EP1575715B1 - Arrangement for treating the inner surface of a metal tube - Google Patents
Arrangement for treating the inner surface of a metal tube Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP1575715B1 EP1575715B1 EP03775410A EP03775410A EP1575715B1 EP 1575715 B1 EP1575715 B1 EP 1575715B1 EP 03775410 A EP03775410 A EP 03775410A EP 03775410 A EP03775410 A EP 03775410A EP 1575715 B1 EP1575715 B1 EP 1575715B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- channel
- treatment agent
- arrangement according
- arrangement
- flowing direction
- 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
Links
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 78
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 title claims abstract description 78
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 66
- 238000011282 treatment Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 65
- 239000003795 chemical substances by application Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 52
- 239000010949 copper Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 14
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 229910052802 copper Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 16
- 238000005406 washing Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000005554 pickling Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000001035 drying Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000005238 degreasing Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 9
- ATJFFYVFTNAWJD-UHFFFAOYSA-N Tin Chemical compound [Sn] ATJFFYVFTNAWJD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 5
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000003245 coal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000314 lubricant Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000007513 acids Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000007599 discharging Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004090 dissolution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005868 electrolysis reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- FWFGVMYFCODZRD-UHFFFAOYSA-N oxidanium;hydrogen sulfate Chemical compound O.OS(O)(=O)=O FWFGVMYFCODZRD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910001432 tin ion Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B08—CLEANING
- B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
- B08B9/00—Cleaning hollow articles by methods or apparatus specially adapted thereto
- B08B9/02—Cleaning pipes or tubes or systems of pipes or tubes
- B08B9/027—Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages
- B08B9/032—Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing
- B08B9/0321—Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing using pressurised, pulsating or purging fluid
- B08B9/0323—Arrangements specially designed for simultaneous and parallel cleaning of a plurality of conduits
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C23—COATING METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING MATERIAL WITH METALLIC MATERIAL; CHEMICAL SURFACE TREATMENT; DIFFUSION TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING BY VACUUM EVAPORATION, BY SPUTTERING, BY ION IMPLANTATION OR BY CHEMICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION, IN GENERAL; INHIBITING CORROSION OF METALLIC MATERIAL OR INCRUSTATION IN GENERAL
- C23C—COATING METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING MATERIAL WITH METALLIC MATERIAL; SURFACE TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL BY DIFFUSION INTO THE SURFACE, BY CHEMICAL CONVERSION OR SUBSTITUTION; COATING BY VACUUM EVAPORATION, BY SPUTTERING, BY ION IMPLANTATION OR BY CHEMICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION, IN GENERAL
- C23C18/00—Chemical coating by decomposition of either liquid compounds or solutions of the coating forming compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coating; Contact plating
- C23C18/16—Chemical coating by decomposition of either liquid compounds or solutions of the coating forming compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coating; Contact plating by reduction or substitution, e.g. electroless plating
- C23C18/1601—Process or apparatus
- C23C18/1603—Process or apparatus coating on selected surface areas
- C23C18/1614—Process or apparatus coating on selected surface areas plating on one side
- C23C18/1616—Process or apparatus coating on selected surface areas plating on one side interior or inner surface
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C23—COATING METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING MATERIAL WITH METALLIC MATERIAL; CHEMICAL SURFACE TREATMENT; DIFFUSION TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING BY VACUUM EVAPORATION, BY SPUTTERING, BY ION IMPLANTATION OR BY CHEMICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION, IN GENERAL; INHIBITING CORROSION OF METALLIC MATERIAL OR INCRUSTATION IN GENERAL
- C23C—COATING METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING MATERIAL WITH METALLIC MATERIAL; SURFACE TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL BY DIFFUSION INTO THE SURFACE, BY CHEMICAL CONVERSION OR SUBSTITUTION; COATING BY VACUUM EVAPORATION, BY SPUTTERING, BY ION IMPLANTATION OR BY CHEMICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION, IN GENERAL
- C23C2/00—Hot-dipping or immersion processes for applying the coating material in the molten state without affecting the shape; Apparatus therefor
- C23C2/04—Hot-dipping or immersion processes for applying the coating material in the molten state without affecting the shape; Apparatus therefor characterised by the coating material
- C23C2/08—Tin or alloys based thereon
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C23—COATING METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING MATERIAL WITH METALLIC MATERIAL; CHEMICAL SURFACE TREATMENT; DIFFUSION TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING BY VACUUM EVAPORATION, BY SPUTTERING, BY ION IMPLANTATION OR BY CHEMICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION, IN GENERAL; INHIBITING CORROSION OF METALLIC MATERIAL OR INCRUSTATION IN GENERAL
- C23C—COATING METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING MATERIAL WITH METALLIC MATERIAL; SURFACE TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL BY DIFFUSION INTO THE SURFACE, BY CHEMICAL CONVERSION OR SUBSTITUTION; COATING BY VACUUM EVAPORATION, BY SPUTTERING, BY ION IMPLANTATION OR BY CHEMICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION, IN GENERAL
- C23C6/00—Coating by casting molten material on the substrate
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C23—COATING METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING MATERIAL WITH METALLIC MATERIAL; CHEMICAL SURFACE TREATMENT; DIFFUSION TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING BY VACUUM EVAPORATION, BY SPUTTERING, BY ION IMPLANTATION OR BY CHEMICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION, IN GENERAL; INHIBITING CORROSION OF METALLIC MATERIAL OR INCRUSTATION IN GENERAL
- C23G—CLEANING OR DE-GREASING OF METALLIC MATERIAL BY CHEMICAL METHODS OTHER THAN ELECTROLYSIS
- C23G3/00—Apparatus for cleaning or pickling metallic material
- C23G3/04—Apparatus for cleaning or pickling metallic material for cleaning pipes
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F26—DRYING
- F26B—DRYING SOLID MATERIALS OR OBJECTS BY REMOVING LIQUID THEREFROM
- F26B21/00—Arrangements or duct systems, e.g. in combination with pallet boxes, for supplying and controlling air or gases for drying solid materials or objects
- F26B21/006—Arrangements or duct systems, e.g. in combination with pallet boxes, for supplying and controlling air or gases for drying solid materials or objects the gas supply or exhaust being effected through hollow spaces or cores in the materials or objects, e.g. tubes, pipes, bottles
Definitions
- the invention relates to an arrangement for treating the inner surface of metal tubes, such as copper tubes, defined in the preamble of the independent claim.
- the inner surfaces of metal tubes require various solution treatments before the tubes can be used in the desired way.
- copper tubes are coated by tin, in which case on the inner surface of the tube, there is made a tin layer according to the prevailing regulations. This prevents a harmful dissolution of copper for instance in household water.
- the surface to be coated must be carefully pretreated.
- the purpose of the pretreatment is to remove all lubrication agent and coal films as well as oxidized spots accumulated on the tube surface during the earlier manufacturing steps.
- the pretreatment with solutions includes the washing of lubricating agents and coal films, pickling and washing prior to the coating proper.
- the metal surface is chemically cleaned of oxidized products, and typically this is carried out in a sulfuric acid-water solution.
- acids or other strong solutions combined with the respective washing steps, and the handling of said agents may cause problems as regards both safety at work and the protection of the environment. Consequently, it would be important to achieve a process that is so closed and safe that said problems can be avoided.
- the object of the present invention is to introduce a new solution for treating the inner surface of a metal tube, such as a copper tube, so that the drawbacks of the prior art are avoided, and the process itself is speeded up.
- the invention is characterized by what is set forth in the characterizing part of the independent claim.
- Other preferred embodiments of the invention are characterized by what is set forth in the rest of the claims.
- the invention relates to an arrangement for treating the inner surface of metal tubes, such as copper tubes; said arrangement comprises means for feeding the treatment agent onto the inner surface of the metal tube, and means for removing the treatment agent, which means that the arrangement includes at least a distribution element meant for supplying the treatment agent, by means of which an essentially equal amount of the treatment agent can be applied essentially simultaneously on the inner surfaces of at least two metal tubes.
- the treatment process is made quicker and more precise.
- the arrangement comprises two distribution elements, a feed end distribution element for feeding the treatment agent in the metal tubes, and an outlet end distribution element for removing the treatment agent from the metal tubes.
- the metal tubes are preferably arranged in an inclined position with respect to the horizontal level, so that the distribution element of the outlet end is positioned higher than the distribution element of the feed end.
- the distribution element is provided, in the lengthwise direction thereof, with at least one channel that includes, along the whole length of the distribution element, a point of constriction of the channel diameter. The measures of the diameter constriction point are designed so that when the treatment agent flows therethrough, an equally large pressure loss is created at the end of each metal tube under treatment. Now on the inner surfaces of all metal tubes, an equal amount of the treatment agent is advantageously made to flow simultaneously.
- the distribution element includes at least one liquid channel through which the treatment agent can either be fed into the distribution element or removed therefrom.
- the liquid channel can be positioned on the outer circumference of the channel of the distribution element, so that any solution pockets are not left on the inner surfaces of the distribution element during the solution discharge step.
- the distribution element is provided, in the lengthwise direction thereof, with two channels of different sizes: a first channel with respect to the flowing direction and a second channel with respect to the flowing direction.
- the channels that are located first with respect to the flowing direction are mutually identical, and the channels that are located second with respect to the flowing direction are mutually identical.
- the treatment agent is fed, throughout the whole length of the distribution element, simultaneously to all metal tubes under treatment.
- the channels provided in the distribution element are in mutual liquid connection by intermediation of a constriction point arranged in between the channels.
- the distribution element is provided with spaced-apart tube channels for each metal tube under treatment.
- the metal tube under treatment is preferably arranged either with respect to the flowing direction of the first channel, or with respect to the flowing direction of the second channel.
- the treatment agent is arranged to proceed in the distribution element first into the channel that is located first with respect to the flowing direction, from which channel it is transferred, through the constriction point, to the channel that is second with respect to the flowing direction.
- the metal tube is connected, by intermediation of its tube channel, to the second channel with respect to the flowing direction, in which case said channel is located above the channel that is first with respect to the flowing direction.
- the metal tube is connected through its tube channel to the channel that is first with respect to the flowing direction, in which case said channel is located above the channel that is second in the flowing direction. In this way, there is achieved an optimal circulation for the treatment agent in the metal tubes.
- the measures of the channel that is first in the flowing direction are designed so that there is room for at least as much treatment agent as can altogether be fitted onto the inner surfaces of all metal tubes under treatment.
- the first channel in the flowing direction is in its transversal area essentially larger than the total sum of the transversal areas of all metal tubes under treatment.
- the metal tubes are sealed at least by one sealing element in the vicinity of the tube channel, so that the sealing element extends as far as the end of the metal tube. This prevents the treatment agent from leaking onto the outer surface of the metal tube.
- the arrangement includes a suction arrangement for absorbing the treatment agent through the metal tubes.
- the arrangement includes a pressure arrangement for applying the treatment solution onto the inner surfaces of the metal tubes.
- At least in one of the distribution elements there can be arranged a channel for replacement air, by means of which channel there is preferably brought replacement air into the arrangement in order to enable the emptying of said arrangement.
- the arrangement includes a processing unit for the treatment agent. Into said processing unit, there is conducted, after reactions that have taken place in the metal tubes, treatment agent to be discharged from the metal tubes.
- the arrangement can be connected to at least one essentially similar arrangement, so that the treatment agent can be circulated therebetween.
- the treatment agent is a tinning solution.
- the treatment agent is a pickling solution.
- the treatment agent is degreasing solution.
- the treatment agent is a washing solution.
- the treatment agent is drying gas.
- the treatment of the inner surfaces of metal tubes is made easier, and the making of several flow adjustment units individually for each pipe is avoided by applying the present invention.
- the arrangement according to the invention enables an unhindered flowing of precipitable solutions and an efficient washing of metal tubes by liquids or gases.
- Figures 1, 2 and 3 illustrate an arrangement according to the invention for treating the inner surface of a metal tube, such as a copper tube.
- the inner surfaces of metal tubes 2 are tin-coated by means of the arrangement, in which case the employed treatment agent 8 is a tinning solution.
- Figure 1 illustrates the feed end distribution element 3 for feeding the tinning solution 8 onto the inner surfaces of the metal tubes, and the outlet end distribution element 4 for discharging the tinning solution 8 into the processing unit 9 after the tinning process, said distribution elements 3 and 4 of the arrangement 1 being positioned on both sides of the metal tubes 2.
- Figures 2 and 3 are cross-sectional illustrations of the distribution elements 3 and 4 when observing figure 1 along the line A - A.
- the distribution element there are, in the lengthwise direction thereof, made two channels of different sizes, i.e. the first channels 5 and 18 with respect to the flowing direction, and the second channels 6 and 17 with respect to the flowing direction.
- said channels can be either round or angular.
- the first channels 5 and 18 in the flowing direction are mutually identical, and the second channels 6 and 17 in the flowing direction are mutually identical.
- both distribution elements are provided with a constriction point 7, through which the channels are in liquid connection.
- the measures of the constriction point 7 of the diameter are designed so that as the treatment agent flows therethrough, at the end 14 of each metal tube under treatment, there is created an equally large pressure loss.
- the channels 5 and 18 are essentially larger in transversal area than the summed-up transversal area of all the metal tubes 2 to be tinned.
- the required number of metal tubes 2 to be tinned is arranged in liquid connection with the channels of the distribution element.
- both distribution elements there is made, at given intervals 15 in the lengthwise direction thereof, tube channels 10, 19, for each metal tube.
- the distribution element in the lengthwise direction thereof, there is arranged as many tube channels as there are metal tubes to be tinned.
- the metal tubes to be tinned are arranged adjacently in parallel and connected, by intermediation of the tube channels 10 and 19 of each tube, to the distribution elements 3 and 4.
- the metal tubes are arranged in between the distribution elements, so that they are arranged in an inclined position and form an angle of for instance 0 - 90 degrees with respect to the horizontal level, in which case the outlet end distribution element 4 is located higher than the feed end distribution element 3.
- the metal tubes are positioned at a given angle, the removal of the bubbles from the metal tubes in the flowing direction of the treatment agent is made easier.
- the metal tube 2 is connected, by intermediation of its tube channel 10, to the channel 6 that is second in the flowing direction, in which case the channel 6 is in the flowing direction located above the first channel 5.
- the metal tube 2 is connected, via its tube channel 19, to the channel 18 that is first in the flowing direction, so that the channel 18 is in the flowing direction located above the second channel 17.
- the tinning solution is started to be absorbed into the metal tubes 2 by means of a suction arrangement 11 connected to the arrangement through the feed end distribution element 3.
- the tinning solution 8 is distributed evenly through the liquid channel 12 made in the distribution element 3 to the channel 5 that is first in the flowing direction, until it is filled, and flows further through the constriction point 7 to the channel 6 that is second in the flowing direction. From the channel 6, there flows through the tube channel 10 an equally large amount of the tinning solution onto the inner surface of each metal tube 2 to be tinned, and the tinning reactions take place on the inner surfaces of the tubes.
- the tinning solution 8 flows from the tube channel 19 located in the distribution element 4 of the outlet end to the channel 18 and further through the constriction point 7 to the channel 17.
- the replacement air channel 20 made in the distribution element of the outlet end is opened, in which case the tube system between the distribution element 4 of the outlet end and processing unit 9 is emptied of the tinning solution through the liquid channel 16 into the processing unit 9. Thereafter the liquid channel 16 is closed, so that both the distribution element 4, the metal tubes 2 and the distribution element 3 are emptied through the liquid channel 12 to the processing unit 9.
- the liquid channels 12 and 16 that can be closed when necessary are, according to the example, arranged underneath in the distribution element. They can, however, also be made so that they are located at the side of the distribution element.
- the arrangement can be used for circulating washing liquid such as water, pickling solution, degreasing solution or drying gas.
- the flowing of the treatment agent may take place continuously or in batches.
- the arrangement according to the invention can be connected to at least one similar arrangement.
- sealing elements 21 In the metal tube fastening points 13 provided in the tube channels 10 and 19, there is arranged a required number of sealing elements 21, so that the sealing elements 21 surround the metal tube 2 and the tube channel to be tinned.
- the number of said sealing elements is at least one, and it is arranged so that it extends to outside the end 14 of the metal tube to be tinned; when necessary, also the end of the metal tube is thus insulated from the tin solution.
Landscapes
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Metallurgy (AREA)
- Materials Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Organic Chemistry (AREA)
- General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemically Coating (AREA)
- Cleaning And De-Greasing Of Metallic Materials By Chemical Methods (AREA)
- Treatments Of Macromolecular Shaped Articles (AREA)
- Heat Treatment Of Articles (AREA)
- Coating With Molten Metal (AREA)
- Coating Apparatus (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The invention relates to an arrangement for treating the inner surface of metal tubes, such as copper tubes, defined in the preamble of the independent claim.
- Generally the inner surfaces of metal tubes, such as copper tubes, require various solution treatments before the tubes can be used in the desired way. Typically for example copper tubes are coated by tin, in which case on the inner surface of the tube, there is made a tin layer according to the prevailing regulations. This prevents a harmful dissolution of copper for instance in household water. In order to guarantee that the coating is carried out successfully, the surface to be coated must be carefully pretreated. The purpose of the pretreatment is to remove all lubrication agent and coal films as well as oxidized spots accumulated on the tube surface during the earlier manufacturing steps. Typically the pretreatment with solutions includes the washing of lubricating agents and coal films, pickling and washing prior to the coating proper. In pickling, the metal surface is chemically cleaned of oxidized products, and typically this is carried out in a sulfuric acid-water solution. As is well known, in pretreatment processes there are used acids or other strong solutions combined with the respective washing steps, and the handling of said agents may cause problems as regards both safety at work and the protection of the environment. Consequently, it would be important to achieve a process that is so closed and safe that said problems can be avoided.
- From the publication
WO 9937831 - Arrangements for treating the inner surface of several tubes simultaneously are known from documents
US-A-4863555 ,US-A-5819770 ,US-A-3765050 ,G-B-A-2065717 RU-C-2032762 JP-A-55164065 - The object of the present invention is to introduce a new solution for treating the inner surface of a metal tube, such as a copper tube, so that the drawbacks of the prior art are avoided, and the process itself is speeded up.
- The invention is characterized by what is set forth in the characterizing part of the independent claim. Other preferred embodiments of the invention are characterized by what is set forth in the rest of the claims.
- Remarkable advantages are achieved by the arrangement according to the invention for treating the inner surface of a metal tube. The invention relates to an arrangement for treating the inner surface of metal tubes, such as copper tubes; said arrangement comprises means for feeding the treatment agent onto the inner surface of the metal tube, and means for removing the treatment agent, which means that the arrangement includes at least a distribution element meant for supplying the treatment agent, by means of which an essentially equal amount of the treatment agent can be applied essentially simultaneously on the inner surfaces of at least two metal tubes. When an equal amount of the treatment agent is fed simultaneously on the inner surface of each metal tube to be treated, the treatment process is made quicker and more precise. According to the invention, the arrangement comprises two distribution elements, a feed end distribution element for feeding the treatment agent in the metal tubes, and an outlet end distribution element for removing the treatment agent from the metal tubes. Now also at the outlet end of the metal tubes, an equal amount of the treatment agent is advantageously removed from each metal tube simultaneously. The metal tubes are preferably arranged in an inclined position with respect to the horizontal level, so that the distribution element of the outlet end is positioned higher than the distribution element of the feed end. According to the invention, the distribution element is provided, in the lengthwise direction thereof, with at least one channel that includes, along the whole length of the distribution element, a point of constriction of the channel diameter. The measures of the diameter constriction point are designed so that when the treatment agent flows therethrough, an equally large pressure loss is created at the end of each metal tube under treatment. Now on the inner surfaces of all metal tubes, an equal amount of the treatment agent is advantageously made to flow simultaneously.
- According to the invention, the distribution element includes at least one liquid channel through which the treatment agent can either be fed into the distribution element or removed therefrom. The liquid channel can be positioned on the outer circumference of the channel of the distribution element, so that any solution pockets are not left on the inner surfaces of the distribution element during the solution discharge step.
- According to a preferred embodiment of the invention the distribution element is provided, in the lengthwise direction thereof, with two channels of different sizes: a first channel with respect to the flowing direction and a second channel with respect to the flowing direction. According to a preferred embodiment, in both distribution elements, the channels that are located first with respect to the flowing direction are mutually identical, and the channels that are located second with respect to the flowing direction are mutually identical. When the channels are positioned in the lengthwise direction of the distribution element, the treatment agent is fed, throughout the whole length of the distribution element, simultaneously to all metal tubes under treatment. The channels provided in the distribution element are in mutual liquid connection by intermediation of a constriction point arranged in between the channels. In the lengthwise direction, the distribution element is provided with spaced-apart tube channels for each metal tube under treatment. The metal tube under treatment is preferably arranged either with respect to the flowing direction of the first channel, or with respect to the flowing direction of the second channel.
- According to the invention, the treatment agent is arranged to proceed in the distribution element first into the channel that is located first with respect to the flowing direction, from which channel it is transferred, through the constriction point, to the channel that is second with respect to the flowing direction. In the distribution element of the feed end, the metal tube is connected, by intermediation of its tube channel, to the second channel with respect to the flowing direction, in which case said channel is located above the channel that is first with respect to the flowing direction. In the distribution element of the outlet end, the metal tube is connected through its tube channel to the channel that is first with respect to the flowing direction, in which case said channel is located above the channel that is second in the flowing direction. In this way, there is achieved an optimal circulation for the treatment agent in the metal tubes.
- According to the invention, the measures of the channel that is first in the flowing direction are designed so that there is room for at least as much treatment agent as can altogether be fitted onto the inner surfaces of all metal tubes under treatment. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first channel in the flowing direction is in its transversal area essentially larger than the total sum of the transversal areas of all metal tubes under treatment. Advantageously the metal tubes are sealed at least by one sealing element in the vicinity of the tube channel, so that the sealing element extends as far as the end of the metal tube. This prevents the treatment agent from leaking onto the outer surface of the metal tube.
- According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the arrangement includes a suction arrangement for absorbing the treatment agent through the metal tubes. According to another preferred embodiment, the arrangement includes a pressure arrangement for applying the treatment solution onto the inner surfaces of the metal tubes. At least in one of the distribution elements, there can be arranged a channel for replacement air, by means of which channel there is preferably brought replacement air into the arrangement in order to enable the emptying of said arrangement. The arrangement includes a processing unit for the treatment agent. Into said processing unit, there is conducted, after reactions that have taken place in the metal tubes, treatment agent to be discharged from the metal tubes. The arrangement can be connected to at least one essentially similar arrangement, so that the treatment agent can be circulated therebetween. Now it is possible to combine several arrangements as one unit and thus to enhance the treatment process by circulating for example the washing solution in one unit and simultaneously the tinning solution in the other, in which case each pressure or suction arrangement, such as a solution pump, can be operated continuously. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the treatment agent is a tinning solution. According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the treatment agent is a pickling solution. According to yet another preferred embodiment, the treatment agent is degreasing solution. According to a preferred embodiment, the treatment agent is a washing solution. According to a preferred embodiment, the treatment agent is drying gas. By means of the arrangement according to the invention, the treatment of the inner surfaces of metal tubes is made easier, and the making of several flow adjustment units individually for each pipe is avoided by applying the present invention. The arrangement according to the invention enables an unhindered flowing of precipitable solutions and an efficient washing of metal tubes by liquids or gases.
- The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the appended drawings.
- Figure 1
- An arrangement according to the invention
- Figure 2
- A cross-sectional view of figure 1
- Figure 3
- A cross-sectional view of figure 1
- Figures 1, 2 and 3 illustrate an arrangement according to the invention for treating the inner surface of a metal tube, such as a copper tube. According to the example, the inner surfaces of
metal tubes 2 are tin-coated by means of the arrangement, in which case the employedtreatment agent 8 is a tinning solution. Figure 1 illustrates the feedend distribution element 3 for feeding thetinning solution 8 onto the inner surfaces of the metal tubes, and the outletend distribution element 4 for discharging thetinning solution 8 into theprocessing unit 9 after the tinning process, saiddistribution elements arrangement 1 being positioned on both sides of themetal tubes 2. Figures 2 and 3 are cross-sectional illustrations of thedistribution elements first channels second channels distribution elements first channels second channels constriction point 7, through which the channels are in liquid connection. The measures of theconstriction point 7 of the diameter are designed so that as the treatment agent flows therethrough, at theend 14 of each metal tube under treatment, there is created an equally large pressure loss. According to the example, thechannels metal tubes 2 to be tinned. - The required number of
metal tubes 2 to be tinned is arranged in liquid connection with the channels of the distribution element. In both distribution elements, there is made, at givenintervals 15 in the lengthwise direction thereof,tube channels 10, 19, for each metal tube. In the distribution element, in the lengthwise direction thereof, there is arranged as many tube channels as there are metal tubes to be tinned. According to the invention, the metal tubes to be tinned are arranged adjacently in parallel and connected, by intermediation of thetube channels 10 and 19 of each tube, to thedistribution elements end distribution element 4 is located higher than the feedend distribution element 3. When the metal tubes are positioned at a given angle, the removal of the bubbles from the metal tubes in the flowing direction of the treatment agent is made easier. In thedistribution element 3 of the feed end of the arrangement, themetal tube 2 is connected, by intermediation of itstube channel 10, to thechannel 6 that is second in the flowing direction, in which case thechannel 6 is in the flowing direction located above thefirst channel 5. In thedistribution element 4 of the outlet end, themetal tube 2 is connected, via its tube channel 19, to thechannel 18 that is first in the flowing direction, so that thechannel 18 is in the flowing direction located above thesecond channel 17. - The tinning solution is started to be absorbed into the
metal tubes 2 by means of asuction arrangement 11 connected to the arrangement through the feedend distribution element 3. Thetinning solution 8 is distributed evenly through theliquid channel 12 made in thedistribution element 3 to thechannel 5 that is first in the flowing direction, until it is filled, and flows further through theconstriction point 7 to thechannel 6 that is second in the flowing direction. From thechannel 6, there flows through thetube channel 10 an equally large amount of the tinning solution onto the inner surface of eachmetal tube 2 to be tinned, and the tinning reactions take place on the inner surfaces of the tubes. Onto the inner surface of the metal tube, there is created a tinning layer for example according to the following reaction:
Sn2+ + Cu => Sn + Cu2+
in which case the tin ions contained in the tinning solution are reduced on the inner surface of the copper tube at the same time as the copper is dissolved. - After the tinning reactions have taken place in the metal tubes, the
tinning solution 8 flows from the tube channel 19 located in thedistribution element 4 of the outlet end to thechannel 18 and further through theconstriction point 7 to thechannel 17. When the arrangement should be emptied of the tinning solution, the replacement air channel 20 made in the distribution element of the outlet end is opened, in which case the tube system between thedistribution element 4 of the outlet end andprocessing unit 9 is emptied of the tinning solution through theliquid channel 16 into theprocessing unit 9. Thereafter theliquid channel 16 is closed, so that both thedistribution element 4, themetal tubes 2 and thedistribution element 3 are emptied through theliquid channel 12 to theprocessing unit 9. - The
liquid channels - In the metal tube fastening points 13 provided in the
tube channels 10 and 19, there is arranged a required number of sealingelements 21, so that the sealingelements 21 surround themetal tube 2 and the tube channel to be tinned. The number of said sealing elements is at least one, and it is arranged so that it extends to outside theend 14 of the metal tube to be tinned; when necessary, also the end of the metal tube is thus insulated from the tin solution. - For a man skilled in the art it is obvious that the various preferred embodiments of the invention are not restricted to the above described examples only, but they may vary within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (21)
- An arrangement (1) for treating the inner surface of a plurality of metal tubes (2), such as copper tubes, which arrangement is provided by elements for feeding treatment agent (8), for pickling, cleaning, coating or drying, onto the inner surface of the metal tube, and by elements for removing the treatment agent, whereby the arrangement comprises at least two distribution elements, a feed end distribution element (3) for feeding the treatment agent (8) into a plurality of metal tubes (2) and an outlet end distribution element (4) for removing the treatment agent from metal tubes, where the distribution elements (3, 4) are provided, in the lengthwise direction thereof, with at least one channel including a constriction point (7) of the channel diameter for the whole length of the distribution element and the measures of the diameter constriction point are designed so that when the treatment agent flows therethrough, at the end of each metal tube (2) to be treated, there is created an equally large pressure loss, and in the lengthwise direction thereof, with two channels; a first channel (5, 18) with respect to the flowing direction, and a second channel (6, 17) with respect to the flowing direction, and whereby the channels are provided in the distribution elements in mutual liquid connection by means of a constriction point (7) arranged in the channels, the treatment agent (8) is arranged to proceed in the distribution element (3, 4) into the channel (5, 18) that is first with respect to the flowing direction, from which it is transferred, through the constriction point (7), to the channel (6, 17) that is second with respect to the flowing direction, by means of which the feed end distribution element (3) supplies an essentially equal amount of the treatment agent (8) essentially simultaneously onto the inner surfaces of at least two metal tubes.
- An arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the metal tubes are positioned in an inclined position with respect to the horizontal level, so that the outlet end distribution element (4) is located higher than the feed end distribution element (3).
- An arrangement according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that each distribution element (3, 4) is provided with at least one liquid channel (12, 16), through which the treatment agent (8) can be either fed to the distribution element or removed therefrom.
- An arrangement according to claim 3, characterized in that in both distribution elements (3, 4), the first channels (5, 18) in the flowing direction are mutually identical, and the second channels (6,17) in the flowing direction are mutually identical.
- An arrangement according to any of the claims 1 - 4, characterized in that each distribution element is provided, in the lengthwise direction thereof, with tube channels (10, 19) arranged at certain intervals (15) for each metal tube (2) to be processed.
- An arrangement according to claim 5, characterized in that each metal tube (2) under treatment is arranged in direct liquid connection by intermediation of the tube channel (10, 19) either with the first channel (5, 18) provided in the flowing direction in the distribution element (3, 4) or with the second channel (6, 17) provided in the flowing direction.
- An arrangement according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that in the distribution element (3) of the feed end, each metal tube (2) is connected through its tube channel (10) to the channel (6) that is second with respect to the flowing direction, in which case the channel (6) is located above the channel (5) that is first in the flowing direction.
- An arrangement according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that in the distribution element (4) of the outlet end, each metal tube (2) is connected, through its tube channel (19), to the channel (18) that is first with respect to the flowing direction, in which case the channel (18) is located above the channel (17) that is second in the flowing direction.
- An arrangement according to claim 1, 4, 6, 7 or 8, characterized in that the measures of the first channel (5, 18) in the flowing direction are designed so that in the channel, there can be fitted at least as much treatment agent as there is altogether room for on all the inner surfaces of each of the metal tubes (2) to be treated.
- An arrangement according to claim 1, 4, 6, 7, 8 or 9, characterized in that in the transversal area, the first channel (5, 18) in the flowing direction is essentially larger than the total sum of the transversal areas of all the metal tubes (2) to be treated.
- An arrangement according to claim 5, 6, 7 or 8, characterized in that the metal tubes (2) are sealed by at least one sealing element (21) in the vicinity of the tube channel (10, 19), so that the sealing element extends as far as the end (14) of the metal tube.
- An arrangement according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arrangement includes a suction element (11) for absorbing the treatment agent (8) through the metal tubes.
- An arrangement according to any of the claims 1 - 11, characterized in that the arrangement includes a pressure arrangement for supplying the treatment solution onto the inner surfaces of the metal tubes.
- An arrangement according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least in one of the distribution elements, there can be arranged a channel (20) for replacement air.
- An arrangement according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arrangement includes a processing unit (9) for the treatment agent.
- An arrangement according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arrangement can be connected to at least one essentially similar arrangement, so that the treatment agent can be circulated therebetween.
- An arrangement according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is suitable for use with a treatment agent (8) that is a tinning solution.
- An arrangement according claims 1 - 16, characterized in that the treatment agent (8) is a pickling solution.
- An arrangement according to any of the preceding claims 1 - 16, characterized in that it is suitable for use with a treatment agent (8) that is a degreasing solution.
- An arrangement according to any of the preceding claims 1 - 16, characterized in that it is suitable for use with a treatment agent (8) that is a washing liquid.
- An arrangement according any of the preceding claims 1 - 16, characterized in that it is suitable for use with a treatment agent (8) that is drying gas.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
FI20022025 | 2002-11-14 | ||
FI20022025A FI20022025A (en) | 2002-11-14 | 2002-11-14 | Apparatus for treating the inside of a metal tube |
PCT/FI2003/000844 WO2004043620A1 (en) | 2002-11-14 | 2003-11-07 | Arrangement for treating the inner surface of a metal tube |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP1575715A1 EP1575715A1 (en) | 2005-09-21 |
EP1575715B1 true EP1575715B1 (en) | 2007-12-12 |
Family
ID=8564933
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP03775410A Expired - Lifetime EP1575715B1 (en) | 2002-11-14 | 2003-11-07 | Arrangement for treating the inner surface of a metal tube |
Country Status (10)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP1575715B1 (en) |
AT (1) | ATE380605T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2003283442A1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE60318109T2 (en) |
DK (1) | DK1575715T3 (en) |
EA (1) | EA006913B1 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2298591T3 (en) |
FI (1) | FI20022025A (en) |
TW (1) | TW200500503A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2004043620A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN101899668B (en) * | 2010-07-30 | 2012-01-04 | 西北有色金属研究院 | Acid-washing method for internal surfaces of metal capillary tubes |
US8801859B2 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2014-08-12 | Renmatix, Inc. | Self-cleaning apparatus and method for thick slurry pressure control |
CN108889732A (en) * | 2018-08-17 | 2018-11-27 | 浙江久立特材科技股份有限公司 | A kind of stainless steel light tube inner wall of long pipe Rustproofing apparatus and method |
CN113106513A (en) * | 2021-03-18 | 2021-07-13 | 中科金龙金属材料开发有限公司 | Corrosion-resistant copper pipe and processing method thereof |
Family Cites Families (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3765050A (en) * | 1971-07-30 | 1973-10-16 | Olin Corp | Apparatus for cleaning tubes |
JPS5141640A (en) * | 1974-10-05 | 1976-04-08 | Kobe Steel Ltd | Kanjosozaino naimensanaraisochi |
JPS55164065A (en) * | 1979-06-07 | 1980-12-20 | Sumitomo Metal Ind Ltd | Method for plating on one side of steel pipe |
DE2944874C2 (en) * | 1979-11-07 | 1984-11-08 | Nukem Gmbh, 6450 Hanau | Plant for the treatment of the inner surfaces of pipes |
US4863555A (en) * | 1987-07-27 | 1989-09-05 | Westinghouse Electric Corp. | Tube flush etching, rinsing and drying apparatus and method |
US4859276A (en) * | 1987-08-03 | 1989-08-22 | Westinghouse Electric Corp. | Tube flush etching, rinsing, drying, inspecting and plugging subsystem and method in a tube manufacturing system |
RU2032762C1 (en) * | 1992-06-03 | 1995-04-10 | Государственный научно-исследовательский и конструкторско-технологический институт трубной промышленности | Apparatus for the application of coating on the inner surface of pipes |
US5819770A (en) * | 1996-12-23 | 1998-10-13 | Randall Manufacturing Co. | Cleaning apparatus with solution flushing system for tubes and other articles |
-
2002
- 2002-11-14 FI FI20022025A patent/FI20022025A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
-
2003
- 2003-11-06 TW TW092131057A patent/TW200500503A/en unknown
- 2003-11-07 ES ES03775410T patent/ES2298591T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-11-07 EP EP03775410A patent/EP1575715B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-11-07 WO PCT/FI2003/000844 patent/WO2004043620A1/en active IP Right Grant
- 2003-11-07 AU AU2003283442A patent/AU2003283442A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2003-11-07 EA EA200500552A patent/EA006913B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-11-07 DE DE60318109T patent/DE60318109T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-11-07 AT AT03775410T patent/ATE380605T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-11-07 DK DK03775410T patent/DK1575715T3/en active
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
ATE380605T1 (en) | 2007-12-15 |
DK1575715T3 (en) | 2008-04-21 |
WO2004043620A1 (en) | 2004-05-27 |
AU2003283442A1 (en) | 2004-06-03 |
ES2298591T3 (en) | 2008-05-16 |
FI20022025A0 (en) | 2002-11-14 |
DE60318109D1 (en) | 2008-01-24 |
EA200500552A1 (en) | 2005-12-29 |
TW200500503A (en) | 2005-01-01 |
EA006913B1 (en) | 2006-04-28 |
DE60318109T2 (en) | 2008-12-24 |
EP1575715A1 (en) | 2005-09-21 |
FI20022025A (en) | 2004-05-15 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
WO2016120700A2 (en) | Ecologic method for the continuous chrome plating of bars and associated device. | |
JP2009172472A (en) | Foreign matter removing device in treatment vessel | |
EP1575715B1 (en) | Arrangement for treating the inner surface of a metal tube | |
US20210395912A1 (en) | Method and device for the galvanic application of a surface coating | |
US6090254A (en) | Process for coating metallic molding articles | |
CN102418126B (en) | Plating apparatus and plating method | |
US4233108A (en) | Process for use in etching the outer surface of a metal member | |
US10513781B2 (en) | Treatment device for pickling and phosphating metal parts, and treatment method, and treatment plant for galvanizing the metal parts | |
JPS6335799A (en) | Horizontal feed treatment apparatus | |
EP0694090B1 (en) | Process and device for the electrolytic surface coating of workpieces | |
DE69906733T2 (en) | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR ELECTROPLATING | |
KR20010093050A (en) | Method and device for driving a multi-stage counter flow cascade cleaning | |
CN108950625B (en) | Electroplating system for electroplating chromium on revolving body workpiece | |
MXPA06010926A (en) | Process and apparatus for the electrogalvanic coating of metal items. | |
JPH07195116A (en) | Method for continuously dry drawing wire and device therefor | |
KR100573359B1 (en) | Continuous Automatic Facilities for Electrochemical Indirect Etching of Aluminium Plate | |
US4568576A (en) | Metal coating process and apparatus | |
US2381183A (en) | Apparatus for and method of rustproofing | |
JPH0329328Y2 (en) | ||
JP3832546B2 (en) | Surface treatment equipment | |
JP3959879B2 (en) | Electrodeposition coating equipment | |
JPS634464B2 (en) | ||
DE10248556B4 (en) | Process for the treatment of a substrate for the purpose of corrosion protection and apparatus for degassing the liquid process medium used in the process | |
DE2631986C2 (en) | Process for circulating an aqueous metallization bath and device for carrying out the process | |
JPH0427319B2 (en) |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20050428 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IT LI LU MC NL PT RO SE SI SK TR |
|
AX | Request for extension of the european patent |
Extension state: AL LT LV MK |
|
DAX | Request for extension of the european patent (deleted) | ||
GRAP | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1 |
|
GRAS | Grant fee paid |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3 |
|
GRAA | (expected) grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: B1 Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IT LI LU MC NL PT RO SE SI SK TR |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GB Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: EP |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REF | Corresponds to: |
Ref document number: 60318109 Country of ref document: DE Date of ref document: 20080124 Kind code of ref document: P |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: NV Representative=s name: FIAMMENGHI-FIAMMENGHI |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: SE Ref legal event code: TRGR |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DK Ref legal event code: T3 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: ES Ref legal event code: FG2A Ref document number: 2298591 Country of ref document: ES Kind code of ref document: T3 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20071212 |
|
ET | Fr: translation filed | ||
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: RO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20071212 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: PT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20080512 |
|
PLBE | No opposition filed within time limit |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT |
|
26N | No opposition filed |
Effective date: 20080915 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20080313 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BG Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20080312 Ref country code: EE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20071212 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: MC Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20081130 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CY Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20071212 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20081107 |
|
NLS | Nl: assignments of ep-patents |
Owner name: CUPORI GROUP OY Effective date: 20091102 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GB Ref legal event code: 732E Free format text: REGISTERED BETWEEN 20091217 AND 20091223 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: AT Payment date: 20091130 Year of fee payment: 7 Ref country code: CH Payment date: 20091116 Year of fee payment: 7 Ref country code: CZ Payment date: 20091103 Year of fee payment: 7 Ref country code: DE Payment date: 20091125 Year of fee payment: 7 Ref country code: DK Payment date: 20091125 Year of fee payment: 7 Ref country code: ES Payment date: 20091120 Year of fee payment: 7 Ref country code: FI Payment date: 20091118 Year of fee payment: 7 Ref country code: SE Payment date: 20091126 Year of fee payment: 7 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: NL Payment date: 20091130 Year of fee payment: 7 Ref country code: SK Payment date: 20091105 Year of fee payment: 7 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: TP |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: ES Ref legal event code: PC2A |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FR Payment date: 20091214 Year of fee payment: 7 Ref country code: GB Payment date: 20091125 Year of fee payment: 7 Ref country code: IT Payment date: 20091124 Year of fee payment: 7 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BE Payment date: 20091130 Year of fee payment: 7 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: HU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20080613 Ref country code: LU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20081107 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: TR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20071212 |
|
BERE | Be: lapsed |
Owner name: OUTOKUMPU OYJ Effective date: 20101130 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: NL Ref legal event code: V1 Effective date: 20110601 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: SE Ref legal event code: EUG |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: PL |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DK Ref legal event code: EBP |
|
GBPC | Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee |
Effective date: 20101107 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CZ Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101107 Ref country code: LI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101130 Ref country code: CH Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101130 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: SK Ref legal event code: MM4A Ref document number: E 3130 Country of ref document: SK Effective date: 20101107 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: ST Effective date: 20110801 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101107 Ref country code: NL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20110601 Ref country code: BE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101130 Ref country code: SK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101107 Ref country code: AT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101107 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R119 Ref document number: 60318109 Country of ref document: DE Effective date: 20110601 Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R119 Ref document number: 60318109 Country of ref document: DE Effective date: 20110531 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101108 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101130 Ref country code: DK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101130 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GB Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101107 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101107 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: ES Ref legal event code: FD2A Effective date: 20120110 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: ES Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20101108 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20110531 |