System for measuring the loading of filter units

Abstract

The present invention relates to a filter system (100) for separating impurities from a stream of untreated gas (102) containing impurities, in particular for the dry separation of overspray, comprising: - a base structure (104) through which the stream of untreated gas (102) can be guided for filtering and which comprises at least one filter module receptacle (110) for receiving at least one filter module (112); and - at least one filter module (112) which can optionally be arranged on and / or in the at least one filter module receptacle (110) or can be removed from and / or out of same, wherein each filter module (112) comprises a filter module housing (118) in which one or more filter elements (124), in particular one or more exchangeable filter elements, are received, wherein a) each filter module (112) comprises at least one weighing device (130) on which one or more filter elements (124) are arranged; and / or b) each filter module receptacle (110) comprises at least one weighing device (130) on which at least one filter module (112) is arranged. The present invention further relates to a corresponding method for separating impurities from a stream of untreated gas containing impurities by means of a filter system (100).

Description

[0001] System for measuring the loading of filter units

[0002] The present invention relates to a filter system for separating impurities from a raw gas stream containing impurities, in particular for the dry separation of overspray. The present invention further relates to a corresponding method for separating impurities from a raw gas stream containing impurities by means of a filter system.

[0003] A filter system for separating fluid lacquer overspray is known from WO 2010 / 069407 A1.

[0004] Furthermore, DE 10 2013222 301 A1 discloses a filter system for separating impurities from a raw gas stream containing impurities, which comprises a basic structure through which the raw gas stream can be passed and at least one filter module receptacle for receiving at least one filter module, wherein the at least one filter module comprises several filter element receptacles for receiving several independent filter elements.

[0005] It is also known that dry paint overspray separation systems comprise several filter modules or filter units, also called trolleys due to their mobility, through which the raw gas stream is passed in parallel. The filter modules can themselves comprise a large filter element or filter box, or a combination of several filter elements. The paint overspray is separated in the filter elements of the filter modules. As the filter elements become increasingly loaded with deposited paint, the flow resistance through the filter elements or filter modules increases. To ensure that filter modules are only replaced when they reach their maximum capacity, the degree of loading must be continuously monitored to determine the optimal time for replacement.

[0006] The following five methods are currently used to monitor the loading level of the filter modules. The first method measures the volumetric flow rate per filter module, i.e., the fluid flow rate is measured and is therefore a suitable measure of the filter module's performance. Replacement occurs when a critical volumetric flow rate is reached.

[0007] The measuring device for the first method is preferably arranged within the clean gas stream or the exhaust air stream and is therefore at risk of being contaminated by unfiltered particles. It is therefore equally important to position the measuring device in such a way as to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure the most uniform flow conditions possible.

[0008] The volume flow measurement per filter module is a local data collection, which is why plant-wide planning of filter module changes is usually not possible using only individual volume flow measurements.

[0009] As long as the total volume flow can still be distributed across all filter modules, a replacement is generally not necessary. A replacement is only required when the total volume flow can no longer be maintained.

[0010] The second method involves measuring the differential pressure per filter module, i.e., the pressure drop across a filter module is measured. This can be done, for example, by a static or dynamic pressure measurement downstream of the filter module against the pressure prevailing in the hall or the associated paint booth. A filter module is then replaced based on a predetermined pressure drop, which indicates that the filter module has reached a critical paint load.

[0011] The pressure differential measurement per filter module is also a local data collection, which is why plant-wide planning of filter module replacements is generally not possible using this method alone.

[0012] Differential pressure measurements across all filter modules only allow for a snapshot comparison of all filter modules. This enables the identification of the filter module with the highest current flow resistance. The flow resistance can increase until the pressure equals the negative pressure in the clean gas channel. However, it is not possible to determine a maximum absolute value for the differential pressure of a filter module at which a filter module replacement is required.

[0013] The measuring device for differential pressure measurement is also placed within the exhaust air stream and is therefore just as likely to be contaminated by unfiltered particles.

[0014] It should also be noted that as the load on a filter module increases, the differential pressure rises to a greater or lesser extent depending on the properties of the deposited paint. For paints that continuously clog the filter module or its filter elements during separation, whether through hardening, flocculation, chemical reactions, or similar processes, the differential pressure or pressure drop increases significantly with increasing load.

[0015] For coatings that are essentially deposited in liquid form within the filter modules, such as 1K primer coatings, the pressure drop increases only slightly. This is because the deposited coating primarily collects in a tray in the lower section of the filter modules and therefore does not present a significant flow resistance to the incoming raw gas stream. For these coatings, a maximum differential pressure across all filter modules cannot be defined as a changeover or replacement criterion. Instead, a point in time shortly before the filter modules overflow must be defined as the criterion.

[0016] The third method is based on the number of painting cycles performed in the corresponding paint booth. This method uses the relationship between the current paint load of a given filter module and the number of workpieces painted so far. Once the critical number of painted workpieces, defined for the specific paint overspray and for each filter module, is reached, the critical paint load state of the respective filter module is also reached, and a replacement or change is necessary.

[0017] During the commissioning of the paint shop and the filtration system, the relationship between the number of painted workpieces and the degree of filter module contamination due to overspray must be painstakingly determined. Depending on the type of paint and system conditions, each filter module must be considered individually. Therefore, commissioning the filtration system, including determining the filter module replacement times, can be very time-consuming.

[0018] The criteria for the third method regarding the filter module replacement time are therefore based solely on empirically determined data. No additional, physically measurable process parameters and / or characteristic values ​​are recorded and used for decision-making.

[0019] The fourth method is a combination of the second and third methods. It measures both a pressure difference or pressure drop and records the number of painting cycles, with the pressure drop being measured across all filter modules (global measurement). When a critical global pressure difference is reached, the filter module that is closest to reaching its individual maximum number of painting cycles is replaced. Conversely, a filter module is also replaced when it reaches its individual maximum or critical number of painting cycles, regardless of whether the global pressure difference has reached its maximum.

[0020] Here too, it is essential that each system be individually evaluated depending on the paints used. During commissioning, the relationship between the number of painted workpieces and the degree of filter module contamination due to overspray must be determined. Commissioning and setting the filter module change intervals therefore takes some time, especially if the number of painted vehicle bodies per time interval is initially lower in new systems, and the regular or actual throughput only establishes itself or stabilizes after some time.

[0021] In the fifth method, both the pressure drop across each individual filter module and the pressure drop across all filter modules (i.e., globally) are determined. When a critical global pressure drop is reached, the filter module with the highest individual pressure drop at that time is replaced. It should also be noted that, as with the fifth method, the measuring devices for differential pressure measurement are positioned within the exhaust air stream, and therefore there is a risk of contamination by unfiltered particles.

[0022] Only with liquid-deposited paints does the pressure drop not increase significantly, as the filter modules' collection trays essentially fill with paint. The pressure drop therefore stabilizes at a relatively constant value, even as more and more paint accumulates in the filter modules' collection trays over time. Consequently, with liquid-deposited paints, it is not possible to differentiate between partially and fully loaded filter modules solely by means of differential pressure measurement, meaning this method cannot be universally applied to all types of paint.

[0023] The present invention is based on the objective of providing a filter system which, regardless of the type of paint, reliably and in real time maintains the respective loading status of the filter modules and thereby provides an improved criterion for the replacement time of the filter modules.

[0024] This problem is solved according to the invention by a filter system with the features according to claim 1.

[0025] The filter system is used to separate impurities from a raw gas stream containing impurities.

[0026] In particular, the filter system is used for the dry separation of overspray.

[0027] The filter system comprises: a basic structure through which the raw gas flow can be passed for filtration and which includes at least one filter module receptacle for receiving at least one filter module; and at least one filter module which can optionally be arranged on and / or in the at least one filter module receptacle or removed from and / or within it.

[0028] Each filter module comprises a filter module housing in which one or more filter elements are accommodated. The filter module housing is preferably cuboid in shape.

[0029] The filter elements are in particular replaceable filter elements, which can be disposable filter elements or reusable filter elements intended for reprocessing.

[0030] Each filter module includes at least one weighing device on which one or more filter elements are arranged.

[0031] The weighing device thereby detects the filter elements arranged on it.

[0032] Alternatively or additionally, each filter module mount includes at least one weighing device on which at least one filter module is arranged.

[0033] This allows the total weight or total load of all filter elements in a filter module to be recorded and monitored.

[0034] The present invention is based on the fundamental idea that, for the replacement of filter modules, the loading of the filter module and / or one or more filter elements is weighed during operation, and the pressure drop of the entire system, i.e., across all installed filter modules, is monitored. According to the monitoring and measurement methods described above, the total pressure drop of the filter system is preferably monitored continuously, and the volume flow rate across all filter units is kept constant. To monitor the current loading status of all filter modules in a filter system, an online weight measurement is performed on each filter module. For this purpose, each filter module or filter unit is equipped with a weighing device so that the current weight or loading with deposited lacquer of all filter modules can be transmitted at any given time to, for example, monitoring software of a central control unit.

[0035] Consequently, the pressure loss or differential pressure measurement across all filter modules continues to serve as a global criterion for replacing filter modules. As is known, when a critical pressure loss is reached within the filter system, at least one filter module must be replaced to ensure the necessary exhaust air volume flow. According to the present invention, the filter module with the highest current weight is now replaced. Monitoring the filter module weight can also be used as the sole criterion for replacing filter modules. If a defined maximum weight or a predetermined critical load is reached, the most heavily loaded filter module can be replaced.

[0036] For hardening, flocculating, or similar paints, a maximum weight for the filter module or filter elements is generally specified, taking into account the maximum permissible pressure drop within the filter system. For liquid paints, however, the maximum weight or load is set so that the collection trays of the filter modules do not risk overflowing.

[0037] It can be advantageous if the basic construction has at least one raw gas shaft through which a raw gas stream containing impurities can be supplied to at least one filter module, and at least one clean gas channel through which a clean gas stream, which is obtained by separating the impurities from the raw gas stream on one or more filter elements, can be discharged from at least one filter module, wherein preferably the clean gas stream can be extracted via a negative pressure generated in the clean gas channel.

[0038] The raw gas stream containing impurities is fed to the filter modules via the raw gas shaft.

[0039] Preferably, the filter system is located at least partially below a paint booth, so that the paint overspray, which occurs when painting, for example, vehicle bodies and / or vehicle attachments, can be directed downwards into the raw gas shaft.

[0040] The raw gas flow is directed from the raw gas shaft into the filter modules of the paint booth in order to separate the impurities such as paint particles on the filter elements of the filter modules.

[0041] Downstream of the filter modules, a clean gas channel or clean gas collection channel is arranged, into which the clean gas flows from the filter modules are directed. A negative pressure prevails in the clean gas channel, which, on the one hand, determines the flow path from the paint booth to and through the clean gas channel, and on the other hand, draws the filter modules into their respective filter module holders.

[0042] The suction pressure, which pulls or presses the filter modules against the filter module holder during operation of the filter system, is preferably a maximum of approximately 1,000 Pa.

[0043] It may also be advantageous if each filter module mount has at least one outlet opening of the at least one raw gas shaft and at least one inlet opening of the at least one clean gas channel.

[0044] Furthermore, it can be provided that the filter module housing has at least one inlet area which can be connected to an outlet opening of the raw gas shaft, and at least one outlet area, preferably arranged below the at least one inlet area, which can be connected to an inlet opening of the clean gas channel.

[0045] Thus, the filter module housing has a suitable inlet area for the associated outlet opening of the raw gas shaft and a suitable outlet area for the inlet opening of the clean gas channel.

[0046] The raw gas stream, which contains, for example, paint particles from a painting process in a paint booth, is thus guided through the raw gas shaft and leaves the raw gas shaft via outlet openings towards the filter modules.

[0047] The respective raw gas partial flow enters the filter module via the inlet area and is filtered there by one or more filter elements, whereby the paint particles are separated on the one or more filter elements.

[0048] It can be advantageous if the gas flow filtered in a filter module is further filtered downstream of one or more filter elements in a downstream filter stage, preferably a paint-stop mat. The purified gas flow downstream of one or more filter elements, i.e., the clean gas flow or clean gas partial flow, is then directed or drawn into the clean gas channel via the outlet area of ​​the respective filter module through the associated inlet opening of the clean gas channel, which is provided in the corresponding filter module housing.

[0049] Preferably, the at least one inlet area and the at least one outlet area are arranged on the same side surface of the filter module housing.

[0050] In particular, the inlet area is located above the outlet area.

[0051] It can be advantageous if the filter system has at least one differential pressure measuring device by means of which a predetermined pressure loss limit value can be determined across all filter modules of the filter system.

[0052] As previously described and explained, preferably a pressure loss or pressure difference measurement is carried out in parallel with the weight or load measurement across all filter modules used in the filter system, in order to have a global criterion in addition to a filter module-related criterion, which indicates or specifies a replacement of one or more filter modules.

[0053] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that a weighing device comprises at least one load cell and at least one weighing platform which rests on the at least one load cell.

[0054] Preferably, a weighing device comprises three load cells which form an at least approximately flat three-point support.

[0055] To compensate for minimal deviations in the alignment of the three load cells relative to each other and to the horizontal, and to dampen any vibrations, it can be advantageous to arrange at least one rubber buffer, at least one vibration-damping metal foot, or the like between each load cell and the weighing platform and / or between each load cell and the adjacent shelf. A weighing device can also comprise four or a larger even number of load cells, which are preferably arranged symmetrically about at least one axis below the weighing platform.

[0056] It can also be advantageous if each filter module has at least one shelf on which one or more filter elements are arranged.

[0057] The one or more shelves of a filter module are preferably attached to the filter module housing, in particular by screwing or welding.

[0058] Furthermore, it can be provided that each filter module has at least two shelves arranged one above the other, with preferably at least two filter elements arranged side by side on each of the shelves.

[0059] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, each filter module may have three shelves arranged one above the other, with two filter elements arranged side by side on each shelf. Consequently, in a particularly preferred embodiment, a filter module comprises six filter elements.

[0060] It can be advantageous if at least one weighing device is arranged between at least one shelf and the one or more filter elements arranged on it, such that the at least one weighing shelf is at least partially, preferably completely, decoupled from the filter module housing.

[0061] Preferably, the weighing device is arranged between the lowest shelf and the filter elements placed on it.

[0062] The filter elements located on the lowest shelf tend to be most heavily loaded with deposited paint particles, which is why it is advantageous to weigh the load on these filter elements representative of all filter elements in a filter module.

[0063] Furthermore, it has been shown that installing the weighing device on the lowest shelf is easier. The shelf on which the weighing device is arranged or installed is preferably lowered relative to its original height in the filter module, so that the weighing platform of the device is positioned at least approximately at the original height of the shelf. The distance between the weighing platform and the shelf above it or the top surface of the filter module housing thus corresponds at least to the height of the filter elements, meaning that these can be inserted and / or removed without interference, and in particular, can be replaced individually.

[0064] A shelving unit is also conceivable in which the shelves on which the filter elements are arranged are connected to each other and not connected to the filter module housing, i.e., decoupled from it. In this case, a bottom shelf is required on which the weighing device is placed, its weighing platform forming the bottom shelf for the filter elements. Preferably, several sliding guides are provided in the associated filter module housing for the shelving unit, so that the shelving unit can move freely, at least vertically, and the weighing process can take place almost without hindrance.

[0065] It can also be advantageous to install weighing devices on all shelves connected to the filter module housing, thereby recording the loading status of all filter elements. This is particularly useful if it cannot be assumed that the bottom row of filter elements is the one that tends to accumulate the most contaminants.

[0066] The load cells are preferably attached to the associated shelf, in particular screwed to it.

[0067] The weighing platform is preferably U-shaped or trough-shaped and, with its downward-facing opening, preferably rests exclusively on the support surfaces of the load cells, so that the inner surfaces of the filter module housing and / or the downward-facing shelf are not touched, thus ensuring unimpeded weighing. In a further embodiment of the invention, the weighing device of the filter module can be arranged on the lowest shelf, with the shelves arranged above it being connected to the weighing platform of the weighing device and the weighing platform and the shelves arranged above it being at least partially decoupled from the filter module housing.

[0068] It can also be advantageous if the space between the shelf and the weighing platform is at least partially sealed against contamination.

[0069] The preferred U- or trough shape of the weighing platform creates a space or volume between the weighing platform and the shelf, in which the load cells are arranged.

[0070] Contaminants, especially paint particles, can penetrate this space or volume, posing a risk of contaminating the load cells and thus distorting the weighing.

[0071] Preferably, the gap between the weighing platform and the shelf or the filter module housing is at least partially sealed.

[0072] Preferably, the seal is of a flexible nature, so that the weighing platform is sufficiently free to move in the vertical direction for determining the loading status of the filter elements arranged on it.

[0073] Furthermore, it may be provided that each filter module has at least one measuring amplifier device by means of which measurement data from the weighing devices of the filter modules can be transferred to one or more monitoring devices of the filter system for further processing.

[0074] The load cells of a filter module are preferably connected to one or more measuring amplifier devices or measuring amplifiers.

[0075] The measuring amplifier devices can, for example, be mounted on one of the outer surfaces of the

[0076] The measuring amplifier device should be arranged in the filter module housing, preferably on the side surface opposite the inlet and outlet area of ​​the filter module, so that the measuring amplifier device is accessible even during operation, i.e. in the position provided for filtering in the associated filter module receptacle.

[0077] The measuring amplifier devices can, for example, each be connected via a cable connection to a PLC of the filter system or similar for power supply to the load cells and transmission of the measurement or weighing data. This means that when a filter module is replaced, the cable connection to the replaced filter module must be disconnected and then re-established to the replaced filter module after it has been positioned in the corresponding filter module holder.

[0078] Due to the numerous disconnection and reconnection cycles of the cable connections, wear and tear can occur at these connections, potentially resulting in incomplete or no transmission of measurement data, or an unstable power supply to the load cells. Therefore, rigid connectors with clamping clips or inductive connections are preferred.

[0079] Preferably, all load cells of a filter module are connected to a measuring amplifier device, so that only one connection needs to be disconnected to replace the filter module. Alternatively, a filter module can have one measuring amplifier device per weighing device or weighing level, which would require disconnecting several cable connections for replacement.

[0080] It can be advantageous to have a flexible inlet nozzle upstream of the at least one inlet area of ​​the filter module housing and a flexible outlet nozzle downstream of the at least one outlet area of ​​the filter module housing.

[0081] If the total load of a filter module is to be recorded and the module is therefore completely mounted on a weighing device, which may be integrated into the base of the associated filter module housing, it must be ensured that the filter module is largely decoupled from the filter module housing or that the connection between the filter module and the outlet opening of the raw gas shaft and the inlet opening of the clean gas channel does not impede movement in the direction of gravity. The flexible inlet nozzle and the flexible outlet nozzle ensure that, firstly, the connection between the outlet opening of the raw gas shaft and the inlet area of ​​the filter module, and secondly, the connection between the inlet opening of the clean gas channel and the outlet area of ​​the filter module, are sealed in such a way that at least virtually no raw gas or clean gas escapes.that no pure gas can escape into the filter module receptacle and that, secondly, the weighing of the filter module is not affected by the fact that the filter module is connected to the filter module receptacle via a force-fit connection.

[0082] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that at least one spacer device, for example a pin, a mandrel or a roller, projects from the side surface of the filter module housing on which the flexible outlet nozzle is provided, which, when the filter module is arranged on and / or in the filter module receptacle, contacts a contact area of ​​the filter module receptacle which is arranged above the outlet opening of the raw gas duct; or laterally to the outlet opening of the raw gas duct; or below the outlet opening of the raw gas duct and above the inlet opening of the clean gas channel; or laterally to the inlet opening of the clean gas channel; or below the inlet opening of the clean gas channel.

[0083] The spacer device ensures that the flexible inlet nozzle and / or the flexible outlet nozzle of the filter module are not compressed or pressed so far by the negative pressure prevailing in the clean gas channel that sufficient flexibility for trouble-free weighing is no longer available.

[0084] It can also be advantageous if the weighing base of the weighing device is decoupled from the filter module holder.

[0085] Furthermore, the filter module can be locked onto the weighing platform of the weighing device in the filter module holder. Particularly before commissioning the filter system, it may be necessary to lock the filter module in its holder to prevent it, which is preferably mounted on rollers, from rolling out.

[0086] It can be advantageous if a locking cam is arranged between the filter module on the one hand and the outlet opening of the raw gas shaft and / or the inlet opening of the clean gas channel on the other hand, which is attached to the weighing base of the filter module mount, wherein the locking cam has a

[0087] It has a locking receptacle for the inlet area of ​​the filter module housing and another locking receptacle for the outlet area of ​​the filter module housing.

[0088] An advantage of a locking mechanism on the weighing platform, on which a filter module can also be arranged or rolled, is that a filter module can be brought into contact with the locking mechanism in a horizontal direction without the need for flexible nozzles in the inlet and outlet area and locked in it.

[0089] The flexible connection to the filter module mount or to the outlet opening of the raw gas shaft and to the inlet opening of the clean gas channel is thereby shifted to the side of the locking mechanism opposite the filter module.

[0090] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the locking mechanism is connected to the outlet opening of the raw gas shaft and the inlet opening of the clean gas channel by means of a flexible connecting piece.

[0091] The flexible connecting piece is preferably a canvas piece into which both the inlet opening of the raw gas shaft and the outlet opening of the clean gas channel lead.

[0092] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the flexible connecting piece incorporates a circumferential, raw gas-side coating plate through which the raw gas flows, and a circumferential, clean gas-side coating plate through which the clean gas flows. These coating plates prevent the inner surface of the flexible connecting piece from becoming coated with coating, which would, among other things, reduce the flexibility of the connecting piece and potentially affect weighing.

[0093] The problem can also be solved by a method for separating impurities from a raw gas stream containing impurities, with the features of the independent method claim.

[0094] The method according to the invention is carried out in a filter system, preferably in a filter system according to the invention as previously described.

[0095] The process includes the following steps:

[0096] Supplying the raw gas flow from a raw gas flow-carrying part of a basic structure of the filter system to one or more filter modules of the filter system, wherein each filter module is arranged on and / or in a filter module receptacle of the filter system;

[0097] Separation of impurities from the raw gas stream at one or more filter elements of one or more filter modules;

[0098] Monitoring the pressure loss across all filter modules;

[0099] Weighing the contaminant load of selected filter elements of the filter modules and / or the filter modules themselves;

[0100] Replacing the most heavily loaded filter module when a pressure loss limit is reached and / or the filter module reaching a limit load from and / or out of the associated filter module holder.

[0101] The raw gas stream is discharged from a treatment plant such as a paint shop, specifically from a paint booth within the paint shop, which is preferably located above the filter system.

[0102] The raw gas stream is fed via a raw gas shaft to one or more filter modules, each of which is arranged in a filter module housing of the filter system's base structure. A partial raw gas stream is passed through each of the filter modules, whereby the impurities contained in the raw gas stream are separated by the filter elements of the filter modules.

[0103] The clean gas stream, which leaves the filter elements after the removal of impurities such as paint particles, is directed from the filter modules into a clean gas or clean gas collection channel.

[0104] The global pressure loss, i.e. the pressure loss across all filter modules, is monitored by one or more differential pressure measuring devices of the filter system.

[0105] In parallel with pressure loss monitoring, the loading of the filter elements and / or filter modules, which increases due to the preferably continuous filtration of the raw gas flow, is weighed. The loading is preferably weighed using weighing devices that record the weight of either individual or multiple filter elements or an entire filter module.

[0106] A filter module is replaced firstly when a previously defined pressure loss limit is reached. In this case, the filter module is replaced with a less loaded or new filter module.

[0107] Secondly, a replacement also takes place if one of the filter modules or one of the filter elements or a defined group of filter elements has reached a previously defined limit load.

[0108] The process preferably incorporates one or more of the features and / or advantages described in connection with the filter system. Furthermore, the filter system preferably incorporates one or more of the features and / or advantages described in connection with the process.

[0109] Further features and / or advantages of the invention are the subject of the following description and the graphic representation of exemplary embodiments.

[0110] The figures show: Fig. 1 a schematic sectional view of a first embodiment of a filter system according to the invention;

[0111] Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of the lowest shelf with the weighing device of the filter module from Fig. 1 arranged on it;

[0112] Fig. 3 shows a schematic top view of four different arrangement options for load cells on a shelf of a filter module;

[0113] Fig. 4 shows a schematic sectional view of a second embodiment of a filter system according to the invention;

[0114] Fig. 5 shows a schematic sectional view of a third embodiment of a filter system according to the invention;

[0115] Fig. 6 shows a schematic sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a filter system according to the invention; and

[0116] Fig. 7 shows a schematic sectional view of a fifth embodiment of a filter system according to the invention.

[0117] Identical or functionally equivalent elements are assigned the same reference symbols in all figures.

[0118] A filter system shown in Fig. 1, designated as a whole by 100, serves to separate impurities from a raw gas stream 102 containing impurities.

[0119] The raw gas stream 102 may, for example, have been extracted from a paint booth of a paint shop and therefore contains paint overspray or paint particles.

[0120] The filter system 100 comprises a basic structure 104, which has at least one raw gas shaft 106 and at least one clean gas channel 108. The raw gas shaft 106, which is fluidly separated from the clean gas channel 108, is preferably arranged above the clean gas channel 108.

[0121] The basic construction 104 also includes one or more filter module mounts 110.

[0122] One or more filter modules 112 can be arranged in a filter module holder 110.

[0123] Each filter module receptacle 110 has at least one outlet opening 114 of the raw gas shaft 106 and at least one inlet opening 116 of the clean gas channel 108.

[0124] Compatible with the outlet opening 114 and the inlet opening 116, each filter module 112 has an inlet area 120 and an outlet area 122 in its filter module housing 118.

[0125] Furthermore, each filter module 112 comprises one or more filter elements 124, on which the impurities such as paint particles contained in the raw gas stream 102 can be separated.

[0126] The gas stream leaving the filter element(s) 124 is therefore a clean gas stream 126, which is then fed into the clean gas channel 108.

[0127] Optionally, the gas stream filtered by the filter element(s) 124 can be further filtered in a downstream filter stage (not shown), preferably a paint stop mat.

[0128] In the clean gas channel 108 there is a negative pressure, whereby the gas flow from the raw gas shaft 106 is drawn through the filter module(s) 112 into the clean gas channel 108.

[0129] The raw gas stream 102 is thus guided or drawn from the raw gas shaft 106 through the outlet opening 114 of the filter module receptacle 110 and through the inlet area 120 of the filter modules 112 into the filter modules 112. In the filter module 112, the impurities are separated on the filter element(s) 124, thereby increasing their loading or weight.

[0130] The clean gas flow 126 downstream of the filter element(s) 124 is then guided or drawn into the clean gas channel 108 via the outlet area 122 of the filter module 112 and through the inlet opening 116 of the filter module receptacle 110.

[0131] The filter module 112 shown in Fig. 1 contains a total of six filter elements 124, which are arranged in pairs next to each other on three levels downstream of the inlet area 120.

[0132] The two upper and the two middle filter elements 124 are arranged in pairs on a shelf 128 within the filter module housing 118. Both shelves 128 are attached to the inner surface of the filter module housing 118, preferably by screws or welds.

[0133] A third shelf 128 is preferably designed in a trough shape and is arranged below the two lowest filter elements 124.

[0134] On the lowest shelf 128, a weighing device 130, comprising one or more load cells 132 and a weighing platform 134, is arranged such that the two lowest filter elements 124 are arranged on the weighing platform 134.

[0135] The weighing device 130 in the filter module 112 in Fig. 1 comprises three load cells 132, whose support surfaces 136 preferably form a flat three-point support.

[0136] At least one vibration-damping metal foot (not shown) can optionally be arranged between a load cell 132 and the weighing platform 134 and / or a load cell 132 and the associated shelf 128.

[0137] The weighing platform 134 of the weighing device 130 is U-shaped or trough-shaped and is arranged on the support surfaces 136 of the load cells 132 such that the weighing platform 134 engages in the lowest shelf 128, thereby forming an at least partially enclosed space 138 between the weighing platform 134 and the lowest shelf 128, in which the load cells 132 are arranged. The weighing platform 134 does not touch the associated shelf 128, i.e., in Fig. 1, the lowest shelf, or the inner surface of the filter module housing 118, so that the load or weight of the two lowest filter elements 124 can be detected at least approximately without impairment.

[0138] A preferably fully circumferential gap is thus formed between the weighing platform 134 and the lowest shelf 128.

[0139] The load cells 132 are connected to a measuring amplifier (not shown) for power supply and signal transmission, which is preferably arranged on one of the outer side surfaces, in particular the one opposite the inlet area 120 and the outlet area 122.

[0140] Downstream of the two lowest filter elements 124, a stop device 140 is also provided on the weighing platform 134, which assists in the correct positioning of the filter elements 124 on the weighing platform 134.

[0141] Such a stop device 140 can also be arranged at the appropriate location on the middle and the top shelf 128.

[0142] The filter modules 112 or the filter module housings 118 are preferably mounted on four wheels 142 so that they can be easily placed on and / or in a filter module receptacle 110 and / or removed from a filter module receptacle 110 by a user.

[0143] Fig. 2 schematically shows the lowest shelf 128 with stop device 140 and the weighing device 130 arranged on or in the shelf 128.

[0144] The weighing platform 134 of the weighing device 130 rests on the support surfaces 136 of the three load cells 132.

[0145] The weighing platform 134 is arranged or aligned on the load cells 132 such that the opening of its trough shape points downwards, i.e. towards the lowest shelf 128, whereby the weighing platform 134 and the lowest shelf 128, whose trough-shaped opening points upwards, i.e. towards the weighing platform 134, enclose a space 138.

[0146] The height of the trough shape of the weighing platform 134 is less than the height of the trough shape of the lowest shelf 128, ensuring that the weighing platform 134 does not touch the base of the shelf 128 even during weighing.

[0147] Fig. 3 schematically shows four different arrangement options of load cells 132 on a shelf 128.

[0148] A load cell 132 preferably comprises a cuboid load cell body 144, on which the support surface 136 of the load cells 132 is arranged or comprises.

[0149] As can be seen in the two lower arrangement options with four load cells 132 per weighing device 130, if there is an even number of load cells 132, these are preferably arranged symmetrically about at least one axis.

[0150] The arrangement of three or four load cells 132 is not limited to the four options shown in Fig. 3; other arrangement options are conceivable and possible. For example, in the two lower arrangement options in Fig. 3, all load cell bodies 144 can be oriented such that their long sides, with respect to the plane of Fig. 3, are oriented from top to bottom instead of from left to right.

[0151] Fig. 4 schematically shows a second embodiment of a filter system 100 according to the invention.

[0152] In comparison to the filter module 112 of the first embodiment of Fig. 1, the gap between the weighing platform 134 of the weighing device 130 and the lowest shelf 128 is at least partially sealed by a seal 146. The seal 146 prevents or at least reduces the ingress of contaminants into the space 138 between the weighing platform 134 and the shelf 128; the load cells 132 are thereby protected from contamination.

[0153] Alternatively or additionally to the seal 146 in the gap, a flat seal 148, such as a strip of adhesive tape, can be provided, which is arranged upstream of the two lower filter elements 124 in or on the inlet area 120. The flat seal 148 can, for example, be arranged or attached to the two lower filter elements 124 in such a way that it overlaps the gap and the shelf 128, so that the raw gas flow 102 cannot flow against or into the gap area between the weighing platform 134 and the lowest shelf 128, which adjoins the outlet opening 114.

[0154] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a third embodiment of a filter system 100 according to the invention.

[0155] In comparison to the filter module 112 of the first and second embodiments of Figs. 1 and 2, the lowest shelf 128 is flat and the weighing platform 134 is rotatably mounted.

[0156] The weighing platform 134 is connected to a rotary bearing 150, which is located on the filter module housing 118 below the inlet area 120.

[0157] The rotary bearing 150 prevents or reduces the raw gas flow 102 from entering the space 138 between the weighing platform 134 and the lowest shelf 128 when flowing into the filter module 112 in the inlet area 120.

[0158] In the case of the third embodiment, it may suffice to provide load cells 132 only below the free side of the weighing platform 134, which is opposite the rotary bearing 150. However, a counterweight of some kind must be taken into account for the evaluation of the recorded weight data, since the rotary bearing 150 also absorbs weight forces in the direction of gravity.

[0159] The weighing platform 134 is preferably folded downwards on the side opposite the rotary bearing 150 so far that both the space 138 and the lowest shelf 128 on this side are enclosed by the weighing platform 134, whereby no or only a small proportion of the clean gas flow 126 can penetrate into the space 138 and possibly impair the load cells 132.

[0160] In Figures 6 and 7, a representation of the components or elements within the filter module has been omitted, since the fourth and fifth embodiments of Figures 6 and 7, respectively, focus in particular on the arrangement of the entire filter module 112 on a weighing device 130 and the connection of the filter module 112 to the filter module receptacle 110.

[0161] The weighing device 130 of the fourth embodiment of the filter system 100 according to the invention is arranged below the filter module 112 and can be located on a floor of the base structure 104 or of the hall in which the filter system 100 is located. Alternatively, the weighing device 130 can be integrated into this floor.

[0162] To decouple the filter module(s) 112 from the respective filter module receptacle 110 during load or weight detection, each filter module 112 has a flexible inlet nozzle 152 upstream of the inlet area 120 and a flexible outlet nozzle 154 downstream of the outlet area 122.

[0163] The two nozzles 152, 154, into which the negative pressure prevailing in the clean gas channel 108 draws the filter module(s) 112 against the base structure 104 or the respective filter module receptacle 110, ensure, firstly, during the operation of the filter system 100, that no or only a small proportion of the gas flows 102, 126 escapes into the environment of the filter modules 112.

[0164] On the other hand, the flexibility of the nozzles 152, 154 allows the movement of the filter module 112 in the direction of gravity to be largely unaffected and consequently the load or weight can be detected almost without impairment.

[0165] Optionally, a spacer device 156 can project from the side surface of the filter module housing 118, which faces the raw gas shaft 106 and / or the clean gas channel 108, ensuring that the filter module 112 is not sucked so strongly against the associated filter module receptacle 110 by the negative pressure in the clean gas channel 108 that the flexible inlet nozzle 152 and / or the flexible outlet nozzle 154 are excessively deformed or even damaged.

[0166] The spacer device 156 can be arranged between the flexible inlet nozzle 152 and the flexible outlet nozzle 154 and touches a contact area 158 of the filter module receptacle 110, which is arranged between the outlet opening 114 and the inlet opening 116.

[0167] In order to hold a filter module 112 in the intended position in and / or on the filter module receptacle 110, particularly before commissioning the filter system 100, a rotatable or foldable locking device 159 can, for example, be arranged on the weighing base 134, which blocks at least partial rolling out of a filter module 112 from its filter module receptacle 110.

[0168] In comparison to the fourth embodiment in Fig. 6, the filter module 112 of the fifth embodiment of the filter system 100 shown in Fig. 7 preferably has no flexible inlet nozzle and no flexible outlet nozzle. Instead, a locking cam 160 is arranged on the weighing platform 134 of the weighing device 130 with the filter module 112.

[0169] The locking mechanism 160 has a locking receptacle 162 for both the inlet area 120 and the outlet area 122, so that the filter module 112 is locked in the locking mechanism 160 by pressing the areas 120, 122 into the respective locking receptacle 162 and is thus releasably fixed until replacement.

[0170] The locking cam 160 is connected to the filter module receptacle 110 or the base structure 104 via a flexible connecting sleeve 164, which is preferably a canvas sleeve 166.

[0171] The flexible connecting piece 164 preferably encloses both the flow passage of the outlet opening 114 and the flow passage of the inlet opening 116. Alternatively, two flexible connecting pieces 164 can be provided, one of which connects the outlet opening 114 to the upper locking receptacle 162 shown in Fig. 7 and the other of which connects the inlet opening 116 to the lower locking receptacle 162 shown in Fig. 7.

[0172] Within the flexible connecting nozzle 164, a paint protection plate 168, which is preferably tubular or rectangular in shape, can be provided for each of the two gas flows 102, 126.

[0173] The raw gas stream 102 is then guided through the upper paint protection plate 166 in Fig. 7 and the clean gas stream 126 through the lower paint protection plate 166 in Fig. 7, so that the inner surface of the flexible connecting nozzle 164 is prevented from being coated with paint by contaminants such as paint particles and consequently the flexibility of the connecting nozzle 164 is at least partially impaired.

[0174] The paint protection plates 166 can partially protrude into the raw gas shaft 106 or into the clean gas channel 108 and / or into the associated locking receptacle 162.

[0175] The first, second and third embodiments of the filter system 100 can each be combined with the fourth or fifth embodiment of the filter system 100, i.e. a filter system 100 can also be provided with a filter module 112 which has one or more weighing devices 130 within the filter module housing 118 and is also arranged on a weighing device 130.

[0176] Furthermore, the individual embodiments preferably exhibit one or more of the features and / or advantages described in connection with the other embodiments.

[0177] All previously described embodiments also have in common that, in parallel with or alongside the detection of the load or weight of the filter elements 124 and / or the filter modules 112, the pressure loss within the filter system 100 is monitored by means of one or more differential pressure measuring devices (not shown). Pressure loss monitoring constitutes the second criterion for replacing one or more filter modules 112. Reference numeral list

[0178] Filter system raw gas flow basic structure raw gas shaft clean gas channel filter module holder filter module outlet opening inlet opening filter module housing inlet area outlet area filter element clean gas flow shelf weighing device load cell weighing platform support surface space

[0179] Wheel stop device

[0180] Load cell body seal

[0181] Flat gasket, swivel bearing, flexible inlet nozzle, flexible outlet nozzle, spacer device, contact area, locking device, locking cam, locking receptacle, flexible connecting nozzle, canvas nozzle, paint protection plate

Claims

Patent claims 1. Filter system (100) for separating impurities from a raw gas stream (102) containing impurities, in particular for the dry separation of overspray, comprising: a basic structure (104) through which the raw gas stream (102) can be passed for filtration and which includes at least one filter module receptacle (110) for receiving at least one filter module (112); and at least one filter module (112) which can be optionally arranged on and / or in the at least one filter module receptacle (110) or removed from and / or in the same, wherein each filter module (112) comprises a filter module housing (118) in which one or more filter elements (124), in particular one or more replaceable filter elements, are received, characterized in that a) each filter module (112) comprises at least one weighing device (130) on which one or more filter elements (124) are arranged;and / or b) each filter module receptacle (110) comprises at least one weighing device (130) on which at least one filter module (112) is arranged.; 2. Filter system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the basic structure (104) has at least one raw gas shaft (106) through which a raw gas stream (102) containing impurities can be supplied to at least one filter module (112), and at least one clean gas channel (108) through which a clean gas stream (126), which is obtainable by separating the impurities from the raw gas stream (102) on the one or more filter elements (124), can be discharged from at least one filter module (112), wherein preferably the clean gas stream (126) can be extracted via a negative pressure generated in the clean gas channel (108).

3. Filter system (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that each filter module receptacle (110) has at least one outlet opening (114) of the at least one raw gas shaft (106) and at least one inlet opening (116) of the at least one clean gas channel (108).

4. Filter system (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that the filter module housing (118) has at least one inlet area (120) which can be connected to an outlet opening (114) of the raw gas shaft (106), and at least one outlet area (122) which is preferably arranged below the at least one inlet area (120) and which can be connected to an inlet opening (116) of the clean gas channel (108), wherein preferably the at least one inlet area (120) and the at least one outlet area (122) are arranged on the same side surface of the filter module housing (118).

5. Filter system (100) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the filter system (100) has at least one differential pressure measuring device by means of which a predetermined pressure loss limit value can be determined over all filter modules (112) of the filter system (100).

6. Filter system (100) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that a weighing device (130) comprises at least one load cell (132), preferably three load cells (132) which form an at least approximately flat three-point support, and at least one weighing platform (134) which rests on the at least one load cell (132).

7. Filter system (100) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that each filter module (112) has at least one shelf (128) on which one or more filter elements (124) are arranged.

8. Filter system (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that each filter module (112) has at least two shelves (128) arranged one above the other, wherein preferably at least two filter elements (112) are arranged next to each other on each of the shelves (128).

9. Filter system (100) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that at least one weighing device (130) is arranged between at least one shelf (128), preferably the lowest shelf (128), and the one or more filter elements (124) arranged thereon, that the at least one weighing platform (134) is at least partially decoupled from the filter module housing (118).

10. Filter system (100) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the weighing device (130) of the filter module (112) is arranged on the lowest shelf (128), wherein the shelves (128) arranged above it are connected to the weighing platform (134) of the weighing device (130) and wherein the weighing platform (134) and the shelves (128) arranged above it are at least partially decoupled from the filter module housing (118).

11. Filter system (100) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the space (138) between shelf (128) and weighing platform (134) is at least partially sealed against contamination.

12. Filter system (100) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that each filter module (112) has at least one measuring amplifier device by means of which measurement data from the weighing devices (130) of the filter modules (112) can be transferred to one or more monitoring devices of the filter system (100) for further processing.

13. Filter system (100) according to one of claims 4 to 12, characterized in that a flexible inlet nozzle (152) is provided upstream of the at least one inlet area (120) of the filter module housing (118) and a flexible outlet nozzle (154) is provided downstream of the at least one outlet area (122) of the filter module housing (118).

14. Filter system (100) according to claim 13, characterized in that at least one spacer device (156), for example a pin, a mandrel or a roller, projects from the side surface of the filter module housing (118) on which the flexible outlet nozzle (154) is provided, which, when the filter module (112) is arranged on and / or in the filter module receptacle (110), contacts a contact area (158) of the filter module receptacle (110) which is located above the outlet opening (114) of the raw gas duct (106); or laterally to the outlet opening (114) of the raw gas duct (106); or below the outlet opening (114) of the raw gas shaft (106) and above the inlet opening (116) of the clean gas channel (108); or to the side of the inlet opening (116) of the clean gas channel (108); or below the inlet opening (116) of the clean gas channel (108).

15. Filter system (100) according to one of claims 6 to 14, characterized in that the weighing base (134) of the weighing device (130) of the filter module receptacle (110) is decoupled from the filter module receptacle (110).

16. Filter system (100) according to one of claims 6 to 15, characterized in that the filter module (112) can be locked onto the weighing base (134) of the weighing device (130) of the filter module receptacle (110).

17. Filter system (100) according to one of claims 6 to 16, characterized in that a locking cam (160) is arranged between the filter module (112) on the one hand and the outlet opening (114) of the raw gas shaft (106) and / or the inlet opening (116) of the clean gas channel (108) on the other hand, which is attached to the weighing base (134) of the filter module receptacle (110), wherein the locking cam (160) has a locking receptacle (162) for the inlet area (120) of the filter module housing (118) and a further locking receptacle (162) for the outlet area (122) of the filter module housing (118).

18. Filter system (100) according to claim 17, characterized in that the locking cam (160) is connected to the outlet opening (114) of the raw gas shaft (106) and the inlet opening (116) of the clean gas channel (108) by means of a flexible connecting piece (164), preferably a canvas piece (166).

19. Filter system (100) according to claim 18, characterized in that a circumferential, raw gas-side paint protection plate (168), through which the raw gas stream (102) flows, and a circumferential, clean gas-side paint protection plate (168), through which the clean gas stream (126) flows, are arranged in the flexible connecting nozzle (164).

0. Method for separating impurities from a raw gas stream containing impurities by means of a filter system (100), in particular a filter system according to one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the method comprises the following steps: Supplying the raw gas flow (102) from a raw gas flow-carrying part (102) of a basic structure (104) of the filter system (100) to one or more filter modules (112) of the filter system (100), wherein each filter module (112) is arranged on and / or in a filter module receptacle (110) of the filter system (100); Separation of impurities from the raw gas stream (102) at one or more filter elements (124) of the one or more filter modules (112); Monitoring pressure loss across all filter modules (112); Weighing the contaminant load of selected filter elements (124) of the filter modules (112) and / or the filter modules (112) themselves; Replacing the most loaded filter module (112) when a pressure loss limit is reached and / or the filter module (112) reaching a limit load from and / or out of the associated filter module receptacle (110).

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