Method and device for cleaning interiors of tanks and systems

Abstract

A method and a cleaning device for removing deposits in interiors of tanks and systems by explosion technology. The cleaning device, an explosive, gaseous mixture is provided and caused to explode in order to clean the interior. The explosion pressure wave is conducted into the interior via an outlet opening in the cleaning device. The explosive mixture or gaseous components thereof are introduced into an accommodating chamber of the cleaning device from pressure vessels at high velocity.

Claims

1. A method for removing deposits in interiors of receptacles or installations by way of explosion technology, comprising the steps of: providing a cleaning device comprising a longitudinal component with a feed pressure conduit and an outlet device, said outlet device being fluidly connected to the feed pressure conduit and comprising a diffuser having at least one outlet opening, wherein a cross-section of the diffuser gradually enlarges as said diffuser extends from said feed pressure conduit toward said at least one outlet opening so that gas flowing into said diffuser from said feed pressure conduit expands and slows while moving through said diffuser toward said at least one outlet opening, introducing the longitudinal component with said diffuser into the interior of the receptacle or installation; introducing gaseous components into the longitudinal component; providing a gaseous, explosive mixture comprising the gaseous components, in the feed pressure conduit, said gaseous, explosive mixture flowing through the feed pressure conduit and into the outlet device and diffuser, wherein the feed pressure conduit and the outlet device, including the diffuser, form a receiving space that receives the gaseous, explosive mixture; igniting the gaseous, explosive mixture in a controlled manner in the feed pressure conduit with an ignition device arranged in the feed pressure conduit, exploding the gaseous, explosive mixture and thus removing deposits from walls in the interior of the receptacle or installation, wherein the gaseous, explosive mixture is introduced into the interior of the receptacle or installation from the receiving space via the outlet opening of the diffuser, and a cloud of gaseous, explosive mixture is formed in the interior of the receptacle or installation such that an edge region of the cloud is in direct contact with a surrounding atmosphere, wherein a volume of the gaseous, explosive mixture in the receiving space and a volume of the cloud of the gaseous, explosive mixture establish a total volume of the gaseous, explosive mixture, and wherein the total volume of gaseous, explosive mixture is produced and made to explode in a controlled manner in a time period of less than one second.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the receiving space is open to an outside via the at least one outlet opening during introduction of the gaseous components therein as well as during the ignition and explosion of the gaseous, explosive mixture.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the total volume of the gaseous, explosive mixture is produced and made to explode in a controlled manner, in a time period of less than 0.5 seconds.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the introduction of the gaseous components is effected from at least one pressure container via at least one metering fitting, and a residual pressure of the gaseous components in the at least one pressure container is above ambient pressure after completion of the introduction of the gaseous components.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein at least two gaseous components are separately introduced into the cleaning device, and a mixing zone, in which the gaseous components are mixed into the gaseous, explosive mixture, is formed in the cleaning device.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein for forming the total volume of gaseous, explosive mixture, the gaseous components are introduced via at least one metering fitting into the cleaning device at such a speed that the gaseous, explosive mixture in the feed pressure conduit forms a pressure front, which constitutes a boundary between the gaseous, explosive mixture behind the pressure front and ambient atmosphere in front of the pressure front.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein an explosion pressure wave, which moves in the direction of the outlet opening and which effects an expulsion of gaseous explosive mixture in front of the explosions pressure wave through the at least one outlet opening, is produced with ignition of the gaseous, explosive mixture in the feed pressure conduit, and thereby the cloud of explosive mixture is formed or formulation of the cloud is completed.

8. The method according to claim 6, wherein the gaseous, explosive mixture has an overpressure behind the pressure front considered in a direction of flow of the gaseous, explosive mixture.

9. The method according to claim 6, wherein the gaseous, explosive mixture, considered in a direction of flow of the gaseous, explosive mixture, has a greater density behind the pressure front as compared to in front of the pressure front.

10. The method according to claim 7, wherein exploding the gaseous, explosive mixture in the feed pressure conduit is transmitted onto the cloud outside the outlet device.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The subject-matter of the invention is hereinafter explained in more detail by way of preferred embodiment examples, which are represented in the accompanying drawings. In each case in a schematic manner are shown in:

(2) FIG. 1: a first embodiment example of a cleaning device according to the invention, with an outlet device;

(3) FIG. 2: a second embodiment example of a cleaning device according to the invention, with an outlet device;

(4) FIG. 3: a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(5) FIG. 4: a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(6) FIG. 5: a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(7) FIG. 6: a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(8) FIG. 7: a schematic representation of one aspect of the outlet device according to FIG. 5;

(9) FIG. 8a: a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(10) FIG. 8b: a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(11) FIG. 9a: a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(12) FIG. 9b: a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(13) FIG. 10: a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(14) FIG. 11: a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(15) FIGS. 12a,12b,12c: a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(16) FIG. 13: a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(17) FIG. 14: a schematic representation of a feed solution for an outlet device according to the invention;

(18) FIG. 15: a schematic representation of a further feed solution for an outlet device according to the invention;

(19) FIG. 16: a schematic representation of a further feed solution for an outlet device according to the invention;

(20) FIG. 17a: a cross-sectional view of a further embodiment example of an outlet device;

(21) FIG. 17b: a front view of the outlet device according to FIG. 17a;

(22) FIG. 18: a particular embodiment of the mixing zone of a cleaning apparatus;

(23) FIG. 19a: a further embodiment of a cleaning device;

(24) FIG. 19b: a cross-sectional view along the section line A-A according to FIG. 19a.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(25) Basically, the same parts are provided with the same reference numerals in the figures.

(26) Certain features are not represented in the figures, for an improved understanding of the invention. The described embodiment examples are exemplary with regard to the subject-matter of the invention and have no limiting effect.

(27) A first embodiment example of a cleaning device 1 according to the invention and for carrying out the cleaning method according to the invention is represented in FIG. 1. The cleaning device 1 comprises a coolable cleaning lance 2. The cleaning lance 2 comprises an outer encasing pipe 8, and an inner gas lead pipe 7, which is arranged within the outer encasing pipe 8 and which, amongst other things, forms the feed pressure conduit. The outer encasing pipe 8 encases the inner gas lead pipe 7 and by way of thus forms an annular cooling channel. The inner gas lead pipe 7 amongst other things forms a closed feed pressure channel.

(28) The cleaning lance 2 at its feed-side end section 4a comprises a metering device with connections for the feed of gaseous components for forming an explosive gas mixture.

(29) An outlet device in the form of a diffuser 5 shaped in a funnel-like manner connects to the inner gas lead pipe 7, at the cleaning-side end section 4b.

(30) The cleaning lance 2 is supplied with the gaseous components for creating the explosive mixture via a filling device 3. The cleaning lance 2 is moreover controlled via a control device 17. The control device 17 in particular serves for the control of the feed of the gaseous components into the feed pressure conduit as well as of the ignition of the explosive mixture.

(31) The cooling can be a permanent cooling or one which is manually controlled. A control of the cooling via the control device 17 however is also possible.

(32) The feed of the gaseous components for the production of the explosive mixture is effected via two gas feed conduits 10, 11, which are directly or indirectly connected to the inner gas lead pipe 7.

(33) A first gas feed conduit 10 is connected to a pressure container 22 via a first valve 23, wherein this pressure container, in turn, is connected via a second valve 15 to a commercially available first gas bottle 20, for example, an oxygen bottle. A non-return valve 39 is arranged between the first valve 23 and the run-out of the gas feed conduit 10 into the inner gas lead pipe 7.

(34) A second gas feed conduit 11 is likewise connected via a first valve 25 to a second pressure container 24. This, in turn, is connected via a second valve 16 to a commercially available second gas bottle 21. The second gas bottle 21 accordingly contains a combustible gas, for example acetylene, ethylene or ethane. A non-return valve 39 is likewise arranged between the first valve 25 and the run-out of the gas feed conduits 11 into the inner gas lead pipe 7.

(35) The pressure containers 22, 24 can also be fed with the respective gaseous components for creating the explosive mixture in another manner, instead of by way of gas bottles 20, 21.

(36) The pressure containers 22, 24 are filled with the respective gases after opening the second valves 15, 16. The pressure container volumes, for example, can be values in a stoichiometric ratio of 3.7 liters for ethane and 12.5 liters for oxygen, or a multiple thereof. A filling pressure of 20 bar is applied, for example, for creating a cloud 6 with a volume of about 110 liters, and a filling pressure of 40 bar is applied for creating a cloud 6 with a volume of about 220 liters. Of course, a uniform, higher filling pressure can also be applied instead of different filling pressures, wherein the pressure containers only provide the required gas quantity for filling a smaller container and therefore are not completely emptied. In other words, the provision of the gaseous components in a stoichiometric ratio here is effected according to the principle of differential pressure.

(37) Moreover, means via which the pressure in the pressure containers 22, 24 can be set independently of the pressure in the gas bottles 20, 21 or of the gas fed to the pressure containers 22, 24 in another manner can also be provided. Greater pressures that prevail in the gas bottles 20, 21 can be produced in the pressure container 22, 24 on account of this.

(38) These means can, for example, comprise a compressor. The pressure in the pressure container can furthermore also be produced pneumatically via a further gas, such as nitrogen, or be produced hydraulically, wherein the gaseous component is brought to the desired pressure via a moved piston in the pressure container.

(39) Accordingly, greater outlet pressures can be produced independently of the prevailing pressure in the gas bottles 20, 21. This in turn permits a more rapid feed of the gaseous components into the inner gas lead pipe 7 and, thus, a quicker formation of the cloud 6 from the explosive mixture.

(40) The pressure containers 22, 24 serve for dosing or metering the gaseous components. The metering is thereby effected in each case before the introduction of the gaseous components into the inner gas feed pipe 7.

(41) The explosive mixture is ignited by way of an ignition device 18, on or after the production of the cloud 6 from the explosive mixture. The ignition device 18 is attached on the cleaning lance 2 and effects the ignition of the explosive mixture in the feed pressure channel. The initiation of a cleaning cycle with the steps comprising the production of an explosive mixture and ignition of the mixture can be activated or triggered via the control device 17 by way of a switch 19.

(42) The annular channel, which is formed by the outer encasing pipe 8 around the inner gas lead pipe 7, serves as a cooling channel, as has already been mentioned. A viscous coolant, which is to cool the inner gas lead pipe 7, circulates through this channel.

(43) The cleaning lance 2 at its feed-side end section 4a or in it proximity accordingly comprises connections in each case for the feed conduits 12, 13 of the coolant feed. Water, for example, is fed through a first feed conduit 12, and air for example through a second feed conduit 13. Also only one coolant feed conduit can be provided for the feed of only one coolant, e.g. water. The coolant, e.g. water/air mixture, is led between the outer encasing pipe 8 and the inner gas lead pipe 7. The coolant serves for the protection of the cleaning lance 2 from overheating. The coolant exits again at the cleaning-side end section 4b, which is indicated by arrows 9.

(44) The coolant, which is led through the cleaning lance 2 and exits at the cleaning side also cools the diffuser 5. However, it is not an essential feature of this embodiment example that the coolant exits at the cleaning side and cools the diffuser.

(45) The coolant feed into the coolant channel of the cleaning lance is controlled via suitable valves 14. The actuation of these permits the cooing to be switched-on and off. The valves can be actuated by hand or be controlled via a control device. A permanent cooling is likewise possible.

(46) A lance cooling designed in this manner is preferably activated before the introduction of the cleaning lances 2 into the hot interior of an incineration installation 30 to be cleaned. It typically remains switched on during the whole time during which the cleaning lances 2 are exposed to the heat. Such an active lance cooling can be effected via the control device 17, by way of the valves 14 of the cleaning lance 2 being actuated via the control device 17.

(47) Of course, it is also possible to introduce a coolant through a cooling connection at the feed-side end of the lance, and to let it flow back again to the same end section. This would be possible, for example, in the case of an outer encasing pipe that is closed at one side.

(48) The active cooling described above, however, is optional and is not a necessary feature of the present invention. The outer encasing tube 8 and the annular channel can, for example, also be designed merely for passive cooling and act in an insulating manner, and in this manner protect the cleaning lance 2 and the explosive gas mixture which is located therein or its gaseous components from overheating,

(49) For carrying out the cleaning method according to the invention, the cleaning-side end section 4b of the cleaning lance 2 is introduced through a through-opening 33 into the interior 31 of an incineration installation 30 in the introduction direction E and is placed, for example, in front of a bundle of pipes 32. First of all, the first valves 23, 25 thereafter or simultaneously are briefly opened, for example, for less than one second. During this time, the gas contents of the pressure containers 22, 24 flow via the gas feed conduits 10, 11 into the inner gas lead pipe 7 of the cleaning lances 2.

(50) The gaseous components are mixed with one another into an explosive gas mixture in the inner gas lead pipe 7 and are led through the feed pressure conduit in the direction of the diffuser 5. The feed pressure conduit and the diffuser 5 form a receiving space 27 for at least one part of the introduced explosive mixture. Another part of the gaseous mixture, for example, flows outwards via the diffuser 5 and forms a cloud.

(51) Basically, also only the receiving space 27 can be filled with the explosive mixture. In this case for example, no cloud is formed outside the diffuser 5.

(52) The formation of the cloud 6 from the explosive mixture, for example, lasts 0.015 to 0.03 seconds.

(53) The explosive mixture after the closure of the first valves 23, 25 is ignited immediately or after a selected time delay, by way of the ignition device, and the cloud 6 is made to explode.

(54) The embodiment example of the cleaning devices 51 according to the invention and which is represented in FIG. 2 comprises a coolable cleaning lance 52 that is led in the introduction direction E through the through-opening 76 of an incineration installation 70 in its interior 71.

(55) The cleaning lance 52 in each case comprises a gas lead pipe 67 that extends from a feed-side end section 65 to a cleaning-side end section 66 and through which the explosive mixture or its gaseous components is/are led in the direction of the outlet opening 69. The gas lead pipe 67 amongst other things forms a closed feed pressure channel 78 of a feed pressure conduit.

(56) A metering device is provided at the feed-side end section 65. An inner pipe 53, also called inlet piece, which is arranged concentrically to the gas lead pipe 67 runs out into the gas lead pipe 54. The inner pipe 54 forms a first introduction channel and ends within the gas feed pipe 67. The gas lead pipe 67 at this location merges into a feed pressure conduit with a feed pressure channel.

(57) A first gaseous component of the explosive mixture is introduced into the gas lead pipe 67 via the inner pipe 53. The inner pipe 53 is hereby connected to a first gas feed conduit 57 via a connection.

(58) An annular, second introduction channel, into which a second gas feed conduit 56 for the feed of a second gaseous component of the explosive mixture into the gas lead pipe 67 runs out via a further connection, is formed between the inner pipe 53 and the gas lead pipe 67, which is also called outer pipe.

(59) Valves 72, 73, via which the feed of the gaseous components into the gas lead pipe 67 can be controlled are arranged directly at the connection of the gas feed conduits 56, 57 onto the cleaning lance 52. A non-return valve 79 is arranged in each case between the valves 72, 73 and run-out of the gas feed conduits 56, 57 into the gas lead pipe 67.

(60) The first gaseous component mixes with the second gaseous component into an explosive mixture, in a mixing zone directly at the inner pipe end in the gas feed pipe 67. The first gaseous component, for example, can be a gaseous or liquid fuel, in particular a hydrocarbon compound. The second gaseous component can be oxygen or an oxygen-containing gas.

(61) An ignition device 60 with a spark plug 61 is moreover attached on the cleaning lance 52, and this spark plug runs out into the gas lead pipe 67 and is designed to electrically ignite the explosive mixture in the gas lead pipe 67.

(62) The gas lead pipe 67 is encased by an encasing pipe 55. An annular cooling channel 68, in which a coolant for cooling the gas lead pipe 67 is introduced is formed between the encasing pipe 55 and the gas lead pipe 67. For this, a first and a second connection, to which a first and second coolant feed conduit 58, 59 are connected for the feed of a first and second coolant, are provided on the feed-side end section 65 of the cleaning lance 52. The first coolant can be cooling liquid such as water, and the second coolant can be a gas, such as, for example, air.

(63) Valves 74, 75, via which the coolant feed into the coolant channel 68 can be controlled, are arranged at the connection of the coolant feed conduits 58, 59 to the cleaning lance 52. The valves 74, 75 can be actuated by hand or be controlled via a control device. A permanent cooling is likewise possible.

(64) Also, only one coolant feed conduit can be provided for the feed or only one coolant, e.g. water. The coolant, e.g. a water/air mixture is thus led between the encasing pipe 55 and the gas lead pipe 67. The coolant serves for the protection of the cleaning lance 52 from heating too much.

(65) The coolant 64 can exit out of the cooling channel 68 at the cleaning-side end section 66 via an axial exit opening. The coolant which is led through the cleaning lance 52 in this manner can also cool the subsequently described diffuser 62.

(66) A lance cooling, which is designed in this manner, is preferably activated before the introduction of the cleaning lances 52 into a hot receptacle to be cleaned. It typically remains switched on during the whole time, in which the cleaning lance 52 is exposed to the heat.

(67) The active cooling, which is described above, however is optional and is not a necessary feature of the present invention.

(68) An outlet device in the form of a funnel-like diffuser 62, at whose end the outlet opening 69 for the explosive mixture is located, connects to the gas lead pipe 67, at the cleaning-side end section 66, which lies opposite the feed-side end section 65. The diffuser 62 forms an opening angle . Moreover, the diffuser 62 forms a ratio of the diffuser length to the greatest diameter of the outlet opening 69 L:D. The length L of the diffuser 62 is measured along its longitudinal axis A (see also FIG. 1).

(69) The explosive mixture, which flows through the gas lead pipe 67 at a high speed, is calmed in the diffuser 62 before exit into the inner space or interior 71, so that as little as possible swirling in the boundary region between the explosive mixture and the surrounding atmosphere occurs subsequent to the connection opening 60 when forming the cloud 77.

(70) The feed speed in the feed pressure channel of about 300 m/s (speed of sound) can be reduced to 4 m/s at the outlet opening for example, thanks to the outlet device according to FIGS. 1 and 2, by which means a cloud formation is possible at all.

(71) The feed pressure channel and the diffuser 62 also form a receiving space 80 for at least a part of the introduced explosive mixture. Another part of the gaseous mixture can be flow outwards via the diffuser 62 and form a cloud, as mentioned.

(72) Basically, here too, only the receiving space 80 can be filled with the explosive mixture. In this case, for example, no cloud is formed outside the diffuser.

(73) The cleaning apparatus according to the embodiment example according to FIG. 3 comprises an outlet device in the form of a diffuser 93 with an outlet opening 95. A swirl element 94 is arranged in its centre. The swirl element 94 serves for the additional slowing of the flow and of the intermixing of the explosive mixture entering the diffuser 93 from the feed pressure conduit 92. The swirl element 94 is fixed in the feed pressure conduit 92. The swirl element 94 comprises a platelet-like component that is arranged transversely to the outflow direction R (see also FIG. 1).

(74) The diffuser 93 also forms a receiving space 99 for a part of the introduced explosive mixture. Another part of the gaseous mixture flows outwards via the diffuser 93 and forms the cloud 96.

(75) The outlet device according to FIG. 3 and the operation of this can alternatively be configured such that only the receiving space 99 of the diffuser 93 is filled with an explosive mixture and made to explode. The explosion pressure waves 97 propagate departing from the outlet opening 95. No cloud is produced outside the diffuser 93 in this case. The explosion pressure waves 97 and the cloud 96 in FIG. 3 accordingly represent alternative representations.

(76) The cleaning device 81 according to the embodiment example according to FIG. 4 comprises a cleaning apparatus with an outlet device 83, which is designed in the form of a truncated icosahedron. This comprises a plurality of outlet bodies in the form of diffusers 84 that represent funnel-like widenings. The diffusers are directed radially outwards from a centre. The outlet openings 85 are arranged in a radially outwardly directed manner. The feed pressure conduit 82 with the feed pressure channel 88 for the explosive mixture runs to the centre of the icosahedron-shaped outlet device 83, from where the explosive mixture is led into the funnel-like widenings 84.

(77) The outlet device 103 of the cleaning apparatus 101 according to the embodiment example according to FIG. 5 is designed in a spherical manner. It comprises a plurality of outlet bodies in the form of diffusers 104, which are designed as funnel-like widenings. The diffusers are directed radially outwards from a centre. The outlet openings 105 are arranged in a radially outwardly directed manner.

(78) The feed pressure conduit 102 with the feed pressure channel 108 for the explosive mixture runs to the centre of the spherical outlet device 103 and runs out in a central spherical distribution space 111, from where the explosive mixture is led via openings in the peripheral region of the spherical distribution space 111, radially outwards into the funnel-like widenings 104. Flow guidance elements can be arranged in the spherical distribution space 111 (not shown).

(79) The diameter of the feed pressure channel 108 can e.g. be 15 to 30 mm or more, in particular 20 to 25 mm, such as 21 mm.

(80) The outlet device 123 of the cleaning apparatus 121 according to the embodiment example according to FIG. 6 is constructed similarly to the outlet device 103 according to the embodiment example according to FIG. 5. The present outlet device 123, however, is designed merely in a hemispherical manner. It likewise comprises a plurality of outlet bodies in the form of diffusers 124, which are designed as funnel-like widenings. The diffusers are directed radially outwards from a centre. The outlet openings 125 are arranged in a radially outwardly directed manner.

(81) A decomposition of the cloud cannot take place in the boundary region toward the wall since the hemispherical outlet device in particular is arranged on the wall. The hemispherical outlet device can comprise a peripheral collar for achieving the same effect, in the case that the hemispherical outlet opening is applied at a distance to the wall.

(82) The feed pressure conduit 122 with the feed pressure channel 128 for the explosive mixture runs out at the flat side of the hemispherical outlet device 123 in the central position into this outlet device 123, from where the explosive mixture is led into the funnel-like widenings 124. The outlet device 123 in combination with the feed pressure conduit 122 is designed in a mushroom-like manner. The flat side of the outlet device 123 is directed to the wall 130 of the receptacle or installation. The outlet device 123 can be sunk or recessed in the wall 130.

(83) The outlet devices according to the FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 permit a spatial exit of the explosive mixture in all directions. This encourages or assists the formation of a cloud in the interior of the receptacle or installation, since the explosive mixture is distributed uniformly in the space.

(84) The outlet speed of the explosive mixture at the outlet openings of the diffusers can be even be greater compared to the single diffuser according to FIGS. 1 and 2. Thus, the diffusers with respect to the ratio of the length to opening diameter can be designed in a shorter manner than those according to FIGS. 1 and 2. Their opening angle can also be likewise designed smaller.

(85) The reason for this is that the individual diffusers with the exception of the end-side diffusers are surrounded by adjacent diffusers, from which the explosive mixture is likewise discharged in each case. A lateral mixing-in of the surrounding atmosphere is no longer possible at all on account of this.

(86) No swirling or eddy formation between the individual exiting gas flows is to be expected since the explosive mixture moreover is discharged through all diffusers preferably at the same or similar speed. The explosive mixture, which flows out in a surfaced manner in contrast displaces the surrounding atmosphere in the outflow direction. This, moreover, also relates to the embodiment examples according to FIGS. 10 to 13.

(87) FIG. 7 shows a schematic sketch of the arrangement of the diffusers 104 according to the embodiment examples according to FIG. 5. The diameter D of the outlet opening can e.g. be 5 to 20 mm, in particular 10 to 15 mm, such as 13 mm. The diameter d of the diffuser 104 at its narrowest location at the beginning of the funnel-like widening can, for example, be 1 to 5 mm, in particular 1 to 2 mm, such as 1.5 mm. The length L of the diffuser 104 up to the run-out in the central space of the outlet device 123, for example, is 30 to 50 mm, in particular 35 to 45 mm, such as 39 mm. The ratio D.sup.2:d.sup.2 can e.g. be 75 or less. The specified dimensions and ratios are preferably also valid for the embodiment example according to FIG. 6.

(88) FIG. 8a shows the outlet device 143 of a cleaning apparatus 141, into which the explosive mixture flows via the feed pressure channel 148 of a feed pressure conduit 142. The outlet opening 143 forms a receiving space 147 for at least a part of the introduced explosive mixture. In contrast to the embodiment example according to FIGS. 1 to 3, the outlet device 143 comprises laterally arranged outlet openings 145. For this, a funnel-like base body 144 with its widened cross section runs out into an outlet body which is arranged transversely to this and which is likewise widened in a funnel like manner towards both outlet openings 145 in each case. Accordingly, the explosive mixture flowing axially in through the base body 144 is deflected to the lateral outlet openings 145 by about 90 (angle degrees) (see arrows). The base body or the outlet bodies as a result are designed as diffusers. The explosive mixture forms a cloud 146 outside the diffusers.

(89) The outlet device 163 of a further cleaning apparatus 161 which is shown in FIG. 8 likewise comprises a funnel-like base body 164, into which the explosive mixture flows via the feed pressure channel 168 of a feed pressure conduit 162. Here too, the outlet device 163 forms a receiving space 167 for at least a part of the introduced explosive mixture. The outlet device 163 moreover likewise comprises laterally arranged outlet openings 165. For this, the funnel-like base body 164 with its widened cross section runs out into an outlet body, which is arranged transversely to this and which is likewise widened in a funnel-like manner in each case to both outlet openings 165. The base body 164 comprises a flow guidance wall 170, which divides the flow of explosive mixture led in the direction of the outlet bodies, to the two outlet openings 165. The flow is likewise deflected to the two lateral outlet openings 165 by about 90 (see arrows). Here too, the base bodies or the outlet bodies are designed as diffusers. The explosive mixture forms a cloud 166 outside the diffusers.

(90) The outlet devices according to FIGS. 8a and 8b in particular have the advantage that reduced or no repulsive forces occur thanks to the lateral exit of the explosive mixture.

(91) FIG. 9a shows a cleaning apparatus 341 with an outlet device 343 of a construction type that is similar to the outlet device according to FIG. 8a. The explosive mixture flows via the feed pressure channel 348 of a feed pressure conduit into the outlet device 343. The outlet device 343 forms a receiving space for the introduced explosive mixture. The outlet device 443 comprises laterally arranged outlet openings 345. For this, a base body 344 with a cross section that is widened with respect to the feed pressure conduit runs out into an outlet body 349 arranged transversely to this. The outlet body 349 in each case has a funnel-like widening to the outlet openings 345, which lie opposite one another.

(92) The explosive mixture is ignited in the receiving space 347. The explosion pressure waves 346 are deflected towards the lateral outlet openings by 90 (angle degrees) and propagate laterally departing from the outlet openings 345.

(93) FIG. 9b shows a cleaning apparatus 441 with an outlet device 443 of a construction type that is similar to the outlet device according to FIG. 8b. The outlet device 443 comprises a base body 444, into which the explosive mixture flow via the feed pressure channel 448 of a feed pressure conduit. Here too, the outlet device 443 forms a receiving space 447 for at least a part of the introduced explosive mixture. The outlet device 443, moreover, likewise comprises laterally arranged outlet openings 445. For this, the base body 444 with its cross section, which is widened with respect to the feed pressure conduit, runs out into an outlet body 449, which is arranged transversely to this and which is likewise widened in a funnel-like manner to both outlet openings 445.

(94) The explosive mixture is ignited in the receiving space 447. The explosion pressure waves 446 are deflected to the lateral outlet openings 445 by about 90 (angle degrees) and propagate laterally departing from the outlet openings 445.

(95) The outlet devices according to FIGS. 9a and 9b in particular have the advantage that reduced or no repulsive forces occur thanks to the lateral exit of the explosion pressure waves.

(96) The outlet device 183 according to FIG. 10 and which is introduced through an opening in the wall 190 of a receptacle or installation is formed from the end section of the feed pressure conduit 182, on the outer periphery of which end section a plurality of outlet bodies in the form of funnel-like diffusers 184 with outlet openings 185 lead away radially in different spatial directions. The feed pressure conduit 182 comprises suitable opening, which run out into the diffusers 184. The diffusers 184 are arranged annularly around the feed pressure conduit 182 as well as successively in the longitudinal direction of the feed pressure conduit. They form a cylinder-shaped outlet device 183.

(97) A shielding element 186 can be arranged in each case at the front and rear axial end of the outlet device 183 and this at the front and rear axial end of the outlet device 183 considered in the exit direction shields the explosive mixture exiting from the outlet bodies 184, to side, so that no decomposition of the cloud by mixing can take place in this boundary region.

(98) The shielding elements 186 form a type of funnel-like widening subsequent to the outlet area formed by the formed by the outlet opening 185. The shape of the shielding elements 186 can also be designed differently than that shown.

(99) Moreover, one can also envisage outlet bodies with an axial direction component likewise being arranged at the front end of the outlet device. The outlet openings of the outlet bodies can, for example, form a hemispherical outlet surface, as is shown in the embodiment example according to FIG. 6.

(100) The outlet device 203, which is show in FIG. 11, has a diffuser field. This consists of a multitude of outlet bodies that are arranged next to one another and that are in the form of funnel-like diffusers 204, which are equally aligned. In the present embodiment example, the outlet openings 205 lie in a common plane, which however is not essential. The outlet openings 205 form a plane outlet surface.

(101) The outlet device 203 in particular is suitable for the installation onto or into a wall. The outlet device 203 can, for example, be sunk or recessed in the wall, wherein the outlet openings 205 are flush with the wall.

(102) The cleaning apparatus 221, which is shown in FIG. 12, comprises an outlet device 223. This comprises a plurality of outlet bodies in the form of funnel-like diffusers 224 with outwardly directed outlet openings 225, and these outlet bodies are arranged along the periphery of the feed pressure conduit 222 and lead radially away from this conduit. The diffusers 224 lie in a common plane and form a disc-like arrangement on account of this.

(103) A recess or deepening, which corresponds to the diffuser arrangement and into which the disc-like diffuser arrangement can be stowed away, embedded or sunk (see FIG. 12a) by way of retracting (arrow direction) the outlet device 203, can be provided in the wall 230 of the receptacle or installation. The disc-like diffuser arrangement is extended out of the recess into the space of the receptacle or installation (arrow direction) (see FIG. 12b), for assuming the working position. FIG. 12c moreover shows a plan view of the diffuser arrangement of the outlet device 203.

(104) The cleaning apparatus 221 in particular is suitable for cleaning the wall 230, on which this is arranged. The explosion pressure produced by the cleaning apparatus 221 creates a shear effect upon the contamination sticking to the wall 230.

(105) The cleaning apparatus 241, which is represented in FIG. 13, comprises an outlet device 243. This, similarly to a rotary feeder comprises partition walls 251, which project radially from the feed pressure conduit 242 and which are arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the feed pressure conduit 242. Two adjacent partition walls 251 form an outlet body due to their radial alignment. The outlet body shapes a wedge-like space, which acts as a diffuser 244. Openings 250, which run out into the wedge-like space between the partition walls 251, are provided in the feed pressure conduit 242. The explosive mixture flows through these openings 250 into the wedge-like diffuser space and is calmed in this, before the mixture escapes outwards through the slot-like outlet opening, which is formed between two partition walls.

(106) According to this embodiment example, the cleaning-side end section of the feed pressure conduit 242 forms the distribution or manifold space.

(107) As a modification of the embodiment example according to FIG. 13, one can also envisage outlet bodies, which, for example, are designed as diffusers, being arranged between the partition walls. These are preferably arranged next to one another in a row and are connected to openings of the feed pressure conduit. The partition walls extend radially past the outlet openings of the outlet bodies. The same result would be achieved if partition walls leading radially away from the feed pressure conduit 182 were to be arranged between the rows of diffusers 184 according to the embodiment example 183.

(108) The partition walls provide additional protection in the case of a strong flow in the atmosphere of the surroundings. The cloud can therefore be formed in a protected manner and ignited, between the partition walls. The partition walls are not deformed, even if these are designed in a comparatively thin-walled manner, since the explosion pressure is built up on both sides of the partition walls in each case, given an explosion.

(109) The outlet device according to the embodiment examples according to FIGS. 3 to 13 can, for example, be attached on a cleaning-side end section of a cleaning lance which is described above.

(110) According to the conceptional representation of a cleaning device 501, which is represented in FIG. 14, several diffusers 504 are fed with the explosive mixture in each case through separate feed pressure conduits 502. The individual gaseous components of the mixture are fed from a respective common pressure container 510, 511 to the individual diffusers 504 or their feed pressure conduits 501 via suitable feed conduits 512, 513.

(111) According to the conceptual representation of a cleaning device 521, 541 which is represented in FIGS. 15 and 16, several diffusers 524, 544 are supplied with the explosive mixture via a collective feed. The diffusers 524 for this are fed through a common feed pressure conduit 522, which branches to the individual diffusers 524, 544.

(112) The embodiments according to FIGS. 15 and 16 can be combined with the embodiment according to FIG. 14. In other words, the feed pressure conduit 501 can branch and feed several diffusers, instead of a single diffuser 504 according to FIG. 14.

(113) FIGS. 17a and 17b show a further embodiment of an outlet device 463 of a cleaning apparatus with an outlet opening 465. The outlet device 463 towards the outlet opening 465 forms a diffuser in the form of a funnel-like widening. The outlet device 463 with the diffuser also forms a receiving space 467 for a part of the introduced explosive mixture. Another part of the gaseous mixture is calmed in the diffuser and flows outwards via the outlet opening 465 and forms the cloud 466.

(114) Annular flow guidance elements 469, which in each case likewise form a funnel-like widening towards the outlet opening 465 are arranged in the funnel-like widening of the diffuser. An annular flow channel 471 is formed between the outer wall of the diffuser and the flow guidance element 469 or between the flow guidance elements 469. This flow channel towards the outlet opening 465 likewise has a conical widening. The annular flow channel 417 is interrupted by radially arranged connection webs 470, which connect the flow guidance elements 469 amongst one another and to the outer wall of the diffuser. The flow guidance elements 469 likewise contribute to the calming and uniformity of the flow. The number of flow guidance elements 469 can vary.

(115) The flow guidance elements 469 can have an angle increasing from the inside to the outside with respect to a longitudinal axis A. In the present shown embodiment example, this angle increases outwards in steps of 10 (angle degrees). The innermost flow guidance element 469, for example, has an angle of 10 with respect to the longitudinal axis A, the second outermost flow guidance element 469 an angle of 20 and the outer wall an angle of 30.

(116) FIG. 18 shows a special design of the cleaning apparatus 651 in the region of the mixing zone 664. The cleaning apparatus 651 is a cleaning lance with a feed pressure conduit 656 with a feed pressure channel 657. An ignition device 668 is provided on the feed pressure conduit.

(117) A metering (dosing) device 654 is arranged on the feed-side end section. The metering device 654 comprises a gas lead pipe 658, also called outer pipe, and an inner pipe 659. The inner pipe 659 forms a first introduction channel 652, via which a combustible gaseous component is introduced into the feed pressure channel 657. The latter component is introduced into the first introduction channel 652 via metering valves 663, and this is only shown by way of example.

(118) An annular, second introduction channel 653, via which gaseous oxygen or an oxygen-containing gaseous component is introduced into the feed pressure channel 657 of the feed pressure conduit 656 is formed between the gas lead pipe 658 and the inner pipe 659.

(119) The inner pipe 659 ends within the gas feed pipe 658. The second annular introduction channel 653 merges into the feed pressure channel 657 at this location. A mixing zone 664, in which the gaseous components flowing out of the first and second introduction channel 652, 653 into the common feed pressure channel 657 mix with one another, is formed in this region.

(120) A reduction of the cross section is provided in the region of the inner pipe end. This reduction is such that the cross section of the second, annular introduction channel 653 conically narrows towards the inner pipe end. The narrowing is moreover of such a nature than the cross section of the feed pressure channel 657 conically increases in the feed direction R subsequently to the inner pipe end. The inner pipe end lies in the region of the cross section that increases again in the feed direction R. The narrowest location is arranged behind the inner pipe end.

(121) The geometric design of the cross-sectional change is such that the cleaning apparatus 651 forms a Laval nozzle in the region of the inner pipe end with suitable flow conditions.

(122) The embodiment of a cleaning lance 601 according to FIGS. 19a and 19b shows a cleaning lance with a feed-side end section, on which a metering device 604 is formed and with a cleaning-side end section, on which an outlet device 605 is arranged. A feed pressure conduit 606 with a feed pressure channel 607, via which the explosive mixture is delivered from the metering device 604 to the outlet device 605, is arranged between the metering device 604 and the outlet device 605.

(123) The outlet device 605 in the present example is designed as a conical diffuser with an outlet opening. The outlet opening 605 however can also be designed differently.

(124) The cleaning lance can be introduced into the interior of a receptacle to be cleaned, through an opening in the receptacle wall 630.

(125) The metering device 604 comprises a gas lead pipe 608 and an inner pipe 609. The inner pipe 609 forms a first introduction channel 602, via which a combustible, gaseous component is introduced into the feed pressure channel 607. A second, annular introduction channel 603, via which oxygen or an oxygen-containing, gaseous component is introduced into the feed pressure channel 607 of the feed pressure conduit 606, is formed between the gas lead pipe 608 and the inner pipe 609.

(126) The first combustible component is introduced from a first pressure container 621 via several metering valves 612 into the first introduction channel 602. The oxygen or the oxygen-containing component is introduced from the second pressure container 622 via several metering valves 613 into the second introduction channel 603.

(127) The number of metering valves 612, 61 of the first and the second gaseous component is selected such that the ratio of the number of metering valves 612, 613 corresponds to the stoichiometric ratio of the components to be fed. In the present example, the first component is oxygen and the second component ethane. These are introduced in the stoichiometric ratio of 7:2. Accordingly, two metering valves 612 are provided for the first component and seven metering valves 613 for the second component.

(128) The first pressure container 621 is supplied with the respective gaseous component via a first feed conduit 610, and the second pressure container 622 via a second feed conduit 611.

(129) The inner pipe 609 ends within the gas feed pipe 608. The second annular introduction channel 603 merges into the feed pressure channel 607 at the inner pipe end. A mixing zone 614 is formed in this region, in which mixing zone the gaseous components flowing from the first and the second introduction channel 602, 603 into the common feed pressure channel 607 are mixed with one another. The cross section of the feed pressure channel 607 undergoes a funnel-like widening in the mixing zone.

(130) An ignition device 668 for igniting the explosive mixture is provided on the feed pressure conduit 656. A control device 617 is connected to the ignition device 668 as well as the metering valves 612, 613 via control leads 619. The control leads 619 are also to represent a wireless connection. The opening and closure of the metering valves 612, 613 as well as the activation of the ignition device are effected via the control device 617.