DE102023001206A1 - Device and method for cleaning knife rings or their components - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device and a method for cleaning a knife ring or its components during maintenance of a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for comminuting materials, wherein at least knives are arranged in an exchangeable manner on the circumference of the knife ring (1), which knives can be exchanged directly or as knife packages (4, 5), at least comprising a knife with a clamping plate, wherein the knife ring (1) further comprises at least two coaxial rings and knife holders and/or wear plates arranged therebetween.
The object of the invention is to further develop known cleaning devices, to improve the cleaning effect and to reduce the technical and structural expenditure of previous practice.
The invention for the device consists in that a tub (6) for a liquid bath (3) is arranged for cleaning the components, assemblies and/or the knife ring (1), wherein a standing water column (2) is formed in the liquid bath (3) or in the tub (3), into which the components, assemblies or the knife ring (1) can be at least partially introduced or passed through (1637).

Description

The invention relates to a device for cleaning a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for comminuting materials according to the preamble of patent claim 1.

The invention further relates to a method for cleaning a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for comminuting materials according to the preamble of patent claim 15.

For the production of material boards, e.g. chipboards or OSB boards, wood must be provided in chips. For this purpose, knife ring chippers are used, such as those from DE 199 07 415 B4 or DE 10 2015 005 642 A1 are known. After machining, the material is transferred to a plant for the production of material plates. As a rule, the shredded material is dried there if necessary, glued and spread to form a mat for pressing and finally pressed into a material plate, preferably in a continuously operating press.

Out of DE 197 18 681 A1 , DE 199 00 924 A1 , DE 199 01 887 A1 and DE 10 2015 003 520 B4 Sharpening and cleaning devices for knife rings have become known. With these devices, the knife rings can be equipped or maintained. This means that the knives or knife packages are usually removed from the knife rings, checked, sharpened and reinstalled. When the wear limit has expired, the corresponding tool parts are replaced. The knife ring is then ready for machining and is available for installation in a knife ring chipper. A semi-automatic setup device is available, for example, with the DE 101 17 480 A1 in which the knife packages are manually removed from a knife ring and passed on to an automated device for sharpening.

The known cleaning devices have generally proven themselves, but still offer room for improvement. However, these are either designed as separate cleaning devices and require their own machine or appropriate space to carry out the cleaning. A particular disadvantage is that the cleaning devices work with brushes that wear out or hydraulic overpressure and must be encapsulated accordingly so that other nearby devices do not become dirty or wet. In addition, although coarse dirt and foreign bodies are normally removed, they usually get stuck uncontrollably on protrusions or undercuts. In addition, a lot of effort must be put into the movement mechanics of the brushes or high-pressure nozzles to achieve a good cleaning effect. For example, brushes or linearly aligned high-pressure cleaners do not reach all undercuts and may have to be moved back and forth in cycles. Cleaning using a laser application has also been tried.

However, sticky dirt on surfaces builds up over time and subsequently contaminates other parts of the system, such as transport or sharpening devices. Here, too, wear and tear and high maintenance costs in the devices quickly become apparent, while at the same time the cleaning performance needs improvement.

The object of the present invention is to provide a device and a method with which the cleaning result can be improved, if necessary the cycle times in connection with the maintenance and preparation of a knife ring can be improved and the construction effort can be minimized at the same time.

In an extension of the task, the cleaning of the knife ring should be carried out during the disassembly and assembly of the knives or knife packages, preferably during automated maintenance or when setting up the knife ring.

The term maintenance or set-up refers to the reworking, preparation, cleaning or similar processes such as removing the knives, sharpening the knives and inserting sharpened knives into the knife ring, which are suitable for restoring the convertible knife ring to a usable condition and/or converting it for other applications.

A knife ring consists, among other things, of two spaced rings between or on which knives are attached. The knives can also be in the form of knife packages consisting of knives and a clamping plate. Carriers, knife holders and/or wear plates and, if necessary, other machine elements, including static load-bearing ones, are usually arranged. Some or all of these machine elements/components can be exchanged, reworked or repositioned individually or as assemblies during the setup process in order to prepare the knife ring for later or renewed use in a chipper or to maintain it for renewed use.

The invention understands components or assemblies to be attachments or spare parts of the knife ring that can be cleaned together with the knife ring or separately. For example, the device for cleaning can not only a knife ring but also knife packages (as an assembly) or knives individually (as a component). Other individual parts would be, for example, the knife holders or knife carriers, wear plates, and the like. It is also possible to clean parts of the assemblies/components as a whole or when installed on the knife ring. However, the components/assemblies obviously cover some areas of the knife ring or, vice versa, are themselves protected from a cleaning effect, so it is sensible to clean the components/assemblies "again" after disassembly. It can also be useful to clean the assemblies/components before assembly in order to wash off oils or other adhering resins, foreign bodies, chemicals or metal chips from the original shaping/sharpening. The assembly screws for the components/assemblies can also be cleaned individually or in their pre-assembled or assembled state in order to improve the engagement of the automatic screwdriver. The pre-assembled state refers to screws that are only partially unscrewed from the thread to loosen a component or assembly, but otherwise remain in the thread.

A liquid bath can preferably have water as the liquid to be dissolved, in which the cleaning and other agents are dissolved, or in which the dirt is dissolved. Although the term water is used essentially below, it cannot be considered limiting for the design, since other liquids, hence liquid bath, can also take on the necessary properties as a solvent and/or cleaning agent. In addition, the liquid bath can also be inhomogeneous or layered, for example there can be an oil-containing layer on the surface, which preferably leaves an oil film on the parts that protrude or pass through. In a multi-layer application, appropriate sensors can also be provided to control the individual layers. This means that emulsions as well as suspensions can be used in the liquid bath.

Cleaning can be carried out radially inside and outside or simultaneously. For this purpose, the devices suitable for cleaning and/or assisting cleaning must be arranged radially inside and/or outside of the knife ring. For the components or assemblies, this applies on one or both sides.

A generic device would be a device for cleaning a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for crushing materials or its components or assemblies. In particular, the cleaning should be carried out during the maintenance or preparation of a knife ring. At least interchangeable knives are arranged on the circumference of the knife ring, which can be exchanged directly or indirectly as knife packages, at least comprising a knife with a clamping plate, wherein the knife ring further has at least two coaxial rings and knife holders and/or wear plates arranged between them.

The object of the invention is achieved for a device in that a tub for a liquid bath is arranged for cleaning the components, assemblies and/or the knife ring, wherein a standing column of water is formed in the liquid bath or in the tub, into which the components, assemblies or the knife ring can be at least partially introduced or passed through.

1. a) Die Umgebung muss nicht durch aufwendige Kapselungen und Dichtungen im Bereich einer fluiden Hochdruckreinigung geschützt werden, bevorzugt falls notwendig ist ein einfacher Spritzschutz oder Rückhalteblenden für überschwappende Wasserbewegungen ausreichend.
2. b) Das Flüssigkeitsbad gelangt überall gleichmäßig an den Messerring, die Bauteile oder Baugruppen und kann dort über die Zeit auch für verklebte oder schmierige Oberflächen Reinigungswirkung entfalten. Dies gilt insbesondere dann wenn eine Düsenreinigung und/oder eine Ultraschallreinigung im Wasser vorgenommen wird.
3. c) Durch die Wahl entsprechender Reinigungsmittel kann die Reinigungswirkung verstärkt und/oder entsprechend abgestimmt werden.
4. d) Hinterschneidungen führen nicht zu Stellen fast ohne Reinigungswirkung.
5. e) Fremdkörper oder andere abrasive Fremdstoffe werden zuverlässig im Wasser gelöst und abtransportiert und verursachen nicht durch Hochdruckeinwirkung als eine Art Schleifmaterial am Messerring, den Bauteilen oder Baugruppen Riefen oder Schäden.
6. f) In bevorzugten Ausführungsformen können unter Wasser Reinigungsvorrichtungen verwendet werden, die schonend aber nicht die Umgebung bespritzend ihre Reinigungswirkung entfalten können.
7. g) Das Verfahren und die Vorrichtung können beliebig und ohne viel Mehraufwand angeordnet werden, teilweise auf eine größeren Palette oder einem Transportwagen, besonders bevorzugt für Messerringe.
8. h) In einem besonders bevorzugten Ausführungsbeispiel können mehrere Vorrichtungen für den Messerring, die Bauteile und/oder Baugruppen angeordnet sein. Beispielsweise in einer Wartungs- und Rüsteinheit für Messerringe. Die verschiedenen Vorrichtungen könnten fluidtechnisch und filtertechnisch zusammengeschaltet sein, so dass die abgeschiedenen Verschmutzungen zentral an einem Ort entsorgt und entsprechende Zuschlagmittel zentral bereit gestellt werden können.
9. i) Die Reinigung der Montageflächen bzw. der Auflageflächen für ein Messer respektive ein Messerpaket am Messerring können am Messerring selbst oder auch am Messer/Messerpaket optimal gereinigt werden, damit bei der Justage des Messervorstandes vorgegebene Maße, insbesondere im automatisierten Rüstbetrieb, genau eingehalten werden können. Dies gilt im Übrigen auch für die Montage/Demontage der Verschleißplatten am Messerring zu, die in der Regel nicht so oft, aber dennoch regelmäßig nachgestellt, nachgeschärft und/oder ausgewechselt werden müssen.
10. j) Ein unruhiges Flüssigkeitsbad, beispielsweise durch Mittel zur Bewegung des Wassers, erhöht die Reinigungswirkung deutlich, insbesondere ohne ein hohes Verschmutzungsrisiko für die Umgebung. Jetdüsen können dabei das Fluid oder das Wasser gezielt zur Reinigung „anschieben“ oder als Hochdruckreinigungsmittel gegenüber den Oberflächen wirken.

The arrangement of a liquid bath offers a number of advantages over the state of the art.

1. a) The environment does not need to be protected by complex encapsulations and seals in the area of a fluid high-pressure cleaning; preferably, if necessary, a simple splash guard or retaining screen for overflowing water movements is sufficient.
2. b) The liquid bath reaches the knife ring, the components or assemblies evenly and can, over time, also have a cleaning effect on sticky or greasy surfaces. This is especially true when nozzle cleaning and/or ultrasonic cleaning is carried out in water.
3. c) By choosing appropriate cleaning agents, the cleaning effect can be enhanced and/or adjusted accordingly.
4. d) Undercuts do not lead to areas with almost no cleaning effect.
5. e) Foreign bodies or other abrasive foreign substances are reliably dissolved and transported away in the water and do not cause scratches or damage to the knife ring, components or assemblies due to the high pressure effect as a type of abrasive material.
6. f) In preferred embodiments, underwater cleaning devices can be used which can exert their cleaning effect gently but without splashing the environment.
7. g) The process and the device can be arranged as desired and without much additional effort, partly on a larger pallet or a transport trolley, particularly preferred for knife rings.
8. h) In a particularly preferred embodiment, several devices can be arranged for the knife ring, the components and/or assemblies. For example, in a maintenance and set-up unit for knife rings. The various devices could be connected together in terms of fluid technology and filter technology, so that the separated contaminants can be disposed of centrally in one place and the corresponding additives can be provided centrally.
9. i) The cleaning of the mounting surfaces or the support surfaces for a knife or a knife package on the knife ring can be optimally cleaned on the knife ring itself or on the knife/knife package so that the specified dimensions can be precisely maintained when adjusting the knife projection, especially in automated setup mode. This also applies to the assembly/disassembly of the wear plates on the knife ring, which usually do not need to be adjusted, resharpened and/or replaced very often, but still regularly.
10. j) A turbulent liquid bath, for example by means of moving the water, increases the cleaning effect significantly, especially without a high risk of contamination for the surrounding area. Jet nozzles can "push" the fluid or water for cleaning or act as a high-pressure cleaning agent against the surfaces.

In this context, at least one cleaning device can be arranged within the liquid bath or under its surface, preferably at least one rotating brush and/or a jet nozzle and/or an ultrasonic exciter. This creates an uneven surface, but avoids splashing the surrounding area. Brushes can be used for mechanical cleaning or pre-cleaning, jet nozzles can be aimed directly at the surfaces to be cleaned and serve not only to create turbulence and, if necessary, force-inducing cleaning, but also to remove and dissolve the dirt. Preferably, purified water, particularly preferably heated water, is sprayed through the jet nozzles. Here too, with the appropriate arrangement, no splashing effect on the surrounding area is to be expected.

Ultrasonic cleaning can also be carried out using ultrasonic exciters as a support or stand-alone process, which, preferably in combination with higher temperatures and currents, can ensure excellent cleaning results.

Alternatively or cumulatively, temperature control means, preferably heat exchangers or heaters, can be arranged to heat the water for the liquid bath, the rinsing nozzles, the spray nozzles and/or the jet nozzles. An increased temperature significantly improves the cleaning effect through increased chemical activity of the cleaning agents or the chemical and physical absorption capacity of the water. Heating the dirt leads to thermal stresses compared to the colder material, which can also support the cleaning performance.

In addition, at least one circuit can be arranged for the liquid in the liquid bath, with a heat exchanger, a pump, a filter, a chemical treatment device and/or a skimmer preferably being arranged for cleaning the surface of the liquid bath. Particularly preferably, a sensor system for a control or regulation device of the circuit can be arranged to control or regulate the water column, the temperature, the water quality, the pH value and/or the salt content in the tub. Good circulation of the liquid bath and regular monitoring, regulation and cleaning increases the water quality, and the cleaning effect is particularly advantageous when using ultrasound.

Spray nozzles, rinsing nozzles, heating units and/or drying units can be arranged on the inlet and/or outlet side outside the liquid bath. Pre-cleaning can increase the cleaning performance or increase the throughput per unit of time. This is especially true if cleaning agents, preferably in a highly concentrated form, can soften the dirt before entering the liquid bath. Post-cleaning serves to rinse off the water or the cleaning agents contained in the water or any dirt particles attached to them. The knife ring is preferably dried, especially when components or assemblies are to be assembled, disassembled and/or adjusted.

An induction and/or convection heater for the knife ring, the components and/or the assemblies can be arranged as a heating device, preferably on the inlet side and preferably outside the liquid bath. Due to the mass of the knife ring or the components, it may be necessary to preheat them in order to avoid temperature losses in the liquid bath or to operate the liquid bath or the cleaning process within the intended temperature window. Convective or inductive heaters are particularly suitable. Alternatively or cumulatively, a shock charge of the liquid bath, i.e. a precautionary heating to a higher temperature, can also be provided. especially when the knife ring is immersed for the first time.

Alternatively, the tray and/or the supports for the knife ring can be arranged with height adjustment using lifting devices. The knife ring can be immersed by adjusting the height.

Cleaning can advantageously be carried out on the way from a knife ring chipper to a maintenance unit or a storage unit on a transport trolley for knife rings. For safety reasons, such transport units should generally not travel too quickly in a factory hall, so that sloshing of water is kept to a minimum. Any tanks or accessories can be arranged accordingly on the transport trolley. Such transport trolleys can be supplied with energy independently using rechargeable batteries or corresponding alternatives, for example wirelessly. Furthermore, components of the knife ring when removed, such as knives, can be passed through or inserted into a corresponding liquid bath. The same applies to corresponding assemblies. One or more tubs can advantageously also be used to clean surfaces that are not accessible when assembled.

Alternatively or cumulatively, one or more cleaning devices or tanks can be arranged in a setup device with a rotating frame, preferably so that the components or assemblies can be disassembled or assembled and, if necessary, cleaned in the process.

Alternatively or cumulatively, one or more cleaning devices or tanks can be integrated into a processing system for knife packages, where the knife packages can be cleaned individually (knives, clamping plate) or as assemblies before or after their assembly or disassembly.

In the case of heavily soiled knife rings, and particularly when using ultrasound, it can be advantageous to remove the coarse and possibly easily removable dirt in advance in order to minimize the contamination of the water in the liquid bath over time. For this purpose, a cleaning device can be arranged for coarse or pre-cleaning of the knife ring, the components and/or the assemblies.

In the area of the surface of the liquid bath, preferably directly below the surface, at least one damper can be arranged to dampen the restlessness of the surface in order to avoid excessive fluctuations or overflow of the liquid bath.

A reflector for reflecting and/or directing the ultrasonic waves can be arranged in the liquid bath, preferably below or close to the surface, for example to deflect them to the inside of the knife ring. This measure is therefore suitable for optimizing the ultrasonic effect in a relatively large liquid bath or for directing the ultrasound in the direction of the areas to be cleaned.

Alternatively or cumulatively, it is provided that for cleaning the radial inner side of the knife ring, the devices for the inlet or outlet side treatment and/or cleaning of the knife ring are arranged so as to be pivotable and/or movable, particularly preferably the spray nozzles, the rinsing nozzles, the drying unit, the ultrasonic exciters with or without reflector, the jet nozzles, the brushes and/or the damper.

In addition to one-sided cleaning on the outside of the knife ring, extended cleaning on the radial inside of the knife ring or vice versa can also be beneficial. Cleaning the inside, for example the wear plates, can also have a positive effect on the machining process or the cutting conditions and reduces subsequent deposits. However, depending on the application, only internal cleaning may be considered necessary. However, it is particularly preferred to treat the knife ring, the components or the assemblies on both sides; in addition, each individual cleaning device or treatment device can be used on one or both sides.

The knife ring can either be moved from the side over the liquid bath, in which case the internal devices are already in place, or the knife ring is brought into position and the devices are swiveled or retracted.

Swinging in or moving the internal devices into position is also necessary if the knife ring is lifted into the device from above by a crane or forklift.

It is also possible to pivot or move the external devices from a first waiting position to a working position only after the knife ring has been positioned on or in the holders. This can be done automatically or mechanically inside and outside. For example, not only hanging disc but also by a pre-tensioned mechanism which is triggered by the weight of the knife ring so that the corresponding devices are brought into their working position.

The method is based on a method for cleaning a knife ring or its components or assemblies in the course of servicing a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for shredding materials, wherein at least knives are arranged on the circumference of the knife ring in an exchangeable manner, which can be installed directly on the knife ring or indirectly as knife packages, at least comprising a knife with a clamping plate, wherein the knife ring further comprises at least two coaxial rings and knife holders and/or wear plates arranged between them.

The object of the invention is achieved for the method in that the components, assemblies and/or the knife ring are cleaned in a liquid bath, wherein the liquid bath has a standing column of water in a tub in which the components, assemblies or the knife ring are immersed or moved through at least partially and preferably for a predetermined time.

Preferably, the cleaning in the liquid bath, preferably under its surface, is supported or carried out by cleaning devices, preferably by at least one rotating brush, a jet nozzle and/or ultrasound.

Cleaning can be assisted by heating the components, assemblies, knife ring and/or liquid bath to above room temperature.

Cleaning, corrosion and/or degreasing agents can be used, preferably dissolved in a liquid bath or as an additive.

Preferably, the water in the liquid bath is circulated, cleaned, deionized and/or desalinated.

It makes sense to control or regulate the water column, temperature, water quality, pH value and/or salinity by a control or regulation device.

The components, assemblies and/or the knife ring can be rinsed, heated and/or dried after leaving the liquid bath.

Alternatively or cumulatively, the components, the assemblies and/or the knife ring can be heated before immersion in the liquid bath and/or exposed to a cleaning liquid, preferably warmed and/or with a higher concentration than in the liquid bath.

Alternatively or cumulatively, the knife ring can be subjected to a rough cleaning before cleaning in the liquid bath, whereby in the case of a high-pressure rough cleaning with a liquid, this is preferably pre-filtered and passed to the liquid bath.

Alternatively or cumulatively, the liquid from the area of the spray nozzles, the rinsing nozzles and/or the drying unit can be transferred to the liquid bath or these devices can be arranged above the liquid bath or used there. The individual devices or treatment methods can be used on one side or both sides of the components or assemblies. In relation to the knife ring, these are used on the inside and/or outside of the knife ring.

Cleaning can be carried out in or on a transport trolley for the knife ring, preferably during transport from a knife ring chipper to a setup device.

Cleaning can be carried out in a setup device for assembling and disassembling the knives or knife packages.

The cleaning of the components or assemblies can be carried out in a processing facility for the knives or knife packages.

As a particularly preferred embodiment of the method, the knife ring can be at least partially cleaned in the liquid bath before dismantling the knives or knife packages, wherein the knives or knife packages are subsequently dismantled, the knife ring is cleaned again in the liquid bath without knives or knife packages to clean the exposed areas, in particular the knife holder, and then new knives or sharp knife packages are mounted on the knife ring.

• Das Flüssigkeitsbad bzw. die Flüssigkeit kann, insbesondere in Abhängigkeit von den Additiven, eine Temperatur von 30° bis ca. 85° im Einsatz aufweisen. Bevorzugt liegt der Einsatzbereich bei ca. 40° bis 50°, insbesondere um den notwendigen Energieaufwand gegenüber den erzielbaren Vorteilen durch eine erhöhte Reinigungsleistung zu optimieren. Gleichzeitig bietet diese Temperaturauswahl geringere Verletzungsrisiken für das Personal.

Further alternative proposals for improving the invention are listed or described below and can, individually or in combination with one another, provide an improving effect for the device or method:

• The liquid bath or the liquid can, depending on the additives, have a temperature of 30° to about 85° during use. The preferred range of use is about 40° to 50°, especially around the The necessary energy expenditure is to be optimised against the benefits that can be achieved through increased cleaning performance. At the same time, this temperature selection offers a lower risk of injury to staff.

Depending on the application and the properties of the water or fluid, temperatures above 85° Celsius may be possible.

When cleaning a knife ring, three, five, seven, nine knives, knife packages or their holding areas or knife holders, possibly with associated wear plates, are preferably immersed. This statement should only be seen as limiting to a certain extent; it is preferable to immerse as large a portion of the knife ring as possible in order to achieve the cleaning effect through the action of the liquid or water.

All cleaning devices or devices supporting cleaning can be arranged radially on the inside and/or outside, or can be arranged on one or both sides of the components.

Cleaning agents, dirt-removing agents, corrosion inhibitors and/or degreasing agents can be used in the water.

The waste water can be sedimented or filtered in separate water tanks; furthermore, an automated partial or complete exchange of the water is provided, particularly taking into account the degree of contamination or the cleaning cycles.

In a maintenance unit, the industrial robot or an assistant can transfer the knives or knife packages to a chain conveyor or a type of paternoster. The conveyor can transport the knives or knife packages through the same liquid bath as the knife ring to be cleaned or can have its own dedicated liquid bath.

Alternatively, a storage unit for knives or knife packages can be designed in such a way that the incoming components/assemblies are guided through a separate cleaning device and can be issued cleaned according to the first-in/first-out principle. This is particularly advantageous in a maintenance center for knife rings with automated storage and sharpening department for knives.

Cleaning can also be useful before, during or after assembling the knives, knives and clamping plates to form knife packages or assembling them in the knife ring, for example to remove residues from grinding or sharpening, dirt from storage or abrasion, lubricants, etc. from the knives, clamping plates or knife packages. Cleaning the mounting areas or wear plates on the knives/knife packages and the knife ring is also beneficial if the knives/knife packages are to be arranged in the knife ring with a precision of tenths of a millimeter.

To prevent sloshing or wave-like movements on the surface of the liquid bath, a splash guard or screen can be installed above the tub. These direct the water back into the tub or dampen the turbulent surface, if necessary by submerging it.

The laminar flow can improve the cleaning performance by loosening and quickly removing dissolved dirt. In an ultrasound application, the flow supports the effect of the cavitation bubbles on the surfaces of the knife ring.

Advantageously, the water can also contain microbeads which rub off dirt from the knife ring, the components and/or the assemblies through the jet nozzles.

A reflector or the tub can serve as a splash guard or can be designed as a thermal insulator. The tub can have thermal insulation means, such as double walls or other insulators. A tub does not have to be completely closed, but can also be refillable or converted from an open to a closed state and vice versa during the process or device.

To separate the dirt, liquid filters, coarse filters, suspended matter filters and/or fine filters can be arranged, preferably in the tank, the circuit and/or an inlet. The inlet or the inlet from the circuit for the liquid bath can be arranged above or below the surface. The dirt separation can be carried out via different paths or openings, for example with a liquid separation on the surface, a coarse material rake, a float, skimmer or a suspended and/or heavy material separator. A cleaning lance can clean the inside of the tank during or outside of operation and is preferably connected to the circuit or arranged as a (further) inlet. The tank can have a depression or an incline on the bottom so that the heavy materials or dirt can be better sucked out or cleaned. The outlet is preferably The circuit is located at the bottom of the tub, preferably at the lowest point, or has a bottom that slopes towards the water outlet.

In a specific embodiment, at least one camera or other suitable analysis means is arranged for evaluating, monitoring and/or controlling the cleaning quality, preferably in operative connection with a control or regulating device.

For example, after cleaning in the liquid bath, it can be checked at the outlet whether the surface of the components, assemblies or knife ring has a sufficiently clean or reflective surface. Alternatively, the result or the appearance of the surface can be compared over time or during cleaning in order to identify any qualitative deterioration or improvement. In addition, the water quality, the flow resistance of the filter or the like can be monitored and, if necessary, at least a partial replacement of the liquid and/or the additives can be monitored.

Further advantageous measures and embodiments of the subject matter of the invention emerge from the subclaims and the following description with the drawings.

The following illustrations are not to be viewed as individual solutions, but also contain some general information and solutions to tasks. Individual sentences are to be viewed as individual features.

• 1 eine schematische Seitenansicht einer zur Durchführung des Verfahrens geeigneten und erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung mit einem gelagerten und drehbaren Messerring eingetaucht in eine Flüssigkeitsbad einer unter dem Messerring angeordneten Wanne;
• 2 eine Seitenansicht auf einen Universaltransportwagen für Messerringe und einem darin gelagerten Messerring sowie einer Wanne zur Reinigung montiert an dem Universaltransportwagen;
• 3 eine schematische Seitenansicht der automatisierten Montage- und Demontagevorrichtung der Messer oder Messerpakte;
• 4 eine schematische Draufsicht auf eine vorteilhafte Ausbildung der Vorrichtung oder des Verfahrens als Teil einer Rüsteinrichtung zur Aufbereitung von Messerringen und
• 5 eine schematische Schnittansicht nach 1 mit Darstellung der Reinigungsvorrichtungen radial innen und außen des Messerringes in der Wanne bzw. dem Flüssigkeitsbad.

They show:

• 1 a schematic side view of a device according to the invention suitable for carrying out the method with a mounted and rotatable knife ring immersed in a liquid bath of a tub arranged under the knife ring;
• 2 a side view of a universal transport trolley for knife rings and a knife ring stored therein as well as a tub for cleaning mounted on the universal transport trolley;
• 3 a schematic side view of the automated assembly and disassembly device of the knives or knife packages;
• 4 a schematic plan view of an advantageous embodiment of the device or method as part of a set-up device for the preparation of knife rings and
• 5 a schematic sectional view according to 1 with representation of the cleaning devices radially inside and outside of the knife ring in the tub or the liquid bath.

After 1 a knife ring 1 is at least partially immersed in a tub 6 with a water band 3, whereby preferably at least three, five, seven, nine knives, knife packages 4, 5 should be under the surface 17 of the liquid bath 3 at the same time so that the cleaning effect can develop optimally during the cyclic or continuous movement of the knife ring 1 or the optional cleaning agent can develop its cleaning effect. Ultrasonic exciters 26 and/or other additional cleaning devices can be arranged in the liquid bath 3 to carry out or support the cleaning.

In contrast to the prior art, the components (knives), assemblies (knife packages consisting of knives and clamping plates) as well as the knife ring 1 with its knife holders 18 for the knives or knife packages 4, 5 are immersed in a liquid bath 3 for a predetermined time for cleaning and are not just sprayed or brushed off.

The knife ring 1 is placed on the supports 16 using a crane (not shown). If the knife ring is pushed onto these supports 16 from the side of a transport trolley, for example, it may be necessary for the supports 16 to be able to be adjusted in height using lifting devices 34, so that the knife ring 1 can be immersed in the liquid bath 3 by lowering it. Such an adjustment may also be useful for different knife rings 1, although a horizontal adjustment option or an exchange of the supports 16 may also be conceivable or useful here. Once the knife ring is immersed, it can be moved in the direction of rotation 19 intermittently or continuously. To improve the cleaning effect, cleaning agents can be sprayed onto the components, assemblies or the knife ring 1 via spray nozzles 30 before it enters the liquid bath 3. The liquid bath forms a standing column of water 2 in the tub 6. Preferably, a skimmer 13 is arranged, through which coarse and floating dirt can be separated. The water column 2 or the water level can be continuously monitored as a level monitor using a suitable sensor 25, in particular to ensure that the areas to be cleaned are also immersed below the surface 17 of the liquid bath 3. On the outlet side, there may be rinsing nozzles 31 which spray their own cleaning and, if necessary, drying liquid onto the knife ring 1, the components or the assembly. The rinsing serves the purpose of rinsing off adhering dirt or dirty water, in particular the liquid flow back into the liquid bath 3 or the tub 6.

Preferably, the spray nozzles 30 or rinsing nozzles 31 do not cause any water mist or splashes that are harmful to the environment. The same applies to the drying unit 32 arranged in the outlet, which can be designed as a heater or, for example, as an air curtain or air nozzle. The air nozzle is preferably arranged in such a way that the moisture is transferred back into the tub or can be absorbed by other suitable means (channels, suction devices) without wetting the environment or devices/system components present therein. Alternatively or cumulatively, mechanical scrapers, rubbers or squeegees would also be conceivable.

All devices, especially those that support or carry out cleaning, can be arranged radially on both sides, i.e. inside and outside of the knife ring, and can be retracted and/or swiveled in when the knife ring is inserted into or removed from the device. This also applies, for example, to bringing the devices closer to the placed knife ring and/or extending or swiveling out the radially inside devices for positioning the knife ring, for example for lifting it in or out with a crane. At the same time, different knife rings, in terms of size, width, etc., can also be inserted or cleaned in the device.

The liquid or water of the liquid bath 3 is preferably circulated and filtered, in the circuit a cleaning lance 37, a circulation pump 27, a heat exchanger 24, a filter 23 and/or a desalination device can be arranged. The circuit can be introduced into the liquid bath via the cleaning lance 37, which can clean the inside of the tub using water pressure, or via an inlet 38. There are also other ways to optimize the quality of the water, such as adjusting the pH value or carrying out deionization.

2 shows the arrangement of the liquid bath 3 or the tub 6 on a transport carriage 20 for a knife ring 1. The transport carriage 20 can transport the knife ring 1 from a knife ring chipper (not shown) to a set-up station 14 or a preparation station 22 ( 4 ), in which the knife ring 1 can be disassembled into its components or assemblies. The knife ring 1 can be pre-cleaned or completely cleaned en route, since automated transport vehicles usually travel relatively slowly with heavy weights. Unsteady water or an unsteady surface 17 can even increase the cleaning effect of the liquid bath. In this exemplary embodiment, alternatively or in support, at least one jet nozzle 28 is attached, which irradiates the knife ring, the components or assemblies with high pressure in the liquid bath 3. This at least one jet nozzle is preferably supplied with freshly cleaned water from the circuit, which is particularly preferably warmed up. A brush 29 can be arranged next to it, which also supports the cleaning. Both devices can also be arranged radially on the inside of the knife ring 1.

In 3 an automated assembly or disassembly station for knives or knife packages 4, 5 is shown with a rotating frame 11. A rotating device 15 is provided which can be brought into engagement with the knife ring 1 and is suitable for rotating the knife ring 1 in accordance with the specifications in cycles or continuously, while it is supported by the supports 16.

The supports 16 are preferably designed as rollers. These can be provided across the width of the knife ring and preferably have grooves or other guide receptacles. Alternatively, the side rings of the knife ring 1 can also be guided in guides or grooves and mounted on separate smaller rollers. The rotating device 15 can alternatively also be integrated into the supports 16 according to a separate embodiment.

A rough cleaning system (not shown) can be provided above the liquid bath, which preferably carries out a rough cleaning on the rotating knife ring. Brushes and a suction device can be provided for dry cleaning. The liquid bath is then advantageously less dirty and can be used optimally for stubborn, sticky dirt.

The screwing device 12 has several screwing devices arranged at a distance and across the width of the knife ring 1, which are suitable for loosening screwed parts of the knife ring 1 or for fixing other, usually reworked or sharpened, parts. Preferably, a device or an industrial robot 10 is in operative connection, which picks up the loosened parts and supplies reworked parts. Parts to be removed can be, for example, blunt knives or blunt knife packages 4. Parts to be inserted and fixed would be correspondingly sharp knives or sharp knife packages 5. The industrial robot 10 then transfers the corresponding parts to another liquid bath 3, the lower existing liquid bath 3, a storage device or a processing 22 ( 4 ), in which new or revised parts are provided. For this purpose, the industrial robot has grippers 8, 9 for holding the parts, which are 1 knife packages 4 and 5 would be. Preferably, the grippers 8 and 9 are arranged on a rotatable double gripper 7.

Alternatively, instead of a lifting device 34 on the supports 16, cf. 1 , the height of the tub can be adjusted by means of lifting devices 21. This allows the knife ring 1 to be immersed in the water by a kinematic reversal when it is placed on the supports 16.

In contrast to the 1 and 2 In this embodiment, the knife packs 4, 5 are not mounted in the knife ring 1, but the knife ring is only guided through the liquid bath with its knife holders 18 (for the knife packs 4, 5) and, if necessary, with wear plates (not shown). This allows the surfaces that are not accessible during the first cleaning to be cleaned.

4 shows a schematic view from above of a setup device 14 for maintenance, sharpening and/or adjustment of parts of a knife ring 1. In a first embodiment, the device has a bogie 11 in which two supports 16 for storing the knife ring 1 are arranged on a frame 3. This bogie 11 is fed with knife rings 1 by a transport carriage 20 or the knife rings 1 are transported away again after maintenance, usually after installation of ground knives. The goal here can be an automated warehouse or directly the production of shredded materials, i.e. a knife ring chipper. The transport carriage 20 has supports 16, which can also be suitable for receiving and fixing geometrically different knife rings 1.

Alternatively, the knife rings can also be transported by cranes or forklifts arranged in the production plant. These can also be used to immerse the knife ring in the liquid bath.

In terms of process technology, a change from blunt knife packs 4 to new or sharpened knife packs 5 can proceed as follows.

The knife ring 1 is received in the bogie 11 and stored accordingly by a transport device 33 from the transport carriage and its supports 16 on the supports 16 of the bogie 11. The rotating device 15 is brought into engagement with the knife ring 1 and, if necessary, set to a zero point or evenly clocked in the direction of rotation based on a fixed marking or a fixed point for the engagement of the rotating device 15 on the knife ring 1. The blunt knife packages 4 can be guided past an optional coarse cleaning device (not shown) and the backs (outer circumference) with the screw heads that fix the knife package 4 to the knife ring 1 are pre-cleaned. In addition to removing the dirt, this also makes it possible to expose/clean the screws for the subsequent removal process using the screw device 12.

After the knife ring 1 has come to a standstill, the automated screwing device 12 will move to the screws and will loosen them. The screws are held in the nuts of the screwing device 12. A free gripper 8, 9 of the industrial robot 10 will remove the knife package 4 from the knife ring 1 with a gripper 8, 9. After a swivel to the processing 22, the blunt knife package 4 is placed there and a sharpened knife package 5 is taken over. The industrial robot 10 swivels back and transfers or positions the sharp knife package 5 in the knife ring 1. The screwing device 12 will then tighten the screws on the new knife package 5, move out of engagement and the rotating device 15 can cycle to the next knife package 4 with a blunt knife.

In an alternative, the knife package 4 or 5 can be placed in another liquid bath 3 with a tub 6 before it is either installed in the knife ring 1 as a sharp knife package 6 or is brought into the processing 22 as a blunt knife package 4. The industrial robot can also bring the knife package as an assembly or a knife as a component into such a tub 6 or hold it there in the liquid bath 3.

With regard to another possible cleaning process for the knife ring, the knife ring 1 can be cleaned in the liquid bath 3 before the blunt knife packs 4 are dismantled, as required. Alternatively or cumulatively, all knife packs 4 can be removed, the knife ring can be moved once completely with its exposed knife holders 18 through the liquid bath 3 and then, preferably also cleaned knife packs 5, can be inserted into the knife ring 1. The possibilities and sequences only result in a few hurdles in terms of process and system technology.

In 5 is a schematic sectional view through the tub 6 and a knife ring 1 immersed in the liquid bath 3. The hatched area is intended to represent the cutting plane through the knife ring 1, a knife package 4 or 5 or a Knife holder 18. Cleaning devices are arranged above and below the knife ring, for example an ultrasonic exciter 26 at the very bottom and a jet nozzle 28 parallel or offset to it. On the radial inside of the knife ring 1 there are also jet nozzles 28 and a damper 35 for calming the water surface, preferably a perforated sheet. A perforated sheet can calm the water flow as a type of baffle. The cleaning agents arranged radially on the inside are arranged so that they can be swiveled out or moved so that the knife ring can be brought smoothly into the liquid bath 3. The corresponding rinsing nozzle 31 is also extended and retracted accordingly; the drying unit 32 or the spray nozzles 30 are not shown.

Right in 5 There is also an alternative embodiment of the cleaning device proposed for the inside of the knife ring. For this purpose, either a reflector 36 for reflecting the ultrasound onto the inside of the knife ring is placed in the liquid bath and/or a separate or additional ultrasound exciter 26 is inserted.

Reference number list: P1637DE

1

knife ring

2

water column of 3

3

liquid bath

4

knife package blunt

5

knife package sharp

6

tub for 3

7

double gripper

8

Gripper 1

9

Gripper 2

10

industrial robots

11

bogie for 1

12

screw device

13

Skimmer

14

setup device

15

rotating device

16

Support for 1 in 11/20

17

surface of 3

18

knife holders for 4/5

19

direction of rotation

20

Transport trolley for 1

21

lifting device for 3/6

22

preparation for 4/5

23

filter

24

Heat exchanger

25

Sensory for 2

26

ultrasound exciter

27

circulation pump

28

jet nozzles

29

Brush

30

spray nozzles

31

flushing nozzles

32

drying unit

33

Transport device for 1

34

lifting device for 1

35

mute

36

reflector

37

cleaning lance

38

enema

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 19907415 B4 [0003]
• DE 102015005642 A1 [0003]
• DE 19718681 A1 [0004]
• DE 19900924 A1 [0004]
• DE 19901887 A1 [0004]
• DE 102015003520 B4 [0004]
• DE 10117480 A1 [0004]

Claims (24)

Device for cleaning a knife ring or its components during maintenance of a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for comminuting materials, wherein at least exchangeable knives are arranged on the circumference of the knife ring (1), which knives can be mounted on the knife ring (1) directly as knives or indirectly as knife packages (4, 5), at least comprising a knife with a clamping plate, wherein the knife ring (1) further comprises at least two coaxial rings and knife receptacles (18) and/or wear plates arranged therebetween, characterized in that a tub (6) for a liquid bath (3) is arranged for cleaning the components, assemblies and/or the knife ring (1), wherein a standing water column (2) is formed in the liquid bath (3) or in the tub (3), into which the components, assemblies or the knife ring (1) can be at least partially introduced or driven through. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that cleaning devices, preferably at least one rotating brush (29) and/or a jet nozzle (28) and/or an ultrasonic exciter (26), are arranged within the liquid bath (3) or beneath its surface (17). Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that tempering means, preferably heat exchangers (24) or heaters, for heating the water for the liquid bath (3), the rinsing nozzles (31), the spray nozzles (30) and/or the jet nozzles (28) are arranged. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that at least one circuit is arranged for the liquid of the liquid bath (3), and preferably a heat exchanger (24), a pump (27), a filter (23), a chemical treatment device and/or a skimmer (13) is arranged for cleaning the surface (17) of the liquid bath (3), wherein particularly preferably a sensor system (25) for a control or regulating device of the circuit is arranged for controlling or regulating the water column (2), the temperature, the water quality, the pH value and/or the salt content in the tub (6). Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that spray nozzles (30), rinsing nozzles (31), heating units and/or drying units (32) are arranged on the inlet and/or outlet side outside the liquid bath (3). Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that an induction and/or convection heater for the knife ring (1), the components and/or the assemblies is arranged as a heating device, preferably on the inlet side and preferably outside the liquid bath (3). Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that the trough (6) and/or the supports (16) for the knife ring (1) are arranged so as to be height-adjustable with lifting devices (21, 34). Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that the tub (6) for the liquid bath (3) is arranged on a transport carriage for knife rings (1). Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that one or more devices for cleaning or tubs (6) are arranged in a setup device (14) with a rotary frame (11), in which the components or assemblies are disassembled or assembled. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that one or more devices for cleaning or tubs (6) are integrated in a preparation (22) for knife packages (4, 5) and the knife packages (4, 5) are cleaned therein before or after their assembly or disassembly as components (knives, clamping plate) or assemblies. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that a cleaning device is arranged for rough or pre-cleaning of the knife ring (1), the components and/or the assemblies. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that a damper (35) for dampening the restlessness of the surface (17) is arranged in the region of the surface (17) of the liquid bath (3), preferably directly below the surface. Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that a reflector (36) for reflecting and/or conducting the ultrasonic waves is arranged in the liquid bath (3), preferably below or near the surface (17). Device according to one or more of the preceding device claims, characterized in that for cleaning the radial inside of the knife ring (1), the devices for the inlet or outlet side treatment and/or cleaning of the knife ring are arranged pivotably and/or displaceably, particularly preferably the spray nozzles (30), the rinsing nozzles (31), the drying unit (32), the ultrasonic exciters (26) with or without reflector (36), the jet nozzles (28), the brushes (29) and/or the damper (35). Method for cleaning a knife ring or its components or assemblies during maintenance of a knife ring of a knife ring chipper for comminuting materials, wherein at least exchangeable knives are arranged on the circumference of the knife ring (1), which can be installed directly on the knife ring (1) or indirectly as knife packages (4, 5), at least comprising a knife with a clamping plate, wherein the knife ring (1) further comprises at least two coaxial rings and knife receptacles (18) and/or wear plates arranged therebetween, characterized in that the components, assemblies and/or the knife ring (1) are cleaned in a liquid bath (3), wherein the liquid bath (3) comprises a standing water column (2) in a tub (6) in which the components, assemblies or the knife ring (1) are immersed or moved at least partially and preferably for a predetermined time. Method according to the preceding method claim, characterized in that the cleaning in the liquid bath (3), preferably under its surface (17), is supported or carried out by cleaning devices, preferably by at least one rotating brush (29), a jet nozzle (28) and/or ultrasound. Method according to the preceding method claim, characterized in that the cleaning is carried out by heating the components, the assemblies, the knife ring and/or the liquid bath to above room temperature and/or cleaning, corrosion and/or degreasing agents, preferably dissolved in the liquid bath or as an additive, are used. Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the water of the liquid bath (3) is circulated, cleaned, deionized and/or desalinated and that preferably the water column (2), the temperature, the water quality, the pH value and/or the salt content are controlled or regulated by a control or regulating device. Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the components, the assemblies and/or the knife ring (1) are rinsed, heated and/or dried after leaving the liquid bath (3). Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the components, the assemblies and/or the knife ring (1) are heated up and/or exposed to a cleaning liquid, preferably warmed up and/or with a higher concentration than in the liquid bath, before being immersed in the liquid bath (3). Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the knife ring is subjected to a rough cleaning before cleaning in the liquid bath, wherein preferably in the case of a high-pressure rough cleaning with a liquid, this is passed on to the liquid bath in a pre-filtered manner. Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that liquid from the area of the spray nozzles (30), the rinsing nozzles (31) and/or the drying unit (32) is transferred to the liquid bath or these devices are arranged or used above the liquid bath. Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the cleaning is carried out in or on a transport carriage (20) for the knife ring, preferably during transport from a knife ring chipper to a setup device (14) and/or that the cleaning is carried out in a setup device (14) for assembling and disassembling the knives or the knife packages (4, 5) and/or that the cleaning of the components or assemblies is carried out in a preparation (22) for the knives or the knife packages (4, 5). Method according to one or more of the preceding method claims, characterized in that the knife ring (1) is at least partially cleaned in the liquid bath (3) before dismantling the knives or knife packages (4), the knives or knife packages (4) are dismantled, the knife ring (1) is cleaned again without knives or knife packages (4) to clean the exposed areas in the liquid bath (3) and then new knives or sharp knife packages (5) are mounted on the knife ring.

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