Pressing device

Abstract

A press device (100) is disclosed, comprising a pressure vessel (1) having an internal space (5) and a first end (3) and a second end (4). A loading compartment (2) is located at least partially within the internal space (5) between the first end (3) and the second end (4) and is configured to allow the flow of a pressure medium through the loading compartment (2). At least one pressure medium flow path (6) has an inlet (7) and an outlet (8) that are in fluid communication with the internal space (5), extends between them, and is configured to guide the pressure medium from the inlet (7) to the outlet (8). At least one pressure medium flow generator (14) is configured to generate a flow of pressure medium in the internal space (5) that passes through the loading compartment (2) between the second end (4) and the first end (3), and further generates a flow of pressure medium that enters the inlet (7), passes through at least one pressure medium flow path (6), and exits through the outlet (8).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a press device configured to process at least one article, the press device comprising a pressure vessel having an internal space and configured to hold a pressure medium in the internal space during use of the press device. The press device is configured to process at least one article, for example, by an isostatic press.

Background Art

[0002] Articles to be subjected to pressure treatment by isostatic pressing, such as cold isostatic pressing (CIP), warm isostatic pressing (WIP), high-pressure processing (HPP), or hot isostatic pressing (HIP), can generally be located in a pressure vessel configured to hold a pressure medium within it. The processing cycle may comprise loading the articles into the pressure vessel, closing and sealing the pressure vessel, processing the articles in the pressure vessel, opening the pressure vessel, and removing the articles from the pressure vessel. Several articles may be processed simultaneously. The processing cycle may be divided into several parts or stages. After loading the articles into the pressure vessel, the pressure vessel may then be sealed, followed by the introduction of a pressure medium (e.g., a fluid such as a gas or a liquid such as water or oil) into the pressure vessel so that the pressure inside the pressure vessel is increased to a certain pressure level; this may be called a pressurizing stage, in which the articles are exposed to the increased pressure over a selected period of time. The processing cycle may comprise a heating stage, in which the pressure medium is heated, for example, to achieve its desired or required temperature. The heating stage may be performed simultaneously with the pressurizing stage, before the pressurizing stage, or after the pressurizing stage. Exposing the articles to the increased pressure in the pressure vessel for a selected period of time may be called the pressing or holding stage of the processing cycle. After the pressing stage and before opening the pressure vessel to remove the articles, the pressure in the pressure vessel is generally reduced to a sufficiently low level by drawing the pressure medium out of the pressure vessel. This may be called the depressurization or depressurization stage. The processing cycle may further comprise a cooling stage. Depending on the type of isotropic press used (for example, whether the isotropic press is configured to perform CIP, WIP, or HIP), the cooling stage may not be necessary. [Overview of the project]

[0003] Once the desired or required pressure and temperature of the pressure medium in the pressure vessel are achieved, it may be desirable to maintain the pressure and temperature of the pressure medium in the pressure vessel over a long period of time. This long period may be, for example, the duration of the pressing phase of a processing cycle or substantially the entire duration. The inventors have found that it may be beneficial to generate and / or maintain circulation of the pressure medium within the pressure vessel (e.g., in a particular space within the pressure vessel) over a long period of time to ensure that the temperature of the pressure medium is uniform throughout the pressure vessel—or throughout (or substantially throughout) the entire space within the pressure vessel in which at least one article to be processed is held. The space within the pressure vessel in which at least one article to be processed is held may be referred to as the internal space and may be defined, for example, by a loading compartment, as discussed below. If there is no circulation of the pressure medium within the pressure vessel for such a long period, thermal stratification may occur within the pressure vessel, causing the temperature of the pressure medium to differ between different parts of the pressure vessel. This can lead to an uneven temperature distribution in at least one article being processed, or different temperatures between different articles or components being processed within the pressure vessel. This can result in the properties of at least one processed article not meeting the intended specifications for the processed article and / or different processing conditions for different articles, which can be undesirable in many applications as it can lead to different results from processing different articles. One example of such an application may be the processing of solid-state battery (SSB) components, i.e., at least one article comprises, is composed of, or is based on one or more SSB components, e.g., all-solid-state battery (ASSB) components, or semi-solid-state battery components.For example, reducing or avoiding temperature variations within different parts of at least one processed article at the end of the pressing stage of a processing cycle may help reduce or avoid internal stress in the processed article(s) during the subsequent cooling stage of the processing cycle, potentially providing an efficient method for obtaining articles(s) or components(s) with uniform material properties and density while minimizing internal voids and defects without geometric distortion of the article(s) or components(s). For example, in SSB applications, the inventors have recognized that relatively high uniformity in density and other material properties of SSB components(s) provides increased yield from processing a large number of SSB components, potentially improving the material properties of the processed product, including material properties such as porosity (e.g., porosity of anode, cathode, electrolyte, cathode liquid and / or anode liquid (composite) materials) and (e.g., volume) energy density, as well as the electrical and electrochemical properties and capacity of battery cells(s). By reducing the porosity of articles such as SSB components, the volume expansion of SSB components during SSB charging can be reduced, which in turn can increase the lifespan of the SSB.

[0004] In view of the foregoing, the present invention is of interest in providing a press apparatus configured to process at least one article, the press apparatus comprising a pressure vessel having an internal space and configured to hold a pressure medium within the internal space during use of the press apparatus, the press apparatus being able to reduce or even avoid any non-uniformity in the temperature distribution of the at least one article being processed.

[0005] To address this concern and at least one of the other concerns, a pressing device described in the independent claim is provided. Embodiments of the present invention are defined by the dependent claims.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the concept of the present invention, a press device is provided. The press device is configured to process at least one article. The press device comprises a pressure vessel having an internal space and a first end and a second end. The pressure vessel is configured to hold a pressure medium in the internal space during use of the press device. The press device comprises a loading compartment located at least partially in the internal space between the first end and the second end. The loading compartment is configured to allow a flow of a pressure medium through the loading compartment. The loading compartment is configured to hold at least one article in it during use of the press device. The press device comprises at least one pressure medium flow path which may be configured to guide a pressure medium. The at least one pressure medium flow path has an inlet located at one of the first and second ends and an outlet located at the other of the first and second ends, and extends between them. The inlet and outlet are in fluid communication with the internal space. The at least one pressure medium flow path is configured to guide the pressure medium from the inlet to the outlet. The press device comprises at least one pressure medium flow generator. At least one pressure medium flow generator is configured to generate a flow of pressure medium in an internal space passing through a packing compartment between a second end and a first end. At least one pressure medium flow generator is configured to generate a flow of pressure medium entering into the intake of at least one pressure medium flow path, passing through at least one pressure medium flow path, and exiting through the outlet of at least one pressure medium flow path. The press device includes a pressure medium flow distribution regulator. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator is located at the outlet of at least one pressure medium flow path. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator is configured to receive a flow of pressure medium exiting from at least one pressure medium flow path through its outlet. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator is configured to diffuse, i.e., diverge, the received flow of pressure medium such that the distribution of the flow of pressure medium through the packing compartment matches a selected distribution of the flow of pressure medium through the packing compartment.

[0007] By configuring the pressure medium flow distribution regulator to diffuse, or diverge, the flow velocity of the pressure medium through the packing compartment can be reduced, the static pressure of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment can be increased, and the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment can achieve a (e.g., substantially) uniform unidirectional velocity profile. The velocity and temperature of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment can be relatively uniform over a cross-sectional area that may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the packing compartment. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be configured to mix different flows of the pressure medium, or it may be configured to continuously mix the fluid.

[0008] A pressure vessel may include a pressure cylinder that can define an internal space at least partially. A packing compartment may be defined at least partially by the walls of a container, which may be called a packing basket, for example, a cylindrical container. A pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be configured to diffuse the flow of the received pressure medium into at least a portion of the packing compartment, but more preferably (and probably preferably) into the entire packing compartment. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be configured to diffuse the flow of the received pressure medium into at least a volume of the packing compartment defined by 60% or more of the inner diameter of the container defining the packing compartment and the length of the packing compartment, and more preferably, into at least a volume of the packing compartment defined by 85% or more of the inner diameter of the container defining the packing compartment and the length of the packing compartment. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be configured to diffuse the flow of the received pressure medium into at least a volume of internal space defined by 60% or more of the inner diameter of the pressure cylinder and the length of the pressure cylinder, and possibly into at least a volume of internal space defined by 85% or more of the inner diameter of the pressure cylinder and the length of the pressure cylinder.

[0009] By providing at least one pressure medium flow path and at least one pressure medium flow generator, it may be made easier or possible to generate and / or maintain circulation of the pressure medium within the pressure vessel, for example, over long periods of time. In particular, for example, circulation of the pressure medium within the internal space and the loading compartment may be generated and / or maintained over long periods of time. As indicated above, generating and / or maintaining such circulation of the pressure medium may be advantageous in reducing or even avoiding any non-uniformity in the temperature distribution in at least one article during the use of the press device, for example, when at least one article is processed by the press device. If there is no circulation of the pressure medium within the pressure vessel during the pressing phase of the processing cycle, the temperature of the pressure medium may differ between different parts of the pressure vessel, which may lead to, for example, a non-uniform temperature distribution in at least one article, or different temperatures between different articles or components processed within the pressure vessel, during or at least at the end of the pressing phase. As mentioned above, this may be undesirable in many applications, such as the processing of SSB components. For example, reducing or avoiding temperature variations within different parts of at least one processed article at the end of the pressing stage of the processing cycle may help reduce or avoid internal stresses in the processed article(s) during the subsequent cooling stage of the processing cycle, potentially providing an efficient method for obtaining articles(s) or components(s) with relatively high uniformity in density and other material properties, while minimizing internal voids and defects without geometric distortion of the article(s) or components(s).

[0010] Reducing or avoiding temperature variations within different parts of at least one processed article, or between different articles or components processed in a pressure vessel, may be particularly beneficial during or at least at the end of the pressing stage, i.e., during or at least at the end of the time period in which at least one article is exposed to increased pressure in the pressure vessel. The pressing stage may be alternatively called the holding stage. However, reducing or avoiding temperature variations within different parts of at least one processed article, or between different articles or components processed in a pressure vessel, may also be beneficial during other or other stages of the processing cycle, for example, during the heating stage in which the pressure medium is heated to, for example, its desired or required temperature, in order to keep the time required to carry out the processing cycle relatively short.

[0011] Simulations conducted by the inventors have shown that, by one or more embodiments of the present invention, any temperature variation within different parts of at least one processed article, or between different articles or components processed in a pressure vessel during any stage of the processing cycle, can be kept relatively small, such as less than 8°C, possibly less than 4°C, or even less than 2°C.

[0012] SSB components, such as ASSB components, generally contain a variety of solid elements that can exhibit diverse or different chemical, physical, and / or mechanical properties. For this reason, and further due to the nature of the bonding between such solid elements, a relatively large number of internal interfaces can exist within the SSB component. In the processing of SSB components, such as ASSB components, reducing or avoiding temperature variations within different parts of the SSB component can help achieve uniform densification across the internal interfaces of the SSB component and uniform densification of the solid electrolyte within the SSB component, and may also be beneficial in inducing desired chemical and electrochemical reactions (e.g., solid electrolyte interface phase formation) at the internal interfaces of the SSB component. Furthermore, the internal interfaces of the SSB / ASSB (e.g., between the current collector anode and the anode composite, between the cathode current collector and the cathode composite, between the cathode and the solid electrolyte (SSE), and between the anode and the SSE) can be strengthened and stabilized.

[0013] As is known in the art of isotropic pressing, at least one article to be processed may be placed in a bag or pouch before processing. Any warping or distortion of the bag or pouch may be reduced or even eliminated by reducing or avoiding temperature variations within different parts of at least one processed article.

[0014] Furthermore, by providing a pressure medium flow distribution regulator, the distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment during such circulation of the pressure medium in the internal space and within the packing compartment can be adjusted or adapted to match a selected distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment. This selected distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment may be referred to as the selected flow profile of the pressure medium in the packing compartment. Adjusting or adapting the distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment to match a selected distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment can (further) facilitate ensuring that the properties of at least one processed article meet the intended specifications.

[0015] In the context of this application, the distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment matching a selected distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment may mean that the distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment is similar to, or substantially the same as, the selected distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment, but does not necessarily mean that the distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment and the selected distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment match exactly (although they may match).

[0016] It should be noted that, as described above (and also below with reference to the drawings, for example), the pressure medium flow distribution regulator located at the outlet of at least one pressure medium flow path may be omitted. Although the pressure medium flow distribution regulator may provide benefits as described above (and also below), it is not essential for generating and / or maintaining the circulation of the pressure medium within the pressure vessel.

[0017] A press device may be configured to process at least one article by isostatic pressing. Processing by isostatic pressing facilitates or enables achieving the same material properties for all articles processed by the press device. For example, a press device may be configured to process at least one article by at least one of CIP, WIP, HPP, or HIP.

[0018] Generally, CIP processing may involve temperatures in a pressure vessel below (for example, approximately) 50°C, for example, within the range of (for example) room temperature (for example, 20°C) to (for example) 50°C. Furthermore, CIP processing may involve pressures in a pressure vessel, depending on the material of the item(s) being processed and the temperature in the pressure vessel, within the range of (for example) approximately) 50 MPa to (for example) approximately) 1600 MPa, for example, within the range of (for example) approximately) 50 MPa to (for example) approximately) 600 MPa.

[0019] Generally, WIP processing may involve temperatures in a pressure vessel, for example, within the range of approximately 50°C to approximately 400°C. Furthermore, WIP processing may involve pressures in a pressure vessel, for example, within the range of approximately 50 MPa to approximately 1600 MPa, or for example, approximately 50 MPa to approximately 600 MPa, depending on the material of the item(s) being processed and the temperature in the pressure vessel.

[0020] Generally, HIP treatment may involve temperatures in a pressure vessel of (for example, approximately) 400°C or higher, for example, in the range of (for example) 400°C to (for example) 2500°C. Furthermore, HIP treatment may involve pressures in a pressure vessel of (for example) 50 MPa to (for example) 300 MPa, for example, in the range of (for example) 50 MPa to (for example) 210 MPa, depending on the material of the item(s) being treated and the temperature in the pressure vessel.

[0021] Generally, HPP treatment may involve temperatures in a pressure vessel above (e.g., approximately) 0°C, for example, in the range of (e.g., approximately) 0°C to (e.g., approximately) 100°C, typically in the range of (e.g., approximately) 4°C to (e.g., approximately) 40°C. Furthermore, HPP treatment may involve pressures in a pressure vessel, depending on the material of the item(s) being treated and the temperature in the pressure vessel, in the range of (e.g., approximately) 100 MPa to (e.g., approximately) 800 MPa, generally in the range of (e.g., approximately) 400 MPa to (e.g., approximately) 600 MPa.

[0022] Depending on the application, however, it may be desirable or even necessary to achieve a pressure of approximately 6000 bar (600 MPa) or even higher in the pressure vessel. To increase the pressure in the pressure vessel during the pressurization phase, pumps such as hydraulic pumps can be used to introduce a pressure medium into the pressure vessel and increase the pressure within the vessel. However, such pumps may not be capable of generating pressures of approximately 6000 bar in the pressure vessel and may only be practically used to generate (much) lower pressures in the pressure vessel. This may be due, for example, to the fact that the structural materials used in such pumps may not be able to withstand the desired pressure level at which the mechanical stress on the pump components, such as valves and piping, can become harmfully high, and thus the components may break after a relatively short period of use of the pump. Therefore, such pumps are often used to generate pressure in the pressure vessel to a pressure level that the pump can safely withstand, followed by further pressurization by other devices capable of withstanding the desired pressure level. Such other devices may consist of so-called pressure intensifiers. The increase in pressure in a pressure vessel by supplying a pressure medium to the pressure vessel by a pressure intensifier unit may be carried out after pressurizing the pressure vessel using a pump such as a hydraulic pump to introduce the pressure medium into the pressure vessel. For example, pressurizing the pressure vessel using a pump such as a hydraulic pump to introduce the pressure medium into the pressure vessel may be carried out first to reach a certain pressure level in the pressure vessel, e.g., about 20 bar. Subsequently, the increase in pressure in the pressure vessel by supplying a pressure medium to the pressure vessel by a pressure intensifier unit, and the pressurizing step, may be carried out to reach a pressure level (much) higher than the pressure in the pressure vessel, e.g., up to 6000 bar or even higher.

[0023] A pressure vessel may have, for example, a cylindrical shape. However, while a cylindrical shape may be preferred for a pressure vessel, it may have a shape other than a cylindrical shape.

[0024] When in use, the pressure vessel may be positioned such that, for example, its longitudinal axis is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a vertical line (e.g., a plumb line), or parallel or substantially parallel to a vertical line (e.g., a plumb line).

[0025] The pressure medium may comprise a fluid, such as a liquid and / or a gas. The fluid may comprise, for example, water and / or oil and / or another suitable liquid. The oil may comprise, for example, mineral oil. The gas may comprise, for example, an inert gas such as argon gas.

[0026] "Use of a press device" may, in principle, refer to any use of a press device related to the processing of at least one article. For example, a pressure vessel may be configured to hold a pressure medium within its internal space during, for example, the pressurizing, heating, pressing, and / or other stages of a processing cycle as described above. Thus, "use of a press device" may refer to, for example, one or more of pressurizing, heating, pressing, or cooling, or any combination of such stages with any other possible stages of a processing cycle.

[0027] As stated, after loading the articles into the pressure vessel, the pressure vessel may then be sealed. This may be followed by a pressurizing stage and / or a heating stage. The pressurizing and heating stages may be carried out simultaneously. The pressurizing stage may involve introducing a pressure medium into the (sealed) pressure vessel to achieve a selected pressure within the pressure vessel. The heating stage may involve heating the pressure medium to achieve its desired or required temperature. Perhaps, prior to introducing the pressure medium into the pressure vessel, the pressure medium may be preheated to a temperature that takes into account the adiabatic heating that occurs due to the pressurization of the pressure medium inside the pressure vessel. Such adiabatic heating may be, for example, (about) 2-9°C / 100MPa, depending on the medium composition. By preheating the pressure medium before introducing it into the pressure vessel, and then pressurizing the pressure medium inside the pressure vessel, a temperature of the pressure medium within, for example, 2-5°C of the desired or required temperature may be achieved. Thus, the preheated pressure medium may be introduced into the pressure vessel. Subsequently, the temperature of the pressure medium can be adjusted to a desired or required temperature (or nearly desired or required temperature) by adjusting the pressure in the pressure vessel, so that the desired or required temperature (or nearly desired or required temperature) is achieved by adiabatic heating of the pressure medium. Thus, by such adiabatic heating, the temperature of the pressure medium in the pressure vessel can be increased by, for example, 2°C to 5°C to reach the desired or required temperature (or nearly desired or required temperature). Preheating of the pressure medium can be carried out, for example, using one or more heaters, such as one or more electric heaters, positioned relative to a pressure medium source or reservoir connected to or connectable to the pressure vessel, so that the pressure medium can be heated while it is in the pressure medium source or reservoir.

[0028] As described, the pressure medium can comprise, for example, water. Water is generally considered to be incompressible. However, at very high pressures, water is compressible and heat is generated during compression. In principle, the temperature of water increases by approximately 4 °C per 1000 bar up to a maximum of 6000 bar. The interaction between the amount of (solid) charge or article(s) to be processed and the pressure medium (e.g., water) can affect, for example, how the operation of a press device configured to process at least one article by WIP is controlled or should be controlled. The solid charge / article(s) is / are negligibly compressible compared to the pressure medium, and the temperature increase of the solid charge / article(s) as a result of the pressure increase will thus not be the same as the temperature increase of the pressure medium as a result of the pressure increase. When choosing how to control the operation of a press device configured to process at least one article by WIP (e.g., when choosing control parameters for such an operation), the thermal properties of the charge / article(s) should be considered. For example, the pressure build-up speed and which preheating temperature (if any) should be used should be considered. Depending on the considerations described above, the increase in the temperature of the pressure medium over a given time period during the pressure build-up sequence can be different from the increase in the temperature of the charge / article(s) over that time period during the pressure build-up sequence, and this should be considered in order to determine which pressure build-up speed to use. Rapid pressure build-up may not be necessary if the temperature of the charge / article(s) is maintained at a certain level below the target "holding" temperature for a certain time during the time it takes to reach the target "holding" pressure. This means that in some cases, a slower pressure build-up may be preferred so that it is possible to reach the target "holding" temperature and the target "holding" pressure simultaneously or substantially simultaneously. Also, the control of the operation may also need to take into account any nominal maximum temperature and / or nominal maximum pressure that may not be allowed to be exceeded, due to safety reasons or depending on the desired material properties of the processed article(s).

[0029] At least one pressure medium flow generator is configured to generate a flow of pressure medium in an internal space passing through a charge compartment between a second end and a first end, whereby a flow of pressure medium in the internal space from an outlet of at least one pressure medium flow path to an inlet of at least one pressure medium flow path or towards at least that can be generated.

[0030] Generally, at least one pressure medium flow path can be different from the internal space and the charge compartment. Generally, at least one pressure medium flow path can be regarded as part of a pressing device separated from the internal space and / or the charge compartment, and accordingly, for this reason, the pressure medium is not mixed with the pressure medium in the internal space and / or the charge compartment when being conveyed in at least one pressure medium flow path.

[0031] At least one pressure medium guiding conduit can be configured to guide the pressure medium out of the internal space into the inlet, guide the pressure medium introduced into the inlet from the inlet to the outlet, and guide the pressure medium out of the outlet back into the internal space.

[0032] At least one pressure medium flow path can comprise at least one of, for example, one or more conduits, one or more channels, one or more pipes, one or more tubes, etc., which can be configured to guide the pressure medium therethrough.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, at least one pressure medium flow path can be formed by, for example, one or more passages between two or more different components, parts, or portions of a pressing device. For example, the internal space can be defined by the interior of a charge compartment that can be called a charge basket, for example, defined by the wall of a container, for example, a cylindrical container. The container can be at least partially surrounded by an enclosure, for example, a liner or jacket, which can be, for example, cylindrical. In such a case, at least one pressure medium flow path can comprise or be constituted by a gap between the outer surface of the wall of the container and the inner surface of the enclosure.

[0034] At least one pressure medium passage may be at least partially located within an internal space, for example. For example, at least one pressure medium passage may comprise or be composed of one or more conduits, one or more channels, one or more pipes, one or more tubes, etc., which may be at least partially located within the packing compartment. In this case, the internal space may be at least partially defined by the space within the packing compartment, excluding the space defined by the at least one pressure medium passage located within the packing compartment, and possibly also by the space outside the packing compartment. According to one particular example, at least one pressure medium passage may comprise a tube, pipe, or conduit that passes through and extends along the packing compartment. For example, if the packing compartment has a cylindrical shape, at least one pressure medium passage may comprise a tube, pipe, or conduit that extends axially through the packing compartment.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, at least one pressure medium flow path may be located at least partially within one or more parts of the pressure vessel that are separate from the internal space. An example of such a configuration is described above, in which at least one pressure medium flow path may comprise, or may be comprised of, a space or gap between the outer surface of the container wall (e.g., the outer enveloping surface of the container) and the inner surface of the enclosure surrounding the container, the space or gap that may define the internal space or the packing compartment. The space or gap that may define the pressure medium flow path may be replaced by a semi-solid liner or jacket, which may include one or more conduits, pipes, passages, or the like extending within the liner or jacket along the length of the container. Alternatively, a portion of the space or gap that may define the pressure medium flow path may accommodate such a liner or jacket. Alternatively or additionally, the pressure medium flow path may be realized by one or more conduits, channels, pipes, passages, or the like located within the container defining the packing compartment and extending along the length of the container. For example, a container defining a loading compartment may be configured as a cylinder, or at least having a cylindrical shape, and one or more such conduits, channels, pipes, passages, or similar may be located within the cylindrical wall of the container and run along at least a portion of its length.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally, at least one pressure medium channel may be located at least partially outside the pressure vessel. The at least one pressure medium channel may exit the pressure vessel at one of the first and second ends and enter the pressure vessel at the other of the first and second ends.

[0037] At least one pressure medium flow path may comprise several pressure medium flow paths, each of which may be configured according to one of the different configurations of at least one pressure medium flow path described herein. For example, each of the several pressure medium flow paths may be at least partially located within the internal space, at least partially located outside the pressure vessel, or at least partially located within the pressure vessel in one or more parts separate from the internal space. Thus, a press device may comprise several pressure medium flow paths in any combination of the configurations of at least one pressure medium flow path described herein.

[0038] At least one pressure medium flow generator may include, for example, at least one of at least one fan, at least one ejector, at least one pump, or at least one pressure intensifier.

[0039] As stated, a pressure vessel has (for example, at least) a first end and a second end. In the context of this application, the end of a pressure vessel can generally mean a portion of the region within the pressure vessel that lies at the boundary between the inside and outside of the pressure vessel. The first end and the second end do not necessarily have to be opposite ends, but they may be. The first end and the second end may be portions of different regions within the pressure vessel that lies at the boundary between the inside and outside of the pressure vessel. For example, a pressure vessel may have one or more end closures, such as a first end closure and a second end closure, each of which may be selectively opened and closed. The first end and the second end may be in different end closures, but this is not required, and the first end and the second end may be in the same end closure.

[0040] A pressure medium flow distribution regulator located at the outlet of at least one pressure medium flow path may comprise, for example, one or more diffusers, e.g., one or more diffusers of a type known in the art. In one or more embodiments of the present invention, a pressure medium flow distribution regulator located at the outlet of at least one pressure medium flow path may be called a divergence diffuser or divergence outlet diffuser. The diffuser(s) may comprise, for example, a structure made of a porous material.

[0041] A pressure vessel may have a surrounding structure. The surrounding structure may be configured to enclose and seal at least the internal space.

[0042] In the context of this application, the fact that the enclosing structure is configured to at least seal and enclose the internal space may mean that, unless the enclosing structure is provided, there may be no leakage of the pressure medium from the internal space, or substantially no leakage (e.g., only a small amount of leakage over a particular period of time), unless the pressure medium is intentionally guided out of the internal space through the enclosing structure or the outlet or discharge port of the pressure vessel.

[0043] A pressure vessel may comprise a pressure cylinder. A pressure vessel may comprise one or more end closures, such as a first end closure and a second end closure, each of which may be configured to be selectively opened and closed. A pressure vessel may comprise a pressure cylinder and one or more end closures, such as a first end closure and a second end closure. For example, the end closures of a pressure vessel may be comprised of a portion of the pressure cylinder. Each or either of the first end closure and / or the second end closure may include, for example, a lid, or be comprised of a lid. The second end closure may be on the opposite side of the first end closure. For example, the first and second end closures may be located at both ends of the pressure vessel (or pressure cylinder). From this, the first end closure may be at the first end of the pressure vessel and the second end closure may be at the second end of the pressure vessel, or the second end closure may be at the first end of the pressure vessel and the first end closure may be at the second end of the pressure vessel. At least the pressure cylinder may be included in or constitute an enclosure structure. For example, the pressure cylinder, the first end closure, and the second end closure may be included in or constitute an enclosure structure.

[0044] Channels, conduits, and / or tubes, etc., may be arranged on the outer surface of the outer wall of a pressure cylinder or pressure vessel, and these may be provided with a flow of coolant to cool the outer wall of the pressure cylinder or pressure vessel. Pre-stressing means may be provided on the outer surface of the outer wall of the pressure cylinder or pressure vessel, and optionally on any channels, conduits, and / or tubes, etc., for the coolant. The pre-stressing means may be provided, for example, in the form of a wire (e.g., made of steel) that can be wound multiple times to form one or more bands, preferably in several layers, around the outer surface of the outer wall of the pressure cylinder or pressure vessel, and optionally on any channels, conduits, and / or tubes, etc., for the coolant. The pre-stressing means may be arranged to apply a radial compressive force to the pressure cylinder or pressure vessel. In one example, the pressure vessel may be of the so-called monoblock type, in which case the pre-stressing means described above may not be used.

[0045] Furthermore, the press apparatus may include axial pre-stressing means for absorbing axial forces that may be applied to one or more of the end closures of the pressure vessel. Such axial pre-stressing means may include, for example, a frame that can be configured to hold one or more of the end closures of the pressure vessel. The frame may extend outward from the end closure at one end of the pressure vessel to the end closure at the other end of the pressure vessel.

[0046] In general, the loading compartment may be desirable to be as large as practically possible—or at least relatively large—so that a relatively large number of articles can be processed simultaneously using a press. To facilitate the placement of a relatively large, or practically as large, loading compartment, the internal space should be relatively large, or practically as large as possible. Different methods for how this can be achieved are described herein.

[0047] For example, at least one of at least one pressure medium flow generator or pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be incorporated into or integrated with the enclosure structure. Additionally or alternatively, the enclosure structure may comprise at least one cavity which may be in fluid communication with the internal space, and at least one of at least one pressure medium flow generator or pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be disposed within at least one cavity. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of at least one pressure medium flow generator or pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be embedded in the inner surface of the enclosure structure, the inner surface of which may face the internal space (for example, the surface normal of the inner surface may be oriented inward into the internal space).

[0048] As described, the pressure vessel may comprise one or more end closures, such as a first end closure and a second end closure. For example, at least one pressure medium flow generator may be incorporated into or integrated with the first end closure and / or the second end closure. A pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be incorporated into or integrated with the first end closure and / or the second end closure. The first end closure and / or the second end closure may comprise at least one cavity that is in fluid communication with an internal space, and at least one pressure medium flow generator may be disposed within at least one cavity. The first end closure and / or the second end closure may comprise at least one cavity that is in fluid communication with an internal space, and a pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be disposed within at least one cavity. As an addition or alternative, at least one pressure medium flow generator may be embedded in the inner surface of the first end closure and / or the second end closure, the inner surface of which may face the internal space. As an addition or alternative, a pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be embedded in the inner surface of the second end closure, the inner surface of which may face the internal space. The fact that the inner surface faces the internal space may mean that the surface normal of the inner surface may be directed inward into the internal space.

[0049] With the configurations described in the two preceding paragraphs, space may not be required, or may be required very little, within the internal space for housing at least one pressure medium flow generator or pressure medium flow distribution regulator, and therefore a relatively large proportion of the internal space volume, or even the entire volume of the internal space, may be used to house the charge compartment.

[0050] The pressure medium flow distribution regulator referred to above may be considered a first pressure medium flow distribution regulator. The press apparatus may include an additional second pressure medium flow distribution regulator which may be configured to receive the flow of pressure medium exiting the loading compartment and converge the flow of pressure medium toward the intake of at least one pressure medium passage, so that the converged flow of pressure medium enters the at least one pressure medium passage at its intake.

[0051] A second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, which may be positioned at the inlet of at least one pressure medium flow path, may comprise, for example, one or more diffusers, e.g., one or more diffusers of a type known in the art. In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be referred to as a convergent diffuser, convergent inlet diffuser, convergent nozzle, or convergent inlet nozzle.

[0052] As stated, the pressure vessel may include an enclosure structure configured to seal and surround at least the internal space. At least one of at least one pressure medium flow generator, a second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, or a first pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be incorporated into or integrated with the enclosure structure. Alternatively or additionally, the enclosure structure may include at least one cavity which may be in fluid communication with the internal space, and at least one of at least one pressure medium flow generator, a second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, or a first pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be disposed within at least one cavity. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of at least one pressure medium flow generator, a second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, or a first pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be embedded in the inner surface of the enclosure structure, and the inner surface may face the internal space. The inner surface facing the internal space may mean that the surface normal of the inner surface may be oriented inward into the internal space.

[0053] As described above, the pressure vessel may comprise one or more end closures, such as a first end closure and a second end closure. For example, at least one pressure medium flow generator may be incorporated into or integrated with the first end closure and / or the second end closure. A first pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be incorporated into or integrated with one of the first end closure and / or the second end closure, and a second pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be incorporated into or integrated with the first end closure and / or the second end closure. Alternatively or additionally, the first end closure and / or the second end closure may comprise at least one cavity that is in fluid communication with the internal space, and at least one pressure medium flow generator may be disposed within at least one cavity. One of the first and second end closures may comprise at least one cavity that may be in fluid communication with the internal space, and the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be disposed within at least one cavity; the other of the first and second end closures may comprise at least one cavity that may be in fluid communication with the internal space, and the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be disposed within at least one cavity. Alternatively or additionally, at least one pressure medium flow generator may be embedded in the inner surface of the first and / or second end closure, the inner surface of which faces the internal space. Alternatively or additionally, the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be embedded in the inner surface of one of the first and second end closures, the inner surface of which faces the internal space, and the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be incorporated in the inner surface of the other of the first and second end closures, the inner surface of which faces the internal space. The fact that the interior surface faces the interior space may mean that the surface normal of the interior surface can be directed inward into the interior space.

[0054] With the configurations described in the two preceding paragraphs, space may not be required, or may be required very little, within the internal space for housing at least one pressure medium flow generator or pressure medium flow distribution regulator, and therefore a relatively large proportion of the internal space volume, or even the entire volume of the internal space, may be used to house the charge compartment.

[0055] The press apparatus may include a heating unit that can be configured to heat a pressure medium guided through at least one pressure medium flow path from an intake port to an outlet port.

[0056] The press apparatus may include a cooling unit that can be configured to cool a pressure medium that is guided through at least one pressure medium flow path from an intake port to an outlet port.

[0057] The heating unit and the cooling unit may be configured to heat and cool the pressure medium guided through the pressure medium flow path from an inlet to an outlet at different locations along the pressure medium flow path, respectively.

[0058] The heating unit and / or cooling unit may, for example, include at least one heat exchanger unit.

[0059] As stated, at least one pressure medium flow path may be located at least partially outside the pressure vessel. A heating unit and / or cooling unit may be configured to heat or cool the pressure medium, respectively, while being guided through the at least one pressure medium flow path from inlet to outlet, within a portion of the at least one pressure medium flow path located outside the pressure vessel.

[0060] For example, if at least one pressure medium flow path is located at least partially outside the pressure vessel, a cooling unit may be located downstream of the intake of the at least one pressure medium flow path and configured to cool the pressure medium being guided through the at least one pressure medium flow path. At least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generators may be located downstream of the cooling unit and configured to receive the flow of pressure medium cooled by the cooling unit and generate a flow of pressure medium in the at least one pressure medium flow path toward the outlet. The cooling unit may be configured to cool the pressure medium being guided through the at least one pressure medium flow path such that the temperature of the pressure medium received by at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generators does not exceed a selected temperature. A heating unit may be located downstream of at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generators and upstream of the outlet and configured to heat the pressure medium being guided through the at least one pressure medium flow path such that the temperature of the pressure medium in the flow of pressure medium exiting the outlet is above or equal to a selected temperature.

[0061] Such a configuration may be particularly advantageous if the at least one pressure medium flow generator described above, located downstream of the cooling unit, is of a type or configuration that may not function or operate properly, or may even malfunction, when the temperature of the pressure medium received by the pressure medium flow generator(s) is relatively high. During use of the press apparatus, the temperature of the pressure medium can become relatively high. As stated, the press apparatus may be configured to process at least one article by isotropic pressing, in which case the temperature of the pressure medium can become relatively high. If the temperature of the pressure medium guided through the at least one pressure medium flow channel becomes too high for the at least one pressure medium flow generator described above, located downstream of the cooling unit, to function or operate properly, the cooling unit may cool the pressure medium guided through the at least one pressure medium flow channel so that the temperature of the pressure medium received by the at least one pressure medium flow generator described above does not exceed a temperature above which the at least one pressure medium flow generator located downstream of the cooling unit may not function or operate properly, or may even malfunction. The heating unit may then heat the pressure medium being guided through at least one pressure medium flow path such that the temperature of the pressure medium in the flow of pressure medium exiting from the outlet is above or equal to a selected temperature, the selected temperature may be the temperature of the pressure medium as it is guided through the at least one pressure medium flow path via its inlet.

[0062] The above-described at least one pressure medium flow generator located downstream of the cooling unit may, for example, include at least one pressure intensifier.

[0063] Further objects and advantages of the present invention are illustrated below by illustrative embodiments. It should be noted that the present invention relates to all possible combinations of the features described in the claims. Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the appended claims and description herein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that different features of the present invention can be combined to produce embodiments other than those described herein.

[0064] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0065] [Figure 1] This is a schematic, partially cross-sectional, perspective view of a press apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus exemplified in Figure 1, at one of the ends of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus exemplified in Figure 1, at the other end of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus exemplified in Figure 1, at one of the ends of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Figure 5] This is a schematic, partially cross-sectional, perspective view of a press apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus exemplified in Figure 5, at one of the ends of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus exemplified in Figure 5, at one of the ends of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of a press device similar to the press device illustrated in Figure 5, at one of the ends of the pressure vessel of the press device. [Figure 9] This is a schematic, partially cross-sectional, perspective view of a press apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus illustrated in Figure 9, at one of the ends of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus illustrated in Figure 9, at one of the ends of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Figure 12]This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus exemplified in Figure 9, at the other end of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Figure 13] This is a schematic, partially cross-sectional, perspective view of a press apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus illustrated in Figure 13, at one of the ends of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Figure 15] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus illustrated in Figure 13, at one of the ends of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Figure 16] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus exemplified in Figure 13, at the other end of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Figure 17] This is a schematic diagram of a press apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the pressure vessel of a press device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] This is a schematic, partially cross-sectional, perspective view of a press apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus illustrated in Figure 19, at one of the ends of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Figure 21] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus illustrated in Figure 19, at one of the ends of the pressure vessel of the press apparatus. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0066] The drawings are schematic and not necessarily to scale, and generally show only the parts necessary to illustrate embodiments of the present invention, with other parts being omitted or merely suggested.

[0067] The present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating illustrative embodiments of the invention. The present invention, however, can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments of the present invention described herein, but rather these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure conveys the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0068] Figure 1 is a schematic, partially cross-sectional perspective view of a press device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The press device 100 is configured to process at least one article (not shown in Figure 1). The press device 100 may be configured to process at least one article by isostatic pressing. For example, the press device 100 may be configured to process at least one article by CIP, WIP, or HIP.

[0069] The press device 100 comprises a pressure vessel 1 having an internal space 5. According to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 1, the pressure vessel 1 has a cylindrical shape. While a cylindrical shape may be preferred for the pressure vessel 1, the pressure vessel 1 may have a shape other than cylindrical. The pressure vessel 1 is configured to hold a pressure medium within the internal space 5 during use of the press device 100. The pressure medium may comprise a fluid, such as a liquid or a gas. The fluid may comprise, for example, water and / or oil, such as mineral oil. The gas may comprise an inert gas, such as argon gas.

[0070] Furthermore, according to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 1, the pressure vessel 1 comprises a pressure cylinder 10 (which may be simply referred to as the cylinder), a first end closure 11, and a second end closure 12. Although not explicitly illustrated in Figure 1, one or both of the first end closure 11 and the second end closure 12 may be configured to be opened and closed, for example, using opening and closing means known in the art. The second end closure 12 is on the opposite side of the first end closure 11. The pressure vessel 1 has a first end 3 and a second end 4. Generally, the first end closure 11 may be on either the first end 3 or the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1, and the second end closure 12 may be on the other of the first end 3 or the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1. As illustrated in Figure 1, according to the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the first end closure 11 is located at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1, and the second end closure 12 is located at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1.

[0071] The press device 100 includes a loading compartment 2 located in an internal space 5 between a first end 3 and a second end 4. The loading compartment 2 is configured to allow the flow of a pressure medium through it. The loading compartment 2 is configured to hold at least one article in it during use of the press device 100.

[0072] According to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 1, the loading compartment 2 is defined by the walls of a cylindrical container, which may, without loss of generality, be called a loading basket, and the internal space 5 may be at least partially defined by the loading compartment 2, for example, by the inside of the (e.g., cylindrical) container that defines the loading compartment 2. At least the enclosing surface of the container may be impermeable to the pressure medium. One or more ends of the container (e.g., the bottom end and / or top end of the container) may be provided with one or more through holes that allow the pressure medium to pass through, thereby allowing the flow of the pressure medium through the loading compartment 2. The container, i.e., the loading basket, may, in principle, be made from any material capable of withstanding the pressure under which at least one article is intended to be processed. The container, i.e., the loading basket, may be made from, for example, steel or another iron-based alloy. The container, i.e., the loading basket, may preferably be made from a material having relatively low thermal conductivity, such as, for example, a polymer or plastic material. However, other materials with relatively low thermal conductivity are also being considered.

[0073] While the cylindrical shape of the pressure vessel 1, internal space 5, and packing compartment 2 as illustrated in Figure 1 may be a preferred shape—or one of several preferred shapes—it should be understood that such shapes of the pressure vessel 1, internal space 5, and packing compartment 2 are not mandatory, and other or other types of shapes of such components are possible.

[0074] Generally, the press device 100 has an intake port located at one of the first end 3 and the second end 4, and an outlet port located at the other of the first end 3 and the second end 4, and is equipped with at least one pressure medium passage extending between them, wherein the intake port and the outlet port are in fluid communication with the internal space 5, and the at least one pressure medium passage is configured to guide the pressure medium from the intake port to the outlet port. According to an embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 1, the press device 100 has an intake port 7 located at the first end 3 and an outlet port 8 located at the second end 4, and is equipped with a pressure medium passage 6 extending between them, wherein the intake port 7 and the outlet port 8 are in fluid communication with the internal space, and the pressure medium passage 6 is configured to guide the pressure medium from the intake port 7 to the outlet port 8.

[0075] According to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 1, the pressure medium flow path 6 comprises a tube, pipe, or conduit that is at least partially located within the internal space 5 and extends axially through the packing compartment 2. Thus, according to the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the internal space 5 is at least partially defined by the space within the packing compartment 2 outside the tube, pipe, or conduit that defines the pressure medium flow path 6.

[0076] It should be understood that the components of the press apparatus 100 can be relatively large. For example, components of the press apparatus 100, such as any container or loading basket that can define the loading compartment 2, and / or any tube, pipe, conduit, etc. that can define the pressure medium flow path 6, may be constructed from a plurality of parts that can be interconnected in any suitable way, for example, by docking mechanisms, or by welding, soldering, or the like, depending on the material of such parts.

[0077] The press device 100 includes a pressure medium flow generator (not shown in Figure 1, see Figure 2) configured to generate a flow of pressure medium in an internal space 5 that passes through the loading compartment 2 between the second end 4 and the first end 3. At least one pressure medium flow generator is configured to generate a flow of pressure medium that enters the intake port 7 of the pressure medium flow path 6, passes through at least one pressure medium flow path 6, and exits the outlet port 8 of the pressure medium flow path 6.

[0078] By providing the pressure medium flow path 6 and at least one pressure medium flow generator, it can be made easier or possible to generate and / or maintain circulation of the pressure medium within the pressure vessel 1, for example, over a long period of time. In particular, for example, circulation of the pressure medium within the internal space 5 and the packing compartment 2 can be generated and / or maintained over a long period of time. During the circulation of the pressure medium within the internal space 5, there may be a flow of the pressure medium that passes through only a portion of the internal space 5, or that passes through all or substantially all of the internal space 5. For example, there may be a flow of the pressure medium that passes through the packing compartment 2, which can be defined by the walls of the cylindrical container as described, and a flow of the pressure medium that passes through the space outside the container, which can extend along the enveloping surface of the container. The container may therefore not occupy all of the internal space 5, but for example, there may be a gap between the inner surface of the pressure container 1 and the outer surface of the packing compartment 2 (e.g., the enveloping surface of the container as described above). Such a gap is illustrated in detail in Figures 3, 4, 6-8 (see element 30 in those figures) and will be further described below.

[0079] The press apparatus 100 includes a pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 located at the outlet 8 of the pressure medium flow path 6. In Figure 1, at least one pressure medium flow generator is located behind the pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 is configured to receive the flow of pressure medium from the pressure medium flow path 6 through its outlet 8. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 is configured to diffuse the received flow of pressure medium so that the distribution of the flow of pressure medium through the packing compartment 2 matches a selected distribution of the flow of pressure medium through the packing compartment 2.

[0080] By providing a pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9, the flow distribution of the pressure medium through the packing compartment 2 during such circulation of the pressure medium in the internal space 5 and packing compartment 2 can be adjusted or adapted to match a selected flow distribution of the pressure medium through the packing compartment 2. Thus, a selected flow profile of the pressure medium in the packing compartment 2 can be achieved by the pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 may comprise, for example, a diffuser according to an embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 1.

[0081] The press apparatus 100 may be equipped with one or more additional pressure medium flow distribution regulators in addition to (or possibly as an alternative to) the pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9, which may be referred to as the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9. According to an embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 1, the press apparatus 100 may be equipped with an additional second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13. The second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13 may be configured to receive the flow of pressure medium coming out of the loading compartment 2 and converge the flow of pressure medium toward the intake port 7 of the pressure medium flow path 6, so that the converged flow of pressure medium enters the pressure medium flow path 6 at its intake port 7. The second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13 may be equipped with, for example, a diffuser according to an embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 1.

[0082] The arrows in the internal space 5 / loading compartment 2 and the pressure medium flow path 6 in Figure 1 illustrate the exemplary flow path of the pressure medium in use of the press device 100. Figure 1 may illustrate the press device 100 during the pressing phase of a processing cycle, in which at least one article is subjected to increased pressure in the pressure vessel 1 (e.g., at or near a specific pressure in the pressure vessel 1, and possibly at or near a specific temperature in the pressure vessel 1) over a period of time (e.g., selected). As illustrated in Figure 1, there is a flow of pressure medium through the loading compartment 2 in the direction from the second end 4 to the first end 3. As further illustrated in Figure 1, the flow of pressure medium in the pressure medium flow path 6 is directed in the opposite direction. As also illustrated in Figure 1 (and at least in Figures 3 and 4 and 6-8), the pressure medium may also flow along the outer envelope surface of the container defining the loading compartment 2 in the direction from the second end 4 to the first end 3. In the illustrated embodiments of the present invention, the loading compartment 2 does not occupy the entire internal space 5, but rather the internal space 5 includes a gap 30 (see Figures 3 and 4 and 6-8) between the outer enveloping surface of the container defining the loading compartment 2 and the inner surface of the pressure cylinder 10, through which the pressure medium can flow.

[0083] The configuration of the pressure medium flow path 6, which comprises a tube, pipe, or conduit as illustrated in Figure 1, is illustrative, and it should be understood that other configurations are possible, for example, as described below with reference to Figures 9-12. Furthermore, while embodiments of the present invention may be described herein as comprising one pressure medium flow path, it should be understood that more than one pressure medium flow path may be provided, for example, arranged in parallel with one another. If more than one pressure medium flow path is provided, each pressure medium flow path may provide the same function of transporting the pressure medium within it between the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1 and the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 to facilitate the generation and / or maintenance of circulation of the pressure medium within the pressure vessel 1, such as in the internal space 5 and the packing compartment 2, for example, over a long period of time.

[0084] It should be understood that the press apparatus 100 may include one or more additional components, which are not illustrated in the figures. For example, one or more such additional components may include one or more heaters that can be placed inside the pressure vessel 1, for example, at any location between the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 and the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13. Such heaters may be configured to heat (for example, selectively and / or controllably) the pressure medium inside the pressure vessel 1, for example, the pressure medium inside the internal space 5 or the charge compartment 2. Such heaters may comprise, for example, one or more heating elements, for example, one or more electric heating elements, and / or one or more heat exchangers.

[0085] As previously stated, pre-stressing means may be provided on or on the outer surface of the outer wall of the pressure vessel 1—for example, in the form of wire that can be wound multiple times to form one or more bands, possibly in several layers (such pre-stressing means are not shown in Figure 1). If the pressure vessel 1 is of the so-called monoblock type, such pre-stressing means may not be used. Heaters(s) may be placed outside the pressure vessel, for example, outside the surface of any pre-stressing means as described above, or directly on the outer surface of the outer wall of the pressure vessel 1 if the pressure vessel 1 is of the monoblock type. Any heater(s) outside the pressure vessel 1 may be operated to maintain a particular temperature inside the pressure vessel 1 and / or to provide a particular heating power that may be desired or required during the heating stage (for example, they may be operated in a controllable manner). Any heater(s) outside the pressure vessel 1 may comprise, for example, one or more heating elements (e.g., electric heating elements(s)) and / or heating medium circuits. A heating medium circuit may, for example, extend along at least a portion of the outer surface of the pressure vessel 1 and be configured to circulate a heating medium therein. The heating medium is at a selected temperature and may contain a certain amount of thermal energy. During the circulation of the heating medium in the heating medium circuit, thermal energy may be transferred from the heating medium to the walls of the pressure vessel, and thus the thermal energy is transferred into the interior of the pressure vessel 1, in particular to the pressure medium within the pressure vessel 1, for example, the pressure medium in the internal space 5 or in the packing compartment 2 (for example, the pressure medium flowing through the gap 30 illustrated in Figures 3 and 4 and 6-8). The heating medium used in the heating medium circuit may, for example, include oil.

[0086] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 1, at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 of the press apparatus 100. In Figure 2, the pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 is not shown, thereby providing a diagram of the pressure medium flow generator indicated by reference numeral 14 in Figure 2. According to embodiments of the present invention illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the pressure medium flow generator 14 is comprised of a pump. As illustrated in Figure 2, the inlet of the pump is fluidly coupled to the outlet 8 of a tube, pipe, or conduit that defines the pressure medium flow path 6 by an additional tube, pipe, or conduit having several bends. The additional tube, pipe, or conduit may possibly be considered part of the pressure medium flow path 6, and the outlet 8 would then be at the point of coupling to the inlet of the pump. As illustrated in Figure 2 by arrows in and out of the pump, the pump can output the pressure medium radially. The pressure medium output from the pump can then be received by a pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9, which can then diffuse the received flow of pressure medium so that the flow distribution of the pressure medium through the packing compartment 2 matches a selected flow distribution of the pressure medium through the packing compartment 2.

[0087] The configuration of the pressure medium flow generator 14, such as that which is comprised of a pump, its coupling to the pressure medium flow path 6, and its radially oriented output of the pressure medium as described above are illustrative and should be understood to be otherwise possible. For example, the pressure medium flow generator 14 may be equipped with a fan and / or ejector as an alternative or additional component, and the pressure medium flow generator may be located in a different location within the press device 100, for example, in a different location within the pressure vessel 1.

[0088] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 1, at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1 of the press apparatus 100. Figure 3 illustrates, in more detail than Figure 1, the illustrative flow of the pressure medium in the loading compartment 2 and into the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13 at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1. The arrows in the illustrated portion of the loading compartment 2 illustrate the flow of the pressure medium. According to the illustrated embodiment, the illustrated end of the loading compartment 2 includes radially distributed through-holes through which the pressure medium in the loading compartment 2 flows out of the loading compartment 2 to or toward the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13. The second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13 may be configured to receive the flow of pressure medium leaving the packing compartment 2—for example, according to the illustrative flow of pressure medium illustrated by the arrows in the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13—and to converge the flow of pressure medium toward the intake 7 of the pressure medium flow path 6, so that the converged flow of pressure medium enters the pressure medium flow path 6 at its intake 7. As stated, the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13 may comprise, for example, a diffuser according to the embodiments of the present invention illustrated in Figures 1 and 3.

[0089] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 1, at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 of the press apparatus 100. Figure 4 illustrates, in more detail than Figure 1, an illustrative flow of the pressure medium from the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 into the packing compartment 2 at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1. As described, the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 may comprise, for example, a diffuser according to embodiments of the present invention illustrated in Figures 1, 2, and 4. As illustrated in Figure 4 and in Figures 1 and 2, the end of the packing compartment 2 at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 may have a plurality of through-holes that allow the pressure medium to pass through. Similarly, the end of the packing compartment 2 at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1 may also have a plurality of through-holes that allow the pressure medium to pass through, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 3.

[0090] Figure 5 is a schematic, partially cross-sectional, perspective view of a press apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 5 is similar to the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 1, and the same reference numerals in Figures 1 and 5 indicate the same or similar components or elements having the same or similar functions. Figures 6 and 7 are schematic diagrams of a portion of the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 5 at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 of the press apparatus 100. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus 100 similar to that illustrated in Figure 5 at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1 of the press apparatus 100. Compared to the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 1, in the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 5, the pressure medium flow path 6 is positioned differently within the loading compartment 2. As illustrated in Figures 5-8, the pressure medium flow path 6 extends parallel to the axial direction of the pressure vessel 1 and the material compartment 2. However, in the press device 100 illustrated in Figures 5-8, the tube, pipe, or conduit defining the pressure medium flow path 6 extends in close proximity to or in contact with the inner surface of the material compartment 2. In contrast, in the press device 100 illustrated in Figures 1-4, the tube, pipe, or conduit defining the pressure medium flow path 6 extends to the center of the material compartment 2. The press apparatus 100 (or a part thereof) illustrated in Figure 8 differs slightly from the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 5 in that, in the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 8, the inlet 7 of the pressure medium passage 6 is located on or near the longitudinal axis of the loading compartment 2, whereas in the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 5, the inlet 7 of the pressure medium passage 6 is located at a distance from the longitudinal axis of the loading compartment 2 and around the loading compartment 2. For example, it should be understood that other locations for the inlet 7 of the pressure medium passage 6 relative to the loading compartment 2 are possible.

[0091] Figure 9 is a schematic, partially cross-sectional, perspective view of a press apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 9 is similar to the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 1 or Figure 5, and the same reference numerals in Figure 9 and Figure 1 or 5 indicate the same or similar components or elements having the same or similar functions. Figures 10 and 11 are schematic diagrams of a portion of the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 9 at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 of the press apparatus 100. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 9 at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1 of the press apparatus 100.

[0092] The press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 9 differs from the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figures 1 or 5 in that, for example, the (at least one) pressure medium flow path is not implemented as a tube, pipe, or conduit defining the pressure medium flow path, but is implemented in a different way, as will be further described below.

[0093] The press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 9 differs from the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 1 or Figure 5 in that, as illustrated in Figure 9, there is a flow of pressure medium through the loading compartment 2 in the direction from the first end 3 to the second end 4. As illustrated in Figure 9 (and at least in Figures 11 and 12), the pressure medium may flow along the outer envelope surface of the container defining the loading compartment 2 in the direction from the second end 4 to the first end 3.

[0094] According to embodiments of the present invention illustrated in Figures 9-12, there is a gap 15 between the outer enclosing surface of the container defining the loading compartment 2 and the inner surface of the pressure cylinder 10, through which the pressure medium can flow. According to embodiments of the present invention illustrated in Figures 9-12, the gap 15 defines the pressure medium flow path, and the gap can therefore be called the pressure medium flow path 15. The pressure medium flow path 15 extends between the intake port 7 located at the second end 4 and the discharge port 8 located at the first end 3.

[0095] According to the embodiments of the present invention illustrated in Figures 9-12, the internal space 5 is defined by the loading compartment 2. In other words, according to the embodiments of the present invention illustrated in Figures 9-12, the loading compartment 2 and the internal space 5 occupy the same space. Thus, the intake port 7 and the outlet port 8 are in fluid communication with the internal space 5, and the pressure medium flow path 15 is configured to guide the pressure medium from the intake port 7 to the outlet port 8.

[0096] It should be noted that the methods by which the (at least one) pressure medium flow path is realized or implemented are not limited to those illustrated in, for example, Figures 1, 5, or 9, and other methods of realizing or implementing the (at least one) pressure medium flow path are possible. For example, the gap defining the pressure medium flow path 15 in Figure 9 may be replaced by a semi-solid liner or jacket, which may include one or more conduits, pipes, passages, or the like extending within the liner or jacket along the length of the container defining the packing compartment 2. Alternatively, a portion of the gap defining the pressure medium flow path 15 in Figure 9 may accommodate such a liner or jacket. An example of such a solution is described below with reference to Figure 18. Alternatively or additionally, the pressure medium flow path may be realized by one or more conduits, channels, pipes, passages, or the like located within and / or within the packing compartment 2 of the container defining the packing compartment 2, and which may extend along the length of the container defining the packing compartment 2. For example, the container defining the loading compartment 2 may be configured as a cylinder, and one or more such conduits, channels, pipes, passages, or similar may be located within the cylindrical wall of the container and / or within the container and run along at least a portion of its length. In another example, the flow of the pressure medium through the loading compartment 2 may be in the opposite direction to that shown in Figure 9, and therefore the flow of the pressure medium through the gap defining the pressure medium flow path 15 may also be in the opposite direction to that shown in Figure 9. In such a case, a pressure medium flow distribution regulator, such as those described herein, including a diffuser, may be provided upstream of the loading compartment 2, and the pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be configured to diffuse the flow of the pressure medium so that the distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the loading compartment 2 matches a selected distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the loading compartment 2.

[0097] Perhaps best illustrated in Figures 10 and 11, the press apparatus 100 may include a pressure medium flow guide element 16, which may be configured to collect and / or converge the flow of pressure medium leaving the loading compartment 2 in order to facilitate the receiving of the flow of pressure medium by the pressure medium flow generator 14. The pressure medium flow guide element 16 may also help to ensure that the entire or substantially entire flow of pressure medium leaving the loading compartment 2 is substantially guided (e.g., forced) into the gap 15 via the pressure medium flow generator 14. According to embodiments of the present invention illustrated in Figures 9-12, the gap 15 defines the pressure medium flow path.

[0098] Although not illustrated in Figure 9 or Figure 12, the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figures 9-12 may include a pressure medium flow distribution regulator, for example, a diffuser, located at the outlet 8 of the pressure medium flow path 15. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be configured to receive the flow of pressure medium exiting the pressure medium flow path 15 through its outlet 8 and to diffuse the received flow of pressure medium so that the distribution of the flow of pressure medium through the packing compartment 2 matches a selected distribution of the flow of pressure medium through the packing compartment 2.

[0099] Figure 13 is a schematic, partially cross-sectional, perspective view of a press apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 13 is similar to the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 1 or Figure 5, and the same reference numerals in Figure 13 and Figure 1 or 5 indicate the same or similar components or elements having the same or similar functions. Figures 14 and 15 are schematic diagrams of a portion of the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 13 at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 of the press apparatus 100. Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 13 at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1 of the press apparatus 100. Compared with the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 1 or Figure 5, in the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 13, the tube, pipe, or conduit defining the pressure medium flow path 6 does not extend within the loading compartment 2 but extends at least partially outside the pressure vessel 1. Generally, the (at least one) pressure medium channel 6 may exit the pressure vessel at one of the first end 3 and the second end 4 and enter the pressure vessel at the other of the first end 3 and the second end 4. According to embodiments of the present invention illustrated in Figures 13-16, the pressure medium channel 6 exits the pressure vessel 1 at the first end 3 and enters the pressure vessel 1 at the second end 4. Except that the pressure medium channel 6 does not extend within the packing compartment 2, but instead extends at least partially outside the pressure vessel 1, the functions of the components or elements having the same reference numbers in Figures 13-16 and Figures 1-4 or 5-8 are the same or similar.

[0100] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of a press apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The press apparatus 100 comprises a pressure vessel 1. Although the pressure vessel 1 is shown only schematically in Figure 17, the pressure vessel 1 may generally be the same as or similarly configured as the pressure vessel 1 of the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 13. Similar to the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 13, in the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 17, (at least one) pressure medium passage 6 is located at least partially outside the pressure vessel 1. Figure 17 schematically illustrates that the pressure medium passage 6 exits the pressure vessel 1 at one location and enters the pressure vessel 1 at another location, but the pressure medium passage may exit the pressure vessel 1 at one of a first end and a second end and enter the pressure vessel 1 at the other of a first end and a second end (the first and second ends of the pressure vessel 1 are not shown in Figure 17; see, for example, Figure 13). As shown in Figure 13, the pressure medium flow path 6 in Figure 17 is defined by a tube, pipe, or conduit.

[0101] The press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 17 includes a cooling unit 20, which is located downstream of the intake port 7 of the pressure medium passage 6 and is configured to cool the pressure medium as it is guided through the pressure medium passage 6.

[0102] The press device 100 includes a pressure medium flow generator 14 located downstream of the cooling unit 20. The pressure medium flow generator 14 is configured to receive the flow of pressure medium cooled by the cooling unit 20 and generate a flow of pressure medium in the pressure medium flow path 6 toward the outlet 8 of the pressure medium flow path 6.

[0103] The cooling unit 20 is configured to cool the pressure medium as it is guided through the pressure medium flow path 6 so that the temperature of the pressure medium received by the pressure medium flow generator 14 does not exceed a selected temperature.

[0104] The press device 100 includes a heating unit 21 located downstream of the pressure medium flow generator 14 and upstream of the outlet of the pressure medium flow path 6. The heating unit 21 is configured to heat the pressure medium being guided through the pressure medium flow path 6 so that the temperature of the pressure medium in the flow of pressure medium exiting from the outlet 8 of the pressure medium flow path 6 is above or equal to a selected temperature.

[0105] The configuration of the press apparatus 100, as illustrated in Figure 17, particularly the configuration of the pressure medium flow channel 6, may be particularly advantageous when the pressure medium flow generator 14 is of a type or configuration that may not function or operate properly, or may even malfunction, if the temperature of the pressure medium received by the pressure medium flow generator 14 is relatively high. For example, the press apparatus 100 may be configured to process at least one article by isotropic pressing, in which case the temperature of the pressure medium may become relatively high during use of the press apparatus 100. If the temperature of the pressure medium guided through the pressure medium flow channel 6 becomes too high for the pressure medium flow generator 14 to function properly, the cooling unit 20 may cool the pressure medium guided through the pressure medium flow channel 6 so that the temperature of the pressure medium received by the pressure medium flow generator 14 does not exceed a temperature above which the pressure medium flow generator 14 may not function or operate properly, or may even malfunction. Next, the heating unit 21 may heat the pressure medium being guided through the pressure medium flow path 6 such that the temperature of the pressure medium in the flow of pressure medium exiting from the outlet 8 is above or equal to a selected temperature, the selected temperature may be equal to or approximately equal to the temperature of the pressure medium as it is guided through the pressure medium flow path 6 via the inlet 7.

[0106] For example, according to an embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 17, the pressure medium flow generator 14 may include a pressure intensifier 24 and a pump 25, the pump 25 of which may be called a supply pump. The pressure intensifier 24 may not function or operate properly, or may even malfunction, when the temperature of the pressure medium received by the pressure medium flow generator 14 (e.g., the pressure intensifier 24) is relatively high. The cooling unit 20 can cool the pressure medium in the pressure medium flow path 6 to ensure that the temperature of the pressure medium received by the pressure medium flow generator 14 (e.g., the pressure intensifier 24) does not exceed a temperature for which the pressure medium flow generator 14, such as the pressure intensifier 24, is not rated.

[0107] Each or both of the cooling unit 20 and the heating unit 21 may, for example, comprise one or more heat exchanger units, but other or other types of heating / cooling units are also possible.

[0108] According to an embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 17, the press apparatus 100 comprises a control valve 22 located downstream of the cooling unit 20 and a check valve assembly 23 located downstream of the control valve 22. As illustrated in Figure 17, the check valve assembly 23 receives pressure medium output from the cooling unit 20 as input and outputs pressure medium to be supplied to or transported to the heating unit 21. As also illustrated in Figure 17, the check valve assembly 23 is further fluid-coupled to a pump 25. The control valve 22 and the check valve assembly 23 may be used to control the flow of pressure medium output from the intensifier 24. The pump 25, which may be operating at relatively low pressures, may be used to supply pressure medium to the intensifier 24, comprising any other fluid such as oil and / or water.

[0109] The pressurization phase of the processing cycle, i.e., when the pressure in the pressure vessel 1 is increased to a certain pressure level, may involve the following operations: Pump 25 supplies pressure medium to the intensifier 24. As the intensifier 24 performs its stroke, the pressure in the pressure medium input to the intensifier 24 is increased, and the pressurized pressure medium is delivered to the check valve assembly 23 (e.g., pumped). During this operation, the control valve 22 is closed (i.e., not allowing any flow of pressure medium through it, or only a very small amount), and all the pressure medium is delivered to the heating unit 21 (e.g., pumped). The heat exchanger 21 may heat the pressure medium to a certain temperature or above a certain temperature before it enters the pressure vessel 1 through the outlet 8. The intensifier 24 is operated until the selected pressure level is reached in the pressure vessel 1. The operation of pump 25 and intensifier 24 may then be stopped.

[0110] A pressing stage in a processing cycle in which at least one article is exposed to increased pressure in a pressure vessel 1 (e.g., at or near a specific pressure in the pressure vessel 1, and possibly at or near a specific temperature in the pressure vessel 1) during a selected time period may involve: During the pressing stage, the control valve 22 is opened (e.g., to allow the flow of the pressure medium through it). Instead of supplying the pressure medium to the intensifier 24 by a pump 25, the pressure medium from the cooling unit 20 is transported through the control valve 22 and supplied to the intensifier 24 via a check valve assembly 23. For example, by shifting the intensifier in the stroke direction and performing a pumping stroke, the pressure medium may be directed to the heating unit 21 via the check valve assembly 23.

[0111] Figure 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a pressure vessel 1 of a press device according to an embodiment of the present invention. The same reference numerals in Figure 18 and previously referenced figures indicate the same or similar components or elements having the same or similar function. Figure 18 illustrates a method for realizing or implementing the (at least one) pressure medium flow path. According to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 18, the pressure vessel 1 has a cylindrical shape, and Figure 18 illustrates a cross-section of the pressure vessel 1 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pressure vessel 1.

[0112] According to an embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 18, as shown in Figure 18, a (e.g., cylindrical) liner (or jacket) 35 is located in a pressure vessel 1, which is positioned in close proximity to and possibly coupled to the inner surface of a pressure cylinder 10. The interior of the liner 35 defines an internal space 5, within which a (e.g., cylindrical) container 36 is positioned, which can define a packing compartment 2. As illustrated in Figure 18, a gap 15 may exist between the outer envelope surface of the container 36 and the liner 35, similar to the gap 15 illustrated in Figure 9, through which a pressure medium can flow.

[0113] According to embodiments of the present invention illustrated in Figure 18, a plurality of pressure medium passages (e.g., comprising conduits, pipes, or similar) are provided, some of which are shown in Figure 18 within the liner 35 by reference numerals 41, 42, 43, and 44. Each of the pressure medium passages 41, 42, 43, and 44 may extend along at least a portion of the length of the liner 35, for example, in a direction parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the liner 35.

[0114] Each of the pressure medium passages 41, 42, 43, and 44 may have an inlet (not shown in Figure 18) at a first end (not shown in Figure 18) of the pressure vessel 1 and an outlet (not shown in Figure 18) at a second end (not shown in Figure 18) of the pressure vessel 1, and the inlet and outlet are in fluid communication with the internal space 5. Each of the pressure medium passages 41, 42, 43, and 44 may be configured to guide the pressure medium from the inlet to the outlet.

[0115] According to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 18, there may be a flow of pressure medium through the packing compartment 2 in the direction from the first end to the second end (or vice versa), and further, a flow of pressure medium through the pressure medium passages 41, 42, 43, and 44 in the direction from the second end to the first end (or vice versa). Thus, for example, pressure medium that enters the packing compartment 2 at the first end of the pressure vessel 1 and flows through the packing compartment 2 to or toward the second end of the pressure vessel 1 can be returned to or toward the first end of the pressure vessel 1 by the pressure medium passages 41, 42, 43, and 44.

[0116] The pressure medium passages 41, 42, 43, and 44 may be joined so as to share the same outlet. However, this is not mandatory. Rather, each or any pressure medium passage may have its own outlet, or several pressure medium passages may be joined so as to share one outlet, and other pressure medium passages may be joined so as to share another outlet. Furthermore, the pressure medium passages 41, 42, 43, and 44 may be joined so as to share the same inlet, or several pressure medium passages may be joined so as to share one inlet, and other pressure medium passages may be joined so as to share another inlet. From this, it is not necessarily required that each pressure medium passage 41, 42, 43, and 44 has its own inlet. Also, please understand that the number of pressure medium passages illustrated in Figure 18 is an example, and there may be fewer or more pressure medium passages than those illustrated in Figure 18.

[0117] Figure 19 is a schematic, partially cross-sectional, perspective view of a press apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 19 is similar to the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 1, and the same reference numerals in Figures 1 and 19 indicate the same or similar components or elements having the same or similar functions. Figures 20 and 21 are schematic diagrams of a portion of the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 19 at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 of the press apparatus 100. Compared to the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figure 1, the press apparatus 100 illustrated in Figures 19-21 includes a first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 of a different type than those illustrated in Figures 1 and 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15. The first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 illustrated in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, 15, and 19-21 includes a diffuser located at the outlet 8 of the pressure medium flow path 6. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 is configured to receive the flow of pressure medium from the pressure medium flow path 6 through its outlet 8. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 is configured to diffuse the received flow of pressure medium so that the flow distribution of the pressure medium through the packing compartment 2 matches a selected flow distribution of the pressure medium through the packing compartment 2.

[0118] The first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 illustrated in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15 comprises a diffuser of the type that includes a bowl-shaped element having a plurality of through-holes through which the pressure medium flows. The first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 illustrated in Figures 19-21 comprises a different type of diffuser which may be called a volute pump diffuser. The volute pump diffuser type diffuser illustrated in Figures 19-21 is configured to receive the flow of pressure medium from a pressure medium flow path 6, exiting through its outlet 8 in a volute through which the pressure medium can flow. Perhaps best illustrated in Figures 20 and 21, the diffuser comprises a ring-shaped structure through which the pressure medium can flow, the ring-shaped structure is in fluid communication with the volute and comprises holes through which the pressure medium is emitted from the diffuser and diffused so that the distribution of the flow of pressure medium through the packing compartment 2 matches a selected distribution of the flow of pressure medium through the packing compartment 2.

[0119] It should be understood that the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 in the form of a centrifugal pump diffuser may be used in any embodiment of the present invention as described herein, such as as an alternative to or in combination with the diffusers illustrated in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15. A combination of the diffusers of the type illustrated in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15 and the centrifugal pump diffuser type diffuser is illustrated in Figure 19, where the diffusers of the type illustrated in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15 are positioned downstream of the centrifugal pump diffuser type diffuser. However, the diffusers of the type illustrated in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15 may be omitted. In Figures 20 and 21, the centrifugal pump diffuser type diffuser is not shown in order to better illustrate that diffuser. Furthermore, either the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator or the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator described herein may include the type of diffuser illustrated in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15, the type of diffuser illustrated in Figures 19 to 21, and / or other types of diffusers.

[0120] In conclusion, a press apparatus is disclosed comprising a pressure vessel having an internal space and a first end and a second end. A loading compartment is located at least partially within the internal space between the first end and the second end and is configured to allow the flow of a pressure medium through the loading compartment. At least one pressure medium flow path is configured to have an inlet and an outlet that are in fluid communication with the internal space and to extend between them, guiding the pressure medium from the inlet to the outlet. At least one pressure medium flow generator is configured to generate a flow of pressure medium in the internal space passing through the loading compartment between the second end and the first end, and to further generate a flow of pressure medium entering the inlet, passing through at least one pressure medium flow path, and exiting through the outlet.

[0121] Although the present invention is illustrated in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, such illustrations should be considered illustrative or empirical and not limiting, and the present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations of the disclosed embodiments can be understood and achieved by those skilled in the art in carrying out the claimed invention, from consideration of the drawings, disclosure and the accompanying claims. In the accompanying claims, the word “equipped with” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude plurals. The mere fact that certain means are described in different dependent claims does not imply that combinations of these means cannot be used advantageously. No reference numeral in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A press device (100) configured to process at least one article, wherein the press device is A pressure vessel (1) having an internal space (5) and a first end (3) and a second end (4), wherein the pressure vessel is configured to hold a pressure medium in the internal space during use of the press device. The loading compartment (2) is located at least partially within the internal space between the first end and the second end and is configured to allow the flow of a pressure medium through the loading compartment, wherein the loading compartment is configured to hold in it at least one article during use of the press device. It has an inlet (7) located at one of the first end and the second end, and an outlet (8) located at the other of the first end and the second end, and at least one pressure medium flow path (6; 15; 41-44) extending between them, wherein the inlet and outlet are in fluid communication with the internal space, and at least one pressure medium flow path is configured to guide the pressure medium from the inlet to the outlet. At least one pressure medium flow generator (14) configured to generate a flow of pressure medium in the internal space passing through the loading compartment between the second end and the first end, wherein at least one of the pressure medium flow generators is further configured to generate a flow of pressure medium entering the intake port, passing through at least one of the pressure medium flow paths, and exiting through the discharge port. A pressure medium flow distribution regulator (9) is positioned at the outlet and configured to receive the flow of the pressure medium from at least one of the pressure medium flow paths exiting through the outlet, wherein the pressure medium flow distribution regulator is configured to diffuse the received flow of the pressure medium such that the distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment matches a selected distribution of the flow of the pressure medium through the packing compartment. A press device equipped with the following features.

2. The press apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the pressure medium flow paths (6) is at least partially located within the internal space.

3. The press apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the pressure medium flow paths is at least partially located within the pressure vessel in one or more portions that are separate from the internal space.

4. The press apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the pressure medium passages is at least partially located outside the pressure vessel, and at least one of the pressure medium passages exits the pressure vessel at one of the first and second ends and enters the pressure vessel at the other of the first and second ends.

5. The pressure vessel comprises an enclosing structure (10, 11, 12) configured to seal and surround at least the internal space, At least one of the pressure medium flow generators or pressure medium flow distribution regulators is incorporated into the surrounding structure. The surrounding structure comprises at least one cavity that is in fluid communication with the internal space, and at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generator or the pressure medium flow distribution regulator is disposed in at least one of the cavities and / or The press apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one of the pressure medium flow generators or the pressure medium flow distribution regulators is embedded in the inner surface of the surrounding structure, and the inner surface faces the internal space.

6. The pressure vessel includes a surrounding structure (10, 11, 12) configured to seal and surround at least the internal space, the surrounding structure comprising a first end closing portion (11) located at least one of the first end and the second end of the pressure vessel, and a second end closing portion (12) located at the other of the first end and the second end of the pressure vessel, At least one of the pressure medium flow generators is incorporated in the first end closure and / or the second end closure, The pressure medium flow distribution regulator is incorporated in the first end closure and / or the second end closure. The first end closure and / or the second end closure comprises at least one cavity that is in fluid communication with the internal space, and at least one pressure medium flow generator is disposed in at least one of the cavities. The first end closure and / or the second end closure comprises at least one cavity that is in fluid communication with the internal space, and the pressure medium flow distribution regulator is disposed in at least one of the cavities. At least one of the pressure medium flow generators is embedded in the inner surface of the first end closure and / or the second end closure, the inner surface facing the internal space and / or The press apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the pressure medium flow distribution regulator is embedded in the inner surface of the first end closure and / or the second end closure, and the inner surface faces the internal space.

7. The press apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the pressure medium flow distribution regulator comprises a diffuser.

8. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator is a first pressure medium flow distribution regulator, and the press device is The press apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an additional second pressure medium flow distribution regulator (13) configured to receive the flow of the pressure medium exiting the loading compartment and converge the flow of the pressure medium toward the intake port, so that the converged flow of the pressure medium enters at least one of the pressure medium flow paths at the intake port.

9. The pressure vessel comprises an enclosing structure (10, 11, 12) configured to seal and surround at least the internal space, At least one of the pressure medium flow generator, the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, or the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator is incorporated into the surrounding structure. The surrounding structure comprises at least one cavity that is in fluid communication with the internal space, and at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generator, the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, or the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator is disposed in at least one of the cavities and / or The press apparatus according to claim 8, wherein at least one of the pressure medium flow generator, the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, or the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator is embedded in the inner surface of the surrounding structure, and the inner surface faces the internal space.

10. The pressure vessel includes an enclosing structure configured to seal and surround at least the internal space, the enclosing structure comprising a first end closing portion (11) located at least one of the first end and the second end of the pressure vessel, and a second end closing portion (12) located at the other of the first end and the second end of the pressure vessel, At least one of the pressure medium flow generators is incorporated in the first end closure and / or the second end closure, The first pressure medium flow distribution regulator is incorporated into one of the first end closure and the second end closure, and the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator is incorporated into the other of the first end closure and the second end closure. The first end closure and / or the second end closure comprises at least one cavity that is in fluid communication with the internal space, and at least one pressure medium flow generator is disposed in at least one of the cavities. One of the first end closure and the second end closure comprises at least one cavity that is in fluid communication with the internal space, and the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator is disposed in at least one of the cavities, and the other of the first end closure and the second end closure comprises at least one cavity that is in fluid communication with the internal space, and the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator is disposed in at least one of the cavities, At least one of the pressure medium flow generators is embedded in the inner surface of the first end closure and / or the second end closure, the inner surface facing the internal space, The press apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator is embedded in the inner surface of one of the first end closure and the second end closure, the inner surface facing the internal space, and the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator is incorporated in the inner surface of the other of the first end closure and the second end closure, the inner surface facing the internal space.

11. The press apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator comprises a diffuser.

12. The press apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein at least one of the pressure medium flow generators comprises at least one of at least one fan, at least one ejector, at least one pump, or at least one pressure intensifier.

13. At least one of the pressure medium passages is located at least partially outside the pressure vessel, and the press device is A heating unit (21) configured to heat the pressure medium guided through at least one pressure medium flow path from the intake port to the discharge port, A cooling unit (20) configured to cool the pressure medium which is guided through at least one pressure medium flow path from the intake port to the discharge port. A press apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising at least one of the above.

14. At least one of the pressure medium passages is located at least partially outside the pressure vessel, and the press device is A cooling unit (20) is positioned downstream of the intake port of at least one of the pressure medium passages and configured to cool the pressure medium being guided through at least one of the pressure medium passages. The system further comprises, wherein at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generators is located downstream of the cooling unit and is configured to receive the flow of the pressure medium cooled by the cooling unit and to generate a flow of the pressure medium in at least one pressure medium flow path toward the outlet, The cooling unit is configured to cool the pressure medium being guided through at least one of the pressure medium flow generators such that the temperature of the pressure medium received by at least one of the pressure medium flow generators does not exceed a selected temperature. The aforementioned press device is A heating unit (21) is positioned downstream of at least one of the pressure medium flow generators and upstream of the outlet, and is configured to heat the pressure medium being guided through at least one of the pressure medium flow channels such that the temperature of the pressure medium in the flow of pressure medium exiting the outlet is above or equal to a selected temperature. A press apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising:

15. The press apparatus according to claim 14, wherein at least one of the pressure medium flow generators comprises at least one pressure intensifier (24).

16. The pressing apparatus according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the heating unit and / or the cooling unit comprises at least one heat exchanger unit (20, 21).

17. The press apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the pressure vessel comprises a pressure cylinder (10), a first end closure (11), and a second end closure (12), the second end closure being on the opposite side of the first end closure, the first end closure being on at least one of the first end of the pressure vessel and the second end of the pressure vessel, and the second end closure being on the other of the first end of the pressure vessel and the second end of the pressure vessel.

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