Device and method for cleaning blade rings or components thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to a device and a method for cleaning a blade ring or components thereof in the course of maintenance of a blade ring of a blade ring cutter for comminution of materials, wherein at least blades are interchangeably arranged on the circumference of the blade ring (1), which blades are interchangeable directly or as blade packs (4, 5) comprising at least one blade with a clamping plate, wherein the blade ring (1) further comprises at least two coaxial rings and blade holders and / or wear plates arranged therebetween. The device consists of a trough (6) for a liquid bath (3), disposed for cleaning the components, assemblies and / or the blade ring (1), wherein a standing water column (2) is formed in the liquid bath (3) or in the trough (3), into which the components, assemblies or the blade ring (1) can be at least partially introduced or through which they can be at least partially passed (1637).

Description

[0001] B. Maier Shredding Technology GmbH

[0002] Schweriner Straße 1

[0003] D-33605 Bielefeld

[0004] DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CLEANING

[0005] OF KNIFE RINGS OR ITS COMPONENTS

[0006] The invention relates to a device for cleaning a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for comminuting materials according to the preamble of patent claim 1.

[0007] The invention further relates to a method for cleaning a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for comminuting materials according to the preamble of patent claim 15.

[0008] For the production of material boards, e.g., particle boards or OSB boards, wood must be provided in chips. For this purpose, knife-ring chippers are used, such as those described in DE 199 07 415 B4 or

[0009] DE 10 2015 005 642 A1. After machining, the material is transferred to a plant for the production of material boards. Typically, the shredded material is dried there (if necessary), glued, and spread into a mat for pressing material. Finally, it is pressed into a material board, preferably in a continuously operating press.

[0010] From DE 197 18681 A1, DE 199 00 924 A1, DE 199 01 887 A1 and

[0011] Sharpening and cleaning devices for knife rings have become known from DE 10 2015 003 520 B4. These devices can be used to set up or maintain the knife rings. This means that the knives or knife sets are generally removed from the knife rings, inspected, sharpened, and reinstalled. When the wear limit is reached, the corresponding tool parts are replaced. The knife ring is then ready for machining and installation in a knife ring chipper. A semi-automatic set-up device is known from DE 101 17 480 A1, in which the knife sets are manually removed from a knife ring and transferred to an automated device for sharpening.

[0012] The existing cleaning devices have generally proven themselves, but still offer room for improvement. These are designed as stand-alone cleaning devices and require a dedicated machine or appropriate space to perform the cleaning.

[0013] A particular disadvantage is that the cleaning devices operate with wearing brushes or hydraulic overpressure and must be encapsulated accordingly to prevent other nearby devices from becoming dirty or wet. Furthermore, while coarse dirt and foreign matter are usually removed, they usually become uncontrollably stuck to protrusions or undercuts. Furthermore, achieving a good cleaning effect requires considerable effort with regard to the movement mechanics of the brushes or high-pressure nozzles. For example, brushes or linearly aligned high-pressure cleaners do not reach all undercuts and may have to be moved back and forth intermittently. Laser cleaning has also been attempted.

[0014] However, sticky dirt on surfaces continues to build up over time and subsequently contaminates other system components, such as conveyors or sharpening devices. Here, too, wear and tear and high maintenance requirements quickly become apparent in the devices, while at the same time, cleaning performance is in need of improvement.

[0015] The object of the present invention is to provide a device and a method with which the cleaning result can be improved, if necessary the cycle times in connection with the maintenance and preparation of a knife ring can be improved and the construction effort can be minimized at the same time.

[0016] In an extension of the task, the cleaning of the knife ring should be carried out during the disassembly and assembly of the knives or knife packages, preferably during automated maintenance or when setting up the knife ring.

[0017] The term maintenance or setup refers to the overhaul, preparation, cleaning or similar processes such as removing the knives, sharpening the knives and inserting sharpened knives onto the knife ring, which are suitable for restoring the convertible knife ring to a usable condition and / or converting it for other applications. A knife ring consists, among other things, of two spaced-apart rings, between or to which knives are attached. The knives can also be in the form of knife packages, consisting of a knife and a clamping plate. Usually, carriers, knife holders and / or wear plates as well as, if necessary, other machine elements, including static load-bearing elements, are arranged. Some or all of these machine elements / components can be replaced, overhauled or repositioned individually or as assemblies during the setup process in order to prepare the knife ring for later or renewed use in a chipper.to wait for re-use.

[0018] For the purposes of the invention, components or assemblies are defined as add-on parts or spare parts of the knife ring that can be cleaned together with the knife ring or separately. For example, the cleaning device can be used to clean not only a knife ring but also knife packages (as an assembly) or individual knives (as a component). Other individual parts would be, for example, the knife holders or knife carriers, wear plates, and the like. It is also possible to clean parts of the assemblies / components as a whole or when installed on the knife ring. However, the components / assemblies obviously cover some areas of the knife ring or, conversely, are themselves protected from a cleaning effect, so it is advisable to clean the components / assemblies “again” after disassembly.It may also be useful to clean the assemblies / components prior to assembly to remove oils or other adhering resins, foreign matter, chemicals, or metal shavings from the primary forming / sharpening process. The assembly screws for the components / assemblies can also be cleaned individually or in their pre-assembled or assembled state to improve the engagement of automatic screwdrivers. The pre-assembled state refers to screws that are only partially unscrewed from the thread to remove a component or assembly, but otherwise remain in the thread.

[0019] A liquid bath can preferably have water as the dissolving liquid, in which the cleaning agents and other substances are dissolved, or in which the dirt is dissolved. Although the term water is used essentially below, it cannot be considered limiting for the design, since other liquids, hence liquid bath, can also assume the necessary properties as solvents and / or cleaning agents. In addition, the liquid bath can also be inhomogeneous or layered; for example, there can be an oil-containing layer on the surface, which preferably leaves an oil film on the parts that come out or pass through. In a multi-layer application, appropriate sensors can also be provided to control the individual layers. Thus, both emulsions and suspensions can be used in the liquid bath.

[0020] Cleaning can be performed radially inside and outside, or simultaneously. For this purpose, the devices suitable for cleaning and / or assisting cleaning must be arranged radially inside and / or outside the knife ring. This applies to the components or assemblies on one or both sides.

[0021] A generic device would be a device for cleaning a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for comminuting materials, or its components or assemblies. In particular, cleaning is to be carried out during the maintenance or preparation of a knife ring. At least replaceable knives are arranged around the circumference of the knife ring, which can be replaced directly or indirectly as knife packs, at least comprising a knife with a clamping plate. The knife ring further comprises at least two coaxial rings and knife receptacles and / or wear plates arranged therebetween.

[0022] The object of the invention is achieved for a device in that a tub for a liquid bath is arranged for cleaning the components, assemblies and / or the knife ring, wherein a standing water column is formed in the liquid bath or in the tub, into which the components, assemblies or the knife ring can be at least partially introduced or passed through.

[0023] The arrangement of a liquid bath offers a number of advantages over the prior art. a) The environment does not need to be protected by complex encapsulation and seals in the area of ​​fluid high-pressure cleaning; preferably, if necessary, a simple splash guard or retaining screen for overflowing water movements is sufficient. b1) The liquid bath reaches the knife ring, the components or assemblies evenly everywhere and can, over time, also have a cleaning effect on sticky or greasy surfaces. This is particularly true if nozzle cleaning and / or ultrasonic cleaning is carried out in water. b2) The liquid bath is preferably designed so that a lower section of a stationary knife ring is immersed in the water bath and, particularly preferably, is rotated through it. The rotation can be carried out continuously or in sections.A stationary knife ring has an essentially horizontal orientation of its axis of rotation. b3) The knife ring can be partially immersed in a water bath, preferably completely and / or lying down, with a vertical axis of rotation. b4) When partially submerged in the water bath, the knife ring can be guided or rotated through the water bath one or more times in succession to soften the contamination. For example, the knife ring can be guided completely through the water once, then one or more partial segments (immersed) are cleaned, and if necessary the knife ring can be rotated again, preferably completely. Dripping water can be fed directly back into the water bath or can be guided back into the water bath. b5) Before components are dismantled, the knife ring can be rotated segment by segment or completely through the water.The knife ring can be rotated through the water in segments or as a whole after the components have been dismantled. The knife ring can be rotated through the water in segments or as a whole before the components are assembled. In all cases, a cleaning effect of the cleaning agents or other aids (drying / lubrication) can be activated as required. c) By selecting suitable cleaning agents, the cleaning effect can be enhanced and / or adjusted accordingly. d) Undercuts do not result in areas with almost no cleaning effect. e) Foreign bodies or other abrasive substances are reliably dissolved in the water and carried away and do not cause scoring or damage to the knife ring, components or assemblies due to the effect of high pressure as a type of abrasive material.f) In preferred embodiments, underwater cleaning devices can be used which can exert their cleaning effect gently but without splashing the surroundings. g) The method and the device can be arranged as desired and without much additional effort, partly on a larger pallet or a transport trolley, particularly preferably for knife rings. h) In a particularly preferred embodiment, several devices for the knife ring, the components and / or assemblies can be arranged. For example, in a maintenance and setup unit for knife rings. The various devices could be interconnected in terms of fluid technology and filter technology, so that the separated contaminants can be disposed of centrally in one place and corresponding additives can be made available centrally. i) The cleaning of the assembly surfaces orThe contact surfaces for a knife or a knife package on the knife ring can be optimally cleaned on the knife ring itself or on the knife / knife package so that specified dimensions can be precisely maintained when adjusting the knife projection, particularly in automated setup operations. This also applies to the assembly / disassembly of the wear plates on the knife ring, which generally do not need to be adjusted, resharpened and / or replaced very often, but nevertheless regularly. j) An agitated liquid bath, for example by means of water movement, significantly increases the cleaning effect, particularly without a high risk of contamination for the surrounding area. Jet nozzles can specifically “push” the fluid or water for cleaning purposes or act as a high-pressure cleaning agent on the surfaces.

[0024] In this context, at least one cleaning device can be arranged within the liquid bath or beneath its surface, preferably at least one rotating brush and / or a jet nozzle and / or an ultrasonic exciter. This creates a turbulent surface while preventing splashing of the surrounding area.

[0025] Brushes can be used for mechanical cleaning or pre-cleaning. Jet nozzles can be directed directly at the surfaces to be cleaned and serve not only to create agitation and, if necessary, force-inducing cleaning, but also to remove and dissolve the contaminants. The jet nozzles preferably spray purified water, especially heated water. Here, too, with appropriate positioning, no splashing into the surrounding area is to be expected.

[0026] Ultrasonic cleaning can also be carried out using ultrasonic exciters as a support or stand-alone process, which, preferably in combination with higher temperatures and currents, can ensure excellent cleaning results.

[0027] Alternatively or cumulatively, temperature control devices, preferably heat exchangers or heaters, can be arranged to heat the water for the liquid bath, the rinsing nozzles, the spray nozzles, and / or the jet nozzles. An increased temperature significantly improves the cleaning effect by increasing the chemical activity of the cleaning agents or the chemical and physical absorption capacity of the water. Heating the soiling creates thermal tension compared to the colder material, which can also enhance the cleaning performance.

[0028] In addition, at least one circuit can be arranged for the liquid in the liquid bath, preferably including a heat exchanger, a pump, one or more filters (depending on the contamination present), a chemical treatment device, and / or a skimmer for cleaning the surface of the liquid bath. Particularly preferably, a sensor system for a control or regulation device of the circuit can be arranged to monitor or regulate the water column, temperature, water quality, pH value, and / or salt content in the tub. Good circulation of the liquid bath and regular monitoring, regulation, and cleaning improve the water quality and the cleaning effect, and are particularly advantageous for ultrasound applications.

[0029] Spray nozzles, rinsing nozzles, heating units, and / or drying units can be arranged on the inlet and / or outlet side outside the liquid bath. Pre-cleaning can increase the cleaning performance or the throughput per unit of time. This is especially true when cleaning agents, preferably in highly concentrated form, can soften the contaminants before they enter the liquid bath. Post-cleaning serves to rinse off the water, the cleaning agents contained in the water, and any adhering dirt particles. The knife ring is preferably dried, especially when components or assemblies are to be assembled, disassembled, and / or adjusted.

[0030] An induction and / or convection heater can be used as the heating device for the knife ring, the components, and / or the assemblies, preferably on the inlet side and preferably outside the liquid bath. Due to the mass of the knife ring or the components, it may be necessary to preheat them to avoid temperature losses in the liquid bath and to operate the liquid bath or the cleaning process within the specified temperature range. Convective or inductive heaters are particularly suitable. Alternatively or cumulatively, a shock charge of the liquid bath, i.e., a precautionary heating to a higher temperature, can also be provided, especially when the knife ring is immersed for the first time.

[0031] Alternatively, the tray and / or the supports for the knife ring can be arranged with height-adjustable lifting devices. The knife ring can be immersed using the height adjustment.

[0032] Advantageously, cleaning can be carried out on a transport trolley for knife rings en route from a knife ring chipper to a maintenance unit or a storage unit. For safety reasons, such transport units should generally not travel too fast in a factory hall, so that sloshing of water is minimal. Any tanks or accessories can be arranged accordingly on the transport trolley. Such transport trolleys can be powered independently using rechargeable batteries or suitable alternatives, for example wirelessly. Furthermore, components of the knife ring, such as knives, can be passed through a suitable liquid bath or inserted into it when removed. The same applies to corresponding assemblies. Advantageously, one or more trays can also be used to clean surfaces that are inaccessible when assembled.

[0033] Alternatively or cumulatively, one or more devices for

[0034] Cleaning or tubs are arranged in a setup device with a rotating frame, preferably so that the components or assemblies can be disassembled or assembled and, if necessary, cleaned in the process.

[0035] Alternatively or cumulatively, one or more cleaning devices or tanks can be integrated into a processing system for knife packs, where the knife packs can be cleaned individually (knives, clamping plate) or as assemblies before or after their assembly or disassembly.

[0036] For heavily contaminated knife rings, and especially with ultrasonic cleaning, it can be advantageous to pre-clean coarse and potentially easily removable dirt to minimize contamination of the water in the liquid bath over time. For this purpose, a cleaning device can be installed for coarse or pre-cleaning of the knife ring, components, and / or assemblies.

[0037] In the area of ​​the surface of the liquid bath, preferably directly below the surface, at least one damper can be arranged to dampen the restlessness of the surface in order to avoid excessive fluctuations or overflow of the liquid bath.

[0038] A reflector can be arranged in the liquid bath, preferably below or near the surface, to reflect and / or direct the ultrasonic waves, for example, to deflect them to the inside of the knife ring. This measure is therefore suitable for optimizing the ultrasonic effect in a relatively large liquid bath or for directing the ultrasound towards the areas to be cleaned.

[0039] Alternatively or cumulatively, it is provided that for cleaning the radial inside of the knife ring, the devices for the inlet or outlet side treatment and / or cleaning of the knife ring are arranged pivotably and / or movable, particularly preferably the spray nozzles, the rinsing nozzles, the drying unit, the ultrasonic exciters with or without reflector, the jet nozzles, the brushes and / or the damper.

[0040] In addition to single-sided cleaning on the outside of the knife ring, extended cleaning on the radial inside of the knife ring, or vice versa, can also be beneficial. Cleaning the inside, for example, the wear plates, can also have a positive effect on the machining process and cutting conditions and reduces subsequent deposits. However, depending on the application, only internal cleaning may be considered necessary. However, it is particularly preferable to treat both sides of the knife ring, the components, or the assemblies. In addition, each individual cleaning device or treatment device can be used on one or both sides.

[0041] The knife ring can either be moved from the side over the liquid bath, in which case the internal devices are already in place, or the knife ring is brought into position and the devices are swung or retracted.

[0042] The swiveling or moving of the internal devices into position is also necessary if the knife ring is lifted into the device from above by a crane or forklift.

[0043] It is also conceivable to pivot or move the external devices from an initial standby position to a working position only after the knife ring has been positioned on or in the holders. This can be done automatically or mechanically, both inside and outside. For example, not only manually but also by a pre-tensioned mechanism triggered by the knife ring's own weight, so that the corresponding devices are moved into their working position.

[0044] The method is based on a method for cleaning a knife ring or its components or assemblies during the maintenance of a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for comminuting materials, wherein at least knives are arranged in an exchangeable manner on the circumference of the knife ring, which knives can be installed directly on the knife ring or indirectly as knife packages, at least comprising a knife with a clamping plate, wherein the knife ring further comprises at least two coaxial rings and knife receptacles and / or wear plates arranged therebetween.

[0045] The object of the invention is achieved for the method in that the components, assemblies and / or the knife ring are cleaned in a liquid bath, wherein the liquid bath has a standing column of water in a tub in which the components, assemblies or the knife ring are immersed or moved through at least partially and preferably for a predetermined time.

[0046] Preferably, the cleaning in the liquid bath, preferably under its surface, is supported or carried out by cleaning devices, preferably by at least one rotating brush, a jet nozzle and / or ultrasound.

[0047] Cleaning can be assisted by heating the components, assemblies, knife ring and / or liquid bath to above room temperature.

[0048] Cleaning, corrosion inhibitors, and / or degreasing agents can be used, preferably dissolved in the liquid bath or as an additive. The water in the liquid bath is preferably circulated, purified, deionized, and / or desalinated.

[0049] It makes sense to control or regulate the water column, temperature, water quality, pH value and / or salinity using a control or regulation device.

[0050] The components, assemblies and / or the knife ring can be rinsed, heated and / or dried after leaving the liquid bath.

[0051] Alternatively or cumulatively, the components, assemblies and / or knife ring can be heated and / or exposed to a cleaning fluid, preferably heated and / or with a higher concentration than in the fluid bath, before being immersed in the fluid bath.

[0052] Alternatively or cumulatively, the knife ring can be subjected to a rough cleaning in the liquid bath before cleaning. Preferably, in the case of high-pressure rough cleaning with a liquid, the liquid is pre-filtered and transferred to the liquid bath. These pre-filters can be one or more and are preferably designed depending on the expected degree of contamination of the water or the contaminated knife ring.

[0053] Alternatively or cumulatively, the liquid from the area of ​​the spray nozzles, the rinsing nozzles, and / or the drying unit can be transferred to the liquid bath, or these devices can be arranged above the liquid bath or used there. The individual devices or treatment methods can be used on one or both sides of the components or assemblies. With regard to the knife ring, these are applied to the inside and / or outside of the knife ring. Cleaning can be carried out in or on a transport trolley for the knife ring, preferably during transport from a knife ring chipper to a setup device.

[0054] Cleaning can be carried out in a setup device for assembling and disassembling the knives or knife packages.

[0055] The cleaning of the components or assemblies can be carried out in a processing facility for the knives or knife packages.

[0056] As a particularly preferred embodiment of the method, the knife ring can be at least partially cleaned in the liquid bath before dismantling the knives or knife packs, wherein the knives or knife packs are then dismantled, the knife ring is cleaned again in the liquid bath without knives or knife packs to clean the exposed areas, in particular the knife holder, and then new knives or sharp knife packs are mounted on the knife ring.

[0057] Further alternative suggestions for improving the invention are listed or described below and may, individually or in combination, provide an improving effect for the device or method:

[0058] The liquid bath or the liquid itself can have a temperature of 30°C to approximately 85°C during use, depending on the additives. The preferred operating temperature is approximately 40°C to 50°C, particularly to optimize the required energy expenditure against the achievable benefits of increased cleaning performance. At the same time, this temperature selection reduces the risk of injury to personnel. Depending on the application and the properties of the water or fluid, temperatures above 85°C may also be possible.

[0059] When cleaning a knife ring, three, five, seven, or nine knives, knife assemblies, or their holding areas or knife receptacles, possibly with associated wear plates, are preferably immersed. This statement should only be viewed as a limitation; for the cleaning effect, the largest possible portion of the knife ring is immersed in the liquid, i.e., water.

[0060] All cleaning or cleaning-assisting devices can be arranged radially on the inside and / or outside, or can be arranged on one or both sides of the components.

[0061] Cleaning agents, dirt-removing agents, corrosion inhibitors and / or degreasing agents can be used in the water.

[0062] The wastewater can be sedimented or filtered in separate water tanks; furthermore, an automated partial or full water exchange is provided, particularly taking into account the degree of contamination or the cleaning cycles.

[0063] In a maintenance unit, the industrial robot or an assistant can transfer the knives or knife packs to a chain conveyor, a magazine, or a type of paternoster. The conveyor can transport the knives or knife packs through the same fluid bath as the knife ring to be cleaned, or it can have its own dedicated fluid bath.

[0064] Alternatively, a storage unit for knives or knife packages can be designed so that the incoming components / assemblies are guided through a separate cleaning device and can be issued cleaned according to the first-in / first-out principle. This is particularly advantageous in a knife ring maintenance center with automated warehousing and a knife sharpening department.

[0065] Cleaning can also be useful before, during, or after the assembly of knives, knives, and clamping plates into knife assemblies or their assembly in the knife ring. This can be used to remove, for example, residues from grinding or sharpening, contamination from storage or abrasion, lubricants, etc. from the knives, clamping plates, or knife assemblies. Cleaning the mounting areas or wear plates on the knives / knife assemblies and the knife ring is also advantageous if the knives / knife assemblies are to be arranged in the knife ring with an accuracy of tenths of a millimeter. One advantageous option is to clean mounting surfaces or contact surfaces and / or components such as knives, knife assemblies, etc. before assembly in such a way that precise assembly, preferably automated, is possible.

[0066] To counteract sloshing or wave-like movements on the surface of the liquid bath, a splash guard or screen can be installed above the tub. These either direct the water back into the tub or dampen the turbulent surface, possibly by submerging it.

[0067] The laminar flow can improve cleaning performance by loosening and quickly transporting loosened dirt. In ultrasonic applications, the flow supports the effect of cavitation bubbles on the surfaces of the knife ring.

[0068] Advantageously, the water can also contain microspheres, which, through the jet nozzles, rub off dirt on the knife ring, the components, and / or the assemblies. A reflector or the tank can serve as a splash guard or can be designed as a thermal insulator. The tank can have thermal insulation elements, such as double walls or other insulators. A tank does not have to be completely closed, but can also be refillable or convertible from an open to a closed state and vice versa during the process or device.

[0069] To separate the dirt, one or more pre-filters, liquid filters, coarse filters, suspended matter filters and / or fine filters can be arranged, preferably in the tank, the circuit and / or an inlet. These are designed according to the expected degree of contamination or amount of dirt. The inlet or the inlet from the circuit for the liquid bath can be arranged above or below the surface. Dirt separation can be carried out via different paths or openings, for example with a liquid separation on the surface, a coarse material screen, a float, skimmer or a suspended and / or heavy matter separator. A cleaning lance can clean the inside of the tank during or outside of operation and is preferably connected to the circuit or arranged as an (additional) inlet. The tank can have a depression or an incline at the bottom so that the heavy matter orThe dirt can be more easily vacuumed or cleaned. The outlet for the circulation system is preferably located at the bottom of the tub, most preferably at the lowest point, or has a floor that slopes toward the water outlet.

[0070] In a specific embodiment, at least one camera or other suitable analysis means is arranged for evaluating, monitoring, and / or controlling the cleaning quality, preferably in operative connection with a control or regulating device. For example, after cleaning by the liquid bath, it can be checked at the outlet whether the surface of the components, assemblies, or knife ring has a sufficiently clean or reflective surface. Alternatively, the result or the appearance of the surface can be compared over time or during the cleaning process in order to identify any qualitative deterioration or improvement. In addition, the water quality, the flow resistance of the filter, or the like can be monitored and, if necessary, the at least partial replacement of the liquid and / or the additives can be monitored.

[0071] It may be advisable to spray the knife ring or parts of it after or during the cleaning cycles (moving segment by segment or complete cleaning cycle) with a liquid that is suitable for creating a beading effect or causing a kind of self-drying of the knife ring, usually soft water with little or no surface tension.

[0072] Advantageously, it is therefore possible to rotate the knife ring, when partially submerged, continuously or in segments before, after, or during cleaning. Preferably, such a segment corresponds to or is slightly smaller than the submerged segment of the knife ring. The knife ring can be rotated completely or in segments. The knife ring can be cleaned in a fully assembled state (with knives), without knives or knife assemblies and / or without clamping plates or support surfaces.

[0073] The knife ring is preferably cleaned when new or freshly sharpened knives, knife assemblies, clamping plates, supports, wear plates, or the like are to be installed. Most preferably, the parts to be installed are also cleaned, at least at the support or contact surfaces with the knife ring. Further advantageous measures and embodiments of the subject matter of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and the following description with the drawings.

[0074] The following illustrations should not be viewed as specific case studies, but rather contain some general hints and solutions to the problems. Individual sentences should be viewed as individual features.

[0075] They show:

[0076] Fig. 1 is a schematic side view of a device according to the invention suitable for carrying out the method, with a mounted and rotatable knife ring immersed in a liquid bath of a trough arranged below the knife ring;

[0077] Fig. 2 is a side view of a universal transport trolley for knife rings and a knife ring stored therein as well as a tub for cleaning mounted on the universal transport trolley;

[0078] Fig. 3 is a schematic side view of the automated assembly and disassembly device for the knives or knife packs;

[0079] Fig. 4 is a schematic plan view of an advantageous embodiment of the device or method as part of a setup device for the preparation of knife rings and

[0080] Fig. 5 is a schematic sectional view according to Figure 1 showing the cleaning devices radially inside and outside of the knife ring in the tub or the liquid bath.

[0081] According to Figure 1, a knife ring 1 is at least partially immersed in a tub 6 containing a water belt 3, wherein preferably at least three, five, seven, or nine knives, knife sets 4, 5 should be simultaneously below the surface 17 of the liquid bath 3 so that the cleaning effect can be optimally developed during the cyclic or continuous movement of the knife ring 1, or the optional cleaning agent can exert its cleaning effect. Ultrasonic exciters 26 and / or other additional cleaning devices can be arranged in the liquid bath 3 to perform or support the cleaning process.

[0082] In contrast to the prior art, the components (knives), assemblies (knife packages consisting of a knife and a clamping plate) as well as the knife ring 1 with its knife holders 18 for the knives or knife packages 4, 5 are immersed in a liquid bath 3 for a predetermined time for cleaning and are not just sprayed or brushed off.

[0083] The knife ring 1 is placed onto the supports 16 using a crane (not shown). If the knife ring is pushed onto these supports 16 from the side of a transport trolley, for example, it may be necessary for the supports 16 to be height-adjustable using lifting devices 34, so that the knife ring 1 can be immersed in the liquid bath 3 by lowering it. Such an adjustment may also be useful for different knife rings 1, although a horizontal adjustment option or an exchange of the supports 16 may also be conceivable or useful here. Once the knife ring is immersed, it can be moved intermittently or continuously in the direction of rotation 19. To improve the cleaning effect, cleaning agents can be sprayed onto the components, assemblies or the knife ring 1 via spray nozzles 30 before it enters the liquid bath 3.The liquid bath forms a standing water column 2 in the tub 6. A skimmer 13 is preferably arranged, via which coarse and floating dirt can be separated. The water column 2 or the water level can be continuously monitored for fill level monitoring using a suitable sensor system 25, in particular to ensure that the areas to be cleaned are also immersed below the surface 17 of the liquid bath 3. On the outlet side, there may be rinsing nozzles 31 which spray their own cleaning and, if necessary, drying liquid onto the knife ring 1, the components or the assembly. The rinsing serves the purpose of rinsing off any adhering dirt or dirty water; in particular, the liquid should flow back into the liquid bath 3 or the tub 6.

[0084] Preferably, the spray nozzles 30 or rinsing nozzles 31 do not cause any water mist or splashes that could damage the environment. The same applies to the drying unit 32 arranged in the outlet, which can be designed as a heater or, for example, as an air curtain or air nozzle. The air nozzle is preferably arranged so that the moisture is transferred back into the tank or can be absorbed by other suitable means (channels, suction devices) without wetting the environment or the devices / system components present therein. Alternatively or cumulatively, mechanical scrapers, rubber wipers, or squeegees would also be conceivable.

[0085] All devices, especially those that support or perform cleaning, can be arranged radially on both sides, i.e., on the inside and outside of the knife ring, and can be retracted and / or pivoted in when the knife ring is inserted into or removed from the device. This also applies, for example, to bringing the devices closer to the positioned knife ring and / or extending or pivoting out the radially inner devices for positioning the knife ring, e.g., for lifting it in or out with a crane. At the same time, different knife rings, in terms of size, width, etc., can also be inserted or cleaned in the device.

[0086] The liquid or water in the liquid bath 3 is preferably circulated and filtered. A cleaning lance 37, a circulation pump 27, a heat exchanger 24, a filter 23, and / or a desalination device can be arranged in the circuit. The circuit can be introduced into the liquid bath via the cleaning lance 37, which can clean the inside of the tub using water pressure, or through an inlet 38. There are also other options for optimizing the water quality, such as adjusting the pH value or deionizing.

[0087] Figure 2 shows the arrangement of the liquid bath 3 or the tub 6 on a transport carriage 20 for a knife ring 1. The transport carriage 20 can transport the knife ring 1 from a knife ring chipper (not shown) to a setup station 14 or a processing station 22 (Figure 4), in which the knife ring 1 can be disassembled into its components or assemblies. The knife ring 1 can be pre-cleaned or completely cleaned en route, since automated transport vehicles generally travel relatively slowly with heavy weights. Unsteady water or an unsteady surface 17 can even intensify the cleaning effect of the liquid bath. In this exemplary embodiment, at least one jet nozzle 28 is attached, which irradiates the knife ring, the components or assemblies with high pressure in the liquid bath 3.Preferably, this at least one jet nozzle is supplied with freshly purified water from the circuit, which is particularly preferably heated. A brush 29 can be arranged next to it, which also assists in cleaning. Both devices can also be arranged radially inside the knife ring 1.

[0088] Figure 3 shows an automated assembly and disassembly station for knives or knife packages 4, 5 with a rotating frame 11. A rotating device 15 is provided which can be brought into engagement with the knife ring 1 and is suitable for rotating the knife ring 1 intermittently or continuously according to the specifications, while it is supported by the supports 16. The supports 16 are preferably designed as rollers. These can be provided across the width of the knife ring and preferably have grooves or other guide receptacles. Alternatively, the side rings of the knife ring 1 can also be guided in guides or grooves and mounted on separate, smaller rollers. The rotating device 15 can alternatively also be integrated into the supports 16 according to a separate exemplary embodiment.

[0089] A rough cleaning system (not shown) can be provided above the liquid bath, which ideally performs a rough cleaning of the rotating knife ring. Brushes and a suction device can be provided for dry cleaning. This advantageously reduces the amount of dirt in the liquid bath and makes it ideal for removing stubborn, sticky dirt.

[0090] The screwing device 12 has several spaced-apart screwing devices arranged across the width of the knife ring 1, which are suitable for loosening screwed-on parts of the knife ring 1 or for fixing other, usually reworked or sharpened, parts. Preferably, a device or an industrial robot 10 is operatively connected, which picks up the loosened parts and supplies the reworked parts. Parts to be removed can be, for example, blunt knives or blunt knife packs 4. Parts to be inserted and fixed would be correspondingly sharp knives or sharp knife packs 5. The industrial robot 10 then transfers the corresponding parts to another liquid bath 3, the lower existing liquid bath 3, a storage device, or a processing device 22 (Figure 4), in which new or reworked parts are provided.For this purpose, the industrial robot has grippers 8, 9 for holding the parts, which according to Figure 1 would be knife packs 4 and 5. Preferably, the grippers 8 and 9 are arranged on a rotatable double gripper 7.

[0091] Alternatively, instead of a lifting device 34 on the supports 16 (see Figure 1), the height of the tub can be adjusted by means of lifting devices 21. This allows the knife ring 1 to be immersed in the water through a kinematic reversal when placed on the supports 16.

[0092] In contrast to Figures 1 and 2, in this embodiment, the knife assemblies 4, 5 are not mounted in the knife ring 1. Instead, the knife ring is guided through the liquid bath only with its knife holders 18 (for the knife assemblies 4, 5) and, if necessary, with wear plates (not shown). This allows the surfaces that are inaccessible during the initial cleaning to be cleaned.

[0093] Figure 4 shows a schematic view from above of a setup device 14 for servicing, sharpening, and / or adjusting parts of a knife ring 1. In a first exemplary embodiment, the device comprises a bogie 11 in which two supports 16 for supporting the knife ring 1 are arranged on a frame 3. This bogie 11 is loaded with knife rings 1 by a transport carriage 20, and the knife rings 1 are removed again after maintenance, generally after the installation of ground knives. The destination can be an automated warehouse or directly the production of shredded materials, i.e., a knife ring chipper. The transport carriage 20 has supports 16, which can also be suitable for receiving and securing geometrically different knife rings 1.

[0094] Alternatively, the knife rings can also be transported by cranes or forklifts located within the production facility. These can also be used to immerse the knife rings in the liquid bath.

[0095] In terms of process technology, a change from blunt knife packs 4 to new or sharpened knife packs 5 can proceed as follows.

[0096] The knife ring 1 is picked up in the bogie 11 and stored accordingly by a transport device 33 from the transport carriage and its supports 16 on the supports 16 of the bogie 11. The rotating device 15 is brought into engagement with the knife ring 1 and, if necessary, set to a zero point or evenly clocked in the direction of rotation based on a fixed marking or a fixed point for the engagement of the rotating device 15 on the knife ring 1. The blunt knife assemblies 4 can be guided past an optional coarse cleaning device (not shown), and the backs (outer circumference) with the screw heads that fix the knife assemblies 4 to the knife ring 1 are pre-cleaned. In addition to removing the contamination, this also allows the screws to be exposed / cleaned for the subsequent removal process by the screwing device 12.

[0097] Once the knife ring 1 has come to a standstill, the automated screwing device 12 is moved to the screws and loosens them. The screws are held in the nuts of the screwing device 12. A free gripper 8, 9 of the industrial robot 10 will remove the knife pack 4 from the knife ring 1 with a gripper 8, 9. After pivoting to the processing device 22, the blunt knife pack 4 is placed there and a sharpened knife pack 5 is taken over. The industrial robot 10 pivots back and transfers or positions the sharp knife pack 5 in the knife ring 1. The screwing device 12 will then tighten the screws on the new knife pack 5, move out of engagement, and the rotating device 15 can cycle to the next knife pack 4 with a blunt knife.

[0098] Alternatively, the knife package 4 or 5 can be placed in another liquid bath 3 with a tub 6 before it is either installed in the knife ring 1 as a sharp knife package 6 or moved into the processing unit 22 as a blunt knife package 4. The industrial robot can also move the knife package as an assembly or a knife as a component into such a tub 6 or hold it there in the liquid bath 3. With regard to another possible cleaning process for the knife ring, the knife ring 1 can, as required, be cleaned in the liquid bath 3 before the blunt knife packages 4 are disassembled. Alternatively or cumulatively, all knife packages 4 can be removed, the knife ring can be moved completely once with its exposed knife receptacles 18 through the liquid bath 3, and then, preferably also cleaned knife packages 5, can be inserted into the knife ring 1.The possibilities and sequences present only a few hurdles in terms of process and plant technology.

[0099] Figure 5 shows a schematic sectional view through the tub 6 and a knife ring 1 immersed in the liquid bath 3. The hatched area is intended to represent the sectional plane through the knife ring 1, a knife package 4 or 5 or a knife holder 18. Cleaning devices are arranged above and below the knife ring, for example an ultrasonic exciter 26 at the very bottom and a jet nozzle 28 parallel or offset thereto. On the radial inside of the knife ring 1 there are also jet nozzles 28 and a damper 35 for calming the water surface, preferably a perforated sheet. A perforated sheet can calm the water flow as a type of baffle. The cleaning devices arranged radially on the inside are arranged so that they can be pivoted out or moved so that the knife ring can be brought into the liquid bath 3 without friction.The corresponding rinsing nozzle 31 is also extended and retracted accordingly; the drying unit 32 or the spray nozzles 30 are not shown.

[0100] On the right in Figure 5 is an alternative embodiment of the cleaning device proposed for the inside of the knife ring. For this purpose, either a reflector 36 for reflecting the ultrasound 1637 onto the inside of the knife ring is placed in the liquid bath and / or a separate or additional ultrasonic exciter 26 is inserted. List of reference symbols:

[0101] 1 . Knife ring 20. Transport trolley for 1

[0102] 2. Water column of 3 21 . Lifting device for 3 / 6

[0103] 3. Liquid bath 22. Preparation for 4 / 5

[0104] 4. Blade package blunt 23. Filter

[0105] 5. Sharp blade package 24. Heat exchanger

[0106] 6. Tub for 3 25. Sensory for 2

[0107] 7. Double gripper 26. Ultrasonic exciter

[0108] 8. Gripper 1 27. Circulation pump

[0109] 9. Gripper 2 28. Jet nozzles

[0110] 10. Industrial robots 29. Brushes

[0111] 11 . Bogie for 1 30. Spray nozzles

[0112] 12. Screw device 31. Flushing nozzles

[0113] 13. Skimmer 32. Drying unit

[0114] 14. Setting device 33. Transport device for 1

[0115] 15. Rotating device 34. Lifting device for 1

[0116] 16. Support for 1 in 11 / 20 35. Damper

[0117] 17. Surface of 3 36. Reflector

[0118] 18. Blade holders for 4 / 5 37. Cleaning lance

[0119] 19. Direction of rotation 38. Inlet

Claims

Patent claims 1. Device for cleaning a knife ring or its components during maintenance of a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for comminuting materials, wherein at least interchangeable knives are arranged on the circumference of the knife ring (1), which knives can be mounted on the knife ring (1) directly as knives or indirectly as knife packages (4, 5), at least comprising a knife with a clamping plate, wherein the knife ring (1) further comprises at least two coaxial rings and knife receptacles (18) and / or wear plates arranged therebetween, characterized in that a tub (6) for a liquid bath (3) is arranged for cleaning the components, assemblies and / or the knife ring (1), wherein a standing water column (2) is formed in the liquid bath (3) or in the tub (3), into which the components, assemblies or the knife ring (1) can be at least partially introduced or passed through.

2. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that cleaning devices, preferably at least one rotating brush (29) and / or a jet nozzle (28) and / or an ultrasonic exciter (26), are arranged within the liquid bath (3) or under its surface (17).

3. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that tempering means, preferably heat exchangers (24) or heaters, for heating the water for the liquid bath (3), the rinsing nozzles (31), the spray nozzles (30) and / or the jet nozzles (28) are arranged.

4. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that at least one circuit is arranged for the liquid of the liquid bath (3), and preferably a heat exchanger (24), a pump (27), a filter (23), a chemical treatment device and / or a skimmer (13) is arranged for cleaning the surface (17) of the liquid bath (3), wherein particularly preferably a sensor system (25) for a control or regulation device of the circuit is arranged for controlling or regulating the water column (2), the temperature, the water quality, the pH value and / or the salt content in the tub (6).

5. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that spray nozzles (30), rinsing nozzles (31), heating units and / or drying units (32) are arranged on the inlet and / or outlet side outside the liquid bath (3).

6. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that an induction and / or convection heater for the knife ring (1), the components and / or the assemblies is arranged as a heating device, preferably on the inlet side and preferably outside the liquid bath (3).

7. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that the trough (6) and / or the supports (16) for the knife ring (1) are arranged so as to be height-adjustable by means of lifting devices (21, 34).

8. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that the tub (6) for the liquid bath (3) is arranged on a transport carriage for knife rings (1).

9. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that one or more devices for cleaning or tubs (6) are arranged in a setup device (14) with a rotary frame (11), in which the components or assemblies are disassembled or assembled.

10. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that one or more devices for cleaning or tubs (6) are integrated in a processing (22) for knife packs (4, 5) and there the knife packs (4, 5) are cleaned before or after their assembly or disassembly therein as components (knives, clamping plate) or assemblies.

11. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that a cleaning device is arranged for rough or pre-cleaning of the knife ring (1), the components and / or the assemblies.

12. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that in the region of the surface (17) of the liquid bath (3), preferably directly below the surface, a damper (35) for damping the restlessness of the surface (17) is arranged.

13. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that in A reflector (36) for reflecting and / or conducting the ultrasonic waves is arranged in the liquid bath (3), preferably below or near the surface (17).

14. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that for cleaning the radial inside of the knife ring (1), the devices for the inlet or outlet side treatment and / or cleaning of the knife ring are arranged pivotably and / or displaceably, particularly preferably the spray nozzles (30), the rinsing nozzles (31), the drying unit (32), the ultrasonic exciters (26) with or without reflector (36), the jet nozzles (28), the brushes (29) and / or the damper (35).

15. A method for cleaning a knife ring or its components or assemblies during maintenance of a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for comminuting materials, wherein at least replaceable knives are arranged on the circumference of the knife ring (1), which knives can be installed directly on the knife ring (1) or indirectly as knife packages (4, 5), at least comprising a knife with a clamping plate, wherein the knife ring (1) further comprises at least two coaxial rings and knife receptacles (18) and / or wear plates arranged therebetween, characterized in that the components, assemblies and / or the knife ring (1) are cleaned in a liquid bath (3), wherein the liquid bath (3) has a standing water column (2) in a tub (6) in which the components, assemblies or the knife ring (1) are at least partially immersed and preferably for a predetermined time or are moved through.

16. Method according to the preceding method claim, characterized in that the cleaning in the liquid bath (3), preferably under its surface (17), is supported or carried out by cleaning devices, preferably by at least one rotating brush (29), a jet nozzle (28) and / or ultrasound.

17. Method according to the preceding method claim, characterized in that the cleaning is carried out by heating the components, the assemblies, the knife ring and / or the liquid bath to above room temperature and / or cleaning, corrosion and / or degreasing agents, preferably dissolved in the liquid bath or as an additive, are used.

18. Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the water of the liquid bath (3) is circulated, cleaned, deionized and / or desalinated and that preferably the water column (2), the temperature, the water quality, the pH value and / or the salt content are controlled or regulated by a control or regulating device.

19. Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the components, the assemblies and / or the knife ring (1) are rinsed, heated and / or dried after leaving the liquid bath (3).

20. Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the components, the assemblies and / or the knife ring (1) are heated and / or exposed to a cleaning liquid, preferably heated and / or with a higher concentration than in the liquid bath, before being immersed in the liquid bath (3).

21. Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the knife ring is subjected to a rough cleaning in the liquid bath before cleaning, wherein preferably in the case of a high-pressure rough cleaning with a liquid, this is passed to the liquid bath in a pre-filtered state.

22. Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that liquid from the area of ​​the spray nozzles (30), the rinsing nozzles (31) and / or the drying unit (32) is transferred to the liquid bath or these devices are arranged or used above the liquid bath.

23. Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the cleaning is carried out in or on a transport carriage (20) for the knife ring, preferably during transport from a knife ring chipper to a setup device (14) and / or that the cleaning is carried out in a setup device (14) for assembling and disassembling the knives or the knife packs (4, 5) and / or that the cleaning of the components or assemblies is carried out in a processing unit (22) for the knives or the knife packs (4, 5).

24. Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the knife ring (1) is immersed in a liquid bath before dismantling the knives or knife packs (4). (3) is at least partially cleaned, the knives or knife packs (4) are dismantled, the knife ring (1) is cleaned again without knives or knife packages (4) to clean the exposed areas in the liquid bath (3) and then new knives or sharp knife packages (5) are mounted on the knife ring.

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