EP3400317B1 - Hot-dip galvanization system and hot-dip galvanization method for mass production - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to the technical field of galvanizing iron-based or iron-containing components, in particular steel-based or steel-containing components (steel components), for the automotive or automotive industry, by means of hot-dip galvanizing (hot-dip galvanizing).

In particular, the present invention relates to a system and a method for hot-dip galvanizing of automotive components (ie iron-based or ferrous vehicle components steel-based or steel-containing automotive components (steel components), for large-scale hot-dip galvanizing a plurality of identical or similar motor vehicle Components in discontinuous operation (so-called piece galvanizing).

Metallic components of any kind made of ferrous material, in particular components made of steel, often require an efficient protection against corrosion due to the application. In particular, components made of steel for motor vehicles (motor vehicles), such. As cars, trucks, commercial vehicles, etc., require efficient corrosion protection, which also withstands long-term stress.

In this context, it is known to protect steel-based components by means of galvanizing (galvanizing) against corrosion. In galvanizing, the steel is provided with a generally thin layer of zinc to protect the steel from corrosion. Various galvanizing can be used to galvanize steel components, ie to coat with a metallic coating of zinc, in particular the hot dip galvanizing (synonymously also referred to as hot dip galvanizing), the spray galvanizing (flame spraying with zinc wire), the diffusion galvanizing (Sherard galvanizing ), galvanizing (electrolytic galvanizing), non-electrolytic galvanizing by means of zinc flake coatings and mechanical galvanizing. There are great differences between the abovementioned galvanizing processes, in particular with regard to the process implementation, but also with regard to the nature and properties of the zinc coatings or zinc coatings produced.

Probably the most important process for corrosion protection of steel by metallic zinc coatings is the hot dip galvanizing (hot dip galvanizing). Steel is continuously immersed (eg strip and wire) or piecewise (eg components) at temperatures of about 450 ° C to 600 ° C in a heated vessel with molten zinc (melting point of zinc: 419.5 ° C), so that forms on the steel surface, a resistant alloy layer of iron and zinc and above a very firmly adhering pure zinc layer.

In hot-dip galvanizing, a distinction is made between discontinuous piece galvanizing (cf., for example, DIN EN ISO 1461) and continuous strip galvanizing (DIN EN 10143 and DIN EN 10346). Both galvanizing and strip galvanizing are standardized or standardized processes. Strip-galvanized steel is a preliminary or intermediate product (semifinished product), which is further processed after galvanizing, in particular by forming, stamping, cutting, etc., whereas components to be protected by piece galvanizing are first completely manufactured and then hot-dip galvanized (whereby the components all around protected against corrosion). Piece galvanizing and strip galvanizing also differ in terms of zinc layer thickness, resulting in different periods of protection. The zinc layer thickness of strip-galvanized sheets is usually at most 20 to 25 micrometers, whereas the zinc layer thicknesses of piece-galvanized steel parts are usually in the range of 50 to 200 micrometers and even more.

Hot dip galvanizing provides both active and passive corrosion protection. Passive protection is provided by the barrier effect of the zinc coating. The active corrosion protection is due to the cathodic effect of the zinc coating. Compared to nobler metals of the electrochemical series, such. As iron, zinc serves as a sacrificial anode, which protects the underlying iron from corrosion until it is completely corroded itself.

In so-called piece galvanizing according to DIN EN ISO 1461, hot-dip galvanizing is carried out on mostly larger steel components and constructions. Here, steel-based blanks or finished workpieces (components) are immersed in the molten zinc bath after pretreatment. In particular, inner surfaces, weld seams and hard-to-reach areas of the workpieces or components to be galvanized can be easily achieved by diving.

The conventional hot-dip galvanizing is based in particular on the immersion of iron or steel components in a molten zinc to form a zinc coating or a zinc coating on the surface of the components. In order to ensure the adhesion, the integrity and the uniformity of the zinc coating, a thorough surface preparation of the components to be galvanized is generally required beforehand, which usually involves degreasing with subsequent rinsing, subsequent acid pickling followed by rinsing and finally fluxing (ie, so-called fluxing ) with subsequent drying process.

The typical process sequence in conventional piece galvanizing by means of hot-dip galvanizing is usually as follows. For reasons of process economics and economic efficiency, identical or similar components (eg mass production of motor vehicle components) are typically combined or grouped together for the entire process (in particular by means of a common product carrier, designed as a crossbeam or frame, for example) a common holding or fastening device for a plurality of identical or similar components). For this purpose, a plurality of components on the goods carrier via holding means, such. As slings, Anbindehähte or the like attached. Subsequently, the components are supplied in the grouped state on the goods carrier the subsequent treatment steps or stages.

First, the component surfaces of the grouped components are subjected to degreasing in order to remove residues of fats and oils, wherein the degreasing agents used are usually aqueous alkaline or acid degreasing agents. After cleaning in the degreasing bath usually followed by a rinsing, typically by immersion in a water bath to avoid carry-over of degreasers with the galvanizing in the subsequent process step of pickling, this being particularly in a change from alkaline degreasing to an acidic pickling of high importance.

This is followed by a pickling (pickling), which in particular for the removal of inherent impurities such. As rust and scale, is used by the steel surface. The pickling is usually carried out in dilute hydrochloric acid, wherein the duration of the pickling process, among other things, the impurity state (eg, degree of rusting) of the zinc and the acid concentration and Temperature of the pickling bath is dependent. To avoid or minimize the carryover of acid and / or salt residues with the galvanizing material, a rinsing process (rinsing step) usually takes place after the pickling treatment.

Subsequently, then the so-called fluxing (flux treatment), wherein the previously degreased and pickled steel surface with a so-called flux, which typically comprises an aqueous solution of inorganic chlorides, most often with a mixture of zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and ammonium chloride (NH ₄ Cl) comprises , On the one hand, it is the task of the flux to carry out a last intensive fine cleaning of the steel surface before the reaction of the steel surface with the molten zinc and to dissolve the oxide skin of the zinc surface and to prevent re-oxidation of the steel surface until the galvanizing process. On the other hand, the flux increases the wettability between the steel surface and the molten zinc. After the flux treatment, drying is usually carried out to produce a solid flux film on the steel surface and to remove adhering water so as to subsequently avoid undesirable reactions (especially the formation of water vapor) in the liquid zinc immersion bath.

The pre-treated in the above manner components are then hot dip galvanized by immersion in the liquid zinc melt. In galvanizing with pure zinc, the zinc content of the melt in accordance with DIN EN ISO 1461 is at least 98.0% by weight. After immersion of the galvanizing in the molten zinc this remains for a sufficient period of time in the molten zinc bath, in particular until the galvanizing has assumed its temperature and is coated with a zinc layer. Typically, the surface of the molten zinc is in particular cleaned of oxides, zinc ash, flux residues and the like, before the galvanized material is then withdrawn from the molten zinc. The hot dip galvanized component is then subjected to a cooling process (eg in the air or in a water bath). Finally, the holding means for the component, such. As slings, Anbindehähte or the like, away. Following the galvanizing process, a sometimes complicated post-processing or aftertreatment usually takes place. In this case, excess Zinkbadrückstände, in particular so-called drip lugs of the solidifying at the edges of zinc and oxide or ash residues that adhere to the component, as far as possible.

A criterion for the quality of a hot-dip galvanizing is the thickness of the zinc coating in microns (microns). The standard DIN EN ISO 1461 specifies the minimum values of the required coating thicknesses, which, depending on the material thickness, are to be supplied in the case of hot-dip galvanizing. In practice, the layer thicknesses are significantly higher than the minimum layer thicknesses specified in DIN EN ISO 1461. In general, zinc plated zinc plating has a thickness in the range of 50 to 200 microns and even more.

In the galvanizing process, a coating of variously composed iron / zinc alloy layers is formed as a result of mutual diffusion of the liquid zinc with the steel surface on the steel part. When pulling out the hot-dip galvanized objects remains on the uppermost alloy layer still adhere - also referred to as pure zinc layer - layer of zinc, which corresponds in composition to the molten zinc. Because of the high temperatures during hot dipping, a relatively brittle layer based on an alloy (mixed crystals) between iron and zinc initially forms on the steel surface, and above that only the pure zinc layer. Although the relatively brittle iron / zinc alloy layer improves the adhesion with the base material, it makes the formability of the galvanized steel more difficult. Higher silicon contents in the steel, which are used in particular for so-called calming of the steel during its production, lead to an increased reactivity between the molten zinc and the base material and, consequently, to a strong growth of the iron / zinc alloy layer. In this way, it comes to the formation of relatively large total layer thicknesses. Although this allows a very long corrosion protection period, however, the danger also increases with increasing zinc layer thickness that the layer flakes off under mechanical stress, in particular local, sudden effects, and the corrosion protection effect is thereby disturbed.

In order to counteract the problem described above of the occurrence of the rapidly growing, brittle and thick iron / zinc alloy layer and also to allow lower layer thicknesses with simultaneously high corrosion protection during galvanizing, it is known from the prior art, the zinc melt or the liquid zinc bath additionally add aluminum. For example, by adding 5% by weight of aluminum to a liquid molten zinc, a zinc / aluminum alloy having a lower melting temperature than pure zinc is produced. By using a zinc / aluminum melt (Zn / Al melt) or a liquid zinc / aluminum bath (Zn / Al bath) leave On the one hand realize significantly lower layer thicknesses for reliable corrosion protection (generally below 50 microns); On the other hand, there is no formation of the brittle iron / tin alloy layer, since the aluminum, so to speak, initially forms a barrier layer on the steel surface of the relevant component, onto which the actual zinc layer is deposited. Hot-dip galvanized components can therefore be easily formed with a zinc / aluminum melt, but nevertheless have improved corrosion protection properties despite the significantly lower layer thickness in comparison with conventional hot-dip galvanizing with a virtually aluminum-free molten zinc melt. A zinc / aluminum alloy used in the hot-dip galvanizing bath has improved fluidity properties compared to pure zinc. In addition, zinc coatings produced by hot dip galvanizing performed using such zinc / aluminum alloys have greater corrosion resistance (which is two to six times better than Reinzink's), improved formability, and better paintability than zinc coatings formed from pure zinc. Moreover, this technology can also produce lead-free zinc coatings.

Such a galvanizing process using a zinc / aluminum melt or using a zinc / aluminum hot-dip galvanizing bath is known for example from WO 2002/042512 A1 and the related references to this patent family (e.g. EP 1 352 100 B1 . DE 601 24 767 T2 and US 2003/0219543 A1 ). It also discloses suitable fluxes for hot dip galvanizing by means of zinc / aluminum molten baths, since flux compositions for zinc / aluminum hot dip galvanizing baths are different from those for conventional hot dip galvanizing. With the process disclosed therein corrosion protection coatings can be produced with very low layer thicknesses (generally well below 50 microns and typically in the range of 2 to 20 microns) and with very low weight with high cost efficiency, which is why the process described therein commercially under the name microZINQ ® method is applied.

In the case of hot-dip galvanizing of components in zinc / aluminum molten baths, a large number of identical or similar components (eg large-scale backfire galvanizing of motor vehicle components or in the automotive industry) exist, in particular in the case of large-scale hot-dip galvanizing, because of the more difficult wettability of the steel with the zinc / aluminum -Melt and the small thickness of Zinc coatings or zinc coatings a problem in the economical process, the identical or similar components always subject to identical process conditions and processes, in particular reliably and reproducibly perform high-precision hot-dip galvanizing, which provides identical dimensional accuracy for all identical or similar components. This is done in the prior art - in addition to a complex pretreatment, especially with the selection of special flux - typically in particular by special process control during the galvanizing process, such. B. extended immersion times of the components in the zinc / aluminum melt, since only in this way it is ensured that no defects in the relatively thin zinc coatings or no or incomplete coated areas occur.

In order to make the process in the known unit fire galvanizing identical or similar components, especially in the Großserienstückfeuerverzinkung, economical and to ensure an identical process flow, it is in the prior art so that a variety of identical or similar components to be galvanized z. B. on a common goods carrier or the like summarized or grouped and guided in the grouped state by the individual process steps, and in particular the galvanizing.

However, the known piece of fire galvanizing has several disadvantages. In the case of a multi-layered suspension of the product carrier and in particular in the case of the same immersion and exchange movement of the product carrier, the components or component regions inevitably do not remain in the molten zinc for the same length. This results in different reaction times between the material of the components and the molten zinc and thus different zinc layer thicknesses on the components. Furthermore, in high temperature sensitive components, especially in high and ultra high strength steels such. As for spring steel, chassis and body components and press-hardened metal parts, different residence times in the molten zinc on the mechanical characteristics of the steel. With regard to the guarantee of defined characteristic values of the components, the observance of defined process parameters is inevitably required for each individual component.

Furthermore, when pulling out the components from the molten zinc inevitably leads to the flow of zinc and dripping on component edges and corners. This creates zinc noses on the component. The elimination of these zinc noses in the wake, which is usually done manually, represents a significant cost factor, especially when it comes to the galvanization of large quantities and / or compliance with high tolerances requirements. In the case of a fully loaded goods carrier, it is generally not possible to reach all the components and to individually remove the zinc noses directly at the galvanizing point. Usually, the galvanized components are to be removed after galvanizing the goods carrier and must be individually examined and reworked manually, which is very expensive.

Furthermore, it is in the known piece of fire galvanizing so that the immersion and Austauchbewegung the goods carrier takes place in and out of the galvanizing at the same point. Due to the process-related occurrence of zinc ash as a reaction product of the flux and the zinc melt after immersion of the components that accumulates on the surface of the zinc bath, it is imperative to remove the zinc ash from the surface by stripping or rinsing before immersion To avoid sticking to the galvanized components when pulling out, so that as possible no contamination on the galvanized component arise. In view of the large number of components located in the zinc bath and the comparatively poor accessibility of the surface of the galvanizing bath, the removal of the zinc ash from the bath surface regularly proves to be very complicated and in some cases problematic. On the one hand, removal of the zinc ash results from the surface the galvanizing bath a time delay of the process while reducing productivity and on the other hand a source of error with regard to the galvanizing quality of the individual components.

Ultimately remain in the known piece of hot-dip galvanizing impurities and zinc lugs on the galvanized components, which are to be removed by manual reworking. This refinement is regularly very costly and time consuming. In this regard, it should be noted that reworking does not only mean cleaning or repair, but also includes, in particular, the visual inspection. Due to the process, all components have the risk of contaminants sticking or of zinc lumps to be removed. Accordingly, all components must be inspected individually. But this examination, without any necessary subsequent work steps, represents a very high cost, especially in the field of large-scale production with many components to be tested and very high quality requirements.

The aforementioned problem arises in particular in connection with the mass production of automotive components. In these components, which are produced in large quantities, the observance of exactly specified parameters is of great importance. In this context, faulty hot-dip galvanizing has a very lasting effect.

The WO 95/04607 A1 relates to a process for hot-dip galvanizing steel components, wherein a flux is applied to the surface of the steel components, wherein a preheating of the components takes place in a non-reducing atmosphere for drying the flux and for introducing additional heat energy.

Furthermore, the concerns US Pat. No. 6,277,443 B1 a batch process for galvanizing steel components, wherein the zinc coatings have little or no lead, wherein the components are cleaned, pickled and rinsed and dipped in a hot flux solution and then dried before being fed to the zinc alloy zinc bath.

In addition, the concerns US Pat. No. 1,935,087 a device for applying a protective layer on metallic components, such as steel pipes, wherein the components are immersed in a galvanizing bath and coated with zinc and then removed from the galvanizing bath.

Furthermore, the concerns US 2003/219543 A1 a flux and a flux bath for hot-dip galvanizing and a process and a hot-dip galvanizing bath for hot-dip galvanizing an iron or steel product, wherein the flux composition comprises 60 to 80% by weight zinc chloride, 7 to 20% by weight ammonium chloride, 2 to 20% by weight a flux modifier comprising at least one alkali or alkaline earth metal; and 0.1 to 5% by weight of at least one compound of NiCl ₂ , CoCl ₂ and MnCl ₂ , and 0.1 to 1.5% by weight of at least one compound of PbCl 2 ₂ , SnCl ₂ , BiCl ₃ and SbCl ₃ .

Finally, the concerns US Pat. No. 3,639,142 A. a hot-dip galvanizing process for elongated steel components, wherein the elongated steel components are pretreated and submerged in the galvanizing bath grouped together by means of a hook carrier.

The problem underlying the present invention is therefore to provide a system or a method for piece galvanizing iron-based or iron-containing motor vehicle components, in particular steel-based or steel-containing automotive components (steel components) by means of hot-dip galvanizing (hot-dip galvanizing) in a zinc / aluminum Melt (ie in a liquid zinc / aluminum bath) for large-scale hot-dip galvanizing a plurality of identical or similar automotive components, the previously described disadvantages of the prior art should be at least largely avoided or at least mitigated.

In particular, such a plant or such a process is to be provided, which (s) enable an improved process economy and a more efficient, in particular more flexible process sequence compared to conventional hot-dip galvanizing plants or processes.

To solve the above problem, the present invention proposes - according to a first aspect of the present invention - a hot-dip galvanizing plant according to claim 1; Further, in particular special and / or advantageous embodiments of the system according to the invention are the subject of the relevant sub-systems.

Furthermore, the present invention - according to a second aspect of the present invention - a method for hot dip galvanizing according to the independent method claim before; Further, in particular special and / or advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention are the subject of the related sub-claims.

It goes without saying in the following statements that embodiments, embodiments, advantages and the like, which are designed below for the purpose of avoiding repetition only as an aspect of the invention, of course also apply correspondingly with respect to the other aspects of the invention, without this being a separate one Mention needs.

In the case of all relative or percentage weight-related data given below, in particular relative quantities or weights, it is further to be noted that in the context of the present invention, these are to be selected by the person skilled in the art in such a way that all components or ingredients, especially as defined below, always to Add or add 100% or 100% by weight; but this is self-evident to the person skilled in the art.

In addition, the expert may deviate from the range indicated below, depending on the application or the individual case, if necessary, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

In addition, it is true that all of the values or parameter information or the like mentioned below can in principle be determined or determined using standardized or explicitly stated determination methods or otherwise with methods of determination or measurement known per se to the person skilled in the art.

Having said that, the present invention will now be explained in detail below.

The invention relates to a system for hot-dip galvanizing of automotive components for large-series hot-dip galvanizing a plurality of identical or similar automotive components with a hot-dip galvanizing for hot-dip galvanizing the automotive components and with a molten zinc / aluminum alloy having galvanizing,
wherein a conveying device is provided with at least one goods carrier for conveying a group of motor vehicle components to be fastened to the goods carrier, a flux application device being provided for applying flux to the surface of the motor vehicle components,
wherein a handling device for supplying, immersing and dehumidifying a separated automotive component in the molten zinc / aluminum alloy having zinc plating of the hot-dip galvanizing is provided and
wherein the handling device has at least one handling means arranged between the flux application device and the hot-dip galvanizing device,
wherein the handling means is designed such that it removes one of the automotive components of the group of vehicle components and then it supplies the hot-dip galvanizing device for single-fire galvanizing and
wherein the handling means is formed such that a singulated automotive component is immersed in an immersion region of the galvanizing bath, then from Immersion area is moved to an adjacent immersion area and subsequently immersed in the exchange area.

Accordingly, the invention accordingly relates to a process for hot-dip galvanizing automotive components using a molten zinc / aluminum alloy for high-volume hot-dip galvanizing of a large number of identical or similar vehicle components,
wherein the vehicle components are fastened in the grouped state together with a plurality of further motor vehicle components to a product carrier of a conveyor,
wherein the motor vehicle components are provided with a flux on their surface, wherein the motor vehicle components are subjected to hot-dip galvanizing in a galvanizing bath comprising the molten zinc / aluminum alloy,
wherein the hot-dip galvanizing the automotive components supplied in the isolated state of the galvanizing bath, dipped therein and then be flushed out of it,
wherein the hot-dip galvanizing is performed in the isolated state of the vehicle component and
wherein a vehicle component dipped in a dipped state in a dip area of the galvanizing bath, then moved from the immersion area to an adjacent immersion area and is subsequently dipped in the exchange area.

As a result, the invention differs from the state of the art in that in the context of a large-scale hot-dip galvanizing galvanized automotive components are supplied in the isolated state of the galvanizing zinc / aluminum alloy. This, at first glance in a mass production uneconomical and process-delaying measure compared to a grouped or simultaneous galvanizing a plurality of automotive components has surprisingly been found in view of the production of high-precision hot-galvanized automotive components particularly preferred.

Due to economic aspects, the solution according to the invention has initially been omitted, since in the case of the piece-galvanizing process known from the prior art, depending on the size and weight, in some cases several hundred vehicle components are attached to a goods carrier and at the same time galvanized together. A separation of the vehicle components from the goods carrier before galvanizing and galvanizing in the isolated state thus increases the time of the pure galvanizing process considerably.

In connection with the invention, however, it has been recognized that targeted and optimized handling in the actual galvanizing process is necessary, especially in the case of motor vehicle components, in particular those which are made of high-strength and very high-strength steels which are temperature-sensitive. In the individual galvanizing in connection with the system according to the invention or the method according to the invention can be readily ensured that the vehicle components are each subject to identical process parameters. Especially for spring steel or chassis and body components made of high and ultra high strength steels, such. As press-hardened formed parts, this plays a significant role. By separating the automotive components for galvanizing, it is possible that the reaction times between the steel and the molten zinc are the same. This ultimately results in always the same zinc layer thickness. In addition, the characteristics of the vehicle components are influenced by the galvanizing in an identical manner, since it is ensured by the invention that the vehicle components are each exposed to identical process parameters.

Another significant advantage of the invention results from the fact that in the separation according to the invention each vehicle component can be precisely manipulated and treated, for example by special rotational and steering movements of the vehicle component when pulling out of the melt. As a result, the Nachbearbeitungsaufwand significantly reduced to the part can be completely avoided. Furthermore, the invention offers the possibility that zinc ash adhesions can be significantly reduced and sometimes even avoided. This is possible since the process according to the invention can be controlled such that a vehicle component to be galvanized in the isolated state is moved away from the immersion site after immersion and is moved to a location remote from the immersion site. This is followed by dipping. While the zinc ash rises in the area of the immersion site and is located on the surface of the immersion site, there are few or no zinc ash residues at the place of immersion. Thanks to this special technique, zinc ash adhesions can be significantly reduced or avoided.

In the context of the present invention, it has been found that taking into account in the invention in some cases no longer necessary post-processing the total production time in the production of galvanized Automotive components compared to the prior art can even be reduced, so the invention ultimately provides a higher productivity, and in particular because the manually be reworking in the prior art is very time consuming.

Another advantage of an individual galvanizing plant is that no wider and deeper, but only a narrow galvanizing boiler is necessary. This reduces the surface of the galvanizing bath, which can be better shielded in this way, so that the radiation losses can be significantly reduced.

As a result, resulting in the invention with the occasional galvanizing automotive components with higher quality and cleanliness on the surface, the automotive components have been exposed as such in each case identical process conditions and thus have the same component characteristics. Also in economic terms, the invention offers economic advantages over the prior art, since the production time can be reduced by up to 20% taking into account the no longer necessary or sometimes very limited post-processing.

According to the invention, the plant according to the invention has, in addition to the hot-dip galvanizing device and the handling device, a number of further devices which are upstream and / or downstream of the actual hot-dip galvanizing or hot-dip galvanizing device. According to the invention, the plant according to the invention has a conveying device and a flux application device and optionally also a degreasing device and / or a surface treatment device and / or at least one purging device and / or a drying device and / or a quenching device and / or an aftertreatment device. The above-mentioned facilities will be discussed in detail below.

The conveying device has at least one goods carrier for conveying or for transporting a vehicle component to be fastened to the goods carrier or a group of vehicle components to be fastened to the goods carrier. Moreover, the conveyor may also have a plurality of funding with identical or differently designed goods carriers, to each of which either an isolated vehicle component or a group of vehicle components are fastened. The conveyor is thus to promote a scattered automotive component and / or a group of motor vehicle components to the individual aforementioned devices, in particular the degreasing device and / or surface treatment device, in particular pickling device, and / or the flux application device and / or the drying device. Furthermore, the conveying device can also be provided and designed for conveying or transporting vehicle components in isolated or grouped state to the cooling device and / or aftertreatment device.

Furthermore, the system according to the invention preferably has a degreasing device for degreasing the vehicle components. The degreasing device can basically be provided in a decentralized manner, ie does not necessarily have to be in the same room or building as the other, aforementioned devices. Nevertheless, a decentralized degreasing device is also part of the system according to the invention. In the degreasing device, the vehicle components can be degreased as a group, ie in the grouped state, or even in the isolated state. The transport of the vehicle components to the degreasing device and away from it preferably takes place via the aforementioned conveying device.

Furthermore, the system according to the invention preferably has a surface treatment device for the chemical, in particular wet-chemical and / or mechanical surface treatment of the motor vehicle components. In particular, the surface treatment device is designed as a pickling device for pickling the surfaces of the vehicle components. The pickling of the vehicle components can take place in isolated or grouped state. The transport of the vehicle components in isolated or grouped state to the surface treatment device and away from this preferably takes place via the aforementioned conveyor.

Furthermore, the system according to the invention has a flux application device for flux application to the surface of the vehicle components. The flux application to the vehicle components can be performed simultaneously in the isolated state of the vehicle components or in the grouped state with a plurality of other automotive components. The transport or promotion of the vehicle components, either in isolated or grouped state, to the flux application device and from this away preferably takes place via the conveyor, the automotive components then - isolated or grouped - are attached to the product carrier of the conveyor ,

Furthermore, the system according to the invention preferably has a drying device following the flux application device, so that the flux is dried after application to the surface of the motor vehicle components. In this way it is prevented that a liquid entry from the flux solution takes place in the galvanizing bath.

• die gegebenenfalls dezentral vorgesehene Entfettungseinrichtung zur Entfettung der Kfz-Bauteile im vereinzelten oder gruppierten Zustand der Kfz-Bauteile,
• die Oberflächenbehandlungseinrichtung, insbesondere Beizeinrichtung, zur chemischen, insbesondere nass-chemischen und/oder mechanischen Oberflächenbehandlung der Kfz-Bauteile, vorzugsweise zur Beizung der Oberflächen der Kfz-Bauteile im vereinzelten oder gruppierten Zustand der Kfz-Bauteile,
• die Flussmittelauftragseinrichtung zum Flussmittelauftrag auf die Oberfläche der Kfz-Bauteile im vereinzelten oder gruppierten Zustand der Kfz-Bauteile,
• die Trocknungseinrichtung zur Trocknung des auf die Oberfläche der Kfz-Bauteile aufgebrachten Flussmittels und
• die Feuerverzinkungseinrichtung zur Feuerverzinkung der Kfz-Bauteile im vereinzelten Zustand.

In particular, the system according to the invention is designed such that the abovementioned devices are arranged in the following sequence with regard to the process direction:

• the optionally decentralized degreasing device for degreasing the vehicle components in the isolated or grouped state of the vehicle components,
• the surface treatment device, in particular pickling device, for chemical, in particular wet-chemical and / or mechanical surface treatment of the vehicle components, preferably for pickling the surfaces of the vehicle components in the isolated or grouped state of the vehicle components,
• the flux application device for flux application to the surface of the vehicle components in the isolated or grouped state of the vehicle components,
• the drying device for drying the flux applied to the surface of the motor vehicle components and
• the hot dip galvanizing for hot dip galvanizing the automotive components in isolated condition.

In the invention, it is possible that after an initial grouping of the components on the or on the goods carrier the separation after the surface treatment or after the flux application is made.

According to the device, the separation of the components from the goods carrier via the handling device is then provided following the degreasing or following the surface treatment, in particular pickling, or following the flux application.

In experiments carried out under cost-benefit aspects has been found that it is most appropriate that the components are separated from the product carrier after the flux application, the handling device thus between the hot-dip galvanizing and the flux application device located. In this embodiment of the invention, the degreasing, the surface treatment and the flux application takes place in the grouped state of the components, while only the galvanizing is performed in the isolated state.

According to the invention, it is provided according to the invention that the handling device has at least one handling means arranged between the flux application device and the hot-dip galvanizing device. This handling means is designed such that it removes one of the motor vehicle components from the group of motor vehicle components and then supplies it to the hot galvanizing device for single-fire galvanizing. The handling means can thereby remove or remove the motor vehicle component directly from the goods carrier or remove the motor vehicle component from the motor vehicle component group which has already been parked by the goods carrier.

In an alternative embodiment of the system according to the invention and the associated method, it is provided that the handling means is indeed designed such that it removes one of the motor vehicle components from the group of motor vehicle components, but does not supply the removed motor vehicle component directly to the galvanizing. The handling means may be removed from the group of automotive components automotive component, for example, to a handling device belonging to the conveyor system, for. As a goods carrier or a monorail train passed, over which the isolated vehicle component is then galvanized in the isolated state. Ultimately, it is provided in accordance with the system in this embodiment that the handling device has at least two handling means, namely a first handling means, which performs the separation of the automotive components from the group of automotive components, and at least a second handling means, for example in the manner of a conveyor system, the Then the isolated vehicle component leads through the galvanizing bath.

The handling means is designed in such a way that a separated motor vehicle component dips into an immersion region of the bath, then moves from the immersion region to an adjacent immersion region and is subsequently immersed in the exchange region. As previously stated, zinc ash is produced on the surface of the immersion area as a reaction product of the flux with the molten zinc. As a result of the movement of the vehicle component immersed in the molten zinc from the immersion area to the replacement area, there is no or hardly any zinc ash at the surface of the replacement area. In this way, the surface of the immersed galvanized automotive component remains free or at least in essentially free of zinc ash adhesions. It is understood that the immersion region is adjacent to the exchange region, so it is spatially spaced apart and in particular not overlapping areas of the galvanizing bath.

In a preferred embodiment of the aforementioned concept of the invention, moreover, it is provided that the vehicle component remains after immersion at least as long in the immersion region of the galvanizing bath until the reaction time between the vehicle component surface and the zinc / aluminum alloy of the galvanizing bath is completed. In this way it is ensured that the zinc ash, which moves upwards within the melt, spreads only on the surface of the immersion area. Subsequently, the vehicle component can then be moved into the immersion area, which is essentially free of zinc ash, and left there.

In experiments that have been carried out in connection with the invention, it has been found that it is expedient for the motor vehicle component to remain between 20% to 80%, preferably at least 50%, of the galvanizing time in the region of the immersion region and only subsequently into the immersion region Immersion area is moved. In terms of plant technology, this means that the handling device or the associated handling means are designed and, if necessary, adapted to each other by an appropriate control system so that the aforementioned method sequence can be carried out without problems.

Particularly in the case of motor vehicle components made of temperature-sensitive steels and with customer-specific requirements for motor vehicle components with identical product properties as possible, it is provided in accordance with the system and the method that the handling means or the handling device is designed in such a way that all vehicle components in an isolated state are identically, in particular with identical movement, in an identical arrangement and / or with identical time, are passed through the galvanizing bath. Ultimately, this can easily be achieved by a corresponding control of the handling device or of the at least one associated handling means. Due to the identical handling identical vehicle components, ie automotive components, each consisting of the same material and each have the same shape, each identical product properties. This includes not only identical zinc layer thicknesses but also identical characteristics of the galvanized vehicle components, since these have each been guided in an identical manner through the galvanizing bath.

Furthermore, the invention provides system and process according to the separation advantage that zinc noses can be easily avoided. For this purpose, according to the system, a stripping device is provided following the immersion region, wherein in a preferred embodiment of this inventive concept, the handling means or the handling device is designed such that all automotive components in the isolated state after emptying of the stripping device for stripping liquid zinc in an identical manner be passed. In an alternative embodiment, which can also be realized in combination with the stripping, it is provided that all automotive components are moved in the isolated state in an identical manner after emptying so that dripping noses of liquid zinc are removed, in particular drip and / or evenly distributed on the vehicle component surfaces.

The invention thus makes it possible to guide each individual vehicle component not only through the galvanizing bath, but also either in a specific positioning, for example an inclination of the motor vehicle component, and move past one or more scrapers and / or To move the vehicle component by special turning and / or steering movements after the immersion so that zinc lugs are at least substantially avoided.

Moreover, the system according to the invention preferably has a plurality of flushing devices, optionally with a plurality of flushing stages. Thus, a rinsing device is preferably provided after the degreasing device and / or after the surface treatment device. The individual flushing devices ultimately ensure that the degreasing agents used in the degreasing device or the surface treatment agents used in the surface treatment device are not introduced into the next process step.

In a preferred development of the invention, a cooling device, in particular a quenching device, is provided following the hot galvanizing device, at which the motor vehicle component is cooled or quenched after hot dip galvanizing.

Furthermore, an after-treatment device can be provided in particular following the cooling device. The aftertreatment device is used in particular for a passivation, sealing or coloring of the galvanized Motor vehicle components. However, the post-treatment stage may also include, for example, the post-processing, in particular the removal of impurities and / or the removal of zinc noses. As has been stated above, however, the post-processing step in the invention is considerably reduced and sometimes even unnecessary in comparison with the method known in the prior art.

1. (i) Zink, insbesondere in Mengen im Bereich von 55 bis 99,999 Gew.-%, vorzugsweise 60 bis 98 Gew.-%,
2. (ii) Aluminium, insbesondere in Mengen im Bereich von 0,1 bis 45 Gew.-%, vorzugsweise 2 bis 40 Gew.-%,
3. (iii) gegebenenfalls Silizium, insbesondere in Mengen im Bereich von 0,0001 bis 5 Gew.-%, vorzugsweise 0,001 bis 2 Gew.-%;
4. (iv) gegebenenfalls mindestens ein weiterer Inhaltsstoff und/oder gegebenenfalls mindestens eine Verunreinigung, insbesondere aus der Gruppe der Alkalimetalle wie Natrium und/oder Kalium, Erdalkalimetalle wie Kalzium und/oder Magnesium und/oder Schwermetalle wie Cadmium, Blei, Antimon, Wismut, insbesondere in Gesamtmengen im Bereich von 0,0001 bis 10 Gew.-%, vorzugsweise 0,001 bis 5 Gew.-%.

Furthermore, it is provided in the invention plant and / or according to the method that the galvanizing zinc and aluminum in a zinc / aluminum weight ratio in the range of 55-99.999: 0.001-45, preferably 55-99.97: 0.03-45 , especially 60-98: 2-40, preferably 70-96: 4-30. Alternatively or additionally, the galvanizing bath has the following composition, in which the weights are based on the galvanizing bath and in the sum of all constituents of the composition results in 100% by weight:

1. (i) zinc, in particular in amounts ranging from 55 to 99.999% by weight, preferably 60 to 98% by weight,
2. (ii) aluminum, in particular in amounts ranging from 0.1 to 45% by weight, preferably from 2 to 40% by weight,
3. (iii) optionally silicon, in particular in amounts ranging from 0.0001 to 5 wt .-%, preferably 0.001 to 2 wt .-%;
4. (iv) optionally at least one further ingredient and / or optionally at least one impurity, in particular from the group of alkali metals such as sodium and / or potassium, alkaline earth metals such as calcium and / or magnesium and / or heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, antimony, bismuth, in particular in total amounts in the range of 0.0001 to 10 wt .-%, preferably 0.001 to 5 wt .-%.

In connection with experiments carried out has been found that can be achieved in zinc baths with the above composition very thin and very homogeneous coatings on the vehicle component, which also meet the high demands on the automotive component quality in motor vehicle.

1. (i) Zinkchlorid (ZnCl₂), insbesondere in Mengen im Bereich von 50 bis 95 Gew.- %, vorzugsweise 58 bis 80 Gew.-%;
2. (ii) Ammoniumchlorid (NH₄Cl), insbesondere in Mengen im Bereich von 5 bis 50 Gew.-%, vorzugsweise 7 bis 42 Gew.-%;
3. (iii) gegebenenfalls mindestens ein Alkali- und/oder Erdalkalisalz, bevorzugt Natriumchlorid und/oder Kaliumchlorid, insbesondere in Gesamtmengen im Bereich von 1 bis 30 Gew.-%, vorzugsweise 2 bis 20 Gew.-%;
4. (iv) gegebenenfalls mindestens ein Metallchlorid, bevorzugt Schwermetallchlorid, vorzugsweise ausgewählt aus der Gruppe von Nickelchlorid (NiCl₂), Manganchlorid (MnCl₂), Bleichlorid (PbCl₂), Cobaltchlorid (CoCl₂), Zinnchlorid (SnCl₂), Antimonchlorid (SbCl₃) und/oder Wismutchlorid (BiCl₃), insbesondere in Gesamtmengen im Bereich von 0,0001 bis 20 Gew.-%, vorzugsweise 0,001 bis 10 Gew.-%;
5. (v) gegebenenfalls mindestens ein weiteres Additiv, vorzugsweise Netzmittel und/oder Tensid, insbesondere in Mengen im Bereich von 0,001 bis 10 Gew.-%, vorzugsweise 0,01 bis 5 Gew.-%.

Alternatively or additionally, the flux has the following composition, the weight data being based on the flux and resulting in the sum of all constituents of the composition 100 wt .-%:

1. (i) zinc chloride (ZnCl ₂ ), especially in amounts ranging from 50 to 95% by weight, preferably from 58 to 80% by weight;
2. (ii) ammonium chloride (NH ₄ Cl), especially in amounts ranging from 5 to 50% by weight, preferably 7 to 42% by weight;
3. (iii) optionally at least one alkali and / or alkaline earth metal salt, preferably sodium chloride and / or potassium chloride, in particular in total amounts in the range of 1 to 30 wt .-%, preferably 2 to 20 wt .-%;
4. (iv) optionally at least one metal chloride, preferably heavy metal chloride, preferably selected from the group of nickel chloride (NiCl ₂ ), manganese chloride (MnCl ₂ ), lead chloride (PbCl ₂ ), cobalt chloride (CoCl ₂ ), stannous chloride (SnCl ₂ ), antimony chloride (SbCl ₃ ) and / or bismuth chloride (BiCl ₃ ), in particular in total amounts in the range of 0.0001 to 20 wt .-%, preferably 0.001 to 10 wt .-%;
5. (V) optionally at least one further additive, preferably wetting agent and / or surfactant, in particular in amounts ranging from 0.001 to 10 wt .-%, preferably 0.01 to 5 wt .-%.

Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the flux application device, in particular the Flußmittelbad the flux application device containing flux in preferably aqueous solution, in particular in amounts and / or concentrations of the flux in the range of 200 to 700 g / l, in particular 350 to 550 g / l , preferably 500 to 550 g / l, and / or that the flux is used as a preferably aqueous solution, in particular with amounts and / or concentrations of the flux in the range of 200 to 700 g / l, in particular 350 to 550 g / l, preferably 500 to 550 g / l.

In experiments with a flux in the aforementioned composition and / or concentration, in particular in connection with the previously described zinc / aluminum alloy, it has been found that very small layer thicknesses, in particular less than 20 microns, resulting in a low weight and reduced costs accompanied. Especially in the motor vehicle sector these are essential criteria.

Other features, advantages and applications of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawing and the drawing itself. In this case, all described and / or illustrated features, alone or in any combination, the subject of the present invention, regardless of their Summary in the claims or their dependency.

Fig. 1

einen schematischen Verfahrensablauf der einzelnen Stufen des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens,

Fig. 2

eine schematische Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Anlage und des Ablaufs des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren bei einem Verfah-rensschritt,

Fig. 3

eine schematische Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Anlage und des Ablaufs des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren bei einem weiteren Verfahrensschritt und

Fig. 4

eine schematische Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Anlage und des Ablaufs des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren bei einem weiteren Verfahrensschritt.

It shows:

Fig. 1

a schematic process sequence of the individual stages of the process according to the invention,

Fig. 2

a schematic representation of a system according to the invention and the sequence of the method according to the invention in a procedural step,

Fig. 3

a schematic representation of a system according to the invention and the sequence of the method according to the invention in a further method step and

Fig. 4

a schematic representation of a system according to the invention and the sequence of the method according to the invention in a further method step.

In Fig. 1 a sequence of the method according to the invention in a system 1 according to the invention is shown schematically. In this context, it should be pointed out that the flowchart shown is a method which is possible according to the invention, but individual method steps may also be omitted or provided in a different order than shown and described below. Also, further method steps may be provided. Moreover, it is the case that not all stages of the process basically have to be provided in a spatially combined Annex 1. The decentralized realization of individual process stages is also possible.

In the in Fig. 1 illustrated flowchart designates the level A, the delivery and the deposit of galvanized automotive components 2 at a junction. The automotive components 2 are already mechanically surface-treated in the present example, in particular sandblasted. This may or may not be foreseen.

In stage B, the motor vehicle components 2 are connected to a goods carrier 7 of a conveyor 3 to form a group of motor vehicle components 2. In part, the vehicle components 2 are also connected to each other and thus only indirectly with the goods carrier 7. It is also possible that the goods carrier 7 has a basket, a frame or the like, in or in which the motor vehicle components 2 are inserted. In stage C, degreasing of the vehicle components 2 takes place. In this case, alkaline or acid degreasing agents 11 are used to remove residues of fats and oils on the components 2.

In stage D, a rinse, in particular with water, of the degreased motor vehicle components 2 is provided. In this case, the residues of degreasing agent 11 are rinsed off the motor vehicle components 2.

In the procedural document E, a pickling of the surfaces of the vehicle components 2, so a wet-chemical surface treatment. The pickling is usually carried out in dilute hydrochloric acid.

Stage E is followed by stage F, which in turn is a rinse, in particular with water, in order to prevent the pickling agent from being carried over into the subsequent process stages.

The correspondingly cleaned and pickled, to be galvanized motor vehicle components 2 are then, still grouped together as a group on the goods carrier 4, floated, namely subjected to a flux treatment. In the present case, the flux treatment in stage H is likewise carried out in an aqueous flux solution. After a sufficient residence time in the flux 23, the product carrier 7 with the motor vehicle components 2 in stage I is subjected to drying in order to produce a solid flux film on the surface of the motor vehicle components 2 and to remove adhering water.

In method step J, the vehicle components 2 previously combined as a group are singulated, ie removed from the group, and subsequently further treated in the singulated state. The separation can take place in that the motor vehicle components 2 are removed individually from the goods carrier 7 or also in that the goods carrier 7 first deposits the group of motor vehicle components 2 and the motor vehicle components 2 are then removed individually from the group.

After the separation in step J, the vehicle components 2 are now hot-dip galvanized in stage K. For this purpose, the motor vehicle components 2 are each immersed in a galvanizing bath 28 and dipped again after a predetermined dwell time.

The galvanizing in method step K is followed by dripping of the still liquid zinc in stage L. The dripping takes place, for example, by traveling along the zinced in the isolated state vehicle component 2 on one or more scrapers Abstreifeinrichtung or by predetermined pivoting and rotational movements of the vehicle component 2, which either for dripping or for even distribution of the zinc on the car Component surface leads.

Subsequently, the galvanized vehicle component is quenched in step M.

The quenching in method step M is followed by a post-treatment in stage N, which may be, for example, a passivation, sealing or organic or inorganic coating of the galvanized motor vehicle component 2. However, the aftertreatment also includes a post-processing of the vehicle component 2 that may possibly be carried out.

It should be expressly pointed out that it is readily possible in embodiments not shown, also carry out the method described above so that a scattered automotive component 2 or a small group in the form of a few automotive components, such. B. two or three vehicle components, the entire process undergoes a single state without it comes during the process to a grouping or grouped treatment of automotive components. Thus, it is possible that the vehicle component 2 is taken at the beginning of the process of the conveyor 3 and guided through the individual process steps until it is taken over by a handling device 31 and the hot dip galvanizing is supplied. After hot-dip galvanizing, the galvanized vehicle component can be supplied by the handling device 31 or in turn by the conveying device 3 to the cooling device 29 and / or the aftertreatment device 30.

Alternatively, it is possible that at the beginning of the entire process flow, first a group of vehicle components 2 is transported via the conveyor 3 and separated after degreasing and associated flushing and / or surface treatment and associated flushing and then the automotive components 2 in the isolated state then be guided through the further process at least until hot dip galvanizing inclusive. Subsequently, the then galvanized vehicle component 2 can be further processed in the isolated state or grouped again and further processed in the grouped state.

In the Fig. 2 to 4 an embodiment of a system 1 according to the invention is shown schematically.

In the Fig. 2 to 4 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a system 1 according to the invention for hot or hot dip galvanizing of automotive components 2 is shown. The plant 1 is provided for hot dip galvanizing a plurality of identical motor vehicle components 2 in the discontinuous operation, the so-called piece galvanizing. According to the invention, the plant 1 is designed and suitable for hot dip galvanizing of motor vehicle components 2 in large series. The large-scale galvanizing refers to a galvanizing, in which successively more than 100, in particular more than 1000 and preferably more than 10,000 identical motor vehicle components 2 are galvanized, without in between automotive components 2 of different shape and size are galvanized.

The system 1 has a conveying device 3 for conveying or for the simultaneous transport of a plurality of motor vehicle components 2, which are combined to form a group. In the present case, the conveyor device 3 is a crane track with a rail guide 4, on which a trolley 5 with a lifting mechanism can be moved. About a hoisting rope 6 a goods carrier 7 is connected to the trolley 5. The goods carrier 7 is used to hold and secure the vehicle components 2. The connection of the vehicle components 2 with the goods carrier 7 is usually carried out at a connection point 8 of the system to which the vehicle components 2 are grouped for connection to the goods carrier 7.

At the junction 8, a degreasing device 9 connects. The degreasing device 9 has a degreasing basin 10 in which a degreasing agent 11 is located. The degreasing agent 11 may be acidic or basic. The degreasing device 9 is adjoined by a flushing device 12, which has a sink 13 with flushing agent 14 located therein. The rinsing agent 14 in the present case is water. Downstream of the rinsing device 12, that is to say in the process direction, is a surface treatment device designed as a pickling device 15 for wet-chemical surface treatment of the vehicle components 2. The pickling device 15 has a pickling tank 16 with a pickling agent 17 located therein. The mordant 17 in the present case is dilute hydrochloric acid.

Following the pickling device 15, a rinsing device 18 with a rinsing basin 19 and rinsing agent 20 located therein is again provided. The rinsing agent 20 is again water.

In the process direction behind the rinsing device 18 is a flux applicator 21 with a flux pool 22 and therein flux 23. The flux contains in a preferred embodiment, zinc chloride (ZnCl ₂ ) in an amount of 58 to 80 wt .-% and ammonium chloride (NH ₄ Cl ) in the amount of 7 to 42% by weight. Furthermore, optionally in a small amount of alkali metal and / or alkaline earth metal salts and optionally in the opposite of a further reduced amount of a heavy metal chloride are provided. Furthermore, if necessary, a wetting agent is also provided in small quantities. It is understood that the above weight data are based on the flux 23 and make up in the sum of all components of the composition 100 wt .-%. Incidentally, the flux 23 is in aqueous solution, in a concentration in the range of 500 to 550 g / l.

It should be pointed out that the aforementioned devices 9, 12, 15, 18 and 21 can each basically have a plurality of cymbals. These individual basins, but also the basins described above, are arranged in cascade behind one another.

At the flux applicator 21, a drying device 24 adjoins to remove adhering water from the flux film, which is located on the surface of the motor vehicle components 2.

Furthermore, the system 1 has a hot-dip galvanizing device 25, in which the motor vehicle components 2 are hot-dip galvanized. The hot-dip galvanizing device 25 has a galvanizing tank 26, optionally with a housing 27 provided on the upper side. In the galvanizing tank 26 there is a galvanizing bath 28 which contains a zinc / aluminum alloy. Specifically, the galvanizing bath has 60 to 98% by weight of zinc and 2 to 40% by weight of aluminum. Furthermore, if appropriate, small amounts of silicon and optionally in further reduced proportions a small amount of alkali and / or alkaline earth metals and heavy metals are provided. It is understood that the aforementioned weights are based on the galvanizing 28 and make up in the sum of all components of the composition 100 wt .-%.

In the process direction after the hot-dip galvanizing device 25 is a cooling device 29, which is provided for quenching the motor vehicle components 2 after the hot-dip galvanizing. Finally, after the cooling device 29, an aftertreatment device 30 is provided, in which the hot-dip galvanized motor vehicle components 2 can be post-treated and / or reworked.

Between the drying device 24 and the hot-dip galvanizing device 25 there is a handling device 31, which is provided for automated feeding, immersing and dehumidifying a separated from the goods carrier 7 automotive component 2 in the galvanizing 28 of the hot-dip galvanizing device 25. The handling device 31 has in the illustrated embodiment, a handling means 32 for handling the motor vehicle components 2, namely for removing a motor vehicle component 2 from the group of automotive components 2 and to remove the grouped automotive components 2 from the product carrier. 7 and for supplying, immersing and dehumidifying the isolated automotive component 2 is provided in the galvanizing 28.

For singling is located between the handling means 32 and the drying device 24, a transfer point 33 to which the vehicle components 2 are either stored or in particular in the hanging state from the product carrier 7 and thus removed from the group or singled. For this purpose, the handling means 32 is preferably designed such that it is movable in the direction of the transfer point 33 and away from it and / or is movable in the direction of the galvanizing device 25 and away from it.

Incidentally, the handling means 32 is designed such that it moves a submerged in the galvanizing bath 28 automotive component 2 from the immersion region to an adjacent immersion region and then emerges in the exchange area. The immersion area and the immersion area are spaced apart from each other, so do not correspond to each other. In particular, the two areas do not overlap. In this case, the movement from the immersion region to the immersion region does not take place until a predetermined period of time has elapsed, namely after completion of the reaction time of the flux 23 with the surface of the vehicle components 2 to be galvanized in each case.

In addition, the handling device 31 has centrally and / or the handling means 32 locally via a control device, according to which the movement of the handling means 32 takes place in such a way that all are separated from the goods carrier 7 Automotive components 2 with identical movement, are performed in an identical arrangement and with identical time by the galvanizing 28.

Not shown is that above the galvanizing bath 28 and still within the housing 27, a scraper of a stripping device, not shown, which is provided for stripping liquid zinc. Moreover, the handling means 32 may also be controlled via the associated control device such that an already galvanized motor vehicle component 2 is still moved within the housing 27, for example by corresponding rotational movements, such that excess zinc drips off and / or alternatively evenly on the motor vehicle. Component surface is distributed.

In the Fig. 2 to 4 Now different states are shown in the operation of Appendix 1. Fig. 2 shows a state in which at the junction 8 a plurality of galvanized automotive components 2 are stored. Above the group of motor vehicle components 2 is the goods carrier 7. After lowering the goods carrier 7, the motor vehicle components 2 are fastened to the goods carrier 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the automotive components 2 are arranged in layers. In this case, all vehicle components 7 can each be connected to the goods carrier 7. But it is also possible that only the upper layer of motor vehicle components 2 is connected to the goods carrier 7, while the following position is connected to the respective overlying layer. It is also possible for the group of motor vehicle components 2 to be arranged in a basket-like frame or the like.

In Fig. 3 is the group of automotive components 2 above the pickling device 15. The stages C and D, namely the degreasing and rinsing, have already been made.

In Fig. 4 the group of automotive components 2 has been stored at the transfer point 33. The trolley 5 is on the way back to the junction 8 at which are already new to be galvanized automotive components 2 as a group. From the deposited at the transfer point 33 group of automotive components 2 has already been removed via the handling means 32, a motor vehicle component 2, which is just before feeding into the hot-dip galvanizing 25. <B> LIST OF REFERENCES: </ b> 1 investment 18 flushing 2 Motor vehicle component 19 Sink 3 Conveyor 20 dish soap 4 rail guide 21 Flux applicator 5 trolley 22 Flux pool 6 hoist rope 23 flux 7 goods carriers 24 drying device 8th junction 25 Feuerverzinkungseinrichtung 9 degreasing 26 Verzinkungsbecken 10 Entfettungsbecken 27 housing 11 degreasing 28 galvanizing 12 flushing 29 cooling device 13 Sink 30 treatment device 14 dish soap 31 handling device 15 pickling 32 handling means 16 pickling tank 33 Transfer point 17 mordant

Claims (13)

1. A system (1) for hot-dip galvanization of automotive components (2) for mass production hot-dip galvanization of a large number of identical or similar automotive components (2),
   the system (1) comprising a hot-dip galvanization device (25) for hot-dip galvanization of the automotive components (2) and with a galvanizing bath (28) comprising a molten zinc/aluminum alloy,
   wherein a conveying device (3) is provided, comprising at least one goods carrier (7) for conveying a group of automotive components (2) to be fastened to the goods carrier (7),
   wherein a flux application device (21) is provided for flux application to the surface of the automotive components (2),
   characterized
   in that a handling device (31) is provided for feeding, immersing and removal an isolated automotive component (2) into and from the molten zinc/aluminium alloy galvanization bath (28) of the hot-dip galvanization device (27) and
   in that the handling device (31) has at least one handling means (32) arranged between the flux application device (21) and the hot-dip galvanization device (25),
   wherein the handling means (32) is designed such that it takes one of the automotive components (2) from the group of automotive components (2) and then feeds it to the hot-dip galvanization device (25) for individual hot-dip galvanization and
   wherein the handling means (32) is configured such that an isolated automotive component (2) dips into an immersion region of the galvanization bath (28), then moves from the immersion region to an adjacent removal region and is subsequently removed in the removal region.
2. The system according to claim 1,
   characterized
   in that a degreasing device (9) is provided for degreasing the automotive components (2); and/or
   in that a surface treatment device is provided for the chemical and/or mechanical surface treatment of the automotive components (2).
3. The system according to claim 1 or 2,
   characterized
   in that the isolation of the automotive components (2) from the goods carrier (7) by means of the handling device (31) is provided following the degreasing or following the surface treatment or following the flux application.
4. The system according to one of the preceding claims,
   characterized
   in that the handling means (32) is designed in such a way that all automotive components (2) isolated from the goods carrier (7) are guided in an identical manner through the galvanization bath (28).
5. The system according to one of the preceding claims,
   characterized
   in that a stripping device is provided following the removal region of the galvanization bath (28); and or
   in that the handling means (32) are designed in such a way that all the automotive components isolated from the goods carrier (7) are moved in an identical manner after the removal in such a way that drips are removed.
6. The system according to one of the preceding claims,
   characterized
   in that at least one rinsing device (12, 18) is provided; and or
   in that a drying device (24) is provided following the flux application device (21); and/or in that a cooling device (29) is provided following the hot-dip galvanization device (25); and/or
   in that an after-treatment device (30) is provided following the hot-dip galvanization device (25) and optionally the optional cooling device (29).
7. A method for hot-dip galvanization of automotive components (2) using a molten zinc/aluminium alloy for mass production hot-dip galvanization of a large number of identical or similar automotive components (2),
   wherein the automotive components (2) in the grouped state, together with a plurality of further automotive components (2), are fastened to a goods carrier (7) of a conveyor (3),
   wherein the automotive components (2) are provided with a flux on their surface, wherein the automotive components (2) are subjected to hot-dip galvanization in a galvanization bath (28) comprising the molten zinc/aluminium alloy,
   characterized
   in that in the hot-dip galvanization, the automotive components (2) are fed in the isolated state to the galvanization bath (28), dipped therein and then removed therefrom,
   in that the hot-dip galvanization of the automotive component (2) is performed in the isolated state, and
   in that an automotive component (2) in an isolated state is immersed in an immersion region of the galvanization bath (28), then moved from the immersion region to an adjacent removal region and subsequently removed in the removal region.
8. The method of claim 7,
   characterized
   in that the automotive components (2) are subjected to degreasing; and/or
   in that the automotive components (2) are subjected to a chemical and/or mechanical surface treatment before the hot-dip galvanization.
9. The method according to claim 7 or 8,
   characterized
   in that the automotive components (2) are rinsed after degreasing and/or after the surface treatment; and/or
   in that the automotive component (2) is cooled after hot-dip galvanization; and/or
   in that the automotive component (2) is post-treated after hot-dip galvanization.
10. The method as claimed in one of the previous claims,
    characterized
    in that the automotive component (2) is moved in the isolated state only following completion of the reaction time of the flux (23) with the zinc/aluminium alloy from the immersion area to the removal area, and/or
    in that all automotive components (2) in the isolated state are guided in an identical manner through the galvanization bath (28).
11. The method as claimed in one of the previous claims,
    characterized
    in that all automotive components (2) in the isolated state after the removal, are guided in an identical manner past a stripping device for stripping the liquid zinc/aluminium alloy; and/or
    in that all automotive components (2) are moved in the isolated state in an identical manner after the removal in such a way that drips of the liquid zinc/aluminium alloy are removed.
12. The method as claimed in one of the previous claims,
    characterized
    in that all process steps subsequent to the hot-dip galvanization are performed in the isolated state of the automotive component (2).
13. The method according to one of claims 7 to 12, in particular using a system (1) according to claims 1 to 6,
    characterized
    in that the galvanization bath (28) contains zinc and aluminium in a zinc/aluminium weight ratio in the range 55-99.999 : 0.001-45, preferably in the range 55-99.97 : 0.03-45, particularly in the range of 60-98 : 2-40, preferably in the range of 70-96 : 4-30.

Images