Method for process monitoring for on-site cleaning of a production unit and production facility having a cleaning system for on-site cleaning

Abstract

A method for process monitoring for on-site cleaning of a production unit and a production facility with a cleaning system for on-site cleaning are described. A cleaning fluid is guided through a cleaning circuit that is guided through the production unit, and at least one parameter that is characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid is measured and compared with one another in the inflow and return of the cleaning circuit. The cleaning program can be more precisely controlled and optimized by assigning the characteristic parameter inflow values ​​and return values ​​determined in this way, in particular in pairs, to volume packages of the cleaning fluid that flow through the cleaning circuit, and by comparing the inflow values ​​and return values ​​that are respectively assigned to the volume packages, by the machine assessing the progress of the cleaning and / or the resulting changes in the cleaning fluid.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a method and a production facility for process monitoring of in-situ cleaning of at least one production unit for producing and / or processing liquid filling products. Background Art

[0002] A generic method and a generic production facility are known from EP 2 362 008 B1. Thus, in a production facility having a production unit for producing and / or treating liquid packaged products, a difference measurement between the inflow and the return of a cleaning system for on-site cleaning, also known as cleaning in place (CIP), is performed, for example, in a bypass line of the main flow of the cleaning liquid to be evaluated, using a spectroscopic method. Thus, a comparison of the composition of the cleaning liquid in the inflow and the return during the cleaning process makes it possible, for example, to estimate whether the effective concentration of the cleaning liquid and / or its dirt load has changed.

[0003] The disadvantage here is that the inflow values ​​and return flow values ​​to be compared are measured essentially at the same time and the quality of the cleaning fluid can be inferred from them. Since the production facilities to be cleaned usually have relatively large container volumes and line volumes, there can be considerable inaccuracies in the persuasiveness of the inflow and return flow values ​​compared with one another. The differences between the measured values ​​on the inflow side and the return flow side can then fluctuate in a way that has hitherto been unexplained. For example, a brief increase in concentration and / or a strongly fluctuating dirt load can be detected in the cleaning fluid, which often contradicts the expected trend during the cleaning program. It is then difficult to assess the progress of the cleaning process, for example in order to determine the appropriate time point for the end of the individual program steps of the cleaning program or to optimize the use of different cleaning fluids, such as acids, alkalis and water.

[0004] There is therefore a need for more precise control of the cleaning procedures of such production facilities. In addition, it is also desirable to monitor parameters that are characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid as flexibly as possible. Summary of the invention

[0005] The method is used for process monitoring of in-situ cleaning (also referred to as CIP method) of production units for producing and / or treating liquid filling products, which can be, for example, beverages or similar liquid foods, pharmaceutical products, hygiene products or the like. For this purpose, a cleaning liquid is conducted through a cleaning circuit which is conducted through the production unit, and at least one parameter characteristic of the composition of the cleaning liquid is measured in the inflow and in the return of the cleaning circuit and compared with one another.

[0006] According to the invention, the inflow values ​​and return flow values ​​determined here, i.e. the values ​​of the characteristic parameters determined for the inflow and return, respectively, are assigned in pairs by the machine to specific volume packages of the cleaning fluid flowing through the cleaning circuit. Furthermore, by comparing the inflow values ​​and return flow values ​​respectively assigned to the volume packages, the progress of the cleaning and / or the resulting changes in the cleaning fluid are assessed by the machine.

[0007] A volume package is understood to be a partial volume of a cleaning liquid that can be defined / delimited in principle in any way, provided that a location within the cleaning system, such as a specific line section, container or measuring point, can be assigned to the partial volume at a specific point in time. In other words, the point in time when such a volume package / partial volume is at a specific location, such as in the area of ​​a measuring instrument, can be determined. Thus, a measured value determined using a measuring instrument and, if applicable, an associated measuring time can be assigned to each volume package that flows through the cleaning system.

[0008] Thus, in contrast to the common simultaneous measurement of the inflow value and the return flow value to be compared, the time points of the inflow measurement and the associated return flow measurement can be deliberately offset in time. For this purpose, the residence time of the volume packet between the associated inflow measurement and the return flow measurement is taken into account. In other words, in the case of the return flow measurement, it is possible to wait in a targeted manner until the volume packet for which the inflow value has been previously determined arrives at the measuring device for determining the return flow value. Thus, the inflow value and the return flow value of the same volume packet can be compared with each other.

[0009] This makes it possible to better assess process-related fluctuations in characteristic parameters, such as changes in the composition of the cleaning liquid in the respective tank, a reduction in the reactive content of the cleaning liquid and / or an increase in the dirt load caused by the process. Ultimately, the accuracy of the comparative measurement and its evaluation can thus be increased in order to more accurately assess the progress of the cleaning and / or the changes in the cleaning liquid caused thereby. The individual program steps of the on-site cleaning can thus be controlled more precisely, for example in order to avoid inadequate cleaning and / or unnecessarily long cleaning times with correspondingly high medium consumption.

[0010] The assessed composition of the cleaning liquid can relate to the concentration of at least one ingredient / active substance, to the formulation / mixing ratio of the ingredients / active substances and / or to the respective dirt load, ie, for example, the concentration and / or type of impurities removed.

[0011] The term cleaning liquid is to be understood as meaning all liquid media which are used for cleaning, sterilizing and / or rinsing production units, for example acids, alkalis, disinfectants and rinsing water.

[0012] The comparative measurement in the inflow and return flow is, for example, a difference measurement of the inflow value and the return flow value of one and the same parameter.

[0013] The inflow value and the return flow value of the volume package are preferably directly measured at the respective volume package, but can also be obtained in an alternative manner by interpolating and / or extrapolating the inflow value and / or return flow value of the previous and / or subsequent volume package. For example, it is possible to directly measure the inflow value of a specific volume package, and the return flow value to be compared with it is determined from the return flow value of the previous and subsequent volume package of the specific volume package, or vice versa. In this case, the assignment of the inflow value and the return flow value to the volume package in the sense of the present invention is also given.

[0014] Characteristic parameters within the meaning of the invention can be measured continuously in the main flow of the cleaning fluid, for example by permanently exposing a measuring sensor to the main flow, and / or can be measured discontinuously on a sample of the cleaning fluid to be evaluated which is branched off from the main flow, for example in a bypass line or a similar line branching off from the main flow.

[0015] Preferably, at least one first parameter characteristic of the composition of the cleaning liquid is measured at the respective volumetric packets of the cleaning liquid by continuous monitoring of the main flow. In the continuous monitoring, the respective volumetric packets in the main flow flow along the assigned measuring instrument. This is understood to mean that the associated measuring sensor is exposed to the main flow and can therefore measure the first characteristic parameter without interruption in principle. It is understood that the measuring intervals between the individual measurements can be adjusted appropriately for this purpose. Continuous monitoring is particularly suitable for first characteristic parameters that are only slightly affected or not affected by the flow of the cleaning liquid, for example a relatively strong and / or turbulent flow.

[0016] The characteristic first parameter is, for example, the conductivity, the turbidity or the pH value.

[0017] Preferably, at least one second parameter characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid is determined at the sample contained in the respective volume package, in particular by means of a spectroscopic measurement and / or by means of an infrared extinction measurement, and for this purpose, the sample is branched off from the main flow of the cleaning fluid. Subsequently, the sample can be returned to the main flow again. This discontinuous measurement of the sample branched off from the main flow enables the determination of the second characteristic parameter under controlled flow conditions and / or within a favorable measurement duration. In principle, this can be done in the case of stationary samples and in the case of uniformly and / or relatively slowly flowing samples.

[0018] Discontinuously detected inflow and return flow values ​​can, for example, have a better signal-to-noise ratio than continuous measurement in the main flow, since flow-related disturbances to the measuring process are thereby avoided and relatively long measuring times can be achieved. Furthermore, measurement methods that are not possible or feasible in uncontrolled, strongly and / or turbulently flowing cleaning fluids can be applied to the branched samples.

[0019] The discontinuous measurement of samples of the cleaning fluid has, for example, a measurement duration of 0.1 seconds to 5 minutes for each sample.

[0020] Preferably, at least one first parameter characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid is measured continuously in the main flow, respectively on the inflow side and on the return side, and at least one second parameter characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid is measured discontinuously in a sample branched off from the main flow. By comparing the inflow values ​​and return flow values ​​thus determined, the cleaning fluid properties relevant to the respective cleaning process can be evaluated in a targeted and, if necessary, comprehensive manner.

[0021] In principle, it is also conceivable that the first and second characteristic parameters are classified as continuous or discontinuous only due to the type of measurement method used. In principle, therefore, if the inflow value of the first parameter and the return value of the second parameter (or the return value of the first parameter and the inflow value of the second parameter) relate to the same measured value, such as the pH value, and are assigned to a specific volume pack in the above sense, it is entirely possible to compare the inflow value of the first parameter with the return value of the second parameter. It is also conceivable that a specific characteristic parameter can be measured both discontinuously and continuously, for example in the return of a specific cleaning circuit. This makes it possible to implement a plausibility check or a reserve measurement.

[0022] In contrast to local residue measurements, for example of deposits on individual components of a cleaning circuit, the continuous and / or discontinuous measurement of at least one characteristic parameter enables a comprehensive assessment of the cleaning progress in order to determine the actual degree of contamination / dirt load in the respective cleaning fluid and thus to obtain an overall degree of contamination of the production facility in question.

[0023] By means of the continuous and / or discontinuous measurement of characteristic parameters in the inflow, in particular the initial composition of the respective cleaning fluid can be determined / assessed.

[0024] In a single branch / in a single bypass of the main flow, at least two different parameters characteristic of the composition can be measured.

[0025] Preferably, the sample branched out is transported to the area of ​​the assigned discontinuous measurement independently of the mainstream, and / or the sample branched out is filtered before the measurement, and / or the sample branched out is temporarily separated from the mainstream during the measurement, and / or the sample branched out is led back into the mainstream again after the measurement. For this reason, for example, a separately controllable pump can be arranged in a bypass line that bypasses the mainstream. This makes it possible to achieve that the sample is transported through the area of ​​the assigned measuring instrument evenly and matching the respective measurements. Optionally, a filter can be arranged before the measuring instrument and / or before the pump, and the solids that interfere with the measurement can be intercepted by the filter. The fluid separation of the sample and the mainstream can be achieved by the valve at the input side and / or output side of the branch / at the bypass line. Therefore, it is possible to create reproducible and matching measurement conditions for the respective measurement methods for the respective discontinuous measurements on the sample.

[0026] In an advantageous embodiment, the cleaning fluid is conducted through parallel cleaning circuits, wherein the inflow values ​​and the return flow values ​​are determined individually for each of the cleaning circuits and then assigned, in particular in pairs, to the volume packs conducted through the individual cleaning circuits and compared with one another. For example, if the cleaning fluid absorbs different amounts of dirt load in the individual cleaning circuits and / or the active substance contained is consumed to different extents by the cleaning there, the cleaning progress can then be assessed individually for each cleaning circuit.

[0027] Preferably, the length of time for which the individual volume packs remain between the measurements on the inflow side and the associated return side is determined taking into account the volume of the central section of the cleaning circuit and / or the associated filling level and based on a volume flow measurement in the main flow of the cleaning liquid. For example, it is particularly feasible to carry out a volume flow measurement in the inflow section of the cleaning circuit. By taking into account the determined volume flow and in combination with the associated volume and / or filling level, it is in principle possible to determine the dwelling position and dwelling time of the individual volume packs in the cleaning circuit, in particular between the measurements on the inflow side and the associated return side.

[0028] By controlling the measurements on the inflow side and the return side in a time-matched manner, the measurements on the inflow side and the return side can be performed on the same volume package. It is also possible to assign individual inflow measurements and / or return measurements to individual volume packages by interpolation or extrapolation based on the calculated duration of stay of the individual volume packages, taking into account the respective preceding and / or subsequent volume packages.

[0029] The capacity of the respective cleaning circuit consists of the plant components such as pipelines, containers, heat exchangers or the like which are filled with liquid during on-site cleaning. If the container is not completely filled with cleaning liquid, the fill level set during cleaning is used instead of the respective capacity of the container for calculating the dwell time. The described assignment of inflow values, return flow values ​​and volume packages to one another is therefore based on the spatial and temporal tracking of the individual volume packages through the cleaning circuit to be evaluated.

[0030] The volume of cleaning fluid flowing into the respective cleaning circuit can be determined from the volume flow measurement, for example by continuous volume counting. For example, continuous volume counting can be achieved using a data module of the control system or using a register opened by the measured value of the volume counter.

[0031] Preferably, an absolute threshold value or a relative threshold value which is dependent on the associated inflow value is predefined for the return flow value, and when this threshold value is reached, the associated cleaning progress is confirmed by the machine.

[0032] For example, reference values, reference value ranges and / or multiple reference values ​​of one or more parameters that are characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid can be determined for the return of the cleaning circuit in order to predetermine the dimensions for a sufficiently clean production facility and / or a correspondingly clean cleaning circuit. If the respectively measured return flow value reaches this reference value / reference value range, it can be inferred, for example, that the production facility is sufficiently cleaned / the cleaning circuit is correspondingly cleaned. In the sense of the predetermined difference as reference value / reference value range, a corresponding comparison between the inflow value and the return flow value is also conceivable.

[0033] Likewise, such a reference value can also be determined based on the measured return flow values, for example by historical comparison with corresponding results of spot cleaning. For example, the reference value for a sufficiently cleaned cleaning circuit can be determined by carrying out at least one, in particular multiple, spot cleanings on sufficiently cleaned or correspondingly clean production facilities. In addition or as an alternative, the reference value can be determined by carrying out at least five or at least ten spot cleanings and statistically evaluating the return flow values ​​measured therein, for example as a mean value with a standard deviation. It is also conceivable to historically adjust the corresponding reference value by comparison with further cleaning processes.

[0034] In the case of a difference measurement, for example, when the absolute difference between the inflow value and the return flow value falls below a certain threshold value, it is assumed that a certain active substance of the cleaning fluid no longer achieves a significant cleaning effect and the current cleaning process can be interrupted or terminated.

[0035] Preferably, the control program for the on-site cleaning (cleaning program) and / or the control program for the production operation of the production unit (production program) is automatically adapted by comparing the respectively mutually assigned inflow and return flow values ​​of a plurality of volume packs. For example, the cleaning progress / cleaning success of the ongoing cleaning program can be inferred by machine analysis of the time profile of the inflow and return flow values ​​determined during the cleaning (and rinsing) of the cleaning circuit / production unit.

[0036] For example, the control program for the production operation can be adjusted, for example, based on the inflow and return flow values ​​obtained by machine analysis when ejecting the filled product, in order to draw conclusions about the filled product. For example, on this basis, the secondary circuits of the heat exchangers involved can be adjusted accordingly. Likewise, on this basis, the quality and quantity of the sediment can be evaluated, so that conclusions about the respective production operation can be drawn again from this. This is possible in particular for production units / facility components that are particularly relevant thereto, such as short-term heating facilities. For example, it is also possible to detect signs of defects, for example on the sealing ring, by monitoring the loading of the corresponding components / materials in the cleaning liquid.

[0037] In addition to the described measurement of the inflow and return flow values ​​of parameters that are characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid, it is also possible to measure and / or vary plant parameters and / or process parameters that are essentially independent of the composition, such as the respective liquid temperature and / or volume flow, in order to optimize the individual cleaning programs of the on-site cleaning. For example, a specific cleaning program can be varied within certain limits with respect to a plurality of parameters that are characteristic of the composition and / or parameters that are independent of it (see above), i.e., for example, with respect to different temperatures, volume flows and / or concentrations of active substances of the cleaning fluid.

[0038] This optimization process can be further optimized with the help of artificial intelligence, i.e. based on this algorithm in a self-learning manner.

[0039] In addition, the amount of odors remaining in the rinse water, for example, can also be determined, in particular in order to trigger the start of a production unit for a subsequent production run.

[0040] In a further advantageous embodiment, the inflow and return flow values ​​are also mechanically assigned to a control program running during the on-site cleaning of the production unit and to at least one of the following cleaning parameters used: type of cleaning fluid; limit values ​​for conductivity and / or temperature; volume flow of cleaning fluid; cleaning duration; error message; time stamps for the start and end of cleaning; and medium consumption. In this way, the inflow and return flow values ​​can be placed in an overall context that is decisive for the quality of the cleaning process and / or the subsequent production process.

[0041] For example, it is possible to record which production units / machines were cleaned, which cleaning fluids were used for this, such as lye, acid, disinfectant or the like, and what quality the respective cleaning fluid had. This can be, for example: the actual value of the conductivity, the conductivity limit value in the sense of an alarm parameter which causes a pause in the cleaning time, the actual value of the temperature, the temperature limit value which is also to be understood as an alarm parameter, the associated volume flow and / or the associated cleaning time.

[0042] In this sense, it is also possible to record and take into account: the identification of the cleaning program, i.e., for example, the cleaning program name and / or number; the absence of faults or fault reports; a timestamp for the entire cleaning program; and possibly the net cleaning duration without waiting times for in-process preparation and / or tank preparation or the like; the total and specific medium consumption for the individual program steps.

[0043] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least two of the above-mentioned cleaning parameters and / or the mutually assigned inflow and return flow values, which are specific to the production unit and the relevant control program, are compared historically and incorporated into a machine analysis of the heating behavior of the production unit, the cleaning medium consumption, the concentration of the cleaning liquid and / or the circulation and change times thereof. This means that the parameters and results of a specific cleaning program can be compared with one another over a historically assessable application period for a specific production unit. This results in the following possibilities, for example:

[0044] Analysis of the heating system by observing the temperature gradient when heating the tank, for example, whether the heating has historically been prolonged or shortened by a certain temperature difference to draw possible conclusions about low steam pressure, worn control valves, contamination in the steam line and / or changes at the steam pressure reducer.

[0045] Analyze the medium consumption of cleaning processes at specific production facilities / production units in order to draw conclusions about leaks in individual production units, for example, based on increases in consumption.

[0046] Analyze the quality of each concentrate, for example to determine how much cleaning concentrate is needed to sharpen the tank This can help, for example, to identify quality fluctuations in the concentrate of the cleaning fluid at the user's end.

[0047] · Temporal analysis of fluid circuits and media changes for a specific cleaning program of a specific production unit / production facility, for example in order to identify increasing trends in time loss for spot cleaning.

[0048] The production facility comprises at least one production unit for producing and / or treating a liquid filling product (e.g. a beverage) and a cleaning system for cleaning the production unit on site. The cleaning system comprises at least one cleaning circuit for passing a cleaning liquid through the production unit and a monitoring system having an evaluation unit and an associated measuring instrument for comparatively measuring at least one parameter characteristic of the composition of the cleaning liquid in the inflow and return of the cleaning circuit.

[0049] According to the present invention, flow meters are arranged on the inlet side and the return side in the cleaning circuit, and an evaluation unit is configured to jointly assign the inlet value and the return value of the parameter acquired by means of the measuring instrument to at least one specific volume package of the cleaning fluid flowing through the cleaning circuit, and to evaluate the progress of the cleaning and / or the changes in the cleaning fluid caused thereby by comparing the inlet value and the return value of the volume package.

[0050] Preferably, at least one of the measuring devices is designed for continuous monitoring of the conductivity, turbidity and / or pH value in the main flow of the cleaning liquid. This means that the associated sensor is substantially continuously exposed to the main flow during the measurement. The associated measuring intervals of the measuring device can be adjusted in a manner known in principle in the sense of continuous monitoring.

[0051] Furthermore, preferably, at least one measuring instrument is arranged in a bypass line bypassing the main flow of the cleaning liquid for branching off a sample from the cleaning liquid and is configured for qualitatively and / or quantitatively determining components of the cleaning liquid, in particular by means of spectral measurements and / or infrared extinction measurements.

[0052] Such a measuring instrument in a bypass line (bypass) is set up to detect at least one sensor signal in a sample separated from the main flow. Depending on which characteristic parameter of the cleaning fluid is to be determined, the respective measuring instrument can include different sensor devices. The sensor signal detected in the sense of the inflow value or the return flow value can be, for example, the radiation extinction caused by the interaction with the sample, in particular the infrared extinction between the sensor and the receiver for infrared light. For example, the infrared extinction can indicate the organic components of the dirt load of the cleaning fluid, because it is well known that different molecular states of organic molecules can be excited with infrared light and can therefore be measured. The corresponding measurement can also be performed spectrally, that is, for example, by performing a wavelength-specific extinction measurement either in a selected wavelength or in at least one predetermined wavelength range.

[0053] By means of this optical measuring method, the chemical composition of the cleaning liquid can be assessed qualitatively and quantitatively, if necessary. For example, different substance classes such as proteins, starches, fats can be determined in this way, more precisely qualitatively and with regard to their respective concentrations. As further components of the cleaning liquid, dissolved ions such as magnesium or calcium, specific cleaning agents dissolved in the cleaning liquid and / or specific dirt loads can also be determined, dirt loads being understood essentially as impurities removed from the production unit to be cleaned.

[0054] A bypass line (bypass) is to be understood as a section of the cleaning circuit which is connected in parallel with the main flow and which is preferably separable. The bypass line comprises an inlet from the main flow pipe which conducts the main flow and an outlet back to the main flow pipe.

[0055] In principle, instead of a bypass line, there can be a line branching off from the main flow / main pipe which is functionally equivalent to a discontinuous measurement but without a return. This means that, depending on the composition of the cleaning fluid and / or the volume of the sample branched off, it can also be discharged in another way after the measurement, for example into a container or wastewater system.

[0056] At least one filter can be arranged in the bypass line / line branch, for example, in order to separate solids that interfere with a specific measuring method. For example, the filter can be arranged directly at the inlet of the bypass line / line branch, but if necessary also at a suitable location between the inlet and a measuring device assigned to the filter.

[0057] In addition or as an alternative to filtering, the bypass line can be actively flowed through independently of the main flow, for example by means of a separately controlled pump. This enables targeted and reproducible measuring conditions in terms of flow technology. In principle, however, the flow through the bypass line can also be initiated passively and / or by switching valves. Thus, particularly good measuring conditions for measuring methods that are complex in terms of equipment can be achieved in the bypass line / line branch, in particular for extinction measurements and / or spectral measurements on samples. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0058] Preferred embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings. Figure 1 A simplified flow diagram of a cleaning system for a production facility is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] like Figure 1 It can be seen that the production facility 100 preferably comprises at least two production units 1 , 2 for producing and / or processing liquid filling products (not shown), such as beverages.

[0060] The production facility 100 is, for example, a filling facility and further comprises a cleaning system 3 for on-site cleaning, also referred to as cleaning in place (CIP), of the production units 1, 2. The cleaning system can be, for example, a short-time heating facility, a filling machine and / or a pasteurization tunnel, and also a bottle washing machine or a similar cleaning system for processing containers provided for filling.

[0061] For example, the cleaning system 3 comprises at least two cleaning circuits 4, 5 for conducting cleaning liquids 6-8, for example a first cleaning liquid 6 in the form of acid, a second cleaning liquid 7 in the form of alkaline liquid and a third cleaning liquid 8 in the form of hot water, through the production units 1, 2 respectively.

[0062] However, within the meaning of the present invention, cleaning liquid 6 - 8 is also understood to mean disinfecting liquid, cold water / rinsing water or other liquid media which are in principle suitable for cleaning in place.

[0063] The individual cleaning fluids 6 - 8 can be provided in a known manner in associated containers, tanks, heat exchangers or the like and can be selectively supplied to the cleaning circuits 4 , 5 in a suitable formulation via valves and pumps depending on the cleaning program.

[0064] The cleaning circuits 4 , 5 are preferably connected in parallel so that the cleaning fluids 6 - 8 can be distributed into the cleaning circuits 4 , 5 on the inflow side and can be reunited on the return side. The cleaning circuits 4 , 5 are preferably individually assigned to the individual production units 1 , 2 .

[0065] Some typical components of cleaning circuits 4 , 5 are shown by way of example only for cleaning circuit 4 passing through production unit 1 and may also be present in the same or modified manner in cleaning circuit 5 and / or optionally in further cleaning circuits (not shown) of cleaning system 3 .

[0066] Each cleaning circuit 4 , 5 comprises, upstream of the associated production unit 1 , 2 , an inflow 4a , 5a for conducting cleaning fluid 6 - 8 on the inflow side, and, downstream of the production unit 1 , 2 , a return flow 4b , 5b for conducting cleaning fluid 6 - 8 on the return side.

[0067] The cleaning system 3 furthermore comprises a monitoring system 9 having an electronic evaluation unit 10 and measuring instruments 11 to 14 for comparative measurement of at least two parameters P1 , P2 which are characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid 6 , 7 , 8 .

[0068] The first parameter P1 which is characteristic of the composition of the cleaning liquid 6-8 can be measured continuously on the inflow side and the return side in the main flow 15 of the cleaning liquid 6-8. For this purpose, a first measuring device 11 which is designed for basically uninterrupted monitoring is arranged in each of the inflow sections 4a, 5a, and a second measuring device 12 which is designed accordingly is arranged in each of the return sections 4b, 5b.

[0069] Continuous monitoring within the meaning of the invention is provided since the measuring sensors (not shown) of the first and second measuring devices 11 , 12 can be permanently exposed to the main flow 15 .

[0070] The second parameter P2 characteristic of the composition of the cleaning liquid 6-8 can be measured at a sample 16 branched off from the main flow 15 on the inlet side by a third measuring device 13 designed for discontinuous monitoring, and at a sample 17 branched off from the main flow 15 on the return side by a correspondingly designed fourth measuring device 14. Thus, the second parameter P2 characteristic can be measured at each of the samples 16, 17 without being influenced by the main flow 15 in terms of flow technology.

[0071] Discontinuous monitoring within the meaning of the invention is provided since the measuring sensors and / or measuring chambers (not shown) of the third and fourth measuring devices 13 , 14 are not exposed directly to the main flow 15 , but rather to samples 16 , 17 branched off from the main flow in a time-limited manner.

[0072] The third measuring device 13 is arranged in a bypass line 18 on the inflow side branching off from the main flow, and the fourth measuring device 14 is arranged in a bypass line 19 on the return flow side branching off from the main flow 15 .

[0073] The bypass lines 18, 19 can be opened and closed in a targeted manner both on the input side and on the output side, for example by means of an electronically controlled three-way valve 20, relative to a main line 21 for conducting the main flow 15 of the cleaning fluid 6-8. As an alternative to the controlled three-way valve 20, a valve circuit known from the prior art can also be provided, which can be switched between an open and closed position in an especially stepless manner. Thus, any partial amount can be conducted through the bypass lines 18 and 19.

[0074] The bypass lines 18 , 19 can be flowed through passively by the main flow 15 (shown by way of example on the inlet side) by suitable opening of the three-way valve 20 and / or can also be flowed through actively by means of individually controllable pumps 22 independently of the main flow 15 (shown by way of example on the return side).

[0075] By separating the respective bypass lines 18, 19 from the main flow 15, the samples 16, 17 previously branched off from the main flow can be measured, for example, without flow in the region of the third and fourth measuring devices 13, 14 for determining the characteristic parameter P2. By means of a respective individually controllable pump 22, the branched off samples 16, 17 can be measured in the region of the third and fourth measuring devices 13, 14, optionally with a relatively low, uniform and / or adjustable flow.

[0076] Optionally, a filter 23 is arranged upstream of the third and / or fourth measuring device 13 , 14 in at least one of the bypass circuits 18 , 19 .

[0077] The bypass circuits 18 , 19 shown and the associated measuring devices 13 , 14 as well as the individually controllable pumps 22 and the upstream filter 23 are to be understood here merely as examples of possible configurations for discontinuous monitoring of the characteristic second parameter P2 of the samples 16 , 17 .

[0078] It is also possible to arrange a plurality of measuring devices in at least one of the bypass circuits 18 , 19 for discontinuously measuring different (second) parameters respectively characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid 6 - 8 and, if appropriate, with individually assigned filters 23 .

[0079] It is also possible to provide a plurality of measuring devices in the main flow 15 on the main line 21 for continuously measuring a (first) parameter that is characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid 6 - 8 .

[0080] It is decisive here that the continuous measurement of a first parameter characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid 6 - 8 in the main flow 15 and the discontinuous measurement of a second parameter characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid 6 - 8 in the samples 16 , 17 are each assigned to a specific volume package of the cleaning fluid 6 - 8 guided through.

[0081] This aspect is shown by way of example in conjunction with three (and only schematically indicated) volume packs VP1-VP3 which flow through the first cleaning circuit 4. Thus, the (front) first volume pack VP1 is located exactly in the region of the production unit 1, the (middle) second volume pack VP2 is located in the region of the bypass line 18 on the inflow side, and the (rear) third volume pack VP3 is located upstream thereof in the region of the inflow 4a.

[0082] The basis for the assignment of the individual volume packages VP1-VP3 is that their residence time in the cleaning circuits 4, 5 between the measurement on the inlet side and the associated return side can be calculated. Thus, characteristic parameters P1, P2 can be measured on the inlet side and the return side, for example for one and the same volume package VP1, VP2 and / or VP3, and optionally compared with one another, in particular in pairs, in the sense of a difference measurement.

[0083] The paired difference measurements of the same volume package VP1 - VP3 in each case, in particular in the case of a continuous measurement of the first characteristic parameter P1 in the main flow 15 , can be realized in a simple manner by selecting measured values ​​of the first and second measuring devices 11 , 12 that are matched in time.

[0084] Depending on the measurement cycle and measurement duration of the discontinuously operating measuring instruments 13, 14 in the bypass lines 18, 19, the assignment of the measurements of the volume packages VP1-VP3 and the respective inlet and return sides having the characterizing second parameter P2 can be achieved by arranging the individual measurements in a timely manner, but it is also conceivable to do so by interpolating previous and subsequent measurements instead.

[0085] It can generally be assumed that the two characteristic parameters P1, P2 can be measured directly on the inflow side at each of the volume packages VP1-VP3 or at the sample 16 branched off from them, and thus obtain for each volume package VP1-VP3 a respective inflow value VW1 of the first characteristic parameter P1 and a respective second inflow value VW2 of the second characteristic parameter P2. This is because in the inflow section 4a, the sample 16 can generally be branched off from the main flow 15 at any time and / or the measurement can be performed. Then, only the volume package VP1-VP3 used for this purpose needs to be assigned and tracked through the cleaning circuits 4, 5.

[0086] Furthermore, it can be assumed that, due to the continuous monitoring in principle, a return-side measurement of the first characteristic parameter P1 can always be performed directly at each of the volume packages VP1-VP3, and that a first return value RW1 characteristic of the first parameter P1 can be obtained therefrom. To this end, it is only necessary to perform the respective measurement at the time when the associated volume package VP1-VP3 flows through the region of the third measuring device 13.

[0087] In contrast, however, it is also conceivable that, due to the specific sequence of the measuring cycles, at the point in time when the return-side sample 17 must be branched off, for example, from the incoming second volume package VP2, the fourth measuring device 14 is not yet available again for a discontinuous measurement. It is then possible that the return-side sample 17 cannot be branched off from the flowing second volume package VP2 and that the associated return flow value RW2 of the second parameter P2 cannot therefore be measured for this second volume package. For this reason, for example, the return flow value RW2 of the missing individual volume package (e.g. VP2) can first be calculated instead by interpolation from the return flow values ​​RW2 of the preceding and succeeding volume packages (e.g. VP1 and VP3).

[0088] It is also conceivable that the missed return-side measurement for the characteristic second parameter P2 can be compensated as soon as the fourth measuring device 14 is available again and / or the sample 17 can be tapped off. In this case, the return flow value RW2 can be measured for a replacement volume package (not shown). The associated inflow value VW2 of the replacement volume package can then be calculated by interpolating and / or extrapolating the previously measured inflow values ​​VW2 of the preceding and / or subsequent volume packages of the replacement volume package.

[0089] The inflow value VW1 and the associated return flow value RW1 of the first characteristic parameter P1 can usually be directly assigned to the volume packages VP1-VP3 due to their continuous monitoring. In principle, a corresponding direct assignment of the discontinuously measured inflow value VW2 and the associated return flow value RW2 of the second characteristic parameter P2 is advantageous, but can also be replaced by an interpolation and / or extrapolation of the inflow value VW2 and / or return flow value RW2 of the preceding and / or subsequent volume packages.

[0090] The temporal and spatial tracking and / or determination of the individual volume packets VP1-VP3 of the cleaning liquid 6-8 between the measurements on the inlet side and the return side of the characteristic parameters P1, P2 is preferably provided by at least one flow measurement in the main flow 15 with the aid of a flow meter 24 taking into account the capacities of the respective cleaning circuits 4, 5 including the sections of the production units 1, 2 through which the cleaning liquid 6-8 flows, respectively.

[0091] The capacity of the production units 1, 2 is derived from the volumes of the lines and containers through which they flow during cleaning and, if these lines and containers are not completely filled, from the associated fill levels, if necessary. These values ​​can be predetermined structurally or, in particular, monitored during cleaning in the case of fill levels and then incorporated in each case into the calculation of the circuit volumes to be expected for tracking the individual volume packages VP1-VP3.

[0092] If the volume and flow rate flowing through are known, the residence time of the individual volume packages VP1-VP3 between the respective measuring devices 11-14 can be calculated and used in the evaluation unit 10 to associate the inflow values ​​VW1, VW2 and the return flow values ​​RW1, RW2 with the individual volume packages VP1-VP3.

[0093] By way of example, thermometers 25 are shown which are arranged on the inlet and return sides of the cleaning circuit 4 and which are used, for example, for process monitoring of on-site cleaning and, like flow meters, provide measured values ​​of parameters which are not characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid 6-8 within the meaning of the present invention, but are related to process parameters of the on-site cleaning.

[0094] For the sake of clarity, only a representative section is shown for the return section 4b and for the return section 5b and the inflow sections 4a, 5a. The measuring instruments 11 to 14, the flow meter 24 and the optional individually controllable pump 22 communicate with the evaluation unit 10 in order to assign the inflow values ​​VW1, VW2 and the corresponding return flow values ​​RW1, RW2 to the individual volume packages VP1-VP3 and finally compare them with one another by machine.

[0095] In the simplest case, the comparison of the mutually assigned inflow values ​​VW1 and return flow values ​​RW1 and inflow values ​​VW2 and return flow values ​​RW2 can be understood as a pure difference measurement. However, in principle, any calculation algorithm is also conceivable for comparing the mutually assigned inflow values ​​VW1, VW2 and return flow values ​​RW1, RW2, if necessary also taking into account statistical evaluation.

[0096] In principle, the inflow values ​​VW1, VW2 and the return flow values ​​RW1, RW2 to be compared with one another (in pairs) should be assigned to the same volume package VP1-VP3 as far as possible, so as to be able to compare the states of the inflow side and the return side of the respective cleaning fluid 6-8 as accurately as possible. This state comparison can then be used to monitor the cleaning progress of a specific cleaning program (control program) 26 and, if necessary, to terminate or start a specific process step of the cleaning program 26.

[0097] For example, if the difference between the inflow values ​​VW1, VW2 and the corresponding return flow values ​​RW1, RW2 of the confirmed specific characteristic parameters P1, P2 no longer changes significantly, it can be considered that the cleaning has been completed or the cleaning will no longer be effective in further progress, and the respective process steps are ended, interrupted or continued after replacing the cleaning fluid 6-8.

[0098] Likewise, specific threshold values ​​for the individual characteristic parameters P1, P2 can be predefined, and when the threshold values ​​are reached, specific process steps can be automatically terminated or corresponding messages can be issued. For example, the threshold values ​​can be predefined return flow values ​​RW1, RW2 or predefined differences between mutually paired inflow values ​​VW1, VW2 and return flow values ​​RW1, RW2.

[0099] The continuous measurement in the main flow 15 can be, for example, a conductivity measurement, a turbidity measurement and / or a pH measurement. It is to be understood that a plurality of different measuring devices 11 , 12 are present on the inflow side and the return side for the respective characteristic parameter P1 to be determined.

[0100] The measuring instruments 13, 14 in the bypass lines 18, 19 are preferably optical measuring instruments, with which the extinction can be determined, for example, by attenuation of infrared light and / or in a specific spectral range or at different wavelengths. Thus, the effective substances or other contained substances of the cleaning liquid 6-8 can be qualitatively and quantitatively determined when necessary. From the perspective of fluid technology, it is possible to carry out such measurements in the bypass lines 18, 19 under reproducible and, if necessary, targeted conditions. In addition, the measurement duration and measurement cycle required for such measurements can be adjusted in a targeted and flexible manner by the extracted samples 16, 17. For example, this can achieve a better signal-to-noise ratio than carrying out a corresponding continuous measurement in the mainstream 15.

[0101] In principle, by assigning the inflow values ​​VW1, VW2 and the return flow values ​​RW1, RW2 obtained in this way to the individual volume packages VP1-VP3, compared to simultaneous measurements in pairs on the inlet and return sides, not only continuously in the mainstream but also discontinuously in the samples 16, 17, the accuracy and persuasiveness of the measurement of the parameters P1, P2 that are characteristic of the cleaning fluid composition 6-8 can be improved and, if necessary, different cleaning programs 26 can be adjusted in a targeted manner.

[0102] Furthermore, it is advantageous that, with corresponding assignment of the inflow values ​​VW1 , VW2 and the return flow values ​​RW1 , RW2 to the volume packages VP1 - VP3 , corresponding measurements and evaluations can be performed individually in the cleaning circuits 4 , 5 when they are connected in parallel.

[0103] The evaluation unit 10 can use algorithms known in principle for evaluating the inflow values ​​VW1 , VW2 and return flow values ​​RW1 , RW2 and achieve an improved technical effect essentially by comparative measurement, in particular differential measurement, of mutually assigned and in particular identical volume packages VP1 - VP3 on the inflow / return side.

[0104] Furthermore, the evaluation unit 10 can optimize the cleaning program (control program) 26 and the production program (control program) 27 by suitable programming, and if necessary, statistically and / or historically evaluate the inflow values ​​VW1, VW2 and the return flow values ​​RW1, RW2 obtained in the manner described. In this case, other machine parameters and process parameters relevant to on-site cleaning, such as flow values, medium temperature, medium consumption, cycle time of the individual cleaning fluids 6-8, etc., can be included in the evaluation and, if necessary, can also be automatically optimized with the aid of self-learning algorithms (artificial intelligence).

[0105] In this case, data that are characteristic of the respective production facility 100 and the production units 1, 2 present therein, such as machine identification, as well as data relating to the individual cleaning programs and production programs can also be incorporated. This evaluation is comprehensively improved by evaluating the inflow values ​​VW1, VW2 and the return flow values ​​RW1, RW2 in relation to the individual volume packages.

Claims

1. A method for process monitoring of in-situ cleaning of at least one production unit (1, 2) for producing and / or processing liquid filling products, wherein: A cleaning fluid (6-8) is guided through a cleaning circuit (4, 5) which is guided through the production unit and at least one parameter (P1, P2) characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid is measured in an inflow section (4a, 5a) and a return section (4b, 5b) of the cleaning circuit in a comparative manner, characterized in that the inflow values ​​(VW1, VW2) and return values ​​(RW1, RW2) of the characteristic parameters determined in this way are assigned by machine to the flow of the cleaning fluid through the cleaning circuit. Volume packages (VP1-VP3) of a circuit and mechanically assessing the progress of cleaning and / or the resulting changes in the cleaning liquid by comparing the inflow values ​​and return flow values ​​respectively associated with the volume packages, wherein the length of time that each volume package (VP1-VP3) stays between the measurement on the inflow side and the associated return flow side is determined taking into account the capacity of a central section of the cleaning circuit (4, 5) and / or the associated filling level and based on a volume flow measurement in the main flow (15) of the cleaning liquid (6-8).

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein: At least one first parameter (P1) characteristic of the composition of the cleaning liquid (6-8) is measured at the respective volume pack (V1-V3) by continuous monitoring in the main flow (15) of the cleaning liquid (15).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: At least one second parameter (P2) characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid (6-8) is determined from samples (16, 17) contained in the respective volume pack (VP1-VP3), and for this purpose the samples are branched off from the main flow (15) of the cleaning fluid.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein: The branched samples (16, 17) are transported to the associated measurement area independently of the main flow (15), and / or the branched samples are filtered before measurement, and / or the branched samples are temporarily separated from the main flow during measurement, and / or the branched samples are returned to the main flow after measurement.

5. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The cleaning fluid (6-8) is passed through parallel cleaning circuits (4, 5), and inflow values ​​(VW1, VW2) and return flow values ​​(RW1, RW2) are determined individually for each of these cleaning circuits, assigned to the volume packages (VP1-VP3) passed through, and compared with one another.

6. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: An absolute threshold value or a relative threshold value related to the inflow value (VW1, VW2) is predefined for the return flow value (RW1, RW2), and the associated cleaning progress is confirmed by the machine when the threshold value is reached.

7. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: By comparing the respectively mutually assigned inflow values ​​(VW1, VW2) and return flow values ​​(RW1, RW2) of a plurality of volume packages (VP1-VP3), a control program (26) for on-site cleaning and / or a control program (27) for production operation of the production units (1, 2) are automatically adjusted.

8. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The inflow values ​​(VW1, VW2) and the return flow values ​​(RW1, RW2) are also mechanically assigned to a control program (26) which is run during on-site cleaning of the production units (1, 2) and to at least one of the following cleaning parameters used therein: type of cleaning fluid; limit values ​​for conductivity and / or temperature; volume flow of the cleaning fluid; cleaning duration; fault reporting; time stamps for the start and end of cleaning; and media consumption.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein: At least two of the cleaning parameters and / or inflow and return flow values ​​(VW1, VW2, RW1, RW2) which vary depending on the production unit (1, 2) and the control program (26) being run are compared historically with one another and incorporated into a machine analysis of the heating behavior of the production unit, the cleaning medium consumption, the concentration of the cleaning liquid (6-8) and / or its circulation and change times.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The liquid packaged product is a beverage.

11. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The determined inflow values ​​( VW1 , VW2 ) and return flow values ​​( RW1 , RW2 ) of the characteristic parameters are mechanically assigned in pairs to the volume packages of the cleaning fluid flowing through the cleaning circuit.

12. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The first parameter is conductivity, turbidity or pH value.

13. The method according to claim 3, wherein: At least one second parameter (P2) characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid (6-8) is determined from samples (16, 17) contained in respective volume packages (VP1-VP3) by means of spectral measurements and / or by means of infrared extinction measurements, and for this purpose the samples are branched off from the main flow (15) of the cleaning fluid.

14. The method according to claim 5, wherein: The cleaning fluid (6-8) is guided through parallel cleaning circuits (4, 5), and inflow values ​​(VW1, VW2) and return flow values ​​(RW1, RW2) are determined individually for each of these cleaning circuits, assigned in pairs to the volume packages (VP1-VP3) guided through them, and compared with one another.

15. A production facility (100) having at least one production unit (1, 2) for producing and / or processing liquid filling products and having a cleaning system (3) for cleaning the production unit in situ, wherein: The cleaning system comprises at least one cleaning circuit (4, 5) for passing a cleaning fluid (6-8), the cleaning circuit being guided through the production unit, and a monitoring system (9), the monitoring system comprising an evaluation unit (10) and associated measuring instruments (11-14) for comparatively measuring at least one parameter (P1, P2) characteristic of the composition of the cleaning fluid in an inlet (4a, 5a) and in a return (4b, 5b) of the cleaning circuit, characterized in that a flow meter (24) is arranged on the inlet side and / or the return side in the cleaning circuit, and the evaluation unit is configured to use the flow meter (24) obtained by means of the measuring instrument to measure the flow rate of the cleaning fluid. Inflow values ​​(VW1, VW2) and return flow values ​​(RW1, RW2) with characterizing parameters are assigned to at least one volume package (VP1-VP3) of the cleaning fluid flowing through the cleaning circuit, and the progress of cleaning and / or the resulting changes in the cleaning fluid are evaluated by comparing the inflow values ​​and return flow values ​​of the volume packages, wherein the length of time that each volume package (VP1-VP3) stays between the measurement on the inflow side and the corresponding return side is determined taking into account the capacity of a central section of the cleaning circuit (4, 5) and / or the corresponding filling level and based on a volume flow measurement in the mainstream (15) of the cleaning fluid (6-8).

16. Production facility according to claim 15, wherein at least one measuring instrument (11, 12) is designed for continuous monitoring of the conductivity, turbidity and / or pH value in the main flow (15) of the cleaning liquid.

17. A production facility according to claim 15 or 16, wherein at least one measuring instrument (13, 14) is arranged in a bypass line (18, 19) that bypasses the mainstream (15) of the cleaning liquid (6-8) for diverting a sample (16, 17) from the cleaning liquid, and is configured to qualitatively and / or quantitatively determine the components of the cleaning liquid.

18. The production facility of claim 17, wherein: Arranged in the bypass line (19) is a pump (22) for conveying the branched sample (17) to a measuring instrument (14), and / or a filter (23) arranged upstream of the measuring instrument, and / or at least one valve (20) for separating the bypass line from the main flow.

19. The production facility of claim 15, wherein: The liquid packaged product is a beverage.

20. The production facility of claim 15, wherein: The evaluation unit is configured to assign inflow values ​​(VW1, VW2) and return flow values ​​(RW1, RW2) of the characteristic parameters determined by means of the measuring device in pairs to at least one volume package (VP1-VP3) of the cleaning fluid flowing through the cleaning circuit.

21. The production facility of claim 17, wherein: At least one measuring instrument (13, 14) is arranged in a bypass line (18, 19) bypassing the main flow (15) of the cleaning liquid (6-8) for branching off a sample (16, 17) from the cleaning liquid and is configured to qualitatively and / or quantitatively determine the components of the cleaning liquid by means of spectral measurement and / or infrared extinction measurement.

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