JP5683999B2 - Wet classifier - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a wet classifier for classifying powder mixed in a liquid.

  As a wet classifier, a container for classification, and an upper rectification unit and a lower rectification unit provided in the container, the upper rectification unit and the lower rectification unit, the lower liquid medium unit in the container from the bottom in order, What was prescribed | regulated to the intermediate | middle liquid medium part and the upper liquid medium part is known (for example, refer patent document 1).

  In this wet classifier, a powder supply unit is connected to the lower liquid medium part, a powder recovery unit is connected to the upper liquid medium part, and stirring means for mixing the powder into the liquid in the intermediate liquid medium part Is arranged. The powder to be classified is supplied to the lower liquid medium part, and is classified by using the rise of the supplied powder in the liquid. That is, the one with a higher specific gravity compared to the liquid sinks downward, while the one with a lower specific gravity compared to the liquid floats upward, and the one with a smaller volume tends to sink due to low buoyancy. On the other hand, those with a large volume tend to float due to their large buoyancy, and this is used to classify the powder, and the powder rising to the upper liquid medium part through the lower rectification part and the upper rectification part is powdered. It is collected in the body recovery unit.

JP 2009-101212 A

  However, in the above-described wet classifier, classification is performed by using the rise of powder in the mixed liquid, so that there is a problem that the efficiency of classification is very poor. In addition, for example, there is a problem that it cannot be applied to classification of particles having a specific gravity larger than that of a liquid, and is difficult to apply to classification of fine powder having a diameter of about 5 to 20 μm.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a wet classifier capable of efficiently classifying powder mixed in a liquid.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a wet classifier that can be conveniently applied to classify fine powders of about 1 to 20 μm.

The wet classification apparatus according to claim 1 of the present invention is a wet type equipped with a classification tank for classifying powder in a liquid and a collection tank for recovering the powder classified in the classification tank. In the classification device,
The classification tank uses ultrasonic waves for the classification tank body in which the mixed liquid mixed with the powder is stored, the filter unit disposed in the classification tank body, and the mixed liquid in the classification tank body. Ultrasonic generating means for agitating and spraying means for spraying the mixed liquid toward the filter unit,
The filter unit has a unit housing defining a suction space, and filter means disposed on the suction side of the unit housing ,
The classification tank is provided with a circulation line for circulating the mixed liquid. One end of the circulation line communicates with the bottom of the classification tank main body, and the first and second circulation branch lines are provided at the other end. The first circulation branch line extends to the filter means of the filter unit and is opposed to the filter means so as to function as the spraying means, and the second circulation branch line is the filter means. The mixed liquid in the classification tank extends to the upper wall of the unit housing of the unit, and is sprayed toward the filter means through the first circulation branch line and to the upper wall of the unit housing through the second circulation branch line. Sprayed towards
The recovery tank includes a recovery tank main body for recovering the classified mixed liquid containing the classified powder, and a decompression means for decompressing the inside of the recovery tank main body, and the inside of the recovery tank main body is the filter unit. Is connected to the suction space via a recovery line,
The powder contained in the mixed liquid in the classification tank is classified by the filter means of the filter unit, and the classified mixed liquid containing the classified powder passes through the suction space and the recovery line of the filter unit. It is collected in the collection tank body.

The wet classification apparatus according to claim 2 of the present invention includes a classification tank for classifying powder in a liquid, and a collection tank for recovering the powder classified in the classification tank. In the wet classifier
The classification tank uses ultrasonic waves for the classification tank body in which the mixed liquid mixed with the powder is stored, the filter unit disposed in the classification tank body, and the mixed liquid in the classification tank body. Ultrasonic generating means for agitating and spraying means for spraying the mixed liquid toward the filter unit,
The filter unit has a unit housing defining a suction space, and filter means disposed on the suction side of the unit housing,
Furthermore, a mixed liquid supply tank for supplying a mixed liquid to the classification tank is provided, the mixed liquid supply tank and the classification tank are connected via a mixed liquid supply line, and the mixed liquid supply line has a first The first and second supply branch lines are branched and provided, the first supply branch line extends to the filter means of the filter unit and is disposed opposite to the filter means, and functions as the spraying means. The second supply branch line extends to the upper wall of the unit housing of the filter unit, and the mixed liquid from the mixed liquid supply tank is sprayed toward the filter means through the first supply branch line, and the second supply Sprayed through the branch line toward the upper wall of the unit housing,
The recovery tank includes a recovery tank main body for recovering the classified mixed liquid containing the classified powder, and a decompression means for decompressing the inside of the recovery tank main body, and the inside of the recovery tank main body is the filter unit. Is connected to the suction space via a recovery line,
The powder contained in the mixed liquid in the classification tank is classified by the filter means of the filter unit, and the classified mixed liquid containing the classified powder passes through the suction space and the recovery line of the filter unit. It is collected in the collection tank body.

Moreover, in the wet classifier according to claim 3 of the present invention, the spray means has first and second spray ports for spraying the mixed liquid, and the first spray port is the filter. The unit is disposed facing the filter means and sprays the liquid mixture toward the filter means, and the second spray port is disposed facing the bottom wall of the classification tank body and the bottom wall. The liquid mixture is sprayed toward the surface.

Further, in the wet classifier according to claim 4 of the present invention, the spraying part of the spraying means is disposed through the bottom wall of the classification tank body, and the mixed liquid is supplied from the spraying part. It is sprayed toward the filter means of the filter unit.

In the wet classifier according to claim 5 of the present invention, the ultrasonic wave generating means includes a first ultrasonic wave generator that generates an ultrasonic wave having a first frequency, and a first frequency smaller than the first frequency. And a second ultrasonic generator that generates ultrasonic waves having a frequency of two, thereby changing the frequency from the ultrasonic wave generating means to act on the filter means of the filter unit.

Furthermore, in the wet classifier according to claim 6 of the present invention, the ultrasonic wave generating means includes a plurality of ultrasonic wave generators that generate ultrasonic waves, and the number of operations of the plurality of ultrasonic wave generators is controlled. In this manner, the intensity of the ultrasonic wave from the ultrasonic wave generating means is changed to act on the filter means of the filter unit.

According to the wet classification apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention, the classification tank includes the filter unit disposed in the classification tank main body and the ultrasonic wave generation means for generating ultrasonic waves, and the filter unit is sucked into the unit housing. The recovery tank has a recovery tank body for recovering the classified and mixed liquid and a decompression means for decompressing the inside of the recovery tank body, and the recovery tank body has a recovery line. Since the pressure reducing action by the pressure reducing means acts on the suction space of the filter unit via the recovery line, the mixed liquid in the classification tank body is sucked into the suction space through the filter means. When passing through such filter means, the powder in the mixed liquid is classified, and the classified mixed liquid containing the classified powder is recovered in the recovery tank through the recovery line. . Since the classification is performed by using the pressure reducing action of the pressure reducing means, the powder classification efficiency can be increased. Moreover, since the mixed liquid in the classification tank body is agitated by the ultrasonic wave generation means, precipitation of the powder in the mixed liquid is suppressed, and the powder in the mixed liquid is classified as required through the filter means of the filter unit. can do. Further, since the mixed liquid from the spraying means is sprayed on the filter means, the powder adsorbed on the filter means is blown off by the water pressure of the mixed liquid, and thereby clogging of the filter means can be effectively suppressed. .
Further, since the first circulation branch line of the circulation line extends below the filter means of the filter unit and the second circulation branch line extends to the upper wall of the unit housing of the filter unit, the mixing flowing through the first circulation branch line is performed. The liquid is sprayed toward the filter means, the clogging of the filter means is suppressed by the mixed liquid, and the mixed liquid flowing through the second circulation branch line is sprayed toward the upper wall of the unit housing, and the mixed liquid The powder precipitated on the upper wall is stirred and mixed with the mixed liquid in the classification tank, and the powder in the mixed liquid can be classified as required by suppressing the precipitation of the powder on the upper wall of the unit housing. .
Such classification can be conveniently used for classification of a mixed liquid containing fine particles having a particle diameter of about 1 to 20 μm. In addition, as liquid with which powder is mixed, appropriate things, such as water and alcohol (for example, ethyl alcohol), can be used.

According to the wet classifying apparatus of the second aspect of the present invention , the classifying tank includes a filter unit disposed in the classifying tank main body and an ultrasonic wave generating means for generating ultrasonic waves, and the filter unit is a unit housing. The recovery tank has a recovery tank body for recovering the classified mixed liquid and a decompression means for decompressing the inside of the recovery tank, and the recovery tank body is recovered. Since it is communicated with the suction space of the filter unit via the line, the pressure reducing action by the pressure reducing means acts on the suction space of the filter unit via the recovery line, as described above, and the mixed liquid in the classification tank body is When sucked into the suction space through the filter means and passes through the filter means, the powder in the mixed liquid is classified, and the classified mixed liquid containing the classified powder is recovered in the recovery line. It is collected in the collection tank through.
Further, extending the first supply branch lines of the mixed fluid supply line to the lower filter means of the filter unit, because the second supply branch line extends to the upper wall of the unit housing of the filter unit, through the first supply branch line The flowing mixed liquid is sprayed toward the filter means, and the mixed liquid suppresses clogging of the filter means, and the mixed liquid flowing through the second supply branch line is sprayed toward the upper wall of the unit housing. Thus, the powder precipitated on the upper wall is stirred and mixed with the mixed liquid in the classification tank.

Moreover, according to the wet classification apparatus of Claim 3 of this invention, a spraying means is the 1st spraying port arrange | positioned facing the filter means of a filter unit, and the bottom wall of a classification tank main body. Since it has a 2nd spraying port arrange | positioned facing, the liquid mixture from a 1st spraying port is sprayed toward a filter means, and the liquid mixture from a 2nd spraying port is a classification tank main body. The powder sprayed toward the bottom wall and precipitated by the mixed liquid is agitated and mixed with the mixed liquid in the classification tank, and the precipitation of the powder on the bottom wall of the unit housing is suppressed and the mixed liquid is mixed. Can be classified as required.

Moreover, according to the wet classifying apparatus of the fourth aspect of the present invention, since the spraying portion of the spraying means is disposed through the bottom wall of the classification tank body, the mixed liquid is on the bottom wall side. Is sprayed toward the filter means of the filter unit, thereby reducing the distance between the bottom wall of the classification tank body and the filter unit and effectively removing the mixed liquid from the blowing portion of the spray means (that is, the filter unit (i.e. Filter means).

According to the wet classification apparatus of the fifth aspect of the present invention, since the ultrasonic wave generation means includes two types of ultrasonic wave generators, the frequency of the ultrasonic wave generation means is changed to change the filter of the filter unit. Can act on the means. The first ultrasonic generator generates an ultrasonic wave having a first frequency (an ultrasonic wave having a relatively high frequency, for example, about 30 to 100 kHz), and the second ultrasonic generator Since an ultrasonic wave having a second frequency lower than the first frequency (an ultrasonic wave having a relatively low frequency, for example, about 20 to 80 kHz) is generated, the ultrasonic vibration causes the bottom wall of the classification tank body to Precipitation of the powder in the mixed liquid at a specific site is suppressed, and the powder in the mixed liquid can be classified as required.

Furthermore, according to the wet classifier according to claim 6 of the present invention, since the ultrasonic wave generating means includes a plurality of ultrasonic wave generators, the ultrasonic wave generating means can be controlled by controlling the number of operations thereof. The intensity of the ultrasonic wave can be changed, and this ultrasonic wave can be effectively applied to the filter means of the filter unit.

The simplified sectional view showing one embodiment of the wet classification device according to the present invention. Sectional drawing which shows the filter unit in the wet classifier of FIG. The simplification figure which shows the ultrasonic generation means and the structure relevant to this in the wet classifier of FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the classification operation of the wet classifier of FIG. The time chart for demonstrating the action | operation of the ultrasonic wave generation means at the time of classification using the wet classification apparatus of FIG. The time chart for demonstrating the other example of the action | operation of an ultrasonic generation means. The simplification figure which shows other embodiment of a wet classifier. The expanded sectional view which shows the other form of the spraying means in the wet classification apparatus of FIG. Simplified view showing the main part of still another embodiment of the wet classifier FIG. 10 is a simplified cross-sectional view showing an ultrasonic wave generation means and a configuration related thereto in the wet classifier of FIG. 9.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a wet classifier according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In FIG. 1, the illustrated wet classifier includes a mixed liquid supply tank 2 for supplying a mixed liquid in which powder to be classified is mixed, a classification tank 4 for classifying the powder in the mixed liquid, And a recovery tank 6 for recovering the classified mixed liquid containing the powder classified in the classification tank 4.

  The illustrated mixed liquid supply tank 2 includes a supply tank main body 8, and a liquid L (that is, a mixed liquid) containing powder to be classified is accommodated in the supply tank main body 8. The mixed liquid L is generated, for example, by filling the liquid in the supply tank body 8 and then stirring and mixing the powder. Although not shown, stirring means may be provided in the supply tank main body 8, and the mixed liquid L may be mixed by the stirring means.

  The illustrated classification tank 4 includes a classification tank main body 10, and a mixed liquid L in which powder to be classified is mixed is accommodated in the classification tank main body 10. In the classification tank body 10, a filter unit 12 for classifying the powder in the mixed liquid is disposed, and an ultrasonic generation means 14 for generating ultrasonic waves is disposed in association with the classification tank 4. It is installed.

  Referring also to FIG. 2, the filter unit 12 includes a unit housing 18 that defines the suction space 16. The unit housing 18 includes a circular upper wall 20 and a peripheral side wall 22 extending downward from the peripheral edge of the upper wall 20, and the suction space 16 whose lower surface is released by the upper wall 20 and the peripheral side wall 22. Is specified. Filter means 24 for classifying the powder is detachably attached to the lower surface opening of the unit housing 18. The filter means 24 is formed in a plate shape, and has a ring-shaped portion 26 provided on the outer peripheral portion, and a mesh portion 28 radially inside the ring-shaped portion, and the mesh portion 28 has a large number of small classification holes. Is provided. These classification holes may have, for example, a square shape with one side of about 1 to 50 μm, or a circular shape with a diameter of about 1 to 50 μm.

  The ring-shaped portion 26 of the filter means 24 is attached to the peripheral side wall 22 and the mounting pressure ring 30 by attaching a ring-shaped mounting pressure ring 30 to the peripheral side wall 22 of the unit housing 18 using mounting bolts 29. Thus, the filter means 24 is detachably mounted on the unit housing 18. For the manufacturing method of the filter means 24, see, for example, Japanese Patent Application No. 2011-10378 filed by the present applicant on January 21, 2011.

  Referring also to FIG. 3, the illustrated ultrasonic generator 14 includes a first ultrasonic generator 32 that generates an ultrasonic wave having a first frequency (for example, a frequency of about 30 to 100 kHz), and a first frequency. A second ultrasonic generator 34 for generating ultrasonic waves of a lower second frequency (for example, a frequency of about 20 to 80 kHz). In this embodiment, the first and second ultrasonic generators 32 and 34 are arranged on the outer surface of the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10 and generate a first ultrasonic generator 32 that generates ultrasonic waves having a relatively large frequency. Are arranged at substantially equal intervals (for example, an angular interval of α = 120 degrees) in the circumferential direction on the peripheral edge of the bottom wall 36 to generate a second ultrasonic wave having a relatively low frequency. One ultrasonic generator 34 is disposed at the center of the bottom wall 36, and the first and second ultrasonic generators 32 and 34 are covered with a bottom cover 35. When only the first ultrasonic generator 32 is disposed, the frequency applied to the bottom wall 36 is constant, so that the powder in the mixed liquid tends to gather between the adjacent first ultrasonic generators 32. However, by arranging the second ultrasonic generator 34 having a different frequency in addition to the first ultrasonic generator 32, the tendency of collecting the powder as described above is eliminated, and the mixed liquid L is agitated. Thus, the precipitation of the powder can be suppressed, whereby the recovery rate of the powder during classification can be increased.

  In this embodiment, three first ultrasonic generators 32 and one second ultrasonic generator 34 are provided. However, the number of first and second ultrasonic generators 32 and 34, and the arrangement site thereof. The frequency of ultrasonic vibration applied by the first and second ultrasonic generators 32 and 34 can be set as appropriate.

  Next, returning to FIG. 1 again, the recovery tank 6 includes a recovery tank main body 40, the upper surface opening of the recovery tank main body 40 is sealed by the lid body 42, and the recovery tank main body 40 and the lid body 42 are classified. A sealed collection space 44 for containing the classified liquid mixture is defined. The collection space 44 of the collection tank main body 40 and the suction space 16 of the filter unit 12 of the classification tank 4 are connected via a collection line 46, and the classification mixed liquid L containing powder classified by the filter unit 12 is: It is recovered in the recovery tank body 40 through the recovery line 46.

  In relation to the recovery tank body 40, a decompression means 48 for decompressing the sealed recovery space 44 is disposed, and the decompression means 48 is constituted by, for example, a vacuum pump. The sealed recovery space 44 of the recovery tank 6 and the suction side of the decompression means 48 are connected via a decompression line 50, and the discharge side of the decompression means 48 is opened to the atmosphere via a discharge line 52. With this configuration, when the decompression means 48 is operated, the collection space 44 of the collection tank 6 is decompressed, and this decompression acts on the suction space 16 of the filter unit 12 via the collection line 46, and this decompression action. The mixed liquid L in the classification tank main body 10 is sucked through the lower surface opening of the unit housing 18 using the above, and the powder contained in the mixed liquid L is classified by the mesh portion 28 of the filter means 24 at the time of such suction. The classified mixed liquid L containing the classified powder is recovered in the recovery tank body 40 through the suction space 16 and the recovery line 46 of the filter unit 12.

  In relation to such a configuration, the following configuration is preferable. That is, it is desirable to arrange the filter means 24 of the filter unit 12 so as to face the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10, so that the mixed liquid L in the classification tank body 10 is placed in the bottom wall. Thus, the large powder in the mixed liquid L settles downward by its own weight without passing through the mesh portion 28 of the filter means 24, thereby, Clogging due to large powder can be effectively suppressed.

  Further, it is desirable to set the interval S (see FIG. 1) between the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10 and the filter means 24 (specifically, the mesh portion 28) to 20 to 40 mm, preferably about 30 mm, By configuring in this way, the powder near the surface of the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10 can be sucked up and classified as required through the filter means 24 and mounted on the back surface of the bottom wall 36. Ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic generator 14 (the first and second ultrasonic generators 32 and 34) can be effectively applied to the filter 24.

  In this embodiment, the circulation line 50 is provided in order to suppress the precipitation of powder on the filter unit 12 in the classification tank 4 and to effectively prevent clogging of the filter means 24. One end side of the circulation line 50 communicates with the bottom of the classification tank body 10, and the other end side is branched into a first circulation branch line 53 and a second circulation branch line 55. The first circulation branch line 53 extends between the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10 and the filter unit 12 to the lower part of the center of the filter means 24, and the first branch port (not shown) of the filter means 24 It arrange | positions toward the center part of the mesh part 28, and this 1st circulation branch line 53 functions as a spraying means so that it may be understood from a later description. The second circulation branch line 55 extends toward the upper wall 20 of the unit housing 18 of the filter unit 12, and the second branch port (not shown) is disposed near the center of the upper wall 20. Has been. A circulation pump 52 is disposed in the circulation stirring line 50. The second circulation branch line 55 may be further branched, and a plurality of second branch ports may be provided on the upper wall 20 at intervals in the circumferential direction.

  With this configuration, when the circulation pump 52 is activated, the mixed liquid L at the bottom of the classification tank body 10 is supplied through the circulation stirring line 50, and the supplied mixed liquid L is supplied to the first circulation branch line. 53 is sprayed from the first branch port toward the center of the mesh portion 28 of the filter means 24, whereby the powder adsorbed on the mesh portion 28 is blown off, effectively clogging the mesh portion 28. In addition to being able to be suppressed, the powder is sprayed from the second branch port to the upper surface of the upper wall 20 of the unit housing 18 through the second circulation branch line 55, whereby the precipitated powder is blown off on the upper wall 20 and mixed liquid L And the precipitation of the powder on the upper wall 20 can be suppressed.

  The mixed liquid supply tank 2 and the classification tank 4 are connected via a mixed liquid supply line 56. In this embodiment, one end side of the mixed liquid supply line 56 is communicated with the bottom of the supply tank body 8, and the other end side is provided at the bottom of the classification tank body 10, and the supply pump 60 is provided in the mixed liquid supply line 56. Has been.

  In this embodiment, in addition to the mixed liquid supply tank 2, a liquid supply tank 62 for supplying the liquid M (which may be the same as the liquid in which the powder is mixed) is provided. The liquid supply tank 62 includes a supply tank main body 64, and the supply tank main body 64 is filled with liquid. A liquid supply line 66 is provided in association with the liquid supply tank 62, the liquid supply line 66 is connected to the mixed liquid supply line 56, and a switching valve 68, which is known per se, is connected to a connection portion between the lines 56 and 66. It is arranged. When the switching valve 68 is in the first state, the mixed liquid supply line 56 is in a communicating state, and the mixed liquid L from the mixed liquid supply tank 2 is supplied to the classification tank body 10 through the mixed liquid supply line 56 and supplied. The mixed liquid L in the classification tank body 10 is agitated and mixed by the flow of the mixed liquid L. When the switching valve 68 is in the second state, the liquid supply line 66 and the mixed liquid supply line 56 are in communication, and the liquid M from the liquid supply tank 62 passes through the liquid supply line 66 and the mixed liquid supply line 56. The mixed liquid L in the classification tank main body 10 is agitated and mixed by the flow of the liquid M supplied to the classification tank main body 10 and thus supplied. As will be understood from the following description, the liquid supply tank 62 is used. In addition, the recovery rate of the powder to be classified can be further increased.

  In this embodiment, the liquid M from the liquid supply tank 62 is supplied to the classification tank 4 via the liquid supply line 66 and the mixed liquid supply line 56. However, the liquid supply tank is not limited to this configuration. The liquid M from 62 may be directly supplied to the classification tank 4 through the liquid supply line 66. In this case, a supply pump is also provided in the liquid supply line 66 (in this case, a switching valve). 68 can be omitted).

  Further, in this embodiment, the mixed liquid L is accommodated in the mixed liquid supply tank 2, and the mixed liquid L is supplied to the classification tank 4 via the mixed liquid supply line 56. Then, the liquid is supplied to the classification tank body 10 of the classification tank 4, the powder to be classified is supplied to the liquid in the classification tank body 10, and the liquid and the powder are stirred and mixed in the classification tank body 10. The mixed liquid L may be generated, and the mixed liquid powder thus generated may be classified by the filter unit 12.

  Such a wet classifier can be advantageously applied to classify powder having a particle size of about 1 to 20 μm, and this powder can be classified efficiently. Moreover, water, alcohol (for example, ethyl alcohol) etc. can be used as a liquid which mixes powder, and an appropriate thing can be selected in relation to powder.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, powder classification by the above-described wet classifier will be described. In order to classify the powder, after the liquid is supplied to the mixed liquid supply tank 2, the powder to be classified is added to the liquid, and the liquid and the powder are stirred to generate the mixed liquid L (step S1). . At this time, the liquid M is also filled in the liquid supply tank 62.

  Then, the mixed liquid L is supplied from the mixed liquid supply tank 2 to the classification tank 4 to classify the powder (execution of the classification process). While the switching valve 68 is held in the first state, the supply pump 60 is operated, and the mixed liquid L in the mixed liquid supply tank 2 is supplied to the classification tank 4 through the mixed liquid supply line 56 (step S2). In the classification tank 4, the powder contained in the supplied mixed liquid is classified (step S3).

  At the time of classification of the powder, the decompression means 48 is operated, and the ultrasonic generation means 14 and the circulation pump 52 are operated, so that the powder in the mixed liquid L is efficiently classified. That is, when the decompression means 48 is operated, the inside of the collection tank 6 is kept in a decompressed state, and this decompressed state acts on the suction space 16 of the filter unit 12 via the collection line 46, thereby mixing in the classification tank 4. The liquid L flows into the suction space 16 through the mesh portion 28 of the filter means 24, and classification of the powder contained in the mixed liquid L is performed during this inflow. The classified mixed liquid L containing the classified powder is collected in the collection tank 6 through the collection line 46.

  In addition, when the ultrasonic generator 14 (that is, the first and second ultrasonic generators 32 and 34) is operated, two types of ultrasonic vibrations are applied to the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10, thereby classifying. The mixed liquid L in the tank body 10 is stirred and mixed, and the powder can be classified while suppressing precipitation of the powder in the mixed liquid L on the bottom wall 36. When the circulation pump 52 is activated, the mixed liquid L at the bottom of the classification tank body 10 is supplied to the first and second circulation branch lines 53 and 55 through the circulation line 50, and the mixing supplied to the first circulation branch line 53 is performed. The liquid L is sprayed from the first branch port toward the filter means 24, whereby powder that is likely to be clogged in the filter means 24 is blown off, and clogging to the filter means 24 is effectively suppressed, and The mixed liquid L supplied to the two circulation branch lines 55 is sprayed from the second branch port toward the upper wall 20 of the unit housing 18, whereby the precipitated powder is blown off on the upper wall 20 to be mixed liquid. It is mixed and the precipitation to this upper wall 20 can be suppressed effectively.

  The operation of the first and second ultrasonic generators 32 and 34 is performed as shown in FIG. 5, for example. That is, the first ultrasonic generator 32 and the second ultrasonic generator 34 can be operated alternately to apply two types of ultrasonic vibrations to the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10. The time interval for operating the first and second ultrasonic generators 32 and 34 can be set to an appropriate time of about 3 to 15 seconds, for example, 5 seconds. It operates for t1-t2, t3-t4, t5-t6..., and the second ultrasonic generator 34 is operated for time 0-t1, t2-t3, t4-t5.

  The operation of the first and second ultrasonic generators 32 and 34 may be performed, for example, as shown in FIG. 6. In this way, strong ultrasonic vibration is applied to the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10. Can be granted. In such a case, for the first time (for example, time 0 to t1, t2 to t3, t4 to t5...), The first and second ultrasonic generators 32 and 34 are operated, and the second time ( For example, at times t1 to t2, t3 to t4, t5 to t6...), The second ultrasonic generator 34 is operated, and the first and second ultrasonic generators 32 and 34 are controlled in this way. You may make it do.

  When the above-described powder classification is continuously performed for a first predetermined time (for example, set to an appropriate time of about 1 to 5 minutes), the process proceeds from step S4 to step S5, and the powder classification is temporarily performed. And the filter means 24 is cleaned (clogging removal process) (step S6). In step S5, the supply pump 60 stops operating and the supply of the mixed liquid L stops, and the decompression means 48 stops operating and powder classification stops. At this time, the operation of the circulation pump 52 is stopped, the circulation of the mixed liquid L is stopped, and the ultrasonic wave generating means 14 (the first and second ultrasonic wave generators 32 and 34) is further stopped to generate the ultrasonic vibration. Granting stops.

  In the cleaning (clogging removal process) of the filter means 24, the ultrasonic wave generating means 14 is operated, and the ultrasonic vibration from the ultrasonic wave generating means 14 is passed through the mixed liquid L in the classification tank body 10 to the filter unit. The powder clogged in the filter means 24 acting on the twelve filter means 24 (mesh portion 28) is shaken off, and the clogging is thus eliminated.

  In this embodiment, in the clogging removal step, the first and second ultrasonic generators 32 and 34 of the ultrasonic generation unit 14 are operated, and ultrasonic vibrations from these act on the filter unit 24. Strong ultrasonic vibrations act on the filter means 24, and the clogged powder can be reliably removed. In this clogging removal step, only the first ultrasonic generator 32 or the second ultrasonic generator 34 may be operated according to the clogging state of the filter means 24.

  When the filter means 24 is washed for a predetermined washing time (for example, an appropriate time of 30 to 90 seconds and set to 60 seconds, for example), the process returns from step S7 to step S3, and the above-described powder classification is performed. Is performed again, and the mixed liquid L in the mixed liquid supply tank 2 runs out. In other words, the powder classification (step S6) and the cleaning of the filter means 24 (step S6) are performed until the supply of the mixed liquid L is completed. Repeatedly.

  When the mixed liquid L in the mixed liquid supply tank 2 runs out, the process proceeds from step S8 to step S9, the supply of the mixed liquid L is completed, and the liquid M is supplied from the liquid supply tank 62. That is, the switching valve 68 is switched from the first state to the second state, and the liquid M from the liquid supply tank 62 is supplied to the classification tank 4 through the liquid supply line 66 and the mixed liquid supply line 56. At this time, the supply pump 6, the decompression means 48, the circulation pump 52 and the ultrasonic wave generation means 14 are in operation. Therefore, when the liquid M is supplied, the mixed liquid M (filter unit 12 of the filter unit 12) remaining in the classification tank 4 is supplied. The mixed liquid L) remaining on the lower side is diluted to classify the remaining powder.

  When the second predetermined time (for example, set to an appropriate time of about 60 to 200 seconds) is thus performed, the process proceeds from step S11 to step S12, and the powder remaining in the classification tank 4 is sufficiently classified and collected. As a result, the operation of the supply pump 60 stops, and the supply of the liquid M from the liquid supply tank 62 ends. Then, when the liquid level in the classification tank 4 becomes the lowest, that is, when the liquid level decreases to the filter means 24 of the filter unit 24, the process proceeds from step S13 to step S14, and the diluted mixed liquid L in the classification tank 4 is obtained. Therefore, the classification and collection of the powder is completed. In this embodiment, since the liquid M is also supplied to the mixed liquid L remaining in the classification tank 4 and the classification and recovery of the residual powder is performed, the recovery rate of the powder to be classified can be increased.

  Next, another embodiment of the wet classifier will be described with reference to FIG. In this other embodiment, the spraying means for spraying the mixed liquid is modified.

  In FIG. 7, in the illustrated wet classifier, one end side of the mixed liquid supply line 56A is connected to the mixed liquid supply tank 2, and the other end side is branched to the first supply branch line 60 and the second supply branch line 61. Yes. The first supply branch line 60 extends between the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10 and the filter unit 12 to the lower part of the center of the filter means 24, and the first branch port (not shown) is the same as described above. In addition, the first supply branch line 60 is arranged toward the center of the mesh portion of the filter means 24 and functions as a spraying means. The second supply branch line 61 extends toward the upper wall of the unit housing 18 of the filter unit 12, and the second branch port (not shown) is arranged near the center of the upper wall. In this manner, the circulation line and the related components in the above-described embodiment are omitted. Other configurations of the other embodiments are substantially the same as those of the embodiments shown in FIGS.

  In this other embodiment, when the supply pump 60 operates, the mixed liquid L in the mixed liquid supply tank 8 is supplied to the classification tank 4 through the mixed liquid supply line 56. At this time, the mixed liquid L supplied through the first supply branch line 60 is sprayed from the first branch port toward the center of the mesh portion of the filter means 24, whereby the powder adsorbed on the mesh portion is discharged. The mixed liquid L which is blown off and supplied through the second supply branch line 61 is sprayed from the second branch port to the upper surface of the upper wall of the unit housing 18, whereby the precipitated powder is blown off on the upper wall. And mixed with the mixed liquid L. Therefore, even in this configuration, the clogging in the filter means 24 and the precipitation of the powder on the upper wall of the filter unit 12 using the mixed liquid L supplied from the mixed liquid supply tank 2 are the same as described above. Can be suppressed.

  In this other modification, in order to suppress the precipitation of powder on the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank 4, it is preferable to configure the first supply branch line 60 constituting the spraying means as shown in FIG. .

  In FIG. 8, in this embodiment, a first spray port 71 and a second spray port 72 are provided at the tip of the first supply branch line 60B. The first spray port 71 is disposed to face the filter means (specifically, the mesh portion) of the filter unit 12, and the second spray port 72 is opposed to the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10. Arranged.

  In the wet classifier having such a configuration, the mixed liquid L supplied from the mixed liquid supply tank (not shown) through the mixed liquid supply line 56B passes through the first supply branch line 60B to the bottom of the classification tank body 10. (In other words, below the filter unit 12) and supplied above the upper wall of the unit housing 18 through the second supply branch line 61.

  The mixed liquid L supplied through the first supply branch line 60B is sprayed from the first spray port 71 toward the center of the mesh portion of the filter means 24, whereby the powder adsorbed on the mesh portion is discharged. In addition to being blown away, the powder is blown from the second blowing port 72 to the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10, whereby the powder precipitated on the bottom wall 36 is blown off and mixed with the mixed liquid L. Therefore, when configured in this manner, the mixed liquid L supplied from the mixed liquid supply tank is used to suppress clogging in the filter means 24 and precipitation of powder on the bottom wall of the classification tank 4 as described above. be able to.

  Note that the configuration shown in FIG. 8 (the configuration of the spraying means) can be similarly applied to the first circulation branch line 53 in the embodiment of FIGS.

  Next, still another embodiment of the wet classifier will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. Also in this embodiment, the spraying means for spraying the mixed liquid and the ultrasonic wave generating means for generating ultrasonic waves are modified.

  In FIG. 9, in the illustrated wet classifier, one end 80 of the mixed liquid supply line 56 </ b> C is provided so as to penetrate the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank main body 10, and the one end opening 82 opens into the classification tank main body 10. As shown in FIG. 9, the filter unit 12 is disposed so as to face the filter means. In this embodiment, the mixed liquid supply line 56C constitutes a spraying means, and its one end 80 constitutes a spraying part. When comprised in this way, it becomes possible to make small the space | interval of the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank main body 10, and the filter means of the filter unit 12, and, thereby, the ultrasonic wave from the ultrasonic generation means 14C mentioned later is filtered means It can be made to act effectively.

  In relation to such a configuration, one end side of the circulation line 50 communicates with the bottom of the classification tank body 10, the other end side is branched into a pair of circulation branch lines 55, and the pair of circulation branch lines 55 is connected to the filter unit 12. The unit housing 18 extends toward the upper wall, and a circulation pump 52 is disposed in the circulation stirring line 50.

  Instead of such a configuration, for example, the following configuration can also be used. That is, as in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, one end side of the mixed liquid supply line 56 </ b> C is extended to the vicinity of the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10, and the mixed liquid L from the mixed liquid supply line 56 </ b> C is supplied to the classification tank body. 10 bottoms are fed. Moreover, the other end side of the circulation line 50 is branched into the first and second circulation branch lines, the end of the first circulation branch line is provided through the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10, and the opening is provided in the classification tank. The first circulating branch line may be made to function as a spraying means and the end thereof may be made to function as a spraying part. The first circulation branch line may be opened in the main body 10 so as to face the filter means of the filter unit 12. .

  Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the ultrasonic wave generation means 14 </ b> C is composed of a plurality of (specifically, four) ultrasonic wave generators 84, and the outer surface of the bottom wall 36 of the classification tank body 10. Are arranged at substantially equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The ultrasonic generator 84 generates ultrasonic waves having a frequency of, for example, about 30 to 100 kHz (for example, 38 kHz). In such an ultrasonic wave generation unit 14C, for example, all of the plural (in this embodiment, four) ultrasonic wave generators 84 are operated at the first time, thereby generating a strong ultrasonic wave. A part of the ultrasonic generators 84 (in this embodiment, two opposed to each other) are activated at a time of 2, thereby generating weak ultrasonic waves. The other structure of this form is substantially the same as the wet classifier of the form shown in FIGS.

  The ultrasonic generator 14C is not limited to the above-described configuration. For example, the number of ultrasonic generators 84 may be six or eight or more. For example, the ultrasonic generator As for the operation control of 84, all of the ultrasonic generators 84 are operated in the first time period, a part of the ultrasonic generators 84 are operated in the second time period, and the remaining ultrasonic generators are operated in the third time period. The sound wave generator 84 may be operated. Further, for example, two types of ultrasonic generators 84 having different frequencies are used, and all of the two types of ultrasonic wave generators 84 are used in the first time. And one type of ultrasonic generator 84 may be operated in the second time, or three or more types having different frequencies may be used.

  In the wet classifier having such a configuration, when the supply pump 60 operates, the mixed liquid L is supplied from the mixed liquid supply tank (not shown) to the classification tank body 10 through the mixed liquid supply line 56C. At this time, the mixed liquid L is sprayed from the bottom wall 36 side of the classifier main body 10 toward the filter means 24 of the filter unit 12, whereby the powder adsorbed on the mesh portion of the filter means is blown off. Even if it does in this way, the clogging to a mesh part can be suppressed effectively.

  Although various embodiments of the wet classifier according to the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments, and various changes or modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

  For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, the ultrasonic wave generation means 14 is composed of two types of ultrasonic wave generators (that is, first and second ultrasonic wave generators 32 and 34) having different generation frequencies. However, this ultrasonic wave generation means may be constituted by three or more types of ultrasonic wave generators having different generation frequencies.

  In the above-described embodiment, the filter unit 24 is washed (clogging removal process) after the powder classification (classification process) is continuously performed for the first predetermined time. Instead, the filter unit 24 may be washed when the filter unit 24 is clogged (for example, when the recovery flow rate of the classified mixed liquid L recovered through the recovery line 46 is reduced).

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the supply of the liquid M from the liquid supply tank 62 is performed for the second predetermined time. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration, and is performed until the liquid M in the liquid supply tank 62 runs out. You may do it.

2 Mixed liquid supply tank 4 Classification tank 6 Collection tank 10 Classification tank body 12 Filter unit 14 Ultrasonic wave generation means 18 Unit housing 24 Filter means 32 First ultrasonic wave generator 34 Second ultrasonic wave generator 46 Collection line 48 Decompression means 50 Circulation line 51 First circulation branch line 52 Second circulation branch line 56, 56B Mixed liquid supply line 60, 60B First supply branch line 61 Second supply branch line 62 Liquid supply tank

Claims (6)

In a wet classifier comprising a classification tank for classifying powder in a liquid and a collection tank for collecting powder classified in the classification tank,
The classification tank uses ultrasonic waves for the classification tank body in which the mixed liquid mixed with the powder is stored, the filter unit disposed in the classification tank body, and the mixed liquid in the classification tank body. Ultrasonic generating means for agitating and spraying means for spraying the mixed liquid toward the filter unit,
The filter unit has a unit housing defining a suction space, and filter means disposed on the suction side of the unit housing ,
The classification tank is provided with a circulation line for circulating the mixed liquid. One end of the circulation line communicates with the bottom of the classification tank main body, and the first and second circulation branch lines are provided at the other end. The first circulation branch line extends to the filter means of the filter unit and is opposed to the filter means so as to function as the spraying means, and the second circulation branch line is the filter means. The mixed liquid in the classification tank extends to the upper wall of the unit housing of the unit, and is sprayed toward the filter means through the first circulation branch line and to the upper wall of the unit housing through the second circulation branch line. Sprayed towards
The recovery tank includes a recovery tank main body for recovering the classified mixed liquid containing the classified powder, and a decompression means for decompressing the inside of the recovery tank main body, and the inside of the recovery tank main body is the filter unit. Is connected to the suction space via a recovery line,
The powder contained in the mixed liquid in the classification tank is classified by the filter means of the filter unit, and the classified mixed liquid containing the classified powder passes through the suction space and the recovery line of the filter unit. A wet classifier that is recovered in a recovery tank body. In a wet classifier comprising a classification tank for classifying powder in a liquid and a collection tank for collecting powder classified in the classification tank,
The classification tank uses ultrasonic waves for the classification tank body in which the mixed liquid mixed with the powder is stored, the filter unit disposed in the classification tank body, and the mixed liquid in the classification tank body. Ultrasonic generating means for agitating and spraying means for spraying the mixed liquid toward the filter unit,
The filter unit has a unit housing defining a suction space, and filter means disposed on the suction side of the unit housing,
Furthermore, a mixed liquid supply tank for supplying a mixed liquid to the classification tank is provided, the mixed liquid supply tank and the classification tank are connected via a mixed liquid supply line, and the mixed liquid supply line has a first The first and second supply branch lines are branched and provided, the first supply branch line extends to the filter means of the filter unit and is disposed opposite to the filter means, and functions as the spraying means. The second supply branch line extends to the upper wall of the unit housing of the filter unit, and the mixed liquid from the mixed liquid supply tank is sprayed toward the filter means through the first supply branch line, and the second supply Sprayed through the branch line toward the upper wall of the unit housing,
The recovery tank includes a recovery tank main body for recovering the classified mixed liquid containing the classified powder, and a decompression means for decompressing the inside of the recovery tank main body, and the inside of the recovery tank main body is the filter unit. Is connected to the suction space via a recovery line,
The powder contained in the mixed liquid in the classification tank is classified by the filter means of the filter unit, and the classified mixed liquid containing the classified powder passes through the suction space and the recovery line of the filter unit. A wet classifier that is recovered in a recovery tank body. The spray means has first and second spray ports for spraying the mixed liquid, and the first spray port is disposed to face the filter means of the filter unit, and the filter means. spraying the liquid mixture toward the second blowing port is claim 1, characterized in that disposed opposite the bottom wall of the classifying tank body blows mixed liquid toward the bottom wall or 2. The wet classifier according to 2 . The spraying part of the spraying means is disposed through the bottom wall of the classification tank body, and the mixed liquid is sprayed from the spraying part toward the filter means of the filter unit. The wet classifier according to claim 1 or 2 . The ultrasonic wave generating means includes a first ultrasonic wave generator that generates an ultrasonic wave having a first frequency, and a second ultrasonic wave generator that generates an ultrasonic wave having a second frequency lower than the first frequency. The wet classifier according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein a frequency from the ultrasonic wave generating means is changed to thereby act on the filter means of the filter unit. The ultrasonic generation means includes a plurality of ultrasonic generators that generate ultrasonic waves, and the number of operations of the plurality of ultrasonic generators is controlled, whereby the intensity of ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic generation means is reduced. 5. The wet classifier according to claim 1 , wherein the wet classifier is applied to the filter means of the filter unit.

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