Material pressurizing device

Abstract

The apparatus (1) comprises a control device (3), a first endless belt (4) forming a first pressing means, and a second pressing means (5), in which a press zone (6) for pressing a material (2) is formed, a longitudinal direction (7) is defined parallel to the first endless belt (4) in relation to the press zone (6) in a direction from a start end (8) of the press zone (6) toward a finish end (9) of the press zone (6), and a pressurizing device (10) capable of applying a press pressure (11) to an inner surface (12) of the first endless belt (4) toward the press zone (6), the inner surface (12) facing the opposite side to the press zone (6), and the pressurizing device (10) is designed to apply at least one fluid (13) to the inner surface (12) of the first endless belt (4) toward the press zone (6), and the pressurizing device (10) is capable of applying the press pressure (11) to the inner surface (12) of the first endless belt (4) toward the press zone (6), the pressurizing device (10) being capable of applying at least one fluid (13) to the inner surface (12) of the first endless belt (4) toward the press zone (6), the pressurizing device (10) being capable of applying the press pressure (1 ...

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for pressing a material, for example a fiber-containing material. [Background technology]

[0002] The apparatus comprises at least one first endless belt forming a first pressing means and at least one second pressing means, in particular a second endless belt, between which a pressing zone for pressing a material is formed, defining a longitudinal direction, which is arranged parallel to the first endless belt and in relation to the pressing zone in a direction from the start of the pressing zone towards the end of the pressing zone.

[0003] In the operation of this apparatus, the material is conveyed in the circumferential direction of the endless belt towards the press zone and then pressed.

[0004] In this regard, at least one pressure device is provided, by means of which a pressing pressure can be applied to an inner surface of the at least one first endless belt towards the press zone, said inner surface facing away from the press zone.

[0005] Such devices are widespread in the art and include a variety of pressure devices, such as press rollers, which press the material in a press zone.

[0006] A drawback of the prior art designs is that the pressure application equipment and possible abrasion often leads to wear and premature wear of the endless belts, thereby reducing the process stability and efficiency of the equipment. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT It is an object of the present invention to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art and to provide an apparatus which allows a user to minimize wear and tear on the endless belt and ensure a longer service life. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The above problems are solved by the device and method set forth in the claims.

[0009] The apparatus according to the invention is characterized in that the pressure device is configured to apply at least one fluid to the inner surface of the at least one first endless belt towards the press zone and to apply a pressing pressure by means of this fluid.

[0010] The configuration according to the present invention allows the pressing pressure to be generated by a fluid, and prevents solids from coming into contact with the inner surface of the endless belt in the pressing zone, so that wear of the endless belt caused by the pressing device is largely avoided.

[0011] In another embodiment, at least one spacer element is provided, which is located downstream of the fluid outlet of the pressure device in the direction of the fluid flow, and which spacer element can form a lubrication gap for the fluid on the inner surface of the endless belt. The advantage is that the press pressure can be maintained downstream of the pressure device by simple means due to the lubrication gap of the spacer element. Furthermore, the spacing between the pressure device and the endless belt can be easily determined and adjusted by the spacer element.

[0012] It should be noted at the outset that the lubricating gap or lubricating film of the device according to the invention in the region or press zone is not only meant to simply wet the inner surface of the endless belt, but can also be a fluid film that forms a significantly higher fill level on the endless belt. To separate the two sides of the lubricating film, preferably seals can be provided to prevent the fluid from unintentionally leaking out of the endless belt. Furthermore, for a rotating endless belt, the lubricating film can also be formed by spacer elements after the press zone.

[0013] By fluid flow direction is meant all paths that a fluid can take by acting or flowing towards the press zone and then be further guided in the conveying direction of the endless belt.

[0014] A possible embodiment is characterized in that at least one spacer element comprises a frame arrangement, which is arranged between the pressure device and the inner surface of the endless belt and has at least one fluid passageway, which is formed in the direction from the pressure device towards the inner surface of the endless belt. The frame arrangement allows for simple means to mount different pressure devices or pressure vessels on the frame, which is always adapted to the width of the endless belt. Furthermore, the frame allows for easy mounting of sealing means for fluids.

[0015] The fluid passages may be used to apply fluid to the inner surface of the endless belt through the spacer elements or frame structure and may form an extension of the fluid outlet of the pressure device.

[0016] The frame arrangement can preferably have at least one further fluid passage, which is formed in at least one frame segment. The advantage of this arrangement is that the frame can supply lubricant, for example by means of the fluid passage, to the frame area facing the inner surface of the endless belt. The fluid passage can be formed, for example, by means of through holes or pipes. According to one embodiment, a press zone can be formed with the frame arrangement, whereby only the lubrication of the belt can be performed by the further fluid passage.

[0017] Furthermore, the spacer elements are at least partially made of a porous material which is permeable to fluids at least in one direction, which allows for the supply of lubricant or fluids in a simple manner to the area below the spacer elements or to the area downstream of the spacer elements in the flow direction.

[0018] It should be noted here that the porous material may be preferably selected such that the porosity of the material allows for fluid transmission, but the pressing pressure of the pressurizing device is not substantially affected.

[0019] In a possible variant, at least one spacer element can be wedge-shaped in the longitudinal direction, decreasing the gap distance between the spacer element and the inner surface of the first endless belt in the longitudinal direction. The advantage of this configuration is that the fluid can be easily or precisely conveyed in the longitudinal direction through the endless belt, for example in the case of turbulent flow when exiting the pressure device.

[0020] Furthermore, the spacer elements may comprise rolling bodies, in particular cylindrical rollers, which are supported for rotation about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and substantially parallel to the inner surface of the first endless belt, again advantageously allowing the fluid to be guided in the longitudinal direction by the rolling of the rolling bodies.

[0021] Furthermore, an adjustment device is provided, by means of which the distance between the inner surface of the first endless belt and the pressure device can be adjusted. The advantage of this configuration is that the pressure device can be brought closer to the endless belt, for example, when the endless belt is moved away from the pressure device by the pressing pressure. However, it is also possible to adjust the distance of the pressure device in relation to the adjustment of the pressing pressure, for example, when the pressing pressure can be generated by gravity pressure.

[0022] In a possible configuration, the spacer elements can be height-adjustable, making the distance between the spacer elements and the inner surface of the first endless belt adjustable. The advantage is that by this measure the lubrication gap can be adjusted, for example, depending on the circumferential speed of the endless belt or the pressing pressure of the pressing device.

[0023] Furthermore, it is also possible to arrange the pressure devices over the entire pressing zone, which is particularly advantageous, for example, if the pressing zone is designed to be relatively short, for example when a pressing roller is used as the second pressing means.

[0024] In a possible variant, the fluid can be a gas or a liquid, in particular it can comprise water or oil. The advantage of this measure is that the pressing pressure can be applied, for example, with compressed air or gas, so that simple design measures can be taken for this purpose. The use of a liquid fluid, in particular water or oil, thereby provides a cost-effective design and at the same time allows the endless belt to be lubricated.

[0025] It can be particularly advantageous if at least one sealing body arrangement is provided at least in the press zone, which sealing body arrangement is arranged at least on the inner surface of the endless belt, the advantage of which is that it is possible to prevent unintentional leakage of fluid into certain areas.

[0026] Furthermore, at least one sealing body arrangement is arranged on the inner surface of at least the first endless belt in the press zone at a first edge transverse to the longitudinal direction and at a second edge opposite thereto, which sealing body arrangement may be arranged in the longitudinal direction at least over the length of the press zone, which advantageously ensures that the fluid is confined or sealed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, thereby facilitating the maintenance of the pressing pressure.

[0027] In a variant, the at least one sealing body arrangement comprises a pressing device by means of which a pressing device can be used to press the sealing body arrangement against the at least one first endless belt, this measure making it possible to improve the sealing effect and to optimize the adaptation of the sealing body arrangement to the endless belt deformed by the pressing pressure.

[0028] It may be advantageous if the spacer element and / or the frame arrangement includes at least one sealing body arrangement. This measure can ensure improved sealing in the area of ​​the pressing zone. Furthermore, in one possible embodiment, the spacer element can be formed, for example, by a sealing body arrangement arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction, for example by means of a pressing device, whereby the lubrication gap of the spacer element can additionally be controlled by the pressing device. Furthermore, the frame arrangement can also include or be formed by multiple sealing body arrangements.

[0029] Furthermore, the control device can be set to adjust the pressing pressure of the pressing device in response to the circumferential speed of the first endless belt, which contributes to optimizing the pressing behavior.

[0030] Furthermore, the control device can be configured to adjust the distance between the inner surface of the at least one first endless belt and the pressing device depending on the peripheral speed of the first endless belt, which can be particularly advantageous, for example, when the pressing pressure is generated and regulated by the gravity pressure of a fluid.

[0031] The control device may advantageously be configured to control the pressing force of the pressing device against the sealing body arrangement as a function of the pressing pressure of the pressing device and / or the amount of fluid acting as lubricant applied to the lubricating gap. This measure allows a dynamic adaptation of the sealing behavior as a function of the pressing pressure. It is also possible to set the size of the lubricating gap.

[0032] For a better understanding of the invention, it will now be explained in more detail with the aid of the following figures.

[0033] Each of the figures is a highly simplified schematic diagram. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0034] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows an apparatus according to the invention for pressing materials. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a possible embodiment of the spacer element. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows another possible embodiment of the spacer element. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a plan view of the inner surface of the endless belt. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of an endless belt having a sealing body arrangement. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a possible embodiment of an apparatus for pressing the material. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a possible embodiment of the pressure device. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a spacer element. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows a diagram illustrating another possible embodiment of a spacer element. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows a plan view of a possible embodiment of the frame configuration of the spacer element, without showing the pressure device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0035] It should be noted at the outset that the same components in different embodiments described are given the same reference numbers or names, and the disclosure contained throughout the description can be transferred to the same components having the same reference numbers or names. The position words selected in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., are also based on the displayed figures directly described, and these position words are applied mutatis mutandis to the new positions when the positions are changed.

[0036] 1 shows an apparatus 1 for pressing a material 2, in particular a fiber-containing material, which comprises a first endless belt 4 forming a first pressing means and a second pressing means 5, which can also be designed as an endless belt as shown. A control device 3 for controlling the apparatus 1 is preferably provided.

[0037] Between the first endless belt 4 and the second pressing means 5, a pressing zone 6 for pressing the material 2 is formed. A longitudinal direction 7 is arranged here, which is parallel to the first endless belt 4 and runs relative to the pressing zone 6 from a start 8 of the pressing zone 6 towards a finish 9 of the pressing zone 6. In the operating state of the endless belt 4, the longitudinal direction 7 also coincides with the conveying direction of the material 2 in the pressing zone 6, which is caused by the conveying of the material 2 by the rotating first endless belt 4. The first endless belt 4 can be supported by at least two rollers, at least one of which can be driven.

[0038] The second pressing means 5 can also be formed, as shown, for example by a second endless belt driven by at least one roller. However, the second pressing means 5 can also be designed as a pressing roller 35, as shown diagrammatically in dashed lines, or as a sliding surface or the like. The length 25 of the pressing zone 6 can be varied accordingly depending on the configuration of the second pressing means 5.

[0039] The second endless belt can have a hold-down element in the press zone 6, as shown, so that it better withstands the pressing pressure. Both endless belts can also be supported or guided by two or more rollers.

[0040] Further, a pressure device 10 is provided, and by this pressure device 10, a press pressure 11 can be generated on an inner surface 12 of the first endless belt 4 toward the press zone 6. This inner surface 12 faces in the opposite direction to the press zone 6.

[0041] According to the invention, the pressure device 10 allows at least one fluid 13 to be applied to the inner surface 12 of the first endless belt 4 towards the press zone 6 , which fluid 13 allows the creation of a pressing pressure 11 .

[0042] The fluid 13 can preferably be designed as a liquid and has a known lubricant composition known for the prior art devices mentioned at the outset.

[0043] The pressurizing device 10, regardless of the design of the illustrated device 1, may, for example, include at least two fluids 13. In this case, a first fluid may, for example, be provided for "low speed" operation or start-up of the device and may have improved lubrication properties at low speeds, and a second fluid may be provided for increased speed operating conditions and may have improved lubrication properties for high speeds.

[0044] In this regard, an external supply may be provided to supply fluid to the pressurizing device.

[0045] The endless belt 4 behaves in the same manner as a fluid dynamic bearing with respect to the pressure device 10, and a wedge-shaped gap through which lubricating oil can enter is formed between the pressure device 10 and the rotating first endless belt 4.

[0046] Similar to a sliding bearing, for example where the shaft moves away from the bearing shell due to the entrained lubricant during operation, the first endless belt 4 also entrains fluid 13 in the longitudinal direction 7 due to fluid friction and thereby away from the pressure device 10 or downstream components, for example spacer elements.

[0047] In the region of the pressure device 10, the pressing pressure 11 on the inner surface 12 can be generated by gravity pressure or by the process pressure of the fluid 13. For example, the pressure device 10 can include pressure means by which the fluid 13 can be applied at the process pressure. In this respect, further pressure means can be provided, which can also monitor and adjust the pressing pressure of the pressure device. In a possible variant, the control device 3 can be set to adjust the pressing pressure 11 of the pressure device 10 depending on the circumferential speed of the first endless belt 4.

[0048] Components can be provided downstream of the fluid outlet 15 of the pressure device 10 in the longitudinal direction 7, which together with the lubricating film 29 of the fluid 13 can exert a continuous pressing pressure on the endless belt. For example, a plate can be provided downstream, which has a plate width substantially equal to or smaller than the width of the first endless belt 4, and between the plate and the belt the pressure on the endless belt is maintained by the fluid 13. Alternatively, the pressure device 10 itself can be arranged over the entire press zone 6 or over the length 25 of the press zone 6. As shown, the lubricating film 29 in the press zone 6 can form a higher fill level of fluid on the endless belt 4 than the lubricating film 29a after the end 9 of the press zone 6.

[0049] It should be mentioned here for the sake of completeness that the illustrated press zone 6 and its length 25 are for illustrative purposes only and can be arranged over a smaller or larger area of ​​the endless belt 4. Also for ease of understanding, an exaggerated deformation of the endless belt 4 due to the pressing pressure is shown diagrammatically.

[0050] As indicated diagrammatically by dashed lines, an adjustment device 19 can be provided in the region of the pressure device 10, by means of which a distance 20 between the inner surface 12 of the first endless belt 4 and the pressure device 10 can be adjusted. As a variant, the distance 20 can be adjusted by the control device 3 as a function of the circumferential speed of the first endless belt 4.

[0051] Preferably, a seal arrangement can be arranged at a first edge of the endless belt and at a second edge opposite thereto in a transverse direction to the longitudinal direction 7, for separating the two sides of the fluid film, as will be described in more detail below.

[0052] Furthermore, a fluid collector 27 can be arranged after the press zone 6, which can collect at least a partial amount of the fluid 13 again, so that no excess lubricant remains on the endless belt after the press zone 6. In this case, the fluid collector 27 can be designed as a kind of scraper device, which guides the collected fluid amount to a collection container or back into the circuit of the pressurization device 10.

[0053] Furthermore, at least one spacer element 14 can be arranged, which is arranged downstream of a fluid outlet 15 of the pressure device 10 in the fluid flow direction. The spacer element 14 makes it possible to form a lubrication gap 16 for the fluid 13 on the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4. The spacer element 14 preferably extends across the width of the endless belt, over which width the fluid forms a lubricating film 29. If no additional components for maintaining a pressure or a lubrication gap are arranged downstream of the spacer element 14, the spacer element 14 can also extend up to or form the end 9 of the press zone 6.

[0054] In a possible embodiment, the spacer elements 14 are fixedly connected to the pressure device 10 and can be adjusted together with the pressure device 10 by means of an adjustment device 19. In another embodiment, the spacer elements 14 can be arranged and adjusted as separate components. As mentioned at the beginning, the spacer elements can also comprise a frame arrangement, which is arranged between the pressure device and the inner surface of the endless belt and has a fluid passage therebetween. Said frame arrangement will be explained in more detail below.

[0055] 2 shows a possible embodiment of the spacer element 14. The spacer element 14 is wedge-shaped in the longitudinal direction 7 such that a gap distance 17 between the spacer element 14 and the inner surface 12 of the first endless belt 4 decreases in the longitudinal direction 7. The pressure device 10 can include multiple spacer elements 14 as shown.

[0056] Another possible embodiment of the spacer element 14 is shown in FIG.

[0057] In the embodiment shown, the spacer elements 14 are designed as rolling elements and are supported for rotation about an axis of rotation 18 which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 7 and substantially parallel to the inner surface 12 of the first endless belt 4. The advantage of this arrangement is that it creates a lubrication gap and at the same time prevents accumulation or deposition of fluid 13 or lubricant in front of the spacer elements 14 caused by fluid entrainment by the circulating endless belt.

[0058] Regardless of the embodiment of the spacer element 14 represented in Figures 2 and 3, the spacer element 14 can be designed to be height adjustable, so that the distance 21 between the spacer element 14 and the inner surface 12 of the first endless belt 4 can be adjusted, as is shown diagrammatically in Figure 3. In this case, the height adjustment can be effected, for example, by means of an adjustment device 19.

[0059] Furthermore, a pressure monitoring unit 37 for the spacer element 14 can be provided, by means of which the pressure between the spacer element 14 and the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4 or the pressure exerted by the fluid 13 on the spacer element 14 can be monitored. This pressure monitoring unit 37 can transmit values ​​to the control device 3, by means of which an adaptation of the distance 21 can also be carried out.

[0060] 4 and 5, possible embodiments and arrangements of the seal body arrangement 24 are shown in plan and cross-sectional views.

[0061] 4 shows a plan view of the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4, on which at least one sealing body arrangement 24 is arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction 7 at a first edge 22 and at an opposing edge 23 of the endless belt 4, the sealing body arrangement 24 being arranged in the longitudinal direction 7 over at least the length 25 of the press zone 6. In this case, the sealing body arrangement 24 preferably abuts closely against the pressure device 10 or can be flexibly connected to the pressure device 10, so that the sealing effect is ensured even if the pressure device 10 is adjusted. Depending on the design of the pressure device 10, the sealing body arrangement 24 can also abut closely against the spacer element 14 or be connected to the spacer element 14.

[0062] In an embodiment not shown, it is also conceivable that the sealing body arrangement 24 is fixedly connected to the pressure device 10 or the spacer element 14 if these are not designed to be adjustable.

[0063] Furthermore, regardless of the design of the sealing body arrangement 24, a fluid collector 27 can be arranged, which, as shown, can be designed as a scraper and arranged, for example, at an angle between the edges 22, 23, and guides the fluid 13 towards the edges, where it can be collected again, for example in a tank or container 41, and returned to the circuit leading to the pressurizing device 10. With regard to the fluid collector 27, the sealing body arrangement 24 can also have an outlet opening 33 in the region of the fluid collector, by means of which the fluid can be returned to the circuit. The fluid collector 27a can also have other geometric shapes, for example formed in the shape of a triangle, as shown diagrammatically with dashed lines.

[0064] As can be seen in the representation of FIG. 4, the pressure device 10 or possible spacer element 14 is preferably configured to extend substantially along the width 34 of the endless belt 4 up to the seal body arrangement 24 in order to ensure optimal pressure distribution.

[0065] FIG. 5 shows a cross section transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first endless belt and a possible embodiment of a sealing body arrangement 24 .

[0066] A lubricating film 29 is formed on the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4, which is transported in the longitudinal direction 7 or conveying direction in the operating state of the endless belt. The sealing body arrangement 24 serves to partition the fluid 13 on both sides and to maintain the pressing pressure 11.

[0067] The sealing body arrangement 24 is arranged in the press zone 6 at least on the inner surface 12 of the first endless belt 4 at a first edge 22 and an opposing second edge 23 in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction 7, said sealing body arrangement 24 being arranged in the longitudinal direction 7 over at least the length of the press zone 6. The sealing body arrangement 24 preferably has a slipping coating 32 at least on the inner surface 12 or can consist of a slippery material.

[0068] In the depicted representation, different embodiments of the seal body configuration 24 are shown at each edge 22,23.

[0069] The disclosure on the left shows a first possible embodiment of the sealing body arrangement 24. The sealing body arrangement 24 can be designed as an elastic seal, which abuts against the endless belt 4, in particular against the inner surface 12 and the opposing outer surface 28 in two regions, is preferably formed integrally and is deformed as the endless belt 4 is displaced or deformed by the pressing pressure 11 towards the pressing zone 6, as shown diagrammatically by dashed lines, so that the sealing effect is better maintained. In this case, the sealing body arrangement can again have a sliding coating in the region of the inner surface 12 and / or the outer surface 28.

[0070] In another embodiment disclosed on the right, the sealing body arrangement 24 can include a pressing device 26 by means of which the sealing element 36 of the sealing body arrangement 24 can be pressed against the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4. The pressing device 26 can be designed, for example, as a flexible expanding body by means of which the sealing body arrangement 24 can be pressed against the endless belt 4. Alternatively, the sealing element 36 of the sealing body arrangement 24 can itself be designed as an expanding body, as shown diagrammatically with dashed lines, whereby the pressing device 26a can be arranged within the sealing element 36. Furthermore, the sealing element 36 can have a slippery coating in the area of ​​the endless belt 4 or can consist of a slippery material.

[0071] In a variant, the pressing force of the pressing device 26 can be adjusted depending on the pressing pressure 11 of the pressure device 10 and / or depending on the circumferential speed of the first endless belt 4, and in particular the control device 3 can be set to perform this adjustment.

[0072] Furthermore, elastic connecting webs 31 can be arranged between the sealing body arrangement 24 and the pressure device 10, by means of which the contact areas between the pressure device 10 and the sealing body arrangement 24 are sealed, in order to ensure a seal, for example, when adjusting the pressure device 10. In this way, the diagrammatically shown spacer elements 14 of the pressure device 10 can also be connected with the elastic connecting webs 31.

[0073] Regardless of the sealing body configuration 24 at both edges 22, 23, the spacer element 14 can itself include the sealing body configuration 24 or can be designed as the sealing body configuration 24, for example as shown in the right-hand disclosure, and can include a pressing device 26 and a sealing element 36, which are arranged in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction 7.

[0074] In an alternative embodiment, not shown, sealing lips can also be formed at least on the inner surface of the endless belt over the entire circumference at both edges 22, 23 for a double-sided seal of the belt. In FIG. 6, a possible embodiment of an apparatus 1 for pressing a material 2 is shown, which comprises a first endless belt 4 and a second endless belt 4' designed as a second pressing means 5. These endless belts 4, 4' each comprise at least one pressure device 10 by means of which a pressing pressure 11 can be generated on the inner surface 12 of the respective endless belt towards the pressing zone 6, and by which at least one fluid 13 can be applied on the inner surface 12 of the respective endless belt towards the pressing zone 6, by means of which the pressing pressure 11 can be generated. Again, as described above, spacer elements 14, fluid collectors 27, adjustment devices 19 and other devices can be provided, which can be configured the same or differently on both endless belts.

[0075] The device can be oriented vertically as shown, but can also be oriented horizontally as in FIG.

[0076] 7 shows a possible embodiment of a pressure device 10, which is arranged over the length 25 of the press zone 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid 13 of the pressure device 10 is designed gaseous, and the process pressure of the pressure device 10 can be applied to the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4 towards the press zone 6 in order to generate the pressing pressure 11. In this respect, at least one pressure means 30 can also be provided, by means of which the process pressure can be monitored and regulated.

[0077] The side edges 22, 23 can again be provided with a sealing body arrangement 24 of the above-described design. Preferably, an adjustment device 19 can again be provided, by means of which the distance 20 between the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4 and the pressure device 10 can be adjusted.

[0078] In the embodiment shown, the pressure device 10 can comprise a number of nozzles for supplying, for example, compressed air or process gas or other measures known from the prior art, by which a gaseous fluid 13 can be directed towards the press zone 6. In this case, a number of pressure devices 10 can also be arranged in the longitudinal direction 7 or transversely to the longitudinal direction 7, as indicated diagrammatically by dashed lines.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, a process chamber may be formed around the area of ​​the pressurization device 10 or the entire system, especially if special process gases are used.

[0080] 6 and 7 show alternative, possibly independent, embodiments of the device 1 or pressure device 10, where again the same reference numbers or component names are used for the same parts as in the previous figures, and in order to avoid unnecessary repetition, the detailed description of the previous figures is indicated or reference is made thereto.

[0081] 8 shows an embodiment of the spacer element 14 in cross-section, the spacer element 14 including a frame arrangement 38 disposed between the pressure device 10 and the inner surface 12 of the endless belt 4 and having at least one fluid passageway 39 formed in a direction from the pressure device 10 towards the inner surface 12. The fluid passageway 39 may preferably be formed by an opening formed or surrounded by the frame.

[0082] The frame arrangement 38 can preferably be designed such that the pressurizing device 10 can be placed on or coupled thereto such that there is a fluid-tight connection therebetween such that fluid cannot escape through its circumferential or edge connection area.

[0083] Regardless of the design of the frame arrangement 38, the frame arrangement 38 can be designed to be height adjustable, again by the adjustment device 19, either together with the pressure device 10 or alone.

[0084] Within at least one frame segment 40, another fluid passage 39a may be formed, for example, by a through hole or a conduit.

[0085] Frame segments 40a-40c form three visible sections of frame configuration 38, with the fourth segment being outside the image plane due to the cross-sectional view.

[0086] In a possible embodiment, the pressurizing device 10 can be configured such that a separate area 42 is provided within the pressurizing device 10 relative to the frame segment 40, through which a predetermined amount of fluid is provided toward the frame segment 40 and flows out through a separate fluid passage 39a.

[0087] In this regard, a valve may be positioned to direct fluid from the pressurizing device 10 to separate region 42 , or region 42 may be filled with fluid without regard to the pressurizing device 10 .

[0088] The pressure application device 10 can preferably be positioned throughout the press zone 6, thereby forming a lubricating film on the endless belt 4 after the press zone 6 by means of a separate fluid passage 39a in the frame segment 40a, or can also serve to lubricate between the frame structure 38 and the endless belt 4, as shown diagrammatically by fluid passage 39b in the frame segment 40c.

[0089] The frame segment 40 may also have multiple fluid passages.

[0090] FIG. 9 shows another possible embodiment of the spacer element 14, which is at least partially made of a porous material, which is permeable to the fluid 13 in at least one direction.

[0091] For example, the frame segments 40 or frame sections of the frame configuration 38 may also be made of a porous material, allowing the fluid 13 to pass through. The further fluid passages 39a may also be made of a porous material. In this regard, the region 42 may also be provided within the pressurizing device 10.

[0092] Furthermore, the spacer element 14 or part of the frame arrangement 38 can consist of at least one sealing body arrangement 24, as mentioned at the outset, independently of the abovementioned porous material.

[0093] As shown, the sealing body arrangement 24 can again include a pressing device 26 and a sealing element 36. The illustrated sealing body arrangement 24 can also be disposed in the frame segment 40a instead of the porous material, and the sealing body arrangement 24 can form a lubricating gap on the inner surface 12.

[0094] Likewise, a slippery coating may be provided, or the frame segments 40 or the frame structure 38 may be made of a slippery material.

[0095] Figure 10 shows a plan view of a possible embodiment of a frame configuration of the spacer element without showing the pressure device, in which the two side frame segments 40b and 40d at the first edge 22 and the second edge 23 of the endless belt 4 can be formed by the sealing body configuration 24, and the frame segments 40a and 40c arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction 7 consist, for example, of a porous material.

[0096] In another embodiment, all of the frame segments can be formed from a porous material, for example, the frame construction can be designed to "float" relative to the endless belt with a predetermined amount of fluid passing through the frame segments or the porous material toward the inner surface of the endless belt.

[0097] Other combinations from the previous figures are conceivable, for example the frame arrangement 38 can consist of four seal body arrangements 24. Furthermore, seal body arrangements for adjusting the lubrication gap can also be provided.

[0098] Furthermore, one of the frame segments arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction may also include the rolling elements described in FIG.

[0099] 8 to 10 show alternative, possibly stand-alone, embodiments of the spacer element 14 or frame arrangement 38, where the same reference numbers or component names are used for the same components as in the previous figures, and to avoid unnecessary repetition, the detailed descriptions in the previous figures are indicated or referenced.

[0100] The examples show possible embodiments, and it is noted at this point that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but that the individual embodiments can also be combined with one another in various ways, and this possibility of modification based on the teachings of the technical operations according to the invention is within the capabilities of a person skilled in the art.

[0101] The scope of protection is determined by the claims, but the description and the drawings are used to interpret the claims. Individual features or combinations of features from the various embodiments shown and described can represent independent inventive solutions. The problems underlying these independent inventive solutions can be read off from this description.

[0102] In the description of the invention, all references to ranges of values ​​should be understood to include any and all subranges within that range, for example, a reference from 1 to 10 should be understood to include all subranges beginning at the lower limit of 1 to the upper limit of 10. That is, all subranges beginning at a lower limit of 1 or more and ending at an upper limit of 10 or less, such as, for example, 1 to 1.7, or 3.2 to 8.1, or 5.5 to 10.

[0103] Finally, as a matter of formality, in order to make the structure easier to understand, some of the components have been represented not to scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 1 device 2 Materials 3. Control device 4. The First Endless Belt 5. Secondary Press Method 6 Press Zone 7 Longitudinal 8 Start 9 Termination 10. Pressurizing device 11 Press pressure 12. Inside 13 Fluid 14 Spacer elements 15 Fluid outlet 16 Lubrication Gap 17 Gap Spacing 18 Rotational Axis 19 Adjustment device 20 intervals 21 distance 22 First edge 23 Second edge 24 Seal body configuration 25 Length 26 Pressing device 27 Fluid collector 28 Exterior 29 Lubricating Film 30 Pressurizing means 31 Connected Web 32 Slippery Coating 33 Exit opening 34 Width 35 Press roller 36 Sealing element 37 Pressure Monitoring Unit 38 Frame Composition 39 Fluid passage 40 Frame Segments 41 Container 42 areas

Claims

1. An apparatus (1) for pressing a material (2), comprising: a control device (3) for controlling the device (1); at least one first endless belt (4) forming a first pressing means; at least one second pressing means (5), in particular a second endless belt, wherein a pressing zone (6) for pressing the material (2) is formed between the first endless belt (4) and the second pressing means (5) and a longitudinal direction (7) is defined, the longitudinal direction (7) being parallel to the first endless belt (4) and arranged relative to the pressing zone (6) in a direction from a start (8) of the pressing zone (6) to a finish (9) of the pressing zone (6); at least one pressure device (10) configured to apply a pressing pressure (11) to an inner surface (12) of the at least one first endless belt (4) toward the pressing zone (6), the inner surface (12) facing away from the pressing zone (6), and to apply at least one fluid (13), in particular a fluid containing water or oil, to the inner surface (12) of the at least one first endless belt (4) toward the pressing zone (6), so that the pressing pressure (11) is generated by the fluid (13); 1. An apparatus (1) comprising at least one spacer element (14), the spacer element (14) having a fluid outlet (15) of the pressure device (10) in a direction of flow of the fluid (13), the spacer element (14) being capable of forming a lubrication gap (16) for the fluid (13) on the inner surface (12) of the endless belt (4).

2. 2. The device (1) of claim 1, wherein at least one of the spacer elements (14) includes a frame structure (38) arranged between the pressure device (10) and the inner surface (12) of the endless belt (4), and the frame structure (38) has at least one fluid passage (39), the fluid passage (39) being formed in a direction from the pressure device (10) toward the inner surface (12).

3. 3. The device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the frame structure (38) has at least one other fluid passage (39), the at least one other fluid passage (39) being formed in at least one frame segment (40).

4. 4. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the spacer element (14) is at least partially made of a porous material, the porous material being permeable to the fluid (13) in at least one direction.

5. 4. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the spacer elements (14) is formed wedge-shaped with respect to the longitudinal direction (7), and a gap distance (17) between the spacer element (14) and the inner surface (12) of the first endless belt (4) decreases with respect to the longitudinal direction (7).

6. 4. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the spacer elements (14) comprise rolling elements, in particular cylindrical rollers, which are rotatably supported about an axis of rotation (18) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (7) and substantially parallel to the inner surface (12) of the first endless belt (4).

7. The device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises an adjustment device (19) by means of which the distance (20) between the inner surface (12) of the first endless belt (4) and the pressure device (10) can be adjusted.

8. 8. The device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the control device (3) is configured to adjust the distance (20) between the inner surface (12) of at least one first endless belt (4) and the pressure device (10) depending on the peripheral speed of the first endless belt (4).

9. 4. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the spacer elements (14) are height-adjustable and the distance (21) between the spacer elements (14) and the inner surface (12) of the first endless belt (4) is adjustable.

10. 4. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the pressure devices (10) are arranged throughout the press zone (6).

11. 4. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, further comprising at least one sealing body arrangement (24) at least in the press zone (6), the sealing body arrangement (24) being arranged at least on the inner surface (12) of the endless belt (4).

12. 12. The device (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that in the press zone (6), at least one sealing body arrangement (24) is arranged on the inner surface (12) of at least the first endless belt (4) in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction (7), at a first edge (22) and an opposing second edge (23) of the first endless belt (4), respectively, the sealing body arrangement (24) being arranged in the longitudinal direction (7) over at least a length (25) of the press zone (6).

13. The device (1) described in claim 12, characterized in that at least one of the sealing body structures (24) is provided with a pressing device (26), and the pressing device (26) is capable of pressing the sealing body structure (24) and at least one of the first endless belts (4).

14. 14. Device (1) according to any one of claims 13, characterized in that the spacer element (14) comprises at least one sealing body arrangement (24).

15. 15. The device (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the control device (3) is configured to control the pressing force of the pressing device (26) against the sealing body arrangement (24) depending on the pressing pressure (11) of the pressure device (10) and / or the amount of fluid introduced into the lubrication gap (16) and acting as a lubricant.

16. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the control device (3) is configured to adjust the pressing pressure (11) of the pressure device (10) depending on the peripheral speed of the first endless belt (4).

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