DE10230321A1 - Device and method for providing a granulate - Google Patents

Abstract

A device (1) for providing a granulate comprising a feed conveyor (2, 14) for a flowable mass to be granulated or starting products for this purpose. A granulating device (32 to 67) produces a granulate from the flowable mass to be granulated. This is removed with a discharge conveyor (68 to 86). At least one sensor (3, 16, 23, 26, 36, 44, 54, 64) detects an operating parameter of the in-feed conveyor and / or the granulating device. The sensor (3, 16, 23, 26, 36, 44, 54, 64) is in signal connection with a control device (8, 84) with a signal processor (9) for controlling the discharge conveyor (68 to 86). The granule supply device (1) and the realizable with this method of deployment ensure a discharge of the granules produced at a reduced flow rate fluctuations.

Description

The invention relates to a device for providing granules according to the preamble of the claim 1 and a method for providing a granulate according to the preamble of claim 26.

Such an apparatus and such a method are known from DE 197 55 732 C2 known. In the granulate supply device described there, a hydraulic discharge conveyor is provided. With the aid of measured variables such as the granulate content or the volume flow or the pressure of the dispersion of granulate and hydraulic fluid in the discharge conveyor, the separation performance of a separator arranged in the discharge conveyor is specified in addition to the aforementioned hydraulic discharge conveyor a pneumatic outfeed conveyor known from prior public use.

In the known discharge conveyors of granulate supply devices arise during operation undesirable Fluctuations in what is in the laxative conveyor forces occurring and the delivery rate the laxative conveyor concerns.

It is therefore an object of the present invention a granule supply device of the the kind mentioned at the beginning in such a way that a better, in particular, more uniform flow rate the removing conveyor results.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by the features specified in the characterizing part of claim 1.

According to the invention it was recognized that the Behavior of the flowable mass to be granulated or of starting products therefor within the granulate supply device in front of the discharge conveyor for the transport properties with the discharge conveyor to be promoted Granules is essential. to be granulated This behavior of Mass or the starting products for this is determined by appropriate operating parameters the in-feed conveyor and / or the pelletizer is sensed and converted into control variables for the discharge conveyor. A change Such operating parameters can therefore be used to control the Carry-off conveyor considered be before the granulate, which from the mass to be granulated or the starting products for this, their behavior for the change the operating parameters cause was, was actually made the removing conveyor is fed. On such a changing one Behavior of the flow rate the removing conveyor influencing operating parameters can therefore be sufficiently quick be reacted to. As a rule, a plurality of operating parameters the in-feed conveyor and / or the Granulation device accessible for a measurement. The possibility of a results precise Determining properties of the mass to be granulated or Starting products for this, which for the further conveying behavior are relevant. The outfeed conveyor may be in a such a case, precise can be adjusted.

The measurement of the conveying capacity of the feed conveyor can be carried out with little effort and lets simultaneously a conclusion on the composition of the mass to be granulated and thus that conveying behavior of the granules.

A speed sensor, a mass flow sensor, a volume flow sensor, a speed sensor, an engine power sensor as well as a scale, depending on the design of the granulate supply device with relatively little effort to integrate into this and provide appropriate Operating parameters, each conclusions on the funding behavior Allow the granules. Speed, volume flow or volume flow sensors offer the opportunity the product throughput through the granule supply device to eat. With the thus obtained data Pumping performance may the removing conveyor be adapted to the product throughput. Especially when using it a plurality of independent Operating parameters receiving sensors is in this way präzisier conclusion on the conveying behavior the granules possible and thus a responsive control of the discharge conveyor.

A pressure transducer for printing the flowable mass to be granulated in the flow channel in front of a cutting device of the granulating device Possibility, for example on the density of that produced in the granulating device To conclude granules. The Density is an important one Parameters for the funding behavior of the granulate, which is therefore a decisive control variable for the discharge conveyor represents.

Speed sensors for conveying elements within the granule delivery device or for that too Granulating mass or starting products for further processing facilities for example, provide a measure of the toughness of the funded or processed product. Also this resistance has an influence on the funding properties of the granules, which by appropriate control of the discharge conveyor considered can be.

Measuring drying properties of the granulate, for example the degree of drying or the temperature of the granulate after drying, offers the possibility of flowing or bulk properties the granules infer what turn the feed properties in Abühr the conveyor can influence. This can be done by appropriately controlling the discharge conveyor considered become.

The sieving properties of the granulate can also provide meaningful conclusions the transport properties of the granules in the discharge conveyor deliver. examples for Sensors that record such sieving properties are a thermometer for the granules to be screened or a power sensor for the motor a corresponding screen element. Depending on the funding characteristics of a granulate is this when sieving a certain friction exposed over which the thermal properties of the granulate can be measured. In addition, toughness of the granulate is a direct measure of the power consumption of the engine for a screen element of the screen device. The data is for its part again effects on the funding properties of the granules, which are activated by appropriate control of the discharge conveyor considered can be.

Finally, the momentum transfer is the granulate to a baffle plate in a defined measurement setup gives a measure of the flow or way bulk properties of the granules, which in turn leads to the corresponding control of the discharge conveyor can be used.

The delivery rate of the outfeed conveyor can in particular about the rotational speed of a conveying element, in a pneumatic discharge conveyor via the Pressure, the amount or the volume of a conveying gas and with a hydraulic Laxative conveyor through the output corresponding feed pumps or the separation capacity of one in the hydraulic discharge conveyor arranged separator can be controlled. The control variables mentioned offer the possibility, the capacity with relatively little additional Effort targeted and precise to influence. can when using multiple independent control variables yourself about it special funding characteristics through appropriate tax requirements the removing conveyor depending on the measured operating parameters of the granulate supply device achieve.

Another object of the invention is to develop a method of the type mentioned at the outset in such a way that fluctuations in the delivery rate lead away of the granules can be avoided.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by the features specified in the characterizing part of claim 26.

The advantages of the method according to the invention correspond to those described above with reference to the device according to the invention were discussed.

Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail with reference to the drawing. In this show:

1 a granule supply device with pneumatic carry-off conveyor; and

2 a granule supply device with hydraulic outfeed conveyor.

In the drawing are product delivery lines as well as measuring lines pulled through and signal lines dashed shown.

A granule delivery device 1 in the form of a compounding pellets from a polymer composition, which is formed from the supplied starting materials is used to provide.

Part of a feed conveyor of the granulate supply device 1 is a primary feeding unit 2 for a major product of the polymer composition. A mass flow sensor 3 is with the main feed unit 2 via a measuring line 4 connected. A data transmission unit 5 the main feed unit 2 is connected via a signal line 6 a data recording unit 7 a central control device 8th the granules providing device 1 in connection. The control device 8th includes a signal processor 9 , for example a microcomputer.

A main feed line 10 the main feed unit connects 2 with a feed hopper 11 of an extruder 12 ,

About an additive supply line 13 stands the feed hopper 11 with an additive feed unit 14 in compound also part of the in-feed conveyor of the granulate preparation device 1 is. Via a measuring line 15 is the additive supply unit 14 with a mass flow sensor 16 connected. A data transmission unit 17 the additive supply unit 14 connects them via a signal line 18 a data recording unit 19 the control device B.

The extruder 12 has a conventional screw conveyor, which comprises kneading sections, not shown, in a known manner. A worm shaft 20 the screw conveyor is driven by an extruder motor 21 , The latter is connected via a measuring line 22 with a speed sensor 23 in connection. A signal line 24 connects a data transmission unit of the extruder motor 21 a data recording unit 25 the control device B.

A mass flow sensor 26 is provided with a conveyor section 27 of the extruder 12 via a measuring line 28 connected. A signal line 29 connecting a data transmitting unit 30 the conveyor section 27 a data recording unit 31 the control device B.

At the outlet of the extruder 12 is a pelletizer 32 arranged, which in the usual Wei se as Granulierelement having a cutting blade. This cooperates with a counter-body, for example a perforated plate, through which the in the extruder 12 processed polymer mass is pressed through to produce the granules together. In a blade case 33 Housed shaft of the cutting blade is driven by a cutter motor 34 , This is a test lead 35 with a speed sensor 36 connected. Via a signal line 37 there is a data transmission unit of the cutting motor 34 a data recording unit 38 the control device 8th in connection.

Via a pneumatic raw granulate conveying line 39 is the granulating 32 having an input section 40 a pellet dryer 41 connected. A drying fan, not shown, of the granule dryer 41 is a drying engine 42 driven. Via a measuring line 43 the drying motor 42 with a speed sensor 44 connected. A data transmitting unit of the drying motor 42 is connected via a signal line 45 a data recording unit 46 the control device 8th in connection. A conveying fluid return line 47 connects the entrance section 40 of the granule dryer 41 with the granulating 32 ,

An output section 48 of the granule dryer 41 is via a downpipe 49 with an entrance section 50 a classifier 51 in connection. This has a common function in mechanical screening element, which from a Siebmotor 52 is driven. Via a measuring line 53 is the Siebmotor 52 with a power output ports 54 in connection. A data transmitting unit of Siebmotors 52 is over a signal line 55 a data recording unit 56 the control device 8th connected.

Not the sieve classification by the classifier 51 Corresponding raw granulate leaves the classifier 51 via an output line 57 , An output section 58 for classified granulate stands over a first section designed as a downpipe 59 an outfeed conveyor line 60 with a baffle 61 in connection. The latter has a baffle plate 62 on which a measuring line 63 with a pulse or torque transducer 64 connected is. This is about pulse-or torque transducer 64 connected is. This is a signal line 65 a data recording unit 66 the control device 8th in connection.

The pelletizer 32 for the raw granulate, the granulate dryer 41 for the raw granulate and the classifier 51 with the subsequent baffle 61 together form a granulating device for producing classified granules.

A second discharge pipe section designed as a downpipe 67 connects the baffle 61 the output side with a sump 68 ,

Below an exit funnel 69 of collecting 68 is a cellular wheel sluice 70 arranged, the feeder of a Zellenradmotor 71 is driven. A data transmission / reception unit of the cellular wheel motor 71 stands with a data transmission / reception unit 73 of the control device 8th in connection.

Output side of the rotary valve 70 There is a third Abführleitungsabschnitt 74 with a storage container 75 in connection. In the third Abführleitungsabschnitt 74 opens a production gas line 76 on. The latter is with an output section of a quantity control device 77 Which includes an unillustrated conveying gas valve connected. Via a data transceiver 78 and a signal line 79 is the quantity control device 77 with a data transmission / reception unit 80 of the control device 8th in connection.

Via a conveying gas supply line 81 the amount control device 77 a gas supply means 82 connected. This is connected via a control line 83 with a pressure control unit 84 in connection. This is a signal line 85 a data transmitting unit 86 the control device 8th connected.

The granulate preparation device 1 works as follows: via the main feed unit 2 and the additive feed unit 14 becomes a starting product for the polymer mass to be granulated in a defined composition for delivery to the feed hopper 11 specified. This is done by correspondingly controlling feed screws (not shown) of the feed units 2 . 14 having independently selectable predetermined speed. The respective delivery rates of the main feed unit 2 and the additive supply unit 14 are the associated amount of current sensors 3 and 16 measured and the corresponding measurement data are via the data transmission units 5 and 17 to the respective data acquisition units 7 and 19 the control device 8th transfer.

In the extruder 12 the supplied starting products are further processed into the polymer mass. The speed of the worm shaft 20 the screw conveyor of the extruder 12 is from the speed sensor 23 recorded and the data transmission unit of the extruder motor 21 the data acquisition unit 25 the control device 8th transfer. is also of the extruder 12 Transport volume flow of the polymer composition from the mass flow sensor 26 detected. The associated stream data from the data transmission unit 30 the conveyor section 27 of the extruder 12 the data acquisition unit 31 the control device 8th transfer.

At the outlet of the extruder 12 is the processed polymer material in the granulating 32 granulated. The speed of the cutting motor 34 the granulating 32 is the speed sensor 36 recorded and the corresponding speed data are transmitted via the data transmission unit of the cutting engine 34 the data acquisition unit 38 the control device 8th transfer.

Located in the granulating 32 generated raw granulate is the raw granulate feeder line 39 the pellet dryer 41 fed and dried there. The speed sensor detects this 44 the speed of the motor Drying 42 , The associated speed data are sent via the data transmission unit of the drying motor 42 the data acquisition unit 46 the control device 8th forwarded.

The dried raw granulate passes through the downpipe 49 in the classifier 51 , There, the raw granulate is sieved, whereby a predetermined fraction of the crude granulate is screened. The current consumption of Siebmotors 52 in the screening process of the classifying device 51 is supplied from the power output ports 54 measured and via the data transmission unit of the screen motor 52 the data acquisition unit 56 the control device 8th transfer. The fraction of the raw granulate that does not meet the sieve classification leaves the classifying device 51 via the output line 57 , The specifying fulfilling, classified granules leave the classifier 51 over the first Abführleitungsabschnitt 59 the outfeed conveyor line 60 ,

By means of the baffle plate 62 the impact device 61 and the torque transducer 64 the impact moment of the classified granulate is measured. The corresponding measurement data are from the snapshot 64 the data acquisition unit 66 the control device 8th transfer.

Via the second discharge line section 67 the measured granulate reaches the collection container 68 and is from there over the rotary valve 70 transported. The speed of the Zellenradmotors 71 is from the data transmission / reception unit 73 of the control device 8th specified. This speed is a function of received measured data from the mass flow sensor 3 the main feed unit 2 , The mass flow sensor 16 the additive feed unit 14 , the speed sensor 23 the extruder motor 21 , The mass flow sensor 26 the conveyor section 27 , the speed sensor 36 the cutting motor 34 , the speed sensor 44 of the drying motor 42 , The power output ports 54 the Siebmotors 52 and the torque transducer 64 the baffle 61 ,

The speed of the cellular wheel in the rotary valve 70 is the amount of granules before, the third in the Abführleitungsabschnitt 74 introduced pneumatically in the direction of the reservoir 75 is further promoted. When from the above-listed measurement data, the controller of the 8th for example, are supplied, resulting in that the granules mechanical and / or has thermodynamic properties that make higher demands on the pneumatic transport, the rotational speed of Zellenradmotors 71 controlled by the control means 8th can be reduced, so that less granulate pneumatically per unit of time through the third discharge line section 74 needs to be transported. Such increased demands on the pneumatic conveying alternate properties are, for example, a denser and / or tougher composition of the polymer composition, for example, from an increased conveying capacity of the feeding units 2 . 14 or can result from a certain composition of the main product on the one hand and the additive on the other. Corresponding data from the control device 8th of the cellular wheel are processed to adjust the speed of the supply amount of current sensor 3 the main feed unit 2 and the mass flow sensor 16 the additive feed unit 14 ,

Also as part of the further processing of the starting product to polymer mass in the extruder 12 done to influence the mechanical and thermodynamic properties of the granules. Such an influence is detected via the speed sensor 23 and the flow rate sensor 26 , For example, increased speed of the extruder motor 21 lead to denser raw granules with correspondingly higher requirements for the subsequent pneumatic conveying. In addition, relatively small variations in the composition of the starting material, which practically cause no change in the data provided by the mass flow sensors 3 and 16 are taken, lead to significant changes in the behavior of the polymer composition within the extrusion and kneading process and thus to a change in the funding relevant granulate properties. This can be done both via the speed of the extruder motor 21 as well as the volume flow in the conveyor section 27 , Measured from mass flow sensor 26 , are recorded.

Also the behavior of the polymer mass when granulating in the granulating device 32 allows conclusions to the requirements of the granules to the pneumatic conveying to. Thus, on the speed sensor 36 recorded speed of the cutting motor 34 of the polymer composition to be closed on the cutting behavior, conclusions on the pneumatic conveying behavior are possible resulting in turn. Thus, in general, a polymer mass, which opposes the cutting process an increased resistance, thereby leading to a decrease in the speed of the cutting motor 34 leads to higher demands on pneumatic conveying.

About the speed of the drying motor 42 conclusions can be drawn about three times the drying performance of the pellet dryer 41 and / or the degree of drying of the crude granulate draw, which also affects the pneumatic transport properties of the granulate. The drier the raw granulate the resin dryer 41 leaves, the lower the requirements for the pneumatic conveying.

The power consumption of the screen element in the screening process in the classifier 51 That through the power output ports 54 recorded, provides information about the properties of the granulate. A tough granulate will preferably stick to the sieve element and lead to increased power consumption there. From this, of course, can change the requirements for the pneumatic conveying result.

As a final check of the properties of the granules prior to entry into the collection 68 and the adjoining Zellenradförderung serves the impact behavior of the classified granules which in the baffle 61 is measured. The higher the torque transfer to the baffle 62 is, the more severe are the individual granules and the higher the requirements of the granules to the pneumatic conveying.

Via the signal line 72 can the control device 8th also the instantaneous speed of the cellular wheel motor 71 Detect via a speed sensor, not shown. Depending on the design of the rotary valve 70 also this speed still can draw conclusions about the characteristics of the rotary valve 70 provide subsidized granulate for setting the delivery rate of the pneumatic conveyor.

providing metrological data listed above, the conclusions with regard to the requirements for the pneumatic conveyance of the granules are in the control means 8th in terms of their informative value, which may depend on the main products chosen, the additives, the type of extruder 12 , the type of pelletizer 32 , the type of drying and the type of sieving. This weighting can be based on experience from already made Granuliervorgängen or on the basis of known mechanical and thermodynamic properties of the starting material and the polymer mass.

In addition to the speed of the Zellenradmotors 71 Depending on the measured requirements for pneumatic conveying, the conveying capacity of the pneumatic conveying device can also be influenced. This is done by driving the valve, the quantity control means 77 via the data transceiver 80 of the control device B. Via the signal line 79 detected, the controller 8th also the current position of the valve of the quantity control device 77 , The further this valve is open, the greater the amount of gas in the feed gas line 76 for pneumatic conveying in the third discharge line section 74 the outfeed conveyor line 60 is initiated. Furthermore, the delivery rate of the pneumatic delivery device can be determined by the gas pressure of the gas supply device on the outlet side 82 to be influenced. This gas pressure is from the control device 8th via the pressure control unit 84 specified. The resulting pressure on the feed gas supply line 81 is in combination with the corresponding line cross-sections and the opening width of the valve in the quantity control device 77 a measure of the gas pressure in the feed gas line 76 and the third discharge line section 74 the outfeed conveyor line 60 ,

2 shows a granule supply device 1 with a hydraulic discharge conveyor. Components of this variant of the granulate supply device 1 Corresponding to those which already with reference to 1 have been described are given the same reference numerals and will not be discussed again in detail.

To the exit of the extruder 12 corresponds to the granulate supply device 1 the 2 that of 1 , The further promotion of the granulator 32 the granules providing device 1 according to 2 generated granulate, which is not classified in this embodiment, is carried out completely hydraulically with water as the hydraulic fluid. This is the granulating 32 that are similar to those of 1 corresponds to a hydraulic Abscheidleitung 87 with a sieve tube acting as a separator 88 connected. A drain line 89 In which a Abscheidventil 90 is arranged, is the perforated tube 88 having a water reservoir 91 in connection. A concentrate line 92 connects the strainer tube 88 with the entrance section 40 of the dry 41 , The conveying fluid return line 47 In which a return pump 93 is arranged connects the input section 40 on the output side with the water reservoir 91 , Via a control line 94 There is a pump motor 95 the return pump 93 a pump control unit 96 the control device 8th in connection.

In the concentrate line 92 are the output of the strainer pipe 88 adjacent two concentrate sensors 97 . 98 arranged. These measure either the granulate content, the volume flow of the dispersion or the pressure in the concentrate line 92 , Via signal lines 99 . 100 are the concentrate sensors 97 . 98 in each case with control units 101 . 102 in connection. These are connected via a common signal line 103 with a control input of the separating valve 90 connected. About another common signal line 104 are the valve control units 101 . 102 with a main-valve control unit 105 the control device 8th in connection.

Via a delivery fluid feed line 106 In which a pre-feed pump 107 is arranged is the water reservoir 91 with a feed fluid inlet of the granulating device 32 connected. Via a signal line 108 There is a pump motor 109 the pre-feed pump 107 a pump control unit 110 the control device 8th in connection.

With the granulate supply device 1 according to 2 is the in the granulating 32 promoted granules produced as follows: The in the granulating 32 The granulate produced is that of the granulating device 32 using the pre-feed pump 107 water supplied from the delivery fluid feed line 106 mixed into a dispersion, which via the hydraulic separation line 87 towards the screen tube 88 is promoted. Here is the dispersion by separating water through the drain pipe 89 concentrated. The degree of concentration of the sieve tube 88 through the concentrate line 92 leaving, concentrated dispersion can over the opening width of the separating valve 90 can be set. This is done on a first control level controlled by the valve control units 101 . 102 That the operating parameters Granulatge speed and / or volume flow and / or pressure of the dispersion in the screen tube 8th neighboring concentrate line 92 Concentrate on the sensors 97 . 98 take up. This control in the first control level can take place, for example, in such a way that the shut-off valve is located there 90 is narrowed so that more water in the concentrate line 92 present if there granule content is too high and / or the volume flow of the dispersion is too low and / or the pressure at the beginning of the concentrate line 92 after the strainer tube 88 is too high, which through the concentrate sensors 97 . 98 and transmitted to the valve control units 101 . 102 is forwarded.

The concentrate so controlled dispersion then flows through the concentrate line 92 towards the dryer 41 , The dried granules into the reservoir 75 promoted. That the dryer 41 through the delivery fluid return line 47 Leaving water is by means of the return pump 93 in the water reservoir 31 pumped back.

Also with the granulate supply device 1 according to 2 the measurement data of the mass flow sensor 3 the main feed unit 2 , the flow rate sensor 16 the additive feed unit 14 , the speed sensor 23 the extruder motor 21 , The mass flow sensor 26 the conveyor section 27 of the extruder 12 and the speed sensor of the cutting motor 34 in the control device 8th evaluated. Also takes place in the control device 8th an evaluation of the concentrate sensors 97 and 98 , From these data, the analogy with related to 1 Weighted described, the control device calculates 8th an actual value of the fluidity of the dispersion in the hydraulic separating line 87 on the one hand and in the concentrate line 92 on the other hand and, depending on this, specifies target values for the pump outputs of the feed pumps 93 . 107 as well as for the opening width of Abscheidventils 90 , The pump delivery rates are determined by specifying the speed of the pump motors 95 and 109 set. The opening width of the Abscheidventils 90 is carried out controlled by the valve control units 101 . 102 , Here, for. As the presence of a dispersion in the hydraulic Abscheidleitung 87 whose flow behavior places higher demands on the hydraulic conveying, as from the measurement data of the concentrate sensors discussed above 97 . 98 in the course of control can be closed in the first control level, a greater narrowing of the Abscheidventils 90 controlled at a second control plane by the control means 8th are controlled as this within the first control level, controlled solely by the valve control units 101 . 102 , There would have been. In addition, in such a case the pumping capacity of the pump motors can 93 . 107 individually or jointly be increased. A promotion relevant but concentration independent property that can be taken into account in this way in the second control level, the strength of the granules.

In addition or as an alternative to the above-described embodiments of the operating parameters of the measuring devices detecting the granulate supply devices, the following further measuring devices can be used, which allow corresponding conclusions to be drawn about the properties of the granulate relevant to the funding, which are analogous to those described above by the control device 8th can be processed: Alternatively or in addition to the volume flow sensor 3 a volume flow sensor, with batchwise metering of the main product a balance, with a main feed unit with a rotating conveyor element, for example with a rotating screw conveyor, a speed sensor or with an electromotive main feed unit 2 a current collector for the current of this electric motor. The same applies to alternative or additional variants of the volume flow sensor 16 ,

Alternatively, or in addition to the speed sensor 23 for the extruder motor 21 , by using an electric motor as extruder motor 21 a current detector are used.

Alternatively, or in addition to mass flow sensor 26 the conveyor section 27 of the extruder 12 a flow rate sensor for the polymer mass in the extruder can be used 12 A flow sensor or a temperature sensor for the polymer composition.

Alternatively, or in addition to the speed sensor 36 the cutting motor 34 a pressure sensor can be used for the pressure of the polymer mass in the area in front of the perforated plate of the granulating device 32 or, if an electric motor as a cutting motor 34 is used, a current collector for the current of the electric motor. These sensors allow conclusions on the cutting resistance, which provides the polymer composition in the granulation, and z. B. on the density and / or toughness of the granules.

Alternatively or additionally for the speed sensor 44 of the granule dryer 41 a temperature sensor for the granulate can be used after drying or, if the drying motor 42 of the granule dryer 41 an electric motor is a current collector for the current of this electric motor.

Alternatively, or in addition to the power output ports 54 the classifier 51 can be used to come a lot of current sensor for the classifier 51 passing granule, a corresponding volume flow sensor or a temperature sensor for the granules in the classifier 51 ,

Further, instead of the above-mentioned devices for influencing the capacity of the pneumatic transport in the granules providing device 1 to 1 the following alternative or additional control variables are used: If there is a motor-driven compressor, a motor-driven fan or a motor-driven fan can be used to control pressure in the gas supply device 82 by means of the pressure control unit 84 the rotational speed of the respective motor to be controlled. Alternatively or additionally, a volume flow control of the gas supply device can be carried out 82 via a bypass control.

Instead of or in addition to the quantity control device 77 a corresponding volume control device can be used.

Corresponding variants for the measurement data acquisition and for the control result for the granulate supply device 1 with hydraulic carry-off conveyor in accordance with 2 ,

Claims (36)

Contraption ( 1 ) For providing a granulate comprising - a feed conveyor ( 2 . 14 ) for a flowable mass to be granulated or starting products therefor, - a granulating device ( 32 to 67 ; 32 ) to produce a granulate from the flowable mass to be granulated, - a discharge conveyor ( 68 to 86 ; 40 to 42 . 47 to 49 . 87 to 110 ) For the granular material; characterized by - at least one sensor ( 3 . 16 . 23 . 26 . 36 . 44 . 54 . 64 ; 3 . 16 . 23 . 26 . 36 ) For detecting an operating parameter of the in-feed conveyor ( 2 . 14 ) And / or the granulating ( 32 to 67 ; 32 ); - which is connected to a controller ( 8th . 84 ; 8th . 101 . 102 ) Having a signal processor ( 9 ) For controlling the carry-off conveyor ( 68 to 86 ; 40 to 42 . 47 to 49 . 87 to 110 stands) in signal communication. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensor ( 3 . 16 is) carried out so as the capacity of the feed conveyor ( 2 . 14 ) measures. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the feed conveyor ( 2 . 14 ) works continuously and the sensor ( 3 . 16 is executed) as a speed sensor or as stream sensor or a flow sensor for the flowable mass to be granulated or the starting products for this purpose. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the feed conveyor ( 2 . 14 ) has a rotating conveyor element driven by a motor and the sensor ( 3 . 16 ) is designed as a speed sensor for the conveyor element or as a sensor for the performance of the motor. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the feed conveyor ( 2 . 14 discontinuous) operates and the sensor ( 3 . 16 is executed) as a scale. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the sensor ( 23 . 26 . 36 ) As a speed sensor or as a flow rate sensor or a flow sensor for the flowable mass to be granulated in a this by the in-feed conveyor ( 2 . 14 ) For further processing device ( 12 ) and / or in the granulating device ( 32 to 67 ; 32 ) is executed. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by a rotating conveying element ( 20 ) Of the flowable mass to be granulated according to the in-feed conveyor ( 2 . 14 ) For further processing device ( 12 ) and / or the granulating device ( 32 to 67 ; 32 ), where the sensor ( 23 . 26 . 36 ) As a speed sensor for the conveyor element ( 20 ) is executed. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the processing to be granulated flowable mass means ( 12 ) and / or the granulating device ( 32 to 67 ; 32 ) A means of a motor ( 21 ) driven conveyor element ( 20 ) for the flowable mass to be granulated and the sensor ( 23 . 26 ) as a sensor for the performance of the engine ( 21 ) is executed. Device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the granulating means ( 32 to 67 ; 32 ) A cutting device comprising a cutting body and a leading be granulated flowable mass in at least one flow channel counter body, in particular a perforated plate, wherein the sensor ( 36 ) is designed as a pressure sensor for the pressure of the flowable mass to be granulated in the region of the flow channel. Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized by a rotating cutting knife, the Sensor ( 36 ) is designed as a speed sensor for the cutting knife. Apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, characterized by a cutting knife driven by a motor, the sensor ( 36 ) is designed as a sensor for the performance of the engine. Device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by a drying device ( 41 ) For the granulate and at least one sensor ( 44 ) to detect an operating state of the drying device. Device according to claim 12, characterized in that the sensor ( 44 ) As a thermometer for the temperature of the granules after the drying device ( 41 ) is executed. Device according to claim 12 or 13, characterized by a rotating drying element, wherein the sensor ( 44 is carried out) as a speed sensor for the drying element. Device according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the drying device ( 41 ) A means of a motor ( 42 ) has a driven drying element for the granules and the sensor ( 44 ) as a speed sensor for the drying element or as a sensor for the performance of the motor ( 42 ) is executed. Device according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized by a screening device ( 51 ) for the granulate and at least one sensor ( 54 ) For detecting an operating state of the screen device ( 51 ). Device according to claim 16, characterized in that the sensor ( 54 ) As a thermometer for the temperature of the granules in the range of the screen device ( 51 ) is executed. Device according to claim 16 or 17, characterized by a means of a motor ( 51 ) Driven screening element, wherein the sensor ( 54 ) As a pickup for the performance of the engine ( 52 ) is executed. Device according to one of claims 16 to 18, characterized by a below the screening means ( 51 ) In the conveying path ( 59 ) of the granulate arranged baffle plate ( 62 ), where the sensor ( 64 ) as a sensor for the through the granulate on the baffle plate ( 62 ) Transmitted pulse is executed. Device according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the discharge conveyor ( 68 to 86 ; 40 to 42 ; 47 to 49 . 87 to 110 ) a rotating conveyor element ( 70 ), in particular a cellular wheel, and the control device ( 8th ), A speed control unit ( 73 ) For the speed of the conveyor element ( 70 ) includes. Device according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the outfeed conveyor ( 68 to 86 ) is pneumatic and the control device ( 8th . 84 ) A pressure control unit ( 84 ) for the pressure of a conveying gas. Device according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the outfeed conveyor ( 68 to 86 ) is pneumatic and the control device ( 8th . 84 ) A quantity control unit ( 77 comprises), or a volume control unit for the conveying gas. Device according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the discharge conveyor ( 40 to 42 . 47 to 49 . 87 to 110 ) is hydraulic and a pre-feed pump ( 107 ) In a hydraulic line portion ( 106 ) Before the granulating ( 32 ), Includes said control means ( 8th . 101 . 102 ), A pump control unit ( 110 ) for the delivery rate of the pre-feed pump ( 107 ) having. Device according to one of claims 1 to 19 or 23, characterized in that the discharge conveyor ( 40 to 42 . 47 to 49 . 87 to 110 ) is hydraulic and a return pump ( 93 ) In a hydraulic line portion ( 47 ) To the granulating facility ( 32 ), the control device ( 8th . 101 . 102 ) A pump control unit ( 96 ) for the delivery rate of the return pump ( 93 ) having. Device according to one of claims 1 to 19 and 23 or 24, characterized in that the discharge conveyor ( 40 to 42 . 47 to 49 . 87 to 110 is carried out hydraulically) and a separator ( 88 to 90 . 97 to 103 ) In a dispersion of granules and hydraulic fluid leading hydraulic line portion ( 87 . 92 ) To the granulating facility ( 32 includes) and the control device ( 8th . 101 . 102 ) A quantity control unit ( 101 . 102 . 105 ) or a volume control unit for the separator ( 88 to 90 . 97 to 103 ) has penetrating dispersion. A method of providing a granulate having the following method steps: - supplying a flowable mass to be granulated or starting products for this purpose to a granulator ( 32 to 67 ; 32 ) with the help of a feed conveyor ( 2 . 14 ); - Generating a granulate from the flowable mass to be granulated in the granulating device ( 32 to 67 ; 32 ); - discharging of the granular material by means of a carry-off conveyor ( 68 to 86 ; 40 to 42 . 47 to 49 . 87 to 110 ); characterized by the following further method steps: - detection of an operating parameter of the feed conveyor ( 2 . 14 ) And / or the granulating ( 32 to 67 ; 32 ); - controlling the outfeed conveyor power depending on the detected operating parameters. A method according to claim 26, characterized by measuring the capacity of the feed conveyor ( 2 . 14 ) And / or the flowable mass to be granulated after the feed conveyor (2, 14) for further processing device ( 12 ) and / or the granulating device ( 32 to 67 ; 32 ) and / or the discharge conveyor ( 68 to 86 ; 40 to 42 . 47 to 49 . 87 to 110 ). The method of claim 26 or 27, characterized by measuring a delivery pressure and / or a cutting resistance in the granulating facility ( 23 to 67 ; 32 ). A method according to any one of claims 26 to 28, characterized by the following process steps: - drying the granules in a drying device ( 41 ) and - detecting an operating state of the drying device ( 41 ), in particular measuring the temperature of the granulate after drying and / or the drying capacity of the drying device ( 41 ). A method according to claim 29, characterized by measuring the speed of a rotating drying element of the drying device ( 41 ). A method according to any one of claims 26 to 30, characterized by the following process steps: - sieving of the granules in a screening device ( 51 ) and - detecting an operating state of the screening device ( 51 ), in particular measuring the temperature of the granulate in the area of the sieving device ( 51 ) And / or the power consumption of a driven screening element of the screening means ( 51 ). Method according to one of claims 26 to 31, characterized by the inclusion of the granules on a baffle plate ( 62 ) The transmitted pulse. Method according to one of claims 26 to 32, characterized by controlling the speed of a rotating conveyor element ( 70 ) Of the outfeed conveyor ( 68 to 86 ). A method according to any one of claims 26 to 33, characterized by controlling the pressure and / or the amount and / or volume of a conveying gas of the carry-off conveyor ( 68 to 86 ). A method according to any one of claims 26 to 34, characterized by controlling the delivery rate of a pump ( 93 . 107 ) the discharge conveyor ( 40 to 42 . 47 to 49 . 87 to 110 ). A method according to any one of claims 26 to 35, characterized by the following process steps: - depositing a dispersion of granules and liquid feed after granulation in a separator ( 88 to 90 . 97 to 103 ); - Controlling the separator's separation performance ( 88 to 90 . 97 to 103 ).