Method and device for removing packing elements from containers

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and a device for removing packing elements (52) from a container (50), wherein the packing elements (52) are detached from one another in the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50) by means of a device (1, 101) and are then removed from the container (50) via a container opening (53). In order to detach the packing elements (52), an exothermic chemical reaction is initiated by means of the device (1, 101), said reaction releasing a pressure wave in the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50), said pressure wave leading to the detachment of the packing elements (52).

Description

[0001] METHOD AND DEVICE FOR REMOVAL OF FILLERS FROM CONTAINERS

[0002] The invention lies in the field of process engineering, in particular chemical and thermal process engineering, and relates to a method, a connection configuration and a device for removing packing materials from containers.

[0003] In the processing industry, containers filled with packing materials are used in the preparation or production of liquid or gaseous substances or mixtures. The packing materials serve primarily to increase the effective surface area.

[0004] The vessel can be, for example, a column. A column is a process engineering device in the form of a tubular hollow body with internal components that are necessary due to its intended use or operating conditions. Columns are generally vertically oriented and have a column-like hollow structure. Columns in the form of hollow, slender columns are particularly common. A column forms at least one, and usually several, cascaded chambers or process chambers. A column can therefore also be described as a network of several process stages.

[0005] According to one application, a column serves to separate mixtures of substances using separation processes such as thermal or physical methods. This utilizes physical properties and equilibrium states between different phases.

[0006] Separation processes that utilize columns in process engineering include rectification (rectification column), extraction, adsorption, absorption, and crystallization. Rectification columns are used, for example, in petroleum refining to separate crude oil into various fractions such as bitumen, heavy oils, diesel / heating oil, kerosene, light gasoline, and liquefied petroleum gas, etc.

[0007] Internal components in the column serve to increase mass and energy exchange between the phases or (as in extraction) to prevent backmixing.

[0008] A special type of column used in separation processes is the so-called stripping column. Stripping is a physical separation process in which substances are transferred from a liquid phase to the gas phase through desorption. For this purpose, the liquid phase is brought into contact with a gas in a countercurrent flow. Stripping is used, for example, in petroleum refining to remove lighter components from the product drawn off the side of a column, such as kerosene from the more volatile gasoline. Stripping is also used in the desulfurization of petroleum products. Technically, stripping is usually carried out in packed columns.

[0009] In another application, columns are used as reactors in which reactants are converted into at least one other substance in a chemical reaction. For example, reaction columns or cascade reaction columns with multiple (process) chambers are known, with a chemical reaction taking place in each chamber. This type of column is characterized by a cascade of reactors.

[0010] Reaction columns are used, for example, in the hydrodesulfurization of petroleum products.

[0011] The columns mentioned above generally contain internals necessary for the process. A special type of internal is the loose packing material. In this case, the column is filled with packing material in a loose layer or bulk, i.e., randomly. The packing material rests, for example, in large quantities on a support grate. This is also referred to as an unstructured packing material. Therefore, these packing materials are classified as unstructured internals of columns. Such columns are also called packed columns.

[0012] The packing material serves primarily to increase the effective surface area. For example, the packing material piled up in a column creates a mass with a large internal surface area and high porosity. In reactors, the packing material also forms the catalyst, e.g., in the form of a coating.

[0013] The packing material ensures, for example, good distribution of the liquid and turbulence of the gas flow. The increased surface area intensifies heat and mass transfer, thus increasing the separation efficiency and reaction rate in the column.

[0014] Depending on their intended use, filler materials consist of different materials and come in different geometries.

[0015] The filler materials can be made of materials such as stainless steel, plastic, or ceramic. They can be coated or uncoated.

[0016] Spherical filler materials are widely used in terms of geometric shape.

[0017] The columns typically have a length or height and a diameter of several meters, as is common for industrial scales.

[0018] The packing material can have a maximum diameter of, for example, 5 to 80 mm. The vessel can also be a fixed-bed reactor. A fixed-bed reactor is a special type of reactor in which one or more fluids flow through a fixed bed or packing of packing material. The fixed bed often serves to fix catalysts. The catalyst can be in the form of surface-coated but solid bodies (spheres, hollow cylinders, and more complex geometries) or similarly porous media.

[0019] The packing material, which is present loosely in the container, for example, must be removed periodically, e.g., every two years. This is done either to replace it with new packing material or to return the removed packing material to the container after treatment, such as cleaning. Furthermore, it may also be necessary to carry out maintenance work inside the container, which necessitates the removal of the packing material.

[0020] An efficient method for removing packing material from the inside of containers is so-called gravitational emptying. In this process, the packing material is released from the container through an opening, such as an outlet opening, by means of gravity. The opening is accordingly located in a lower area of ​​the container or the relevant container chamber.

[0021] Another method is to extract the packing material from inside the container. While this requires an additional extraction system, it allows emptying to occur independently of the force of gravity acting on the packing material.

[0022] A combination of suction with gravity-assisted emptying is also possible.

[0023] However, the packing material can clump together during its use in the container, preventing it from being emptied without prior processing. This is because the container opening is too small to allow the clumping of packing material to escape. Furthermore, packing material that adheres to one another tends to form a so-called bridging structure, which causes the packing material to be held back by the bridging and prevent it from sliding down into the void created during emptying.

[0024] Therefore, it is common practice for workers to enter the container through a manhole and manually separate the clumped packing material using a tool such as a chisel hammer, so that in a subsequent step they can be released from the container through an opening, e.g. by gravity.

[0025] There are also solutions in which a tool operated from outside the container is inserted through the manhole and processes the bulk material using a rotating jet of liquid until the clumps are dissolved.

[0026] However, the aforementioned methods are cumbersome and very time-consuming. Furthermore, working inside the container is hazardous to health and involves an increased risk of accidents.

[0027] The worker can only work inside the reactor column wearing a protective suit with a breathing air supply, which protects him from dust and harmful gases. Since the reactor column is frequently flooded with gaseous, non-reactive nitrogen, the atmosphere inside is oxygen-deficient or oxygen-free, so breathing air must be supplied from outside. Furthermore, high temperatures inside the reactor columns also make the work more difficult.

[0028] Furthermore, the bridging of packing material described above poses a risk of falls for workers inside the container, as they could, for example, fall downwards through a collapsing packing material bridge and be buried by the packing material.

[0029] Furthermore, the use of mechanical tools can cause damage to the interior of the vessel. If a liquid jet is used to loosen the packing material, this leads to contamination of the reactor vessel and the packing material with the liquid, necessitating further cleaning steps.

[0030] It is therefore an object of the present invention to propose a method, a connection configuration and a device by which a packing material in a container can be dissolved in an efficient and low-emission manner and with as little manual labor as possible and emptied from the container, e.g. by gravity.

[0031] The process is intended to result in a noticeable time saving compared to conventional methods.

[0032] The process should be particularly low-emission and, in particular, emission-free.

[0033] Furthermore, the removal of the packing material should be carried out, if possible, without the use of a liquid medium, which on the one hand contaminates the container and the packing material and on the other hand has to be disposed of separately or reprocessed.

[0034] Furthermore, the process should be simple, reliable and, in particular, safe to use.

[0035] The procedure should not require, in particular, the deployment of personnel inside the container.

[0036] At least one of the aforementioned problems is solved by the features of independent claims 1, 31 and 34. Further developments and special embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0037] According to the invention, the filling elements inside the container are separated from each other by means of a device and then removed from the container via an opening in the container.

[0038] The removal of the dissolved packing material is primarily carried out by gravity. That is, the dissolved packing material is drained from the container through an opening by gravity.

[0039] The dissolved filler particles can also be extracted using a suction device with or without gravity assistance.

[0040] The invention is characterized in that, to loosen the packing materials, an exothermic chemical reaction is triggered by means of the device, which releases a pressure wave in the interior of the container, leading to the loosening of the packing materials in the interior of the container.

[0041] The vessel can be, in particular, a column, such as a separation column or a reactor column. A vessel filled with packing material is accordingly, in particular, a packed column.

[0042] The container can also generally be a reactor with a packing material, such as a fixed-bed reactor.

[0043] Further details regarding possible embodiments and the construction of columns and reactors, as well as the packing materials contained therein to which the present invention is applicable, can be found in the introductory description. The exothermic chemical reaction is, in particular, a combustion process. The combustion process is, more specifically, an explosion. If the combustion process is associated with an explosion, the packing materials inside the vessel are ejected using explosion technology.

[0044] The explosion can occur in the form of a deflagration. The explosion can occur in the form of a detonation.

[0045] The exothermic chemical reaction is triggered in particular by the ignition of a reactive, especially flammable and especially explosive substance.

[0046] The reactive substance could be an explosive, such as a blasting agent.

[0047] The reactive substance is produced or mixed from at least two starting components.

[0048] The production or mixing of the reactive substance from the at least two starting components takes place in particular during a work cycle.

[0049] The reactive substance is, in particular, a flammable and especially explosive gaseous mixture. The flammable or explosive gaseous mixture is produced or mixed, in particular, from at least two starting components. The at least two starting components can be gaseous or liquid. During the production of the mixture, the at least two starting components are, in particular, gaseous or transition into the gaseous state.

[0050] The starting components can be liquid, especially if they are stored under pressure in pressurized containers. The liquid starting components may, for example, only transition into the gaseous state during the production of the explosive, gaseous mixture. A first starting component is, in particular, a fuel. The fuel can be, in particular, a rapidly evaporating liquid. The fuel is, in particular, from the group of flammable hydrocarbons, such as acetylene, ethylene, methane, ethane, or propane, gasoline, or diesel.

[0051] A second gaseous component is in particular an oxidizing agent, such as oxygen or an oxygen-containing gas.

[0052] The flammable or explosive gaseous mixture is formed in particular from a first starting component, which is a fuel, and a second starting component, which is an oxidizing agent.

[0053] The explosive, gaseous mixture is produced or mixed from the at least two starting components, particularly during the inventive process, i.e., during each work cycle.

[0054] Ignition of the reactive substance, in particular the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture, triggers an explosion, which creates a pressure wave or explosion pressure wave that dislodges the packing material inside the container.

[0055] The exothermic chemical reaction is triggered primarily inside the container. According to this first scenario, an explosion of a flammable or explosive reactive substance also occurs primarily inside the container. Accordingly, the associated pressure wave is also generated locally inside the container.

[0056] The device includes, in particular, a pressure wave generation unit in which the pressure wave is generated and directed to the treatment location. If the reactive substance is a flammable or explosive gaseous mixture, it can be provided in a container or pressure wave reservoir for the pressure wave generation unit.

[0057] "Providing" means, in particular, that the container shell or pressure wave vessel is filled with an explosive, gaseous mixture. However, "providing" can also mean that the container shell or pressure wave vessel is filled with at least two of the initial components, whereby the explosive mixture forms within the container shell or pressure wave vessel.

[0058] In the latter case, at least two output components can be introduced into the container shell or pressure wave container sequentially or simultaneously.

[0059] The at least two output components can be introduced into the container shell or pressure wave container via a common feed or supply line, e.g. one after the other, or via separate feed or supply lines, e.g. simultaneously.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the pressure wave generating device of the apparatus comprises a pressure wave container, in particular a pressure-resistant one, with a pressure chamber or explosion chamber which has a pressure outlet opening that can be closed by a closure device. Such pressure wave generating devices are also called explosion generators.

[0061] To carry out the procedure, an explosive substance, in particular an explosive gaseous mixture, is provided in the pressure chamber of the pressure wave container.

[0062] The explosive substance is under pressure in the pressure chamber. This pressure can be, for example, several bar or several hundred kPa. To generate a pressure wave, the explosive substance in the pressure chamber is ignited by an ignition device and detonated.

[0063] Before, during, or after the ignition of the explosive substance, the release valve is activated, opening the vent, and an (explosive) pressure wave escapes through the vent into the interior of the container. This pressure wave dislodges the packing material inside the container.

[0064] The release of the outlet opening before or after the ignition of the explosive substance occurs, in particular, fractions of a second before or after the ignition of the explosive substance.

[0065] The precursor components, primarily gaseous, are fed into the pressure chamber from metering containers via a feed line. These metering containers are in turn supplied primarily from gas storage devices, such as gas cylinders.

[0066] Since standard gas cylinders have high filling pressures of, for example, 15-30 MPa, a pressure reducing device is usually provided in the area of ​​the gas cylinder outlet.

[0067] The closing element is, in particular, a closing piston. The device can be designed such that the closing element or closing piston is actuated by the explosion of the explosive substance, thereby releasing the outlet opening. For this purpose, the closing element or closing piston can have a pressure-bearing surface through which an opening pressure or opening force is exerted on the closing element or closing piston by the substance exploding in the pressure chamber.

[0068] It can also be provided that the opening pressure or force is generated by a secondary explosion, which occurs, for example, in a secondary chamber. However, the closure device can also be actuated by an actuating mechanism. The actuation of this mechanism is controlled, in particular, by a control device and is specifically synchronized with the ignition of the explosive substance. The actuating mechanism can also be actuated by the explosion of the explosive substance itself or by a secondary explosion.

[0069] The closing mechanism can interact with restoring devices which return the closing mechanism to the closed position after the explosion pressure has escaped from the pressure chamber.

[0070] The resetting mechanism can be, for example, a gas-filled chamber in which a gas, such as nitrogen, is compressed as the locking element retracts into the open position. The locking element returns to the closed position due to the expansion of the gas after the explosion pressure is released from the pressure chamber. Thus, the resetting mechanism can be designed as a gas spring.

[0071] It may also be provided that, in order to retract the sealing piston into an open position, gas is released from the gas chamber via a valve, and, in order to move the sealing piston into its closed position, gas is let back into the gas chamber via the valve or another valve.

[0072] The return mechanism can also include a (mechanical) return spring, such as a compression spring, which is pre-tensioned when the locking element is moved.

[0073] The pressure wave generating device or its pressure wave reservoir can be mounted on the pressure wave reservoir, particularly in the area of ​​a reservoir opening, with the outlet opening facing into the interior, to carry out the method according to the invention. The pressure wave generating device or its pressure wave reservoir can also be attached to an insertion device, such as a lance, and inserted into the interior via this device or positioned in an opening to the interior.

[0074] The pressure wave container may contain an outlet channel, such as an outlet funnel, connected to the outlet opening.

[0075] According to a further embodiment, the pressure wave generating device of the apparatus comprises a container shell. The container shell is particularly thin-walled. The container shell is particularly flexible and, for example, foldable. The container shell is particularly designed as a consumable material that is destroyed upon ignition of the explosive gaseous mixture. The container shell can have a capacity of at least 15 liters, particularly at least 30 liters. The capacity can be a maximum of 250 liters, particularly a maximum of 220 liters.

[0076] Depending on the type and size of the container to be emptied, the container shells can have a capacity of 30, 110, or 220 liters. In practice, the container shells can be completely or partially filled with an explosive gas mixture. This means the filling volume can vary independently of the maximum capacity of the container shell.

[0077] The container shell can be made of paper or plastic, for example. It can also consist of a composite of layers.

[0078] To carry out the process, the empty container shell is placed inside the container and then filled with a flammable and, in particular, explosive gaseous mixture or at least two of its constituent components. The container shell is placed inside the container in a compact, e.g., folded, state so that it fits through the container opening. The container shell may be connected to a transport line for this purpose. The flammable or explosive gaseous mixture, or at least two of its constituent components, is transported to the container shell via the transport line.

[0079] According to another embodiment, a cloud of flammable and, in particular, explosive gaseous mixture is generated inside the container by means of the device or the pressure wave generating device.

[0080] The flammable or explosive gaseous mixture, or at least two of its initial components, can be transported by means of a transport line, such as a transport pipe, lance body or transport hose, to an outlet device connected to the transport line and released into the interior of the container via at least one outlet opening of the outlet device, forming the cloud.

[0081] The outlet device can include a diffuser for this purpose. The diffuser is characterized by a funnel-shaped widening of the outlet opening. This reduces the outflow velocity of the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture. As a result, the turbulence of the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture upon exiting the outlet device decreases, and thus the mixing of the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture with the ambient atmosphere is reduced or prevented.

[0082] The outlet device can also contain or consist of a cylindrical, in particular circular cylindrical, outlet pipe.

[0083] The discharge device can be designed as a rigid or flexible, dimensionally stable discharge pipe, such as a flex pipe, or it can include one. According to a second variant, the exothermic chemical reaction is triggered or takes place outside the interior of the container. Accordingly, any explosion also occurs, in particular, outside the interior of the container. According to this variant, the resulting pressure wave is directed into the interior of the container. This can be achieved, for example, by means of appropriate pressure wave introduction devices. These devices can, for example, include a pipe with a discharge opening directed into the interior of the container.

[0084] As already mentioned, the flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture or its starting components can be conveyed or transported to the interior of the container or introduced into it, in particular via at least one supply or transport line.

[0085] According to one variant, the flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture is produced or mixed from the at least two starting components, especially outside the interior of the container, and conveyed or transported into the interior of the container via the at least one transport or supply line.

[0086] According to a particular embodiment of the method, which contains features as described above, it comprises the following steps:

[0087] - Providing a gaseous, explosive mixture in at least one transport line;

[0088] - Transporting the gaseous, explosive mixture to a working-side outlet opening of the transport line;

[0089] - Controlled ignition of the gaseous, explosive mixture by means of an ignition device, wherein the gaseous, explosive mixture is detonated. According to a first embodiment of this method, the process comprises the following steps:

[0090] - Attaching a container sleeve to the working-side outlet opening of the transport line;

[0091] - Inserting the container liner into the interior of the container;

[0092] - Filling the container shell with the gaseous, explosive mixture transported through the transport line.

[0093] According to a second variant of this embodiment, the method comprises the following steps:

[0094] - Outflow of the explosive mixture through at least one working-side outlet opening of the transport line into the interior of the container and formation of a cloud of gaseous, explosive mixture.

[0095] According to a further development of the invention, before the pressure wave is generated, which is achieved by an exothermic chemical reaction, an atmosphere of a non-reactive gas or gas mixture is produced in the interior of the container or column. This is done, for example, by introducing a non-reactive gas or gas mixture into the interior of the container and displacing the existing gas or gas mixture from the interior of the container.

[0096] The non-reactive gas or gas mixture is, in particular, an inert gas. Nitrogen is a prime example of a non-reactive gas.

[0097] Thanks to the atmosphere of a non-reactive gas or gas mixture, the chemical reaction, and in particular any combustion process, is limited to the reactive substance provided for this purpose and thus remains controllable. An undesirable overreaction involving other reactive gaseous substances remaining in the container, such as oxygen or hydrocarbons, can be ruled out. The invention also relates to a device for carrying out the process described above.

[0098] The device is characterized by a pressure wave generation device for generating or triggering an exothermic chemical reaction by activating the reactive substance and releasing a pressure wave inside the container.

[0099] The device may further include a supply unit for providing the reactive substance or its starting components.

[0100] The pressure wave generating device may include an ignition device for igniting the reactive substance.

[0101] The ignition device is located, in particular, in the mixing zone of a mixing unit or downstream of the mixing zone. The ignition device is located, in particular, in the mixing unit or in a transport line connected to it.

[0102] The device includes, in particular, a control device for controlling the ignition of the reactive substance by means of the ignition device.

[0103] The control device also serves in particular to control the metered supply of the reactive substance.

[0104] If the reactive substance, such as a flammable or explosive gaseous mixture, is produced from at least two starting components, the device in particular includes a mixing unit for mixing the reactive substance from the at least two starting components.

[0105] The pressure wave generation device may include pressure introduction means for introducing the pressure wave triggered by the exothermic chemical reaction into the interior of the vessel. This is particularly relevant if the exothermic chemical reaction is initiated or takes place outside, e.g., completely or partially outside, the interior of the vessel. The means may include a pressure outlet device and / or a pressure wave conduit.

[0106] The pressure wave generation device includes, in particular, at least one transport line for conveying the reactive substance or its output components to the interior of the container. This at least one transport line serves, in particular, to introduce the reactive substance or its output components into the interior of the container.

[0107] Alternatively or additionally, the transport line can be used to transport a pressure wave to the interior of the container.

[0108] The transport line connects in particular to a mixing unit.

[0109] The transport line forms at least one closed transport channel through which a flammable or explosive gaseous mixture or its starting components can be transported.

[0110] The transport line can be designed as, in particular, a rigid transport pipe, or it can contain one. The transport line can be designed as, or it can contain, a transport hose. The transport line can have one or more closed transport channels.

[0111] The transport pipe can be made of metal such as steel or of plastic.

[0112] The transport channel can have a (maximum) diameter of 60 mm or less, 50 mm or less, 40 mm or less, 30 mm or less, or even 20 mm or less. The (maximum) diameter can be 5 mm or larger, 10 mm or larger, 20 mm or larger, or even 30 mm or larger.

[0113] If the reactive substance is a flammable and, in particular, explosive gaseous mixture, the supply device shall, in particular, contain at least one pressure vessel for storing the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture or its starting components.

[0114] If the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture is produced from at least two starting components, the supply system comprises at least two pressure vessels for storing the respective starting components. That is, one pressure vessel is provided for each starting component. The pressure vessels can be gas cylinders, such as those commonly available commercially.

[0115] In a training course, the supply device for the metered provision or production of a flammable or explosive gaseous mixture includes at least one metering container.

[0116] If the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture is produced from at least two starting components, the supply system, according to the further development, contains at least two metering containers for the respective starting components. That is, one metering container is provided for each starting component.

[0117] The size of the dosing containers can vary and may be adapted, for example, to the ratios of the starting components for producing the explosive gas mixture, e.g., in stoichiometric ratios.

[0118] However, it is also conceivable that the metering containers are of the same size and that the proportions of the starting components in the metering containers for producing the explosive gas mixture, e.g., in stoichiometric ratios, are achieved by applying different pressures within the metering containers. The metering container(s) can each be filled to a maximum pressure of 10–40 bar or 1–4 MPa (megapascals). If the pressure chamber of a so-called explosion generator is filled via the metering container(s), higher pressures are generally used than in pressure wave generation devices with container shells for filling with an explosive gas mixture.

[0119] The dosing containers hold or temporarily store under pressure the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture or its starting components, intended for at least one working cycle.

[0120] The dosing containers can store flammable or explosive gaseous mixtures or their starting components for one, two, three or more than three operating cycles.

[0121] The at least one metering container is fed, in particular, from the at least one pressure vessel with a flammable or explosive gaseous mixture or with its constituent components. Accordingly, the at least one metering container is connected to the at least one pressure vessel, in particular, via at least one feed line.

[0122] The device includes at least one fitting for the controlled release of flammable or explosive gaseous mixture or its initial components from the at least one metering container or pressure vessel.

[0123] The device includes, in particular, a corresponding valve for each metering container or pressure vessel. The valve allows control of the quantity of flammable or explosive gaseous mixture, or its constituent components, to be dispensed from the associated metering container or pressure vessel. The valves are controlled, in particular, by the control unit.

[0124] The fittings are used in particular for the discharge of flammable or explosive gaseous mixtures or their constituent components from the associated metering container or pressure vessel and for the introduction of the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture or its constituent components into a mixing unit or a transport line.

[0125] The control of the valves by the control unit serves in particular to meter or produce a flammable or explosive gaseous mixture. The valves are accordingly metering valves.

[0126] The dosing system serves to provide the optimal amount of flammable or explosive gaseous mixture for a work cycle. The optimal amount is characterized by the generation of a sufficiently strong pressure wave to separate the packing material. However, the pressure wave should not be too strong to avoid damaging any components of the container.

[0127] For example, a metered quantity of flammable or explosive gaseous mixture of 30 to 250 liters can be produced for one work cycle.

[0128] If the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture is produced from at least two starting components, the dosing serves, in particular, to provide the individual starting components in a stoichiometric ratio. The stoichiometric ratio reflects the ratio of starting components specified by the corresponding reaction equation.

[0129] The ratio can, however, deviate from the stoichiometric ratio (lambda = l). For example, if the explosion pressure generated by a stoichiometric ratio is too high, ratios with <1 or X >1, e.g., 0.5 < <1.5, can also be used. The associated reaction process can then be a deflagration. For example, ratios of k < l are also used in so-called explosion generators.

[0130] Two methods are available for providing a specific quantity of flammable or explosive gaseous mixture, and in the case of multiple starting components, particularly in a specific ratio of starting components.

[0131] According to one method, the starting components are provided in the appropriate proportions in the dosing containers. When the dosing containers are completely emptied and the components are mixed, a flammable or explosive gaseous mixture in the desired proportions is automatically obtained.

[0132] According to a second method, the quantities of input components required for a specific ratio are supplied via a so-called differential pressure method. In this method, the output components are discharged from the metering containers between a maximum pressure at the start of the discharge process and a target residual pressure after completion of the discharge process, with the target residual pressure being within a positive pressure range.

[0133] The target residual pressure can be calculated in advance based on the maximum pressure at the beginning of the discharge process and the amount of output component to be introduced.

[0134] Based on the quantity of output components to be discharged, and starting from the maximum pressure, the target residual pressure is determined, and the discharge process is stopped when the target residual pressure is reached. For this purpose, the pressure in at least two dosing containers is measured during the discharge process of at least two output components using at least one pressure sensor each.

[0135] The at least two metering valves are controlled by the control unit based on the pressure readings measured by the at least two pressure sensors in the metering container. This means that as soon as the pressure sensors measure the target residual pressure, the dispensing process is stopped by the control unit by closing the metering valves.

[0136] The differential pressure method can also be implemented using the opening duration of the inlet or metering valves. For example, if the time it takes after opening the inlet or metering valves until the target residual pressure is reached is known, the inlet or metering valves can be closed once that opening duration has been reached.

[0137] The differential pressure method can also be applied directly to pressure vessels or gas cylinders.

[0138] The differential pressure method can also be used when an already explosive, gaseous mixture is released from at least one metering container.

[0139] In principle, the two methods mentioned above can also be used to release a defined quantity of flammable or explosive gaseous mixture from a pressure or metering container.

[0140] The flammable or explosive gaseous mixture or its constituent components are stored in the metering container, particularly under pressure. The at least one metering container is supplied with the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture or its constituent components, particularly from the at least one pressure vessel.

[0141] Thus, at least one dosing container is refilled with flammable or explosive gaseous mixture or its starting components from at least one pressure vessel, particularly for each work cycle.

[0142] However, at least one dosing container can also hold flammable or explosive gaseous mixtures or their starting components for several working cycles, e.g. 2 or 3 working cycles.

[0143] The flammable or explosive gaseous mixture or its starting components are introduced from the metering containers or pressure vessels, in particular into the transport line, e.g. via at least one feed line.

[0144] If output components are provided by the metering containers or pressure vessels, they are fed downstream via at least one feed line, in particular into a mixing unit located upstream of the transport line. The mixing unit can be integrated into the supply system. The mixing unit can also be part of the pressure wave generation system. Alternatively, the mixing unit can be located between the at least one metering container and the transport line.

[0145] According to a particular embodiment, the pressure wave generating device comprises an introduction lance with a supply-side end section into which the at least two output components or the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture can be introduced, and a working-side end section with an outlet opening for the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture. The introduction lance particularly includes a transport line. This is designed, for example, as a rigid or flexible, dimensionally stable transport tube, such as a flexible pipe.

[0146] The insertion lance can be designed in particular as a pressure wave generating device with an integrated mixing unit.

[0147] The insertion lance can also be designed as a guide tube for insertion into the interior of the container. The guide tube can, in turn, be connected to a transport line designed as a transport hose. The guide tube can be a rigid or flexible, dimensionally stable tube, such as a flexible pipe.

[0148] The working end section of the insertion lance can be inserted, in particular, into the interior of the container.

[0149] According to further training, the device includes a connection configuration with an adapter for attachment to an opening of the container. The adapter is characterized by a first and a second adapter opening.

[0150] The first adapter opening serves, for example, to insert the pressure wave generating device or parts thereof, such as an insertion lance. It can also serve to introduce a pressure wave generated by the device or pressure wave generating unit. In the latter case, the pressure outlet opening of the pressure wave generating unit is directed specifically towards the first adapter opening. The pressure outlet opening is located directly adjacent to or merges into the first adapter opening. The pressure wave generating unit can be attached to the connection configuration or to the adapter assembly.

[0151] The second adapter opening serves to remove the packing material, in particular to gravitate the release of the packing material from the inside of the container.

[0152] The second adapter opening is larger than the first. The adapter may have a mounting flange, allowing it to be attached to the container opening or to a mounting flange or connection flange of a connecting piece surrounding the container opening. Attachment can be achieved using screw connections.

[0153] The mounting flange of the adapter assembly can have concentrically arranged, arcuate slotted openings for the passage of mounting screws. These slotted openings allow the adapter assembly, and thus the adapter openings, to be aligned relative to the connecting piece around the flange's central axis.

[0154] A seal, such as a flat gasket, can be arranged between the mounting flange of the adapter and the mounting flange or connection flange of the connecting piece. The seal can be positioned on the side of the mounting flange of the adapter facing the connecting piece.

[0155] According to a further development procedure, an annular flange protector can be arranged around the interconnected mounting flanges, covering the gap between the two mounting flanges. The flange protector is intended to prevent dust from escaping between the mounting flanges when the container is emptied. This is particularly useful when no seal is installed between the mounting flanges.

[0156] In a further development, the adapter device forms a connection opening on its end facing the container for inserting the insertion lance and for discharging the packing material. The first and second adapter openings each lead via a channel section into the (common) connection opening. The adapter device is specifically designed such that the opening axes of the adapter openings, which run parallel to the insertion direction of the insertion lance and the discharge direction of the discharge material, respectively, are at an acute angle to each other.

[0157] The first channel section leading from the first adapter opening to the connection opening is particularly straight.

[0158] The channel section connecting the second adapter opening to the connection opening can form an arc or a kink. This is particularly true if, when the adapter assembly is mounted, the channel end section opening into the second adapter opening forms a sharper angle relative to a vertical axis than the channel end section opening into the first adapter opening. This channel end section leading to the second adapter opening is specifically directed vertically downwards.

[0159] The two channel sections adjoining the adapter openings can, in a further development of the adapter device, lead into a (common) connection channel, which in turn ends in the connection opening.

[0160] The adapter assembly can also be multi-part, with a first adapter part containing the adapter openings and the two channel sections connected to a second adapter part that forms the connection channel. Each of the two adapter parts can have a connecting flange, via which the adapter parts are connected to each other using screw connections.

[0161] The connecting flange of the first and / or second adapter part can have concentrically arranged, circumferential, arc-shaped elongated holes for the passage of the fastening screws. These elongated holes allow the first adapter part to be aligned relative to the second adapter part, and thus the adapter openings relative to the first adapter part or to the connecting piece, around the flange's central axis.

[0162] The screw connections for connecting the mounting flanges or the connecting flanges can consist of mounting screws and nuts.

[0163] Any shut-off device provided and described below, e.g. with a sliding element, is located in the first adapter part.

[0164] According to a further development of the invention, the adapter device comprises a shut-off device for blocking or closing the connection opening or the connection channel. For this purpose, the shut-off device can include a sliding element which can be inserted and withdrawn transversely into the connection channel or the connection opening from the outside via a slot opening. The shut-off device is intended to prevent the escape of dust and gases after the emptying process has been completed or during an interruption of the emptying process.

[0165] It may be provided that the insertion lance can be fixed to the connection configuration or the adapter device and in particular via the lance adapter described below in the axial direction, and in particular fixed at different insertion depths.

[0166] According to a training course, the connection configuration includes a lance adapter. The lance adapter forms a through-channel that is open at both ends and completely enclosed, through which the insertion lance passes when installed. The lance adapter can be slid over the insertion lance for installation.

[0167] Furthermore, the lance adapter may have a fastening device, such as a toggle lock, for attaching the lance adapter to the adapter assembly, to the first adapter opening, or to the channel section adjoining it. The fastening device may also consist of an external and internal thread on both the adapter assembly and the lance adapter, allowing the lance adapter to be screwed onto the adapter assembly. The fastening device may also be designed to create a bayonet fitting.

[0168] The lance adapter may also have a gas connection for supplying gas, e.g., nitrogen. This gas connection typically opens into the through-channel. The gas connection can be used to introduce an inert or low-reactivity gas, such as nitrogen, into the container. Furthermore, the introduction of gas through the gas connection can also create back pressure, preventing the escape of dust-laden gases from the container via the lance adapter.

[0169] The gas connection fitting is specifically designed for connecting a gas supply line, such as a hose.

[0170] According to further training, the lance adapter includes a shut-off device for blocking or closing the passageway. This shut-off device can comprise a sliding element that can be inserted and removed transversely from the passageway. The shut-off device is intended to prevent the escape of dust-laden gases when emptying the container if no lance is inserted through the passageway.

[0171] According to further training, the lance adapter comprises at least two first and second lance adapter parts that are rotatable relative to each other. According to this training, the lance adapter specifically has a first lance adapter part that is rotatable relative to a second lance adapter part. The first lance adapter part can, for example, be an outer lance adapter part and the second lance adapter part an inner lance adapter part. The outer lance adapter part can at least partially overlap the inner lance adapter part or can be arranged at least partially around the inner lance adapter part.

[0172] One of the lance adapter parts, in particular the outer lance adapter part, may include, for example, a radially projecting confirmation lever, by means of which the said lance adapter part can be rotated by hand relative to the other, for example, inner lance adapter part.

[0173] The lance adapter can be equipped with a seal, such as a sealing ring, which is pressed against the lance by rotating the two lance adapter parts relative to each other, thus sealing the passage between the transport tube and the lance adapter. This prevents dust from escaping between the transport tube and the lance adapter when the pressure wave generation device is activated. Furthermore, the lance adapter can also be designed so that the lance is secured against axial displacement by rotating the lance adapter parts relative to each other. This absorbs recoil forces.

[0174] Axial locking can be achieved by mechanical means that clamp the lance adapter to the transport tube when the lance adapter parts are rotated relative to each other. This clamping can be accomplished, for example, by the aforementioned seal pressed against the transport tube. Clamping can also be achieved using additional mechanical clamping devices.

[0175] According to further training, the connection configuration includes an extraction hood. The extraction hood has, in particular, a base with a through-opening on the mounting flange side and a surrounding wall extending away from the base and away from the mounting flange. In its mounted state, the base forms, in particular, a through-opening for the connection nozzle. The base can, for example, be made of a rubber-elastic material that can be slipped over the mounting flange. The extraction hood has, in particular, a cylindrical wall.

[0176] The hood wall can comprise a flexible, flat wall body, such as a sheet material or textile, into which a spring-elastic, elongated support body, such as wire, is embedded, for example, in a spiral shape. The support body stretches the flexible wall body to form an extraction hood.

[0177] The extraction hood has, in particular, an extraction opening for extracting the atmosphere surrounding the adapter device. The extraction opening can form an intake port to the outside, to which an extraction line, such as a hose, can be connected. The extraction opening is located, in particular, in the hood wall. An intake port extends, in particular, radially outwards from the hood wall.

[0178] The extraction hood is open to the outside, particularly at its distal end. This allows the lance to be mounted without obstruction and the packing material to be easily emptied via the second adapter opening. An outwardly open extraction hood also allows for the extraction of dust-laden gases that exit the second adapter opening along with the packing material.

[0179] The feed-side end section of the insertion lance forms, in particular, a handle for holding the insertion lance.

[0180] The mixing unit for mixing the output components can be located downstream of the transport line in the supply-side end section. However, the mixing unit can also be located upstream, separately from the inlet lance.

[0181] The flammable or explosive gaseous mixture, or its constituent components, are introduced into the inlet lance from at least one pressure vessel or metering container at the supply-side end section, particularly via at least one feed line. The at least one feed line can, for example, be a hose.

[0182] The transport of the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture or its initial components takes place from the supply-side end section to the working-side outlet opening.

[0183] "supply side" means in particular facing the supply device or located at the supply device, "working side" means in particular facing the filling elements in the interior of the container in the operating position.

[0184] The transport line can be cooled. For this purpose, a cooling fluid, such as a liquid or gas or a mixture thereof, can circulate in a ring channel formed within the transport line. The cooling circuit can be closed.

[0185] Since no foreign substances, such as coolant, nor reactive gases, such as air, should be admitted to the reservoir, the cooling fluid is primarily gaseous nitrogen. Coolants or reactive cooling gases, such as air, should only be used in a closed cooling circuit.

[0186] When container shells are used for filling with an explosive gas mixture, the coolant channel can also be open at the front towards the container shell in order to cool the container shell inserted into the interior with a cooling medium. In this case, an open cooling system is used, and typically only a non-reactive gas, such as nitrogen, is used as the cooling medium.

[0187] However, cooling of the transport line, the outlet device or the container shell is not absolutely necessary.

[0188] A container for the flammable or explosive gaseous mixture can be attached to the working end section or its outlet opening. An outlet device for releasing the pressure wave or the explosive mixture to form a cloud can also be arranged at the working end section.

[0189] Thanks to the inventive method and the associated device, packing materials in containers such as columns or reactors can be separated from each other in a simple, efficient and cost-effective manner, so that they can be gravitationally discharged from the container via a container opening or otherwise removed from the container, e.g. by suction.

[0190] Thanks to the inventive method and the associated apparatus, a reaction column, for example, can be emptied in a comparatively short time. A reactor column can thus be emptied within approximately two days, whereas the emptying process takes around two weeks using a conventional method.

[0191] The inventive method and the associated connection configuration or device ensure a high level of occupational safety, as no personnel need to be deployed inside the container.

[0192] Furthermore, the inventive method is easily controllable and therefore extremely safe.

[0193] Furthermore, the inventive method leaves no residues or hazardous waste, e.g., from contaminated working media such as liquids, which need to be disposed of or reprocessed.

[0194] If container shells are used for filling with an explosive gas mixture in the inventive method, residues of paper or plastic may accumulate. However, such residues can be relatively easily separated and disposed of during the cleaning or processing of the filling materials after emptying.

[0195] Thanks to the further development of the connection configuration, the escape of dust-laden gases from the inside of the container is also prevented.

[0196] The inventive method and the associated apparatus ensure gentle handling of the filling material during emptying. Damage to the filling material, e.g., by abrasion, is significantly reduced compared to conventional methods such as washing or breaking out.

[0197] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. These schematically depict:

[0198] Figure 1: a first embodiment of a device according to the invention;

[0199] Figure 2: a side view of a reactor or separation column;

[0200] Figure 3: a second embodiment of a device according to the invention from the supply-side area;

[0201] Figure 4: the working area of ​​the device according to Figure 3;

[0202] Figure 5a: an outlet device with a diffuser for a device according to the invention for forming a cloud of explosive, gaseous mixture;

[0203] Figure 5b: an outlet device with a cylindrical outlet pipe for a device according to the invention for forming a cloud of explosive, gaseous mixture;

[0204] Figure 6: a third embodiment of a device according to the invention;

[0205] Figure 7a: a perspective view of another embodiment of a connection configuration;

[0206] Figure 7b: a perspective view of the lance adapter of the connection configuration according to Figure 7a; Figure 7c: a perspective view of the connection configuration according to Figures 7a and 7b with suction hood.

[0207] In principle, identical parts in the figures are designated with the same reference numerals. Certain features are not shown in the figures for the sake of understanding the invention. The described embodiments are exemplary of the subject matter of the invention and do not have a limiting effect.

[0208] Figure 1 shows a device 1 for carrying out the inventive method for dissolving the packing material 52 in a reactor column 50. The device

[0209] I comprises a pressure wave generating device (pressure wave generating unit) in the form of a coolable insertion lance 2. The insertion lance 2 includes an outer casing tube 8 and an inner gas intake tube 7 arranged inside the outer casing tube 8, which, among other things, forms the gas intake channel or transport channel 11. The outer casing tube 8 encloses the inner gas intake tube 7, thereby forming an annular cooling channel 12. However, the lance cooling, and with it the casing tube 8 and the cooling channel 12, is not a mandatory feature.

[0210] The insertion lance 2 has a working-side end section 4 and a supply-side end section 5.

[0211] At the working-side end section 4, the supply channel 11 opens into a container connection fitting with outlet openings 31 for an explosive gaseous mixture. Furthermore, a container shell 29 is attached to the container connection fitting at the working-side end section 4. The container shell 29 is connected via the supply channel.

[0212] II and the outlet openings 31 can be filled with the explosive, gaseous mixture provided in the introduction lance 2.

[0213] The inlet lance 2 contains a gas intake tube at the supply-side end section 5.

[0214] 7 arranged inner tube 6. The inner tube 6 forms a first inlet channel 9. The inner tube 6 ends in the direction of the working-side end section 4 in the gas intake tube 7 and forms an outlet opening for the first inlet channel 9.

[0215] A second, annular inlet channel 10 is formed between the outer gas intake tube 7 and the inner tube 6. The two inlet channels 9 and 10 transition at the end of the inner tube 6 into the supply channel 11, which is formed by the outer gas intake tube 7, in the direction of the working-side end section 4. In this transition, the gas flows of the first and second gaseous output components meet. A mixing zone 32 is formed in this transition. The mixing zone 32 is part of a mixing unit 39 in the supply-side end section 5 of the inlet lance 2. In the mixing zone 32, the two gaseous output components are mixed to form an explosive gaseous mixture and conveyed as a mixture through the transport line 11 towards the container shell 29.

[0216] The insertion lance 2 further includes an ignition device 13 with an ignition component, which, viewed in the feed channel 11 towards the working end, is arranged after the end of the inner tube 6. The ignition device 13 is connected to a control unit 3 via a control line 15a.

[0217] The device 1 further comprises a supply unit 37 with a first pressure storage container 24 in the form of a first gas cylinder for feeding a first gaseous output component into the inlet lance 2. The first gas cylinder 24 is connected to a first metering container 21 via a first gas line 22. The first metering container 21 is supplied with the first gaseous component from the first gas cylinder 24. A filling fitting 23, in particular in the form of a valve, is arranged between the first metering container 21 and the first gas cylinder 24, which allows controlled feeding of the first gaseous component from the first gas cylinder 24 into the first metering container 21. Furthermore, a pressure reducing device can be provided to reduce the pressure of the gas exiting the gas cylinder 24. This device can be designed separately or integrated into the filling fitting 23.A first pressure sensor 17 is provided on the first dosing container 21 to measure the pressure in the first dosing container 21.

[0218] From the first dosing container 21, a first feed line 20 leads to the first inlet channel 9 of the inlet lance 2.

[0219] A first metering valve 18, in particular in the form of a valve, is arranged between the first metering container 21 and the first inlet channel 9. This valve allows the metered introduction of the first gaseous component from the first metering container 21 into the first inlet channel 9. The first metering valve 18 is located at the outlet of the first metering container 21. However, the first metering valve 18 can also be located in the supply-side end section 5 of the inlet lance 2.

[0220] A first check valve 19, such as a non-return valve, is also installed between the metering valve 18 and the first inlet channel 9 to prevent backflow of explosive gaseous mixture into the feed line 20 caused by the explosion. However, the check valve 19 is not mandatory.

[0221] The supply unit 37 further includes a second pressure storage container 24' in the form of a second gas cylinder for feeding a second gaseous component into the inlet lance 2. The second gas cylinder 24' is connected to a second metering container 21' via a second gas line 22'. The second metering container 21' is supplied with the second gaseous output component from the second gas cylinder 24'. A second filling fitting 23', in particular in the form of a valve, is arranged between the second metering container 21' and the second gas cylinder 24', which allows metered feeding of the second gaseous component from the second gas cylinder 24' into the second metering container 21'. Furthermore, a pressure reducing device can be provided to reduce the pressure of the gas exiting the gas cylinder 24'. This device can be designed separately or integrated into the filling fitting 23'.

[0222] To measure the pressure in the second dosing container 21', a second pressure sensor 17' is provided on the second dosing container 21'.

[0223] A second feed line 20' leads from the second metering container 21' to the second annular inlet channel 10 of the inlet lance 2. A second metering valve 18', in particular in the form of a valve, is arranged between the second metering container 21' and the second inlet channel 10, which allows metered introduction of the second gaseous component from the second metering container 21' into the second inlet channel 10. The second metering valve 18' is located at the outlet of the second metering container 21'. However, the second metering valve 18' can also be located in the supply-side end section 5 of the inlet lance 2.

[0224] A second check valve 19' is also installed between the second metering valve 18' and the second inlet channel 10 to prevent backflow of explosive gaseous mixture into the second feed line 20' caused by the explosion. However, the check valve 19' is not mandatory.

[0225] The first gaseous component is a flammable gas, such as acetylene, ethylene, or ethane. The second gaseous component is oxygen or an oxygen-containing gas, which, due to stoichiometry, is supplied in larger quantities through the larger, second inlet channel 10.

[0226] The filling of the metering containers 21, 21' is carried out by opening the filling valves 23, 23', whereby the gaseous component flows from the gas cylinder 24, 24' into the pressure vessel 21, 21'. The gaseous component can have a maximum pressure of between 10 and 30 bar or 1 and 3 MPa in the pressure vessel 21, 21'. The pressure vessels 21, 21' serve to meter the starting components, as will be described in more detail below.

[0227] The gaseous components are introduced from the pressure vessel 21, 21' into the associated inlet channel 9, 10 by opening the metering valves 18, 18', whereby the gaseous component flows from the pressure vessel 21, 21' into the associated inlet channel 9, 10.

[0228] The dosing containers 21, 21' with the associated pressure sensors 17, 17' form in particular a dosing unit 38.

[0229] The dosing valves 18, 18' are controlled via control lines 15b, 15c by the control device 3, i.e., opened or closed.

[0230] The control unit 3 includes an input module 14 for inputting control-relevant parameters, as explained above.

[0231] The gaseous starting components are introduced from pressure vessels 21, 21' into the introduction lance 2 in defined quantities and in a defined ratio, e.g., in a stoichiometric ratio. In this way, a defined quantity or volume of explosive gaseous mixture is generated in a defined ratio, e.g., in the correct stoichiometric ratio. In particular, a correct stoichiometric ratio of the gaseous starting components is what makes the gaseous mixture truly explosive.

[0232] Starting with the desired quantity of explosive gaseous mixture and the known, e.g., stoichiometric, ratio of the gas components, the exact quantities of the gaseous components can be calculated. Since the quantity of gaseous component released from the pressure vessel can be calculated from the differential pressure within the pressure vessel, a target residual pressure can now be defined based on a maximum pressure at the beginning of the gas injection. Upon reaching this target pressure, the predefined quantity of gas will be released from the pressure vessel.

[0233] The control unit 3 contains a value for the target residual pressure. The pressure sensors 17, 17' are connected to the control unit 3 via corresponding data lines 16a, 16b. The control unit 3 uses these pressure sensors 17, 17' to monitor the pressure in the pressure vessel 21, 21' as the gas flows out of the pressure cylinder 21, 21'. As soon as the measured pressure corresponds to the target residual pressure, the metering valves 18, 18' are closed by the control unit 3, thus stopping the introduction of gas into the inlet lance 2. Since the pressure vessel 21, 21' has a target residual pressure that is higher than the ambient pressure, it still contains a certain amount of gaseous component.

[0234] As an alternative to the aforementioned differential pressure method, the dosing containers 21, 21' can also be filled precisely with the defined quantity of output component. Accordingly, the dosing containers 21, 21' are completely emptied when the output components are introduced into the inlet lance 2 – in contrast to the differential pressure method described above.

[0235] The above-described methods for generating an explosive gas mixture using metering containers 21, 21' are applicable to all types of pressure wave generating devices described in this patent application.

[0236] After the introduction of the starting components into the inlet lance 2 and the production of the explosive gaseous mixture in the mixing unit 39 of the inlet lance 2, and after the container shell 29 has been filled with the explosive gaseous mixture, the explosive gaseous mixture is ignited by the control device 3 using the ignition device 13. The explosive gaseous mixture is ignited in the feed or transport channel 11, whereby the explosion propagates into the container shell 29 and causes it to explode.

[0237] A viscous coolant 30 is introduced into the annular cooling channel 12 formed by the outer casing tube 8 and the inner gas intake tube 7 and directed towards the working-side end section 4. The coolant 30 cools the gas intake tube 7 and thus the inlet lance 2.

[0238] The inlet lance 2 has connections for the coolant supply lines 27 and 28 at or near its supply-side end section 5. For example, water is supplied through the first supply line 27 and gaseous nitrogen through the second supply line 28. Alternatively, only one coolant supply line may be provided for the supply of only one coolant, e.g., water.

[0239] The coolant, e.g. nitrogen, is circulated in a closed coolant circuit through the coolant channel 12. Accordingly, connections for discharging the coolant can also be provided on the inlet lance 2 (not shown).

[0240] The introduction of the coolant components into the coolant channel 12 is controlled by corresponding fittings 25, 26, such as valves. Actuating these allows the cooling to be switched on and off. This active lance cooling, or rather the valves 25, 26, can be operated manually or controlled via the control unit 3. Accordingly, the fittings 25, 26 are connected to the control unit 3 via control lines (not shown).

[0241] The fittings 25, 26 can also be integrated into the supply unit 37.

[0242] The coolant channel 12 can also be designed solely for passive cooling and act as insulation, thereby protecting the insertion lance 2 and the explosive gas mixture or its components contained therein from overheating. As already mentioned, the lance cooling described above and the associated device are optional and not a mandatory feature of the present invention.

[0243] To carry out the emptying process according to the invention, the working-side end section 4 of the insertion lance 2, with the attached (empty) container shell 29, is inserted in the insertion direction E through a container opening 53 into the reactor chamber 51.1-51.3 of the reactor column 50. The feed-side end section 5 with the mixing unit 39, which forms a handpiece, is not inserted into the reactor chamber 51.1-51.3.

[0244] For this purpose, the device 1 also includes a connection configuration 66 with an adapter device 57, which is connected to the corresponding opening 53 or to a connection nozzle 55 surrounding the container opening of the reactor column 50.

[0245] In the present example, the adapter device 57 has a mounting flange 58, via which it is attached to the reactor column 50 in the area of ​​the opening 53, or to a mounting flange or connection flange 56 on the connection nozzle 55. The adapter device 57 is designed here as an adapter nozzle. The fastening is effected, for example, by means of screw connections 65 (indicated by lines), e.g., using screws and nuts. A flat gasket (not shown) is arranged between the mounting flange 58 and the connection flange 56, in particular, to seal the connection.

[0246] The adapter device 57 forms a first adapter opening 59 for inserting an insertion lance 2, and a second adapter opening 60 for removing the packing material 52, in particular for gravitational discharge of the packing material 52. The two adapter openings 59, 60 each open, in particular via a channel section 67, 68, into the container opening 53 and the connection opening 64 of the adapter device 57, respectively. The two adapter openings 59, 60 are designed and arranged relative to each other such that the insertion lance 2 can be inserted into the reactor chamber 51.1-51.3 through the first adapter opening 59, while simultaneously, e.g., following a work cycle, loose packing material 52 can be gravitationally discharged from the reactor chamber 51.1-51.3 through the second adapter opening 60.

[0247] The adapter device 57 is configured such that the opening axis Al of the first adapter opening 59, which runs parallel to the insertion direction E of the insertion lance 2, and the opening axis A2 of the second adapter opening 60, which runs parallel to the outlet direction A of the outlet bodies 52, are at an acute angle α (α) to each other. In the present embodiment, the outlet direction A of the filler bodies 52 extends vertically downwards, while the insertion direction E of the insertion lance 2 extends obliquely upwards.

[0248] By actuating the metering valves 18, 18', a predefined quantity of output components, as described above, is introduced from the pressure vessels 21, 21' into the introduction lances 2 and mixed in the mixing zone 32 to form an explosive, gaseous mixture.

[0249] The explosive, gaseous mixture generated in the mixing unit 39 flows in the direction of flow S through the inlet lance 2 to the working-side end section 4 and through the outlet openings 31 into the container shell 29 and fills it.

[0250] After the metering valves 18, 18' are closed, the explosive, gaseous mixture is ignited via the control device 3 by means of the ignition device 13 and brought to explosion.

[0251] The explosion creates a pressure wave in reactor chamber 51.1-51.3, which dislodges the clumped packing material 52 or packing bridges in reactor chamber 51.1-51.3 of reactor column 50. This pressure wave generates vibrations in the components of reactor column 50 and in the packing material 52 itself, leading to the dislodging of the packing material 52. The explosion destroys or incinerates the consumable container 29.

[0252] To start a new work cycle, the working-side end section 4 of the insertion lance 2 is withdrawn from the reactor chamber 51.1-51.3 and fitted with a new vessel shell 29. A new work cycle can then begin.

[0253] It may be necessary to perform several work cycles inside the vessel 50, specifically in the respective reactor chamber 51.1-51.3, to completely remove the packing material 52. For this purpose, the vessel shell 29 can be positioned at a different location within the reactor chamber 51.1-51.3 during each work cycle to increase the effectiveness in selected areas.

[0254] Figure 2 shows a reactor column 50, which forms several reactor chambers 51.1-51.3. The reactor column 50 has an opening 53 in the lower region of each reactor chamber 51.1-51.3, which leads into an outlet nozzle 55. The opening 53 is used, on the one hand, to insert the inlet lance 2 into the reactor chamber 51.1-51.3 and, on the other hand, to discharge the dissolved packing material 52 from the reactor chamber 51.1-51.3 by gravity or, additionally or alternatively, by suction. For this purpose, a connection configuration 66 with an adapter device 57, as already described in connection with Figure 1, is mounted on the respective opening 53 or on the outlet nozzle 55.

[0255] The reactor chambers 51.1-51.3 are separated from each other by gas-permeable intermediate trays 54. The packing material 52 rests on these intermediate trays 54 (see Figure 1). Figure 3 shows a further device 101 from the area of ​​the supply unit 137, which, with respect to the mixing unit 112 and supply unit 137, is constructed similarly to the embodiment according to Figure 1.

[0256] The supply unit 137 comprises a metering unit 121 with metering containers 122, 123 for supplying a mixing unit 112, connected downstream of the metering unit 121, with a first and second output component for producing the explosive, gaseous mixture. The first and second output components are supplied to the mixing unit 112 via supply lines 117, 118. The metering containers 122, 123 are in turn supplied with the respective output components via supply lines 127, 128 from gas cylinders 125, 126, which in this example are not integrated into the metering unit 121.

[0257] The dosing unit 121 is designed as a mobile device on wheels, which is intended to simplify the handling of the device 101.

[0258] The dosing unit 121 is also supplied externally with water and nitrogen via corresponding supply lines 129 and 130. These components are required for the production of the cooling medium.

[0259] Furthermore, the dosing unit 121 also has a connecting line 136 to an external power source for power supply.

[0260] The dosing unit 121 also houses a control device 124 for controlling the operating process. Among other things, the control device 124 controls the introduction of the output components into the mixing unit 112.

[0261] A mixing unit 112 is connected downstream of the metering unit 121. A first component, in the form of a gaseous fuel such as ethylene or ethane, is introduced into a first feed channel 114 of the mixing unit 112 via a first supply line 117. A second component, in the form of a gaseous oxidizing agent such as oxygen, is introduced into a second feed channel 115 of the mixing unit 112 via a second supply line 118. The two feed channels 114 and 115 open into a mixing zone 113 of the mixing unit 112, where the two components are mixed to form an explosive gaseous mixture. The introduction of the output components into the mixing zone 113 of the mixing unit 112 can be carried out analogously to the embodiment shown in Figure 1. The arrangement of fittings and pressure sensors can also be analogous to the embodiment shown in Figure 1.

[0262] In contrast to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the mixing unit 112 is not connected downstream to a lance body or transport tube, but rather to a transport hose 110, which is connected to the mixing unit 112 via a swivel joint 111. The explosive mixture is introduced from the mixing zone 113 via a transport channel into the transport channel 103 of the connecting transport hose 110.

[0263] In the present embodiment, the second feed channel 115 is arranged in a ring shape around the first feed channel 114. However, this arrangement is not mandatory.

[0264] The mixing unit 112 further includes an ignition device 131 with an ignition-effective component arranged in the mixing zone 113 or adjacent to the mixing zone. The ignition device 131 is connected via a connecting line 132 to the metering unit 121 or to the associated control unit 124. The ignition device 131 and the ignition process are controlled by the control unit 124.

[0265] The mixing unit 112 further comprises a cooling channel 116, which is arranged in a ring around the mixing zone 113 and the adjoining transport channel of the mixing unit 112. The cooling medium 109 consists of gaseous nitrogen, which is supplied to the cooling channel 116 from the metering unit 121 via separate supply lines 119 and 120. The supply of the cooling medium 109 is also controlled by the control unit 124.

[0266] The cooling medium 109 can also be guided through a (ring-shaped) cooling channel of the transport hose 110.

[0267] Even if the mixing unit 112 has a cooling device, transport hoses can also be connected which do not contain a cooling channel for introducing a cooling medium 109.

[0268] However, cooling and the associated equipment are not mandatory in this embodiment either.

[0269] A check valve 133 is arranged on each of the two supply channels 114, 115, which is intended to prevent the introduction of pressure surges upstream from the mixing unit 112 into the supply lines 117, 118 of the output components.

[0270] Figure 4 shows the device 101 according to the invention as shown in Figure 3 from the working side. As already mentioned, the device 101 includes a transport hose 110, which is connected on the supply side to a mixing unit 112 (see Figure 3).

[0271] A guide tube 42, designed as a handpiece, is attached to the working end of the transport hose 110. The guide tube 42 is connected to the transport hose 110 via a hose coupling 44.

[0272] The guide tube 42 has a transport channel through which the explosive, gaseous mixture is introduced in the flow direction S from the transport hose 110 into the container shell 108. At the working end, the guide tube 42 has a container connection element 43 with an outlet opening to which a container shell 108 is attached.

[0273] The embodiment shown in Figure 4 proves to be particularly practical, as the handling of the transport hose is easier compared to the rigid insertion lance with attached mixing unit.

[0274] To loosen the packing material in reactor chamber 51.1-51.3 of reactor column 50, the guide tube 42 with the (compact) vessel shell 108, but not necessarily the transport hose 110, is inserted into reactor chamber 51.1-51.3. The vessel shell 108 is only filled with the explosive, gaseous mixture in reactor chamber 51.1-51.3, which is supplied in the flow direction S through the transport channel 103.

[0275] As an alternative to the guide tube 42 or to a connection element 43 for a container shell 108, the device 1, 101 can also include an outlet device 91, 191 in the working-side end section for generating a cloud 96, 196 in the reactor chamber 51.1-51.3 of explosive, gaseous mixture, as shown in Figures 5a and 5b.

[0276] The outlet device 91, 191 connects to a feed pressure line 92, 192 (transport line) with a feed pressure channel 98, 198, in which the explosive, gaseous mixture is transported in the flow direction S to the outlet device 91, 191.

[0277] The feed pressure line 92, 192 can be an insertion lance 2 according to Figure 1, a guide tube 42 or a transport hose 1 according to Figure 4.

[0278] The outlet device 91 according to Figure 5a includes a diffuser 93 with an outlet opening 95. The explosive gaseous mixture flows through the diffuser 93 and out through the outlet opening 95, forming the cloud 96. The diffuser 93 serves to reduce the exit velocity of the explosive gaseous mixture. This is intended to prevent turbulence of the explosive gaseous mixture with the surrounding atmosphere and thus prevent dilution of the explosive gaseous mixture.

[0279] However, the diffuser 93 is not a mandatory feature of the outlet device 91, which may therefore also have a different geometry.

[0280] Thus, the outlet device 191 according to Figure 5b has a cylindrical outlet pipe 193 with an outlet opening 195 instead of a diffuser. The explosive, gaseous mixture flows through the outlet pipe 193 and outwards via the outlet opening 195, forming the cloud 196.

[0281] The outlet device 91, 191 according to Figure 5a or 5b and its operation can alternatively be designed such that only one receiving chamber of the outlet device 91, 191 is filled with an explosive mixture and detonated. In this case, no cloud is generated outside the outlet device 91, 191.

[0282] When the explosive, gaseous mixture is ignited, an explosion pressure wave 97, 197 spreads from the outlet opening 95, 195 or from the cloud 96, 196 into the interior 51.2 of the reactor column 50.

[0283] The device 71 according to Figure 6 comprises a pressure-resistant pressure wave container 72, which forms a pressure chamber or explosion chamber 73. The pressure chamber 73 has an outlet opening 75, which can be closed by means of a sealing piston 74.

[0284] The device 71 is attached, for example, permanently or temporarily to the reaction column in the area of ​​an opening. To carry out the process according to the invention, a flammable gas, such as methane or propane, is introduced into the pressure chamber 73, which is sealed by the sealing piston 74, via a first feed line 78 from a first metering container 79, and an oxygen-containing gas, such as oxygen or air, is introduced into the pressure chamber 73 via a second feed line 80 from a second metering container 81. The introduction of the output components is controlled by a control device 84, which switches metering fittings or valves 85 that are arranged on the feed lines 78 and 80.

[0285] The flammable gas and oxygen are introduced into pressure chamber 73 and mixed, particularly in a stoichiometric ratio.

[0286] The explosive gas mixture provided in the pressure chamber 73 as described above is detonated by means of an ignition device 82. The ignition device 82 is also controlled by the control device 84.

[0287] The breechblock piston 74 contains a pressure-bearing surface 83 upon which the explosion pressure acts. The force exerted on the pressure-bearing surface 83 by the explosion pressure causes the breechblock piston 74 to move from the closed position, in which the outlet opening 75 is closed, to an open position, in which the outlet opening 75 is open and the pressure wave 87 can escape through the outlet opening 75.

[0288] The pressure wave 87 escaping from the outlet opening 75 generates vibrations in the reactor chamber 51.1-51.3 of the reactor column 50, which leads to the loosening of the packing material 52 in the reactor chamber 51.1-51.3.

[0289] The locking piston 74 interacts with return means 77, which return the locking piston 74 to the closed position after the explosion pressure has escaped from the pressure chamber 73. The return means 77 can, for example, be designed as a gas spring and be a gas chamber filled with a gas, such as nitrogen, in which a gas is compressed when the locking piston 74 retracts into the open position and is released again when the locking piston 74 returns to the closed position.

[0290] It may also be provided that, in order to retract the sealing piston into an open position, gas is released from the gas chamber via a valve, and, in order to move the sealing piston into its closed position, gas is introduced back into the gas chamber via the valve or another valve (not shown).

[0291] The outlet opening 75 is connected to an outlet funnel 76, which in particular ensures a directed escape of the pressure wave 87.

[0292] The further embodiment of a connection configuration 366 shown in Figures 7a-7c also includes an adapter device 357, which is connected to the corresponding opening 53 or to a connection nozzle 55 surrounding the container opening 53 of the reactor column 50.

[0293] The adapter assembly 357 has a mounting flange 358, via which it is attached to the reactor column 50 in the area of ​​the opening 53, or to a mounting flange or connection flange 56 on the connection nozzle 55. The adapter assembly 357 is also designed as an adapter nozzle in this respect. It is fastened, for example, by means of screw connections 365, such as screws and boltless nuts.

[0294] The adapter device 357 also forms a first adapter opening 359 for inserting an insertion lance 2 and a second adapter opening 360 for removing or dispensing filler material 52, in particular for gravitational dispensing of filler material 52. The two adapter openings 359, 360 each open via a channel section 367, 368 into a common connecting channel 369, which in turn terminates in the container opening 53 or in the connecting opening 364 of the adapter device 357.

[0295] The two adapter openings 359, 360 are also designed and arranged relative to each other in such a way that the insertion lance 2 can be inserted into the reactor chamber through the first adapter opening 359, while at the same time, e.g. following a work cycle, loose packing material 52 can be gravitationally discharged from the reactor chamber through the second adapter opening 360.

[0296] The adapter device 357 is also configured here such that the opening axes Al of the first adapter openings 359, which run parallel to the insertion direction E of the insertion lance 2, and the opening axis A2 of the second adapter opening 360, which runs parallel to the outlet direction A of the outlet bodies 52, are at an acute angle a to each other. In the present embodiment, the outlet direction A of the filler bodies 52 runs obliquely downwards, while the insertion direction E of the insertion lance 2 runs obliquely upwards.

[0297] The present embodiment of the adapter device 357 differs from that shown in Figures 1 and 2, among other things, by its two-part construction with a first and second adapter part 370, 371. The first adapter part 370 has the mounting flange 358, via which it is connected to the mounting flange 56 of the connecting piece 55 by means of screw connections 365. For this purpose, the mounting flange 358 of the first adapter part 370 has concentrically arranged, arcuate elongated holes 374 for the passage of the screws of screw connection 365.

[0298] The arcuate slots 374 on the mounting flange 358 allow the first adapter part 370 to be aligned relative to the connecting piece 55 about the flange's central axis F. The first adapter part 370 is further connected to the second adapter part 371 via a connecting flange 372 opposite the mounting flange 358. The connection to the second adapter part 371 is made via another connecting flange 373 on the second adapter part 371. This additional connecting flange 373 contains concentrically arranged, arcuate slots 374 for the passage of the screws of screw connections 365.

[0299] The arc-shaped elongated holes 374 allow the alignment of the second adapter part 371 relative to the first adapter part 370 and thus of the second outlet opening 360 relative to the first adapter part 370 or to the connecting nozzle 55 around the flange center axis F.

[0300] The screw connections 365 for connecting the mounting flanges 56, 358 or the connecting flanges 372, 373 consist in particular of mounting screws and screw nuts.

[0301] The first adapter part 370 forms the connection channel 369 between the mounting flange 358 and the connecting flange 372 for inserting the insertion lance 2 and for releasing the filler bodies 52.

[0302] The first adapter part 370 is equipped with a shut-off device comprising a sliding element 363 for blocking or closing the connection channel 369. The sliding element 363 can be inserted and removed transversely from the outside into the connection channel 369 via a slot opening 362. The shut-off device is designed to prevent the escape of dust and gases after the emptying process is complete or during an interruption of the emptying process.

[0303] The two aforementioned channel sections 367 and 368 in the second adapter part 371, which connect to the two adapter openings 359 and 360, lead into the common connection channel 369 on the first adapter part 370. A ring seal, such as a flat gasket, can be arranged between the mounting flange 358 of the adapter assembly 357 and the mounting flange 56 of the connection nozzle 55, as well as between the two connecting flanges 372 and 373 of the two adapter parts 370 and 371. The seal is intended to prevent the escape of dust-laden gases from leaks between the mounting flanges 56 and 358 or the connecting flanges 372 and 373.

[0304] The opening axes Al, A2 of the adapter openings 359, 360 also run at an acute angle to each other here.

[0305] The first channel section 367 extending from the first adapter opening 359 is straight. The second channel section 368 extending from the second adapter opening 360 has a bend that deflects the second channel section 368 obliquely downwards. When the adapter assembly 357 is mounted, the opening axis A2 of the second adapter opening 360 forms a more acute angle relative to a vertical axis V than the opening axis Al of the first adapter opening 359 forms with respect to the vertical axis V.

[0306] The connection configuration 366 further comprises a lance adapter 250. The lance adapter 250 forms a lance channel 256 that is open at both ends and completely enclosed, through which the insertion lance 2 or its transport tube 2.1 runs when assembled. For assembly, the lance adapter 250 is slid over the insertion lance 2 (see Figure 7c).

[0307] The lance adapter 250 includes a fastening device in the form of a clamping lock 254, for fastening the lance adapter 250 to the first adapter opening 359 or to the first channel adjoining it from section 367.

[0308] The lance adapter 250 also has a gas connection nozzle 251 for supplying gas to the first channel section 367. For this purpose, a gas supply hose, for example, is connected to the gas connection nozzle 251. The gas connection nozzle 251 opens into the lance channel 256 and serves to introduce an inert or low-reactivity gas, such as nitrogen, into the reactor column 50 and to build up a back pressure that prevents the escape of dust-laden gases from the reactor interior via the lance adapter 250.

[0309] Furthermore, the lance adapter 250 also includes a shut-off device 252 for blocking the lance channel 256. The shut-off device 252 comprises a sliding element 253, operable via a hand knob 257, which can be inserted into and withdrawn from the lance channel 256 transversely. Here, too, the shut-off device 252 is intended to prevent the escape of dust-laden gases during the emptying of the reactor 50 when no lance 2 is guided through the lance adapter 250.

[0310] According to the present embodiment, the lance adapter 250 is further designed in two parts and contains two first and second lance adapter parts 258, 259 that are rotatable relative to each other. The second lance adapter part 259 contains a radially outwardly projecting confirmation lever 255, by means of which the second lance adapter part 259 can be rotated by hand relative to the first lance adapter part 258 about the insertion axis E.

[0311] The lance adapter 250 is equipped with an internal ring seal (not shown), which is pressed or squeezed against the insertion lance 2 or its transport tube 2.1 by turning the second lance adapter part 259 relative to the first lance adapter part 258, thus sealing the lance channel 256 to the outside.

[0312] The lance adapter 250 can also be used in the connection configuration shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0313] According to Figure 7c, the connection configuration 366 additionally includes an extraction hood 200. This serves to extract dust-laden gases that escape from inside the reactor. The extraction hood 200 has a mounting flange-side hood base 205 with a through-opening through which the connection nozzle 55 is guided.

[0314] Furthermore, the extraction hood 200 has a circumferential, circular cylindrical hood wall 203 adjoining the hood base 205 and extending away from the mounting flange 56. The hood wall 203 comprises a flexible, flat wall body 206 in which a spring-elastic support wire 204 is spirally embedded. The support wire 204 tensions the flexible wall body 206 to form an extraction hood 200.

[0315] The extraction hood 200 has an extraction opening 201 recessed laterally into the hood wall 203 for extracting dust-containing gases escaping from the adapter device 357. The extraction opening 201 is surrounded on the outside by a circular cylindrical extraction nozzle 202, to which, for example, an extraction hose (not shown) can be connected.

[0316] The extraction hood 200 is open to the outside, so that the extraction hood 200 does not obstruct the lance mounting and the discharge of the filler bodies 52 via the second adapter opening 360.

[0317] The extraction hood 200 can also be used with the connection configuration shown in Figures 1 and 2.

Claims

1. PATENT CLAIMS 1. Method for removing packing materials (52) from a container (50), wherein the packing materials (52) in the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50) are separated from each other by means of a device (1, 101) and subsequently removed from the container (50) via a container opening (53), characterized in that an exothermic chemical reaction is triggered by means of the device (1, 101), which releases a pressure wave in the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50), which leads to the separation of the packing materials (52).

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the container (50) is one of the following: - a column, such as a reactor column; - a reactor, such as a fixed-bed reactor.

3. Method according to one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the exothermic chemical reaction takes place in the form of a combustion process, in particular an explosion.

4. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the exothermic chemical reaction is triggered by igniting a reactive, in particular flammable and especially explosive substance.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that the reactive substance is a gaseous mixture or explosive.

6. Method according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the reactive substance is produced by mixing at least two starting components.

7. Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that a flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture is produced from at least two starting components.

8. Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the exothermic chemical reaction is triggered in the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50).

9. Method according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture is provided in a container shell (29, 108), wherein the container shell (29, 108) is destroyed when the flammable or explosive, gaseous mixture is ignited.

10. Method according to claim 9, characterized in that the container shell (29, 108) is introduced into the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50) and is filled with a flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture.

11. Method according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that a cloud (96) of flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture is generated in the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50) by means of the device (1, 101).

12. Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the exothermic chemical reaction is triggered outside the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50) and the pressure wave is directed into the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50).

13. Method according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the reactive substance or its starting components are transported to the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50) via at least one transport line (7 110).

14. Method according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that a flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture of at least two starting components is produced outside the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50) and transported to the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50) via at least one transport line (7, 110).

15. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized by the steps: - Providing a flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture in the at least one transport line (7, 110), and - Transporting the flammable, especially explosive, gaseous mixture to a working-side outlet opening (31, 95) of the transport line (7, HO); - controlled ignition of the flammable, in particular explosive, gaseous mixture by means of an ignition device (13, 131), wherein in particular an explosion is produced.

16. Method according to claim 15, characterized by the following steps: - Attaching a container shell (29, 108) to the working-side outlet opening (31, 95) of the transport line (7, 110); - Filling the container shell (29, 108) with the flammable, in particular explosive, gaseous mixture exiting through the working-side outlet opening (31, 95) of the transport line (7, 110).

17. Method according to claim 15, characterized by the following steps: - Outflow of the flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture through at least one working-side outlet opening (31, 95) of the transport line (7, 110) into the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50) and formation of a cloud (96) of flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture.

18. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the device (71) comprises a pressure-resistant pressure wave container (72) with a pressure chamber (73) which has an outlet opening (75) which can be closed via a closure element (74), comprising the steps: - Providing an explosive substance, in particular an explosive gaseous mixture, in the pressure chamber (73) of the pressure wave container (72); - Ignition of the explosive substance by means of an ignition device (82); - Releasing the outlet opening (75) before, during or after ignition of the explosive substance by actuating the closing device (74), and - Release of a pressure wave through the outlet opening (75) into the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50).

19. Method according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, prior to the generation of the pressure wave by an exothermic chemical reaction, an atmosphere of a non-reactive gas or gas mixture, such as nitrogen, is created in the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50).

20. Method according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the device includes a pressure wave generating device (2) for generating the exothermic chemical reaction by activating the reactive substance and for releasing a pressure wave in or introducing a pressure wave into the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50).

21. Method according to claim 20, characterized in that the device includes a supply device (37, 137) for providing a reactive substance or starting components for the production of a reactive substance.

22. Method according to one of claims 20 to 21, characterized in that the pressure wave generating device (2) includes an ignition device (13, 131) for igniting the reactive substance.

23. Method according to one of claims 20 to 22, characterized in that the device includes a control device (3, 124) for controlling the ignition of the reactive substance by means of the ignition device (13, 131) and in particular for controlling the provision of the reactive substance.

24. Method according to one of claims 20 to 23, characterized in that the pressure wave generating device (2) includes a mixing unit (5, 112) for mixing a reactive substance from at least two starting components.

25. Method according to one of claims 20 to 24, characterized in that the pressure wave generating device (2) includes pressure introduction means for introducing the pressure wave triggered by the exothermic chemical reaction into the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50).

26. Method according to one of claims 20 to 25, characterized in that the pressure wave generating device (2) includes at least one transport line (7, 110) for transporting reactive substance, in particular flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture, or of its starting components to the interior (51.1-51.3) of the container (50).

27. Method according to one of claims 20 to 26, characterized in that the supply device (37, 137) is for providing a flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture or the at least two outputs is designed for process components and contains at least one pressure vessel (21, 21'; 122, 123; 24, 24'; 125, 126) for storing the flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture or the at least two starting components.

28. Method according to one of claims 20 to 29, characterized in that the at least one transport line (7, 110) comprises at least one transport hose (110) or a transport tube (7).

29. Method according to one of claims 20 to 28, characterized in that the pressure wave generating device (2) comprises an introduction lance with a supply-side end section (5) into which the at least two output components or the flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture can be supplied and a working-side end section (4) with an outlet opening (31) for releasing the flammable and in particular explosive, gaseous mixture and / or a pressure wave.

30. Method according to one of claims 20 to 29, characterized in that the pressure wave generating device (71) comprises a pressure wave container (72) with a pressure chamber (73) which has a pressure outlet opening (75) which can be closed via a closure element (74).

31. Connection configuration (66, 366) for carrying out the method according to one of claims 1 to 30, characterized by an adapter device (57, 357) for attaching to an opening (53) of the container (50), wherein the adapter device (57, 357) comprises a first adapter opening (59, 359) for introducing the pressure wave generating device (2) or parts thereof or for introducing the pressure wave of a pressure wave generating device and a second adapter opening (60, 360) for the discharge or removal of the filling elements (52), in particular by gravity.

32. Connection configuration (66) according to claim 31, characterized by a lance adapter (250) that can be guided over the transport tube (2.1) of an insertion lance (2) and attached to the adapter device (57, 357).

33. Connection configuration (66) according to one of claims 31 to 32, characterized by a suction hood (200) that at least partially encloses the adapter device (57, 357).

34. Device comprising a pressure wave generating device (2) and a connection configuration (66, 366) according to one of claims 31 to 33.

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