Furnace for an analysis device, and analysis device

The furnace design addresses the complexity and safety issues of existing furnaces by incorporating a straight combustion tube and a simplified connection arrangement, resulting in a safer, more efficient, and easier-to-maintain analytical device.

WO2025119958A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-06-12ELTRA GMBH
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/EP2024/084631
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-09-05
Filing Date
2024-12-04
Publication Date
2025-06-12

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing furnaces for analytical devices have complex structures and are cumbersome to handle, especially when it comes to sealing and maintaining the combustion tube, which poses safety risks and increases maintenance costs.

Method used

A furnace design featuring a straight, bend-free combustion tube with a simplified connection arrangement that allows for a fluid-tight seal on the inner or outer side of the combustion tube, facilitated by a movable support and sealing element, and an actuating element that simplifies the sealing process.

Benefits of technology

The design results in a simpler, safer, and more efficient furnace operation, reducing maintenance time and costs while ensuring reliable sealing and easy handling of the combustion tube.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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    Figure EP2024084631_12062025_PF_FP_ABST
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Abstract

The invention relates to a furnace for an analysis device for analyzing a sample, comprising a burner tube and a connecting assembly for fluidically connecting the burner tube to an analysis channel of the analysis device, said connecting assembly having a connecting part which, in a sealing position of the connecting assembly, is connected to the burner tube in a fluid-tight manner. According to a first aspect, the connecting part can be connected to the burner tube in a fluid-tight manner on the inner face and / or outer face of the burner tube. According to another aspect, the connecting assembly has a support, which can be moved relative to the connecting part and / or the burner tube, and a seal element between the support and the connecting part. According to another aspect, the furnace has an actuating element, wherein the connecting assembly can be moved into the sealing position by means of a linear movement of the actuating element and / or by means of a movement of the actuating element running transversely to the movement axis of the connecting assembly. According to another aspect, the burner tube is designed to be straight and / or curvature-free.
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Description

[0001] Furnace for an analyzer and analyzer

[0002] The present invention relates to an oven for an analytical device according to the preamble of claim 1 and to an analytical device.

[0003] Generic furnaces and analysis devices incorporating such a furnace are known from the prior art and are used in particular for the combustion analysis of samples to be examined. During combustion analysis, a sample is heated in a furnace with the addition of oxygen so that the sample oxidises or burns. For this purpose, the sample is usually placed in a porous or gas-permeable crucible, which in turn is introduced into a designated combustion tube in the furnace. The combustion products formed when the sample is heated can escape through the crucible and are preferably transported by means of a carrier gas from the furnace to an analysis channel of the analysis device and through the analysis channel. An elemental analysis is then preferably carried out in the analysis channel, in which the concentration of certain chemical elements, e.g. oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, carbon and / or sulfur, is determined using appropriate detectors oranalyzers.

[0004] There are several disadvantages with the solutions known from the state of the art.

[0005] For example, it is necessary to connect the furnace or its combustion tube to an analysis channel of the combustion tube in a fluid-tight or gas-tight manner. In known solutions, this is achieved primarily by sealing the combustion tube externally and / or by screwing components together. This solution has a complex structure, and handling, particularly with regard to sealing and replacing or removing components, for example, for maintenance, is very time-consuming and cumbersome. Furthermore, there is a risk of coming into contact with hazardous substances in the area of ​​the furnace outlet.

[0006] The disadvantages of the prior art are to be overcome by the present invention.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a furnace or an analytical device that is characterized by a simple structure and / or simple and / or safe operation or handling. The above object is achieved by a furnace according to claim 1 or an analytical device according to claim 12. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0008] The present invention relates to a furnace for an analytical device for analyzing, in particular combustion analysis, a sample.

[0009] The furnace comprises a combustion tube and a connecting arrangement for fluidically connecting the combustion tube to an analysis channel of the analyzer. The connecting arrangement comprises a connecting part that is fluid-tightly connected to the combustion tube in a sealing position of the connecting arrangement.

[0010] In the context of the present invention, the term "fluid-tight" can generally refer to a tightness against all flowable media, but is particularly to be understood as gas-tight.

[0011] According to a first aspect, the connecting part can be connected to the combustion tube in a fluid-tight manner on an inner side of the combustion tube. In other words, a seal is preferably provided on the inner side of the combustion tube. This is particularly conducive to a simple structure and easy handling and sealing. In particular, maintenance and / or replacement of the combustion tube are facilitated.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally, a fluid-tight connection of the connecting part to the combustion tube can also be provided on an outer side of the combustion tube.

[0013] According to a further aspect, which can also be implemented independently, the connecting arrangement comprises a support movable relative to the connecting part and / or the combustion tube and a sealing element arranged between the support and the connecting part. This enables simple and reliable operation and sealing.

[0014] According to a further aspect, which can also be implemented independently, the furnace has an actuating element, wherein the connecting arrangement can be moved into the sealing position by a linear and / or transverse movement of the actuating element relative to a movement axis of the connecting arrangement. This enables simple and safe operation and sealing.

[0015] According to a further aspect, which can also be implemented independently, the combustion tube is designed to be straight and / or bend-free. This results in a simple structure of the furnace, and the combustion tube is easy to remove from the furnace, insert into the furnace, and / or replace. This facilitates maintenance, particularly compared to prior art solutions in which the combustion tube is at least substantially U-shaped. The U-shape of the known combustion tube means that the furnace must be almost completely disassembled to replace or maintain the combustion tube, which is cumbersome and costly and poses injury and health risks. This can be prevented by the present solution.

[0016] Preferably, the connecting arrangement is arranged or can be arranged at least partially within the combustion tube. This promotes a simple structure as well as simple operation and / or handling, particularly when sealing the connection between the connecting arrangement and the combustion tube and / or during maintenance of the furnace and / or when replacing the combustion tube.

[0017] It is preferred that the combustion tube, in particular an (axial or lower) end thereof, forms a stop for the connecting arrangement, in particular the carrier, particularly preferably wherein, in the sealed position, the carrier rests against the combustion tube or stop. This prevents unwanted movement of the carrier or the connecting arrangement beyond the sealed position and thus damage or excessive stress to the connecting arrangement, in particular a sealing element of the connecting arrangement. Error-free handling is thus facilitated and ensured. At the same time, reliable sealing is ensured.

[0018] In general, the sealing effect is preferably achieved by the simultaneous contact of the sealing element on the connecting part and on the combustion tube. Alternatively or additionally, the carrier or a part of the carrier can also be designed to contact the sealing element. In principle, the sealing contact of the sealing element is enforced and / or supported in particular by the action of a force on the sealing element. The connecting part and / or the carrier preferably has a funnel-shaped and / or frusto-conical contact surface for the sealing element. In this case, contact of the sealing element on the outer side and / or inner side of a correspondingly funnel-shaped and / or frusto-conical component can be provided. In particular, when the connecting arrangement is moved into the sealing position, the sealing element is moved outwards, inwards orgenerally pressed and / or deformed towards the combustion tube and a reliable sealing effect is achieved.

[0019] Preferably, the sealing element is annular and / or surrounds the connecting part and / or the combustion tube. This contributes to a simple design.

[0020] Preferably, the carrier surrounds the connecting part and / or the connecting part is arranged in a central opening of the carrier. This contributes to a simple structure and easy handling and operation.

[0021] The connecting arrangement can preferably be moved into the sealing position by a particularly linear movement of the carrier relative to the connecting part and / or the combustion tube. This enables easy handling and a reliable sealing effect.

[0022] A movement, particularly a linear one, of the actuating element preferably causes a lifting movement of the carrier, wherein the lifting movement of the carrier runs transversely, particularly perpendicularly, to the direction of the linear movement or movement of the actuating element. This enables simple and safe operation.

[0023] The actuating element preferably has an inclined surface, in particular, wherein the inclined surface is designed to generate a movement of the connecting arrangement or the support along the movement axis of the connecting arrangement upon movement of the actuating element. This enables simple and safe operation.

[0024] The actuating element preferably has an opening. In particular, the opening is an elongated hole and / or the opening forms at least one end stop, preferably two end stops, for limiting movement of the actuating element. The connecting part is preferably arranged in the opening. This enables, in particular, a defined opening position and / or a defined sealing position of the connecting arrangement and / or prevents movement of the actuating element beyond a desired position. Incorrect operation and resulting damage are thus avoided.

[0025] The combustion tube can preferably be removed from and / or inserted into the furnace by a linear movement. This facilitates easy operation and handling, especially when changing the combustion tube and / or performing maintenance. Maintenance costs are thus reduced.

[0026] According to a further aspect, which can also be implemented independently, the present invention relates to an analytical device for analyzing a sample, wherein the analytical device comprises a furnace configured as described herein. The advantages of the furnace are correspondingly achieved by the analytical device.

[0027] The above-mentioned aspects and features as well as further aspects and features resulting from the claims and the following description can be realized independently of one another and in various combinations.

[0028] Further advantages, features, properties, and aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the claims and the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. It shows:

[0029] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of an analysis device according to the invention;

[0030] Fig. 2 is a sectional view of a furnace according to the invention;

[0031] Fig. 3 is an enlarged section of the furnace of Fig. 2, showing a connecting arrangement of the furnace in an open position;

[0032] Fig. 4 shows the same section as Fig. 2, with the connecting arrangement shown in a sealing position;

[0033] Fig. 5 is a sectional view of part of an alternative embodiment of a furnace according to the invention; Fig. 6 is a view corresponding to Fig. 5 of another alternative embodiment of a furnace according to the invention;

[0034] Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the connecting arrangement and an actuating device;

[0035] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a combustion tube of the furnace;

[0036] Fig. 9 shows a cross-section of the combustion tube from Fig. 6; and

[0037] Fig. 10 is a sectional view of a furnace lock.

[0038] In the figures, some of which are not to scale and are merely schematic, the same reference symbols are used for identical or similar parts, whereby corresponding or comparable properties and advantages can be achieved, even if a repeated description is omitted.

[0039] Fig. 1 shows very schematically an analysis device 1 according to the invention for analyzing a sample P.

[0040] Furthermore, a furnace 2 is shown very schematically in Fig. 1. Furnace 2 is shown in more detail in Fig. 2.

[0041] The analyzer 1 preferably includes the furnace 2. However, the furnace 2 represents an independently implementable aspect of the present invention.

[0042] The furnace 2 is designed in particular for the oxidation and / or combustion of the sample P. The oxidation or combustion preferably produces an analyte of the sample P, which is analyzed or can be analyzed by means of the analysis device 1.

[0043] In particular, the analysis device 1 is designed for combustion analysis of the sample P and / or for determining the amount and / or concentration of certain chemical elements, in particular carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and / or sulfur, in the sample P. In other words, the analysis device 1 is preferably designed for elemental analysis. The sample P is preferably an inorganic sample, but can also be an organic sample.

[0044] The analysis device 1 preferably has an analysis channel 3 for analyzing the sample P or an analyte of the sample P.

[0045] Preferably, the sample P or the analyte produced therefrom is passed through the analysis channel 3 by means of a carrier gas, for example helium or argon, and detected in the analysis channel 3 by means of a detector, in particular in order to determine the concentration of certain chemical elements.

[0046] The furnace 2 has a combustion tube 4, which is arranged in particular within the furnace 2 or in an interior or combustion chamber of the furnace 2.

[0047] The combustion tube 4 is preferably made of a heat-resistant material, in particular glass or metal.

[0048] The combustion tube 4 is preferably at least substantially hollow-cylindrical. The combustion tube 4 is preferably straight and / or curvature-free.

[0049] The combustion tube 4 is preferably oriented vertically. In particular, the combustion tube 4 has an inlet at an upper axial end 4C and an outlet at a lower axial end 4B. The combustion tube 4 preferably extends straight or without curvature between the inlet or upper end 4C and the outlet or lower end 4B.

[0050] Position designations such as “top”, “bottom”, “horizontal”, “vertical” and the like refer in particular to the position shown in Fig. 2 in which the furnace 2 is operated.

[0051] The combustion tube 4 can preferably be removed from the furnace 2 and / or inserted into the furnace 2 by a linear movement.

[0052] The combustion tube 4 is preferably designed to accommodate a crucible 5 for the sample P. The furnace 2 preferably has the crucible 5 for the sample P. In particular, during operation of the furnace 2, the sample P is arranged in the crucible 5 and the crucible 5 is arranged or held in the combustion tube 4.

[0053] The crucible 5 preferably has at least substantially the shape of a hollow cylinder closed at one end. The crucible 5 is preferably made of a porous, gas-permeable and / or sintered material.

[0054] In the combustion tube 4, the sample P is preferably oxidized or burned, in particular wherein the sample P is arranged in the crucible 5.

[0055] The analysis device 1 or the furnace 2 preferably has a connection arrangement 6 for connecting the combustion tube 4 to the analysis channel 3, in particular in a fluid-tight manner. In other words, the combustion tube 4 is fluidically connected or connectable (at least indirectly) to the analysis channel 3 by means of the connection arrangement 6, so that a fluid or gas can pass from the combustion tube 4 to the analysis channel 3 via or through the connection arrangement 6.

[0056] The analysis channel 3 does not have to be directly connected or connectable to the furnace 2 or the combustion tube 4 or the connection arrangement 6, but further lines and / or other components can be arranged between the furnace 2 or the connection arrangement 6 and the analysis channel 3, so that an analyte generated from the sample P can reach the analysis channel 3 via the further lines and / or other components from the combustion tube 4 or the connection arrangement 6.

[0057] The connecting arrangement 6 is shown in Fig. 2. Figures 3 and 4 show enlarged views of the connecting arrangement 6. Figures 5 and 6 also show alternative embodiments of the connecting arrangement 6. For the sake of clarity, only a section of the edge area of ​​the connecting arrangement 6 is shown, in which the special design features of the respective embodiments are evident. Fig. 7 also shows the connecting arrangement 6 in an exploded view.

[0058] The connecting arrangement 6 is preferably arranged at a lower end 4B and / or outlet of the combustion tube 4 or in its vicinity. The connecting arrangement 6 is preferably formed in several parts or comprises several separate components, in particular wherein the components are at least partially movable relative to one another.

[0059] In particular, the connecting arrangement 6 comprises a connecting part 7, a sealing element 8, and / or a support 9 for the sealing element 8. The support 9 can generally be designed to contact the sealing element 8, ie, according to the invention, the sealing element 8 does not necessarily have to rest permanently on the support 9. Preferably, but optionally, the connecting arrangement 6 comprises a connecting piece 10.

[0060] The connecting part 7 is preferably fluidically connected or connectable to the combustion tube 4, in particular the outlet of the combustion tube 4.

[0061] The connecting part 7 is preferably a piece of pipe.

[0062] The connecting arrangement 6 preferably has a sealing position. The sealing position is illustrated by way of example in a preferred embodiment, particularly in Fig. 4.

[0063] In particular, the connecting part 7 is connected to the combustion tube 4 in a fluid-tight manner in the sealing position. Therefore, preferably, no fluid, in particular gas, can pass between the connecting part 7 and the combustion tube 4, in particular its inner side 4A and / or outer side 4D.

[0064] The sealing position of the connecting arrangement 6 is in particular a position of the connecting arrangement 6 in which a fluid-tight connection exists between the connecting arrangement 6, in particular the connecting part 7, and the combustion tube 4.

[0065] The connecting arrangement 6 preferably has an open position in which the connection between the connecting arrangement 6 or the connecting part 7 and the combustion tube 4 is not fluid-tight. In the open position, fluid can therefore preferably pass between the connecting part 7 and the combustion tube 4, in particular its inner side 4A and / or outer side 4D. The open position is illustrated in particular in Fig. 3. The connecting arrangement 6 is movable in particular from the open position into the sealed position and / or vice versa, in particular by preferably linear movement of components of the connecting arrangement 6 relative to one another and / or relative to the combustion tube 4.

[0066] Preferably, the connecting part 7 can be connected to the combustion tube 4 in a fluid-tight manner on an inner side 4A of the combustion tube 4, as shown in Fig. 3 or 4. Therefore, preferably, no fluid, in particular gas, can pass between the connecting part 7 and the inner side 4A of the combustion tube 4. In other words, a seal between the connecting part 7 and the combustion tube 4 preferably occurs within the combustion tube 4 or on the inner side 4A of the combustion tube 4.

[0067] Preferably, the connecting arrangement 6, in particular the connecting part 7, the sealing element 8, and / or the carrier 9, is or can be arranged at least partially in the combustion tube 4 or on its inner side 4A. In other words, the connecting arrangement 6 preferably projects into the combustion tube 4.

[0068] In the sealing position, the sealing element 8 is preferably arranged completely within the combustion tube 4 or on its inner side 4A.

[0069] Alternatively or additionally, the sealing can also be effected on the outer side 4D of the combustion tube 4. Preferably, the connecting arrangement 6, in particular the sealing element 8, is arranged at least partially, preferably completely, outside the combustion tube 4, as shown by way of example in Figures 5 and 6.

[0070] The carrier 9 is preferably movable relative to the connecting part 7 and / or the combustion tube 4, in particular linearly and / or along a movement axis A of the connecting arrangement 6. In particular, the connecting arrangement 6 is movable into the sealing position by a preferably linear movement or movement of the carrier 9, in particular along the movement axis A, relative to the connecting part 7 and / or the combustion tube 4.

[0071] The movement axis A of the connecting arrangement 6 is in particular an (imaginary) axis along which or parallel to which a movement of parts of the connecting arrangement 6, in particular of the sealing element 8 and / or the carrier 9, can or does take place, in particular in order to move the connecting arrangement

[0072] 6 from the open position to the sealed position and / or vice versa.

[0073] The movement axis A is preferably a longitudinal axis and / or axis of symmetry of the connecting arrangement 6 and / or the combustion tube 4. The movement axis A preferably runs vertically.

[0074] Terms such as “axial,” “radial,” or the like refer, unless otherwise stated, in particular to the movement axis A. An axial direction, movement, or extension is preferably a direction, movement, or extension along or parallel to the movement axis A. A radial direction, movement, or extension is preferably radial to the movement axis A.

[0075] The connecting part 7 and / or the carrier 9 preferably has a contact surface 11 for the sealing element 8. The contact surface 11 is preferably arranged on an end section 12 of the connecting part 7 or the carrier 9, in particular on the outside of the end section 12.

[0076] The connecting part 7 or the contact surface 11 of the connecting part 7 and / or the carrier 9 preferably widens along the movement axis A, in particular in the direction of the combustion tube 4 or in the direction of movement from the open position to the sealed position.

[0077] The contact surface 11 is preferably funnel-shaped and / or frustoconical, as particularly illustrated in the figures. However, other embodiments are also possible, for example, a contact surface 11 extending at least substantially radially to the movement axis A (not shown).

[0078] The connecting part 7 preferably has an at least substantially tubular and / or hollow cylindrical section 13, which in particular adjoins the end section 12.

[0079] The connecting piece 10 is preferably arranged on the side of the connecting part 7 opposite the section 12 on the tubular or hollow-cylindrical section 13, in particular fluidically and / or fluid-tightly connected thereto. The connecting piece 10 is preferably angled. The connecting piece 10 serves in particular for the fluidic connection of the combustion tube 4 or connecting part 7 to the analysis channel 3.

[0080] The sealing element 8 is preferably designed in a ring-like manner, in particular as an O-ring. In particular, the sealing element 8 consists of a flexible and / or elastic material, for example, rubber or plastic.

[0081] The connecting part 7 is preferably guided through the sealing element 8.

[0082] The carrier 9 preferably has a support surface 14 for the sealing element 8. Alternatively or additionally, the connecting part 7 can also have a support surface 14 for the sealing element 8, as shown in Fig. 5. The support surface 14 preferably extends radially to the movement axis A.

[0083] The carrier 9 preferably has a hollow cylindrical section 15 which, in a preferred embodiment, adjoins the support surface 14 in particular in the axial direction.

[0084] Furthermore, the carrier 9 preferably has a stop surface 16, which is arranged in particular on the side of the carrier 9 opposite the support surface 14 and / or adjoins the hollow cylindrical section 15.

[0085] The stop surface 16 preferably extends radially to the movement axis A and / or parallel to the support surface 14. The stop surface 16 preferably has a larger diameter than the support surface 14.

[0086] In a preferred embodiment, the support surface 14 has a diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the combustion tube 4, and / or the stop surface 16 has a diameter that is larger than the inner diameter of the combustion tube 4.

[0087] In particular, in the case of a seal on the outer side 4D of the combustion tube 4, the support surface 14 can also have a diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the combustion tube 4, as shown in Figs. 5 and 6.

[0088] The sealing element 8 is preferably arranged between the carrier 9 and the connecting part 7, in particular between the support surface 14 and the contact surface 11. Preferably, the sealing element 8 rests on the carrier 9 and / or the connecting part 7, in particular the support surface 14, and / or the carrier 9 and / or the connecting part 7, in particular the support surface 14, supports the sealing element 8.

[0089] Most preferably, the sealing element 8 is arranged between the carrier 9, the connecting part 7 and the combustion tube 4 or between the support surface 14, the contact surface 11 and the inside 4A and / or outside 4D of the combustion tube 4.

[0090] In the sealing position, the sealing element 8 is preferably deformed, in particular compressed. In the sealing position, the sealing element 8 preferably rests against the contact surface 11, the combustion tube 4, and the carrier 9, in particular in a sealing manner.

[0091] Sealing of the fluidic connection between the connecting part 7 and the combustion tube 4 takes place in particular by a preferably linear movement or lifting movement of the carrier 9 in the direction of the combustion tube 4 and / or into the sealing position, in particular along the movement axis A, in particular so that the sealing element 8 is compressed between the carrier 9, the connecting part 7 and the combustion tube 4 and thus lies in sealing contact both on the connecting part 7 or the contact surface 11 and on the combustion tube 4 or its inner side 4A and / or outer side 4D, so that no fluid can pass between the connecting part 7 and the combustion tube 4 or its inner side 4A and / or outer side 4D.

[0092] The stop surface 16 is preferably assigned to an axial, in particular lower, end 4B of the combustion tube 4. The combustion tube 4 or its axial, in particular lower, end 4B preferably forms a stop for the stop surface 16.

[0093] In the sealed position of the connecting arrangement 6, the carrier 9, in particular the stop surface 16, preferably rests against the axial end 4B of the combustion tube 4. In particular, the sealing position is defined thereby. Movement of the carrier 9 beyond the sealed position, as well as the associated excessive compression and possible damage to the sealing element 8, can thus be easily prevented. The carrier 9 preferably has a central opening 17, which is defined in particular by the hollow cylindrical section 15.

[0094] Preferably, the carrier 9 at least partially surrounds the connecting part 7, in particular its hollow cylindrical section 13, and / or the connecting part 7, in particular the hollow cylindrical section 13, is at least partially arranged in the carrier 9, in particular the central opening 17.

[0095] The connecting part 7 is preferably held stationary relative to the combustion tube 4 or arranged in a fixed position relative to the combustion tube 4. Preferably, the connecting part 7 is immovable, in particular relative to the combustion tube 4.

[0096] The connecting part 7 is preferably held or fastened by means of a fastening arrangement 18, in particular screwed thereto. The fastening arrangement 18 is preferably fastened to a housing of the furnace 2 (not shown) by means of fastening elements (not shown), in particular screws, bolts, or the like, and / or held stationary relative to the combustion tube 4. In the illustrated example, the fastening arrangement 18 is formed in several parts, although this is not mandatory.

[0097] Figs. 5 and 6 show alternative embodiments of the structure according to the invention. For the sake of clarity, the illustration is limited to a section in each case, which shows the essential differences from the embodiments described above in the area of ​​the connecting arrangement 6. In both cases shown, the sealing element 8 is arranged at least substantially, preferably completely, outside the combustion tube 4. The sealing element 8 thus acts as a seal, in particular by contacting the outer side 4D of the combustion tube 4.

[0098] In the example according to Fig. 5, the connecting part 7 is shaped such that it extends at least partially outside the combustion tube 4, preferably in both the axial and radial directions. In this case, the connecting part 7 preferably comprises a radially projecting projection and / or a projection which, in radial cross-section, projects beyond the lower edge of the combustion tube 4 and / or at least partially encompasses it. The projection or projection is preferably formed integrally with the connecting part 7, but can also be connected, in particular screwed or welded, to a separate main part of the connecting part 7. In the example of Fig. 5, the connecting part 7 has a bearing surface 14, in particular in the region of the projection or projection, on which the sealing element 8 rests due to gravity.

[0099] In principle, the sealing element 8 can also be permanently or detachably connected to the support surface 14. In addition to bonding the sealing element 8 to the support surface 14, other types of connections, in particular material-locking, force-locking, and / or positive-locking connections, are also possible according to the invention, for example by means of shaped pins of the sealing element 8, which engage in corresponding openings in the support surface 14.

[0100] As a counterpart to the support surface 14 of the connecting part 7, the carrier 9 in the example according to Fig. 5 preferably has a contact surface 11, to which the sealing element 8 can be brought and brought into contact. The above-mentioned properties and preferred configurations of the contact surface 11 also apply accordingly in the present example. The contact surface 11 can therefore be designed, in particular, in a funnel-shaped and / or truncated cone shape.

[0101] In the present example, the support 9 is designed in particular such that it comprises an outer section 9A, which extends axially at least in some areas along the outer side 4D of the combustion tube 4. The outer section 9A is preferably designed as a circumferential, in particular annular, wall that surrounds the combustion tube 4 in the relevant area.

[0102] On the outer section 9A, the carrier 9 has in particular a projection 9B directed radially inwards or towards the combustion tube 4, on which the contact surface 11 is provided in the present case.

[0103] The outer section 9A is preferably connected to a base section 9C of the support 9 and / or formed integrally therewith. The base section 9C can be designed as a disc-shaped base plate, in particular. In a preferred embodiment, the support 9 has an overall substantially cup-shaped configuration, which, similar to an end cap, can enclose, in particular, the lower end of the combustion tube 4.

[0104] To seal the arrangement according to Fig. 5, the carrier 9 is again moved into the sealing position. In the present case, however, this is achieved by a downward movement of the carrier 9, i.e., particularly in the axial direction away from the end of the combustion tube 4. As a result, the sealing element 8 is preferably again clamped or clamped between the carrier 9 or the contact surface 11, the connecting part 7 or the support surface 14, and the combustion tube 4 or its outer side 4D, thus resulting in a fluid-tight seal.

[0105] It is understood that the connecting part 7 is optionally supported by a corresponding abutment, which exerts the counterforce to the force exerted by the carrier 9 via the sealing element 8. For this purpose, the connecting part 7 can be held, mounted, and / or fastened outside and / or inside the combustion tube 4. The stationary positioning of the connecting part 7 relative to the combustion tube 4 can be achieved in particular by a force-fitting, form-fitting, and / or material-fitting connection to another component of the connection arrangement 6, preferably the connecting piece 10, and / or to the combustion tube 4 itself.

[0106] Fig. 6 shows a further alternative embodiment of the structure according to the invention, particularly in the area of ​​the connecting arrangement 6. As in the example according to Fig. 5, the sealing element 8 is arranged outside the combustion tube 4, so that sealing is achieved particularly on the outer side 4D. In this case, however, the sealing element 8 is again mounted on the carrier 9, preferably on a corresponding support surface 14 of the carrier 9.

[0107] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, the carrier 9 is at least partially, preferably at least in the upper region, at least substantially annular and in this way surrounds in particular a part of the combustion tube 4 or its lower end.

[0108] In the case of the variant according to Fig. 6, the connecting part 7 is shaped such that, in the state of use, it projects downwards out of the combustion tube 4 and, in particular, extends radially outwards beyond the wall of the combustion tube 4.

[0109] Similar to the carrier 9 in the example of Fig. 5, the connecting part 7 in the present case comprises an outer section 7A, which extends at least substantially parallel to the outside of the combustion tube 4, and a projection 7B, which is arranged in particular at the upper end of the outer section 7A and preferably extends in the direction of the combustion tube 4. In the example shown, the projection 7B has a contact surface 11 which, in cross-section, runs in particular obliquely to the axial direction of the combustion tube 4, which in turn preferably results in an overall funnel-shaped or frustoconical shape of the contact surface 11.

[0110] When the carrier 9 moves along the movement axis A of the connecting arrangement 6 into the sealing position, i.e. in this case in particular upwards or in the axial direction towards the combustion tube 4, the sealing element 8 is guided to the projection of the connecting part 7 and pressed against the contact surface 11. In addition, the sealing element 8 is deformed in particular in an elastic and / or plastic manner and preferably moved by the inclined position of the contact surface 11 towards the outer side 4D of the combustion tube 4, i.e. in particular radially inwards. When the sealing position is reached, the sealing element 8 is thus preferably clamped between the carrier 9 or the support surface 14, the connecting part 7 or the contact surface 11 and the combustion tube 4 or its outer side 4D and seals the corresponding intermediate spaces in a fluid-tight manner.

[0111] The other properties and advantages described above, in particular with regard to the embodiment shown in Figs. 3 and 4, also apply correspondingly to the embodiment according to Figs. 5 and / or 6.

[0112] The furnace 2 or the analysis device 1 preferably has an actuating element 19 for actuating the connecting arrangement 6. In particular, the actuating element 19 is designed to move the connecting arrangement 6 from the open position to the sealed position and / or vice versa.

[0113] The actuating element 19 is shown in more detail in Figs. 2 to 4 and 7.

[0114] The actuating element 19 is preferably movable horizontally and / or transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the movement axis A of the connecting arrangement 6, in particular translationally and / or in a linear movement.

[0115] In other words, the actuating element 19 is preferably movable along a movement axis B and / or the actuating element 19 has a movement axis B, in particular wherein a translational and / or linear movement takes place or can take place along the movement axis B.

[0116] The movements or movement axes A, B of the connecting arrangement 6 or of the support 9 and the actuating element 19 are therefore preferably transverse, in particular perpendicular, to each other. The movement axes A and B preferably intersect.

[0117] The movement axis B of the actuating element 19 preferably runs horizontally.

[0118] The movement axis B is preferably a longitudinal axis and / or axis of symmetry of the actuating element 19.

[0119] The actuating element 19 is preferably designed, arranged and / or coupled to the connecting arrangement 6, in particular the carrier 9, in such a way that a movement of the actuating element 19 transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the movement axis A causes a movement or lifting movement of the carrier 9 upwards or in the direction of the combustion tube 4 and / or downwards or in the axial direction away from the combustion tube 4, in particular a movement of the connecting arrangement 6 into the sealing position.

[0120] In particular, the actuating element 19 is designed to move the carrier 9 or is coupled to the carrier 9 accordingly, at least indirectly or via a coupling part 21.

[0121] The coupling part 21 is preferably arranged between the carrier 9 and the actuating element 19. The coupling part 21 serves in particular as a spacer between the actuating element 19 and the carrier 9.

[0122] The carrier 9 is preferably mounted on the actuating element 19, at least indirectly via the coupling part 21.

[0123] The coupling part 21 preferably contacts the actuating element 19, in particular its upper side and / or lower side or generally the side facing the carrier 9, and the carrier 9, in particular the stop surface 16 or its lower side or side facing away from the combustion tube 4 and / or its upper side or side facing the combustion tube 4.

[0124] The coupling part 21 is preferably rod-like, pin-like, and / or cylindrical. However, other solutions are also possible. The coupling part 21 is preferably movable parallel to the movement axis A and / or immobile transverse to the movement axis A. A movement of the coupling part 21 preferably corresponds to a movement of the carrier 9.

[0125] The actuating element 19 preferably has an inclined surface 20. The inclined surface 20 is preferably coupled or can be coupled directly or indirectly to the carrier 9. For example, the inclined surface 20 can bear against the carrier 9, in particular the stop surface 16. In the illustrated example according to the figures, however, the inclined surface 20 is indirectly coupled to the carrier 9 by the coupling part 21.

[0126] The inclined surface 20 preferably runs obliquely to the movement axis B, for example at an angle of at least 2° and / or at most 10°.

[0127] The inclined surface 20 is designed in particular to generate a movement of the connecting arrangement 6 or the carrier 9 along the movement axis A when the actuating element 19 moves, in particular transversely or perpendicularly to the movement axis A.

[0128] During a movement of the actuating element 19 or the inclined surface 20, the inclined surface 20 preferably slides along the coupling part 21 or the carrier 9 and thus causes a movement of the coupling part 21 or carrier 9 transversely or perpendicularly to the direction of movement of the inclined surface 20 or movement axis B, in particular a (linear) movement along the movement axis A.

[0129] The actuating element 19 preferably has a first flat surface 22 and a second flat surface 23. The first flat surface 22 and / or second flat surface 23 preferably adjoin the inclined surface 20. In particular, the first flat surface 22 and the second flat surface 23 are arranged on opposite sides of the inclined surface 20, in particular along the movement axis B.

[0130] The first flat surface 22 and the second flat surface 23 are preferably parallel to each other, parallel to the movement axis B of the actuating element 19 and / or perpendicular to the movement axis A of the connecting arrangement 6. In the open position, the carrier 9 or the coupling part 21 preferably contacts the first flat surface 22. In the sealed position, the carrier 9 or the coupling part 21 preferably contacts the second flat surface 23.

[0131] 5, the carrier 9 preferably rests against an underside of the actuating element 19, in particular by means of the coupling part 21. The features, properties and preferred embodiments of the actuating element 19 described above apply accordingly, with the inclined surface 20 in this case being arranged in particular on the underside or on the side of the actuating element 19 facing away from the combustion tube 4. If the carrier 9 or the coupling part 21 now rests against the actuating element 19 from below, i.e. in particular on the flat surfaces 22, 23 and / or the inclined surface 20, a movement of the actuating element 19 along its movement axis B leads to a movement of the carrier 9 along the movement axis A of the connecting arrangement 6. The carrier 9 moves in particular downwards or in the axial direction away from the combustion tube 4.

[0132] Due to the corresponding design of the carrier 9 according to the example shown in Fig. 5, the projection 9B is moved or pulled downward against the sealing element 8 during a downward movement of the carrier 9. As a result, the sealing element 8 is preferably clamped between the carrier 9 and the connecting part 7, or between its contact surface 11 and support surface 14, and is thereby deformed, in particular elastically and / or plastically. As a result of the deformation, the sealing element 8, in the embodiment of Fig. 5, contacts the combustion tube 4 on the outer side 4D.

[0133] In the present case, the movement of the sealing element 8 towards the combustion tube 4 as well as the most sealing contact with its outer side 4D is further supported by an arrangement of the contact surface 11 which runs in cross section obliquely to the movement axis A of the connecting arrangement 6 or the carrier 9.

[0134] In the embodiment described above, the support 9 is subjected to a force against the sealing element 8, which is in particular elastically and / or plastically deformable, in particular by the movement of the actuating element 19 along the movement axis B and the resulting relative movement of the support 9 or the coupling part 21 along the inclined surface 20. The force exerted on the actuating element 19 parallel to the movement axis B is translated into a force which, parallel to the movement axis A of the connecting arrangement 6, acts directly and / or indirectly at least partially on the support 9 and / or other parts of the connecting arrangement 6.

[0135] To enable movement of the actuating element 19 along the movement axis B, the carrier 9 in the example of Fig. 5 preferably has corresponding through-openings. If the actuating element 19 extends at least substantially above the base section 9C of the carrier 9 or between the base section 9C and the combustion tube 4, a corresponding through-opening is preferably provided in the outer section 9A.

[0136] Alternatively or additionally, in the case of an arrangement of the actuating part below the carrier 9, even in an embodiment according to the sealing principle shown in Fig. 5, a force transmission from the actuating element 19 to the carrier 9 can take place by means of a coupling part 21, not shown in detail in Fig. 5, which is in operative connection with both the carrier 9 and the actuating element 19.

[0137] The coupling part 21 can, if required, be firmly connected to the carrier 9 or the actuating element 19 or can be provided as a separate component and / or as a multi-part component group.

[0138] With regard to the coupling of the coupling part 21 to the carrier 9 or to other parts of the connecting arrangement 6 and / or to the actuating element 19, the above statements regarding the direct coupling between the carrier 9 or the connecting arrangement 6 and the actuating element 19 apply analogously to the example discussed here.

[0139] Alternatively or in addition to the embodiments mentioned above, a separate coupling part 21 can also have other configurations, if required, in particular for imparting a tensile force. These include, for example, the shape of a clamp, an angle piece with an L- or C-shaped cross-section, a pipe sleeve with a projection at the end, or the like.

[0140] According to the invention, it is not excluded that the coupling part 21 is also formed by a correspondingly shaped extension of the carrier 9 and / or the actuating element 19, which in turn engages the opposite side of the respective complementary component, i.e., the actuating element 19 or the carrier 9. In this context, a corresponding through-opening is preferably provided in the base section 9C of the carrier 9, through which the coupling part 21 can extend.

[0141] As can be seen in Fig. 6, the connecting part 7 can be designed such that it at least partially encompasses the sealing element 8 and, if appropriate, parts of the carrier 9. In order to nevertheless be able to move the carrier 9 along the movement axis A into and out of the sealing position or into the open position, the connecting part 7, in a preferred embodiment, has corresponding through-openings through which the carrier 9 or parts of the carrier 9 and / or one or more coupling parts 21 can extend for transmitting force to the carrier 9.

[0142] In general, the structure of the connecting arrangement 6 can be spatially equalized in certain application situations by using a coupling part 21 or can be structurally simplified by less strong direct interlocking of larger components such as the carrier 9 and the actuating element 19.

[0143] Alternatively or in addition to the solutions already described, an embodiment can also be provided in which the carrier 9, the connecting part 7, and / or other parts of the connecting arrangement 6 are subjected to a restoring force parallel to the movement axis A of the connecting arrangement 6. In principle, all conventional means are suitable for applying the restoring force. This includes, but is not limited to, mechanical springs, components made of an elastically deformable material, magnets, compressed or compressible air chambers, and / or other pneumatic and / or hydraulic systems.

[0144] The restoring force preferably acts in the direction of the sealing position. In this case, the actuating element 19 can serve as a locking element, which prevents the sealing position from being assumed independently, in particular by means of a positive fit. If the actuating element is moved along the movement axis B, this allows the connecting arrangement 6 or the connecting part 7 and / or the carrier 9 to move into the sealing position as a result of the acting restoring force. In this way, the structure is preferably designed to be self-sealing, so that the seal is not achieved exclusively by the force exerted on the actuating element 19, but is also present as standard in the event of a fault, for example in the event of a structural failure of the actuating element 19 or its unintentional spontaneous movement from the set position.

[0145] In the example according to Fig. 5, the restoring force, if provided, preferably acts downwards or in the direction away from the combustion tube 4, thus supporting the tendency of the latter, already due to gravity, to move the connecting arrangement 6 or the carrier 9 toward the sealing position. This allows, in particular, a comparatively simple relative arrangement of the carrier 9 and the actuating element 19 to be used, without the need to pass the actuating element 19 and / or a coupling part 21 through parts of the carrier 9.

[0146] The actuating element 19 preferably has an opening 24, which is arranged in particular symmetrically and / or centrally in the actuating element 19. The opening 24 is preferably designed as an elongated hole, which extends in particular parallel to the movement axis B. The opening 24 or the elongated hole preferably extends over the inclined surface 20, in particular from the first flat surface 22 across the inclined surface 20 to the second flat surface 23.

[0147] The connecting part 7, in particular its section 13, is preferably guided through the actuating element 19 and / or arranged in the opening 24. The actuating element 19 preferably surrounds and / or engages around the connecting part 7, in particular its section 13.

[0148] The opening 24 preferably forms at least one end stop 25A, 25B for limiting the movement of the actuating element 19. Preferably, the opening 24 forms two end stops 25A, 25B for limiting the movement of the actuating element 19.

[0149] The end stop 25A, 25B or the end stops 25A, 25B are preferably each formed by a limitation of the opening 24 in the axial direction along the movement axis B.

[0150] The end stop 25A is preferably arranged in the region of the first flat surface 22. The end stop 25B is preferably arranged in the region of the second flat surface 23. In the open position, the connecting part 7 preferably rests against the end stop 25A. In the sealed position, the connecting part 7 preferably rests against the end stop 25B.

[0151] The oven 2 preferably has an operating device 26 for moving or operating the actuating element 19, the connecting device 6 and / or the carrier 9.

[0152] The operating device 26 is preferably at least substantially rod-like and / or elongated. The actuating element 19 is preferably arranged at the end of the operating device 26 and / or formed integrally with the operating device 26.

[0153] The operating device 26 preferably extends along the movement axis B of the actuating element 19.

[0154] The operating device 26 preferably has a handle 27, which is arranged in particular at the end and / or at an end of the operating device 26 opposite the actuating element 19.

[0155] For the linear movement of the actuating element 19, the operating device 26 is preferably also moved linearly, in particular along the movement axis B. In principle, however, other solutions are also possible, for example that the actuating element 19 and the operating device 20 are coupled to one another in such a way that a (linear) movement of the actuating element 19 along the movement axis B is brought about by a rotary or screwing movement of the operating device 26.

[0156] The operating device 26 is preferably manually operable or movable, in particular via the handle 27. However, other solutions are also possible. For example, the operating device 26 can also be motorized or automatically moved.

[0157] The combustion tube 4 preferably has a holder 28 for the crucible 5.

[0158] The holder 28 is shown in more detail in Figures 8 and 9. The holder 28 is preferably arranged on the inner side 4A of the combustion tube 4. Preferably, the holder 28 is arranged in a cylindrical section of the combustion tube 4 and / or the holder 28 protrudes inwardly from the cylindrical section.

[0159] In the illustrated example, the cylindrical section preferably extends at least substantially over the entire length of the combustion tube 4 and is thus formed in particular by the (entire) inner side 4A of the combustion tube 4. However, this is not mandatory.

[0160] The holder 28 is preferably formed integrally with the combustion tube 4, in particular the cylindrical section. Thus, the holder 28 is preferably made of glass or metal and / or the same material as the combustion tube 4.

[0161] The holder 28 preferably forms a support surface for the crucible 5. During operation of the furnace 2, the crucible 5 therefore preferably rests on the holder 28.

[0162] The holder 28 preferably has or is formed by a plurality of, in particular separate, holder elements 29. In the illustrated example, the holder 28 has three holder elements 29. The holder elements 29 are preferably structurally identical.

[0163] The support elements 29 are preferably spaced apart from one another and / or distributed over the circumference of the combustion tube 4 or the cylindrical section or the inner side 4A.

[0164] Preferably, the support elements 29 are evenly distributed over the circumference, in the illustrated example in particular arranged offset by 120° each.

[0165] The furnace 2 preferably has a feed lance 30 that can be inserted into the combustion tube 4.

[0166] The feed lance 30 is shown in particular in Fig. 2.

[0167] The feed lance 30 is preferably designed to feed or introduce the sample P into the combustion tube 4 or the crucible 5. Furthermore, the feed lance 30 is preferably designed to feed or introduce oxygen into the combustion tube 4. The oxygen serves in particular for the oxidation or combustion of the sample P in the furnace 2 or the combustion tube 4.

[0168] The feed lance 30 preferably has or consists of an at least substantially hollow cylindrical section 31 and a stop 32 arranged in particular at the end of the hollow cylindrical section 31.

[0169] The stop 32 preferably projects radially and / or outwards from the hollow cylindrical section 31.

[0170] The feed lance 30 or the hollow cylindrical section 31 is preferably single-walled.

[0171] The furnace 2 preferably has a counter surface 33 associated with the stop 32. In an operating position of the feed lance 30, the stop 32 preferably rests against or on the counter surface 33.

[0172] The operating position of the feed lance 30 is, in particular, the position in which the feed lance 30 is located during operation of the furnace 2. The operating position of the feed lance 30 is illustrated in particular in Fig. 2.

[0173] In the operating position, the feed lance 30 is preferably held or fixed to the stop 32, in particular by means of the counter surface 33.

[0174] In the operating position, the feed lance 30 preferably extends into the crucible 5 to a defined penetration depth E. This is particularly illustrated in Fig. 2.

[0175] The penetration depth E is defined in particular by the position of the holder 28 as well as the dimensions of the crucible 5 and the feed lance 30.

[0176] An outer diameter of the feed lance 30 is preferably approximately as large as or slightly smaller than an inner diameter of the crucible 5, in particular so that the feed lance 30 can be inserted into the crucible 5 and, in the operating position or when inserted into the crucible 5, rests against the crucible 5—in particular in a sealing manner. Preferably, the feed lance 30 rests against the crucible 5 in a fluid-tight manner in the operating position, in particular so that no fluid or gas can pass between the feed lance 30 and the crucible 5.

[0177] The feed lance 30 is preferably made of glass and metal.

[0178] The combustion tube 4, the crucible 5 and / or the feed lance 30 are preferably arranged coaxially.

[0179] The furnace 2 preferably has a lock 34 for introducing the sample P.

[0180] The lock 34 is shown in particular in Fig. 8.

[0181] The lock 34 preferably has a lock chamber 35 and a sample holder 36 arranged in the lock chamber 35 for receiving the sample P. The sample holder 36 is preferably displaceable within the lock chamber 35.

[0182] The lock 34 or lock chamber 35 is preferably fluidically connected or connectable to the combustion tube 4.

[0183] The sample holder 36 preferably has a receiving space 37 for the sample P. The receiving space 37 is preferably formed as an opening in the sample holder 36 and / or preferably extends vertically. The receiving space 37 preferably completely penetrates the sample holder 36.

[0184] In a first position, the sample holder 36 is preferably accessible from outside the lock 34, in particular so that the sample P can be introduced into the sample holder 36 or the receiving space 37.

[0185] In a second position, the sample holder 36, in particular the receiving space 37, is preferably fluidically connected to the combustion tube 4.

[0186] Figure 10 shows, in particular, the second position of the sample holder 36, while the first position is not shown. The sample holder 36 is preferably movable from the first position to the second position and / or vice versa, in particular displaceable by a linear movement.

[0187] The lock 34 preferably has a closure plate 38, by which the lock chamber 35 is at least partially closed or covered. The closure plate 37 is preferably arranged on a top side and / or on the side of the lock chamber 35 facing away from the combustion tube 4.

[0188] The closure plate 38 preferably has an opening 39 through which the sample P can be introduced into the sample holder 36 or the receiving space 37. In particular, the opening 39 is arranged in alignment with the receiving space 37 in the first position of the sample holder 36.

[0189] In the second position of the sample holder 36, the receiving space 37 is preferably fluidically connected to the combustion tube 4, in particular arranged in alignment with the combustion tube 4.

[0190] The furnace 2 preferably has a displacement device 40 for moving or displacing the sample holder 36 between the first and second positions. The displacement device 40 can be moved manually or automatically, in particular by motor.

[0191] The lock 34 preferably has a closure device 41 for closing the lock chamber 35. In particular, the opening 39 of the closure plate 38 can be closed or covered by means of the closure device 41.

[0192] The lock 4 or lock chamber 35 is preferably sealed or sealable from the outside by means of a seal 42. It is preferred that the seal 42 be designed as an O-ring and / or surround the opening 39. Preferably, the seal 42 is held or arranged in the closure plate 37.

[0193] The closure device 41 preferably has a plunger 43 and a displacement device 44 for displacing the plunger 43. The plunger 43 is preferably arranged and / or movable coaxially with the opening 39 and / or the seal 42. In particular, the plunger 43 is movable in the direction of the opening 39 in order to close and / or seal the lock chamber 35, in particular such that the plunger 43 bears against the seal 42 and presses against it, so that the lock chamber 35 is sealed off from the outside and no gas can pass through the opening 39 into the lock chamber 35 when the plunger 43 bears sealingly against the seal 42.

[0194] The movement of the stamp 43 is carried out in particular with the movement device 44.

[0195] The movement device 44 can be moved automatically, in particular by motor, and / or manually.

[0196] To introduce the sample P into the furnace 2, the sample holder 36 is preferably positioned in the first position and the sample P is introduced into the sample holder 36 or arranged in the receiving space 37.

[0197] Subsequently, in particular by means of the displacement device 41, the sample holder 36 is moved into the second position, which is shown in particular in Fig. 8.

[0198] Preferably, the sample P falls into the combustion tube 4 or into the crucible 5 arranged in the combustion tube 4 when the sample holder 36 is in the second position or the receiving space 37 is located above the combustion tube 4.

[0199] After or during the movement of the sample holder 36 into the second position, the plunger 43 is preferably moved against the opening 39 and / or seal 42, in particular by means of the displacement device 44, so that the lock chamber 35 is sealed.

[0200] Thereafter, a desired atmosphere can be set in the furnace 2, the combustion tube 4 and / or the lock chamber 35, for example by supplying gas, in particular oxygen, and / or by setting a desired pressure and / or a specific desired temperature.

[0201] If necessary, the sample holder 36 can be moved out of the second position again for or before setting the desired atmosphere in order to release the combustion tube 4 and / or to enable or facilitate the supply of gas to the combustion tube 4. However, this is not mandatory.

[0202] The lock 34 enables easy and safe handling.

[0203] Further aspects of the present invention, which can be implemented independently but can also be combined with the aspects, features and properties explained above, are in particular:

[0204] 1 . Furnace 2 for an analytical device 1 for analyzing a sample P, with a combustion tube 4 for receiving a crucible 5 for the sample P, preferably wherein the furnace 2 has a feed lance 30 which can be inserted into the combustion tube 4 and for introducing the sample P and / or oxygen into the combustion tube 4, characterized in that the combustion tube 4 has a holder 28 for the crucible 5 which is arranged in a cylindrical section of the combustion tube 4 and projects inwardly from the cylindrical section, and / or that the feed lance 30 has or consists of an at least substantially hollow cylindrical section 31 and a stop 32 arranged at the end of the section 31, and / or that the feed lance 30 projects into the crucible 5 to a defined penetration depth E in an operating position.

[0205] 2. Furnace according to aspect 1, characterized in that the holder 28 is formed integrally with the combustion tube 4, in particular the cylindrical section.

[0206] 3. Furnace according to aspect 1 or 2, characterized in that the holder 28 forms a support surface for the crucible 5.

[0207] 4. Oven according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the holder 28 has a plurality, in particular at least three, spaced-apart mounting elements 29 distributed over the circumference of the cylindrical section. 5. Oven according to aspect 4, characterized in that the mounting elements 29 are evenly distributed over the circumference and / or are of identical construction.

[0208] 6. Oven according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the combustion tube 4 and / or the holder 28 are made of glass or metal.

[0209] 7. Furnace according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the feed lance 30 rests fluid-tight against the crucible 5 in the operating position.

[0210] 8. Furnace according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the stop of the feed lance 30 projects outwards from the hollow cylindrical section.

[0211] 9. Furnace according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the furnace 2 has a counter surface 33 assigned to the stop 32 of the feed lance 30, against which the stop 32 rests in an operating position and / or that the feed lance 30 is held or fixed in an operating position on the stop 32, in particular by means of the counter surface 33.

[0212] 10. Furnace according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the feed lance 30 is made of glass or metal.

[0213] 11. Analysis device 1 with a furnace 2 designed according to one of the preceding aspects.

[0214] Individual features and aspects of the present invention can be implemented independently of one another, but also in any combination.

[0215] List of reference symbols:

[0216] Analyzer 22 first flat surface

[0217] Oven 23 second flat surface

[0218] Analysis channel 24 breakthrough

[0219] Burner tube 25A End stop A Inside 25B End stop B Axial (lower) end 26 Control device C Axial (upper) end 27 Handle D Outside 28 Bracket

[0220] Crucible 29 support element

[0221] Connection arrangement 30 feed lance

[0222] Connecting part 31 Section A Outer section 32 Stop B Projection 33 Counter surface Sealing element 34 Lock

[0223] Carrier 35 Lock chamber A Outer section 36 Sample holder B Projection 37 Receiving space C Base section 38 Closure plate 0 Connection piece 39 Opening 1 Contact surface 40 Displacement device 2 Section 41 Closure device 3 Section 42 Seal 4 Support surface 43 Stamp 5 Section 44 Displacement device 6 Stop surface 7 Opening A Movement axis of 68 Fastening arrangement B Movement axis of 199 Actuating element E Penetration depth 0 Inclined surface P Sample 1 Coupling part

Claims

Patent claims:

1. Furnace (2) for an analytical device (1) for analyzing a sample (P), comprising a combustion tube (4) and a connecting arrangement (6) for fluidically connecting the combustion tube (4) to an analysis channel (3) of the analytical device (1), wherein the connecting arrangement (6) has a connecting part (7) which, in a sealing position of the connecting arrangement (6), is fluid-tightly connected to the combustion tube (4), characterized in that the connecting part (7) can be fluid-tightly connected to the combustion tube (4) on an inner side (4A) and / or outer side (4D) of the combustion tube (4), and / or that the connecting arrangement (6) has a support (9) movable relative to the connecting part (7) and / or the combustion tube (4) and a sealing element (8) arranged between the support (9) and the connecting part (7), and / or that the furnace (2) has an actuating element (19),wherein the connecting arrangement (6) is movable into the sealing position by a linear and / or transverse movement of the actuating element (19) to a movement axis (A) of the connecting arrangement (6), and / or that the combustion tube (4) is straight and / or curvature-free.

2. Oven according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting arrangement (6) is arranged or can be arranged at least partially within the combustion tube (4).

3. Oven according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the combustion tube (4) forms a stop for the connecting arrangement (6), in particular the support (9), particularly preferably wherein in the sealing position the support (9) rests against the combustion tube (4) or stop.

4. Oven according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting part (7) and / or the support (9) has a funnel-shaped and / or frustoconical contact surface (11) for the sealing element (8).

5. Oven according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing element (8) is annular and / or surrounds the connecting part (7) and / or the combustion tube (4).

6. Oven according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support (9) at least partially surrounds the connecting part (7) and / or the connecting part (7) is at least partially arranged in a central opening (17) of the support (9).

7. Oven according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting arrangement (6) can be moved into the sealing position by a particularly linear movement of the carrier (9) relative to the connecting part (7) and / or the combustion tube (4).

8. Oven according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a, in particular linear, movement of the actuating element (19) causes a lifting movement of the support (9), wherein the lifting movement runs transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the direction of movement of the actuating element (19).

9. Oven according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (19) has an inclined surface (20), in particular wherein the inclined surface (20) is designed to generate a movement of the connecting arrangement (6) or of the carrier (9) along the movement axis (A) of the connecting arrangement (6) when the actuating element (19) moves.

10. Oven according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (19) has an opening (24), in particular wherein the opening (24) is an elongated hole and / or forms at least one end stop (25A, 25B) for limiting a movement of the actuating element (19).

11. Oven according to claim 10, characterized in that the connecting part (7) is arranged in the opening (24).

12. Furnace according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the combustion tube (4) can be removed from the furnace (2) and / or inserted into the furnace (2) by a linear movement.

13. Analysis device (1) for analyzing a sample (P) with a furnace (2) according to one of the preceding claims.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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