Separating apparatus for separating a suspension

Abstract

The invention relates to a separating apparatus (200) for separating a suspension with a centrifugal separator (100) into at least two flowable phases, wherein the centrifugal separator (100) has a frame (I) and a housing (1) which is not rotatable during operation, and a separator insert (II, III) which is designed as a pre-installed, exchangeable unit, wherein the separator insert (II, III) has at least the following: a) a rotor (2, 65) which can be rotated about an axis of rotation (D) and has a drum (3, 66) with a drum wall; b) preferably one separating means arranged in the drum (3, 66); at least one product supply line (8) and at least one product discharge lines (10, 34); c) wherein the regions of the separator insert (II, III) which come into contact with the product are made partially or completely from plastic; wherein sterile air A or an inert gas can be directly or indirectly applied to the housing (1) and / or one or more additional containers (105, 109, 114) by means of a device suitable herefor, and the housing and / or one or more additional containers can, by way of this application, be subjected to a superposition pressure, and / or the housing can be subjected to a negative pressure by means of the device.

Description

[0001] Separation system for separating a suspension

[0002] The invention relates to a separation system for separating a suspension with a centrifugal separator, according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0003] Centrifugal separators, particularly disc separators, as defined in this document are used to separate a flowable suspension as the starting product into phases of different densities in a centrifugal field. Sterility of the product-contacting parts of the separators used is required for a wide variety of applications.

[0004] For the technological background, please refer to WO 2020 / 173545 A1.

[0005] The main application of the present invention lies in the field of centrifugal separators, particularly disc separators, with so-called replaceable separator inserts, as is suitable for single-use applications. In particularly sensitive applications such as biotech, but also pharmaceutical or medical applications, all product-contacting elements should be disposed of after their single use to avoid cross-contamination.

[0006] It is advantageous in a separation plant to keep the fill level in a container, e.g. a plastic bag or plastic container, which is in the discharge of the light and / or heavy phase, at a defined fill level so that it neither runs empty nor overflows.

[0007] For this purpose, a suitable measuring system and a drainage system must be selected so that the flow of individual product phases, possibly with the help of a control system, can be controlled in such a way that the liquid level in the container can be kept constant even if the inflow into the container fluctuates.

[0008] EP 3 885 050 A discloses a device and method for separating a suspension into multiple product streams. In a manner known per se in mechanical separation technology (see also WO 2012 / 125480 A1 and DE 34 30 264 A1), the mass of a product stream discharged from the separation device into a container is determined using a scale.

[0009] Maintaining the liquid level in the container precisely, based on a mass determination using a balance, is only possible if the density of the separated phase is known. However, the density of the separated phase can fluctuate. For example, it may contain air bubbles or air inclusions, and even form a foam phase. As the density changes, the calculated fill level in such a container also fluctuates. The suitability of a weighing system for level control is therefore limited.

[0010] Against this backdrop, it makes sense to provide a separation system with a tank in which the liquid level can be maintained at a defined value regardless of the medium, even with media with fluctuating densities, so that the tank is not overfilled, for example. Optionally, the fill level can be measured.

[0011] However, practice has shown that, despite the ability to detect and mask droplets on the container wall, precise level determination cannot always be guaranteed when foam is present in the bag or in a container for the corresponding draining phase. Depending on the density of the foam, it is detected as either a liquid phase or a gas phase. Therefore, it is desirable to prevent foam formation in the separator insert or in the various containers connected to the separator insert's drains as much as possible. These containers are located in the drains for the light phase, the heavy phase, and / or the drainage.

[0012] The solution to this problem is the object of the invention.

[0013] The invention solves this problem by a separation system having the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments can be found in the subclaims.

[0014] A separation plant according to the invention serves to separate a suspension with a centrifugal separator as part of said separation plant.

[0015] The centrifugal separator has a frame and a housing.

[0016] Furthermore, the centrifugal separator has a separator insert which is designed as a pre-assembled, replaceable unit for arrangement in or on the frame.

[0017] The separator insert has a housing which is stationary during operation and a rotor which can be mounted in or on the housing and which can rotate about an axis of rotation and has a drum with a drum wall.

[0018] Within the drum, the suspension is separated into a light and a heavy phase in the centrifugal field, and these are discharged separately. It is also possible for one phase, particularly the heavy phase, to remain in the drum, while only the light phase is discharged.

[0019] The separator insert preferably also includes a separating agent arranged in the drum. Such a separating agent can, for example, be a stack of discs, preferably comprising conical separating discs. This serves to increase the clarification surface.

[0020] And the separator insert has at least one product inlet line and at least one product outlet line.

[0021] The separator can also advantageously have multiple product inlet lines and multiple product outlet lines. This allows a solid phase to be discharged via a separate product outlet line as part of the separator insert. All product inlet lines from the drum are part of the inlet system, and all product outlet lines from the drum are part of the outlet system.

[0022] The entire separator insert, with its inlet and outlet system, is preferably designed to be sealed against the frame or the housing. If the housing is part of the replaceable separator insert, it is preferably designed to be sealed against the frame. If the housing is not part of the replaceable separator insert, it is designed so that the rotor can be inserted into the housing. In this case, the housing can be closed and sealed against its surroundings.

[0023] This is particularly preferred for interchangeable, single-use applications. The inlet system can have multiple product inlet lines, and the outlet system can have multiple product outlet lines. A separate product inlet line can be used, for example, to add flocculants or the like to the suspension. Other substances, such as preservatives during processing, such as ascorbic acid, possibly as a diluted solution, can also be supplied via a separate product inlet line.

[0024] Then, according to the preamble of claim 1, the product-contacting areas of the separator insert are made partly or completely of plastic.

[0025] For better recycling, it is recommended or preferred that all components of the separator insert that come into contact with the product be made of plastic. Composite materials, such as metal-plastic composites, are more difficult to dispose of.

[0026] According to the characterizing part of claim 1, it is then provided that the housing and / or one or more additional containers can be directly or indirectly pressurized with sterile air A or an inert gas by means of a suitable device and can be placed under an overlying pressure by this pressurization, and / or that the housing can be placed under a negative pressure by means of the device. The terms "positive pressure" and "negative pressure" refer to the environment of the housing.

[0027] According to one variant, the housing can be designed as a part of the replaceable separator insert made partly or completely of plastic.

[0028] In a further variant, the housing can be designed as part of the frame and not as part of the separator insert. In this case, it is advantageous if the housing can be opened to allow the pre-assembled separator insert to be inserted and removed.

[0029] According to the subject matter of claim 1, in particular also according to the alternatives of claims 2 and 3, when an overpressure is generated, the pressure drop of the liquid phases emerging from the drum is reduced and thus the outgassing in the housing and / or the one or more further containers is reduced or even prevented.

[0030] If, on the other hand, a negative pressure is created, this can also have a beneficial effect on various separation processes, for example to cool it and / or to reduce energy consumption.

[0031] It is expedient if the device comprises a pressurised tank, downstream of which is a controllable valve and / or a controllable throttle or the like, and / or a pump.

[0032] If the housing is in pressure and fluid connection with the other container(s), e.g. containers for the light phase and drainage, such an arrangement will also reduce or prevent outgassing in these containers

[0033] To ensure particularly good sterile conditions, it can optionally be provided that the sterile air is ventilated or that the inert gas is forced through a sterile filter (not shown) into the drainage container or containers in the outlet of the light or heavy phase in order to pressurize them. It is preferred that a control unit be provided that is designed to control and / or regulate the application of sterile air or an inert gas.

[0034] It has also proven useful to use the control unit to adjust the flow rate of the compressed air or inert gas supply to a value between 0.1 and 10 l / min and the overlay pressure to a value between 10 mbar and 300 mbar. The sterile air or inert gas supply can be continuous or pulsed.

[0035] According to an optional embodiment, a foam-reducing agent can alternatively or additionally be injected at least into the housing and / or the at least one further container.

[0036] It can further be provided that the separation system has at least one container connected to the at least one product discharge line. This container preferably has a spatially separated inlet and outlet opening.

[0037] The separation system can then comprise a fill level measuring device for determining the liquid level of the suspension within the container and / or at least one or more limit switches for detecting a reached liquid level within the container. Furthermore, the separation system can comprise a control system that receives and evaluates the fill level measurement signals and generates the necessary signals for controlling one or more drain pumps and / or any required valves.

[0038] This allows at least a certain fill level to be maintained and, in the case of a measuring device, to be determined continuously or, if necessary, precisely. This is considerably more cumbersome when determining the mass of leaking liquid, for example, using a scale, and involves more measurement errors and / or inaccuracies, especially since the determined mass must first be converted into volume or fill level.

[0039] It is advantageous if the fill level measuring device and / or the limit switch are mounted non-invasively on the outside of the container so that no direct contact is made with the product. This avoids surface reactions on the measuring surfaces or the contact surfaces of the sensor element, etc. Non-invasive sensors can also be reused in single-use systems, since in these systems, components that generally only come into contact with the product are used once. Examples of possible principles for such non-invasive measurements include capacitive measurement, optical measurement, vibration damping measurement, pressure measurement, deformation measurement, or time-of-flight measurement of ultrasonic or radar signals.

[0040] The container may have a drain, e.g. a drain nozzle, for the continuous drainage of a liquid.

[0041] Preferably, the fill level measuring device and / or the limit switch comprises a sensor element for transmitting and / or receiving an electromagnetic signal, preferably an ultrasonic signal, a microwave signal, and / or a light signal. These variants have already proven themselves as non-invasive measurement methods in other applications.

[0042] The centrifugal separator may also have a discharge line for the heavy phase and a discharge line for a light phase, preferably each as part of the aforementioned discharge system, wherein a pump is arranged in at least one of the discharge lines.

[0043] The separation system can advantageously include a device for adjusting the fill level in the container. The pump can be part of this device. The same applies to the fill level measuring device and / or the at least one limit switch. The pump is designed to be adjustable based on the measurement signals from the fill level measuring device and / or the limit switch. This includes, among other things, a signal connection between the elements, optionally via cable or via wireless transmission to the evaluation unit and / or the control system.

[0044] The fill level measuring device can be designed to continuously determine the fill level. This can be detected, in particular, by signal reflection and / or a sudden signal change at a phase interface.

[0045] The fill level measuring device and / or the at least one limit switch are particularly preferably arranged on the container in a replaceable manner. This allows the measuring device to be reused even if the product-contacting areas are disposed of, and is therefore not a single-use component of the separation system according to the invention.

[0046] The fill level measuring device can be arranged on the container, preferably at its bottom, in such a way that a signal can be introduced perpendicular to the liquid level. If this signal is reflected at the liquid level, only one sensor element, which can be switched between transmit and receive modes, is required, which simplifies the device design.

[0047] Alternatively, the separation system can have at least two limit switches for detecting a lower and an upper fill level to regulate the fill level within a defined filling range in the container. These can be directed laterally from the outside of the container, for example, or can be in contact with the container. If the upper fill level is exceeded, this is detected by the control system and a corresponding signal is sent, for example, to the drain pump. This pump is then switched on until the lower fill level is again undershot. In this way, the fill level can be maintained between the lower and upper fill levels.

[0048] If additional measuring points are installed between the lower and upper filling levels, the control system can also determine, for example, the speed at which the bag fills or empties.

[0049] The device for adjusting the discharge volume can optionally include a pressure sensor for determining the pressure of the liquid in the container, which is preferably located at the bottom of the container and / or at a container outlet. The pressure sensor also allows for the determination of the fill level, since there is a correlation between the height of the liquid column in the container and the pressure generated thereby.

[0050] The fill level measuring device and / or the limit switch(es) can advantageously have an ultrasonic sensor element and an evaluation unit which is set up to monitor the suspension composition by comparing a determined sound speed with a medium-specific target value for a sound speed. It is known that the signal speed correlates with the composition in the medium. In the case of a known measuring medium with fluctuating composition of the individual components or in the case of foam formation or air inclusions, a determination can be made by comparing and, if necessary, interpolating several ultrasonic values ​​for different compositions. While a clear signal change thus indicates a phase boundary, the precise evaluation of the signal speed enables at least monitoring whether the respective derived light and / or heavy phase has a constant composition or not. If necessary.Not only monitoring but also determining the composition of simple mixtures can be performed. In particular, the aforementioned evaluation unit is configured to continuously determine a fill level using the time-of-flight method. For this purpose, the evaluation unit can have a data memory on which a corresponding computer program product is stored.

[0051] Alternatively, a capacitive change can also be detected by the measuring arrangement. For this purpose, the sensor for measuring the capacitive change is mounted externally at a distance of a few millimeters from the container or brought into contact with the container. When the container contents cover the measuring point, the value of the capacitive coupling changes. This value is determined by an evaluation unit and, if necessary, transmitted to a control system as a measurement signal. Similar to the design variant described above, several capacitive sensors can be used to maintain the fill level in the container within a defined level.

[0052] By comparing the empty state of the container, it is possible to first determine how the capacitive container properties are formed in the unfilled state.

[0053] If the capacitive properties change as a result of filling, a signal is emitted. Modern capacitive sensors allow the masking of droplets adhering to the container wall, which can disrupt the fill level display during emptying. Such masking of droplets can be achieved through full calibration. Corresponding electronic control concepts are offered by companies such as IFM and other manufacturers.

[0054] The invention also provides a method for centrifugally separating a suspension into at least two flowable phases using a separation system designed according to one of the claims related thereto, comprising at least the following steps: a) feeding a provided suspension into the rotating drum, b) carrying out the centrifugal separation of the suspension in the rotating drum of the separator insert, and c) discharging the at least two flowable phases from the drum, d) wherein an overpressure or a negative pressure is generated in the container during the centrifugal separation. The invention is described in more detail below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawing, wherein further advantageous variants and embodiments are also discussed.It should be emphasized that the exemplary embodiments discussed below are not intended to be exhaustive descriptions of the invention, but that variants and equivalents not shown are also feasible and fall within the scope of the claims. It shows:

[0055] Fig. 1 is a schematic, sectional view of a first replaceable separator insert of a separator together with a schematic view of an inlet and outlet system and a control device of the separator;

[0056] Fig. 2 is a schematic, sectional view of a second replaceable separator insert of a separator together with a schematic view of an inlet and outlet system and a control device of the separator;

[0057] Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of a centrifuge separator with a reusable frame and a replaceable separator insert, the latter here in the manner of Fig. 1, with hose sections arranged thereon;

[0058] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the replaceable separator insert from Figs. 1 and 3 with hose sections arranged thereon;

[0059] Fig. 5 - 7 three successive steps when inserting the replaceable separator insert from Fig. 4 into the frame of Fig. 3;

[0060] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a modification of the separator and the separator insert of Figs. 1-7 as a further embodiment;

[0061] Fig. 9 schematic representation of a separation plant according to the invention for carrying out a preferred separation process;

[0062] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a separator insert in a modification of the variants of Fig. 1 -8 with an integrated drainage drain line; and

[0063] Fig. 11 shows a further embodiment variant with a rotor as a separator insert and a housing as a fixed, non-replaceable component of the separator; Fig. 12 shows a further embodiment variant of a separator insert, which has at least one connection piece on its housing for supplying or discharging gas.

[0064] Figures 1-12 show several centrifugal separators 100 with a reusable frame I and a replaceable separator insert II for centrifugal separation. The separation process can be implemented in particular by the embodiments shown in Figs. 10-12, in which a drainage line 120 is provided. A separation system 200 according to the invention is shown in Fig. 9.

[0065] In principle, the separator insert could also be designed in the manner shown in Fig. 1 or Fig. 2 and, if necessary, supplemented by a drainage drain line (not shown).

[0066] The separator insert II is preferably designed as a prefabricated unit. In particular, the separator insert II is designed as a disposable separator insert that is replaceable or interchangeable as a whole and designed as a preassembled unit, which is constructed entirely or predominantly from plastic or plastic composite materials.

[0067] The separator insert (which does not include elements 4a and 5a) is shown separately as an example in Figures 1 and 2. It can be disposed of after processing a product batch and replaced with a new separator insert II.

[0068] According to Figures 1 and 2, the separator insert II of the separator comprises a housing 1 and the rotor 2 inserted into the housing 1, which is rotatable relative to the housing 1 during operation. The rotor 2 has a rotation axis D. This axis can be oriented vertically, which corresponds to the structure of the frame I. However, it can also be oriented differently in space if the frame is designed accordingly.

[0069] The rotor 2 of the separator insert II has a rotatable drum 3. The rotor 2 is rotatably mounted at two locations axially spaced from one another in the direction of the rotation axis by respective magnetic bearing devices 4, 5. Preferably, the rotor 2, or thus also the drum 3, is rotatably mounted at both axial ends. The separator insert II has rotor units 4b, 5b of the magnetic bearing devices 4, 5. In contrast, stator units 4a, 5a of the magnetic bearing devices 4, 5 are arranged on the frame 1-1. The magnetic bearing devices 4, 5 preferably act radially and axially and hold the rotatably mounted rotor 2 suspended, preferably in the housing 1 at a distance from the latter.

[0070] Such a separator with an easily replaceable separator insert can be useful and advantageous when processing products where it can be ruled out with very high certainty that impurities will be introduced into the product - a flowable suspension or its phases - during centrifugal processing or where cleaning and disinfection of the separator would be very complex or even impossible.

[0071] The frame I has a console 1-1. This can - but does not have to - be mounted on a carriage I-2 with rollers I-3. Receptacles I-4 and I-5 can be formed on the console 1-1, which serve to receive and hold the separator insert II, even during operation. Preferably, a first axial end of the separator insert II projects from below into or towards the upper receptacle I-4, and a lower end of the separator insert II projects from above into or towards the other receptacle I-5, whereby the separator insert II is held on the console 1-1 and thus on the frame I in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0072] One or both of the mounts I-4 and / or I-5 can be arranged laterally on the frame I, in particular on the bracket 1-1. According to a variant, it can further be provided that, for example, the lower mount I-5 is fixed to the bracket 1-1. It is then advantageous for the additional upper mount I-4 to be height-adjustable on the bracket 1-1.

[0073] In this case, it is advantageous if the console 1-1 has such a vertical extension / length that the separator insert is held stationary in a first position of the height-adjustable holder I-4 by both height-adjustable holders I-4, I-5 and is interchangeable in the other upper position.

[0074] It is advantageously provided that the receptacles I-4 and I-5 with the stator units 4a, 5a on the frame I can be moved axially apart and back toward each other in order to change the separator insert II, i.e., to remove the old separator insert II from the frame I and replace it with a new one. This can be achieved, for example, with a rail on the console and a movable carriage that can be locked in a sliding position on the height-adjustable receptacle (not shown in detail).

[0075] It is thus provided that the relative distance between the receptacles I-4 and I-5 with the stator units 4a, 4b of the bearing devices 4, 5 is adjustable in order to be able to change the separator insert II.

[0076] Stator units 4a, 5a of two drive and magnetic bearing assemblies 4 and 5 can be arranged in the respective receptacles I-4 and I-5. The control and power electronics for this can be arranged in or on the frame I, e.g., in, on, or on the bracket 1-1.

[0077] Corresponding positive locking means can be formed on the receptacles I-4 and I-5 and on a housing 1 of the separator insert II that does not rotate during operation, in order to enable the separator insert II to be inserted into the stator units 4a, 5a in a rotationally fixed manner. The upper and lower stator units 4a, 5a can each have aligned axes.

[0078] According to a particularly simple variant, the housing 1 and the receptacles I-4 or I-5 with the stator units 4a, 5a can have projections (e.g., pins or webs) and recesses (e.g., holes) as the corresponding positive locking means to hold the housing 1 in a rotationally fixed manner to the stator units and thus to the frame II. The corresponding positive locking means can also be formed directly on the frame II.

[0079] The position of these corresponding form-locking means also defines the functionally required position of the stator units 4a, 5a and the rotor units 4b, 5b relative to each other. This particularly applies to the precise centering of the coaxially nested units 4a, 5a and 4b, 5b. The receptacles can also exert a holding force (from above and below) on the housing in an axial direction, if necessary, to hold it in a force-locking manner.

[0080] According to Fig. 3 to 7, the above measures are implemented as follows.

[0081] The receptacles I-4 and I-5 with the stator units 4a, 5a of the frame I each have a plurality of pins 41a projecting in the axial direction, and the respective separator insert II can have corresponding blind holes on the housing 1, for example extending in the axial direction, as recesses 42 and 41b, respectively.

[0082] In this case, the receptacle I-4 with the stator unit 4a has pins 41 that project axially or vertically downwards (not visible here), and the separator insert II has blind hole-like recesses 42 that correspond vertically at the top (visible here), and the lower receptacle I-5 with the lower stator unit 5a has pins 41a that project axially or vertically upwards (visible here), and the separator insert II has blind hole-like recesses that correspond axially at the bottom (not visible here). Purely as an example, four pins 41a and recesses 41b are arranged distributed over the corners of an imaginary polygon, in particular a square, and are formed at the top and bottom of the receptacles I-4, I-5 and the housing 1 of the separator insert II.

[0083] In Fig. 1-7, corresponding positive locking means 41a, 41b, and 42 are arranged circumferentially distributed around the separator insert II. However, it is also possible for only one positive locking means to be provided instead of several positive locking means.

[0084] However, the corresponding form-locking means can also be arranged asymmetrically to ensure that the separator insert can only be used in one orientation.

[0085] The stator units 4a, 5a can each have openings, in particular through-openings 43, in order to receive lines such as hoses 44, 45 connected to the separator insert II upwards and / or downwards.

[0086] One or both receptacles I-4 and I-5 is / are designed to be vertically adjustable. One of the two receptacles I-4 or I-5 can therefore also be fixed to the frame I. It is also conceivable for one of the two receptacles I-4 or I-5—e.g., the lower one—to be formed on a wall of the frame I and not adjustable. It is then sufficient to design the frame I such that the other receptacle I-4 or I-5 is adjustable, in particular, arranged and / or designed to be vertically height-adjustable on the frame I.

[0087] This can be clearly seen from the interaction of Figs. 3 to 7.

[0088] Fig. 5 shows the frame I before inserting a separator insert II. The two stator units 4a, 5a have been moved apart relative to each other so far that the respective separator insert can be lifted axially between the two receptacles with the stator units 4a, 5a (Figs. 5, 6), whereby the separator insert II is then placed in / on the lower receptacle I-5 (Figs. 6 and 7) such that the corresponding form-locking means - here 41, 42 - engage with each other. In addition, the hose 45 at the lower end of the housing 1 has been guided downwards through the through-opening 43 of the lower - and thus axially associated - stator unit 5a (Fig. 6). Now, the upper holder I-4 is lowered until the corresponding molding means of the upper holder I-4 and the housing 1 of the separator insert I—here 41, 42—securely engage (Fig. 7). Upper hoses 44 on the housing 1 are guided through the through-opening 43 of the upper holder I-4.The separator insert II is now securely held in place on frame I. The centrifugal field can then begin spinning and separating a product batch. After the intended batch has been processed, the upper separator unit is raised again until it can be removed from frame I and replaced with a new one.

[0089] The following describes in more detail the further construction of exemplary preferred separator inserts II, including the structure of the separator's drive and bearing system, the separator control system, and the separator's inlet and outlet systems, with reference to Figures 1 and 2. The invention is not limited to this. In particular, the inlet and outlet lines can also be implemented differently on the separator insert II.

[0090] Firstly, the rotor units 4b, 5b can be designed essentially in the manner of inner rings made of magnets, in particular permanent magnets, and the reusable stator units 4a, 5a can be designed essentially in the manner of outer rings, which are used for the axial and radial mounting of the rotor 2 (e.g. above) or alternatively also for the rotary drive (e.g. below).

[0091] Thus, the rotor units 4b and / or 5b, as part of the separator drive, also represent a part of the rotating system or rotor. In other words, the rotor of the drive is a part of the drum of the centrifugal separator.

[0092] One or both of the magnetic bearing devices 4, 5 is / are thus preferably also used as a drive device for rotating the rotor 2 with the drum 3 in the housing 1. In this case, the respective magnetic bearing device forms a combined magnetic bearing and drive device. The magnetic bearing devices 4, 5 can be designed as axial and / or radial bearings, which cooperatively support the drum 3 axially and radially at its ends during operation and, as a whole, keep it suspended and rotated during operation.

[0093] The magnetic bearing assemblies 4 and 5 can be fundamentally identical or largely identical in design. In particular, only one of the two magnetic bearing assemblies 4, 5 can also be used as a drive device. Thus, corresponding components of the magnetic bearings 4, 5 are formed on the separator insert II—on its rotor 2—and other corresponding parts are formed on the frame I. One or both stator units 4a, 5a can also be electrically connected to control and power electronics for controlling the electromagnetic components of the magnetic bearing assemblies.

[0094] The respective magnetic bearing device 4, 5 can, for example, operate according to a combined electromagnetic and permanent magnetic principle.

[0095] Preferably, at least the lower axially acting magnetic bearing device 5 serves to keep the rotor 2 suspended axially within the housing 1 by levitation. It can have one or more first permanent magnets, for example, on the underside of the rotor, and furthermore, electromagnets on a mount on the frame that coaxially surround the permanent magnet(s). The rotor can be driven electromagnetically. However, a drive via rotating permanent magnets is also feasible.

[0096] Such bearing and drive devices are used, for example, by Levitronix for driving centrifugal pumps (EP2 273 124 B1). They can also be used in this document. For example, a first Levitronix motor "bottom" can be used as the drive, which simultaneously magnetically supports the drum radially and axially. In addition, a second Levitronix motor—for example, identical in construction except for the control system—can be provided, which can act as the magnetic bearing 4 and support the rotor 2 radially and axially at the head.

[0097] The rotor speed can be variably adjusted using a control device 37 (see Fig. 1 or 2) or a separate control device for the magnetic bearings 4, 5. The direction of rotation of the rotor 2 can also be predetermined and changed in this way. During operation, the rotor 2 rotates. It is thus held axially suspended and radially centered. Preferably, the rotor 2 with the drum 3 is operated at a speed between 1,000, preferably 5,000 to 10,000, and possibly even up to 20,000 revolutions per minute. The centrifugal forces generated by the rotation lead to the separation of a suspension to be processed into various flowable phases LP, HP of different densities, as described above, and to their discharge, as described in more detail below.The product batch is processed in continuous operation, which means that the phases separated from the suspension are completely discharged from the drum during operation.

[0098] This makes it very possible to create a separator insert and housing for a separator that can be designed for single use. This is particularly interesting and advantageous for the processing of pharmaceutical products such as fermentation broths or the like, since after processing a corresponding product batch, the drum does not need to be cleaned during continuous operation, as the entire separator insert is replaceable. If necessary, individual elements such as magnets can be suitably recycled (see also DE 10 2017 128 027 A1).

[0099] The housing 1 is preferably made of a plastic or a plastic composite material. The housing 1 can be cylindrical and have a cylindrical outer shell, at the ends of which two radially extending boundary walls 6, 7 (cover and base) are formed.

[0100] The drum 3 serves for the centrifugal separation of a flowable suspension S in the centrifugal field into at least two phases LP, HP of different densities, which can be, for example, a lighter liquid phase and a heavy solid phase or a heavy liquid phase.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, the rotor 2 and its drum 3 have a vertical axis of rotation D. However, the housing 1 and the rotor 2 could also be oriented differently in space. The following description refers to the vertical orientation shown (Fig. 3). With a different spatial orientation, the orientations change according to the new orientation. In addition, one or both outlets may be repositioned—to be discussed later. The rotor 2 of the separator with the drum 3 is preferably made entirely or predominantly of a plastic or plastic composite material.

[0102] The drum 3 is preferably cylindrical and / or conical in some sections. The same applies to the other elements in the rotor 2 and on the housing 1 (except for elements of the magnetic bearing devices 4, 5).

[0103] The housing 1 is designed in the manner of a container, which is advantageously hermetically sealed except for a few openings / opening areas (to be discussed later).

[0104] According to Fig. 1 and 2, one of the openings is formed in each of the two axial boundary walls 6, 7, which are located here, for example, at the top and bottom, of the container 1.

[0105] One of the openings - in the first, here upper axial boundary wall 6 - enables or serves, according to Fig. 1 and 2, as an inlet 8 for feeding a suspension to be separated in the centrifugal field into at least two phases of different density - LP and HP - through the housing 1 into the drum 3.

[0106] Here the first phase is a lighter phase LP and the second phase is a denser, heavier phase HP compared to the first phase.

[0107] A second of the openings - in the second, here lower axial boundary wall 7 - enables or serves as an outlet for the second heavier phase HP directly from the drum 3 through the housing 1.

[0108] The drum 3 also has openings which are associated with the openings of the housing.

[0109] An inlet pipe 12 for a suspension to be processed extends into an upper opening 12a at one axial end of the drum 3. This pipe passes through the housing 1, in particular through its one - here upper - axial boundary wall 6. On the outer circumference, the inlet pipe 12 is inserted into the housing 1 in a sealed manner according to Fig. 1 - e.g. by welding or gluing - or, if appropriate, is designed as a one-piece plastic injection-molded part with the housing. It is preferably also made of plastic. The inlet pipe 12 projects outwards from the top of the housing 1 with one end and extends through the upper boundary wall 6 into the drum 3, without touching the drum 3. According to Fig. 1 (but also Fig. 2), the inlet pipe 12 passes through the housing 1 and the one magnetic bearing 4 concentrically to the axis of rotation of the rotor 2, then extends axially further within the housing 1 into the rotatable drum 3 and ends there with its other end - a free outlet end.

[0110] According to Figs. 1 and 2, the inlet pipe 12 opens into the drum 3 into a distributor 13 that can rotate with the drum 3. The distributor 13 has a tubular distributor shaft 14 and a distributor base 15. One or more distribution channels 16 are formed in the distributor base 15. A stack of separating plates, consisting of conical separating plates 17, can be placed on the distributor 13. The distributor 13 and the separating plates 17 are preferably also made of plastic.

[0111] In addition, according to both Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, a first peeling disc 33 serves to drain the heavier phase HP of the two phases HP and LP from the drum 3. A peeling disc shaft or a central drain pipe 34 passes through the second axial boundary wall 7 (see Fig. 1 and Fig. 2).

[0112] According to a possible—but not mandatory—configuration, the drum 3 has at least two cylindrical sections 18, 19 of different diameters. Adjacent to these, one or more conical transition areas can be formed on the drum 3. The drum 3 can also be designed as a single or double cone in its central axial area (not shown here).

[0113] As shown, the drum 3 can have a lower cylindrical section 20 of smaller diameter, on / in which the rotor unit 5b of the lower magnetic bearing is also formed, which merges into a conical region 20a, then here, for example, a cylindrical region 19 of larger diameter, then again a conical region 18a and then an upper cylindrical section 18 of smaller diameter, on which the rotor unit 4b of the upper magnetic bearing 4 is formed.

[0114] With regard to the discharge of the lighter phase, the separator inserts in Fig. 1 and 2 differ.

[0115] Openings (which can be provided circumferentially distributed on the drum 3, whereby several openings can thus be provided on the drum 3) serve as radial or tangential outlets 21 of the light phase LP from the drum 3 according to Fig. 1. An opening in the outer casing of the housing then enables the outlet or serves as an outlet 10 of the lighter product phase LP which forms during the centrifugal separation and which has been discharged from the drum 3, according to the embodiment of Fig. 1.

[0116] The first outlets 21 on the radius ro of the drum 3 are designed in particular as "nozzle-like" openings in the outer casing of the drum 3. They are also designed as so-called "free" outlets from the drum 3. The first outlets 21 serve to drain the lighter phase LP. The outlets can be designed such that the light phase exits radially or, alternatively, can be shaped so that the light phase exits tangentially against the direction of rotation of the drum and thus contributes to driving the rotor and reducing the drive energy. This phase exiting the drum 3 is collected in the housing 1 in an upper annular collecting chamber 23 of the housing 1. This annular collecting chamber 23 is designed such that the phase collected therein is directed to the outlet 10 of the annular collecting chamber 23. This can be achieved by positioning the outlet 10 at the lowest point of the annular collecting chamber 23.The collecting annular chamber 23 is open radially inwards towards the rotating drum 3 and is designed at a distance such that liquid spraying out of the respective outlet 21 during the centrifugal separation is essentially sprayed only into the associated collecting annular chamber 23, which is located at the same axial level.

[0117] Below the collecting annular chamber 23, a chamber 25 that does not serve to drain a phase can optionally be provided. This chamber 25 can optionally have a leakage drain (not shown here). The leakage can drain freely. However, it can also be extracted by vacuum if the chamber 25 has a vacuum connection for connecting a vacuum-generating device.

[0118] The first collecting annular chamber 23 and the chamber 25 can be separated from each other by a first, here conical, wall 26 which, starting from the outer shell of the housing 1, extends conically inwards and upwards and ends radially in front of the drum 3 at a distance from the latter.

[0119] Preferably, at the lowest point of the collecting annular chamber, the product phase LP is drained from the housing 1 through the outlet 10. Nozzles can be provided in the area of ​​the outlet 10 on the outside of the housing 1 to easily connect pipes, hoses, and the like.

[0120] These can be formed directly on the housing 1 or attached to it by adhesive. The nozzles are preferably also made of plastic. The housing 1 can be composed of several plastic parts that are sealed together, for example, by adhesive or welding.

[0121] 1 and 2, the first paring disc 33 is provided as the (here second) outlet for the heavier phase HP from the drum (through the housing 1). This outlet extends essentially radially and merges into an axially running outlet pipe 34 as a paring disc shaft that penetrates the lower axial boundary wall 7 of the housing 1. The paring disc 33 has an outer diameter ru. Here, ru > ro. The inlet openings 33a of the paring disc 33 are therefore located on a larger diameter or radius ru than the outlets 21 for the light phase LP on the radius ro. This makes it possible to use the paring disc 33 to discharge a phase HP that is heavier than the lighter phase LP from the drum 3. The paring disc 33 is stationary during operation of the separator and its outer edge is immersed in the heavier phase HP rotating in the drum 3.

[0122] The HP phase is diverted inward through the channels in the paring disc 33. The paring disc 33 thus serves to divert the HP phase in the manner of a centripetal pump.

[0123] The peeling disc 33 can be arranged in a simple and compact manner in the drum 3 below the distributor 14 and below the plate pack 17. The radius ru corresponds to the immersion depth of the peeling disc 33.

[0124] The discharge pipe 34 extends downwards from the housing 1 and through the lower boundary wall 7, but does not touch the drum 3. The discharge pipe 34 can be formed integrally with the housing 1 or sealed into it. A hose or the like can be connected to the discharge pipe as a discharge line 35.

[0125] The discharge pipe passes through the housing 1 and the lower magnetic bearing 5 concentrically to the rotational axis D of the rotor 2, then extends axially within the housing 1 into the paring disc 33. It can be provided that a controllable, in particular electrically controllable, control valve 36 is inserted into the outlet for the heavy phase HP, in particular into the discharge line 35 for the heavier phase HP. The control valve 36 can throttle the volume flow of the heavy phase HP in the discharge line 35 and increase the immersion depth of the associated paring disc. A control device 37 is preferably provided. The control valve 36 is preferably connected to the control device 37 wirelessly or by wire.

[0126] The control device 37 can also be designed and provided to control the magnetic bearings 4, 5 and the drive.

[0127] According to Fig. 2, the light phase LP is also discharged via a peeling disc.

[0128] For this purpose, a peeling disc 22 is provided in the upper region of the drum 3, the inlet openings 22a of which can in turn be located on a smaller radius ro than the radius ru of the inlet of the first - lower - peeling disc 33 for the heavier phase.

[0129] The shaft of this paring disc 22 can surround the inlet pipe 8 in the manner of an annular channel, like an outer outlet pipe 24, and can be tightly connected to the housing 1 instead of the inlet pipe 8, or can be formed integrally with the latter. The outlet pipes 24, 34 of the two paring discs 22, 33 thus lead out of the drum 3 at opposite ends thereof, as shown in Fig. 2. They also lead out of the housing 1 at opposite ends thereof. They can be inserted into the housing 1 in a sealed manner. However, they can also be made integrally with the latter, made of plastic. The inlet pipe 12 can be connected to the upper end of the paring disc shaft 24. A radial or tangential connection piece 24a can lead out of the paring disc shaft 24. A discharge line 40 for discharging the light phase can be connected to this line and can open into a product collection container, e.g., a bag or tank.Accordingly, the ends of the pipes 12 and 34 can also be designed as nozzles for connecting hoses or the like (Fig. 2, but also Fig. 1 ).

[0130] It can be provided that a controllable, in particular electrically controllable, control valve 39 is also inserted into the discharge line 40 for the light phase LP.

[0131] The control valve 39 can be used to change the volume flow of the light phase LP, in particular to throttle it more or less, and thus to change the immersion depth of the second paring disc 22. The control valve 39 is also connected to the control device 37 wirelessly or by wire, so that it can be controlled by the control device 37.

[0132] The respective paring disc 22, 33 is each a cylindrical and essentially radially aligned disc provided with several, for example one to six, channels, which is stationary during operation and has channels, thus forming a type of centripetal pump. The respective paring disc 22 or 33 is immersed with its outer edge in the phase LP or HP rotating in the separator. The respective phase LP, HP is diverted inwards through the channels in the paring disc and the rotational speed of the respective phase LP, HP is converted into pressure. The respective paring disc 22, 33 thus replaces a drain pump for the respective phase LP, HP. The paring discs thus each function as a centripetal pump. They can be made of plastic.

[0133] Theoretically, a third peeling disc could also be provided, which could serve to remove another phase.

[0134] The operation of the separators according to Fig. 1 and then Fig. 2 is briefly described below.

[0135] First, the respective separator is prepared with its reusable components. This includes the frame I and the drive and stator units 4a, 5a of the magnetic bearing devices. This also includes a control unit 37. A separator insert II is then prepared and mounted on the frame I. To do this, the stator units 4a and 5a simply need to be moved apart. The separator insert is then inserted with a positive fit and the stator units are moved towards each other. This securely holds the housing in a rotationally fixed manner. If necessary, hoses are now connected to the nozzles that lead into containers or bags. The respective separator insert of Figs. 1 and 2 can therefore preferably also have at least hoses and nozzles that can be connected to additional lines (not shown here) and containers such as bags, tanks, pumps, and the like.

[0136] After connecting the pipes and hoses, etc., a suspension is then fed into the rotating drum (inlet 8), where it is centrifugally separated into the light phase LP and the heavy phase HP. The heavier phase HP, with its higher density, flows radially outward in the separation chamber of drum 3. There, the HP phase leaves the drum at a radius ru through the channels of the stationary parison disc 33.

[0137] The lighter phase LP flows radially inward in the separation chamber of drum 3 and rises through a channel 38 on a shaft of the distributor. There, the phase LP leaves the drum at a radius ro, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2. The separation process can be easily influenced using the control valve(s) 36, 39. This results in an optimization of the separation process.

[0138] The primary application of the separator's operating process is cell separation in the pharmaceutical industry. The performance range is intended for processing broths from fermenters in the 100-4000-liter range, as well as for laboratory applications.

[0139] Other industrial sectors in which separators are used are also conceivable: chemicals, pharmaceuticals, dairy technology, renewable raw materials, oil and gas, beverage technology, mineral oil, etc.

[0140] The separators shown enable the production of a separator insert in which all components that come into contact with the product can preferably be made of plastic or other non-magnetic materials that can be disposed of after a single use or recycled. Cleaning after use is thus eliminated. The separator and its operation can thus be implemented cost-effectively.

[0141] Fig. 8 shows a modification of the separator insert II of Figs. 1 - 7 in a second embodiment, wherein identical features are provided with analogous reference numerals. The special feature of this second embodiment is that the form-locking means 41 a and the corresponding form-locking means 41 b provided on the frame I are only provided on one side between the frame I and the separator insert II, thus also enabling axial and rotational locking of the separator insert II relative to the frame I. This reduces, among other things, the complexity of the structure. The use of the modular centrifugal separator shown in Figs. 1 - 8 with an exchangeable separating insert ensures a sterile interior, i.e. a sterile flow path within the centrifugal separator.

[0142] In separators with a product inlet and outlet system consisting of a separator insert, inlet system, and outlet system, other interchangeable components can also be used to provide a sterile flow path for the inlet suspension and the separated light and heavy phases. The optional drainage system, as part of the product outlet system, is also designed accordingly.

[0143] By way of example only, the feed suspension pump, the feed tubing, the light phase and heavy phase tubing, and the heavy phase receiving vessel can be replaceable sterile components suitable for separating a single product batch or a limited number of product batches. The drainage fluid tubing and the drainage fluid container can also be replaceable sterile components. All of these components are connected with sterile connectors to enable easy and sterile component replacement. The separator's product feed system, product discharge system, and drainage discharge system are explained in more detail below using Fig. 9:

[0144] For example, a single-use pump 101, preferably in the form of a centrifugal pump, can be used in the inlet. This has the advantage of being smaller than comparable peristaltic pumps while offering the same throughput. The pump delivers a specific volume depending on its speed and the existing back pressure.

[0145] The flow meter 102, also located in the inlet line between pump 101 and separator insert II, preferably operates using a non-contact measuring principle, e.g., ultrasonic transit time difference. Thus, it can be simply pushed over the inlet line without coming into contact with the product.

[0146] It can therefore be reused continuously, whereas the inlet hose is a single-use product. The measurement signal from the flow meter is used to regulate the speed of the inlet pump. In this way, a controller can adjust the speed of the inlet pump so that the preselected setpoint for the inlet volume matches the measured actual value. The pump and flow meter are arranged in the rising inlet line so that the line is always filled with liquid, resulting in a more stable reading from the flow meter 102.

[0147] A pump 110 and a flowmeter 111 are arranged in the discharge line for the heavy phase. The pump and flowmeter are arranged in the ascending discharge line so that the line is always filled with liquid, resulting in a more stable reading from the flowmeter 111.

[0148] A flow meter 115 can also be arranged in the outlet of the light phase, e.g. in the flow direction behind the pump 107.

[0149] The drain pump 110 is preferably designed as a peristaltic pump. One of the advantages of a peristaltic pump is that it only comes into contact with the outside of the drain hose and is not in direct contact with the product.

[0150] It can therefore be reused continuously, whereas the drain hose is a single-use product. Another advantage of the peristaltic pump is that it delivers a defined volume depending on the speed. Unlike the centrifugal pump, it can be used as a throttle, i.e., it generates a pressure in the discharge of the heavy phase, the level of which can be regulated by the control system. Accordingly, the necessary pressure sensors can be provided in individual or, preferably, all hose lines (not shown in the image).

[0151] A tank 105 is provided in the light phase drain line, serving as a buffer tank. A level measuring device 104 determines the fill level of the light phase currently in the buffer tank and transmits this information to the control system. Alternatively, the fill level can simply be monitored by a limit switch, although in this case, the pump control options are reduced.

[0152] The light phase from separator insert II can be introduced into container 105 either in the upper part of container 105 (above the resulting liquid level) or in the lower part of the container (below the resulting liquid level). For products that tend to foam, the upper introduction has proven effective. The outlet of container 105 is connected to a downward-sloping drain hose, which is guided through an optical sensor 106 and a pump 107.

[0153] The speed of pump 107 is optimally controlled with the aid of the measurement signal from level measuring device 104 so that container 105 is never completely full and never completely empty. This can also be achieved, for example, by arranging two limit switches to monitor the minimum and maximum levels. In this way, the drain hose is always full, resulting in a stable signal from optical sensor 106. The signal from optical sensor 106 is used to assess the quality of the light phase. This can, for example, determine the proportion of remaining turbidity and suspended matter. Pump 107 can be designed as either a centrifugal pump or a peristaltic pump. The volume of container 105 should be selected so that the residence time of the light phase in the container is sufficiently long for bubbles to separate from the liquid.Using the measured value or the measurement signals from the fill level measuring device 104, the delivery volume of the pump 107 can be adjusted so that a fill level is maintained approximately in the middle of the container 105. This can also be achieved alternatively by one or more limit switches 400 (see Fig. 9b).

[0154] Such limit switches can be, for example, capacitive sensors arranged on the outer wall of the container 105. These often offer the possibility of detecting and masking drops on the container wall.

[0155] The downstream drain hose connected to the heavy phase outlet of separator insert II leads into another container 109, which is equipped with a fill level measuring device 108. Alternatively, one or more limit switches can be used here as well. Both variants are preferably non-invasive. This allows the fill level of the heavy phase in container 109 to be determined and controlled in the same way as for the light phase.

[0156] Furthermore, the separator insert II features an optional drainage system DS, with the drainage fluid being collected in a drainage container 114. Drainage fluid is primarily generated when the drum comes to a standstill at the end of batch processing and drains through this drain. All hose lines shown in Fig. 9 for supply and discharge lines into and out of the separation system then each terminate in a sterile coupling 112. Not shown in Fig. 9 are the frame for holding the separator insert and the drive.

[0157] The product inlet system PZS shown in Fig. 9, the product outlet system PAS comprising the product outlets of the heavy and the light phase and an optional drainage system DS belonging to the PAS are separated from each other outside the separator insert and are therefore hermetically sealed.

[0158] A fill level measuring device 108 or 104 is shown as an example in Fig. 9a. An ultrasonic sensor element 300 is arranged below the bottom region of the container 105 / 109, e.g., a tank, a bottle, or a bag. It emits a signal, which is reflected at the liquid boundary and received again by the ultrasonic sensor element 300. The fill level can be determined directly from the signal's travel time.

[0159] An arrangement of two limit switches 400, located on the side of the container, is shown in Fig. 9b as an alternative to Fig. 9a. The limit switches detect an upper and a lower fill level. Exceeding the upper fill level is evaluated by the evaluation unit 500 and starts the respective pump 107 / 110. When the lower fill level is exceeded, the respective pump is stopped again. In this way, the fill level of the container is maintained between the lower and upper fill levels.

[0160] Alternatively, a single fill level can be detected, and the corresponding pump can be switched on when this level is exceeded and switched off when it falls below it. In this case, it may be useful to specify a certain minimum runtime for the pump or to apply a hysteresis to the pump setpoint.

[0161] In a further embodiment, however, three or more limit switches 400 can also be used, which detect at least a lower S1, a middle S2, and an upper S3 fill level in the tank. To control the fill level in the tank, these three fill level signals are combined with the measured values ​​M1 of the flow meter 102 in the inlet and M2 of the flow meter 115 in the outlet of the light phase.

[0162] If the level S1 in the tank is exceeded, pump 107 starts during the light phase. The setpoint for the pump is calculated as follows: a) Setpoint = M1 - M2 - Correction value

[0163] If the level S2 in the tank is exceeded, the setpoint for the pump is calculated from then on: b) Setpoint = M1 - M2

[0164] If the level continues to rise and reaches S3, the setpoint for the pump must be calculated again according to formula a) and the correction value must be increased for a while and then reduced again.

[0165] After a while, such a self-learning system has reached a stable state, so that the fill level in the container also settles at a constant value.

[0166] The evaluation in Figs. 9a and 9b is performed by an evaluation unit 500, which evaluates the measurement signals and thereby determines the fill level or monitors the reaching of a limit level. The control of the pumps can also be initiated by this evaluation unit.

[0167] The measuring principle of the limit switch 400 can be based, for example, on a capacitance measurement, whereby the change in the capacitance measured value is decisive for the evaluation.

[0168] Figs. 9a and 9b also feature a pressure sensor 113 for determining a pressure at the level of the container, which can also be used to determine the fill level, since there is a correlation between the height of the liquid column in the container and the pressure generated thereby. This pressure measurement is also evaluated by an evaluation unit, which, for example, controls the corresponding pump 107 / 110.

[0169] Fig. 10 shows a modification of the first variant of the separator insert II of Figs. 1-8 for connection to the drainage system of Fig. 9. In addition to a conventional product inlet line 124 and a product outlet line 125, the separator insert II also has a drainage outlet line 120. This is arranged in the bottom area 121 of the separator insert and has a liquid outlet 122 and 123 from both the drum and the housing. The remaining components can be structurally identical to previous embodiments.

[0170] Fig. 11 shows a second variant of a separator insert III, which can be operated within the framework of a separation process. This separator insert III has a bottom-side inlet via the inlet line 61 and the distributor 70 into the plate pack 67. The product inlet line 61 comprises an inlet nozzle 73, which extends from the bottom of the housing 68 into the interior of the rotor 65 and opens into a distribution chamber 78 of a holding device 77 of the plate pack 67. The holding device 77 can have a longitudinal axis that is formed parallel to the rotational axis of the rotor 65. One or more distribution channels 70 lead off from the distribution chamber 78, which allow radial forwarding of the supplied starting product into a separation zone of the rotor 65.

[0171] The product discharge 62 of the light phase occurs analogously to Fig. 1-10. The product discharge 63 of the heavy phase occurs through channels in a separating plate 69, here a closed-walled separating plate at the end of the plate stack, and finally through a gripper 64 into a discharge through the product line of the product discharge 63. The separating plate separates the heavy phase from the light phase, with the heavy phase being directed outward around the plate, and the light phase being directed and discharged inside the plate. However, this is only one of many possible variants of a product discharge for the heavy phase.

[0172] The separator insert III can be designed so that the rotor 65, in particular the drum 66 and the disc pack 67, can be removed from the housing 68. In this variant, it is also recommended to empty the rotor, in particular the drum, of any residual liquid before removing the rotor in the context of the present process. In this case, this can be done via the inlet line 61.

[0173] It is then recommended to replace the inlet line 61 when replacing the separator insert III to avoid cross-contamination of a subsequent batch. Accordingly, the inlet line can be attached to the housing in a replaceable and medium-tight manner using seals (not shown), e.g., sealing sleeves.

[0174] Fig. 11 can be modified in many ways, but in particular shows that the method can also be applied to a separator in which only the rotor with its product inlet and outlet lines is designed as a replaceable separator unit III. The housing 68 (not shown) can be opened, for example, by forming part of the housing as a cover. For this purpose, at least the upper receptacle of the cover must preferably be removed.

[0175] In Fig. 11, the residual liquid is drained via the drainage outlet line 120 into a collecting container 74 via a line element 71 connected thereto, in particular a discharge element in the form of a hose attached or plugged on. The inlet line 61, in particular the inlet nozzle 73, is connected to a supply line element 72, which is connected to a container 75 containing the suspension of the starting product. A switching valve (not shown) can be arranged in this line element, which switches between two containers 75, e.g., to supply a demulsifier to improve the suspension. Alternatively, the valve can be closed and the line elements and containers can be exchanged.

[0176] In addition, the supply element can have a pump, e.g. a peristaltic pump, in which only the supply element comes into contact with the starting product.

[0177] Fig. 12 shows a further variant of a separator insert II, which can be operated within the framework of a separation process mentioned above. This separator insert II has at least one connection piece 76 on its housing 1. Through this connection piece, the separator insert can be filled with an inert gas before the product to be separated enters the separator insert. This prevents the product to be separated from coming into contact with air or oxygen. A second connection piece 76 can be provided on the housing 1, which is intended to discharge gases from the separator insert, thus enabling the separator insert to be flushed with inert gas. Likewise, the separator insert can be filled with sterile air and blanketed with it through this connection piece. The blanketing with sterile air or inert gas can be controlled by the control unit 37.

[0178] Through the connection piece 76, the gas can also be extracted from the otherwise hermetically sealed separator insert in such a way that a negative pressure is created in the separator insert, which not only reduces contact with the residual oxygen but also reduces the frictional power of the rotating drum 66, which now rotates in a lower-density atmosphere. Alternatively, in addition to a protective gas, a compressed gas, e.g., compressed air, can be introduced via one or more of the gas connections 76, which further facilitates the emptying of the housing via the drainage line.

[0179] Introducing a gas also has further advantages. Practice has shown that, despite the ability to detect and mask droplets, precise determination of the fill level cannot always be guaranteed when foam is present in the bag or container 105. Depending on the density of the foam, it is detected as either a liquid phase or a gas phase. Therefore, it is desirable to prevent foam formation in the separator insert or in the various containers connected to the separator insert's outlets as much as possible. These containers are located in the light phase, heavy phase, and drainage outlets.

[0180] Foam formation occurs, among other things, because the various phases relax as they exit the drum of the separator insert. "Relaxation" in this context means that the pressure exerted on the liquid inside drum 3 decreases as the liquid leaves drum 3. This pressure reduction promotes the formation of bubbles or foaming of the escaping liquid phases.

[0181] To counteract this foaming, the following measures can be implemented:

[0182] Through one or more connections, in particular through one or more connecting pieces 76 (see Fig. 12) on the housing 1 of the separator insert, the housing 1 can be pressurized with sterile air A or an inert gas by means of a suitable device - for example from a pressurized tank, which is followed by a controllable throttle or the like, and / or via a pump (indicated by an arrow in front of the connecting pieces) - and pressurized by this pressurization.

[0183] This reduces the pressure drop of the liquid phases exiting the drum 3, thus reducing or even preventing outgassing. Since the housing 1 is in pressure and fluid communication with the light phase and drainage containers 105 and 114, such an arrangement also reduces or prevents outgassing in these containers (see 105, 114 in Fig. 9; the connecting pieces 76 are not shown there).

[0184] In a further embodiment, sterile air or an inert gas can be forced through a sterile filter (not shown) into the drainage container 114 to pressurize it. Since the drainage container is in pressure and fluid communication with the housing 1 of the separator insert and also with the container 105 for the light phase, the pressure in this container 105 is also increased and outgassing is reduced or prevented. Analogously, sterile air or an inert gas can be forced through a sterile filter (not shown) into the container 105 for the light phase to pressurize it. Since the container for the light phase is in pressure and fluid communication with the housing 1 of the separator insert and also with the drainage container 114, the pressure in this container 114 is also increased.

[0185] A pressure between 10 and 300 mbar has proven effective. The flow rate of the sterile air or inert gas is selected between 0.1 and 10 l / min, depending on the foam formation tendency. This flow rate can be fed continuously into the containers or bags, or it can be determined as an average of a pulsed introduction. The appropriate pulse-pause ratio for the specific foam can be determined through testing.

[0186] In a further embodiment, a foam-reducing agent can be injected into the housing 1 through the connection piece 76 (see Fig. 12) on the separator insert. Since the housing is in pressure and fluid communication with the bags or containers 105 and 114 of the light phase and the drainage, the foam-reducing agent also reaches these containers and reduces foam formation there.

[0187] If necessary, the foam-reducing agent can also be injected directly into the bags or containers 105, 109 and / or 114 in a further embodiment in order to reduce or prevent foam formation therein.

[0188] Frame I

[0189] Console 1-1

[0190] Car I-2

[0191] Rolls I-3

[0192] Recordings I-4, I-5

[0193] Separator insert II

[0194] Housing 1

[0195] Rotor 2

[0196] Drum 3

[0197] Magnetic bearing systems 4, 5

[0198] Stator units 4a, 5a

[0199] Rotor unit 4b, 5b radial boundary wall 6, 7

[0200] Product feed line 8

[0201] Product drain line (light phase) 10

[0202] Inlet pipe 12

[0203] Opening 12a

[0204] Distributor 13

[0205] Distribution shaft 14

[0206] Distributor foot 15

[0207] Distribution channel 16

[0208] Separator plate 17, cylindrical sections 18, 19, 20, conical sections 18a, 20a

[0209] Outlets 21

[0210] Peeling disc 22

[0211] Inlet openings 22a

[0212] Catch ring chamber 23

[0213] Drain pipe 24

[0214] Connection piece 24a

[0215] Chamber 25

[0216] Conical wall 26

[0217] Peeling disc 33

[0218] Inlet openings 33a

[0219] Product drain line (heavy phase) 34 Discharge 35

[0220] Control valve 36

[0221] Control device 37

[0222] Channel 38

[0223] Control valve 39

[0224] Derivation 40

[0225] Pins 41a

[0226] Recesses 41 b

[0227] Recesses 42

[0228] Passage opening 43

[0229] Hoses 44, 45

[0230] Centrifugal separator 100

[0231] Pump 101

[0232] Flowmeter 102

[0233] Fill level measuring device 104

[0234] Container 105

[0235] Optical sensor 106

[0236] Pump 107

[0237] Fill level measuring device 108

[0238] Container 109

[0239] Pump 110

[0240] Flowmeter 111

[0241] Sterile coupling 112

[0242] Pressure sensor 113

[0243] Drainage tank 114

[0244] Flowmeter 115

[0245] Drainage drain line 120

[0246] Floor area 121

[0247] Fluid drain 122

[0248] Fluid drain 123

[0249] Separation system 200

[0250] Sensor element 300

[0251] Limit switch 400 Evaluation unit 500

[0252] Separator insert III

[0253] Inlet line 61

[0254] Product flow (light phase 62

[0255] Product flow (heavy phase) 63

[0256] Gripper 64

[0257] Rotor 65

[0258] Drum 66

[0259] Plate package 67

[0260] Housing 68

[0261] Cutting plate 69

[0262] Distributor 70

[0263] Line element 71

[0264] Supply element 72

[0265] Inlet nozzle 73

[0266] Collection container 74

[0267] Container 75

[0268] Connection piece 76

[0269] Holding device 77

[0270] Distribution room 78

[0271] Rotation axis D

[0272] Suspension S phases LP, HP radii ro, ru

[0273] PAS product flow system

[0274] PZS product feed system

[0275] DS drainage system

[0276] A compressed air

Claims

Claims 1. A separation system (200) for separating a suspension with a centrifugal separator (100) into at least two flowable phases, wherein the centrifugal separator (100) has a frame (I) and a housing (1) that is not rotatable during operation, and a separator insert (II, III) that is designed as a pre-assembled, replaceable unit, wherein the separator insert (II, III) has at least the following: a) a rotor (2, 65) that is rotatable about an axis of rotation (D) and has a drum (3, 66) with a drum wall; b) preferably a separating agent arranged in the drum (3, 66); at least one product inlet line (8) and at least one product outlet line (10, 34); c) wherein the product-contacting regions of the separator insert (II, III) are made partially or completely of plastic;characterized in that the housing (1) and / or one or more further containers (105, 109, 114) can be directly or indirectly pressurized with sterile air A or an inert gas by means of a device suitable for this purpose and can be placed under an overlying pressure by this pressurization and / or that the housing can be placed under a negative pressure by means of the device.; 2. Separation system according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing (1) is designed as a part of the replaceable separator insert (II, III) made partly or completely of plastic.

3. Separation system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the housing (1) is designed as a part of the frame.

4. Separation system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device comprises a pressurized tank, downstream of which is a controllable valve and / or a controllable throttle or the like, and / or a pump.

5. Separation system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the housing (1) is in pressure and fluid communication with the one or more further containers.

6. Separation plant according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container or containers comprises a container (105) for receiving a light phase and / or a drainage container (114).

7. Separation system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a sterile filter is provided through which the sterile air or the inert gas can be supplied.

8. Separation system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a control unit (37) is provided which is designed to control and / or regulate the application of sterile air or an inert gas.

9. Separation system according to claim 8, characterized in that the control unit (37) is designed to set the flow rate in the compressed air or inert gas supply to a value between 0.1 and 10 l / min, and / or is designed to carry out the compressed air or inert gas supply continuously or in a pulsed manner.

10. Separation system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that additionally or alternatively a foam-reducing agent can be injected at least into the housing (1) and / or the at least one further container. 11 . Separation system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the overlay pressure can be adjusted to a value between 10 mbar and 300 mbar.

12. Separation system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one container (105, 109) is connected to at least one product discharge line (10, 34).

13. Separation system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the separation device (200) has a filling level measuring device (104, 108) for determining a liquid level of the suspension within the container (105, 109) and / or at least one limit switch (400) for detecting a reached liquid level within the container (105, 109).

14. Separation system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fill level measuring device (104, 108) and / or the limit switch (400) has a sensor element for detecting a capacitive change, in particular a capacitive sensor.

15. Separation plant according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the centrifugal separator (100) has a discharge line for the heavy phase (HP) and a discharge line for a light phase (LP), wherein a pump (107, 110) is arranged in at least one of the discharge lines.

16. Separation system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that all product inlet lines are part of an inlet system (PZS) and that all product outlet lines are part of an outlet system (PAS) and that the entire separator insert (II, III) with its inlet and outlet system is designed in a sealed manner.

17. Separation system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (1) is designed to receive the drum (3, 66) and that the housing (1) can be closed in a pressure-tight manner.

18. A method for centrifugally separating a suspension into at least two flowable phases using a separation system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: a) feeding the suspension into the rotating drum (3, 66), b) centrifugally separating the suspension into the at least two flowable phases in the rotating drum (3, 66) of the separator insert, and c) discharging the at least two flowable phases from the drum (3, 66), characterized in that d) an overpressure or a negative pressure is generated in the housing (1) during the centrifugal separation.

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