Separator insert, separator, and method for exchanging a separator insert

Abstract

The invention relates to a separator, comprising a frame (I) and a separator insert (II) exchangeably disposed on the frame; wherein the separator insert is designed to separate a flowable suspension (S) into at least two flowable phases (LP, HP) of different density in a centrifugal field and forms a pre-assembled, exchangeable unit for inserting into stator units on the frame of the separator; wherein, furthermore, mutually spaced holders (I-4, I-5) having stator units (4a, 5a) of the bearing devices (4, 5) are formed on the frame (I), between which holders the housing (1) of the separator insert is non-rotatably retained such that the rotor (2) with the drum remains rotatable; wherein the relative position of the holders (I-4, I-5) having the stator units (4a, 5a) of the bearing devices (4, 5) can be changed such that the separator insert (II) can be exchanged; and wherein the housing (1) and the holders (I-4 and I-5) have corresponding interlocking elements in order to non-rotatably retain the housing (1) at the holders.

Description

[0001] SEPARATOR INSERT, SEPARATOR AND METHOD FOR CHANGING A SEPARATOR INSERT

[0002] The invention relates to a separator insert for a separator, according to the preamble of claim 1, a separator with such a separator insert and a method for changing a separator insert.

[0003] 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. Steam sterilization of the separators used is required for a wide variety of applications. A relatively "small" steam-sterilizable separator with a disc pack introduced to the market by the applicant is the "CSC 6" separator with 6000 m 2equivalent clarification area. However, in some situations, such as in the laboratory, this machine is still relatively large. The well-known disc-pack separators available on the market are driven by a spindle, which in turn is driven by a motor, either directly or via a gear. Furthermore, these machines are made of stainless steel. For these reasons, filters are currently very frequently used in laboratories instead of centrifugal separators. A disc-pack separator with disposable plastic components (single-use technology - single-use of pre-qualified plastic parts) would not require steam sterilization (SIP - Sterilization In Place). This could be particularly suitable for use in biotechnology.

[0004] WO 2014 / 000829 A1 discloses a separator for separating a flowable product into different phases. The separator comprises a rotatable drum with a lower drum section and an upper drum section, and a means arranged in the drum for processing a suspension of solids in the centrifugal field or for separating a heavy, solid-like phase from a lighter phase in the centrifugal field. One, several, or all of the following elements are made of plastic or a plastic composite material: the lower drum section, the upper drum section, and the means for clarification. This makes it possible to design part of the drum, or preferably even the entire drum—preferably including the inlet and outlet systems or areas—for single-use, which is particularly advantageous for processing pharmaceutical products such as fermentation broths or the like.This is interesting and advantageous because, after processing a corresponding product batch, the parts of the drum that come into contact with the product do not need to be cleaned after the batch is processed, but the entire drum can be replaced. This separator is therefore particularly advantageous from a hygienic point of view. To achieve a physical separation between this disposable drum and the drive, a contactless coupling between the drive and the drum is advantageous.

[0005] A further development is shown in the generic DE 10 2017 128 027. Here, the bearing devices are designed as magnetic bearings, and one of the magnetic bearing devices is preferably also used as a drive device for rotating the drum, which is kept suspended during operation. This eliminates the need for mechanical components for rotating and supporting the drum, which favors the design as a separator with a single-use separator insert, since replacing this separator insert is very easy. The present invention also utilizes these advantages.

[0006] Against this background, the object of the invention is to design a generic separator insert - which can be used or designed as a disposable element - in such a way that the separation process can be better controlled

[0007] The invention solves this problem by the subject matter of claim 1, i.e. by a separator with a frame and a separator insert arranged interchangeably on the frame, wherein the separator insert is designed to separate a flowable suspension in a centrifugal field into at least two flowable phases of different densities and forms a pre-assembled, interchangeable unit for insertion into stator units on the frame of the separator and has at least the following: a housing which is stationary during operation and is designed in the manner of a container which is closed except for a plurality of openings, a rotor arranged within the housing and rotatable about a rotational axis with a drum which has one or more openings, preferably a separating means arranged in the drum, at least two rotor units for magnetic bearing devices at two axially spaced locations of the rotor with the drum,with which the rotor with the drum can be suspended, rotatably mounted, and set in rotation within the housing during operation, wherein spaced-apart receptacles with stator units of the bearing devices are further formed on the frame, between which the housing of the separator insert is held in a rotationally fixed manner so that the rotor remains rotatable, wherein the relative position of the receptacles with the stator units of the bearing devices can be changed such that the separator insert is replaceable, wherein the housing and the receptacles have corresponding form-locking means to hold the housing in a rotationally fixed manner on the receptacles.

[0008] “In operation” means during centrifugal processing when the rotor is rotating.

[0009] According to claim 1, it is possible to create a separator comprising a disposable module with disposable components, a "drum" and "housing," whereas at least the frame and parts of the bearing and drive device can be reusable. By changing the position, the corresponding positive locking means can be engaged and disengaged to change the separator insert. The invention enables the production of a separator in which a disposable separator insert can be used, which is preferably designed such that all components in contact with the product are made of plastic or other non-magnetic materials that can be disposed of after a single use. Cleaning after use is thus eliminated. The machine and its operation can thus become significantly less expensive. Magnets can be recycled if necessary.

[0010] It is simple and safe because the frame is provided with spaced-apart receptacles for the bearing devices, between which the separator insert can be inserted in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0011] It can further be provided that the separator insert can be fastened to the frame in a form-fitting and non-positive manner in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0012] In a particularly simple variant, the receptacles and the housing can have corresponding pins and recesses as corresponding positive locking means to hold the housing in a rotationally fixed manner to the receptacles. This is particularly simple if the receptacles and pins each extend axially.

[0013] It can further be provided that the position of the receptacles, in particular on the console, is adjustable in order to be able to change the separator insert. For this purpose, the relative distance between the receptacles can be adjustable, but one or both receptacles can also be designed to be foldable, pivotable, rotatable, or movable in order to be able to place the separator insert between the receptacles. Preferably, according to one variant, the relative vertical position can be changed by adjusting the vertical relative distance between the receptacles and the stator units of the bearing devices in such a way that the separator insert is replaceable, so that the corresponding form-locking means can be brought into and out of engagement by the adjustment.

[0014] This makes changing the separator insert after processing a batch quick and easy.

[0015] According to a particularly simple first variant, only one of the two mounts can be arranged on the frame, in particular on the console, in an adjustable manner, in particular height-adjustable, while the other mount can be arranged fixedly on the frame, in particular on the console. Alternatively, it is possible for both mounts to be arranged on the frame, in particular on the console, in an adjustable manner, in particular height-adjustable.

[0016] Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous and simple from a structural point of view if one or both receptacles are arranged so as to be movable on the frame, in particular on the console.

[0017] It is further advantageous if, when inserting the separator insert into one or both of the receptacles, one or more axially outgoing hoses on the separator insert are guided through a respective through-opening of the respective receptacle.

[0018] It is preferred, as it is simple and practical, that the rotor units are arranged at the two axial ends of the drum, and that two corresponding stator units are formed on the frame of the separator. In this way, magnetic bearing devices are formed at both axial ends of the drum.

[0019] It is particularly advantageous that, according to the invention, the functionally required position of the stator units and the rotor units relative to one another is mechanically ensured. This particularly applies to the precise axial and radial centering of the coaxially nested stator and rotor units. The invention also provides a separator insert for separating a flowable suspension in a centrifugal field into at least two flowable phases of different densities. The separator insert forms a pre-assembled, replaceable unit for insertion into stator units on the frame of the separator and comprises at least the following: a housing that is stationary during operation and designed like a container that is closed except for one or more openings; a rotor arranged within the housing and rotatable about a rotational axis, comprising a drum that has one or more openings; a separating agent arranged in the drum;At least two rotor units for magnetic bearing devices at two axially spaced locations on the drum, with which the rotor can be suspended with the drum during operation within the housing, rotatably mounted, and set in rotation, wherein the housing has form-locking means for holding the housing rotationally fixed to an abutment. This separator insert is particularly suitable for a separator as an interchangeable module, wherein the frame, in particular its receptacles, forms the abutment(s).

[0020] The invention also provides an advantageous and simple method for exchanging a first separator insert of a separator according to one of claims 1 to 7 for a second separator insert, comprising the following steps: a) providing the separator with a first separator insert mounted on the frame, b) adjusting the relative position, in particular the relative distance, of the receptacles and releasing the positive connection between the frame and the separator insert and removing the first separator insert from the receptacles; c) providing the second separator insert (before, during or after steps a) and b); d) inserting the other second separator insert into one of the receptacles so that the corresponding positive connection means engage with one another at one end of the housing and at one of the receptacles;and e) adjusting the relative position, in particular the relative distance, of the receptacles until the corresponding positive locking means at both ends of the housing of the separator insert and at the two receptacles engage with each other in a rotationally fixed manner. According to an advantageous variant, at least one of the two magnetic bearing devices preferably also represents the rotary drive for the drum, wherein this drive is also suitable for driving the drum at freely adjustable speeds or a freely selectable direction of rotation. It can preferably be provided that one or both magnetic bearing devices act as radial and axial bearings and keep the rotor suspended in the container at a distance from it during operation.

[0021] The rotor and stator units interact to form magnetic bearing systems. These allow the drum to be supported axially and radially and kept suspended.

[0022] According to a further advantageous and particularly simple variant, it is additionally provided that a further opening in the drum is designed as a free radial outlet for a second of the flowable phases from the drum into the housing, from which it can be discharged. It can also be advantageous and simple for this purpose to be associated with a collecting annular chamber in the housing, which has an outlet from the housing.

[0023] According to another advantageous and particularly simple variant, it can also be provided to additionally design a further opening in the drum for discharging the additional flowable phases from the drum as a paring disc. It can then advantageously be provided that the paring disc has a discharge pipe that is coaxial with the supply pipe and leads coaxially with it out of the drum and through the opening in the first axial boundary wall of the housing.

[0024] In order to be able to control or regulate the separation process well, it can further be provided that a control valve is connected downstream of the first paring disc and / or the second paring disc on the flow side - i.e. possibly on the outlet side in each case - which control valve(s) can be controlled by a control device.

[0025] It can further be preferably provided that a plate pack is arranged in the drum as a separating means, and that a paring disc is arranged in a space-saving and simple manner in the drum below the distributor and below the plate pack, i.e., in an area that would otherwise often be required for attaching a drive spindle, which is not required here. This paring disc serves to drain the first flowable phase from the drum.

[0026] It is preferred - because of its simple construction and safety - that the rotor units for the magnetic bearing devices are arranged at the two axial ends of the drum and that the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe of the first peeling disc each pass axially through one of these two rotor units.

[0027] It is particularly advantageous and practical that the separator insert is designed as a pre-assembled unit. In particular, it can also be provided that all product-contacting elements of this insert are made of plastic or another non-magnetic material, while the entire insert is replaceable and can be completely disposed of after use. Cleaning and, if necessary, steam sterilization of the separator insert are thus no longer necessary.

[0028] The respective bearing device, which in addition to a radial bearing also provides an axial bearing for the drum and / or a rotary drive, can act permanently and / or electromagnetically.

[0029] On the outer circumference, the inlet pipe or a paring disc shaft surrounding it is preferably inserted into the housing in a sealed manner or is formed integrally with it.

[0030] The drum can be single-conical or double-conical. It can additionally or alternatively also have one or more cylindrical sections. It can also be composed of several parts, in particular an upper part and a lower part, wherein these parts are preferably connected to one another after the installation of internal components and their assembly (e.g., by gluing or welding). Similarly, the housing can be composed of several parts, in particular an upper part and a lower part, wherein these parts are preferably connected to one another after the installation of internal components—in particular, the rotor—and their assembly (e.g., by gluing or welding).

[0031] The outlets can have nozzles on the outside of the housing, which are sealed around the outer circumference, allowing hoses or similar devices to be easily connected. The hoses can also be pre-assembled to the nozzles, ensuring they are completely sealed and, if necessary, sterile. The nozzles can extend radially, tangentially, or at an angle to the radial direction.

[0032] After its manufacture, the entire separator insert can also be provided as a sealed unit, preventing any contaminants from entering. For this purpose, the nozzles at the housing openings can be sealed and releasably closed. Hose sections can be arranged on the nozzles, featuring openable and closable connectors, with which the separator insert can be connected to other elements of the supply and discharge system, such as bags or tanks, or hoses or pipes.

[0033] These separators are suitable for operation at variable, even relatively high speeds. They can also be used for one-off processing - for example, for the centrifugal separation of a product batch of a flowable fermentation broth in the form of a suspension - from 1001 to several thousand, e.g. 4000 l - into different phases - and then disposed of. A particular advantage is that all components of the separator that come into contact with the product can be installed, operated, and then disposed of as prefabricated and germ-free units. This prefabricated unit consists at least of the rotor with the drum, the separation discs, the inlet distributor and the rotor magnets or rotor units, as well as the housing with the inlets and outlets. Furthermore, the unit can also have inlet and outlet lines (e.g.hoses) as well as measuring equipment or other product-contacting components that are intended for single use and are disposed of together with the separator unit after use.

[0034] Finally, it can also be advantageously provided that the housing has only the openings for inlet pipes and outlets and is otherwise hermetically sealed. For this purpose, the inlet pipes and outlets can protrude outward from the housing like nozzles, with these nozzles being sealed to the housing or formed integrally with it. Advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in the remaining subclaims.

[0035] The invention is described in more detail below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings, in which further advantageous variants and refinements 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:

[0036] Figure 1 : a schematic, sectional view of a first interchangeable

[0037] Separator insert of a separator together with a schematic representation of an inlet and outlet system and a control unit of the separator;

[0038] Figure 2: 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 unit of the separator;

[0039] Figure 3: a schematic representation of a separator with a reusable frame and a replaceable separator insert, the latter here in the manner of Fig. 1, with hose sections arranged thereon;

[0040] Figure 4: a perspective view of the replaceable separator insert from

[0041] Fig. 1 and 3 with hose sections arranged thereon;

[0042] Figure 5-7: three consecutive steps when inserting the replaceable separator insert from Fig. 4 into the frame of Fig. 3.

[0043] Figure 8: a perspective view of a modification of the replaceable separator insert

[0044] Figure 3 shows a separator with a reusable frame I and an interchangeable separator insert II of the type shown in Fig. 1 for the centrifugal separation of a product—a suspension S—into various dense phases HP, LP. The separator insert could also be designed as shown in Fig. 2.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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 each other 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. Stator units 4a, 5a of the magnetic bearing devices 4, 5 are arranged on the frame 1-1.

[0049] The magnetic bearing devices 4, 5 preferably act radially and axially and hold the rotatably mounted rotor 2 in suspension, preferably in the housing 1 at a distance from it.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] One or both of the receptacles 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 receptacle I-5 is fixedly mounted on the bracket I-1. It is then advantageous for the further upper receptacle I-4 to be height-adjustable on the bracket 1-1.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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).

[0055] 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 enable the separator insert II to be changed. Stator units 4a, 5a of two drive and magnetic bearing devices 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] According to Fig. 3 to 7, the above measures are implemented as follows.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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 at the corners of an imaginary polygon, in particular a square, at the top and bottom respectively on the receptacles I-4, I-5 and the housing 1 of the separator insert II. In Fig. 3-7, corresponding form-locking means 41a, 41b and 42 are arranged circumferentially distributed around the separator insert II.However, it is also possible that only one form-locking device is provided instead of several form-locking devices.

[0062] However, the corresponding form-locking means can also be arranged asymmetrically to ensure that the separator insert can only be used in one orientation.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] This can be clearly seen from the interaction of Figs. 3 to 7.

[0066] Fig. 5 shows the frame I before inserting a separator insert II.

[0067] The two stator units 4a, 5a have been moved apart relative to each other far enough that the respective separator insert can be lifted axially between the two receptacles with the stator units 4a, 5a (Fig. 5, 6), whereby the separator insert II is then placed in / on the lower receptacle I-5 (Fig. 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 receptacle I-4 is lowered until the corresponding form-locking means of the upper receptacle I-4 and the housing 1 of the separator insert I - here 41, 42 - also securely engage with each other (Fig. 7). In this process, upper hoses 44 on the housing 1 are guided through the through-hole 43 of the upper mount I-4. The separator insert II is now securely held on the frame I in a rotationally fixed manner.The centrifugal field now allows the spinning and separation process for processing a product batch to begin. 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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).

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] The respective magnetic bearing device 4, 5 can, for example, operate according to a combined electromagnetic and permanent magnetic principle.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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. Likewise, the direction of rotation of the rotor 2 can be specified and changed in this way.

[0077] During operation, the rotor 2 rotates. This keeps it axially suspended and radially centered. The rotor 2 and the drum 3 are preferably operated at a speed of 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 and HP of varying 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.

[0078] 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).

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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). If the orientation in space is different, the orientations change accordingly. In addition, one or both outlets may be repositioned—further discussed below.

[0082] The rotor 2 of the separator with the drum 3 preferably consists entirely or predominantly of a plastic or a plastic composite material.

[0083] The drum 3 is preferably cylindrical and / or conical in 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).

[0084] 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).

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] Here the first phase is a lighter phase LP and the second phase is a denser, heavier phase HP compared to the first phase.

[0088] 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.

[0089] The drum 3 also has openings which are associated with the openings of the housing.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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).

[0094] 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).

[0095] 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.

[0096] With regard to the discharge of the lighter phase, the separator inserts in Fig. 1 and 2 differed.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] Below the collecting annular chamber 23, a chamber 25 that does not serve to drain a phase can optionally be formed. This chamber 25 can optionally have a leakage drain (not shown here). The leakage can drain freely, preferably into a container. However, it can also be extracted by vacuum if the chamber 25 has a vacuum connection for connecting a vacuum-generating device.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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, which 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 thus 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 heavier phase HP from the drum 3 relative to the lighter phase LP.

[0104] The peeling disc 33 is stationary during operation of the separator and dips with its outer edge into the heavier phase HP rotating in the drum 3.

[0105] 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. The paring disc 33 can be arranged in a simple and compact manner in the drum 3 below the distributor 14 and below the disc pack 17. The radius ru corresponds to the immersion depth of the paring disc 33.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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 further within the housing 1 into the paring disc 33.

[0108] 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 peeling disc. A control device 37 is preferably provided. The control valve 36 is preferably connected to the control device 37 wirelessly or by wire.

[0109] The control device 37 can also be designed and provided to control the magnetic bearings 4, 5 and the drive.

[0110] According to Fig. 2, the light phase LP is also discharged via a peeling disc.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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 lead, for example, into 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 ).

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] The respective paring disc 22, 33 is each a cylindrical and essentially radially aligned disc provided with several channels, for example one to six, 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.

[0116] Theoretically, a third peeling disc could also be provided, which could serve to remove another phase.

[0117] The operation of the separators according to Fig. 1 and then Fig. 2 is briefly described below. 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 only need to be moved apart. The separator insert is then inserted in a form-fitting manner and the stator units are moved towards one another. This ensures that the housing is held securely and non-rotatably. Now, if necessary, hoses are connected to the nozzles which lead into tanks or bags. The respective separator insert in Figs. 1 and 2 can therefore preferably also have at least hoses and nozzles which are connected to further lines (not shown here) and containers such as bags, tanks, pumps and the like.can be connected.

[0118] Then, after connecting the pipes and hoses etc., a suspension is fed into the rotating drum (inlet 8) and centrifugally separated into the light phase LP and the heavy phase HP.

[0119] The heavier phase HP of greater density flows radially outward in the separation chamber of drum 3. There, the phase HP leaves the drum at a radius ru through the channels of the stationary paring disc 33.

[0120] 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.

[0121] The separation process can be easily influenced using the control valve(s) 36, 39. This results in an optimization of the separation process.

[0122] The primary application of the separator according to the invention is cell separation in the pharmaceutical industry. The capacity range is intended for processing broths from fermenters in the range of 100 l to 4000 l, as well as for laboratory applications. 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] Fig. 8 shows a modification of a 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(s), such as the pins 41 on the receptacle I-5 and the corresponding form-locking means provided on the frame I, are provided only on one side between the frame I and the separator insert II, thus also enabling axial and anti-rotation locking of the separator insert II relative to the frame I. This reduces, among other things, the complexity of the structure.

[0125] Reference symbol

[0126] Frame I

[0127] Console 1-1

[0128] Car I-2

[0129] Rolls I-3

[0130] Recordings I-4, I-5

[0131] Separator insert II

[0132] Housing 1

[0133] Rotor 2

[0134] Drum 3

[0135] Magnetic bearing systems 4, 5

[0136] Stator units 4a, 5a

[0137] Rotor unit 4b, 5b radial boundary wall 6, 7 inlet 8

[0138] Process 10

[0139] Inlet pipe 12

[0140] Opening 12a

[0141] Distributor 13

[0142] Distribution shaft 14

[0143] Distributor foot 15

[0144] Distribution channel 16

[0145] Separator plate 17, cylindrical sections 18, 19, 20, conical sections 18a, 20a

[0146] Outlets 21

[0147] Peeling disc 22

[0148] Inlet openings 22a

[0149] Catch ring chamber 23

[0150] Drain pipe 24

[0151] Connection piece 24a

[0152] Chamber 25

[0153] Conical wall 26

[0154] Peeling disc 33

[0155] Inlet openings 33a

[0156] Drain pipe 34

[0157] Derivation 35

[0158] Control valve 36

[0159] Control device 37

[0160] Channel 38

[0161] Control valve 39

[0162] Derivative 40

[0163] Pins 41 , 41 a Recesses 41 b

[0164] Recesses 42

[0165] Passage opening 43

[0166] Hoses 44, 45

[0167] Rotation axis D Suspension S Phases LP, HP Radii ro, ru

Claims

27 Claims Separator with a frame (I) and a separator insert (II) interchangeably arranged on the frame, a) wherein the separator insert is designed for separating a flowable suspension (S) in a centrifugal field into at least two flowable phases (LP, HP) of different densities and forms a pre-assembled, interchangeable unit for insertion into stator units on the frame of the separator and comprises at least the following: i. a housing (1) that is stationary during operation and is designed in the manner of a container that is closed except for one or more openings, ii. a rotor (2) arranged within the housing (1) and rotatable about an axis of rotation (D) with a drum (3) which has one or more openings, iii. preferably a separating agent arranged in the drum (3), iv.at least two rotor units (4b, 5b) for magnetic bearing devices (4, 5) at two axially spaced locations of the rotor (2) with the drum, with which the rotor (2) with the drum (3) can be suspended in operation within the housing, rotatably mounted and set in rotation, b) wherein furthermore spaced apart from each other receptacles (I-. 4, I-5) are formed with stator units (4a, 5a) of the bearing devices (4, 5) between which the housing (1 ) of the separator insert is held rotationally fixed, so that the rotor (2) remains rotatable with the drum, c) wherein the relative position of the receptacles (I-4 and I-5) with the stator units (4a, 5a) of the bearing devices (4, 5) is changeable such that the separator insert (II) is replaceable, d) wherein the housing (1 ) and at least one of the receptacles (I-4 and I-5) have corresponding positive locking means to hold the housing (1 ) rotationally fixed to the receptacle. Separator according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing (1 ) and the receptacles (I-4 and I-5) have corresponding positive locking means to hold the housing (1 ) rotationally fixed to the receptacles.

3. Separator according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing (1) and only the receptacles (I-4 or I-5) have corresponding positive locking means to hold the housing (1) rotationally fixed to the respective receptacle.

4. Separator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the housing (1 ) and the receptacles (I-4 and I-5) have corresponding pins (41 , 41 a) and recesses (41 b, 42) as corresponding positive locking means to hold the housing (1 ) rotationally fixed to the receptacles (I-4 and I-5).

5. Separator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the relative distance between the two receptacles (I-4, I-5) is adjustable.

6. Separator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one of the two receptacles (I-4) is adjustably arranged on the frame, in particular on the console (1-1 ), and that the other receptacle (I-5) is fixedly formed on the frame, in particular on the console (1-1 ).

7. Separator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that both receptacles (I-4, I-5) are adjustably arranged on the frame (1), in particular on the console (1-1).

8. Separator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or both receptacles (I-4) are slidably arranged on the frame, in particular on the console (1-1).

9. Separator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or more axially aligned hose(s) (44, 45) is guided on the separator insert (I) through a through-opening (43) of the respective axially associated receptacle (I-4, I-5).

10. Separator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the frame (I) has a control device (37).

11. Separator insert for separating a flowable suspension (S) in a centrifugal field into at least two flowable phases (LP, HP) of different compositions A unit that forms a pre-assembled, interchangeable unit for insertion into stator units on the frame of the separator and comprises at least the following: i. a stationary housing (1) designed in the manner of a container, which is closed except for one or more openings, ii. a rotor (2) arranged within the housing (1) and rotatable about an axis of rotation (D), with a drum (3) having one or more openings, iii. a separating means arranged in relation to the drum (3), iv. at least two rotor units (4b, 5b) for magnetic bearing devices (4, 5) at two axially spaced locations of the rotor (2) with the drum (3), with which the rotor (2) with the drum (3) can be suspended, rotatably mounted and set in rotation within the housing (1) during operation, wherein the housing (1) has positive locking means to hold the housing (1) rotationally fixed to a support such as a frame.

12. Method for replacing a first separator insert of a separator according to any one of claims 1 to 8 with a second separator insert, comprising the following steps: a) providing the separator with a first first separator insert (II) mounted on the frame (I); b) changing the relative position of the receptacles (I-4, I-5) and releasing the positive locking between the frame and the separator insert and removing the first separator insert (II) from the receptacles; c) providing the second separator insert; d) inserting the other second separator insert into one of the receptacles so that the corresponding positive locking means at one end of the housing and at one of the receptacles engage with each other; and e) again changing the relative position of the receptacles (I-4, I-5) until the corresponding positive locking means at both ends of the housing (1) and at the two receptacles (I-4, I-5) engage with each other in a rotationally fixed manner.

13. Method according to claim 12, characterized in that when inserting the separator insert, one or more axially extending hoses (44, 45) guided through a through-opening (43) of the respective axially associated receptacle on the separator insert. Method for operating a separator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that during operation of the separator, a leakage line from the separator is provided, in particular via a separate leakage outlet of the separator insert. Use of a container in a separator according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the container is interchangeably arranged on a leakage outlet of a separator insert.

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