EP1753525A1 - Method and device for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium - Google Patents

Method and device for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium

Info

Publication number
EP1753525A1
EP1753525A1 EP05750072A EP05750072A EP1753525A1 EP 1753525 A1 EP1753525 A1 EP 1753525A1 EP 05750072 A EP05750072 A EP 05750072A EP 05750072 A EP05750072 A EP 05750072A EP 1753525 A1 EP1753525 A1 EP 1753525A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
film
sonotrode
liquid
medium
flowable medium
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP05750072A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1753525B1 (en
Inventor
Harald Hielscher
Holger Hielscher
Thomas Hielscher
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Dr Hielscher GmbH
Original Assignee
Dr Hielscher GmbH
Dr Hielscher GmbH
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Dr Hielscher GmbH, Dr Hielscher GmbH filed Critical Dr Hielscher GmbH
Publication of EP1753525A1 publication Critical patent/EP1753525A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1753525B1 publication Critical patent/EP1753525B1/en
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Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F31/00—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms
    • B01F31/80—Mixing by means of high-frequency vibrations above one kHz, e.g. ultrasonic vibrations
    • B01F31/84—Mixing by means of high-frequency vibrations above one kHz, e.g. ultrasonic vibrations for material continuously moving through a tube, e.g. by deforming the tube
    • B01F31/841—Mixing by means of high-frequency vibrations above one kHz, e.g. ultrasonic vibrations for material continuously moving through a tube, e.g. by deforming the tube with a vibrating element inside the tube
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F31/00—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms
    • B01F31/80—Mixing by means of high-frequency vibrations above one kHz, e.g. ultrasonic vibrations
    • B01F31/85—Mixing by means of high-frequency vibrations above one kHz, e.g. ultrasonic vibrations with a vibrating element inside the receptacle
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F31/00—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms
    • B01F31/80—Mixing by means of high-frequency vibrations above one kHz, e.g. ultrasonic vibrations
    • B01F31/86—Mixing by means of high-frequency vibrations above one kHz, e.g. ultrasonic vibrations with vibration of the receptacle or part of it

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method and a device for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium by means of a sonotrode, the flowable medium not being in direct contact with the sonotrode.
  • the invention is based on the object of specifying a method and a device of the type mentioned at the outset with which the wear on the sonotrode caused by it itself can be significantly reduced in a cost-effective manner.
  • the contact pressure on the film is achieved by generating a negative pressure on the side of the film facing the sonotrode compared to the pressure on the side facing away from the sonotrode or in the case of a curved sonotrode in which the film lies outside the sonotrode Generating a tensile force applied to the film.
  • the film is wetted on the side facing the sonotrode with a liquid, e.g. with an oil, a synthetic resin or a silicone compound.
  • a liquid e.g. with an oil, a synthetic resin or a silicone compound.
  • the film is expediently moved continuously or discontinuously over the sonotrode during operation of the sonotrode.
  • the method has the advantage that the wear is shifted from the sonotrode to the film. It is suitable for use in food technology, the pharmaceutical and chemical industry, for mixing or emulsifying various liquids, for treating sewage sludge and in other areas in which ultrasound is used. When using aggressive media, there is the additional advantage that the film also protects the sonotrode from a chemical reaction.
  • a device suitable for carrying out the method is expediently constructed such that a flexible film is arranged between the sonotrode and the medium in such a way that the film lies directly on the sonotrode or indirectly at a distance of up to 100 ⁇ m above the sonotrode, the contact pressure of the film is on the Sonotrode is supported by tightening forces during operation of the device and is always kept so large during operation of the device that the film always lies directly or indirectly on the sonotrode and follows the lifting movements.
  • Liquid agents can be arranged at a distance of up to 100 ⁇ m.
  • the contact pressure can be achieved simply by maintaining a corresponding static or dynamic pressure in the medium to be sonicated, so that the film is constantly pressed against the sonotrode even when it is vibrating.
  • the contact pressure can also be supported by other means, e.g. by applying a vacuum to the side of the film facing the sonotrode or - in the case of curved sonotrodes - the film is stretched over the sonotrode by means of a tensioning device, that is to say a tensile force is applied to the film.
  • the device can be constructed such that the film is stretched between a device for holding the sonotrode and a flow cell.
  • the film can also be constructed in such a way that the film is stretched over a plate sonotrode, which is immersed in an open vessel with the liquid to be sonicated.
  • it can also be constructed as an ultrasonic trough on which piezo oscillators are attached on the outside. The film is then on the inner wall of the ultrasonic tank and is pressed against the vibrating surface by negative pressure.
  • the device is expediently equipped with a transport device with which the film is conveyed continuously or in sections between a supply roll and a take-up roll.
  • the film can consist of metal or plastic and have a thickness between 5 and 200 ⁇ m.
  • the film can additionally be wetted on its side facing the sonotrode with a liquid, an oil, a synthetic resin or silicone.
  • FIG. 1 schematically shows a device according to the invention with a block sonotrode
  • FIG. 2 schematically shows such a device with a bending oscillator as a sonotrode
  • FIG. 3 schematically shows a device according to the invention with a plate oscillator as a sonotrode
  • Figure 4 shows schematically an ultrasonic trough with the film according to the invention
  • Figure 5 schematically shows the invention on a hollow transducer sonotrode.
  • FIG. 1 shows a device 1 for ultrasound treatment of a flowable medium 2.
  • An ultrasound transducer 3 with a sonotrode 4 here embodied as a block sonotrode, is firmly connected to the device 1 via a flange connection 5 and additionally sealed with a seal 6 against the interior of the device 1 ,
  • the device 1 On its underside, the device 1 is connected to a flow cell 7, a thin film 8 between the device 1 and the flow cell 7, preferably in the range from 5 ⁇ m to 200 ⁇ m thickness, e.g. 50 ⁇ m, is placed in such a way that the film 8 bears directly on the end face of the sonotrode 4 and with the aid of a seal 9 seals the space in the device 1 from the flow cell 7 and the flow cell 7 to the outside.
  • a medium 2 to be sonicated (preferably a liquid, for example water) is pumped through the flow cell 7 via an inlet and outlet 10, 11. Due to the pressure building up in the flow cell 7, the film 8 is pressed against the end face of the sonotrode 4.
  • a negative pressure is generated in the device 1 via a connection 12, which additionally pulls the film 8 to the end face of the sonotrode 4 via a small gap 13, for example 0.1 mm, remaining between the sonotrode 4 and the housing of the device 1.
  • the force that is generated by the negative pressure must be greater than the acceleration forces acting on the film 8 on the end face of the Sonotrode 4 in order to always keep the film 8 in contact with the sonotrode 4. This process can be supported by applying a difficult-to-tear liquid or a liquid film on the side of the film facing away from the medium 2.
  • a cavitation field is generated in the flow cell 7 during the operation of the device 1.
  • the signs of wear caused by the effect of the cavitation now relate exclusively to the film 8.
  • the service life of the film 8 is achieved.
  • a transport device 14 for the film 8 ensures that the sonication time of the film 8 is always kept shorter than its service life.
  • FIG. 2 shows a variant of the device 1 with a bending oscillator as the sonotrode 4.
  • FIG. 3 shows an ultrasound treatment device with an open treatment vessel 15.
  • An ultrasound transducer 3 causes a sonotrode 4 to vibrate. The vibrations are emitted into a liquid medium 2 via the end face of the sonotrode 4.
  • a thin film 8 is introduced via a transport device 14 in such a way that the medium 2 does not touch the end face of the sonotrode 4.
  • the film 8 preferably has a thickness of 5 ⁇ m - 200 ⁇ m, here for example 50 ⁇ m.
  • the tensile force via the transport device 14 must in turn be so great that the film 8 is permanently pressed against the end face of the sonotrode 4. During operation, this contact pressure must in any case be greater than the acceleration force which acts on the film 8 through the vibrating sonotrode 4.
  • Figure 4 shows the invention in connection with an ultrasonic trough.
  • the structure of an ultrasonic bath is known and described per se.
  • the device consists of the actual trough 16, to which piezo oscillators 17 are attached from the outside and which acts like a sonotrode.
  • a thin film 18 is introduced into the tub 16.
  • the film 18 preferably has a thickness of 5 ⁇ m - 200 ⁇ m, here e.g. 50 ⁇ m.
  • the film 18 is fixed by a cover 19 which at the same time seals the space between the film 18 and the tub 16.
  • the film 18 is drawn to the tub 16 via a connection 20 by generating a negative pressure.
  • FIG. 5 shows the invention in connection with a hollow oscillator, again in an open treatment container 15.
  • the outer surface of an ultrasonic transducer 21 designed as a hollow oscillator is caused to oscillate. The vibrations are released into the liquid 2 via this lateral surface.
  • a thin film 8 is introduced via a transport device 14 so that no liquid 2 touches the lateral surface of the ultrasonic transducer 21.
  • the film 8 preferably has a thickness of 5 ⁇ m - 200 ⁇ m, here for example 50 ⁇ m.
  • a device 22 for pressing the film 8 is placed around the ultrasound transducer 21 such that no liquid 2 can touch the lateral surface of the ultrasound transducer 21, even at the deflection points.
  • the tensile force via the transport device 14 must be so great that the film 8 is permanently pressed against the outer surface of the ultrasonic transducer 21. During operation, this contact pressure must in any case be greater than the acceleration force which acts on the film 8 through the oscillating outer surface of the ultrasonic transducer 21.

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and a device for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium using a sonotrode, wherein the flowable medium is not in direct contact with the sonotrode. Disclosed is a method comprising the following steps: placing a film (8) on the sonotrode (4) in such a way that the contact force by means of which the film (8) is pressed on the sonotrode (4) is always so great that the film (8) follows the lifting motions of the sonotrode (4) in the corresponding frequency and amplitude; applying ultrasound power through the film (8) into the medium (2) and transmitting the wear phenomena onto the film (8).

Description

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zum Einbringen von Ultraschall in ein fließfähiges MediumMethod and device for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium
Beschreibungdescription
Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren und eine Vorrichtung zum Einbringen von Ultraschall in ein fließfähiges Medium mittels einer Sonotrode, wobei das fließfähige Medium nicht direkt mit der Sonotrode in Berührung steht.The invention relates to a method and a device for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium by means of a sonotrode, the flowable medium not being in direct contact with the sonotrode.
Bei entsprechendem Energieeintrag in ein fließfähiges Medium kommt es im beschallten Bereich zur Kavitation mit lokal konzentrierten extrem hohen Drücken und Temperaturen, was bei direktem Kontakt von Sonotrode und behandeltem Medium zur Ablösung feinster Partikel aus dem Sonotroden- material führt. Die meisten üblichen Sonotroden haben metallische Oberflächen, so dass es zum Eintrag von Feinstpartikeln und Metallionen in das behandelte Material kommt, was für viele ultraschallbehandelte Materialien wie Lebensoder Arzneimittel höchst unerwünscht ist. Zudem ist der Verschleiß des Sonotrodenmaterials als solcher bereits nachteilig, da dieser zum Rauwerden der Oberfläche und zu anschließender Bildung von Mikrorissen in der Sonotrode führt und die Sonotrode in mehr oder weniger großen Zeitabständen ersetzt werden muss. Nach der DE 102 43 837 AI wird vorgeschlagen, den Ultraschall auf ein Medium unter Zwischenschalten einer weiteren Flüssigkeit zu übertragen, so dass das fließfähige Medium nicht direkt mit der Sonotrode in Berührung kommt, wobei die Flüssigkeit unter erhöhtem Druck steht und vom zu behandelnden Medium durch eine Wandung getrennt ist. Die Übertragungsflüssigkeit muss dazu in einem Druckgefäß gehalten werden, auf dessen Wandung die Sonotrode einwirkt. Damit können Verschleißpartikel nicht von der Sonotrode in das zu behandelnde Medium gelangen. Kavitation findet in den Flüssigkeiten jedoch nach wie vor statt und führt zum Verschleiß der schwingenden Gefäßwandungen der Durchflusszelle und der Sonotrode .With the appropriate energy input into a flowable medium, cavitation occurs at locally concentrated, extremely high pressures and temperatures, which leads to the detachment of the finest particles from the sonotrode material when the sonotrode and the treated medium come into direct contact. Most common sonotrodes have metallic surfaces, so that fine particles and metal ions are introduced into the treated material, which is highly undesirable for many ultrasound-treated materials such as food or pharmaceuticals. In addition, the wear of the sonotrode material as such is already disadvantageous, since this leads to the roughening of the surface and the subsequent formation of microcracks in the sonotrode and the sonotrode must be replaced at more or less large intervals. According to DE 102 43 837 AI it is proposed to transfer the ultrasound to a medium with the interposition of another liquid so that the flowable medium does not come into direct contact with the sonotrode, the liquid being under increased pressure and by the medium to be treated a wall is separated. The transmission fluid must be kept in a pressure vessel on which Wall acts on the sonotrode. This prevents wear particles from entering the medium to be treated from the sonotrode. However, cavitation still takes place in the liquids and leads to wear of the vibrating vessel walls of the flow cell and the sonotrode.
Durch die DE 40 41 365 AI wurde auch bereits vorgeschlagen, das schwingende Ende der Sonotrode zur Verringerung des durch Kavitation bedingten Verschleißes mit einer Schutzschicht aus polykristallinem Diamant zu versehen. Die Maßnahme verteuert die Sonotroden jedoch in erheblichem Maße.DE 40 41 365 AI has also already proposed to provide the oscillating end of the sonotrode with a protective layer made of polycrystalline diamond in order to reduce the wear caused by cavitation. However, the measure makes the sonotrodes considerably more expensive.
Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein Verfahren und eine Vorrichtung der eingangs genannten Art anzugeben, mit denen der an der Sonotrode durch sie selbst verursachte Verschleiß kostengünstig erheblich vermindert werden kann.The invention is based on the object of specifying a method and a device of the type mentioned at the outset with which the wear on the sonotrode caused by it itself can be significantly reduced in a cost-effective manner.
Erfindungsgemäß wird die Aufgabe gelöst durch die Merkmale der Ansprüche 1 und 7. Zweckmäßige Ausgestaltungen sind Gegenstand der Unteransprüche.According to the invention the object is achieved by the features of claims 1 and 7. Useful embodiments are the subject of the subclaims.
Danach sind folgende Verfahrensschritte vorgesehen:The following procedural steps are then provided:
- Anbringen einer Folie an die Sonotrode derart, dass die Anpresskraft, mit der die Folie an die Sonotrode gepresst wird, immer so groß ist, dass die Folie den Hubbewegungen der Sonotrode in der entsprechenden Frequenz und Amplitude folgt. - Einbringen der Ultraschallleistung über die Folie in das Medium und Verlagerung der Verschleißerscheinungen auf die Folie.- Attaching a film to the sonotrode in such a way that the contact pressure with which the film is pressed against the sonotrode is always so great that the film follows the stroke movements of the sonotrode in the corresponding frequency and amplitude. - Introducing the ultrasound power over the film into the medium and shifting the wear and tear on the film.
Die Anpresskraft auf die Folie wird nach einer bevorzugten Variante des Verfahrens durch Erzeugen eines Unterdrucks auf der der Sonotrode zugewandten Seite der Folie gegenüber dem Druck auf der der Sonotrode abgewandten Seite oder bei einer gekrümmten Sonotrode, bei der die Folie außen über der Sonotrode liegt, durch Erzeugen einer Zugkraft auf die Folie aufgebracht.According to a preferred variant of the method, the contact pressure on the film is achieved by generating a negative pressure on the side of the film facing the sonotrode compared to the pressure on the side facing away from the sonotrode or in the case of a curved sonotrode in which the film lies outside the sonotrode Generating a tensile force applied to the film.
Nach einer bevorzugten Variante des Verfahrens wird die Folie auf der der Sonotrode zugewandten Seite mit einer Flüssigkeit benetzt, z.B. mit einem Öl, einem Kunstharz oder einer Silikonverbindung.According to a preferred variant of the method, the film is wetted on the side facing the sonotrode with a liquid, e.g. with an oil, a synthetic resin or a silicone compound.
Zweckmäßig wird die Folie während des Betriebes der Sonotrode kontinuierlich oder diskontinuierlich über die Sonotrode bewegt.The film is expediently moved continuously or discontinuously over the sonotrode during operation of the sonotrode.
Das Verfahren hat den Vorteil, dass der Verschleiß von der Sonotrode auf die Folie verlagert wird. Es ist geeignet zur Anwendung in der Lebensmitteltechnologie, der pharmazeutischen und chemischen Industrie, zur Mischung oder Emul- gierung verschiedenartiger Flüssigkeiten, zur Behandlung von Klärschlamm und in anderen Bereichen, in denen Ultraschall eingesetzt wird. Bei Verwendung aggressiver Medien kommt der Vorteil hinzu, dass die Folie die Sonotrode auch vor einer chemischen Reaktion schützt. Eine zur Durchführung des Verfahrens geeignete Vorrichtung ist zweckmäßig so aufgebaut, dass zwischen Sonotrode und Medium eine flexible Folie derart angeordnet ist, dass die Folie an der Sonotrode direkt anliegt oder indirekt in einem Abstand bis 100 μm über der Sonotrode liegt die Anpresskraft der Folie an die Sonotrode während des Betriebes der Vorrichtung durch Anzugskräfte unterstützt und während des Betriebes der Vorrichtung immer so groß gehalten ist, dass die Folie immer an der Sonotrode direkt oder indirekt anliegt und den Hubbewegungen folgt. In dem Abstand bis 100 μm können flüssige Mittel angeordnet sein.The method has the advantage that the wear is shifted from the sonotrode to the film. It is suitable for use in food technology, the pharmaceutical and chemical industry, for mixing or emulsifying various liquids, for treating sewage sludge and in other areas in which ultrasound is used. When using aggressive media, there is the additional advantage that the film also protects the sonotrode from a chemical reaction. A device suitable for carrying out the method is expediently constructed such that a flexible film is arranged between the sonotrode and the medium in such a way that the film lies directly on the sonotrode or indirectly at a distance of up to 100 μm above the sonotrode, the contact pressure of the film is on the Sonotrode is supported by tightening forces during operation of the device and is always kept so large during operation of the device that the film always lies directly or indirectly on the sonotrode and follows the lifting movements. Liquid agents can be arranged at a distance of up to 100 μm.
Die Anpresskraft kann einfach dadurch realisiert werden, dass in dem zu beschallenden Medium ein entsprechender statischer oder dynamischer Druck aufrechterhalten wird, so dass die Folie auch bei schwingender Sonotrode ständig an diese gedrückt wird. Die Anpresskraft lässt sich aber auch unterstützen durch weitere Mittel, z.B. indem ein Unterdruck auf die der Sonotrode zugewandte Seite der Folie aufgebracht wird oder - bei gekrümmten Sonotroden - die Folie mittels einer Spannvorrichtung über die Sonotrode gespannt wird, also eine Zugkraft auf die Folie aufgebracht wird.The contact pressure can be achieved simply by maintaining a corresponding static or dynamic pressure in the medium to be sonicated, so that the film is constantly pressed against the sonotrode even when it is vibrating. The contact pressure can also be supported by other means, e.g. by applying a vacuum to the side of the film facing the sonotrode or - in the case of curved sonotrodes - the film is stretched over the sonotrode by means of a tensioning device, that is to say a tensile force is applied to the film.
Die Vorrichtung kann in erfindungsgemäß bevorzugter Weise so aufgebaut sein, dass die Folie zwischen einer Einrichtung zur Halterung der Sonotrode und einer Durchflusszelle gespannt ist.In a preferred manner according to the invention, the device can be constructed such that the film is stretched between a device for holding the sonotrode and a flow cell.
Sie kann auch so aufgebaut sein, dass die Folie über eine Plattensonotrode gespannt ist, die in ein offenes Gefäß mit der zu beschallenden Flüssigkeit taucht. Nach einer weiteren Variante kann sie auch als Ultraschallwanne aufgebaut sein, an der Piezoschwinger außen angebracht sind. Die Folie befindet sich dann an der Innenwand der Ultraschallwanne und wird durch Unterdruck an die schwingende Fläche gepresst.It can also be constructed in such a way that the film is stretched over a plate sonotrode, which is immersed in an open vessel with the liquid to be sonicated. According to a further variant, it can also be constructed as an ultrasonic trough on which piezo oscillators are attached on the outside. The film is then on the inner wall of the ultrasonic tank and is pressed against the vibrating surface by negative pressure.
Zum Weiterbewegen der Folie ist die Vorrichtung zweckmäßig mit einer Transportvorrichtung ausgerüstet, mit der die Folie kontinuierlich oder abschnittsweise zwischen einer Vorratsrolle und einer Aufnahmerolle weiterbefördert wird.To move the film further, the device is expediently equipped with a transport device with which the film is conveyed continuously or in sections between a supply roll and a take-up roll.
Die Folie kann aus Metall oder Kunststoff bestehen und eine Dicke zwischen 5 und 200 μm aufweisen. Um eine enge Anbin- dung der Folie an die Sonotrode zu gewährleisten, kann die Folie zusätzlich auf ihrer der Sonotrode zugewandten Seite mit einer Flüssigkeit, einem Öl, einem Kunstharz oder Silikon, benetzt sein.The film can consist of metal or plastic and have a thickness between 5 and 200 μm. In order to ensure a tight connection of the film to the sonotrode, the film can additionally be wetted on its side facing the sonotrode with a liquid, an oil, a synthetic resin or silicone.
Die Erfindung soll nachstehend anhand von Ausführungsbeispielen näher erläutert werden. Die aus den zugehörigen Zeichnungen ersichtlichen Anordnungen zeigen inThe invention will be explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments. The arrangements shown in the associated drawings show in
Figur 1 schematisch eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung mit einer Blocksonotrode,FIG. 1 schematically shows a device according to the invention with a block sonotrode,
Figur 2 schematisch eine solche Vorrichtung mit einem Biegeschwinger als Sonotrode,FIG. 2 schematically shows such a device with a bending oscillator as a sonotrode,
Figur 3 schematisch eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung mit einem Plattenschwinger als Sonotrode, Figur 4 schematisch eine Ultraschallwanne mit der erfindungsgemäßen Folie undFIG. 3 schematically shows a device according to the invention with a plate oscillator as a sonotrode, Figure 4 shows schematically an ultrasonic trough with the film according to the invention and
Figur 5 schematisch die Erfindung an einer Hohlschwinger- Sonotrode .Figure 5 schematically shows the invention on a hollow transducer sonotrode.
Figur 1 zeigt eine Vorrichtung 1 zur Ultraschallbehandlung eines fließfähigen Mediums 2. Ein Ultraschallwandler 3 mit einer Sonotrode 4, hier ausgeführt als Blocksonotrode, ist mit der Vorrichtung 1 über eine Flanschverbindung 5 fest verbunden und zusätzlich mit einer Dichtung 6 gegen den Innenraum der Vorrichtung 1 abgedichtet. An ihrer Unterseite ist die Vorrichtung 1 mit einer Durchflusszelle 7 verbunden, wobei zwischen der Vorrichtung 1 und der Durchflusszelle 7 eine dünne Folie 8, vorzugsweise im Bereich von 5 μm - 200 μm Dicke z.B. 50 μm, so platziert wird, dass die Folie 8 direkt an der Stirnfläche der Sonotrode 4 anliegt und mit Hilfe einer Dichtung 9 den Raum in der Vorrichtung 1 von der Durchflusszelle 7 und die Durchflusszelle 7 nach außen abdichtet.1 shows a device 1 for ultrasound treatment of a flowable medium 2. An ultrasound transducer 3 with a sonotrode 4, here embodied as a block sonotrode, is firmly connected to the device 1 via a flange connection 5 and additionally sealed with a seal 6 against the interior of the device 1 , On its underside, the device 1 is connected to a flow cell 7, a thin film 8 between the device 1 and the flow cell 7, preferably in the range from 5 μm to 200 μm thickness, e.g. 50 μm, is placed in such a way that the film 8 bears directly on the end face of the sonotrode 4 and with the aid of a seal 9 seals the space in the device 1 from the flow cell 7 and the flow cell 7 to the outside.
Über einen Ein- und Auslass 10, 11 wird ein zu beschallendes Medium 2 (vorzugsweise eine Flüssigkeit, z.B. Wasser) durch die Durchflusszelle 7 gepumpt. Durch den sich aufbauenden Druck in der Durchflusszelle 7 wird die Folie 8 an die Stirnfläche der Sonotrode 4 gedrückt. Zusätzlich wird über einen Anschluss 12 ein Unterdruck in der Vorrichtung 1 erzeugt, der zusätzlich die Folie 8 über einen kleinen, zwischen der Sonotrode 4 und dem Gehäuse der Vorrichtung 1 verbleibenden Spalt 13, z.B. 0,1mm, an die Stirnfläche der Sonotrode 4 zieht. Die Kraft, die über den Unterdruck erzeugt wird, muss dabei größer sein als die auf die Folie 8 wirkenden Beschleunigungskräfte an der Stirnfläche der Sonotrode 4, um die Folie 8 immer im Kontakt mit der Sonotrode 4 zu halten. Unterstützt werden kann dieser Vorgang, durch Aufbringen einer schwer aufreißenden Flüssigkeit oder eines Flüssigkeitsfilms auf der dem Medium 2 abgewandten Folienseite .A medium 2 to be sonicated (preferably a liquid, for example water) is pumped through the flow cell 7 via an inlet and outlet 10, 11. Due to the pressure building up in the flow cell 7, the film 8 is pressed against the end face of the sonotrode 4. In addition, a negative pressure is generated in the device 1 via a connection 12, which additionally pulls the film 8 to the end face of the sonotrode 4 via a small gap 13, for example 0.1 mm, remaining between the sonotrode 4 and the housing of the device 1. The force that is generated by the negative pressure must be greater than the acceleration forces acting on the film 8 on the end face of the Sonotrode 4 in order to always keep the film 8 in contact with the sonotrode 4. This process can be supported by applying a difficult-to-tear liquid or a liquid film on the side of the film facing away from the medium 2.
Über die Sonotrode 4 und die Folie 8 wird während des Betriebes der Vorrichtung 1 ein Kavitationsfeld in der Durchflusszelle 7 erzeugt. Die durch die Wirkung der Kavitation hervorgerufenen Abnutzungserscheinungen beziehen sich nun ausschließlich auf die Folie 8. Je nach Größe der auftretenden mechanischen Amplitude, hier z.B. 100 μm, und der Eigenschaften der Folie 8, werden Standzeiten der Folie 8 von mehreren Minuten erreicht. Eine Transportvorrichtung 14 für die Folie 8 sorgt dafür, dass die Beschallungszeit der Folie 8 immer kleiner als deren Standzeit gehalten wird.Via the sonotrode 4 and the film 8, a cavitation field is generated in the flow cell 7 during the operation of the device 1. The signs of wear caused by the effect of the cavitation now relate exclusively to the film 8. Depending on the size of the mechanical amplitude occurring, here e.g. 100 μm, and the properties of the film 8, the service life of the film 8 of several minutes is achieved. A transport device 14 for the film 8 ensures that the sonication time of the film 8 is always kept shorter than its service life.
Figur 2 zeigt eine Variante der Vorrichtung 1 mit einem Biegeschwinger als Sonotrode 4.FIG. 2 shows a variant of the device 1 with a bending oscillator as the sonotrode 4.
Figur 3 zeigt eine Ultraschall-Behandlungseinrichtung mit einem offenen Behandlungsgefäß 15. Durch einen Ultraschallwandler 3 wird eine Sonotrode 4 zum Schwingen gebracht. Die Schwingungen werden über die Stirnfläche der Sonotrode 4 in ein flüssiges Medium 2 abgegeben.FIG. 3 shows an ultrasound treatment device with an open treatment vessel 15. An ultrasound transducer 3 causes a sonotrode 4 to vibrate. The vibrations are emitted into a liquid medium 2 via the end face of the sonotrode 4.
Um die durch Kavitation entstehenden Verschleißerscheinungen an der Stirnfläche der Sonotrode 4 zu unterdrücken, wird eine dünne Folie 8 über eine Transportvorrichtung 14 so eingebracht, dass das Medium 2 die Stirnfläche der Sonotrode 4 nicht berührt. Die Folie 8 hat dabei vorzugsweise eine Dicke von 5 μm - 200 μm, hier z.B. 50 μm. Die Zugkraft über die Transportvorrichtung 14 muss dabei wiederum so groß sein, dass die Folie 8 permanent an die Stirnfläche der Sonotrode 4 gepresst wird. Während des Betriebes muss diese Anpresskraft in jedem Fall größer als die Beschleunigungskraft sein, die durch die schwingende Sonotrode 4 auf die Folie 8 wirkt.In order to suppress the signs of wear on the end face of the sonotrode 4 caused by cavitation, a thin film 8 is introduced via a transport device 14 in such a way that the medium 2 does not touch the end face of the sonotrode 4. The film 8 preferably has a thickness of 5 μm - 200 μm, here for example 50 μm. The The tensile force via the transport device 14 must in turn be so great that the film 8 is permanently pressed against the end face of the sonotrode 4. During operation, this contact pressure must in any case be greater than the acceleration force which acts on the film 8 through the vibrating sonotrode 4.
Figur 4 zeigt die Erfindung in Verbindung mit einer Ultraschallwanne. Der Aufbau einer Ultraschallwanne ist an sich hinlänglich bekannt und beschrieben.Figure 4 shows the invention in connection with an ultrasonic trough. The structure of an ultrasonic bath is known and described per se.
Die Vorrichtung besteht aus der eigentlichen Wanne 16, an der Piezoschwinger 17 von außen angebracht sind und die so wie eine Sonotrode wirkt. Um die durch die Kavitation entstehenden Verschleißerscheinungen zu unterdrücken, wird in die Wanne 16 eine dünne Folie 18 eingebracht. Die Folie 18 hat dabei vorzugsweise eine Dicke von 5 μm - 200 μm, hier z.B. 50 μm.The device consists of the actual trough 16, to which piezo oscillators 17 are attached from the outside and which acts like a sonotrode. In order to suppress the signs of wear caused by the cavitation, a thin film 18 is introduced into the tub 16. The film 18 preferably has a thickness of 5 μm - 200 μm, here e.g. 50 μm.
Die Folie 18 wird durch einen Deckel 19 fixiert, der gleichzeitig den Raum zwischen der Folie 18 und der Wanne 16 dicht abschließt. Über einen Anschluss 20 wird die Folie 18 durch Erzeugung eines Unterdrucks an die Wanne 16 gezogen.The film 18 is fixed by a cover 19 which at the same time seals the space between the film 18 and the tub 16. The film 18 is drawn to the tub 16 via a connection 20 by generating a negative pressure.
Figur 5 zeigt die Erfindung in Verbindung mit einem Hohlschwinger, wiederum in einem offenen Behandlungsbehälter 15. Die Mantelfläche eines als Hohlschwinger ausgebildeten Ultraschallwandlers 21 wird zum Schwingen gebracht. Die Schwingungen werden über diese Mantelfläche in die Flüssigkeit 2 abgegeben. Um die durch Kavitation entstehenden Verschleißerscheinungen an der Mantelfläche des Ultraschallwandlers 21 zu unterdrücken, wird eine dünne Folie 8 über eine Transportvorrichtung 14 so eingebracht, dass keine Flüssigkeit 2 die Mantelfläche des Ultraschallwandlers 21 berührt. Die Folie 8 hat dabei vorzugsweise eine Dicke von 5 μm - 200 μm, hier z.B. 50 μm. Über eine Vorrichtung 22 zum Andrücken der Folie 8 wird diese so um den Ultraschallwandler 21 gelegt, dass keine Flüssigkeit 2 die Mantelfläche des Ultraschallwandlers 21, auch an den Umlenkpunkten, berühren kann. Die Zugkraft über die Transportvorrichtung 14 muss dabei so groß sein, dass die Folie 8 permanent an die Mantelfläche des Ultraschallwandlers 21 gepresst wird. Während des Betriebes muss diese Anpresskraft in jedem Fall größer als die Beschleunigungskraft sein, die durch die schwingende Mantelfläche des Ultraschallwandlers 21 auf die Folie 8 wirkt . FIG. 5 shows the invention in connection with a hollow oscillator, again in an open treatment container 15. The outer surface of an ultrasonic transducer 21 designed as a hollow oscillator is caused to oscillate. The vibrations are released into the liquid 2 via this lateral surface. In order to suppress the signs of wear caused by cavitation on the lateral surface of the ultrasonic transducer 21, a thin film 8 is introduced via a transport device 14 so that no liquid 2 touches the lateral surface of the ultrasonic transducer 21. The film 8 preferably has a thickness of 5 μm - 200 μm, here for example 50 μm. A device 22 for pressing the film 8 is placed around the ultrasound transducer 21 such that no liquid 2 can touch the lateral surface of the ultrasound transducer 21, even at the deflection points. The tensile force via the transport device 14 must be so great that the film 8 is permanently pressed against the outer surface of the ultrasonic transducer 21. During operation, this contact pressure must in any case be greater than the acceleration force which acts on the film 8 through the oscillating outer surface of the ultrasonic transducer 21.
BezugsZeichenaufstellungREFERENCE NUMBERS
1 Vorrichtung (zur Aufnahme der Ultraschall- Sonotrode) 2 fließfähiges Medium 3 Ultraschallwandler 4 Sonotrode 5 Flanschverbindung 6 Dichtung 7 Durchflusszelle 8 Folie 9 Dichtung 10 Einlass (des zu beschallenden Mediums) 11 Auslass (des zu beschallenden Mediums) 12 Anschluss zur Unterdruckerzeugung 13 Spalt 14 Transportvorrichtung 15 Behandlungsgefäß 16 Wanne 17 Piezoschwinger 18 Folie 19 Deckel 20 Anschluss zur Unterdruckerzeugung 21 Ultraschallwandler 22 Vorrichtung (zum Andrücken der Folie) 1 device (for receiving the ultrasonic sonotrode) 2 flowable medium 3 ultrasonic transducer 4 sonotrode 5 flange connection 6 seal 7 flow cell 8 foil 9 seal 10 inlet (of the medium to be sonicated) 11 outlet (of the medium to be sonicated) 12 connection for generating negative pressure 13 gap 14 Transport device 15 treatment vessel 16 tub 17 piezo oscillator 18 film 19 cover 20 connection for generating negative pressure 21 ultrasonic transducer 22 device (for pressing the film)

Claims

Patentansprüche claims
1. Verfahren zum Einbringen von Ultraschall in ein fließfähiges Medium über eine Sonotrode, wobei das fließfähige Medium nicht direkt mit der Sonotrode in Berührung steht, gekennzeichnet durch folgende Verfahrensschritte: - Anbringen einer Folie an die Sonotrode derart, dass die Anpresskraft, mit der die Folie an die Sonotrode gepresst wird, immer so groß ist, dass die Folie den Hubbewegungen der Sonotrode in der entsprechenden Frequenz und Amplitude folgt, - Einbringen der Ultraschallleistung über die Folie in das Medium und Verlagerung der Verschleißerscheinungen auf die Folie.1. Method for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium via a sonotrode, the flowable medium not being in direct contact with the sonotrode, characterized by the following process steps: - Attaching a film to the sonotrode in such a way that the contact pressure with which the film is pressed against the sonotrode, is always so large that the film follows the stroke movements of the sonotrode in the corresponding frequency and amplitude, - introducing the ultrasound power via the film into the medium and shifting the wear and tear on the film.
2. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Anpresskraft der Folie durch Erzeugen eines Unterdrucks auf der der Sonotrode zugewandten Seite erfolgt .2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressing force of the film is carried out by generating a negative pressure on the side facing the sonotrode.
3. Verfahren nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass zusätzlich auf der der Sonotrode abgewandten Seite der Folie ein Überdruck aufgebracht wird.3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that an excess pressure is additionally applied to the side of the film facing away from the sonotrode.
4. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Anpresskraft der Folie durch Erzeugen einer Zugkraft auf die Folie aufgebracht wird. 4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressing force of the film is applied to the film by generating a tensile force.
5. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Folie auf der der Sonotrode zugewandten Seite mit einer Flüssigkeit benetzt wird.5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the film is wetted with a liquid on the side facing the sonotrode.
6. Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Folie kontinuierlich oder diskontinuierlich über die Sonotrode bewegt wird.6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the film is moved continuously or discontinuously over the sonotrode.
7. Vorrichtung zum Einbringen von Ultraschall in ein fließfähiges Medium (2) über eine Sonotrode (4; 16; 21), wobei das fließfähige Medium (2) nicht direkt mit der Sonotrode (4; 16; 21) in Berührung steht, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass zum Schutz der Sonotrode (4; 16; 21) vor selbstverursachtem Verschleiß zwischen Sonotrode (4; 16; 21) und Medium (2) eine Folie (8; 18) derart angeordnet ist, dass die Folie (8; 18) an der Sonotrode (4; 16; 21) direkt anliegt oder indirekt in einem Abstand bis 100 μm über der Sonotrode (4; 16; 21) liegt und die Anpresskraft der Folie (8; 18) an die Sonotrode (4; 16; 21) durch eine Anzugskraft unterstützt und während des Betriebes der Vorrichtung immer so groß gehalten ist, dass die Folie (8; 18) immer an der Sonotrode (4; 16; 21) direkt oder indirekt anliegt und den Hubbewegungen folgt.7. Device for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium (2) via a sonotrode (4; 16; 21), the flowable medium (2) not being in direct contact with the sonotrode (4; 16; 21), characterized that to protect the sonotrode (4; 16; 21) from self-induced wear between the sonotrode (4; 16; 21) and the medium (2), a film (8; 18) is arranged such that the film (8; 18) the sonotrode (4; 16; 21) lies directly or indirectly at a distance of up to 100 μm above the sonotrode (4; 16; 21) and the contact pressure of the film (8; 18) on the sonotrode (4; 16; 21) supported by a tightening force and is always kept so large during operation of the device that the film (8; 18) always lies directly or indirectly on the sonotrode (4; 16; 21) and follows the lifting movements.
8. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Folie (8) zwischen einer Einrichtung (1) zur Halterung der Sonotrode (4) und einer Durchflusszelle (7) aufgespannt ist. 8. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that the film (8) is stretched between a device (1) for holding the sonotrode (4) and a flow cell (7).
9. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Folie (18) an die Innenwand einer Ultraschallwanne (16) gepresst ist.9. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that the film (18) is pressed against the inner wall of an ultrasonic trough (16).
10 Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Folie (8) um die Sonotrode (21) herumgelegt und mittels einer Spannvorrichtung (22) gehalten ist.10. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that the film (8) is placed around the sonotrode (21) and held by means of a tensioning device (22).
11. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 7 bis 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass ein hinter der der Sonotrode (4; 16) zugewandten Seite der Folie (8; 18) gebildeter Raum mit einem Unterdruck beaufschlagt ist.11. Device according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that a space formed behind the side of the film (8; 18) facing the sonotrode (4; 16) is subjected to a negative pressure.
12. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 7 bis 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das fließfähige Medium (2) unter Überdruck steht.12. Device according to one of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that the flowable medium (2) is under positive pressure.
13. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 7 bis 12, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sie mit einer Transportvorrichtung (14) zur kontinuierlichen oder diskontinuierlichen Weiterbewegung der Folie (8) ausgerüstet ist.13. Device according to one of claims 7 to 12, characterized in that it is equipped with a transport device (14) for the continuous or discontinuous further movement of the film (8).
14. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 7 bis 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Folie (8; 18) auf der der Sonotrode (4; 16; 21) zugewandten Seite mit einer Flüssigkeit benetzt ist.14. Device according to one of claims 7 to 13, characterized in that the film (8; 18) on the side facing the sonotrode (4; 16; 21) is wetted with a liquid.
15. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 14, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Flüssigkeit ein Öl ist. 15. The apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the liquid is an oil.
16. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 14, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Flüssigkeit ein Kunstharz ist.16. The apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the liquid is a synthetic resin.
17. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 15, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Flüssigkeit eine Silikonverbindung ist.17. The apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that the liquid is a silicone compound.
18. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 7 bis 17, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Folie (8; 18) eine Metallfolie ist.18. Device according to one of claims 7 to 17, characterized in that the foil (8; 18) is a metal foil.
19. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 7 bis 17, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Folie (8; 18) eine Kunststofffolie ist.19. Device according to one of claims 7 to 17, characterized in that the film (8; 18) is a plastic film.
20. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 7 bis 19, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Dicke der Folie (8; 18) zwischen 5 und 200 μm liegt.20. Device according to one of claims 7 to 19, characterized in that the thickness of the film (8; 18) is between 5 and 200 microns.
21. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass in dem Abstand bis 100 μm flüssige Mittel angeordnet sind. 21. The apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that liquid means are arranged in the distance up to 100 microns.
EP05750072A 2004-05-24 2005-05-12 Method and device for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium Not-in-force EP1753525B1 (en)

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DE102004025836A DE102004025836B3 (en) 2004-05-24 2004-05-24 Method and device for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium
PCT/EP2005/005324 WO2005115602A1 (en) 2004-05-24 2005-05-12 Method and device for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium

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EP1753525B1 (en) 2007-08-29
US8235579B2 (en) 2012-08-07
JP2008500160A (en) 2008-01-10
ATE371489T1 (en) 2007-09-15
CN1956771A (en) 2007-05-02
US20080192568A1 (en) 2008-08-14
DE102004025836B3 (en) 2005-12-22
JP4578524B2 (en) 2010-11-10
DE502005001396D1 (en) 2007-10-11
WO2005115602A1 (en) 2005-12-08
CN100471549C (en) 2009-03-25

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