EP0882522B1 - Lance and apparatus for the production of a liquid jet of CO2 and its use for a surface cleaning installation - Google Patents

Lance and apparatus for the production of a liquid jet of CO2 and its use for a surface cleaning installation Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0882522B1
EP0882522B1 EP19980401134 EP98401134A EP0882522B1 EP 0882522 B1 EP0882522 B1 EP 0882522B1 EP 19980401134 EP19980401134 EP 19980401134 EP 98401134 A EP98401134 A EP 98401134A EP 0882522 B1 EP0882522 B1 EP 0882522B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
liquid
jet
nozzle
tube
produced
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP19980401134
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0882522A1 (en
Inventor
Claude Gibot
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
Original Assignee
Carboxyque Francaise SA
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Publication date
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Publication of EP0882522A1 publication Critical patent/EP0882522A1/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B24—GRINDING; POLISHING
    • B24C—ABRASIVE OR RELATED BLASTING WITH PARTICULATE MATERIAL
    • B24C5/00—Devices or accessories for generating abrasive blasts
    • B24C5/02—Blast guns, e.g. for generating high velocity abrasive fluid jets for cutting materials
    • B24C5/04—Nozzles therefor
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B1/00—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means
    • B05B1/30—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to control volume of flow, e.g. with adjustable passages
    • B05B1/3033—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to control volume of flow, e.g. with adjustable passages the control being effected by relative coaxial longitudinal movement of the controlling element and the spray head
    • B05B1/304—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to control volume of flow, e.g. with adjustable passages the control being effected by relative coaxial longitudinal movement of the controlling element and the spray head the controlling element being a lift valve
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08—CLEANING
    • B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B7/00—Cleaning by methods not provided for in a single other subclass or a single group in this subclass
    • B08B7/0064—Cleaning by methods not provided for in a single other subclass or a single group in this subclass by temperature changes
    • B08B7/0092—Cleaning by methods not provided for in a single other subclass or a single group in this subclass by temperature changes by cooling
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B24—GRINDING; POLISHING
    • B24C—ABRASIVE OR RELATED BLASTING WITH PARTICULATE MATERIAL
    • B24C1/00—Methods for use of abrasive blasting for producing particular effects; Use of auxiliary equipment in connection with such methods
    • B24C1/003—Methods for use of abrasive blasting for producing particular effects; Use of auxiliary equipment in connection with such methods using material which dissolves or changes phase after the treatment, e.g. ice, CO2
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B24—GRINDING; POLISHING
    • B24C—ABRASIVE OR RELATED BLASTING WITH PARTICULATE MATERIAL
    • B24C3/00—Abrasive blasting machines or devices; Plants
    • B24C3/32—Abrasive blasting machines or devices; Plants designed for abrasive blasting of particular work, e.g. the internal surfaces of cylinder blocks
    • B24C3/322—Abrasive blasting machines or devices; Plants designed for abrasive blasting of particular work, e.g. the internal surfaces of cylinder blocks for electrical components
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B24—GRINDING; POLISHING
    • B24C—ABRASIVE OR RELATED BLASTING WITH PARTICULATE MATERIAL
    • B24C5/00—Devices or accessories for generating abrasive blasts
    • B24C5/02—Blast guns, e.g. for generating high velocity abrasive fluid jets for cutting materials

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a lance for producing a jet of liquid CO 2 , comprising means for connection to a source of liquid CO 2 under pressure, means for expanding the liquid CO 2 under pressure and means for ejecting the CO 2 liquid expanded in a jet.
  • CO 2 is a substitute solvent, which, applied in the form of a jet of liquid, proves to be competitive and effective for cleaning or surface depollution operations.
  • the invention aims to remedy the problems mentioned above and, in particular, to provide a lance for producing a jet of liquid which can be used in cleaning applications and adapted to the physical characteristics of CO 2 .
  • the subject of the invention is a lance for producing a jet of liquid CO 2 , comprising means for expansion of the liquid CO 2 under pressure connected on the one hand, to means for connection to a source of CO 2 liquid under pressure, and on the other hand to means for ejecting a relaxed liquid CO 2 in a jet, characterized in that the means for expanding the liquid CO 2 comprise means for progressive expansion comprising a capillary tube.
  • the invention also relates to an apparatus for producing a liquid CO 2 jet, characterized in that it comprises on the one hand at least one lance as defined above, associated with at least one regulating solenoid valve the flow rate of the liquid CO 2 jet produced by the lance, and a unit for controlling the opening of the or each solenoid valve.
  • the invention also relates to a surface cleaning installation by liquid CO 2 jet, characterized in that it comprises an apparatus as defined above and means for relative displacement of a surface to be cleaned with respect to spear.
  • the invention may also comprise means for removing the gaseous CO 2 produced during the ejection of the liquid CO 2 .
  • the invention ultimately relates to ejection means for a lance as defined above.
  • the ejection means can comprise a nozzle for ejecting expanded liquid CO 2 , a body for connecting to the means of progressive expansion of a lance, a ring for mounting on the lance, a tube surrounding the ejection nozzle at a distance. and provided with an air inlet opening, and a pipe nozzle surrounding the ejection nozzle at a distance, the pipe nozzle being operable and movable between a retracted position, in which it closes the inlet opening of air from the tube, and an active position in which it at least partially frees the air inlet opening of the tube and in which a front part of the pipe nozzle is adapted to surround part of the CO jet 2 liquid produced.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a lance for producing a jet of liquid CO 2 comprising a hollow body 1 of generally cylindrical shape in which are housed means 3 for progressive expansion of liquid CO 2 under pressure. These means 3 are connected on the one hand, upstream, to means 5 for connection to a source 4 of pressurized liquid CO 2 , located at an upstream end 7 of the body 1, and on the other hand, downstream , to means 9 for ejecting a relaxed liquid CO 2 jet, situated at the downstream end 11 of the body 1.
  • Means 13 forming a valve for regulating the flow rate of the jet of liquid CO 2 produced are arranged in the body 1 between the means 3 for progressive expansion of the liquid CO 2 and the means 9 for ejecting the liquid CO 2 .
  • the body 1 is crossed by a bore longitudinal 15 threaded at the end 7.
  • connection means 5 consist of a conventional male connector 17, screwed into the end 7 of the body 1, making it possible to connect the lance, by means of a hose 18, to the source 4 of liquid CO 2 under pressure.
  • This fitting 17 is crossed by a bore longitudinal stepped, coaxial with bore 15, comprising, successively from upstream to downstream, an entry part 19 of large diameter, a converging part 21, a part 23 of small section, then part 25 of section slightly larger than the section of the part 23 and opening into the bore 15.
  • a shoulder transverse 27 connects parts 23 and 25.
  • Means 3 of progressive relaxation comprise a capillary tube 29, wound in a helix, housed in body 1, the propeller formed being substantially coaxial with the bore 15.
  • the tube 29 is of substantially constant section.
  • the two ends 31 and 33 of the tube 29 are straight and coaxial to the bore 15.
  • the end upstream 31 of tube 29 is housed in part 25 of the bore of the fitting 17, its edge bearing on the shoulder 27.
  • a solder 35 is produced between the fitting 17 and the emerging part of the end 31 of the tube 29.
  • the inner section of the tube 29 and the section of part 23 of the bore of fitting 17 are substantially equal.
  • the means 13 forming a valve for adjusting the flow rate of the jet of liquid CO 2 produced comprise a member 37 of generally cylindrical shape, slidably mounted in the bore 15 of the body 1, and connected by its upstream end 39 to the downstream end 33 of the tube 29.
  • the member 37 is crossed by a bore 41 longitudinal stepped coaxial with bore 15.
  • This bore 41 includes, from the end 39, parts successive 43, 45, 47 and 49 of decreasing sections.
  • Part 43 is tapped and receives by screwing a fitting 51 of generally cylindrical stepped shape, crossed by a stepped longitudinal bore 53.
  • the bore 53 successively presents a first part 55 for receiving the downstream end 33 of the tube 29, and a second part 57 of section substantially equal to the internal section of the tube 29 and opening out in part 47 of bore 41.
  • An O-ring 59 arranged in a groove circular provided at the downstream end (right on the Figure 1) of the connector 51 provides sealing between the downstream part of fitting 51 and part 45 of the bore 41 in which it is received.
  • a solder 60 is produced, in the same way as solder 35, between the downstream end 33 of the tube and the connector 51.
  • the downstream end edge of the tube 29 is supported on a shoulder joining parts 55 and 57 of the bore 53.
  • a ball 61 for closing the passage between the parts 47 and 49 of the bore 41 is arranged with radial clearance in part 47 of bore 41. Its seat consists of a converging surface 63 connecting parts 47 and 49 of bore 41, and the ball 61 is held against its seat 63 by a helical spring 65 bearing on the fitting 61.
  • the valve means 13 comprise also a part 67 for operating the ball, generally cylindrical stepped shape, pierced with a bore 69 longitudinal coaxial with bore 15.
  • This part 67 is terminated upstream by a tapered portion 71 of which the end is pierced with openings or notches 72.
  • This part 71 is received so sliding in part 49 of bore 41.
  • a seal O-ring 73, surrounding the tapered part 71, is housed in an inner circular groove in part 49 of the bore 41, thus ensuring the seal between the parts 49 and 71.
  • the downstream end 74 of part 67 support flange shape of a helical spring 75 threaded on the part 67 and also taking support on the organ 37.
  • the member 37 has, on its surface outer, an annular groove 77, facing which a lever 79 is rotatably mounted on the body 1 of the lance thanks to a spindle 80 extending between two longitudinal flanges 81 projecting from the body 1.
  • a first arm 83 of the lever 79 forms relaxation and the other arm 85 trigger-shaped, the free end of the arm 85 advancing through an opening 84 formed in body 1, in throat 77.
  • the means 9 for ejecting the expanded liquid CO 2 comprise a connecting body 87, of generally cylindrical stepped shape, traversed by a stepped bore 89 coaxial with the bore 15, and receiving an ejection nozzle 91 in the form of a capillary tube coaxial with the bore 15. The upstream end of this tube abuts against an intermediate shoulder of the bore 89.
  • a solder 92 is produced between the nozzle 91 and the body 87.
  • Body 87 has three parts successive cylindrical sections 93, 95 and 97 decreasing while moving towards the front of the lance (on the right in figure 1), part 93 being received from sliding way in bore 15 and a seal O-ring 96 ensuring sealing between the walls in look at bore 15 and part 93.
  • a ring 101 resting on a shoulder transverse joining parts 93 and 95 of body 87 is screwed onto the end 11 of the body 1, which is threaded.
  • the piece 67 is held against the body 87 by spring 75, bores 69 and 89 of part 67 and of the body 87 communicating in leaktight manner and being substantially the same section.
  • a vent 102 is drilled in the body 1 between the front end (on the right in Figure 1) of organ 37 and part 93 of body 87.
  • a pipe nozzle 109 shaped general of revolution, convergent and coaxial to the nozzle 91, is slidably mounted on the front end of the tube 103.
  • This nozzle 109 has a rear part 111 cylindrical surrounding the front end of the tube 103, and a cylindrical front part 113 surrounding at a short distance from the front end of the nozzle 91. Parts 111 and 113 are connected by a part convergent 114.
  • a pin 115 secured to the front part of the tube 103 is received in a longitudinal opening oblong 116 of part 111 of nozzle 109.
  • the pawn 115 limits the translation of the nozzle 109 on the tube 103 between two positions: on the one hand, a position retracted (Figure 1), in which the rear part of the nozzle 111 closes the orifices 107, and in which the front part 105 of the nozzle 91 protrudes by the front part 113 of the nozzle 109; And on the other hand, an active position for channeling a flow air (Figure 3), in which the nozzle 109 releases totally the orifices 107 and in which the part front 111 of nozzle 109 protrudes forward (right in Figure 1) relative to the front end 105 of nozzle 91.
  • the source of liquid CO 2 under pressure is therefore placed in communication with the bore of the connector 17, the capillary tube 29, the part 57 of the bore 53 of fitting 51 and part 47 of bore 41.
  • the latter grasps with one hand the body 1 forming a handle as well as the arm 83 of the lever forming the trigger and, by tightening the grip, brings the arm 83 together of the body 1 by pivoting the lever 79 counterclockwise in FIG. 1.
  • the arm 85 then pushes the member 37 forward (on the right in FIG. 1) in the body 1 by compressing the spring 75
  • the tapered part 71 of the part 67 slides in the part 49 of the bore 41 of the member 37 and pushes the ball 61, moving it away from its seat 63 (FIG. 2).
  • the ball 61 under the action of this displacement, compresses the spring 65.
  • the ball 61 having left its seat and the end of the part 71 being pierced with openings 72, the source of liquid CO 2 under pressure is put, by means of the bore 69 of the part 67, of the bore 89 of the body 87 and of the capillary tube 91, in communication with the ambient atmosphere.
  • the liquid CO 2 then flows from the source to the ambient atmosphere. It undergoes progressive expansion in the capillary tube 29 which, by its dimensional characteristics (length and section) makes it possible to induce a significant pressure drop while slowing the flow of liquid CO 2 and therefore limiting the flow of liquid CO 2 relaxed.
  • the flow of liquid CO 2 is indicated by arrows in bold lines in FIGS. 2 and 3.
  • the expanded liquid CO 2 is then conveyed to the outlet of the capillary tube 91, where it expands to ambient pressure producing a fine jet and of limited flow rate, suitable for cleaning operations.
  • the operator can gradually place the front part 113 of this nozzle around the jet of liquid CO 2 produced while the rear part 111 of the nozzle 109 gradually releases the orifices 107.
  • the jet of liquid CO 2 entrains the air present between it and the internal wall of the front part 113 of the nozzle 109, thus creating an air suction in the nozzle 109 initiating an air flow, materialized by arrows in thin line in FIG. 3, in the tube 103, this flow being supplied by the orifices 107.
  • This air flow is channeled by the tube 103 and the nozzle 109 and injected into the jet of liquid CO 2 , thus increasing the section and the temperature of the liquid CO 2 jet produced.
  • the nozzle 109 therefore makes it possible to modify the opening of the jet of liquid CO 2 produced.
  • the ball 61 therefore behaves like the shutter of a valve for stopping the flow of expanded liquid CO 2 , controlled by the lever 79.
  • the helical configuration of the tube 29 allows on the one hand to place in a reduced volume a length sufficient tube to achieve progressive expansion desired, and on the other hand allows the tube 29 to adapt to the movement of the organ 37.
  • the vent 102 allows, in the event of a leak in the body 1, the ejection of liquid CO 2 under pressure.
  • the means 9 for ejecting the liquid CO 2 produced are removable by unscrewing the ring 101 and are interchangeable. This makes it possible to modify, for example, the dimensional characteristics of the nozzle 91 for ejecting liquid CO 2 and of the nozzle 109 for air ducting, and thus to modify the range of characteristics of the jets that can be produced by the lance for adapt it to the type of cleaning envisaged.
  • the length of the nozzle 109 may be such that, in its active air ducting position (FIG. 3), its front part 113 advances sufficiently beyond the front end 105 of the nozzle 91 so that a jet of liquid CO 2 produced impacts the inner wall of this nozzle 109, which then forms a blister for producing carbon dioxide snow.
  • the positioning of the means 13 forming a valve downstream of the means 3 for progressive expansion makes it possible to avoid delays in production of the jet of liquid CO 2 when the operator presses or releases the arm 83 forming expansion.
  • valve means may be constituted by a solenoid valve 117 (FIG. 4), preferably arranged upstream of the expansion means 3 progressive.
  • the lance described above is therefore perfectly suited to manual use, since an operator can, while holding and orienting the lance thanks to the body 1 forming a handle, control with the same hand the production of a jet of liquid CO 2 , and varying the characteristics of the jet of liquid CO 2 by moving the nozzle 109 using his other hand.
  • the heating of liquid CO 2 by injecting an air flow can, in particular in the field of electronics, prove to be useful for limiting the condensation of ambient air.
  • the lance for producing a liquid CO 2 jet according to the invention can be used manually in the open air or in glove boxes.
  • valve forming means are preferably constituted by one or more solenoid valves 117, possibly common to several lances, for adjusting the flow rate of jets of liquid CO 2 produced, and connected to one or more individual or common control units. 119 of the opening of these solenoid valves 117.
  • Such an apparatus could be incorporated into a surface cleaning installation comprising means 121 for moving a surface 123 to be cleaned with respect to the means for ejecting the different lances, and means 125 for discharging the gaseous CO 2 produced during ejection of the liquid CO 2 may also be provided.
  • Such an installation could also incorporate means 127 for heating the surface to limit the drawbacks associated with the relatively low temperatures of the liquid CO 2 produced.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Nozzles (AREA)

Description

L'invention concerne une lance de production d'un jet de CO2 liquide, comprenant des moyens de raccordement à une source de CO2 liquide sous pression, des moyens de détente du CO2 liquide sous pression et des moyens d'éjection du CO2 liquide détendu en un jet.The invention relates to a lance for producing a jet of liquid CO 2 , comprising means for connection to a source of liquid CO 2 under pressure, means for expanding the liquid CO 2 under pressure and means for ejecting the CO 2 liquid expanded in a jet.

De nombreux domaines d'activité, comme par exemple l'industrie électronique ou le domaine médical, font appel au micro-nettoyage ou à la dépollution de surfaces.Many areas of activity, such as example the electronics industry or the medical field, use micro-cleaning or depollution of surfaces.

Les solvants traditionnellement utilisés pour ces opérations de nettoyage, tels que le trichloréthylène ou le Fréon (marque déposée), provoquent des émanations non recyclables et la législation tend à interdire leur emploi.The solvents traditionally used for these cleaning operations, such as the trichlorethylene or Freon (registered trademark), cause non-recyclable fumes and the legislation tends to prohibit their use.

Le CO2 est un solvant de substitution, qui, appliqué sous forme de jet de liquide, s'avère compétitif et efficace pour les opérations de nettoyage ou de dépollution de surface.CO 2 is a substitute solvent, which, applied in the form of a jet of liquid, proves to be competitive and effective for cleaning or surface depollution operations.

Cependant, la production de jets de CO2 liquide de section et de débit compatibles avec les applications envisagées, à partir des pressions de stockage usuelles du CO2 liquide (P = 55 bars à 20° C et P = 20 bars à -20° C), pose de nombreux problèmes. En particulier, l'existence d'un point triple dans son domaine d'utilisation, contrairement au Fréon, pose le problème de l'apparition, lors de la détente du CO2 liquide, de neige carbonique qui peut obturer les moyens de détente ou d'éjection de la lance.However, the production of jets of liquid CO 2 of cross section and flow rate compatible with the envisaged applications, from the usual storage pressures of liquid CO 2 (P = 55 bars at 20 ° C and P = 20 bars at -20 ° C), poses many problems. In particular, the existence of a triple point in its field of use, unlike the Freon, poses the problem of the appearance, during the expansion of the liquid CO 2 , of carbon dioxide snow which can block the means of expansion or lance ejection.

L'invention a pour but de remédier aux problèmes mentionnés précédemment et, en particulier, de fournir une lance de production d'un jet de liquide pouvant être utilisé dans des applications de nettoyage et adaptée aux caractéristiques physiques du CO2.The invention aims to remedy the problems mentioned above and, in particular, to provide a lance for producing a jet of liquid which can be used in cleaning applications and adapted to the physical characteristics of CO 2 .

A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet une lance de production d'un jet de CO2 liquide, comprenant des moyens de détente du CO2 liquide sous pression reliés d'une part, à des moyens de raccordement à une source de CO2 liquide sous pression, et d'autre part à des moyens d'éjection en un jet du CO2 liquide détendu, caractérisée en ce que les moyens de détente du CO2 liquide comprennent des moyens de détente progressive comprenant un tube capillaire.To this end, the subject of the invention is a lance for producing a jet of liquid CO 2 , comprising means for expansion of the liquid CO 2 under pressure connected on the one hand, to means for connection to a source of CO 2 liquid under pressure, and on the other hand to means for ejecting a relaxed liquid CO 2 in a jet, characterized in that the means for expanding the liquid CO 2 comprise means for progressive expansion comprising a capillary tube.

Selon des modes particuliers de réalisation la lance comporte l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes:

  • les moyens de détente progressive comprennent un tube capillaire, notamment enroulé en hélice;
  • les moyens d'éjection comprennent une buse d'éjection du CO2 liquide détendu munie de moyens de réglage de l'ouverture du jet de CO2 liquide produit;
  • lesdits moyens de réglage comprennent des moyens d'injection d'un écoulement d'air dans le jet de CO2 liquide produit, et des moyens de réglage du débit de l'écoulement d'air injecté;
  • lesdits moyens de réglage comprennent un organe de canalisation adapté pour entourer une partie amont du jet de CO2 liquide produit et ainsi créer une aspiration d'air entre le jet de CO2 liquide et l'organe de canalisation;
  • lesdits moyens de réglage comprennent un tube entourant à distance la buse d'éjection et muni d'une ouverture d'entrée d'air, et une buse de canalisation entourant à distance la buse d'éjection, la buse de canalisation étant manoeuvrable et mobile entre une position rétractée, dans laquelle elle obture l'ouverture d'entrée d'air du tube, et une position active dans laquelle elle libère au moins en partie l'ouverture d'entrée d'air du tube et dans laquelle une partie avant de la buse de canalisation est adaptée pour entourer une partie du jet de CO2 liquide produit;
  • dans sa position active, ladite partie avant de la buse de canalisation forme un tromblon de production de neige carbonique;
  • les moyens d'éjection sont interchangeables;
  • la lance constitue une lance manuelle comprenant un corps formant poignée d'orientation du jet de CO2 liquide produit, et elle comprend des moyens formant vanne de réglage du débit du jet de CO2 liquide produit, commandés par un organe de commande qui peut être manoeuvré par la main d'un opérateur qui tient le corps formant poignée;
  • les moyens de détente progressive comprennent un tube capillaire, et les moyens formant vanne comprennent un organe mobile relié à une extrémité du tube capillaire, et le tube capillaire est enroulé en hélice pour s'adapter au déplacement dudit organe mobile; et
  • les moyens formant vanne comprennent un clapet d'arrêt à obturateur, situé en aval desdits moyens de détente progressive, et l'organe de commande comprend une détente reliée à une gâchette d'actionnement de l'obturateur du clapet d'arrêt.
According to particular embodiments, the lance comprises one or more of the following characteristics:
  • the progressive expansion means comprise a capillary tube, in particular wound in a helix;
  • the ejection means comprise a nozzle for ejecting the expanded liquid CO 2 provided with means for adjusting the opening of the jet of liquid CO 2 produced;
  • said adjusting means comprise means for injecting an air flow into the jet of liquid CO 2 produced, and means for adjusting the flow rate of the injected air flow;
  • said adjustment means comprise a channeling member adapted to surround an upstream part of the jet of liquid CO 2 produced and thus create an air suction between the jet of liquid CO 2 and the channeling member;
  • said adjustment means comprise a tube surrounding the ejection nozzle at a distance and provided with an air inlet opening, and a pipe nozzle surrounding the ejection nozzle at a distance, the pipe nozzle being manoeuvrable and movable between a retracted position, in which it closes the air inlet opening of the tube, and an active position in which it at least partially frees the air inlet opening of the tube and in which a front part the pipe nozzle is adapted to surround part of the jet of liquid CO 2 produced;
  • in its active position, said front part of the pipe nozzle forms a blister for producing carbon dioxide snow;
  • the ejection means are interchangeable;
  • the lance constitutes a manual lance comprising a body forming a handle for orienting the jet of liquid CO 2 produced, and it comprises means forming a valve for adjusting the flow rate of the jet of liquid CO 2 produced, controlled by a control member which can be operated by the hand of an operator who holds the body forming a handle;
  • the progressive expansion means comprise a capillary tube, and the valve means comprise a movable member connected to one end of the capillary tube, and the capillary tube is wound in a helix to adapt to the movement of said movable member; and
  • the valve means comprise a shut-off valve with shutter, located downstream of said progressive expansion means, and the control member comprises a trigger connected to a trigger for actuating the shutter of the shut-off valve.

L'invention a également pour objet un appareil de production d'un jet de CO2 liquide, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend d'une part au moins une lance telle que définie ci-dessus, associée à au moins une électrovanne de réglage du débit du jet de CO2 liquide produit par la lance, et une unité de pilotage de l'ouverture de la ou de chaque électrovanne.The invention also relates to an apparatus for producing a liquid CO 2 jet, characterized in that it comprises on the one hand at least one lance as defined above, associated with at least one regulating solenoid valve the flow rate of the liquid CO 2 jet produced by the lance, and a unit for controlling the opening of the or each solenoid valve.

L'invention a également pour objet une installation de nettoyage de surface par jet de CO2 liquide, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend un appareil tel que défini ci-dessus et des moyens de déplacement relatif d'une surface à nettoyer par rapport à la lance.The invention also relates to a surface cleaning installation by liquid CO 2 jet, characterized in that it comprises an apparatus as defined above and means for relative displacement of a surface to be cleaned with respect to spear.

L'invention peut comporter en outre des moyens d'évacuation du CO2 gazeux produit lors de l'éjection du CO2 liquide.The invention may also comprise means for removing the gaseous CO 2 produced during the ejection of the liquid CO 2 .

L'invention a finalement pour objet des moyens d'éjection pour une lance telle que définie ci-dessus.The invention ultimately relates to ejection means for a lance as defined above.

Les moyens d'éjection peuvent comprendre une buse d'éjection de CO2 liquide détendu, un corps de raccordement aux moyens de détente progressive d'une lance, une bague de montage sur la lance, un tube entourant à distance la buse d'éjection et muni d'une ouverture d'entrée d'air, et une buse de canalisation entourant à distance la buse d'éjection, la buse de canalisation étant manoeuvrable et mobile entre une position rétractée, dans laquelle elle obture l'ouverture d'entrée d'air du tube, et une position active dans laquelle elle libère au moins en partie l'ouverture d'entrée d'air du tube et dans laquelle une partie avant de la buse de canalisation est adaptée pour entourer une partie du jet de CO2 liquide produit. The ejection means can comprise a nozzle for ejecting expanded liquid CO 2 , a body for connecting to the means of progressive expansion of a lance, a ring for mounting on the lance, a tube surrounding the ejection nozzle at a distance. and provided with an air inlet opening, and a pipe nozzle surrounding the ejection nozzle at a distance, the pipe nozzle being operable and movable between a retracted position, in which it closes the inlet opening of air from the tube, and an active position in which it at least partially frees the air inlet opening of the tube and in which a front part of the pipe nozzle is adapted to surround part of the CO jet 2 liquid produced.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à la lecture de la description qui va suivre, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple, et faite en se référant aux dessins annexés sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue en coupe longitudinale d'une lance selon l'invention,
  • la figure 2 est une vue à plus grande échelle de la partie cerclée II de la figure 1, la détente étant pressée,
  • la figure 3 est une vue à plus grande échelle de la partie cerclée III de la figure 1, la buse de canalisation d'un écoulement d'air étant en position active de canalisation d'un écoulement d'air, et
  • la figure 4 est une vue schématique d'une installation de nettoyage de surfaces selon l'invention.
The invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of example, and made with reference to the appended drawings in which:
  • FIG. 1 is a view in longitudinal section of a lance according to the invention,
  • FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the circled part II of FIG. 1, the trigger being pressed,
  • FIG. 3 is a view on a larger scale of the circled part III of FIG. 1, the nozzle for channeling an air flow being in the active position for channeling an air flow, and
  • Figure 4 is a schematic view of a surface cleaning installation according to the invention.

La figure 1 illustre une lance de production d'un jet de CO2 liquide comprenant un corps 1 creux de forme générale cylindrique dans lequel sont logés des moyens 3 de détente progressive de CO2 liquide sous pression. Ces moyens 3 sont reliés d'une part, en amont, à des moyens 5 de raccordement à une source 4 de CO2 liquide sous pression, situés à une extrémité amont 7 du corps 1, et d'autre part, vers l'aval, à des moyens 9 d'éjection en un jet du CO2 liquide détendu, situés à l'extrémité aval 11 du corps 1. Des moyens 13 formant vanne de régulation du débit du jet de CO2 liquide produit sont disposés dans le corps 1 entre les moyens 3 de détente progressive du CO2 liquide et les moyens 9 d'éjection du CO2 liquide. FIG. 1 illustrates a lance for producing a jet of liquid CO 2 comprising a hollow body 1 of generally cylindrical shape in which are housed means 3 for progressive expansion of liquid CO 2 under pressure. These means 3 are connected on the one hand, upstream, to means 5 for connection to a source 4 of pressurized liquid CO 2 , located at an upstream end 7 of the body 1, and on the other hand, downstream , to means 9 for ejecting a relaxed liquid CO 2 jet, situated at the downstream end 11 of the body 1. Means 13 forming a valve for regulating the flow rate of the jet of liquid CO 2 produced are arranged in the body 1 between the means 3 for progressive expansion of the liquid CO 2 and the means 9 for ejecting the liquid CO 2 .

Le corps 1 est traversé par un alésage longitudinal 15 taraudé à l'extrémité 7.The body 1 is crossed by a bore longitudinal 15 threaded at the end 7.

Les moyens 5 de raccordement sont constitués d'un raccord mâle 17 classique, vissé dans l'extrémité 7 du corps 1, permettant de raccorder la lance, par l'intermédiaire d'un flexible 18, à la source 4 de CO2 liquide sous pression.The connection means 5 consist of a conventional male connector 17, screwed into the end 7 of the body 1, making it possible to connect the lance, by means of a hose 18, to the source 4 of liquid CO 2 under pressure.

Ce raccord 17 est traversé par un alésage longitudinal étagé, coaxial à l'alésage 15, comprenant, successivement d'amont vers l'aval, une partie d'entrée 19 de grand diamètre, une partie 21 convergente, une partie 23 de faible section, puis une partie 25 de section légèrement supérieure à la section de la partie 23 et débouchant dans l'alésage 15. Un épaulement transversal 27 relie les parties 23 et 25.This fitting 17 is crossed by a bore longitudinal stepped, coaxial with bore 15, comprising, successively from upstream to downstream, an entry part 19 of large diameter, a converging part 21, a part 23 of small section, then part 25 of section slightly larger than the section of the part 23 and opening into the bore 15. A shoulder transverse 27 connects parts 23 and 25.

Les moyens 3 de détente progressive comprennent un tube capillaire 29, enroulé en hélice, logé dans le corps 1, l'hélice formée étant sensiblement coaxiale à l'alésage 15. Le tube 29 est de section sensiblement constante.Means 3 of progressive relaxation comprise a capillary tube 29, wound in a helix, housed in body 1, the propeller formed being substantially coaxial with the bore 15. The tube 29 is of substantially constant section.

Les deux extrémités 31 et 33 du tube 29 sont rectilignes et coaxiales à l'alésage 15. L'extrémité amont 31 du tube 29 est logée dans la partie 25 de l'alésage du raccord 17, son bord prenant appui sur l'épaulement 27. Une brasure 35 est réalisée entre le raccord 17 et la partie émergente de l'extrémité 31 du tube 29.The two ends 31 and 33 of the tube 29 are straight and coaxial to the bore 15. The end upstream 31 of tube 29 is housed in part 25 of the bore of the fitting 17, its edge bearing on the shoulder 27. A solder 35 is produced between the fitting 17 and the emerging part of the end 31 of the tube 29.

La section intérieure du tube 29 et la section de la partie 23 de l'alésage du raccord 17 sont sensiblement égales.The inner section of the tube 29 and the section of part 23 of the bore of fitting 17 are substantially equal.

Les moyens 13 formant vanne de réglage du débit du jet de CO2 liquide produit comprennent un organe 37 de forme générale cylindrique, monté coulissant dans l'alésage 15 du corps 1, et relié par son extrémité amont 39 à l'extrémité aval 33 du tube 29.The means 13 forming a valve for adjusting the flow rate of the jet of liquid CO 2 produced comprise a member 37 of generally cylindrical shape, slidably mounted in the bore 15 of the body 1, and connected by its upstream end 39 to the downstream end 33 of the tube 29.

L'organe 37 est traversé par un alésage 41 longitudinal étagé coaxial à l'alésage 15. Cet alésage 41 comprend, depuis l'extrémité 39, des parties successives 43, 45, 47 et 49 de sections décroissantes. La partie 43 est taraudée et reçoit par vissage un raccord 51 de forme générale cylindrique étagée, traversé par un alésage 53 longitudinal étagé. L'alésage 53 présente successivement une première partie 55 de réception de l'extrémité aval 33 du tube 29, et une seconde partie 57 de section sensiblement égale à la section intérieure du tube 29 et débouchant dans la partie 47 de l'alésage 41.The member 37 is crossed by a bore 41 longitudinal stepped coaxial with bore 15. This bore 41 includes, from the end 39, parts successive 43, 45, 47 and 49 of decreasing sections. Part 43 is tapped and receives by screwing a fitting 51 of generally cylindrical stepped shape, crossed by a stepped longitudinal bore 53. The bore 53 successively presents a first part 55 for receiving the downstream end 33 of the tube 29, and a second part 57 of section substantially equal to the internal section of the tube 29 and opening out in part 47 of bore 41.

Un joint torique 59, disposé dans une gorge circulaire prévue à l'extrémité aval (à droite sur la figure 1) du raccord 51 assure l'étanchéité entre la partie aval du raccord 51 et la partie 45 de l'alésage 41 dans laquelle elle est reçue. Une brasure 60 est réalisée, de manière identique à la brasure 35, entre l'extrémité aval 33 du tube et le raccord 51. La tranche d'extrémité aval du tube 29 prend appui sur un épaulement joignant les parties 55 et 57 de l'alésage 53.An O-ring 59, arranged in a groove circular provided at the downstream end (right on the Figure 1) of the connector 51 provides sealing between the downstream part of fitting 51 and part 45 of the bore 41 in which it is received. A solder 60 is produced, in the same way as solder 35, between the downstream end 33 of the tube and the connector 51. The downstream end edge of the tube 29 is supported on a shoulder joining parts 55 and 57 of the bore 53.

Une bille 61 d'obturation du passage entre les parties 47 et 49 de l'alésage 41 est disposée avec un jeu radial dans la partie 47 de l'alésage 41. Son siège est constitué par une surface 63 convergente reliant les parties 47 et 49 de l'alésage 41, et la bille 61 est maintenue contre son siège 63 par un ressort hélicoïdal 65 prenant appui sur le raccord 61.A ball 61 for closing the passage between the parts 47 and 49 of the bore 41 is arranged with radial clearance in part 47 of bore 41. Its seat consists of a converging surface 63 connecting parts 47 and 49 of bore 41, and the ball 61 is held against its seat 63 by a helical spring 65 bearing on the fitting 61.

Les moyens 13 formant vanne comprennent également une pièce 67 de manoeuvre de la bille, de forme générale cylindrique étagée, percée d'un alésage 69 longitudinal coaxial à l'alésage 15. Cette pièce 67 est terminée à l'amont par une partie effilée 71 dont l'extrémité est percée d'ouvertures ou d'encoches transversales 72. Cette partie 71 est reçue de manière coulissante dans la partie 49 de l'alésage 41. Un joint torique 73, entourant la partie effilée 71, est logé dans une gorge circulaire intérieure de la partie 49 de l'alésage 41, assurant ainsi l'étanchéité entre les parties 49 et 71. L'extrémité aval 74 de la pièce 67 forme bride d'appui d'un ressort hélicoïdal 75 enfilé sur la pièce 67 et prenant également appui sur l'organe 37.The valve means 13 comprise also a part 67 for operating the ball, generally cylindrical stepped shape, pierced with a bore 69 longitudinal coaxial with bore 15. This part 67 is terminated upstream by a tapered portion 71 of which the end is pierced with openings or notches 72. This part 71 is received so sliding in part 49 of bore 41. A seal O-ring 73, surrounding the tapered part 71, is housed in an inner circular groove in part 49 of the bore 41, thus ensuring the seal between the parts 49 and 71. The downstream end 74 of part 67 support flange shape of a helical spring 75 threaded on the part 67 and also taking support on the organ 37.

L'organe 37 comporte, sur sa surface extérieure, une gorge annulaire 77, en regard de laquelle un levier 79 est monté à rotation sur le corps 1 de la lance grâce à une broche 80 s'étendant entre deux flasques 81 longitudinaux en saillie sur le corps 1.The member 37 has, on its surface outer, an annular groove 77, facing which a lever 79 is rotatably mounted on the body 1 of the lance thanks to a spindle 80 extending between two longitudinal flanges 81 projecting from the body 1.

Un premier bras 83 du levier 79 forme détente et l'autre bras 85 forme gâchette, l'extrémité libre du bras 85 s'avançant, à travers une ouverture 84 ménagée dans le corps 1, dans la gorge 77.A first arm 83 of the lever 79 forms relaxation and the other arm 85 trigger-shaped, the free end of the arm 85 advancing through an opening 84 formed in body 1, in throat 77.

Les moyens 9 d'éjection du CO2 liquide détendu comprennent un corps 87 de raccordement, de forme générale cylindrique étagée, traversé par un alésage étagé 89 coaxial à l'alésage 15, et recevant une buse d'éjection 91 sous forme d'un tube capillaire coaxial à l'alésage 15. L'extrémité amont de ce tube bute contre un épaulement intermédiaire de l'alésage 89.The means 9 for ejecting the expanded liquid CO 2 comprise a connecting body 87, of generally cylindrical stepped shape, traversed by a stepped bore 89 coaxial with the bore 15, and receiving an ejection nozzle 91 in the form of a capillary tube coaxial with the bore 15. The upstream end of this tube abuts against an intermediate shoulder of the bore 89.

Une brasure 92 est réalisée entre la buse 91 et le corps 87.A solder 92 is produced between the nozzle 91 and the body 87.

Le corps 87 comprend trois parties cylindriques successives 93, 95 et 97 de section décroissante en se dirigeant vers l'avant de la lance (à droite sur la figure 1), la partie 93 étant reçue de manière coulissante dans l'alésage 15 et un joint torique 96 assurant l'étanchéité entre les parois en regard de l'alésage 15 et de la partie 93.Body 87 has three parts successive cylindrical sections 93, 95 and 97 decreasing while moving towards the front of the lance (on the right in figure 1), part 93 being received from sliding way in bore 15 and a seal O-ring 96 ensuring sealing between the walls in look at bore 15 and part 93.

Une bague 101 s'appuyant sur un épaulement transversal joignant les parties 93 et 95 du corps 87 est vissée sur l'extrémité 11 du corps 1, qui est filetée. La pièce 67 est maintenue contre le corps 87 par le ressort 75, les alésages 69 et 89 de la pièce 67 et du corps 87 communiquant de manière étanche et étant sensiblement de même section.A ring 101 resting on a shoulder transverse joining parts 93 and 95 of body 87 is screwed onto the end 11 of the body 1, which is threaded. The piece 67 is held against the body 87 by spring 75, bores 69 and 89 of part 67 and of the body 87 communicating in leaktight manner and being substantially the same section.

Un évent 102 est percé dans le corps 1 entre l'extrémité avant (à droite sur la figure 1) de l'organe 37 et la partie 93 du corps 87.A vent 102 is drilled in the body 1 between the front end (on the right in Figure 1) of organ 37 and part 93 of body 87.

D'un épaulement transversal joignant les parties 95 et 97 du corps 87 part, vers l'extrémité avant de la lance, un tube 103 guidé sur la partie 97 du corps 87, ce tube 103 étant coaxial à la buse 91 et entourant à distance une partie de cette buse 91. La partie avant 105 de cette buse dépasse du tube 103. Deux orifices transversaux 107 traversent la paroi du tube 103, permettant la circulation d'air entre l'extérieur et l'intérieur du tube 103. From a transverse shoulder joining the parts 95 and 97 of the body 87 part, towards the end before the lance, a tube 103 guided on part 97 of the body 87, this tube 103 being coaxial with the nozzle 91 and surrounding a part of this nozzle 91 remotely. front part 105 of this nozzle protrudes from the tube 103. Two transverse orifices 107 cross the wall of tube 103, allowing air circulation between the outside and the inside of the tube 103.

Une buse 109 de canalisation, de forme générale de révolution, convergente et coaxiale à la buse 91, est montée coulissante sur l'extrémité avant du tube 103. Cette buse 109 présente une partie arrière 111 cylindrique entourant l'extrémité avant du tube 103, et une partie avant 113 cylindrique entourant à une faible distance l'extrémité avant de la buse 91. Les parties 111 et 113 sont reliées par une partie convergente 114.A pipe nozzle 109, shaped general of revolution, convergent and coaxial to the nozzle 91, is slidably mounted on the front end of the tube 103. This nozzle 109 has a rear part 111 cylindrical surrounding the front end of the tube 103, and a cylindrical front part 113 surrounding at a short distance from the front end of the nozzle 91. Parts 111 and 113 are connected by a part convergent 114.

Un pion 115 solidaire de la partie avant du tube 103, est reçue dans une ouverture longitudinale oblongue 116 de la partie 111 de la buse 109. Le pion 115 limite la translation de la buse 109 sur le tube 103 entre deux positions : d'une part, une position rétractée (figure 1), dans laquelle la partie arrière de la buse 111 obture les orifices 107, et dans laquelle la partie avant 105 de la buse 91 dépasse de la partie avant 113 de la buse 109 ; et d'autre part, une position active de canalisation d'un écoulement d'air (figure 3), dans laquelle la buse 109 libère totalement les orifices 107 et dans laquelle la partie avant 111 de la buse 109 dépasse vers l'avant (à droite sur la figure 1) par rapport à l'extrémité avant 105 de la buse 91.A pin 115 secured to the front part of the tube 103, is received in a longitudinal opening oblong 116 of part 111 of nozzle 109. The pawn 115 limits the translation of the nozzle 109 on the tube 103 between two positions: on the one hand, a position retracted (Figure 1), in which the rear part of the nozzle 111 closes the orifices 107, and in which the front part 105 of the nozzle 91 protrudes by the front part 113 of the nozzle 109; And on the other hand, an active position for channeling a flow air (Figure 3), in which the nozzle 109 releases totally the orifices 107 and in which the part front 111 of nozzle 109 protrudes forward (right in Figure 1) relative to the front end 105 of nozzle 91.

La lance étant raccordée par l'intermédiaire du raccord 17 et du flexible 18 à la source 4 de CO2 liquide sous pression, les moyens 13 formant vanne sont dans la position de repos représentée sur la figure 1, la bille 61 obturant le passage entre les parties 47 et 49 de l'alésage 41 de l'organe 37. La source de CO2 liquide sous pression est donc mise en communication avec l'alésage du raccord 17, le tube capillaire 29, la partie 57 de l'alésage 53 du raccord 51 et la partie 47 de l'alésage 41.The lance being connected via the connector 17 and the hose 18 to the source 4 of liquid CO 2 under pressure, the means 13 forming a valve are in the rest position shown in FIG. 1, the ball 61 closing the passage between the parts 47 and 49 of the bore 41 of the member 37. The source of liquid CO 2 under pressure is therefore placed in communication with the bore of the connector 17, the capillary tube 29, the part 57 of the bore 53 of fitting 51 and part 47 of bore 41.

Lorsqu'un opérateur souhaite utiliser la lance pour produire un jet de CO2 liquide, celui-ci saisit d'une main le corps 1 formant poignée ainsi que le bras 83 du levier formant détente et, en resserrant la prise, rapproche le bras 83 du corps 1 en faisant pivoter le levier 79 dans le sens anti-horaire sur la figure 1. Le bras 85 repousse alors l'organe 37 vers l'avant (à droite sur la figure 1) dans le corps 1 en comprimant le ressort 75. La partie 71 effilée de la pièce 67 coulisse dans la partie 49 de l'alésage 41 de l'organe 37 et vient pousser la bille 61, l'écartant de son siège 63 (figure 2). La bille 61, sous l'action de ce déplacement, comprime le ressort 65.When an operator wishes to use the lance to produce a jet of liquid CO 2 , the latter grasps with one hand the body 1 forming a handle as well as the arm 83 of the lever forming the trigger and, by tightening the grip, brings the arm 83 together of the body 1 by pivoting the lever 79 counterclockwise in FIG. 1. The arm 85 then pushes the member 37 forward (on the right in FIG. 1) in the body 1 by compressing the spring 75 The tapered part 71 of the part 67 slides in the part 49 of the bore 41 of the member 37 and pushes the ball 61, moving it away from its seat 63 (FIG. 2). The ball 61, under the action of this displacement, compresses the spring 65.

La bille 61 ayant quitté son siège et l'extrémité de la partie 71 étant percée d'ouvertures 72, la source de CO2 liquide sous pression est mise, par l'intermédiaire de l'alésage 69 de la pièce 67, de l'alésage 89 du corps 87 et du tube capillaire 91, en communication avec l'atmosphère ambiante.The ball 61 having left its seat and the end of the part 71 being pierced with openings 72, the source of liquid CO 2 under pressure is put, by means of the bore 69 of the part 67, of the bore 89 of the body 87 and of the capillary tube 91, in communication with the ambient atmosphere.

Le CO2 liquide s'écoule alors de la source vers l'atmosphère ambiante. Il subit une détente progressive dans le tube capillaire 29 qui, par ses caractéristiques dimensionnelles (longueur et section) permet d'induire une perte de charge significative tout en freinant l'écoulement du CO2 liquide et donc en limitant le débit du CO2 liquide détendu. L'écoulement de CO2 liquide est matérialisé par des flèches en trait gras sur les figures 2 et 3.The liquid CO 2 then flows from the source to the ambient atmosphere. It undergoes progressive expansion in the capillary tube 29 which, by its dimensional characteristics (length and section) makes it possible to induce a significant pressure drop while slowing the flow of liquid CO 2 and therefore limiting the flow of liquid CO 2 relaxed. The flow of liquid CO 2 is indicated by arrows in bold lines in FIGS. 2 and 3.

Le CO2 liquide détendu est ensuite acheminé jusqu'à la sortie du tube capillaire 91, où il se détend à la pression ambiante en produisant un jet fin et de débit limité, adapté pour les opérations de nettoyage.The expanded liquid CO 2 is then conveyed to the outlet of the capillary tube 91, where it expands to ambient pressure producing a fine jet and of limited flow rate, suitable for cleaning operations.

En déplaçant la buse 109 à la main, de sa position rétractée (figure 1) vers sa position active (figure 3), l'opérateur peut venir progressivement placer la partie avant 113 de cette buse autour du jet de CO2 liquide produit alors que la partie arrière 111 de la buse 109 libère progressivement les orifices 107.By moving the nozzle 109 by hand, from its retracted position (FIG. 1) to its active position (FIG. 3), the operator can gradually place the front part 113 of this nozzle around the jet of liquid CO 2 produced while the rear part 111 of the nozzle 109 gradually releases the orifices 107.

Le jet de CO2 liquide entraíne l'air présent entre celui-ci et la paroi interne de la partie avant 113 de la buse 109, créant ainsi une aspiration d'air dans la buse 109 initiant un écoulement d'air, matérialisé par des flèches en trait fin sur la figure 3, dans le tube 103, cet écoulement étant alimenté par les orifices 107. Cet écoulement d'air est canalisé par le tube 103 et la buse 109 et injecté dans le jet de CO2 liquide, augmentant ainsi la section et la température du jet de CO2 liquide produit. La buse 109 permet donc de modifier l'ouverture du jet de CO2 liquide produit.The jet of liquid CO 2 entrains the air present between it and the internal wall of the front part 113 of the nozzle 109, thus creating an air suction in the nozzle 109 initiating an air flow, materialized by arrows in thin line in FIG. 3, in the tube 103, this flow being supplied by the orifices 107. This air flow is channeled by the tube 103 and the nozzle 109 and injected into the jet of liquid CO 2 , thus increasing the section and the temperature of the liquid CO 2 jet produced. The nozzle 109 therefore makes it possible to modify the opening of the jet of liquid CO 2 produced.

Lorsque l'opérateur désire suspendre l'éjection de CO2 liquide, il relâche le bras 83 formant détente, et le ressort 75 repousse l'organe 37 vers la gauche sur la figure 1, entraínant avec lui le levier 79 en rotation, la partie 71 effilée se retirant progressivement de la partie 47 de l'alésage 41 et la bille 61 étant ramenée par le ressort 65 sur son siège 63, où elle obture à nouveau le passage entre les parties 47 et 49 de l'alésage 41. When the operator wishes to suspend the ejection of liquid CO 2 , he releases the arm 83 forming trigger, and the spring 75 pushes the member 37 to the left in Figure 1, causing with it the lever 79 in rotation, the part 71 tapering gradually withdrawing from the part 47 of the bore 41 and the ball 61 being brought back by the spring 65 on its seat 63, where it again closes the passage between the parts 47 and 49 of the bore 41.

La bille 61 se comporte donc comme l'obturateur d'un clapet d'arrêt de l'écoulement de CO2 liquide détendu, commandé par le levier 79.The ball 61 therefore behaves like the shutter of a valve for stopping the flow of expanded liquid CO 2 , controlled by the lever 79.

Lors de la production d'un jet de CO2 liquide, le CO2 liquide sous pression subit dans le tube 29 une détente progressive, évitant ainsi d'une part la production de neige carbonique dans les moyens de détente et dans les moyens formant vanne, et d'autre part un trop grand refroidissement dans le corps de la lance qui pourrait gêner ou empêcher l'utilisation manuelle de la lance.During the production of a jet of liquid CO 2 , the liquid CO 2 under pressure undergoes in the tube 29 a progressive expansion, thus avoiding on the one hand the production of carbon dioxide snow in the expansion means and in the valve forming means , and on the other hand too great cooling in the body of the lance which could hinder or prevent the manual use of the lance.

La configuration en hélice du tube 29 permet d'une part de placer dans un volume réduit une longueur de tube suffisante pour obtenir la détente progressive souhaitée, et d'autre part permet au tube 29 de s'adapter au déplacement de l'organe 37.The helical configuration of the tube 29 allows on the one hand to place in a reduced volume a length sufficient tube to achieve progressive expansion desired, and on the other hand allows the tube 29 to adapt to the movement of the organ 37.

Les dimensions du tube capillaire 29 pourront varier en fonction de la source d'alimentation prévue. Par exemple, pour une alimentation en CO2 liquide basse pression (P=20 bars), ses dimensions seront telles que le CO2 liquide subisse une perte de charge de 5 bars en le traversant.The dimensions of the capillary tube 29 may vary depending on the intended power source. For example, for a CO 2 supply low pressure fluid (P = 20 bar), its dimensions will be such that the liquid CO 2 undergoes a pressure drop of 5 bar therethrough.

L'évent 102 permet, en cas de fuite dans le corps 1, l'éjection de CO2 liquide sous pression.The vent 102 allows, in the event of a leak in the body 1, the ejection of liquid CO 2 under pressure.

Les moyens 9 d'éjection du CO2 liquide produit sont démontables par dévissage de la bague 101 et sont interchangeables. Ceci permet de modifier, par exemple, les caractéristiques dimensionnelles de la buse 91 d'éjection de CO2 liquide et de la buse 109 de canalisation d'air, et ainsi de modifier la plage de caractéristiques des jets pouvant être produits par la lance pour l'adapter au type de nettoyage envisagé. The means 9 for ejecting the liquid CO 2 produced are removable by unscrewing the ring 101 and are interchangeable. This makes it possible to modify, for example, the dimensional characteristics of the nozzle 91 for ejecting liquid CO 2 and of the nozzle 109 for air ducting, and thus to modify the range of characteristics of the jets that can be produced by the lance for adapt it to the type of cleaning envisaged.

La longueur de la buse 109 peut être telle que, dans sa position active de canalisation d'air (figure 3), sa partie avant 113 s'avance suffisamment au-delà de l'extrémité avant 105 de la buse 91 pour qu'un jet de CO2 liquide produit impacte la paroi intérieure de cette buse 109, qui forme alors tromblon de production de neige carbonique.The length of the nozzle 109 may be such that, in its active air ducting position (FIG. 3), its front part 113 advances sufficiently beyond the front end 105 of the nozzle 91 so that a jet of liquid CO 2 produced impacts the inner wall of this nozzle 109, which then forms a blister for producing carbon dioxide snow.

Le positionnement des moyens 13 formant vanne en aval des moyens 3 de détente progressive permet d'éviter les retards de production du jet de CO2 liquide lorsque l'opérateur presse ou relâche le bras 83 formant détente.The positioning of the means 13 forming a valve downstream of the means 3 for progressive expansion makes it possible to avoid delays in production of the jet of liquid CO 2 when the operator presses or releases the arm 83 forming expansion.

En variante, les moyens formant vanne peuvent être constitués par une électrovanne 117 (figure 4), disposée de préférence en amont des moyens 3 de détente progressive.Alternatively, the valve means may be constituted by a solenoid valve 117 (FIG. 4), preferably arranged upstream of the expansion means 3 progressive.

La lance décrite ci-dessus est donc parfaitement adaptée à une utilisation manuelle, puisqu'un opérateur, peut tout en tenant et en orientant la lance grâce au corps 1 formant poignée, commander de la même main la production de jet de CO2 liquide, et faire varier les caractéristiques du jet de CO2 liquide en déplaçant la buse 109 à l'aide de son autre main.The lance described above is therefore perfectly suited to manual use, since an operator can, while holding and orienting the lance thanks to the body 1 forming a handle, control with the same hand the production of a jet of liquid CO 2 , and varying the characteristics of the jet of liquid CO 2 by moving the nozzle 109 using his other hand.

En particulier, le réchauffement du CO2 liquide par injection d'un écoulement d'air peut, notamment dans le domaine de l'électronique, s'avérer utile pour limiter la condensation de l'air ambiant.In particular, the heating of liquid CO 2 by injecting an air flow can, in particular in the field of electronics, prove to be useful for limiting the condensation of ambient air.

Enfin, la lance de production de jet de CO2 liquide selon l'invention peut être utilisée manuellement à l'air libre ou dans des boítes à gants. Finally, the lance for producing a liquid CO 2 jet according to the invention can be used manually in the open air or in glove boxes.

Comme schématisé sur la figure 4, plusieurs lances selon le mode de réalisation décrit ou selon la variante précitée, peuvent être réunies pour réaliser un appareil de production de jet de CO2 liquide pour nettoyer, par exemple de manière automatique, des surfaces. Dans un tel appareil, les moyens formant vannes sont de préférence constitués par une ou plusieurs électrovannes 117, éventuellement communes à plusieurs lances, de réglage du débit de jets de CO2 liquide produits, et reliées à une ou plusieurs unités de pilotage individuelles ou communes 119 de l'ouverture de ces électrovannes 117.As shown diagrammatically in FIG. 4, several lances according to the embodiment described or according to the aforementioned variant, can be combined to produce an apparatus for producing a jet of liquid CO 2 for cleaning, for example automatically, surfaces. In such an apparatus, the valve forming means are preferably constituted by one or more solenoid valves 117, possibly common to several lances, for adjusting the flow rate of jets of liquid CO 2 produced, and connected to one or more individual or common control units. 119 of the opening of these solenoid valves 117.

Un tel appareil pourra être incorporé dans une installation de nettoyage de surfaces comprenant des moyens 121 de déplacement d'une surface 123 à nettoyer par rapport aux moyens d'éjection des différentes lances, et des moyens 125 d'évacuation du CO2 gazeux produit lors de l'éjection du CO2 liquide pourront en outre être prévus. Une telle installation pourra également incorporer des moyens 127 de réchauffage de la surface pour limiter les inconvénients liés aux températures relativement basses du CO2 liquide produit.Such an apparatus could be incorporated into a surface cleaning installation comprising means 121 for moving a surface 123 to be cleaned with respect to the means for ejecting the different lances, and means 125 for discharging the gaseous CO 2 produced during ejection of the liquid CO 2 may also be provided. Such an installation could also incorporate means 127 for heating the surface to limit the drawbacks associated with the relatively low temperatures of the liquid CO 2 produced.

Claims (14)

  1. Gun for producing a jet of liquid CO2, comprising depressurizing means (3) for the pressurized liquid CO2, which means are coupled, on the one hand, to connecting means (5) to a source (4) of pressurized liquid CO2 and, on the other hand, to means (9) for ejecting the depressurized liquid CO2 in a jet, characterized in that the depressurizing means for the liquid CO2 comprise progressive depressurization means (3) comprising a capillary tube (29).
  2. Gun according to Claim 1, characterized in that the progressive depressurization means (3) comprise a helically-wound capillary tube (29).
  3. Gun according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the ejection means (9) comprise an ejection nozzle (91) for the depressurized liquid CO2, which ejection nozzle is provided with means (103, 109) for regulating the opening of the produced jet of liquid CO2.
  4. Gun according to Claim 3, characterized in that the said regulating means comprise means (103, 109) for injecting a flow of air into the produced jet of liquid CO2 and means (109) for regulating the rate of f low of injected air.
  5. Gun according to Claim 4, characterized in that the said regulating means (103, 109) comprise a channelling member (109) designed to surround an upstream part of the produced jet of liquid CO2 and thus create an air intake between the jet of liquid CO2 and the channelling member.
  6. Gun according to Claim 5, characterized in that the said regulating means (103, 109) comprise a tube (103), remotely surrounding the ejection nozzle (91) and provided with an air inlet opening (107), and a channelling nozzle (109), remotely surrounding the ejection nozzle (91), the channelling nozzle (109) being manoeuvrable and movable between a retracted position in which it closes off the air inlet opening (107) of the tube (103) and an active position in which it at least partially frees the air inlet opening (107) of the tube and in which a front part (113) of the channelling nozzle is designed to surround a part of the produced jet of liquid CO2.
  7. Gun according to Claim 6, characterized in that in its active position the said front part (113) of the channelling nozzle (109) forms a nozzle tube for the production of carbon dioxide snow.
  8. Gun according to any of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the ejection means (9) are interchangeable.
  9. Gun according to any of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it constitutes a manual gun comprising a body (1) forming a steering grip for the produced jet of liquid CO2 and in that it comprises means (13) forming a regulating valve for the flow rate of the produced jet of liquid CO2, controlled by a control member (79) which can be manoeuvred by the hand of an operator holding the grip-forming body (1).
  10. Gun according to Claim 9, characterized in that the progressive depressurization means (3) comprise a capillary tube (29) and the valve-forming means (13) comprise a movable member (37) coupled to one end of the capillary tube (29), and in that the capillary tube (29) is helically wound in order to adjust to the displacement of the said movable member (37).
  11. Gun according to Claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the valve-forming means (13) comprise a shutter-type stop valve (61), situated downstream of the said progressive depressurization means (3), and in that the control member (79) comprises a trigger (83) coupled to a tumbler (85) for actuating the shutter (61) of the stop valve.
  12. Apparatus for producing a jet of liquid CO2, characterized in that it comprises, on the one hand, at least one gun according to any of Claims 1 to 11, linked to at least one solenoid valve for regulating the flow rate of the jet of liquid CO2 produced by the gun, and a drive unit for the opening of the or each solenoid valve.
  13. Installation for surface-cleaning by liquid CO2 jet, characterized in that it comprises an apparatus according to Claim 12 and means for relatively displacing a surface to be cleaned in relation to the gun.
  14. Installation according to Claim 13, characterized in that it additionally comprises means for evacuating the gaseous CO2 which is produced as the liquid CO2 is ejected.
EP19980401134 1997-06-04 1998-05-12 Lance and apparatus for the production of a liquid jet of CO2 and its use for a surface cleaning installation Expired - Lifetime EP0882522B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9706872 1997-06-04
FR9706872A FR2764215B1 (en) 1997-06-04 1997-06-04 LANCE AND APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING A LIQUID C02 JET, AND ITS APPLICATION TO A SURFACE CLEANING INSTALLATION

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0882522A1 EP0882522A1 (en) 1998-12-09
EP0882522B1 true EP0882522B1 (en) 2003-12-17

Family

ID=9507571

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19980401134 Expired - Lifetime EP0882522B1 (en) 1997-06-04 1998-05-12 Lance and apparatus for the production of a liquid jet of CO2 and its use for a surface cleaning installation

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0882522B1 (en)
DE (1) DE69820532T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2213263T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2764215B1 (en)

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
SE515027C2 (en) * 1998-07-10 2001-05-28 Sinterkil Ab Method and means of forming snow
DE19926119C2 (en) * 1999-06-08 2001-06-07 Fraunhofer Ges Forschung Blasting tool
DE102007018338B4 (en) * 2007-04-13 2010-09-23 Technische Universität Berlin Apparatus and method for particle blasting using frozen gas particles

Family Cites Families (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB147953A (en) * 1918-06-14 1921-03-10 Armand Balthasar Improvements relating to jets for the evaporation of liquids
GB652206A (en) * 1948-01-02 1951-04-18 Charles Reinhold Improvements in or relating to nozzles for spray guns
JPS63111462A (en) * 1986-10-29 1988-05-16 Hitachi Ltd Gas mixer
US4806171A (en) * 1987-04-22 1989-02-21 The Boc Group, Inc. Apparatus and method for removing minute particles from a substrate
US5018667A (en) * 1989-02-08 1991-05-28 Cold Jet, Inc. Phase change injection nozzle
US5125979A (en) * 1990-07-02 1992-06-30 Xerox Corporation Carbon dioxide snow agglomeration and acceleration
DE4223006C2 (en) * 1992-07-13 2000-01-20 Edmar Link Device for treating workpieces with a pressure fluid
US5514024A (en) * 1993-11-08 1996-05-07 Ford Motor Company Nozzle for enhanced mixing in CO2 cleaning system

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2764215B1 (en) 1999-07-16
EP0882522A1 (en) 1998-12-09
ES2213263T3 (en) 2004-08-16
DE69820532D1 (en) 2004-01-29
DE69820532T2 (en) 2004-11-11
FR2764215A1 (en) 1998-12-11

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