EP2249107A1 - Artificial snow production system and method for producing artificial snow - Google Patents
Artificial snow production system and method for producing artificial snow Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2249107A1 EP2249107A1 EP09159428A EP09159428A EP2249107A1 EP 2249107 A1 EP2249107 A1 EP 2249107A1 EP 09159428 A EP09159428 A EP 09159428A EP 09159428 A EP09159428 A EP 09159428A EP 2249107 A1 EP2249107 A1 EP 2249107A1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- water
- snow
- air
- gas compressor
- separation chamber
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
- F25C3/00—Processes or apparatus specially adapted for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Producing artificial snow
- F25C3/04—Processes or apparatus specially adapted for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Producing artificial snow for sledging or ski trails; Producing artificial snow
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
- F25C2303/00—Special arrangements or features for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Special arrangements or features for producing artificial snow
- F25C2303/048—Snow making by using means for spraying water
- F25C2303/0481—Snow making by using means for spraying water with the use of compressed air
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
- F25C2500/00—Problems to be solved
- F25C2500/02—Geometry problems
Definitions
- the invention relates to a snowmaking system and a method for producing artificial snow according to the preamble of the independent claims.
- a snow-making system has become known in which a jet pump is used to operate a snow-making device.
- the advantage of such a jet pump in addition to the simple and robust construction, is in particular that the energy required to operate the jet pump is provided by the pressure of the water supplied from a higher-lying reservoir. Thanks to the use, the energy demand of the snowmaking system can be reduced.
- water-air nozzles for generating artificial snow are connected on the output side, which are fed by the water-air mixture from the jet pump.
- this snowmaking system may result in losses in relation to the quality of the generated artificial snow.
- Unfavorable is further that the application is relatively limited, since the operating parameters can not or only slightly adapted to different environmental conditions. In particular, it is not possible to control the amount of water independently to change from the amount of air. For the removal of the generated drops further requires a propeller, which must be driven with additional electrical energy.
- the snowmaking system should be easily adaptable to different environmental conditions, enable the production of high-quality artificial snow and manage with the lowest possible energy consumption. Furthermore, it should be possible to switch on or off additional water nozzles at appropriate temperatures, without affecting the available amount of air.
- the snowmaking system according to the invention has at least one water-jet gas compressor, into which water can be introduced into a suction chamber in the form of a propulsion jet, for example via a water supply connection, and which can be sucked into further air via at least one air intake opening by utilizing the entrainment effect produced by the propulsion jet.
- a water jet gas compressor into which water can be introduced into a suction chamber in the form of a propulsion jet, for example via a water supply connection, and which can be sucked into further air via at least one air intake opening by utilizing the entrainment effect produced by the propulsion jet.
- the basic structure and operation of such water jet gas compressor has been known for some time.
- For water jet gas compressors are also terms such as jet pump, propellant pump or (engl.) "Jet pump" common.
- a separation arrangement for separating the water-air mixture from the water jet gas compressor arranged.
- the separation arrangement is connected or connectable to at least one snow device for producing artificial snow, in particular with at least one snow lance, so that water and air from the separation arrangement can be supplied separately to this cutting device.
- the separating arrangement may preferably be connected directly in the region of an outlet opening of the water jet gas compressor.
- the Schnei device is therefore not directly, but indirectly connected or connectable with the interposition of the separation arrangement with the water jet gas compressor.
- supply means may be provided in the form of pipes or other lines. The separation of water and air results in considerable advantages for the operation of the cutting device.
- Water jet gas compressors When using water jet gas compressors, their energy efficiency can be significantly increased.
- the amount of compressed air and pressurized water provided by the water jet gas compressor is used for operation in the limit temperature range. If the temperatures are correspondingly lower, additional water nozzles can be added.
- the operating parameters for operating the Schnei device can thus be varied over a wide range in a simple manner and adapted to the ambient conditions, which can always be snowed with optimal conditions.
- Water jet gas compressors are characterized, inter alia, by the fact that they contain no moving components for operation, whereby they are robust and reliable operable. Since no compressors or even fans must be used, the risk of business interruptions during snowmaking drops significantly.
- the inventive snowmaking system is particularly suitable for feeding a lance with compressed air, at least contains a nucleator nozzle.
- the nucleator nozzle atomizes water using compressed air to create a jet of ice nuclei which is brought into contact with a jet of water droplets. This so-called germination creates snow from the cooling water droplets.
- This snow lance is characterized in comparison to conventional snow lances by a relatively low compressed air demand, which can be covered with the water jet gas compressor.
- the present snowmaking system would also lend itself to conventional snowmaking equipment operated using compressed air. As Schnei devices are, for example, ground-level snow cannons in question.
- the water jet gas compressor can be connected via pressure lines with a higher storage lake or connectable.
- a higher storage lake or connectable Such reservoirs are often already available in winter sports areas.
- the storage lakes are advantageous sources of pressurized water and can be used to feed the at least one water jet gas compressor.
- additional air compressors or air pumps can therefore be dispensed with.
- a height difference of at least 200 m may be sufficient.
- the separation arrangement may comprise a separation chamber whereby, due to gravity and the difference in density, the water in a lower phase is trappable in the separation chamber and the air in an upper phase above the water level is collectable in the separation chamber.
- the separation chamber may be configured to have no moving components during operation, possibly apart from a control mechanism. This ensures reliable operation. Another advantage is that separation chambers cause almost no maintenance.
- centrifugal separators cyclones
- the snow lance can be designed such that no further facilities for compressed air supply are needed. However, the lance can have additional water connections to supply it with water.
- the water can be supplied to the lance in a conventional manner from the storage lake or by using water pumps from other sources of water.
- the separation chamber may include at least two spaced-apart exits or groups of outputs, wherein the separation chamber may include at least one outlet for the air and at least one outlet for the water spaced therefrom.
- the outlet for the air may be an upper outlet and the outlet for the water may be a lower outlet
- the water jet gas compressor and associated therewith at least one separation chamber are designed such that the propulsion jet is ejected vertically in the mounting position in the water jet gas compressor and / or that the water-air mixture in the separation chamber in Form of a plume can be introduced.
- Such an oriented arrangement has the advantage that the separation chamber can be emptied at simply downwards through, for example, the air intake bores, thus leaving no remains of water in the separation chamber, which could freeze.
- the water-air mixture which rises from the water jet gas compressor in the form of a plume in a lake accumulated at the bottom of the separation chamber, can also reduce the risk of freezing during operation by introducing kinetic energy.
- the water jet gas compressor can be located above the separation chamber.
- the water-air mixture would eject from the water jet gas compressor in the form of a free jet approximately vertically downwards into the separation chamber.
- other mounting arrangements would be conceivable.
- the at least one water-jet gas compressor and the at least one separation chamber associated therewith could be aligned horizontally.
- the water jet gas compressor may have a mixing channel into which the water and the air from the suction chamber can be fed.
- the water and the intake air flow from the suction chamber into the mixing channel, where an intense mixing of water and air takes place.
- the ratio of the mixing channel diameter or the corresponding cross-sectional area and a diameter of the motive nozzle for generating the propulsion jet or the corresponding cross-sectional area can substantially predetermine the intake air quantity.
- the ratio of said cross-sectional areas may be between 2: 1 and 10: 1 and preferably between 2.5: 1 and 5: 1.
- a further increase in pressure can be achieved if the mixing channel opens into a diffuser.
- the mixing channel is formed essentially by a hollow cylindrical, preferably designed as a separate component mixing tube.
- the water jet gas compressor may have a diffuser to which the mixing tube is attached or attachable.
- the movement of the water-air mixture after passing through the mixing tube can be greatly delayed, whereby the velocity energy of the mixture is converted into pressure energy.
- the diffuser may have a rear end facing the separation chamber, which is inserted or insertable into a diffuser receptacle of the separation chamber that is complementary to the diffuser.
- the rear end of the diffuser can simultaneously form the input for the separation chamber, through which the water-air mixture can be introduced into the separation chamber.
- the separation chamber can be formed by a container with a substantially hollow cylindrical body.
- a container has, inter alia, the advantage that it is relatively easy and inexpensive to produce.
- the container can be closed at least on the input side by a preferably releasably attachable to the base body, such as disk-shaped flange or with a so-called dished bottom.
- a preferably releasably attachable to the base body such as disk-shaped flange or with a so-called dished bottom.
- the previously mentioned diffuser receptacle for example in the form of a bore
- the container on the opposite side of the input can also be closed by a flange or a dished bottom.
- a snow lance may be arranged as a device for producing artificial snow with a substantially cylindrical lance body.
- the lance body may be fastened, for example, to a standpipe anchored in the ground.
- the lance body or the standpipe of the snow lance can extend coaxially or axially parallel to the longitudinal axis, at least in one floor area. With this arrangement, it is possible to provide a compact assembly. It may be particularly advantageous when the water jet gas compressor and separation chamber is integrated in the lance body or in the standpipe of the snow lance.
- the snowmaking system may then include a device having at least one nucleator nozzle for generating ice nuclei.
- ALR air-to-water mass flows
- the apparatus for producing artificial snow may be a snow lance, which may comprise at least one nucleator nozzle for generating ice nuclei and at least one water nozzle for generating water droplets.
- a snow lance which may comprise at least one nucleator nozzle for generating ice nuclei and at least one water nozzle for generating water droplets.
- the Eiskeimumble can be at least 10 cm, in particular about 20 to 30 cm and / or the drop distance can be at least 20 cm, in particular about 40 to 80 cm.
- Such a lance is in the already mentioned above PCT / EP2008 / 058863 described.
- An advantageous snow-making system can result if it has a plurality of cutting devices, in particular in the form of snow lances.
- a plurality of cutting devices may be connected or connectable to a common separation arrangement. It is therefore conceivable that per unit containing water jet gas compressor and separating arrangement two or more snow lances can be supplied with water and compressed air.
- the snowmaking system may comprise at least one apparatus in the form of a snow lance with a water nozzle for generating water droplets, wherein the system is designed such that in the operating phase by means of control means and / or wiring preferably a defined water flow is constantly guided or feasible to the water nozzle.
- the diameter of the motive nozzle is dimensioned so that the water mass flow of the motive nozzle at the desired separation chamber pressure can flow in any case through the water nozzle.
- a further aspect of the invention relates to a method for producing artificial snow, in particular using the snow-making system described above.
- water is introduced as the driving medium under pressure in a water jet gas compressor. Air is sucked into the waterjet gas compressor utilizing the entrainment effect caused by the propulsion jet.
- the phases of the water-air mixture are separated from the water jet gas compressor by means of a separating arrangement from each other; Subsequently, the thus separated water and the air under pressure are supplied separately to an artificial snow generating device.
- FIG. 1 shows a designated according to the invention 1 snowmaking system.
- the snow-making system 1 has a unit 10 with a water-jet gas compressor 2 and a separating arrangement 3.
- W1 denotes a water flow which is supplied to the unit 10.
- ambient air is drawn in (supply of air is indicated by the arrow L1).
- the water-air mixture M finally passes into the separation arrangement 3, in which a phase separation takes place.
- water W2 and compressed air L2 may then be separately supplied under pressure to a snow-making device 4 for producing artificial snow.
- the unit 10 is particularly suitable for supplying a lance with compressed air and water.
- FIG. 1 shows a designated according to the invention 1 snowmaking system.
- the snow-making system 1 has a unit 10 with a water-jet gas compressor 2 and a separating arrangement 3.
- W1 denotes a water flow which is supplied to the unit 10.
- ambient air is drawn in (supply of air is indicated by the arrow L1).
- the water-air mixture M finally passes into
- the snow lance 4 shown includes at least one nucleator nozzle 21 for generating an ice germ jet and at least one water nozzle 22 for generating a water jet.
- the nozzles are arranged in such a way in the snow lance that meet the respective rays in a Einkeimzone E.
- the pressurized water supply takes place through a storage lake 5.
- Water is taken from the storage lake 5 via a pressure line and fed to a distribution station 29.
- W1 'and W1 water flows are indicated, each water further (not shown) units containing water jet gas compressor and separation arrangement and each feed connected thereto snow making device.
- the water flows W1 'and W1 "could also be used to feed water nozzles associated with the device 4.
- the exemplary embodiments of FIGS FIG. 1 shown device 4 does not have to be operated exclusively with water W2 from the unit 10.
- the inventive device can also be supplied additional water. Theoretically, it would also be conceivable to use only the compressed air generated by means of the unit for the production of artificial snow, ie not to connect the separation arrangement with the device with respect to the water supply.
- the water jet gas compressor essentially consists of the following components: a motive nozzle 6, a suction chamber 7, a mixing channel 14 and a diffuser 9.
- the principle of water jet gas compressors has long been known and common. For better understanding are in the FIGS. 2a and 2b as well as 3 symbolically the two media shown in different colors (water: gray, air: white). Water W1 is supplied under pressure via a water supply port 11 of the motive nozzle 6, which generates a drive jet designated 23.
- Air L1 preferably in the form of ambient air
- Air L1 is entrained by the propulsion jet via an air intake opening 12 and is thus drawn in.
- a water-air mixture M which is guided into the mixing channel 14 with a constant or variable channel cross-section, wherein an intensive mixing of water and air takes place.
- the water-air mixture M is then delayed in a diffuser 9, whereby the velocity energy of the mixture M is converted into pressure energy.
- a separation chamber 3 designed as a separation chamber a phase separation takes place.
- the water W2 on the one hand and the air L2 on the other hand can then be supplied via separate outputs 17 and 16 to a (not shown here) apparatus for producing artificial snow.
- FIG. 2a The water-air mixture M passes as a free jet into the separation chamber 3.
- the water is collected therein in a lower phase in the region of the bottom of the separation chamber 3, the air rises by the buoyancy of itself and is in an upper, above the water level 28 located cavity.
- FIG. 2b is the unit 10 - compared to Fig. 2 - aligned in reverse.
- the water-air mixture rises in the accumulated in the separation chamber in the region of the bottom lake of water as a two-phase flow, which is known in the art as the term "plume".
- a control means (not shown) (eg a throttle valve) can be arranged in all embodiments with which the level of the water level 28 can be maintained at a constant level (cf. Fig. 9 ).
- the unit 10 - as FIG. 3 shows - can also be mounted with a horizontal orientation. At water pressures of 15-60 bar for W1 and intake of ambient air (1 bar) equal pressures in the range 6-20 bar abs can be achieved in the separation chamber for both phases.
- the separation chamber is designed as a container having a cylindrical base body 15.
- the main body 15 is on the water jet gas compressor side facing (input side) closed by a flange 18.
- the container is closed with a flange 19.
- On the base body 15 are located at a distance from each other arranged exits for air and water.
- a water outlet is a water outlet 17, as the air outlet, a corresponding nozzle 16 is provided.
- 17 'another nozzle is referred to, which could be used for example for emptying or possibly as an additional water nozzle for the water outlet. However, such a connection is not necessarily provided.
- FIGS. 4 to 6 further connections with flanges can be identified. These (unspecified) connections have sight glasses in the region of the flange, which allow a view of the processes in the separation chamber (see also Fig. 6 ). On the latter connections can be waived for units in series production, however.
- Fig. 5 are indicated by dashed lines water lines 32 and compressed air lines 33 indicated, which are respectively connected to the corresponding nozzle (air intake 16, water inlet 17). These conduits make the connection to the apparatus for producing artificial snow (not shown here).
- FIG. 6 and in particular FIG. 7 shows that the mixing channel 14 is essentially formed by a separate component.
- This component referred to as a mixing tube 8
- the diffuser 9 has an outlet opening 13 with a diameter D (eg D ⁇ 15mm).
- the motive nozzle 6 is suitably fixed in a member constituting the suction chamber 7. With 31 a tapered nozzle head is referred to, with which the propulsion jet can be generated.
- the cylindrical cavity for a separation chamber 3 for supplying a lance can, for example, a diameter of 100 to 300mm and a height of 300 to 1000mm (eg h ⁇ 900mm) have (the mentioned height is with h in Fig. 6 designated).
- the water-jet gas compressor may have a length of 200 to 600 mm in the axial direction (indicated by s, eg s ⁇ 450 mm).
- the mixing channel diameter d can be, for example, between 5 and 12 mm (eg d ⁇ 7 mm).
- the ratio between the cross-sectional areas of the mixing channel and the motive nozzle can substantially predetermine the intake air quantity. This ratio of said cross-sectional areas (mixing channel cross-sectional area: cross-sectional area of the motive nozzle) can be between 2: 1 and 10: 1 and preferably between 2.5: 1 and 5: 1.
- the diameter of the motive nozzle is about 4mm and said ratio at a mixing channel diameter of 7mm thus about 3: 1. If several cutting lances are connected to the separation chamber, a correspondingly larger volume must be provided in the separation chamber, at least as a rule.
- FIG. 8 relates to an example of a snowmaking system 1 in a compact design.
- the unit 10 containing water jet gas compressor 2 and separation chamber 3 is fixed to a frame 30 such that the longitudinal axis A of the unit is vertically aligned.
- a lance 4 is arranged, the lance body 24 of which runs coaxially to the longitudinal axis A.
- the snow lance 4 has a plurality of water nozzles 22 and 22 'arranged at different levels and nucleator nozzles designated 21. Details concerning the snow lance FIG. 8 are from the not yet published international patent application PCT / EP2008 / 058863 removable.
- FIG. 9 shows a snowmaking system 1 with a lance 4, which is equipped with a nucleation nozzle 21 and a water nozzle 22.
- the Nukleatordüse 21 is doing with compressed air from the Unit 10 supplies.
- the nucleator nozzle 21 is connected via a compressed air line to the air outlet 16 of the separation chamber 3, whereby the air flow L2 (or at least part of the air flow L2) is led to the nozzle 21.
- the water flow W2 from the separation chamber 3 leads to the water nozzle 22.
- the water necessary for the formation of ice nuclei is branched off from a main or central line 36 and is led to the nucleator nozzle 21.
- the predominant portion is introduced as water flow W1 into the water jet gas compressor 2 of the unit 10.
- a control means designated 34 for example, a control valve for controlling the flow W2 is shown.
- the level in the separation chamber can be controlled.
- FIG. 9 is directed to the basic design of the inventive snowmaking system, only individual nozzles 21, 22 are shown for the sake of simplicity.
- the snow lance may include a variety of nucleator nozzles and water nozzles in a variety of nozzle arrangements.
- the snow lance may have, for example, a plurality of nucleator nozzles and water nozzles, which are each arranged distributed over the circumference on the lance body.
- the lance body may further be provided with a plurality of groups of water nozzles, which are arranged in at least two different axial positions on the lance body (cf., for example Fig. 8 ).
- FIG. 10 Water W is first fed from a pressurized water source 5 of the snow lance 4, where it led up, lapped the Schneilanzenkopf and again led down until it finally as W1 on the water supply port 11 passes into the water jet gas compressor 2.
- the water flow W2 from the separation chamber 3 reaches the water nozzles 22.
- the nucleator nozzles 21 With the generated in the separation chamber 3 compressed air L2 the nucleator nozzles 21 are supplied with compressed air, a relatively small proportion of the water (W) flowing around the cutting blade head being used to produce the ice nuclei.
- the remainder of the water is used to feed the water nozzles 22 wholly or at least partially.
- the system comprises one or a group of predetermined water nozzles 22 and is designed such that in the operating phase for maintaining an approximately constant power in the water jet gas compressor 2, a predetermined water flow is led to these predetermined water nozzles 22.
- the lance body does not necessarily have to be configured as a straight column, but may have a kink.
- FIGS. 11 and 12 It is shown how the unit 10 with the water jet gas compressor 2 and the separation chamber 3 can be mounted on or in a snow lance 4.
- the lance 4 has a lance body 24 which is fixed to a standpipe 37.
- the standpipe 37 forms a holder for anchoring the lance in the ground 20.
- the standpipe 37 extends vertically.
- FIG. 11 the unit 10 is mounted in vertical alignment laterally on the standpipe.
- FIG. 12 relates to a solution in which the unit is housed in a cavity of the standpipe 37.
- the installation according to FIG. 12 is characterized by an advantageous compactness.
- the unit can also be designed freestanding with respect to the snow lance 4. Such an embodiment is in FIG. 13 shown.
- FIG. 14 shows an arrangement with the snow lances 4, 4 ', 4 "and 4"', in which each lance is associated with a unit 10, 10 ', 10 ", 10"'.
- the snow lances and the units assigned to them are located at different sea levels, with the snow lance 4 or unit 4 being located at the highest point and the snow lance 4 "'or unit 10"' lying at its lowest point.
- These units each contain the previously described water jet gas compressors and separation arrangements.
- Each unit 10, 10 ', 10 ", 10"' is connected on the input side to a central line 36, via which water is supplied under pressure to the respective units.
- a water pipe is designated, is supplied via the water from the unit of the snow lance.
- the compressed air line for feeding the lance with compressed air is designated 33.
- the individual pressures assigned to the respective snow lances or units are different due to the different heights.
- the unit 10 has the lowest driving pressure (water pressure input side), the lowest air pressure, the smallest air volume and the lowest water pressure (output side) and thus the smallest amount of water for the atomization in the water nozzles.
- the individual pressure gradients are shown in the diagram according to the figurative representation with dashed, dotted and solid lines (41: water pressure in the central line 36, 42: water pressure on the output side or in the water line 32; 43: air pressure for the snow lance or pressure in the compressed air line 32). It is also conceivable to compensate for the pressures by additional measures such as reduction valves. All snow lances can be individually switched on and off by means of control means (not shown) as required. In the arrangement according to FIG. 15 All snow lances 4, 4 ', 4 "and 4"' are fed with approximately the same air pressure 43. Also approximately constant runs the water pressure curve 42 for the snow lances. This can be achieved are connected by the respective air supply lines to the individual units 10, 10 ', 10 ", 10"' with a common central air line 35 jointly supplied by all units 10, 10 ', 10 ", 10"'.
- FIG. 16 are two snow lances 4, 4 ', for example; 4 ", 4"'combined into a group, each one unit 10; 10 'is assigned.
- the respective units are supplied via a central line 36 with pressurized water.
- the snow lances per group are in each case connected by common air lines 33 and water lines 32 and via partial lines to the units 10 (or 10 ').
- the amount of air and the air pressure 43 per lance group is approximately the same for both snow lances.
- the snow lances can be switched on and off in groups as required.
- FIG. 17 shows a further variant in which a common unit 10 is provided for all snow lances.
- the feeding of the snow lances with compressed air takes place analogously to the variant according to FIG. 15 with a common from the unit 10 fed central air line, whereby all snow lances 4, 4 ', 4 ", 4"' on the input side have the same air pressure 43.
- the central unit 10 with a water jet gas compressor also serves as a pressure breaker. Pressure crushers can be used in snowmaking systems with large height difference for pressure reduction.
- the variant according to FIG. 17 thus has a favorable effect on safe and reliable operation.
- the variant according to FIG. 18 a central or common unit with a water jet gas compressor as a pressure breaker.
- the unit 10 is located relatively far above the snow lances 4 and 4 'connected to it.
- the unit 10 supplies the snow lances 4 and 4 'with the same air pressure and the same amount of air. Due to the difference in level, the water in this arrangement has a high pressure when it arrives at the snow lances.
- the variants according to the FIGS. 17 and 18 It is possible to connect 2 to 5 snow lances with a water jet gas compressor.
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Abstract
Description
Die Erfindung betrifft ein Beschneiungssystem und ein Verfahren zum Erzeugen von künstlichem Schnee gemäss dem Oberbegriff der unabhängigen Patentansprüche.The invention relates to a snowmaking system and a method for producing artificial snow according to the preamble of the independent claims.
Die Erzeugung von künstlichem Schnee ist seit längerer Zeit bekannt. Hierzu werden Vorrichtungen wie Schneekanonen oder Schneilanzen verwendet, die es in verschiedensten Ausformungen gibt. Ein Nachteil herkömmlicher Beschneiungssysteme besteht darin, dass zum Betrieb der Vorrichtungen Druckluft nötig ist, die unter hohem energetischen Aufwand mittels Kompressoren erzeugt werden muss.The production of artificial snow has been known for some time. For this purpose, devices such as snow cannons or snow lances are used, which are available in various forms. A disadvantage of conventional snow-making systems is that compressed air is needed to operate the devices, which must be generated by means of compressors at high energy expenditure.
Aus der
Es ist daher eine Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung, die Nachteile des Bekannten zu vermeiden, insbesondere also ein Beschneiungssystem und ein Verfahren zum Erzeugen von künstlichem Schnee zu schaffen, mit welchem eine Vorrichtung zum Erzeugen von künstlichem Schnee auf vorteilhafte Art und Weise betreibbar ist. Insbesondere soll das Beschneiungssystem an unterschiedliche Umgebungsbedingungen einfach anpassbar sein, die Erzeugung von qualitativ hochwertigem Kunstschnee ermöglichen und mit einem möglichst geringen Energiebedarf auskommen. Weiter soll es möglich sein, bei entsprechenden Temperaturen zusätzliche Wasserdüsen zu- oder abzuschalten, ohne die vorhandene Luftmenge zu beeinträchtigen.It is therefore an object of the present invention to avoid the disadvantages of the known, in particular to provide a snowmaking system and a method for producing artificial snow, with which an apparatus for producing artificial snow can be operated in an advantageous manner. In particular, the snowmaking system should be easily adaptable to different environmental conditions, enable the production of high-quality artificial snow and manage with the lowest possible energy consumption. Furthermore, it should be possible to switch on or off additional water nozzles at appropriate temperatures, without affecting the available amount of air.
Erfindungsgemäss werden diese und andere Aufgaben gemäss dem kennzeichnenden Teil der unabhängigen Patentansprüche gelöst.According to the invention, these and other objects are achieved according to the characterizing part of the independent claims.
Das erfindungsgemässe Beschneiungssystem weist wenigstens einen Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter auf, in den eingangsseitig beispielsweise über einen Wasserzufuhranschluss Wasser in eine Ansaugkammer in Form eines Treibstrahls einleitbar ist und in den weiter Luft über wenigstens eine Luftansaugöffnung unter Ausnutzung des durch den Treibstrahl hervorgerufenen Mitreisseffekts ansaugbar ist. Der grundsätzliche Aufbau und die Funktionsweise solcher Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter ist seit längerer Zeit bekannt. Für Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter sind auch Begriffe wie Strahlpumpe, Treibmittelpumpe oder (engl.) "jet pump" gebräuchlich.The snowmaking system according to the invention has at least one water-jet gas compressor, into which water can be introduced into a suction chamber in the form of a propulsion jet, for example via a water supply connection, and which can be sucked into further air via at least one air intake opening by utilizing the entrainment effect produced by the propulsion jet. The basic structure and operation of such water jet gas compressor has been known for some time. For water jet gas compressors are also terms such as jet pump, propellant pump or (engl.) "Jet pump" common.
Ausgangsseitig vom Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter ist eine Trennanordnung zum Trennen des Wasser-Luft-Gemisches aus dem Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter angeordnet. Die Trennanordnung ist mit wenigstens einer Schneivorrichtung zum Erzeugen von künstlichem Schnee, insbesondere mit wenigstens einer Schneilanze verbunden oder verbindbar, so dass Wasser und Luft aus der Trennanordnung separat dieser Schnei-Vorrichtung zuführbar sind. Die Trennanordnung kann vorzugsweise unmittelbar im Bereich einer Austrittsöffnung des Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichters angeschlossen sein. Die Schnei-Vorrichtung ist demnach nicht direkt, sondern indirekt unter Zwischenschaltung der Trennanordnung mit dem Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter verbunden oder verbindbar. Für die separate Zuführung von Wasser und Luft an die Schnei-Vorrichtung können Zuführmittel in Form von Rohren oder anderen Leitungen vorgesehen sein. Durch die Separierung von Wasser und Luft ergeben sich erhebliche Vorteile für die Betriebsweise der Schnei-Vorrichtung. Bei Verwendung von Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichtern lässt sich deren energetische Effizienz beträchtlich steigern. Die vom Wasserstrahlgasverdichter zur Verfügung gestellte Menge an Druckluft und Druckwasser wird für den Betrieb im Grenztemperaturbereich verwendet. Sind die Temperaturen entsprechend tiefer, können weitere Wasserdüsen dazugeschaltet werden. Die Betriebsparameter zum Betreiben der Schnei-Vorrichtung können somit über einen grossen Bereich auf einfache Art und Weise variiert und an die Umgebungsbedingungen angepasst werden, wodurch immer mit optimalen Bedingungen beschneit werden kann. Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter zeichnen sich unter anderem dadurch aus, dass sie für den Betrieb keine beweglichen Bauteile enthalten, wodurch sie robust und zuverlässig betreibbar sind. Da keine Kompressoren oder auch Ventilatoren eingesetzt werden müssen, sinkt das Risiko von Betriebsausfällen während der Beschneiung deutlich.On the output side of the water jet gas compressor is a separation arrangement for separating the water-air mixture from the water jet gas compressor arranged. The separation arrangement is connected or connectable to at least one snow device for producing artificial snow, in particular with at least one snow lance, so that water and air from the separation arrangement can be supplied separately to this cutting device. The separating arrangement may preferably be connected directly in the region of an outlet opening of the water jet gas compressor. The Schnei device is therefore not directly, but indirectly connected or connectable with the interposition of the separation arrangement with the water jet gas compressor. For the separate supply of water and air to the Schnei device supply means may be provided in the form of pipes or other lines. The separation of water and air results in considerable advantages for the operation of the cutting device. When using water jet gas compressors, their energy efficiency can be significantly increased. The amount of compressed air and pressurized water provided by the water jet gas compressor is used for operation in the limit temperature range. If the temperatures are correspondingly lower, additional water nozzles can be added. The operating parameters for operating the Schnei device can thus be varied over a wide range in a simple manner and adapted to the ambient conditions, which can always be snowed with optimal conditions. Water jet gas compressors are characterized, inter alia, by the fact that they contain no moving components for operation, whereby they are robust and reliable operable. Since no compressors or even fans must be used, the risk of business interruptions during snowmaking drops significantly.
Das erfindungsgemässe Beschneiungssystem eignet sich insbesondere zur Speisung einer Schneilanze mit Druckluft, die wenigstens eine Nukleatordüse enthält. Die Nukleatordüse zerstäubt unter Verwendung von Druckluft Wasser und erzeugt so einen Strahl von Eiskeimen, der mit einem Strahl aus Wassertropfen in Kontakt gebracht wird. Durch dieses so genannte Einkeimen entsteht aus den sich abkühlenden Wassertropfen Schnee. Besonders vorteilhaft kann es sein, wenn das Beschneiungssystem mit einer Schneilanze gemäss der noch nicht veröffentlichten Internationalen Anmeldung
Eingangsseitig kann der Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter über Druckleitungen mit einem höher gelegenen Speichersee verbunden oder verbindbar sein. Derartige Speicherseen sind in Wintersportgebieten häufig bereits vorhanden. Die Speicherseen sind vorteilhafte Druckwasserquellen und können zur Speisung des wenigstens einen Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichters verwendet werden. Durch Ausnutzung der potentiellen Energie zwischen Speichersee und Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter kann das Beschneiungssystem autark und ohne zusätzlichen Energieeintrag betrieben werden. Je nach topografischen Bedingungen kann somit auf zusätzliche Luftkompressoren oder Luftpumpen verzichtet werden. Für einen Betrieb der Vorrichtung kann eine Höhendifferenz von mindestens 200 m ausreichen. Alternativ oder zusätzlich ist es aber auch denkbar, den oder die Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter mit über Wasserpumpen gefördertem Wasser zu betreiben.On the input side, the water jet gas compressor can be connected via pressure lines with a higher storage lake or connectable. Such reservoirs are often already available in winter sports areas. The storage lakes are advantageous sources of pressurized water and can be used to feed the at least one water jet gas compressor. By exploiting the potential energy between storage lake and waterjet gas compressor, the snowmaking system can be operated independently and without additional energy input. Depending on the topographical conditions, additional air compressors or air pumps can therefore be dispensed with. For an operation of the device, a height difference of at least 200 m may be sufficient. Alternatively or additionally, however, it is also conceivable to operate the water jet gas compressor or compressors with water pumped by water pumps.
In einer ersten Ausführungsform kann die Trennanordnung eine Trennkammer enthalten, wobei infolge Schwerkraft und wegen des Dichteunterschieds das Wasser in einer unteren Phase in der Trennkammer auffangbar und die Luft in einer oberen, über dem Wasserspiegel befindlichen Phase in der Trennkammer sammelbar ist. Mit einer solchen Trennkammer kann die Phasentrennung des Wasser-Luft-Gemischs aus dem Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter auf besonders einfache Art und Weise erreicht werden. Die Trennkammer kann derart ausgestaltet sein, dass sie während dem Betrieb - möglicherweise abgesehen von einem Regelmechanismus - keine beweglichen Bauteile aufweist. Dadurch ist ein zuverlässiger Betrieb sichergestellt. Ein weiterer Vorteil besteht darin, dass Trennkammern nahezu keinen Wartungsaufwand verursachen. Selbstverständlich könnten anstatt Trennkammern auch andere Trennanordnungen eingesetzt werden. In Frage kommen beispielsweise Fliehkraftabscheider (Zyklone).In a first embodiment, the separation arrangement may comprise a separation chamber whereby, due to gravity and the difference in density, the water in a lower phase is trappable in the separation chamber and the air in an upper phase above the water level is collectable in the separation chamber. With such a separation chamber, the phase separation of the water-air mixture from the water jet gas compressor can be achieved in a particularly simple manner. The separation chamber may be configured to have no moving components during operation, possibly apart from a control mechanism. This ensures reliable operation. Another advantage is that separation chambers cause almost no maintenance. Of course, instead of separating chambers and other separation arrangements could be used. For example, centrifugal separators (cyclones) are possible.
Die Schneilanze kann derart ausgestaltet sein, dass keine weiteren Einrichtungen zur Druckluftversorgung nötig sind. Zur Versorgung mit Wasser kann die Schneilanze jedoch zusätzliche Wasseranschlüsse aufweisen. Das Wasser kann in konventioneller Art und Weise vom Speichersee oder unter Verwendung von Wasserpumpen aus anderen Wasserquellen der Schneilanze zugeführt werden.The snow lance can be designed such that no further facilities for compressed air supply are needed. However, the lance can have additional water connections to supply it with water. The water can be supplied to the lance in a conventional manner from the storage lake or by using water pumps from other sources of water.
Die Trennkammer kann wenigstens zwei in einem Abstand voneinander angeordnete Ausgänge oder Gruppen von Ausgängen aufweisen, wobei die Trennkammer wenigstens einen Ausgang für die Luft und wenigstens einen davon beabstandeten Ausgang für das Wasser enthalten kann. Je nach Montageanordnung kann der Ausgang für die Luft ein oberer Ausgang sein und der Ausgang für das Wasser ein unterer Ausgang seinThe separation chamber may include at least two spaced-apart exits or groups of outputs, wherein the separation chamber may include at least one outlet for the air and at least one outlet for the water spaced therefrom. Depending on the mounting arrangement, the outlet for the air may be an upper outlet and the outlet for the water may be a lower outlet
Besonders vorteilhaft kann es sein, dass der Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter und die diesem zugeordnete wenigstens eine Trennkammer derart ausgestaltet sind, dass der Treibstrahl in Montagelage im Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter vertikal nach oben ausgestossen wird und/oder dass das Wasser-Luft-Gemisch in die Trennkammer in Form eines Plumes einleitbar ist. Eine derart ausgerichtete Anordnung hat den Vorteil, dass die Trennkammer bei einfach nach unten hin durch beispielsweise die Luftansaugbohrungen entleerbar ist, somit bleiben keine Wasserreste in der Trennkammer übrig, die gefrieren könnten. Das Wasser-Luft-Gemisch, das vom Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter in Form eines Plumes in einem am Boden der Trennkammer angesammelten See aufsteigt, kann ausserdem durch Einbringen von Bewegungsenergie die Einfriergefahr während dem Betrieb verringern. Alternativ ist aber auch eine umgekehrte Anordnung vorstellbar, in der sich der Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter oberhalb der Trennkammer befinden kann. In dieser alternativen Anordnung würde das Wasser-Luft-Gemisch aus dem Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter in Form eines Freistrahls etwa vertikal nach unten in die Trennkammer ausgestossen. Schliesslich wären aber auch noch andere Montageanordnungen vorstellbar. Beispielsweise könnte der wenigstens eine Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter und die diesem zugeordnete wenigstens eine Trennkammer horizontal ausgerichtet sein. Die in dieser Anmeldung genannten Richtungsangaben, in welchen die Begriffe "vertikal" und "horizontal" verwendet werden, beziehen sich jeweils auf die Montagelage.It may be particularly advantageous that the water jet gas compressor and associated therewith at least one separation chamber are designed such that the propulsion jet is ejected vertically in the mounting position in the water jet gas compressor and / or that the water-air mixture in the separation chamber in Form of a plume can be introduced. Such an oriented arrangement has the advantage that the separation chamber can be emptied at simply downwards through, for example, the air intake bores, thus leaving no remains of water in the separation chamber, which could freeze. The water-air mixture, which rises from the water jet gas compressor in the form of a plume in a lake accumulated at the bottom of the separation chamber, can also reduce the risk of freezing during operation by introducing kinetic energy. Alternatively, however, a reverse arrangement is conceivable in which the water jet gas compressor can be located above the separation chamber. In this alternative arrangement, the water-air mixture would eject from the water jet gas compressor in the form of a free jet approximately vertically downwards into the separation chamber. Finally, however, other mounting arrangements would be conceivable. For example, the at least one water-jet gas compressor and the at least one separation chamber associated therewith could be aligned horizontally. The directions given in this application, in which the terms "vertical" and "horizontal" are used, each refer to the mounting position.
Der Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter kann einen Mischkanal aufweisen, in den das Wasser und die Luft aus der Ansaugkammer einspeisbar ist. Das Wasser und die angesaugte Luftmenge treten aus der Ansaugkammer in den Mischkanal ein, wo eine intensive Durchmischung von Wasser und Luft stattfindet. Das Verhältnis des Mischkanal-Durchmessers bzw. der entsprechenden Querschnittsfläche und eines Durchmessers der Treibdüse zur Erzeugung des Treibstrahls bzw. der entsprechenden Querschnittsfläche kann dabei im Wesentlichen die angesaugte Luftmenge vorbestimmen. Das Verhältnis der genannten Querschnittsflächen (Mischkanal-Querschnittsfläche : Querschnittsfläche der Treibdüse) kann zwischen 2:1 und 10:1 und vorzugsweise zwischen 2.5:1 und 5:1 liegen. Ein weiterer Druckanstieg kann erreicht werden, wenn der Mischkanal in einen Diffusor mündet.The water jet gas compressor may have a mixing channel into which the water and the air from the suction chamber can be fed. The water and the intake air flow from the suction chamber into the mixing channel, where an intense mixing of water and air takes place. The ratio of the mixing channel diameter or the corresponding cross-sectional area and a diameter of the motive nozzle for generating the propulsion jet or the corresponding cross-sectional area can substantially predetermine the intake air quantity. The ratio of said cross-sectional areas (mixing channel cross-sectional area: cross-sectional area of the motive nozzle) may be between 2: 1 and 10: 1 and preferably between 2.5: 1 and 5: 1. A further increase in pressure can be achieved if the mixing channel opens into a diffuser.
In konstruktiver Hinsicht kann es vorteilhaft sein, wenn der Mischkanal im Wesentlichen durch ein hohlzylindrisches, vorzugsweise als separates Bauteil ausgestaltetes Mischrohr gebildet wird.In terms of design, it may be advantageous if the mixing channel is formed essentially by a hollow cylindrical, preferably designed as a separate component mixing tube.
Der Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter kann einen Diffusor aufweisen, an dem das Mischrohr befestigt oder befestigbar ist. Im Diffusor kann die Bewegung des Wasser-Luft-Gemischs nach Durchlaufen des Mischrohrs stark verzögert werden, wodurch die Geschwindigkeitsenergie des Gemisches in Druckenergie umgewandelt wird.The water jet gas compressor may have a diffuser to which the mixing tube is attached or attachable. In the diffuser, the movement of the water-air mixture after passing through the mixing tube can be greatly delayed, whereby the velocity energy of the mixture is converted into pressure energy.
Der Diffusor kann ein der Trennkammer zugewandtes hinteres Ende aufweisen, das in eine zum Diffusor komplementäre Diffusoraufnahme der Trennkammer eingesetzt oder einsetzbar ist. Das hintere Ende des Diffusors kann dabei gleichzeitig den Eingang für die Trennkammer bilden, durch den das Wasser-Luft-Gemisch in die Trennkammer einführbar ist.The diffuser may have a rear end facing the separation chamber, which is inserted or insertable into a diffuser receptacle of the separation chamber that is complementary to the diffuser. The rear end of the diffuser can simultaneously form the input for the separation chamber, through which the water-air mixture can be introduced into the separation chamber.
Die Trennkammer kann durch einen Behälter mit einem im Wesentlichen hohlzylindrischen Grundkörper gebildet werden. Ein derartiger Behälter hat unter anderem den Vorteil, dass er verhältnismässig einfach und kostengünstig herstellbar ist.The separation chamber can be formed by a container with a substantially hollow cylindrical body. Such a container has, inter alia, the advantage that it is relatively easy and inexpensive to produce.
Der Behälter kann wenigstens eingangsseitig durch einen vorzugsweise lösbar an den Grundkörper befestigbaren, etwa scheibenförmigen Flansch oder mit einem sogenannten Klöpperboden verschlossen sein. In diesem Flansch oder Klöpperboden kann die vorgängig erwähnte Diffusoraufnahme (beispielsweise in Form einer Bohrung) angeordnet sein, in die der Diffusor einsetzbar ist. Weiterhin kann der Behälter auf der dem Eingang gegenüberliegenden Seite ebenfalls durch einen Flansch oder einen Klöpperboden verschlossen sein.The container can be closed at least on the input side by a preferably releasably attachable to the base body, such as disk-shaped flange or with a so-called dished bottom. In this flange or dished bottom, the previously mentioned diffuser receptacle (for example in the form of a bore) can be arranged, into which the diffuser can be inserted. Furthermore, the container on the opposite side of the input can also be closed by a flange or a dished bottom.
Neben, über, auf oder hinter der sich entlang einer Längsachse erstreckenden Trennkammer kann eine Schneilanze als Vorrichtung zum Erzeugen von künstlichem Schnee mit einem im Wesentlichen zylindrischen Lanzenkörper angeordnet sein. Der Lanzenkörper kann beispielsweise an einem im Boden verankerten Standrohr befestigt sein. Der Lanzenkörper oder das Standrohr der Schneilanze kann wenigstens in einem Bodenbereich koaxial oder achsparallel zur Längsachse verlaufen. Mit dieser Anordnung ist es möglich, eine kompakte Baugruppe zu schaffen. Besonders vorteilhaft kann es sein, wenn der Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter und Trennkammer in den Lanzenkörper oder in das Standrohr der Schneilanze integriert ist.In addition to, over, on or behind the separation chamber extending along a longitudinal axis, a snow lance may be arranged as a device for producing artificial snow with a substantially cylindrical lance body. The lance body may be fastened, for example, to a standpipe anchored in the ground. The lance body or the standpipe of the snow lance can extend coaxially or axially parallel to the longitudinal axis, at least in one floor area. With this arrangement, it is possible to provide a compact assembly. It may be particularly advantageous when the water jet gas compressor and separation chamber is integrated in the lance body or in the standpipe of the snow lance.
Das Beschneiungssystem kann sodann eine Vorrichtung enthalten, die wenigstens eine Nukleatordüse zum Erzeugen von Eiskeimen aufweist. Die Nukleatordüse kann derart dimensioniert sein, dass sich bei der in der Beschneiungsbranche üblichen Druckbereichen von Wasser und Luft ein Verhältnis der Massenströme von Luft zu Wasser (ALR) in der Nukleatordüse im Bereich von 0,3 bis 1,9 und besonders bevorzugt von 0,3 bis 1,7 (z.B. ALR=0,6 oder ALR=1,9) einstellt oder einstellbar ist. In der Beschneiungsbranche werden üblicherweise Nukleatordüsen mit Wasserdrücken von 12 bis 60 bar abs. und Luftdrücken von 6 bis 20 bar abs. betrieben. In diesem Bereich des Massenstromverhältnisses kann einerseits eine grosse Eiskeimzahl erzeugt werden und andererseits mit der beschriebenen Nukleatordüse auch in kritischen Temperaturbereichen (Wassertemperatur bis 10°C und Feuchtkugeltemperatur der Luft bis -0.5 °C) noch das Gefrieren der winzigen Wassertropfen zu Eiskeimen garantiert werden.The snowmaking system may then include a device having at least one nucleator nozzle for generating ice nuclei. The nucleator nozzle may be dimensioned such that, with the pressure ranges of water and air customary in the snowmaking industry, a ratio of the air-to-water mass flows (ALR) in the nucleator nozzle is in the range of 0.3 to 1.9, and particularly preferably 0, 3 to 1.7 (eg ALR = 0.6 or ALR = 1.9) is set or adjustable. In the snowmaking industry are usually nucleator nozzles with water pressures of 12 to 60 bar abs. and air pressures of 6 to 20 bar abs. operated. In This range of mass flow ratio can on the one hand a large ice nuclei are produced and on the other hand with the described Nukleatordüse even in critical temperature ranges (water temperature up to 10 ° C and wet bulb temperature of the air to -0.5 ° C) still the freezing of the tiny water droplets are guaranteed to ice nuclei.
Die Vorrichtung zum Erzeugen von künstlichem Schnee kann eine Schneilanze sein, die wenigstens eine Nukleatordüse zum Erzeugen von Eiskeimen und wenigstens eine Wasserdüse zum Erzeugen von Wassertropfen aufweisen kann. Dabei kann mit der Nukleatordüse ein Eiskeimstrahl und mit der Wasserdüse ein Tropfenstrahl erzeugbar sein, welche sich nach Durchlaufen einer Eiskeimstrecke bzw. nach Durchlaufen einer Tropfenstrecke in einer Einkeimungszone treffen. Die Eiskeimstrecke kann wenigstens 10 cm, insbesondere etwa 20 bis 30 cm betragen und/oder die Tropfenstrecke kann wenigstens 20 cm, insbesondere etwa 40 bis 80 cm betragen. Eine derartige Schneilanze ist in der bereits vorgängig erwähnten
Ein vorteilhaftes Beschneiungssystem kann sich dadurch ergeben, wenn es eine Mehrzahl von Schnei-Vorrichtungen insbesondere in Form von Schneilanzen aufweist. Zur separaten Versorgung mit Druckluft und Wasser kann eine Mehrzahl von Schnei-Vorrichtungen mit einer gemeinsamen Trennanordnung verbunden oder verbindbar sein. Es ist also vorstellbar, dass je Einheit enthaltend Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter und Trennanordnung zwei oder mehrere Schneilanzen mit Wasser und Druckluft versorgt werden können.An advantageous snow-making system can result if it has a plurality of cutting devices, in particular in the form of snow lances. For separate supply of compressed air and water, a plurality of cutting devices may be connected or connectable to a common separation arrangement. It is therefore conceivable that per unit containing water jet gas compressor and separating arrangement two or more snow lances can be supplied with water and compressed air.
Das Beschneiungssystem kann wenigstens eine Vorrichtung in Form einer Schneilanze mit einer Wasserdüse zum Erzeugen von Wassertropfen aufweisen, wobei das System derart ausgelegt ist, dass in der Betriebsphase mittels Steuermitteln und/oder Leitungsführung vorzugsweise ständig ein definierter Wasserstrom zur Wasserdüse geführt wird oder führbar ist. Ausserdem kann es vorteilhaft sein, wenn der Durchmesser der Treibdüse so bemessen ist, dass der Wassermassenstrom der Treibdüse beim gewünschten Trennkammerdruck in jedem Fall durch die Wasserdüse abfliessen kann. Mit dieser Anordnung kann ein konstanter Fluss im Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter aufrechterhalten werden, womit ein zuverlässiger Betrieb des Systems sichergestellt werden kann.The snowmaking system may comprise at least one apparatus in the form of a snow lance with a water nozzle for generating water droplets, wherein the system is designed such that in the operating phase by means of control means and / or wiring preferably a defined water flow is constantly guided or feasible to the water nozzle. Moreover, it may be advantageous if the diameter of the motive nozzle is dimensioned so that the water mass flow of the motive nozzle at the desired separation chamber pressure can flow in any case through the water nozzle. With this arrangement, a constant flow in the water-jet gas compressor can be maintained, thus ensuring reliable operation of the system.
Ein weiterer Aspekt der Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zum Erzeugen von künstlichem Schnee, insbesondere unter Verwendung des vorgängig beschriebenen Beschneiungssystems. In einem ersten Verfahrensschritt wird Wasser als Treibmedium unter Druck in einen Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter eingeleitet. Luft wird unter Ausnutzung des durch den Treibstrahl hervorgerufenen Mitreisseffekts in den Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter angesaugt. In einem nächsten Verfahrensschritt werden die Phasen des Wasser-Luft-Gemisches aus dem Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter mittels einer Trennanordnung voneinander getrennt; anschliessend wird das so getrennte Wasser und die Luft unter Druck separat einer Vorrichtung zum Erzeugen von künstlichem Schnee zugeführt.A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for producing artificial snow, in particular using the snow-making system described above. In a first Process step, water is introduced as the driving medium under pressure in a water jet gas compressor. Air is sucked into the waterjet gas compressor utilizing the entrainment effect caused by the propulsion jet. In a next process step, the phases of the water-air mixture are separated from the water jet gas compressor by means of a separating arrangement from each other; Subsequently, the thus separated water and the air under pressure are supplied separately to an artificial snow generating device.
Weitere Einzelmerkmale und Vorteile der Erfindung ergeben sich aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung von Ausführungsbeispielen und aus den Zeichnungen. Es zeigen:
- Fig. 1
- eine stark schematisierte Prinzipskizze eines erfindungsgemässen Beschneiungssystems mit einer Einheit aus Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter und Trennanordnung sowie einer Schneilanze,
- Fig. 2a
- eine schematische Darstellung der Einheit mit Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter und Trennanordnung aus
Fig. 1 , - Fig. 2b
- die Einheit aus
Fig. 2a , jedoch in einer anderen vertikalen Montageposition (umgekehrte Ausrichtung), - Fig. 3
- die Einheit in einer alternativen horizontalen Montageposition,
- Fig. 4
- eine perspektivische Darstellung einer Einheit mit Wasserstrahl-Gasverdichter und Trennkammer,
- Fig. 5
- die Einheit aus
Fig. 4 in einer Seitenansicht, - Fig. 6
- einen Längsschnitt durch die Einheit in einer etwas vergrösserten Darstellung (Schnittlinie B-B gemäss
Fig. 5 ), - Fig. 7
- das Detail C aus
Fig. 6 , - Fig. 8
- eine perspektivische Darstellung eines weiteren Beschneiungssystems,
- Fig. 9
- eine schematische Darstellung eines Beschneiungssystems gemäss einem alternativen Ausführungsbeispiel,
- Fig. 10
- eine weitere Darstellung eines Beschneiungssystems,
- Fig. 11
- ein Beschneiungssystem mit einer Schneilanze und einer daran seitlich befestigten Einheit,
- Fig. 12
- ein Beschneiungssystem mit einer Schneilanze und einer darin integrierten Einheit,
- Fig. 13
- ein Beschneiungssystem mit einer Schneilanze und einer freistehenden Einheit,
- Fig. 14
- eine stark schematisierte Darstellung einer Anordnung zum Beschneien einer Skipiste mit einer Mehrzahl von Schneilanzen in einer ersten Variante sowie ein zugehöriges Weg-Druck-Diagramm,
- Fig. 15
- eine Modifikation der Anordnung aus
Fig. 14 , - Fig. 16
- eine Anordnung zum Beschneien einer Skipiste mit einer Mehrzahl von Schneilanzen sowie ein zugehöriges Weg-Druck-Diagramm in einer dritten Variante,
- Fig. 17
- eine vierte Variante der Anordnung sowie ein zugehöriges Weg-Druck-Diagramm, und
- Fig. 18
- eine fünfte Variante der Anordnung sowie ein zugehöriges Weg-Druck-Diagramm.
- Fig. 1
- a highly schematic schematic diagram of a snowmaking system according to the invention with a unit comprising a water jet gas compressor and separating arrangement and a snow lance,
- Fig. 2a
- a schematic representation of the unit with water jet gas compressor and separation arrangement of
Fig. 1 . - Fig. 2b
- the unit off
Fig. 2a but in a different vertical mounting position (reverse orientation), - Fig. 3
- the unit in an alternative horizontal mounting position,
- Fig. 4
- a perspective view of a unit with water jet gas compressor and separation chamber,
- Fig. 5
- the unit off
Fig. 4 in a side view, - Fig. 6
- a longitudinal section through the unit in a somewhat enlarged view (section line BB according to
Fig. 5 ) - Fig. 7
- the detail C off
Fig. 6 . - Fig. 8
- a perspective view of another snowmaking system,
- Fig. 9
- a schematic representation of a snowmaking system according to an alternative embodiment,
- Fig. 10
- another illustration of a snowmaking system,
- Fig. 11
- a snowmaking system with a lance and a unit attached laterally thereto,
- Fig. 12
- a snowmaking system with a lance and a unit integrated therein,
- Fig. 13
- a snowmaking system with a snow lance and a freestanding unit,
- Fig. 14
- a highly schematic representation of an arrangement for snow-blasting a ski slope with a plurality of snow lances in a first variant and an associated path-pressure diagram,
- Fig. 15
- a modification of the arrangement
Fig. 14 . - Fig. 16
- an arrangement for blending a ski slope with a plurality of snow lances and an associated path-pressure diagram in a third variant,
- Fig. 17
- a fourth variant of the arrangement and an associated path-pressure diagram, and
- Fig. 18
- a fifth variant of the arrangement and an associated path-pressure diagram.
Im Ausführungsbeispiel gemäss
Aus den
In
Im Bereich des Ausgangs für das Wasser und/oder des Ausgangs der Luft kann in allen Ausführungsformen ein (nicht dargestelltes) Steuermittel (z.B. ein Drosselventil) angeordnet sein, mit dem das Niveau des Wasserspiegels 28 etwa auf einer konstanten Höhe gehalten werden kann (vgl.
Konstruktive Details eines Ausführungsbeispiels einer Einheit 10 sind aus den
Aus
Weiterhin ist in
In den
In den
In
Claims (15)
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP09159428A EP2249107A1 (en) | 2009-05-05 | 2009-05-05 | Artificial snow production system and method for producing artificial snow |
PCT/EP2010/056018 WO2010128036A1 (en) | 2009-05-05 | 2010-05-04 | Snow-making system and method for producing artificial snow |
EP10715892A EP2427704A1 (en) | 2009-05-05 | 2010-05-04 | Snow-making system and method for producing artificial snow |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP09159428A EP2249107A1 (en) | 2009-05-05 | 2009-05-05 | Artificial snow production system and method for producing artificial snow |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2249107A1 true EP2249107A1 (en) | 2010-11-10 |
Family
ID=41217710
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP09159428A Withdrawn EP2249107A1 (en) | 2009-05-05 | 2009-05-05 | Artificial snow production system and method for producing artificial snow |
EP10715892A Withdrawn EP2427704A1 (en) | 2009-05-05 | 2010-05-04 | Snow-making system and method for producing artificial snow |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP10715892A Withdrawn EP2427704A1 (en) | 2009-05-05 | 2010-05-04 | Snow-making system and method for producing artificial snow |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (2) | EP2249107A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2010128036A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP3425311A1 (en) * | 2017-07-04 | 2019-01-09 | Bächler Top Track AG | Method and device for producing artificial snow |
EP3907400A1 (en) | 2020-05-08 | 2021-11-10 | Helmuth Fritz | Artificial snow device and method for operating same |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP3647689A1 (en) | 2018-11-02 | 2020-05-06 | Bartholet Maschinenbau AG | Artificial snow production system and method for artificially creating snow |
CN113155432B (en) * | 2021-04-28 | 2022-06-10 | 北京建筑大学 | Method for detecting atomization component of snow making machine |
Citations (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3464625A (en) * | 1965-01-22 | 1969-09-02 | Atlas Copco Ab | Method and means for making snow |
AT294144B (en) * | 1968-04-18 | 1971-11-10 | Potrubi Narodni Podnik | Contact coolers for gases and vapors, in particular for making snow |
US3716190A (en) * | 1970-10-27 | 1973-02-13 | Minnesota Mining & Mfg | Atomizing method |
US4813597A (en) * | 1987-08-17 | 1989-03-21 | Rogers Corporation | Anti-icing snowgun |
JPH01155168A (en) * | 1987-12-11 | 1989-06-19 | Taiyo Sanso Co Ltd | Forming device for ultrafine frozen particle |
JPH08240367A (en) * | 1995-03-06 | 1996-09-17 | Nishihara Environ Sanit Res Corp | Artificial snow falling apparatus |
WO2003054460A1 (en) | 2001-12-11 | 2003-07-03 | Nivis Gmbh - Srl | Snow canon and method for operating the same |
US7114662B1 (en) * | 2002-12-20 | 2006-10-03 | Nikkanen John P | Snow making using low pressure air and water injection |
-
2009
- 2009-05-05 EP EP09159428A patent/EP2249107A1/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2010
- 2010-05-04 WO PCT/EP2010/056018 patent/WO2010128036A1/en active Application Filing
- 2010-05-04 EP EP10715892A patent/EP2427704A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Patent Citations (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3464625A (en) * | 1965-01-22 | 1969-09-02 | Atlas Copco Ab | Method and means for making snow |
AT294144B (en) * | 1968-04-18 | 1971-11-10 | Potrubi Narodni Podnik | Contact coolers for gases and vapors, in particular for making snow |
US3716190A (en) * | 1970-10-27 | 1973-02-13 | Minnesota Mining & Mfg | Atomizing method |
US4813597A (en) * | 1987-08-17 | 1989-03-21 | Rogers Corporation | Anti-icing snowgun |
JPH01155168A (en) * | 1987-12-11 | 1989-06-19 | Taiyo Sanso Co Ltd | Forming device for ultrafine frozen particle |
JPH08240367A (en) * | 1995-03-06 | 1996-09-17 | Nishihara Environ Sanit Res Corp | Artificial snow falling apparatus |
WO2003054460A1 (en) | 2001-12-11 | 2003-07-03 | Nivis Gmbh - Srl | Snow canon and method for operating the same |
EP1456588A1 (en) * | 2001-12-11 | 2004-09-15 | NIVIS GmbH - Srl | Snow canon and method for operating the same |
US7114662B1 (en) * | 2002-12-20 | 2006-10-03 | Nikkanen John P | Snow making using low pressure air and water injection |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP3425311A1 (en) * | 2017-07-04 | 2019-01-09 | Bächler Top Track AG | Method and device for producing artificial snow |
EP3907400A1 (en) | 2020-05-08 | 2021-11-10 | Helmuth Fritz | Artificial snow device and method for operating same |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2010128036A1 (en) | 2010-11-11 |
EP2427704A1 (en) | 2012-03-14 |
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