FR3071176B1 - DEVICE FOR CLEANING LOW DIAMETER YARNS WITH NON-RECYCLED SOLVENT - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates, in the field of tire production, to a system (100) for cleaning a small diameter wire (1) intended for a rubber article, as the wire moves along a predefined linear transit path at a constant predetermined speed. The system includes a metering facility (200, 200') which meters a predetermined volume of solvent between a pair of symmetrical elements (204, 244) and maintains the solvent in suspension. The system also includes a cleaning die installation (300) which implements an auxiliary cleaning function which removes particulate matter from the surface of the yarn as the yarn passes through a cleaning die (304) disposed therein. this. The cleaning die (304) includes a die channel (304a) defined therethrough which coincides with the predefined linear transit path and has a predetermined diameter and a predetermined length along which the wire (1) passes through the cleaning channel. sector.

Description

DEVICE FOR CLEANING LOW DIAMETER YARNS WITH NON-RECYCLED SOLVENT

TECHNICAL FIELD The invention generally relates to a cleaning device which transports a liquid cleaning solvent from a source of solvent to a surface of a small diameter wire moving at a constant predetermined speed. The solvent removes particulate matter from the surface of the wire for incorporation of the wire into one or more rubber articles, such as a tire.

BACKGROUND

Rubber and metal composites are well known in the manufacture of various products, particularly tires. During the manufacture of the rubber and metal composites, a cleaning process is often performed to remove dirt particles from the surfaces of metal reinforcing elements such as small diameter wires (e.g. metal having a diameter of between about 0.10 mm and about 2 mm inclusive). As used herein, the term "wire" includes wires of metal (especially steel) which are used in the manufacture of various rubber articles, including tires.

During this cleaning process, it is desirable that a greasy residue (eg, such as remains that remain after a drawing process) and magnetized particles be removed while preserving the mechanical properties of the wire. The cleaning process should avoid subsequent formation of corrosion areas along the surface of the wire and reduce the surface roughness (for example, to ensure a surface condition that is suitable for a subsequent treatment process). Since such a cleaning process is desirable prior to subsequent production steps, manufacturers of rubber and metal composites, including tire manufacturers, are looking for efficient cleaning processes that also preserve the beneficial properties. some thread.

Referring to FIG. 1, a drawing device 10 is illustrated, which is a known device for reducing the cross-sectional diameter and increasing the strength of a small-diameter steel wire W. In known wire drawing techniques, the wire W is pulled through at least one die 12 when a pulling force F is applied (see FIG. 1). The die 12, which is usually made of tungsten carbide, diamond or tool steel, is placed in a steel casing 14 which supports the die and makes it possible to change the die in a simple manner. The die has a predetermined die angle (an "introducer cone") of about 6 ° to about 15 ° which leads to a cleaning channel 16. This entry angle facilitates the introduction of the wire W into the die. die 12 and determines the progress of the wire diameter change during wire drawing. The wire W is subjected to a friction force f (see FIG. 1) which contributes to the removal of the particulate matter P from the surface of the wire.

The cleaning devices disclosed herein make use of wire drawing principles known in the context of cleaning a small diameter wire by means of a liquid cleaning solvent. In this context, it is desirable to improve or eliminate the introduction cone so as to easily remove the harmful materials that are removed from the surface of the wire.

It is also desirable to work with a fresh solvent to ensure the repeatability of a wire cleaning process. In this case, the amounts of solvent required are limited to the amount necessary to wet the surface of the wire. An appropriate wire anchoring system is, therefore, contemplated to minimize solvent consumption. ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a system for cleaning a small diameter wire for a rubber article as the wire moves along a predefined linear transit path at a constant predetermined speed. The system comprises a metering device having a pair of symmetrical members which are mutually aligned in parallel with a metering device housing such that the inner surfaces of the symmetrical members are separated by a predetermined distance from the metering device. wherein a predetermined volume of liquid cleaning solvent is suspended. The suspended solvent volume allows the immersion of the wire during its passage along the predefined linear transit path without contact with the inner surfaces of the symmetrical elements. The metering device also includes a solvent reservoir that maintains a stored volume of the liquid cleaning solvent at a nominal level required. The metering system further includes a metering system that measures a sufficient amount of solvent to create and maintain the predetermined volume of the liquid cleaning solvent. The system includes a cleaning die assembly having a cleaning die having a die channel defined therethrough that coincides with the predefined linear transit path and having a predetermined diameter and a predetermined length along which the wire passes through the channel. of die.

In some embodiments, the metering installation housing includes a front wall, a rear wall having an opening defined therethrough, a pair of opposed parallel sidewalls, a base, and an optionally removable cover. In such embodiments, the solvent reservoir comprises an outer wall extending cantilevered generally upward perpendicular to a base, the outer wall having an outer surface having an opening defined therethrough and an inner surface which, together with the base, defines an inner storage chamber within which the stored volume is retained. The cleaning die installation comprises a cleaning die installation housing in which the cleaning die is disposed between an outer housing and an inner housing disposed concentrically with respect to a common longitudinal axis and between which the path passes. predefined linear transit.

In some embodiments, the metering system includes a wick having an immersion section that is immersed in the solvent, an opposed metering section that is introduced through the opening in the outer wall of the solvent reservoir, and a body coextensive wick. A wick sleeve has a wick sleeve body and an inner conduit through which at least a portion of the wick body is introduced and retained along the inner surface of the outer wall of the solvent reservoir, the wick sleeve having a predetermined length defined between an immersion section and an opposite metering section of the wick sleeve body. A metering conduit has an introduction section passing through the opening defined through the rear wall of the metering facility housing and disposed near the opening in the outer wall of the solvent reservoir; and also having an opposed metering section disposed between the symmetrical members to deposit the solvent within the predetermined distance between the inner surfaces thereof.

In some embodiments, a minimum distance is maintained between the metering section of the wick sleeve body and the level of the solvent volume.

In some embodiments, the dosage conduit extends cantilever generally downwardly relative to the outer surface of the outer wall of the solvent reservoir.

In some embodiments, the metering section of the wick is disposed at least 20 mm below the nominal level of the solvent.

In some embodiments, the die channel has an upstream conical inlet port adjacent an inlet of the channel for receiving the wire in the cleaning die and a generally symmetrical downstream conical exit orifice disposed proximate to an outlet of the channel through which the wire exits the cleaning die.

In some embodiments, the cleaning die includes one or more air transport conduits in fluid communication with an air supply pipe that supplies compressed air from a source of compressed air. In some of these embodiments, at least one air transport duct is positioned upstream with respect to the spinneret channel and at least one other air introduction duct is positioned downstream vis-à-vis the spinneret channel. screw of the die channel.

In some embodiments, the metering device includes a platform that supports the metering facility housing and / or the solvent reservoir and that includes an orifice defined therethrough and generally in alignment with a same dimensions provided in the base of the dosing system housing. The cleaning die installation includes a platform that supports the cleaning die installation housing and includes an orifice defined therethrough and generally in alignment with an outlet section of the inner housing.

In some embodiments, the system also includes at least one recovery receptacle disposed at the metering facility and / or at least one additional recovery receptacle disposed at the cleaning die facility for the recovery of an excess of solvent.

In some embodiments, the predetermined diameter of the die channel is slightly less than a wire diameter.

In some embodiments, the metering installation housing includes a heater cartridge for heating the predetermined volume of liquid cleaning solvent as the wire is immersed therein. The invention also relates to a method of cleaning a wire of small diameter by means of a system as described. The method comprises the steps of: transporting the wire at a constant predetermined speed along the predefined linear transit path through the suspended liquid volume at the dosage unit; and transporting the downstream wire to the cleaning die installation and through the die channel of the cleaning die.

According to some embodiments, the method also includes the step of supplying compressed air to the wire during the step of transporting the downstream wire to the installation of the cleaning die and through the channel. of die of the cleaning die.

According to some embodiments, the method also includes the step of recovering any excess of solvent at each of the metering facility and the cleaning die installation.

In some embodiments, the method also includes the step of adding fresh solvent to the solvent reservoir in an amount sufficient to maintain the volume stored therein. The invention also relates to a dosing system that measures a dose of liquid cleaning solvent for cleaning a small diameter wire. The metering system includes a wick having an immersion section that is immersed in the solvent, an opposed metering section that is introduced through an opening in an adjacent solvent reservoir that maintains a stored volume of the liquid cleaning nominal level required, and a coextensive wick body. A wick sleeve has a wick sleeve body and an inner conduit through which at least a portion of the wick body is introduced, the wick sleeve having a predetermined length defined between an immersion section and an opposed metering section. of the wick sleeve body. A metering conduit has an introducer section passing through an opening of a metering installation housing in which there is a pair of symmetrical members which are secured in parallel alignment so that the inner surfaces of the elements symmetrical are separated by a predetermined distance, and also having an opposite metering section disposed between the symmetrical elements to create and maintain a predetermined volume of the liquid cleaning solvent between the inner surfaces of the symmetrical elements.

According to some embodiments of the system, a minimum distance is maintained between the metering section of the wick sleeve body and the nominal level of the solvent volume. In some of these embodiments, the metering section of the wick is disposed at least 20 mm below the nominal level of the solvent. Other aspects of the invention disclosed herein will become readily apparent from the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The nature and various advantages of the invention disclosed herein will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in the aggregate of which like reference characters designate like parts. and in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic partial sectional view of a known wire drawing device; Figure 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a disclosed wire cleaning system of the invention including a metering facility and a cleaning die installation; Fig. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of the wire cleaning system of Fig. 2; FIG. 4 represents a sectional view of the metering device of FIG. 3 along line I-I; Fig. 5 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the cleaning die assembly of Fig. 3 taken along the line II-II; Fig. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a disclosed wire cleaning system of the invention; Fig. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of the wire cleaning system of Fig. 6; Fig. 8 is a sectional view of the dosing apparatus of Fig. 7 taken along line III-III; Figure 9 is a schematic of a liquid cleaning solvent in suspension with a moving wire immersed therein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the figures, in which like numerals identify like elements, Figs. 2 to 8 show embodiments of cleaning devices for removing dirt, particulates, residues, lubricants and the like. similar (also referred to as "harmful materials") surfaces of fine threads prior to incorporation into other products (eg for the production of one or more rubber products for incorporation into one or more vehicle tires) . As illustrated and described herein, the cleaning devices disclosed herein subject a small diameter wire 1 to a cleaning process in which unwanted detritus is removed from the surface of the wire. Since the diameter of the wire has a direct effect on the wettability of its surface, and since the surface tension is set differently on a cylinder as compared to a flat surface, a liquid solvent is more likely to form drops. along the surface of a wire of small diameter. Thus, in some embodiments, the wire 1 has a diameter of between about 0.10 mm and about 2 mm inclusive. In some embodiments, the wire 1 has a diameter of about 0.32 mm. Wire 1 may be an element having electrical conduction properties, made from known conductive materials (eg, steel, copper, aluminum, carbon fiber, etc.). In some embodiments, the wire is SW30 wire or equivalent.

Referring to Figure 9, a method of cleaning a small diameter wire is performed by immersing the wire in a volume of pure solvent in suspension (as used herein, the terms "solvent", "cleaning solvent And "liquid cleaning solvent" will be interchangeable). A predetermined volume of a liquid cleaning solvent S (also called "suspended solvent volume S") is suspended by capillary action between a pair of elements arranged symmetrically with respect to the wire 1 (hereinafter the "elements symmetrical "). The symmetrical elements have inner surfaces in parallel alignment and separated by a predetermined distance D between them. In some embodiments, the predetermined distance D between the inner surfaces of the symmetrical members is about or about 0.8 mm.

As illustrated and further described herein, the symmetrical elements may be curved or arcuate elements having identical radii of curvature, although the symmetrical elements are not limited to continuous bends. Symmetrical elements, for example, may also have partially straight geometries for wires moving at higher speeds. The suspended solvent volume S allows the immersion of the wire 1 by simply passing it along a predefined linear transit path therethrough (see arrow A of FIG. 9) and prevents contact between the wire and the inner surfaces of the symmetrical elements. The geometry of the symmetrical elements determines the length of a suspended solvent deposit between them and therefore determines its volume. The geometry of the symmetrical elements can be modified to lengthen an immersion zone and be adapted to a higher wire transport speed. The suspended solvent volume S (or "stored volume") is illustrated as a toroidal element, although this form does not define or be representative of any specific geometry.

During the wire cleaning process, wire 1 is moved linearly at a constant predetermined speed (see arrow B in FIGS. 2 and 3 and FIGS. 5 to 7). The movement of the yarn 1 at a constant speed, and the adjustment of its tension, can be achieved by means of one or more uncoiling, driving and / or tensioning systems which are selected from among various systems available in trade. In some embodiments, the yarn reaches a predetermined speed of at least about 2 m / min. By way of example, in order to achieve sufficient cleaning of a selected yarn, the selected yarn may require 1.2 seconds of immersion in a suspended solvent deposit having a length of approximately 36 mm and a temperature of 75 ° C. . It is determined that the required travel speed for the yarn is 1.8 m / min. When the solvent temperature is lowered to 20 ° C, the speed is reduced by about half. In order to obtain higher wire displacement speeds, the geometry of the symmetrical elements can be modified so as to increase the length of the deposit and thus increase the time during which the wire is immersed in the solvent during its transit.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 to 5, an embodiment of a wire cleaning system 100 is provided, which each comprises a metering installation 200 and a cleaning die installation 300. dosing plant 200 doses the predetermined volume of solvent and keeps the solvent in suspension. The metering device 200 includes a metering facility housing 202 having a front wall 202a (shown in transparency in FIG. 2), a rear wall 202b having an opening 0202b defined therethrough (see FIG. pair of opposed parallel side walls 202c, a base 202d and an optionally removable cover 202e. A pair of curved symmetrical elements 204 is provided in the form of a torus segment (obtained, for example, by bending a tube or by milling) fixed inside the metering installation housing 202. The metering device 202 also includes a frame 206 which supports the symmetrical elements 204. The frame 206 may be removable from the metering installation housing 202 or the frame may be an integral part thereof.

The symmetrical elements 204 are arranged in parallel alignment so that their inner surfaces are mutually separated by a predetermined distance. This predetermined distance is preserved between the inner surfaces at a section in extreme outer position of the major axes of the symmetrical elements. The symmetrical elements 204 have identical radii of curvature which are selected as a function of a length L of the suspended solvent S (see Fig. 9) which is sufficient to immerse the surface of the wire before a downstream activity. This length is preserved by the geometry and the positioning of the symmetrical elements 204 in order to guarantee a uniform and reproducible immersion of the surface of the wire by a single passage through the suspended solvent volume S. The metering installation 200 also comprises a reservoir solvent 208 which maintains a stored volume V of the liquid cleaning solvent at the required level Ns. The solvent reservoir 208 includes an outer wall 208a extending cantilevered generally upward perpendicular to a base 208b. The outer wall 208a includes an outer surface 208A with an opening O208 defined therethrough and an inner surface 208B which, together with the base 208b, defines an interior storage chamber which contains the prescribed volume V of the solvent.

Referring still to FIGS. 2 and 3, and in particular with reference to FIG. 4, in order to establish fluid communication between the solvent reservoir 208 and the metering installation housing 202, a wick 210 is provided, this extracting the solvent from the inner chamber of the solvent tank. The wick 210 comprises an immersion section 210a which is immersed in the solvent and an opposed metering section 210b which is introduced through the opening O208 into the outer wall 208a. The immersion section 210a of the wick 210 is disposed near the base 208b for uninterrupted solvent delivery from the solvent reservoir 208 by capillary action along a wick body 210c (i.e. that is, the wick regulated flow compensates for the solvent flow consumed as wick 1 passes through the solvent).

The metering section 210b of the wick 210 is disposed in a metering conduit 212 having an introduction section 212a disposed near the opening O208 in the outer wall 208a of the solvent reservoir 208. An opposite metering section 212b of the metering conduit 212 is disposed between the symmetrical elements 204 so as to deposit the solvent within the predetermined distance between the inner surfaces thereof. In order to maintain the capillarity, the metering conduit 212, which may be removable or integral with the metering housing 202, extends cantilever generally downwardly relative to the outer surface 208A of the metering device 202. Solvent tank 208. In some embodiments, the wicking section 210b of the wick is disposed at least 20 mm below the level of the solvent Ns. In some embodiments, the metering section 210b of the wick is disposed at least 40 mm below the level of the solvent Ns.

A wick sleeve 214 is provided, which includes a wick sleeve body 214a and an inner conduit 214b through which at least a portion of the wick body 210c is introduced and retained along the inner surface 208B of the wick sleeve. Solvent 208. The wick sleeve 214 has a predetermined length defined between an immersion section 214c and an opposed metering section 214d of the wick sleeve body 214a. In order to measure the required amount of liquid cleaning solvent to create and maintain the suspended solvent volume S during a wire cleaning process, a minimum distance H is maintained between the metering section 214d of the wick sleeve body 214a and the level Ns of the solvent volume V. This minimum distance H can be adjusted according to the target volume of the suspended solvent volume S. As the liquid cleaning solvent is consumed during one or more cleaning processes of wire, fresh solvent can be added to the solvent tank 208 in order to maintain the minimum required distance H and, consequently, to ensure a correct dosage of the solvent by the metering section 210b of the wick 210. The metering device comprises, desirably, a platform 216 which supports the metering facility housing 202 and the solvent reservoir 208. The platform 216 may optionally support one or more guides s of wire 250 which facilitate the alignment of the wire 1 during its transit. A portion of the platform 216 includes an orifice 216a which is generally aligned with a port of the same dimensions 202d 'provided in the base 202d of the metering installation housing 202. A recovery receptacle 500 which is positioned in the alignment of the orifices 202d ', 216 recover any excess of solvent from the symmetrical elements 204.

Referring still to Figures 2 and 3 and further referring to Figure 5, the cleaning die installation 300 of the wire cleaning system 100 includes a generally cylindrical cleaning die installation housing 302. The cleaning die installation housing 302 includes an outer housing 302a and an inner housing 302b which are arranged concentrically with respect to a common longitudinal axis. The predefined linear transit path of the wire 1 is placed between the outer housing 302a and the inner housing 302b, and thus allows linear passage of the unhindered wire through the cleaning die housing 302 (see arrow B of FIG. ). The cleaning die installation 300 implements an auxiliary cleaning function that removes particulate matter from the wire surface as the wire passes through a cleaning die 304 disposed therein. The cleaning die 304 is disposed in the cylindrical housing 302 between the outer housing 302a and the inner housing 302b. A die channel 304a defined through the cleaning die 304 coincides with the transit path and has a predetermined diameter and a predetermined length along which the wire 1 passes through the die channel. In some embodiments, the predetermined diameter is slightly less than the diameter of the wire so as to facilitate an auxiliary cleaning function by which the particulates are removed from the surface of the wire as the wire passes through the die channel 304a. The die channel 304a includes a tapered inlet port 306 near an inlet of the channel which receives the yarn 1 in the cleaning die 304. A tapered outlet 308 is provided near an outlet of the channel by wherein the wire 1 exits the cleaning die 304. The conical inlet 306 and the conical outlet 308 are illustrated as being generally symmetrical, but it will be understood that such an arrangement can be modified.

The die channel 304a divides the cleaning die 304 into two sections 304b, each of which includes one or more air-carrying ducts 310. At least one air-carrying duct 310 is positioned upstream of the die channel 304a. and at least one other air transport duct 310 is positioned downstream of the die channel 304a. The air transport ducts 310 are in fluid communication with an air supply pipe 312 which supplies compressed air from a source of compressed air (not shown) to the wire 1 (see arrow C of Figure 5). In this way, the solvent and the dirt thus removed, which accumulate progressively upstream of the cleaning die 304, can be regularly separated by a jet of compressed air and discharged into an additional recovery receptacle 550 disposed in the vicinity of an outlet section 302b 'of the inner housing 302b. The same jet of pressurized air is directed downstream of the cleaning die 304 to scan the cleaned wire. The cleaning die assembly 300 may include an optional platform 316 that supports the cleaning die installation housing 302 and the cleaning die 304 supported thereon. A portion of the platform 316 may include an aperture 316a that is generally aligned with the exit section 302b 'of the inner housing 302b and the recovery receptacle 550 which is positioned in alignment below.

Referring now to FIGS. 6, 7 and 8, in which identical numbers identify identical elements, another metering device 200 'may be used in the wire cleaning system 100 as a substitute for the metering facility. 200. The metering device 200 'has a similar configuration, and therefore operates in a similar manner, as compared with the metering installation 200 described herein in connection with the wire cleaning system 100. The wire cleaning system 100 retains the installation of cleaning die 300 as described herein.

In the metering installation 200 ', the curved symmetrical elements 204 are replaced by a pair of symmetrical elements 244 arcuate having an upper radius of curvature which lengthens the suspended solvent volume S. The symmetrical elements 244 are fixed by a frame 206 'appropriate inside a dosing housing 202'. The metering installation housing 202 'has a front wall 202a' (shown in transparency in Fig. 6), a back wall 202b 'having an opening 0202b' defined therethrough (see Fig. 8), a pair of walls 202c parallel side opposite, a base 202d 'and a cover 202e' optionally removable. The symmetrical elements 244, having identical lengths and identical radii of curvature, are arranged in parallel alignment so that their inner surfaces are mutually separated by a predetermined distance appropriate for the suspension of the suspended solvent volume S. The installation solvent dispenser 200 'also includes a solvent reservoir 208' which is similar to the solvent reservoir 208 of the wire cleaning system 100. The solvent reservoir 208 'maintains a stored volume V' of the liquid cleaning solvent at a level of required NS '. The solvent reservoir 208 'comprises an outer wall 208a' extending cantilevered generally upward perpendicular to a base 208b '. The outer wall 208a 'has an outer surface 208A' having an opening O208 'defined therethrough and an inner surface 208B' which, together with the base 208b ', defines an interior storage chamber.

A wick 210 'is provided, which provides fluid communication between the solvent reservoir 208' and the metering installation housing 202 'having the symmetrical members 244 disposed therein. The wick 210 'comprises an immersion section 210a' which is immersed in the solvent and an opposite metering section 210b 'which is introduced through the opening O208' into the outer wall 208a '.

The wick 210 'operates in the same manner as the wick 210 of the metering unit 200. A dipping section 210a' is disposed in a metering duct 212 'similar to the metering duct 212 of the metering unit 200 The metering duct 212 'has an introduction section 212a' disposed near the opening O208 'in the outer wall 208a' of the solvent tank 208 '. An opposite metering section 212b of the metering conduit 212 'is disposed between the symmetrical members 244 so as to deposit the solvent within the predetermined distance between the inner surfaces thereof. The metering duct 212 'extends cantilevered generally downwardly relative to the outer surface 208A' of the solvent reservoir 208 'so as to maintain the metering section 210b of the wick at least 20 mm below the level of the solvent NS '.

A wick sleeve 214 'is provided, which includes a wick sleeve body 214a' and an inner conduit 214b 'through which is disposed at least a portion of a wick body 210c'. The wick sleeve 214 'has a predetermined length defined between an immersion section 214c' and a dosing section 214d opposite the wick sleeve body 214a '.

As described in connection with the dosing plant 200, in order to measure the solvent dose that is necessary to create and maintain the suspended solvent volume S (see FIG. 9), a minimum distance H 'is maintained between the assay 214d 'of the wick sleeve body 214a' and the level Ns 'of the solvent volume V'. This minimum distance H 'can be adjusted according to the target volume of the suspended solvent S. As the liquid solvent is consumed, fresh solvent can be added to the solvent tank 208' in order to maintain the minimum height required and to guarantee by Therefore, a correct metering of the solvent towards the symmetrical elements 244. The metering installation 200 'can employ the platform 216 and the recovery chamber 500 as described herein in connection with the metering installation 200. It will be understood that that the precise dimensions of the platform 216 and the receptacle 500 can be adapted to the precise dimensions of the metering installation 200 'and the solvent tank 208'.

In addition to the symmetrical upper radius elements, the metering device 200 'also includes an optional heating cartridge 206a disposed in the frame 206' of the metering installation housing 202 '. The heater cartridge 206a 'raises the temperature of the suspended solvent so as to activate the dissolution of grease present on the surface of the wire 1. The heating of the solvent and the extension of the suspended deposit allow the acceleration of the wire 1 without affecting the quality cleaning.

As illustrated particularly in FIG. 8, a piston P is provided in the solvent tank 208 'and occupies a large volume thereof. Although the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 5 does not include a piston, it will be understood that such a function is possible for use in the solvent tank 208 of the metering installation 200.

The piston P comprises a profile Pi which promotes a turbulent flow of the solvent around it and a channel P2 which prevents the capture of air bubbles. In this configuration, the piston P varies the volume of available solvent by means of a regulation screw 600 (in particular, when it is desired to stop the flow of the wick 210 '). The interruption of the dosage is appreciable in order to preserve the solvent when displacement of the wire 1 is interrupted. A vertical anti-rotation guide 700 prevents the piston P from rotating on itself when the regulation screw 600 is actuated.

When the piston P is lowered to the bottom of the solvent tank 208 ', the solvent level Ns- is maximum with a corresponding nominal flow. When the piston P is high, the solvent level Ns <drops rapidly. In some embodiments, a reduction of approximately 60 mm in the solvent level (corresponding to a minimum vertical stroke of the piston) causes a consequent cessation of the capillary effect in the wick 210 '. The solvent flow is restored relatively quickly when the level rises to its nominal value Ns-. This reciprocating movement can be automatic or manual. Alternatively, a buoyant member may be employed, which maintains a constant level of solvent in the solvent reservoir 208 'and thereby regulates the flow of the wick 210' between each fill of the solvent reservoir.

A wire cleaning process will now be discussed, said method using the wire cleaning system 100. Although the metering installation 200 is mentioned, it will be understood that the wire cleaning system 100 is generally implemented in the same manner. way when the dosing plant 200 'is employed.

The wire 1 passes through the suspended liquid volume S, the solvent thus being deposited on the surface of the wire. This consumption of liquid solvent, which is a function of the length of the wire, will be compensated by the addition of new solvent to the volume of suspended liquid. The fresh solvent is stored in the solvent tank 208 and fed to the suspended volume S by the wick 210. It will be understood that the wick 210 may be replaced by a commercially available precision pump or by any equivalent dosing system.

The immersion section 210a of the wick 210 conveys the solvent from the base 208b of the solvent reservoir 208 along the wick body 210c by capillarity. In this manner, the solvent remains fresh and can be easily recharged with fresh solvent as needed to maintain the solvent volume V at the desired level Ns. The wick body 210c extends through the wick sleeve 214 in the direction of the introduction section 212a of the metering conduit 212 positioned near the opening O208 of the solvent reservoir. The metering duct 212, which extends through the opening 0202b of the back wall 202b of the metering installation housing 202, allows the wick body 210c to be disposed therethrough so that a metering section 210b of the wick 210 supplies a measured quantity of the solvent to the symmetrical elements 204 (or to the symmetrical elements 244 if the measuring installation 200 'is used) and, in particular, brings a measured quantity of the solvent towards the predetermined space between them. The wire 1 passes through the suspended solvent S and its surface is thus completely immersed while the wire continues to move. The excess solvent is gravity fed to the recovery receptacle 500 for subsequent disposal in accordance with applicable industrial safety standards.

After being totally immersed in the solvent, the wire 1 then moves to the cleaning die installation 300. The distance between the metering installation 200 and the cleaning die installation 300 can be adjusted according to selected solvent and the time required for the solvent to act and dissolve the particles, greasy residue and other harmful materials that may be on the surface of the wire. The wet yarn is simply introduced into the cleaning die 304 and passes therethrough along the die channel 304a. During this passage, the air supply pipe 312 brings compressed air to the air transport ducts 310 which then convey compressed air to the wire 1. Any particles removed and the solvent that may remain are safely captured within the Supplemental Recovery Receptacle 550 for subsequent disposal in accordance with applicable industrial safety standards.

As illustrated and described herein in connection with the wire cleaning systems 100, 100 ', the geometry of the symmetrical elements (i.e. the symmetrical elements 204 and the symmetrical elements 244) and the solvent viscosity determine the maximum volume of liquid that can be kept in suspension. The solvent which is suspended laterally remains centered with respect to the moving wire and prevents contact between the wire and the symmetrical elements. In some embodiments, the suspended solvent volume S is equivalent to about 4 to 5 drops of solvent dosed by a wick 210, 210 '. It will be understood that the extension of the immersion zone (i.e., the increase in the length L of the suspended solvent) may allow a larger volume in suspension equivalent to more than 5 drops of solvent.

The wicks 210, 210 'may be selected from various known absorbent materials including, but not limited to, different rope materials (such as fibrous rope, cotton rope and nylon rope), polyurethane yarn and combinations and the like. of these.

For both embodiments of the wire cleaning system 100, it is preferable to position the solvent reservoir (208, 208 ') immediately behind the metering installation housing (202, 202').

For the embodiments illustrated herein, the solvent recovered by the recovery receptacle 500 and the additional recovery receptacle 550 is not intended for recycling or reintroduction into the cleaning system.

For each embodiment illustrated herein, the cleaning effect of the cleaning die 304 can be modified by adjusting the diameter of the die channel 304a with respect to the diameter of the wire 1. For example, if a die channel is to be provided. a greater diameter than that of the wire, it results in a proportional reduction of the cleaning efficiency of the die as well as an ease of insertion of the initial wire improved (that is to say mechanical capture) (none noticeable change occurs in the hardening of the wire). If a larger diameter wire than the die channel is provided, this not only results in a proportional improvement in the cleaning efficiency of the die, but also in an improvement in the hardening of the wire. The ease of insertion of the thread is however reduced. Experimental use has determined that the disclosed embodiments function as intended when the diameter of the die channel is less than the diameter of the wire, and when this diameter difference is at least 2 μm.

A system may be provided for performing a cleaning process on a small diameter wire for incorporation into a rubber product. Such a system can use any of the embodiments of the wire cleaning system 100 disclosed herein. In some embodiments, such a system may optionally include a ventilation system to evacuate any evaporated solvent.

Each disclosed cleaning device can be integrated as part of a more complete system, for example, a system for depositing a polymer along the surface of a wire already cleaned by the cleaning apparatus. Each cleaning device may employ a solvent having properties equal to those of a solvent used in a downstream process.

Each disclosed cleaning device may be used during a cleaning cycle in a programmed sequence. For example, a central control center can be programmed using established data for a plurality of wire sizes and wire materials. Additional data may include a temperature of the cleaning solution to be employed during the wire cleaning process. In some embodiments, the cleaning solvent may be heated to a temperature below the solvent evaporation temperature during the cleaning process (e.g., up to about 60 ° C).

One or more sensors and / or sensor types may optionally be employed, including but not limited to ambient condition sensors (eg, to detect atmospheric conditions such as temperature, pressure and / or temperature). moisture before starting the wire cleaning process) and verification sensors (eg, to detect a deviation from a prescribed sequence).

The terms "at least one" and "one or more" are used interchangeably. The ranges that are described as "between a and b" include the values of "a" and "b".

Although particular embodiments of the disclosed devices have been illustrated and described, it will be understood that various changes, additions and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, no limitation should be imposed on the scope of the invention disclosed herein, except in accordance with the appended claims.

Claims (16)

CLAIMS: A system (100) for cleaning a small diameter wire (1) for a rubber article as the wire (1) moves along a predefined linear transit path at a predetermined speed constant, the system comprising: a metering device (200, 200 ') comprising: a pair of symmetrical members (204, 244) attached in parallel alignment to each other within a metering facility housing (202, 202 '), so that the inner surfaces of the symmetrical elements are separated by a predetermined distance (D) within which a predetermined volume of liquid cleaning solvent (S) is suspended, the suspended solvent volume allowing the immersion wire (1) during its passage along the predefined linear transit path without contact with the inner surfaces of the symmetrical elements; a solvent reservoir (208, 208 ') which maintains a stored volume (V, V') of the liquid cleaning solvent at a required nominal level (Ns, Ns'); and a dosing system that measures a solvent dose sufficient to create and maintain the predetermined volume of the liquid cleaning solvent (S); and a cleaning die assembly (300) comprising a cleaning die (304) having a die channel (304a) defined therethrough that coincides with the predefined linear transit path and having a predetermined diameter and a predetermined length along from which the wire (1) passes through the die channel. The system of claim 1, wherein: the dosing unit housing comprises a front wall (202a, 202a '), a back wall (202b, 202b') having an opening (0202b / 0202b ') defined across it, a pair of opposed parallel side walls (202c, 202c '), a base (202d, 202d') and a cover (202e, 202e ') optionally removable; the solvent reservoir comprises an outer wall (208a, 208a ') extending cantilevered generally upward perpendicular to a base (208b, 208b'), the outer wall having an outer surface (208A, 208A ') having an opening (O208 / O208') defined therethrough and an inner surface (208B, 208B ') which, together with the base, defines an interior storage chamber within which the stored volume is retained (V, V '); and the cleaning die installation comprises a cleaning die installation housing (302) in which the cleaning die (304) is disposed between an outer housing (302a) and an inner housing (302b) concentrically disposed relative to a common longitudinal axis and between which passes the predefined linear transit path. The system of claim 2, wherein the metering system comprises: a wick (210, 210 ') having an immersion section (210a, 210a') which is immersed in the solvent, a metering section (210b, 210b ') which is introduced through the opening (Ο208Λ O208') into the outer wall of the solvent reservoir and a coextensive wick body (210c, 210c '); a wick sleeve (214, 214 ') having a wick sleeve body (214a, 214a') and an inner conduit (214b, 214b ') through which at least a portion of the wick body is inserted and retained along of the inner surface of the outer wall of the solvent reservoir, the wick sleeve having a predetermined length defined between an immersion section (214c, 214c ') and an opposite metering section (214d, 214d') of the sleeve body wick; and a metering conduit (212, 212 ') having an insertion section (212a, 212a') passing through the opening (Û202b, 0202b ') defined through the rear wall of the metering installation housing and arranged near the opening (O208, O208 ') in the outer wall of the solvent tank; and also having an opposed metering section (212b, 212b ') disposed between the symmetrical members to deposit the solvent within the predetermined distance between the inner surfaces thereof. A system according to claim 3, wherein a minimum distance (H, H ') is maintained between the metering section of the wick sleeve body and the nominal level (Ns, Ns <). The system of claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the metering conduit (212, 212 ') extends cantilever generally downwardly relative to the outer surface (208A, 208A') of the outer wall (208a, 208a ') of the solvent reservoir. 6. System according to claim 5, wherein the metering section (210b) of the wick is disposed at least 20 mm below the nominal level (Ns, NS '). Ί. A system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the die channel (304a) has an upstream conical inlet port (306) adjacent to an inlet of the channel for receiving the wire (1) in the cleaning die ( 304) and a generally symmetrical downstream conical outlet (308) disposed near an outlet of the channel through which the wire (1) exits the cleaning die. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning die (304) comprises one or more air transport ducts (310) in fluid communication with an air supply pipe (312) which provides compressed air from a source of compressed air. 9. System according to claim 8, wherein at least one air transport duct (310) is positioned upstream vis-à-vis the spinneret channel (304a) and at least one other air introduction duct. (310) is positioned downstream from the die channel (304a). The system of any of claims 2 to 9, wherein: the dosing system comprises a platform (216) that supports the metering facility housing and / or the solvent reservoir and that includes an orifice ( 216a) defined therethrough and generally in alignment with an orifice (202d, 202d ') of the same dimensions provided in the base of the metering installation housing; and the cleaning die installation comprises a platform (316) which supports the cleaning die installation housing (302) and which includes a port (316a) defined therethrough and generally in line with a section outlet (302b ') of the inner housing (302b). The system of claim 10, further comprising at least one recovery receptacle (500) disposed at the metering facility (200, 200 ') and / or at least one additional recovery receptacle (550) disposed at level of the cleaning die installation (300) for recovering excess solvent. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the predetermined diameter of the spinneret channel (304a) is slightly less than a diameter of the spinneret (1). A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dosing plant housing comprises a heating cartridge (206a ') for heating the predetermined volume of liquid cleaning solvent (S) as the wire ( 1) is immersed in it. A method of cleaning a wire (1) of small diameter by means of a system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the method comprising the steps of: transporting the wire (1) at a constant predetermined speed along the predefined linear transit path through the suspended liquid volume (S) at the metering facility (200, 200 '); and transporting the downstream wire to the cleaning die installation (300) and through the die channel (304a) of the cleaning die (304). The method of claim 14, further comprising the step of supplying compressed air to the wire (1) during the step of transporting the downstream wire to the installation of the cleaning die ( 300) and through the die channel (304a) of the cleaning die (304). The method of claim 14 or claim 15, further comprising the step of recovering any excess of solvent at each of the metering facility (200, 200 ') and the cleaning die installation. (300). The method of any of claims 14 to 16, further comprising the step of adding fresh solvent to the solvent reservoir (208, 208 ') in an amount sufficient to maintain the stored volume (V, V') In this one.