Magnetic Coupling Ink Transport Pumps for ATEX Flexographic Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexographic and gravure printing machines require explosion-proof solutions for transporting printing ink due to solvent use, precluding the use of electric motor-driven pumps and necessitating air pressure-operated pumps, which lack the efficiency and control of electric systems.
Innovation Solution
A device utilizing electric motor-driven inlet and drain pumps with non-contact magnetic coupling and shielded electrical components to transport printing ink, meeting ATEX directives by preventing electrical contact with the ink, and employing self-priming pumps with ECTFE-coated components for enhanced chemical resistance and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If air pressure-operated pumps are used to transport printing ink, then explosion protection requirements are met, but efficiency and control capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system is divided into two separate chambers (suction chamber and pressure chamber) within a single double-diaphragm pump unit, allowing independent optimization of each chamber's function while maintaining overall explosion protection. The magnetic coupling is also segmented into motor-side magnets and impeller-side magnets separated by a non-magnetic barrier.
Solution Approach 2:
A non-magnetic barrier (intermediary layer) is introduced between the motor-side magnets and impeller-side magnets to prevent electrical sparks while allowing magnetic field transmission. This intermediary enables the system to maintain both explosion protection and electric motor-driven efficiency.
2Productivity
If electric motor-driven pumps are used to transport printing ink, then efficiency and control improve, but explosion protection requirements are violated
Solution Approach 1:
The direct mechanical connection between the electric motor and impeller is replaced with a magnetic coupling system. The electric motor drives the impeller through magnetic fields rather than direct mechanical contact, eliminating spark risks while maintaining efficient electric motor-driven operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump chambers are designed as explosion-proof enclosures that create a protected environment for the printing ink (containing volatile solvents). The non-magnetic barrier and sealed chamber design maintain an inert/explosion-proof atmosphere while allowing magnetic drive transmission.
3Reliability
If magnetic coupling is used to drive the impeller, then electrical contact with ink is prevented, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling system merges the motor drive function with the pump chamber sealing function into a single integrated component. The non-magnetic barrier simultaneously provides electrical isolation and structural support, reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced magnetic coupling mechanism.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables safe and efficient ink transport in flexographic and gravure printing machines, adhering to ATEX Zone 2 standards, eliminating pressure buildup and ensuring reliable operation while maintaining high chemical resistance and safety standards.
Implementation Method 1
The impeller is driven in a contactless manner by means of a magnetic coupling driven by an electric motor
Implementation Method 2
self-priming pumps with ECTFE-coated components for enhanced chemical resistance
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for transporting printing ink in a flexographic printing press or gravure printing press, comprising an inking chamber (01) which is arranged in the flexographic printing press or gravure printing press and has an ink inlet (02) and an ink outlet (03). A a feed pump (04) which is driven by a motor (06) is arranged in the ink inlet (02) of the inking chamber (01) for transporting for the purpose of feeding the printing ink, and/or a discharge pump (08) which is driven by a motor (09) is arranged in the ink outlet (03) of the inking chamber (01) for transporting away excess printing ink. The feed pump (04) and/or the discharge pump (08) have/has, for transporting printing ink, a respective impeller wheel (07; 11) which is mounted rotatably about a respective axis (26; 27) and the respective impeller wheel (07; 11) is driven rotationally by the respective motor (06; 09).