System for cooling molten material and associated method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system for cooling a molten material, the system comprising: a first roll, a second roll, and an adjusting assembly, comprising a bearing housing and a tie rod; wherein the adjusting assembly is configured to adjust a roll gap between the first roll and the second roll, wherein a first terminal portion of the second roll is configured to be eccentrically fitted through the bearing housing. The present invention also relates to a corresponding method.

Description

[0001] System for cooling a molten material and method

[0002] Field

[0003] The present invention lies in the field of cooling a molten material with cooling rolls, particularly in the field of cooling a molten material from an extruder with cooling rolls. The present invention is directed to a system for cooling a molten material, to a corresponding method, and to an adjusting assembly for cooling rolls.

[0004] Background

[0005] From a general viewpoint, cooling rolls, which may also be referred to as chill rolls, are used to cool and solidify or semi-solidify a molten material, which is usually an extrudate, i.e. the output of an extruder. When the extruder is, for example, a twin-screw extruder, the input product is mixed using a combination of heat energy and mechanical energy, and turned into an extrudate. Generally, the product leaving the extruder, i.e. the extrudate, will be of a molten, semi-viscous nature due to its elevated temperature. To further process this material, it may be cooled and solidified or semi-solidified, which is the purpose of the cooling rolls. Cooling rolls are typically water-cooled and rotate to draw the molten material in. The molten material spreads along the rolls and is drawn through the roll gap, resulting in the cooling of the molten material and in the creation of a sheet of solidified or semi-solidified material.

[0006] According to the teaching of EP 0416812 Bl, in an extrusion apparatus for producing a continuous film of thermoplastic material, either as part of an extrusion coating or laminating process or to cast a continuous film, a chill roll which receives the film directly from the extruder is mounted on a wheeled carriage whereon it can be moved lengthwise into and out of operating relation with the other components of the apparatus without requiring lifting thereof or of other parts of the apparatus. The carriage is proportioned to move directly between the apparatus in which it is to be used and the floor of the mill.

[0007] US 2017 / 066176 Al discloses an improved adjustable-angle pressing or nip roll, which is distinguished, inter alia, by the following features: the angle adjusting device comprises a double-armed lever, the moving device is constructed in such a way that, via this, a pivot axis of the double-armed lever can be adjusted relative to the process roll, and the angle adjusting device comprises, for the double-armed lever, a stop whichacts at least on one side, in such a way that, in the case of further force loading by the force actuating unit, a pressing force can be generated which acts on the pivot axis of the double-armed lever and via which the pressing or nip roll can be pressure-loaded onto the roll shell of the process roll with the material web being guided through between the two rolls.

[0008] US 9,937,641 Bl discloses a method and apparatus for quick and easy rubber sleeve exchanges on chill rolls, such as are used in film extrusion processes. The apparatus includes chill roll or mandrel, a rubber sleeve covering the exterior face of the mandrel, an automated cantilever system, and an air booster. The rubber sleeve is easily removed by tilting the mandrel and inserting a layer of air between the rubber sleeve and the mandrel, thereby allowing the sleeve to slip off the mandrel and allowing for a new rubber sleeve to be placed onto the mandrel.

[0009] Generally, in existing technologies, a chill roll unit, comprising two chill rolls, is used to process a stream of molten material, extruded, e.g., from a twin-screw extruder. The chill roll unit is used to cool the molten product and create a cooled solid or semi-solid sheet of product. Once cooled and more solid, the sheet can be broken up and further processed. To cool the molten material, the molten material may be forced through a pair of water-cooled stainless-steel chill rolls. The thickness of the sheet is determined by the gap between the roll, also known as roll gap or nip gap.

[0010] Existing technologies may have certain shortcoming and disadvantages, some of which are outlined in the following.

[0011] The nip gap may need to be adjusted for different product and / or extrudates. Further, for example in over-torque situations, it may be important to be able to widely open the gap between the rolls quickly and remove any product from the nip area. Prior art technologies may offer an adjusting mechanism for the nip gap that is not simple and not quick to use.

[0012] Moreover, especially for pharma applications, it may be important to be able to easily and quickly clean the equipment down. For this reason, in prior art technologies, the processing parts of the chill rolls may be cantilevered, i.e. supported from only one end, leaving the front face of the machine open and accessible for easy operation and quick clean down. Essentially, a cantilevered design has only one bearing at the supported side of rools, which makes the sealing of the rolls on that supported side easy. The second side of the rolls is not supported through a bearing and so easy to clean. While squeezingthe molten product into a sheet, however, high separating forces may be created between the chill rolls, which may lead to the chill rolls not being parallel and to the sheet of material not having a constant thickness, which may negatively impact the properties of the material.

[0013] Summary

[0014] In light of the above, the present invention alleviates, at least in part, at least some of the shortcomings and drawbacks of existing technologies. Saliently, among others, the present invention provides means, which are improved in simplicity of construction and use, to control and adjust both ends of the chill rolls, as well as means, which are improved in simplicity of construction and of use, to easily access the rolls in case of need. In particular, the present invention is directed, at least in part, to a system for cooling a molten material, the system comprising an adjusting assembly that may simultaneously allow, inter alia, quick and easy adjustment of a roll gap, support of both ends of the rolls to ensure that the roll gap remains parallel, and / or quick and easy removal of the support on one end of the rolls to ensure access to the rolls, for example for cleaning.

[0015] An easy adjustment of a roll gap between chill rolls may be important and advantageous for solutions where the chill rolls are placed inside a glovebox or the like and the gap adjustment must be carried out with the at least partial impediment of gloves. Concurrently, the chill rolls should remain essentially parallel, also during adjustment of the roll gap. Prior art constructions may exist, which adjust each side of the rolls separately; however, this is a solution posing difficulties in the adjustment of the roll gap, given for example the complexity of the constructions.

[0016] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a system comprising: a first roll, a second roll, and an adjusting assembly, wherein the adjusting assembly may be configured to adjust a roll gap between the first roll and the second roll.

[0017] A "roll" may also be referred to as "roller". The "roll gap" may also be referred to as "nip" gap.

[0018] In an embodiment, the first roll may comprise a first outer surface and / or the second roll may comprise a second outer surface. In any configuration of the system, the roll gap may be defined by a minimum distance between the first outer surface and the second outer surface. A gap between rolls, for example chill rolls, may be commonly known asnip gap. The first roll may be a first cooling roll and / or wherein the second roll may be a second cooling roll.

[0019] The roll gap may a magnitude between 5 cm and 0.1 mm, preferably between 1 cm and 0.1 mm, more preferably between 3 mm and 0.2 mm. The adjusting assembly may be made of stainless steel.

[0020] In an embodiment, the system may comprise a main housing. The main housing may be configured to house and / or to secure, at least in part: the first roll, the second roll, and / or the adjusting assembly. "Secure" may also be construed as "support". The main housing may therefore support the first and second roll, for example from a side of the first and second roll.

[0021] The first roll and / or the second roll may be configured to be cooled. For example, the first roll and / or the second roll may be configured to be cooled with a fluid, such as water, oil, and / or a gas. The first roll and / or the second roll may be configured to rotate. The first roll and the second roll may be configured to rotate in opposite rotation directions. The first roll and / or the second roll may be configured to rotate under the drive of a motor. Additionally, or alternatively, the first roll and / or the second roll may be configured to be coupled to a gearbox driven by a motor. An axis of rotation of the first roll may be configured to be fixed. An axis of rotation of the at least second roll may be configured to be moved. Furthermore, an axis of rotation of the first roll may be configured to be essentially parallel to an axis of rotation of the second roll. The main axis of the first roll may also be configured to be essentially parallel to the main axis of the second roll. In other words, the second roll may be configured to be moved, with the main and / or rotation axis of the second roll being essentially parallel to the main and / or rotation axis of the first roll. In an embodiment, the first roll and / or the second roll may be essentially cylindrical. The first outer surface and / or the second outer surface may be or may comprise a curved surface. Furthermore, an axis of rotation of the first roll and / or the main axis of the first roll may coincide with the main cylindrical axis of the first roll. The axis of rotation of the second roll and / or the main axis of the second roll may coincide with the main cylindrical axis of the second roll.

[0022] In an embodiment, the first roll and / or the second roll may be configured to cool a molten material upon contact with the molten material. The system may be configured to receive a molten material, particularly on a first side of the gap. The system may be further configured to force the molten material through the gap and toward a second side of the gap, opposite to the first side of the roll gap. Moreover, the system may be configured tocompress the molten material into a sheet of material as the molten material may be forced through the gap. The roll gap, particularly the magnitude of the roll gap, may be configured to determine the thickness of the sheet of material. Furthermore, the system may be configured to compress the molten material into a solid or semi-solid sheet of material as the molten material may be forced through the roll gap.

[0023] In some embodiments, the diameter of the bases of the first roll may be larger or equal to the diameter of the bases of the second roll. The diameter of the bases of the first roll may be in a range between 20 mm and 600 mm, preferably between 40 mm and 150 mm. The diameter of the bases of the second roll may be in a range between 40 mm and 1200 mm, preferably between 80 mm and 300 mm. For example, chill rolls with a base diameter of about 500 mm may be encompassed by embodiments of the present invention. In another example, the bases of the first roll may have a diameter of about 250 mm and the bases of the second roll may have a diameter of about 125 mm. In another example, the bases of the first roll may have a diameter of about 108 mm and the bases of the second roll may have a diameter of about 57 mm. Said diameters may be scaled up or down to suit bigger or smaller extruders. The first roll and / or the second roll may be made of stainless steel. The first roll and / or the second roll, particularly the first outer surface and / or the second outer surface, may be configured to be thermally conductive.

[0024] In an embodiment, the adjusting assembly may comprise a bearing housing. The bearing housing may be essentially disc-shaped or essentially cylinder-shaped. The adjusting assembly may further comprise a tie rod.

[0025] A first terminal portion of the second roll may be configured to be eccentrically fitted through the bearing housing. Fitting, as mentioned in this specification, may be exemplified, but not limited to, a friction fitting or any type of close fitting or tight fitting. It will be understood that "eccentrically" may mean "not in correspondence of the center". If a first piece is eccentrically fitted through a second piece, for example through the base of the second piece, then the first piece is not fitted in correspondence to the center of the base of the second piece. A first terminal portion of the second roll may be configured to be eccentrically fitted through the bearing housing, particularly through a bearing housing aperture, said bearing housing aperture being eccentrically provided in the bearing housing. The first terminal portion of the second roll may comprise a first base, or a prolongation thereof, of the second roll.A second terminal portion of the second roll, opposite to the first terminal portion of the second roll, may be configured to engage the main housing. Further, the second terminal portion of the second roll may be configured to be eccentrically fitted through a main housing bearing housing, comprised in the main housing. The main housing bearing housing may be essentially disc-shaped or essentially cylinder-shaped.

[0026] It may an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that a terminal portion of the first roll and / or of the second roll is configured to engage the main housing. In fact, this may mean that the first roll and / or the second roll is coupled to the main housing in a cantilever-like fashion, thus making the accessing and cleaning of the first roll and / or of the second roll easy and practical.

[0027] In some embodiments, the main housing bearing housing may be configured to be sealed. The space between the second terminal portion of the second roll and the main housing bearing housing may be sealed. Said sealing may be an advantage of embodiments of the present invention, since it may prevent a product or material being processed in the system to get into the main housing, which may be referred to as "rear" area. For pharma, food, energy, and / or other applications, this may be particularly useful since it may prevent cross-contamination.

[0028] The second terminal portion of the second roll may be configured to be eccentrically fitted through a main housing bearing housing, comprised in the main housing, particularly through a main housing bearing housing aperture, said main housing bearing housing aperture being eccentrically provided in the main housing bearing housing. The second terminal portion of the second block may comprise a second base, or a prolongation thereof, the second base of the second roll being opposite to the first base of the second roll.

[0029] In an embodiment, the bearing housing aperture and the main housing bearing housing aperture may be essentially circular. The bearing housing aperture and the main housing bearing housing aperture may be configured to be coaxially aligned along a shared axis. The shared axis may coincide with the main axis of the second roll. Put differently, the second roll may be eccentrically fitted between the bearing housing and the main housing bearing housing. This may mean that the second roll can be easily rotated by acting on the bearing housing and / or the main housing bearing housing

[0030] In an embodiment, the tie rod may be configured to be connected to the bearing housing. The tie rod may be configured to be connected to the bearing housing in correspondenceto a first terminal portion of the tie rod. A first terminal portion of the first roll may be configured to be fitted through the tie rod. Further, first terminal portion of the first roll may be configured to be fitted through the tie rod in correspondence to a second terminal portion of the tie rod. Moreover, a first terminal portion of the first roll may be configured to be fitted through the tie rod, particularly through a tie rod aperture, said tie rod aperture being provided in the tie rod. The tie rod aperture may be provided in a second terminal portion of the tie rod. The tie rod may be configured to allow the bearing housing and / or the second roll to rotate. The tie rod may have an essentially lemniscate-like shape, that is, the shape of an "8". The first terminal portion of the tie rod may comprise the first opening of the lemniscate-like shape and / or wherein the second terminal portion of the tie rod may comprise the second opening of the lemniscate-like shape.

[0031] The separating forces that may be active on the first roll and / or on the second roll when the system is processing a material may be contained thanks, at least in part, to the utilization of the tie rod. Further, are contained and the rolls are kept essentially parallel to each other when a molten material goes through the roll gap. This ensures a sheet of output cooled material with uniform thickness. The utilization of the tie rod, according to embodiments of the present invention, may therefore be advantageous.

[0032] A second terminal portion of the first roll, opposite to the first terminal portion of the first roll, may be configured to engage the main housing. The first terminal portion of the first roll may comprise a first base, or a prolongation thereof, of the first roll. A second terminal portion, opposite to the first one, of the first roll may be configured to fitted through a second main housing bearing housing, comprised in the main housing. In an embodiment, the second main housing bearing housing may be configured to be sealed. The space between the second terminal portion of the first roll and the second main housing bearing housing may be sealed. The second terminal portion of the first roll may comprise a second base, or a prolongation thereof, of the first roll, the second base of the first roll being opposite to the first base of the second roll.

[0033] The tie rod may be configured to maintain the magnitude roll gap essentially constant in a direction essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll and to the main axis of the second roll. Further, the tie rod may be configured to maintain the magnitude roll gap essentially constant in a direction essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll and to the main axis of the second roll as a molten material may be forced through roll gap.

[0034] In an embodiment, the adjusting assembly may comprise an adjusting assembly activation means. The adjusting assembly activation means may comprise a handle. Theadjusting assembly may comprise a handle. The handle may be a swing handle. The adjusting assembly activation means may comprise at least a connecting element. The adjusting assembly may comprise at least a connecting element. Moreover, the at least one connecting element may connect the handle to the bearing housing. The at least one connecting element may connect the adjusting assembly activation means to the bearing housing. Furthermore, the at least one connecting element may connect the handle to the main housing bearing housing. The at least one connecting element may connect the adjusting assembly activation means to the main housing bearing housing. It may be an advantage of embodiments of the present invention to have a connecting element that connects to both the bearing housing and the main housing bearing housing. In other words, both end portions of the second cylinder can be connected to the handle, and can be rotated at the same time. The adjusting of the roll gap, in other words, happens at the same time on both ends of the second cylinder. This may be an advantage also when the system is used in a "through the wall" application, such as a glovebox, since there may be no need to adjust the two ends of the second cylinder separately. Therefore, the system according to embodiments of the present intention may be easy to operate with gloves.

[0035] Additionally, or alternatively, the at least one connecting element may comprise a first connecting element and a second connecting element. The first connecting element may connect the handle to the bearing housing and wherein the second connecting element connect the handle to the main housing bearing housing. The first connecting element connect the adjusting assembly activation means to the bearing housing and wherein the second connecting element connect the handle to the main housing bearing housing.

[0036] In an embodiment, the system may be configured to be engaged and / or to enable the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least a part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll. The adjusting assembly, particularly the adjusting assembly activation means, may be configured to be engaged and / or to enable the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll. The adjusting assembly, particularly the handle, may be configured to be engaged and / or to enable the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll. The main housing bearing housing and the bearing housing may be synchronized rotated around an adjusting rotation axis by operating the handle. Put differently, at least the main housingbearing housing and the bearing housing may be rotated in a synchronized manner around an adjusting rotation axis by operating the handle. Operating the handle may comprise engaging the handle. Operating the handle may comprise swinging the handle. Said synchronized rotation of the main housing bearing housing and the bearing housing around the adjusting rotation axis causes the rotation of the main axis of the second roll around the adjusting rotation axis. In other words, a user may simply swing the handle and obtain the rotation of at least the mentioned components of the system around the adjusting rotation axis. This may be and advantage of embodiments of the present invention, since the adjustment of the roll gap may involve simply engaging and swinging the handle. This may be an advantage also when the system is used in a "through the wall" application, such as a glovebox. The adjusting assembly activation means may be configured to rotate around the adjusting rotation axis. In this specification, a rotation of an object around a pivot axis means that all points belonging to the object trace circular paths centered around the pivot axis. At least part of the bearing housing may be configured to rotate around the adjusting rotation axis. The second roll may be configured to rotate around the adjusting rotation axis. The adjusting rotation axis may be essentially parallel to the main axis of second roll. The adjusting rotation axis may be distinct from the main axis of the second roll. The adjusting rotation axis may traverse the bearing housing. The adjusting rotation axis may traverse the bearing housing in correspondence to the center of one of the bases of the bearing housing. The rotation of the second roll around the adjusting rotation axis may enable the adjustment of the roll gap. This may be made possible by the fact that the second roll may be eccentrically fitted into the bearing housing and that the adjusting rotation axis does not coincide with the main axis of the second roll.

[0037] In an embodiment, the adjusting assembly may be configured to be removable from the first roll and the second roll. The system may comprise an adjusting assembly removing means. The adjusting assembly removing means may be configured, when disengaged, to cause the adjusting assembly to detach from the system. The adjusting assembly removing means may comprise a fixing screw or another connecting element. The fixing screw may be configured to connect the adjusting assembly to the main housing bearing housing. The fixing screw may be configured to connect the at least one connecting element to the main housing bearing housing. The fixing screw may be configured to connect the second connecting element to the main housing bearing housing. It may be an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the adjusting assembly may be easily and comfortably removed, for example by engaging a screw. The advantage may be that removing the adjusting assembly gives easy access to the rolls, which with the adjusting assembly removed may be in a cantilever-like configuration, and makesthem easy to clean. This may be important for energy, pharma, food, and / or other applications. Moreover, the mechanism of removal, based e.g. on a screw, may be easy to operate, which may be another advantage, especially in "through the wall" application, like in a glovebox.

[0038] In an embodiment, the adjusting assembly may comprise a positioning means. The positioning means may be configured to position and / or lock the adjusting assembly in at least one position of multiple positions of the adjusting assembly. It will be understood that a position of the adjusting assembly and / or a magnitude of the gap may define a configuration and / or state of the system. The positioning means may be configured to enable the moving of the adjusting assembly from the at least one position of the adjusting assembly to at least another position of the adjusting assembly. The at least one position of the adjusting assembly and / or the at least one other position of the adjusting assembly determines at least a magnitude of the roll gap. Each position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly may correspond to a different magnitude of the roll gap. Said moving involves the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll. The positioning means may comprise a plunger. The plunger may be a spring-loaded plunger. The positioning means may be provided within the handle. The plunger may be configured to engage and / or to disengage at least a detent. The plunger may be configured to engage and / or to disengage at least a detent, the at least one detent comprised in the main housing of the system.

[0039] The positioning and / or locking of the adjusting assembly in the least one position of the adjusting assembly may comprise the plunger engaging the at least one detent. The position and / or lock of the adjusting assembly in the least one position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly may comprise engage the at least one detenO at the at least one detent. It will be understood that, in other words, a position of the adjusting assembly may correspond to locking the adjusting assembly to one of the detents. This in turn may define a configuration of the system and a magnitude of the roll gap.

[0040] The locking mechanism according to embodiments of the present invention may be advantageous, since it may be easily operatable, even in a "through the wall" application, such as a glovebox.

[0041] In an embodiment, the system may be for cooling a molten material. The molten material may be a molten extrudate. The molten material may be a molten material extrudate.Additionally, or alternatively, the system may be for cooling a molten material comprising at least one among: a polymer, a metal, a plastic, an active pharmaceutical ingredient, a food, a paste. The system may be for adjusting a roll gap. The system may be for generating a sheet of essentially uniform thickness out of an extrudate. The system may be for cooling down, downstream of an extruder, a molten material. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system may be for use in a glovebox. Advantageously, the system may be implemented in any "through the wall" containment application, such as gloveboxes.

[0042] The system, particularly the first roll and / or the second roll, may be configured to manage a heat load between 100 W and 600 W, preferably between 300 W and 400 W. As an example, in case of the extrusion of about 3kg / h of pharma polymer (e.g. Soluplus), having a specific heat capacity cp(100°C) = 2kJ / (kg K), with the aim of cooling down from 200°C to 40°C a 160K. about 267 W would be needed. This is under the assumption that essentially no crystallization occurs. The chill rolls may allow a cooling capacity of roughly 300W at the gap of the cooled rolls. Exemplary requirements for the cooling capacity may be 300 W at 40 °C and 200 W at 20 °C.

[0043] In an embodiment, the system may comprise a controller. The controller may be configured to control the rotation speed of the first roll and / or of the second roll. The controller may be configured to control the temperature of the first roll and / or of the second roll. Additionally, or alternatively, the controller may be configured to drive a motor, particularly drive a gear box. The gearbox may be configured to be coupled to the first roll and to the second roll so that, under the action of the motor, the first roll and the second roll may rotate, for example in a fixed rotational dependency to each other.

[0044] In an embodiment, the system may comprise an extruder, upstream of the first roll, the second roll, and the adjusting assembly, and configured to extrude a molten material. The system may comprise a flaking means, downstream of the first roll, the second roll, and the adjusting assembly, and configured to cut the sheet of material into flakes.

[0045] In an embodiment, the roll gap may be adjusted by rotating the bearing housing relative to the first terminal portion of the tie rod. Rotating the bearing housing relative to the first terminal portion of the tie rod may include rotating the bearing housing around an adjusting rotation axis, different from a main axis of the second roll.

[0046] The handle may be fixedly connected to the main housing bearing housing and to the bearing housing via the connecting element. The connection between the handle and thebearing housing may be a fixed connection during normal operation, but detachment may be achieved for servicing purposes, i.e. not by a user during normal operation. The connection between the handle and the bearing housing may may involve screws, for example screws not accessible to a user during normal operation. The connection between the handle and the main housing bearing housing may be achieved via the adjusting assembly removing means.

[0047] In another aspect, the present invention relates to adjusting assembly configured to adjust a roll gap between a first roll and a second roll.

[0048] In any configuration of the adjusting assembly, the roll gap may be defined by a minimum distance between a first outer surface of the first roll and a second outer surface of the second roll. The first roll may be a first cooling roll and / or the second roll may be a second cooling roll. The roll gap has a magnitude between 5 cm and 0.1 mm, preferably between 1 cm and 0.1 mm, more preferably between 3 mm and 0.2 mm. The adjusting assembly may be made of stainless steel.

[0049] The adjusting assembly may comprise a bearing housing. Furthermore, the bearing housing may be essentially disc-shaped or essentially cylinder-shaped.

[0050] The adjusting assembly may comprise a tie rod.

[0051] The bearing housing may be configured to eccentrically fit a first terminal portion of the second roll through the bearing housing. The bearing housing may also be configured to eccentrically fit a first terminal portion of the second roll through the bearing housing, particularly through a bearing housing aperture, said bearing housing aperture being eccentrically provided in the bearing housing. Additionally, or alternatively, the adjusting assembly and / or the first roll and / or the second roll may be configured to be housed and / or secured, at least in part, in a main housing. Furthermore, the main housing may be configured to be engaged by second terminal portion of the second roll, opposite to the first terminal portion of the second roll.

[0052] A main housing bearing housing, comprised in the main housing, may be configured to eccentrically fit the second terminal portion of the second roll through the main housing bearing housing. The main housing bearing housing may be essentially disc-shaped or essentially cylinder-shaped. A main housing bearing housing, comprised in the main housing, may also be configured to eccentrically fit the second terminal portion of the second roll through the main housing bearing housing, particularly through a mainhousing bearing housing aperture, said main housing bearing housing aperture being eccentrically provided in the main housing bearing housing.

[0053] The bearing housing aperture and the main housing bearing housing aperture are essentially circular. Furthermore, the bearing housing aperture and the main housing bearing housing aperture are configured to be coaxially aligned along a shared axis. The shared axis may coincide with the main axis of the second roll.

[0054] In an embodiment, the tie rod may be configured to be connected to the bearing housing. The tie rod may be configured to be connected to the bearing housing in correspondence to a first terminal portion of the tie rod. The tie rod may be configured to fit a first terminal portion of the first roll through the tie rod. The tie rod may be configured to fit a first terminal portion of the first roll through the tie rod in correspondence to a second terminal portion of the tie rod. The tie rod may also be configured to fit a first terminal portion of the first roll through the tie rod, particularly through a tie rod aperture, said tie rod aperture being provided in the tie rod. The tie rod aperture may be provided in a second terminal portion of the tie rod. Additionally, or alternatively, the tie rod may have an essentially lemniscate-like shape. The first terminal portion of the tie rod may comprise the first opening of the lemniscate-like shape and / or wherein the second terminal portion of the tie rod may comprise the second opening of the lemniscate-like shape.

[0055] The main housing may be configured to be engaged by a second terminal portion of the first roll, opposite to the first terminal portion of the first roll. A second main housing bearing housing may also be configured to fit a second terminal portion, opposite to the first one, of the first roll through a second main housing bearing housing, comprised in the main housing.

[0056] The tie rod may be configured to maintain the magnitude roll gap essentially constant in a direction essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll and to the main axis of the second roll. Furthermore, the tie rod may be configured to maintain the magnitude roll gap essentially constant in a direction essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll and to the main axis of the second roll as a molten material may be forced through the roll gap.

[0057] In an embodiment, the adjusting assembly may comprise an adjusting assembly activation means. The adjusting assembly activation means may comprise a handle. The adjusting assembly may comprise a handle. The handle may be a swing handle.The adjusting assembly activation means may comprise at least a connecting element. The adjusting assembly may comprise at least a connecting element. The at least one connecting element connect the handle to the bearing housing. The at least one connecting element may connect the adjusting assembly activation means to the bearing housing. Moreover, the at least one connecting element may also connect the handle to the main housing bearing housing. Furthermore, the at least one connecting element may connect the adjusting assembly activation means to the main housing bearing housing. The at least one connecting element may comprise a first connecting element and a second connecting element. The first connecting element may connect the handle to the bearing housing and wherein the second connecting element may connect the handle to the main housing bearing housing. The first connecting element may also connect the adjusting assembly activation means to the bearing housing and wherein the second connecting element may connect the handle to the main housing bearing housing.

[0058] In an embodiment, the adjusting assembly may be configured to be engaged and / or to enable the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least a part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll. The adjusting assembly, particularly the adjusting assembly activation means, may be configured to be engaged and / or to enable the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll. The adjusting assembly, particularly the handle, may also be configured to be engaged and / or to enable the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll. Moreover, the adjusting assembly activation means may be configured to rotate around the adjusting rotation axis. At least part of the bearing housing may be configured to rotate around the adjusting rotation axis.

[0059] The second roll may be configured to rotate around the adjusting rotation axis. The adjusting rotation axis may be essentially parallel to the main axis of the second roll. The adjusting rotation axis may also be distinct from the main axis of the second roll. Additionally, or alternatively, the adjusting rotation axis may traverse the bearing housing. The adjusting rotation axis may traverse the bearing housing in correspondence to the center of one of the bases of the bearing housing. The rotation of the second roll around the adjusting rotation axis may enable the adjustment of the roll gap.In an embodiment, the adjusting assembly may be configured to be removable from the first roll and the second roll. The adjusting assembly may comprise an adjusting assembly removing means. The adjusting assembly removing means may be configured, when disengaged, to cause the adjusting assembly to detach. Further, the adjusting assembly removing means may comprise a fixing screw. The fixing screw may be configured to connect the adjusting assembly to the main housing bearing housing. The fixing screw may further be configured to connect the at least one connecting element to the main housing bearing housing. The fixing screw may be configured to connect the second connecting element to the main housing bearing housing.

[0060] In an embodiment, the adjusting assembly may comprise a positioning means. The positioning means may position and / or lock the adjusting assembly in at least one position of multiple positions of the adjusting assembly. The at least one position of the adjusting assembly may also determine at least a magnitude of the roll gap. Each position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly may correspond to a different magnitude of the roll gap. The positioning means may comprise a plunger. The plunger may be a spring-loaded plunger. The positioning means may be provided within the handle. The plunger may also be configured to engage and / or to disengage at least a detent. The plunger may be configured to engage and / or to disengage at least a detent, the at least one detent comprised in the main housing. The positioning and / or locking of the adjusting assembly in the least one position of the adjusting assembly may comprise the plunger engaging the at least one detent. The position and / or lock of the adjusting assembly in the least one position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly may comprise engage the at least one detenO at the at least one detent.

[0061] In an embodiment the adjusting assembly may be for cooling rolls. The adjusting assembly may further be for cooling rolls for a molten material. The molten material may be a molten extrudate. Additionally, or alternatively, the molten material may be a molten material extrudate. The adjusting assembly may be for cooling rolls for a molten material comprising at least one among: a polymer, a metal, a plastic, a food, a paste. The adjusting assembly may be for adjusting a roll gap. Furthermore, the adjusting assembly may be for rolls generating a sheet of material, of essentially uniform thickness, out of an extrudate. The adjusting assembly may also be for cooling rolls cooling down, downstream of an extruder, a molten material. Furthermore, the adjusting assembly may be for use in a glovebox.In another aspect the present invention relates to a method comprising operating an adjusting assembly, comprising a bearing housing and a tie rod, to adjust a roll gap between a first roll and a second roll.

[0062] In an embodiment, the method may comprise rotating the first roll around the main axis of the first roll. The method may also comprise rotating the second roll around the main axis of the second roll, wherein the main axis of the second roll may be essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll. Furthermore, the method may comprise rotating the first roll in a first direction. The method may comprise rotating the first roll in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.

[0063] A first terminal portion of the second roll mayconfigured to be eccentrically fitted through the bearing housing 13.

[0064] The method may comprise rotating the first roll and the second roll to force a molten material through the roll gap. Amagnitude of the roll gap is constant in a direction parallel to the main axis of the first roll and to the main axis of the second roll as the molten material is forced through the roll gap.

[0065] In an embodiment, the method may comprise receiving a molten material, particularly on a first side of the gap. Operating the first roll and the second roll may comprise receiving a molten material, particularly on a first side of the roll gap. Moreover, the method may comprise forcing the molten material through the roll gap and toward a second side of the roll gap, opposite to the first side of the roll gap. Operating the first roll and the second roll may further comprise forcing the molten material through the roll gap and toward a second side of the roll gap, opposite to the first side of the roll gap. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may comprise compressing the molten material into a sheet of material as the molten material may be forced through the roll gap. Operating the first roll and the second roll may comprise compressing the molten material into a sheet of material as the molten material may be forced through the roll gap. The method may also comprise cooling the molten material as the molten material may be forced through the roll gap. Thereafter, the method may comprise transporting and coling the sheet of material on the transport belt. The method may further comprises transporting the sheet of material away from the roll gap and towards the flaking means via the transport belt. Operating the first roll and the second roll may comprise cooling the molten material as the molten material may be forced through the roll gap. Coolingthe molten material may comprise cooling the molten material upon contact of the molten material with the first roll and / or with the second roll.

[0066] In an embodiment, operating the adjusting assembly may comprise operating an adjusting assembly activation means, comprised in the adjusting assembly. Additionally, or alternatively, operating the adjusting assembly may comprise operating an adjusting assembly activation means, comprised in the adjusting assembly and comprising a handle. Furthermore, operating the adjusting assembly activation means may comprise engaging the adjusting assembly activation means. Operating the adjusting assembly activation means may comprise engaging the handle. Operatin the adjusting assembly may comprise operating a handle, fixedly attached to the bearing housing, to rotate around an adjusting rotation axis, at least: at least part of the bearing housing and a main housing bearing housing. A second terminal portion of the second roll may be configured to be eccentrically fitted through the main housing bearing housing.

[0067] Operating the adjusting assembly activation means may comprise rotating, around an adjusting rotation axis, at least: at least part of a bearing housing eccentrically fitting a first terminal portion of the second roll through the bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll. The adjusting rotation axis may be essentially parallel to the main axis of the second roll. The adjusting rotation axis may be distinct from the main axis of the second roll. The adjusting rotation axis may traverse the bearing housing. Further, adjusting a roll gap between the first roll and the second roll may comprise rotating the second roll around the adjusting rotation axis.

[0068] In an embodiment, operating the adjusting assembly may comprise utilizing a tie rod, comprised in the adjusting assembly. Operating the adjusting assembly may comprise utilizing a tie rod, the tie rod being comprised in the adjusting assembly, being connected to the bearing housing, and fitting a first terminal portion of the first roll through the tie rod. Moreover, operating the tie rod may comprise controlling separating forces on the surfaces of the first roll and of the second roll as the molten material may be forced through the roll gap. Utilizing the tie rod may also comprise maintaining the magnitude roll gap essentially constant in a direction essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll and to the main axis of the second roll as the molten material may be forced through the roll gap.

[0069] In an embodiment, the method may comprise removing the adjusting assembly. Operating the adjusting assembly may comprise operating an adjusting assembly removing means, comprised in the adjusting assembly. Operating the adjusting assemblyremoving means may comprise engaging the adjusting assembly removing means and detaching the adjusting assembly. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may comprise cleaning at least the first roll and the second roll, once the adjusting assembly may be detached.

[0070] Operating the adjusting assembly may comprise operating a positioning means, comprised in the adjusting assembly. Operating the positioning means may comprise positioning and / or locking of the adjusting assembly in at least one position of the adjusting assembly. The at least one position of the adjusting assembly may determine at least a magnitude of the roll gap. Furthermore, operating the positioning means may comprise moving of the adjusting assembly from the at least one position of the adjusting assembly to at least another position of the adjusting assembly. The at least one position of the adjusting assembly and / or the at least one other position of the adjusting assembly may determine at least a magnitude of the roll gap. The moving of the adjusting assembly may involve the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll. Moreover, operating the positioning means may comprise operating a plunger, comprised in the position means. Operating the plunger may comprise engaging and / or to disengaging the plunger to at least a detent. Operating the plunger may also comprise engaging and / or to disengaging the plunger to at least a detent, the at least one detent comprised in a main housing, configured to house and / or to secure, at least in part, the adjusting assembly, the first roll, and / or the second roll. Positioning and / or locking the adjusting assembly in the least one position of the adjusting assembly may comprise engaging the plunger to at least one detent.

[0071] In an embodiment, the method may be for cooling rolls. The method may be for cooling a molten material. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may be for compressing a molten material into a sheet of material. The molten material may be a molten extrudate. The molten material may be a molten material extrudate. The method may also be for adjusting a roll gap. The method may be for generating a sheet of essentially uniform thickness out of an extrudate. The method may also be for cooling rolls cooling down, downstream of an extruder, a molten material.

[0072] The method may comprise performing the method according to any embodiment of the present invention with the system according to any embodiment of the present invention.The method may comprise performing the method according to any embodiment of the present invention with the adjusting assembly according to any embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] The method may comprise rotating the bearing housing around an adjusting rotation axis, the adjusting rotation axis is parallel to and distinct from a main axis of the second roll.

[0074] Operating the adjusting assembly may comprise: after adjusting the roll gap, operating a plunger, comprised in the adjusting assembly, to position and / or lock of the adjusting assembly in at least one position of multiple positions of the adjusting assembly.

[0075] Operating the plunger to position and / or lock the adjusting assembly in at least one position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly may comprise engage and / or to disengage the plunger to at least a detent of multiple dents on the surface of a main housing. The main housing may be configured to house and / or to secure the first roll and the second roll.

[0076] The system may be configured to be used in and / or to perform at least a step of the method according to any embodiment of the present invention. The system may also comprise the adjusting assembly according to any embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] The adjusting may be configured to be used in and / or to perform at least a step of the method according to any embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Advantages and / or details discussed in the context of the system may respectively apply also in the context of the adjusting assembly and / or of the methods.

[0079] The present technology is also described by the following numbered embodiments.

[0080] Below, system embodiments are presented. System embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "S" followed by a number. Whenever reference is made herein to "system embodiments", these embodiments are meant.

[0081] SI. A system comprising:

[0082] a first roll,

[0083] a second roll, and

[0084] an adjusting assembly,wherein the adjusting assembly is configured to adjust a roll gap between the first roll and the second roll.

[0085] 52. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the first roll comprises a first outer surface and / or wherein the second roll comprises a second outer surface.

[0086] 53. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein, in any configuration of the system, the roll gap is defined by a minimum distance between the first outer surface and the second outer surface.

[0087] 54. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first roll is a first cooling roll and / or wherein the second roll is a second cooling roll.

[0088] 55. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the roll gap has a magnitude between 5 cm and 0.1 mm, preferably between 1 cm and 0.1 mm, more preferably between 3 mm and 0.2 mm.

[0089] 56. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly is made of stainless steel.

[0090] 57. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system comprises a main housing.

[0091] 58. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the main housing is configured to house and / or secure at least in part: the first roll, the second roll, and / or the adjusting assembly.

[0092] 59. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first roll and / or the second roll is configured to be cooled.

[0093] 510. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first roll and / or the second roll is configured to be cooled with a fluid.

[0094] 511. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first roll and / or the second roll is configured to rotate.512. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first roll and the second roll is configured to rotate in opposite rotation directions.

[0095] 513. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first roll and / or the second roll is configured to rotate under the drive of a motor.

[0096] 514. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first roll and / or the second roll is configured to be coupled to a gearbox driven by a motor.

[0097] 515. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments Sil, wherein an axis of rotation of the first roll is configured to be fixed.

[0098] 516. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments Sil, wherein an axis of rotation of the at least second roll is configured to be moved.

[0099] 517. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments Sil, wherein an axis of rotation of the first roll is configured to be essentially parallel to an axis of rotation of the second roll.

[0100] 518. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the main axis of the first roll is configured to be essentially parallel to the main axis of the second roll.

[0101] 519. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first roll and / or the second roll is essentially cylindrical.

[0102] 520. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S2 and S19, wherein the first outer surface and / or the second outer surface is or comprises a curved surface.

[0103] 521. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments Sil and S19, wherein an axis of rotation of the first roll and / or the main axis of the first roll coincides with the main cylindrical axis of the first roll, and / or wherein an axis of rotation of the second roll and / or the main axis of the second roll coincides with the main cylindrical axis of the second roll.522. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first roll and / or the second roll is configured to cool a molten material upon contact with the molten material.

[0104] 523. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system is configured to receive a molten material, particularly on a first side of the gap.

[0105] 524. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the system is configured to force the molten material through the gap and toward a second side of the gap, opposite to the first side of the roll gap.

[0106] 525. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the system is configured to compress the molten material into a sheet of material as the molten material is forced through the gap.

[0107] 526. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the roll gap, particularly the magnitude of the roll gap, is configured to determine the thickness of the sheet of material.

[0108] 527. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S24, wherein the system is configured to compress the molten material into a solid or semi-solid sheet of material as the molten material is forced through the roll gap.

[0109] 528. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S19, wherein the diameter of the bases of the first roll is larger or equal to the diameter of the bases of the second roll.

[0110] 529. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S19, wherein the diameter of the bases of the first roll is in a range between 20 mm and 600 mm, preferably between 40 mm and 150 mm.

[0111] 530. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S19, wherein the diameter of the bases of the second roll is in a range between 40 mm and 1200 mm, preferably between 80 mm and 300 mm.

[0112] 531. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first roll and / or the second roll is made of stainless steel.532. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S2, wherein the first roll and / or the second roll, particularly the first outer surface and / or the second outer surface, is configured to be thermally conductive.

[0113] 533. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises a bearing housing.

[0114] 534. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the bearing housing is essentially disc-shaped or essentially cylinder-shaped.

[0115] 535. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises a tie rod.

[0116] 536. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S33 and / or S34, wherein a first terminal portion of the second roll is configured to be eccentrically fitted through the bearing housing.

[0117] 537. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S33 and / or S34, wherein a first terminal portion of the second roll is configured to be eccentrically fitted through the bearing housing, particularly through a bearing housing aperture, said bearing housing aperture being eccentrically provided in the bearing housing.

[0118] 538. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S19 and S36 and / or S37, wherein the first terminal portion of the second roll comprises a first base, or a prolongation thereof, of the second roll.

[0119] 539. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S7, wherein a second terminal portion of the second roll, opposite to the first terminal portion of the second roll, is configured to engage the main housing.

[0120] 540. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the second terminal portion of the second roll is configured to be eccentrically fitted through a main housing bearing housing, comprised in the main housing.541. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the main housing bearing housing is essentially disc-shaped or essentially cylinder-shaped.

[0121] 542. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the main housing bearing housing is configured to be sealed.

[0122] 543. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S41, wherein the space between the second terminal portion of the second roll and the main housing bearing housing is sealed.

[0123] 544. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S39, wherein the second terminal portion of the second roll is configured to be eccentrically fitted through a main housing bearing housing, comprised in the main housing, particularly through a main housing bearing housing aperture, said main housing bearing housing aperture being eccentrically provided in the main housing bearing housing.

[0124] 545. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S19 and S40 and / or S44, wherein the second terminal portion of the second block comprises a second base, or a prolongation thereof, the second base of the second roll being opposite to the first base of the second roll.

[0125] 546. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S44 and S37, wherein the bearing housing aperture and the main housing bearing housing aperture are essentially circular.

[0126] 547. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S44 and S37, wherein the bearing housing aperture and the main housing bearing housing aperture are configured to be coaxially aligned along a shared axis.

[0127] 548. The system according to the preceding embodiments, wherein the shared axis coincides with the main axis of the second roll.

[0128] 549. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S33 and S35, wherein the tie rod is configured to be connected to the bearing housing.The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S33 and S35, wherein the tie rod is configured to be connected to the bearing housing in correspondence to a first terminal portion of the tie rod.

[0129] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S35, wherein a first terminal portion of the first roll is configured to be fitted through the tie rod.

[0130] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S35, wherein a first terminal portion of the first roll is configured to be fitted through the tie rod in correspondence to a second terminal portion of the tie rod.

[0131] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S35, wherein a first terminal portion of the first roll is configured to be fitted through the tie rod, particularly through a tie rod aperture, said tie rod aperture being provided in the tie rod.

[0132] The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the tie rod aperture is provided in a second terminal portion of the tie rod.

[0133] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S33 and S35, wherein the tie rod is configured to allow the bearing housing and / or the second roll to rotate.

[0134] The system according to S35, wherein the tie rod has an essentially lemniscate-like shape.

[0135] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S50, S54 and S56, wherein the first terminal portion of the tie rod comprises the first opening of the lemniscate-like shape and / or wherein the second terminal portion of the tie rod comprises the second opening of the lemniscate-like shape

[0136] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S7, wherein a second terminal portion of the first roll, oppositeto the first terminal portion of the first roll, is configured to engage the main housing.

[0137] 559. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S19 and S51 and / or S53, wherein the first terminal portion of the first roll comprises a first base, or a prolongation thereof, of the first roll.

[0138] 560. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of S58 , wherein a second terminal portion, opposite to the first one, of the first roll is configured to fitted through a second main housing bearing housing, comprised in the main housing.

[0139] 561. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the second main housing bearing housing is configured to be sealed.

[0140] 562. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of S60, wherein the space between the second terminal portion of the first roll and the second main housing bearing housing is sealed.

[0141] 563. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S19 and S60, wherein the second terminal portion of the first roll comprises a second base, or a prolongation thereof, of the first roll, the second base of the first roll being opposite to the first base of the second roll.

[0142] 564. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S35, wherein the tie rod is configured to maintain the magnitude roll gap essentially constant in a direction essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll and to the main axis of the second roll.

[0143] 565. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S35, wherein the tie rod is configured to maintain the magnitude roll gap essentially constant in a direction essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll and to the main axis of the second roll as a molten material is forced through roll gap.

[0144] 566. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises an adjusting assembly activation means.567. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the adjusting assembly activation means comprises a handle.

[0145] 568. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises a handle.

[0146] 569. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the handle is a swing handle.

[0147] 570. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S66, wherein the adjusting assembly activation means comprises at least a connecting element.

[0148] 571. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises at least a connecting element.

[0149] 572. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S33, S67 and S70, wherein the at least one connecting element connects the handle to the bearing housing.

[0150] 573. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S33, S67 and S70, wherein the at least one connecting element connects the adjusting assembly activation means to the bearing housing.

[0151] 574. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S40, S67 and S70, wherein the at least one connecting element connects the handle to the main housing bearing housing.

[0152] 575. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S40, S67 and S70, wherein the at least one connecting element connects the adjusting assembly activation means to the main housing bearing housing.

[0153] 576. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S70, wherein the at least one connecting element comprises a first connecting element and a second connecting element.

[0154] 577. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S67 and S76, wherein the first connecting element connects thehandle to the bearing housing and wherein the second connecting element connects the handle to the main housing bearing housing.

[0155] 578. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S67 and S76, wherein the first connecting element connects the adjusting assembly activation means to the bearing housing and wherein the second connecting element connects the handle to the main housing bearing housing.

[0156] 579. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S33, S40 and S66, wherein the system is configured to be engaged and / or to enable the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least a part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll.

[0157] 580. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S33, S40 and S66, wherein the adjusting assembly, particularly the adjusting assembly activation means, is configured to be engaged and / or to enable the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll.

[0158] 581. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S33, S40 and S66, wherein the adjusting assembly, particularly the handle, is configured to be engaged and / or to enable the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll.

[0159] 582. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S40, S33, S68, wherein the main housing bearing housing and the bearing housing are synchronized rotated around an adjusting rotation axis by operating the handle.

[0160] 583. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S82, wherein said synchronized rotation of the main housing bearing housing and the bearing housing around the adjusting rotation axis causes the rotation of the main axis of the second roll around the adjusting rotation axis.The system according to any of the preceding three embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly activation means is configured to rotate around the adjusting rotation axis.

[0161] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments S79, S80, S81, S82, wherein at least part of the bearing housing is configured to rotate around the adjusting rotation axis.

[0162] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments S79, S80, S81, S82, wherein the second roll is configured to rotate around the adjusting rotation axis.

[0163] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S18 and any of embodiments S79, S80, S81, S82, wherein the adjusting rotation axis is essentially parallel to the main axis of second roll.

[0164] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S18 and any of embodiments S79, S80, S81, S82, wherein the adjusting rotation axis is distinct from the main axis of the second roll.

[0165] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S33 and any of embodiments S79, S80, S81, S82, wherein the adjusting rotation axis traverses the bearing housing.

[0166] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S33 and any of embodiments S79, S80, S81, S82, wherein the adjusting rotation axis traverses the bearing housing in correspondence to the center of one of the bases of the bearing housing.

[0167] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment any of embodiments S79, S80, S81, S82, wherein the rotation of the second roll around the adjusting rotation axis enables the adjustment of the roll gap.

[0168] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly is configured to be removable from the first roll and the second roll.S93. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system comprises an adjusting assembly removing means.

[0169] 594. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the adjusting assembly removing means is configured, when disengaged, to cause the adjusting assembly to detach from the system.

[0170] 595. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments S93 and S94, wherein the adjusting assembly removing means comprises a fixing screw.

[0171] 596. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments S40 and S95, wherein the fixing screw is configured to connect the adjusting assembly to the main housing bearing housing.

[0172] 597. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments S70 and S95, wherein the fixing screw is configured to connect the at least one connecting element to the main housing bearing housing.

[0173] 598. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments S77 and S95, wherein the fixing screw is configured to connect the second connecting element to the main housing bearing housing.

[0174] 599. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises a positioning means.

[0175] 5100. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the positioning means is configured to position and / or lock the adjusting assembly in at least one position of multiple positions of the adjusting assembly.

[0176] 5101. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the positioning means is configured to enable the moving of the adjusting assembly from the at least one position of the adjusting assembly to at least another position of the adjusting assembly.5102. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S100, wherein the at least one position of the adjusting assembly and / or the at least one other position of the adjusting assembly determines at least a magnitude of the roll gap.

[0177] 5103. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S100, wherein each position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly may correspond to a different magnitude of the roll gap.

[0178] 5104. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S101, wherein said moving involves the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll.

[0179] 5105. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S99, wherein the positioning means comprises a plunger.

[0180] 5106. The system according to the preceding embodiments, wherein the plunger is a spring-loaded plunger.

[0181] 5107. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S99 and S67, wherein the positioning means is provided within the handle.

[0182] 5108. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S100 and S105, wherein the plunger is configured to engage and / or to disengage at least a detent.

[0183] 5109. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S39, S100 and S105, wherein the plunger is configured to engage and / or to disengage at least a detent, the at least one detent comprised in the main housing of the system.

[0184] SI 10. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the positioning and / or locking of the adjusting assembly in the least one position of the adjusting assembly comprises the plunger engaging the at least one detent.Sill. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S109, wherein the position and / or lock of the adjusting assembly in the least one position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly comprises engage the at least one detent at the at least one detent.

[0185] SI 12. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system is for cooling a molten material.

[0186] SI 13. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the molten material is a molten extrudate.

[0187] SI 14. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the molten material is a molten material extrudate.

[0188] SI 15. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system is for cooling a molten material comprising at least one among: a polymer, a metal, a plastic, an active pharmaceutical ingredient, a food, a paste.

[0189] SI 16. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system is for adjusting a roll gap.

[0190] SI 17. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system is for generating a sheet of essentially uniform thickness out of an extrudate

[0191] SI 18. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system is for cooling down, downstream of an extruder, a molten material.

[0192] SI 19. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system is for use in a glovebox.

[0193] 5120. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system, particularly the first roll and / or the second roll, is configured to manage a heat load between 100 W and 600 W, preferably between 300 W and 400 W.

[0194] 5121. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system comprises a controller.S122. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the controller is configured to control the rotation speed of the first roll and / or of the second roll.

[0195] 5123. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S121, wherein the controller is configured to control the temperature of the first roll and / or of the second roll.

[0196] 5124. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system comprises an extruder, upstream of the first roll, the second roll, and the adjusting assembly, and configured to extrude a molten material.

[0197] 5125. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S25, wherein the system comprises a flaking means, downstream of the first roll, the second roll, and the adjusting assembly, and configured to cut the sheet of material into flakes.

[0198] 5126. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S50, wherein the roll gap is adjusted by rotating the bearing housing relative to the first terminal portion of the tie rod.

[0199] 5127. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S68, S71, S33, S40, wherein the handle is fixedly connected to the main housing bearing housing and to the bearing housing via the connecting element.

[0200] 5128. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S126, wherein rotating the bearing housing relative to the first terminal portion of the tie rod includes rotating the bearing housing around an adjusting rotation axis, different from a main axis of the second roll.

[0201] Below, adjusting assembly embodiments are presented. Adjusting assembly embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "A" fol lowed by a number. Whenever reference is made herein to "adjusting assembly embodiments", these embodiments are meant.

[0202] Al. An adjusting assembly configured to adjust a roll gap between a first roll and a second roll.

[0203] A2. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein, in any configuration of the adjusting assembly, the rollgap is defined by a minimum distance between a first outer surface of the first roll and a second outer surface of the second roll.

[0204] A3. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the first roll is a first cooling roll and / or wherein the second roll is a second cooling roll.

[0205] A4. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the roll gap has a magnitude between 5 cm and 0.1 mm, preferably between 1 cm and 0.1 mm, more preferably between 3 mm and 0.2 mm.

[0206] A5. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly is made of stainless steel.

[0207] A6. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises a bearing housing.

[0208] A7. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein the bearing housing is essentially disc-shaped or essentially cylinder-shaped.

[0209] A8. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises a tie rod.

[0210] A9. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A6 and / or A7, wherein the bearing housing is configured to eccentrically fit a first terminal portion of the second roll through the bearing housing.

[0211] A10. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A6 and / or A7, wherein the bearing housing is configured to eccentrically fit a first terminal portion of the second roll through the bearing housing, particularly through a bearing housing aperture, said bearing housing aperture being eccentrically provided in the bearing housing.

[0212] All. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly and / or the first roll and / or thesecond roll is configured to be housed by and / or secured by, at least in part, a main housing.

[0213] A12. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment All, wherein the main housing is configured to be engaged by second terminal portion of the second roll, opposite to the first terminal portion of the second roll.

[0214] A13. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein a main housing bearing housing, comprised in the main housing, is configured to eccentrically fit the second terminal portion of the second roll through the main housing bearing housing.

[0215] A14. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein the main housing bearing housing is essentially discshaped or essentially cylinder-shaped.

[0216] A15. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A12, wherein a main housing bearing housing, comprised in the main housing, is configured to eccentrically fit the second terminal portion of the second roll through the main housing bearing housing, particularly through a main housing bearing housing aperture, said main housing bearing housing aperture being eccentrically provided in the main housing bearing housing.

[0217] A16. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A15 and A10, wherein the bearing housing aperture and the main housing bearing housing aperture are essentially circular.

[0218] A17. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A15 and A10, wherein the bearing housing aperture and the main housing bearing housing aperture are configured to be coaxially aligned along a shared axis.

[0219] A18. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the shared axis coincides with the main axis of the second roll.A19. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A6 and A8, wherein the tie rod is configured to be connected to the bearing housing.

[0220] A20. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A6 and A8, wherein the tie rod is configured to be connected to the bearing housing in correspondence to a first terminal portion of the tie rod.

[0221] A21. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A8, wherein the tie rod is configured to fit a first terminal portion of the first roll through the tie rod

[0222] A22. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A8, wherein the tie rod is configured to fit a first terminal portion of the first roll through the tie rod in correspondence to a second terminal portion of the tie rod.

[0223] A23. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A8, wherein the tie rod is configured to fit a first terminal portion of the first roll through the tie rod, particularly through a tie rod aperture, said tie rod aperture being provided in the tie rod.

[0224] A24. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein the tie rod aperture is provided in a second terminal portion of the tie rod.

[0225] A25. The adjusting assembly according to A8, wherein the tie rod has an essentially lemniscate-like shape.

[0226] A26. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A20, A24 and A25, wherein the first terminal portion of the tie rod comprises the first opening of the lemniscate- like shape and / or wherein the second terminal portion of the tie rod comprises the second opening of the lemniscate-like shapeA27. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A12, wherein the main housing is configured to be engaged by a second terminal portion of the first roll, opposite to the first terminal portion of the first roll.

[0227] A28. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of A27 and / or A12, wherein a second main housing bearing housing is configured to fit a second terminal portion, opposite to the first one, of the first roll through a second main housing bearing housing, comprised in the main housing.

[0228] A29. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A8, wherein the tie rod is configured to maintain the magnitude roll gap essentially constant in a direction essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll and to the main axis of the second roll.

[0229] A30. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A8, wherein the tie rod is configured to maintain the magnitude roll gap essentially constant in a direction essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll and to the main axis of the second roll as a molten material is forced through the roll gap.

[0230] A31. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises an adjusting assembly activation means.

[0231] A32. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein the adjusting assembly activation means comprises a handle.

[0232] A33. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises a handle.

[0233] A34. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein the handle is a swing handle.A35. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A31, wherein the adjusting assembly activation means comprises at least a connecting element.

[0234] A36. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises at least a connecting element.

[0235] A37. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A6, A32 and A35, wherein the at least one connecting element connects the handle to the bearing housing.

[0236] A38. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A6, A32 and A35, wherein the at least one connecting element connects the adjusting assembly activation means to the bearing housing.

[0237] A39. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A13, A32 and A35, wherein the at least one connecting element connects the handle to the main housing bearing housing.

[0238] A40. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A13, A32 and A35, wherein the at least one connecting element connects the adjusting assembly activation means to the main housing bearing housing.

[0239] A41. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A35, wherein the at least one connecting element comprises a first connecting element and a second connecting element.

[0240] A42. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A32 and A41, wherein the first connecting element connects the handle to the bearing housing and wherein the second connecting element connects the handle to the main housing bearing housing.A43. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A32 and A41, wherein the first connecting element connects the adjusting assembly activation means to the bearing housing and wherein the second connecting element connects the handle to the main housing bearing housing.

[0241] A44. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A6, A13 and A31, wherein the adjusting assembly is configured to be engaged and / or to enable the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least a part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll.

[0242] A45. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A6, A13 and A31, wherein the adjusting assembly, particularly the adjusting assembly activation means, is configured to be engaged and / or to enable the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll.

[0243] A46. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A6, A13 and A31, wherein the adjusting assembly, particularly the handle, is configured to be engaged and / or to enable the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll.

[0244] A47. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding three adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein the adjusting assembly activation means is configured to rotate around the adjusting rotation axis.

[0245] A48. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments A44, A45, A46, wherein at least part of the bearing housing is configured to rotate around the adjusting rotation axis.A49. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments A44, A45, A46, wherein the second roll is configured to rotate around the adjusting rotation axis.

[0246] A50. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments A44, A45, A46, wherein the adjusting rotation axis is essentially parallel to the main axis of the second roll.

[0247] A51. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments A44, A45, A46, wherein the adjusting rotation axis is distinct from the main axis of the second roll.

[0248] A52. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A6 and any of embodiments A44, A45, A46, wherein the adjusting rotation axis traverses the bearing housing.

[0249] A53. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A6 and any of embodiments A44, A45, A46, wherein the adjusting rotation axis traverses the bearing housing in correspondence to the center of one of the bases of the bearing housing.

[0250] A54. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments A44, A45, A46, wherein the rotation of the second roll around the adjusting rotation axis enables the adjustment of the roll gap.

[0251] A55. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly is configured to be removable from the first roll and the second roll.

[0252] A56. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises an adjusting assembly removing means.A57. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein the adjusting assembly removing means is configured, when disengaged, to cause the adjusting assembly to detach.

[0253] A58. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments A56 and A57, wherein the adjusting assembly removing means comprises a fixing screw.

[0254] A59. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments A13 and A58, wherein the fixing screw is configured to connect the adjusting assembly to the main housing bearing housing.

[0255] A60. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments A35 and A58, wherein the fixing screw is configured to connect the at least one connecting element to the main housing bearing housing.

[0256] A61. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments A42 and A58, wherein the fixing screw is configured to connect the second connecting element to the main housing bearing housing.

[0257] A62. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises a positioning means.

[0258] A63. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein the positioning means is configured position and / or lock the adjusting assembly in at least one position of multiple positions of the adjusting assembly.

[0259] A64. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein the at least one position of the adjusting assembly determines at least a magnitude of the roll gap.

[0260] A65. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A63, wherein each position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly may correspond to a different magnitude of the roll gap.A66. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A62, wherein the positioning means comprises a plunger.

[0261] A67. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the plunger is a spring-loaded plunger.

[0262] A68. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiments A62 and A32, wherein the positioning means is provided within the handle.

[0263] A69. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A63 and A66, wherein the plunger is configured to engage and / or to disengage at least a detent.

[0264] A70. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, with the features of embodiment A12, A63 and A66, wherein the plunger is configured to engage and / or to disengage at least a detent, the at least one detent comprised in the main housing.

[0265] A71. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding two embodiments, wherein the positioning and / or locking of the adjusting assembly in the least one position of the adjusting assembly comprises the plunger engaging the at least one detent.

[0266] A72. The adjusting assembly according to any of embodiments S69, S70, wherein the position and / or lock of the adjusting assembly in the least one position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly comprises engage the at least one detent at the at least one detent.

[0267] A73. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly is for cooling rolls.

[0268] A74. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly is for cooling rolls for a molten material.A75. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein the molten material is a molten extrudate.

[0269] A76. The adjusting assembly according to the preceding adjusting assembly embodiment, wherein the molten material is a molten material extrudate.

[0270] A77. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly is for cooling rolls for a molten material comprising at least one among: a polymer, a metal, a plastic.

[0271] A78. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly is for adjusting a roll gap.

[0272] A79. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly is for rolls generating a sheet of material, of essentially uniform thickness, out of an extrudate.

[0273] A80. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly is for cooling rolls cooling down, downstream of an extruder, a molten material.

[0274] A81. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly is for use in a glovebox.

[0275] Below, method embodiments are presented. Method embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "M" followed by a number. Whenever reference is made herein to "method embodiments", these embodiments are meant.

[0276] Ml. A method comprising:

[0277] operating an adjusting assembly, comprising a bearing housing and a tie rod, to adjust a roll gap between a first roll and a second roll,

[0278] M2. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein the method comprises rotating the first roll around the main axis of the first roll.

[0279] M3. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein the method comprises rotating the second roll around the main axis of the secondroll, wherein the main axis of the second roll is essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll.

[0280] M4. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein the method comprises rotating the first roll in a first direction.

[0281] M5. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein the method comprises rotating the first roll in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.

[0282] M6. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein a first terminal portion of the second roll is configured to be eccentrically fitted through the bearing housing 13.

[0283] M7. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises rotating the first roll and the second roll to force a molten material through the roll gap.

[0284] M8. The method according the preceding method embodiment, wherein a magnitude of the roll gap is constant in a direction parallel to the main axis of the first roll and to the main axis of the second roll as the molten material is forced through the roll gap.

[0285] M9. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises receiving a molten material, particularly on a first side of the gap.

[0286] MIO. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein operating the first roll and the second roll comprises receiving a molten material, particularly on a first side of the roll gap.

[0287] Mil. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments M9 and MIO, wherein the method comprises forcing the molten material through the roll gap and toward a second side of the roll gap, opposite to the first side of the roll gap.

[0288] M12. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments M9 and MIO, wherein operating the first roll andthe second roll comprises forcing the molten material through the roll gap and toward a second side of the roll gap, opposite to the first side of the roll gap.

[0289] M13. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments Mil and M12, wherein the method comprises compressing the molten material into a sheet of material as the molten material is forced through the roll gap.

[0290] M14. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments Mil and M12, wherein operating the first roll and the second roll comprises compressing the molten material into a sheet of material as the molten material is forced through the roll gap.

[0291] M15. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments Mil and M12, wherein the method comprises cooling the molten material as the molten material is forced through the roll gap.

[0292] M16. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments Mil and M12, wherein operating the first roll and the second roll comprises cooling the molten material as the molten material is forced through the roll gap.

[0293] M17. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments M15 and M16, wherein cooling the molten material comprises cooling the molten material upon contact of the molten material with the first roll and / or with the second roll.

[0294] M18. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein operating the adjusting assembly comprises operating an adjusting assembly activation means, comprised in the adjusting assembly.

[0295] M19. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein operating the adjusting assembly comprises operating an adjusting assembly activation means, comprised in the adjusting assembly and comprising a handle.

[0296] M20. The method according to any of the two preceding method embodiments, wherein operating the adjusting assembly activation means comprises engaging the adjusting assembly activation means.M21. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein operating the adjusting assembly comprises operating a handle, fixedly attached to the bearing housing, to rotate around an adjusting rotation axis, at least: at least part of the bearing housing and a main housing bearing housing.

[0297] M22. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein a second terminal portion of the second roll is configured to be eccentrically fitted through the main housing bearing housing.

[0298] M23. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments M18 and M19, wherein operating the adjusting assembly activation means comprises engaging the handle.

[0299] M24. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments M18 and M19, wherein operating the adjusting assembly activation means comprises rotating, around an adjusting rotation axis, at least: at least part of the bearing housing eccentrically fitting a first terminal portion of the second roll through the bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll.

[0300] M25. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the adjusting rotation axis is essentially parallel to the main axis of the second roll.

[0301] M26. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the adjusting rotation axis is distinct from the main axis of the second roll.

[0302] M27. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the adjusting rotation axis traverses the bearing housing.

[0303] M28. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein adjusting a roll gap between the first roll and the second roll comprises rotating the second roll around the adjusting rotation axis.

[0304] M29. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein operating the adjusting assembly comprises utilizing the tie rod, comprised in the adjusting assembly.M30. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments M24, wherein operating the adjusting assembly comprises utilizing a tie rod, the tie rod being comprised in the adjusting assembly, being connected to the bearing housing, and fitting a first terminal portion of the first roll through the tie rod.

[0305] M31. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments M14 and M15, wherein operating the tie rod comprises controlling separating forces on the surfaces of the first roll and of the second roll as the molten material is forced through the roll gap.

[0306] M32. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments M30 and any of embodiments M14 and M15, wherein utilizing the tie rod comprises maintaining the magnitude roll gap essentially constant in a direction essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll and to the main axis of the second roll as the molten material is forced through the roll gap.

[0307] M33. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises removing the adjusting assembly.

[0308] M34. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the operating the adjusting assembly comprises operating an adjusting assembly removing means, comprised in the adjusting assembly.

[0309] M35. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein operating the adjusting assembly removing means comprises engaging the adjusting assembly removing means and detaching the adjusting assembly.

[0310] M36. The method according to any of the preceding three method embodiments, wherein the method comprises cleaning at least the first roll and the second roll, once the adjusting assembly is detached.

[0311] M37. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the operating the adjusting assembly comprises operating a positioning means, comprised in the adjusting assembly.M38. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein operating the positioning means comprises positioning and / or locking of the adjusting assembly in at least one position of the adjusting assembly.

[0312] M39. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein the at least one position of the adjusting assembly determines at least a magnitude of the roll gap.

[0313] M40. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M37, wherein operating the positioning means comprises moving of the adjusting assembly from the at least one position of the adjusting assembly to at least another position of the adjusting assembly

[0314] M41. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment M40, wherein the at least one position of the adjusting assembly and / or the at least one other position of the adjusting assembly determines at least a magnitude of the roll gap.

[0315] M42. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment M40, wherein said moving involves the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis of at least: at least part of the bearing housing, at least part of the main housing bearing housing, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll.

[0316] M43. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M38, wherein operating the positioning means comprises operating a plunger, comprised in the position means.

[0317] M44. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein operating the plunger comprises engaging and / or to disengaging the plunger to at least a detent.

[0318] M45. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein operating the plunger comprises engaging and / or to disengaging the plunger to at least a detent, the at least one detent comprised in a main housing, configured to house and / or secure, at least in part, the adjusting assembly, the first roll, and / or the second roll.M46. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein positioning and / or locking the adjusting assembly in the least one position of the adjusting assembly comprises engaging the plunger to at least one detent.

[0319] M47. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method is for cooling rolls.

[0320] M48. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method is for cooling a molten material.

[0321] M49. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method is for compressing a molten material into a sheet of material.

[0322] M50. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein the molten material is a molten extrudate.

[0323] M51. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein the molten material is a molten material extrudate.

[0324] M52. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method is for adjusting a roll gap.

[0325] M53. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method is for generating a sheet of essentially uniform thickness out of an extrudate

[0326] M54. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method is for cooling rolls cooling down, downstream of an extruder, a molten material.

[0327] M55. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises performing the method with the system according to any of the preceding system embodiments.

[0328] M56. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises performing the method with the adjusting assembly according to any of the adjusting assembly embodiments.M57. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein operating the adjusting assembly comprises rotating the bearing housing around an adjusting rotation axis, the adjusting rotation axis is parallel to and distinct from a main axis 12 of the second roll 3.

[0329] M58. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein operating the adjusting assembly further comprises: after adjusting the roll gap, operating a plunger, comprised in the adjusting assembly, to position and / or lock the adjusting assembly in at least one position of multiple positions of the adjusting assembly.

[0330] M59. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M58, wherein operating the plunger to position and / or lock the adjusting assembly in at least one position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly comprises engage and / or to disengage the plunger to at least a detent of multiple dents on the surface of a main housing,

[0331] M60. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M59, wherein the main housing is configured to house and / or to secure the first roll and the second roll.

[0332] 5129. The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein the system is configured to be used in and / or to perform at least a step of the method according to any of the preceding method embodiments.

[0333] 5130. The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein the system comprises the adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments.

[0334] A82. The adjusting assembly according to any of the preceding adjusting assembly embodiments, wherein the adjusting assembly is configured to be used in and / or to perform at least a step of the method according to any of the preceding method embodiments.

[0335] Brief description of the figures

[0336] Fig. 1 depicts, as an example, an adjusting assembly, according to embodiments of the present invention, in a first configuration.Fig. 2 depicts, as an example, an adjusting assembly, according to embodiments of the present invention, in a second configuration.

[0337] Fig. 3 depicts, as an example, an adjusting assembly, according to embodiments of the present invention, in a removed or detached state.

[0338] Fig. 4 depicts, as an example, the functioning of part of a system according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0339] Fig. 5 depicts, as an example, the functioning of part of a system according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0340] Fig. 6 depicts, as an example, part of a system according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0341] Detailed description of the figures

[0342] It is noted that not all the figures carry all reference signs. Instead, in some of the figures, some of the reference signs have been omitted for sake of brevity and simplicity of illustration.

[0343] Hereafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail, referring to the accompanying figures.

[0344] Fig. 1 depicts, as an example, an adjusting assembly 1, according to embodiments of the present invention, in a first configuration. In the first configuration, the adjusting assembly 1 can have an adjusted roll gap 11 between the rolls.

[0345] Fig. 2 depicts, as an example, an adjusting assembly 1, according to embodiments of the present invention, in a second configuration. In the second configuration, the adjusting assembly 1 can be in a position with maximal roll gap between the rolls.

[0346] Embodiments of the present invention may relate, at least in part, to an adjusting assembly 1. The adjusting assembly may be used with cooling rolls, which may also be referred to as chill rolls. The cooling rolls may be two, such as a first roll 2 and a second roll 3. The first roll 2 may also be referred to as main roll and the second roll 3 may be referred to as nip roll. Generally, the first and second roll may have an essentially cylindrical shape. The diameter of the bases of the first roll 2 may be larger than thediameter of the base of the second roll 3. The first roll 2 may comprise a first terminal portion 5 of the first roll 2, and the second roll 3 may comprise a first terminal portion 5 of the second roll 3.

[0347] The adjusting assembly 1, the first roll 2, and the second roll 3 may be secured to a main housing 10.

[0348] In particular, a second terminal portion 6 of the second roll 3, opposite to the first terminal portion 5 of the second roll 3, may engage a main housing 10, for example a surface 7 of the main housing. Specifically, the second terminal portion 6 of the second roll 3 may be eccentrically fitted through a bearing housing 8, particularly through a main housing bearing housing aperture, said main housing bearing housing aperture being eccentrically provided in the main housing bearing housing 8. The main housing bearing housing 8 may have an essentially disc-like or cylinder-like shape. It will be understood that eccentrical fitting through a block, particularly through an aperture provided on said block, may mean that the aperture is provided in an eccentric position with respect to the center of said block, i. e. away from the center of said block. For a disc-shaped or cylinder-shaped block, the aperture may run from one base of the block to the other, and be non-collinear with the main axis of the block.

[0349] Analogously, a second terminal portion of the first roll 2, opposite to the first terminal portion 5 of the first roll 2, may engage the main housing 10, for example a surface 7 of the main housing. The second terminal portion of the first roll 2, specifically, may, for instance, be fitted into a second main housing bearing housing, which may be comprised by the surface 7 of the main housing 10.

[0350] Put differently, if the adjusting assembly 1 is removed or detached, for example from a system comprising the adjusting assembly 1, the first roll 2, and the second roll 3, then the first roll 2 and the second roll 3 may extend outward from the main housing 10, such as from a surface 7 of the main housing 10. In other words, the first roll 2 and the second roll 3 may exhibit a cantilever-like connection to the main housing 10.

[0351] The first roll 2 and the second roll 3 may be configured to rotate. A rotation axis of the first roll 2 may coincide with the main axis of the first roll 2. Analogously, a rotation axis of the second roll 3 may coincide with the main axis 12 of the second roll 3. The main axis of the first roll 2 may be essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll.There might be a roll gap 11 between the first roll 2 and the second roll 3. The roll gap may be defined, in any configuration of the system and / or of the adjusting assembly according to embodiments of the present invention, as a minimum distance between an outer surface of the first roll 2 and an outer surface of the second roll 3. If the rolls are essentially cylindrical, said outer surfaces may coincide with the curved surfaces of the cylinders. It will further be understood that the main axis of the first roll 2 may be fixed in space. On the contrary, the main axis 12 of the second roll 3 may be moved in space, while still remaining essentially parallel to the main axis of the first roll 2. In particular, the main axis 12 of the second roll 3 may be rotated around an adjusting rotation axis 15. This will be detailed in the following. Consequently, the magnitude of the roll gap 11 may not be fixed, but adjusted. In particular, the adjusting assembly 1 may be configured to adjust the roll gap 11. The way said adjusting may be carried out is exemplarily described in the following.

[0352] The adjusting assembly may comprise a bearing housing 13. The first terminal portion 5 of the second roll 3 may configured to be eccentrically fitted through the bearing housing 13, particularly through a bearing housing aperture 14, said bearing housing aperture 14 being eccentrically provided in the bearing housing 13. The bearing housing 13 may have an essentially disc-like or cylinder-like shape. The bearing housing aperture 14 and the main housing bearing housing aperture may be essentially circular. Furthermore, the bearing housing aperture 14 and the main housing bearing housing aperture may be configured to be coaxially aligned along a shared axis, which may coincide with the main axis 12 of the second roll 3.

[0353] Put differently, the second roll 3 may be secured at both terminal portions of the second roll 3, such as fitted through the bearing housing 13 at the first terminal portion 5 and through the main housing bearing housing 8 at the second terminal portion 6. Furthermore, the bearing housing 13 and the main housing bearing housing 8 may be configured to rotate, for example around the adjusting rotation axis 15. It will be therefore understood that, if the bearing housing 13 and the main housing bearing housing 8 are put into rotation, for example around the adjusting rotation axis 15, then the second roll 3 may also rotate around the adjusting rotation axis 15. The adjusting rotation axis 15 may be essentially parallel to, but distinct from, the main axis 12 of the second roll 3. Therefore, when the second roll 3 is rotated around the adjusting rotation axis 15, the main axis 12 of the second roll 3 may move in space, and, in particular, may move away or closer to the main axis of the first roll 2. Consequently, the magnitude of the roll gap 11 may not be fixed, but adjusted.Said adjusting is practically achieved by operating an adjusting assembly activation means, comprised in the adjusting assembly 1. The adjusting assembly activation means may comprise a handle 16 and at least a connecting element 17, such as two connecting elements 17. The adjusting assembly may comprise a handle 16 and at least a connecting element 17, such as two connecting elements 17. In particular, the at least one connecting element 17 may connect the handle 16 to the bearing housing 13 and to the main housing bearing housing 8. In other words, the handle 16 arrangement may allow to adjust both terminal ends of the second roll simultaneously. The handle 16 may be configured to be engaged, for example by a user, and to enable the rotation around the adjusting rotation axis 15 of the adjusting assembly activation means, of the bearing housing 13, of the main housing bearing housing 8, and of the second cylinder 3. Put differently, the handle 16 may be swung in both rotation directions around the adjusting rotation axis (see double arrow 18): because of the reciprocal connections between the handle 16, the at least one connecting element 17, the bearing housing 13, the main housing bearing housing 8, and the second cylinder 3, the rotation around the adjusting rotation axis 15 of the above-mentioned parts can be achieved. In particular, the rotation of the second cylinder 3 around the adjusting rotation axis 15 essentially enables the adjustment of the magnitude of the roll gap 11. In other words, by rotating the handle 16 the roll gap can be quickly and easily adjusted.

[0354] The adjusting assembly 1 may also comprise a positioning means, which may be configured to enable the positioning and / or locking of the adjusting assembly 1 in at least one position of the adjusting assembly 1. It will be understood that each position of the adjusting assembly 1 and / or a magnitude of the roll gap 11 may define a configuration and / or state of the system and / or of part of the system. The positioning means may be housed within the handle 16. In one embodiment, for example, the positioning means may comprise a spring-loaded plunger, housed within the handle 16. The spring-loaded plunger may be activated and / or released via positioning activation means 19, which may, for instance, be a button. The spring-loaded plunger may be configured to engage and / or to disengage detents 20. The detents 20 may be provided on the surface 7 of the main housing 10. The detents 20 may also be referred to as notches 20, wherein the notches 20 are configured to be engaged by the spring-loaded plunger. The spring-loaded plunger may engage one of the detents 20. A position of the adjusting assembly 1 may be determined by the plunger engaging on of the detents 20. The spring-loaded plunger may generally engage one of the detents 20, disengage said one detent, be moved to another one of the detents 20, and engage said other one detent. In other words, the positioning means may be configured to enable the moving of the adjusting assembly from the at least one position of the adjusting assembly to at least another position ofthe adjusting assembly. In particular, said moving may involve the rotation around an adjusting rotation axis 15 of: the bearing housing 13, the main housing bearing housing 8, the adjusting assembly activation means, the second roll 2. As detailed above, the moving may be achieved by engaging the handle 16 and the locking / unlocking in a position of the adjusting assembly may be achieved with positioning means, which may be housed within the handle 16.

[0355] Put differently, the handle 16, which may be referred to as a swing handle, may have a spring-loaded plunger that may locate into slots in the chill roll back plate (i.e. the surface 7). Simply pulling the positioning activation means 19, e.g. a button, at the end of the handle 16 may cause the withdraw of the plunger and the adjusting assembly being free to swing.

[0356] The detents 20 may also be referred to as slots. The slots may be numbered with, for example, the lowest number giving the smallest roll gap. The advantage may be that a user may simply decide which slot / roll gap is required for the desired material sheet thickness and locate the plunger accordingly.

[0357] The main housing bearing housing 8 may be configured to be sealed, for example for dust ingress. The rotating movement of the main housing bearing housing 8 can be sealed to prevent dust ingress to the rear of the rolls. This may provide the advantage of avoiding containment issues, preventing product from entering the rear "technical area", i.e. the area comprised in the main housing, and / or of cross-contamination when the molten material being processed by the rolls is changed. Said issues may be particularly crucial for pharma and energy applications. Prior art arrangements where chill rolls have both terminal ends permanently supported by bearings, may not provide said advantage: particularly when the nip roll relies on a "swing" mechanism of the nip roll it may be difficult to seal the terminal end of the nip roll that is closer to the main housing.

[0358] The adjusting assembly 1 may also comprise a tie rod 21. The tie rod 21 may be configured to be connected to the bearing housing 13, in correspondence to a first terminal portion 22 of the tie rod 21. For example, the bearing housing 13 may be configured to be fitted through a bearing housing tie rod aperture provided in the first terminal portion 22 of the tie rod 21. Furthermore, the first terminal portion 5 of the first roll 2 may be configured to be fitted through the tie rod 21 in correspondence to a second terminal portion 23 of the tie rod. For example, the first terminal portion 5 of the first roll 2 may be configured to be fitted through a tie rod aperture provided in a second terminal portion 23 of the tie rod 21. The first terminal portion 22 and the second terminal portion23 of the tie rod 21 may be connected by a rod element 24, which may be integrally formed with the first terminal portion 22 and the second terminal portion 23 of the tie rod 21. In one embodiment, for example, the tie rod 21 may have a lemniscate-like shape. The first terminal portion 22 of the tie rod 21 may comprise the first opening of the lemniscate-like shape (e.g. the bearing housing tie rod aperture) and the second terminal portion 23 of the tie rod 21 may comprise the second opening of the lemniscate-like shape (e.g. the tie rod aperture). It will be understood that the tie rod 21 may not prevent the bearing housing 13 from rotating, despite being connected to the bearing housing 13. The tie rod may help in controlling separating forces at the first terminal end of the first roll and at the second terminal end of the second roll. In other words, the parting load of that the rolls may experience may be contained using the tie rod 21. By using a tie rod 21, further, instead of for example a full bearing plate, access to the rolls and the rest of the machine may be much improved.

[0359] In Fig. 1 the adjusting assembly 1 is in a first exemplary configuration, wherein the adjusting assembly 1 is locked in a position of the adjusting assembly 1: in particular, the spring-loaded plunder engages one of the detents 20.

[0360] In Fig. 2 the adjusting assembly 1 is in a second exemplary configuration, wherein the adjusting assembly 1 is in another position of the adjusting assembly 1: in particular, handle 16 is swung back in a direction leading away from the detents 20. It will be understood that, e.g. for machine clean down, the adjusting assembly 1 can be swung open to separate the rolls, allowing full access around both rolls.

[0361] Fig. 3 depicts, as an example, an adjusting assembly 1, according to embodiments of the present invention, in a removed or detached state.

[0362] The adjusting assembly 1 may be configured to be removable, for example from the first roll and the second roll. For example, the adjusting assembly 1 may comprise an adjusting assembly removal means 25, which may be configured, when disengaged, to cause the adjusting assembly 1 to detach or be removed. The adjusting assembly removal means 25 may, for example, be a screw. The entire adjusting assembly may be quickly removed by unscrewing a single screw and simply withdrawing the assembly from the roll trunnions. In other words, the adjusting assembly 1 may be taken for cleaning, and the rolls can be thoroughly 'cleaned in place' with easy access to all surfaces.

[0363] In summary, the second roll 3, which can be referred to as nip roll, may be fitted through two bearing housings, namely through a bearing housing at the main housing side (i.e.the main housing bearing housing 8 and through another bearing housing (i.e. the bearing housing 13), which may form the "front" of the adjusting assembly 1. Each of the two bearing housings comprises an eccentric opening, through which the second roll 3 is fitted, namely the bearing housing aperture 14 and the main housing bearing housing aperture. By connecting the two blocks via the adjusting assembly activation means, particularly via the at least one connecting element 17 and the handle 16, the two bearing housings can be rotated simultaneously, ensuring that the rolls may be parallel, on top of also allowing quick and simple adjustment of the roll gap 11. The handle 16 can be swung and / or rotated to adjust the roll gap 11. The handle 11 may host a spring-loaded plunger that can be fixed in different positions to allow different magnitudes of the roll gap. Fig. 1 shows the spring-loaded plunger fixed in one of these positions. As shown in Fig. 2, the handle may be fully rotated in a direction that moves the handle away from the indents 20: this creates a large roll gap 11 between the roll, useful for cleaning the rolls. Further, as shown in Fig. 3, the adjusting assembly 1 may be fully removed to further increase access to the rolls, for example for cleaning purposes.

[0364] Since the adjusting assembly 2 may be removed, embodiments of the present invention may have the advantages that chill rolls with just one terminal end supported by a main housing may have, i.e. the advantages of a cantilever-like arrangement of chill rolls. Among other, the advantages may comprise easy access to the rolls and the processing area for cleaning, as well as an overall simpler construction, which may reduce material costs.

[0365] On the other hand, a mere cantilever-like arrangement of the chill rolls, which may not be encompassed by embodiments of the present invention, may provide disadvantages. For example, the unsupported terminal ends of the rolls can deflect during operation resulting in a non-parallel roll gap. This can lead to inconsistent product thickness and temperature, wherein the product can be the sheet of material. Embodiments of the present invention, however, comprise the utilization of a tie rod, which may be configured to connect that terminal ends of the chill rolls that are not connected to the main housing. In this sense, embodiments of the present invention may overcome the disadvantages of a mere cantilever-like arrangement of the chill rolls and offer the advantages that chill rolls with both terminal ends permanently supported by bearings may have. Said advantages may comprise the support of the rolls at both terminal ends, which helps to control the roll separating forces and keep the roll gap parallel.

[0366] Nevertheless, since the adjusting assembly may be removed, and with it the tie rod, thanks to a simple adjusting assembly removing means, embodiments of the presentinvention may overcome at least some of the disadvantages that chill rolls with both terminal ends permanently supported by bearings may have. For example, that a nonremovable bearing plate (i.e. opposite to the main housing bearing plate) would make access to the rolls difficult. The chassis construction of the chill roll would also be more complex when trying to mount a non-removable bearing plate. Further, the system may involve increasing complexity and costs. According to embodiments of the present invention, instead, the adjusting assembly 1 can be easily removed, e.g. for cleaning, allowing full access to clean the rolls.

[0367] Further disadvantages that chill rolls with both terminal ends permanently supported by bearings may have include that when both ends of the chill rolls are permanently supported, each terminal end may be adjusted and tightened independently for adjusting the roll gap. Furthermore, the adjusting may be cumbersome, with the need of moving the chill roll from the extruder for adjustment. On the contrary, embodiments of the present invention may allow for setting the desired roll gap in an easy manner and the swing handle may automatically adjust both terminal ends of the second roll simultaneously. Embodiments of the present invention may generally be advantageous because they may offer a quick and easy roll gap adjustment and quick roll opening for clean down.

[0368] Put differently, chill rolls may typically be designed in two ways according to existing technologies: with just one terminal end of the rolls supported by bearings or with both terminal ends of both rolls supported by bearings. Embodiments of the present invention may overcome, at least, the disadvantages of both existing solutions and may provide, at least, the advantages of both existing solutions. In other words, for example, embodiments of the present invention may allow a cantilever roll design whilst still containing the separating loads at both terminal ends of the rolls. The cantilever design may allow for better access to the processing area, for better visual access and cleaning.

[0369] The overall simple and easy-to-operate mechanism for roll gap adjustment, according to embodiments of the present invention, may make said embodiments have the advantage of being easily implemented on "through the wall" containment applications, such as gloveboxes, which may be important especially for pharma and energy applications. The construction, according to embodiments of the present invention, may be easy to operate inside a glovebox or the like at least because the handle 16 can be easy to operate even with gloves.Further, the simplicity of the system according to embodiments of the present invention may offer the advantage of reduce the costs and improve the user friendliness as compared to existing technologies.

[0370] It will be understood that the main housing bearing housing 8 may, for example, be comprised in a terminal portion of a main housing bearing block. Additionally, or alternatively, the main housing bearing housing 8 may be connected to said main housing bearing block. Said main housing bearing block may be contained in the main housing 10, that is, it is not visible in the figures described herein. In simpler words, the main housing bearing block may be "behind" the surface 7 of the main housing 10.

[0371] Fig. 4 depicts, as an example, the functioning of part of a system according to embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 4 shows, as an example, the flow of a molten extrudate through the roll gap 11 between the rolls 2,3. For clarity of illustration, the adjusting assembly 1 is omitted from Fig. 4. It will nevertheless be understood that the adjusting assembly 1 may be present.

[0372] The first roll 2 and the second roll 3 may be configured to rotate in opposite directions (see arrows 26) around their main axes. The rotation may be enforced through a motor, which drives both rolls over, for example, one or more gears. Motors may be provided "behind" the surface 7 of the main housing 10. Said motors may be coupled to rolls 2,3 such that the rolls can rotate under the action of said motors. In some embodiments, the motor may drive a gear box, which may also be located "behind" the surface 7 of the main housing 10. The gearbox may be configured to be coupled to the first roll and to the second roll so that, under the action of the motor, the first roll and the second roll may rotate, for example in a fixed rotational dependency to each other. The system may be configured to receive a molten material 27 on one side of the roll gap 11. The first roll 2 and the second roll 3 may be configured to be cooled down with a liquid, which can, for example, be water, oil, and / or air. The liquid may cool the first roll 2 and the second roll 3 internally. The first roll 2 and the second roll 3 may be configured to cool the molten material 27 upon contact with the molten material 27. The first roll 2 and the second roll 3 may be configured to compress the molten material 27 into a sheet 28 of material, which may be an essentially solid or semi-solid sheet 28 of material, as the molten material 27 is forced through the roll gap. It will be understood that the magnitude of the roll gap 11 may essentially determine the thickness of the sheet 28 of material.

[0373] In other words, the rotating rolls may receive a molten material 27, such as molten extrudate, for example from an extruder 31. The molten extrudate may spread over therotating rolls until it is forced by the rotating rolls through the roll gap 11. As the molten extrudate cools, it creates a solid or semi-solid sheet 28 of material with a thickness essentially coinciding with the magnitude of the roll gap 11.

[0374] Fig. 5 depicts, as an example, the functioning of part of a system according to embodiments of the present invention. For clarity of illustration, the adjusting assembly 1 is omitted from Fig. 5. It will nevertheless be understood that the adjusting assembly 1 may be present. The system may comprise the adjusting assembly 1, the first roll 2, the second roll 3, the main housing 10, and a transport belt 29. The transport belt 29 may be downstream of the first roll 2 and of the second roll 3. The transport belt 29 may transport the cooled material and help cool it down further. At the end of the transport belt 29 opposite to the rolls, there may generally be a flaking means.

[0375] Whenever a word relating to a "flow" or a "flow direction" is used in this specification, it will be understood that the "flow" or the "flow direction" is to be understood with respect to the flow of the molten material 27 and / or of the sheet of material 28, as determined by the rotation of the first roll 2 and of the second roll 3 (see, e.g., arrows 26).

[0376] Downstream of the first roll 2 and of the second roll 3, the sheet 28 of material may be placed on the transport belt 29. Downstream of the transport belt 29, further elements of the system may be present. The transport belt may comprise a roll-mechanism 30 that is configured to cause the movement of the transport belt in a direction in line with the downstream movement of the sheet 28 of material, when the transport belt is in contact with the sheet 28 of material. The transport belt 29 may be essentially perpendicular to the main axis of the first cylinder, or may alternatively be inclined with respect to the main axis of the first cylinder. The roll mechanism 30 may be driven by a motor. Said motor may be the same motor driving the rolls 2,3, or alternatively a separate motor. In some embodiments, the motor may drive a gear box. The gearbox may be configured to be coupled to the roll mechanism 30 so that, under the action of the motor, the roll mechanism 30 may rotate.

[0377] The sheet 28 of material, which may be referred to as a cooled product sheet, may cool further as it travels along the transport belt 29 and may be ready for further processing downstream of the transport belt 29. The thickness of the sheet 28 of material can influence its properties: it may therefore be important that the thickness is constant across the width of the sheet 28 of material, which may be achieved by embodiments of the present invention.Fig. 6 depicts, as an example, part of a system according to embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 6, in particular, exemplarily shows, inter alia, an adjusting assembly 1 together with an extruder 31. The system may comprise the adjusting assembly 1, the first roll 2, the second roll 3, the main housing 10, a transport belt 29, a flaking means, an extruder 31. The flaking means may be downstream of the transport belt 29, or directly downstream of the first roll 2 and of the second roll 3, and the extruder 31 may be upstream of the first roll 2 and of the second roll 3.

[0378] The extruder 31 may be configured to generate the molten material 27, which may also be referred to as extrudate. The flaking means may be configured to cut the sheet 28 of material into flakes. The flaking means may be configured to output the flakes from an outlet of the flaking means. In other words, the sheet 28 of material may travel along the transport belt 29, which may be referred to as a belt, for further cooling, to then enter the flaking means where it is broken down into flakes. The flaked product can then be taken from the outlet for further processing.

[0379] The main housing 10 may be configured to house and / or secure, at least in part, the transport belt 29 and / or the flaking means. The extruder 31 may be a twin-screw extruder.

[0380] It will be understood that embodiments of the present invention may encompass a system comprising at least one of the following: the main housing 10, the transport belt 29, the extruder 31, the flaking means.

[0381] While in this specification preferred embodiments of the present invention are described, the person skilled in the art will understand that the preferred embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only and to render the disclosure of the present invention complete, and should by no means be construed to limit the scope of the present invention, which is defined by the claims.

[0382] Whenever the indefinite article "a" or "an" is used in this specification in relation to a feature mentioned for the first time, this may not be construed as only "one", but rather as "at least one". Consequentially, when the definite article "the" is used referring to the feature, this may be construed as "the at least one". For example, "an element" may be construed as "at least one element", not only as "one element", and "the element" may be construed as "the at least one element".Whenever a relative term, such as "about", "substantially", "essentially" or "approximately" is used in this specification, such a term should also be construed to also include the exact term. That is, e.g., "substantially straight" should be construed to also include "(exactly) straight".

[0383] Whenever steps were recited in the above or also in the appended claims, it should be noted that the order in which the steps are recited in this text may be accidental. That is, unless otherwise specified or unless clear to the skilled person, the order in which steps are recited may be accidental. That is, when the present document states, e.g., that a method comprises steps (A) and (B), this does not necessarily mean that step (A) precedes step (B), but it is also possible that step (A) is performed (at least partly) simultaneously with step (B) or that step (B) precedes step (A). Furthermore, when a step (X) is said to precede another step (Z), this does not imply that there is no step between steps (X) and (Z). That is, step (X) preceding step (Z) encompasses the situation that step (X) is performed directly before step (Z), but also the situation that (X) is performed before one or more steps (Yl), ..., followed by step (Z). Corresponding considerations apply when terms like "after" or "before" are used.

Claims

Claims1. A system for cooling a molten material, the system comprising:a first roll 2,a second roll 3, andan adjusting assembly 1, comprising a bearing housing 13 and a tie rod 21, wherein the adjusting assembly is configured to adjust a roll gap 11 between the first roll 2 and the second roll 3,wherein a first terminal portion 5 of the second roll 3 is configured to be eccentrically fitted through the bearing housing 13.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the tie rod 21 is configured to be connected to the bearing housing 13 in correspondence to a first terminal portion 22 of the tie rod 21, and the roll gap 11 is adjusted by rotating the bearing housing 13 relative to the first terminal portion 22 of the tie rod 21, wherein a first terminal portion 5 of the first roll 2 is configured to be fitted through the tie rod 21 in correspondence to a second terminal portion 23 of the tie rod 21.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the adjusting assembly 1 is configured to be removable from the first roll 2 and the second roll 3, wherein the adjusting assembly comprises an adjusting assembly removing means 25 configured, when disengaged, to cause the adjusting assembly to detach from the system.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises a main housing 10, wherein the main housing 10 is configured to house and / or to secure at least in part: the first roll 2, the second roll 3, and / or the adjusting assembly 1.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein a second terminal portion 6 of the second roll 3, opposite to the first terminal portion 5 of the second roll 3, is configured to engage the main housing 10, wherein a second terminal portion of the first roll 2, opposite to the first terminal 4 portion of the first roll 2, is configured to engage the main housing 10.

6. The system according to claim 3, wherein the second terminal portion 6 of the second roll 3 is configured to be eccentrically fitted through a main housing bearing housing 8, comprised in the main housing 10, particularly through a main housing bearing housing aperture, said main housing bearing housing aperture being eccentrically provided in the main housing bearing housing 8.

7. The system according to claim 4, wherein the first terminal portion 5 of the second roll 3 is configured to be fitted through a bearing housing aperture 14, said bearing housing aperture 14 being eccentrically provided in the bearing housing 13, wherein the bearing housing aperture 14 and the main housing bearing housing aperture are configured to be coaxially aligned along a shared axis, wherein the shared axis coincides with the main axis 12 of the second roll 3.

8. The system according to claim 6, wherein a space between the second terminal portion 6 of the second roll 3 and the main housing bearing housing 8 is sealed.

9. The system according to claim 1 or 7, wherein the adjusting assembly 1 comprises a handle 16 and at least a connecting element 17 connecting the handle 16 and the bearing housing 13.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein the handle 16 is fixedly connected to the main housing bearing housing 8 and the bearing housing 13 via the connecting element 17, and wherein the main housing bearing housing 8 and the bearing housing 13 are synchronized rotated around an adjusting rotation axis 15 by operating the handle 16.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the adjusting rotation axis 15 is parallel to and distinct from a main axis 12 of the second roll 3.

12. The system according to claim 2, wherein rotating the bearing housing 13 relative to the first terminal portion 22 of the tie rod 21 includes rotating the bearing housing 13 around an adjusting rotation axis 15, different from a main axis 12 of the second roll.

13. The system according to claim 4, wherein the adjusting assembly 1 comprises a positioning means, wherein the positioning means is configured to position and / or lock the adjusting assembly 1 in at least one position of multiple positions of the adjusting assembly 1.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein each position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly 1 corresponds to a different magnitude of the roll gap15. The system according to claim 10, wherein said synchronized rotation of the main housing bearing housing 8 and the bearing housing 13 around the adjusting rotation axis 15 causes the rotation of the main axis 12 of the second roll 3 around the adjusting rotation axis 15.

16. The system according to claim 13, wherein the positioning means comprises a plunger, wherein the positioning means is provided within the handle 16, wherein the plunger is configured to engage and / or to disengage at least a detent 20, the at least one detent comprised in the main housing 10, wherein the position and / or lock of the adjusting assembly 1 in the least one position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly 1 comprises engage the at least one detent 20.

17. A method, comprising:operating an adjusting assembly 1, comprising a bearing housing 13 and a tie rod 21, to adjust a roll gap 11 between a first roll 2 and a second roll 3, wherein a first terminal portion 5 of the second roll 3 is configured to be eccentrically fitted through the bearing housing 13; androtating the first roll 2 and the second roll 3 to force a molten material through the roll gap 11, wherein a magnitude of the roll gap 11 is constant in a direction parallel to the main axis of the first roll 2 and to the main axis 12 of the second roll 3 as the molten material is forced through the roll gap 11.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein operating the adjusting assembly 1 comprises rotating the bearing housing 13 around an adjusting rotation axis 15, the adjusting rotation axis 15 is parallel to and distinct from a main axis 12 of the second roll 3.

19. The method according to the claim 17, wherein operating the adjusting assembly 1 comprises operating a handle 16 fixedly attached to the bearing housing 13 to rotate around an adjusting rotation axis 15, at least: at least part of the bearing housing 13 and a main housing bearing housing 8, wherein a second terminal portion 6 of the second roll 3 is configured to be eccentrically fitted through the main housing bearing housing 8, wherein the adjusting rotation axis 15 is essentially parallel to and distinct from the main axis 12 of the second roll 3.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein operating the adjusting assembly 1 further comprises: after adjusting the roll gap 11, operating a plunger, comprised in the adjusting assembly, to position and / or lock theadjusting assembly 1 in at least one position of multiple positions of the adjusting assembly 1.

21. The method according to claim 19, wherein operating the plunger to position and / or lock the adjusting assembly 1 in at least one position of the multiple positions of the adjusting assembly 1 comprises engage and / or disengage the plunger to at least a detent 20 of multiple dents on the surface of a main housing 10, wherein the main housing 10 is configured to house and / or to secure the first roll 2 and the second roll 3.

Images