the base body has at least one fastening element receptacle, wherein the carrier element is designed and configured for fastening in the receiving element by means of the at least one fastening element by insertion through the opening in the fastening element receptacle. Due to the at least one opening provided in the carrier element and at least one fastening element receptacle on the receiving element, pressing head and / or base body, the design enables flexible and adaptable fastening of the carrier element. This is particularly advantageous for adapting the pressing ram to different requirements and circumstances.Securing the support element by inserting it through the opening in the fastener receptacle creates a robust connection that remains reliable during the pressing process. This ensures stable positioning of the support element and even pressure distribution for high-quality pressed bodies. By integrating the fastener receptacle into the receiving element, the pressing head, and / or the base body, space requirements are minimized, which is particularly advantageous in spatially limited environments. In a preferred embodiment, the pressing element can be arranged on the support element secured in the receiving element. More preferably, the fastening element is a screw with a thread, wherein the opening comprises a corresponding counter-thread.

[0022] Preferably, the receiving element comprises at least one securing recess, and the carrier element comprises at least one securing element designed and configured for releasable arrangement in the securing recess. This design offers several advantages for the functionality and safety of the press ram. The presence of the at least one securing recess in the receiving element and the at least one securing element in the carrier element enables reliable locking of the press ram, ensures reliable fixation during the pressing process, and prevents unintentional loosening or displacement during intended use. The simple insertion and securing of the carrier element by means of the at least one securing recess and the at least one securing element ensures uncomplicated operability, which increases the efficiency and user-friendliness of the press ram.In addition, the at least one securing recess and the at least one securing element provide a high positioning accuracy of the carrier element and enable precise adjustment and adaptation of the press ram to different requirements and applications.

[0023] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one securing recess and / or the at least one securing element is / are formed and arranged substantially along the longitudinal axis of the base body. The arrangement along the longitudinal axis of the base body enables a uniform distribution of the at least one securing element and / or the at least one securing recess. The at least one securing element arranged along the longitudinal axis and / or the at least one securing recess also enable easier handling and maintenance of the press ram, as they offer clear orientation for assembly and disassembly. Furthermore, in this way, a preferred engagement option for the at least one securing element can be created in order to reliably secure the carrier element against movement along the longitudinal axis.

[0024] A further expedient embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the receiving element, the pressing head, and / or the base body comprise at least one locking recess connected to the securing recess, in particular extending substantially orthogonally to the longitudinal axis. This design offers increased stability and safety during operation of the pressing ram. The integration of the at least one locking recess, which is connected to the at least one securing recess, achieves improved locking and alignment of the pressing ram. Further preferably, the pressing ram comprises at least one locking element that can be arranged in the at least one locking recess. This helps to minimize possible undesired displacements or movements during the pressing process and to ensure a defined alignment and corresponding locking of the respective components of the pressing ram.

[0025] Preferably, the at least one securing element has at least one material taper along the longitudinal axis, which is provided for at least partial engagement with at least one locking element that can be arranged in the at least one locking recess, wherein the at least one securing element is secured against unintentional release along the longitudinal axis from the at least one securing recess. In this way, a further possibility is provided for securely and reliably fixing the press ram during operation. The material taper of the securing element enables a precise and secure fit in the locking recess, thereby achieving a stable hold and improved alignment of the press ram. The material taper is, for example, a recess, in particular a notch orat least a portion of the at least one safety element to form and establish a movement inhibition along the longitudinal axis upon engagement with the locking element. Furthermore, the material taper can create a locking mechanism that allows the securing element to engage behind it in order to prevent accidental release of the entire support element. This construction effectively protects the at least one securing element against accidental release along the longitudinal axis from the at least one securing recess, which increases the safety and reliability of the press ram during operation. Preferably, the at least one securing element has a substantially rotationally symmetrical body.

[0026] A preferred development of the invention is characterized in that the base body and the press head are designed and configured essentially as one piece. This increases the structural integrity and stability of the press ram. By manufacturing the components from a single piece, potential weak points or defect points that can occur with separate parts are eliminated. This increases the reliability and service life of the press ram. Furthermore, the one-piece design enables precise and targeted alignment of the press head, ensuring even pressure distribution during the pressing process. The integration of the base body and press head into a one-piece design also facilitates the manufacture and assembly of the press ram. Fewer individual parts mean less assembly effort and simpler production, which ultimately reduces production costs.

[0027] A practical embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the support element is essentially formed and configured in one piece. The one-piece construction of the support element ensures, among other things, increased stability and strength during the pressing process. By reducing the number of connection points or individual components, the risk of breakage or weak points is minimized, which leads to more reliable operation of the press ram. The one-piece design also reduces manufacturing costs and simplifies the production process. By eliminating complex assembly processes or connecting elements, production times can be shortened and overall manufacturing costs can be reduced. Furthermore, the one-piece design offers better control over the material composition and structure of the support element.This allows for targeted adaptation of the physical properties, such as elasticity and strength, to the specific requirements of the press ram. Preferably, the support element is made of at least one metal, in particular a hard metal. In further preferred embodiments, the support element can be made of at least one plastic, in particular a hard and durable plastic (e.g., PP, ABS, etc.).

[0028] An advantageous development is characterized in that the pressing element, in particular the pressing surface, is formed at least in sections, in particular substantially completely, from at least one plastic and / or is coated with a plastic coating. By using at least one plastic and / or a plastic coating for the pressing element, in particular the pressing surface, it is possible, among other things, to selectively create adhesive properties between the pressing surface and the materials to be pressed. In particular, a non-stick property can be provided in this way, whereby the adhesion of the materials to be pressed can be adjusted accordingly, in particular reduced, during the pressing process. This non-stick property not only facilitates the removal of the pressed bodies to be produced, but also reduces the risk of contamination and residues on the pressing surface.This simplifies cleaning and maintenance of the press ram, which in turn increases service life and improves the efficiency of the production process. The use of at least one plastic and / or a plastic coating for the pressing element, in particular the pressing surface, also enables better replaceability of the pressing element. If necessary, the pressing element can be easily removed and replaced with a new one, which minimizes maintenance times and reduces overall operating costs. This contributes to operational efficiency and ensures continuous production without lengthy downtimes. In addition, the at least one plastic and / or the plastic coating of the pressing element, in particular the pressing surface, offers a long-lasting and resilient surface that retains its properties, in particular its non-stick properties, even with regular use.This extends the service life of the pressing element and contributes to maintaining product quality. Overall, the integration of at least one plastic and / or the plastic coating of the pressing element, especially the pressing surface, enables optimization of operating performance, ease of maintenance, and the interchangeability of the pressing ram. These properties contribute to increasing productivity and reducing the costs of the production process. Preferably, the plastic and / or the plastic coating comprise a significant amount of PP or PU.

[0029] The thickness of the pressing surface of the at least one plastic or plastic coating is preferably in a range from 0.5 mm to 5 mm, particularly preferably in a range from 1 mm to 3 mm. The thickness of the at least one plastic or plastic coating has a direct influence on the deformability of the pressing element and thus directly on the resulting adhesion properties or the release properties of the materials to be pressed.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the pressing element is designed and configured as a pressing element having a non-stick coating or a non-stick structure. Particularly preferably, the pressing surface is designed and configured as a pressing surface having a non-stick coating or a non-stick structure. In this way, the adhesion of the pressed material during the pressing process can be effectively minimized. This non-stick property reduces the risk of product defects due to the desired design of the pressed bodies and reduces clumping, blockages, and material loss. Furthermore, the removal of the pressed bodies to be produced is facilitated. Furthermore, the non-stick coating or non-stick structure enables significantly simplified cleaning and maintenance of the press ram.Residues and contaminants are easier to remove, optimizing the operating time of the press ram and minimizing downtime. Furthermore, simplified replacement of the corresponding components is possible, which also contributes to positive setup behavior. The non-stick coating or non-stick structure also contributes to extending the service life of the press element by providing a robust and durable surface that retains its non-stick properties even after repeated use. This ensures consistent quality of the produced pressed bodies and optimizes the overall efficiency of the pressing process.

[0031] Preferably, the pressing element and the carrier element are connectable to one another, in particular by means of an adhesive. Particularly preferably, the pressing element and the carrier element are designed and configured to be connectable to one another by means of an adhesive, in particular by means of a double-sided adhesive tape. This connection method ensures a firm and permanent connection between the pressing element and the carrier element, thereby ensuring stable and reliable functioning of the press ram during its operation. This connection method offers a simple and effective way of securely attaching the pressing element to the carrier element without the need for complex mechanical or other material connections. The double-sided adhesive tape ensures uniform and reliable adhesion between the pressing element and the carrier element, which leads to improved stability and functionality of the press ram.During intended use, only the individual carrier elements need to be removed from the press ram to subsequently replace the removed pressing elements. The respective adhesives, especially the adhesive tape, can be removed with suitable solvents without leaving residue and with minimal effort, without posing any health concerns. This makes the process reliable, low-risk, and efficient. Furthermore, the corresponding adhesive or adhesive tape is preferably selected such that a bond between the pressing element and the carrier element is maintained at least for the service life of the pressing element.

[0032] A further advantageous embodiment is characterized in that the receiving element and / or the carrier element each comprise at least one magnetic element, and / or that the receiving element and / or the carrier element comprises at least one magnetizable section in order to form and establish a magnetization arrangement of the carrier element in the receiving element. This enables simple and effective fastening of the carrier element in the receiving element by magnetic attraction, thereby ensuring a stable and secure connection between the pressing element and the carrier element. The use of magnetic elements enables simple assembly and disassembly of the press ram, which facilitates maintenance and the replacement of components. More preferably, the at least one magnetic element is selected such that a connection between the receiving element and the carrier element is provided at least for the service life of the pressing element.

[0033] The object is further achieved with a press ram assembly mentioned above, wherein the upper ram and / or the lower ram is a press ram according to the invention. The use of the press ram according to the invention as the upper ram and / or lower ram ensures optimal adaptation to the requirements of the pressing process and, in particular, facilitates the corresponding maintenance and replacement of the respective pressing surfaces. By integrating the innovative features of the press ram into the ram assembly, improved pressing quality and production output are achieved, combined with the advantages of maintenance and replacement of the respective components. The advantages associated with the press ram according to the invention, such as the non-stick properties of the pressing surface and the improved ease of maintenance and replaceability of the respective components, are thus directly transferred to the entire press ram assembly.This increases the reliability of the pressing process and further optimizes the quality of the produced pressed bodies.

[0034] To avoid repetition, in connection with the press ram assembly according to the invention, particular reference is made to the advantages already described in detail in connection with the press ram assembly according to the invention. These also apply analogously to the press ram assembly according to the invention.

[0035] Furthermore, the object is achieved by a rotary press mentioned above, comprising a plurality or multiplicity of the press ram arrangement according to the invention. This enables uniform and efficient processing of large quantities of powdered or granular materials with the corresponding advantages of the press ram arrangement according to the invention. The specific features and advantages of the press ram arrangements according to the invention, such as the non-stick properties of the pressing surface and improved ease of maintenance, are applied to all pressing processes within the rotary press. This ensures consistent pressing quality and production output across all processing stages.

[0036] To avoid repetition, in connection with the rotary press according to the invention, particular reference is made to the advantages already described in detail in connection with the press ram assembly according to the invention and the press ram according to the invention. These also apply analogously to the rotary press according to the invention.

[0037] In further preferred embodiments, additional presses can be provided for producing corresponding pressed bodies, each of which has at least one of the press rams according to the invention and / or at least one of the press ram assemblies according to the invention. Such additional presses can, in particular, be eccentric presses.

[0038] Further useful and / or advantageous features and developments, as well as preferred device objects, are set forth in the dependent claims and the description. Particularly preferred embodiments of the press ram, the press ram assembly, and the rotary press are explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings show: Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a press stamp according to the invention in a perspective view obliquely from above, Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of a second embodiment of a press stamp according to the invention in a perspective view obliquely from above, Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of a third embodiment of a press stamp according to the invention in a perspective view obliquely from above, Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of a fourth embodiment of a press stamp according to the invention in a perspective view obliquely from above, Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of a press stamp arrangement according to the invention in a perspective view and Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of a further embodiment of a press stamp according to the invention in a sectional view with an external aid.

[0039] The press ram according to the invention, the press ram arrangement according to the invention and the rotary press according to the invention are described in more detail with reference to the above-mentioned figures.

[0040] The press die 10 shown in the drawings is designed, by way of example, as a press die 10 for compressing powdered or granular materials into pressed bodies—not shown in detail in the figures—in particular tablets. Such press dies 10 are also known, among other things, as tabletting dies or tablet dies. The invention similarly relates to comparable press dies 10 designed and configured for compressing other pressed bodies, for example, in the food industry (stock cubes, etc.) or in the field of dietary supplements (effervescent tablets, etc.).

[0041] Fig. 1 bis Fig. 4 as well as Fig. 6 each schematically show an embodiment of a press stamp 10 for pressing powdered or granular material to a pressed body, comprising a base body 11 extending along a longitudinal axis L and a press head 12 adjacent to the base body 11. In the Fig. 1 bis Fig. 4 as well as Fig .6 The scale and the dimensions of the individual components of the press ram 10 according to the invention are not necessarily shown in a dimensionally or realistic manner, but may deviate therefrom, at least partially. In particular, the longitudinal extent of the press head 12 and / or the base body 11 along the longitudinal axis L may deviate from this. Furthermore, the press ram 10 may have further components or features to provide for the corresponding pressing of powdered or granular materials into a pressed body. As a rule, the press head 12 represents the area that penetrates into an opening containing the powdered or granular materials in order to come into contact with its surface for pressing.

[0042] This press ram 10 is characterized according to the invention in that the pressing head 12 comprises a receiving element 13 and a carrier element 30 provided for detachable arrangement with the receiving element 13, the pressing head 12 and / or the base body 11, wherein the carrier element 30 is designed and configured for the attachment / arrangement of a pressing element 14. In addition, the pressing element 14 comprises an upper side 16 designed as a pressing surface 15 and a lower side 17 configured for attachment / arrangement with the carrier element 30, wherein the pressing surface 15 of the pressing element 14 is designed and configured essentially for contact with the powdered or granular materials. Preferably, the pressing element 14 can be arranged with a substantially precise fit on the carrier element 30 in order to form and configure a substantially flat and congruent pressing surface 15 with the upper side 16 of the pressing element 14.

[0043] In the Fig. 1 bis Fig. 4 In the different embodiments of the press die 10 according to the invention shown, the carrier element 30 is shown in the unassembled state with the receiving element 13, the press head 12 and / or the base body 11. In Fig. 6 The carrier element 30 is shown in the assembled state. In its intended use, the carrier element 30 is connected to the receiving element 13, the pressing head 12 and / or the base body 11. Furthermore, Fig. 2 bis Fig. 4 , the pressing element 14 is also shown in the unassembled state with the carrier element 30. In the intended use, as in Fig. 6 shown, the pressing element 14 is connected to the carrier element 30 or, as in Fig. 1 shown, a part of the carrier element 30 in order to provide the pressing surface 15 for pressing the powdered or granular materials and to form and establish a secure and reliable fit of the carrier element 30 or the pressing element 14 in the press ram 10 according to the invention. However, it can preferably be provided to provide the corresponding carrier element 30 or the corresponding pressing element 14 separately, for example as a spare part, and then to connect it to the receiving element 13, the pressing head 12 and / or the base body 11 in order to form and establish the corresponding press ram 10 according to the invention. In further preferred embodiments, depending on the design of the press ram 10 or the pressed bodies to be produced, it can be provided that the carrier element 30, the pressing element 14 or further components of the press ram 10 consist of several components or are divided into several individual elements.More preferably, a single press die 10 can comprise a plurality of carrier elements 30, pressing elements 14 and / or receiving elements 13 in order to produce a plurality of pressed bodies substantially simultaneously.

[0044] In advantageous embodiments, the pressing head 12 can be a component of the base body 11 or directly integrated into it, so that a specific assignment is not readily given. The base body 11 is preferably the area of ​​the pressing ram 10 that engages with the drive means of the respective machine used to produce the pressed bodies in order to execute the respective pressing movements of the pressing ram 10. Fig. 1 bis Fig. 4 as well as in Fig .6 The carrier element 30 is fastened / connected to at least one region of the pressing head 12 and / or the receiving element 13. Further preferably, the pressing element 14 can be arranged substantially entirely within the receiving element 13 during intended use.

[0045] The receiving element 13 is preferably profiled and inserted into the pressing head 12. More preferably, the receiving element 13 has at least one recess 18, which is designed and configured to substantially completely receive the carrier element 30, wherein the pressing element 14, in the state mounted on the carrier element 30, substantially completely covers the carrier element 30. and has at least one recess 18 in sections in order to at least partially receive the pressing element 14 therein. The design of the at least one recess 18 can be designed differently depending on the material selection, intended use or dimension of the pressing ram 10, as is particularly shown in the Fig. 1 bis Fig. 4 as well as in Fig. 6 shown. In the Fig. 1 bis Fig. 4 as well as in Fig. 6 only one recess 18 is shown in each case, wherein in particularly preferred embodiments it can be provided that the press stamp 10 comprises a plurality of support elements 30 and / or recesses 18.

[0046] Preferably, the carrier element 30 is designed and configured for attachment by means of at least one fastening element 19 to the receiving element 13, the pressing head 12 and / or the base body 11. In the Fig. 4 An embodiment of the press die 10 according to the invention is shown by way of example, in which the carrier element 30 is a flat component which can be detachably arranged in the receiving element 13 and in the press head 12 by means of a fastening element 19, here a screw 20. As in the Fig. 4 As further shown, the carrier element 30 further preferably has at least one opening 21 and the receiving element 13, the pressing head 12 and / or the base body 11 has at least one fastening element receptacle 22. From the Fig. 4 It further emerges that the carrier element 30 is designed and configured for fastening in the receiving element 13 by means of at least one fastening element 19, here the screw 20, by insertion through the opening 21 in the fastening element receptacle 22. Particularly preferably, the fastening element 19 has a thread 23, and the fastening element receptacle 22 has a corresponding counter-thread 24.

[0047] Further preferably, the carrier element 30 is designed and configured for releasable fastening to the receiving element 13, the pressing head 12 and / or the base body 11 by means of a force-locking connection and / or by means of a form-locking connection.

[0048] An advantageous embodiment is characterized in that the receiving element 13 comprises at least one securing recess 31 and that the carrier element 30 comprises at least one securing element 32 designed and arranged for detachable arrangement in the securing recess 31. In the Fig. 1 bis Fig. 3 as well as in Fig. 6 Different embodiments of the press stamp according to the invention with different securing recesses 31 and securing elements 32 are shown. The securing recesses 31 and the securing elements 32 are particularly preferably designed and configured to correspond to one another. More preferably, the at least one securing recess 31 and / or the at least one securing element 32 is / are designed and configured substantially along the longitudinal axis L of the base body 11. For inserting and arranging or for releasing the at least one securing element 32 into the at least one securing recess 31, the carrier element 30 is movable along the longitudinal axis L. In preferred embodiments, the carrier element 30 is designed and configured substantially in one piece. In further preferred embodiments, the base body 11 and the press head 12 are designed and configured substantially in one piece.The material is particularly preferably metal, in particular a material selected from the group of hard metals.

[0049] Further preferably, the pressing element 14 is formed and configured essentially in one piece. Preferably, the pressing surface 15 of the pressing element 14 is formed, at least in sections, in particular essentially completely, from at least one plastic and / or coated with a plastic coating. Particularly preferably, the pressing surface 15 is formed and configured as a pressing surface 15 having a non-stick coating or a non-stick structure. In a further preferred embodiment, the pressing element 14 and the carrier element 30 are connectable to one another, in particular by means of an adhesive.

[0050] Preferably, the receiving element 13, the pressing head 12 and / or the base body 11 comprises at least one locking recess 33 connected to the securing recess 31, in particular extending substantially orthogonally to the longitudinal axis L. A locking recess 33 is, for example, in the Fig. 3 and in detail in the Fig. 6 shown. In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least one securing element 32 has at least one material taper 34 along the longitudinal axis L, in particular a material taper section, which is provided for at least partial engagement with at least one locking element 35 that can be arranged in the at least one locking recess 33. The at least one locking element 35 and the associated functionality of the locking mechanism are described in particular in detail in the Fig .6 By arranging a corresponding at least one locking element 35 in the at least one locking recess 33, the at least one securing element 32 is secured against unintentional release along the longitudinal axis L from the at least one securing recess 31. The entire carrier element 30 is thus secured against unintentional release.

[0051] In the further embodiment of the press stamp 10 according to the invention in Fig. 6 A possibility for fastening the support element 30 or the securing element 32 in the securing recess 31 is shown in detail. Fig. 6 Furthermore, the process of the intended removal of the carrier element 30 by releasing the at least one locking element 35 by means of an aid 36 is illustrated. Fig. 6 shows an example of a press stamp 10 according to the invention with a part of a base body 11 and the press head 12 with the carrier element 30 arranged therein. The embodiment of the press stamp 10 according to the invention in Fig. 6 comprises two locking recesses 33, wherein two locking elements 35 are arranged at least partially in the locking recesses 33. In principle, only one locking recess 33 or more than two locking recesses 33 can be provided, which are designed and configured with only one locking element 35 or more than two locking elements 35 for securing the securing element 32. In the present embodiment of the Fig. 6 the locking element 35 comprises an engagement portion 37 which is designed and configured for securing engagement with the securing element 32, in particular with the material taper 34.

[0052] Furthermore, the at least one locking element 35 is preferably spring-mounted in the locking recess 33 by means of at least one spring element 38, wherein the prevailing spring force secures the securing element 32 in the securing recess 31. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one locking element 35 can be accessible from the outside, i.e., from the outside of the press head 12 and / or the base body 11, in order to form and establish removal of the at least one locking element 35 from the corresponding locking recess 33. The at least one locking element 35 can preferably be fastened in the respective locking recess 33 by means of suitable fastening means, for which purpose, for example, non-positive and / or material-fit fastening means can be used.

[0053] Further preferably, the at least one locking element 35, or at least the engagement section 37, can be moved out by an (external) aid 36 against the spring force of the spring element 38. In the embodiment of the Fig. 6 For this purpose, the securing element 32 of the carrier element 30 has a release section 39 projecting along the longitudinal axis L beyond the material taper 34, which is designed and configured to cooperate with an auxiliary means 36 and to effect a force for at least partially moving the engagement section 37 of the at least one locking element 35 out of the region of the material taper 34. For this purpose, the auxiliary means 36 can be introduced further preferably through at least one radial opening 40 of the base body 11 and / or the pressing head 12 in order to cooperate with the release section 39 to generate a longitudinal axial movement. Such openings 40 are already regularly provided in conventional pressing dies as vent holes, wherein preferably at least one such vent hole is provided or adaptable as an opening 40 for engagement with an auxiliary element 36. Further preferably, the securing element 32, as in Fig. 6 As shown, at least one helical or screw-shaped recess 41 extends at least partially along the surface. The helical or screw-shaped recess 41 is preferably intended to engage with the at least one engagement section 37 upon insertion of the carrier element 30 or the securing element 32 into the securing recess 31, in order to reduce the corresponding force exerted upon insertion against the at least one spring element 38.

[0054] Particularly preferably, the design of the press ram 10 according to the invention with at least one corresponding locking element 35 in the locking recess 33 in conjunction with a corresponding securing element 32 enables the carrier element 30 to be changed or replaced while the press ram 10 is installed in a press. For this purpose, the auxiliary device 36 can be inserted through the opening 40 while the respective press ram 10 is installed in the press, whereby the engagement section 37 can be moved out of the material taper 34 to effect a corresponding removal of the carrier element 30, particularly in conjunction with the securing element 32. This leads to convenient and rapid maintenance and replacement of the respective carrier elements 30 or the press element 14.

[0055] In further embodiments - not shown in detail in the figures - the receiving element 13 and / or the carrier element 30 each comprise at least one magnetic element, and / or the receiving element 13 and / or the carrier element 30 comprises at least one magnetizable section in order to form and establish a magnetization arrangement of the carrier element 30 in the receiving element 13.

[0056] In the following, the press punch arrangement 25 according to the invention comprising an upper punch 26, a lower punch 27 and a die 28 is described in more detail.

[0057] The press die assembly 25 according to the invention is characterized in that the upper die 26 and / or the lower die 27 are designed and configured as a press die 10 according to the invention. Particularly preferably, both the upper die 26 and the lower die 27 are designed and configured as a press die 10 according to the invention. In particularly preferred embodiments, it can be provided that a press die assembly 25 comprises a plurality of upper dies 26 and / or lower dies 27 in order to simultaneously produce a plurality of compacts. For this purpose, a plurality of dies 28 or die recesses 29 can also be provided in the die.

[0058] As from the Fig. 5As can be seen, the die 28 of the press punch assembly 25 according to the invention has a die recess 29 into which the upper punch 26 and / or the lower punch 27 are designed to be movable. During pressing, the powdered or granular materials are provided within the die recess 29 and pressed into the respective pressed bodies by means of the upper punch 26 and / or the lower punch 27.

[0059] To avoid repetition, in connection with the press ram assembly 25 according to the invention, reference is made to the description of the figures already presented in detail in connection with the press ram 10 according to the invention. These also apply analogously to the press ram assembly 25 according to the invention.

Claims

1. Press stamp (10) for pressing powdered or granular materials into a pressed body, comprising a base body (11) extending along a longitudinal axis L and a press head (12) adjacent to the base body (11), characterized in that the pressing head comprises a receiving element (13) and a carrier element (30) provided for detachable fastening to the receiving element (13), the pressing head (12) and / or the base body (11), wherein the carrier element (30) is designed and configured for the attachment of a pressing element (14), and in that the pressing element (14) comprises an upper side (16) designed as a pressing surface (15) and a lower side (17) configured for attachment to the carrier element (30), wherein the pressing surface (15) of the pressing element (14) is designed and configured substantially for contact with the powdered or granular substances.

2. Press stamp (10) according to claim 1, characterized in thatthe receiving element (13) has a recess (18) and is designed and configured to substantially completely receive the carrier element (30), wherein the pressing element (14) in the state mounted on the carrier element (30) substantially completely covers the carrier element (30).

3. Press stamp (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the carrier element (30) is designed and configured for fastening by means of at least one fastening element (19) to the receiving element (13), the pressing head (12) and / or the base body (11).

4. Press stamp (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the carrier element (30) is designed and configured for releasable fastening to the receiving element (13), the pressing head (12) and / or the base body (11) by means of a force-fitting connection and / or by means of a form-fitting connection.

5. Press stamp (10) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in thatthe carrier element (30) has at least one opening (21) and that the receiving element (13), the pressing head (12) and / or the base body (11) has at least one fastening element receptacle (22), wherein the carrier element (30) is designed and configured for fastening in the receiving element (13) by means of the at least one fastening element (19) by insertion through the opening (21) in the fastening element receptacle (22).

6. Press stamp (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the receiving element (13) comprises at least one securing recess (31) and that the carrier element (30) comprises at least one securing element (32) designed and arranged for releasable arrangement in the securing recess (31).

7. Press stamp (10) according to claim 6, characterized in thatthe at least one securing recess (31) and / or the at least one securing element (32) is / are formed and arranged substantially along the longitudinal axis L of the base body (11).

8. Press stamp (10) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the receiving element (13), the pressing head (12) and / or the base body (11) comprises at least one locking recess (33) connected to the securing recess (31), in particular extending substantially orthogonally to the longitudinal axis L.

9. Press stamp (10) according to claim 8, characterized in thatthe at least one securing element (32) has at least one material taper (34) along the longitudinal axis L, which is provided for at least partial engagement with at least one locking element that can be arranged in the at least one locking recess (33), wherein the at least one securing element (32) is secured against unintentional release along the longitudinal axis L from the at least one securing recess (33).

10. Press stamp (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the pressing element (14), in particular the pressing surface (15), is formed at least in sections, in particular substantially completely, from at least one plastic and / or is coated with a plastic coating.

11. Press stamp (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 10, characterized in thatthe pressing element (14) is designed and configured as a pressing element (14) having a non-stick coating or a non-stick structure.

12. Press stamp (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the pressing element (14) and the carrier element (30) can be connected to one another, in particular by means of an adhesive.

13. Press stamp (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 132, characterized in that the receiving element (13) and / or the carrier element (30) each comprise at least one magnetic element, and / or that the receiving element (13) and / or the carrier element (30) comprise at least one magnetizable section in order to form and establish a magnetization arrangement of the carrier element (30) in the receiving element (13).

14. Press punch arrangement (25) comprising an upper punch (26), a lower punch (27) and a die (28), wherein the upper punch (26) and / or the lower punch (27) is a press punch (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 13.

15. Rotary press with a plurality or multiplicity of the press ram arrangements according to claim 14.

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