WO2025003114A1

WO2025003114A1 - Compaction roller and method for manufacturing agglomerates

Info

Publication number: WO2025003114A1
Application number: PCT/EP2024/067773
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rou Hua CHUA; Matthias Wagner; Martin SCHLICHER; Lothar Seidemann; Nils SCHIRMER; Michael NETSCHER; Marc Heckmann; Dmitri EHRLICH
Original assignee: BASF SE
Current assignee: BASF SE
Priority date: 2023-06-26
Filing date: 2024-06-25
Publication date: 2025-01-02
Anticipated expiration: 2025-12-26

Abstract

A compaction roller (110) for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates (112) is disclosed. The compaction roller comprises on its peripheral surface (114) at least one circumferential ring (116) of pocket cavities (118) for at least partially shaping the agglomerates (112), wherein the compaction roller (110) further comprises a plurality of individually controllable ejection mechanisms (120) configured for ejecting the agglomerates (112) from the pocket cavities (118) of the ring of pocket cavities (116). Further, a compaction roller kit (132), a compaction system (142) and a method for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates (112) are disclosed.

Description

Compaction roller and method for manufacturing agglomerates

Technical Field

The invention relates to a compaction roller for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates, to a compaction roller kit and to a compaction roller system. The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates. The devices, kits, systems and methods according to the present invention may mainly be used for feedstock preparation for extrusion and tableting processes. However, the invention may also be applied in the energy sector or in the building industry, for example when processing coal and/or plaster. Other applications are feasible.

Background art

In the field of feedstock preparation for extrusion and tableting processes, many devices and methods are known for their production process.

US9138954 B2 describes a press for producing pellets from powdered material comprising at least one die with a mold cavity imaging the pellet, at least one upper punch and at least one lower punch that interact with the mold cavity to form the pellet, and at least one electric drive for driving the upper punch, and/or the lower punch, and/or the die along a main press axis, wherein the press also comprises at least one movable element acting on the die and/or the mold cavity of the die, wherein at least one electro-hydrostatic drive is provided to drive the at least one movable element.

US7297345 B2 and US8673190 B2 describe systems, methods and apparatuses for manufacturing dosage forms and dosage forms made using such systems, methods and apparatuses. Compression, thermal cycle molding, and thermal setting molding modules are disclosed. One or more of such modules may be linked, preferably via a transfer device, into an overall system for making dosage forms

WO 2016/087748 A1 describes a press for compactable materials, comprising: a compacting chamber comprising compacting means along a compacting axis that are intended to compact compactable materials into a block of compacted materials and to position this block at a first location. The press further comprises means for transferring the block of compacted materials along a transfer axis from the first location to a second location, said transfer axis being transverse to said compacting axis. The press further comprises means for ejecting the block of compacted materials from the second location and out of said press, along an ejection axis that is separate from the compacting axis and the transfer axis and is transverse to the transfer axis. Generally, in feedstock preparation, monodispersed and homogenously compressed granules are key for high throughput and quality for final products. Typically, such feedstock is prepared by roller compaction processes. In general, roller compaction processes may be known.

WO 01/26602 A1 describes a method and a system for producing an elongated drug formulation being suitable for being injected through the skin of a patient without the use of a needle or a cannula. The drug formulation is produced by compressing a drug granulate in cavity of a system comprising a roller and a surface, wherein the roller rolls over the surface thereby comprising the granulate to the formulation.

US 6737005 B1 describes a process for producing solid dosage forms by a) producing a plastic mixture which comprises at least one active ingredient and at least one polymeric binder, and b) shaping the plastic mixture to the solid dosage forms in a molding calender with two counterrotating molding rolls, wherein one molding roll has at least one annular groove running along its periphery and the other molding roll has at least one ring, running along its periphery, of teeth extending radially outward and able to engage in the annular groove.

WO 2007141282 A2 describes a process for manufacturing multiparticulate pharmaceutical compositions using a roller compactor. The process is particularly useful for producing minitablets without the need of the use of a tablet press. The roller compactor features rolls having depressions or molds in the surface. Upon compaction of pharmaceutical blend, the minitablets are formed by the depressions in the roller surfaces.

GB 606 202 A describes a rotatory press for moulding pulverized or fibrous materials in the shape of cakes, lumps, briquettes or such like moulding pieces, comprising a rotary cylindrical moulding disc, drum or roller provided on its circumference with a plurality of moulding chambers, the material to be moulded being introduced from the outside and then pressed inwardly in radial direction during the rotation of the said moulding disc, after which the pressed moulding pieces are mechanically removed from the moulding chambers by the action of cylindrical expelling shafts, parallel to the axis of the moulding disc and rotatably mounted in said disc, each expelling shaft appertaining to a definite moulding chamber and being turned by a definite angle during every rotation of the moulding disc and turned back again by the same angle afterwards; characterised in this that the lower part of each molding chamber is formed by or cooperates with a cylindrical expelling shaft, the portion of the shaft which is aligned with the moulding chamber being partially cut away in such a manner that in turning the shaft its full portion acts as a cam and causes the disengagement of the moulding piece.

CN 209 633 861 U describes a roller tablet press. The device comprises a machining cover, a transmission box, a pressing wheel, a forming wheel, a hopper, a discharging plate, a supporting plate, a female die, a male die and a guide pipe. A machining cover is fixed to the upper surface of the transmission box. Supporting plates are symmetrically fixed to the upper surface of the transmission box and located in the machining cover. A pressing wheel is rotationally mounted between the supporting plates and located at the tops of the supporting plates; two rows of male dies are uniformly fixed on the surface of the pressing wheel; a forming wheel is rotationally mounted between the supporting plates and located below the pressing wheel; female dies matched with the male dies are evenly arranged on the surface of the forming wheel.

Despite the advantages involved in known compaction roller devices and processes, several technical challenges remain. Thus, though usually roller compaction processes are very cost efficient, they typically produce feedstock of many different formats with multiple limitations and deficiencies, often leading to a high rejection rate. In particular, known compaction roller processes often deliver irregular-shaped particles of low attrition resistance, high fine content and limited storage capability due to fast caking.

Problem to be solved

It is therefore desirable to provide compaction rollers, kits, systems and methods, which address the above-mentioned shortcomings of known devices and processes. Specifically, a compaction roller for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates shall be proposed, as well as a corresponding kit, system and manufacturing method with lower rejection rates.

Summary

This problem is addressed by a compaction roller for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates, a compaction roller kit, a compaction roller system and a method for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates with the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments, which might be realized in an isolated fashion or in any arbitrary combinations, are listed in the dependent claims as well as throughout the specification.

In a first aspect of the present invention, a compaction roller for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates is disclosed. The compaction roller comprises on its peripheral surface at least one circumferential ring of pocket cavities for at least partially shaping the agglomerates. The compaction roller further comprises a plurality of individually controllable ejection mechanisms configured for, specifically in an activated state, ejecting the agglomerates from the pocket cavities of the ring of pocket cavities.

The term “compaction roller” as used herein is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term specifically may refer, without limitation, to a reel and/or drum configured for rotating, preferably in only one direction, on a surface of an arbitrary counter object, i.e. on the surface of another roller and/or of a surface, for example a flat surface or a sloped surface. Specifically, when rotating, the axis of rotation of the compaction roller may be fixed, i.e. may not change its position relative to the counter object and/or, in case of a counter roller, to the axis of rotation of the counter roller. A relative position between the axis of rotation of the compaction roller and its counter object may in particular be such that pressure may be applied to an arbitrary material applied between the surfaces of the compaction roller and the counter object, such as a compacting pressure, e.g. for increasing the material’s density, i.e. thereby generating agglomerates.

The term “agglomerate” as used herein is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term specifically may refer, without limitation, to an accumulation of a material, such as to an accumulation of a compacted material, of arbitrary shape. In particular, the agglomerate may be or may comprise a material accumulated by pressure. As an example, the agglomerate may be or may comprise an accumulation of a densely packed powder material, such that instead of being in the form of a powder, the powder material may exist in a dimensionally stable, densely packed tablet. Additionally or alternatively, the agglomerate may be or may comprise a compacted material melted together into a tablet by pressure. Specifically, the agglomerate, i.e. the tablet, may have a form and/or shape at least partially depending on the shape of the peripheral surface of the compaction roller used to compact the material. As an example, the agglomerate may be or may comprise one or more of a pellet and a briquette.

The term “peripheral surface” as used herein is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term specifically may refer, without limitation, to an outer surface and/or area. Specifically, the peripheral surface of the compaction roller may be or may comprise an outer surface of the compaction roller configured to, when rotating the compaction roller, come into contact with the surface of the counter roller. Thus, the peripheral surface of the compaction roller may be or may comprise a circumferential surface of the roller, such as a rolling surface.

The term “pocket cavity” as used herein is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term specifically may refer, without limitation, to a recess in a surface with only one opening, such as a bag-like and/or cup-shaped notch and/or groove. In particular, the pocket cavity may be or may comprise a hole in the compaction roller’s peripheral surface. As an example, the pocket cavity may be or may comprise a die and/or mold for at least partially forming the agglomerate. Specifically, a shape of the pocket cavity may at least partially be transferred onto the agglomerate, e.g. a negative shape of the pocket cavity may at least partially correspond to the shape of the agglomerate. As an example, the outline or shape of the pocket cavity may be or may comprise one or more of a circle, an oblong, an oval, a rectangle, such as a rounded rectangle, e.g. a rectangle having rounded edges, a triangle, such as a rounded triangle, e.g. a triangle having rounded edges. Further shapes are feasible.

The term “ejection mechanism” as used herein is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term specifically may refer, without limitation, to an arbitrary mechanical arrangement configured for performing an ejecting movement. In particular, the ejection mechanism may be or may comprise a plurality of mechanically interacting parts that, when activated, eject agglomerates from the pocket cavities. As an example, for each ejection mechanism the mechanically interacting parts may be individually controllable, such as to allow individual control of each of the ejection mechanisms of the plurality of the ejection mechanisms.

In particular, for each pocket cavity of at least the at least one ring of cavities the compaction roller may comprise one or more of the ejection mechanisms. Thus, the number of ejection mechanisms of the compaction roller may be equal or higher the number of pocket cavities of the at least one ring of cavities. Specifically, one or more than one of the ejection mechanisms may be arranged within each of the pocket cavities of at least the at least one ring of cavities. Therein, the ring of cavities, such as the circumferential ring of pocket cavities, may specifically be a row of cavities on a tread of the compaction roller.

At least one of the ejection mechanisms may be configured for being activated by at least one part of the ejection mechanism gliding over at least one ejection ramp. Specifically, a plurality of the plurality of ejection mechanisms may be configured for being activated by the at least one part of the ejection mechanism gliding over the at least one ejection ramp. More specifically, all of the ejection mechanisms may be configured for being activated by the at least one part of the ejection mechanism gliding over the at least one ejection ramp.

The term “ejection ramp” as used herein is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term specifically may refer, without limitation, to an arbitrary object having a sloped and/or inclined surface over which, e.g. for the purpose of ejecting, at least one part of the ejection mechanism may be able to glide, thereby performing an up- and/or downwards movement following the sloped and/or inclined surface.

At least one of the ejection mechanisms may comprise at least one ejector for, specifically in an activated state, pushing the agglomerate out of the pocket cavity. Specifically, a plurality of the plurality of ejection mechanisms may each comprise the at least one ejector for, specifically in the activated state, pushing the agglomerate out of the pocket cavity. More specifically, all of the ejection mechanisms may comprise the at least one ejector for, specifically in the activated state, pushing the agglomerate out of the pocket cavity. For example, the ejector may be or may comprise an ejector pin.

The term “ejector” as used herein is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term specifically may refer, without limitation, to a finger-like object, such as to a pin and/or finger, configured for pushing an arbitrary element out of a die and/or mold. In particular, the ejector may be configured for ejecting the agglomerate out of the pocket cavity by ex- erting force on the agglomerate. Specifically, the ejector may be configured for releasing the agglomerate from the pocket cavity, e.g. by applying pressure onto the agglomerate. In particular, the ejector may be an ejector pin. The ejector pin may also be referred to as ejection pin.

The ejector may specifically be configured to perform one or more of an extension movement and a retraction movement by gliding over the at least one ejection ramp. As an example, the ejector may, by gliding over the ejection ramp, follow the sloped and/or inclined surface of the ejection ramp, thereby performing one or more of the extension and the retraction movement. In particular, when performing one or more of the extension and the retraction movement, the ejector may exert force onto the agglomerate and may thereby eject the agglomerate from the pocket cavity. As an example, at least one of the ejectors may be arranged within at least one pocket cavity to perform the ejection.

In particular, at least one of the ejection mechanisms may further comprise at least one control pin for controlling one or more of the extension and retraction of the ejector, specifically of the ejector pin. The term “control pin” as used herein is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term specifically may refer, without limitation, to an arbitrary element and/or structure configured for controlling a relative movement between the ejection ramp and the ejector, i.e. between the ejection ramp and the ejector pin. As an example, the control pin may be or may comprise a finger-like object configured for performing one of a forward and a backward movement. In particular, the control pin may be configured for transferring it’s forward or backward movement onto one of the ejection ramp and the ejector, thereby controlling a relative movement between the ejection ramp and the ejector.

In particular, the control pin may comprise the at least one ejection ramp. Thus, as an example, and without the need to transfer the movement, the control pin’s forward or backward movement may correspond to a forward or backward movement of the ejection ramp.

The ejection mechanism, i.e. for driving one or more of the forward and the backward movement of the control pin and/or the ejection ramp, may comprise at least one spring element.

The term “spring element” as used herein is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term specifically may refer, without limitation, to an arbitrary reversibly deformable material. In particular, the spring element may be configured for exerting a force, such as a countering force, as a reaction to compression. As an example, the spring element may be selected from the group consisting of: a metallic spring element, a beam spring, a cantilever spring, a u-shaped spring, a z-shaped spring or any other element formed such as to comprise elastic features, an inherent elastic material, such as reversibly deformable bulk material, specifically a rubber element, a foam rubber element, or the like. Additionally or alternatively to the spring element driving the forward and the backward movement of the control pin and/or the ejection ramp, the ejection mechanism may comprise at least one spring element for driving one or more of the extension and the retraction of the ejector, specifically of the ejector pin.

The compaction roller may comprise at least two circumferential rings of pocket cavities. As an example, the at least two circumferential rings of pocket cavities may be arranged in parallel. Specifically, the at least two circumferential rings of pocket cavities may be arranged in parallel along the compaction roller’s axis of rotation.

The plurality of ejection mechanisms may specifically be configured for ejecting the agglomerates from the pocket cavities of both of the at least two rings of pocket cavities. Thus, as an example, all the pocket cavities of both rings of pocket cavities may have ejectors arranged therein.

At least one ridge between two neighboring cavities of the at least one ring of pocket cavities may have a width w of equal to or less than 5 mm. Specifically, the at least one ridge between two neighboring cavities of the at least one ring of pocket cavities may have the width w of 0 mm < w < 5 mm, more specifically 0 mm < w < 4 mm, more specifically 0 mm < w < 2 mm, more specifically 0 mm < w < 1 mm, more specifically 0 mm < w < 0,5 mm.

As an example, the pocket cavities of the at least one ring, specifically of the at least one ring of pocket cavities, may be equally distributed along the compaction roller’s circumference.

At least one pocket cavity, specifically all the pocket cavities, of the at least one ring may have a maximum depth d extending from the peripheral surface of the compaction roller to a bottom of the pocket cavity, wherein 1mm < d < 10mm. Specifically, the maximum depth d may be 3mm < d < 7mm. More specifically, the maximum depth d may be 4mm < d < 6mm.

At least one pocket cavity, specifically all the pocket cavities, of the at least one ring may have a maximum extension a in the direction of the roller’s axis, wherein 1mm < a < 15mm. Specifically, the maximum extension a may be 3mm < a < 10mm. More specifically, the maximum extension a may be 5mm < a < 7mm.

At least one pocket cavity, specifically all the pocket cavities, of the at least one ring may have a maximum extension b in the roller’s circumferential direction, wherein 1mm < b < 20mm. Specifically, the maximum extension b may be 4mm < b < 12mm. More specifically, the maximum extension b may be 7,5mm < b < 9,5mm.

At least one pocket cavity, specifically all the pocket cavities, of the at least one ring may have a diameter /), wherein 1mm < D < 15mm. Specifically, the diameter /) may be 3mm < D < 12mm. More specifically, the diameter /) may be 4mm < D < 10mm. The at least one compaction roller may specifically comprise at least one plane cylindrical peripheral surface. Additionally or alternatively, the compaction roller may comprise at least one sloped surface, preferably two sloped surfaces, such as a chamfer, on at least one outer edge of the compaction roller.

The at least one sloped surface may specifically border on the pocket cavities of the at least one ring of pocket cavities, such that a ridge between the sloped surface and one or more of the cavities of the at least one ring has a width w_r of equal to or less than 5mm. Specifically, the at least one ridge between the sloped surface and the cavities may have the width w_r of 0 < w_r < 1mm. More specifically, the at least one ridge between the sloped surface and the cavities may have the width w_r of 0 < w_r < 0,5mm.

In a further aspect of the present invention, a compaction roller kit for manufacturing agglomerates is disclosed. The compaction roller kit comprises at least two counter-rotatable rollers, wherein at least one of the rollers is the compaction roller as disclosed above or as further described below. Thus, for possible definitions and options, reference may be made to the compaction roller as given above or as further described below. The at least one other one of the rollers is a counter compaction roller, specifically for at least partially shaping the agglomerates by rolling against the compaction roller, wherein the two rollers are arranged such that they are rollable against each other.

In particular, the at least one counter compaction roller may comprise at least one plane cylindrical peripheral surface. Additionally or alternatively, the counter compaction roller may comprise at least one circumferential shoulder. Further additionally or alternatively, the counter compaction roller may comprise at least one sloped surface, preferably two sloped surfaces, such as a chamfer, on at least one outer edge and/or on the circumferential shoulder of the counter compaction roller.

As an example, the sloped surface may be configured for circumventing production of side products, such as ribbons and/or strips, additionally or instead of the agglomerates.

Additionally or alternatively, the counter compaction roller may further comprise at least one circumferential ring of pocket cavities. Specifically, the counter compaction roller may comprise at least one circumferential ring of pocket cavities with pocket cavities in the same shape or in a mirror shape as the pocket cavities of the ring of pocket cavities of the compaction roller.

Additionally or alternatively, the counter compaction roller may comprise at least one punch element configured for engaging at least one of the pocket cavities of the ring of pocket cavities of the compaction roller when the two rollers roll against each other. Specifically, the counter compaction roller may comprise at least one punch element configured for at least partially entering the at least one cavity, of the ring of pocket cavities of the compaction roller when the two rollers roll against each other. As an example, the punch element may be passive or active. In particu- lar, in case the punch element is an active punch element, it may be configured for actively protruding further into the at least one cavity, specifically when the punch element is engaging in the cavity.

As an example, the compaction roller and the counter compaction roller may be the same or the counter compaction roller may be, at least regarding its peripheral surface, a mirror configuration of the compaction roller.

In particular, the compaction roller kit may further comprise at least one ejection ramp, similar or equal to the ejection ramp of the compaction roller as outlined above, configured for activating at least one of the ejection mechanisms of the compaction roller individually. As an example, the compaction roller kit may further comprise an ejection ramp for activating the at least one of the ejection mechanisms of the compaction roller individually by triggering one or more of the extension movement and the retraction movement of the ejector, e.g. by performing a relative gliding movement between the ejector and the ramp.

In particular, the ejection ramp of the compaction roller kit may be arranged such that in at least one angular position of the compaction roller, at least one of the plurality of ejection mechanisms is activated.

In particular, by individually triggering the ejection mechanisms, the compaction roller may allow the ejection of the agglomerates at a predefined point of ejection. Specifically, the point of ejection may depend on the arrangement of the ejection ramp of the kit and/or on the point in time of triggering the individual ejection mechanism.

Further, the compaction roller kit may comprise at least one housing configured for at least partially enclosing the at least two counter-rotatable rollers. As an example, the ejection ramp may be arranged on the housing, specifically between the housing and the compaction roller, such as to activate a least one of the ejection mechanisms in at least one angular position of the compaction roller.

In a further aspect of the present invention, a compaction system for manufacturing agglomerates is disclosed. The compaction system comprises the compaction roller kit as disclosed above or as further described below. Thus, for possible definitions and options, reference may be made to the compaction roller kit as given above or as further described below. The compaction system further comprises at least one filling device and at least two driving shafts for counter-rotating the compaction roller and the counter compaction roller, e.g. for rotating the compaction roller pairing.

The filling device may specifically comprise at least one load element, such as a screw press, a worm extruder or the like, configured for loading a compactable material onto the compaction roller pairing. In a further aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates is disclosed. The method comprises the steps as outlined in the following. The steps may specifically be performed in the given order. Still, a different order is possible. The method may comprise additional steps which are not mentioned. It is further possible to perform one or more or all of the method steps repeatedly. Further, two or more of the method steps may be performed simultaneously or in a timely overlapping fashion.

The method comprises the following steps: a) providing a compaction roller system as disclosed above or as further described below; b) feeding a compactable material into a receiving zone between the two counter-rotatable rollers, wherein the feeding comprises at least some of the compactable material to settle into at least one of the pocket cavities of the circumferential ring of pocket cavities of the compaction roller; c) counter-rotating the two counter-rotatable rollers, wherein by the counter rotation the compactable material within the at least one of the pocket cavities is transported from the feeding zone into a compaction zone; d) compacting the compactable material in the compaction zone into at least one agglomerate by the two rollers, wherein the compacting comprises exerting pressure onto the compactable material by the rollers, specifically by press agglomeration, wherein the compacting further comprises shaping the compactable material into the agglomerate at least partially by the at least one of the pocket cavities; e) counter-rotating the two counter-rotatable rollers, wherein by the counter rotation the compactable material within the at least one of the pocket cavities is transported from the compaction zone into an ejection zone; f) ejecting, by at least one of the ejection mechanisms, the at least one agglomerate from the at least one of the pocket cavities.

In particular, step f) may comprise one or more of an active ejection and a passive ejection. In particular, step f) may comprise an active ejection, such as an actively triggered ejection, for example by using at least one of the ejection mechanisms, i.e. by activating at least one of the ejection mechanisms, such as by using the ejection ramp. Additionally or alternatively, step f) may comprise a passive ejection, such as an ejection triggered by natural forces, for example gravitation or centrifugal force.

The agglomerates may specifically be or may comprise one or more of pellets and briquettes. Specifically, the agglomerates manufacturable by the method for manufacturing as disclosed herein may be pellets and/or briquettes.

In a further aspect of the present invention, a data carrier comprising instructions which, when executed on an additive manufacturing device, cause the additive manufacturing device to manufacture one or both of the compaction roller as described herein, or the compaction roller kit as described herein, is disclosed. As used herein, the term “data carrier” specifically may refer to non-transitory data storage means, such as a hardware storage medium having stored thereon computer-executable instructions, such as instructions executable by an additive manufacturing device, i.e. by a computer of the additive manufacturing device. The data carrier specifically may be or may comprise a storage medium such as a random-access memory (RAM) and/or a read-only memory (ROM).

In a further aspect of the present invention, a printing data set comprising information that, when provided to an additive manufacturing device, causes the additive manufacturing device to manufacture one or both of the compaction roller as described herein, or the compaction roller kit as described herein, is disclosed.

As yet a further aspect of the present invention, a computer program comprising computer-executable instructions which, when executed on a computer or computer network, cause the computer or computer network to generate the printing data set as described herein, is disclosed.

As used herein, the terms “have”, “comprise” or “include” or any arbitrary grammatical variations thereof are used in a non-exclusive way. Thus, these terms may both refer to a situation in which, besides the feature introduced by these terms, no further features are present in the entity described in this context and to a situation in which one or more further features are present. As an example, the expressions “A has B”, “A comprises B” and “A includes B” may both refer to a situation in which, besides B, no other element is present in A (i.e. a situation in which A solely and exclusively consists of B) and to a situation in which, besides B, one or more further elements are present in entity A, such as element C, elements C and D or even further elements.

Further, it shall be noted that the terms “at least one”, “one or more” or similar expressions indicating that a feature or element may be present once or more than once typically are used only once when introducing the respective feature or element. In most cases, when referring to the respective feature or element, the expressions “at least one” or “one or more” are not repeated, nonwithstanding the fact that the respective feature or element may be present once or more than once.

Further, as used herein, the terms "preferably", "more preferably", "particularly", "more particularly", "specifically", "more specifically" or similar terms are used in conjunction with optional features, without restricting alternative possibilities. Thus, features introduced by these terms are optional features and are not intended to restrict the scope of the claims in any way. The invention may, as the skilled person will recognize, be performed by using alternative features. Similarly, features introduced by "in an embodiment of the invention" or similar expressions are intended to be optional features, without any restriction regarding alternative embodiments of the invention, without any restrictions regarding the scope of the invention and without any restriction regarding the possibility of combining the features introduced in such way with other optional or non-optional features of the invention. The proposed compaction roller, compaction roller kit, compaction system and method for manufacturing provide a large number of advantages over known methods and devices of similar kind.

In particular, the present devices and methods may be able to allow for the manufacturing of smaller agglomerates than known devices and methods. In particular, agglomerates with a diameter of less than 10 mm, specifically of less than 6mm, may have the tendency to stick to cavities and/or forms. The proposed compaction roller, i.e. by the ejection mechanisms, may however be able to push the agglomerates, such as pellets, out of the cavity and may thus allow for a manufacturing of smaller agglomerates than known devices and methods.

Furthermore, the present compaction roller may be easily integratable into existing equipment. As an example, the present compaction rollers may be easily integrated into known systems and kits, since they may be configured to replace known compaction rollers in known manufacturing lines, e.g. for forming tablet-like granules of 6 to 10 mm, with spherical or oval shape.

Further, the present devices and methods may allow manufacturing agglomerates of a higher quality than known methods and devices. Specifically, the present compaction rollers may allow manufacturing stronger agglomerates, such as agglomerates with a higher form stability, e.g. having a better resilience against disintegration into their raw material, i.e. into powder.

Furthermore, the present compaction rollers and manufacturing methods may allow for a more efficient production of agglomerates than known devices and methods.

In particular, sloped surfaces of the compaction roller may specifically be beneficial for directing the material to be compressed into the cavities of the ring of cavities. Further, an additional ring of cavities may be beneficial for increasing the quantity of material falling into the cavities, while still allowing to generate an even pressure between the compaction roller and the counter compaction roller in the compaction roller kit. Further, a reduced width of ridges between cavities may allow for a more efficient cutting effect, thereby reducing and/or preventing any ribbon formation of the material to be compacted.

Summarizing and without excluding further possible embodiments, the following embodiments may be envisaged:

Embodiment 1 : A compaction roller for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates, the compaction roller comprising on its peripheral surface at least one circumferential ring of pocket cavities for at least partially shaping the agglomerates, wherein the compaction roller further comprises a plurality of individually controllable ejection mechanisms configured for, specifically in an activated state, ejecting the agglomerates from the pocket cavities of the ring of pocket cavities. Embodiment 2: The compaction roller according to the preceding embodiment, wherein for each pocket cavity of at least the at least one ring of cavities the compaction roller comprises one or more of the ejection mechanisms.

Embodiment 3: The compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one of the ejection mechanisms, specifically a plurality of the plurality of ejection mechanisms, more specifically all of the ejection mechanisms, is configured for being activated by at least one part of the ejection mechanism gliding over at least one ejection ramp.

Embodiment 4: The compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one of the ejection mechanisms, specifically a plurality of the plurality of ejection mechanisms, more specifically all of the ejection mechanisms, comprises at least one ejector, such as an ejector pin, for, specifically in an activated state, pushing the agglomerate out of the pocket cavity.

Embodiment 5: The compaction roller according to the two preceding embodiments, wherein the ejector is configured to perform one or more of an extension movement and a retraction movement by gliding over the at least one ejection ramp.

Embodiment 6: The compaction roller according to any one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein at least one of the ejection mechanisms further comprises at least one control pin for controlling one or more of an extension and retraction of the ejector, specifically of the ejector pin.

Embodiment 7: The compaction roller according to the two preceding embodiments, wherein the control pin comprises the at least one ejection ramp.

Embodiment 8: The compaction roller according to any one of the four preceding embodiments, wherein the ejection mechanism comprises at least one spring element for driving one or more of an extension and retraction of the ejector, specifically of the ejector pin.

Embodiment 9: The compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the compaction roller comprises at least two circumferential rings of pocket cavities.

Embodiment 10: The compaction roller according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the rings are arranged in parallel, specifically along the compaction roller’s axis of rotation.

Embodiment 11 : The compaction roller according to any one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the plurality of ejection mechanisms are configured for ejecting the agglomerates from the pocket cavities of both of the at least two rings of pocket cavities.

Embodiment 12: The compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one ridge between two neighboring cavities of the at least one ring of pocket cavities has a width w of equal to or less than 5 mm, specifically 0 mm < w < 5 mm, more specifically 0 mm < w < 4 mm, more specifically 0 mm < w < 2 mm, more specifically 0 mm < w < 1 mm, more specifically 0 mm < w < 0,5 mm.

Embodiment 13: The compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the pocket cavities of the at least one ring are equally distributed along the roller’s circumference.

Embodiment 14: The compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one pocket cavity, specifically all the pocket cavities, of the at least one ring has a maximum depth d extending from the peripheral surface of the compaction roller to a bottom of the pocket cavity, wherein 1mm < d < 10mm, specifically 3mm < d < 7mm, more specifically 4mm < d < 6mm.

Embodiment 15: The compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one pocket cavity, specifically all the pocket cavities, of the at least one ring has a maximum extension a in the direction of the roller’s axis, wherein 1mm < a < 15mm, specifically 3mm < a < 10mm, more specifically 5mm < a < 7mm.

Embodiment 16: The compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one pocket cavity, specifically all the pocket cavities, of the at least one ring has a maximum extension b in the roller’s circumferential direction, wherein 1mm < b < 20mm, specifically 4mm < b < 12mm, more specifically 7,5mm < b < 9,5mm.

Embodiment 17: The compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one pocket cavity, specifically all the pocket cavities, of the at least one ring has a diameter /), wherein 1mm < D < 15mm, specifically 3mm < D < 12mm, more specifically 4mm < D < 10mm.

Embodiment 18: The compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the at least one compaction roller comprises at least one plane cylindrical peripheral surface.

Embodiment 19: The compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the compaction roller comprises at least one sloped surface, preferably two sloped surfaces, such as a chamfer, on at least one outer edge of the compaction roller.

Embodiment 20: The compaction roller according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the at least one sloped surface borders on the pocket cavities of the at least one ring of pocket cavities, such that a ridge between the sloped surface and one or more of the cavities of the at least one ring has a width w_r of equal to or less than 5mm, specifically 0 < w_r < 1mm, more specifically 0 < w_r < 0,5mm. Embodiment 21 : A compaction roller kit for manufacturing agglomerates, the compaction roller kit comprising at least two counter-rotatable rollers, wherein at least one of the rollers is the compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the at least one other one of the rollers is a counter compaction roller, specifically for at least partially shaping the agglomerates by rolling against the compaction roller, wherein the two rollers are arranged such that they are rollable against each other.

Embodiment 22: The compaction roller kit according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the at least one counter compaction roller comprises at least one plane cylindrical peripheral surface.

Embodiment 23: The compaction roller kit according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller kit, wherein the counter compaction roller comprises at least one circumferential shoulder.

Embodiment 24: The compaction roller kit according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller kit, wherein the counter compaction roller comprises at least one sloped surface, preferably two sloped surfaces, such as a chamfer, on at least one outer edge and/or on the circumferential shoulder of the counter compaction roller.

Embodiment 25: The compaction roller kit according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller kit, wherein the counter compaction roller comprises at least one circumferential ring of pocket cavities, specifically with pocket cavities in the same shape or in a mirror shape as the pocket cavities of the ring of pocket cavities of the compaction roller.

Embodiment 26: The compaction roller kit according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller kit, wherein the counter compaction roller comprises at least one punch element configured for engaging at least one of the pocket cavities, specifically at least partially entering the at least one cavity, of the ring of pocket cavities of the compaction roller when the two rollers roll against each other.

Embodiment 27: The compaction roller kit according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller kit, wherein the compaction roller and the counter compaction roller are the same or the counter compaction roller, at least regarding its peripheral surface, is a mirror configuration of the compaction roller.

Embodiment 28: The compaction roller kit according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller kit, wherein the compaction roller kit further comprises at least one ejection ramp, e.g. the ejection ramp of the compaction roller according to embodiment 3, configured for activating at least one of the ejection mechanisms individually, specifically by triggering one or more of an extension movement and a retraction movement of the ejector, e.g. by performing a relative gliding movement between the ejector and the ramp. Embodiment 29: The compaction roller kit according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the ejection ramp is arranged such that in at least one angular position of the compaction roller, at least one of the plurality of ejection mechanisms is activated.

Embodiment 30: The compaction roller kit according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller kit, wherein the compaction roller kit further comprises at least one housing configured for at least partially enclosing the at least two counter-rotatable rollers.

Embodiment 31 : The compaction roller kit according to embodiments 28 and 30, wherein the ejection ramp is arranged on the housing, specifically between the housing and the compaction roller, such as to activate the ejection mechanism in at least one angular position of the compaction roller.

Embodiment 32: A compaction system for manufacturing agglomerates, comprising the compaction roller kit according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller kit, the compaction system further comprising at least one filling device and at least two driving shafts for counter-rotating the compaction roller and the counter compaction roller, e.g. for rotating the compaction roller pairing.

Embodiment 33: The compaction system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the filling device comprises at least one load element, such as a screw press, a worm extruder or the like, configured for loading a compactable material onto the compaction roller pairing.

Embodiment 34: A method for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates, comprising: a) providing a compaction roller system according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller system; b) feeding a compactable material into a receiving zone between the two counter-rotatable rollers, wherein the feeding comprises at least some of the compactable material to settle into at least one of the pocket cavities of the circumferential ring of pocket cavities of the compaction roller; c) counter-rotating the two counter-rotatable rollers, wherein by the counter rotation the compactable material within the at least one of the pocket cavities is transported from the feeding zone into a compaction zone; d) compacting the compactable material in the compaction zone into at least one agglomerate by the two rollers, wherein the compacting comprises exerting pressure onto the compactable material by the rollers, specifically by press agglomeration, wherein the compacting further comprises shaping the compactable material into the agglomerate at least partially by the at least one of the pocket cavities; e) counter-rotating the two counter-rotatable rollers, wherein by the counter rotation the compactable material within the at least one of the pocket cavities is transported from the compaction zone into an ejection zone; f) ejecting, by at least one of the ejection mechanisms, the at least one agglomerate from the at least one of the pocket cavities. Embodiment 35: The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein step f) comprises one or more of an active ejection, such as an actively triggered ejection, for example by using at least one of the ejection mechanisms, i.e. by activating at least one of the ejection mechanisms, such as by using the ejection ramp, and a passive ejection, such as an ejection triggered by natural forces, for example gravitation or centrifugal force.

Embodiment 36: The method according to any one of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the agglomerates are one or more of pellets and briquettes.

Embodiment 37: A data carrier comprising instructions which, when executed on an additive manufacturing device, cause the additive manufacturing device to manufacture one or both of the compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller, or the compaction roller kit according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller.

Embodiment 38: A printing data set comprising information that, when provided to an additive manufacturing device, causes the additive manufacturing device to manufacture one or both of the compaction roller according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller, or the compaction roller kit according to any one of the preceding embodiments referring to a compaction roller.

Embodiment 39: A computer program comprising computer-executable instructions which, when executed on a computer or computer network, cause the computer or computer network to generate the printing data set according to the preceding embodiment.

Short description of the Figures

Further optional features and embodiments will be disclosed in more detail in the subsequent description of embodiments, preferably in conjunction with the dependent claims. Therein, the respective optional features may be realized in an isolated fashion as well as in any arbitrary feasible combination, as the skilled person will realize. The scope of the invention is not restricted by the preferred embodiments. The embodiments are schematically depicted in the Figures. Therein, identical reference numbers in these Figures refer to identical or functionally comparable elements.

In the Figures:

Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a compaction roller in a perspective view;

Figures 2A and 2B show parts of different embodiments of a compaction roller in perspective view; Figures 3A to 3C show different states of parts of an embodiment of a compaction roller in sectional views;

Figures 4A and 4B show different embodiments of agglomerates;

Figures 5A to 5E show parts of different embodiments of a compaction roller kit in schematic views;

Figure 6 shows an embodiment of a compaction system in a perspective view; and

Figure 7 shows a flow chart of a method for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates.

Detailed description of the embodiments

Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a compaction roller 110 for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates 112 in a perspective view. The compaction roller 110 comprises on its peripheral surface 114 at least one circumferential ring 116 of pocket cavities 118 for at least partially shaping the agglomerates 112. The compaction roller 110 further comprises a plurality of individually controllable ejection mechanisms 120 configured for, specifically in an activated state, ejecting the agglomerates 112 from the pocket cavities 118 of the ring of pocket cavities 116. The compaction roller 110 may, specifically when manufacturing the agglomerates 112, be configured for rotating about an axis 122 of rotation. Figures 2A and 2B show parts of different embodiments of a compaction roller 110 in perspective views. As an example, and as exemplarily illustrated in Figure 2A, the compaction roller 110 may comprise two circumferential rings 116 of pocket cavities 118.

At least one of the ejection mechanisms 120, specifically all of the ejection mechanisms 120, may be configured for being activated by at least one part of the ejection mechanism 120 gliding over at least one ejection ramp 124 and may further comprise at least one ejector, such as an ejector pin 126, for, specifically in an activated state, pushing the agglomerate 114 out of the pocket cavity 118. In particular, the ejector, i.e. the ejector pin 126, may be configured for performing an extension movement or a retraction movement by gliding over the ejection ramp 124. Further, the ejection mechanisms 120 may comprise a control pin 128 for controlling the extension and the retraction of the ejector, specifically of the ejector pin 126. Specifically, the control pin 128 may comprise the ejection ramp 124 and may thus, by moving forwards and/or backwards, control the movement of the ejector, i.e. the extension movement and the retraction movement of the ejector pin 126. Further, the compaction roller 110 may comprise at least two springs 130, one for driving at least one movement of the ejector and one for driving at least one movement of the control pin 128. In particular, one spring 120 may be configured for driving a retraction movement of the ejector pin 126, wherein the at least one other spring 130 may be configured for driving a backwards movement of the control pin 128, e.g. pushing the control pin 128 back, thereby bringing the ejection mechanism 120 from an activated state into an inactivated state.

Figures 3A to 3C show different states of parts of an embodiment of a compaction roller in sectional views. Specifically, the ejection mechanism 120 may have three different states, an inactivated state, e.g. illustrated in Figure 3A, an activated state, e.g. illustrated in Figure 3B and an installation state, e.g. illustrated in Figure 3C. In particular, in the inactivated state, both springs 130 may be in a relaxed position and/or state. In the activated state, however, both springs 120 may be in a compressed position and/or state. In the installation state, only the spring 130 configured for driving the retraction movement of the ejector pin 126 may be in a compressed position and/or state, wherein the spring 130 configured for driving the backwards movement of the control pin 128 may be in a relaxed position and/or state.

Figures 4A and 4B exemplarily show different embodiments of agglomerates 112 manufacturable by using the compaction roller 110. In particular, the shapes and/or forms of the agglomerates 112 may correspond to a negative shape and/or form of the pocket cavities 118. Additionally or alternatively, the ejector, i.e. the ejector pin 126, may also have an influence on the shape and/or form of the agglomerates 112. The ejector pin’s 126 influence on the shape and/or form of the agglomerate 112 is exemplarily illustrated by the circle on the surface of the agglomerate 114 illustrated in Figure 4A.

Figures 5A to 5E show parts of different embodiments of a compaction roller kit 132 in schematic views. The compaction roller kit 132 comprises at least two counter-rotatable rollers 134, wherein at least one of the rollers 134 is the compaction roller 110 as described herein. The at least one other one of the rollers 134 is a counter compaction roller 136, specifically for at least partially shaping the agglomerates by rolling against the compaction roller 110, wherein the two rollers 134 are arranged such that they are rollable against each other.

In particular, the set-up as illustrated in Figures 5A and 5B may particularly be beneficial for directing pressure to the cavity 118 while reducing pressure at flat areas of the roller 134, where no cavities 118 are located. This could specifically be reached by a gradient, as exemplarily illustrated in Figure 5A and/or by a sharp reduction, as exemplarily illustrated in Figure 5B, particularly in the counter compaction roller 136. An alternative approach seems to be illustrated in Figure 5C, wherein the cavities 118 are wider that in the other illustrated examples, such a wider cavity 118 may allow a reduction of flat areas of both the compaction roller 110 and the counter compaction roller 136 that otherwise might be contacting. Specifically, the tread of the compaction roller may be utilized completely by an even distribution of cavities. Further, the additional ring 116 of cavities 118, i.e. without having ejection pins 126 arranged therein, may be beneficial for reducing contact areas between the two rollers 134 as well.

As an example, the compaction roller 110 may comprise at least one sloped surface, preferably two sloped surfaces, such as a chamfer 138, on at least one outer edge of the compaction roller 110. Additionally or alternatively, the counter compaction roller 136 may also comprise at least one sloped surface, such as at least one chamfer 138. Additionally or alternatively, the counter compaction roller 136 may comprise at least one circumferential shoulder, not illustrated in the Figures. Further additionally or alternatively, the counter compaction roller 136 may comprise at least one circumferential ring 116 of pocket cavities 118, specifically with pocket cavities 118 in the same shape or in a mirror shape as the pocket cavities 118 of the ring 116 of pocket cavities of the compaction roller 110. Further, additionally or alternatively, the counter compaction roller 136 may comprise at least one punch element 140 configured for engaging at least one of the pocket cavities 118 of the ring 116 of pocket cavities of the compaction roller 110 when the two rollers 134 roll against each other. Specifically, the compaction roller 110 and the counter compaction roller 136 may be the same. Alternatively, the counter compaction roller 136 may be a mirror configuration of the compaction roller 136.

In particular with regard to the set-ups as illustrated in Figures 5D and 5E, the sloped surfaces, i.e. the chamfers 138 may specifically be beneficial for directing the material to be compressed into the cavities 118 of the ring of cavities 116. Further, an additional ring 116 of cavities 118 may be beneficial for increasing the quantity of material falling into the cavities 118, while still allowing to generate an even pressure between the two rollers 134, e.g. in their press line. Further, a reduced width of ridges between cavities may allow for a more efficient „cutting“ effect, thereby reducing or even preventing ribbon formation.

The compaction roller kit 132 may further comprise an ejection ramp 124, for example an external ejection ramp 124, e.g. additionally to the ejection ramp of the compaction roller 110. Such an ejection ramp 124 may be exemplarily illustrated in Figure 6 showing the compaction system 142. The ejection ramp 124 may specifically be arranged such that in at least one angular position of the compaction roller 110, at least one of the plurality of ejection mechanisms 120 may be activated.

Further, the compaction roller kit 132 may comprise at least one housing 144 configured for at least partially enclosing the at least two counter-rotatable rollers 134, wherein specifically the ejection ramp 124 may be arranged on the housing 144 such as to activate the ejection mechanism 120 in at least one angular position of the compaction roller 110.

Figure 6 shows an embodiment of a compaction system 142 in a perspective view. The compaction system 142 comprises the compaction roller kit 132 as described herein, at least one filling device 146 and at least two driving shafts (not illustrated) for counter-rotating the compaction roller 110 and the counter compaction roller 136. The filling device 146 may specifically comprise at least one load element 138, such as a screw press, a worm extruder or the like, configured for loading a compactable material onto the compaction roller 134 pairing.

Figure 7 shows a flow chart of a method 150 for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates 112. The method 150 comprises the following method steps: a) (denoted by reference number 152) providing a compaction roller system 142 as described herein; b) (denoted by reference number 154) feeding a compactable material into a receiving zone between the two counter-rotatable rollers 134, wherein the feeding comprises at least some of the compactable material to settle into at least one of the pocket cavities 118 of the circumferential ring of pocket cavities 116 of the compaction roller 110; c) (denoted by reference number 156) counter-rotating the two counter-rotatable rollers 134, wherein by the counter rotation the compactable material within the at least one of the pocket cavities 118 is transported from the feeding zone into a compaction zone; d) (denoted by reference number 158) compacting the compactable material in the compaction zone into at least one agglomerate 112 by the two rollers 134, wherein the compact- ing comprises exerting pressure onto the compactable material by the rollers 134, wherein the compacting further comprises shaping the compactable material into the agglomerate 112 at least partially by the at least one of the pocket cavities 118; e) (denoted by reference number 160) counter-rotating the two counter-rotatable rollers 134, wherein by the counter rotation the compactable material within the at least one of the pocket cavities 118 is transported from the compaction zone into an ejection zone; f) (denoted by reference number 162) ejecting, by at least one of the ejection mechanisms 120, the at least one agglomerate 112 from the at least one of the pocket cavities 118.

List of reference numbers

110 compaction roller

112 agglomerate

114 peripheral surface

116 ring of pocket cavities

118 pocket cavity

120 ejection mechanism

122 axis of rotation

124 ejection ramp

126 ejector pin

128 control pin

130 spring

132 compaction roller kit

134 roller

136 counter compaction roller

138 chamfer

140 punch element

142 compaction system

144 housing

146 filling device

148 load element

150 method for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates

152 step a)

154 step b)

156 step c)

158 step d)

160 step e)

162 step f)

Claims

1 . A compaction roller (110) for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates (112), the compaction roller comprising on its peripheral surface (114) at least two circumferential rings (116) of pocket cavities (118) for at least partially shaping the agglomerates (112), wherein the rings (116) are arranged in parallel, wherein the compaction roller (110) further comprises a plurality of individually controllable ejection mechanisms (120) configured for ejecting the agglomerates (112) from the pocket cavities (118) of both of the at least two rings of pocket cavities (116), wherein at least one of the ejection mechanisms (120) is configured for being activated by at least one part of the ejection mechanism (120) gliding over at least one ejection ramp (124), wherein at least one of the ejection mechanisms (120) comprises at least one ejector for pushing the agglomerate (112) out of the pocket cavity (118), wherein the ejection mechanism (120) comprises at least one spring element (130) for driving one or more of an extension and retraction of the ejector.

2. The compaction roller (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the ejector is configured to perform one or more of an extension movement and a retraction movement by gliding over the at least one ejection ramp (124).

3. The compaction roller (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the ejection mechanisms (120) further comprises at least one control pin (128) for controlling one or more of an extension and retraction of the ejector.

4. The compaction roller (110) according to the two preceding claims, wherein the control pin (128) comprises the at least one ejection ramp (124).

5. A compaction roller kit (132) for manufacturing agglomerates (112), the compaction roller kit (132) comprising at least two counter-rotatable rollers 134), wherein at least one of the rollers (134) is the compaction roller (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one other one of the rollers (134) is a counter compaction roller (136), wherein the two rollers (134) are arranged such that they are rollable against each other.

6. The compaction roller kit (132) according to any one of the preceding claims referring to a compaction roller kit (132), wherein the counter compaction roller (136) comprises at least one sloped surface, preferably two sloped surfaces, such as a chamfer, on at least one outer edge and/or on a circumferential shoulder of the counter compaction roller (136).

7. The compaction roller kit (132) according to any one of the preceding claims referring to a compaction roller kit (132), wherein the counter compaction roller (136) comprises at least one circumferential ring (116) of pocket cavities (118).

8. The compaction roller kit (132) according to any one of the preceding claims referring to a compaction roller kit (132), wherein the compaction roller kit (132) further comprises at least one housing (144) configured for at least partially enclosing the at least two counterrotatable rollers (134).

9. A compaction system (142) for manufacturing agglomerates (112), comprising the compaction roller kit (132) according to any one of the preceding claims referring to a compaction roller kit (132), the compaction system further comprising at least one filling device (146) and at least two driving shafts for counter-rotating the compaction roller (110) and the counter compaction roller (136).

10. A method for manufacturing a plurality of agglomerates (112), comprising: a) providing a compaction roller system (142) according to any one of the preceding claims referring to a compaction roller system (142); b) feeding a compactable material into a receiving zone between the two counter-rotatable rollers (134), wherein the feeding comprises at least some of the compactable material to settle into at least one of the pocket cavities (118) of the circumferential ring of pocket cavities (116) of the compaction roller (110); c) counter-rotating the two counter-rotatable rollers (134), wherein by the counter rotation the compactable material within the at least one of the pocket cavities (118) is transported from the feeding zone into a compaction zone; d) compacting the compactable material in the compaction zone into at least one agglomerate (112) by the two rollers (134), wherein the compacting comprises exerting pressure onto the compactable material by the rollers (134), wherein the compacting further comprises shaping the compactable material into the agglomerate (112) at least partially by the at least one of the pocket cavities (118); e) counter-rotating the two counter-rotatable rollers (134), wherein by the counter rotation the compactable material within the at least one of the pocket cavities (118) is transported from the compaction zone into an ejection zone; f) ejecting, by at least one of the ejection mechanisms (120), the at least one agglomerate (120) from the at least one of the pocket cavities (118).

11 . The method according to the preceding claim, wherein the agglomerates (112) are one or more of pellets and briquettes.