EP3251754A1 - Metering device and method - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a metering device (4, 82, 96) for metering a fluid comprising a common supply line (6) and a plurality of output lines (20). In order to achieve an improved dosage, it is proposed that the metering device (4, 82, 96) comprises a plurality of delivery devices (18) each having a cavity (24) for receiving the fluid and a piston (26) for displacing the fluid, the plurality Conveyor devices (18) in each case on the inlet side with the common supply line (6) and the outlet side are each connected to one of the plurality of output lines (20).

Description

The invention relates to a metering device for metering a fluid comprising a common supply line and a plurality of output lines.

The metering of fluids plays a role in many different fields of application when certain quantities of a fluid are needed. As dosing is generally understood a measurement or a dimensioning of a certain amount. For example, in a rolling mill certain amounts of lubricant are needed so that the lubricant is metered. In a rolling mill, the required amount of lubricant is currently being pumped by a pump, which amount is then divided among several nozzles. The nozzles spray the lubricant then on the rolls of the rolling mill or in a nip of the rolling mill. In this case, the lubricant can be sprayed in pure form or as a mixture with a carrier medium. When spraying as a mixture, the lubricant can be mixed with the carrier medium before passing through the pump, or the lubricant is mixed with the carrier medium only in the nozzle. Common to all spraying variants is that the amount of lubricant used is precisely metered. If too little lubricant is used, it comes to increased wear of the rollers and increased energy consumption during the rolling process in the rolling mill. To compensate for inaccuracies in the metering with a conventional pump, currently more lubricant is used than would be absolutely necessary, which is at the expense of low operating costs and / or a threat to the rolling process, because it can come to gripping problems due to the reduced friction in the nip.

An object of the invention is therefore to provide a metering device with an improved dosage.

The object is achieved by a metering device of the type mentioned above, which according to the invention comprises a plurality of conveying devices each having a cavity for receiving the fluid and a piston for displacing the fluid, wherein the plurality of conveying devices in each case on the inlet side with the common supply line and on the outlet side each with one of the plurality Output lines are connected.

The invention is based on the consideration that a single pump, as used so far, can dose the required amounts of fluid only inaccurately. Especially with small required amounts of such a pump usually more fluid is consumed than would be necessary.

By the plurality of conveyors now the amount of fluid is divided among the several conveyors. Each of the plurality of conveyors has a smaller void volume than the aforementioned pump. As a cavity volume, the maximum volume of the respective cavity can be considered. Due to the smaller void volume, each conveyor can measure a required amount better than the aforementioned pump. Each of the conveying devices can convey a specific volume flow, which can then be output via the respective output line. In this way, an improved dosage, in particular a more accurate dosage can be ensured. Furthermore, due to the improved dosage, the operating costs can be reduced.

Furthermore, the multiple conveyors allow a variable volume flow of fluid in a wide range. As volume flow, that volume of fluid can be understood, which can be supported by a respective conveyor. In particular, the volume flow which can be conveyed by one of the conveying devices can be, for example, at least 1 ml / min and / or at most 100 l / min, in particular at most 14 l / min. The volume flow can, for example, depend on the particular design of the conveying device, in particular, be dependent on a diameter of the conveyor device, and / or on a drive speed.

At least one, in particular each, of the conveyors may have a polygonal cross-section. Conveniently, at least one, in particular each, of the conveyors has a round cross-section. Preferably, at least one, in particular each, of the conveying devices is cylindrical. Preferably, at least one, in particular each, of the conveying devices (in each case) is designed as a metering cylinder. For example, at least one, in particular each, of the conveying devices (each) may be a piston pump. Further, for example, at least one, in particular each, of the conveying devices (each) have a piston. Furthermore, the respective cavity, which each of the conveying devices has, can be at least one cylinder chamber.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the plurality of conveying devices are identical. Alternatively, the plurality of conveyors may be at least partially different from one another, for example, in their cross-sectional area, in their void volume and / or in other properties.

Advantageously, the common supply line opens in the plurality of conveying devices. Further, each of the output lines may terminate in a respective output.

It is expedient if at least two of the conveying devices, in particular all conveying devices, are coupled together. For example, the coupled conveyor devices may be coupled via a coupling unit.

Two elements can be understood as "coupled" when the two elements interact. Next can be at two (together) coupled elements the state of one element affects the state of the other element.

Further, the metering device may comprise at least one linear guide, by means of which the coupling element is suitably guided. In this way, the linear guide can cause a mechanical stabilization.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least two of the conveying devices, in particular all conveying devices, are mechanically connected to one another / to one another via a mechanical connection. Conveniently, the mechanical connection is a rigid mechanical connection. For example, the mechanical connection can be made via the coupling unit.

Preferably, the metering device comprises a drive unit. At least two of the conveyors may be connected to the drive unit. Furthermore, the drive unit can drive at least two of the conveying devices.

Advantageously, the drive unit is a common drive unit. Conveniently, the plurality of conveyors are mechanically connected to the common drive unit. In addition, it makes sense if the common drive unit drives the multiple conveyors. In particular, the plurality of conveyors may be synchronously driven / moved using, for example, the common drive unit.

The drive unit may comprise a linear drive. For example, the linear drive can convert a rotary motion into a linear motion. Further, the drive unit may be a hydraulic, electric and / or pneumatic drive unit. In addition, the drive unit may have a transmission or be gearless.

On the drive unit and / or on the mechanical connection, in particular on the coupling unit, a sensor can be arranged. Furthermore, the sensor can be integrated in the drive unit. The sensor may be, for example, a position sensor and / or a speed sensor. By means of the sensor, for example, a drive speed of the drive unit, a speed of a piston and / or an instantaneous volume flow can be determined.

At least one of the conveying devices can be designed as a single-acting metering cylinder. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, each of the conveying devices is designed in each case as a single-acting metering cylinder. Expediently, each of the single-acting metering cylinders comprises a single cylinder chamber, which - in particular successively - can receive and deliver the fluid.

Furthermore, at least one of the conveying devices can be designed as a double-acting metering cylinder. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each of the conveying devices is designed in each case as a double-acting metering cylinder. Conveniently, each of the double-acting metering cylinder comprises two cylinder chambers. While the first cylinder chamber of a respective double-acting metering cylinder can receive the fluid, preferably - in particular at the same time - the second cylinder chamber of the same metering cylinder can deliver the fluid and / or vice versa. A double-acting dosing can z. B. a synchronous cylinder, also called synchronizing cylinder, or a differential cylinder.

At least one of the conveying devices, in particular each of the conveying devices, may have a leakage bore, in particular for leakage detection. In addition, the metering device may comprise a manifold. Furthermore, the at least one conveying device, in particular each of the conveying devices, be connected via the respective leakage bore with the manifold.

The metering device may comprise a return line, in particular a common return line. In addition, the metering device may comprise at least one pressure relief valve, in particular a plurality of pressure relief valves. Furthermore, the metering device may comprise at least one switching valve, in particular a plurality of switching valves. For example, one of the switching valves can be arranged in each output line.

Conveniently, at least one of the conveyors is connected to the return line. In particular, each of the conveying devices can be connected to the return line. Furthermore, each of the conveying devices can each be connected to the return line via one of the plurality of pressure-limiting valves and / or via one of the several switching valves.

Each of the switching valves may, for example, each comprise two positions. The first position may be a passage position, in which the respective conveying device is expediently connected to the respective outlet of the metering device. The second position may be a return position, in which the respective conveyor device is advantageously connected to the return line.

Furthermore, the dosing device may comprise a control unit. The switching valves may be connected to the control unit. Further, the switching valves can be controlled and / or switched using the control unit.

The metering device may have at least one check valve. Appropriately, the metering device has a plurality of check valves. In each case at least one of the plurality of check valves can on the inlet side and / or be arranged on the outlet side of a respective conveyor.

Preferably, the metering device comprises at least one measuring coupling, also called Minimessanschluss. Furthermore, the metering device may comprise at least one measuring sensor. The measuring coupling and / or the measuring sensor can be arranged in at least one of the several output lines. The measuring sensor can be, for example, a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor and / or a volumetric flow sensor.

In particular, the metering device comprises a plurality of measuring couplings and / or a plurality of measuring sensors. At least one of the plurality of measuring couplings and / or at least one of the plurality of measuring sensors may be arranged in at least one of the plurality of output lines. Preferably, at least one of the plurality of measuring couplings and / or at least one of the plurality of measuring sensors is arranged in each of the plurality of output lines. For example, at least one of the plurality of measuring sensors, in particular each of the measuring sensors, may be (in each case) a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor and / or a volume flow sensor.

The metering device may comprise a monitoring unit and / or a control unit, in particular for monitoring and / or controlling a parameter of the outgoing fluid. The controller may be at least one controller, in particular a controller. Conveniently, the outgoing fluid is the outgoing fluid via at least one of the output lines. For example, the parameter may be a pressure, a temperature and / or a volumetric flow.

Conveniently, the monitoring unit and / or the control unit is connected to at least one of the measuring sensors. Furthermore, the monitoring unit and / or the control unit can be connected to each of the measuring sensors.

In addition, the monitoring unit and / or the control unit may be connected to the aforementioned sensor. For example, the monitoring unit and / or the control unit, in particular using the sensor, the drive speed of the drive unit, the speed of a piston / piston and / or a determined volume flow monitor.

Furthermore, the monitoring unit and / or the control unit can be connected to the drive unit, in particular for controlling a drive speed of the drive unit. The monitoring unit and / or the control unit may comprise the above-mentioned control unit or be a separate unit to the control unit.

Furthermore, the monitoring unit and / or the control unit can operate at least partially automatically. In a partially automatic monitoring and / or control, a sub-step of the monitoring and / or control can be performed otherwise than by the monitoring unit and / or the control unit itself, for example by a person acting. Furthermore, the monitoring and / or control by means of the monitoring unit and / or the control unit can be carried out fully automatically, in particular without manual intervention of a person.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the metering device comprises a block of material. As a block of material, a block of solid material can be understood. The block of material may have a plurality of bores and / or recesses. Advantageously, the plurality of conveying devices are each arranged at least partially in the material block, in particular in the bores and / or recesses of the material block. In addition, the pressure limiting valves, the switching valves, the check valves, the measuring coupling, the sensors and / or further elements may be at least partially disposed in the material block and / or on the block of material.

The block of material may allow a compact and / or robust construction of the metering devices. Lines or channels between individual components can be kept short by the design. Thus, sealing points can be reduced and / or avoided. In addition, leaks can be reduced and / or avoided in this way.

Furthermore, the invention is directed to a metering system with the metering device according to the invention, in particular with one of the above-described developments of the metering device.

The dosing system expediently comprises a pump unit. The pump unit may have a pre-pressure pump. Preferably, the pump unit is connected on the output side to the supply line. In addition, the pump unit can be connected on the input side to the return line.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if the dosing system comprises a fluid tank. It makes sense for the fluid tank to be connected on the output side to the pump unit. Furthermore, the fluid tank can be connected on the input side to the pump unit. The pump unit may include a pressure relief valve.

Furthermore, the metering system may comprise a spraying device, in particular with a plurality of nozzles.

For example, the fluid may be a lubricant.

The metering device and / or the metering system may in particular be a metering device / a metering system in a rolling mill. Due to the improved dosage gripping problems due to low friction in a nip of the rolling mill can be avoided.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for metering a fluid, wherein a metering device a common supply line and a plurality of output lines, wherein the fluid is supplied via the common supply line and is discharged via the plurality of output lines.

In order to enable improved metering, according to the invention, the metering device comprises a plurality of delivery devices each having a cavity and a piston, and in the method, the fluid is supplied to the plurality of delivery devices, wherein the cavities of the plurality of delivery devices receive the fluid, and each of the delivery devices are predetermined Volume flow to each one of a plurality of output lines, wherein the pistons of the plurality of conveyors displace the fluid.

In particular, when displacing the fluid can be discharged from the plurality of conveyors.

The dosing device mentioned in connection with the method may in particular be the dosing device described above. Consequently, the following elements of the metering device may be the aforementioned elements.

Conveniently, the plurality of conveyors are mechanically connected to each other / each other. Further, it is preferred if the plurality of conveying devices are driven together. In particular, the plurality of conveyors can be synchronously driven and / or moved.

For example, in particular for metering the fluid, the volume flow can be adjusted in time.

Preferably, the volume flow is at least 1 ml / min. Further, it is advantageous if the volume flow is a maximum of 100 l / min, in particular a maximum of 14 l / min.

Further, for example, by the choice of the conveying devices, in particular its cavity volume, by the interconnection of the conveying devices with the output lines and / or by means of a spraying device and / or by the arrangement of nozzles in the spraying device, a spatial spray profile can be set.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the taking up of the fluid and the displacement of the fluid take place in succession. As "successively" can be understood directly one after the other and / or with a time interval. Each of the conveying devices can be designed, for example, in each case as a single-acting metering cylinder, each with a single cylinder chamber. For example, displacement may be as fast as recording and up to 280 times slower than recording. The design of the plurality of conveying devices in each case as a single-acting metering cylinder can be particularly inexpensive.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the recording of the fluid and the displacement of the fluid take place at the same time. In this case, each of the conveying devices, for example, each be configured as a double-acting metering cylinder, each with two cylinder chambers. In particular, the taking up of the fluid and the displacement of the fluid take place at the same time in different cylinder chambers of a respective delivery device, in particular in the different cylinder chambers of a respective double-acting metering cylinder. For example, the first cylinder chamber of a respective double-acting metering cylinder can receive the fluid and at the same time the second cylinder chamber of the same metering cylinder can displace the fluid - and vice versa. In this way, a continuous dosing is possible.

The previously given description of advantageous embodiments of the invention contains numerous features, which are given in the individual subclaims partially summarized in several. However, these features may conveniently be considered individually and combined into meaningful further combinations. In particular are these features can be combined individually and in any suitable combination with the method according to the invention and the metering device according to the invention or the metering system according to the invention. Thus, process features can also be formulated objectively as a property of the corresponding device unit, and vice versa.

Although some terms are used in the specification or claims in the singular or in conjunction with a number word, the scope of the invention for these terms should not be limited to the singular or the respective number word.

The above-described characteristics, features, and advantages of this invention, as well as the manner in which they will be achieved, will become clearer and more clearly understood in connection with the following description of the embodiments, which will be described in detail in conjunction with the drawings. The embodiments serve to illustrate the invention and do not limit the invention to the combination of features specified therein, not even with respect to functional features. In addition, suitable features of each embodiment may also be explicitly considered isolated, removed from one embodiment, incorporated into another embodiment to supplement it, and combined with any of the claims.

FIG 1

ein Schaltbild eines Dosiersystems;

FIG 2

ein Schaltbild einer Dosiervorrichtung;

FIG 3

eine beispielhafte Ausgestaltung der Dosiervorrichtung aus FIG 2;

FIG 4

die beispielhafte Ausgestaltung der Dosiervorrichtung aus FIG 3 in einer anderen Perspektive;

FIG 5

eine Schnittansicht der Dosiervorrichtung aus FIG 3 und 4;

FIG 6

einen schematischen Längsschnitt durch eine der Fördervorrichtungen aus FIG 2 bis FIG 4;

FIG 7

einen schematischen Längsschnitt durch eine alternative Ausgestaltung der Fördervorrichtungen;

FIG 8

ein Schaltbild eines anderen Dosiersystems;

FIG 9

ein Schaltbild einer anderen Dosiervorrichtung;

FIG 10

einen schematischen Längsschnitt durch eine der Fördervorrichtungen aus FIG 8; und

FIG 11

ein Schaltbild eines weiteren Dosiersystems.

Show it:

FIG. 1

a circuit diagram of a dosing system;

FIG. 2

a circuit diagram of a metering device;

FIG. 3

an exemplary embodiment of the metering device FIG. 2 ;

FIG. 4

the exemplary embodiment of the metering device FIG. 3 in a different perspective;

FIG. 5

a sectional view of the metering device FIG. 3 and 4 ;

FIG. 6

a schematic longitudinal section through one of the conveying devices FIG. 2 to FIG. 4 ;

FIG. 7

a schematic longitudinal section through an alternative embodiment of the conveying devices;

FIG. 8

a circuit diagram of another dosing system;

FIG. 9

a circuit diagram of another metering device;

FIG. 10

a schematic longitudinal section through one of the conveying devices FIG. 8 ; and

FIG. 11

a circuit diagram of another dosing.

FIG. 1 1 shows a schematic circuit diagram of a metering system 2. The metering system 2 has a metering device 4 for metering a fluid with a supply line 6 and a return line 8. Furthermore, the dosing system 2 comprises a pump unit 10, which is connected on the output side to the supply line 6 and on the input side to the return line 8. The pump unit 10 comprises a pre-pressure pump 12 and a pressure limiting valve 14.

In addition, the dosing system 2 comprises a fluid tank 16, which is connected to the pump unit 10 both on the output side and on the input side.

The fluid tank 16 and the pump unit 10 supply the metering device 4 with fluid. For example, the fluid on the output side of the pre-pressure pump 12 of the pump unit 10 with about 1 bar to 3 bar pressurized.

Furthermore, the dosing system may comprise a spraying device (not shown) (cf. FIG. 11 ).

In this embodiment, the dosing system 2 is a dosing system 2 in a rolling mill. In particular, the fluid is a lubricant, in particular for lubricating rolls of the rolling mill and / or a roll gap of the rolling mill. For example, the rolling mill can be a rolling mill for hot rolling and / or for cold rolling.

FIG. 2 shows a circuit diagram of the metering device 4 FIG. 1 , The metering device 4 comprises a plurality of conveying devices 18. The feed line 6 is a common feed line 6.

The plurality of conveying devices 18 are each connected on the inlet side to the common supply line 6. In particular, the common supply line 6 opens in the plurality of conveying devices 18.

Each of the output lines opens into an outlet 21. In each case one of the plurality of conveying devices 18 is connected on the outlet side to one of the several outlet lines 20.

Each of the conveyors 18 has a round cross section and is cylindrical. Furthermore, each of the conveying devices 18 is in each case designed as a metering cylinder. In addition, each of the conveyance devices 18 is a piston pump.

The plurality of conveyors 18 are identically formed and have an identical cross-sectional area and an identical void volume.

Each of the conveying devices 18 is in each case designed as a double-acting metering cylinder 22 (cf. FIG. 6 ). Each of the double-acting metering cylinders 22 comprises two cylinder chambers 24. The two cylinder chambers 24 form the cavity of the respective double-acting metering cylinder 22. Further, each of the double-acting metering cylinder 22 each comprises a piston 26 which delimits the respective first cylinder chamber 24 from the respective second cylinder chamber 24. Each of the pistons 26 has a piston seal 27.

Each of the double-acting metering cylinder 22 is called a synchronous cylinder, also called synchronizing cylinder. In addition, each of the double-acting metering cylinder 22 (see. FIG. 6 ) on a continuous piston rod 28. The piston 26 is fixedly connected to the piston rod 28.

Further, the plurality (i.e., all) conveying devices 18 are coupled together, in particular via a coupling unit 30. The coupling unit 30 is designed as a coupling plate.

In particular, the multiple (i.e., all) conveyors 18 are mechanically interconnected / interconnected by a rigid mechanical link 32. The mechanical connection 32 is produced via the coupling unit 30.

In addition, the metering device 4 comprises a drive unit 34, which is designed as a common drive unit 34. The plurality of conveyors 18 are mechanically connected to the drive unit 34. The drive unit 34 drives the plurality of conveyors 18 in synchronism. In particular, in each case the piston rod 28 is driven or moved together with the piston 26 by the drive unit 34.

The drive unit 34 comprises a linear drive 36, which can convert a rotational movement into a linear movement. Further, the drive unit 34 has a shaft 38, which is designed as a spindle. The drive unit 34 is mechanically connected via the shaft 38 to the coupling unit 30.

In the drive unit 34, a sensor 40 is integrated. The sensor 40 is designed as a speed sensor. Using the sensor 40, a drive speed of the drive unit 34 can first be determined. Further, by means of the sensor 40, a speed of one of the pistons 26, in particular of all the pistons 26, and thus an instantaneous volume flow can be determined.

In addition, the metering device 4 comprises a plurality of pressure relief valves 42. The return line 8 is a common return line 8. Each of the conveyors 18 is connected to the return line 8 via one of the plurality of pressure relief valves 42. If a pressure in one of the output lines 20 rises above a threshold value, then the respective pressure-limiting valve 42 ensures that the fluid can drain off via the return line 8.

Via the common return line 8, fluid which is discharged from the respective delivery device 18, but is not discharged via the respective delivery line 20, is fed back to the pump unit.

Further, the metering device 4 comprises a plurality of switching valves 44. For example, in each output line 20 each one of the switching valves 44 is arranged. Each of the switching valves 44 has an electrical coil 46, via which the respective switching valve 44 is switched.

Each of the switching valves 44 each includes two positions. The first position of the switching valve 44 is a passage position, in which the respective conveying device 18 is connected to the respective outlet 21 of the metering device 4. The second position of the switching valve 44 is a return position, in which the respective conveying device 18 is connected to the return line 8. Accordingly, each of the conveying devices 18 via the respective Switching valve 44 (depending on the position of the respective switching valve 44) to be connected to the return line 8.

Furthermore, the dosing device 4 comprises a control unit 48, which is connected to the plurality of switching valves 44 via a data connection 50. The data connection 50 may be via a cable and / or wirelessly. The switching valves 44 are controlled and / or switched using the control unit 48.

For example, when rolling a wide band, all the switching valves 44 may be in the on-position. Further, for example, when rolling a narrow band, the switching valves 44, which are located according to the drawings on the right and left, are brought into the return position, while the centerline switching means 44 arranged in accordance with the drawing are in the forward position. In addition, e.g. during maintenance of the rolling mill and / or during maintenance of the metering all switching valves are brought to the return position.

The metering device 4 has a plurality of check valves 52, which are respectively arranged on the inlet side or outlet side of a respective conveyor device 18.

Furthermore, the metering device 4 comprises a plurality of measuring couplings 54 and a plurality of measuring sensors 56. One of the plurality of measuring couplings 54 and one of the plurality of measuring sensors 56 are arranged in each of the several output lines 20. For example, each of the measuring sensors 56 is each a volume flow sensor. Furthermore, a further measuring sensor 58, which is, for example, a pressure sensor and / or a temperature sensor, is arranged / connected to one of the measuring couplings 54. In principle, a further measuring sensor 58 can be arranged on each of the measuring couplings 54.

The dosing device 4 comprises a control unit 60 for monitoring and / or controlling a parameter of the outgoing Fluid. For example, the parameter may be a pressure, a temperature and / or a volumetric flow.

The control unit 60 is connected to each of the volume flow sensors 56 via a data link 50. In this way, the volume flow can be monitored at each of the output lines 20, in particular using the control unit 60. Further, the control unit 60 is connected via a data link 50 to the drive unit 34, in particular for controlling a drive speed of the drive unit 34. In this way, the Volume flow can be adjusted or regulated.

Furthermore, the control unit 60 is connected to the further measuring sensor 58, which is a pressure and / or a temperature sensor. In this way, the pressure and / or the temperature at one of the output lines 20 can be monitored, in particular using the control unit 60. In this way, a disturbance, for example a pressure increase due to a blockage and / or a pressure drop due to leakage, can be detected early become.

Also, the aforementioned sensor 40 is connected to the control unit 60 via a data connection 50. The sensor measures the current rotational speed of the drive unit 34 or the drive speed of the drive unit 34, which is monitored by means of the control unit 60.

In this embodiment, the control unit 60 includes the above-mentioned control unit 48 for adjusting the switching valves 44.

The control unit 60 or the control unit 48 is the width of a rolled strip, which is / is to be rolled, known. The switching valves are switched accordingly. Further, the control unit 60 a rolling speed is known, from which the control unit 60 can close to a required volume flow of fluid. From the required volume flow a required drive speed of the drive unit 34 is calculated. The control unit 60 controls the drive unit 34 accordingly. The set drive speed is checked by means of the sensor 40 and readjusted if necessary. If a volume flow deviating from the required volume flow is measured by means of one of the volume flow sensors 56, then the control unit 60 can in turn readjust the drive speed of the drive unit 34.

For example, the metering device 4 is used for rolling an endless rolled strip

FIG. 3 schematically shows an exemplary embodiment of the metering device 4 from FIG. 2 , FIG. 4 shows the same exemplary embodiment of the metering device 4 as FIG. 3 , only from a different perspective.

The metering device 4 in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 comprises a block of material 62. The block of material is a block of solid material, for example of steel, in particular of stainless steel. The plurality of conveyors 18 are each at least partially disposed in the block of material 62. In particular, the block of material 62 comprises cylindrical bores 64 (cf. FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 ), which penetrate the block of material 62. In each of these bore 64, one of the conveying devices 18 is arranged.

Further, each of the conveying devices 18 comprises two fixing elements 66, which are each formed as a cylinder head. At each end of the bore 64, each of the conveyors 18 is fixed by one of the fixing members 66. The fixing elements 66 are connected to the material block 62, in particular screwed. In this way, a simple and quick replacement of the individual conveyor devices 18 or parts thereof is made possible.

Further, the block of material 62 recesses, which are each formed as a blind hole. In addition, the pressure limiting valves 42, the switching valves 44, the check valves 52, the measuring coupling 54, the measuring sensors 56 at least partially in the material block 62, in particular in the recesses, arranged, for example, screwed.

In this way, the block of material 62 is formed as a cylinder and valve housing.

The material block 62 enables a compact and robust construction of the metering 4. Lines or channels between individual components are performed by drilling in the material block 62 and are kept short by this construction, so that leakage can be reduced and / or avoided.

Furthermore, the metering device 4 comprises linear guides 68. By means of the linear guides 68, the coupling unit 30 is guided. In this way, the linear guides 68 increase the mechanical stability of the metering device 4.

The coupling unit is in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 shown transparent to the linear guides 68 and the piston rods 28 to see better.

The block of material 62 with its holes 64 and recesses can be produced inexpensively and automatically.

FIG. 5 shows a section through the metering device 4 FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 along two conveying devices 18.

In this figure, the block of material 62 is shown transparently. Furthermore, hatching of the cut elements has been omitted for the sake of clarity.

In this figure, the cylindrical holes 64, which penetrate the block of material 62, can be seen. In each of these bore 64, one of the conveying devices 18 is arranged.

Further, it can be seen in this figure that the pressure relief valves 42, the switching valves 44, the check valves 52 and the measuring coupling 54 at least partially in the material block 62, in particular in the recesses, which are each formed as a blind hole, are arranged.

The check valves 52 are arranged completely in the material block 62. In the case of the switching valves 44, a part, in particular the electrical part (coil 46 and electrical connection) of the switching valves, projects out of the material block 62. The pressure-limiting valves 42 also project partially out of the material block 62, in particular in order to be able to set their threshold value or their switching time. The measuring couplings 54 likewise protrude partially out of the material block 62. Thus, a measuring sensor 58 (cf. FIG. 2 ) are connected to the respective measuring coupling 54.

FIG. 6 shows a schematic longitudinal section through one of the conveying devices 18 2 to FIG. 5 , The conveyor 18 is disposed in the cylindrical bore 64 which penetrates the block of material 62.

The conveying device 18 is designed as a double-acting metering cylinder 22. Further, the double-acting metering cylinder comprises the piston rod 28, which is fixedly connected to the piston 26, and a cylinder tube 70, which forms the outer wall. The piston 26 reciprocates within the cylinder tube 70 in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the cylinder tube 70. As can be seen, the piston 26 moves within the cylinder tube 70 in the vertical direction to the right and left.

The double-acting metering cylinder 22 comprises two cylinder chambers 24. The piston 26 separates the first cylinder chamber 24 from the second cylinder chamber 24. Each of the cylinder chambers is connected to the supply line 6 via an inlet 72 and to the respective output line 20 via an outlet 74. While the first cylinder chamber 24 of the double-acting metering cylinder 22 receives the fluid, at the same time the second cylinder chamber 24 of the same metering cylinder 22 releases the fluid and vice versa.

The conveying device 18 is fixed by means of the two fixing elements 66 (in this case cylinder heads). The fixing elements 66 are screwed to the block of material 62. Further, each of the fixing elements 66 comprises a plurality of seals 76, which are formed as sealing rings. In addition, each of the fixing elements 66 comprises a scraper 78. The respective scraper 78 is designed as a rubber ring. The scrapers 78 also ensure a tightness of the conveying device 18. The cylinder tube 70 also includes a seal 76, which seals the fixing element 66 to the material block 62.

In FIG. 6 is the drawing left cylinder chamber 24, which is the first cylinder chamber 24, completely filled. Furthermore, the cylinder chamber 24 according to the drawing, which represents the second cylinder chamber 24, is completely emptied. The piston 26 is accordingly according to the drawing right in the end position. In the following, the piston rod 28, together with the piston 26, is moved to the left, as shown by the drive unit, so that the left, first cylinder chamber 24 of the double-acting metering cylinder discharges the fluid via the left-hand outlet 74 as shown in the drawing. At the same time, the right-hand, second cylinder chamber 24 receives the fluid via the inlet 72, which is the right-handmost according to the drawing. The piston rod 28 with the piston 26 moves to the left until the left, first cylinder chamber 24 is completely emptied and the right cylinder chamber is completely filled.

In the following, the piston rod 28 moves with the piston 26 to the right, so that the left, first cylinder chamber 24 of the double-acting metering cylinder receives the fluid via the left-hand inlet 72 as shown and at the same time the right, second cylinder chamber 24, the fluid on the right according to the right outlet 74th releases until the left in accordance with the drawing, the first cylinder chamber 24 is completely filled and the right, according to the drawings right, second cylinder chamber 24 is completely emptied. The process is repeated in a cycle. In this way, a continuous dosage is possible.

By way of example, the piston 26 has an outer diameter of 14 mm. Next example, the piston rod 28 has a diameter of 10 mm. The so-called stroke of the conveyor 18 is z. B. 160 mm. As a stroke, that route can be referred to, the piston 26 can cover a maximum in one direction. Thus, the void volume of the conveying device 18 is for example 12 ml.

The fluid received by the respective cylinder chamber 24 is pressurized, for example, at 1 bar to 3 bar. Furthermore, the fluid indicated by the respective cylinder chamber 24 is pressurized, for example, at 5 bar to 10 bar. The threshold value of the check valves 52 is adapted to the pressure conditions of the fluid. Accordingly, the respective non-return valve 52 arranged on the outlet side of the respective cylinder chamber 24 has a larger threshold value than the respective non-return valve 52 arranged on the inlet side of the respective cylinder chamber 24.

The volume flow, which in each case can be conveyed by a delivery device 18 (hereinafter simply referred to as "volume flow"), corresponds in this embodiment to the volume flow which can be delivered via one of the output lines 20 in each case. The volume flow can be dependent on the drive speed of the drive unit 34 be set. For example, the volume flow can be set in a range from 3.5 ml / min to 64 ml / min.

FIG. 7 shows a schematic longitudinal section through an alternative embodiment of the conveying devices 18 FIG. 6 , The following description is essentially limited to the differences to conveyors 18 FIG. 6 to which reference is made for characteristics and functions that remain the same. Essentially identical elements are generally designated by the same reference numerals, and features not mentioned are taken over into the following exemplary embodiment without being described again.

Each of the cylinder chambers 24 has an inlet 72, which simultaneously acts as an outlet 74.

FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of another metering system 80 with another metering device 82 for metering a fluid. The following description is essentially limited to the differences from the exemplary embodiment FIG. 1 to FIG. 6 which is referred to with regard to features and functions that remain the same. Essentially identical elements are generally designated by the same reference numerals, and features not mentioned are taken over into the following exemplary embodiment without being described again.

The supply line 6 of the metering device 82 acts simultaneously as a return line 8. In principle, an embodiment in which the supply line 6 and the return line 8 are present separately (analogous to the first embodiment) possible.

FIG. 9 shows a circuit diagram of the metering device 82 FIG. 8 ,

Each of the conveying devices 18 is in each case designed as a single-acting metering cylinder 84 (cf. FIG. 10 ). Conveniently, each of the single-acting metering cylinders 84 comprises a single cylinder chamber 24. Further, each of the single-acting metering cylinders 84 each comprise a piston 26 and a piston rod 86. The piston 26 is fixedly connected to the piston rod 86, wherein the piston rod 86 only on one side of the piston 26 is located.

Each of the conveying devices 18 has a leakage bore 88. Furthermore, the metering device 82 comprises a manifold 90, which is connected to the leakage bores 88.

At the mechanical connection 32, in particular at the coupling unit 30, a sensor 92 is arranged (instead of the sensor 40 on the drive unit 34 in the first embodiment). The sensor 92 is a position sensor. The sensor 92 can determine the position of the coupling unit 30 and thus the speed of the coupling unit 30 or the speed of the piston 26 and / or the volume flow.

The sensor 92 is also connected to the control unit 60 via a data connection 50. The sensor 92 measures the position of the coupling unit 30 and thus the speed of the coupling unit 30 and the speed of the piston 26, which is monitored by the control unit 60.

In this embodiment, the metering device 82 does not include pressure relief valves (unlike the first embodiment in FIG FIG. 1 to FIG. 6 ), although this would be possible in principle.

For example, the metering device 82 is used in a hot rolling process, in particular for rolling individual rolling belts from slabs. If the respective delivery devices 18 are completely filled with fluid, the amount of fluid for an entire rolled strip is sufficient. The filling of the conveyors 18 may then, for example, between the Rolling a first band and rolling a second band done.

FIG. 10 shows a longitudinal section through one of the conveyors 18 from FIG. 9 , The conveyor device 18 is designed as a single-acting metering cylinder 84 and comprises a single cylinder chamber 24. The cylinder chamber 24 forms the cavity of the single-acting metering cylinder 84. The cylinder chamber 24 can successively receive and deliver the fluid.

In FIG. 10 the cylinder chamber 24 is partially filled. The piston 26 is located according to the drawing center.

Subsequently, the piston rod 86 moves with the piston 26 to the right, so that the cylinder chamber 24 receives the fluid through the inlet 72 until the cylinder chamber 24 is completely filled.

In the following, the piston rod 86, together with the piston 26, is moved to the left according to the drawing by the drive unit so that the cylinder chamber 24 discharges the fluid via the outlet 74. In this way, the dosage of the fluid takes place. The piston rod 86 with the piston 26 can move to the left until the cylinder chamber 24 is completely emptied. Subsequently, the cylinder chamber 24 must be refilled. The process is repeated in a cycle. In this way, a discontinuous dosage is possible.

For example, the cylinder chamber 24 can be completely filled in 11 seconds. Next, the cylinder chamber is dependent on the set volume flow z. B. in 11 s to 205 s completely emptied.

The conveying device 18 has a leakage bore 88 for leakage detection. Further, the conveying device 18 is connected via the leakage bore 88 with the manifold 90 of the metering device 82.

In the event of leakage from the delivery device 18, some fluid exits via the leakage bore 88. The leaked due to the leakage fluid accumulates in the manifold 90 and can be detected visually and / or with a meter. In this way, in the event of a defect of one of the conveying devices 18, an early replacement of this defective conveying device 18 can be ensured.

FIG. 11 shows a further dosing 94 with a metering device 96. The following description is essentially limited to the differences from the embodiment of 8 to FIG. 10 which is referred to with regard to features and functions that remain the same. Essentially identical elements are generally designated by the same reference numerals, and features not mentioned are taken over into the following exemplary embodiment without being described again.

Some elements (such as a pump unit, a fluid tank, a drive unit, a return line, pressure relief valves, switching valves, measuring couplings, measuring sensors, etc.) are in FIG. 11 not shown, but in principle - individually or in any combination - can be taken from the other application examples.

The dosing system 94 comprises a spray device 98 with a plurality of nozzles 100. Furthermore, the spray device 98 is connected to the plurality of outlet lines 20 of the dosing device 96.

The metering device 96 comprises a plurality of conveying devices 18, which differ at least partially from one another, for example in their cross-sectional area and in their cavity volume. For example, the respective cross-sectional area and the respective cavity volume of the drawings arranged on the right and left conveyors 18 is smaller than in the center according to the drawing arranged Conveying devices 18. The cross-sectional surfaces of conveying devices 18 or the various cavity volumes of the conveying devices 18 enable different volume flows.

Further, more nozzles 100 of the spraying device are connected to the drawing means centrally arranged conveying devices 18 than to the right and left according to the drawings arranged conveying devices 18th

By appropriate interconnection with the nozzles 100 and a corresponding arrangement of the nozzles 100, a desired spatial spray profile can be adjusted.

While the invention has been further illustrated and described in detail by the preferred embodiments, the invention is not limited by the disclosed examples, and other variations can be derived therefrom by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

2

dosing

4

metering

6

feed pipe

8th

Return line

10

pump unit

12

booster pump

14

Pressure relief valve

16

fluid tank

18

conveyor

20

output line

21

output

22

metering

24

cylinder chamber

26

piston

27

piston seal

28

piston rod

30

coupling unit

32

mechanical connection

34

drive unit

36

linear actuator

38

wave

40

sensor

42

Pressure relief valve

44

switching valve

46

Kitchen sink

48

control unit

50

Data Connection

52

check valve

54

Test coupling

56

measuring sensor

58

measuring sensor

60

control unit

62

material block

64

drilling

66

Fixing element (cylinder head)

68

linear guides

70

cylinder tube

72

inlet

74

outlet

76

poetry

78

scraper

80

dosing

82

metering

84

metering

86

piston rod

88

leakage hole

90

manifold

92

sensor

94

dosing

96

metering

98

sprayer

100

jet

Claims (15)

Dosing device (4, 82, 96) for metering a fluid comprising a common supply line (6) and a plurality of output lines (20),
marked by
a plurality of conveying devices (18) each having a cavity (24) for receiving the fluid and a piston (26) for displacing the fluid, wherein the plurality of conveying devices (18) respectively on the inlet side with the common supply line (6) and on the outlet side each with one of the plurality Output lines (20) are connected. Dosing device (4, 82, 96) according to claim 1,
characterized in that at least two of the conveying devices (18), in particular all conveying devices (18) are coupled together. Dosing device (4, 82, 96) according to claim 1 or 2,
characterized by a common drive unit (34), wherein the plurality of conveying devices (18) are mechanically connected to the common drive unit (34). Dosing device (4, 82, 96) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that each of the conveying devices (18) is designed in each case as a single-acting metering cylinder (84) and / or as a double-acting metering cylinder (22). Dosing device (4, 82, 96) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized by a common return line (8) and a plurality of pressure limiting valves (42) and / or a plurality of switching valves (44), each of the conveying devices (18) each via one of the plurality of pressure relief valves (42) and / or one of the plurality of switching valves (44) is connected to the return line (8). Dosing device (4, 82, 96) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized by a plurality of check valves (52), wherein in each case at least one of the plurality of check valves (52) is arranged on the inlet side and / or outlet side on a respective conveying device (18). Dosing device (4, 82, 96) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized by at least one measuring coupling (54) and / or at least one measuring sensor (58), the measuring coupling (54) and / or the measuring sensor (58) being arranged in at least one of the plurality of output lines (20). Dosing device (4, 82, 96) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized by a monitoring unit and / or control unit (60) for monitoring and / or controlling a parameter of the outgoing fluid. Dosing device (4, 82, 96) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized by a block of material (62), wherein the plurality of conveyors (18) are each at least partially disposed in the block of material (18). Dosing system (2, 80, 94) with a dosing device (4, 82, 96) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized by a pump unit (10), which is connected on the output side to the supply line (6), and a fluid tank (16) which is connected on the output side to the pump unit (10). A method of dosing a fluid, wherein a dosing device (4, 82, 96) comprises a common supply line (6) and a plurality of output lines (20), wherein the fluid is supplied via the common supply line (6) and is discharged via the plurality of output lines (20), characterized in that
the metering device (4, 82, 96) comprises a plurality of conveying devices (18) each having a cavity (24) and a piston (26), in which the fluid is supplied to the plurality of conveying devices (18), wherein the cavities (24) of the plurality Conveying devices (18) receive the fluid, and each of the conveying devices (18) delivers a predetermined volume flow to each one of a plurality of output lines (18), wherein the pistons (26) of the plurality of conveying devices (18) displace the fluid. Method according to claim 11,
characterized in that the plurality of conveyors (18) are synchronously driven and / or moved. Method according to claim 11 or 12,
characterized in that the volume flow is at least 1 ml / min and a maximum of 100 l / min. Method according to one of claims 11 to 13,
characterized in that the taking up of the fluid and the displacement of the fluid take place successively. Method according to one of claims 11 to 14,
characterized in that the taking up of the fluid and the displacement of the fluid take place at the same time.

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