EP0789628B1 - Powder coating booth - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention concerns a powder coating booth (1) comprising at least one spraying unit (4) connected to at least one powder-preparation and feed unit (6). This booth has a small base surface and is in the form of a column whose height depends on the workpiece to be coated. A closable slot (3) is provided in at least one of the booth walls and is designed for the passage of at least one powder-spraying unit (4) . In cross-section, the booth can be circular or square or combined, for example oval, rectangular or the like. When the slot(s) (3) is (are) closed, a cleaning unit (20) is introduced and automatically cleans the booth interior. In addition, at least one double flap arrangement (32) can be provided on a booth wall area such that the booth can be switched universally to automatic and/or manual operation. If a lock device is provided on the inlet and/or outlet side, it can be transformed to form a pre-coating space or after-coating space. Furthermore, preferably at least the booth wall area opposite the powder-spraying unit (4) is non-conductive. To this end, this wall area can be made totally or partially from a non-conductive material. If necessary, a non-conductive coating can be applied to the corresponding necessary areas or to entire wall surfaces.

Description

The invention is concerned with powder coating booths which in particular, but not exclusively for continuous operation are determined, and for example also for a manual coating operation are suitable. Such a powder coating booth has at least one powder spray device, which with at least one powder preparation and supply device connected is.

A powder coating booth according to the preamble of the claim 1 is described in US-A-5,149,373. To avoid and overcome difficulties in cleaning the interior in connection with the Color change there are several separate cabin housings provided, with each color change from the base frame need to be replaced. The respective housing is for storage collapsible and can be unfolded if it is as a cabin for powder coating in the supporting base frame is used. Thus, separate cabin housings for each Paint is required and the interior of the cabin is cleaned not, but should be avoided with this.

US-A-4 715 314 describes a powder coating installation which to simplify the interior cleaning process of the cabin has at least cabin interior walls made of a non-adhesive, electrically non-conductive plastic material. Furthermore, a cleaning device is provided, which is hanging on a transport device or a transport rail in Longitudinal direction through the powder coating booth for the execution of Internal cleaning work is moved through. To at a cabin the cleaning device with just one pass for the workpieces being able to introduce it becomes the introduction before executing the Cleaning work shifted in the vertical direction and by 90 ° turned. To carry out the cleaning work inside the The powder coating booth then becomes the cleaning device moved along the longitudinal direction of the cabin through the same.

From US-A-4 220 431 is an embodiment of a coating booth Known which one on the entry or exit side Automatically openable and lockable lock for insertion or Discharge of the coated objects. Furthermore, in JP-A-5 192 619 scale-like cover parts for covering slots in Spray booths described.

Powder coating booths of the usual type include, for example several powder spray devices, which over the entire height of the cabin must be movable, and the on opposite wall areas of the cabin in side by side Arrangement can be provided. Also there is Systems that are used for both manual coating and Automatic operation on one or more powder spray devices have arranged only one wall side. In all cases one has Powder coating booth takes up a lot of space, and has in particular depending on the number of powder spray devices considerable length of, for example, about 6 m. In the Integration of such a powder coating booth into one Coating line arise because of the large space requirement, especially on floor space, difficulties with a suitable hall layout. Also, in terms of the big one Internal volume of such a powder coating booth large air requirement required, which leads to powerful Suction devices must be used, which is uneconomical on the operation of the powder coating booth impact.

Furthermore, the cleaning of the inner walls prepares one such powder coating booth due to the size difficulties which is required, for example, when changing colors is because suitable automatic cleaning devices are suitable for this with great design effort in the longitudinal direction must be arranged movably. (See, for example, US-A-4,715,314) Therefore, in most Cases are cleaned by hand when changing colors, but what is time and personnel intensive. Furthermore, that nowadays a color change is required much more often is because different colors are often desired and usually a free choice of color also in the precast area at the Is offered to users. This makes it increasingly important the aspect of simple and reliable cleaning realize.

Furthermore, there are powder spray devices comprising several fingers nowadays, which taking advantage of the tribology effect a very even and intensified fog effect in the Generate cabin interior and larger spray heights and widths reachable.

The invention aims to overcome the previously difficulties described a powder coating booth to provide generic type, which simplified cleaning of the interior of the cabin enables a reduced one Space requirements and universal for automatic operation and Manual operation can be used.

According to the invention, a powder coating booth is used for this purpose provided at least one powder spraying device, which is specified in claim 1. Powder spraying devices can preferably be used here can be used with several spray fingers, which use the tribology effect in the powder spraying process. Even with a reduced number of powder spray devices you get a larger spray height and width as well as an increased Fog.

The design of the powder coating booth has a significantly reduced space requirement, in particular Floor area, since it is relatively short in the longitudinal direction. This allows the available parking space for considerably reduce such a powder coating booth and it is easy to incorporate into a powder coating line possible. Despite the relatively small length the cabin can be stacked vertically using the arranged powder spray devices, which preferably on opposite walls of the cabin are arranged, a sufficiently uniform and dense veil for powder coating of the property generated over a relatively short distance without needing larger height dimensions. Hereby you get a compact powder coating booth, which also has a lower internal volume compared to conventional powder coating booths so that you have more favorable conditions with regard to the air budget and the facilities for this operate more cheaply and get procured, since you with reduced supply compared to the powder coating booths known per se gets along and a substantial energy saving is achieved.

Due to the design of the powder coating booth created according to the invention with a small footprint and columnar Construction is thus also the cleaning, especially the automatic cleaning, much easier, and it leaves perform more efficiently because you do not Constructions of the cleaning devices used in Movable in the longitudinal direction are required, but it can use a cleaning device which if necessary, only to be moved in the vertical direction needs and self-centering on the cabin walls leads.

With a powder coating booth, which is used for an automatic Continuous operation is determined, and on the ceiling surface a passage for a conveyor frame, which on a conveyor, how a chain conveyor hangs becomes one such a slit-shaped passage in the ceiling surface when Intended use of the cleaning device preferably automatically tightly closed by the same, so that also at a cabin intended for continuous operation Cleaning in a closed container, formed by the Cabin, can be carried out.

The conveyor can be an articulated arm or swivel arm construction have, for the arrangement of a cleaning device for example a double articulated arm construction Auxiliary conveyor or the like can be provided. The Cleaning facility could even be directly with the conveyor be connected.

According to a preferred embodiment, the cleaning device comprises a telescopic arrangement, by means of which the cleaning device in the vertical direction in the formed by the cabin Interior is movable.

According to an alternative embodiment, the cleaning device in terms of design to the cross-sectional shape and the height of the cabin must be adjusted. Such a cleaning device can be fixed for cleaning or be used. You can then, for example, a rotary movement about its longitudinal axis and / or preferably a slight one oscillating movement around the longitudinal axis and / or in the lateral Execute direction. The cleaning device can expediently have a basket-shaped support structure. At a Such a cleaning device, for example, from the Side retracted into the cabin, and cleaning the inside wall or the inside walls of the cabin can quickly and complete with a large area coverage by the cleaning facility respectively.

In the design of the powder coating booth according to the invention can be the various designs of cleaning equipment use which with compressed air and / or suction air and / or can be operated wet. When changing color in Hue can only be used for cleaning, especially ionized air can be used and the remaining particulate matter can stay here.

Since after closing the slots for carrying out the Powder spraying devices and the passage of the ceiling surface an automatic continuous operation a tightly closed Has container is in the powder coating booth according to the invention it also allows the cleaning device in a simple manner can be operated wet to make it more efficient and more reliable cleaning especially when changing colors the cabin to ensure, of course, are combined Design forms of the cleaning device, such as compressed air operation and wet operation, possible.

According to a preferred embodiment, the Cleaning device the inner walls of the closed container, and in particular sponge parts, nozzles or the like can be attached the same may be provided.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the Powder coating booth is the floor area of the booth funnel-shaped, and there is a powder outlet as well if necessary, a closable opening for liquid discharge available when wet cleaning. With this interpretation can cleaning with the help of the automatic cleaning device the stripped on the wall surfaces of the cabin or blown off powder is conveyed to the powder outlet, suctioned off and if necessary be recovered. In the event of a downstream wet-working cleaning device is also a Drainage of the liquid at the bottom of the cabin through the funnel-shaped design possible, so that the cleaning work fully automatic with powder recovery have it carried out.

The powder coating booth is preferably in the direction of flow of the material to be coated on the inlet side and arranged on the outlet side of the cabin, which to a Post-coating station or a pre-coating station convertible is. These lock (s) are of course designed such that they can be closed tightly when cleaning the Cabin interior is made essential with this preferred design is the fact that this Locks have a double function and in addition to one Post-coating station or a pre-coating station convertible on which, depending on the configuration of the coating parts a manual pre or post coating optionally also accessible from the right or left can be carried out when the system is running, if necessary. This enables the powder coating booth according to the invention universally in a simple way to the well-specific Adapt peculiarities. The lock floor is preferably here firmly trained.

Another preferred design of the powder coating booth according to the invention allows easy conversion from Manual coating operation on automatic coating operation and vice versa. In this preferred embodiment, the Opposite wall areas assigned to powder spraying devices adjoining the cabin in a mirror-image arrangement Flaps of different sizes for manual operation and / or automatic operation is provided. The contiguous Flaps can all be directed outwards to open. For automatic operation, opening the smaller one is sufficient sized flap to make the appropriate slot for the Expose the passage of the powder spraying device. At a The powder coating booth is then used in manual mode also opened the larger flap, and the Cabin interior is for the hand-operated powder spraying device (s) accessible, thanks to the mirror image Arrangement of the flaps on the opposite wall surfaces manual powder spraying device (s) to be used in Longitudinally offset from each other to act on the good can be brought. This creates a mutual Disability when working the hand-operated spray devices avoided on the opposite surfaces. The powder sprayers can be arranged directly opposite one another be, and for example in the vertical direction if necessary be synchronously movable. Here, a type of "pusher effect" caused by electrostatics. At In certain applications, an arrangement of the spray device (s) can sufficient on one wall surface of the cabin.

According to a further embodiment of the powder coating booth according to the invention are those adjacent to the locks Cabin wall areas can be folded outwards in such a way that such a large one Opening is formed that the cleaning device Insert laterally into the cabin and retract. Naturally can also the powder coating booth according to the invention be designed so that the cleaning device is retracted from above becomes.

If the powder coating booth is designed so that the Cleaning device moved into the cabin interior from above the cabin is preferably open at the top. At a Such an embodiment can be the open top side of the cabin a blow ring or nozzles can be assigned, which by means of Exhaust air, for example from the post-filter, can be fed. If necessary, blow nozzles can also be used in the area of the locks be additionally provided. This exposure to air can effectively an exit of the powder / air mixture from the Cabin can be prevented in the most energy-saving way possible. Blow nozzles may also be in the area of the locks Cabin height direction may be provided.

If the cleaning device in the invention Powder coating booth, seen in the vertical direction from above works down, introduced from the top of the cabin should be, the top of the cabin is preferably by means of a lid can be closed, which is preferably in one piece trained and attached to the cleaning device. Thus, the top of the cabin is automatically at the intended Use of the cleaning device closed to one tightly closed container interior for carrying out the To have cleaning work.

According to a further preferred embodiment, one part forms the cabin wall a rear wall of the central powder preparation and Utilities, and it's a communication port to the interior of the cabin, which by means of a Interior of the cabin openable flap is closable. A such design allows that in the central powder processing and Excess excess accrued Powder in case of color change by opening the Access opening to the interior, vacuumed and then can be recovered via the powder cycle. This allows the effective use of the powder for the Increase powder coating. Of course this will Connection opening then closed using the flap when the necessary cleaning work with the help of the invention Cleaning device can be carried out fully automatically should.

Furthermore, those provided in the cabin according to the invention are provided Flaps designed so that they seal on their sealing edges have so that the interior of the cabin when closed Flaps closed reliably and also pressure-tight is what especially for performing wet cleaning work with the help of the cleaning device according to the invention is an advantage.

Also are design forms of cleaning facilities with specified, which to the cross-sectional shape and the Height of the powder coating booth with respect to the outline are adapted and do not need to move vertically. For cleaning, these can be fixed or around their longitudinal axis are used in rotation, and / or such a cleaning device can also be an oscillating movement around the Execute the longitudinal axis and / or in the lateral direction.

Furthermore, it has been shown that the spray devices opposite wall or wall areas preferably non-conductive should be to prevent charging. For this the corresponding walls or wall areas could be made of non-conductive Material can be made or it can anyway a non-conductive coating on the entire surface or also be provided only on partial areas. Therefore, the Unloading cabin by itself and charging can be suppressed will be guaranteed as well as safe operation.

Depending on the material to be coated or on the Space can be circular in cross section of the cabin or be square-shaped. With a circular Cross-section, the cabin forms a structure similar to a standing one Cylinders, while having a square cross-sectional shape receives a tower-like configuration. The corners of one quadrangular cross-section are at least in the interior of the Powder coating booth preferably rounded or beveled.

Preferably in the opposite wall areas Powder coating booth arranged slots by means of at least a flap that can be opened to the outside can be closed, whereby the flap directly limits the respective slot. Such Sizing allows the slots in the event of cleaning can be sealed, so that according to a preferred Embodiment the cabin with closed slots forms closed container, the inner walls of which by means of a for example cleaning device movable in the vertical direction are preferably automatically cleaned, whereby it is avoided that powder dust escape during cleaning can to minimize the workload.

Alternatively, a fixed slot could be in a Openable door can be provided, which for carrying out the Cleaning work can be locked in a suitable manner.

In summary, according to the invention, the powder coating booth designed to significantly reduce one Has floor space and that it is also compared to conventional coating booths encloses reduced internal volume. So the Cabin has a reduced air flow volume and the operation will much more energy efficient. Furthermore, such a Designing a powder coating booth also effective and automatic cleaning of the inner walls on structurally simple Way, by a self-centering cleaning device What is used is a time-saving cleaning on automatic Way allowed.

Fig. 1

eine schematische, perspektivische Gesamtansicht einer Pulverbeschichtungskabine nach der Erfindung,

Fig. 2

eine Seitenansicht der Pulverbeschichtungskabine zur Verdeutlichung im Automatik- und Durchlaufbetrieb bei geöffneter Schleuse,

Fig. 2a

eine vergrößerte Ausschnittsansicht des oberen und/oder unteren Endbereichs der Pulverbeschichtungskabine,

Fig. 3

eine schematische Längsschnittansicht der in Fig. 2 gezeigten Kabine mit mehreren unterschiedlichen Ausgestaltungsformen einer automatisch betreibbaren Reinigungseinrichtung,

Fig. 4

eine Querschnittsdarstellung einer weiteren Ausgestaltungsform einer Kabine mit mehreren, unterschiedlich groß bemessenen Klappen auf den gegenüberliegenden Wandbereichen für den Einsatz der Pulversprüheinrichtungen,

Fig. 5

ein schematisches Beispiel einer Verbindung von Klappen, welche im geschlossenen Zustand einen dichten Abschluß des Innenraums einer Pulverbeschichtungskabine gestatten,

Fig. 6

eine schematische Draufsicht einer weiteren bevorzugten Auslegungsform einer Pulverbeschichtungskabine, welche das Einfahren der Reinigungseinrichtung von der Seite her oder in Durchlaufrichtung der Kabine beim Automatikbetrieb gestattet,

Fig. 7

eine weitere Ausgestaltungsform einer Pulverbeschichtungskabine mit zugeordneter und von der Seite her einfahrbare Reinigungseinrichtung, welche im Querschnitt viereckig ausgebildet ist,

Fig. 8

eine schematische Längsschnittansicht einer alternativen Ausführungsform einer Reinigungseinrichtung,

Fig. 9

eine schematische Seitenansicht einer zweckmäßigen Ausgestaltungsform einer Pulversprüheinrichtung mit integrierter Abdeckung für den Durchführungsschlitz in der Kabinenwand, und

Fig. 10

eine perspektivische Ausschnittsansicht eines Bodenbereichs einer Pulverbeschichtungskabine mit einem Flachboden und einer zugeordneten Boden-Abreinigungseinrichtung.

The invention is explained below with reference to preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawing, the same or similar parts are provided with the same reference numerals. The figures in the drawing show the following:

Fig. 1

1 shows a schematic, perspective overall view of a powder coating booth according to the invention,

Fig. 2

a side view of the powder coating booth for clarification in automatic and continuous operation with the lock open,

Fig. 2a

FIG. 2 shows an enlarged detail view of the upper and / or lower end region of the powder coating booth,

Fig. 3

2 shows a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the cabin shown in FIG. 2 with several different embodiments of an automatically operated cleaning device,

Fig. 4

1 shows a cross-sectional representation of a further embodiment of a cabin with several flaps of different sizes on the opposite wall areas for the use of the powder spraying devices,

Fig. 5

1 shows a schematic example of a connection of flaps which, when closed, permit the interior of a powder coating booth to be sealed off,

Fig. 6

1 shows a schematic top view of a further preferred design form of a powder coating booth which allows the cleaning device to be retracted from the side or in the direction of passage of the booth during automatic operation,

Fig. 7

a further embodiment of a powder coating booth with an associated cleaning device which can be moved in from the side and which is square in cross section,

Fig. 8

2 shows a schematic longitudinal sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a cleaning device,

Fig. 9

is a schematic side view of an advantageous embodiment of a powder spraying device with an integrated cover for the through slot in the cabin wall, and

Fig. 10

a perspective cutaway view of a floor area of a powder coating booth with a flat floor and an associated floor cleaning device.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, one is preferred Embodiment of a powder coating booth designated as a whole by 1 shown which is a circular or optionally has an oval cross-section and in shape about a standing cylinder is formed. The powder coating booth 1 has a small footprint 2 and is columnar. As with an arrow in Figure 1 is shown, the material to be coated is in the direction of flow A by the one formed by the powder coating booth 1 Moving interior in an automatic mode. On a wall or on opposite walls of the powder coating booth 1 to see at least one slot 3 through which at least one Powder spraying device 4, which is for example finger-shaped Has spray parts, for example in the cabin interior are arranged one above the other in the vertical direction. This Powder spraying devices 4 are known per se and allow them a powder coating even with one directly on a line opposite arrangement of the powder spraying devices 4. Each slot 3 is assigned a flap 5, which at Coating shop is open to the outside. Although not shown, instead of the arrangement comprising the slot 3 and the flap 5 also such Interpretation can be chosen that, for example, a fixed slot in an openable door for the implementation of the powder spraying device (s) 4 is provided. To perform the below then the cleaning described is this or it is this fixed slots can be closed. The powder spraying device (s) 4 are with a central powder preparation and supply facility 6, a so-called "powder center", which is arranged in the illustrated embodiment is that part of the cabin wall is the back wall of this central one Powder preparation and supply device 6 forms. How for example in a broken line in Figure 6 in general Is entered, there is a connection opening in the area of the central powder preparation and supply device 6 7 available to the interior of the cabin 1, which by means of a Flap 8 can be opened and closed.

According to Figure 1, the ceiling surface 9 of the powder coating booth 1 a slot-shaped passage 10, which is in Passage direction A extends. As can be seen from Figure 2, extends through this slot-shaped passage in continuous operation 10 a conveyor frame 11, on which not shown and Good to be coated is arranged. Via a conveyor, for example a chain conveyor indicated in FIG. 2 12 or the like, this conveyor frame 11 with the attached to the material to be coated through the interior of the Powder coating booth 1 during continuous operation in the direction of passage A through and on the powder spraying devices 4 passed by.

As shown in broken lines in Figure 2, can for example in the powder coating booth 1 alternatively the Ceiling surface 9 is omitted so that it is open at the top. In a certain distance above the cabin 1 can then be annular Air blowing device 40 and / or it can also additionally Blow nozzles 41 may be arranged in the central region. The ring-shaped Air blowing device 40 has an annular base body and several nozzle openings, not shown, which such are designed and oriented so that they have air towards the Blow inside the powder coating booth 1. The ring-shaped Air blowing device 40 and / or the blowing nozzles 41 can also be used Exhaust air from the post-filter, i.e. with ultra-pure air, is fed. This air prevents that on the open top of the powder coating booth 1 in the coating operation the air / powder mixture can emerge upwards. With such a construction the powder coating booth doesn't just get one simplified construction, since a ceiling surface 9 is missing, but it corners and difficult-to-clean areas can also be removed avoid the cleaning process which follows below is explained in more detail to make it more efficient.

As is also indicated in FIG. 2, at the top and / or lower end of the longitudinal wall surface of the powder coating booth 1, an outwardly projecting edge 42 is formed which forms a kind of pocket 43. This is shown in FIG. 2a Detail shown in an enlarged view. If how For example, shown in Figure 3 of the drawing Cleaning device 20 a scraper 25 or a scraper lip (not shown), this stripper can 25 in the pocket-like expanded space 43 at the end of the cleaning work are inserted, and with a sealing part 45, which is provided on the cleaning device 20 (see FIG. 2a) the pocket-shaped space 43 can then be sealed. over schematically indicated nozzles 47, which are used as cleaning nozzles, can be designed, for example, as blowing nozzles into the tightly closed pocket-shaped space 43 Cleaning medium, such as compressed air or the like (see still description below), are introduced, with the Support, if necessary, suction can take place. over an outlet 48 can then contain the derived powder Exhaust air flow can be supplied to a cyclone or the like for example to enable recovery. The nozzles 47 can be opposite or offset from each other be arranged and of course are formed over the scope of the pocket-shaped space 43 several such nozzles 47 and optionally several outlets 48 are also provided. With the help of this The scraper 25 can be designed even at the end of the cleaning process be cleaned, thereby ensuring that over the scraper 25 does not contaminate the powder at a further color changes are caused.

Furthermore, the powder coating booth 1 in the illustrated Embodiment on the inlet side and outlet side in the direction of flow A seen a lock 13. The lock 13 includes one preferably fixed floor 14 and door-shaped flaps 15, which rotates on the base body of the powder coating booth 1 are arranged.

As can also be seen, for example, from FIG. 1, in Area of the longitudinal edges and / or the transverse edges of the lock 13 where appropriate, blowing nozzles 46 are arranged. These blow nozzles 46 direct an air flow in the direction of the interior of the powder coating booth and thus prevent 13 when the lock is open an escape of the powder / air mixture from the interior of the Powder coating booth 1, similar to the one above described embodiment, in which the powder coating booth 1 is open at the top.

In the powder coating booth shown in FIG. 1, for example 1 are the door-shaped flaps 15 of the lock 13 shown in such a state that from the lock 13 a Precoating place is formed, at which a manually Precoat on the material to be coated can. The design of the lock 13 on the outlet side can be made in the same or similar manner so that one then, if necessary, also a post-coating station through the lock 13 can provide. The post-coating station thus formed or pre-coating place is optionally from accessible on the right or left depending on the requirements, why the door-shaped flaps 15 opened accordingly getting closed. Thus, in the case of a preliminary and / or Post-coating station optionally accessible from the right or possible on the left, while one opposite each other Wall surface is present as a counter wall, which by a by about 90 ° outward open door-shaped flap 15 is formed.

As indicated schematically in FIGS. 2 and 3, the Bottom area 16 of the powder coating booth 1 preferably funnel-shaped, and it is a connection with one Powder outlet 17 or optionally with a liquid outlet line 18 producible. Of course, the floor can be flat or be slightly inclined. With the help of no closer shown pivoting slides or sliding devices or The same may be the case with cleaning Powder can be conveyed to the powder outlet 17, for example.

If, according to FIG. 10, the powder coating booth not shown in detail has a flat bottom 57, the powder during the Operation by means of a floor cleaning device 58 in the direction of a suction channel 59, which, for example with a downstream cyclone, not shown connected is. The floor cleaning device 58 shown in the example shown comprises a curved, preferably spiral-shaped clearing arm 60, on which stripping devices, such as brushes or the like and / or blowing devices can be provided. Like an arrow in a figure 10 illustrates, this clearing arm 60 is approximately vertical extending axis 61 in the interior of the powder coating booth moves that the flat bottom 57 completely during a complete rotation of the clearing arm 60 about the axis of rotation 61 is swept over. With this design, a flat floor can also be used 57 of a powder coating booth automatically cleaned become.

As can be seen from the representations discussed above lets, the powder coating booth 1 has a compact design and in particular a relatively small footprint. Therefore you get one from the powder coating booth 1 enclosed reduced volume, so that the Powder coating booth 1 with a reduced air balance operates from only 25% of the previous or less. Through this reduction in the power volume you get one considerable energy savings when operating the powder coating booth 1. In particular, that of the invention achievable more favorable air budget for the powder coating booth 1 also justified that much smaller opening areas are present, the length of the slots 3, 3 'is greatly reduced, and also the number of slots 3, 3 'much less than in conventional powder coating booths. On the other hand the pre- and post-coating stations are completely eliminated.

In the illustration according to FIG. 3 and that which will be explained later Figure 8 are preferred embodiments of an overall with 20 designated cleaning device shown, which a automatic cleaning of the inside walls of the powder coating booth 1 allowed. If, for example, a powder change is to be made, the flaps 5 for the powder spray devices 4 and the door-shaped flaps 15 of the locks 13 closed. The connection opening 7 from the central powder preparation and supply device 6 to the interior of the Powder coating booth 1 can be opened by opening the flap 8 be exposed, and that in the central powder processing and Supply device 6 accumulated excess powder can enter the interior of the powder coating booth, sucked in and via the powder outlet 17 to the powder circuit Recovery are discharged. In the one shown in Figure 3 An example is the cleaning device designated as a whole with 20 retracted, using a plug-shaped Seal 21 of the slot-shaped passage 10 in the ceiling area 9 of the powder coating booth 1 are closed automatically which can be removed from the cleaning device 20 can. The cleaning device 20 is then in the interior of the Powder coating booth 1 in the vertical direction from above moved down and possibly back, with the preferred 3 a telescopic arrangement 22 for this purpose is available. Nozzles 23 can be arranged on the cleaning device 20 for wet cleaning of the inside walls of the powder coating booth 1, brushes 24, sponges or the like and / or scrapers 25 may be provided. The more detailed form of this Cleaning device 20 depends on the geometric conditions and the application purposes, but in particular on automatic cleaning of the interior of the powder coating booth 1 dry in the vertical direction, for example using compressed air and / or suction air, ionized air and / or wet, for example with the help of water and additives can be carried out. When wet cleaning can possibly Hot air and / or room air in addition to accelerating the Cleaning process used for example by means of driving nozzles become. Because all for the intended operation of the powder coating booth 1 openings for powder coating at the powder coating booth 1 with associated devices are closed, the powder coating booth 1 forms one closed container, which is effective and automatic Way can be cleaned dry and wet. With wet cleaning is the liquid outlet line 18 in the bottom region 16 provided which can be opened with the aid of a flap 26 when previously the dry stripped powder from the Inner wall of the powder coating booth 1 and optionally from the central powder preparation and supply device 6 has been conveyed to the powder outlet 17. Thus, the at Wet cleaning device 20 introduced cleaning liquid on the bottom of the powder coating booth 1 reliably discharged via the liquid outlet line 18 become. With wet cleaning, this can be done using hot air and / or accelerate room air and / or blow-off nozzles.

This also essential to the invention, itself centering cleaning device 20 permitted in connection with the columnar design of the powder coating booth 1 an automatic and efficient cleaning of the Cabin 1 in the vertical direction, specifically on a constructive simple way because rail guides and the like for one Movement of the cleaning device 20 in the longitudinal direction or in Passage direction A of cabin 1 is not required.

In Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a another preferred embodiment of a total of 1 ' designated powder coating booth shown. In deviation from the preferred embodiment explained above this powder coating booth 1 'on the opposite Wall areas for the introduction of the powder spraying devices 4 ' a double flap arrangement in a mirror-image arrangement, which comprise at least two flaps of different sizes. The flap 5 'provided in the above illustration is small and serves to open and close the assigned slot 3 'for performing the powder spraying devices 4 '. This is followed by a larger flap 30 on each side, which also, as in broken lines is shown in Figure 4, can be opened to the outside. This mirror-image arrangement of two flaps 5 'and 30 on both opposite wall areas of the powder coating booth 1 'enables easy convertible use of the powder coating booth 1 'for manual and automatic operation. In automatic mode, which is solid in Figure 4 Lines are shown, only the small flaps 5 'opened, and the associated powder spray devices 4' retracted, which, as shown there, lie on a line and are facing each other. If instead of the small flap 5 additionally the larger flap 30 or both being opened outside, as in broken lines is entered in Figure 4, an access opening for the Use of those used for manual coating are not specified shown powder spray devices exposed. Through the mirror image arrangement of the double flaps 5 ', 30 are for manual operation on the opposite wall areas of the Powder coating booth 1 'openings exposed in Are offset longitudinally to each other. This is one powder coating on both sides by means of not shown Manual powder sprayers without any reciprocal Disability possible. After this in Figure 4 exemplary The powder coating booth can illustrate valve design 1 'without much difficulty from the automatic mode too manual operation and vice versa.

The interpretation is of course also made in such a way that - as explained above - an automatic one Cleaning the interior of the powder coating booth 1 'with With the help of an associated cleaning device 20, for example with a vertical movement. For this purpose, the two flaps 5 'and 30 on each side closed. Of course, just an arrangement of different ones large flaps 5 ', 30 may be present.

The powder spraying device (s) can be horizontal or vertical be arranged side by side or one above the other.

As is also indicated in Figure 4, thanks to the construction of the lock 13 also explained above Use of the powder coating booth 1 'with a precoating station and / or a recoating station each from left or right possible.

A connection of two flaps 5 'is shown schematically in FIG. and 30 for example from FIG. 4 in the closed position clarifies. At the respective, the joint of the flap 5 ', 30 corresponding seals 31 are provided on the associated sides, which is a reliable in the closed position of the flaps 5 ', 30 tight closure of the interior of the powder coating booth 1 'ensure. Of course you can also from the representation different seals are used, and of course are the same or similar as well as corresponding seals on the sealing edges of the other provided if necessary Flaps of the powder coating booth construction 1, 1 ' provided for the cleaning process and use of the Cleaning device 20 to a tightly closed container have, which is formed by the powder coating booth 1, 1 ' becomes.

6 shows a further embodiment variant of an overall shown with 1 '' powder coating booth. The consistent with the above embodiments Details are not explained again, only the essential differences. The same or similar Parts are therefore given the same reference numerals in FIG. 6.

In the powder coating booth 1 ″ they are at least one Lock 13 adjacent cabin wall areas to the outside foldable, like this with the total designated 32 Flap arrangement is shown that the above and Cleaning device 20 shown schematically in FIG Flow direction A or laterally into the powder coating booth 1 '' insertable and retractable. Like broken ones Lines are shown, the valve assembly 32 allows which optionally with the arrangements described above for example according to Figure 4, can be linked that a so large opening area at the powder coating booth 1 '' can be exposed that the cleaning device 20 by the Side into the interior of the powder coating booth 1 '' is moved into it. If the cleaning device 20 is located in the interior of the powder coating booth 1 '' Flap arrangement 32 closed again and in the with pulled Position shown in line, the door-shaped Flaps 15 of the locks 13 are closed and flap 8 for the connection opening 7 to the powder preparation and Supply device 6 can be opened. When performing a dry cleaning process of the interior of the powder coating booth 1 '' can then remove the excess powder from the central powder preparation and supply device 6 ins Inside the powder coating booth 1 '' and go over the Powder outlet 17 explained above for the powder circuit to be led back.

FIG. 7 shows a sectional view similar to that of FIG. 6 another embodiment of a powder coating booth 1'''. Different from those explained above preferred embodiments is that the powder coating booth 1 '' 'is square in cross section. Here, the inner edge areas with regard to a effective cleaning rounded or beveled as shown. Here too, for example, similar to that in FIG Area of at least one lock 13 a corresponding flap arrangement 32 'provided which the insertion of the cleaning device 20 'from the side with the flap arrangement open 32 'allowed. As with the previous embodiments also on the opposite wall areas of the powder coating booth 1 '' 'each with a double flap arrangement smaller flap 5 'and a larger flap 30 are provided, which are mirror images of the opposite wall areas the powder coating booth 1 '' 'is arranged. Apart from that deviates from the previous embodiments The cross-sectional shape in FIG. 7 is the same or similar parts provided with the same reference numerals.

Figure 8 serves to illustrate a further embodiment a cleaning device designated overall by 20 ″. This Cleaning device 20 '' is in terms of height and cross-sectional shape to the corresponding design of those designated there with 1 '' '' Adjusted powder coating booth. In the illustrated The cleaning device 20 ″ has an example, for example basket-shaped support structure 50, on which optionally Brush inserts rotatable about their own axes 51 are provided. This cleaning device is used for cleaning 20 '' essentially fixed in the interior of the Powder coating booth 1 '' '' arranged. This cleaning facility 20 '' covers all interior wall surfaces for cleaning the powder coating booth 1 '' ''. For effective cleaning the cleaning device 20 ″ can rotate about its Execute longitudinal axis. For support, she can preferably a slight oscillating movement around the longitudinal axis and / or a slight lateral movement Execute direction. This cleaning device 20 ″ is similar designed, for example, like a brush arrangement that at Vehicle wash systems, for example, is used. Otherwise the further details, which are shown in FIG. already above in connection with other design forms a powder coating booth explained.

In Figure 9 is a schematic side view preferred embodiment of a powder spray device 4 '' shown, which includes, for example, finger-shaped spray parts. In deviation from the embodiment described above has the powder spraying device shown for example in FIG 4 '' diaphragm parts 56 loosely arranged on a shaft 55, which are preferably designed such that they are scale-like overlap. With the help of these aperture parts 56, the slot or formed in each case in the powder coating booth Feedthrough slot 3, 3 'also during powder coating operation be reliably covered, although the Powder spraying devices 4 ″, for example in FIG. 1 in vertical or, if necessary, also in a horizontal direction can move in a controlled manner. By such The total air budget of the powder coating booth can be configured 1, 1 ', 1' ', 1' '', 1 '' '' further improve, because practically in the area of the implementation on the wall surface almost air leakage is no longer possible.

From this it can be seen that regardless of the cross-sectional shape the powder coating booth 1, 1 ', 1' ', 1' '', 1 '' '' die versatile usability for manual or automatic operation is given and that a movable in the vertical direction Cleaning device 20, 20 ', 20' 'can be used.

Of course, the invention is not based on the above described details of the preferred embodiments limited, but there are numerous changes and modifications possible, which the specialist will meet if necessary. So are also combined cross-sectional shapes besides round and square, like oval or the like possible. Furthermore, the Flap arrangements depending on the application, too partially omitted or designed differently, provided that for cleaning using the cleaning device 20, 20 ', 20' 'from the powder coating booth 1, 1', 1 '', 1 '' ', 1' '' 'a closed container is formed, which is a automatic cleaning without complex slide guides allowed and by closing the flaps at the same time Cleaning this with allows.

In order to improve operational safety, at least the wall area (s) opposite the powder spray device (s) 4, 4 ', 4''can be made of non-conductive material, for example an insulator. In an equivalent manner, instead of being produced from a non-conductive material, a coating made of non-conductive material can be applied to a conductive base material, as a result of which the manufacture can become significantly cheaper. This allows a much smaller distance to be selected between the part to be coated and the edge of the cabin, since the disruptive effect of the outer wall (powder is attracted to the outer wall by earthing) is avoided. The dimensions of the cabin can thus be reduced even further.

Claims (23)

1. A powder coating booth, in particular for continuous throughput operation, comprising at least one powder spray means (4, 4, 4') connected to at least one powder preparation and supply means (6), the booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''') having a small base surface area and is in the form of a column, a closable slot (3, 3') being provided in at least one wall of the booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''') for the passage of the powder spray means (4, 4', 4''), characterized in that a cleaning means (20, 20', 20'') is provided which when the slots (3, 3') are closed oleans the inner walls of the container formed closed by the booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''') in executing a movement in the vertical direction in the interior of the booth.
2. The powder coating booth as set forth in claim 1, characterized in that in a booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''') having a passage (10) for a conveying frame (11) in the top surface area (9), the passage (10) is closed off tight automatically by the cleaning means (20, 20', 20'') in operation thereof in automatic continuous throughput operation.
3. The powder coating booth as set forth in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the cleaning means (20, 20', 20'') is operable with compressed air and/or vacuum air and/or wet.
4. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the cleaning means (20, 20', 20'') sweeps the inner walls of the closed container and is preferably fitted with sponge parts, nozzles (23) or the like.
5. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning means (20, 20', 20'') comprises a telescoping means (22) for movement in the vertical direction.
6. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the cleaning means (20'') is configured adapted to the cross-sectional shape and height of the booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''').
7. The powder coating booth as set forth in claim 6, characterized in that for implementing the cleaning action the cleaning means (20'') is fixedly arranged peripherally in the booth or executes preferably a rotary movement about its longitudinal axis and/or preferably a slightly oscillating movement about the longitudinal axis and/or laterally.
8. The powder coating booth as set forth in claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the cleaning means (20'') is configured basket-shaped as a supporting structure (50).
9. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the booth (1 , 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''') is configured in the floor region (16) funneled and has a powder discharge (17) as well as, where necessary, a closable port for wet drainage (at 18) in wet cleaning.
10. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the direction of continuous throughput (A) of the material to be coated a lock (13) convertible simultaneously into an after-coating place or a precoating place is arranged at the inlet side and/or outlet side.
11. The powder coating booth as set f orth in claim 10, characterized in that the formed after-coating place or precoating place is optionally accessible at the one or other side.
12. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the wall region of the booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''') located opposite assigned to the powder coating means (4, 4', 4'') an array of juxtaposed flaps (5, 5', 30) is provided differing in size for manual operation or automatic operation.
13. The powder coating booth as set forth in claim 12, characterized in that for powder coating means (4, 4', 4'') provided in opposite wall regions of the booth (1 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''') the arrays of juxtaposed flaps (5, 5', 30) assigned to opposite wall regions are provided mirror-inversely differing in size.
14. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the booth wall regions (32, 32') adjoining at least one of the locks (13) are hingeable such that in the hinged-open condition the cleaning means (20, 20', 20'') can be introduced laterally into the booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''').
15. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the top of the booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''') is closed off by means of a cover configured preferably integrally and mounted on the cleaning means (20, 20', 20'').
16. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a portion of the booth wall forms a rear wall of the central powder preparation and supply means (6) and a connecting port (7) is provided to the interior of the booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1''''), this connecting port being closed oft by means of a flap (8) openable to the interior of the booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''').
17. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the claims 12 to 16, characterized in that the flaps (5, 5', 5'') have seals (31) for sealing off the interior of the booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''') when the flaps are closed.
18. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one, any or all of the wall regions opposite the powder spay means (4, 4', 4'') consist(s) of a non-conductive material or has(have) a coating of a non-conductive material.
19. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of the powder spray means (4, 4', 4'') comprises trim parts (56) for covering the assigned slot (3, 3'), the trim parts overlapping like shingles as well and preferably being arranged loosely on the shank (55) of the corresponding powder spray means (4, 4', 4'').
20. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''') is configured in cross-section circular or oval.
21. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the booth (1''') is configured in cross-section square or rectangular.
22. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that in at least two opposite walls of the booth (1, 1', 1'', 1''', 1'''') at least one closable slot (3, 3') is provided in each case for passage of the powder spray means (4, 4', 4'').
23. The powder coating booth as set forth in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the slot(s) (3, 3') is/are closed off by means of at least one flap (5, 5') defined each of the corresponding slots (3, 3').

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