JP3382468B2 - Manufacturing method of toner - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a method for producing a toner.
For more details, of the solid particles containing the binder resin
Efficient pulverization and classification for sharp particle size distribution
From high-quality classified products that do not contain aggregates
Production to obtain efficient electrostatic image developing toner with high production efficiency
About the method. [0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Electrophotography, electrostatography and electrostatic printing
In an image forming method such as described above, a toner for developing an electrostatic image is used.
Is used. In recent years, high image quality of copiers and printers
Demand for toner as a developer with
Performance is even more severe and the particle size of the toner is smaller.
In the toner particle size distribution, coarse particles are contained.
It is required to be sharp and low in ultra-fine powder
It is becoming. General method for producing toner for developing electrostatic images
As binder resin and toner for fixing to the transfer material
Various colorants that give the color as
Using a charge control agent as a raw material,
No. 42141 and JP-A-55-18656.
In the so-called one-component developing method as shown,
Various magnetic materials to impart transportability etc. to the toner itself
Is used, and if necessary, for example, a release agent and a stream.
Other additives such as kinetic agents are added and these materials
After dry mixing, roll mill, extruder, etc.
Melt-kneading with a kneading machine, and the resulting kneaded material is cooled and solidified.
After that, the jet air crusher, mechanical collision crusher, etc.
The kneaded material is refined by various crushing devices and the resulting coarse crushed
The material is introduced into various air classifiers and classified, and toner and
To obtain a classified product with the required particle size.
Externally add a fluidizing agent, lubricant, etc. and dry mix to form an image.
To be used. Also used for two-component development
In the case of toner, various magnetic carriers and the above toner are used.
After mixing, they are used for image formation. [0004] In addition, from fine particles having a required particle size,
Conventionally, in order to obtain toner particles of
The method shown in the chart was generally adopted. Immediately
That is, as shown in FIG.
The body material is first supplied to the first classifying means continuously or sequentially.
And classified into coarse powder and fine powder. Of the classified items,
Coarse powder mainly composed of coarse particles of a specified particle size or more
After being sent to the stage and finely pulverized, the finely pulverized material is again subjected to the first classification.
It is introduced into the means, circulated and classified into coarse powder and fine powder.
And particles within the specified particle size range and particles below the specified particle size
Fines prepared in a group of particles containing
Medium powder that is sent and mainly composed of particles with specified particle size
And a fine powder mainly composed of a group of particles having a particle size equal to or less than the specified particle size (hereinafter, referred to as
Ultra-fine powder). And in the obtained
The powder is used as a classified product for producing toner. [0005] Powders used in the above-mentioned conventional classification / pulverization process
Various crushing devices are used as crushing means.
As shown in FIG.
Jet stream type pulverizer using jet stream such as
A collision-type airflow pulverizer is used. Jet like this
In a collision-type airflow pulverizer using high-pressure gas such as airflow,
The powder raw material, which is the object to be crushed, is transported by
From the outlet of the accelerator, and the powder raw material is
Collision with the collision surface of the collision member provided opposite
The powder raw material is pulverized by the impact force. example
For example, in the impingement type air flow pulverizer shown in FIG.
The outlet 163 of the acceleration tube 162 to which the nozzle 161 is connected is
A collision member 164 is provided so as to face the acceleration tube 1.
The high-pressure gas supplied to 62 accelerates the acceleration tube 162
Into the accelerating tube 162 from the powder material supply port 165
Suction of powder material and ejection of powder material with high-pressure gas
To collide with the collision surface 166 of the collision member 164,
The powdered raw material is pulverized by force, and the pulverized material is pulverized to a pulverization outlet 16.
7 to discharge. [0006] However, the impinging airflow pulverizer shown in FIG.
Then, the supply port 165 of the object to be crushed is in the middle of the acceleration tube 162.
Since it is provided, the object sucked and introduced into the acceleration tube 162
The powder raw material, which is a crushed material, passes through the supply port 165 of the crushed material.
Immediately after, the high-pressure gas ejected from the high-pressure gas supply nozzle 161
The flow is changed toward the acceleration tube outlet 163 by the flow.
While being dispersed in the high-pressure airflow, it is rapidly accelerated. In this state
The relatively coarse particles of the material to be ground are affected by the inertial force.
The sound flows through the lower part of the accelerating tube while relatively fine particles are added.
Since the powder flows through the high part inside the speed pipe, the powder material particles in the high-pressure airflow
Is not dispersed uniformly enough,
The collision member 164 in the grinding chamber 168 is separated into
Partially concentrate on the collision. For this reason, grinding
If the efficiency tends to decrease and the processing capacity tends to decrease,
There was a problem. Further, the collision surface 166 is located near the
It is made up of locally crushed material and crushed crushed material.
The part to be ground is resin
Especially if it contains a low-melting substance such as
Fusing, coarsening, agglomeration, etc. of the pulverized material are likely to occur. Also,
If the pulverized material has abrasion,
164 collision surface 166 and accelerating tube 162
Wear is likely to occur, and the frequency of replacement of the collision member 164 increases.
Therefore, it should be improved from the viewpoint of continuous stable production.
There was a point. On the other hand, the collision surface 16 of the collision member 164
6 having a conical shape having a tip angle of 110 ° to 175 °
(Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. Hei 1-254266) and the collision surface
Project on a plane that intersects perpendicularly with the extension of the center axis of the collision member.
Collision plate shape with a rise (Publication No. 1-148740)
Report) has been proposed. In these crushers,
It is possible to suppress the local rise in dust concentration near the projecting surface.
To slightly reduce the fusing, coarsening, and aggregation of the crushed material
Grinding and grinding efficiency can be slightly improved.
Therefore, further improvement has been desired. For example, if the weight average particle size is 8 μm and
It has a particle size distribution in which particles of μm or less are 1% or less by volume%.
Classification to remove coarse powder areas
With crushing means such as a collision type air flow type fine crusher equipped with a mechanism,
After pulverizing the raw material to a predetermined average particle size,
After classifying and removing coarse powder, the obtained pulverized material is
Ultra fine powder is removed by another classifier
A medium powder having the desired particle size distribution is obtained. In addition, here
Weight average particle size, Coulter Electronics (US
Country Coulter Counter TA-II Type or Coal
Use 100μm aperture with Tar Multisizer II
This is the measured data. However, there is a problem in such a conventional method.
The point is that the second classification is only for the purpose of removing ultra fine powder.
Means should be to completely remove the coarse particle group
Must be sent, so the load on the grinding means
There is a problem that the processing volume is
Was. Furthermore, a coarse particle group larger than a certain specified particle size is completely removed.
If you try to remove it, it is easy to overcrush
Many ultrafine powders are generated in the process. As a result,
In the second classification means for removing ultra fine powder in the process
There is also a problem that phenomena such as a rate decrease are easily caused.
Further, in the second classification means for removing the ultrafine powder,
When aggregates composed of fine particles are generated,
Is difficult to remove as ultrafine powder
There is. In this case, the agglomerates will be mixed into the final product.
As a result, a toner product with a fine particle size distribution can be obtained.
And the aggregates in the final product are
To reduce the quality of the image because
This is one of the causes. Conventionally, ultrafine powder as described above has been removed.
Various types of airflow classifiers and the
The airflow classification method has been proposed.
There are classifiers that use a classifier and classifiers that have no moving parts. This
Of which, as a classifier without moving parts, a fixed-wall centrifugal type
Classifier and inertia classifier. Classifier using inertia force
Loffier. F. and K. Maly: Symposium on Powde
r Technology D-2 (1981)
Elbow jet classifier that is commercialized as an industrial product,
Okuda.S.and Yasukuni. J.:Proc.Inter.Symposium on
 Powder Technology '81,771 (1981)
Classifiers have been specifically proposed. In general, toners have many different properties.
Are required, but products that satisfy all of the required properties
In order to obtain it, you need to select the raw materials to be used,
The characteristics of the toner are often determined by the method. Because of this,
For example, in the classifying step of the toner,
Toner particles have a sharp particle size distribution.
Is required. In the production of toner, low
Produce high quality toner efficiently and stably at low cost
It is desired. More recently, in copiers and printers
Toner quality is gradually reduced to improve image quality
It is moving in the direction of. In contrast, substances are generally
The force of the interparticle force increases as it becomes finer
However, the same applies to resin particles and toner particles.
, The cohesiveness of the particles increases, which makes production difficult.
Problems occur. In particular, a chassis having a weight average particle size of 10 μm or less
To obtain a toner with a sharp particle size distribution
Can reduce the classification yield with conventional classification equipment and classification methods.
There is a problem of causing. Further, the weight average particle size is 8
Let's get toner with sharp particle size distribution of less than μm
In particular, with the conventional classification device and classification method,
The reduction of the classification yield was remarkable. In addition, elaborate
To obtain a desired product consisting of fine particles having a fine particle size distribution.
Even if it is possible, the process becomes complicated and the classification yield is low.
Causes lower production efficiency and higher costs
Is inevitable. This tendency depends on the desired particle size of the product.
Becomes smaller as the value becomes smaller. JP-A-63-101858 (corresponding rice
Japanese Patent No. 4844349), a first classification means,
Multi-division classification as crushing means and subsequent second classification means
And a method and apparatus for producing a toner using the means
But not enough, the toner with a weight average particle size of 8 μm or less
Method and equipment for more stable and efficient production of
Stems are long awaited. [0015] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is as follows.
This is especially true for the conventional method for producing a toner for developing an electrostatic image.
That solves the various problems in the prior art described above.
Is to provide a way. That is, the object of the present invention is to
To provide a manufacturing method that can efficiently manufacture toner for developing charge images.
Small particle size with a fine particle size distribution.
To provide a manufacturing method that can efficiently manufacture toner for developing charge images.
The purpose is to provide. The present invention also relates to a binder resin,
The mixture containing the coloring agent and additives is melt-kneaded and melt-mixed.
After cooling the kneaded material, it consists of solid particles generated by coarse pulverization
Small-sized particles having a precise predetermined particle size distribution from powder raw materials
Efficient production of child products (used as toner)
The purpose of the present invention is to provide a method that can be manufactured. In particular, the present invention
The purpose is to use toner raw materials with a weight average particle size of 10 μm or less.
It is possible to obtain toner with sharp particle size distribution
Yes, especially from toner raw materials with a weight average particle size of 8 μm or less
Toner for electrostatic image development with sharp particle size distribution
To provide a toner manufacturing method that can be manufactured efficiently.
You. [0016] The above object is achieved by the present invention which is described below.
Achieved by Ming. That is, the present invention provides a binder resin and
The mixture containing at least the coloring agent is melt-kneaded, and
After cooling the kneaded material, the cooled material is pulverized by crushing means.
First, the powder raw material consisting of the coarsely pulverized material obtained by crushing
Introduce into the classification process to classify into first fine powder and first coarse powder,
Then, the classified first fine powderClassification by introducing to the second classification process
And a particle group having a specified particle sizeMinutes for producing toner
Graded and covered with the first coarse powder classified in the first classification step.
As a pulverized material, the material to be pulverized is accelerated by high-pressure gas
And a grinding chamber for finely grinding the material to be ground.
In the pulverizing chamber, an opening is provided facing the opening of the outlet of the accelerating tube.
An acceleration member provided with a collision member havingS
FunnelTo be crushed to supply the crushed material into the acceleration tube
With a material supply port, the collision surface is protruding at the center
A central part, and a cone-shaped outer peripheral collision surface provided on the outer periphery thereof;
Having a shape consisting of:
Side wall for further crushing the crushed object by collision
Introduced into a collision type air flow pulverizer havingThe opposition
Classification room of the jet air crusher and the classifier used in the third classification process
Between the side wall and the raw material flow regulating plate
This flow path is finely divided by the impingement airflow pulverizer.
Pulverized material input to supply the crushed fine material to the classifier
So that the pulverized material is supplied directly to the classifier
The collision member and the raw material straightening plate are integrally configured,
Through the channelThe finely pulverized material is placed at the bottom of the classification chamber.
Inclined classifier with raised center and swirling flow into classifier
And a classification louver for causing
Powder by the airflow flowing into the classification chamber through the
Classification to classify powder by swirling and centrifuging particles
Coarse powder and second fine powder introduced into the third classification process
After the classification, the classified second coarse powder is used as the powder raw material.
Mixed and re-introduced into the first classifying step for circulation treatment.
And a method for producing a toner. [0017] DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below.
Embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure
1 is a flowchart showing the outline of the manufacturing method of the present invention.
This is an example. The manufacturing method of the present invention is shown in the flowchart.
The first, second and third three classification steps
It is characterized by having. That is, the toner material
A mixture containing at least a binder resin and a colorant
After melt-kneading and cooling the obtained kneaded material, the cooled material is crushed
The coarsely pulverized material obtained by pulverization by
Instead, a predetermined amount of powder raw material is supplied to the first classification step. This
In the first classification step of the above, it is preferable as the first classification means.
Is a rotary gas that is classified by centrifugal force using forced vortex.
Using a classifier such as a flow classifier, the above powdery raw material is converted into a first coarse powder.
And the first fine powder. First coarse powder classified in the first classification step
Has become a specific impingement airflow fine grinding means with excellent grinding performance.
Introduced and pulverized. And finely pulverized material
Into the third classification step to classify it into a second coarse powder and a second fine powder.
Then, in this step, a group of particles (ultrafine powder) smaller than the specified particle size is
Remove. The classification means in the third classification step includes a classification room
Inclined classifier with raised center at the bottom
And a classification louver for generating a swirling flow in the classification chamber
And flowing into the classification chamber through the classification louver.
The powder particles are swirled by the air flow and centrifuged.
Using a classifier that classifies the powder. In this third classification process
The classified second coarse powder is a powder introduced into the first classification step.
Mixed into the raw material and supplied again to the first classification step.
And is circulated. The ultrafine powder is classified into the second coarse powder.
Has been removed and contains no ultrafine powder.
The classification efficiency of the first classification process and the subsequent second classification process
To improve over-pulverization by a pulverizer following the first classification process.
It becomes possible to suppress. First fine powder classified in the first classification step
Is the first in the second classification step as shown in FIG.
2 Introduce into the classification means and classify further
A classified product, which is a toner raw material composed of child groups, is obtained. On this occasion,
In the second classification step, at least coarse
Multi-divider classifier with powder area, medium powder area and fine powder area
It is preferably used. For example, when using a three-division classifier
In this case, the powder raw material is at least fine powder, medium powder and
Classified into three types of coarse powder. Use a classifier like this
In the second classifying step, if the particle group is larger than the specified particle size
Coarse powder and ultrafine powder consisting of particles smaller than the specified particle size
The body is removed and the medium powder is used as is as a toner product.
Or an external additive such as hydrophobic colloidal silica.
After mixing, a toner product is obtained. In the present invention
Means that the powder material introduced into the second classification process is
Depending on the process, particles smaller than the specified particle size (ultra fine powder) are excluded
In the first classifying step, a particle group (coarse particles) with a specified particle size or more
Because of having a sharp particle size distribution from which
In the second classifying step, refinement in the small particle size region of 8 μm or less
Classification is possible. In the second and third classification steps,
Ultra-fine powder consisting of a group of classified particles smaller than the specified particle size
Generally, the toner material introduced into the first classification process is
Is supplied to the melt-kneading process to produce
To be reused or discarded. As described above, the method for producing the toner of the present invention
In the fine particle area, there is no
Classification is performed by a classifier capable of fine classification, and
A first classification step of removing coarse particles from
Pulverization process for efficient pulverization, followed by classification chamber bottom
An inclined classifier with a raised central part provided in the part,
Classification louvers to generate a swirling flow in the classification room
And flowed into the classification chamber through the classification louver
Centrifugation by swirling powder particles by air flow
Efficiency of finely pulverized material by classifier that separates and classifies powder
The third classification process that classifies well and removes ultra fine powder
And a second classification step for performing fine classification in the fine particle region
Specified particle size including aggregates of ultrafine particles
Coarser powders and fine powders generated by disaggregation
Weight including ultra-fine powder less than the specified particle size
When the average particle size is 10 μm or less, particularly 8 μm or less,
Efficiency of classified products with small and sharp particle size distribution
Can be obtained well. This results in high quality toner products
Can be manufactured efficiently. FIG. 2 shows the method of manufacturing the toner according to the present invention.
An example of an apparatus system is shown, and the present invention is based on this.
This will be described more specifically. Introduced into this equipment system
A binder resin and a colorant are added to the powder raw material that is the toner raw material.
At least the mixture containing is melt-kneaded and the resulting kneaded
The product was cooled, and the cooled product was coarsely crushed by crushing means.
Things used. In this case, the toner materials used
Will be described later. In the method for producing a toner of the present invention,
First, the powdery raw material of the toner composed of the coarsely pulverized material as described above is
A predetermined amount is introduced to the first classifier 22 via the first fixed amount feeder 21.
The first fine powder and the first coarse powder by the first classifier 22.
Classify into The first fine powder classified here is collected in a collection cycle.
Is fed into the second metering device 24 via the
Then, via the vibrating feeder 25, the fine powder supply nozzle 1
Multi-divider classifier which is the second classifier via 48 and 149
A predetermined amount is supplied into 27. Next, the second sample is supplied through the second metering device 24.
The classifier 27 is a multi-segment classifier 27 (3 in the example shown in FIG. 2).
The first fine powder introduced into the classifier is divided by the classifier.
27 to at least fine powder, medium powder and coarse powder
Classified. The classified coarse powder is collected in the collection cycle.
After being collected by Ron 29, it is pulverized again in the example shown in FIG.
Machine 28. However, it is not limited to this,
At this time, the coarse powder may be introduced into the first classifier 22.
Is the particle group smaller than the specified particle size classified by the second classification means 27
Is collected by the collection cyclone 30 and
-In the melt-kneading process to produce powdered raw materials
Supplied and reused or discarded. Also,
The middle powder classified by the second classifying means 27 is collected by a collecting cyclone.
At 31, the toner product 33 is collected. On the other hand, the first coarse classifier classified by the first classifier 22
The powder is sent to an impingement airflow pulverizer 28 where it is pulverized.
After that, the finely pulverized material 3 is introduced into the third classifier 1 and
Classified into fine powder 5 and second coarse powder 4. Minute with 3rd classifier 1
The second fine powder 5 composed of a group of particles having a size smaller than the specified particle size is
Collected through the collection cyclone 2 and separated from the toner material
Is supplied to the melt-kneading process to produce
Reused or discarded. Also, less than the specified particle size
Second coarse powder classified by the third classifier 1 from which the particle group of
No. 4 is mixed into the newly added powder raw material,
Is again introduced into the first classifier 22 together with the material and classified.
You. Apparatus to which the toner manufacturing method of the present invention is applied
In the system, as the third classification means, illustrated in FIG.
The central part provided at the bottom of the classifying room was raised
Inclined classification plate and swirl flow in the classification chamber
And a classification louver, and a classification louver through the classification louver.
The powder particles are swirled by the airflow flowing into the classroom.
Using a classifier that classifies the powder by centrifugation
It is characterized by. Hereinafter, the air-flow classifier 1 illustrated in FIG.
explain about. In FIG. 5, reference numeral 14 denotes an airflow classifier 1
A cylindrical main body casing and 18 a lower casing respectively
The lower part of the lower casing 18 is provided with a coarse powder discharging hopper.
-10 is connected. Inside the body casing 14
Has a classifying chamber 7 formed therein.
Annular guide room 17 attached to the upper part of 7, and classifying room
Conical shape with raised center at the bottom of 7
(Umbrella-shaped) classification plate 8 is arranged. A guide is provided at the lower part of the main body casing 14.
Classifying louvers 11 arranged in the circumferential direction of the side wall of the chamber 17
Provided outside through the classification louver 11
From the secondary air (the
(Class air) 12 is adopted. Minute
Conical shape in which the center provided at the bottom of classroom 7 is raised
A coarse powder discharge port 19 is formed around the outside of the (umbrella-shaped) classifying plate 8.
The fine powder discharge chute 9 is in contact with the center of the classifying plate 8.
Has been continued. The lower end of the fine powder discharge chute 9 is shown in FIG.
It is bent in an L-shape as shown in
The housing 18 is located outside the side wall. In addition,
Although not shown, the tip of the fine powder discharge chute 9 is
Suction fan via fine powder collection means like cron or dust collector
And by operating the suction fan,
A suction force is applied to the classifying chamber 7 through the powder discharge chute 9.
Suction air flowing into the classification chamber 7 from between the classification louvers 11.
Structure to generate swirl flow required for classification by arc 12
Have been. Airflow type classification used as third classification means
The machine has the above structure, but in the example of FIG.
A collision type air pulverizer 28 described later is in contact with the upper part of the ring 14.
The first coarse powder introduced into the crusher is
This is finely pulverized into finely pulverized material, which is then passed through the airflow classifier.
Therefore, it is classified. That is, it is guided from the finely pulverized material input port 16.
When air containing finely pulverized material is supplied into the chamber 17,
Air containing pulverized material is supplied from the guide chamber 17 to each classification louver.
-11 and turning into the classification chamber 7
It flows in while being dispersed at the pulverized material concentration. Accurate classification
In order to perform the above, the finely pulverized material reaches the classifying chamber 7
Up the flow path up to the point where concentration of the finely pulverized material does not easily occur.
There is a need. For this reason, in the present invention, for example, FIG.
Raw material flow straightening plate 15 and finely pulverized material inlet as shown in
16 is used as a flow path until the finely pulverized material reaches the inside of the classification chamber 7.
It is preferable to install. As described above, the rotating room is placed in the classifying chamber 7.
Finely pulverized first coarse powder that flows in while being dispersed
Is a suction fan connected to the fine powder discharge chute 9
Classification louver 1 in the classification room caused by (not shown)
The rotation is increased by the suction air 12 flowing from one space.
As a result, due to the centrifugal force acting on each particle, the first coarse powder
Is finely divided into a second coarse powder and a second fine powder (ultra fine powder).
Separated. That is, the coarse powder in the finely pulverized material acts on the coarse powder.
Due to the centrifugal force generated, the outer periphery of the classifying chamber 7 is turned,
The powder is discharged from the powder discharge port 19,
Is more exhausted. In this way, the classification is performed by the third classification means.
The second coarse powder discharged after being classified is mixed with the powder raw material.
And then re-introduced into the first classifier 22 in the first classifying step and circulated.
The ring is processed. On the other hand, the upper part of the classifying plate 8 is tilted by centrifugal force.
Slightly moving along the slope to the center
The powder (second fine powder) is discharged by the fine powder discharge chute 9.
Thus, the classification of the second coarse powder and the second fine powder is completed. The third classifying means shown in FIG.
According to the classifier having the above configuration, the finely pulverized material is stored in the classification chamber 7.
Has the shape shown in the figure in the flow path until it reaches
A raw material straightening plate 15 and a finely pulverized material input port 16 are provided,
While lowering the dust concentration along the powder particles along the current plate 15,
Disperse the particle flow and increase the propulsion force from the pulverized material input port 16
Because it can fly, the finely pulverized material in the classification area
Dispersion can be improved, especially in fine powder
Good classification accuracy is obtained even at high dust concentration, and
Ultra-fine powder (weight average particle size is 2μm or less)
It can be eliminated from the crushed material. As a result,
Eliminates the introduction of these ultrafine powders into the process
Therefore, it is only possible to prevent a decrease in the yield of the final product.
The same dust concentration during classification by the second classification means
To achieve better classification accuracy and higher product yield
become. That is, by this, the sharpness by the second classification means
To efficiently obtain a product (medium powder) having an appropriate particle size distribution
Becomes possible. Apparatus to which the method for producing a toner of the present invention is applied
In the system, before the third classification process as described above
Examples of the crushing means provided in FIG.
And a collision-type airflow pulverizer of the type exemplified in (1). Less than,
These will be described. First, the collision type air shown in FIG.
In the flow pulverizer, the pulverized material supplied from the supply pipe 41 is supplied.
The crushed object 42 is transferred to the accelerating tube throat 44 of the accelerating tube 43.
Formed between the inner wall of the nozzle and the outer wall of the high-pressure gas ejection nozzle 45
Of the supply port 46 (which is also the throat part)
Is supplied to the acceleration tube 43. In addition, high pressure gas ejection nozzle
45 and the center axis of the accelerating tube 43 are substantially the same.
Preferably it is on-axis. On the other hand, the high pressure gas is supplied from the high pressure gas supply port 47.
Through the high-pressure gas chamber 48,
Or high-pressure gas injection through a plurality of high-pressure gas introduction pipes 49.
From the outlet nozzle 45 toward the acceleration tube outlet 50
Spouts while expanding. At this time, the acceleration tube throat section 44
Crushed object 42 due to the ejector effect generated near
Is entrained by the gas coexisting with the object 42
From the pulverized material supply port 46 toward the acceleration tube outlet 50
And uniformly mixed with high-pressure gas in the accelerating tube throat 44.
It is suddenly accelerated while being combined. Then, at the acceleration tube outlet 50
The dust surface is biased on the collision surface 52 of the opposing collision member 51.
Collision occurs in a uniform solid-gas mixed flow. Occurs at collision
The impact force generated by each of the well-dispersed individual particles (crushed material 4
Very efficient grinding is performed because it is given to 2)
I can do it. The crushed material is crushed on the collision surface 52 of the collision member 51.
The pulverized material is further subjected to secondary collision with the side wall 54 of the pulverizing chamber 53 (or
Is a tertiary collision), and the pulverization disposed behind the collision member 51
It is discharged from the material discharge port 55. Also, the collision type shown in FIG.
In the airflow pulverizer, the collision surface 52 of the collision member 51 is
Collision with a conical projection at the center as shown in Fig. 7 and Fig. 8
Surface, the dispersion of the crushed material in the crushing chamber 53 is uniform.
And high-order collision with the side wall 54 can be performed efficiently.
You. Further, the pulverized material discharge port 55 is located behind the collision member 51.
Crushed material can be discharged smoothly
You. That is, as shown in FIG.
A cone-shaped central protrusion protruding at the center from the raw material collision surface 52
By providing the outlet, the object ejected from the acceleration tube 43
The solid-gas mixed flow of the pulverized raw material and the compressed air is
Primary pulverization is performed at the collision surface 52 of the raised surface,
Secondary grinding at the conical impact surface 52 '
Thereafter, the crushed material is tertiarily crushed by the crushing chamber side wall 54. At this time,
Angle α formed by the collision surface 52 at the center of the projection surface of the material 51
(°), a plane perpendicular to the outer peripheral collision surface 52 ′ and the central axis of the accelerator tube
When the inclination angle β (°) with respect to
In addition, grinding is performed very efficiently. 0 <α <90, β> 0 30 ≦ α + 2β ≦ 90 That is, when α ≧ 90, the central projection surface 5
The reflected flow of the pulverized material primary-pulverized in Step 2
It will disturb the flow of the gas-solid mixture
No. When β = 0, the outer peripheral collision surface 52 ′ is
And the reflected flow at the outer collision surface is solid
Since it flows toward the mixed flow, turbulence of the gas-solid mixed flow may occur,
Not good. When β = 0, the powder on the outer peripheral collision surface
Body density increases and thermoplastic resin powder or thermoplastic resin
When powder containing fat as a main component is used as raw material,
, It is easy to produce a fused material and an aggregate. Resulted in such a fusion
In this case, stable operation of the device becomes difficult. Α and β are
When α + 2β <30, the primary pulverization
Since the impact force is weakened, the grinding efficiency is reduced, which is preferable.
Absent. Also, when α and β satisfy α + 2β <90, the outer peripheral collision occurs
The reflected flow at the surface 52 'flows downstream of the solid-gas mixture flow
Therefore, the impact force of the tertiary pulverization on the side wall 54 of the pulverization chamber is weakened, and
This causes a reduction in crushing efficiency. As described above, α and β satisfy the following relationship.
Efficient primary, secondary and tertiary pulverization
Thus, the pulverization efficiency can be improved. 0 <α <90, β> 0 30 ≦ α + 2β ≦ 90 More preferable values of α and β are as follows. 0 <α <80 5 <β <40 In the present invention, the collision type air flow as described above
By using a fine pulverizer, a sub-pulverizer as shown in FIG.
The number of collisions has been increased compared to the
Crushing effect
Efficiency, and at the time of crushing,
To prevent the occurrence of fusing material and to ensure stable operation
Can be done. FIG. 8 shows the impingement airflow pulverizer shown in FIG.
FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a crushing chamber 53 in the present embodiment. In FIG.
Distance L between the edge 61 of the material 51 and the side wall 54₁To
The front wall 62 of the grinding chamber facing the collision surfaces 52 and 52 '
The closest distance L between the protruding member 51 and the edge 61._TwoShorter than
It is possible to reduce the dust concentration in the grinding chamber near the acceleration tube outlet 50.
It is important not to increase the degree. Furthermore, the closest distance L
₁Is the closest distance L_TwoShorter than that,
Secondary collision can be performed efficiently. The thus inclined collision surfaces 52 and 52 'are
The crusher as shown in FIG. 6 having the crusher as shown in FIG.
The collision surface 166 is a plane 90 ° with respect to the acceleration tube 162.
As compared to a conventional crusher having a collision member 164 that is shaped like
When grinding resin or sticky substances,
High fouling density due to less fusion, aggregation and coarsening
Crushing becomes possible. Also, wear may be concentrated locally.
As a result, the life of the equipment can be extended and stable operation is possible.
You. Further, the acceleration tube 43 shown in FIG.
The inclination is preferably in the range of 0 ° to 45 ° with respect to the vertical direction.
Enclosed object 42 is closed at object supply port 46
It is possible to process without making it. Also, crushed
If the fluidity of the object 42 is not good, as shown in FIG.
When a cone-shaped member is provided below the supply pipe 41
In addition, the material to be ground 42
But the inclination of the acceleration tube 43 is
0 ° to 20 ° to the direction (more preferably 0 ° to 5 °)
Of the material to be ground at the bottom of the cone-shaped member.
The crushed material 42 is smoothly supplied to the acceleration tube 43 without stagnation.
Can be paid. FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along line A-A 'in FIG.
You. From FIG. 9, the object to be ground 42 is smoothly supplied to the acceleration tube 43.
It is understood that it is paid. Extension of central axis of acceleration tube 43
Wall 62 at the plane of the acceleration tube outlet 50 that intersects at right angles
And the outermost periphery of the collision surface 52 of the collision member 51 opposed thereto.
The closest distance L to the end 61_TwoIs the diameter R of the collision member 51
0.2 to 2.5 times the range of the grinding efficiency is preferable.
More preferably, it is better if it is in the range of 0.4 to 1.0 times.
is there. Distance L_TwoIs less than 0.2 times the diameter of the collision member 51
Indicates that the dust concentration near the collision surface 52 becomes abnormally high.
It is not preferable, and if it exceeds 2.5 times,
Force tends to weaken, resulting in reduced grinding efficiency
Therefore, it is not preferable. The outermost end 61 and the side wall 54 of the collision member 51
Shortest distance L₁Is 0.1 times the diameter R of the collision member 51
It is preferably in the range of up to twice. Distance L₁Is the collision part
If the diameter R of the material 51 is less than 0.1 times, the passage of high-pressure gas
Pressure loss is large, grinding efficiency tends to decrease, and
When the flow tends to not go smoothly and more than twice
In this case, the effect of the secondary collision of
It is preferable to use
I don't. More specifically, the length of the acceleration tube 43 is 50 to 5
Preferably, the diameter R of the collision member 51 is
Preferably, it has a length of 30 to 300 mm.
Further, the collision surfaces 52, 52 'of the collision member 51 and the side wall 54
It must be made of ceramic
Is preferred in terms of durability. FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken along the line B-B 'in FIG.
You. In FIG. 10, lead passing through the supply port 46
The distribution of the material to be ground in a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction
The larger the inclination of 3 with respect to the vertical direction, the larger the amount of flowing particles
Unevenness occurs in the cloth state. Therefore, the inclination of the acceleration tube 43
Is most preferably in the range of 0 ° to 5 °. this thing
Is a transparent acrylic resin internal observation module
It was confirmed by an experiment using a speed tube. FIG. 11 is a sectional view taken along the line C-C 'in FIG.
You. In FIG. 11, the object to be ground 42 is the collision member support 9.
It is discharged backward through the space between the first and side walls 54. FIG.
Shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line D-D 'in FIG. FIG. 12
Although two high pressure gas introduction pipes 92 are installed,
Depending on the case, even if there is one high pressure gas introduction pipe 92, three or more
It may be. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the structure used in the present invention.
It is the schematic which shows the other example of a jet airflow pulverizer. Figure
In FIG. 13, the same numbers as those in FIG. Figure
In the impingement type air current pulverizer shown in FIG.
The inclination in the major axis direction is 0 ° to 45 with respect to the straight line.
°, preferably 0 ° to 20 °, more preferably 0 ° to 5 °
°, and the crushed material 42 is supplied to the crushed material supply port.
The gas is supplied from 46 to the acceleration tube 43. At this time, the acceleration tube 43
Compressed gas such as compressed air is supplied to the high pressure gas supply port 102.
And the throat section 44 through the high pressure gas chamber 103
To be pulverized introduced from the
42 is instantaneously accelerated to have a high speed. Soshi
At a high speed from the acceleration tube outlet 50 into the grinding chamber 53.
The crushed object 42 is applied to the collision surfaces 52 and 5 of the collision member 51.
2 'and crushed. As described above, in the crusher shown in FIG.
The pulverized material 42 is introduced from an intermediate portion of the acceleration tube 43 and the acceleration tube 4
3. The material 42 to be ground is dispersed in the
The crushed material is uniformly ejected, and the collision surface of the opposing collision member 51
Crushing efficiency compared to the conventional model
Can be improved. Also, the collision surface 5 of the collision member 51
2 and 52 'are circles on the collision surface as shown in FIGS.
Dispersion after collision is good if the shape has conical protrusions
Fusing, agglomeration, and coarsening of the pulverized material 42 occur.
Crushing at high dust concentration is possible without
In an object 42 to be crushed, the inner wall of the acceleration
The wear generated on the collision surface of the member 51 is locally concentrated.
As a result, the life can be extended and stable operation can be achieved. As in the case of the pulverizer shown in FIG.
3 if the inclination in the major axis direction is in the range of 0 ° to 45 °,
The pulverized material 42 is processed without being blocked at the pulverized material supply port 46.
Can be processed, but the fluidity of the material to be ground 42 is not good
Tends to stay in the lower part of the supply pipe 41 for the material to be ground.
However, the inclination of the acceleration tube 43 is 0 ° to 20 °, more preferably
Is in the range of 0 ° to 5 °, there is no stagnation of the material 42 to be ground.
The object to be ground 42 is smoothly supplied into the acceleration tube 43.
You. FIG. 13 is a sectional view taken along line C-C 'of FIG.
11 is the same as the cross-sectional view taken along the line C-C ′ in FIG.
The crushed material passes between the collision member support 91 and the side wall 54.
Is discharged backward. [0050] The first toner used in the toner production method of the present invention
Any of the first classifying means in the classifying process
Can be used, but it is preferable to use a forced vortex
Use a rotary airflow classifier that classifies by heart force. this
For example, T-shirts manufactured by Hosokawa Micron Corporation
-Plex (ATP) classifier and micron separator
ー, Donaldelec classifier manufactured by Donaldson Japan, Nisshin
And a turbo classifier classifier manufactured by Kosha Co., Ltd. Book
In the present invention, preferably, a configuration as shown in FIG.
The use of a rotary air classifier of the type
Desirable to improve class accuracy. Hereinafter, shown in FIG.
The rotary air classifier will be described in detail. In FIG. 14, reference numeral 121 denotes a cylindrical main body casing.
Thing is shown. Inside the main body casing 121
A classifying chamber 122 is formed, and is located below the classifying chamber 122.
There is a guide room 123 in the section. Rotary airflow shown in FIG.
The classifier is an individual drive system, and a centrifuge is
Generate forced vortex using force to classify into coarse powder and fine powder
You. A classification rotor 124 is provided in the classification room 122.
And the powder raw material 42 sent into the guide chamber 123
By the suction from between the classification rotors 124.
Then, it is swirled into the classification chamber 122. The powder raw material 42
The raw material is charged from the raw material charging port 125, and air is supplied from the charging port 126,
Furthermore, it is taken in together with the powder raw material 42 from the raw material input port 125.
I will. The powder raw material 42 is supplied to the classification chamber 12 together with the incoming air.
It is carried to 2. It should be noted that the guide room 123 passes through the input port 125.
The air flowing through the inside and the powder material 42 are separated by a classifying rotor.
-124 to be distributed evenly.
It is preferable to be graded. In addition, it reaches classification rotor 124
It is necessary to make the flow path to reach the shape that does not easily cause concentration
There is. However, the position of the inlet 125 is limited to this.
Not something. The classifying rotor 124 is movable and
The distance between the class rotors 124 can be adjusted arbitrarily.
You. The speed control of the classifying rotor 124
This is performed through the wave number converter 128. Fine powder discharge pipe 129
Through a fine powder collecting means 130 such as a cyclone or a dust collector
And connected to the suction fan 131.
31 to apply a suction force to the classification chamber 122.
Working. In the present invention, the first classifying means is preferable.
The frequently used rotary air classifier shown in FIG.
Although it has a similar structure, the airflow type as shown in FIG.
Coarse powder (second coarse powder) classified by classifier 1 and used for classification
Including supplied air and newly supplied powder raw material 42
Air is supplied from the inlet 125 into the guide chamber 123.
And the air containing these powder materials is supplied to the guide room 123
Flows between the respective classification rotors 124. Classification room 122
The raw material that has flowed into the classifier is a high-speed rotating classification rotor 12.
And dispersed by the centrifugal force acting on each particle.
It is centrifuged into 1 coarse powder and 1st fine powder. And classification room
The first coarse powder in 122 is located at the bottom of the main casing 121.
After passing through the connected coarse powder discharge hopper 132,
6 or 13 through the tally valve 133.
Pulverized material supply pipe 41 of impingement type air current crusher 28 as shown
Supplied to The first fine powder is supplied through a fine powder discharge pipe 129.
After being discharged to the fine powder recovery means 130, the second classification means
Will be introduced. In the present invention, as shown in FIG.
In the one-classification process, the circuit shown in FIG.
Pulverization means for the subsequent pulverization process using a rotary airflow classifier
The impingement type airflow pulverizer as shown in FIG. 6 or FIG.
In addition, the central part provided at the bottom of the classification chamber
A swirling flow is generated in the classifying chamber
A classification louver, and a classification louver
The powder particles by the airflow flowing into the classification chamber through
Swirl flow and centrifugal separation to classify the powder with a classifier
Set up a third classification process to classify pulverized materials and remove ultrafine powder
Mixing of ultra-fine powder into the crusher by combining
Is suppressed or prevented, and over-crushing of the pulverized material is prevented.
The coarse powder classified by the first classification means
And dispersed evenly into the accelerating tube of the crusher
And crushed well in the crushing chamber of the crusher.
Yield and energy efficiency per unit weight
Can be increased. The times used for the first classifying means as described above
Rolling air classifier classifies according to the rotation speed of the classification rotor.
The point is determined, but conventionally the grinding means connected to this
Efficiency was not good.
It is difficult to obtain, and even if it is obtained, great effort
Was needed. However, in the present invention, FIG.
Since the impingement airflow crusher shown in FIG.
The performance of the means is improved and the classification is performed by the first classification means.
The fine particles of the coarse powder are efficiently made,
Ultra fine powder less than the specified particle size is removed in the 3 classification process
Therefore, fine classification in the fine particle region becomes possible. Furthermore,
When using a rotary classifier as the first classifier, use a classifier
Change the classification point simply by changing the rotation speed of the
Therefore, there is an advantage that the operability is excellent. Second Embodiment Constituting the Toner Manufacturing Method of the Present Invention
At least the coarse powder region (first
1 fraction area), medium powder area (second fraction area) and fine powder area (second fraction area)
(3 sub-areas)
For example, the multi-division method shown in FIG.
A classifier is one of the specific examples. Like this
Classification room with classification area is mainly shaped as shown in Fig. 16
Side walls 141 and 142 having a lower wall 143 and 14
4 and a Coanda block 145. Lower wall 14
Nos. 3 and 144 are knife-edge classification edges, respectively.
146 and 147, the classification edges 146 and
According to 147, the classification zone is divided into three. Side wall 1
In the lower part of 41, a raw material supply pipe 148 opening to the classification chamber and
149 are provided in the direction of extension of the bottom tangent of the supply pipe.
And bent down to draw a long elliptical arc
145 are provided. Also, the upper wall 150 of the classification room
Is a knife-edge air inlet facing the lower part of the classification chamber.
The classifier is equipped with a jaw 151, and the upper part of the classifier is open to the classifier.
Inlet pipes 152 and 153 are provided. In addition
The trachea 152 and 153 have a gas introduction control such as a damper.
Joint means 154 and 155, and static pressure gauges 156 and 157
Is provided. Classification edges 146 and 147, and
The position of the inlet edge 151 depends on the type of the raw material to be classified.
And it depends on the desired particle size. Also, on the bottom of the classification room
The drainage opening in the classification chamber corresponding to each fractionation area
Outlets 158, 159 and 160 are provided. Outlet 1
58, 159 and 160 respectively have valve means, etc.
Opening / closing means may be provided. The raw material supply pipe is composed of a cylindrical raw material supply pipe 148.
It is preferably composed of a pyramidal cylindrical raw material supply pipe 149.
Is the inner diameter of the raw material supply pipe 148 and the innermost of the raw material supply pipe 149.
20: 1 to 1: 1 ratio of the inner diameter of the narrowed part is preferable
Or 10: 1 to 2: 1, good insertion speed
can get. Also, the powder material to be classified is supplied to the supply pipe together with the airflow.
As a means for feeding, 0.1 to 3 kg / cm^TwoPressure
In addition to the method of sending, the blower downstream of the classification zone
By increasing the negative pressure in the classification zone
A method of naturally aspirating powder raw materials, or into the raw material powder input port
Attach the injection feeder,
Let the powder and outside air be sucked in and classify it through the supply pipe.
There is a method of sending to In the present invention, among the above-mentioned charging means,
In particular, by increasing the negative pressure in the classification zone,
Suction method or injection feeder
The use of the method according to
Is advantageous and preferred. In addition, high-precision classification is required.
Classifying toner for developing electrostatic images with high efficiency
And a toner having a weight average particle size of 10 μm or less.
A favorable effect can be obtained in the classification of-. In particular, heavy
In the classification of toner having an amount average particle diameter of 8 μm or less,
Further effects can be obtained. In the multi-division classification region having the above-described configuration,
The classification operation is performed, for example, as follows. That is,
Via at least one of outlets 158, 159 and 160
To reduce the pressure in the classification area,
Raw material powder at a flow rate of 50 m / sec to 300 m / sec.
It is supplied to the classification area via the feed pipes 148 and 149.
That is, the first fine powder is classified into the classification area at a velocity of less than 50 m / sec.
When supplied, it is difficult to sufficiently agglomerate the fine powder.
It is easy to cause a decrease in classification yield and classification accuracy.
Not preferred. At the speed exceeding 300m / sec, the first fine
When powder is supplied to the classification area, particles collide with each other
It is easy to pulverize and easy to generate ultra-fine particles.
It tends to cause a decrease and is not preferred. The first classifier supplied by the above means
Powder material consisting of the first fine powder obtained in
The Coanda effect due to the action of the lock 145 and the flow
Transfer by drawing a curved line by the action of gas such as air entering
Move, and according to the size of each particle size,
Particles having a particle size exceeding the rated particle size) are outside the airflow, ie, classification.
In the first fractionation area outside the edge 147, intermediate particles (standard
Particles having an internal diameter of 2) between the classification edges 146 and 147.
Small particles (particles smaller than the standard particle size)
Are divided into the third sub-areas inside the
Large particles (coarse powder) are discharged from the outlet 158,
(Medium powder) is a small particle (fine powder) from outlet 159
Are discharged from the discharge port 160 respectively. In order to implement the method described above,
Connected to each other using communication means such as pipes.
As a result, for example, an integrated device system as shown in FIG.
use. That is, in the integrated device system shown in FIG.
The multi-segmentation classifier 27 is as shown in FIG.
And a vibration feeder 25, a collecting cyclone 29,
30 and 31 are connected by communication means. FIG. 3 shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Raw material supply nozzle of multi-segment classifier as described above
When the injection feeder 32 is attached to
1 shows an example of an integrated device system. Multi as the second classifier
Examples of the classifier 27 include an elbow manufactured by Nippon Steel Mining Co., Ltd.
Coanda effect with Coanda block like jet
Classification means using the fruits. This equipment system
In the first, the powder material of the toner is first
Introduced into the first classifier 22 via 21 and classified. No.
The fines classified by the first classifier 22 are collected in a collecting cyclone.
Is fed to the second metering device 24 via the
And the fine powder supply nozzle 148 through the vibrating feeder 25
And 149 through a multi-divider 27 as shown in FIG.
Introduced within. At this time, the material powder supply nozzle
Supply high-pressure gas from the injection feeder 32
If the individual particles of the raw material powder are propelled into the multi-segmentation classifier 27,
It can be introduced while holding it, and the suction method shown in Fig. 2
This is more preferable because the classification accuracy can be improved. on the other hand,
The coarse powder classified by the first classifier 22 is sent to the crusher 28.
In rare cases, after being pulverized,
Then, it is again introduced into the first classifier 22 and the above classification process is performed.
Done. For introduction into the multi-segmentation classifier 27,
Inside the classifier 27 divided into three at a flow rate of 50 m / sec to 300 m / sec
Introduce the powder raw material into Configure the classification area of the multi-segmentation classifier 27
The size to be formed is usually (10 to 50 cm) × (10 to 5 cm).
0cm)
Classification into three or more particle groups is possible. And 3 division classifier
27, large particles (particles exceeding the specified particle size: coarse powder)
Body), intermediate particles (particles with specified particle size: medium powder), and
Divided into smaller and smaller particles (particles smaller than the specified particle size: fine powder)
Is done. Thereafter, the coarse powder is collected through the discharge conduit 158.
It is sent to the cyclone 29 and returned to the crusher 28. Medium powder
Is discharged out of the system via the discharge conduit 159 and collected in the collection cycle.
And collected as much as possible into a toner product 33.
It is. The fine powder is discharged out of the system through a discharge conduit 160.
And collected by the collecting cyclone 30, then
The fine powder 34 is collected. In addition, collection cyclone 2
9, 30, and 31 are used to feed the pulverized raw materials to the nozzles 148 and 14
9 as a suction decompression means for introducing the classification area by suction
It can also work. In addition, coarse powder classified at this time
May be returned to the crusher 28, or may be
You may return to the machine 21. Reduce the load on the first classifier 22
Then, in order to perform the pulverization by the pulverizer
Is more preferably returned directly to the crusher 28. In the present invention, the flowchart of FIG.
The first classifying step and pulverizing step shown are limited to the examples described above.
It is not specified, for example,
And two first classifiers, or a crusher and a first classifier
There may be more than one step each. In what combination
Whether the pulverizing step is formed or not depends on the desired particle size and the structure of the toner particles.
What is necessary is just to set suitably according to a component material. In this case,
Also set where the coarse powder is to be returned to
Just do it. Furthermore, a multi-divider classifier as a second classifier is also available.
It is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG.
Particle size of powder raw material introduced into multi-segmentation classifier
Select the optimal shape according to the powder and the true specific gravity of the powder.
Just use it. In the present invention, introduced into the first classification means
The particle size of the powder raw material composed of the coarsely pulverized material
Preferably, it is 1 mm or less. Medium grinding of raw materials
What was introduced into the process and crushed to about 10 to 100 μm
It may be used as a raw material in the present invention. Fine particles as shown in the flowchart of FIG.
Using a classifier for the purpose of removing only child groups as the second classifier
In the conventional pulverization-classification method, the particle size of
In the above, the coarse particle group with a specified particle size or more is completely removed.
Was required. Therefore, in the grinding process
Requires more grinding power than necessary.
And reduced the grinding efficiency. This phenomenon
Becomes more remarkable as the particle size of the powder becomes smaller.
Efficiency decrease when medium powder with average particle size of 3 to 10 μm is obtained
Was remarkable. On the other hand, the toner production method of the present invention
Uses multi-segment classification means in the second classification step,
Coarse particle group larger than specified particle size and smaller than specified particle size
To the second classification process to remove the fine powder particles at the same time.
In the particle size of the incoming powder raw material, a certain specified particle size
Even if a certain percentage of coarse particles
Since it is satisfactorily removed by the multi-division classification means in the classification process, the second
Less restrictions in the pulverization process, which is the previous stage of the classification process
Crushing to maximize the capacity of the crusher
Efficiency is good and there is little tendency to cause overmilling.
Therefore, it is very efficient to remove fine powder.
And the classification yield can be improved satisfactorily. In addition, for the purpose of classifying into medium powder and fine powder,
With the conventional classification method, since the residence time during classification is long,
Agglomerates of ultra-fine particles that cause image fogging are likely to occur.
When aggregates are formed, the aggregates are removed from the medium powder.
It was generally difficult to do. In contrast, the present invention
According to the method of producing the powder, the aggregate is a raw material to be classified.
Even if mixed in the raw material, the Coanda effect of the multi-divider classifier
Agglomerates are crushed by fruits and / or impact of high-speed movement
Agglomeration that escaped crushing while being removed as fine powder
Even if there is a substance, it can be classified and removed to the coarse powder area.
It is possible to remove aggregates efficiently
You. The toner manufacturing method of the present invention produces an electrostatic image.
Preferably used to generate toner particles used for imaging
You can do it. To make toner for electrostatic image development
Is a mixture containing at least a binder resin and a colorant.
Used as a material, but if necessary, magnetic
Powders, charge control agents, and other additives are used.
As the binder resin, vinyl-based and non-vinyl-based heat
A plastic resin is preferably used. Use these materials
Mix well with a mixer such as a well mixer or a ball mill.
Roll, kneader and extruder after joining
Melting, kneading and kneading using a hot kneader such as
The pigment or dye is dispersed or dissolved in
After dissolving, cooling and solidifying, pulverize and classify to remove toner
In the present invention, the pulverizing step
In the classification process, the device system having the above-described configuration is used.
Used. Hereinafter, the constituent materials of the toner will be described.
You. Oil binder is used as the binder resin used for toner.
And pressure fixing device or heating and pressure roller
-When using a fixing device, use the following binder resin for toner.
Can be used. For example, polystyrene, poly-p
-Styrene such as chlorostyrene and polyvinyl toluene
And its substituted homopolymer; styrene-p-chlorostyrene
Copolymer, styrene-vinyltoluene copolymer, styrene
Len-vinyl naphthalene copolymer, styrene-acryl
Acid ester copolymer, styrene-methacrylic acid ester
Copolymer, styrene-α-chloromethacrylic copolymer,
Styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer, styrene-vinyl
Methyl ether copolymer, styrene-vinyl ethyl ether
-Tel copolymer, styrene-vinyl methyl ketone copolymer
Body, styrene-butadiene copolymer, styrene-isop
Len copolymer, styrene-acrylonitrile-indene
Styrene-based copolymers such as copolymers;
Enol resin, natural resin modified phenolic resin, natural resin
Modified maleic acid resin, acrylic resin, methacrylic resin,
Polyvinyl acetate, silicone resin, polyester tree
Fat, polyurethane resin, polyamide resin, furan resin,
Epoxy resin, xylene resin, polyvinyl butyral,
Terpene resin, coumaroindene resin, petroleum resin, etc.
I can do it. Apply little or no oil
No heat and pressure fixing method, or heat and pressure roller fixing method
In, a part of the toner image on the toner image support member is
So-called offset phenomenon transferred to the roller and toner image
An important issue is the adhesion of the toner to the support member.
Toner that fixes with less heat energy is usually stored
Blocking or caking in or inside the developing unit
These problems must be taken into account at the same time because
I have to. These phenomena include the binder resin in the toner.
The physical properties of
According to the reduction of the magnetic material content in the toner, the fixing
Sometimes the adhesion of the toner to the toner image support is improved
However, offset tends to occur, and
Or caking tends to occur. Therefore, the oil
When using a heating and pressing roller fixing method that hardly applies
It is more important to select a binder resin. Preferred binding tree
As the fat, for example, a crosslinked styrene-based copolymer
Or a crosslinked polyester. Styrene monomer of styrene copolymer
Examples of the comonomer include acrylic acid and acrylic acid.
Methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, butyl acrylate,
Dodecyl acrylate, octyl acrylate, acrylic acid
-2-ethylhexyl, phenyl acrylate, methacrylic
Phosphoric acid, methyl methacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, meth
Butyl acrylate, octyl methacrylate, acrylonitrile
Double like ril, methacrylonitrile, acrylamide etc.
Monocarboxylic acid having a bond or a substitute thereof;
For example, maleic acid, butyl maleate, methyl maleate
Having a double bond such as dimethyl, maleic acid, etc.
Rubonic acid and its substitutes; for example, vinyl chloride, vinyl acetate
Vinyl esters such as nil, vinyl benzoate, etc .;
Such as vinyl methyl ketone, vinyl hexyl ketone, etc.
Vinyl ketones; for example, vinyl methyl ether,
Nyl ethyl ether, vinyl isobutyl ether, etc.
Vinyl ethers; such as vinyl monomers alone or
Two or more are used. Here, as the crosslinking agent, two or more
Compounds having a polymerizable double bond are used, for example,
Such as divinylbenzene, divinylnaphthalene, etc.
Aromatic divinyl compounds; for example, ethylene glycol dia
Acrylate, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate,
Double such as 1,3-butanediol dimethacrylate
Carboxylic acid ester having two bonds; for example, divinyl
Luaniline, divinyl ether, divinyl sulfide,
Divinyl compounds such as divinyl sulfone; and three or more
Compounds having vinyl group; etc. alone or as a mixture
Used. Further, a pressure fixing method or a light heating pressure fixing method
When using a binder, use of a binder resin for pressure fixing toner
Possible, for example, polyethylene, polypropylene,
Polymethylene, polyurethane elastomer, ethylene-
Ethyl acrylate copolymer, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer
Polymer, ionomer resin, styrene-butadiene copolymer
Coal, styrene-isoprene copolymer, linear saturated polyether
Stele, paraffin and the like. In the toner, a charge control agent is added to the toner particles.
It is preferable to use it by blending (internal addition). For charge control agent
Therefore, the optimal charge control according to the development system
Especially in the present invention.
It is possible to make the balance of electricity more stable
Yes, by using a charge control agent
Functional separation and mutual capture for high image quality by diameter range
Can be made clearer. As a positive charge control agent
Is, for example, denaturation with nigrosine and fatty acid metal salts, etc.
Substance: tributylbenzylammonium-1-hydroxy
-4-Naphthosulfonate, tetrabutylammonium
Quaternary ammonium salts such as mutetrafluoroborate; etc.
Can be used alone or in combination of two or more.
come. Among them, nigrosine compounds and quaternary
A charge control agent such as an ammonium salt is particularly preferably used.
Can be Further, a monomer represented by the following general formula (1)
Polymer, or styrene or acrylic acid as described above
And polymerizable monomers such as methacrylates
Can be used as a positive charge control agent,
In this case, these charge control agents may be all or
Partly). Formula (1) R₁: H, CH_Three, R_Two, R_Three: A substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group (preferably C
₁~ C_Four), As the negative charge control agent, for example, organic gold
Group complexes and chelate compounds are effective.
Luminium acetylacetonate, iron (II) acetyla
Sementato, 3,5-ditert-butylsalicylic acid
Chromium or zinc, especially acetylacetone metal complex
Is preferred, salicylic acid-based metal complex or a salt thereof is preferred, particularly
Salicylic acid-based metal complexes or salicylic acid-based metal salts are preferred.
No. The charge control agent described above (has an action as a binder resin
Is not preferably used as fine particles.
In this case, the number average particle diameter of the charge control agent is specifically,
Is preferably 4 μm or less (more preferably 3 μm or less). toner
When the charge control agent is internally added to the binder resin 100,
0.1 to 20 parts by weight relative to parts by weight (further 0.2 to 1 part by weight)
0 parts by weight). When the toner is a magnetic toner, the magnetic toner
Examples of the magnetic material contained therein include magnetite
G, iron oxide, ferrite, iron-rich ferrite, etc.
Iron oxide; metals such as iron, cobalt, nickel or this
Metal, aluminum, cobalt, copper, lead, magnesium
Um, tin, zinc, antimony, beryllium, bismuth
, Cadmium, calcium, manganese, selenium, tita
Alloys with metals such as tungsten, tungsten, and vanadium;
And mixtures thereof. These ferromagnets have an average
Particle size is 0.1-1 μm, preferably 0.1-0.5 μm
Is desirable, and the amount contained in the magnetic toner
60 to 110 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the resin component
Parts, preferably 65-10 based on 100 parts by weight of the resin component.
0 parts by weight. As the colorant used in the toner,
More known dyes and / or pigments can be used
You. For example, carbon black, phthalocyanine bull
ー, Peacock Blue, Permanent Red, Rakere
Pad, rhodamine rake, Hanser yellow, permane
And benzidine yellow. So
Is 0.1 to 100 parts of the binder resin.
20 parts by weight, preferably 0.5 to 20 parts by weight, and
-To improve the transparency of the OHP film with the fixed image
Is preferably 12 parts by weight or less, more preferably 0.5 to
9 parts by weight is good. As described above, according to the present invention,
Sharp from toner raw material with weight average particle size of 10 μm or less
It is possible to obtain a toner having a fine particle size distribution.
From toner raw materials with a weight average particle size of 8 μm or less
A toner having an appropriate particle size distribution can be obtained. [0080] The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the following examples.
explain.Example 1 ・ Styrene-butyl acrylate-divinylbenzene copolymer (monomer polymerization   Weight ratio: 80.0 / 19.0 / 1.0, weight average molecular weight = 350,000) 100 parts by weight ・ 100 parts by weight of magnetic iron oxide (average particle size 0.18 μm) ・ Nigrosine 2 parts by weight ・ 4 parts by weight of low molecular weight ethylene-propylene copolymer The ingredients of the above formulation were mixed with a Henschel mixer (FM-75).
Mold, manufactured by Mitsui Miike Kakoki Co., Ltd.)
Twin screw kneader set at 150 ° C (PCM-30, Ikegai
(Made by Tekko Co., Ltd.). Cool the obtained kneaded material
And coarsely pulverized with a hammer mill to 1 mm or less.
A coarsely pulverized product, which is a powder material for manufacturing, was obtained. The obtained toner raw material was transferred to the apparatus system shown in FIG.
The pulverization and classification were performed with a tem. Collision type air flow crusher 2
8 uses the apparatus having the configuration shown in FIG.
Of the accelerating tube in the major axis direction (hereinafter referred to as the accelerating tube inclination)
Is about 0 ° (ie, set substantially vertically),
The material 51 shown in FIG. 7 was used. This collision member 51
Is α = 55 °, β = 10 °, outer diameter (diameter) 100 mm
And perpendicular to the center axis of the accelerating tube shown in FIG.
The crossing surface of the accelerating tube outlet 50 and the collision member 5 opposed thereto
1 is the shortest distance L between the outermost end 61 of the collision surface 52_TwoIs
50 mm, and the shape of the crushing chamber 53 is 150 mm in inner diameter.
Was used. Therefore, the shortest distance with the side wall 54
Distance L₁Is 25 mm. The first classifier 22 is shown in FIG.
A classifier having the configuration shown was used. Classification rotor 124 diameter
Is 200 mm and the number of revolutions of the classifying rotor is 3000
Driving at rpm. In the present embodiment, the third classifying means 1
Air flowing through the classification louver 11
The powder particles are swirled and flowed to produce ultra-fine powder and fine powder.
An air-flow classifier for centrifuging the mixture was used. The air flow type
The classifier collects the fine powder discharge chute 9 shown in FIG.
And the coarse powder discharge hopper 10
Particles discharged through the coarse powder discharge hopper 10
It was used by being connected so as to be introduced into the first classifier 22. In the present embodiment, first, the first constant
The amount of powdered raw material consisting of coarsely pulverized material is
at the rate of kg / h to the injection feeder 35
14 through a supply pipe 125.
It was supplied to an airflow classifier 22 and classified. By the classifier
The classified first coarse powder passes through the coarse powder discharge hopper 132.
And introduced into the impingement type airflow pulverizer 28 having the configuration shown in FIG.
Was. The material supplied from the material supply pipe 41 of the crusher 28
First, the first coarse powder was subjected to a pressure of 6.0 kg / cm.^Two(G),
6.0Nm^Three/ Min compressed air using compressed air
The obtained finely pulverized product is shown in FIG.
Introduced into the airflow classifier 1 having the configuration, the second fine powder and the second coarse powder
Classify into The second fine powder (ultra fine) classified by the airflow classifier 1
(Powder) is collected by the collection cyclone 2 and removed. one
On the other hand, it is classified and discharged through the coarse powder discharging hopper 10
The fine powder that is the second coarse powder from which the ultrafine powder has been removed
Mixed with the toner powder raw material supplied at the
While reintroducing it into the airflow classifier 22 and recirculating it.
Closed circuit grinding was performed. FIG. 14 shows the first classifying means.
The first fine powder classified by the airflow classifier 22 as shown in FIG.
Cyclone accompanied by suction air from fan 131
Collected at the second feeder 23 and introduced into the second metering machine 24.
You. At this time, the first fine powder had a weight average particle size of 7.1 μm.
m and large particles of 12.7 μm or more
It had a sharp particle size distribution that was not included. In this embodiment, the first classifying means is used.
The first fine powder classified by the rotary air classifier 22 is subjected to the second
Into the feeder 24, the vibrating feeder 25, and the
At a rate of 33.0 kg / h via 148 and 149
It was introduced into the multi-segmentation classifier 27 having the configuration shown in FIG. The classifier
27, the coarse powder, the medium powder and the
And fine powder. Multi-division classifier 27
Outlets 158, 159 and 160
Of the collecting cyclones 29, 30 and 31 communicating with the
Suction power and raw material supply derived from reduced pressure in the system
Injection feeder 3 attached to nozzle 148
Compressed air from 2 was utilized. The fine powder introduced is 0.
In less than 1 second instantly, three types of coarse powder, medium powder and fine powder
Classified. Coarse powder of the classified material
After being collected by Clon 29, the air-flow-type pulverizer described above
28 again. The obtained intermediate powder had a weight average particle size of 6.9.
μm, containing 25% by number of particles having a particle size of 4.0 μm or less.
Containing 1.3% by volume of particles having a particle size of 10.08 μm or more.
It has a sharp particle size distribution
It had excellent performance as a grade. At this time,
Of finally obtained medium powder with respect to the total amount of powdered raw material
(That is, the classification yield) was 80%. Also get
When the fine powder was observed with an electron microscope,
Aggregates of 4 μm or more collected were virtually not found
Was. The particle size distribution of the toner is measured by various methods.
In the present invention, the following measuring device can be used.
went. That is, as a measuring device, Coulter counter
-TA-II type or Coulter Multisizer II (Izu
(Also manufactured by Coulter). First-class electrolyte solution
Prepare about 1% NaCl aqueous solution using sodium chloride
For example, ISOTON R-II (Coulter)
-Scientific Japan)
Can be done. As a measuring method, the electrolyte solution 100 to
In 150 ml of a surfactant as a dispersant, preferably
0.1 to 5 ml of alkylbenzene sulfonate is added and
Add 2 to 20 mg of the measurement sample. Electrolysis with suspended sample
The liquid solution is subjected to dispersion treatment for about 1 to 3 minutes with an ultrasonic disperser,
The measurement device uses a 100 μm aperture as an aperture.
Measure the volume and number of toner using a aperture
The distribution and number distribution were calculated. Then, according to the present invention
The weight-based weight average particle size obtained from the volume distribution is
I asked. [0087]Example 2 A similar apparatus system was prepared using the same toner raw materials as in Example 1.
And pulverized and classified. That is, collision type air current pulverization
The machine having the configuration shown in FIG.
The pulverization was performed under the apparatus conditions. Multi-segmentation which is the second classification means
A class machine having the same configuration as that of the first embodiment shown in FIG.
Was. The first classifying means is shown in FIG.
Rotation classifier was used, but the rotation of the classification rotor
The number was 3400 rpm. In this embodiment,
The above-described apparatus system is used at a powder material rate of 24.0 kg / h.
At the first and third classification steps and the pulverization step.
A first fine powder having a weight average particle size of 6.4 μm was obtained,
16 at a rate of 28.0 kg / h via the feeder 24.
Was introduced into the three-divider classifier shown in (1). As a result, the weight average
32 particles having a particle diameter of 6.1 μm and a particle diameter of 4.0 μm or less
Particles containing several% and having a particle size of 10.08 μm or more
Medium powder with sharp particle size distribution containing 0.5% by volume
The product was obtained with a classification yield of 72%. [0088]Example 3 A similar apparatus system was prepared using the same toner raw materials as in Example 1.
And pulverized and classified. That is, collision type air current pulverization
The machine having the configuration shown in FIG.
The pulverization was performed under the apparatus conditions. Multi-segmentation which is the second classification means
A class machine having the same configuration as that of the first embodiment shown in FIG.
Was. The first classifying means is shown in FIG.
Rotation classifier was used, but the rotation of the classification rotor
The number was 4200 rpm. In this embodiment,
The above-mentioned apparatus system at a rate of 22.0 kg / h of the pulverized raw material
Supply, weight by the first and third classification process and pulverization process
A first fine powder having an average particle size of 5.5 μm was obtained,
15 at a rate of 28.0 kg / h via feeder 24
It was introduced into the indicated three-division classifier. As a result, the weight average grain
15 particles with a diameter of 5.7 μm and a particle diameter of 3.17 μm or less
1.0 particles containing 8.0% or more and containing several%
Classifies medium powder with sharp particle size distribution
Obtained in 75% yield. [0089]Example 4 ・ 100 parts by weight of unsaturated polyester resin -Copper phthalocyanine pigment (C.I. Pigment Blue 15) 4.5 parts by weight ・ Charge control agent (chromium salicylate complex) 4.0 parts by weight The ingredients of the above formulation were mixed with a Henschel mixer (FM-75).
Mold, manufactured by Mitsui Miike Kakoki Co., Ltd.)
Twin screw kneader set at 100 ° C (PCM-30, Ikegai
(Made by Tekko Co., Ltd.). Cool the obtained kneaded material
And coarsely pulverized with a hammer mill to 1 mm or less.
A coarsely pulverized product, which is a powder material for manufacturing, was obtained. Obtained toner
Raw materials are finely pulverized and classified by the equipment system shown in Fig. 3.
Was. In this embodiment, a collision type airflow pulverizer is configured as shown in FIG.
In the multi-segment classifier that is the second classifier,
As in the first embodiment, the one shown in FIG. 16 was used. Also, the first
The classifier is a rotary airflow classifier shown in FIG.
Using a classifier, the diameter of the classification rotor is 200 mm,
Use a motor with a rotation speed of 3500 rpm.
Was. In this embodiment, first, the first constant of the table type
The powder raw material composed of the coarsely pulverized material is
at the rate of kg / h to the injection feeder 35
14 through a supply pipe 125.
Supply to airflow classifier 22 to classify into first coarse powder and first fine powder
did. The first coarse powder classified by the classifier is a coarse powder discharge.
The collision type air having the configuration shown in FIG.
The mixture was introduced into a flow pulverizer 28. The material to be crushed of the crusher 28 is supplied.
The coarse powder supplied from the supply pipe 41 has a pressure of 6.0 kg / cm.
^Two(G), 6.0 Nm^Three/ Min using compressed air
Crushed and then finely pulverized through a powder supply pipe 10.
5 is introduced into the air classifier 1 having the configuration shown in FIG.
Classified into the second fine powder. Classified by airflow classifier 1
2. Ultra fine powder, which is fine powder, is collected by the collection cyclone 2.
Removed. On the other hand, the second coarse powder is supplied at the raw material introduction section.
While being mixed with the toner powder material
The mixture was introduced into the classifier 22 and circulated to perform closed-circuit pulverization.
The first fine powder classified by the airflow classifier 22 is supplied to the exhaust fan 1
Cyclone 23 accompanied by suction air from 31
Collected at. The weight average particle size of the first fine powder at this time
Was 7.0 μm. The obtained first fine powder is supplied to a second metering machine.
24, a vibration feeder 25 and a nozzle 148
15 and at a rate of 30.0 kg / h through FIG.
It was introduced into a multi-segmentation classifier 27 having the configuration. In the classifier 27
Uses the Coanda effect to make coarse, medium and fine powders
Are classified into three types. For introduction into multi-segmentation classifier 27
In communication with outlets 158, 159 and 160
System by suction decompression of collection cyclones 29, 30 and 31
The suction force derived from the decompression inside and the material supply nozzle 148
Compressed air from the installed injection feeder 32
The material to be pulverized was charged using the air. The first fine introduced
Powder can be coarse, medium and fine
Classified into three body types. Of the classified materials, coarse powder
Is the air flow described earlier after being collected by the collection cyclone 29.
It was introduced into the pulverizer 28 and was again introduced into the pulverizing step. The classified medium powder has a weight average particle size of 6.
8 μm, and particle size of 4.0 μm or less is 27% by number of particles.
1.4% by volume of particles having a particle size of 10.08 μm or more
It has a sharp particle size distribution that contains
It had excellent performance as a classified product. At this time,
Of the finally obtained medium powder with respect to the total
The quantity ratio (ie, the classification yield) was 75%. [0093]Example 5 The same device system as that of Example 4 was manufactured using the same toner raw material.
And pulverized and classified. That is, collision type air current pulverization
The machine shown in FIG. 6 is used as a second classifier.
A multi-divider having the configuration shown in FIG. 16 was used.
The first classifying means is shown in FIG.
The rotary airflow classifier with the configuration was used.
The number of turns was 3900 rpm. In this embodiment
Is the above-mentioned equipment system at a rate of 26.0 kg / h of powder raw material.
To the system, and perform the first and third classification and pulverization processes.
To obtain a first fine powder having a weight average particle size of 6.3 μm.
30.0 kg / h of the flour via the second metering machine 24
As a result of the introduction into the three-divider classifier shown in FIG.
Particles having an average particle diameter of 6.4 μm and a particle diameter of 4.0 μm or less
Containing 24% by number and having a particle size of 10.08 μm or more
Has a sharp particle size distribution containing 1.0% by volume of particles
An intermediate powder was obtained with a classification yield of 76%. [0094]Comparative Example 1 A material having the same formulation as in Examples 1 to 3 was prepared using a Henschel mixer.
-(FM-75, manufactured by Mitsui Miike Kakoki Co., Ltd.)
After mixing, a twin-screw kneader (PCM) set to a temperature of 150 ° C.
-30 type, manufactured by Ikegai Iron Works Co., Ltd.). Got
Cool the kneaded material and roughly pulverize it to 1 mm or less with a hammer mill.
Thus, a coarsely pulverized product for toner production was obtained. Like the above
The obtained toner powder raw material is finely divided by the apparatus system shown in FIG.
Pulverization and classification were performed. However, the collision type air crusher
Using the pulverizer shown in FIG.
Centrifuged by the centrifugal force acting on the particles of the composition
A class machine was used. Also, in the second classification step, the multi-division shown in FIG.
A classifier was used. In the classifier shown in FIG.
Shows a cylindrical main body casing, 202 is a lower casing
And a hopper 203 for discharging coarse powder is connected to the lower part
Have been. The inside of the main casing 201 is a classification room 2
04 is formed in the upper part of the classifying chamber 204.
An annular guide chamber 205 attached and a conical shape with a high center
It is closed by an (umbrella-shaped) upper cover 206. A partition wall between the classification room 204 and the guide room 205
Has a plurality of louvers 207 arranged in the circumferential direction.
And the powder material and air sent into the guide chamber 205
To the classifying chamber 204 from between the louvers 207
Let it flow in. The upper part of the guide chamber 205 has a conical upper part.
Empty space between the casing 213 and the conical top cover 206
Consisting of The lower part of the main body casing 201 has a circumferential direction.
Classification louvers 209 arranged in the
Classifying air that causes swirling flow to classroom 204
209. The bottom of the classification room 204
In addition, a conical (umbrella-shaped) classifying plate 210 whose central portion is high
The coarse powder is discharged around the classifying plate 210.
A mouth 211 is formed. Also, the central part of the classification plate 210
Is connected to a fine powder discharge chute 212,
12 is bent in an L-shape, and this bent end is
So that it is located outside the side wall of the lower casing 202
I do. Further, the chute 212 is a cyclone or a dust collector.
Connected to a suction fan via fine powder collecting means such as
And a suction force is applied to the classification chamber 204 by the suction fan.
And flow into the classifying chamber 204 from between the classifying louvers 209.
Swirling flow required for classification
You. In this comparative example, the above structure was used as the primary classifying means.
Using an air flow classifier made of steel
In the inner chamber 205, a coarsely pulverized material which is a powder raw material for toner production
When the air containing
Is passed from the guide room 205 to each louver 207
While turning into the classroom 204 while being dispersed at a uniform concentration
Inflow. Coarse powder that swirled into the classification chamber 204
The crushed material is a suction fan connected to the fine powder discharge chute 212.
Between the classification louvers 209 at the bottom of the classification room created by
The swirling is increased by the suction air flow that flows in
It is centrifuged into coarse powder and fine powder by the acting centrifugal force.
You. Then, the coarse powder swirling around the outer periphery in the classification chamber 204 is
It is discharged from the coarse powder discharge port 211, and the lower hopper 203
From the center along the upper inclined surface of the classification plate 210
The fine powder moving to the section is discharged by the fine powder discharge chute 212.
Is discharged. In this comparative example, the first fixed-rate supply of the table type
13.0 kg / powder material composed of coarsely pulverized material
h, supplied by the injection feeder 35
15 via line 208 to the airflow classifier shown in FIG.
The particles were classified by centrifugation by the centrifugal force acting on the particles. Minute
The graded coarse powder passes through a coarse powder discharge hopper 203 as shown in FIG.
8 to the pulverized material supply port 165 of the impingement type air flow pulverizer shown in FIG.
Introduced into the mill. The coarse powder has a pressure of 6.0 kg / c.
m^Two(G), 6.0 Nm^Three/ Min.
After pulverizing with a pulverizer, the pulverized material is supplied to the raw material introduction section.
While mixing with the supplied toner grinding raw material,
Circulating through the airflow classifier shown in Fig.
Was done. On the other hand, the first fine powder classified by the air classifier
Is entrained by the suction air from the exhaust fan
Collected by Clon 23. In addition, the weight average of the fine powder at this time
The particle size was 7.1 μm. The obtained fine powder is passed through the second quantitative feeder 24.
Via the vibration feeder 25 and the nozzles 148 and 1
The Coanda effect at a rate of 15.0 kg / h via 49
Use to classify into coarse powder, medium powder and fine powder
Then, it was introduced into a multi-segmentation classifier 27 shown in FIG. For introduction
Communication with outlets 158, 159 and 160
By suction and decompression of the collecting cyclones 29, 30 and 31
The suction force derived from the reduced pressure in the system was used. as a result,
Particles having a weight average particle diameter of 6.9 μm and a particle diameter of 4.0 μm or less
And 27% by number of particles having a particle size of 10.08 μm or more.
Classified product with a particle size distribution containing 1.5% by volume
Obtained at a rate of 71%. In this manner, the processing is smaller than in the first to third embodiments.
Both physical efficiency and classification efficiency were inferior. [0101]Comparative Example 2 FIG. 4 shows the same toner raw materials as in Examples 1 to 3.
Pulverization and classification were performed in the equipment system. Impact airflow
The conventional crusher shown in FIG.
As in the case of the first to third embodiments, the classifying means includes a circuit having the configuration shown in FIG.
A rotary airflow classifier was used. However, the classification rotor of the classifier
The classification was performed at a rotation speed of 4500 rpm. or,
The second classification means was the same as in Comparative Example 1. As a result, the powder
When body material was supplied at a rate of 10.0 kg / h,
A fine powder having an amount average particle size of 6.3 μm was obtained. Next, the obtained fine
FIG. 1 shows a second classifying means for powder at a rate of 12.0 kg / h.
Introduced into a multi-segment classifier with the configuration shown in Fig. 6 to perform classification.
Was. As a result, the weight average particle diameter was 6.1 μm and the particle diameter was 4.0.
It contains 33% by number of particles having a particle size of μm or less and has a particle size of 10.08 μm.
powder containing 0.5% by volume of particles of m or more
The product was obtained with a classification yield of 67%. Thus, in Examples 1-3
In comparison, both the processing efficiency and the classification yield were inferior. [0102]Comparative Example 3 A material having the same formulation as in Examples 4 and 5 was prepared using Henschel Miki.
Sir (FM-75, manufactured by Mitsui Miike Kakoki Co., Ltd.)
After mixing, a twin-screw kneader (PC
M-30, manufactured by Ikegai Iron Works Co., Ltd.). Obtained
The kneaded material is cooled and coarse powder is reduced to 1 mm or less with a hammer mill.
To obtain a coarsely pulverized product which is a powder raw material for toner production.
The obtained toner raw material is finely powdered by the apparatus system shown in FIG.
Crushing and classification were performed. However, Fig. 1
Using a crusher with the configuration shown in Fig. 8, the primary classifier is
An airflow classifier having a configuration of 15 was used. Also, the second classification means
Was the same as Comparative Example 1. Table-type first fixed-rate supply
Powder material at a rate of 12.0 kg / h with a machine 21
Via the supply pipe 208 in the injection feeder 35
It supplied to the airflow classifier shown in FIG. 15 and performed classification. Minute
The graded coarse powder passes through the coarse powder discharge hopper 203,
The supply port 165 of the object to be crushed of the impingement type air current crusher shown in FIG.
And pressure 6.0 kg / cm^Two(G), 6.0
Nm^Three/ Min using compressed air at / min.
Mixed with the toner pulverized raw material supplied at the raw material introduction section
While being introduced into the airflow classifier again, circulated and closed
Road crushing was performed. Classification by the airflow classifier shown in FIG.
The classified fine powder is entrained by the suction air from the exhaust fan.
While being collected by the cyclone 23, the second metering machine
24. The weight average particle size of the fine powder at this time is
It was 7.0 μm. The obtained fine powder is supplied to the second
Via the vibration feeder 25 and the nozzles 148 and 1
Coanda effect at a rate of 14.0 kg / h through 49
Use to classify into coarse powder, medium powder and fine powder
Next, a multi-segment classifier 27 shown in FIG.
Was introduced. At the time of introduction, outlets 158, 159 and
Collection cyclones 29, 30 and 3 communicating with 160
1. Use the suction force derived from the reduced pressure in the system
Used. As a result, the weight average particle diameter is 6.5 μm.
It contains 28% by number of particles having a particle size of 4.0 μm or less, and has a particle size of 10.
Of a particle size distribution containing 1.6 vol.
A medium powder was obtained with a classification yield of 66%. As described above, in the fourth embodiment and the fourth embodiment,
5 and 5 were inferior in both processing efficiency and classification efficiency. Table 1: Method of producing toners of Examples and Comparative Examples
Configuration[0105] According to the present invention, there is provided a method for producing a toner.
And toner with a sharp particle size distribution
High processing efficiency and high classification yield.
, Agglomeration and coarseness of toner in the classification and pulverization process
The occurrence of granulation is effectively prevented and the toner component
As a result, the high-quality toner
Subsequently, it can be manufactured stably. Also, according to the present invention,
If it is used for image formation,
Highly durable, stable and high density fog and cleaning
Obtaining excellent images without image defects such as defects
Electrostatic charge image of small particle size with possible sharp particle size distribution
An image toner can be obtained at low cost. In particular, according to the invention
For example, a toner raw material having a weight average particle size of 10 μm or less
Toner with a sharp particle size distribution.
And a toner material having a weight average particle size of 8 μm or less.
Effective toner for developing electrostatic images with a sharp particle size distribution
It can be manufactured efficiently.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a flowchart for explaining a manufacturing method of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of an apparatus system for performing the toner manufacturing method of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of an apparatus system for performing the toner manufacturing method of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing a specific example of an apparatus system for performing a manufacturing method of a comparative example of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic sectional view of an airflow classifier used in a third classification step in the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a pulverizing apparatus which is a specific example of an impingement type air current pulverizing means. FIG. 7 is a view showing an example of a collision member in the crushing device. FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a grinding chamber in FIG. FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along the line AA ′ in FIG. 6; FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken along the line BB ′ in FIG. 6; FIG. 11 is a sectional view taken along the line CC ′ in FIG. 6; FIG. 12 is a sectional view taken along the line DD ′ in FIG. 6; FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a pulverizing apparatus which is another specific example of the impingement-type airflow fine pulverizing means. FIG. 14 is a schematic sectional view of an example of a rotary airflow classifier used for the first classifying means. FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example of a classifier used for a first classifier of a comparative example. FIG. 16 is a schematic sectional view of an example of a multi-segment classifier used for a second classifier. FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining a conventional manufacturing method. FIG. 18 is a schematic sectional view of a conventional collision-type airflow pulverizer. [Description of Signs] 1: Third classifiers 2, 23, 29, 30, 31: Collection cyclone 3: First fine pulverization discharge pipe 4: Second coarse powder discharge pipe 5: Second fine powder discharge pipe 6: Super Fine powder 7: Classification room 8: Classification plate 9: Fine powder discharge chute 10: Coarse powder discharge hopper 11: Classification louver 12: Secondary air 14: Main body casing 15: Raw material straightening plate 16: Fine pulverized material inlet 17: Guide Chamber 18: Lower casing 19: Coarse powder discharge port 21: First quantitative feeder 22: First classifier 24: Second quantitative feeder 25: Vibration feeder 27: Multi-divider classifier 28: Air flow type fine pulverizer 32, 35 : Injection feeder 40: High-pressure gas injection nozzle 41: Pulverized object supply pipe 42: Pulverized object 43, 162: Acceleration tube 44: Acceleration tube throat part 45: High-pressure gas injection nozzle 46, 101: Pulverized object supply port 47, 102: High pressure gas supply Ports 48, 103: High-pressure gas chamber 49, 92: High-pressure gas introduction pipe 50, 163: Acceleration pipe outlet 51, 164: Collision member 52, 52 ', 166: Collision surface 53, 168: Pulverization chamber 54: Pulverization chamber side wall 55 167: crushed material discharge port 61: collision member edge 62: crushing chamber front wall 91: crushing member support 121, 201: main casing 122: classification chamber 123: guide chamber 124: classification rotor 125: raw material input port 126 : Air inlet 128: Frequency converter 129: Fine powder discharge pipe 130, 134: Fine powder collecting means 131: Suction fan 132: Hopper 133: Rotary valve 135: Dispersion louvers 141, 142: Classification chamber side walls 143, 144: Classification chamber Lower wall 145: Coanda block 146, 147: Classification edge 148, 149: Raw material supply pipe 150: Classification room upper wall 15 1: Inlet edges 152, 153: Inlet pipes 154, 155: Gas introduction adjusting means 156, 157: Static pressure gauge 158, 159, 160: Outlet 161: High pressure gas supply nozzle 165: Powder raw material supply port 168: Grinding chamber 201: body casing 202: lower casing 203: hopper 204: classification chamber 205: guide chamber 206: upper cover 207: louver 208: supply cylinder 209: classification louver 210: classification plate 211: coarse powder discharge port 212: fine powder discharge chute 213 : Upper casing

Continuation of front page (56) References JP-A-7-92735 (JP, A) JP-A-7-56388 (JP, A) JP-A-6-230606 (JP, A) JP-A-6-295098 (JP) , A) JP-A-8-131870 (JP, A) (58) Fields investigated (Int. Cl. ⁷ , DB name) B02C 19/06 G03G 9/08

Claims (1)

(57) [Claim 1] A mixture containing at least a binder resin and a colorant is melt-kneaded, and after cooling the obtained kneaded product,
A powdered raw material comprising a coarsely pulverized product obtained by pulverizing the cooled product by a pulverizing means is first introduced into a first classification step to classify into a first fine powder and a first coarse powder, and then classified. First fine powder
Particles having a specified particle size after being introduced and classified in the second classification step
The group is used as a classified product for producing a toner, and the first coarse powder classified in the first classifying step is used as a material to be crushed. A crushing chamber for finely crushing, wherein the crushing chamber is provided with a collision member having a collision surface provided opposite to the opening surface of the outlet of the acceleration tube, and the crushed object is provided in the throat portion of the acceleration tube. Has a shape comprising a projecting central portion having a protruding center and a cone-shaped outer peripheral collision surface provided on the outer periphery thereof. Further, in the above-mentioned pulverizing chamber, the object to be pulverized by the collision member is introduced into a collision-type airflow pulverizer having a side wall for further pulverizing by collision, and finely pulverized . Of the classifier used in the classification process
Formed between the classifying chamber and the side wall and the raw material current plate
Flow path is provided, and this flow path is
Pulverization to supply the finely pulverized material to the classifier
The material pulverizing material is directly supplied to the classifier
The collision member and the raw material flow regulating plate are integrally
And the finely pulverized material passing through the flow path, having a graded classification plate having a raised central portion provided at the bottom of the classification chamber, and a classification louver for causing a swirling flow in the classification chamber, and The second coarse powder and the second fine powder are introduced into a third classifying step using a classifier for classifying the powder by swirling and flowing the powder particles by centrifugal separation by an air flow flowing into the classifying chamber through a classifying louver. And then recirculating the mixed second coarse powder into the above-mentioned powder raw material, re-introducing it into the first classification step, and circulating.