Calcining system and method for thermally treating a substance

Abstract

The present solution relates to a calcining system for thermally treating a substance (12), the system comprising at least one conveyor device (14) having a main extension axis (H); the at least one conveyor device (14) having: - at least one thermal treatment volume (18) which is heated by a heating device (16) during the thermal treatment; - a receiving device (22); - a delivery device (24); - an endless belt device (26) having an upper run (28) and a lower run (30); and - a housing system (34, 36, 38.1, 38.2, 40.1, 40.2) having an upper housing portion (34), a lower housing portion (36), two lateral housing portions (38.1, 38.2) and two front housing portions (40). The present solution further relates to a method for thermally treating a substance (12) using the calcining system (10).

Description

[0001] Calcination system and method for thermal treatment of a substance

[0002] Technical area

[0003] The following describes a calcination system for thermal treatment of a substance, in particular clay.

[0004] Furthermore, a method for thermally treating a substance, in particular clay, using the aforementioned calcination system is described below.

[0005] Technical background

[0006] Calcination is a heat treatment process in the presence of air or oxygen, applied to, for example, ores and other solid substances to cause thermal decomposition, a phase transition or the separation of a volatile component.

[0007] Calcining systems with conveyor belt devices used for calcination can, in particular, include moving grate conveyors. These, for example, have an air-permeable belt covering, also called a grate, in which hot air from the thermal treatment volume is drawn downward through the substance lying on the belt covering, thereby calcining it.

[0008] An advantage of this solution is the uniform heat transfer through the entire layer of the substance lying on the belt coating, which allows for homogeneous calcination.

[0009] Document CN 112361805 A describes a zinc oxide calcining kiln that uses a chain net. The kiln is equipped with a first and a second deflection pulley at the inner ends of the kiln body. A chain net is stretched between these pulleys. Gears on one side of the deflection pulleys are connected by a rack and pinion chain driven by the motor. The motor drives the chain net, which transports the material and thus enables heating and decomposition of the materials.

[0010] A disadvantage, however, is the high amount of dust generated by the air flow or suction, which must later be laboriously cleaned using cyclones and filters. Furthermore, the air-permeable belt linings repeatedly become clogged, which can lead to operational disruptions or production losses. These downtimes result in financial losses. Furthermore, sufficiently fine grains fall through the belt linings and must be laboriously removed as loose material and returned to the process. Furthermore, a high degree of heat is extracted from the thermal treatment volume, making this an energy-intensive process.

[0011] Technical description

[0012] Based on this situation, the objective is to provide an improved calcination system and an improved process for thermal treatment of a substance. In particular, the aim is to reduce dust load, increase energy efficiency, and / or avoid the problem of loose material.

[0013] The above object is achieved by the features of the independent main claims. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the subclaims. To the extent technically feasible, the teachings of the subclaims can be combined arbitrarily with the teachings of the main and subclaims.

[0014] In particular, the object is accordingly achieved by a calcining system for the thermal treatment of a substance, comprising at least one conveying device with a main extension axis; the at least one conveying device having at least one thermal treatment volume heated during the thermal treatment with a heating device, in particular from above, having a heating temperature and a cooling volume arranged below the thermal treatment volume, in particular at least indirectly, having a cooling temperature, wherein the heating temperature is greater than the cooling temperature during the thermal treatment; a receiving device designed to receive the substance and to convey it at least indirectly into the thermal treatment volume; a dispensing device arranged along the main extension axis away from the receiving device and designed to dispense the substance from the conveying device after the thermal treatment;an endless belt device with an upper run and a lower run; wherein the upper run is movable along, i.e. parallel to, the main extension axis in a conveying direction from a first run transition device to a second run transition device, and wherein the upper run is designed to convey the substance received by the receiving device and conveyed onto the upper run for thermal treatment in the thermal treatment volume; wherein the lower run is movable in correlation to the upper run in the cooling volume along the main extension axis in a return direction opposite to the conveying direction from the second run transition device to the first run transition device; a housing system comprising an upper housing section, a lower housing section, two side housing sections, and two end housing sections;

[0015] Advantageous aspects of the claimed solutions are explained below, and furthermore, preferred modified embodiments of the solutions are described below. Explanations, particularly regarding advantages and definitions of features, are essentially descriptive and preferred, but not limiting, examples. If an explanation is limiting, this will be expressly stated.

[0016] In particular, calcination is synonymous with thermal treatment, although this is not mandatory. However, it can also be defined or equated in a binding manner. Thus, the calcination system can also be an extended thermal treatment system, but can also be limited to pure calcination. A calcination system is a system for calcining substances, especially clay, but also other substances.

[0017] Clay, in particular, is calcined to change its physical and chemical properties and to make it usable for various industrial applications, such as the production of high-quality pozzolans in the cement industry. In addition to the clay mentioned above, other substances are also calcined, such as limestone, bauxite, gypsum, or crude petroleum coke. During the calcination of limestone, large amounts of carbon dioxide are released to produce calcium oxide, i.e. burnt lime. This process takes place at temperatures of 1050 °C to 1350 °C. During the calcination of hydrated minerals such as bauxite and gypsum, the water of crystallization is removed as steam. During the calcination of crude petroleum coke, volatile components are broken down. These substances are calcined, in particular, to convert them into a more stable, usable form or to remove volatile components.

[0018] The specific parameters of the calcination process, including the exact temperature and duration of heating, can vary depending on the specific nature of the substance and the desired properties of the final product. Therefore, a calcination system may also include means for monitoring and controlling these parameters to ensure that the calcination process is carried out effectively and efficiently.

[0019] Calcination or thermal treatment refers to the process of heating a substance, especially clay, to high temperatures, especially in the absence of air or at a reduced oxygen content, in order to avoid oxidation leading to physical and / or chemical changes in the substance, preferably including the removal of bound water or other volatile substances and / or the conversion of the substance to a more reactive form.

[0020] Preferably, a calcining system comprises a furnace chamber as

[0021] Thermal treatment volume and / or a heating device, wherein the substance is

[0022] temperatures sufficient to change the crystal structure of the substance and transform it into a material suitable as a starting material for a wide range of industrial applications.

[0023] A conveyor device particularly relates to a device that serves to transport the substance to be calcined, such as clay, within the housing system on the endless belt device along the main extension axis from the receiving device to the discharge device, wherein the substance is thermally treated in the thermal treatment volume during this transport. These conveyor devices can come in various shapes and sizes, depending on the specific requirements of the calcination process and the selection of the substance to be calcined.

[0024] Such conveying devices are particularly designed to move and / or allow the substance to move during the calcination process in order to ensure uniform heat treatment.

[0025] The design of a conveying system can vary, including elements such as conveyor belts, screw conveyors, bucket elevators, or pneumatic conveying systems. The proposed conveying system is specifically designed to transport the substance efficiently and safely through the thermal treatment volume, preferably also including a mechanism for controlling the feed rate and feed rate of the substance.

[0026] Conveyors are also specifically designed to move the substance continuously through the thermal treatment volume, preferably ensuring that all parts of the substance are heated evenly. This is beneficial to ensure uniform calcination and avoid hot spots or uneven heating.

[0027] In addition, conveyors can also incorporate safety systems to minimize the risk of accidents or damage during thermal treatment. These safety systems can include, for example, emergency stop switches, protective covers, and / or other safety features. Likewise, conveyors can also incorporate mechanisms for controlling the movement speed of the substance to control the duration of the thermal treatment. This can be advantageous if the substance to be calcined has specific thermal treatment requirements.

[0028] Examples of heating devices include infrared heaters, electrical resistance heating elements, non-ceramic gas burners, ceramic gas burners, or even solid fuel burners. These devices, in particular, provide a controlled environment for heating the material and conducting the chemical reaction. They are preferably designed to heat the substance during continuous movement through the thermal treatment volume to ensure that the substance is heated as comprehensively as possible. This is particularly important to ensure uniform calcination and avoid uneven, i.e., heterogeneous, heating of the substance.

[0029] In addition, heating devices may also include mechanisms for controlling or adjusting the heating temperature, heating duration, and / or distance from the substance to meet the specific requirements of the calcination process. This can be particularly important if the substance to be calcined has specific heat treatment requirements.

[0030] The thermal treatment volume is at least the area in which the substance is at least partially, preferably completely, thermally treated by the heating device. The cooling volume is arranged below the thermal treatment volume. This is due in particular to the fact that the upper run of the endless belt device, which is loaded with the substance to be thermally treated, is guided in the thermal treatment volume, whereas the lower run of the endless belt device is returned to the cooling area after the thermally treated substance has been discharged in order to allow the components of the endless belt device to cool down before they are introduced back into the thermal treatment volume or passed through it so that further substance can be thermally treated. The heating temperature is in particular the temperature at which the substance is thermally treated during the thermal treatment or calcination.

[0031] The cooling temperature is in particular the temperature after the thermal treatment or before the next thermal treatment, to which components of the endless belt device are exposed in order to cool down, so that the service life of the endless belt device and in particular also the service life of the components carried by the endless belt device is increased.

[0032] During thermal treatment, the heating temperature is higher than the cooling temperature.

[0033] The receiving device can be designed as a chute or in another way, for example, as a substance-carrying hollow body of any size. It is a component that introduces the substance into the respective conveying device, whereby the substance is thermally treated or calcined in the thermal treatment volume. In particular, the substance passes directly or indirectly from the receiving device to the endless belt device and, in particular, into the thermal treatment volume via the endless belt device.

[0034] The discharge device can be designed as a chute or in another form, for example, as a substance-carrying hollow body of any size. It is the component that discharges the heat-treated substance from the conveyor. This can be achieved, for example, by the substance, after heat treatment, passing directly or indirectly from the upper run into the discharge device for discharge from the conveyor.

[0035] If multiple conveyors are connected to each other to perform a multi-stage thermal treatment, the receiving device and the discharge device can be designed as a single assembly or as a single unit. In this case, the substance thermally treated in a first conveyor is discharged from the first conveyor and transferred to its discharge device, which serves as the receiving device for the second conveyor, where it is further thermally treated in the second conveyor. During this time, the substance is thoroughly mixed, so that during a second thermal treatment, the substance lies differently arranged on the endless belt device of the second conveyor, enabling uniform thermal treatment.

[0036] In the context of calcination, an endless belt conveyor refers in particular to a device that serves to transport the substance to be calcined or thermally treated, such as clay, within the thermal treatment volume of the conveyor along its main axis of extension. These endless belt conveyors are specifically designed to move the substance during the calcination process to ensure heat treatment.

[0037] The endless belt system consists of an upper and lower belt section. The upper belt section is the section of the endless belt system that carries the substance and guides it through the thermal treatment volume. The lower belt section is the section of the endless belt system that is returned to the cooling volume after the thermally treated substance has been discharged.

[0038] Examples of endless belt systems include conveyor belts or chain conveyors. Other designs are also possible.

[0039] The upper run moves in the conveying direction and the lower run moves in the return direction opposite to the conveying direction.

[0040] Belt transition devices are preferably the mechanisms on the conveyor system where the belt transitions from the conveying phase (the upper run) to the return phase (the lower run), or vice versa. These devices can consist of rollers, wheels, drums, or similar mechanisms that redirect the endless belt system and facilitate the transition between the two runs. Belt transition devices are designed to ensure smooth and efficient operation of the conveyor system while minimizing stress on the endless belt system to extend its service life. In particular, they can withstand thermal loads in the range of heating temperatures.

[0041] A housing system in a conveying device, particularly in the context of calcination, serves in particular to enclose the substance to be calcined during the process and to keep the heat within the system and / or prevent unwanted gas flow. This preferably results in an exclusion of air. Oxygen promotes oxidation, e.g., to Fe2O3, and thus, for example, undesirable coloring of calcined clay. The composition designations of the housing system are based on an exemplary cuboid, although other geometries of the housing system are also possible and are covered by the scope of protection, for example a pill or cigar shape or other shapes, in which case the person skilled in the art will then identify an approximation of the cuboid shape and assign or subdivide the housing sections accordingly.Independently of other features, each housing section can be formed from a single housing section or from two or more housing sections, in particular sub-housing sections.

[0042] The upper housing section is, in particular, the upper part of the housing system, which serves to retain the heat inside the conveyor system and prevent it from escaping upwards. For example, a housing can be attached to the upper housing section. The upper housing section can preferably have a recess for the housing, wherein, for example, the housing is not, partially, or completely inserted into the upper housing section. The upper housing section can have a thermal treatment volume gas flow system for gas exchange in the thermal treatment volume.

[0043] The lower housing section is specifically the lower part of the housing system, which serves to control the cooling of the rollers and traction devices attached to the substance carrier after passing through the thermal treatment volume on the upper run during the return run on the lower run. The lower housing section is preferably also completely closed or, if possible, encapsulated as airtight as possible to prevent unwanted air flow due to the density difference from the cooler lower housing section into the warmer upper housing section, as this leads to a "chimney draft effect," which can result in excessive air being sucked into the thermal treatment volume. However, the lower housing section can also rest on other structural elements, such as a frame or feet, but is preferably also closed to the floor.

[0044] The side housing sections are the lateral parts of the housing system that serve to retain heat inside the conveyor and prevent it from escaping laterally, or to draw cooler ambient air into the interior of the housing system. At least one side housing section can have a thermal treatment volume gas flow system for gas exchange in the thermal treatment volume. Preferably, at least two side housing sections are present. In the case of a polygonal cross-section of the conveyor, more than two lower housing sections can extend between the upper housing section and the lower housing section.

[0045] The end housing sections are the front and rear parts of the housing system, which serve to retain heat inside the conveyor and prevent it from escaping to the front or rear. Preferably, there are at least two end housing sections. In the case of a polygonal longitudinal section of the conveyor, more than two end housing sections may extend between the upper housing section and the lower housing section.

[0046] These components are typically made of materials with high insulating properties to ensure effective thermal insulation. They may also incorporate additional features such as seals or insulating layers to further enhance thermal insulation.

[0047] In particular, the conveyor system is essentially cuboid-shaped. In the sense of the term "essentially," deviations from the cuboid shape are also possible, for example, for additional components without deviating from the cuboid shape. As already mentioned, the sections can also be joined in such a way that they form the housing system geometrically with curves, such as a cylinder or pill-shaped configuration. Polygonal shapes are also possible.

[0048] The conveyor elements, for example the endless belt device, endless belt movement means, rollers and / or traction means, for example a chain, are preferably all arranged within the closed conveyor belt device, wherein the conveyor section in the upper run and the empty section in the lower run are thermally separated at least into thermal treatment and cooling volumes in order to enable cooling of certain conveyor elements, in particular the endless belt device, during the empty run, so that the temperature load acting on the conveyor elements overall remains below a critical level.

[0049] If the calcination system has only a single conveyor, the conveyor can preferably correspond to the calcination system. Alternatively, the calcination system can also have multiple conveyors, which are arranged, for example, in a cascade-like manner. "Cascade-like" means that the substance undergoes several thermal treatment processes, whereby after a thermal treatment, it is forwarded from a first or previous conveyor to at least one further conveyor for the next thermal treatment. The thermal treatments can, for example, be carried out using the same or different parameters and means.

[0050] According to a modified embodiment, the endless belt device is designed to be substantially closed during the thermal treatment. The endless belt device is preferably designed as a substance carrier composed of segments that are arranged one after the other during the thermal treatment without any gaps, particularly preferably overlapping. At the same time, the calcining system comprises a substance mixing system designed to thoroughly mix the substance. The substance mixing system can, by way of example and not by way of limitation, comprise a cascade system of at least two, three, four, or more conveyor devices. Alternatively or additionally, the substance mixing system can, by way of example, comprise a circulation system, in particular comprising at least one or more roller devices, one or more ploughing means, and / or one or more homogenizing devices.The mixing can take place during a thermal treatment, for example with the circulation system, and / or between two thermal treatments, for example the substance is mixed during the cascade-like transfer from one conveyor to the next conveyor.

[0051] A substantially closed endless belt device is understood here to mean that the endless belt device is substantially free of openings. "Substantially free of openings" means that minor recesses in the sense of openings or gaps correspond to the closed nature, for example, to guide the endless belt device, formed from segments, around the run transition devices. The term "substantially closed" refers in particular to the fact that the endless belt device is largely free of openings, gaps, or other recesses along its entire length that are larger than plus / minus five millimeters, preferably plus / minus three millimeters, particularly preferably plus / minus one millimeter.This tolerance promotes the continuous belt device operating as a closed unit, preventing significant heat or material losses, while taking technical requirements such as transition points or connecting areas into account. Essentially closed also means, in particular, that the segments of the continuous belt device are tightly joined during thermal treatment, so that no gaps are formed that allow the material to pass through. Small design-related openings or gaps, which are necessary to ensure the flexibility of the continuous belt device around belt transition devices or due to thermal expansion, are only permissible within the specified tolerances. As is well known, a rigid continuous belt device cannot be guided around belt transition devices.Another option for a closed endless belt device is that the endless belt device has such small recesses, not in the form of a network or pattern, but rather isolated, particularly due to the design, that the substance does not fall through them as a trickle with an average diameter greater than or equal to ten millimeters, in particular greater than or equal to six millimeters. According to one aspect, the endless belt device is therefore not designed as a chain mesh and is airtight, particularly in the substance-bearing area. Closed, consecutive segments are a generally preferred embodiment.

[0052] Alternatively or additionally, a support structure guiding the segments has a substantially closed, in particular air-impermeable, structure.

[0053] This embodiment illustrates the modified calcination method compared to pusher grate conveyors. Instead of directing the hot air through the air-permeable belt lining, which causes the problems mentioned above, the proposed design eliminates air drafts. This already reduces dust pollution. The fact that no hot air is drawn out of the thermal treatment volume also increases the energy efficiency of the proposed calcination system. Furthermore, the essentially closed design of the endless belt device reduces the problem of spillage. Unlike with hot air drafts, homogeneous calcination or thermal treatment is achieved in this case via the substance mixing system.

[0054] One advantage of the essentially closed endless belt device compared to a non-closed endless belt device, for example a chain net as described in the prior art, is that the thermal treatment volume can be precisely limited. While a chain net ensures a uniform temperature distribution throughout the entire conveyor system, causing calcination from both above and below, the closed endless belt device enables targeted heating of the substance exclusively from above, sufficient for calcination. This targeted heating is particularly advantageous because it enables controlled thermal treatment, minimizes heat losses downward, and reduces energy consumption. To ensure uniform heating of the substance, a substance mixing system is used.This substance mixing system ensures uniform heating of the substance by thoroughly mixing it, even when insufficient heat is supplied from below. This results in consistent calcination, improving process quality and efficiency.

[0055] According to an exemplary embodiment, a closed endless belt device can be defined as an endless belt device with segments that are configured to be at least partially, preferably completely, adjacent to one another, preferably overlapping, at least in the upper run, and preferably also in the lower run. The segments are configured in such a way, whether adjacent to one another or overlapping, that they do not damage one another during operation of the endless belt device. This means that, for example, they do not touch one another in the region of the run transition devices. In particular, adjacent to one another is to be understood as gap-free. In other words, the closed design of the endless belt device enables the substance to be heated, whereby the dust load in the calcination system is reduced compared to pusher grate conveyors that are not subject to suction. Furthermore, hardly any substance falls through any grates as trickle material, and heat losses are reduced.Since mixing is not required with moving grate conveyors due to the inherently homogeneous calcination, no substance mixing system has yet been established. However, since the air is not drawn through the substance bed, uniform heating of the substance is lacking, so the use of a substance mixing system has proven advantageous. Thus, no substance falls from the endless belt conveyor as a trickle, the closed design promotes thermal insulation of the thermal treatment volume, and uniform calcination is facilitated by the mixing of the substance. The feature combination that a substance carrier of the endless belt conveyor is composed of segments that are arranged one after the other during thermal treatment without any gaps, particularly preferably overlapping, can also be applied independently of other features.

[0056] According to a modified embodiment, it is provided that the upper housing section, the lower housing section and the two side housing sections form a substantially closed, in particular rectangular, profile in cross section to the main extension axis.

[0057] The conveying device preferably has at least one or more air-sealing means, in particular one or more rotary valves. The at least one air-sealing means is designed to thermally insulate the receiving device and / or the discharge device from their surroundings, in particular in an adjustable manner. Alternatively or additionally, it is preferred that the thermal treatment volume borders the upper housing section and / or the cooling volume borders the lower housing section. This enables an optimal design of the conveying device even under difficult environmental conditions. For example, with a rectangular profile, the thermal treatment volume can always be at the top, so that the substance can be introduced directly into the thermal treatment volume via the upper housing section or an attached enclosure.

[0058] A profile with a closed cross-section is understood in particular to mean that the conveying device has essentially no open walls, particularly at the top, bottom, left and right along its longitudinal extension, i.e. along the main extension axis. Essentially no open walls means in particular that there are no openings or passages that are technically unnecessary, in particular those that promote unjustified heat flow. For example, design-related openings, such as for screw connections, may still fall under the wording of the corresponding feature. Openings for valves for a desired gas access and / or gas extraction, as well as other design-related openings or passages, may also fall under the wording of the corresponding feature.

[0059] The cross-sectional profile is preferably rectangular. However, other cross-sections are also possible, for example, polygonal, circular, oval, or elliptical. Even slightly deviating shapes from the respective profile can be interpreted as the corresponding profile; for example, a rectangle with a wavy structure can be interpreted as rectangular, although a complete rectangle is preferably defined as rectangular. This also applies to other cross-sectional profiles.

[0060] The wording "essentially" refers in particular to the fact that deviations are possible in the closed profile, for example, and not limited to, a receiving device in the upper housing section or a discharge device in the lower housing section, which each represent openings. It is also possible that there are longitudinal gaps in one or more housing sections. Therefore, a small degree of thermal bridges is tolerated, with no thermal bridges being particularly preferred.

[0061] The conveying device has at least one air-sealing device designed to thermally insulate the receiving device and / or the discharge device, and thus at least a portion of the conveying device, preferably the entire conveying device, from its surroundings, in particular in an adjustable manner. This allows the air-sealing device to be opened or closed, and the substance supply or discharge to be controlled.

[0062] The at least one air-sealing device is, in particular, one or more rotary valves. A rotary valve is a device used, for example, for dosing, feeding, or discharging substances, in particular granular, powdered, and / or granulated substances. It operates on the principle of volumetric conveying. The rotary valve operates on a rotor with a specific number of rotor blades, which rotate in a correlating housing. Each rotor cell receives the corresponding substance below the inlet opening, and the substance falls out at the outlet. This creates a volumetrically continuous conveying process. In this case, the rotary valve can also serve, for example, as an air-sealing device.It can help thermally insulate the intake and / or discharge devices from their surroundings and, depending on their operation, reduce dust generation. In this case, the rotary valve may be adjustable. Furthermore, the rotary valve can help regulate the substance feed within the system and ensure efficient, continuous conveyance of the substance.

[0063] According to a modified embodiment, the at least one conveying device comprises at least one thermal separation layer system between the thermal treatment volume and the cooling volume along the main extension axis. In particular, the thermal separation layer system is essentially continuous, i.e., essentially closed along the main extension axis.

[0064] Preferably, the thermal separation layer system is formed at least by the upper run and / or by an insulating surface structure.

[0065] The thermal separation layer system therefore, in particular, separates at least the thermal treatment volume and the cooling volume from each other, with an intermediate volume preferably being arranged between the first two volumes. The term "essentially continuous" refers in particular to the fact that the thermal separation layer system runs almost continuously along the entire main extension axis, with small gaps or openings being permissible within a maximum tolerance of plus / minus ten millimeters, preferably plus / minus eight millimeters, particularly preferably plus / minus four millimeters. These tolerances promote the system's functional integrity and minimize heat transfer between the volumes, while taking technical requirements such as transition points or connecting areas into account.These gaps are necessary for the design to ensure the mobility and functionality of the conveyor system, particularly at transition points or in the event of thermal expansion of the materials. The thermal separation layer system allows the lower run to cool down during non-transport of the substance or during return to subsequently pick up new substance and convey it through the thermal treatment volume, thus increasing the overall durability of the endless belt system. The thermal separation layer system, in particular, is designed to be essentially continuous, orEssentially closed along the main extension axis means that it may have gaps or other recesses in a few places, where technically appropriate or necessary, e.g., due to the design, for example, in the transition area from the upper run to the lower run and / or at the joints between successive panels of the thermal separation layer system. Therefore, a small amount of thermal bridges, particularly those that are hardly or unavoidably structurally unavoidable, is tolerated, with particularly preferred thermal bridges being absent.

[0066] If the thermal separation layer system is formed, for example, at least by the upper run, this is a cost-effective design option which also reduces the need for additional components.

[0067] If the thermal separation layer system is formed, for example, at least by the insulating surface structure, this can be made, for example, from heat-insulating material.

[0068] Various materials can be considered as thermal insulation materials. Examples include, but are not limited to, mineral wool, calcium silicate, mineral foam, lava rock, materials with similar properties, or a mixture of these materials. Mineral wool offers good insulation values ​​and is an excellent material for thermal insulation. Calcium silicate, which consists of lime, quartz, water, and so-called pore-forming agents, has also proven to be a suitable insulation material. Mineral foam consists of quartz, lime, and water and can serve as a suitable insulation material. Lava rock, which is crushed, briefly heated, and thus expanded, can also be used as a suitable insulation material. The thermal separation layer system can also be composed of several system components, for example.

[0069] For example, the thermal separation layer system can also be formed by the upper run and the insulating surface structure and / or by other system units.

[0070] According to a modified embodiment, the insulating surface structure is designed to extend along the main extension axis and transversely to the main extension axis, essentially as a plane, arch, or triangular arch shape with a projection vertex. Essentially, in this case, preferably means that the main projection extension is decisive. For example, a conventional corrugated sheet having a flat main projection extension can be understood as a plane. The same applies to corrugated sheets extending along an arch or triangular arch shape. A main projection extension is fundamentally the main plane, which follows the corresponding main shape and averages out any deviations. An aforementioned plane can, for example, be formed by an insulating surface structure designed as a cuboid.Transverse to the main extension axis, the insulating surface structure designed as a plane can then, for example, look like a line with material thickness. An aforementioned arc can, for example, be formed by an insulating surface structure designed as a hollow cylinder cut in half lengthwise. Transverse to the main extension axis, the insulating surface structure designed as an arc can then, for example, look like a semicircle or similar with material thickness. An aforementioned triangular arc shape can, for example, be formed by an insulating surface structure made up of two planes that meet at an angle. Transverse to the main extension axis, the insulating surface structure designed as a triangular arc shape can then, for example, look like an open triangle or incomplete triangle with material thickness.

[0071] Preferably, the triangular arch shape is configured such that the projection apex is oriented toward the upper housing section. The same preferably applies to the arch. Alternatively or additionally, the insulating surface structure is configured such that it opens into the two side housing sections or into the lower housing section in order to substantially enclose the cooling volume together with the lower housing section. "Substantially enclosing" here means, in particular, that slight gaps or other openings may be present, which are, for example, design-related, for example, for screw connections or the like, in order to connect the insulating surface structure to the two side housing sections or to the lower housing section.

[0072] An insulating surface structure configured as a plane comprises, in particular, a main longitudinal and a main transverse extension axis, as well as a slight depth extension axis. A non-limiting example of this is a sheet metal plate. In particular, an insulating surface structure configured as a triangular arch shape can either be a single, particularly upwardly bulging, curved plane or, in the case of a triangular arch shape with a projection vertex, two planes that meet at the projection vertex. While the plane represents a structurally simple solution, the triangular arch shape surprisingly results in particularly advantageous heat distribution to protect the endless belt device. The triangular arch shape preferably points upwards with its central region. In particular, the proposed insulating surface structure is a means of increasing energy efficiency.The insulating surface structure is preferably designed such that it opens into the two side housing sections or into the lower housing section, essentially enclosing the cooling volume together with the lower housing section. This separates the lower run from the thermal treatment volume, thus further protecting it and increasing energy efficiency.

[0073] According to a modified embodiment, the at least one conveyor device comprises a housing arranged on the upper housing section and extending along the main extension axis to substantially enclose the thermal treatment volume together with the upper run. "Substantially enclosing" here means that design-related gaps or other recesses may be present, for example, to ensure the mobility of the endless belt device without rubbing against the housing or other components.The term "substantially enclosing" means in particular that the thermal treatment volume is almost completely enclosed by the housing and the upper run, whereby small gaps, openings or recesses are acceptable, in particular within a maximum tolerance of plus / minus fifteen mm, preferably plus / minus ten mm, particularly preferably plus / minus five mm, as long as they do not have a significant or justifiable influence on the thermal efficiency or functionality of the system. These gaps may be necessary for design reasons or, for example, to prevent grinding between the housing and the upper run. This ensures that the housing effectively protects the substance and that the heat remains in the thermal treatment volume, without, however, impairing the mobility and function of the conveyor system.For example, gaps may exist between fixed vertical webs of the enclosure and a movable traction device or between fixed vertical webs of the enclosure and movable vertical planks of the upper run.

[0074] Preferably, the heating device is arranged in the housing, particularly preferably on the inside at the top.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally, the housing preferably has a shorter distance transverse to the main extension axis on the inside and / or outside than the upper housing section.

[0076] Due to the preferred embodiment that the housing has a smaller extension transverse to the main extension axis than the upper housing section, the volume to be heated is reduced compared to an embodiment without a housing.

[0077] This design allows a controllable, in particular smaller, volume to be heated compared to designs without an enclosure, so that it is an optimally controllable and, despite the possible additional costs for the additional enclosure, an energy-efficient and, in the long term, more cost-effective design.

[0078] An advantage of the preferred embodiment, in which the housing has a shorter distance transverse to the main extension axis than the upper housing section, is that the thermal treatment volume is reduced and the entire conveyor system does not have to be heated, as is common in the prior art. This means that the conveyor system is ready for operation more quickly, enabling faster calcination. At the same time, energy consumption is reduced in the long term, as less space needs to be kept permanently hot. This not only saves electricity and costs but also protects the environment. Furthermore, this design opens up the possibility of more efficient use of new heating technologies that may previously have been considered inefficient. Overall, these advantages contribute to more precise temperature control and improved calcination quality.

[0079] According to a modified embodiment, the at least one conveying device has an intermediate volume with an intermediate temperature between the upper thermal treatment volume and the lower cooling volume. The intermediate temperature during the thermal treatment is a value between the heating temperature and the cooling temperature.

[0080] Preferably, the at least one conveying device comprises at least a first and a second volume separation device, wherein the first volume separation device separates the upper thermal treatment volume from the intermediate volume and wherein the second volume separation device separates the lower cooling volume from the intermediate volume.

[0081] Particularly preferably, the calcination system is a calcination system configured entirely or at least partially with the present, disclosed features. If this preferred embodiment is met, the thermal separation layer system comprises at least two volume separation devices, with the upper strand preferably being the first volume separation device and the insulating surface structure preferably being the second volume separation device.

[0082] The intermediate volume with the intermediate temperature enables a more controllable separation between the upper thermal treatment volume and the lower cooling volume, as well as between their temperatures. This improves the energy efficiency of the conveyor system and, thanks to the more controllable cooling temperature, simultaneously increases the durability of the endless belt system. Furthermore, the dust load in the conveyor system below the thermal treatment volume is further reduced.

[0083] Preferably, the at least one conveying device comprises at least a first and a second volume separation device. A volume separation device is, in particular, any structure that separates or delimits thermal treatment, intermediate, and / or cooling volumes from one another.

[0084] Preferably, the first volume separation device separates the upper thermal treatment volume from the intermediate volume, and the second volume separation device separates the lower cooling volume from the intermediate volume. In particular, and independently of other features, the intermediate volume can have air exchange means, for example, to supply cooling air and / or to discharge hot air. These air exchange means can be arranged on one or both side housing sections and / or on the upper housing section, although other arrangement locations are also possible alternatively or additionally.

[0085] Particularly preferably, the thermal separation layer system comprises at least two volume separation devices, with the upper run being the first volume separation device and the insulating surface structure being the second volume separation device. In this context, the upper run, in particular, fulfills two functions, enabling a particularly compact and cost-optimized design of the conveyor device and thus increasing the durability of the endless belt device.

[0086] According to a modified embodiment, it is provided that the endless belt device has an abutment structure, a support structure and a substance carrier.

[0087] The abutment structure is supported at least indirectly, for example via cross members, on the housing system, in particular on both side housing sections.

[0088] The support structure has endless belt movement means. These endless belt movement means preferably comprise rollers and / or traction means, particularly preferably chain means, wherein the endless belt movement means are designed to move the support structure along the abutment structure.

[0089] The substance carrier is designed to convey the substance for thermal treatment into the thermal treatment volume. The substance carrier is connected to the support structure.

[0090] The substance carrier is preferably composed of segments that are arranged one after the other during the thermal treatment without gaps, particularly preferably overlapping. The abutment structure is mounted at least indirectly, for example, via the cross member, on the housing system. In particular, the abutment structure is mounted on both side housing sections.

[0091] However, it is also possible for the abutment structure to be mounted directly on the housing system, in particular on both side housing sections. As already mentioned, the endless belt device comprises the support structure with endless belt movement means. The endless belt movement means are preferably rollers and / or traction means, which are particularly preferably chain means. The endless belt movement means are designed to move the support structure along the abutment structure. The support structure can, in particular, comprise heat-insulating material to enable an energy-efficient yet compact design of the conveyor device.

[0092] The endless belt device also includes the substance carrier, which is designed to convey the substance for thermal treatment in the thermal treatment volume and is connected to the support structure. While the substance carrier is designed, for example, to optimally convey the substance and expose it to thermal treatment, the support structure can be designed to robustly guide the substance carrier and / or to form a thermal barrier so that the thermal treatment volume remains as insulated as possible.

[0093] A thermal barrier can be achieved, for example, either by the substance carrier, by the carrier structure or by both components.

[0094] The substance carrier is preferably composed of segments that are arranged one after the other during thermal treatment without any gaps, particularly preferably overlapping. The gap-free design prevents the substance from becoming jammed between the segments or from falling through the segments. The absence of gaps, in particular the overlap, also serves as a thermal barrier and simultaneously provides further protection against abrasive corrosion, thereby also preventing the substance from becoming jammed between the segments or from falling through the segments.

[0095] The feature combination of a substance carrier of the endless belt device being composed of segments that are arranged consecutively, gap-free, particularly preferably overlapping, during thermal treatment can also be applied independently of other features. The same applies to the closed design of the carrier structure. This allows the substance to be heated with less dust than with the prior art, prevents it from falling off as a trickle, and reduces heat losses.

[0096] According to a modified embodiment, the substance carrier comprises at least one segment with a substance-receiving shape. In particular, the substance-receiving shape is essentially U-shaped.

[0097] The substance receiving mold comprises a horizontally extending support platform with two lateral longitudinal edges parallel to the main extension axis and two vertically extending vertical planks, each arranged on one of the two longitudinal edges.

[0098] The support platform has successive steps, preferably at least one step per segment, each step extending horizontally substantially transversely to the main extension axis.

[0099] Preferably, each segment with a step has an upper height level and a lower height level, with the upper height level being arranged at the front in the conveying direction. Furthermore, the support platform has successive projections, preferably at least one projection per vertical plank of each segment, with each projection extending horizontally substantially transversely to the main extension axis.

[0100] The substance carrier has one or more segments, each with a substance-receiving shape. In particular, the substance-receiving shape is essentially U-shaped. "U-shape" is not to be understood as a strict limitation. Rather, a receiving shape is to be understood generally, with the U-shape in the sense of the letter being at most a particularly preferred embodiment. The U can be rounded or it can include angles between the legs. Similar shapes, such as a V, are also included.

[0101] In other words, “essentially U-shaped” means that the substance holding form, in particular the U-shape, may have slightly different shapes from a holding form. The expression “essentially U-shaped” refers to the fact that the substance holding form has a basic U-shape, with deviations in the angular positions and the radii of the corners being permissible within a maximum tolerance of plus / minus five mm, preferably plus / minus two mm, particularly preferably plus / minus one mm. This shape makes it possible to hold and convey the substance securely, while at the same time allowing a certain flexibility in production and assembly. However, it is essential that the substance can be held and conveyed in the substance holding form. The U-shape of the substance holding form ensures, in particular, that the substance is held securely during the conveying process.The U-shape can be designed so that the substance does not fall out of the receiving mold, whether the conveyor is positioned horizontally or at an angle. Tolerances in the design of the U-shape that do not compromise the secure hold of the substance are therefore permissible, as long as the function of the receiving and safe conveyance of the substance is guaranteed.

[0102] The substance containment mold has a horizontally extending support platform with two lateral longitudinal edges parallel to the main extension axis, so that it can be roughly described as a U-shape with three orthogonal legs. The substance is supported by the support platform, ensuring that the substance remains in the substance containment mold and does not fall downwards, damaging system components.

[0103] According to the exemplary embodiment, the support platform has successive steps, with at least one step per segment being preferred. One or more steps can serve as resistance, for example, in the case of sloped endless belt systems, preventing the substance from undesired slipping. Each main step extends essentially horizontally, transverse to the main extension axis. Due to its shape, this allows for optimized resistance, preventing the substance from slipping.

[0104] In order to achieve this effect in an optimized manner, each segment with a step preferably has an upper height level and a lower height level, with the upper height level being arranged at the front in the conveying direction.

[0105] The substance containment mold has two vertically extending vertical planks, each located along one of the two longitudinal edges. The substance is contained by the vertical planks, ensuring that the substance remains in the substance containment mold and does not fall downward, damaging the components.

[0106] The support platform has successive projections. Preferably, at least one projection is provided per vertical plank of each segment. Each projection extends vertically essentially perpendicular to the main axis of extension. Due to its shape, this enables optimized resistance, which prevents the substance from undesired slipping. Essentially perpendicular to the main axis of extension means, in particular in the above statements, that a shape-related resistance function of the substance-bearing support platform is maintained, for example, on a slope. The expression "essentially perpendicular to the main axis of extension" means, in particular, that the alignment of the steps and projections relative to the main axis of extension varies within a maximum tolerance of plus / minus five degrees, preferably plus / minus three degrees, particularly preferably plus / minus two degrees.This ensures that the steps and projections optimally fulfill their resistance function by reliably holding the substance on the support platform and preventing it from slipping. Particularly preferably, the deviation is no more than ten degrees from the transverse axis in order to guarantee the required conveying capacity. Preferably, the angle deviates by no more than 20 degrees, particularly preferably no more than 10 degrees, from the respective transverse axis. Most preferably, there is no deviation from the respective transverse axis. This preferably enables the step or projection to be suitable for supporting the substance for conveying and prevents the substance from sliding along the step as a result of an unsuitably designed step.Optionally, the horizontally extending steps and the vertically extending projections can intersect at one or more points, i.e., be at the same level along the main extension axis. Alternatively, one or more steps and one or more projections can be offset from one another along the main extension axis. A combination of these can also be provided.

[0107] Independently of the above features, one or more steps on a support platform, in particular on a segment, can be designed as a protruding structure, for example as a bulge. This means that there is an essentially constant plane, e.g. with possible deviations in the shape of the plane that are irrelevant for substance transport, which is interrupted in sections by a protruding step. Alternatively, a step can also connect two planes of different heights. It is also possible for these features to be combined, i.e. as a protruding design that connects two planes. It is possible for all steps to be designed according to only one of the above designs or from a diverse selection of the above designs. Other designs are also possible.

[0108] Regardless of the above features, a projection on a vertical plank of a support platform, in particular on a vertical plank of a segment, can be designed as a protruding structure, for example as a bulge. This means that an essentially constant plane exists, e.g. with deviations in the plane shape that may be irrelevant for substance conveyance, which is partially interrupted by a protruding projection. Alternatively, a projection can also connect two planes of different heights. It is also possible for these features to be combined, i.e. as a protruding configuration that connects two planes. It is possible for all projections to be designed according to only one of the above configurations or from a diverse selection of the above configurations. Other configurations are also possible.

[0109] In particular, the substance carrier can be screwed onto the support structure as a cell carrier, wherein the support structure preferably consists of two sheet metal units which are arranged at a distance from each other by vertical ribs.

[0110] The air gap created between the two sheet metal units reduces the thermal conductivity and thus the heat transfer to the endless belt moving means, preferably to the traction means, particularly preferably to the chain.

[0111] Endless belt movement means, preferably traction means, particularly preferably chain elements, can be screwed to the lower sheet metal unit and rollers can be mounted between the two sheet metal units.

[0112] The endless belt movement means, preferably traction means, particularly preferably chains, are arranged laterally offset from the substance carrier, and thus also from the hot thermal treatment volume.

[0113] Preferably, the horizontal distance of the endless belt movement means from one another, preferably the traction means from one another, particularly preferably the chains from one another, to the substance carrier at the edges closest to one another is at least 80 millimeters inclusive, preferably at least 120 millimeters inclusive and / or a maximum of 180 millimeters inclusive, preferably a maximum of 120 millimeters inclusive.

[0114] According to a modified embodiment, it is provided that the housing is designed to be open towards the substance carrier and has a receiving shape with two vertical webs that correlates with the vertical planks.

[0115] This ensures that the vertical planks and vertical stays do not interfere with each other during operation of the endless belt system. For example, the enclosure has a long left and a long right vertical stay, both of which are particularly static. The movable left and right vertical planks run along each vertical stay.

[0116] Preferably, the vertical planks and the vertical webs are designed such that their horizontal spacing is selected such that they do not collide with one another during the thermal treatment and gap-related heat loss is as low as possible.

[0117] Alternatively or additionally, the vertical planks and the vertical webs are preferably arranged substantially parallel to one another.

[0118] Because the enclosure is designed to be open towards the substance carrier and the vertical planks of the substance carrier are designed to correlate with the vertical webs of the enclosure, the substance carrier forms a lower floor for the enclosure, which is nevertheless movable along the main axis of extension. In other words, the thermal treatment volume is thus encapsulated. The fact that the horizontal spacing of the vertical planks and the vertical webs is selected so that they do not abut one another during thermal treatment and gap-related heat loss is as low as possible brings the enclosure as close as possible to a closed and largely thermally insulated cuboid, which nevertheless encloses the substance and enables its transport. In other words, this reduces the chimney effect. This advantage is further enhanced when the vertical planks and the vertical webs are arranged essentially parallel to one another.Essentially parallel means, in particular, that the components are designed such that the substance carrier does not rub against the enclosure during its movement, while at the same time, excessive thermal bridges are preferably avoided, i.e., thermal bridges that exceed the required dimension due to the design. The term "essentially parallel" refers, in particular, to the fact that the distance between the vertical planks and the vertical webs varies along their entire length within a specified tolerance of preferably a maximum of 10 mm. This tolerance ensures that there is neither contact nor significant heat transfer between the vertical planks and vertical webs during the movement of the substance carrier.In particular, essentially parallel also means that the vertical planks and vertical webs are arranged along their entire length so that they do not approach or touch each other, thus preventing the components from rubbing against each other. A clearance is always maintained to ensure the mechanical integrity and thermal efficiency of the system. In particular, the components are exactly parallel to each other.

[0119] According to a modified embodiment, it is provided that the endless belt movement means are arranged vertically below the thermal treatment volume and transversely to the main extension axis horizontally outwardly offset by a horizontal distance from the thermal treatment volume.

[0120] Preferably, the horizontal distance of the offset of each endless belt movement means from the thermal treatment volume corresponds at least to the length of a corresponding endless belt movement means along the same axis. Alternatively or additionally, the horizontal distance of the offset of each endless belt movement means from the thermal treatment volume is at least 5 percent, preferably at least 7 percent, and particularly preferably at least 10 percent of a horizontal main extension of a segment transverse to the main extension axis. Alternatively or additionally, the horizontal distance of the offset of each endless belt movement means from the thermal treatment volume is at most 30 percent, preferably at most 25 percent, and particularly preferably at most 15 percent of a horizontal main extension of a segment transverse to the main extension axis.The fact that the endless belt movement means are arranged vertically below the thermal treatment volume and offset horizontally outward by a horizontal distance perpendicular to the main extension axis means, in other words, that there is a lateral offset of the endless belt movement means relative to the thermal treatment volume, thus reducing the thermal load acting on the endless belt movement means. It has been found that the undesirable oversizing of the components, especially the support structure, despite the additional cost, increases the durability of the endless belt movement means and thus reduces downtime of the calcination system.

[0121] The preferred feature, according to which the horizontal distance of the offset of each endless belt movement means from the thermal treatment volume corresponds at least to the length of a corresponding endless belt movement means along the same axis, means, formulated in another example, that in the case of fictitious vertical projection planes, a fictitious endless belt movement means should have space between the vertical projection plane of the actually present endless belt movement means and the vertical projection plane of the thermal treatment volume. In particular, and not limitingly, the closest inner edges to each other or the main extension planes of the corresponding endless belt movement means and the thermal treatment volume that are recognizable to a person skilled in the art are taken into account.

[0122] According to a modified embodiment, the at least one conveying device comprises a thermal treatment volume gas flow system for gas exchange in the thermal treatment volume. The thermal treatment volume gas flow system comprises at least one thermal treatment volume gas inflow regulator and at least one thermal treatment volume gas outflow regulator.

[0123] The thermal treatment volume gas inflow regulator is designed to feed gas, for example, inert gas or combustion gas, into the thermal treatment volume. The thermal treatment volume gas outflow regulator is designed to discharge gas, for example, oxygen-containing or moisture-containing gas, from the thermal treatment volume.

[0124] Preferably, the calcining system is a calcining system as mentioned above, wherein the thermal treatment volume gas flow system is particularly preferably arranged on the housing for gas exchange in the thermal treatment volume.

[0125] The use of inert gas, such as nitrogen, has the beneficial effect of preventing unwanted oxidation of the substance in the thermal treatment volume. This is particularly advantageous when treating substances that oxidize easily at high temperatures. The combustion gas can serve as a heat source to better control the required temperature in the thermal treatment volume. This can improve the efficiency of the calcination process and reduce operating costs. Combustion gas can also be used if the heating device is powered by gas and does not ignite as desired, thus promoting the ignition reaction.

[0126] The oxygen-containing gas can be used to promote certain chemical reactions in the thermal treatment volume. For example, it can be used in the calcination of metal oxides to obtain the desired end product.

[0127] Releasing oxygen-containing gas can prevent unwanted oxidation reactions from occurring in the thermal treatment volume. This can be particularly important if the substance being calcined is sensitive to oxidation. Releasing moisture-containing gas, for example, resulting from the residual moisture of the calcined substance, can help control the humidity in the thermal treatment volume. This can help ensure the quality of the final product and prevent unwanted chemical reactions that could be caused by excessive moisture.

[0128] The thermal treatment volume gas flow system thus improves the possibility of controlled thermal treatment and thus a high-quality end product. In particular, the thermal treatment volume gas flow system can influence the properties of the end product, depending on the gas supplied or removed.

[0129] According to a modified embodiment, the at least one conveying device comprises a cooling volume gas flow system for gas exchange in the cooling volume. The cooling volume gas flow system comprises at least one cooling volume gas inflow regulator and at least one cooling volume gas outflow regulator. The cooling volume gas inflow regulator is designed to feed gas, for example inert gas or cooling gas below a defined cooling gas temperature, into the cooling volume. The cooling volume gas outflow regulator is designed to feed gas, for example inert gas or cooling gas above a defined cooling gas temperature, out of the cooling volume. Particularly preferably, the cooling volume gas flow system is arranged on the lower housing section or on one or both side housing sections for gas exchange in the cooling volume.

[0130] The supplied cooling gas below a defined cooling gas temperature can serve as a coolant to lower the temperature of the endless belt device in the cooling volume. This can improve the efficiency of the cooling process and increase the durability of the endless belt device.

[0131] The discharge of inert gas or cooling gas above a defined cooling gas temperature can help to control the temperature in the cooling volume.

[0132] By using this cooling volume gas flow system, the cooling process can be made more efficient. Furthermore, the cooling volume gas flow system enables better control over the conditions in the cooling volume, which leads to greater process reliability. The cooling volume gas flow system is particularly preferably arranged on the lower housing section or on one or both side housing sections for gas exchange in the cooling volume. This enables efficient cooling of the lower run of the endless belt device, which previously ran through the hot thermal treatment volume as the upper run. This is particularly advantageous because the endless belt device cools down as the lower run in the cooling volume before being exposed to a substance again as the upper run that is then to be thermally treated.

[0133] According to a modified embodiment, it is provided that the spatial volume of the thermal treatment volume is smaller than the spatial volume of the cooling volume and / or the spatial volume of the intermediate volume.

[0134] First, concentrating the heat into a smaller volume enables more efficient heat transfer. This can help reduce operating costs and improve product quality. Furthermore, a smaller hot thermal treatment volume allows for more precise control of process temperatures. This can help improve product quality and increase process reliability.

[0135] Another advantage of this configuration is that it can lead to faster response times to changes in process conditions. This can help increase operational flexibility and improve product quality. Furthermore, more efficient energy use can help reduce operating costs and environmental impact.

[0136] Finally, a smaller hot thermal treatment volume can help achieve a more even heat distribution throughout the product. This can help improve product homogeneity and increase product quality.

[0137] At the same time, the cooling volume is heated less, so that the lower run can cool with high reliability.

[0138] In summary, this offers an improved solution to the challenges associated with thermal treatment of substances while protecting the endless belt equipment. It enables efficient and controllable heat treatment, resulting in improved product quality and increased operational efficiency.

[0139] According to a modified embodiment, it is provided that the at least one conveying device has at least one circulation system for mixing the substance.

[0140] Preferably, the at least one circulation system comprises at least one ploughing means which is stationary relative to the housing system and which is designed such that it circulates the substance conveyed on the upper run in the conveying direction.

[0141] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one circulation system preferably comprises at least one roller device whose axis of rotation is arranged transversely to the main extension axis. Particularly preferably, the peripheral speed of the at least one roller device is approximately 10 percent, preferably approximately 15 percent, particularly preferably approximately 20 percent, and most preferably approximately 25 percent higher than the conveying speed of the endless belt device.

[0142] Alternatively or additionally, the conveying speed of the endless belt device is particularly preferably at least 0.03 m / s, particularly preferably at least 0.05 m / s and / or at most inclusively 0.3 m / s, particularly preferably at most inclusively 0.2 m / s, very particularly preferably at most inclusively 0.1 m / s.

[0143] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one roller device particularly preferably comprises at least one radially extending stirring rod structure and / or at least one paddle structure. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one conveying device preferably comprises at least one homogenization device arranged downstream of the at least one circulation system in the conveying direction. The homogenization device is designed, in particular, as a cross-beam structure. The at least one homogenization device is designed to even out the distribution of the substance circulated by the circulation system on the upper run.

[0144] One or more ploughing elements can be arranged, for example, in or on the interior of the housing. The material conveyed on the upper strand is circulated by impact against or along the ploughing elements, thus promoting uniform thermal treatment.

[0145] The peripheral speed and the conveying speed enable, for example in clay calcination, a uniform circulation of the substance, whereby a high-quality end product is achieved.

[0146] A stirring rod construction is in particular a rod-shaped body, whereas a paddle construction has a paddle body directed towards the substance.

[0147] The homogenization device is, for example, at least indirectly, attached to or in the housing. The homogenization device is arranged at a distance from the upper run with a vertical gap, so that the substance is conveyed through this gap during its transport on the upper run, and any substance protruding upward from the upper run is regulated to at most the gap size necessary to pass through the gap. Thus, the substance on the upper run is homogenized in height and can be heat-treated evenly. This is made possible, in particular, by a homogenization device designed as a cross-beam structure.

[0148] According to a modified embodiment, it is provided that the calcining system has at least two or more successive conveying devices which are arranged in a cascade form relative to one another as a substance mixing system.

[0149] Preferably, the discharge device of the at least one preceding conveyor device for vertically conveying the substance is at least indirectly connected to the receiving device of the at least one subsequent conveyor device. This connection can be made, for example, via a chute construction, wherein the chute construction is preferably designed to be essentially gap-free and / or airtight to the outside. Essentially gap-free and / or airtight preferably means that dust and / or heat remain in the system as far as possible and gaps or other openings are present at most in a minimal manner, for example due to the design. The term essentially gap-free refers in particular to the chute construction being designed such that gaps or other openings are a maximum of ten mm, preferably less than five mm, particularly preferably less than two mm, in order to minimize the escape of dust and heat as much as possible.This narrow gap width ensures that unwanted substances and heat losses are reduced to a minimum. In particular, there is no gap. Essentially airtight in this context means, in particular, that the chute structure is designed in such a way that the passage of air is almost completely prevented, meaning that the air permeability is a maximum of fifteen rpm, preferably less than ten rpm, and particularly preferably less than five rpm, at a given pressure difference. This allows the thermal conditions within the calcination system to remain stable, and no unwanted air supply or removal occurs.

[0150] The cascaded arrangement of the conveyors allows the thermally treated substance to be transferred from one conveyor to the next for further thermal treatment after the thermal treatment has been completed. This leads to increased mixing of the substance between the respective thermal treatments, resulting in a more uniform overall thermal treatment. The increased mixing and repeated thermal treatment or calcination in multiple conveyors improve the quality of the thermally treated substance. This can lead to higher purity and homogeneity of the final product. The cascaded arrangement enables continuous and efficient processing of the substance with less waste. This can lead to a reduction in process times and waste, and thus to an increase in production capacity at reduced costs.The heat released during thermal treatment in a preceding conveyor remains in the substance in the next conveyor. This leads to improved energy efficiency of the overall process. The number and arrangement of conveyors can be adjusted depending on the specific requirements of the material to be thermally treated. This offers high flexibility and adaptability to different process conditions. In summary, the present embodiment offers an efficient and flexible solution for the thermal treatment of substances, enabling improved mixing and quality of the final product. This embodiment is therefore of great benefit to industries that use calcination processes, such as the cement, lime, aluminum, and chemical industries. The degree of thermal treatment can also be adapted to the properties of the respective substance.Some substances may require higher temperatures right at the beginning, whereas others may only require higher temperatures later in the thermal treatment process, i.e., in a subsequent conveying system. While the temperature gradient was not adjustable in a conventional conveying system, temperature ramps can now be achieved by varying temperatures in different conveying systems, thus increasing the quality of the thermally treated substance.

[0151] According to a modified embodiment, the cascade shape is designed such that the main extension axis to the horizon essentially encloses an angle of at least -5 degrees, preferably at least 0 degrees, more preferably at least 10 degrees, most preferably at least 20 degrees. Depending on the angle, this can be useful, for example, in applications where increased mixing or increased throughput is required. Alternatively or additionally, the cascade shape can, for example, be designed such that the main extension axis to the horizon essentially encloses an angle of a maximum of 40 degrees, preferably a maximum of 30 degrees, more preferably a maximum of 28 degrees, most preferably a maximum of 25 degrees.

[0152] In particular, it may be possible to subsequently adjust the angles, for example, by installing appropriate lifting systems on the conveyors. However, other technical means for adjusting the angle are also possible.

[0153] The specific angles of the main extension axis relative to the horizon, proposed in the modified embodiments, constitute the pitch angles and have a direct impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of the thermal treatment process. The expression "essentially an angle α, alpha" specifically means that the specified angle can vary within a tolerance of plus / minus 10 percent of the corresponding angle value. This tolerance ensures that the process can be flexibly adapted to different material properties and throughput requirements without compromising the functionality of the conveying equipment.

[0154] The cascade configuration describes an arrangement of conveyors within the calcination system in which the substance is transferred from one conveyor to the next in a step-like sequence. This arrangement can be designed so that the main axis of extension of the conveyors runs at a specific angle to the horizon.

[0155] A negative angle, for example of at least -5 degrees, means that the main extension axis is inclined downwards in the conveying direction, which means that the substance is transported in the direction of gravity. A positive angle, for example of at least 10 degrees, on the other hand, means that the main extension axis is inclined upwards in the conveying direction, which requires the substance to be transported against gravity. An angle of 0 degrees means that the main extension axis runs parallel to the horizon, which enables horizontal transport of the substance without inclination upwards or downwards. This particularly affects the control of the throughput speed, improved mixing, and flexibility. A main extension axis that essentially has a negative angle to the horizon, for example of at least -5 degrees, means that the main extension axis is designed to slope downwards in the conveying direction.In contrast, a main extension axis that essentially has a positive angle to the horizon, for example, of at least 10 degrees, means that the main extension axis is still inclined upwards in the conveying direction, i.e., it is designed to be ascending. An angle of 0 degrees therefore means that the main extension axis runs along the horizon or subsurface in the conveying direction, i.e., parallel, i.e., neither ascending nor descending.

[0156] A larger angle could result in the substance sliding more quickly from one conveyor to the next, resulting in a shorter transit time through the conveyor(s), which could be particularly useful when high production capacity is required and the substance properties allow it or to ensure quality. A smaller angle could result in the substance sliding more slowly or not at all through the conveyor(s), resulting in mixing and thermal treatment. This could result in more thorough thermal treatment of the substance, as it is exposed to heat for longer, thus leading to a higher quality final product.

[0157] The ability to adjust the angle of the main extension axis allows the process to be tailored to the specific requirements of the substance being heat-treated. This can be particularly useful when processing different substances or batch sizes.

[0158] In summary, the specific angles of the main extension axis proposed in the modified embodiments can play an important role in optimizing the thermal treatment process. They offer an efficient and flexible solution that enables controllable thermal treatment of substances and high quality of the final product.

[0159] The wording regarding the angle specifications essentially stipulates that the desired conveying characteristics are still met, which is preferably the case with a deviation of plus / minus 10 percent of the corresponding angle. However, precise angle specifications are particularly preferred.

[0160] Also advantageous is a method for the thermal treatment of a substance using the calcination system according to at least one of the aforementioned features, the method comprising at least the steps of receiving the substance by means of the receiving device and subsequently conveying the substance on the upper run along the main extension axis, wherein the substance for thermal treatment is conveyed at least partially through the heated thermal treatment volume. The calcination system preferably has at least one or all of the aforementioned features, so that in particular at least one mixing of the substance takes place by means of the at least one circulation system. One or more circulation systems are preferred, but not absolutely necessary. The method further comprises the step of dispensing the substance by means of the dispensing device.The calcination system preferably has at least one or all of the aforementioned features, so that in particular at least some mixing of the substance occurs as a result of the vertical conveying of the substance. This vertical conveying can in particular take place essentially as a free fall, from the discharge device of the at least one preceding conveying device into the receiving device of the at least one subsequent conveying device. A cascade shape is preferred, but not absolutely necessary. However, the cascade shape is preferably used. Essentially as a free fall means that the vertical component of the conveying is greater than the horizontal component of the conveying. This can also take place via a chute or a similar device. Optionally, the substance can fall freely, at least partially or completely.

[0161] The process can generally be implemented without mixing the substance, in particular without a circulation system and / or without mixing the substance through its vertical conveying, for example, with the support of a cascade of several conveying systems. This potentially reduces dust in the process and can reduce the problem of flowing material with very brittle substances. Only one form of mixing or a completely different form of mixing can be used. However, for certain substances, both the circulation system and, alternatively or additionally, mixing the substance through its vertical conveying may be advantageous to enable homogeneous thermal treatment of the substance.

[0162] It is preferred that the sequence of process steps can be varied, unless technically required in an explicit order. However, the aforementioned sequence of process steps is particularly preferred.

[0163] Where the term "substantially" is used in these statements, it means that it is a specific embodiment that is recognizable to a person skilled in the art and allows for a slight degree of deviation without losing the essential function of the respective feature. For numerical values, the term may refer to plus or minus 10 percent. In general, the precise specification of the deviation is preferred. Brief description of the drawings

[0164] The solutions are explained in more detail below with reference to preferred embodiments in the accompanying drawings. The term "figure" is abbreviated to "Fig."

[0165] The drawings show

[0166] Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a calcining system with a conveyor device according to a preferred embodiment;

[0167] Fig. 2 is a schematic view of an end face of the calcining system according to the embodiment of Fig. 1;

[0168] Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view of the calcining system according to the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2;

[0169] Fig. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the calcining system according to the embodiment of Fig. 3 with different reference numerals;

[0170] Fig. 5 is a schematic, alternative perspective view of the calcining system according to the embodiment of Figures 3 and 4;

[0171] Fig. 6 is a schematic side view of the calcining system with three conveyor devices arranged in a cascade according to the embodiment of Figure 1;

[0172] Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view of the calcining system with two conveyor devices arranged in a cascade according to the embodiment of Figure 1;

[0173] Fig. 8 is a schematic side view of the calcining system according to another preferred embodiment;

[0174] Fig. 9 shows an exemplary thermal treatment process sequence;

[0175] Fig. 10 is a schematic, perspective view of a substance-carrying support platform of the calcining system according to the embodiment of Figure 1, showing ploughing means and a homogenization device; Fig. 11 is a schematic, perspective view of the ploughing means according to the embodiment of Figure 10; and

[0176] Fig. 12 is a schematic perspective view of a segment of a substance carrier of the calcining system according to the embodiment of Figure 1.

[0177] Detailed description of the implementation examples

[0178] The described embodiments are merely examples that can be modified and / or supplemented in a variety of ways within the scope of the claims. Each feature described for a specific embodiment can be used independently or in combination with other features in any other embodiment. Each feature described for an embodiment of a specific claim category can also be used correspondingly in an embodiment of a different claim category.

[0179] It should be noted that the exemplary embodiments are exemplary, schematic representations. This means that there may be inaccuracies and / or incompleteness in the drawings, which a person skilled in the art will recognize and independently correct with the aid of the aspects proposed here.

[0180] Figure 1 shows an exemplary calcining system 1 for thermally treating a substance 12. The calcining system 1 comprises at least one conveying device 14 with a main extension axis H, wherein the main extension axis H preferably comprises all axes parallel to the central main axis, so that the extension is meant rather as a singular axis.

[0181] According to Figures 6 and 7, three or two conveyor devices 14 are proposed by way of example, which are arranged in a cascade manner relative to one another. This is preferred and not limiting. More conveyor devices 14 are also possible, for example four, five or six. The at least one conveyor device 14, preferably each conveyor device 14, has at least one thermal treatment volume 18, which is heated by a heating device 16 during the thermal treatment and has a heating temperature TH, and a cooling volume 20, which is arranged below the thermal treatment volume 18 and has a cooling temperature T_K. This can be seen in particular in the exemplary Figures 1 to 3. During the thermal treatment, the heating temperature TH is greater than the cooling temperature T_K.

[0182] The at least one conveying device 14, preferably each conveying device 14, has a receiving device 22 configured to receive the substance 12 and convey it at least indirectly into the thermal treatment volume 18. The receiving device 22 is shown by way of example in Figures 1, 6, and 7.

[0183] The at least one conveyor device 14, preferably each conveyor device 14, has a discharge device 24, which is arranged along the main extension axis H away from the receiving device 22 and is designed to discharge the substance 12 from the conveyor device 14 after the thermal treatment. The discharge can take place either into another conveyor device 14 or, after completion of the thermal treatment, completely out of the calcination system 1. The discharge device 24 is shown by way of example in Figures 6 and 7.

[0184] The at least one conveyor device 14, preferably each conveyor device 14, has an endless belt device 26 with an upper run 28 and a lower run 30.

[0185] The upper run 28 is movable along the main extension axis H in a conveying direction F from a first run transition device 32.1 to a second run transition device 32.1.

[0186] The conveying direction F extends parallel to the main extension axis H from the receiving device 22 to the discharge device 24. The upper run 28 is designed to convey the substance 12 received by the receiving device 22 and conveyed onto the upper run 28 for thermal treatment in the thermal treatment volume 18.

[0187] In other words, the upper run 28 runs and conveys the substance 12 during the thermal treatment on the upper run 28 in the conveying direction F.

[0188] The lower run 30 is movable in correlation with the upper run 28 in the cooling volume 20 along the main extension axis H in a return direction R opposite to the conveying direction F from the second run transition device 34 towards the first run transition device 32.

[0189] Since the endless belt device 26 is designed as an endless belt and in particular consists of the upper run 28 and the lower run 30, which are stretched between the run transition devices 32.1, 32.2, the upper run 28 and the lower run 30 necessarily run the same distance in the opposite direction.

[0190] The at least one conveyor device 14, preferably each conveyor device 14, has a housing system 34, 36, 38.1, 38.2, 40.1, 40.2 with an upper housing section 34, a lower housing section 36, two side housing sections 38.1, 38.2 and two end housing sections 40. The housing system 34, 36, 38.1, 38.2, 40.1, 40.2 is shown in particular in Figures 1 to 7.

[0191] The endless belt device 26 is essentially closed during the thermal treatment, wherein the endless belt device 26 is designed as a substance carrier 58 composed of segments 58.1 that are arranged at least gap-free relative to one another during the thermal treatment. At the same time, the calcination system 10 comprises a substance mixing system 68, 70, 72 designed to thoroughly mix the substance 12. Components of the substance mixing system 68, 70, 72, 74 are, as explained below, a cascade of conveyor devices 14 and a circulation system 68, for example comprising at least one or more roller devices 70, one or more ploughing means 72, and / or one or more homogenizing devices 74.

[0192] In particular, Figure 2 shows that the upper housing section 34, the lower housing section 36, and the two side housing sections 38.1, 38.2 form a substantially closed, rectangular profile in cross-section relative to the main extension axis H. The fact that a housing 46 is also embedded in the upper housing section 34 is encompassed by the phrase "substantially."

[0193] As shown by way of example in Figure 6, the first and last conveying devices 14 each have an air-sealing device 41, for example, rotary valves. The air-sealing devices 41 are preferably designed to thermally insulate the receiving device 22 and the discharge device 24 from their surroundings, in particular in an adjustable manner.

[0194] As shown by way of example, the thermal treatment volume 18 borders on the upper housing section 34 and the cooling volume 20 borders on the lower housing section 36.

[0195] As shown by way of example in Figures 1 to 4, the illustrated conveying device 14 has a substantially continuous thermal separation layer system 42 between the thermal treatment volume 18 and the cooling volume 20 along the main extension axis H.

[0196] The thermal separation layer system 42 is formed at least by the upper run 28 and / or by an insulating surface structure 44.

[0197] The insulating surface structure 44 extends along the main extension axis H and transversely to the main extension axis H essentially as a triangular arch shape with a projection vertex PSP, see Figure 2. The triangular arch shape is designed such that the projection vertex PSP is oriented towards the upper housing section 34, i.e. that the triangular shape points essentially upwards.

[0198] Preferably, the insulating surface structure 44 is designed such that it opens into the two side housing sections 38.1, 38.2 or into the lower housing section 36 in order to substantially enclose the cooling volume 20 together with the lower housing section 36.

[0199] The above aspects preferably enable improved heat distribution, so that the thermal treatment volume 18 and the cooling volume 20 are arranged relative to one another in such a way that the lower run 30 is subjected to as little heat stress as possible and the failure rates of the calcining system 1 are thus reduced.

[0200] At least one conveyor device 14, preferably each conveyor device 14, has or have a housing 46 arranged on the upper housing section 34 and extending along the main extension axis H in order to substantially enclose the thermal treatment volume 18 together with the upper run 28.

[0201] As shown by way of example in Figure 2, the heating device 16 is arranged at the top inside the housing 46 and has a shorter distance on the inside and outside transverse to the main extension axis H than the upper housing section 34. As shown by way of example in Figure 2, the thermal treatment volume 18 is thus in a self-contained and smaller volume than would be the case without the housing 46, so that the thermal treatment volume 18 and thus the thermal treatment itself can be controlled better and faster, resulting in an end product of increased quality.

[0202] At least one conveying device 14, preferably each conveying apparatus 14, has or has an intermediate volume 48 with an intermediate temperature TZ between the upper thermal treatment volume 18 and the lower cooling volume 20. During the thermal treatment, the intermediate temperature TZ is a value between the heating temperature TH and the cooling temperature T_K. In other words, the temperature of the volumes drops continuously from top to bottom. This can be caused, on the one hand, by the heat flow. Optionally, it is also possible for the intermediate temperature TZ in the intermediate volume 48 to be a mixed temperature of an actively heated thermal treatment volume 18 and an actively cooled cooling volume 20. Like all features, this feature can also be independent of the other features.

[0203] At least one conveying device 14, preferably each conveying device 14, has or has a first and a second volume separation device.

[0204] The first volume separation device separates the upper thermal treatment volume 18 from the intermediate volume 48 and the second volume separation device separates the lower cooling volume 20 from the intermediate volume 48.

[0205] Here, the thermal separation layer system 42 comprises at least two volume separation devices, wherein the upper run 28 is the first volume separation device and the insulating surface structure 44 is the second volume separation device.

[0206] In particular, and independent of other features, the intermediate volume 48 can have air exchange means, in particular with air supply means and / or air discharge means, for example to discharge hot air and / or to feed in cooling air. These air exchange means can be arranged on one or both side housing sections 38.1, 38.2 and / or on the upper housing section 34, wherein alternatively or additionally other arrangement locations are also possible. The air exchange means do not have their own reference numerals in the present case, but are located, by way of example, in the upper area of ​​the side housing section 38.1 shown on the right in Figure 1. Both the air supply means and the air discharge means have an exemplary rectangular structure. As can be seen in Figure 2, the endless belt device 26 has an abutment structure 50, which in this case is indirectly connected to both side housing sections 38.1, 38.2 of the housing system 34, 36, 38.1, 38.2, 40.1, 40.2.

[0207] Furthermore, the endless belt device 26 comprises a support structure 54 with endless belt movement means 56. The endless belt movement means 56 are preferably rollers 56.1 and traction means 56.2, the latter being, for example, chain means. The endless belt movement means 56 are designed to move the support structure 54 along the abutment structure 50.

[0208] Furthermore, the endless belt device 26 has a substance carrier 58 which is designed to convey the substance 12 for thermal treatment along the thermal treatment volume 18 and which is connected to the carrier structure 54.

[0209] As can be deduced in particular from Figure 12, the substance carrier 58 is composed of segments 58.1 which are arranged one after the other without any gaps, particularly preferably overlapping, during the thermal treatment.

[0210] The substance carrier 58 has at least one segment 58.1, preferably all segments 58.1, with a substance receiving shape. The substance receiving shape is essentially U-shaped, as shown in Figure 12. The irregularities partially present in Figure 12, such as steps 59 and projections 61, are part of the U-shape. Other irregularities would also not alter the U-shape, provided the substance 12 were secured further downwards and laterally for transport, for example, a downwardly bulging carrier platform 60.

[0211] This support platform 60 is encompassed by the substance receiving mold and is a horizontally extending support platform 60 with two lateral longitudinal edges 57 parallel to the main extension axis H. The support platform 60 comprises successive steps 59, preferably at least one step 59 per segment 58.1.

[0212] Each step extends horizontally essentially transversely to the main extension axis H, with each segment 58.1 having a step 59, an upper height level 59.1 and a lower height level 59.2. The upper height level 59.1 is arranged at the front in the conveying direction F.

[0213] Furthermore, the substance receiving mold comprises two vertically extending vertical planks 62.1, 62.2, each arranged on one of the two longitudinal edges 57. Likewise, the support platform 60 has consecutive projections 61, with each segment 58.1 having at least one projection 61 per vertical plank 62.1, 62.2. Each projection 61 extends horizontally, essentially transverse to the main extension axis H.

[0214] Simplified and expressed differently, but not limitingly, a substance support 58 has a horizontal support platform 60 and two vertical planks 62.1, 62.2 in a cross-section to the main extension axis H. The support platform 60 and the vertical planks 62.1, 62.2 intersect at the two longitudinal edges 57.

[0215] Particularly in Figures 2 to 5, it can be seen that the housing 46 is open toward the substance carrier 58 and has a receiving shape that correlates with the vertical planks 62.1, 62.2, with two vertical webs 64.1, 64.2. This configuration delimits the thermal treatment volume 18.

[0216] The vertical planks 62.1, 62.2 and the vertical webs 64.1, 64.2 are designed such that their horizontal spacing is selected so that they do not collide during thermal treatment and gap-related heat loss is minimized. Thus, the thermal treatment volume 18 is largely thermally insulated, with the upper strand 28 being movable.

[0217] Likewise, the vertical planks 62.1, 62.2 and the vertical webs 64.1, 64.2 are arranged essentially parallel to one another. As can be seen from the figures as a whole, the endless belt movement means 56 are arranged vertically below the thermal treatment volume 18 and, transversely to the main extension axis H, offset horizontally outwardly by a horizontal distance HA from the thermal treatment volume 18.

[0218] With regard to Figure 12, it can be seen that the horizontal distance HA of the offset of each endless belt movement means 56 to the thermal treatment volume 18 corresponds at least to the length LB of a corresponding endless belt movement means 56 in the same axis.

[0219] Particularly preferably, the horizontal distance HA of the offset of each endless belt movement means 56 to the thermal treatment volume 18 is at least 5 percent, preferably at least 7 percent and particularly preferably at least 10 percent of a horizontal main extension of a segment 58.1 transverse to the main extension axis H.

[0220] Likewise preferably, the horizontal distance HA of the offset of each endless belt movement means 56 to the thermal treatment volume 18 is at most 30 percent, preferably at most 25 percent and particularly preferably at most 15 percent of a horizontal main extension of a segment 58.1 transverse to the main extension axis H.

[0221] Preferably, the horizontal distance HA of the endless belt movement means 56, preferably traction means 56.2, particularly preferably chains, to the substance carrier 58 at the edges closest to one another is at least 80 millimeters inclusive, preferably at least 120 millimeters inclusive and / or a maximum of 180 millimeters inclusive, preferably a maximum of 120 millimeters inclusive.

[0222] In particular, the substance carrier 58 can be screwed onto the support structure 54 as a cell carrier, wherein the support structure 54 preferably consists of two sheet metal units spaced apart by vertical ribs. The air gap created between the two sheet metal units reduces the thermal conductivity and thus the heat transfer to the endless belt moving means 56, preferably to the traction means 56.2, particularly preferably to the chain.

[0223] Endless belt movement means 56, preferably traction means 56.2, particularly preferably chain elements, can be screwed to the lower sheet metal unit and rollers 56.1 can be mounted between the two sheet metal units.

[0224] The endless belt movement means 56, preferably traction means 56.2, particularly preferably chains, are arranged laterally offset from the substance carrier 58, and thus also from the hot thermal treatment volume 18.

[0225] At least one conveying device 14, preferably each conveying device 14, has, according to Figure 1, a thermal treatment volume gas flow system 66, 66.1, 66.2 for gas exchange in the thermal treatment volume 18.

[0226] The thermal treatment volume gas flow system 66, 66.1, 66.2 each has at least one or more thermal treatment volume gas inflow regulators 66.1 and at least one or more thermal treatment volume gas outflow regulators 66.2.

[0227] The thermal treatment volume gas inflow regulator 66.1 is designed to feed gas, for example inert gas or combustion gas, into the thermal treatment volume 18.

[0228] The thermal treatment volume gas outlet regulator 66.2 is designed to discharge gas, for example oxygen-containing or moisture-containing gas, from the thermal treatment volume 18.

[0229] According to Figure 1, the thermal treatment volume gas flow system 66, 66.1, 66.2 is arranged on the housing 46 for gas exchange in the thermal treatment volume 18. At least one conveying device 14, preferably each conveying device 14, has a cooling volume gas flow system 67, 67.1, 67.2 for gas exchange in the cooling volume 20, as shown in Figure 1.

[0230] The cooling volume gas flow system 67, 67.1, 67.2 each has at least one cooling volume gas inflow regulator 67.1 and at least one cooling volume gas outflow regulator 67.2.

[0231] The cooling volume gas inflow regulator 67.1 is designed to feed gas, for example inert gas or cooling gas below a defined cooling gas temperature, into the cooling volume 20.

[0232] The cooling volume gas outflow regulator 67.2 is designed to discharge gas, for example inert gas or cooling gas above a defined cooling gas temperature, from the cooling volume 20.

[0233] As can be seen in Figure 1, the cooling volume gas flow system 67, 67.1, 67.2 is arranged on a side housing section 38.1 for gas exchange in the cooling volume 20, wherein alternatively, both side housing sections 38.1, 38.2 can also have a cooling volume gas flow system 67, 67.1, 67.2.

[0234] It can also be provided, and independently of other features, that the cooling volume gas inflow regulator 67.1 is provided on one side housing section 38.1 and the cooling volume gas outflow regulator 67.2 is provided on the other side housing section 38.2.

[0235] In Figure 2 it can be seen that the volume of the thermal treatment volume 18 is smaller than the volume of the cooling volume 20 and than the volume of the intermediate volume 48.

[0236] At least one conveying device 14, preferably each conveying apparatus 14, has, as shown in Figure 8, at least one circulation system 68 for mixing the substance 12. Several circulation systems 68, such as two, three, or four, can also be present per conveying device 14. This is independent of the other features.

[0237] The at least one circulation system 68 has at least one ploughing means 72 which is stationary relative to the housing system 34, 36, 38.1, 38.2, 40.1, 40.2 and which is designed such that it circulates the substance 12 conveyed on the upper run 28 in the conveying direction F.

[0238] Examples of the plowing means 72 are shown in Figure 11, wherein preferably several plowing means 72 are present, which are distributed in particular transversely to the main extension axis H over the upper run 28 in order to comb a high proportion of the substance 12 distributed on the upper run 28 or to reposition it for the purpose of a homogeneous heat treatment.

[0239] The at least one circulation system 68 has at least one roller device 70, the axis of rotation of which is arranged transversely to the main extension axis H. In particular, the rotation of the roller device 70 further mixes the substance under the roller device 70.

[0240] The peripheral speed of the at least one roller device 70 is approximately 10 percent, preferably approximately 15 percent, particularly preferably approximately 20 percent, most particularly preferably approximately 25 percent greater than the conveying speed of the endless belt device 26.

[0241] The conveying speed of the endless belt device 26 is at least 0.03 m / s, preferably at least 0.05 m / s.

[0242] The conveying speed of the endless belt device 26 is at most 0.3 m / s, preferably at most 0.2 m / s, particularly preferably at most 0.1 m / s.

[0243] The at least one roller device 70 has a radially extending paddle structure, with the paddle being indicated by a small rectangle at the end of the corresponding stirring rod structure. At least one conveying device 14, preferably each conveying device 14, has at least one homogenization device 74, as shown in Figure 10.

[0244] The homogenization device 74 is arranged in the conveying direction F after the at least one circulation system 68, wherein the homogenization device 74 is designed in particular as a cross-beam structure.

[0245] The at least one homogenization device 74 is designed to even out the distribution of the substance 12 circulated by the circulation system 68 on the upper run 28.

[0246] According to Figures 6 and 7, the calcining system 10 comprises at least two, three or more successive conveying devices 14 which are arranged in a cascade form relative to one another as a substance mixing system.

[0247] The discharge device 24 of the at least one preceding conveyor device 14 is connected at least indirectly to the receiving device 22 of the at least one subsequent conveyor device 14 for the vertical conveyance of the substance 12, for example via a chute construction 76.

[0248] Preferably, the chute construction 76 is designed to be essentially gap-free and / or airtight to the outside, so that no heat dissipates into the environment.

[0249] The cascade shape is designed such that the main extension axis H essentially forms an angle α, alpha of at least -5 degrees, preferably at least 0 degrees, particularly preferably at least 10 degrees, and most particularly preferably at least 20 degrees, with the horizon. Regarding the present embodiments, it should be noted that no negative or neutral angle is depicted.

[0250] The cascade shape is further designed such that the main extension axis H essentially encloses an angle a, alpha of a maximum of 40 degrees, preferably a maximum of 30 degrees, particularly preferably a maximum of 28 degrees, most particularly preferably a maximum of 25 degrees, with the horizon.

[0251] Figure 9 indicates a method for thermally treating a substance 12. This method is carried out using the calcination system 10 according to at least one of the aforementioned claims.

[0252] The method comprises at least one picking up of the substance 12 by means of the picking device 22.

[0253] Furthermore, the method comprises conveying the substance 12 on the upper run 28 along the main extension axis H. In this case, the substance 12 is conveyed at least partially through the heated thermal treatment volume 18 for thermal treatment.

[0254] According to the method, at least one mixing of the substance 12 preferably takes place by means of the at least one circulation system 68.

[0255] The method also includes dispensing the substance 12 by means of the dispensing device 24 300.

[0256] Preferably, at least one mixing of the substance 12 takes place by the vertical conveyance of the substance 12, in particular according to Figure 6 essentially as a free fall, from the discharge device 24 of the at least one preceding conveying device 14 into the receiving device 22 of the at least one subsequent conveying device 14. List of reference symbols

[0257] 10 Calcination system

[0258] 12 Substance

[0259] 14 Conveyor system

[0260] 16 Heating device

[0261] 18 thermal treatment volumes

[0262] 20 cooling volume

[0263] 22 Recording device

[0264] 24 Dispensing facility

[0265] 26 Endless belt device

[0266] 28 upper strand

[0267] 30 lower strand

[0268] 32.1 First strand transition device

[0269] 32.2 Second strand transition device

[0270] 34 Upper housing section

[0271] 36 Lower housing section

[0272] 38.1 First side housing section

[0273] 38.2 Second side housing section

[0274] 40.1 First end housing section

[0275] 40.2 Second end housing section

[0276] 41 Air sealing agents

[0277] 42 Thermal separation layer system

[0278] 44 Insulating surface structure

[0279] 46 Enclosure

[0280] 48 intermediate volumes

[0281] 50 abutment structure

[0282] 52 cross members

[0283] 54 carrier structure

[0284] 56 endless belt moving means

[0285] 56.1 Role

[0286] 56.2 Traction equipment

[0287] 57 Longitudinal edge 58 Substance carrier

[0288] 58.1 Segment

[0289] 59th level

[0290] 59.1 Upper height level of the step

[0291] 59.2 Lower height level of the step

[0292] 60 carrier platform

[0293] 61 leap

[0294] 62.1 First vertical plank

[0295] 62.2 Second vertical plank

[0296] 64.1 First vertical bridge

[0297] 64.2 Second vertical bridge

[0298] 66 Thermal treatment volume gas flow system

[0299] 66.1 Thermal treatment volume gas inflow regulator

[0300] 66.2 Thermal treatment volume gas discharge regulator

[0301] 67 Cooling volume gas flow system

[0302] 67.1 Cooling gas inflow regulator

[0303] 67.2 Cooling gas outlet regulator

[0304] 68 Circulation system

[0305] 70 roller device

[0306] 72 ploughing agents

[0307] 74 Homogenization device

[0308] 76 Chute construction

[0309] H Main extension axis

[0310] T_K cooling temperature

[0311] TH heating temperature

[0312] TZ intermediate temperature

[0313] F Conveying direction

[0314] R Return direction

[0315] PSP projection vertex

[0316] HA Horizontal distance alpha abbreviated as a, angle of the main extension axis to the horizon

Claims

Claims 1. A calcination system for the thermal treatment of a substance (12), comprising at least one conveying device (14) with a main extension axis (H); the at least one conveying device (14) having at least one thermal treatment volume (18) heated by a heating device (16) during the thermal treatment and having a heating temperature (TH), and a cooling volume (20) arranged below the thermal treatment volume (18) and having a cooling temperature (T_K), wherein the heating temperature (TH) is greater than the cooling temperature (T_K) during the thermal treatment; a receiving device (22) designed to receive the substance (12) and to convey it at least indirectly into the thermal treatment volume (18); a dispensing device (24) arranged along the main extension axis (H) away from the receiving device (22) and designed to dispense the substance (12) from the conveying device (14) after the thermal treatment;an endless belt device (26) with an upper run (28) and a lower run (30); wherein the upper run (28) is movable along the main extension axis (H) in a conveying direction (F) from a first run transition device (32.1) to a second run transition device (32.1), and wherein the upper run (28) is designed to convey the substance (12) received by the receiving device (22) and conveyed onto the upper run (28) for thermal treatment in the thermal treatment volume (18); wherein the lower run (30) is movable in correlation with the upper run (28) in the cooling volume (20) along the main extension axis (H) in a return direction (R) opposite to the conveying direction (F) from the second run transition device (34) to the first run transition device (32);a housing system (34, 36, 38.1, 38.2, 40.1, 40.2) comprising an upper housing section (34), a lower housing section (36), at least two side housing sections (38.1, 38.2) and at least two end housing sections (40); 2. Calcining system according to claim 1, wherein the endless belt device (26) is designed to be substantially closed during the thermal treatment, wherein the endless belt device (26) is preferably designed as a substance carrier (58) composed of segments (58.1) that are arranged one after the other without gaps during the thermal treatment, particularly preferably overlapping; wherein the calcining system (10) has a substance mixing system (68, 70, 72) designed to thoroughly mix the substance (12).

3. Calcining system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the upper housing section (34), the lower housing section (36), and the two side housing sections (38.1, 38.2) form a substantially closed, in particular rectangular, profile in cross-section relative to the main extension axis (H); wherein the conveying device (14) preferably has at least one air-sealing means (41), in particular one or more rotary valves, wherein the at least one air-sealing means (41) is designed to thermally insulate the receiving device (22) and / or the discharge device (24), in particular in an adjustable manner, from their surroundings; and / or wherein the thermal treatment volume (18) borders the upper housing section (34) and / or the cooling volume (20) borders the lower housing section (36).

4. Calcining system according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one conveying device (14) has at least one, in particular substantially continuous, thermal separation layer system (42) between the thermal treatment volume (18) and the cooling volume (20) along the main extension axis (H); wherein the thermal separation layer system (42) is preferably formed at least by the upper run (28) and / or by an insulating surface structure (44).

5. Calcining system according to the preceding claim, wherein the insulating surface structure (44) extending along the main extension axis (H) and transverse to the main extension axis (H) is formed substantially as a plane, arc, or triangular arc shape with a projection vertex (PSP); wherein the triangular arc shape is preferably formed such that the projection vertex (PSP) is oriented toward the upper housing section (34); and / or wherein the insulating surface structure (44) is preferably formed such that it opens into the two side housing sections (38.1, 38.2) or into the lower housing section (36) in order to substantially enclose the cooling volume (20) together with the lower housing section (36).

6. Calcining system according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one conveying device (14) has a housing (46) arranged on the upper housing section (34) and extending along the main extension axis (H) in order to substantially enclose the thermal treatment volume (18) together with the upper run (28); wherein the heating device (16) is preferably arranged in the housing (46), particularly preferably on the inside at the top; and / or wherein the housing (46) preferably has a shorter distance transversely to the main extension axis (H) on the inside and / or outside than the upper housing section (34).

7. Calcination system according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one conveying device (14) has an intermediate volume (48) with an intermediate temperature (TZ) between the upper thermal treatment volume (18) and the lower cooling volume (20), wherein the intermediate temperature (TZ) during the thermal treatment is a value between the heating temperature (TH) and the cooling temperature (T_K); wherein the at least one conveying device (14) has at least a first and a second volume separation device, wherein the first volume separation device separates the upper thermal treatment volume (18) from the intermediate volume (48) and wherein the second volume separation device separates the lower cooling volume (20) from the intermediate volume (48); wherein the calcining system (10) is particularly preferably a calcining system (10) according to at least one of claims 4 to 6, and wherein the thermal separation layer system (42) particularly preferably comprises the at least two volume separation devices, wherein the upper run (28) is particularly preferably the first volume separation device and the insulating surface structure (44) is the second volume separation device.

8. Calcining system according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the endless belt device (26) comprises: an abutment structure (50) which is mounted at least indirectly, for example via cross members (52), on the housing system (34, 36, 38.1, 38.2, 40.1, 40.2), in particular on both side housing sections (38.1, 38.2); a support structure (54) with endless belt movement means (56), preferably with rollers (56.1) and / or traction means (56.2), particularly preferably chain means, wherein the endless belt movement means (56) are designed to move the support structure (54) along the abutment structure (50); a substance carrier (58) which is designed to convey the substance (12) for thermal treatment in the thermal treatment volume (18) and which is connected to the carrier structure (54), wherein the substance carrier (58) is preferably made up of segments (58.1) which are arranged one after the other without any gaps, particularly preferably overlapping, during the thermal treatment.

9. Calcining system according to the preceding claim, wherein the substance carrier (58) has at least one segment (58.1) with a substance receiving shape, wherein in particular the substance receiving shape is designed substantially as a U-shape; the substance receiving shape having a horizontally extending support platform (60) with two lateral longitudinal edges (57) parallel to the main extension axis (H), wherein the support platform (60) has successive steps (59), preferably at least one step (59) per segment (58.1), wherein each step (59) extends horizontally substantially transversely to the main extension axis (H), wherein preferably each segment (58.1) with a step (59) has an upper height level (59.1) and a lower height level (59.2), wherein the upper height level (59.1) is arranged at the front in the conveying direction (F); two vertically extending vertical planks (62.1, 62.2) each arranged on one of the two longitudinal edges (57).2), wherein the support platform (60) has successive projections (61), preferably at least one projection (61) per vertical plank (62.1, 62.2) of each segment (58.1), wherein each projection (61) extends horizontally substantially transversely to the main extension axis (H).

10. Calcining system according to one of claims 6 or 7 and according to the preceding claim, wherein the housing (46) is designed to be open towards the substance carrier (58) and has a receiving shape correlating with the vertical planks (62.1, 62.2) with two vertical webs (64.1, 64.2), wherein preferably the vertical planks (62.1, 62.2) and the vertical webs (64.1, 64.2) are designed such that their horizontal spacing is selected such that they do not abut one another during the thermal treatment and gap-related heat loss is as low as possible; and / or wherein preferably the vertical planks (62.1, 62.2) and the vertical webs (64.1, 64.2) are arranged substantially parallel to one another.

11. Calcining system according to at least one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the endless belt movement means (56) are arranged vertically below the thermal treatment volume (18) and transversely to the main extension axis (H) horizontally offset outwards by a horizontal distance (HA) from the thermal treatment volume (18); wherein preferably the horizontal distance (HA) of the offset of each endless belt movement means (56) from the thermal treatment volume (18) corresponds at least to the length amount (LB) of a corresponding endless belt movement means (56) in the same axis, and / or wherein preferably the horizontal distance (HA) of the offset of each endless belt movement means (56) from the thermal treatment volume (18) is at least 5 percent, preferably at least 7 percent, and particularly preferably at least 10 percent of a horizontal main extension of a segment (58).1) transverse to the main extension axis (H); and / or wherein preferably the horizontal distance (HA) of the offset of each endless belt movement means (56) to the thermal treatment volume (18) is at most 30 percent, preferably at most 25 percent, and particularly preferably at most 15 percent of a horizontal main extension of a segment (58.1) transverse to the main extension axis (H).

12. Calcining system according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one conveying device (14) has a thermal treatment volume gas flow system (66, 66.1, 66.2) for gas exchange in the thermal treatment volume (18), the thermal treatment volume gas flow system (66, 66.1, 66.2) at least having a thermal treatment volume gas inflow regulator (66.1) and at least one thermal treatment volume gas outflow regulator (66.2), wherein the thermal treatment volume gas inflow regulator (66.1) is designed to feed gas, for example inert gas or combustion gas, into the thermal treatment volume (18), and wherein the thermal treatment volume gas outflow regulator (66.2) is designed to discharge gas, for example oxygen-containing or moisture-containing gas, from the thermal treatment volume (18); wherein the calcination system (10) is preferably a calcination system (10) according to at least one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the thermal treatment volume gas flow system (66, 66.1, 66.2) is particularly preferably arranged on the housing (46) for gas exchange in the thermal treatment volume (18).

13. Calcination system according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one conveying device (14) has a cooling volume gas flow system (67, 67.1, 67.2) for gas exchange in the cooling volume (20), the cooling volume gas flow system (67, 67.1, 67.2) having at least one cooling volume gas inflow regulator (67.1) and at least one cooling volume gas outflow regulator (67.2), wherein the cooling volume gas inflow regulator (67.1) is designed to feed gas, for example inert gas or cooling gas below a defined cooling gas temperature, into the cooling volume (20), and wherein the cooling volume gas outflow regulator (67.2) is designed to feed gas, for example inert gas or cooling gas above a defined cooling gas temperature, out of the cooling volume (20); wherein preferably the calcining system (10) is a calcining system (10) according to at least one of claims 5 to 12, wherein particularly preferably the cooling volume gas flow system (67, 67.1, 67.2) is arranged on the lower housing section (36) or on one or both side housing sections (38.1, 38.2) for gas exchange in the cooling volume (20).

14. Calcining system according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the volume of the thermal treatment volume (18) is smaller than the volume of the cooling volume (20) and / or the volume of the intermediate volume (48).

15. Calcining system according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one conveying device (14) comprises, as a substance mixing system, at least one circulation system (68) for mixing the substance (12); wherein the at least one circulation system (68) preferably comprises at least one ploughing means (72) fixed to the housing system (34, 36, 38.1, 38.2, 40.1, 40.2), which is designed such that it circulates the substance (12) conveyed on the upper run (28) in the conveying direction (F);and / or wherein preferably the at least one circulation system (68) has at least one roller device (70) whose axis of rotation is arranged transversely to the main extension axis (H), wherein particularly preferably the peripheral speed of the at least one roller device (70) is approximately 10 percent, preferably approximately 15 percent, particularly preferably approximately 20 percent, very particularly preferably approximately 25 percent greater than the conveying speed of the endless belt device (26), and / or wherein preferably the conveying speed of the endless belt device (26) is at least 0.03 m / s, particularly preferably at least 0.05 m / s and / or at most 0.3 m / s, particularly preferably at most 0.2 m / s, very particularly preferably at most 0.1 m / s; and / or wherein particularly preferably the at least one roller device (70) has at least one stirring rod construction and / or at least one paddle construction extending radially;and / or wherein preferably the at least one conveying device (14) has at least one homogenizing device (74) which is arranged downstream of the at least one circulation system (68) in the conveying direction (F), wherein the homogenizing device (74) is designed in particular as a cross-beam structure, wherein the at least one homogenizing device (74) is designed to even out the distribution of the substance (12) circulated by the circulation system (68) on the upper run (28); 16. Calcining system according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the calcining system (10) has at least two or more successive conveying devices (14) which are arranged in a cascade form relative to one another as a substance mixing system, wherein the discharge device (24) of the at least one preceding conveying device (14) for vertically conveying the substance (12) is preferably connected at least indirectly to the receiving device (22) of the at least one subsequent conveying device (14), for example via a chute construction (76), wherein the chute construction (76) is preferably designed to be substantially gap-free and / or airtight towards the outside.

17. Calcination system according to the preceding claim, wherein the cascade shape is configured such that the main extension axis (H) substantially encloses an angle (α, alpha) of at least -5 degrees, preferably at least 0 degrees, particularly preferably at least 10 degrees, very particularly preferably at least 20 degrees, with the horizon; and / or wherein the cascade shape is configured such that the main extension axis (H) substantially encloses an angle (α, alpha) of at most 40 degrees, preferably at most 30 degrees, particularly preferably at most 28 degrees, very particularly preferably at most 25 degrees, with the horizon.

18. A method for thermally treating a substance (12) using the calcining system (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, the method comprising at least the following steps: Picking up the substance (12) by means of the pick-up device (22) (100); - conveying the substance (12) on the upper run (28) along the Main extension axis (H), wherein the substance (12) for thermal treatment is conveyed at least partially through the heated thermal treatment volume (18), wherein preferably the calcining system (10) has at least the features of claim 15, so that at least one mixing of the substance (12) takes place by means of the at least one circulation system (68); Dispensing the substance (12) by means of the dispensing device (24) (300), wherein preferably the calcining system (10) has at least the features of Claim 16 or 17, so that at least one mixing of the substance (12) takes place by the vertical conveying of the substance (12), in particular essentially as a free fall, from the discharge device (24) of the at least one preceding conveying device (14) into the receiving device (22) of the at least one subsequent conveying device (14).

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