Die, granulating device, and method for producing organic composition pellets

Abstract

To reduce weight variation of organic composition pellets.SOLUTION: Each of a plurality of nozzles 51 of a die 30 includes: a portion 52 with a nozzle opening diameter 52D; and a portion 53 located between the portion 52 and an opening 32A, and having a nozzle opening diameter 53D becoming narrower as it approaches the portion 52. Each of the plurality of nozzles 51 includes: an end nozzle 51E1 disposed at one end of an array of the plurality of nozzles 51 in a Z direction; and a non-end nozzle 51M1 disposed next to the end nozzle 51E1 in the Z direction. A length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E1 is shorter than the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a die for shaping raw materials by passing them through it, a granulating device having a die, or a method for producing organic composition pellets using a die. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a technology in which a raw material is passed through a die equipped with multiple nozzles and then the molded raw material is cut to form resin pellets (see, for example, Patent Document 1 (JP 2003-220606 A) and Patent Document 2 (JP 2018-30217 A)). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-220606 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-30217 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The method of producing pellets by passing a raw material through a die equipped with multiple nozzles and then cutting the passed raw material can produce a large number of pellets in a short time. However, when passing the raw material through a die equipped with multiple nozzles, if the passing speed of the raw material varies among the nozzles, this can cause variations in the weight of the pellets. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A die according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first nozzle group in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged adjacent to one another along a first direction; a nozzle support member having a front surface on which the plurality of nozzles are arranged and a back surface opposite the front surface, the nozzle support member including first openings communicating with each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group; and heat medium flow paths arranged on both sides of the first nozzle group in a transparent plan view from the front side, through which a heat medium can flow along the first direction. Each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group includes a first portion having a first nozzle opening diameter and a second portion located between the first portion and the first opening, the second portion having a nozzle opening diameter that narrows toward the first portion. The plurality of nozzles includes a first end nozzle located at one end of the arrangement of the plurality of nozzles in the first direction and a first non-end nozzle located adjacent to the first end nozzle in the first direction. The length of the first portion of the first end nozzle is shorter than the length of the first portion of the first non-end nozzle.

[0006] Another embodiment of the die includes a first nozzle group in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged adjacent to one another along a first direction; a nozzle support member having a front surface on which the plurality of nozzles are arranged and a back surface opposite the front surface, the nozzle support member including first openings communicating with each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group; and heat medium flow paths arranged on both sides of the first nozzle group in a transparent plan view from the front side, through which a heat medium can flow along the first direction. Each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group includes a first portion having a first nozzle opening diameter, a second portion between the first portion and the first opening, the nozzle opening diameter narrowing toward the first portion, and a third portion between the second portion and the first opening, the third portion having a second nozzle opening diameter larger than the first nozzle opening diameter. The plurality of nozzles includes a first end nozzle arranged at one end of the arrangement of the plurality of nozzles in the first direction, and a first non-end nozzle arranged adjacent to the first end nozzle in the first direction. The length of the third portion of the first end nozzle is greater than the length of the third portion of the first non-end nozzle.

[0007] Another embodiment of the granulation device includes a cylindrical extrusion section capable of extruding raw material forward under pressure, a die attached to the tip of the extrusion section, and a cutter attached to the tip of the die and capable of cutting the material that has passed through the die. The die includes a first nozzle group in which multiple nozzles are arranged adjacent to each other along a first direction, a nozzle support section having a front surface on which the multiple nozzles are arranged and a back surface opposite the front surface, and having first openings communicating with each of the multiple nozzles in the first nozzle group, and heat medium flow paths arranged on both sides of the first nozzle group in a transparent plan view viewed from the front side and capable of flowing a heat medium along the first direction. Each of the multiple nozzles in the first nozzle group includes a first portion having a first nozzle opening diameter and a second portion located between the first portion and the first opening, the nozzle opening diameter narrowing as it approaches the first portion. The plurality of nozzles includes a first end nozzle disposed at one end of an array of the plurality of nozzles in the first direction, and a first non-end nozzle disposed adjacent to the first end nozzle in the first direction, wherein a length of the first portion of the first end nozzle is shorter than a length of the first portion of the first non-end nozzle.

[0008] Another embodiment of the granulation device includes a cylindrical extrusion section capable of extruding raw material forward while applying pressure, a die attached to the tip of the extrusion section, and a cutter attached to the tip of the die and capable of cutting the material that has passed through the die. The die includes a first nozzle group in which multiple nozzles are arranged adjacent to each other along a first direction, a nozzle support section having a front surface on which the multiple nozzles are arranged and a back surface opposite the front surface, and having first openings communicating with each of the multiple nozzles in the first nozzle group, and heat medium flow paths arranged on both sides of the first nozzle group in a transparent plan view from the front side and capable of flowing a heat medium along the first direction. Each of the multiple nozzles in the first nozzle group includes a first portion having a first nozzle opening diameter, a second portion between the first portion and the first opening, the nozzle opening diameter narrowing as it approaches the first portion, and a third portion between the second portion and the first opening, the second portion having a second nozzle opening diameter larger than the first nozzle opening diameter. The plurality of nozzles includes a first end nozzle disposed at one end of an array of the plurality of nozzles in the first direction and a first non-end nozzle disposed adjacent to the first end nozzle in the first direction, wherein a length of the third portion of the first end nozzle is longer than a length of the third portion of the first non-end nozzle.

[0009] Another embodiment of a method for producing organic composition pellets includes an extrusion step in which a raw material is extruded forward under pressure, a molding step in which the raw material extruded in the extrusion step is passed through a die to form the raw material, and a cutting step in which the raw material formed in the molding step is cut to form organic composition pellets. The die includes a first nozzle group in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged adjacent to one another along a first direction, a nozzle support member having a front surface on which the plurality of nozzles are arranged and a back surface opposite the front surface, the nozzle support member having first openings communicating with each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group, and heat medium flow paths arranged on both sides of the first nozzle group in a transparent plan view viewed from the front side, and capable of flowing a heat medium along the first direction. Each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group includes a first portion having a first nozzle opening diameter and a second portion located between the first portion and the first opening, the nozzle opening diameter narrowing as it approaches the first portion. The plurality of nozzles includes a first end nozzle disposed at one end of an array of the plurality of nozzles in the first direction, and a first non-end nozzle disposed adjacent to the first end nozzle in the first direction, wherein a length of the first portion of the first end nozzle is shorter than a length of the first portion of the first non-end nozzle. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] The die disclosed in the present application can reduce the variation in weight of the organic composition pellets. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of a granulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a process flow of a method for producing organic composition pellets using the granulating apparatus shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the die shown in FIG. 1 as viewed from the extrusion section side. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the die shown in FIG. 1 as viewed from the cutter portion side. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an enlarged plan view of part A in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the overall positional relationship between the nozzle group and the heat medium flow path in a plan view seen from the front. [Figure 8] 6 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing structural differences between a plurality of end nozzles and non-end nozzles included in one of the nozzle groups shown in FIG. 5. FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. 5. [Figure 10] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a modified example of the plurality of nozzles shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a nozzle that is a modified example of the nozzle shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to examples and drawings. In all drawings for explaining the embodiments, the same reference numerals are used to designate components having the same functions, and repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0013] <Pelletizer> FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a granulation apparatus according to this embodiment. The granulation apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 is incorporated into a system for manufacturing products such as elastomers, general-purpose resins, or engineering plastics, and is used, for example, as a pretreatment device for producing organic composition pellets, which are the raw material for the above products. The granulation apparatus 100 includes a raw material supply unit 10, a cylindrical extrusion unit 20 capable of extruding the raw material 11 forward while applying pressure, a die 30 attached to the tip of the extrusion unit 20, and a cutter unit 40 attached to the tip of the die 30 and capable of cutting the material that has passed through the die 30.

[0014] The granulation apparatus 100 has a drive unit 70 that drives the screw (not shown) of the extrusion unit 20. The drive unit 70 includes a motor 71, a coupling 72, and a reducer 73. The reducer 73 is a device that reduces the rotational speed of the motor and outputs torque according to the degree of reduction. The reducer 73 shown in FIG. 1 has a function of transmitting the driving force of the motor 71 to the drive shaft. The coupling 72 is disposed between the motor 71 and the reducer 73, and the motor 71 and the reducer 73 are connected via the coupling 72. The coupling 72 has a torque limiter function that disconnects the motor 71 from the reducer 73 when it detects an abnormality in torque.

[0015] Fig. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a process flow of a method for producing organic composition pellets using the granulation apparatus shown in Fig. 1. Below, an overview of the method for producing organic composition pellets will be explained using Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 2, the method for producing organic composition pellets of this embodiment includes a raw material supplying step, an extrusion step, a molding step, and a pellet forming step.

[0016] In the raw material supply step, an organic material as raw material 11 is supplied from raw material supply unit 10 shown in Fig. 1. Raw material 11 supplied to raw material supply unit 10 is an organic composition as a raw material for elastomer, general-purpose resin, engineering plastic, or the like.

[0017] In the extrusion process, the raw material 11 is extruded forward (from the raw material supply unit 10 toward the die 30 shown in FIG. 1 ) under pressure. The extrusion unit 20 includes a drive shaft (not shown) extending along direction D, which is the extension direction of the extrusion unit, and multiple screws rotating around the drive shaft. The raw material 11 supplied to the raw material supply unit 10 is extruded forward by the rotational force of the screws in the extrusion unit 20. The extrusion unit 20 includes multiple types of screws that control the forward conveyance speed of the raw material 11. For example, the extrusion unit 20 includes a screw that rotates to feed the conveyed material forward at a first speed, a screw that rotates to feed the conveyed material forward at a speed slower than the first speed, a screw that rotates to push the conveyed material backward, and a screw positioned to prevent the conveyed material from being conveyed forward. The extrusion unit 20 is configured to apply pressure to the conveyed material within a portion of the extrusion unit 20 by combining the various types of screws described above. Note that the raw material 11 may contain moisture, but the moisture contained in the raw material 11 can be removed in the extrusion step as necessary.

[0018] In the molding process, the raw material 11 that has reached the tip of the extrusion section 20 is pressed against the die 30. As will be described in detail later, the die 30 is equipped with a plurality of nozzles, and the raw material 11 passes through any one of the plurality of nozzles equipped in the die 30 and is extruded forward of the die 30. The raw material 11 that has passed through the die 30 is molded into a columnar shape that corresponds to the nozzle opening shape (for example, a cylindrical shape when the raw material 11 has passed through a nozzle with a circular opening shape).

[0019] In the pellet forming process, the molded product of the raw material 11 is cut by a cutter unit 40 attached to the tip of the die 30. The cutter unit 40 is, for example, a rotary blade, and continuously cuts the molded product of the raw material 11 continuously discharged from the outlet of the die 30. As a result, a large number of organic composition pellets are continuously discharged from the outlet of the cutter unit 40. The cutter unit 40 is, for example, The cutter is called an underwater cutter, and water is supplied to the area where the raw material is cut. The pellets formed by the cutter unit 40 are transported to a dehydration process (not shown) by circulating water.

[0020] The pellets obtained in the pellet forming process are mixed with, for example, functional fillers as secondary raw materials to obtain functional pellets with added value. These functional pellets are used in a variety of products that use general-purpose resins or engineering plastics.

[0021] <Dice> Next, the detailed structure of the die shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a plan view of the die shown in FIG. 1 as viewed from the extrusion section side. FIG. 4 is a plan view of the die shown in FIG. 1 as viewed from the cutter section side. FIGS. 3 and 4 show only characteristic parts of the components of the die 30. However, as a modified example, the die 30 may have parts other than those shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 (for example, openings used for alignment or fixing the die 30). In the following description, the face of the die 30 shown in FIG. 3, i.e., the face seen from the extrusion section 20 side in FIG. 1, will be referred to as the back face 30b. On the other hand, the face of the die 30 shown in FIG. 4, i.e., the face seen from the cutter section 40 side in FIG. 1, will be referred to as the front face 30f.

[0022] The die 30 has a nozzle group 50 (see FIG. 4) in which a plurality of nozzles 51 (see FIG. 4) are arranged, and a nozzle support part 31 having openings 32 (see FIG. 3) that communicate with each of the plurality of nozzles 51 in the nozzle group 50. The die 30 has a front surface 30f (see FIG. 4) on which the plurality of nozzles 51 are arranged, and a back surface 30b opposite the front surface 30f.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of openings (raw material introduction portions) 32 are formed on the back surface 30b of the die 30. The plurality of openings 32 includes a plurality of openings (raw material introduction portions) 32A extending in the Z direction and arranged in the X direction intersecting the Z direction, and a plurality of openings (raw material introduction portions) 32B extending in the X direction and arranged in the Z direction. Each of the plurality of openings 32 is a hole (opening) formed from the back surface 30b toward the front surface 30f (see FIG. 4). Each of the plurality of openings 32 functions as a raw material introduction portion through which the raw material 11 extruded by the extrusion unit 20 shown in FIG. 1 is introduced toward the nozzle 51 (see FIG. 4). In a plan view seen from the back surface 30b, the plurality of openings 32 are formed in an annular region centered on the center 30c of the nozzle support portion 31. In a transparent plan view seen from the front surface 30f, the nozzle support portion 31 has a circular outer shape. A plurality of nozzle groups 50A are arranged along the circumferential direction of the nozzle support portion 31. The structure of each of the plurality of nozzle groups 50 is similar to the structure of the nozzle group 50A, which will be described later with reference to FIGS.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of nozzles 51 are arranged on the front surface 30f of the die 30. Each of the plurality of nozzles 51 is formed to communicate with one of the plurality of openings 32 shown in FIG. 3. The raw material 11 (see FIG. 1) introduced into one of the plurality of openings 32 passes through the nozzle 51 and is discharged toward the front surface 30f. In this embodiment, a group consisting of the plurality of nozzles 51 communicating with one opening 32 will be described as a nozzle group 50. The plurality of nozzle groups 50 (in other words, the plurality of nozzles 51) are formed in an annular region concentric with the center 30c of the nozzle support portion 31 in a plan view seen from the front surface 30f.

[0025] The plurality of nozzle groups 50 includes a nozzle group 50A in which a plurality of nozzles 51 are arranged in the Z direction, and a nozzle group 50B in which a plurality of nozzles 51 are arranged in the X direction.

[0026] The following description will be given of a nozzle group 50A and an opening 32A shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 as an example of the structure of the plurality of nozzle groups 50 and the plurality of openings 32. The plurality of nozzle groups 50 shown in FIG. 4 and the plurality of openings 32 shown in FIG. 3 are similar in structure to the nozzle group 50A and opening 32A described below. FIG. 5 is an enlarged plan view of portion A in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a plan view showing the overall positional relationship between the nozzle groups and the heat transfer medium flow path in a plan view seen from the front. In FIG. 5, the outlines of the openings 32 and the heat transfer medium flow path are shown by dotted lines. In FIG. 7, the outlines of the heat transfer medium flow path are shown by dotted lines, and the heat transfer medium flow path is hatched.

[0027] As shown in Fig. 5, the die 30 has a nozzle group 50A in which a plurality of nozzles 51 are arranged adjacent to one another along the Z direction. The die 30 has a front surface 30f (see Fig. 6) on which the plurality of nozzles 51 are arranged, and a back surface 30b (see Fig. 6) opposite the front surface 30f, and has a nozzle support part 31 with openings 32A communicating with each of the plurality of nozzles 51 of the nozzle group 50A. In a transparent plan view seen from the front surface 30f side, the die 30 has heat medium flow paths 61 arranged on both sides of the nozzle group 50A and capable of flowing a heat medium along the Z direction.

[0028] The heat medium flow path 61 is a path through which a heat medium flows. Examples of the heat medium include oil and steam. By flowing the heat medium near the nozzle 51, a decrease in the fluidity of the raw material 11 (see FIG. 1 ) within the nozzle 51 can be suppressed. As shown in FIG. 7 , the die 30 includes, in addition to the heat medium flow path 61, a heat medium supply flow path 62 that supplies the heat medium to the heat medium flow path 61, and a heat medium discharge flow path 63 that discharges the heat medium discharged from the heat medium flow path 61. The heat medium is supplied from a heat medium inlet 64 to the heat medium flow path 61 via the heat medium supply flow path 62. As shown in FIG. 5 , each of the multiple heat medium flow paths 61 is disposed between adjacent nozzle groups 50 and extends along the Z direction, which is the extension direction of the nozzle groups 50. Therefore, the heat medium supplied to the heat medium flow path 61 exchanges heat with the raw material within the nozzle 51, suppressing a decrease in the temperature of the raw material. The heat medium that has exchanged heat with the raw material is sent from heat medium flow path 61 to heat medium discharge section 65 via heat medium discharge path 63. Although Fig. 5 shows only the components of die 30, for example, by connecting heat medium inlet section 64 and heat medium discharge section 65 shown in Fig. 5 and interposing a heating device for the heat medium between them, the heat medium can be circulated and used.

[0029] Here, the inventors of the present application have found that when all of the multiple nozzles 51 included in the nozzle group 50 have the same shape, the following problem occurs. That is, the end nozzle 51E1, which is located at the end of the array of the multiple nozzles 51, tends to have a slower raw material discharge speed than the raw material discharge speeds from the other nozzles 51. This tendency varies depending on the viscosity of the raw material and is particularly likely to become apparent when a high-viscosity raw material is used. In this way, when the raw material discharge speed from a specific nozzle 51 is slower than the raw material discharge speeds from the other nozzles 51, the weight of the pellets formed by passing through the nozzle 51 with the slower discharge speed will be lighter than the weight of the other pellets. That is, in a method for efficiently producing organic composition pellets using a large number of nozzles 51, this causes large variations in the weight of the resulting pellets.

[0030] There are two possible reasons why the discharge speed of the raw material from end nozzle 51E1 tends to be slower than the discharge speed of the raw material from the other nozzles 51. The first reason is the effect of static pressure when the raw material is split and forced into the multiple nozzles 51 from opening 32A, which is the raw material inlet. As shown in FIG. 6, each of the multiple nozzles 51 communicates with the same opening 32A. Therefore, if there is a difference in static pressure when the raw material is forced from opening 32A toward the multiple nozzles 51, a difference will occur in the flow speed of the raw material forced into each nozzle 51. Of the multiple nozzles 51 shown in FIG. 6, end nozzle 51E1 and end nozzle 51E2 are close to each other on the inner wall surface of opening 32A, so the static pressure when the raw material is forced into them tends to be large.

[0031] The second reason why the discharge speed of the raw material from end nozzle 51E1 is likely to be slower than the discharge speed of the raw material from the other nozzles 51 is the influence of the heating characteristics of the raw material as it passes through multiple nozzles 51. Nozzles 51 other than end nozzle 51E1 and end nozzle 51E2 are surrounded by other nozzles 51 or heat transfer medium flow paths 61 in a plan view, so the temperature of the raw material is less likely to decrease as it passes through the nozzles 51. On the other hand, end nozzle 51E1 and end nozzle 51E2 include portions that are not surrounded by other nozzles 51 or heat transfer medium flow paths 61 in a plan view. For this reason, the temperature of the raw material is more likely to decrease from end nozzle 51E1 and end nozzle 51E2 than from the other nozzles 51, and as a result, the discharge speed of the raw material is more likely to decrease.

[0032] Based on the above-described study results, in this embodiment, the structure of the nozzles 51 is devised to reduce variations in static pressure of the multiple nozzles 51 included in the nozzle group 50A. That is, as shown in FIG. 6 , each of the multiple nozzles 51 in the nozzle group 50A includes a portion 52 having a nozzle opening diameter 52D and a portion 53 located between the portion 52 and the opening 32A, where the nozzle opening diameter 53D narrows toward the portion 52. The multiple nozzles 51 include an end nozzle 51E1 arranged at one end of the arrangement of the multiple nozzles 51 in the Z direction, and a non-end nozzle 51M1 arranged adjacent to the end nozzle 51E1 in the Z direction. The length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E1 is shorter than the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1.

[0033] The above structure can reduce the difference in static pressure between end nozzle 51E1 and non-end nozzle 51M1 when raw material is forced into multiple nozzles 51 from opening 32A. As a result, the difference in the raw material discharge speed between end nozzle 51E1 and non-end nozzle 51M1 can be reduced, thereby reducing the variation in weight of the resulting organic composition pellets.

[0034] 6, each portion 52 of the plurality of nozzles 51 extends with a constant nozzle opening diameter 52D. However, due to factors such as processing accuracy, the nozzle opening diameter 52D may deviate from the design value.

[0035] 6, the nozzle group 50A further includes an end nozzle 51E2 arranged at the end opposite the end nozzle 51E1 in the Z direction. The length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E2 is shorter than the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E2 is the same as the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E1. However, for the purpose of adjusting the static pressure, the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E2 may be different from the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E1.

[0036] Although not shown, as a modification of FIG. 6, the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E2 may be the same as the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1. In this case, the discharge speed of the raw material discharged from the end nozzle 51E2 may be slower than the discharge speed of the raw material discharged from the other nozzles 51. However, at least when the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E1 is shorter than the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1, it is possible to reduce the variation in weight of the pellets formed by passing through the end nozzle 51E1. Of course, as shown in FIG. 6, it is preferable to also take measures to reduce static pressure for the end nozzle 51E2.

[0037] 6, each of the nozzles 51 other than the end nozzle 51E1 and the end nozzle 51E2 has the same structure as the non-end nozzle 51M1. In other words, the length 52L of the portion 52 of each of the nozzles 51 (non-end nozzles) other than the end nozzle 51E1 and the end nozzle 51E2 is the same as the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1. However, for the purpose of adjusting the static pressure, the lengths 52L of the portions 52 of the multiple non-end nozzles (nozzles 51) may be different from each other.

[0038] As shown in Fig. 5, in this embodiment, the multiple nozzles 51 included in the nozzle group 50A are arranged in multiple rows in the X direction that intersects with the Z direction. In the example shown in Fig. 5, the Z direction and the X direction are perpendicular to each other, and the multiple nozzles 51 are arranged in three rows. In this case, of the multiple nozzles 51 arranged in the three rows, it is preferable that measures be taken to reduce static pressure for the end nozzles arranged at the ends of the arrangement, similar to the end nozzles 51E1 and 51E2 shown in Fig. 6.

[0039] The multiple end nozzles included in nozzle group 50A can be expressed as follows: Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram that schematically shows the structural differences between the multiple end nozzles and non-end nozzles included in one of the nozzle groups shown in Figure 5.

[0040] 5 further includes an end nozzle 51E3 arranged next to the end nozzle 51E1 along the X direction intersecting the Z direction. As shown in Fig. 8, the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E3 is shorter than the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1.

[0041] 5 further includes an end nozzle 51E4 arranged at the end opposite to the end nozzle 51E3 in the Z direction. As shown in Fig. 8, the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E4 is shorter than the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1.

[0042] 5 further includes an end nozzle 51E5 arranged in a row between the end nozzle 51E1 and the end nozzle 51E3 along the X direction intersecting the Z direction. As shown in FIG. 8, the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E5 is shorter than the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1.

[0043] 5 further includes an end nozzle 51E6 arranged at the end opposite to the end nozzle 51E5 in the Z direction. As shown in Fig. 8, the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E6 is shorter than the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1.

[0044] In the example shown in FIG. 8, the lengths 52L of the portions 52 of the end nozzles 51E1, 51E2, 51E3, 51E4, 51E5, and 51E6 are the same. However, as a variant, the lengths 52L of the portions 52 of one or more of the end nozzles 51E1, 51E2, 51E3, 51E4, 51E5, and 51E6 may be different from the lengths 52L of the portions 52 of the other end nozzles. For example, among the end nozzles 51E1, 51E2, 51E3, 51E4, 51E5, and 51E6 shown in FIG. 5, the temperature of the raw material is particularly likely to decrease with end nozzle 51E6 compared to the other end nozzles. On the other hand, the temperature of the raw material is relatively less likely to decrease with end nozzle 51E5 compared to the other end nozzles. In this case, the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E6 is longer than the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E5, so that the difference in static pressure between the end nozzle 51E5 and the end nozzle 51E6 can be reduced.

[0045] In this embodiment, each of the plurality of nozzles 51 is considered to be divided into a portion 52 and a portion 53, and a method for adjusting the static pressure by adjusting the length 52L of the portion 52 has been described. However, in the method for producing organic composition pellets of this embodiment, a cutter unit 40 (see FIG. 1) is disposed at the tip of the nozzle 51, and pellets are formed by sequentially cutting the raw material discharged from the plurality of nozzles 51 with the cutter unit 40. Therefore, it is preferable that the total value of the length 52L of the portion 52 and the length 53L of the portion 53 is the same for each of the plurality of nozzles 51.

[0046] Considering the second reason mentioned above, another method for suppressing a decrease in the discharge speed of the raw material discharged from the end nozzle 51E1 shown in Fig. 6 is to reduce the distance between the end nozzle 51E1 and the heat transfer medium supply channel 62. Alternatively, another method for suppressing a decrease in the discharge speed of the raw material discharged from the end nozzle 51E2 shown in Fig. 6 is to reduce the distance between the end nozzle 51E2 and the heat transfer medium discharge channel 63. Fig. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line CC in Fig. 5. In Fig. 9, the outlines of the opening 32A and the multiple nozzles 51 shown in Fig. 6 are indicated by dotted lines.

[0047] 9, in the method for producing organic composition pellets of the present embodiment, in the pellet formation step, the rotary blade 41 of the cutter unit 40 is rotated to cut the organic composition discharged from the nozzle 51. A hard layer 33 is formed at each discharge port of the multiple nozzles 51, and the rotary blade 41 operates along the surface of the hard layer 33.

[0048] Here, since the heat medium supply passage 62 needs to stably supply the heat medium to each of the multiple heat medium passages 61, the opening cross-sectional area of ​​the heat medium supply passage 62 is larger than the opening cross-sectional area of ​​the heat medium passages 61. Similarly, since the heat medium flows into the heat medium discharge passage 63 from the multiple heat medium passages 61, the opening cross-sectional area of ​​the heat medium discharge passage 63 is larger than the opening cross-sectional area of ​​the heat medium passage 61. In this way, if the heat medium supply passage 62 or the heat medium discharge passage 63 with a large opening cross-sectional area are arranged near the nozzle 51, there is a possibility that a problem will arise in terms of the strength of the nozzle support part 31. That is, the nozzle support part 31 may be deformed near the heat medium supply passage 62 or the heat medium discharge passage 63 due to the load when the rotary blade 41 moves along the hard layer 33. From the viewpoint of suppressing such deformation, it is preferable that the heat medium supply passage 62 and the heat medium discharge passage 63 are located a sufficient distance from the nozzle 51.

[0049] As shown in Fig. 4, the nozzle support part 31 has a circular outer shape in a transparent plan view seen from the front surface 30f side. A plurality of nozzle groups 50A are arranged along the circumferential direction of the nozzle support part 31. As shown in Fig. 7, a heat medium supply passage 62 extending along the circumferential direction of the circular nozzle support part 31 and communicating with the heat medium passage 61 is provided between the outer periphery of the nozzle support part 31 and the opening 32A (see Fig. 5). As shown in Fig. 5, a separation distance D62 between the heat medium supply passage 62 and the end nozzle 51E1 is longer than a separation distance D61 between the heat medium passage 61 and the non-end nozzle 51M1.

[0050] 7, a heat medium discharge passage 63 is provided between the center of the nozzle support part 31 and the opening 32A (see FIG. 5), extending in the circumferential direction of the circular nozzle support part 31 and communicating with the heat medium passage 61. As shown in FIG. 5, a separation distance D63 between the heat medium discharge passage 63 and the end nozzle 51E2 is longer than a separation distance D61 between the heat medium passage 61 and the non-end nozzle 51M1.

[0051] In the present embodiment, the static pressure of the nozzle 51 is adjusted by adjusting the length 52L of the portion 52 described with reference to Figures 6 and 8, so that the separation distances D62 and D63 can be increased as shown in Figure 5. This makes it possible to prevent deformation of the nozzle support part 31.

[0052] 9, in the pellet forming step, in order to cut the organic composition discharged from each of the plurality of nozzles 51 collectively with the rotary blade 41, it is preferable to align the outlet positions of the plurality of nozzles 51 in the Y direction shown in FIG. 6. Therefore, it is preferable that the total value of the lengths 52L and 53L of the end nozzle 51E1 is the same as the total value of the lengths 52L and 53L of the non-end nozzle 51M1. Similarly, it is preferable that the total value of the lengths 52L and 53L of the end nozzle 51E2 is the same as the total value of the lengths 52L and 53L of the non-end nozzle 51M1.

[0053] 5 to 9, the nozzle group 50A (see FIG. 5) in which a plurality of nozzles 51 are arranged in the Z direction, and the opening 32A have been taken up as an example and explained, among the plurality of nozzle groups 50 shown in FIG. 4. However, the explanation regarding the nozzle group 50A can also be applied to the nozzle group 50B in which a plurality of nozzles 51 are arranged along the X direction perpendicular to the Z direction, and the opening 32B shown in FIG. 3, among the plurality of nozzle groups 50 shown in FIG. 4. In this case, in the explanation regarding the nozzle group 50A and the opening 32A, the term "Z direction" can be read as the X direction, and vice versa.

[0054] 5 shows an example in which the nozzle group 50A is made up of a plurality of nozzles 51 arranged in three rows along the X direction. However, the number of rows of nozzles 51 making up the nozzle group 50A is not limited to the three rows shown in FIG. 5, and various modifications are possible. For example, there is a case in which the nozzle group 50A is made up of one row. In another modification, there is a case in which the nozzle group 50A is made up of a plurality of nozzles 51 arranged in two rows or four or more rows along the X direction. The same applies to the nozzle group 50B shown in FIG. 4.

[0055] <Modifications of nozzle shape> Next, modified examples of the nozzle shapes described with reference to Figures 6 and 8 will be described. Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram that schematically shows modified examples of the plurality of nozzles shown in Figure 6. Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram that shows nozzles that are modified examples of the nozzles shown in Figure 10.

[0056] 6 in that each of the plurality of nozzles 51 further includes a portion 54 in addition to portions 52 and 53. Specifically, each of the plurality of nozzles 51 of the nozzle group 50 shown in Fig. 10 includes a portion 52 having a nozzle opening diameter 52D, a portion 53 located between portion 52 and opening 32A and having a nozzle opening diameter 53D that narrows toward portion 52, and a portion 54 located between portion 53 and opening 32A and having a nozzle opening diameter 54D that is larger than nozzle opening diameter 52D.

[0057] In order to reduce the variation in the weight of the organic composition pellets, the static pressure of the end nozzle 51E1 needs to be lower than the static pressure of the non-end nozzle 51M1 in the molding process described above. Therefore, one method for controlling the static pressure is to adjust the length 54L of the portion 54. In the example shown in Figure 10, the length 54L of the portion 54 of the end nozzle 51E1 is longer than the length 54L of the portion 54 of the non-end nozzle 51M1. This makes it possible to make the static pressure of the end nozzle 51E1 lower than the static pressure of the non-end nozzle 51M1 in the molding process described above. Also, in the example shown in Figure 10, the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E1 is shorter than the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1. In the modified example shown in Figure 10, the static pressure of the end nozzle 51E1 is reduced due to the effect of the short length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E1 and the long length 54L of the portion 54 of the end nozzle 51E1.

[0058] 10, the end nozzle 51E2 has the same structure as the end nozzle 51E1. That is, the length 54L of the portion 54 of the end nozzle 51E2 is longer than the length 54L of the portion 54 of the non-end nozzle 51M1. This allows the static pressure of the end nozzle 51E2 to be lower than the static pressure of the non-end nozzle 51M1 in the molding process described above. Furthermore, the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E2 is shorter than the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1. In the modified example shown in FIG. 10, the static pressure of the end nozzle 51E2 is reduced due to the effect of the shorter length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E2 and the effect of the longer length 54L of the portion 54 of the end nozzle 51E2.

[0059] However, as described above, in order to collectively cut the organic composition ejected from each of the multiple nozzles 51 in the pellet formation process, it is preferable to align the outlet positions of the multiple nozzles 51 in the Y direction shown in Figure 6. Therefore, it is preferable that the total value of the lengths 52L, 53L, and 54L of the end nozzle 51E1 is the same as the total value of the lengths 52L, 53L, and 54L of the non-end nozzle 51M1. Similarly, it is preferable that the total value of the lengths 52L, 53L, and 54L of the end nozzle 51E2 is the same as the total value of the lengths 52L, 53L, and 54L of the non-end nozzle 51M1.

[0060] Except for the differences described above, the plurality of nozzles 51 shown in Fig. 10 are similar to the plurality of nozzles 51 shown in Fig. 5. Therefore, a duplicated description will be omitted.

[0061] Next, the nozzle group 50 shown in FIG. 11 differs from the nozzle group 50 shown in FIG. 10 in that the lengths 52L of the portions 52 of the plurality of nozzles 51 are the same.

[0062] As described above, in order to reduce the variation in weight of the organic composition pellets, it is sufficient that the static pressure of the end nozzle 51E1 is lower than the static pressure of the non-end nozzle 51M1 in the molding process. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 11, when the length 54L of the portion 54 of the end nozzle 51E1 is longer than the length 54L of the portion 54 of the non-end nozzle 51M1, the static pressure of the end nozzle 51E1 can be reduced even if the lengths 52L of the portions 52 of the multiple nozzles 51 are the same.

[0063] 11, the lengths 52L of the multiple portions 52 are all the same. On the other hand, the length 53L of the portion 53 of the end nozzle 51E1 is shorter than the length 53L of the portion 53 of the non-end nozzle 51M1. As a result, the total values ​​of the lengths 52L, 53L, and 54L of the multiple nozzles 51 are all equal to one another.

[0064] 11, the end nozzle 51E2 has the same structure as the end nozzle 51E1. That is, the length 54L of the portion 54 of the end nozzle 51E2 is longer than the length 54L of the portion 54 of the non-end nozzle 51M1. This allows the static pressure of the end nozzle 51E2 to be lower than the static pressure of the non-end nozzle 51M1 in the molding process described above. Also, the length 52L of the portion 52 of the end nozzle 51E2 shown in FIG. 11 is equal to the length 52L of the portion 52 of the non-end nozzle 51M1.

[0065] Except for the differences described above, the plurality of nozzles 51 shown in Fig. 11 are the same as the plurality of nozzles 51 shown in Fig. 10. Therefore, a duplicated description will be omitted.

[0066] The invention made by the inventor has been specifically described above based on the embodiments and examples, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments or examples, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0067] 10 Raw material supply department 11 Raw materials 20 Extrusion section 30 dice 30b back 30c center 30f front 31 Nozzle support 32,32A,32B Opening (raw material introduction part) 33 Hard layer 40 Cutter section 41 Rotary blade 50, 50A, 50B nozzle group 51 nozzles 51E1, 51E2, 51E3, 51E4, 51E5, 51E6 End nozzle 51M1 Non-end nozzle 52,53,54 part 52D, 53D, 54D Nozzle opening diameter 52L, 53L, 54L length 61 Heat transfer medium flow path 62 Heat transfer medium supply channel 63 Heat transfer medium discharge passage 64 Heat transfer medium inlet 65 Heat medium discharge part 70 Drive unit 71 Motor 72 Coupling 73 Reducer 100 Granulation equipment D61,D62,D63 Separation distance

Claims

1. a first nozzle group in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged adjacent to each other along a first direction; a nozzle support portion having a front surface on which the plurality of nozzles are arranged and a back surface opposite to the front surface, the nozzle support portion including a first opening portion communicating with each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group; heat medium flow paths that are arranged on both sides of the first nozzle group in a transparent plan view seen from the front side and that allow the heat medium to flow along the first direction; and Each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group comprises: a first portion having a first nozzle opening diameter; a second portion located between the first portion and the first opening, the nozzle opening diameter narrowing as it approaches the first portion; Including, The plurality of nozzles a first end nozzle disposed at one end of the array of the plurality of nozzles in the first direction; a first non-end nozzle disposed adjacent to the first end nozzle in the first direction; Including, A die, wherein the length of the first portion of the first end nozzle is shorter than the length of the first portion of the first non-end nozzle.

2. In claim 1, The first nozzle group includes: further comprising a second end nozzle arranged at an end opposite to the first end nozzle in the first direction; A die, wherein the length of the first portion of the second end nozzle is shorter than the length of the first portion of the first non-end nozzle.

3. In claim 2, In a transparent plan view seen from the front side, the nozzle support portion has a circular outer shape, A die in which a plurality of the first nozzle groups are arranged along the circumferential direction of the nozzle support portion.

4. In claim 2, The first nozzle group includes: a third end nozzle arranged adjacent to the first end nozzle along a second direction intersecting the first direction; A die, wherein the length of the first portion of the third end nozzle is shorter than the length of the first portion of the first non-end nozzle.

5. In claim 4, In a transparent plan view seen from the front side, The nozzle support portion has a circular outer shape, a plurality of the first nozzle groups are arranged along the circumferential direction of the nozzle support portion, a heat medium supply passage extending along the circumferential direction of the nozzle support portion and communicating with the heat medium passage is provided between an outer periphery of the nozzle support portion and the first opening portion; A die, wherein the distance between the heat medium supply passage and the first end nozzle is longer than the distance between the heat medium passage and the first non-end nozzle.

6. In claim 5, a heat medium discharge passage extending along a circumferential direction of the nozzle support portion and communicating with the heat medium passage is provided between a center of the nozzle support portion and the first opening portion; A die, wherein the distance between the heat transfer medium discharge passage and the second end nozzle is longer than the distance between the heat transfer medium passage and the first non-end nozzle.

7. In claim 1, Each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group comprises: a third portion between the second portion and the first opening, the third portion having a second nozzle opening diameter larger than the first nozzle opening diameter; A die, wherein the length of the third portion of the first end nozzle is greater than the length of the third portion of the first non-end nozzle.

8. a first nozzle group in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged adjacent to each other along a first direction; a nozzle support portion having a front surface on which the plurality of nozzles are arranged and a back surface opposite to the front surface, the nozzle support portion including a first opening portion communicating with each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group; heat medium flow paths that are arranged on both sides of the first nozzle group in a transparent plan view seen from the front side and that allow the heat medium to flow along the first direction; and Each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group comprises: a first portion having a first nozzle opening diameter; a second portion located between the first portion and the first opening, the nozzle opening diameter narrowing as it approaches the first portion; a third portion between the second portion and the first opening, the third portion having a second nozzle opening diameter larger than the first nozzle opening diameter; Including, The plurality of nozzles a first end nozzle disposed at one end of the array of the plurality of nozzles in the first direction; a first non-end nozzle disposed adjacent to the first end nozzle in the first direction; Including, A die, wherein the length of the third portion of the first end nozzle is greater than the length of the third portion of the first non-end nozzle.

9. a cylindrical extrusion section capable of extruding the raw material forward while applying pressure; a die attached to the tip of the extrusion section; a cutter attached to the tip of the die and capable of cutting the material that has passed through the die; and The die is a first nozzle group in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged adjacent to each other along a first direction; a nozzle support portion having a front surface on which the plurality of nozzles are arranged and a back surface opposite to the front surface, the nozzle support portion including a first opening portion communicating with each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group; heat medium flow paths that are arranged on both sides of the first nozzle group in a transparent plan view seen from the front side and that allow the heat medium to flow along the first direction; and Each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group comprises: a first portion having a first nozzle opening diameter; a second portion located between the first portion and the first opening, the nozzle opening diameter narrowing as it approaches the first portion; Including, The plurality of nozzles a first end nozzle disposed at one end of the array of the plurality of nozzles in the first direction; a first non-end nozzle disposed adjacent to the first end nozzle in the first direction; Including, A granulating apparatus, wherein the length of the first portion of the first end nozzle is shorter than the length of the first portion of the first non-end nozzle.

10. In claim 9, The first nozzle group includes: further comprising a second end nozzle arranged at an end opposite to the first end nozzle in the first direction; A granulating apparatus, wherein the length of the first portion of the second end nozzle is shorter than the length of the first portion of the first non-end nozzle.

11. In claim 10, In a transparent plan view seen from the front side, The nozzle support portion has a circular outer shape, A granulation apparatus, wherein a plurality of the first nozzle groups are arranged along the circumferential direction of the nozzle support portion.

12. In claim 10, The first nozzle group includes: a third end nozzle arranged adjacent to the first end nozzle along a second direction intersecting the first direction; A granulating apparatus, wherein the length of the first portion of the third end nozzle is shorter than the length of the first portion of the first non-end nozzle.

13. In claim 12, In a transparent plan view seen from the front side, The nozzle support portion has a circular outer shape, a plurality of the first nozzle groups are arranged along the circumferential direction of the nozzle support portion, a heat medium supply passage extending along the circumferential direction of the nozzle support portion and communicating with the heat medium passage is provided between an outer periphery of the nozzle support portion and the first opening portion; A granulation apparatus, wherein a distance between the heat medium supply passage and the first end nozzle is longer than a distance between the heat medium passage and the first non-end nozzle.

14. In claim 13, a heat medium discharge passage extending along a circumferential direction of the nozzle support portion and communicating with the heat medium passage is provided between a center of the nozzle support portion and the first opening portion; A granulation apparatus, wherein a distance between the heat medium discharge passage and the second end nozzle is longer than a distance between the heat medium passage and the first non-end nozzle.

15. In claim 9, Each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group comprises: a third portion between the second portion and the first opening, the third portion having a second nozzle opening diameter larger than the first nozzle opening diameter; A granulating apparatus, wherein the length of the third portion of the first end nozzle is longer than the length of the third portion of the first non-end nozzle.

16. a cylindrical extrusion section capable of extruding the raw material forward while applying pressure; a die attached to the tip of the extrusion section; a cutter attached to the tip of the die and capable of cutting the material that has passed through the die; and The die is a first nozzle group in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged adjacent to each other along a first direction; a nozzle support portion having a front surface on which the plurality of nozzles are arranged and a back surface opposite to the front surface, the nozzle support portion including a first opening portion communicating with each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group; heat medium flow paths that are arranged on both sides of the first nozzle group in a transparent plan view seen from the front side and that allow the heat medium to flow along the first direction; and Each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group comprises: a first portion having a first nozzle opening diameter; a second portion located between the first portion and the first opening, the nozzle opening diameter narrowing as it approaches the first portion; a third portion between the second portion and the first opening, the third portion having a second nozzle opening diameter larger than the first nozzle opening diameter; Including, The plurality of nozzles a first end nozzle disposed at one end of the array of the plurality of nozzles in the first direction; a first non-end nozzle disposed adjacent to the first end nozzle in the first direction; Including, A granulating apparatus, wherein the length of the third portion of the first end nozzle is longer than the length of the third portion of the first non-end nozzle.

17. an extrusion step of extruding the raw material forward under pressure; a molding step in which the raw material extruded in the extrusion step is molded by passing through a die; a pellet forming step of cutting the raw material formed in the forming step to form organic composition pellets; Including, The die is a first nozzle group in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged adjacent to each other along a first direction; a nozzle support portion having a front surface on which the plurality of nozzles are arranged and a back surface opposite to the front surface, the nozzle support portion including a first opening portion communicating with each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group; heat medium flow paths that are arranged on both sides of the first nozzle group in a transparent plan view seen from the front side and that allow the heat medium to flow along the first direction; and Each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group comprises: a first portion having a first nozzle opening diameter; a second portion located between the first portion and the first opening, the nozzle opening diameter narrowing as it approaches the first portion; Including, The plurality of nozzles a first end nozzle disposed at one end of the array of the plurality of nozzles in the first direction; a first non-end nozzle disposed adjacent to the first end nozzle in the first direction; Including, The method for producing organic composition pellets, wherein in the molding step, the static pressure of the first end nozzle is lower than the static pressure of the first non-end nozzle.

18. In claim 17, A method for producing organic composition pellets, wherein a length of the first portion of the first end nozzle is shorter than a length of the first portion of the first non-end nozzle.

19. In claim 17, Each of the plurality of nozzles in the first nozzle group comprises: a third portion between the second portion and the first opening, the third portion having a second nozzle opening diameter larger than the first nozzle opening diameter; The method for producing organic composition pellets, wherein a length of the third portion of the first end nozzle is longer than a length of the third portion of the first non-end nozzle.

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