Filter element for a powder conveying chamber of a powder dense phase pump, and powder conveying chamber of a powder dense phase pump having such a filter element

Abstract

The invention relates to a filter element (10) for a powder conveying chamber of a powder dense phase pump or for forming a powder conveying chamber (4.1) of a powder dense phase pump, wherein, at least during operation of the powder dense phase pump, the powder conveying chamber (4.1) is assigned a powder inlet valve (3.1) and a powder outlet valve (3.2), and wherein, likewise at least during operation of the powder dense phase pump, the powder conveying chamber (4.1) is fluidically connected or connectable alternately to a vacuum source during a suction phase and to a compressed-air source during a delivery phase. The invention provides, in particular, that the filter element (10) is embodied as a cartridge-like component which, during operation of the powder dense phase pump, is received exchangeably or replaceably as a separate structural unit in a filter housing (20).

Description

[0001] FILTER ELEMENT FOR A POWDER FEEDING CHAMBER OF A DENSITY POWDER PUMP AND POWDER FEEDING CHAMBER OF A DENSITY POWDER PUMP WITH SUCH A FILTER ELEMENT

[0002] Description

[0003] The present invention relates generally to dense phase powder pumps for conveying coating powder.

[0004] Dense-phase powder pumps of the type considered here have at least one conveying chamber equipped with a powder inlet valve and a powder outlet valve. The conveying chamber can be connected alternatively to a vacuum source during a suction phase or to a transport compressed air source during a discharge phase. Using the vacuum from the vacuum source, powder is sucked into the conveying chamber through the open powder inlet valve while the powder outlet valve is closed. Using the transport compressed air from the transport compressed air source, the powder in the conveying chamber is discharged through the open powder outlet valve while the powder inlet valve is closed.

[0005] Dense phase powder pumps can have several conveying chambers arranged parallel to one another, which operate in phases such that coating powder is alternately sucked into one conveying chamber while coating powder is discharged from the other conveying chamber.

[0006] For example, EP 1 551 558 A1 relates to a dense phase powder pump having a first powder feed chamber and a second powder feed chamber arranged parallel to the first powder feed chamber. The two powder feed chambers of the dense phase powder pump known from this prior art are each delimited on both the intake and discharge sides by a mechanically actuated pinch valve arrangement. Specifically, it is provided that, in the intake and discharge areas of the dense phase powder pump, the powder hoses connected to the respective powder feed chambers of the dense phase powder pump can be deformed by a mechanically actuated plunger in order to pinch off or open the hose section as needed.

[0007] Each powder feed chamber of the dense phase powder pump known from this prior art is assigned a filter tube which delimits the circumference of the corresponding powder feed chamber. The filter tube is permeable to air, but not to coating powder, and is surrounded by an annular chamber to which either negative pressure or compressed air can be connected. This allows coating powder to be alternately sucked into each powder feed chamber or expelled from the corresponding powder feed chamber using compressed air. The two powder feed chambers arranged parallel to each other are operated in alternating phases, which means that one of the two powder feed chambers sucks in coating powder through the powder inlet of the dense phase powder pump, while the other of the two powder feed chambers discharges a portion of coating powder previously sucked into the powder feed chamber via the powder outlet of the dense phase powder pump.

[0008] The use of dense phase powder pumps for conveying coating powder to corresponding devices for spraying coating powder, such as in particular powder spray coating guns, is known from the document DE 196 11 533 B4, the document WO 2004 / 087331 A1 and the document EP 1 566 352 A2.

[0009] Before the use of dense phase powder pumps of the type considered here for conveying coating powder became known, powder pumps designed as injectors were used, and these are still used today to convey coating powder. In contrast to dense phase powder pumps, however, powder pumps designed as injectors (dilute phase powder pumps) have the disadvantage that powder pumps designed as injectors typically wear out relatively quickly and can convey a decreasing amount of coating powder per unit of time over time. Therefore, dense phase powder pumps have become established in practice, particularly for applications where a relatively constant amount of coating powder must be conveyed per unit of time.

[0010] In practical use, however, it has been shown that dense phase powder pumps, such as those known from the document EP 1 551 558 A1, have problems with continuous powder conveyance, particularly with some types of powder, and that they require relatively frequent maintenance.

[0011] The dense phase powder pumps generally known from the prior art and described above therefore have the particular disadvantage that they can only be maintained with relatively high expenditures. In particular, the maintenance of the powder feed chambers in the known dense phase powder pumps is relatively complex. On the other hand, the quality of powder feed is largely determined by the proper functioning of the corresponding powder feed chambers of the dense phase powder pump.

[0012] Since the maintenance / replacement of powder feed chambers of a conventional dense phase powder pump is relatively time-consuming and labor-intensive, this is often only carried out with a delay, which can ultimately have a negative impact on the efficiency and coating quality of a powder spray device (spray gun) supplied with coating powder by the dense phase powder pump.

[0013] The invention is therefore intended to achieve the general problem of developing a dense phase powder pump of the type mentioned at the outset in such a way that it or components of the dense phase powder pump can be replaced or maintained as easily as possible in order to ensure that the best possible result can be achieved with regard to the efficiency and / or the conveying quality of the dense phase powder pump without extended downtimes of the dense phase powder pump.

[0014] In particular, on the basis of the problems described above, a dense phase powder pump is to be specified, wherein the dense phase powder pump can be maintained with relatively little effort, and wherein in particular a filter element for a powder feed chamber or a powder feed chamber with such a filter element of the dense phase powder pump can be replaced in an easy-to-implement manner without the risk of impairing the functioning of the dense phase powder pump.

[0015] This object is achieved according to the invention in particular by the subject matter of independent patent claim 1, which relates to a filter element for a powder feed chamber of a dense phase powder pump or a filter element for forming a powder feed chamber of a dense phase powder pump.

[0016] Advantageous further developments of the filter element according to the invention are specified in the dependent patent claims 2 to 14.

[0017] The object underlying the invention is also achieved in particular by the subject matter of the independent patent claim 15, which relates to a powder conveying chamber for a dense phase powder pump, in particular for a dense phase powder pump for conveying coating powder from a first powder reservoir to a second powder reservoir or to a powder spraying device, wherein the powder conveying chamber has a housing structure designed in particular as a module and a filter element which is at least partially or regionally accommodated or receivable in the housing structure, in particular in an exchangeable or replaceable manner and is designed in the manner of a cartridge or cartridge.

[0018] Advantageous further developments of the powder conveying chamber according to the invention are specified in particular in the dependent patent claims 16 to 27.

[0019] Accordingly, the invention relates in particular to a filter element for a powder feed chamber of a dense phase powder pump or for forming a powder feed chamber of a dense phase powder pump, wherein at least during operation of the dense phase powder pump, a powder inlet valve and a powder outlet valve are assigned to the powder feed chamber, and wherein likewise at least during operation of the dense phase powder pump, the powder feed chamber is or can be fluidly connected alternatively to a vacuum source during a suction phase and to a compressed air source during a discharge phase. According to the invention, it is particularly provided that the filter element is designed as a cartridge-like component which, during operation of the dense phase powder pump, is accommodated in a filter housing as an independent unit in a replaceable or interchangeable manner.

[0020] In this context, it is preferably provided that the cartridge-like filter element has the necessary means for aligning and / or positioning the filter element in the filter housing and / or the necessary means for sealing the cartridge-like filter element with respect to the filter housing.

[0021] In other words, the cartridge-type filter element, designed as a standalone unit, preferably includes all the means necessary for aligning or positioning the filter element in the filter housing, as well as preferably all the means necessary for sealing the cartridge-type filter element against the filter housing. This allows for error-free replacement or exchange of the filter element with just a few simple steps, ensuring optimal operation of the dense phase powder pump at all times.

[0022] According to embodiments of the filter element according to the invention, the cartridge-like filter element comprises a hollow cylindrical filter body made of a material permeable to air but impermeable to coating powder, and a preferably at least substantially tubular support structure in which the filter body is accommodated at least in part. At least one window region and preferably a plurality of window regions are formed in the lateral surface of the support structure, which are preferably arranged in an equidistant manner.

[0023] Providing such a support structure ensures that the hollow cylindrical filter body of the filter element can be easily installed without compromising its support. When assembling the powder feed chamber, the cartridge-type filter element simply needs to be inserted into the filter housing of the powder feed chamber.

[0024] In order for the cartridge-like filter element to orient and align itself independently when inserted into the filter housing of the powder conveying chamber, according to preferred implementations of the filter element, a connection cap is arranged at each of the respective end regions of the support structure, which connection cap enables the independent alignment and positioning of the cartridge-like filter element in the filter housing.

[0025] On the other hand, it is preferred that the respective connection caps arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure of the cartridge-like filter element also assume a sealing function with respect to the filter housing of the powder conveying chamber.

[0026] Preferably, the connection cap arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure is connected to the support structure of the filter element, preferably in a form-fitting manner, in particular by being locked into one another, and / or preferably inseparably connected, for example by being connected by a material fit and in particular by being welded.

[0027] Such a permanent connection between the respective connection caps and the support structure of the filter element ensures that when changing the cartridge-type filter element, not only the filter body is replaced, but also the entire structure of the filter element, including in particular the connection caps, which preferably fulfill a function of aligning the filter element in the filter housing and sealing it against the filter housing.

[0028] This ensures that every time the cartridge-type filter element is changed / replaced, optimal positioning and alignment of the filter element within the filter housing as well as optimal sealing of the filter element against the filter housing is guaranteed.

[0029] In order to enable simplified assembly of the cartridge-like filter element, according to embodiment variants of the invention, at least one first connecting element is formed on the respective front end regions of the support structure of the filter element, which first connecting element is designed to form a positive connection with a second connecting element that is at least partially or regionally complementary to the first connecting element and arranged on the respective connection caps. In this context, it is therefore conceivable for the respective connection caps to be plugged onto the front end regions of the support structure and clipped there. This plug-in or clip connection, which can be realized with the first and second connecting elements, is preferably designed to be non-detachable.

[0030] According to implementations of the filter element according to the invention, it is provided that the length of the support structure of the filter element is shorter than the length of the filter body, so that in a state when the filter body is at least partially received in the support structure, an end region of the filter body protrudes from the end region of the support structure.

[0031] In this context, it is advisable for the connection caps arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure to each have a region, in particular a nozzle-shaped region, which is adapted to the length and preferably also to the external shape of the end region of the filter element protruding from the end region of the support structure, by which the end region of the filter body protruding from the end region of the support structure is preferably received in a form-fitting manner at least substantially and / or at least in regions.

[0032] In a further development of the latter embodiment, an annular inner stop is formed on the nozzle-shaped area of ​​the connection caps arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure, against which the front side of the filter body abuts or against which the front side of the filter body rests. This measure ensures that the front side of the filter body is also well sealed against the connection cap.

[0033] In addition, a play-free mounting of the filter body inside the support structure of the cartridge-type filter element can be ensured.

[0034] In the connection caps, and in particular in the nozzle-shaped region of the connection caps arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure, a through-opening is formed in each case. This through-opening extends in the longitudinal direction of the filter element and is designed concentrically and / or coaxially with the hollow cylindrical filter body. Preferably, the diameter of the through-opening corresponds at least substantially to the inner diameter of the hollow cylindrical filter body.

[0035] In this way, any flow resistance at the transition area between the filter body and the connection cap is eliminated or at least minimized.

[0036] At the free end regions of the connection caps arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure opposite the support structure, a seal is preferably formed in each case, in particular in the form of an annular sealing lip, which extends at least partially or regionally in the longitudinal direction of the filter element.

[0037] It is particularly preferably provided that the connection caps arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure are each designed as a monolithic plastic part, in particular a 2K plastic injection-molded part, and preferably have a soft plastic component and a hard plastic component, wherein at least the seal is preferably formed partially or regionally by the soft plastic component.

[0038] The soft plastic component can be TPE, for example. The soft component is made of a softer plastic than the hard component. By appropriately positioning the soft component, the sealing effect of the connection cap can be optimized when the cartridge-type filter element is housed in the filter housing of the powder feed chamber. In particular, the soft plastic component can be a rubber-like material.

[0039] The support structure of the cartridge-type filter element is preferably made of a plastic material that is different from the plastic material from which the connection caps are formed. In particular, the support structure consists of a transparent plastic material, such as polyvinyl chloride or polycarbonate. Using a transparent plastic material for the support structure allows for a visual inspection of the condition of the filter body.

[0040] In order to achieve a secure alignment, positioning and also sealing of the cartridge-like filter element in the filter housing of the powder conveying chamber, according to embodiments of the filter element according to the invention it is provided that an outer diameter of the connection caps arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure is at least partially larger than the outer diameter of the support structure of the filter element.

[0041] The filter body itself is in particular monolithic and in particular made of a porous material, in particular plastic, ceramic or metal material, and preferably of polyethylene or of a material containing polyethylene.

[0042] The present invention further relates to a powder conveying chamber for a dense phase powder pump, in particular for a dense phase powder pump for conveying coating powder from a first powder reservoir to a second powder reservoir or to a powder spraying device.

[0043] The powder conveying chamber according to the invention comprises a housing structure, in particular designed as a module, and a filter element that is at least partially or regionally accommodated in the housing structure, in particular in a replaceable or interchangeable manner, and is designed as a cartridge. The cartridge-like filter element is in particular a filter element of the type according to the invention described above.

[0044] The modular design of the housing structure of the powder feed chamber according to the invention in combination with the modular filter element, in particular with the cartridge-type or cartridge-like filter element, enables maintenance of the dense phase powder pump in a particularly simplified manner in order to reduce potential downtimes of the dense phase powder pump. The modular design of the housing structure of the powder feed chamber also enables adjustments, optimizations, and cost reductions to be made to the powder feed chamber in order to reduce product complexity. The powder feed chamber with the modular housing structure is particularly suitable for dense phase powder pumps that are constructed according to a building block or modular system principle, in which the functional components of the dense phase powder pump are divided into modules or assemblies.A dense phase powder pump, constructed according to the modular principle and characterized by its modular design, enables the creation of individually configurable dense phase powder pumps without sacrificing economies of scale across series. The individual modules of the dense phase powder pump, and in particular the powder feed chamber with its modular housing structure, are standardized components that can be easily replaced, particularly without the need for tools.

[0045] According to implementations of the powder conveying chamber according to the invention, it is provided that the housing structure of the powder conveying chamber is designed to apply a negative pressure or an overpressure in the interior of the housing structure as required, wherein for this purpose at least one connection is provided in the housing structure which is designed to fluidly connect the interior of the housing structure to a negative pressure / vacuum source or to a compressed air source as required.

[0046] In particular, the housing structure of the powder conveying chamber is designed as a plastic part, in particular as a plastic injection-molded part.

[0047] To enable particularly easy replacement of the cartridge-type filter element, the housing structure of the powder conveying chamber is designed in at least two parts and comprises a main body with a receiving area and a closure body that is, in particular, detachably attached or attachable to the main body. The receiving area of ​​the main body is designed to accommodate the cartridge-type filter element at least partially or in certain areas.

[0048] In a state when the main body and the closing body of the powder conveying chamber are preferably detachably connected to one another, the cartridge-like filter element is received, in particular at least partially or regionally, in a form-fitting manner, inside the volume then formed by the main body and the closing body connected thereto.

[0049] According to implementations of the last-mentioned embodiment of the powder conveying chamber according to the invention, it is provided that the main body of the housing structure has a particularly hollow-cylindrical structure, wherein in or on an end face, in particular an inner end face, of the particularly hollow-cylindrical structure of the main body, a receiving area is formed for, in particular, positively receiving a connection cap arranged on an end face of the cartridge-like or cartridge-like filter element.

[0050] Alternatively or additionally, it is advisable for the closing body of the housing structure to have a receiving area which is designed to receive, in particular in a form-fitting manner, a connection cap arranged on an end face of the cartridge-like filter element, if the main body and the closing body are preferably detachably connected to one another.

[0051] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] They show:

[0053] FIG. 1 shows a schematic and isometric view of a modular pump head module of a dense phase powder pump with an exemplary embodiment of a powder conveying chamber according to the present invention;

[0054] FIG. 2 shows a schematic and isometric partial exploded view of the powder feed chamber of the pump head module according to FIG. 1 with an immediately adjacent pinch valve designed as a module;

[0055] FIG. 3 shows a schematic and isometric view of the powder feed chamber according to FIG. 2; FIG. 4 shows a schematic and isometric exploded view of the powder feed chamber according to FIG. 3; and

[0056] FIG. 5 shows a schematic and isometric exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the cartridge-like filter element of the powder conveying chamber according to FIG. 4.

[0057] FIG. 1 shows an isometric view of a pump head module 1 of a dense phase powder pump.

[0058] The pump head module 1 contains all the components of the dense phase powder pump required for the pneumatic conveying of coating powder. These include, in particular, pneumatically controlled components that are arranged one behind the other and fluidly connected to each other.

[0059] In detail, the individually replaceable or interchangeable components of the pump head module 1 are, for example, a powder inlet module block 2, a first pinch valve module block 3.1 with a pinch valve inlet, which is or can be detachably connected to an outlet area of ​​the powder inlet module block 2 via a plug connection, a first filter module block 4.1 with an inlet area, which is or can be detachably connected to a pinch valve outlet area of ​​the first pinch valve module block 3.1 via a plug connection, a second pinch valve module block 3.2 with a pinch valve inlet area, which is or can be detachably connected to an outlet area of ​​the first filter module block 4.1 via a plug connection, a second filter module block 4.2 with an inlet area, which is or can be detachably connected to a pinch valve outlet area of ​​the second pinch valve module block 3 via a plug connection.2 is detachably connected or connectable, and a powder outlet module block 5 with an inlet area which is detachably connected or connectable via a plug connection to an outlet area of ​​the second filter module block 4.2.

[0060] In particular, the first and second pinch valve module blocks 3.1, 3.2 are designed identically to one another. The first pinch valve module block 3.1 functionally forms a pinch valve on the powder inlet side with respect to the first filter module block 4.1, while the second pinch valve module block 3.2 functionally forms a pinch valve on the powder outlet side with respect to the first filter module block 4.1.

[0061] The first and second filter module blocks 4.1, 4.2 are also identical to each other. In functional terms, the first filter module block 4.1 forms a powder feed chamber for the dense phase powder pump, while the second filter module block 4.2 serves primarily as an additional compressed air inlet device.

[0062] In particular, the individual functional components of the pump head module 1 are each designed in a modular manner, ie as module blocks, which can be connected to one another via corresponding plug connections.

[0063] Accordingly, the pump head module 1 is constructed according to a modular principle, with the functional components of the dense phase powder pump divided into modules or assemblies. The individual modules or assemblies of the modular pump head module 1 can be combined or integrated via appropriate interfaces if their shape and function are suitable.

[0064] The advantage of such a modular pump head module 1, constructed according to the modular principle, is, on the one hand, increased flexibility in product and organizational development. Faster product cycles and greater adaptability are possible, for example, to adapt the pump head module 1 or the dense phase powder pump to new conditions.

[0065] On the other hand, the modular design of the pump head module 1 provides the further advantage that a large product variety can be realized in a simple manner.

[0066] In addition, cost-effective manufacturing is possible due to identical series production and simpler assembly processes. Finally, the modular design of pump head module 1 also offers advantages with regard to maintenance of pump head module 1, as cost-effective repairs are possible by replacing defective components of pump head module 1.

[0067] In FIG. 2, the first filter module block 4.1 of the pump head module 1 according to FIG. 1 is shown, directly adjacent to the second pinch valve module block 3.2.

[0068] In FIG. 3, however, the filter module block 4.1 is shown in an isometric individual view.

[0069] The filter module block 4.1, shown schematically and in an isometric view in FIG. 3, forms a powder conveying chamber of the dense phase powder pump in the pump head module 1 according to FIG. 1.

[0070] It can be seen that the powder conveying chamber or the filter module block 4.1 has a housing structure 20, which is in particular also designed as a module and which forms an annular chamber of the powder conveying chamber formed by the first filter module block 4.1.

[0071] A corresponding filter element 10 is accommodated or can be accommodated inside the housing structure 20, which is designed as a module. This is, in particular, a cartridge-like filter element 10, as can be seen in particular in the exploded view in FIG. 5.

[0072] The housing structure 20 of the powder conveying chamber is designed to apply a negative pressure or an overpressure in the interior of the housing structure 20 as required, wherein for this purpose a corresponding connection 21 is provided in the housing structure 20, which is designed to fluidly connect the interior of the housing structure 20 to a negative pressure / vacuum source or to a compressed air source as required.

[0073] In the exemplary embodiment of the powder feed chamber of the filter module block 4.1 of the pump head module 1 according to FIG. 1 shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, it is provided in particular that the housing structure 20 of the powder feed chamber 4.1 is designed as a plastic part, in particular as a plastic injection-molded part.

[0074] In this context, it can be seen that a plug connection area 24 is formed on each of the opposite side areas, in particular the end face areas, of the housing structure 20 of the powder conveying chamber 4.1.

[0075] The plug connection area 24 is designed to form a plug connection with a correspondingly complementary mating plug connection area 25 of a housing structure of a pinch valve or pinch valve module block 3.2, which is arranged directly adjacent to the housing structure 20 of the powder conveying chamber 4.1, in particular a modular pinch valve or pinch valve module block 3.2.

[0076] In this context, particular reference is made to the illustration in FIG. 2.

[0077] It is provided that the plug connection areas 24 formed on the mutually opposite side areas, in particular end face areas, of the housing structure 20 of the powder feed chamber 4.1 are each designed as a spigot end and are designed to form a plug connection with a sleeve-like mating plug connection area 25 of the housing structure of the pinch valve module block 3.2 arranged directly adjacent to the housing structure 20 of the powder feed chamber 4.1.

[0078] Of course, it is also conceivable that the plug connection areas 24 formed on the opposite side areas, in particular end face areas, of the housing structure 20 of the powder conveying chamber 4.1 are designed as sleeve-like plug connection areas which serve to receive a mating plug connection element designed as a spigot end, for example of a pinch valve module block.

[0079] Preferably, the plug-in connection areas 24 formed on the opposite side areas, in particular the end face areas, of the housing structure 20 of the powder conveying chamber 4.1 each have a seal designed to seal a plug-in connection with a mating plug-in connection area 25. This can, in particular, be a seal in the form of a sealing ring or in the form of a sealing lip.

[0080] However, as can be seen from the exploded view according to FIG. 4, the exemplary embodiment of the powder conveying chamber 4.1 according to the invention has plug-like inserts 26, wherein the plug-like inserts 26 are designed to be received at least partially or regionally in a through-channel 27 formed in the plug-in connection area 24. In this context, it is particularly conceivable for the sealing function to be assumed by the plug-like insert 26.

[0081] The plug-like inserts 26 are designed in particular as metal inserts.

[0082] A through-channel 28 is formed in the plug-shaped insert 26, which is arranged coaxially and / or concentrically to a hollow cylindrical filter body 11 of the filter element 10 accommodated in the interior of the housing structure 20 of the powder conveying chamber 4.1.

[0083] The exploded view according to FIG. 4 shows that a cartridge-like filter element 10 is accommodated in the housing structure 20 of the powder conveying chamber 4.1 in an exchangeable or replaceable manner.

[0084] An exemplary embodiment of the cartridge-type filter element 10 is shown in an isometric exploded view in FIG. 5.

[0085] The cartridge-like filter element 10 is characterized in particular by the fact that the filter element 10 has the means necessary for aligning and / or positioning the filter element 10 in the housing structure 20 of the powder conveying chamber 4.1, which forms a filter housing, and / or the means necessary for sealing the cartridge-like filter element 10 with respect to the filter housing 20. This is achieved in particular by corresponding connection caps 14 of the cartridge-like filter element 10, as will be described in more detail below.

[0086] Furthermore, it can be seen from the exploded view according to FIG. 5 that the cartridge-like filter element 10 has a hollow cylindrical filter body 11 made of a material permeable to air but impermeable to coating powder and a preferably at least substantially tubular support structure 12 in which the filter body 11 is at least partially received.

[0087] In a lateral surface of the support structure 12, window regions 13 are formed in particular in an equidistant manner.

[0088] The filter body 11 of the cartridge-like filter element 10 is formed, for example, from polyethylene or from a material containing polyethylene, although other materials are also generally possible, in particular sintered materials.

[0089] The support structure 12 of the filter element 10 is formed from a plastic material, which is preferably transparent to allow the condition of the filter body 11 to be visually inspected from the outside. Suitable transparent plastic materials include, for example, polyvinyl chloride or polycarbonate.

[0090] Of course, other materials are also possible here. It is also not absolutely necessary for the material of the support structure 12 to be transparent.

[0091] A connection cap 14 is arranged at each end region of the support structure 12. The connection caps 14 arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure 12 are particularly designed to align and / or position the cartridge-like filter element 10 in the filter housing 20 of the powder conveying chamber 4.1.

[0092] In addition, the connection caps 14 arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure 12 have a sealing function in order to seal the cartridge-like filter element 10 from the filter housing 20.

[0093] The connection caps 14 arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure 12 are preferably permanently connected to the support structure 12 of the filter element 10, for example, integrally connected, in particular welded.

[0094] To simplify assembly of the filter element 10, first connecting elements 15 can be formed on the respective front end regions of the support structure 12, which are designed such that they can form a positive connection with second connecting elements 16 which are designed to be at least partially or regionally complementary and arranged on the respective connection caps 14.

[0095] The first and second connecting elements 15, 16 are particularly designed to form a clip or snap connection between the connection caps 14 and the support structure 12 of the filter element 10.

[0096] The length of the support structure 12 of the filter element 10 is in particular shorter than the length of the filter body 11, so that in a state when the filter body 11 is at least partially received in the support structure 12, an end region of the filter body 11 protrudes from the end region of the support structure 12.

[0097] In this case, it is provided in particular that the connection caps 14 arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure 12 each have a region 17, in particular a nozzle-shaped region, which is adapted to the length and preferably also to the external shape of the end region of the filter element 10 protruding from the end region of the support structure 12, and by which the end region of the filter body 11 protruding from the end region of the support structure 12 is preferably received at least substantially and / or at least in regions, in particular in a form-fitting manner.

[0098] Although not shown in the drawings, it is advisable in this context that an annular inner stop is formed on the nozzle-shaped region 17 of the connection caps 14 arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure 12, against which the end face of the filter body 11 abuts or against which the end face of the filter body 11 rests.

[0099] In the connection caps 14, and in particular in the nozzle-shaped region 17 of the connection caps 14 arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure 12, a through-opening 18 is formed in each case. This through-opening extends in the longitudinal direction of the filter element 10 and is designed concentrically and / or coaxially with the hollow-cylindrical filter body 11. Preferably, the diameter of the through-opening 18 corresponds at least substantially to the inner diameter of the hollow-cylindrical filter body 11.

[0100] From the illustration in FIG. 5 it can be seen that a seal 19, in particular in the form of an annular sealing lip, is formed on the free end regions of the connection caps 14 arranged on the respective end regions of the support structure 12, which seal extends at least partially or regionally in the longitudinal direction of the filter element 10.

[0101] In this context, it is particularly appropriate that the connection caps 14 arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure 12 are each designed as a monolithic plastic part, in particular a 2K plastic injection-molded part.

[0102] Preferably, the connection caps 14 have a soft plastic component and a hard plastic component, wherein at least the seal 19 of the connection caps 14 is preferably formed partially or regionally by the soft plastic component.

[0103] From the exploded view according to FIG. 4, it can be seen that an outer diameter of the connection caps 14 arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure 12 is at least partially larger than the outer diameter of the support structure 12 of the filter element 10.

[0104] Returning to the exploded view according to FIG. 4, it should be noted that the housing structure 20 of the powder conveying chamber 4.1 or of the filter module block 4.1 is designed in two parts and has a main body 22 with a receiving area and a closing body 23 that is fastened or can be fastened to the main body 22, in particular detachably.

[0105] A receiving area is formed in the main body 22, which serves to at least partially or regionally receive the cartridge-like filter element 10 and in particular a front end area of ​​the filter element 10 with a connection cap 14 of the filter element 10 in a form-fitting manner.

[0106] In this way, the cartridge-like filter element 10 can be inserted into the receiving area of ​​the main body of the housing structure 20 of the powder feed chamber 4.1.

[0107] Subsequently, the closing body 23 of the housing structure 20 of the powder conveying chamber 4.1 can be releasably connected to the main body 22 of the housing structure 20, preferably via a clip or snap connection.

[0108] In a state when the main body 22 and the closure body 23 of the housing structure 20 of the powder feed chamber 4.1 are detachably connected to one another, the cartridge-like filter element 10 is accommodated inside the volume then formed by the main body 22 and the closure body 23 connected thereto. As a result, the housing structure 20 of the powder feed chamber 4.1 creates an annular chamber to which a negative or positive pressure can be applied as required.

[0109] The main body 22 of the housing structure 20 has a particularly hollow-cylindrical structure, wherein a corresponding receiving area is formed in or on an end face or inner end face of the particularly hollow-cylindrical structure of the main body in order to receive, in particular in a form-fitting manner, a connection cap 14 arranged on an end face of the cartridge-like or cartridge-shaped filter element 10.

[0110] In the same way, the closing body 23 of the housing structure 20 of the powder feed chamber 4.1 can also have a corresponding receiving area, which is designed to receive in particular in a form-fitting manner a connection cap 14 arranged on a front side of the cartridge-like filter element 10, when the main body 22 and the closing body 23 of the housing structure 20 of the powder feed chamber

[0111] 4.1 are preferably detachably connected to each other.

[0112] The invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in the drawings, but results from a combination of all features disclosed herein.

[0113] Reference symbol list

[0114] 1 pump head module

[0115] 2 Powder inlet module block

[0116] 3.1 first pinch valve module block

[0117] 3.2 second pinch valve module block

[0118] 4.1 first filter module block / powder conveying chamber

[0119] 4.2 second filter module block / additional compressed air inlet device

[0120] 5 Powder outlet module block

[0121] 10 filter element

[0122] 11 filter body

[0123] 12 Support structure

[0124] 13 Window area

[0125] 14 Connection cap

[0126] 15 first connecting element

[0127] 16 second connecting element

[0128] 17 nozzle-shaped area

[0129] 18 Through hole in the connection cap

[0130] 19 Seal

[0131] 20 Housing structure of the powder feed chamber / first filter module / filter housing

[0132] 21 connection

[0133] 22 Main body of the housing structure

[0134] 23 End body of the housing structure

[0135] 24 Plug-in connection area of ​​the housing structure of the powder feed chamber / first filter module block

[0136] 25 Mating connector area of ​​the housing structure of the second pinch valve module block

[0137] 26 plug-like insert

[0138] 27 Through channel in the plug connection area

[0139] 28 Through-channel in plug-like insert

Claims

Patent claims 1. Filter element (10) for a powder feed chamber of a dense phase powder pump or for forming a powder feed chamber (4.1) of a dense phase powder pump, wherein at least during operation of the dense phase powder pump, the powder feed chamber (4.1) is assigned a powder inlet valve (3.1) and a powder outlet valve (3.2), and wherein likewise at least during operation of the dense phase powder pump, the powder feed chamber (4.1) is or can be connected alternatively to a vacuum source during a suction phase and to a compressed air source during a discharge phase, characterized in that the filter element (10) is designed as a cartridge-like component which, during operation of the dense phase powder pump, is accommodated in a filter housing (20) as an independent structural unit in a replaceable or interchangeable manner.

2. Filter element (10) according to claim 1, the cartridge-like filter element (10) has the means necessary for aligning and / or positioning the filter element (10) in the filter housing (20) and / or the means necessary for sealing the cartridge-like filter element (10) relative to the filter housing (20).

3. Filter element (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cartridge-like filter element (10) comprises a hollow cylindrical filter body (11) made of a material permeable to air but impermeable to coating powder and a preferably at least substantially tubular support structure (12) in which the filter body (11) is received at least in some areas, wherein in a lateral surface of the support structure (12) at least one window area (13) and preferably a plurality of window areas (13) are formed, which are preferably arranged in an equidistant manner.

4. Filter element (10) according to claim 3, wherein a connection cap (14) is arranged at each of the respective end regions of the support structure (12), wherein the connection caps (14) arranged at each of the respective end regions of the support structure (12) are particularly designed to align and / or position the cartridge-like filter element (10) in the filter housing (20), and / or wherein the connection caps (14) arranged at each of the respective end regions of the support structure (12) are particularly designed to seal the cartridge-like filter element (10) from the filter housing (20).

5. Filter element (10) according to claim 4, wherein the connection cap (14) arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure (12) is connected to the support structure (12) of the filter element (10) preferably in a form-fitting manner, in particular locked into one another, and / or preferably in a non-detachable manner, for example in a materially bonded manner and in particular welded.

6. Filter element (10) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein at least one first connecting element (15) is formed on the respective front end regions of the support structure (12), which is designed to form a positive connection with a second connecting element (16) which is designed to be at least partially or regionally complementary to the first connecting element (15) and is arranged on the respective connection caps (14).

7. Filter element (10) according to one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the length of the support structure (12) of the filter element (10) is shorter than the length of the filter body (11), so that in a state when the filter body (11) is at least partially in the support structure (12) is received, in each case an end region of the filter body (11) protrudes from the end region of the support structure (12), wherein the connection caps (14) arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure (12) each have a region (17) which is adapted to the length and preferably also to the external shape of the end region of the filter element (10) protruding from the end region of the support structure (12), in particular a nozzle-shaped region (17), by which the end region of the filter body (11) protruding from the end region of the support structure (12) is preferably received at least substantially and / or at least in regions, in particular in a form-fitting manner.

8. Filter element (10) according to claim 7, wherein on the particularly nozzle-shaped region (17) of the connection caps (14) arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure (12) there is formed in each case an annular inner stop against which the end face of the filter body (11) abuts or against which the end face of the filter body (11) rests.

9. Filter element (10) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein in the connection caps (14) and in particular in the particularly nozzle-shaped region (17) of the connection caps (14) arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure (12) a through-opening (18) is formed in each case, which extends in the longitudinal direction of the filter element (10) and is designed concentrically and / or coaxially to the hollow cylindrical filter body (11), wherein the diameter of the through-opening (18) corresponds at least substantially to the inner diameter of the hollow cylindrical filter body (11).

10. Filter element (10) according to one of claims 4 to 9, wherein a seal (19), in particular in the form of an annular sealing lip, is formed on the free end regions of the connection caps (14) arranged on the respective end regions of the support structure (12) which are opposite each other in each case to the support structure (12), said seal extending at least partially or in regions in the longitudinal direction of the filter element (10).

11. Filter element (10) according to claim 10, wherein the connection caps (14) arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure (12) are each designed as a monolithic plastic part, in particular a 2K plastic injection-molded part, and preferably has a soft plastic component and a hard plastic component, wherein at least the seal (19) is preferably formed partially or regionally by the soft plastic component.

12. Filter element (10) according to one of claims 4 to 11, wherein the support structure (12) is formed from a plastic material which is different from the plastic material from which the connection caps (14) are formed, and wherein the support structure (12) is formed in particular from a transparent plastic material, preferably polyvinyl chloride or polycarbonate.

13. Filter element (10) according to one of claims 4 to 12, wherein an outer diameter of the connection caps (14) arranged at the respective end regions of the support structure (12) is at least partially larger than the outer diameter of the support structure (12) of the filter element (10).

14. Filter element (10) according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the filter body (11) is monolithic and is formed in particular from a porous material, in particular plastic, ceramic or metal material, and preferably from polyethylene or from a material containing polyethylene.

15. Powder conveying chamber (4.1) for a dense phase powder pump, in particular for a dense phase powder pump for conveying coating powder from a first powder reservoir to a second powder reservoir or to a powder spraying device, wherein the powder conveying chamber (4.1) comprises a housing structure (20) designed in particular as a module and a housing structure (20) at least partially or regionally accommodated or interchangeably in the housing structure (20). a cartridge-like filter element (10) which can be received, in particular a cartridge-like filter element (10) according to one of claims 1 to 14.

16. Powder feed chamber (4.1) according to claim 15, wherein the housing structure (20) of the powder feed chamber (4.1) is designed to apply a negative pressure or an overpressure in the interior of the housing structure (20) as required, wherein for this purpose at least one connection (21) is designed in the housing structure (20), which connection is designed to fluidly connect the interior of the housing structure (20) to a negative pressure / vacuum source or to a compressed air source as required.

17. Powder feed chamber (4.1) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the housing structure (20) of the powder feed chamber (4.1) is designed as a plastic part, in particular as a plastic injection-molded part.

18. Powder feed chamber (4.1) according to one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the housing structure (20) is designed at least in two parts and has a main body (22) with a receiving area for at least partially or regionally receiving the cartridge-like filter element (10) and a closing body (23) which is or can be fastened to the main body (22), in particular detachably fastened, wherein in a state when the main body (22) and the closing body (23) are preferably detachably connected to one another, the cartridge-like filter element (10) is received, in particular at least partially or regionally positively received, in the interior of the volume then formed by the main body (22) and the closing body (23) connected thereto.

19. Powder conveying chamber (4.1) according to claim 18, wherein the main body (22) of the housing structure (20) has a particularly hollow-cylindrical structure, wherein in or on an end face, in particular an inner end face, of the particularly hollow-cylindrical Structure of the main body (22) a receiving area is formed for receiving in particular in a form-fitting manner a connection cap (14) arranged on an end face of the cartridge-like filter element (10).

20. Powder feed chamber (4.1) according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the closing body (23) of the housing structure (20) has a receiving area which is designed to receive, in particular in a form-fitting manner, in particular a connection cap (14) arranged on an end face of the cartridge-like or cartridge-shaped filter element (10), when the main body (22) and the closing body (23) are preferably detachably connected to one another.

21. Powder feed chamber (4.1) according to one of claims 15 to 20, wherein on opposite side regions, in particular end face regions, of the housing structure (20) of the powder feed chamber (4.1) each have a plug-in connection area (24) which is designed to be connected to a correspondingly complementary mating plug-in connection area (25) of a housing structure of a pinch valve, in particular a modular one, arranged directly adjacent to the housing structure (20) of the powder conveying chamber (4.1) (3.2) to form a plug connection.

22. Powder feed chamber (4.1) according to claim 21, wherein the plug connection areas (24) formed on the mutually opposite side areas of the housing structure (20) of the powder feed chamber (4.1) are preferably each designed as a spigot end and are designed to form a plug connection with a sleeve-like mating plug connection area (25).

23. Powder feed chamber (4.1) according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the plug connection areas (24) formed on the opposite side areas of the housing structure (20) of the powder feed chamber (4.1) each have a seal, in particular in the form of a a sealing ring or in the form of a sealing lip, which is designed to seal a plug connection with a mating plug connection area (25).

24. Powder feed chamber (4.1) according to one of claims 21 to 23, wherein a through-channel (27) extending in the longitudinal direction of the powder feed chamber (4.1) is formed in the plug-in connection area (24), which through-channel is arranged coaxially and / or concentrically to the hollow cylindrical filter body (11) of the filter element (10).

25. Powder feed chamber (4.1) according to claim 24, wherein the powder feed chamber (4.1) has at least one plug-like insert (26), wherein the plug-like insert (26) is designed to be received at least partially or regionally in the through-channel (27) formed in the plug-in connection region (24).

26. Powder feed chamber (4.1) according to claim 25, wherein a through-channel (28) is formed in the plug-like insert (26), which extends in the longitudinal direction of the powder feed chamber (4.1) and is arranged coaxially and / or concentrically to the hollow cylindrical filter body (11) of the filter element (10) when the plug-like insert (26) is at least partially or regionally received in the through-channel (27) formed in the plug-in connection region (24).

27. Powder conveying chamber (4.1) according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the at least one plug-like insert (26) is designed as a metal insert.

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