EP0167947B1 - Device for making foam - Google Patents

Device for making foam Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0167947B1
EP0167947B1 EP85108068A EP85108068A EP0167947B1 EP 0167947 B1 EP0167947 B1 EP 0167947B1 EP 85108068 A EP85108068 A EP 85108068A EP 85108068 A EP85108068 A EP 85108068A EP 0167947 B1 EP0167947 B1 EP 0167947B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
foam
outlet
foam generator
generator
chamber
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP85108068A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0167947A2 (en
EP0167947A3 (en
Inventor
Bernhard Holz
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Individual
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Individual
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Publication date
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Priority to AT85108068T priority Critical patent/ATE50924T1/en
Publication of EP0167947A2 publication Critical patent/EP0167947A2/en
Publication of EP0167947A3 publication Critical patent/EP0167947A3/en
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F23/00—Mixing according to the phases to be mixed, e.g. dispersing or emulsifying
    • B01F23/20—Mixing gases with liquids
    • B01F23/23—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids
    • B01F23/235—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids for making foam
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F25/40—Static mixers
    • B01F25/45—Mixers in which the materials to be mixed are pressed together through orifices or interstitial spaces, e.g. between beads
    • B01F25/452—Mixers in which the materials to be mixed are pressed together through orifices or interstitial spaces, e.g. between beads characterised by elements provided with orifices or interstitial spaces
    • B01F25/4524—Mixers in which the materials to be mixed are pressed together through orifices or interstitial spaces, e.g. between beads characterised by elements provided with orifices or interstitial spaces the components being pressed through foam-like inserts or through a bed of loose bodies, e.g. balls
    • B01F25/45242—Mixers in which the materials to be mixed are pressed together through orifices or interstitial spaces, e.g. between beads characterised by elements provided with orifices or interstitial spaces the components being pressed through foam-like inserts or through a bed of loose bodies, e.g. balls through a bed of fibres, steel wool or wood chips

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device for producing foam.
  • a device for generating foam in which the components forming the foam (foaming agent, water and air) are introduced into a large container in which the liquid components form a liquid level from which the foam bubbles rise and through the upper part of the container and a long foam line to the outlet mouths, for example for the foaming of motor vehicles in car washes.
  • the foaming agent i.e. a chemical substance that causes foaming and can also serve as a detergent.
  • a foam generator consists of a container with a shot, wire or fiber package.
  • the further guidance of the foam to the point of use is not stated.
  • the foam is conducted via lines to a container or intermediate storage.
  • GB-A-2 060 420 shows a device according to the preamble, which contains an elongated tubular foam generator with lead shot filling in individual foam generating chambers, to which free chambers are interposed. These have an adverse effect on foam generation.
  • the object of the invention is to provide a device for producing foam which generates foam with little outlay on starting materials and in particular chemical foaming agents and releases it in optimum quality.
  • the device has the advantage that the foam can be generated almost at the point of use, so that it is possible to guide it in such a way that it is not deposited on the way, in particular on the tube walls, and by the compressed air driving the foam in Flakes are torn apart and destroyed.
  • the compact tubular and position-independent design enables the foam generator to be brought directly to the point of use of the foam.
  • the foam generation chambers can have separating elements in two forms:
  • the foam generator can have a plurality of chambers connected in series in the flow direction of the foam, the separating elements of which are dividing walls which have openings.
  • the separating elements can consist of permeable filling material.
  • All foam generation chambers can preferably be filled with the filling material.
  • This can preferably consist of a braid or tangle of wire or preferably ribbon-shaped threads, in particular of plastic braid bodies. No liquid level needs to be formed in these chambers, but foam formation can begin practically immediately. Although it is possible to keep the inlet and outlet chambers free of the plastic braid, this is not absolutely necessary.
  • the numerous openings which increase in number and / or area and which form in the dividing walls and in the interstices of the braid, produce foam by wetting them with the liquid and the gas (preferably air) flowing through them from the liquid film forms the foam bubbles. This results in a soft foam formation distributed over numerous levels connected in series, which makes it possible to manage with a fraction of the foam generator dosage.
  • the foam generator according to the invention is not only suitable for use in car washes, but also for other cleaning purposes, for example for cleaning buildings. Foams other than detergent foams can also be produced with it.
  • the foam generator can be brought close to the point of use in the invention, a re-collapse of the foam in the line under the pressure of the avoiding driving compressed air. This advantageously contributes to the fact that the foam generator is elongated, tubular and possibly has a zigzag or undulating shape.
  • the foam is, so to speak, generated in the feed pipe without a large foam container connected upstream.
  • the foam generator is therefore not dependent on the position, i.e.
  • a chamber can be arranged in a straight piece and a chamber in a manifold, which are separated from one another by partitions with openings.
  • the entire foam generator can therefore consist of an only moderately strong plastic tube with a relatively large length (diameter / length ratio above 1:10 and preferably above 1:20).
  • Plastic pipes can be used which are welded or glued to one another with the interposition of intermediate pieces which hold or contain the partition walls.
  • the foam generator is advantageously arranged so close to the outlet mouth that the distance between the outlet of the foam generator and the outlet mouth is shorter than the flow path between the inlet and the outlet and particularly preferably only half as large.
  • the outlet line is connected to an inlet connection of a distributor with a plurality of outlet openings, which has at least one distributor channel running transversely to the inlet connection, into which the inlet connection or transition channels open at the junction points, with at least two outlet at each distributor channel - Or transfer channels are connected at approximately the same distance from the confluence points.
  • the foam coming from one line is distributed to two others by running about the same distance in the distributor channel to one side and the other.
  • Directionally adjustable short outlet nozzle pieces can be connected to the outlet orifices of the distributor.
  • the distributor with its distributor channels is preferably arranged horizontally, which ensures that the influence of gravity during distribution is switched off. However, a vertical arrangement is also possible.
  • the foam generator When the foam generator is arranged on a car wash, it can preferably be arranged directly on the pillars of a foaming device and practically spray directly from the upper part of the foam generator via the distributor.
  • the device preferably contains a metering and mixing device, the foaming agent being sucked out of a storage container by being contained in a state premixed with water.
  • the premix is sucked in by a feed pump, at the outlet of which a three-way valve which can be switched to form foam is connected, with a return branch and a feed branch, which leads to a mixing point for the production of the final dosage.
  • the device is also suitable for processing non-premixed products.
  • a plurality of foam generators arranged near the point of use can preferably be connected to a common metering and mixing device. In the invention, therefore, the individual components are transported close to the point of use and the foam is generated there, so that there are no long paths for the foam transport on which it could collapse again.
  • the device can be easily transported if a mobile use is desired.
  • the foam generator has a small volume and a small cross section and can only be connected to the metering device by means of very thin feed lines has many advantages.
  • the foam generator could even be flexible, e.g. be formed in a hose and can have any cross-sectional shape. It is also advantageous that the ready-mix is done in the metering and mixing device and the ready-mix can be fed to the foam generator through only one line, and that the foam generator is position-independent.
  • FIG. 1 shows part of a car wash 11 in which motor vehicles 12 are washed. For this purpose, they are towed by a transport device 13 (belts, chains or the like) through various stations, of which the foaming station 14 is shown. It consists of a fixed portal 15, which has the usual contactless sensors (light barriers or the like) for switching the corresponding devices on and off, and a foam generator 16 is attached to each of the two side rails.
  • a transport device 13 belts, chains or the like
  • It consists of a fixed portal 15, which has the usual contactless sensors (light barriers or the like) for switching the corresponding devices on and off, and a foam generator 16 is attached to each of the two side rails.
  • this foam generator described below is also particularly suitable for mobile use, for example on car washes with a mobile portal (and stationary car) or on building washes and the like.
  • the foam generators 16 are elongated tubular and arranged vertically in the embodiment. Their foam outlet orifices 17 lie on their upper part, while the foam components are supplied via lines in the lower part. A ready mixture of water and chemicals used for washing the car is supplied via lines 18, which enable good foam formation, for example a product which is sold as "active foam” for car washes by the company AUWA-Chemie, Augsburg.
  • This ready mix can be dosed very low with respect to the foaming agent, so that, for example. 0.3 0.4 cm 3 foaming agent per car is sufficient. This is approximately a fourth of what was needed in conventional systems and an even smaller fraction of what was needed in conventional injector systems in which the foam was produced by mixing according to the Venturi principle.
  • Compressed air is supplied via line 19.
  • the control takes place in a metering and mixing device 20, which has a compressed air and water connection 21, 30, a feed line 22 from a storage container 23 and a return line 24 to the latter.
  • Fig. 1 shows in particular that the foam 25 can be sprayed practically directly from the foam images. It can be applied uniformly to the motor vehicle from a plurality of outlet openings 17 per foaming agent, where it forms a uniform layer, which ensures good distribution and retention of the detergent substances on the surface to be washed surfaces ensures that they do not run off immediately, and can be well distributed by the very soft brushes in the foam. It can also be seen that the outlet openings can be adjustable in order, for example, to enable uniform and loss-free foaming even when the motor vehicle is arranged asymmetrically under the portal.
  • the foaming agent is only connected via relatively thin lines for the mixture and air, which can optionally also be laid flexibly and in which distances from the metering and mixing device 20 play no role. In this way, one metering and mixing device can easily supply several foam generators. It can also be seen that the foam generators have a very small volume and can be easily inserted into systems.
  • FIG. 2 shows some essential parts of the metering and mixing device 20 in the circuit diagram. It contains two pumps 26, which can be set independently of one another in terms of the delivery rate and are advantageously driven by a common motor, which draw a premix (for example in the ratio foaming agent / water from 1/20) from the storage container 23 via the feed line 22 and a three-way solenoid valve 27 each feed, which are connected on the output side either to return lines 24 to the reservoir 23 or to a feed line 28.
  • Each feed line 28 for the premix opens into a water feed line 30 which is connected by a solenoid valve 29 and which, after the premix has been mixed in, forms the lines 18 for the ready-mix, which each lead to a foam generator.
  • the compressed air supply line 21 is also switched by a solenoid valve 31 and leads as a compressed air line 19 to the foam generators 16.
  • regulating and check valves can be arranged.
  • the foam generator 16 shown in detail in FIG. 3 consists of several plastic pipe pieces 34, which are connected to one another by connecting pieces 35, which have the shape of short pipe pieces 34 which cross over the pipe pieces 34 and which have a stop collar 36 on the inside.
  • the connecting pieces are welded to the pipe pieces, so that the whole forms an elongated tubular unit in which three long cylindrical chambers 38 are formed, while an inlet chamber 39 is connected to the lower end and an outlet chamber 40 is connected to the upper end.
  • These also consist of welded pieces of pipe, which are closed with caps 41.
  • the inlet chamber has two inlet inclusions 42, 43 for the lines 18, 19 and is relatively short, while the outlet chamber 40 is longer and has in its central region an outlet line 44 extending at right angles from its circumference, which in cross section corresponds approximately to that of the chambers .
  • a foam distributor 45 through which the foam is distributed to three foam outlet openings 17.
  • the outlet line 44 does not branch off at one end but in the middle, so the distribution is also carried out symmetrically on both sides in the foam distributor (FIG. 6).
  • the foam distributor 45 has an inlet connection 46 connected to the outlet line 44, which ends in the middle in a distributor channel 47, which merges on both sides via elbows 48 into transition channels 49, which in turn open into a longer distributor channel 50.
  • Symmetrical to the junction 51 in this distribution channel 50 are connected at its two ends and in the middle outlet nozzle pieces 52, which have the outlet openings 17 at their end and each consist of two series-connected 90 ° elbows 53, the so via lockable coupling pieces 54 can be adjusted so that the preferably slot-shaped outlet mouth 17, which is also connected via a coupling piece 54 and generates a fanned foam jet, can be adjusted in numerous directions (FIG. 3).
  • the foam distributor which is contained in a housing 55, like the foam generator, consists of welded or glued plastic pipe pieces, the distribution takes place symmetrically on both sides in order to have equal paths for the foam in all directions .
  • the foam is distributed in several stages (1 on 2 on 3), which also contributes to an even distribution over all outlet openings.
  • the chambers 38 are filled with filling material 59, which in the exemplary embodiment consists of a loose tubular braid made of thin monofilament band-shaped plastic wires or strips which is drawn together in a torrent-shaped manner so that it forms a disk-shaped body. Such meshes are commercially available as pot scratches. Filling the individual chambers 38 with this filler material by plugging them into the chambers has proven to be particularly advantageous.
  • porous filling materials can also be used which ensure that the liquid to be foamed continuously wets new elements provided with passages through the foam generator, as a result of which new foam bubbles are constantly formed.
  • the inlet and outlet chambers 39, 40 could also be filled with filler material.
  • FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of a foam generator 16a which can be produced by a zigzag-shaped arrangement with a shorter overall length, although in addition to the inlet and outlet chambers 39, 40 it has five chambers 38a, b which can be of different lengths.
  • one chamber 38a is formed by a straight piece of pipe, while the subsequent chamber 38b is formed by a 180 ° pipe elbow.
  • the connection is made as in Fig. 3 by connecting pieces 35 with inserted partition walls 37. This arrangement is suitable for installation in devices where the relatively flat foam generator can be attached to a wall. Spatial nesting could make the device even more compact.
  • partitions may be completely or partially replace the use of filler material, while on the other hand the filler material could also be held differently than by the partitions in the chambers.
  • the combination of partitions and the porous filling material is very advantageous, however, and above all it can be ensured that a desired throttling occurs in order to prevent the compressed air flowing in from blowing too easily through the entire tubular foam generator.
  • the device In a car wash, the device is operated in such a way that when the car wash is put into operation, ie when the basic devices such as the drag belt 13 are started, the pump 26, a continuously adjustable diaphragm pump, is started. It constantly promotes the premixing via the line 22 in the desired adjustable amount, guides it however, as long as no foam formation is to be initiated, back into the reservoir 23 via the three-way valve 27, as a result of which the premixing contained therein is continuously circulated and segregation is avoided.
  • the solenoid valves 27, 29, 31 are actuated at the same time, so that the corresponding ready mixture of water and premix is generated and transported via line 18 to the foam generator while Compressed air flows simultaneously via line 19.
  • the foam generator there is normally no liquid level that would have to be monitored, as in known devices, but the foam is formed immediately, its consistency is continuously improved as it passes through the entire foam generator and finally emerges, where it is only in the distributor 45 distributed and then output via the outlet nozzle pieces 52 directed in the correct direction.
  • Foam generation therefore takes place practically in the supply pipe to the point of use.
  • other parts for example the distributor, could also be included in the foam generator, in that they contain partition walls and filler material, or the distribution could be carried out in the foam generator.
  • FIG. 8 shows a detail of the inlet chamber 39, which can be used in both FIG. 3 or FIG. 7.
  • a check valve 70 is provided on the first partition 37, which consists of a seat housing 71 inserted into the partition 37, on which there is a suction strainer 72, and which inside carries a spring-loaded valve body 73.
  • the check valve 70 through the center bore of which the first foam generation chamber 38 is charged with the mixed components, prevents foam from pressing back into the inlet chamber from the foam generation chambers during downtimes. A defined and metered release of foam can thus be achieved.
  • the detail shown in FIG. 9 shows a support device 60 which is arranged in the foam generation chambers 38. This is also to be used advantageously in the embodiments according to FIGS. 3, 7 and 11.
  • the support device consists in each case of a cross strut 62 in the form of a four-pointed star (FIG. 10), which is kept at a distance from the next cross strut 62 by a central longitudinal connecting strut 64.
  • Each cross and longitudinal connection strut 62, 64 are made in the form of a unit 66 as an injection molded part and plugged together with clamps and possibly glued.
  • the longitudinal connecting strut 64 protrudes through a filler material body 59 which has the shape of a braid made of plastic strips, which is wound together to form a toroidal body, as is produced, for example, by the rolling together of a hose. Such tapes are commercially available as pot scratches.
  • the longitudinal connection strut is inserted through its central opening.
  • the support device 60 extends over the entire length of each chamber and ensures that, despite the considerable forces that the flowing foam exerts on the filling material, the filling material is not carried along in the direction of flow and is compressed at one end of each chamber.
  • the division of the chamber also ensures that the filling materials in the foam generator are stabilized, but this is further improved by the support device.
  • the packing density of the filler material decreases in the flow direction 57, i.e. The packing density is greatest in the chamber immediately following the inlet chamber 39. This can be achieved in that the longitudinal connecting webs 64 of the support device are shorter there than in the rest of the foam generator.
  • Fig. 11 shows schematically that the foam generator, which in principle can be the same as that of Figs. 3 and 7, can serve directly as a handle for foam distribution in a portable device.
  • the foam generator 16b can be integrated into the outlet pipe because of its positional independence and its small cross-section, and the outlet mouth 17b can be attached directly to the head of the foam generator.
  • the foam generator is only connected to the device 20b via flexible hoses 42b, 43b, which, in addition to the devices shown in FIG. 2 (but only for a foam generator), can also contain the container for the foam generator, water and possibly an air compressor. It can be operated via a switch (e.g. pistol grip) on the foam generator itself, which triggers foam generation either electrically or by switching the liquids and gases directly.
  • a switch e.g. pistol grip
  • the foam generation in the device according to the invention is so good that even substances that were usually difficult to foam, such as preserving wax for lacquered surfaces, can be foamed so that they are present in liquid and mixed form on lacquered surfaces can be applied and can be deposited there due to the slow collapse of the foam on the paint surface without running ineffectively.

Abstract

1. Apparatus for producing foam from liquid and gaseous components, such as water, air and foaming agents, as well as optionally active substances with an elongated, tubular foam generator (16, 16a) with an inlet chamber (39), at least one foam generating device (38) and an outlet (44) ; supply means (18, 19, 20) for supplying the components to the inlet chamber (39) ; and an outlet section (45), which terminates in at least one outlet port (17) and is connected to outlet (44), the foam generator (16, 16a) having several foam generating chambers (38, 39, 40) arranged successively in the flow direction (57), whose separating elements (37, 37a, 37b, 59) define numerous foam-generating openings (56), characterized in that the area and/or number of the openings (56) increase in the flow direction (57).

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Einrichtung zum Erzeugen von Schaum.The invention relates to a device for producing foam.

Aus der US-A-3 604 630 ist ein Schaumgenerator für Autowaschstraßen bekanntgeworden, der auf dem Injektorprinzip beruht. Der Schaum wird durch eine Zusammenführung der Flüssigkeit und der Luft unter hohem Druck unmittelbar an einer Düse erzeugt. Diesem ist ein Sieb nachgeschaltet. An diese eigentliche Schaumerzeugungseinrichtung schließt sich ein relativ großvolumiger, lang rohrförmiger Schaumspeicher an, an den sich wiederum Leitungen zur Strömungseingrenzung anschließen, die einen U-Bogen von 180° umfassen, bevor der Schaum an die Austragöffnungen kommt. Dieser Speicherraum für den Schaum wurde als unabdingbar angesehen, um den Schaum "reifen" zu lassen. Die inzwischen festgestellten Nachteile dieses Systems werden später noch näher erläutert.From US-A-3 604 630 a foam generator for car washes has become known which is based on the injector principle. The foam is created by combining the liquid and the air under high pressure directly at a nozzle. This is followed by a sieve. This actual foam generating device is followed by a relatively large-volume, long tubular foam store, to which in turn lines for limiting the flow are connected, which comprise a U-bend of 180 ° before the foam reaches the discharge openings. This storage space for the foam was considered to be indispensable for "ripening" the foam. The disadvantages of this system that have now been identified will be explained in more detail later.

Aus der DE-A 33 04 177 ist eine Vorrichtung zum Erzeugen von Schaum bekanntgeworden, bei der die den Schaum bildenden Komponenten (Schaumbildner, Wasser und Luft) in einen großen Behälter eingeleitet werden, in dem die Flüssigkeitskomponenten einen Flüssigkeitsspiegel bilden, aus dem die Schaumblasen aufsteigen und durch den oberen Teil des Behälters und eine lange Schaumleitung zu den Austrittsmündungen gelangen, beispielsweise zur Einschäumung von Kraftfahrzeugen in Autowaschstraßen. Bei derartigen Vorrichtungen werden zur Erzeugung einer bestimmten Schaummenge relativ große Mengen der einzelnen Komponenten benötigt, insbesondere eine relativ hohe Dosierung des Schaumbildners, d.h. einer chemischen Substanz, die die Schäumung hervorruft und auch als Waschmittel dienen kann.From DE-A 33 04 177 a device for generating foam has become known, in which the components forming the foam (foaming agent, water and air) are introduced into a large container in which the liquid components form a liquid level from which the foam bubbles rise and through the upper part of the container and a long foam line to the outlet mouths, for example for the foaming of motor vehicles in car washes. In such devices, relatively large amounts of the individual components are required to produce a certain amount of foam, in particular a relatively high dosage of the foaming agent, i.e. a chemical substance that causes foaming and can also serve as a detergent.

Aus der EP-A-0 011 381 und der GB-A-2 060 420 sind Verfahren zum Verschäumen von Flüssigkeiten bekanntgeworden, bei denen ein Schaumgenerator aus einem Behälter mit einer Schrot-, Draht- oder Faserpackung besteht. Die weitere Leitung des Schaums zur Verwendungsstelle ist nichts ausgesagt. Üblicherweise wird aber der Schaum über Leitungen zu einem Behälter oder Zwischenspeicher geleitet. Mit dieser Vorrichtung kann zumindest über eine gewisse Zeit ein recht guter Schaum erzeugt werden, er neigt jedoch dazu bereits an der Verwendungsstelle schon wieder in der Schaumqualität nachgelassen zu haben. In der GB-A-2 060 420 ist eine Einrichtung nach dem Oberbegriff gezeigt, die einen langgestreckt rohrförmigen Schaumgenerator mit Bleischrotfüllung in einzelnen Schaumerzeugungskammern enthält, denen freie Kammern zwischengeschaltet sind. Diese haben einen nachteiligen Einfluß auf die Schaumerzeugung.From EP-A-0 011 381 and GB-A-2 060 420 methods for foaming liquids have become known, in which a foam generator consists of a container with a shot, wire or fiber package. The further guidance of the foam to the point of use is not stated. Usually, however, the foam is conducted via lines to a container or intermediate storage. With this device, a fairly good foam can be produced at least over a certain period of time, but it tends to have already deteriorated in foam quality at the point of use. GB-A-2 060 420 shows a device according to the preamble, which contains an elongated tubular foam generator with lead shot filling in individual foam generating chambers, to which free chambers are interposed. These have an adverse effect on foam generation.

Aus der WO-81/03 129 (entsprechend EP-A-51 595) ist ein Mischgerät zur Schaumerzeugung bekanntgeworden, bei dem am Anfang und am Ende eines Rohres Umlenkkammern vorhanden sind, in denen eine rechtwinklige Umlenkung stattfindet und die mit einem Metall- oder Plastikgewirr gefüllt sind. Zwischen diesen turbulenzerzeugenden Umlenkstücken sind relativ lange Rohrleitungen mit ungestörtem Schaumfluß vorgesehen, auch zur Verwendungsstelle. Auch hier ist an der Verwendungsstelle keine optimale Schaumqualität zu erzielen. Ferner sind Schaumerzeuger aus den DE-A-28 48 038, 30 21 606 und dem DE-U-74 13 719 sowie der AT-A-355 316 bekanntgeworden, die unterschiedliche Methoden zur Schaumerzeugung benutzen und ebenfalls lange Leitungen zur Verwendungsstelle haben.From WO-81/03 129 (corresponding to EP-A-51 595) a mixing device for foam generation has become known in which there are deflection chambers at the beginning and at the end of a tube, in which a right-angle deflection takes place and which is carried out with a metal or Plastic tangle are filled. Between these turbulence-generating deflection pieces, relatively long pipes with undisturbed foam flow are provided, also to the point of use. Here too, optimal foam quality cannot be achieved at the point of use. Furthermore, foam generators from DE-A-28 48 038, 30 21 606 and DE-U-74 13 719 and AT-A-355 316 have become known, which use different methods for foam generation and also have long lines to the point of use.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es, eine Einrichtung zum Erzeugen von Schaum zu schaffen, die Schaum mit geringem Aufwand an Ausgangsmaterialien und insbesondere chemischen Schaumbildnern erzeugt und in optimaler Qualität abgibt.The object of the invention is to provide a device for producing foam which generates foam with little outlay on starting materials and in particular chemical foaming agents and releases it in optimum quality.

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß durch die Merkmale des Anspruchs 1 gelöst.This object is achieved by the features of claim 1.

Die Einrichtung hat den Vorteil, daß der Schaum nahezu an der Verwendungsstelle erzeugt werden kann, so daß es möglich ist, ihn so zu leiten, daß er nicht auf dem Wege dahin, insbesondere an den Rohrwandungen, niedergeschlagen und durch die den Schaum treibende Druckluft in Flocken auseinandergerissen und zerstört wird. Die gedrängte rohrförmige und lageunabhängige Bauweise ermöglicht es, den Schaumgenerator direkt an die Verwendungsstelle des Schaums heranzuführen.The device has the advantage that the foam can be generated almost at the point of use, so that it is possible to guide it in such a way that it is not deposited on the way, in particular on the tube walls, and by the compressed air driving the foam in Flakes are torn apart and destroyed. The compact tubular and position-independent design enables the foam generator to be brought directly to the point of use of the foam.

Die Schaumerzeugungskammern können Trennelemente in zweifacher Form aufweisen:The foam generation chambers can have separating elements in two forms:

Einerseits kann der Schaumgenerator mehrere in Strömungsrichtung des Schaums nacheinander geschaltete Kammern aufweisen, deren Trennnelemente Trennwände sind, die Öffnungen haben. Stattdessen oder insbesondere zusätzlich kann zumindest ein Teil der Trennelemente aus durchlässigem Füllmaterial bestehen.On the one hand, the foam generator can have a plurality of chambers connected in series in the flow direction of the foam, the separating elements of which are dividing walls which have openings. Instead, or in particular additionally, at least some of the separating elements can consist of permeable filling material.

Vorzugsweise können alle Schaumerzeugungskammern mit dem Füllmaterial gefüllt sein. Dieses kann vorzugsweise aus einem Geflecht oder Gewirr von Draht- oder vorzugsweise bandförmigen Fäden, insbesondere aus Kunststoff-Geflechtkörpern, bestehen. In diesen Kammern braucht sich kein Flüssigkeitsniveau auszubilden, sondern die Schaumbildung kann praktisch sofort beginnen. Es ist zwar möglich, die Eintritts- und Austrittskammern vom Kunststoff-Geflecht freizuhalten, aber dies ist nicht zwingend notwendig. Die zahlreichen in Zahl und/oder Fläche zunehmenden Öffnungen, die sich in den Trennwänden und in den Zwischenräumen des Geflechts bilden, wirken schaumerzeugend, indem sie von der Flüssigkeit benetzt und das durchströmende Gas (vorzugsweise Luft) aus dem Flüssigkeitsfilm die Schaumblasen bildet. Es entsteht also eine auf zahlreiche hintereinandergeschaltete Ebenen verteilte weiche Schaumbildung, die es ermöglicht, mit einem Bruchteil der Schaumbildnerdosierung auszukommen. Für die gleiche Menge eines Schaums wird bei einem Schaumgenerator nach der Erfindung ca. nur die Hälfte bis ein Viertel der Menge an chemischen Schaumbildnern benötigt. Das bedeutet nicht nur eine wesentliche Kosteneinsparung für den Schaumbildner, sondern auch eine geringere Belastung des Abwassers mit chemischen Stoffen bzw. Einsparungen bei der Wiederaufbereitung des Abwassers. Dabei wirkt sich die Dosierung des Schaumbildners in der Waschleistung kaum aus. Durch die ausgezeichnete Qualität des Schaums wird der wesentliche Effekt, nämlich die gute Benetzung und Verteilung auf der gewaschenen Oberfläche sowie die Dämpfung der mechanischen Einwirkung der Waschborsten weitgehend unabhängig von der Menge des Schaumbildungsmittels erzeugt.All foam generation chambers can preferably be filled with the filling material. This can preferably consist of a braid or tangle of wire or preferably ribbon-shaped threads, in particular of plastic braid bodies. No liquid level needs to be formed in these chambers, but foam formation can begin practically immediately. Although it is possible to keep the inlet and outlet chambers free of the plastic braid, this is not absolutely necessary. The numerous openings, which increase in number and / or area and which form in the dividing walls and in the interstices of the braid, produce foam by wetting them with the liquid and the gas (preferably air) flowing through them from the liquid film forms the foam bubbles. This results in a soft foam formation distributed over numerous levels connected in series, which makes it possible to manage with a fraction of the foam generator dosage. For the same amount of foam, only a half to a quarter of the amount of chemical foaming agents is required in a foam generator according to the invention. This means not only a significant cost saving for the foaming agent, but also a lower pollution of the wastewater with chemical substances or savings in the reprocessing of the wastewater. The dosage of the foaming agent has hardly any effect on the washing performance. Due to the excellent quality of the foam, the essential effect, namely the good wetting and distribution on the washed surface and the damping of the mechanical action of the washing bristles, is largely independent of the amount of foam-forming agent.

Der Schaumgenerator nach der Erfindung eignet sich nicht nur für den Einsatz an Autowaschanlagen, sondern auch für andere Reinigungszwecke, beispielsweise zur Gebäudereinigung. Auch andere Schäume als Waschmittelschäume lassen sich damit erzeugen. Da im Gegensatz zu bisherigen Schaumgeneratoren, bei denen der Schaum in einem Behälter erzeugt und dann über Leitungen zur Verwendungsstelle geleitet wurde, bei der Erfindung der Schaumgenerator bis nahe an die Verwendungsstelle herangebracht werden kann, wird ein Wiederzusammenfallen des Schaums in der Leitung unter dem Druck der sie treibenden Druckluft vermieden. Vorteilhaft trägt dazu bei, daß der Schaumgenerator langgestreckt rohrförmig und ggf. mit zick-zack- oder wellenförmigem Verlauf ausgebildet ist. Der Schaum wird sozusagen im Zuführungsrohr ohne vorgeschalteten großen Schaumbehälter erzeugt. Der Schaumgenerator ist dadurch auch nicht lageabhängig, d.h. er braucht nicht unbedingt vertikal angeordnet zu sein. Bei zick-zack- oder wellenförmiger Anordnung kann jeweils eine Kammer in einem geraden Stück und eine Kammer in einem Krümmer angeordnet sein, die jeweils durch Trennwände mit Öffnungen voneinander getrennt sind. Der ganze Schaumgenerator kann also aus einem nur mäßig starken Kunststoffrohrmit relativ großer Längebestehen (Durchmesser/Länge-Verhältnis über 1:10 und vorzugsweise über 1:20). Es können Kunststoffrohre verwendet werden, die miteinander unter Einschaltung von Zwischenstücken, die die Trennwände halten oder enthalten, verschweißt oder verklebt sind.The foam generator according to the invention is not only suitable for use in car washes, but also for other cleaning purposes, for example for cleaning buildings. Foams other than detergent foams can also be produced with it. In contrast to previous foam generators, in which the foam was generated in a container and then passed via lines to the point of use, the foam generator can be brought close to the point of use in the invention, a re-collapse of the foam in the line under the pressure of the avoiding driving compressed air. This advantageously contributes to the fact that the foam generator is elongated, tubular and possibly has a zigzag or undulating shape. The foam is, so to speak, generated in the feed pipe without a large foam container connected upstream. The foam generator is therefore not dependent on the position, i.e. it does not necessarily have to be arranged vertically. In a zigzag or wavy arrangement, a chamber can be arranged in a straight piece and a chamber in a manifold, which are separated from one another by partitions with openings. The entire foam generator can therefore consist of an only moderately strong plastic tube with a relatively large length (diameter / length ratio above 1:10 and preferably above 1:20). Plastic pipes can be used which are welded or glued to one another with the interposition of intermediate pieces which hold or contain the partition walls.

Vorteilhaft ist der Schaumgenerator so nahe an der Austrittsmündung angeordnet, daß der Abstand zwischen dem Auslaß des Schaumgenerators und der Auslaßmündung kürzer ist als der Strömungsweg zwischen dem Eintritt und dem Auslaß und besonders bevorzugt nur halb so groß.The foam generator is advantageously arranged so close to the outlet mouth that the distance between the outlet of the foam generator and the outlet mouth is shorter than the flow path between the inlet and the outlet and particularly preferably only half as large.

Da meist mehrere Auslaßmündungen bei einem Schaumgenerator vorgesehen sind, ist es insbesondere bei dem relativ "weichen" Schaum, der im Schaumgenerator nach der Erfindung erzeugt wird, wesentlich, daß der Schaum gleichmäßig aus allen parallelgeschalteten Austrittsmündungen austritt. Insbesondere für die Erfindung hat sich vorteilhaft erwiesen, wenn die Austrittsleitung an einen Eintrittsanschluß eines Verteilers mit mehreren Austrittsmündungen angeschlossen ist, der wenigstens einen quer zum Eintrittsanschluß verlaufenden Verteilerkanal aufweist, in den an Einmündungsstellen der Eintrittsanschluß oder Übertrittskanäle einmünden, wobei an jeden Verteilerkanal wenigstens zwei Austritts- oder Übertrittskanäle in jeweils etwa gleichem Abstand von den Einmündungsstellen angeschlossen sind. Bei dem Verteiler wird also der aus einer Leitung kommende Schaum auf zwei andere dadurch verteilt, daß er um etwa die gleiche Strecke im Verteilerkanal nach der einen und der anderen Seite läuft. Dies kann mehrmals hintereinander geschaltet werden, so daß eine Verteilung auf mehrere Auslaßmündungen erfolgt. An die Austrittsmündungen des Verteilers können richtungsverstellbare kurze Austrittsdüsenstücke angeschlossen sein. Der Verteiler ist mit seinen Verteilerkanälen vorzugsweise horizontal angeordnet, was dafür sorgt, daß der Schwerkrafteinfluß bei der Verteilung ausgeschaltet ist. Eine vertikale Anordnung ist jedoch ebenfalls möglich.Since usually a plurality of outlet openings are provided in a foam generator, it is essential, in particular in the case of the relatively "soft" foam which is produced in the foam generator according to the invention, that the foam emerges evenly from all outlet openings connected in parallel. It has proven to be particularly advantageous for the invention if the outlet line is connected to an inlet connection of a distributor with a plurality of outlet openings, which has at least one distributor channel running transversely to the inlet connection, into which the inlet connection or transition channels open at the junction points, with at least two outlet at each distributor channel - Or transfer channels are connected at approximately the same distance from the confluence points. In the case of the distributor, the foam coming from one line is distributed to two others by running about the same distance in the distributor channel to one side and the other. This can be switched several times in succession, so that there is a distribution over several outlet openings. Directionally adjustable short outlet nozzle pieces can be connected to the outlet orifices of the distributor. The distributor with its distributor channels is preferably arranged horizontally, which ensures that the influence of gravity during distribution is switched off. However, a vertical arrangement is also possible.

Bei der Anordnung des Schaumgenerators an einer Autowaschstraße kann er vorzugsweise an den Säulen einer Einschäumeinrichtung unmittelbar angeordnet sein und praktisch aus dem Oberteil des Schaumgenerators direkt über den Verteiler aussprühen.When the foam generator is arranged on a car wash, it can preferably be arranged directly on the pillars of a foaming device and practically spray directly from the upper part of the foam generator via the distributor.

Vorzugsweise enthält die Einrichtung ein Dosier- und Mischgerät, wobei der Schaumbildner aus einem Vorratsbehälter angesaugt wird, indem er in mit Wasser vorgemischtem Zustand enthalten ist. Die Vormischung wird von einer Speisepumpe angesaugt, an deren Ausgang ein zur Schaumbildung schaltbares Dreiwegeventil mit einem Rückführzweig und einem Speisezweig angeschlossen ist, der zur Herstellung der Enddosierung zu einer Mischstelle führt. Die Einrichtung eignet sich auch zur Verarbeitung nicht vorgemischter Produkte.The device preferably contains a metering and mixing device, the foaming agent being sucked out of a storage container by being contained in a state premixed with water. The premix is sucked in by a feed pump, at the outlet of which a three-way valve which can be switched to form foam is connected, with a return branch and a feed branch, which leads to a mixing point for the production of the final dosage. The device is also suitable for processing non-premixed products.

Dabei können vorzugsweise mehrere nahe der Verwendungsstelle angeordnete Schaumgeneratoren an ein gemeinsames Dosier- und Mischgerät angeschlossen sein. Bei der Erfindung werden also die einzelnen Komponenten nahe an die Verwendungsstelle herantransportiert und dort der Schaum erzeugt werden, so daß sich keine langen Wege für den Schaumtransport ergeben, auf dem er wieder zusammenfallen könnte.A plurality of foam generators arranged near the point of use can preferably be connected to a common metering and mixing device. In the invention, therefore, the individual components are transported close to the point of use and the foam is generated there, so that there are no long paths for the foam transport on which it could collapse again.

Die Einrichtung läßt sich leicht transportabel herstellen, falls ein beweglicher Einsatz erwünscht ist. Auch hier bringt die Tatsache, daß der Schaumgenerator ein kleines Volumen und einen geringen Querschnitt hat und mit dem Dosiergerät nur durch sehr dünne Zuführleitungen zu verbinden ist, viele Vorteile. Der Schaumgenerator könnte ggf. sogar flexibel, z.B. in einem Schlauch, ausgebildet sein und kann beliebige Querschnittsformen haben. Dabei ist es ebenfalls vorteilhaft, daß die Fertigmischung bereits im Dosier- und Mischgerät erfolgen und dem Schaumgenerator die Fertigmischung durch nur eine Leitung zugeführt werden kann, und daß der Schaumgenerator lageunabhängig ist.The device can be easily transported if a mobile use is desired. Here, too, the fact that the foam generator has a small volume and a small cross section and can only be connected to the metering device by means of very thin feed lines has many advantages. The foam generator could even be flexible, e.g. be formed in a hose and can have any cross-sectional shape. It is also advantageous that the ready-mix is done in the metering and mixing device and the ready-mix can be fed to the foam generator through only one line, and that the foam generator is position-independent.

Merkmale von weiteren bevorzugten Ausbildungen der Erfindung gehen außer aus den Unteransprüchen auch aus der Beschreibung und Zeichnung hervor. Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung sind in der Zeichnung dargestellt und werden im Folgenden näher erläutert. In der Zeichnung zeigen:

  • Fig. 1 eine schematische Frontansicht eines Teils einer Autowaschstraße mit einer Einrichtung zum Erzeugen und Aufbringen von Schaum,
  • Fig. 2 ein schematisches Schaltbild für die Komponentenzuführung,
  • Fig. 3 einen schematischen Längsschnitt durch einen Schaumgenerator und -verteiler,
  • Fig. 4 und 5 Draufsichten auf in dem Schaumgenerator verwendete Trennwände,
  • Fig. 6 einen horizontalen Längsschnitt durch einen Schaumverteiler und
  • Fig. 7 einen anders geformten Schaumgenerator,
  • Fig. 8 ein Detail der Eintrittskammer.
  • Fig 9 ein Detail einer Schaumerzeugungskammer im Längsschnitt
  • Fig 10 einen Schnitt nach Linie X-X in Fig. 9 und
  • Fig 11 eine schematische Darstellung, die eine bevorzugte mobile Anwendung zeigt.
Features of further preferred embodiments of the invention emerge from the description and drawing in addition to the subclaims. Embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawing and are explained in more detail below. The drawing shows:
  • 1 is a schematic front view of part of a car wash with a device for generating and applying foam,
  • 2 shows a schematic circuit diagram for the component feed,
  • 3 shows a schematic longitudinal section through a foam generator and distributor,
  • 4 and 5 plan views of partitions used in the foam generator,
  • Fig. 6 shows a horizontal longitudinal section through a foam distributor and
  • 7 shows a differently shaped foam generator,
  • Fig. 8 shows a detail of the entry chamber.
  • Fig. 9 shows a detail of a foam generation chamber in longitudinal section
  • Fig. 10 is a section along line XX in Fig. 9 and
  • 11 is a schematic illustration showing a preferred mobile application.

Fig. 1 zeigt einen Teil einer Autowaschanlage 11, in der Kraftfahrzeuge 12 gewaschen werden. Sie werden dazu von einer Transporteinrichtung 13 (Bänder, Ketten oder dgl.) durch verschiedene Stationen geschleppt, von denen die Einschäumstation 14 gezeigt ist. Sie besteht aus einem feststehenden Portal 15, das die üblichen berührungslosen Fühler (Lichtschranken oder dgl.) zur Ein- und Ausschaltung der entsprechenden Einrichtungen aufweist und an dessen beiden Seitenholmen je ein Schaumgerator 16 angebracht ist.1 shows part of a car wash 11 in which motor vehicles 12 are washed. For this purpose, they are towed by a transport device 13 (belts, chains or the like) through various stations, of which the foaming station 14 is shown. It consists of a fixed portal 15, which has the usual contactless sensors (light barriers or the like) for switching the corresponding devices on and off, and a foam generator 16 is attached to each of the two side rails.

Es sei schon hier bemerkt, daß dieser im Folgenden beschriebene Schaumgenerator sich auch besonders gut für die bewegliche Verwendung eignet, beispielsweise an Autowaschanlagen mit fahrbarem Portal (und feststehendem Auto) oder an Gebäudewaschanlagen und dgl.It should be noted here that this foam generator described below is also particularly suitable for mobile use, for example on car washes with a mobile portal (and stationary car) or on building washes and the like.

Die Schaumgeneratoren 16 sind beim Ausführungsbeispiel langgestreckt rohrförmig und vertikal angeordnet. Ihre Schaumaustrittsmündungen 17 liegen an ihrem oberen Teil, während die Zuführung der Schaumkomponenten über Leitungen im unteren Teil erfolgt. Zugeführt wird über Leitungen 18 eine Fertigmischung von Wasser und zum Autowaschen benutzter Chemikalien, die eine gute Schaumbildung ermöglichen beispielsweise ein Produkt, was als "Aktiv-Schaum" für Autowaschstraßen von der Firma AUWA-Chemie, Augsburg, vertrieben wird.The foam generators 16 are elongated tubular and arranged vertically in the embodiment. Their foam outlet orifices 17 lie on their upper part, while the foam components are supplied via lines in the lower part. A ready mixture of water and chemicals used for washing the car is supplied via lines 18, which enable good foam formation, for example a product which is sold as "active foam" for car washes by the company AUWA-Chemie, Augsburg.

Diese Fertigmischung kann bezüglich des Schaumbildners recht gering dosiert sein, so daß zB. 0,3 0,4 cm3 Schaumbildner je gewaiebenes Kraftfahrzeug ausreicht. Dies ist ca. eirir"Vierte! dessen, was in herkömmlichen Anlagen ge braucht wurde und ein noch geringerer Bruchteil dessen, was in herkömmlichen Injektoranlagen gebraucht wurde, in denen der Schaum durch Mischung nach dem Venturi-Prinzip hergestellt wurde.This ready mix can be dosed very low with respect to the foaming agent, so that, for example. 0.3 0.4 cm 3 foaming agent per car is sufficient. This is approximately a fourth of what was needed in conventional systems and an even smaller fraction of what was needed in conventional injector systems in which the foam was produced by mixing according to the Venturi principle.

Über die Leitung 19 wird Preßluft zugeführt. Die Steuerung erfolgt in einem Dosier- und Mischgerät 20, das einen Preßluft- und Wasseranschluß 21, 30, eine Zuführleitung 22 von einem Vorratsbehälter 23 sowie eine Rückführleitung 24 zu diesem aufweist.Compressed air is supplied via line 19. The control takes place in a metering and mixing device 20, which has a compressed air and water connection 21, 30, a feed line 22 from a storage container 23 and a return line 24 to the latter.

Fig. 1 zeigt insbesondere, daß der Schaum 25 praktisch unmittelbar aus den Schaumbildern versprüht werden kann. Er kann aus mehreren Austrittsmündungen 17 je Schaumbildner gleichmäßig auf das Kraftfahrzeug aufgebracht werden, wo er eine gleichmäßige Schicht bildet, die für eine gute Verteilung und einen Halt der waschaktiven Substanzen auf den zu waschenden Ober
flächen sorgt, so daß diese nicht sofort wieder ablaufen, und von den im Schaum sehr weich laufenden Bürsten gut verteilt werden können. Es ist ferner zu erkennen, daß die Austrittsmündungen verstellbar sein können, um beispielsweise auch bei einer unsymmetrischen Anordnung des Kraftfahrzeugs unter dem Portal eine gleichmäßige und verlustfreie Einschäumung zu ermöglichen. Der Anschluß der Schaumbildner erfolgt lediglich über relativ dünne Leitungen für die Mischung und Luft, die ggf. auch flexibel verlegt werden können und bei denen Entfernungen vom Dosier- und Mischgerät 20 keine Rolle spielen. So kann ohne weiteres ein Dosier-und Mischgerät mehrere Schaumgeneratoren versorgen. Ferner ist zu erkennen, daß die Schaumgeneratoren ein sehr kleines Volumen haben und sich gut in Anlagen einfügen lassen.Fig. 1 shows in particular that the foam 25 can be sprayed practically directly from the foam images. It can be applied uniformly to the motor vehicle from a plurality of outlet openings 17 per foaming agent, where it forms a uniform layer, which ensures good distribution and retention of the detergent substances on the surface to be washed
surfaces ensures that they do not run off immediately, and can be well distributed by the very soft brushes in the foam. It can also be seen that the outlet openings can be adjustable in order, for example, to enable uniform and loss-free foaming even when the motor vehicle is arranged asymmetrically under the portal. The foaming agent is only connected via relatively thin lines for the mixture and air, which can optionally also be laid flexibly and in which distances from the metering and mixing device 20 play no role. In this way, one metering and mixing device can easily supply several foam generators. It can also be seen that the foam generators have a very small volume and can be easily inserted into systems.

Fig. 2 zeigt einige wesentliche Teile des Dosier-und Mischgerätes 20 im Schaltbild. Es enthält zwei in der Förderleistung unabhängig voneinander einstellbare, vorteilhaft von einem gemeinsamen Motor angetriebene Pumpen 26, die aus dem Vorratsbehälter 23 über die Zuführleitung 22 eine Vormischung (z.B. im Verhältnis Schaumbildner/Wasser von 1/20) ansaugen und je einem Dreiwege-Magnetventil 27 zuführen, die ausgangsseitig entweder an Rückführleitungen 24 zum Vorratsbehälter 23 oder an eine Speiseleitung 28 angeschlossen sind. Jede Speiseleitung 28 für die Vormischung mündet in eine von einem Magnetventil 29 geschaltete Wasserzuleitung 30, die nach dem Einmischen der Vormischung aus der Speiseleitung 28 die Leitungen 18 für die Fertigmischung bildet, die zu je einem Schaumgenerator führen. Obwohl es auch möglich ist, mehrere Schaumgeneratoren von der gleichen Dosierpumpe aus zu versorgen, hat die Verwendung zweier unabhängig einstellbarer Pumpen den Vorteil einer genauen Anpassung der Schaumqualität und -Menge an _ beiden Schaumgeneratoren, wozu auch unabhängige Druckluft- und Wasserregel- und Steuerventile gehören. Die Preßluftzuleitung 21 wird ebenfalls durch ein Magnetventil 31 geschaltet und führt als Preßluftleitung 19 zu den Schaumgeneratoren 16. In den Leitungen können zusätzlich Regulier- und Rückschlagventile angeordnet sein. Der in Fig. 3 detailliert dargestellte Schaumgenerator 16 besteht aus mehreren Kunststoff-Rohrstücken 34, die durch Verbindungsstücke 35 miteinander verbunden sind, die die Form kurzer, die Rohrstücke 34 übergreifender Rohrstücke haben und innen einen AnschlagBund 36 aufweisen Gegen diesen sind die Stirnseiten der Rohrstücke bzw. von diesen festgelegte Trennwände 37, 37a, 37b ge drückt und dadurch festgelegt. Die Verbindungsstücke werden mit den Rohrestücken verschweißt, so daß das Ganze eine langgestreckte rohrförmige Einheit bildet, in der drei langzylindrische Kammern 38 ausgebildet sind, während sich an dem unteren Ende eine Eintrittskammer 39 und am oberen Ende eine Austrittskammer 40 anschließt. Diese bestehen ebenfalls aus ange schweißten Rohrstücken, die mit Kappen 41 verschlossen sind. Die Eintrittskammer weist zwei Einlaßeinschlüsse 42, 43 für die Leitungen 18, 19 auf und ist relativ kurz, während die Austrittskammer 40 länger ausgebildet ist und in ihrem Mittelbereich am Umfang eine rechtwinklig von ihr ausgehende Austrittsleitung 44 aufweist, die im Querschnitt etwa dem der Kammern entspricht.2 shows some essential parts of the metering and mixing device 20 in the circuit diagram. It contains two pumps 26, which can be set independently of one another in terms of the delivery rate and are advantageously driven by a common motor, which draw a premix (for example in the ratio foaming agent / water from 1/20) from the storage container 23 via the feed line 22 and a three-way solenoid valve 27 each feed, which are connected on the output side either to return lines 24 to the reservoir 23 or to a feed line 28. Each feed line 28 for the premix opens into a water feed line 30 which is connected by a solenoid valve 29 and which, after the premix has been mixed in, forms the lines 18 for the ready-mix, which each lead to a foam generator. Although it is also possible to supply several foam generators from the same metering pump, the use of two independently adjustable pumps has the advantage of precisely adjusting the foam quality and quantity on both foam generators, which also include independent compressed air and water control and control valves. The compressed air supply line 21 is also switched by a solenoid valve 31 and leads as a compressed air line 19 to the foam generators 16. In the lines can In addition, regulating and check valves can be arranged. The foam generator 16 shown in detail in FIG. 3 consists of several plastic pipe pieces 34, which are connected to one another by connecting pieces 35, which have the shape of short pipe pieces 34 which cross over the pipe pieces 34 and which have a stop collar 36 on the inside. The end faces of the pipe pieces or pressed by these defined partition walls 37, 37a, 37b and thereby fixed. The connecting pieces are welded to the pipe pieces, so that the whole forms an elongated tubular unit in which three long cylindrical chambers 38 are formed, while an inlet chamber 39 is connected to the lower end and an outlet chamber 40 is connected to the upper end. These also consist of welded pieces of pipe, which are closed with caps 41. The inlet chamber has two inlet inclusions 42, 43 for the lines 18, 19 and is relatively short, while the outlet chamber 40 is longer and has in its central region an outlet line 44 extending at right angles from its circumference, which in cross section corresponds approximately to that of the chambers .

Daran schließt sich ein Schaumverteiler 45 an, durch den der Schaum auf drei Schaumaustritts mündungen 17 verteilt wird. Ebenso wie bei der Austrittskammer 40 die Austrittsleitung 44 nicht an einem Ende, sondern mittig abzweigt, so wird auch im Schaumverteiler jeweils die Verteilung symmetrisch nach beiden Seiten vorgenommen (Fig. 6). So hat der Schaumverteiler 45 einen an die Austrittsleitung 44 angeschlossenen Eintritts anschluß 46, der mittig in einen Verteilerkanal 47 einmündet, der beidseitig über Krümmer 48 in Übertrittskanäle 49 übergeht, die ihrerseits wiederum in einen längeren Verteilerkanal 50 einmünden. Symmetrisch zu den Einmündungsstellen 51 in diesen Verteilerkanal 50 sind an dessen beiden Enden und in der Mitte Austritts düsenstücke 52 angeschlossen, die an ihrem Ende die Austrittsmündungen 17 aufweisen und je aus zwei hintereinander geschalteten 90°-Krümmern 53 bestehen, die über feststellbare Kupplungsstücke 54 so verstellt werden können, daß die ebenfalls über einen Kupplungsstück 54 angeschlossene, vorzugsweise schlitzförmige Austrittsmündung 17, die einen gefächerten Schaumstrahl erzeugt, in zahlreichen Richtungen einstellbar ist (Fig. 3).This is followed by a foam distributor 45 through which the foam is distributed to three foam outlet openings 17. Just as with the outlet chamber 40, the outlet line 44 does not branch off at one end but in the middle, so the distribution is also carried out symmetrically on both sides in the foam distributor (FIG. 6). For example, the foam distributor 45 has an inlet connection 46 connected to the outlet line 44, which ends in the middle in a distributor channel 47, which merges on both sides via elbows 48 into transition channels 49, which in turn open into a longer distributor channel 50. Symmetrical to the junction 51 in this distribution channel 50 are connected at its two ends and in the middle outlet nozzle pieces 52, which have the outlet openings 17 at their end and each consist of two series-connected 90 ° elbows 53, the so via lockable coupling pieces 54 can be adjusted so that the preferably slot-shaped outlet mouth 17, which is also connected via a coupling piece 54 and generates a fanned foam jet, can be adjusted in numerous directions (FIG. 3).

Es ist zu erkennen, daß bei dem Schaumverteiler, der in einem Gehäuse 55 enthalten ist, wie der Schaumgenerator, aus zusammengeschweißten oder-geklebten Kunststoffrohrstücken besteht, die Verteilung jeweils symmetrisch nach beiden Seiten erfolgt, um gleiche Wege für den Schaum nach allen Richtungen zu haben. Außerdem erfolgt die Schaumverteilung mehrstufig (1 auf 2 auf 3), was ebenfalls zu einer gleichmäßigen Verteilung auf alle Austrittsmündungen beiträgt.It can be seen that in the foam distributor, which is contained in a housing 55, like the foam generator, consists of welded or glued plastic pipe pieces, the distribution takes place symmetrically on both sides in order to have equal paths for the foam in all directions . In addition, the foam is distributed in several stages (1 on 2 on 3), which also contributes to an even distribution over all outlet openings.

Fig. 3 bis 5 zeigen die Trennwände 37a, 37b. Es ist zu erkennen, daß diese Trennwände in Form von runden Scheiben Öffnungen 56 aufweisen, die in Zahl und Größe in Strömungsrichtung 57 zunehmen, wobei allerdings die erste Trennwand 37 eine größere Gesamtöffnungsfläche haben kann als die folgenden. Sie passen sich jedoch im übrigen der zunehmenden Schaumentwicklung an. Die Kammern 38 sind mit Füllmaterial 59 gefüllt, das beim Ausführungsbeispiel aus einem losen schlauchförmigen Geflecht aus dünnen monofilen bandförmigen Kunststoffdrähten oder -streifen besteht, das torrusförmig zusammengezogen ist, so daß es einen scheibenförmigen Körper bildet. Derartige Geflechte sind als Topfkratzer im Handel. Eine Füllung der einzelnen Kammern 38 mit diesem Füllmaterial durch Hineinstopfen in die Kammern hat sich als besonders vorteilhaft erwiesen.3 to 5 show the partitions 37a, 37b. It can be seen that these partition walls in the form of round disks have openings 56 which increase in number and size in the direction of flow 57, although the first partition wall 37 can have a larger total opening area than the following ones. However, they adapt to the increasing development of foam. The chambers 38 are filled with filling material 59, which in the exemplary embodiment consists of a loose tubular braid made of thin monofilament band-shaped plastic wires or strips which is drawn together in a torrent-shaped manner so that it forms a disk-shaped body. Such meshes are commercially available as pot scratches. Filling the individual chambers 38 with this filler material by plugging them into the chambers has proven to be particularly advantageous.

Es wird dadurch ein ausgezeichneter, gleichmäßig feinporiger weicher Schaum erzeugt, der eine gute Stabilität hat. Es können jedoch auch andere poröse Füllmaterialien verwendet werden, die dafür sorgen, daß die aufzuschäumende Flüssigkeit auf ihrem Wege durch den Schaumgenerator ständig neue mit Durchtritten versehene Elemente benetzt, wodurch ständig neue Schaumblasen gebildet werden. Auch die Eintritts- und Austrittskammern 39, 40 könnten mit Füllmaterial gefüllt sein.This creates an excellent, uniformly fine-pored soft foam that has good stability. However, other porous filling materials can also be used which ensure that the liquid to be foamed continuously wets new elements provided with passages through the foam generator, as a result of which new foam bubbles are constantly formed. The inlet and outlet chambers 39, 40 could also be filled with filler material.

Fig. 7 zeigt eine Ausführung eines Schaumgenerators 16a, der durch eine zick-zack-förmige Anordnung mit geringerer Gesamtlänge herstellbar ist, obwohl er zusätzlich zu den Eintritts- und Austrittskammern 39, 40 fünf Kammern 38a,b hat, die unterschiedlich lang sein können. Dabei wird jeweils eine Kammer 38a durch ein gerades Rohrstück gebildet, während die anschließende Kammer 38b durch einen 180°-Rohrkrümmer gebildet ist. Die Verbindung erfolgt wie bei Fig. 3 durch Verbindungsstücke 35 mit eingesetzten Trennwänden 37. Diese Anordnung eignet sich um Einbau in Geräte, wo der relativ flach bauende Schaumgenerator an einer Wand angebracht werden kann. Durch eine räumliche Ineinanderschachtelung könnte das Gerät noch kompakter gebaut werden.FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of a foam generator 16a which can be produced by a zigzag-shaped arrangement with a shorter overall length, although in addition to the inlet and outlet chambers 39, 40 it has five chambers 38a, b which can be of different lengths. In this case, one chamber 38a is formed by a straight piece of pipe, while the subsequent chamber 38b is formed by a 180 ° pipe elbow. The connection is made as in Fig. 3 by connecting pieces 35 with inserted partition walls 37. This arrangement is suitable for installation in devices where the relatively flat foam generator can be attached to a wall. Spatial nesting could make the device even more compact.

Es ist bereits ausgeführt worden, daß eine entsprechend größere Anzahl von Trennwänden u.U. die Verwendung von Füllmaterial ganz oder teilweise ersetzen könnte, während andererseits das Füllmaterial auch anders als durch die Trennwände in den Kammern gehalten sein könnte. Die Kombination von Trennwänden und dem porösen Füllmaterial ist allerdings sehr vorteilhaft, wobei vor allem dafür gesorgt werden kann, daß eine erwünschte Drosselung eintritt, um zu vermeiden, daß die eingeströmte Preßluft zu leicht durch den gesamten rohrförmigen Schaumgenerator durchbläst.It has already been stated that a correspondingly larger number of partitions may could completely or partially replace the use of filler material, while on the other hand the filler material could also be held differently than by the partitions in the chambers. The combination of partitions and the porous filling material is very advantageous, however, and above all it can be ensured that a desired throttling occurs in order to prevent the compressed air flowing in from blowing too easily through the entire tubular foam generator.

In einer Autowaschstraße wird die Einrichtung so betrieben, daß bei Inbetriebnahme der Autowaschstraße, d.h. dem Anlassen der Grundeinrichtungen, wie des Schleppbandes 13, bereits die Pumpe 26, eine stufenlos einstellbare Membranpumpe, angelassen wird. Sie fördert ständig die Vormischung über die Leitung 22 in der gewünschten einstellbaren Menge, leitet sie jedoch, solange keine Schaumbildung eingeleitet werden soll, über das Dreiwegeventil 27 wieder in den Vorratsbehälter 23 zurück, wodurch die darin enthaltene Vormischung ständig umgewälzt und Entmischung vermieden wird. Bei Beginn der Schaumbildung, ausgelöst durch das Einlaufen eines Kraftfahrzeuges in den Bereich der Einschäumstation 14, werden gleichzeitig die Magnetventile 27, 29, 31 betätigt, so daß die entsprechende Fertigmischung aus Wasser und Vormischung erzeugt und über die Leitung 18 zum Schaumgenerator transportiert wird, während gleichzeitig über die Leitung 19 Preßluft einströmt. Im Schaumgenerator bildet sich normalerweise kein Flüssigkeitsniveau aus, das überwacht werden müßte, wie bei bekannten Geräten, sondern der Schaum bildet sich unmittelbar, wird in seiner Konsistenz während des Durchlaufens durch den ganzen Schaumgenerator ständig verbessert und tritt schließlich aus, wo er lediglich im Verteiler 45 verteilt und dann über die Austrittsdüsenstücke 52 in die richtige Richtung geleitet ausgegeben wird. Die Schaumerzeugung findet also praktisch im Zuleitungsrohr zur Verwendungsstelle statt. Gegebenenfalls könnten auch noch weitere Teile, beispielsweise der Verteiler, mit in den Schaumgenerator einbezogen werden, indem sie Trennwände und Füllmaterial enthalten bzw. die Verteilung könnte gleich im Schaumgenerator vorgenommen werden.In a car wash, the device is operated in such a way that when the car wash is put into operation, ie when the basic devices such as the drag belt 13 are started, the pump 26, a continuously adjustable diaphragm pump, is started. It constantly promotes the premixing via the line 22 in the desired adjustable amount, guides it however, as long as no foam formation is to be initiated, back into the reservoir 23 via the three-way valve 27, as a result of which the premixing contained therein is continuously circulated and segregation is avoided. At the start of foam formation, triggered by the entry of a motor vehicle into the area of the foaming station 14, the solenoid valves 27, 29, 31 are actuated at the same time, so that the corresponding ready mixture of water and premix is generated and transported via line 18 to the foam generator while Compressed air flows simultaneously via line 19. In the foam generator, there is normally no liquid level that would have to be monitored, as in known devices, but the foam is formed immediately, its consistency is continuously improved as it passes through the entire foam generator and finally emerges, where it is only in the distributor 45 distributed and then output via the outlet nozzle pieces 52 directed in the correct direction. Foam generation therefore takes place practically in the supply pipe to the point of use. If necessary, other parts, for example the distributor, could also be included in the foam generator, in that they contain partition walls and filler material, or the distribution could be carried out in the foam generator.

Fig. 8 zeigt ein Detail der Eintrittskammer 39, das sowohl bei Fig. 3 oder Fig. 7 Anwendung finden kann. Es ist dort an der ersten Trennwand 37 ein Rückschlagventil 70 vorgesehen, das aus einem in die Trennwand 37 eingesetzten Sitzgehäuse 71 besteht, an dem sich ein Saugsieb 72 befindet, und das im Inneren einen federbelasteten Ventilkörper 73 führt. Das Rückschlagventil 70, über dessen Mittelbohrung die erste Schaumerzeugungskammer 38 mit den gemischten Komponenten beschickt wird, verhindert, daß in Stillstandzeiten Schaum aus den Schaumerzeugungskammern in die Eintrittskammer zurückdrückt. Somit kann eine definierte und dosierte Schaumabgabe erzielt werden. Das in Fig. 9 dargestellte Detail zeigt eine Stützeinrichtung 60, die in den Schaumerzeugungskammern 38 angeordnet ist. Auch diese ist bei den Ausführungen nach Fig. 3, 7 und 11 vorteilhaft einzusetzen. Die Stützeinrichtung besteht jeweils aus einer Querstrebe 62 in Form eines vierstrahligen Sternes (Fig. 10), der durch eine mittlere Längsverbindungsstrebe 64 von der nächsten Querstrebe 62 in Abstand gehalten ist. Jewils eine Quer- und Längsverbindungsstrebe 62, 64 sind in Form einer Einheit 66 als Spritzgußteil hergestellt und mit Klemmen zusammengesteckt und ggf. geklebt werden. Die Längsverbindungsstrebe 64 ragt durch einen Füllmmaterialkörper 59 hindurch, der die Form eines zu einem torus-artigen Körper zusammengewickelten Geflecht aus Kunststoffbändern hat, wie es beispielsweise durch das Ineinanderrollen eines Schlauches entsteht. Derartige Bänder sind als Topfkratzer im Handel. Durch ihre Mittelöffnung ist die Längsverbindungsstrebe gesteckt. Die Stützeinrichtung 60 erstreckt sich über die gesamte Länge jeder Kammer und sorgt dafür, daß trotz der erheblichen Kräfte, die der strömende Schaum auf das Füllmaterial ausübt, das Füllmaterial nicht in Strömungsrichtung mitgenommen und an einem Ende jeder Kammer verdichtet wird. Auch die Kammereinteilung sorgt schon für eine Stabilisierung der Füllmaterialien in dem Schaumgenerator, dies wird jedoch durch die Stützeinrichtung noch weiter verbessert. Vorzugsweise nimmt die Packungsdichte des Füllmaterials in Strömungsrichtung 57 ab, d.h. in der unmittelbar auf die Eintrittskammer 39 folgenden Kammer ist die Packungsdichte am größten. Dies kann dadurch erzielt werden, daß die Längsverbindungsstege 64 der Stützeinrichtung dort kürzer sind als im übrigen Schaumerzeuger.FIG. 8 shows a detail of the inlet chamber 39, which can be used in both FIG. 3 or FIG. 7. There, a check valve 70 is provided on the first partition 37, which consists of a seat housing 71 inserted into the partition 37, on which there is a suction strainer 72, and which inside carries a spring-loaded valve body 73. The check valve 70, through the center bore of which the first foam generation chamber 38 is charged with the mixed components, prevents foam from pressing back into the inlet chamber from the foam generation chambers during downtimes. A defined and metered release of foam can thus be achieved. The detail shown in FIG. 9 shows a support device 60 which is arranged in the foam generation chambers 38. This is also to be used advantageously in the embodiments according to FIGS. 3, 7 and 11. The support device consists in each case of a cross strut 62 in the form of a four-pointed star (FIG. 10), which is kept at a distance from the next cross strut 62 by a central longitudinal connecting strut 64. Each cross and longitudinal connection strut 62, 64 are made in the form of a unit 66 as an injection molded part and plugged together with clamps and possibly glued. The longitudinal connecting strut 64 protrudes through a filler material body 59 which has the shape of a braid made of plastic strips, which is wound together to form a toroidal body, as is produced, for example, by the rolling together of a hose. Such tapes are commercially available as pot scratches. The longitudinal connection strut is inserted through its central opening. The support device 60 extends over the entire length of each chamber and ensures that, despite the considerable forces that the flowing foam exerts on the filling material, the filling material is not carried along in the direction of flow and is compressed at one end of each chamber. The division of the chamber also ensures that the filling materials in the foam generator are stabilized, but this is further improved by the support device. Preferably, the packing density of the filler material decreases in the flow direction 57, i.e. The packing density is greatest in the chamber immediately following the inlet chamber 39. This can be achieved in that the longitudinal connecting webs 64 of the support device are shorter there than in the rest of the foam generator.

Es hat sich auch gezeigt, daß es wichtig ist, daß durch die gelochten Trennwände 37, 37a, 37b der Schaum zwangsweise wieder relativ gleichmäßig auf den gesamten Rohrquerschnitt verteilt wird. Anderenfalls würden sich in dem flexiblen Füllmaterial Vorzugswege herausbilden, aus denen das Füllmaterial verdrängt wird, so daß es umgangen werden könnte. Dazu tragen auch die Stützeinrichtungen bei, weil sie das Füllmaterial nicht nur in axialer Richtung, sondern auch in radialer Richtung stabilisieren.It has also been shown that it is important that the perforated partitions 37, 37a, 37b inevitably distribute the foam relatively uniformly over the entire pipe cross section. Otherwise preferred paths would form in the flexible filling material, from which the filling material would be displaced, so that it could be avoided. The support devices also contribute to this because they stabilize the filling material not only in the axial direction but also in the radial direction.

Fig 11 zeigt schematisch, daß der Schaumerzeuger, der prinzipell dem nach Fig. 3 und 7 gleichen kann, bei einem transportablen Gerät unmittelbar als Handhabe zur Schaumverteilung dienen kann. Der Schaumerzeuger 16b kann wegen seiner Lageunabhängigkeit und seines geringen Querschnittes in das Austrittsrohr integriert sein und die Auslaßmündung 17b kann direkt am Kopf des Schaumerzeugers angebracht sein. Der Schaumerzeuger ist lediglich über flexible Schläuche 42b, 43b mit dem Gerät 20b verbunden, das außer den in Fig. 2 gezeigten Einrichtungen (jedoch nur für einen Schaumerzeuger) auch den Behälter für den Schaumbildner, Wasser und ggf. einen Luftkompressor enthalten kann. Die Betätigung kann über einen Schalter (z.B. Pistolengriff) am Schaumerzeuger selbst erfolgen, der elektrisch oder durch unmittelbare Schaltung der Flüssigkeiten und Gase die Schaumerzeugung auslöst. Somit kann ein leicht handhabbares Gerät zur Einschäumung von Wandflächen etc. z.B. zur Gebäudereinigung hergestellt werden.Fig. 11 shows schematically that the foam generator, which in principle can be the same as that of Figs. 3 and 7, can serve directly as a handle for foam distribution in a portable device. The foam generator 16b can be integrated into the outlet pipe because of its positional independence and its small cross-section, and the outlet mouth 17b can be attached directly to the head of the foam generator. The foam generator is only connected to the device 20b via flexible hoses 42b, 43b, which, in addition to the devices shown in FIG. 2 (but only for a foam generator), can also contain the container for the foam generator, water and possibly an air compressor. It can be operated via a switch (e.g. pistol grip) on the foam generator itself, which triggers foam generation either electrically or by switching the liquids and gases directly. Thus, an easy-to-use device for foaming wall surfaces etc. e.g. be produced for cleaning buildings.

Es ist festgestellt worden, daß die Schaumerzeugung in der Einrichtung nach der Erfindung so gut ist, daß selbst Substanzen, die üblicherweise kaum zu verschäumen waren, wie beispielsweise Konservierungswachs für Lackflächen, aufgeschäumtwerden können, so daß sie in flüssiger und mit Wasser vermischter Form auf Lackflächen aufgebracht werden können und dort durch das langsame Zusammenfallen des Schaumes auf der Lackfläche gut deponiert werden können, ohne wirkungslos abzulaufen.It has been found that the foam generation in the device according to the invention is so good that even substances that were usually difficult to foam, such as preserving wax for lacquered surfaces, can be foamed so that they are present in liquid and mixed form on lacquered surfaces can be applied and can be deposited there due to the slow collapse of the foam on the paint surface without running ineffectively.

Claims (12)

1. Apparatus for producing foam from liquid and gaseous components, such as water, air and foaming agents, as well as optionally active substances with an elongated, tubular foam generator (16, 16a) with an inlet chamber (39), at least one foam generating device (38) and an outlet (44); supply means (18, 19, 20) for supplying the components to the inlet chamber (39); and an outlet section (45), which terminates in at least one outlet port (17) and is connected to outlet (44), the foam generator (16, 16a) having several foam generating chambers (38, 39, 40) arranged successively in the flow direction (57), whose separating elements (37, 37a, 37b, 59) define numerous foam-generating openings (56), characterized in that the area and/or number of the openings (56) increase in the flow direction (57).
2. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the foam generating chambers contain as separating elements a filling material (59), which comprises a netting or tangle of wire-like or preferably band-like threads, particularly of plastic.
3. Apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that in at least one foam generating chamber (38, 39, 40) is provided a support means (60), which positions the permeable, flexible filling material (59) in the axial direction of the foam generating chambers (38, 39, 40) and secures same there, advantageously the support means (60) comprising axially spaced, preferably star- like cross-bars (62) and a central longitudinal connection (64), in each case passed through at least one, optionally toroidal filling material body (59), the support means (60) being formed from units (66) containing cross-bars (62) and a longitudinal connecting portion (64) and in particular the spacing between the crossbars (62) increases in the flow direction (57).
4. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elongated, tubular foam generator (16, 16a) is constructed with zig-zag or wave-like configuration.
5. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the foam generator (16, 16a) comprises pipe sections (34) or bends in each case containing one chamber (38, 39, 40) and made from plastic, as well as connecting pieces (35), the latter containing or fixing partitions (37, 37a, 37b) broken by openings (56) and in that the pipe sections (34) or bends and connecting pieces (35) are preferably joined together by welding and optionally the outlet section (45) is laterally connected to an outlet chamber (40), upstream of its end and preferably in its central region.
6. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flow path between outlet (44) and outlet port (17) is much shorter and preferably less than half as long as the flow path between the inlet chamber (39) and the outlet (40).
7. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outlet section (45) of a foam generator (16, 16a) is a distributor with an inlet connection (46) and several outlet ports (17), which has at least one distribution channel (47, 50) at right angles to the inlet connection (46) and into which the inlet connection (46) or passage channels (49) issue at issuing points (51), at least two outlet or passage channels (49) being connected to each distribution channel (47, 50) in each case at the same distance from the issuing points (51) and preferably the distributor (45) with its distribution channels (47, 50) is positioned horizontally and optionally the outlet ports (17) are arranged on direction-adjustable, short discharge nozzle portions.
8. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the foam generator (16) is positioned directly alongside a car wash (11), preferably on the columns of a foaming station (14) and its several outlet ports (17) spray the foam (25) onto the point of use, without interposing significant pipe or hose lengths.
9. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that upstream of a foam generator (16) is provided a dosing and mixing device (20), the foaming agent being sucked out of a storage tank (23), where it is present in a state premixed with water and can be supplied by a feed pump (26) to a three-way valve (27) operable for foam generation and to which is connected a return branch (24) to the storage tank (23) and a supply branch (28) used for producing the finished mixture and leads to a mixing station.
10. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that several foam generators (16, 16a) positioned close to the point of use are connected to a common dosing and mixing device (20), there preferably being two separate and separately adjustable feed pumps driven by a common motor.
11. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a non-return valve (70) is provided between the inlet chamber (39) and a foam generating chamber (38) following the same.
12. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that preferably in the case of a transportable apparatus for foam generation, the foam generator (16b) is located in the manually movable distributor tube, which carries at its end the outlet port (17) and in that the supply means contain flexible hoses (42b, 43b).
EP85108068A 1984-07-07 1985-06-28 Device for making foam Expired - Lifetime EP0167947B1 (en)

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AT85108068T ATE50924T1 (en) 1984-07-07 1985-06-28 DEVICE FOR GENERATING FOAM.

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DE3425078A DE3425078A1 (en) 1984-07-07 1984-07-07 DEVICE FOR PRODUCING FOAM
DE3425078 1984-07-07

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EP0167947A2 EP0167947A2 (en) 1986-01-15
EP0167947A3 EP0167947A3 (en) 1987-02-04
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EP0167947A2 (en) 1986-01-15
DE3425078A1 (en) 1986-02-06
ATE50924T1 (en) 1990-03-15
EP0167947A3 (en) 1987-02-04
DE3576463D1 (en) 1990-04-19

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