Foreign matter removal device, coolant system, and machine tool system

Abstract

This foreign matter removal device comprises: a storage tank to which a first fluid including a liquid and a foreign matter is supplied, said storage tank causing the foreign matter to float to the surface of the liquid; an outlet through which a second fluid including the foreign matter which has floated to the surface flows out of the storage tank; a rotating body that has a peripheral surface to which the foreign matter moving from the outlet adheres; and a scraper that scrapes off the foreign matter which has adhered to the peripheral surface due to the rotation of the rotating body.

Description

Foreign Object Removal Device, Coolant System, and Machine Tool System

[0001] The present invention relates to a foreign object removal device, a coolant system, and a machine tool system.

[0002] A foreign object removal device for removing foreign objects from a liquid is known.

[0003] As a related technique, Patent Document 1 discloses a rotary scum automatic recovery device. The rotary scum automatic recovery device described in Patent Document 1 includes a rotating cylinder, a scraper, and a recovery pipe. Scum floating on the water surface of the water tank adheres to the surface of the rotating cylinder. The scraper scrapes off the scum adhering to the surface of the cylinder. The scraped-off scum is recovered by the recovery pipe.

[0004] Microfilm of Japanese Utility Model Application No. 2-20835 (Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 3-115095)

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a foreign object removal device, a coolant system, and a machine tool system that can efficiently remove foreign objects contained in a fluid.

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention relate to the following foreign object removal device, coolant system, and machine tool system.

[0007] (1) A foreign matter removal device comprising: a storage tank to which a first fluid containing a liquid and foreign matter is supplied, causing the foreign matter to float on the surface of the liquid; an outlet from which a second fluid containing the foreign matter that has floated on the surface flows out of the storage tank; a rotating body having an outer surface to which the foreign matter moving from the outlet adheres; and a scraper that scrapes off the foreign matter adhering to the outer surface by the rotation of the rotating body. (2) A coolant system comprising: a main tank for storing coolant liquid; a supply device for supplying the coolant liquid from the main tank to a machine tool; a foreign matter removal device; a first pump for sending a first fluid containing the coolant liquid and foreign matter from the main tank to the foreign matter removal device; and a first return passage for returning the fluid containing the coolant liquid from the foreign matter removal device to the main tank, wherein the foreign matter removal device comprises: a storage tank to which the first fluid is supplied and which causes the foreign matter to float on the surface of the coolant liquid; an outlet from which the second fluid containing the foreign matter that has floated on the surface flows out of the storage tank; a rotating body having an outer peripheral surface to which the foreign matter moving from the outlet adheres; and a scraper for scraping off the foreign matter that has adhered to the outer peripheral surface by the rotation of the rotating body.(3) A machine tool and a coolant system that supplies coolant to the machine tool, wherein the machine tool comprises a work support device that supports a workpiece, a machining head that holds a tool, a moving device that moves the machining head relative to the work support device, and a discharge device that discharges the coolant, wherein the coolant system comprises a main tank for storing the coolant, a supply device that supplies the coolant from the main tank to the machine tool, a foreign matter removal device, a first pump that sends a first fluid containing the coolant and foreign matter from the main tank to the foreign matter removal device, and a first return passage that returns the fluid containing the coolant from the foreign matter removal device to the main tank, wherein the foreign matter removal device comprises a storage tank to which the first fluid is supplied and which causes the foreign matter to float on the surface of the coolant, an outlet from which the second fluid containing the foreign matter that has floated on the surface flows out of the storage tank, and a rotating body having an outer surface to which the foreign matter moving from the outlet adheres, A machine tool system comprising a scraper that scrapes off foreign matter adhering to the outer surface of the rotating body by the rotation of the rotating body.

[0008] The present invention provides a foreign matter removal device, a coolant system, and a machine tool system that can efficiently remove foreign matter contained in a fluid.

[0009] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the foreign matter removal device in the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic plan view illustrating the foreign matter removal device in the first embodiment. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A1-A1 in Figure 2. Figure 4 is a schematic plan view illustrating the foreign matter removal device in a first modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the foreign matter removal device in the first embodiment. Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the foreign matter removal device in the first embodiment. Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the foreign matter removal device in a second modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the foreign matter removal device in a second modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A2-A2 in Figure 2. Figure 10 is a schematic plan view illustrating the foreign matter removal device in a third modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B in Figure 10. Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a foreign matter removal device in a fourth modification of the first embodiment. Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a foreign matter removal device in a fourth modification of the first embodiment. Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a foreign matter removal device in a fifth modification of the first embodiment. Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a foreign matter removal device in a sixth modification of the first embodiment. Figure 16 is a schematic plan view illustrating a foreign matter removal device in a sixth modification of the first embodiment. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line C-C in Figure 16. Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a foreign matter removal device in a seventh modification of the first embodiment. Figure 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a foreign matter removal device in an eighth modification of the first embodiment. Figure 20 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a foreign matter removal device in an eighth modification of the first embodiment. Figure 21 is a schematic diagram illustrating how the coolant system in the second embodiment can supply coolant liquid to a machine tool. Figure 22 schematically shows how the coolant system in the first modified example of the second embodiment can supply coolant to a machine tool. Figure 23 schematically shows how the coolant system in the second modified example of the second embodiment can supply coolant to a machine tool. Figure 24 schematically shows the first removal device.Figure 25 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a machine tool. Figure 26 is a schematic perspective view illustrating another example of a machine tool. Figure 27 is a schematic perspective view illustrating yet another example of a machine tool. Figure 28 is a schematic diagram illustrating how a coolant system can supply coolant to multiple machine tools.

[0010] The foreign matter removal device 1, coolant system 10, and machine tool system 100 in the embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the embodiment, parts and components having the same function will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of parts and components denoted by the same reference numerals will be omitted.

[0011] (Definition of Terms) In this specification, the fluid supplied to the storage tank 2 is defined as "first fluid E1". The first fluid E1 includes a liquid L and foreign matter F. The first fluid E1 is, for example, a suspension S containing the liquid L and foreign matter F.

[0012] In this specification, a fluid containing foreign matter floating on the liquid surface LS of liquid L is defined as "second fluid E2". The second fluid E2 may contain aggregates FA of foreign matter F. The aggregates FA may contain air bubbles. The aggregates FA may contain oil.

[0013] In this specification, any fluid including liquid L is defined as "third fluid E3". The impeller 41 is driven by the third fluid E3. The third fluid E3 may contain foreign matter F.

[0014] In this specification, the fluid formed by mixing a portion of the second fluid E2 with the third fluid E3 is defined as the "fourth fluid E4" (see Figure 5).

[0015] In this specification, liquid L is, for example, coolant liquid L1. Alternatively, liquid L may be a liquid containing oil other than coolant liquid. In this specification, foreign matter F includes, for example, fine particles (e.g., carbon powder) generated from a workpiece processed by a machine tool. Alternatively, foreign matter F may be foreign matter other than fine particles generated from a workpiece.

[0016] (First Embodiment) The foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 20. Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic plan view showing the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A1-A1 in Figure 2. Figure 4 is a schematic plan view showing the foreign matter removal device 1A in a first modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a part of the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment. Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a part of the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment. Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view showing the foreign matter removal device 1A in a second modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the foreign matter removal device 1A in a second modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A2-A2 in Figure 2. Figure 10 is a schematic plan view showing a foreign matter removal device 1A in a third modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B in Figure 10. Figures 12 and 13 are schematic cross-sectional views showing a foreign matter removal device 1A in a fourth modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view showing a foreign matter removal device 1A in a fifth modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view showing a foreign matter removal device 1A in a sixth modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 16 is a schematic plan view showing a foreign matter removal device 1A in a sixth modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line C-C in Figure 16. Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view showing a foreign matter removal device 1A in a seventh modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a foreign matter removal device 1A in an eighth modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 20 is a schematic perspective view showing a foreign matter removal device 1A in the eighth modified example of the first embodiment.

[0017] As illustrated in Figure 1, the foreign matter removal device 1A comprises a storage tank 2, an outlet 210e through which the fluid containing foreign matter floating on the liquid surface flows out, a rotating body 3, and a scraper 46.

[0018] A first fluid E1 containing liquid L and foreign matter F is supplied to the storage tank 2. The first fluid E1 is, for example, a suspension S containing liquid L and foreign matter F. The storage tank 2 stores the first fluid E1 (more specifically, the suspension S).

[0019] As illustrated in Figure 3, the storage tank 2 causes foreign matter F to float to the liquid surface LS of the liquid L. More specifically, the storage tank 2 is a flotation separator that collects a large number of foreign matter F at the liquid surface LS of the liquid L by causing a large number of foreign matter F to float to the liquid surface LS of the liquid L.

[0020] If the specific gravity of the foreign matter F is less than the specific gravity of the liquid L, the foreign matter F will naturally float to the liquid surface LS in the storage tank 2. If the specific gravity of the foreign matter F is greater than the specific gravity of the liquid L, the foreign matter F will adhere to a substance with a lower specific gravity than the liquid L (e.g., air bubbles, styrofoam, etc.) in the storage tank 2. In this case, the foreign matter F will float to the liquid surface LS together with the substance with a lower specific gravity than the liquid L (e.g., air bubbles, styrofoam, etc.). Even if the difference between the specific gravity of the foreign matter F and the specific gravity of the liquid L is small, the foreign matter F will gradually float to the liquid surface LS over time.

[0021] The second fluid E2, containing foreign matter F that has floated to the liquid surface LS, flows out of the storage tank 2 from the outlet 210e. In the example shown in Figure 1, the outlet 210e is an overflow outlet through which the second fluid E2 containing foreign matter F (more specifically, the second fluid E2 containing aggregates FA of foreign matter F) overflows. When the outlet 210e is an overflow outlet, foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of foreign matter F) that has floated to the liquid surface LS easily flows out of the storage tank 2. The aggregates FA of foreign matter F may contain air bubbles and / or oil.

[0022] In the example shown in Figure 1, the outlet 210e is formed in the side wall 210 of the storage tank 2. The outlet 210e may be formed by a notch formed at the top of the side wall 210 of the storage tank 2, or by a through hole formed in the side wall 210 of the storage tank 2.

[0023] The rotating body 3 has an outer circumferential surface 310 to which foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of foreign matter F) moving from the outlet 210e adheres. In the example shown in Figure 1, the rotating body 3 is rotatable around the first axis AX1. In the example shown in Figure 1, the rotating body 3 is rotated by the impeller 41. Alternatively, the rotating body 3 may be rotated by other driving means.

[0024] The scraper 46 scrapes off foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of foreign matter F) adhering to the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3 as the rotating body 3 rotates. In the example shown in Figure 2, the scraper 46 has an edge portion 46e that scrapes off the foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of foreign matter F). The edge portion 46e of the scraper 46 is positioned in contact with or close to the rotating body 3. In the example shown in Figure 1, as the rotating body 3 rotates around the first axis AX1, foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of foreign matter F) adhering to the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3 is scraped off by the scraper 46 (more specifically, the stationary scraper 46).

[0025] In the foreign matter removal device 1A of the first embodiment, the second fluid E2 containing foreign matter that has floated to the liquid surface flows out of the storage tank 2, and the flowing foreign matter adheres to the outer surface 310 of the rotating body 3. Furthermore, the foreign matter adhering to the outer surface 310 is scraped off by the scraper 46. With this configuration, foreign matter contained in the fluid is efficiently removed.

[0026] (Optional Additional Configurations) Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 20, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment will be described.

[0027] (First pipe 6) In the example shown in Figure 2, the foreign matter removal device 1A includes a first pipe 6 that supplies a first fluid E1 (more specifically, a suspension S) to the storage tank 2. The first pipe 6 is connected to the storage tank 2. In the example shown in Figure 3, the first pipe 6 discharges the first fluid E1 (more specifically, a suspension S containing liquid L and foreign matter F) into the lower region of the storage tank 2. More specifically, an opening OP1 is formed in the lower part of the storage tank 2, and the first pipe 6 discharges the first fluid E1 into the lower region of the storage tank 2 through the opening OP1.

[0028] (Bubble generator 60) In the example shown in Figure 2, the foreign matter removal device 1A is equipped with a bubble generator 60 that generates bubbles in the liquid L. The bubbles generated by the bubble generator 60 cause the foreign matter F to float to the surface of the liquid L in the storage tank 2.

[0029] Multiple foreign matter F adhere to multiple bubbles generated by the bubble generator 60, causing the multiple foreign matter F to float to the liquid surface along with the multiple bubbles. Furthermore, the multiple foreign matter F that have floated to the liquid surface aggregate to form an aggregate FA. The aggregate FA contains multiple foreign matter F and multiple bubbles.

[0030] In the example shown in Figure 2, the bubble generator 60 is installed in the first pipe 6. In this case, when the first fluid E1 is supplied from the first pipe 6 to the storage tank 2, foreign matter F contained in the first fluid E1 is lifted by bubbles. Therefore, the settling of foreign matter F is suppressed. Alternatively, or additionally, the bubble generator 60 may be installed inside the storage tank 2.

[0031] The bubble generator 60 may be a self-priming microbubble generator 60a that utilizes the flow of the first fluid E1 flowing through the pipe to draw air into the pipe. When a self-priming microbubble generator 60a is used, a compressor to supply air to the pipe is unnecessary. Since self-priming microbubble generators are well known, a detailed explanation of self-priming microbubble generators will be omitted.

[0032] The bubble generator 60 (more specifically, the microbubble generator 60a) may include a shearing section that reduces the size of bubbles by shearing the air. Alternatively, or additionally, the air may be made finer by rapidly swirling the first fluid E1 flowing through the first pipe 6. The bubble generator 60 may also be a micropore type microbubble generator that supplies air into the first fluid E1 through micropores. A micropore type microbubble generator can cause fine foreign matter F floating in the storage tank 2 to float to the surface of the liquid L. The bubble generator 60 may also be of other types. For example, the bubble generator 60 may be a device that generates bubbles by reducing the pressure or heating a supersaturated gas solution.

[0033] To cause foreign matter F to aggregate in the bubbles, or to promote the aggregation of foreign matter F in the bubbles, a flocculant may be added to the first fluid E1. Alternatively, or additionally, to promote the aggregation of foreign matter F in the bubbles, a charge opposite to the charge on the surface of the foreign matter (e.g., a negative charge) may be imparted to the bubbles.

[0034] As a substance with a lower specific gravity than the liquid L, a solid such as polystyrene foam may be used instead of bubbles. For example, a solid with a lower specific gravity than the liquid L may be supplied to the storage tank 2. In this case, the bubble generator 60 may be omitted. Furthermore, in order to promote the aggregation of foreign matter F into the solid with a lower specific gravity than the liquid L, a charge opposite to the charge on the surface of the foreign matter (for example, a negative charge) may be applied to the solid.

[0035] The aggregates FA of foreign matter F that float to the surface LS of the liquid L in the storage tank 2 move toward the outlet 210e of the storage tank 2 (see arrow AR1 in Figure 5). The aggregates FA may contain air bubbles.

[0036] The second fluid E2 (more specifically, the second fluid E2 containing the aggregate FA of the foreign matter F) that has floated to the liquid surface LS flows out of the storage tank 2 by overflow from the outlet 210e. In the example shown in Figure 6, the second fluid E2 contains the aggregate FA of the foreign matter F and the liquid L.

[0037] The concentration of foreign matter F in the second fluid E2 is higher than the concentration of foreign matter F in the first fluid E1. More specifically, the weight ratio of foreign matter F in the second fluid E2 is greater than the weight ratio of foreign matter F in the first fluid E1 supplied from the first pipe 6 (see Figure 2) to the storage tank 2. In the example shown in Figure 2, the storage tank 2 receives the first fluid E1 from the first pipe 6, concentrates the foreign matter F by flotation separation, and discharges the second fluid E2, which is concentrated with foreign matter F, from the outlet 210e.

[0038] (Impeller 41) As illustrated in Figure 1, the foreign matter removal device 1A may also include an impeller 41. The impeller 41 is driven by a third fluid E3 containing liquid L. The impeller 41 also rotates the rotating body 3. More specifically, the impeller 41 uses the amount of water in the third fluid E3 as a power source to rotate the rotating body 3 around the first shaft AX1.

[0039] In the example shown in Figure 1, the impeller 41 converts the potential energy of the third fluid E3 as it free-falls from the outlet of the discharge member 71 into kinetic energy that rotates the impeller 41 around the second axis AX2. In the example shown in Figure 2, the first axis AX1, which is the axis of rotation of the rotating body 3, and the second axis AX2, which is the axis of rotation of the impeller 41, are coaxial. More specifically, the impeller 41 and the rotating body 3 are connected by a shaft 45 that extends along the first axis AX1.

[0040] The impeller 41 may rotate the rotating body 3 around the first shaft AX1 via an arbitrary power transmission mechanism. In this case, the first shaft AX1 and the second shaft AX2 may be parallel to each other or non-parallel to each other.

[0041] The third fluid E3 that drives the impeller 41 may contain foreign matter F in addition to the liquid L. In the example shown in Figure 1, the impeller 41 is driven by the third fluid E3 (more specifically, the third fluid E3 containing the liquid L and foreign matter F) supplied from the storage tank 2.

[0042] In the example shown in Figure 1, the third fluid E3 is supplied from the storage tank 2 to the impeller 41, bypassing the outlet 210e. In the example shown in Figure 1, foreign matter F with little water that floats on the liquid surface LS is discharged towards the rotating body 3 via the outlet 210e, while foreign matter that does not float on the liquid surface LS and a relatively large amount of liquid L are discharged towards the impeller 41 via the discharge member 71. As a result, the third fluid E3 bypasses the outlet 210e, and the amount of liquid L scooped up by the scraper 46 can be reduced.

[0043] Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the foreign matter removing device 1A may have a first supply channel K1 for supplying a first fluid E1 to the storage tank 2 and a bypass supply channel BK that bypasses the storage tank 2 and supplies a third fluid E3 to the impeller 41. In this case, the impeller 41 is driven by the third fluid E3 that bypasses the storage tank 2 and is supplied to the impeller 41. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the component composition of the third fluid E3 is the same as that of the first fluid E1. More specifically, the first fluid E1 is composed of a suspension S containing a liquid L and foreign matter F, and the third fluid E3 is composed of a suspension S containing a liquid L and foreign matter F.

[0044] In the examples shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the impeller 41 rotates the rotating body 3 using the flow of the third fluid E3 as a power source. Therefore, compared with the case where the rotating body 3 is driven by a motor, power consumption, noise, and vibration are reduced. In addition, since there is no need to add a motor for rotating the rotating body 3, the manufacturing cost of the foreign matter removing device 1A is reduced, and the foreign matter removing device 1A is made more compact.

[0045] In the examples shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, since the floating separation of the foreign matter F to the discharge of the foreign matter F are automatically performed, the work load of the operator is reduced. In addition, the maintenance frequency of the system including the foreign matter removing device 1A (for example, the coolant system 10 described later) can be reduced.

[0046] (Rotating body 3) In the example shown in FIG. 5, the portion of the outer peripheral surface 310 of the rotating body 3 that crosses the scraper 46 has a substantially cylindrical shape. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the entire outer peripheral surface 310 of the rotating body 3 may have a substantially cylindrical shape. The rotating body 3 may have a substantially cylindrical shape or a substantially columnar shape as a whole.

[0047] One end 3a of the rotating body 3 (see FIG. 2) may be an open end or a closed end. The other end 3b of the rotating body 3 (see FIG. 2) may be an open end or a closed end.

[0048] The outer peripheral surface 310 of the rotating body 3 may allow the passage of the liquid L and suppress the passage of foreign matter F (more specifically, the aggregate FA of foreign matter F). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, a plurality of openings Q (more specifically, a plurality of slits Q1) that allow the passage of the liquid L and suppress the passage of foreign matter F (more specifically, the aggregate FA of foreign matter F) may be formed on the outer peripheral surface 310 of the rotating body 3. In this case, by separating the liquid component from the foreign matter F (more specifically, the aggregate FA of foreign matter F) adhering to the outer peripheral surface 310 of the rotating body 3, the volume of the recovered material (more specifically, the volume of the substance to be discarded) recovered into the foreign matter recovery chamber 48 (see FIG. 5) can be made small.

[0049] In the example shown in FIG. 6, the outer peripheral surface 310 of the rotating body 3 is constituted by the outer surfaces 310a of a plurality of horizontal bars 31a. Also, the gap between two adjacent horizontal bars 31a functions as a slit Q1 that allows the passage of the liquid L. The cross-sectional shape of the horizontal bar 31a may be a substantially triangular shape or other shapes.

[0050] Alternatively, the outer peripheral surface 310 of the rotating body 3 may be constituted by a lattice or a mesh. In this case, the openings of the lattice or the mesh allow the passage of the liquid L.

[0051] In the example shown in FIG. 6, an aggregate FA is formed by a plurality of foreign matters F. Since the size of the aggregate FA is larger than the size of each individual foreign matter F, the aggregate FA has difficulty passing through the opening Q (for example, the slit Q1) formed on the outer peripheral surface 310 of the rotating body 3.

[0052] The size of the opening Q may be, for example, a size through which foreign matter F with a particle size of 1 mm or more (or foreign matter F with a particle size of 100 μm or more) cannot pass. In this case, the opening Q can draw the liquid L into the internal region of the rotating body 3 by capillary action.

[0053] The width W1 of the slit Q1 (see FIG. 6) may be, for example, 100 μm or less, 50 μm or less, or 20 μm or less. In this case, the slit Q1 can draw the liquid L into the internal region of the rotating body 3 by capillary action.

[0054] Furthermore, if the proportion of liquid L in the second fluid E2 is small (in other words, if the foreign matter F is sufficiently concentrated in the second fluid E2), an opening does not need to be formed on the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3. Also, if the liquid L flows sufficiently down along the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3, an opening does not need to be formed on the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3.

[0055] If the foreign object F contains a ferromagnetic material, the rotating body 3 may be equipped with a magnet to magnetically attract the foreign object F. If the surface of the foreign object F has an electric charge, the rotating body 3 may be charged so that the foreign object F is attracted to it.

[0056] As illustrated in Figure 2, in this specification, the direction parallel to the horizontal plane and in a plan view toward the edge portion 46e of the scraper 46 from the first axis AX1 (i.e., the axis of rotation of the rotating body 3) is defined as the first direction DR1. In this specification, the direction opposite to the first direction DR1 is defined as the second direction DR2. In this specification, the portion of the rotating body 3 that is on the side of the first direction DR1 relative to the first axis AX1 is defined as the first portion 3-1, and the portion of the rotating body 3 that is on the side of the second direction DR2 relative to the first axis AX1 is defined as the second portion 3-2.

[0057] In the example shown in Figure 2, foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of foreign matter F) flowing downward from the outlet 210e is received by the second part 3-2 of the rotating body 3.

[0058] In the example shown in Figure 2, foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of foreign matter F) adhering to the rotating body 3 is transported by the rotating body 3 in the first direction DR1 in a plan view.

[0059] In the example shown in Figure 2, the scraper 46 (more specifically, the edge portion 46e of the scraper 46) scrapes off foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of foreign matter F) from the first portion 3-1 of the rotating body 3.

[0060] In the example shown in Figure 2, the direction from the outlet 210e towards the foreign matter collection chamber 48 in a plan view coincides with the first direction DR1. Also, in the example shown in Figure 2, the foreign matter F flowing out from the outlet 210e is consistently transported in the first direction DR1 in a plan view to the foreign matter collection chamber 48. In this case, the transport of the foreign matter F is carried out smoothly. Furthermore, the transport path of the foreign matter F can be made compact.

[0061] In the example shown in Figure 2, the inclined surface 510, described later, is positioned in the first direction DR1 relative to the outlet 210e in a plan view. In the example shown in Figure 2, the first axis AX1, which is the rotation axis of the rotating body 3, is positioned in the first direction DR1 relative to the inclined surface 510 in a plan view. In the example shown in Figure 2, the scraper 46 is positioned in the first direction DR1 relative to the first axis AX1 in a plan view. Also, the foreign matter collection chamber 48 is positioned in the first direction DR1 relative to the edge portion 46e of the scraper 46 in a plan view.

[0062] (Inclined surface 510) As illustrated in Figure 5, the foreign matter removal device 1A may also include an inclined surface 510 that guides foreign matter F (more specifically, the second fluid E2 containing foreign matter F) to the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3. When foreign matter F is guided by the inclined surface 510, aggregates FA of foreign matter F are less likely to break apart. Also, because the transfer of foreign matter F to the rotating body 3 is performed without impact, foreign matter F is less likely to fall off the rotating body 3. Furthermore, by setting the gap GP (see Figure 6) between the lower end 510w of the inclined surface 510 and the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3 appropriately, the falling of foreign matter F from the gap GP can be suppressed.

[0063] In the example shown in Figure 5, the inclined surface 510 is located between the outlet 210e and the rotating body 3. The inclined surface 510 is an inclined surface whose height decreases as it approaches the rotating body 3 from the outlet 210e. In the example shown in Figure 5, the inclined surface 510 is formed by the upper surface of the inclined plate 51. Alternatively, the inclined surface 510 may be formed by the upper surface of a block.

[0064] In the example shown in Figure 5, the upper end 510u of the inclined surface 510 is connected to the outlet 210e. The lower end 510w of the inclined surface 510 is positioned near the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3, or is positioned in contact with the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3.

[0065] The aggregate FA containing air bubbles may flow down the inclined surface 510 at a slower rate than the pure liquid L. The difference in flow rate may promote the separation of liquid components from the aggregate FA on the inclined surface 510.

[0066] The inclined surface 510 guides the foreign matter F (more specifically, the second fluid E2 containing aggregates FA of the foreign matter F) flowing out from the outlet 210e in the first direction DR1 when viewed from above.

[0067] The inclination angle α of the inclined surface 510 with respect to the horizontal plane (more specifically, the angle between the line connecting the upper end 510u and the lower end 510w of the inclined surface 510 and the horizontal plane in a side view) is, for example, 45 degrees or more, 55 degrees or more, or 65 degrees or more. When the inclination angle α is sufficiently large, the accumulation of foreign matter F on the inclined surface 510 is suppressed.

[0068] As illustrated in Figure 1, the inclined plate 51 may have a flat plate shape. Alternatively, the inclined plate 51 may have a trough shape. As illustrated in Figure 7, the inclined plate may be omitted. In the example shown in Figure 7, the second fluid E2 containing foreign matter F falls directly from the outlet 210e onto the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3.

[0069] As illustrated in Figure 5, in this specification, the portion of the rotating body 3 above the first axis AX1 is defined as the third portion 3-3, and the portion of the rotating body 3 below the first axis AX1 is defined as the fourth portion 3-4.

[0070] In the example shown in Figure 5, the foreign matter F (more specifically, the second fluid E2 containing the foreign matter F) flowing downward from the outlet 210e is received by the third portion 3-3 of the rotating body 3, and the foreign matter F adheres to the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3. In other words, the foreign matter F is configured to adhere to the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3 above the first axis AX1. The foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of the foreign matter F) adhering to the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3 is transported by the rotating body 3 to the scraper 46.

[0071] Alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 8, the foreign matter F (more specifically, the second fluid E2 containing the foreign matter F) flowing downward from the outlet 210e may be received by a foreign matter receiving tank 56 below the rotating body 3. In this case, a part of the rotating body 3 may come into contact with the foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of the foreign matter F) contained in the foreign matter receiving tank 56, causing the foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of the foreign matter F) to adhere to the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3. The foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of the foreign matter F) adhering to the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3 is then transported by the rotating body 3 to the scraper 46.

[0072] (Scraper 46) In the example shown in Figure 5, the scraper 46 (more specifically, the edge portion 46e of the scraper 46) scrapes off foreign matter F from the third portion 3-3 of the rotating body 3. In other words, the scraper 46 (more specifically, the edge portion 46e of the scraper 46) scrapes off foreign matter F from the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3 above the first axis AX1. When foreign matter F is scraped off from the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3 above the first axis AX1, the potential energy of the foreign matter F at the scraping position is greater compared to when the foreign matter is scraped off from the lower portion of the rotating body 3. Therefore, the scraper 46 is more likely to guide the foreign matter F downwards. However, in other embodiments, the scraper 46 may also scrape off foreign matter F from the lower portion of the rotating body 3 (in other words, from the fourth portion 3-4 of the rotating body 3).

[0073] As illustrated in Figure 1, the scraper 46 may have a flat plate shape. Alternatively, the scraper 46 may have a trough shape. In the example shown in Figure 1, the scraper 46 has an upper surface 460 on which the foreign object F moves.

[0074] In the example shown in Figure 5, the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46 is an inclined surface. More specifically, the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46 is an inclined surface whose height decreases as it moves away from the edge portion 46e that scrapes off foreign matter F. In this case, the foreign matter F scraped off by the scraper 46 flows downward along the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46. Therefore, foreign matter F is less likely to accumulate on the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46. In addition, there is no need to prepare an additional drive source to transfer the foreign matter F from the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46 to the foreign matter collection chamber 48 described later.

[0075] In the example shown in Figure 5, the upper end of the scraper 46 is positioned near the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3, or in contact with the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 3. The upper end of the scraper 46 is the edge portion 46e that scrapes off foreign matter F. In the example shown in Figure 5, the lower end portion 46w of the scraper 46 is positioned vertically above the foreign matter collection chamber 48.

[0076] The inclination angle β of the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46 with respect to the horizontal plane is, for example, 15 degrees or more and 75 degrees or less, 15 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less, or 15 degrees or more and 45 degrees or less. The inclination angle β of the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46 with respect to the horizontal plane may be smaller than the inclination angle α of the inclined surface 510 with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0077] (Foreign Matter Collection Chamber 48) In the example shown in Figure 5, the foreign matter removal device 1A includes a foreign matter collection chamber 48 that receives foreign matter F from the scraper 46. The foreign matter F received by the scraper 46 flows down along the inclined surface of the scraper 46 and moves from the lower end 46w of the scraper 46 into the foreign matter collection chamber 48. The foreign matter collection chamber 48 may be composed of a foreign matter collection container.

[0078] (Power source for impeller 41) In the example shown in Figure 9, the potential energy of the third fluid E3 decreases as it flows from the storage tank 2 to the impeller 41. In the example shown in Figure 9, the power source for the impeller 41 is the flow of the third fluid E3 that occurs as a result of the decrease in potential energy, and the potential energy generated when the third fluid E3 is on the impeller 41.

[0079] In the example shown in Figure 9, the impeller 41 is driven by a third fluid E3 supplied from the storage tank 2, bypassing the rotating body 3 (see Figure 1).

[0080] (Impeller 41) In the example shown in Figure 9, the impeller 41 includes a plurality of blades 42. The impeller 41, including the plurality of blades 42, rotates around the second axis AX2 due to the potential energy generated when the third fluid E3 collides with the plurality of blades 42 and when the third fluid E3 is carried on the impeller 41. In the example shown in Figure 2, the impeller 41 and the rotating body 3 are connected via a shaft 45. Therefore, when the impeller 41 rotates around the second axis AX2, the rotating body 3 rotates around the first axis AX1, which is coaxial with the second axis AX2.

[0081] In the example shown in Figure 9, the impeller 41 is driven by the collision of the third fluid E3 as it freely falls through the air. More specifically, the impeller 41 is driven by the third fluid E3 as it freely falls from the outlet of the discharge member 71, which will be described later. In addition to being driven by the collision of the third fluid E3, the impeller 41 is also driven by the potential energy generated when the third fluid E3 is on the impeller 41.

[0082] Alternatively, as illustrated in Figures 10 and 11, the impeller 41 may be driven by a third fluid E3 flowing along the inclined surface 72. In the example shown in Figure 11, the third fluid E3 discharged from the storage tank 2 flows along the inclined surface 72. In the example shown in Figure 11, the third fluid E3 flowing along the inclined surface 72 rotates the impeller 41, which is positioned vertically above the inclined surface 72.

[0083] (Discharge Member 71) In the example shown in Figure 9, the foreign matter removal device 1A includes a discharge member 71 for discharging the third fluid E3 from the storage tank 2. At least a portion of the discharge member 71 may be composed of a pipe 71a through which the third fluid E3 flows. Alternatively, or additionally, at least a portion of the discharge member 71 may be composed of a trough through which the third fluid E3 flows.

[0084] In the example shown in Figure 9, the discharge member 71 has an inlet 711 (more specifically, an overflow opening 711a) through which the third fluid E3 flows in from the storage tank 2. The discharge member 71 also has an outlet through which the third fluid E3 flows out (hereinafter referred to as the "second outlet 712" to distinguish it from the outlet 210e through which the second fluid E2 flows out).

[0085] In the example shown in Figure 9, the inlet 711 is an overflow opening 711a. The overflow opening 711a prevents liquid L from being stored in the storage tank 2 beyond the overflow opening 711a. In other words, the overflow opening 711a controls the height of the liquid level LS in the storage tank 2.

[0086] In the example shown in Figure 1 or Figure 7, the inlet 711 is an overflow opening 711a that controls the liquid level at the outlet 210e. More specifically, the liquid level at the outlet 210e is substantially the same as the height of the overflow opening 711a.

[0087] If the inlet 711 is an overflow opening 711a that controls the liquid level at the outlet 210e, then excessive outflow of the second fluid E2 from the outlet 210e is prevented. In other words, by appropriately controlling the liquid level at the outlet 210e, excessive outflow of liquid L from the outlet 210e is prevented. As a result, excessive flow of liquid L into the foreign matter recovery chamber 48 is prevented.

[0088] In the example shown in Figure 2, the overflow opening 711a is located away from the side wall 210 of the storage tank 2 in a plan view. Alternatively, the overflow opening 711a may be formed on the side wall 210 of the storage tank 2. In the example shown in Figure 2, the overflow opening 711a is an upward-facing opening. The overflow opening 711a may be formed by the inlet of the pipe 71a.

[0089] As illustrated in Figures 12 and 13, the relative height of the overflow opening 711a with respect to the storage tank 2 may be adjustable.

[0090] In the examples shown in Figures 12 and 13, the foreign matter removal device 1A includes an adjustment member 74 for adjusting the relative height of the overflow opening 711a with respect to the storage tank 2. The adjustment member 74 may include a screw member 74a (e.g., a nut) for adjusting the height of the overflow opening 711a. Alternatively or additionally, the adjustment member 74 may have an elongated hole for adjusting the mounting position of the discharge member 71 with respect to the storage tank 2.

[0091] In the examples shown in Figures 12 and 13, the adjustment member 74 can continuously adjust the relative height of the overflow opening 711a relative to the storage tank 2. Alternatively, the adjustment member 74 may be able to adjust the relative height of the overflow opening 711a relative to the storage tank 2 in steps. In the examples shown in Figures 12 and 13, the relative height of the overflow opening 711a relative to the storage tank 2 can be adjusted manually. Alternatively, the foreign matter removal device 1A may have a motor for adjusting the relative height of the overflow opening 711a relative to the storage tank 2.

[0092] If the height of the overflow opening 711a is adjustable, the liquid level at the outlet 210e can be changed according to the type of foreign matter F, the type of liquid L, the concentration of foreign matter F contained in the liquid L, etc. Furthermore, the height of the overflow opening 711a can be changed according to the purpose, such as whether to allow only the supernatant foreign matter F or to include the liquid L as well.

[0093] In the example shown in Figure 9, the discharge member 71 supplies the third fluid E3 to the impeller 41. More specifically, the discharge member 71 receives the third fluid E3 from the storage tank 2. The discharge member 71 also bypasses the rotating body 3 to supply the third fluid E3 to the impeller 41.

[0094] In the example shown in Figure 2, the second outlet 712 of the discharge member 71 is positioned vertically above the impeller 41. In this case, the impeller 41 is driven by a third fluid E3 flowing vertically downward from the second outlet 712.

[0095] (Storage Tank 2) In the example shown in Figure 14, the storage tank 2 forms a second fluid E2 and a third fluid E3 from the first fluid E1 by flotation separation of foreign matter F. Preferably, the concentration of foreign matter F in the third fluid E3 is lower than the concentration of foreign matter F in the second fluid E2. More specifically, preferably, the weight ratio of foreign matter F in the third fluid E3 is smaller than the weight ratio of foreign matter F in the second fluid E2 that flows out from the outlet 210e. In this case, both an improvement in the recovery rate of foreign matter F recovered by the foreign matter recovery chamber 48 and suppression of adhesion of foreign matter F to the discharge member 71 and the impeller 41 can be achieved.

[0096] As illustrated in Figure 14, from the viewpoint of reducing the concentration of foreign matter F in the third fluid E3, a partition 78 may be provided in the storage tank 2 to separate the liquid surface of the second fluid E2 heading toward the outlet 210e (hereinafter referred to as "first liquid surface LS1") from the liquid surface of the third fluid E3 heading toward the inlet 711 (more specifically, the overflow opening 711a) (hereinafter referred to as "second liquid surface LS2"). In other words, the foreign matter removal device 1A may be equipped with a partition 78 to separate the first liquid surface LS1 of the second fluid E2 heading toward the outlet 210e from the second liquid surface LS2 of the third fluid E3 heading toward the inlet 711 (more specifically, the overflow opening 711a).

[0097] As illustrated in Figures 15 and 16, the partition 78 may be composed of a partition wall 780 that separates a first storage chamber 2-1 where the outlet 210e is located from a second storage chamber 2-2 where the inlet 711 (more specifically, an overflow opening 711a) is located.

[0098] In the example shown in Figures 15 and 16, the storage tank 2 includes a first storage chamber 2-1 where an outlet 210e is located, and a second storage chamber 2-2 where an inlet 711 (more specifically, an overflow opening 711a) is located. The first storage chamber 2-1 is a flotation separation chamber where foreign matter F is separated by flotation. The second storage chamber 2-2 stores fluid in which the concentration of foreign matter F has been reduced by flotation separation of the foreign matter F. In this specification, the fluid in which the concentration of foreign matter F has been reduced by flotation separation of the foreign matter F is referred to as "treated fluid Ea". In the example shown in Figure 15, the impeller 41 is driven by the treated fluid Ea. More specifically, the third fluid E3 that drives the impeller 41 is the treated fluid Ea.

[0099] In the example shown in Figure 17, the storage tank 2 has a flotation separation chamber (more specifically, a first storage chamber 2-1) where foreign matter F is separated by flotation, and a second storage chamber 2-2 that contains the third fluid E3. The flotation separation chamber (more specifically, the first storage chamber 2-1) and the second storage chamber 2-2 are in communication at the lower part of both chambers. More specifically, the first storage chamber 2-1 and the second storage chamber 2-2 are in communication via a lower opening OP2 formed in the lower part of the partition wall 780. In the example shown in Figure 17, the treated fluid Ea, in which the concentration of foreign matter F has been reduced by flotation separation of the foreign matter F, is configured to flow from the flotation separation chamber (more specifically, the first storage chamber 2-1) to the second storage chamber 2-2 via the lower opening OP2. In the example shown in Figure 17, the upper part of the first storage chamber 2-1 contains a second fluid E2 containing a high concentration of flotation-separated foreign matter F, and near the lower opening OP2 of the first storage chamber 2-1, there is a treated fluid Ea in which the concentration of foreign matter F has been reduced by flotation-separated foreign matter F.

[0100] In the examples shown in Figures 2, 4, 10, or 16, the bubble generator 60 (more specifically, the microbubble generator 60a) releases bubbles into the first storage chamber 2-1. In this case, the flotation and separation of foreign matter F is promoted in the first storage chamber 2-1.

[0101] As illustrated in Figure 18, the storage tank 2 may include a first storage chamber 2-1 where an outlet 210e is located, and a third storage chamber 2-3 from which bubbles are released from a bubble generator (more specifically, a microbubble generator). In the example shown in Figure 18, a second partition 79 (more specifically, a second partition wall 790) is located between the third storage chamber 2-3 and the first storage chamber 2-1. In the example shown in Figure 18, the third storage chamber 2-3 and the first storage chamber 2-1 are each flotation separation chambers in which foreign matter F is flotated and separated.

[0102] In the example shown in Figure 18, the aggregate FA containing bubbles and foreign matter F, along with the liquid L, overflow from the third storage chamber 2-3 into the first storage chamber 2-1. Relatively large bubbles are present at the liquid surface of the third storage chamber 2-3. These relatively large bubbles dissipate over time.

[0103] Foreign matter F adhering to small bubbles takes time to float to the liquid surface. In the example shown in Figure 18, small bubbles are initially blocked by the second partition wall 790. This ensures that there is sufficient time for the foreign matter F adhering to the small bubbles to float to the liquid surface in the third storage chamber 2-3. The foreign matter F and bubbles that have floated to the liquid surface in the third storage chamber 2-3 overflow from the third storage chamber 2-3 to the first storage chamber 2-1. The liquid surface in the first storage chamber 2-1 contains relatively small bubbles and foreign matter F that has agglomerated around these bubbles.

[0104] In this way, by providing multiple partitions (78, 79) within the storage tank 2, bubbles that rise to the liquid surface do not flow directly towards the outlet 210e but instead gradually become smaller over time. The smaller bubbles then burst as they clump together and flow towards the outlet 210e. In this way, the amount of bubbles that flow into the foreign matter recovery chamber 48 can be reduced. Also, because it takes time for the bubbles in the storage tank 2 to reach the outlet 210e, sufficient time is ensured for any foreign matter F attached to the bubbles to float to the liquid surface.

[0105] (First receiving chamber 80) In the example shown in Figure 5, the foreign matter removal device 1A includes a first receiving chamber 80 that receives a portion of the second fluid E2 (more specifically, the liquid component E2-1 of the second fluid E2). In the example shown in Figure 5, a portion of the liquid component E2-1 of the second fluid E2 flows down into the first receiving chamber 80 without being scraped off by the scraper 46. The remaining portion of the liquid component E2-1 of the second fluid E2 is scraped off by the scraper 46 and collected in the foreign matter collection chamber 48. Preferably, the amount of liquid component of the second fluid E2 that flows down into the first receiving chamber 80 is greater than the amount of liquid component of the second fluid E2 collected in the foreign matter collection chamber 48. In this case, by reducing the amount of liquid component collected in the foreign matter collection chamber 48, the time until the foreign matter collection chamber 48 is full can be extended.

[0106] In the example shown in Figure 6, some of the foreign matter F contained in the second fluid E2 falls into the first receiving chamber 80 together with the liquid component E2-1 of the second fluid E2, without being scraped off by the scraper 46. In other words, some of the foreign matter F falls into the first receiving chamber 80 without being scraped off by the scraper 46.

[0107] In the example shown in Figure 5, an outlet 81 is formed in the first receiving chamber 80. The outlet 81 discharges a portion of the second fluid E2 to the outside of the first receiving chamber 80, and also discharges any foreign matter F that was not scraped off by the scraper 46 to the outside of the first receiving chamber 80.

[0108] As illustrated in Figure 5, the first receiving chamber 80 may receive the third fluid E3. More specifically, the first receiving chamber 80 may receive the third fluid E3 that drives the impeller 41.

[0109] In the example shown in Figure 5, the first receiving chamber 80 receives the liquid component of the second fluid E2, the foreign matter F, and the third fluid E3. In this case, the liquid component of the second fluid E2, the foreign matter F, and the third fluid E3 are mixed in the first receiving chamber 80. The third fluid E3 has a lower concentration of foreign matter F compared to the second fluid E2. Therefore, the adhesion of foreign matter F to the inner surface of the first receiving chamber 80 is suppressed by the third fluid E3.

[0110] In the example shown in Figure 5, a portion of the second fluid E2 and the third fluid E3 are mixed in the first receiving chamber 80 to form a fourth fluid E4. The fourth fluid E4 is discharged outside the first receiving chamber 80 through the outlet 81.

[0111] (Bypass Member 75) As illustrated in Figures 19 and 20, the foreign matter removal device 1A may also include a bypass member 75. The bypass member 75 guides a portion of the third fluid E3 discharged from the storage tank 2 so that a portion of the third fluid E3 bypasses both the rotating body 3 and the impeller 41. A portion of the bypass member 75 may be formed from a portion of the discharge member 71. In the example shown in Figure 20, the base end 71b of the discharge member 71 also serves as the base end of the bypass member 75. In addition, the tip 75d of the bypass member 75 branches off from the discharge member 71.

[0112] In the examples shown in Figures 19 and 20, a portion of the third fluid E3 discharged from the storage tank 2 drives the impeller 41, while another portion of the third fluid E3 discharged from the storage tank 2 bypasses the impeller 41. In this specification, the fluid that drives the impeller 41 from the third fluid E3 discharged from the storage tank 2 is defined as "driving fluid E3-1," and the fluid that bypasses the impeller 41 from the third fluid E3 discharged from the storage tank 2 is defined as "bypass fluid E3-2."

[0113] If the impeller 41 is driven by only a portion of the third fluid E3 discharged from the storage tank 2, and the other portion of the third fluid E3 discharged from the storage tank 2 bypasses the impeller 41, then the rotational speed of the impeller 41 is prevented from becoming excessive.

[0114] As illustrated in Figure 20, the foreign matter removal device 1A may include an adjustment member 77 (for example, an adjustment handle 77a) for adjusting the ratio of the driving fluid E3-1 to the total third fluid E3 discharged from the storage tank 2.

[0115] In the example shown in Figure 19, the first receiving chamber 80 receives both the driving fluid E3-1 and the bypass fluid E3-2. In the example shown in Figure 19, a fourth fluid E4 is formed in the first receiving chamber 80 by mixing a portion of the second fluid E2 with the third fluid E3 (more specifically, the driving fluid E3-1 and the bypass fluid E3-2). The fourth fluid E4 is discharged outside the first receiving chamber 80 through the outlet 81.

[0116] (Foreign matter F removed by foreign matter removal device 1A) The foreign matter F removed by foreign matter removal device 1A includes fine particles. The foreign matter F removed by foreign matter removal device 1A may contain carbon powder, silicon powder, or metal powder.

[0117] (Second Embodiment) The coolant system 10A in the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 24. Figure 21 is a schematic diagram showing how the coolant system 10A in the second embodiment can supply coolant to the machine tool 101. Figure 22 is a schematic diagram showing how the coolant system 10A in the first modified example of the second embodiment can supply coolant to the machine tool 101. Figure 23 is a schematic diagram showing how the coolant system 10A in the second modified example of the second embodiment can supply coolant to the machine tool 101. Figure 24 is a schematic diagram showing the first removal device 14.

[0118] The second embodiment will be described primarily in terms of its differences from the first embodiment. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, repetitive explanations of matters already explained in the first embodiment will be omitted. Therefore, it goes without saying that even if not explicitly explained in the second embodiment, matters already explained in the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment.

[0119] As illustrated in Figure 21, the coolant system 10A in the second embodiment includes a main tank 11 for storing coolant liquid L1, a supply device 18 for supplying coolant liquid L1 from the main tank 11 to the machine tool 101, a foreign matter removal device 1, a first pump P1, and a first return flow path R1.

[0120] As illustrated in Figure 21, the foreign matter removal device 1 comprises: (1) a storage tank 2 to which a first fluid E1 containing coolant liquid L1 and foreign matter F is supplied, causing the foreign matter F to float on the liquid surface LS of the coolant liquid L1; (2) an outlet 210e from which a second fluid E2 containing the foreign matter F that has floated on the liquid surface LS flows out of the storage tank 2; (3) a rotating body 3 having an outer peripheral surface 310 to which the foreign matter F moving from the outlet 210e adheres; and (4) a scraper 46 that scrapes off the foreign matter F adhering to the outer peripheral surface 310 by the rotation of the rotating body 3. Additionally, the foreign matter removal device 1 may include an impeller 41 driven by a third fluid E3 containing coolant liquid L1 to rotate the rotating body 3.

[0121] The foreign matter removal device 1 may be the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment, or it may be any other foreign matter removal device. Since the foreign matter removal device 1A has already been described in the first embodiment, a repetitive explanation of the foreign matter removal device 1A will be omitted.

[0122] The first pump P1 sends the first fluid E1, which contains coolant liquid L1 and foreign matter F, from the main tank 11 to the foreign matter removal device 1.

[0123] The first return channel R1 returns the fluid containing the coolant liquid L1 from the foreign matter removal device 1 to the main tank 11.

[0124] The coolant system 10A in the second embodiment provides the same effects as the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment.

[0125] Furthermore, in the coolant system 10A of the second embodiment, foreign matter F is gradually removed from the fluid containing the coolant liquid L1 as the fluid circulates through the main tank 11, the storage tank 2, and the first return passage R1.

[0126] (Optional Additional Configurations) Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 24, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the coolant system 10A in the second embodiment will be described.

[0127] (Chiller 13) As illustrated in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the coolant system 10A may include a chiller 13 for cooling the coolant liquid L1. In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the chiller 13 receives a first fluid E1 containing the coolant liquid L1 from the main tank 11 and cools the first fluid E1. The cooled first fluid E1 is returned to the main tank 11.

[0128] (First supply channel K1) In the example shown in Figure 21, the coolant system 10A includes a first supply channel K1 connecting the main tank 11 and the storage tank 2. The first pump P1 supplies the first fluid E1 from the main tank 11 to the storage tank 2 via the first supply channel K1. A bubble generator 60 (more specifically, a microbubble generator 60a) may be provided in the first pipe 6 that defines a part of the first supply channel K1.

[0129] (First pump P1) As illustrated in Figure 22, the first pump P1 may supply the first fluid E1 to both the machine tool 101 and the foreign matter removal device 1. In this case, there is no need to add a pump dedicated to the foreign matter removal device. In other words, the first pump P1 that supplies the coolant liquid L1 to the machine tool 101 can be used to supply the first fluid E1 to the foreign matter removal device 1.

[0130] In the example shown in Figure 22, the coolant system 10A includes a second supply channel M2 connecting the main tank 11 and the machine tool 101, and a branch channel CK branching off from the second supply channel M2. Furthermore, a first supply channel K1 connecting the main tank 11 and the storage tank 2 is composed of a part of the second supply channel M2 and the branch channel CK.

[0131] Alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 23, the first pump P1 may supply the first fluid E1 to both the chiller 13 and the foreign matter removal device 1. In this case, the first pump P1 that supplies the first fluid E1 to the chiller 13 can be used to supply the first fluid E1 to the foreign matter removal device 1.

[0132] In the example shown in Figure 23, the coolant system 10A includes a chiller 13, a first circulation channel C1 that returns from the main tank 11 through the chiller 13 to the main tank 11, and a branch channel CK that branches off from the first circulation channel C1. Furthermore, a first supply channel K1 connecting the main tank 11 and the storage tank 2 is composed of a part of the first circulation channel C1 and the branch channel CK.

[0133] (Second return passage R2) In this specification, the coolant used to cool a tool or workpiece is defined as "used coolant L2". Also in this specification, the fluid containing the used coolant L2 and sludge D2 generated from the workpiece is defined as "dirty fluid J2". In the example shown in Figure 21, Figure 22, or Figure 23, the coolant system 10A includes a second return passage R2 through which the dirty fluid J2 flows from the machine tool 101 to the main tank 11. The second return passage R2 connects the machine tool 101 and the main tank 11. In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the second return passage R2 returns the used coolant L2 (more specifically, the dirty fluid J2) from the machine tool 101 to the first region RG1 of the main tank 11.

[0134] In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the dirty fluid J2 is collected in the main tank 11 via the second return channel R2. In the example shown in Figure 24, the dirty fluid J2 contains chips D1. The dirty fluid J2 may also contain oil.

[0135] (First Removal Device 14) As illustrated in Figures 21, 22, or 23, the coolant system 10A may also include a first removal device 14 for removing large foreign objects (more specifically, chips D1) from the dirty fluid J2 containing the used coolant liquid L2. In the example shown in Figure 22 or 23, the first removal device 14 removes large foreign objects (more specifically, chips D1) from the dirty fluid J2 flowing through the second return channel R2.

[0136] As illustrated in Figure 24, the first removal device 14 may include a chip conveyor 14a that removes large foreign objects (more specifically, chips D1) from the dirty fluid J2 containing used coolant L2. The first removal device 14 may also include a drum filter 14b that removes the chips D1. In the example shown in Figure 24, the drum filter 14b is located inside the chip conveyor 14a. The chips D1 are removed by both the chip conveyor 14a and the drum filter 14b.

[0137] (Second Removal Device 15) As illustrated in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the coolant system 10A may include a second removal device 15 for removing small foreign matter (more specifically, sludge D2) from the dirty fluid J2, and a circulation channel (hereinafter referred to as "second circulation channel C2") that returns from the main tank 11 through the second removal device 15 to the main tank 11. The coolant system 10A may also include a second pump P2 for sending the dirty fluid J2 containing used coolant liquid L2 from the main tank 11 to the second removal device 15.

[0138] In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the second pump P2 pumps up the dirty fluid J2 from the first region RG1 of the main tank 11.

[0139] The second removal device 15 removes small foreign matter (more specifically, sludge D2) from the dirty fluid J2 pumped up by the second pump P2. As illustrated in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the second removal device 15 may include a cyclone filter 15a that removes small foreign matter (more specifically, sludge D2) from the dirty fluid J2 flowing through the second circulation channel C2.

[0140] In this specification, the fluid remaining after small foreign matter (more specifically, sludge D2) has been removed from the dirty fluid J2 by ​​the second removal device 15 is defined as "treated fluid J1". In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the fluid returned to the main tank 11 from the second circulation channel C2 is the treated fluid J1.

[0141] In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the second circulation channel C2 receives dirty fluid J2 containing used coolant L2 from the first region RG1 of the main tank 11 and returns the coolant L1 (more specifically, the treated fluid J1) to the second region RG2 of the main tank 11.

[0142] In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the first region RG1 is closer to the first removal device 14 than the second region RG2. Therefore, the dirty fluid J2 discharged from the first removal device 14 is smoothly pumped up by the second pump P2.

[0143] In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the second region RG2 is closer to the intake port Ka of the first supply channel K1 compared to the first region RG1. Therefore, the treated fluid J1 discharged from the second circulation channel C2 is smoothly pumped up by the first pump P1.

[0144] In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the first pump P1 supplies the treated fluid J1 discharged from the second circulation channel C2 as the first fluid E1 to the foreign matter removal device 1. When the first fluid E1 supplied to the foreign matter removal device 1 is the treated fluid J1, the rate at which sludge D2 accumulates in the storage tank 2 of the foreign matter removal device 1 slows down.

[0145] In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the dirty fluid J2 containing used coolant L2 is subjected to primary treatment by a first removal device 14, secondary treatment by a second removal device 15, and tertiary treatment by a foreign matter removal device 1. The first removal device 14 removes chips D1 from the dirty fluid J2. The second removal device 15 removes sludge D2 from the dirty fluid J2. The foreign matter removal device 1 separates fine particles (e.g., carbon powder) dispersed in the coolant L1 from the coolant L1.

[0146] (Magnetic separator 16) As illustrated in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the cyclone filter 15a may be connected to a magnetic separator 16 that attracts sludge D2 by magnets. The dirty fluid J2 separated from the sludge D2 by the cyclone filter 15a is discharged to the first region RG1 of the main tank 11.

[0147] (Agitator 17) As illustrated in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the coolant system 10A may include an agitator 17. The agitator 17 agitates the coolant liquid L1 in the main tank 11. In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the agitator 17 includes an agitator nozzle 17a for discharging the coolant liquid L1, a third circulation channel C3 that returns the coolant liquid L1 from the main tank 11 through the agitator nozzle 17a to the main tank 11, and a third pump P3 that sends the coolant liquid L1 from the main tank 11 to the agitator nozzle 17a.

[0148] As illustrated in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the third pump P3 may supply coolant L1 to both the machine tool 101 and the agitator 17. In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the third pump P3 supplies coolant L1 from the main tank 11 to the machine tool 101 via the third supply channel M3.

[0149] If the coolant system 10A is equipped with a stirring device 17, fine particles are dispersed in the coolant liquid L1, and the accumulation of fine particles at the bottom of the main tank 11 is suppressed. The fine particles dispersed in the coolant liquid L1 are removed by the foreign matter removal device 1.

[0150] As illustrated in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the stirring nozzle 17a may discharge the coolant liquid L1 in the direction from the second region RG2 toward the first region RG1. In this case, the sludge D2 in the first region RG1 is suppressed from moving toward the second region RG2.

[0151] In the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, the first region RG1 and the second region RG2 are not separated from each other. Alternatively, a partition may be placed between the first region RG1 and the second region RG2. Also, the main tank 11 may be divided into multiple sections.

[0152] (Supply device 18) In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the coolant system 10A includes a supply device 18 that supplies coolant liquid L1 to the machine tool 101. The supply device 18 includes at least one supply channel M connecting the main tank 11 and the machine tool 101, and at least one pump P that supplies coolant liquid L1 from the main tank 11 to the machine tool 101 via at least one supply channel M.

[0153] As illustrated in Figure 22 or Figure 23, at least one supply channel M connecting the main tank 11 and the machine tool 101 may include the second supply channel M2 and / or the third supply channel M3 described above. Alternatively or additionally, at least one supply channel M connecting the main tank 11 and the machine tool 101 may include a fourth supply channel M4.

[0154] As illustrated in Figure 22 or Figure 23, at least one pump P supplying coolant L1 from the main tank 11 to the machine tool 101 via at least one supply channel M may include a first pump P1 and / or a third pump P3. Alternatively or additionally, the coolant system 10A may include a fourth pump P4 supplying coolant L1 from the main tank 11 to the machine tool 101 via a fourth supply channel M4.

[0155] (Coolant L1) Coolant L1 is, for example, a water-soluble coolant. The main component of the water-soluble coolant is, for example, water. The water-soluble coolant may also contain a water-soluble lubricant (for example, a water-soluble cutting fluid or a water-soluble grinding fluid) and / or a surfactant.

[0156] (Foreign matter F) The foreign matter F removed from the first fluid E1 by the foreign matter removal device 1 includes fine particles that are difficult to remove by, for example, the second removal device 15 (more specifically, the cyclone filter 15a). When fine particles are removed by the foreign matter removal device 1, a large amount of fine particles are prevented from floating in the coolant liquid L1 in the main tank 11 for a long period of time.

[0157] The foreign matter F removed from the first fluid E1 by the foreign matter removal device 1 may include carbon powder generated when a casting (for example, FC material mainly composed of iron and containing 2.1 weight percent or more of carbon) is cut or ground. Fine carbon powder is difficult to remove by the cyclone filter 15a. Furthermore, carbon powder cannot be removed by the magnetic separator 16.

[0158] If a large amount of fine particles (for example, fine carbon powder) remain in the main tank 11, the filters placed in the supply channel M, etc., may become clogged. Furthermore, maintenance of the coolant system 10A may be required due to filter clogging, etc., which may hinder the operation of the coolant system 10A. In contrast, in the coolant system 10A of the second embodiment, the fine particles are gradually removed by the foreign matter removal device 1, so the frequency of maintenance of the coolant system 10A can be reduced. In addition, the reduced maintenance frequency reduces the workload of the operator.

[0159] If the coolant liquid L1 discharged into the machine tool 101 contains a large amount of fine particles (e.g., fine carbon powder), the cooling or lubrication characteristics of the coolant liquid L1 may deteriorate. This problem can be avoided by frequently changing the coolant liquid L1, but this would incur replacement costs. Furthermore, if the coolant liquid L1 discharged into the machine tool 101 contains a large amount of fine particles (e.g., fine carbon powder), the tool life may be reduced. Also, if the fine particles contain carbon powder, the machine tool 101 may become contaminated with carbon powder. In the coolant system 10A of the second embodiment, the amount of fine particles contained in the coolant liquid L1 discharged into the machine tool 101 is reduced because the fine particles are removed by the foreign matter removal device 1.

[0160] Furthermore, the foreign matter F removed from the first fluid E1 by the foreign matter removal device 1 may be foreign matter other than carbon powder.

[0161] (Third Embodiment) The machine tool system 100 in the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 28. Figure 21 is a schematic diagram showing the machine tool system 100 in the third embodiment. Figure 22 is a schematic diagram showing the machine tool system 100 in a first modification of the third embodiment. Figure 23 is a schematic diagram showing the machine tool system 100 in a second modification of the third embodiment. Figure 25 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a machine tool 101. Figure 26 is a schematic perspective view showing another example of a machine tool 101. Figure 27 is a schematic perspective view showing yet another example of a machine tool 101. Figure 28 is a schematic diagram showing how the coolant system 10 can supply coolant to multiple machine tools.

[0162] The third embodiment will primarily describe the differences from the first and second embodiments. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, repetitive explanations of matters already described in the first or second embodiment will be omitted. Therefore, it goes without saying that even if not explicitly explained in the third embodiment, matters already described in the first or second embodiment can be applied to the third embodiment.

[0163] As illustrated in Figure 22, the machine tool system 100 in the third embodiment comprises a machine tool 101 and a coolant system 10 that supplies coolant liquid to the machine tool.

[0164] As illustrated in Figure 25, the machine tool 101 includes a work support device 102 for supporting the workpiece W, a machining head 103 for holding the tool T, a moving device 104 for moving the machining head 103 relative to the work support device 102, and a discharge device 105 (more specifically, a discharge nozzle 1050) for discharging coolant liquid.

[0165] As illustrated in Figure 25, the machine tool 101 may be a machining center 101a. Alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 26, the machine tool 101 may be a lathe 101b. Further alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 27, the machine tool 101 may be a grinding machine 101c.

[0166] As illustrated in Figures 21, 22, or 23, the coolant system 10 includes (1) a main tank 11 for storing coolant liquid L1, (2) a supply device 18 for supplying coolant liquid L1 from the main tank 11 to the machine tool 101, (3) a foreign matter removal device 1, (4) a first pump P1 for sending a first fluid E1 containing coolant liquid L1 and foreign matter F from the main tank 11 to the foreign matter removal device 1, and (5) a first return flow path R1 for returning the fluid containing coolant liquid L1 from the foreign matter removal device 1 to the main tank 11.

[0167] The coolant system 10 may be the coolant system 10A in the second embodiment, or it may be any other coolant system. Since the coolant system 10A has already been described in the second embodiment, a repetitive explanation of the coolant system 10A will be omitted.

[0168] As illustrated in Figure 1, the foreign matter removal device 1 comprises: (1) a storage tank 2 to which a first fluid E1 containing coolant liquid L1 and foreign matter F is supplied, causing the foreign matter F to float on the liquid surface LS of the coolant liquid L1; (2) an outlet 210e from which a second fluid E2 containing the foreign matter F that has floated on the liquid surface LS flows out of the storage tank 2; (3) a rotating body 3 having an outer peripheral surface 310 to which the foreign matter F moving from the outlet 210e adheres; and (4) a scraper 46 that scrapes off the foreign matter F adhering to the outer peripheral surface 310 by the rotation of the rotating body 3. Additionally, the foreign matter removal device 1 may include an impeller 41 driven by a third fluid E3 containing coolant liquid L1 to rotate the rotating body 3.

[0169] The foreign matter removal device 1 may be the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment, or it may be any other foreign matter removal device. Since the foreign matter removal device 1A has already been described in the first embodiment, a repetitive explanation of the foreign matter removal device 1A will be omitted.

[0170] The machine tool system 100 in the third embodiment provides the same effects as the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment or the coolant system 10A in the second embodiment.

[0171] (Optional Additional Configurations) Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 28, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the machine tool system 100 in the third embodiment will be described.

[0172] (Discharge device 105) As illustrated in Figure 25 or Figure 26, the discharge device 105 may include a first discharge device 105a that discharges coolant liquid toward the workpiece W. In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, a fourth pump P4 may be configured to supply coolant liquid L1 to the first discharge device 105a via a fourth supply passage M4. Alternatively, in the example shown in Figure 22, a first pump P1 may be configured to supply coolant liquid L1 to the first discharge device 105a via a second supply passage M2. Further alternatively, in the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, a third pump P3 may be configured to supply coolant liquid L1 to the first discharge device 105a via a third supply passage M3, or another pump may be configured to supply coolant liquid L1 to the first discharge device 105a via another supply passage.

[0173] As illustrated in Figure 25, the discharge device 105 may include a second discharge device 105b that discharges coolant to the tool T such that the coolant passes through the inside of the tool T. In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, a fourth pump P4 may be configured to supply coolant L1 to the second discharge device 105b via a fourth supply passage M4. Alternatively, in the example shown in Figure 22, a first pump P1 may be configured to supply coolant L1 to the second discharge device 105b via a second supply passage M2. Further alternatively, in the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, a third pump P3 may be configured to supply coolant L1 to the second discharge device 105b via a third supply passage M3, or another pump may be configured to supply coolant L1 to the second discharge device 105b via another supply passage.

[0174] A filter may be placed in the supply channel that supplies the coolant liquid L1 from the main tank 11 to the discharge device 105.

[0175] (Workpiece W) Workpiece W may be a cast iron Wa or a workpiece other than a cast iron. Cast iron Wa may be made of FC material. FC material mainly consists of iron and contains 2.1 weight percent or more of carbon.

[0176] (Second return passage R2) In the example shown in Figure 22 or Figure 23, the second return passage R2 returns the dirty fluid J2, which includes the used coolant L2 (more specifically, the coolant discharged from the discharge device 105 and in contact with the workpiece W) and the sludge D2 generated from the workpiece W, to the main tank 11. The second return passage R2 may also return the dirty fluid J2, which includes the coolant discharged from the first discharge device 105a, the coolant discharged from the second discharge device 105b, and the sludge D2 generated from the workpiece W, to the main tank 11.

[0177] (Multiple machine tools) As illustrated in Figure 28, the machine tool system 100 may include a second machine tool 108 in addition to the machine tool 101. In the example shown in Figure 28, the coolant system 10 supplies coolant to the multiple machine tools (101, 108).

[0178] In the example shown in Figure 28, the coolant system 10 includes a second return channel R2 that returns used coolant L2 (more specifically, dirty fluid J2) from the machine tool 101 to the main tank 11, as well as a third return channel R3 that returns used coolant L2 (more specifically, dirty fluid J2) from the second machine tool 108 to the main tank 11.

[0179] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments or modifications described above, and it is clear that each embodiment or modification can be appropriately modified or changed within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, the various technologies used in each embodiment or modification can be applied to other embodiments or other modifications, as long as no technical inconsistencies arise. In addition, any optional additional configurations in each embodiment or modification can be omitted as appropriate.

[0180] 1, 1A... Foreign matter removal device, 2... Storage tank, 2-1... First storage chamber, 2-2... Second storage chamber, 2-3... Third storage chamber, 3... Rotating body, 3-1... First part, 3-2... Second part, 3-3... Third part, 3-4... Fourth part, 3a... One end, 3b... Other end, 6... First pipe, 10, 10A... Coolant system, 11... Main tank, 13... Chiller, 14... First removal device, 14a... Chip conveyor, 14b... Drum filter, 15... Second removal device, 15a... Cyclone filter, 16... Magnetic separator, 17... Agitator, 17a... Agitator nozzle, 18... Supply device, 31a... Horizontal bar -, 41...Impeller, 42...Blade, 45...Shaft, 46...Scraper, 46e...Edge, 46w...Lower end, 48...Foreign matter recovery chamber, 51...Inclined plate, 56...Foreign matter receiving tank, 60...Bubble generator, 60a...Microbubble generator, 71...Discharge member, 71a...Pipe, 71b...Base end, 72...Inclined surface, 74...Adjustment member, 74a...Screw member, 75...Bypass member, 75d...Tip, 77...Adjustment member, 77a...Adjustment handle, 78...Partition, 79...Second partition, 80...First receiving chamber, 81...Discharge port, 100...Machine tool system, 101...Machine tool, 101a...Machining center 101b... Lathe, 101c... Grinding device, 102... Workpiece support device, 103... Machining head, 104... Moving device, 105... Discharge device, 105a... First discharge device, 105b... Second discharge device, 108... Second machine tool, 210... Side wall, 210e... Outlet, 310... Outer surface, 310a... Outer surface, 460... Top surface, 510... Inclined surface, 510u... Upper end, 510w... Lower end, 711... Inlet, 711a... Overflow opening, 712... Second outlet, 780... Partition wall, 790... Second partition wall, 1050... Discharge nozzle, AX1... First axis, AX2... Second axis, BK... Bypass supply channel C1...First circulation channel, C2...Second circulation channel, C3...Third circulation channel, CK...Branch channel, D1...Chip, D2...Sludge, DR1...First direction, DR2...Second direction, E1...First fluid, E2...Second fluid, E2-1...Liquid component, E3...Third fluid, E3-1...Drive fluid, E3-2...Bypass fluid, E4...Fourth fluid, Ea...Processed fluid, F...Foreign matter, FA...Agglomerate, GP...Gap, J1...Processed fluid, J2...Dirty fluid, K1...First supply channel, Ka...Inlet, L...Liquid, L1...Coolant, L2...Used coolant, LS...Liquid level, LS1...First liquid level, LS2...Second liquid levelM... Supply channel, M2... Second supply channel, M3... Third supply channel, M4... Fourth supply channel, OP1... Opening, OP2... Lower opening, P... Pump, P1... First pump, P2... Second pump, P3... Third pump, P4... Fourth pump, Q... Opening, Q1... Slit, R1... First return channel, R2... Second return channel, R3... Third return channel, RG1... First region, RG2... Second region, S... Suspension, T... Tool, W... Workpiece, Wa... Casting

Claims

1. A foreign matter removal device comprising: a storage tank to which a first fluid containing a liquid and foreign matter is supplied, causing the foreign matter to float on the surface of the liquid; an outlet from which the second fluid containing the foreign matter that has floated on the surface flows out of the storage tank; a rotating body having an outer surface to which the foreign matter moving from the outlet adheres; and a scraper that scrapes off the foreign matter adhering to the outer surface by the rotation of the rotating body.

2. The foreign matter removal device according to claim 1, further comprising a bubble generator that generates bubbles in the liquid, wherein the bubbles generated by the bubble generator cause the foreign matter to float to the surface of the liquid in the storage tank.

3. The foreign matter removal device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an impeller driven by a third fluid containing the liquid, which rotates the rotating body.

4. The foreign matter removal device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the outlet is an overflow outlet through which the second fluid overflows.

5. The foreign matter removal device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an inclined surface disposed between the outlet and the rotating body for guiding the foreign matter to the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body.

6. A foreign matter removal device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a foreign matter collection chamber that receives the foreign matter from the scraper, wherein, when the direction from the outlet toward the foreign matter collection chamber is defined as the first direction in a plan view, the foreign matter flowing out from the outlet is consistently transported in the first direction in a plan view to the foreign matter collection chamber.

7. The foreign matter removal device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the rotating body is rotatable about a first axis, the foreign matter is configured to adhere to the outer surface of the rotating body above the first axis, the scraper is configured to scrape the foreign matter from the outer surface of the rotating body above the first axis, and the scraper has an upper surface on which the foreign matter moves.

8. The foreign matter removal device according to claim 3, wherein the third fluid is supplied from the storage tank to the impeller, bypassing the outlet.

9. A foreign matter removal device according to claim 3, comprising a discharge member for discharging the third fluid from the storage tank, wherein the discharge member has an inlet into which the third fluid flows from the storage tank, and the inlet is an overflow opening for controlling the liquid level at the outlet.

10. The foreign matter removal device according to claim 9, further comprising an adjustment member for adjusting the relative height of the overflow opening with respect to the storage tank.

11. The foreign matter removal device according to claim 3, further comprising a first receiving chamber into which a portion of the second fluid and the third fluid are mixed, wherein the first receiving chamber is provided with an outlet for discharging a fourth fluid formed by the mixing of the portion of the second fluid and the third fluid.

12. The foreign matter removal device according to claim 3, wherein the storage tank forms a second fluid and a third fluid from the first fluid by flotation separation of the foreign matter, and the concentration of the foreign matter in the third fluid is lower than the concentration of the foreign matter in the second fluid.

13. A coolant system comprising: a main tank for storing coolant liquid; a supply device for supplying the coolant liquid from the main tank to a machine tool; a foreign matter removal device; a first pump for sending a first fluid containing the coolant liquid and foreign matter from the main tank to the foreign matter removal device; and a first return passage for returning the fluid containing the coolant liquid from the foreign matter removal device to the main tank, wherein the foreign matter removal device comprises: a storage tank to which the first fluid is supplied and which causes the foreign matter to float to the surface of the coolant liquid; an outlet from which the second fluid containing the foreign matter that has floated to the surface flows out of the storage tank; a rotating body having an outer peripheral surface to which the foreign matter moving from the outlet adheres; and a scraper for scraping off the foreign matter attached to the outer peripheral surface by the rotation of the rotating body.

14. When a fluid containing used coolant and sludge generated from a workpiece is defined as dirty fluid, the coolant system according to claim 13 further comprises: a second return channel through which the dirty fluid flows from the machine tool toward the main tank; a first removal device for removing chips from the dirty fluid; a second removal device for removing sludge from the dirty fluid; and a circulation channel that returns from the main tank through the second removal device toward the main tank.

15. A machine tool and a coolant system for supplying coolant to the machine tool, wherein the machine tool comprises a work support device for supporting a workpiece, a machining head for holding a tool, a moving device for moving the machining head relative to the work support device, and a discharge device for discharging the coolant, the coolant system comprises a main tank for storing the coolant, a supply device for supplying the coolant from the main tank to the machine tool, a foreign matter removal device, a first pump for sending a first fluid containing the coolant and foreign matter from the main tank to the foreign matter removal device, and a first return passage for returning the fluid containing the coolant from the foreign matter removal device to the main tank, the foreign matter removal device comprises a storage tank to which the first fluid is supplied and which causes the foreign matter to float on the surface of the coolant, an outlet from which the second fluid containing the foreign matter that has floated on the surface flows out of the storage tank, and a rotating body having an outer surface to which the foreign matter moving from the outlet adheres, A machine tool system comprising a scraper that scrapes off foreign matter adhering to the outer surface of the rotating body by the rotation of the rotating body.

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