Beverage filling system and CIP process method

Abstract

A carbonated beverage filling system (10) includes a beverage supply system pipe (65) that supplies a carbonated beverage, a beverage filler (20) that is connected to the beverage supply system pipe (65), and a control unit (60) that controls the beverage filling system. The beverage filler (20) includes a filling nozzle (72) and a beverage supply line (73), a shock gas line (74), and a vent line (78) that are each connected to the filling nozzle (72). The control unit (60) performs CIP processing on a first pipe system that includes the beverage supply line (73) and performs CIP processing on a second pipe system that includes the shock gas line (74).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to beverage filling systems and CIP processing methods. Background Technology

[0002] For a long time, filling machines such as fillers installed in aseptic filling devices for carbonated beverages have been used to continuously and aseptically fill the contents of carbonated beverages into a large number of plastic bottles being conveyed at high speed. In such aseptic filling devices for carbonated beverages, the filling nozzle for filling the carbonated beverage into the plastic bottle is arranged in a rotatable manner within the aseptic chamber (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-302325

[0004] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-006429 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0006] Furthermore, conventionally, the beverage supply system piping of beverage filling equipment undergoes CIP (Cleaning in Place) treatment, which cleans the piping periodically or when switching the type of product being manufactured. Additionally, SIP (Sterilizing in Place) treatment is performed to sterilize the beverage supply system piping. CIP treatment is performed by flowing a cleaning solution containing an alkaline agent, such as caustic soda, into the flow path from the beverage supply system piping to the filling nozzle of the filling machine, followed by flowing a cleaning solution containing an acidic agent. SIP treatment is used to sterilize the beverage supply system piping before the product filling operation. SIP treatment, for example, involves sterilizing at high temperatures by flowing heated steam or hot water through the beverage supply system piping cleaned by CIP treatment.

[0007] However, generally speaking, the area around the filling nozzle of an aseptic filling device for carbonated beverages has more flow paths and a more complex structure compared to non-carbonated filling nozzles. Therefore, the pump capacity for delivering the cleaning solution for CIP processing is insufficient, and pressure losses in the piping can affect its performance. Consequently, it is difficult to fill all the flow paths around such a complexly structured filling nozzle with the cleaning solution for CIP processing.

[0008] This disclosure provides a beverage filling system and a CIP treatment method that can efficiently perform CIP treatment on the flow path around the filling nozzle of a carbonated beverage filling system without modifying the flow path, pump, etc.

[0009] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0010] One embodiment of a carbonated beverage filling system is a beverage filling system for filling carbonated beverages, characterized in that it comprises: a beverage supply system piping for supplying the carbonated beverage; a beverage filling machine connected to the beverage supply system piping; and a control unit for controlling the beverage filling system; the beverage filling machine includes a filling nozzle and a beverage supply line, an impact gas line, and an exhaust line respectively connected to the filling nozzle; the control unit causes a first piping system including the beverage supply line to perform CIP processing, and causes a second piping system including the impact gas line to perform CIP processing.

[0011] In one embodiment of a carbonated beverage filling system, the control unit may cause a third piping system including the exhaust line to undergo CIP processing.

[0012] In one embodiment of the carbonated beverage filling system, the flow rate of the cleaning fluid flowing in the piping system with the smallest flow rate among the first piping system, the second piping system, and the third piping system may be 10% or more and 100% or less of the flow rate of the cleaning fluid flowing in the piping system with the largest flow rate.

[0013] In one embodiment of the carbonated beverage filling system, a CIP circulation system piping may be provided, which circulates the cleaning liquid flowing out of the beverage filling machine to the beverage supply system piping side during CIP processing, wherein the cleaning liquid is heated to a temperature of 85°C or higher and below 100°C.

[0014] In one embodiment of the carbonated beverage filling system, the control unit may monitor whether the temperature at the inlet side and the temperature at the outlet side of the beverage filling machine are maintained above a predetermined threshold temperature during CIP processing.

[0015] One embodiment of the CIP processing method is a CIP processing method for a beverage filling system for filling carbonated beverages. The beverage filling system includes a beverage supply system piping for supplying the carbonated beverage and a beverage filling machine connected to the beverage supply system piping. The beverage filling machine includes a filling nozzle and a beverage supply line, an impact gas line, and an exhaust line respectively connected to the filling nozzle. The CIP processing method includes: a first CIP processing step of performing CIP processing on a first piping system including the beverage supply line; and a second CIP processing step of performing CIP processing on a second piping system including the impact gas line.

[0016] In one embodiment of the CIP processing method, a third CIP processing step may be included, which performs CIP processing on a third piping system including the exhaust line.

[0017] According to this disclosure, CIP processing of the flow path around the filling nozzle of a carbonated beverage filling system can be performed efficiently without making changes to the flow path, pump, etc. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a beverage filling system according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the flow of fluid around a beverage filling machine in a beverage filling system according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the filling nozzle of a beverage filling machine, illustrating one embodiment of a beverage filling system.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the flow path for CIP cleaning in a beverage filling system.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the flow path of the filling nozzle during the first CIP process for CIP cleaning.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the flow path in the filling nozzle where CIP cleaning is performed during the second CIP process.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the flow path of the filling nozzle during the third CIP process for CIP cleaning. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 7 One implementation method will be described. Figures 1 to 7 This is a diagram illustrating one embodiment. It should be noted that in the following figures, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts, and sometimes detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0026] (Beverage filling system)

[0027] First, according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The overall structure of the beverage filling system of this embodiment will be described.

[0028] Figure 1 The beverage filling system (aseptic filling system) 10 shown is suitable for both carbonated and non-carbonated beverages. That is, the beverage filling system 10 is capable of filling bottles (containers) 30 (see reference 30). Figure 2This is an aseptic filling system that selectively fills both carbonated and non-carbonated beverages. Bottle 30 can be manufactured by biaxial stretch blow molding of a preform made from a synthetic resin material through injection molding. Thermoplastic resins, particularly PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), PET (polyethylene terephthalate), or PEN (polyethylene naphthalate), are preferred materials for bottle 30. Alternatively, paper containers, glass bottles, jars, etc., can be used as containers. Furthermore, composite containers combining two or more types of containers, such as plastic containers, paper containers, glass bottles, and jars, can also be used. In this embodiment, the use of a plastic bottle as a container will be described as an example.

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the beverage filling system 10 includes a beverage sterilization device 41, an aseptic tank 42, a carbonated beverage generating unit 44, and a beverage filling machine (filler) 20.

[0030] The beverage sterilization device 41 sterilizes raw material liquids containing plant-based or animal-derived ingredients such as fruit juice or milk. The beverage sterilization device 41 may also be composed of, for example, an ultra-high temperature (UHT) sterilization device.

[0031] The aseptic tank 42 temporarily stores the sterilized beverages that have been sterilized by the beverage sterilization device 41. It should be noted that the aseptic tank 42 may not be provided, and the sterilized beverages from the beverage sterilization device 41 may be directly supplied to the carbonated beverage generating unit 44 or the beverage filling tank 75.

[0032] A first pump 51 is provided between the aseptic tank 42 and the beverage filling tank 75. The first pump 51 delivers liquid, such as beverage, from the aseptic tank 42 to the beverage filling tank 75. It should be noted that the first pump 51 may also be omitted, and the liquid, such as beverage, may be delivered to the beverage filling tank 75 by the pressure from the aseptic tank 42.

[0033] The carbonated beverage generating unit 44 is used when a carbonated beverage is filled using the beverage filling machine 20. The carbonated beverage generating unit 44 produces a sterile carbonated beverage by injecting carbon dioxide into the beverage from the beverage sterilization device 41 to dissolve carbon dioxide in the beverage. The carbonated beverage generating unit 44 may also include, for example, a beverage cooling device and a carbonator.

[0034] Furthermore, the beverage sterilization device 41, the aseptic tank 42, the carbonated beverage generation unit 44, and the beverage filling machine 20 are connected via a beverage supply system piping 65. The beverage supply system piping 65 supplies beverages to the beverage filling machine 20, and the beverages pass sequentially through the inside of the beverage supply system piping 65. Additionally, during the CIP process described later, a cleaning solution passes through the inside of the beverage supply system piping 65.

[0035] A CIP (Clean-In-Place) circulation system piping 81 is connected to the beverage filling machine 20. This CIP circulation system piping 81 is a line that circulates the cleaning fluid flowing from the beverage filling machine 20 towards the beverage supply system piping 65 during CIP processing. The CIP circulation system piping 81 connects the beverage filling machine 20 and the beverage supply system piping 65 midway. Starting from the beverage filling machine 20 side, the CIP circulation system piping 81 sequentially includes a second pump 52, a heat exchanger 61, a CIP tank 85, a third pump 91, a heater 93, and an insulation pipe 62.

[0036] The second pump 52 delivers cleaning fluid from the beverage filling machine 20 to the CIP tank 85 or the outlet flow path 61b side of the heat exchanger 61 (described later).

[0037] A heat exchanger 61 is provided between the second pump 52 and the CIP tank 85. The heat exchanger 61 has an inlet flow path 61a for the inflow of sterile water or other liquids from the outside during cleaning of the beverage filling system 10, and an outlet flow path 61b for the outflow of liquid discharged from the beverage filling machine 20. The sterile water or other liquid supplied from the inlet flow path 61a rises in temperature by exchanging heat with the high-temperature liquid discharged from the beverage filling machine 20 inside the heat exchanger 61. This reduces the energy required to raise the temperature of the cleaning fluid containing sterile water or the like in the heater 93. It should be noted that when the cleaning fluid is circulated within the CIP circulation system piping 81, the cleaning fluid flows in a heat exchanger bypass flow path 61c that bypasses the heat exchanger 61.

[0038] CIP tank 85 temporarily stores cleaning fluid from beverage filling machine 20. A cleaning fluid supply source 63 is connected between CIP tank 85 and third pump 91 to supply alkaline cleaning fluid to CIP circulation system piping 81. Furthermore, third pump 91 delivers cleaning fluid from CIP tank 85 to heater 93. Cleaning fluid supply source 63 can also supply other cleaning fluids such as pickling solution or deodorizer instead of alkaline cleaning fluid.

[0039] Heater 93 heats the cleaning fluid flowing within the CIP circulation system piping 81. For example, a plate heat exchanger or a shell-and-tube heat exchanger can be used as heater 93. Heater 93 heats the cleaning fluid to, for example, 80°C or higher and 150°C or lower, or 85°C or higher and 100°C or lower, preferably 90°C or higher and lower than 100°C, and more preferably 95°C or higher and lower than 100°C.

[0040] A heat-insulating pipe 62 is installed between the heater 93 in the CIP circulation system piping 81 and the connection between the CIP circulation system piping 81 and the beverage supply system piping 65. The heat-insulating pipe 62 may be a coiled curved pipe, a straight pipe, or a spiral pipe, etc., and undergoes heat treatment or sterilization during internal flow. The cleaning solution is configured to remain in the heat-insulating pipe 62 for a predetermined residence time or longer. In this way, the cleaning solution remains in the heat-insulating pipe 62 at a sterilization temperature for a certain residence time (heat-insulating time), thereby ensuring the sterility of the cleaning solution.

[0041] A bypass flow path 66 is provided between the insulation pipe 62 and the first pump 51. The bypass flow path 66 connects the CIP circulation system piping 81 on the outlet side (inlet side of the aseptic tank 42) of the insulation pipe 62 to the beverage supply system piping 65 on the outlet side of the aseptic tank 42. The bypass flow path 66 allows the cleaning solution to flow from the insulation pipe 62 side to the beverage supply system piping 65 on the outlet side of the aseptic tank 42 without passing through the aseptic tank 42. As a result, the aseptic tank 42 can be cleaned and sterilized separately from other elements of the beverage supply system piping 65. For example, during the CIP process described later, heated cleaning solution can flow from the insulation pipe 62 side to the first pump 51 side via the bypass flow path 66, and the aseptic tank 42 can be CIP-treated using the cleaning solution that has passed through the beverage sterilization device 41.

[0042] Thermometers 68a to 68d and flow meter 69 are installed in the beverage supply system piping 65 and the CIP circulation system piping 81. Thermometers 68a to 68d measure the temperature of the liquid flowing in each piping. Flow meter 69 measures the flow rate of the liquid flowing in each piping. Specifically, thermometer 68a and flow meter 69 are installed at the outlet side of heater 93 in CIP circulation system piping 81, and thermometer 68b is installed at the outlet side of insulation pipe 62. Furthermore, thermometer 68c is installed at the outlet side of beverage filling machine 20 in beverage supply system piping 65. In addition, thermometer 68d is installed in bypass flow path 66.

[0043] The control unit 60 controls the beverage filling system 10 as a whole or a part thereof. It should be noted that the control unit 60 may also include multiple control units that independently control each element of the beverage filling system 10.

[0044] like Figure 2 As shown, the beverage filling machine 20 fills pre-sterilized aseptic carbonated beverages, aseptic non-carbonated beverages, or unsterilized carbonated beverages (hereinafter referred to as "beverages") into the bottle 30 through the opening. In the beverage filling machine 20, beverages are filled into empty bottles 30. In this beverage filling machine 20, multiple bottles 30 are rotated (revolved) while beverages are being filled into the bottles 30.

[0045] When the beverage being filled into bottle 30 is a carbonated beverage (aseptic or unsterilized carbonated beverage), the carbonated beverage is filled into bottle 30 at a filling temperature of 1°C to 40°C, preferably 5°C to 10°C. The reason for maintaining a filling temperature of 1°C to 10°C is that carbon dioxide easily detaches from the carbonated beverage when its liquid temperature is above 10°C. Various beverages containing carbon dioxide can be included as carbonated beverages filled by beverage filling machine 20, such as soft drinks, cola, and other carbonated soft drinks, as well as alcoholic beverages such as beer.

[0046] When the beverage to be filled into bottle 30 is a sterile non-carbonated beverage, the beverage is filled into bottle 30 at a filling temperature of 1°C or higher and 40°C or lower, preferably 10°C or higher and 30°C or lower. It should be noted that, as sterile non-carbonated beverages filled by beverage filling machine 20, examples include non-carbonated beverages containing ingredients derived from plants or animals such as fruit juice or milk, and mineral water that does not contain ingredients derived from plants or animals.

[0047] Furthermore, the beverage filling system 10 has a sterile chamber 13 that maintains an internal sterile state. The beverage filling machine 20 is installed within the sterile chamber 13. A beverage filling tank (filling head tank, buffer tank) 75 is positioned outside the sterile chamber 13 and above the beverage filling machine 20. Beverage is filled inside the beverage filling tank 75. The pressure P1 inside the beverage filling tank 75 is measured by a first pressure gauge 64 installed in the beverage filling tank 75. The beverage filling tank 75 does not necessarily need to be installed above the beverage filling machine 20; it can also be installed on the ground where the beverage filling machine 20 is installed.

[0048] The beverage filling tank 75 is connected to the aforementioned beverage supply system piping 65. Furthermore, as... Figure 1 As shown, the beverage supply system piping 65 is connected to the CIP circulation system piping 81.

[0049] Furthermore, a beverage supply line 73 is connected to the beverage filling tank 75. The beverage supply line 73 supplies the beverage filled into the beverage filling tank 75 toward the filling nozzle 72, which will be described later. The beverage filling tank 75 is connected to the filling nozzle 72 via the beverage supply line 73.

[0050] Additionally, an impingement gas line 74 is connected to the beverage filling can 75. The impingement gas line 74 is used when the beverage being filled is a carbonated beverage, supplying sterile carbon dioxide from the beverage filling can 75 toward the filling nozzle 72 (described later). The beverage filling can 75 is connected to the filling nozzle 72 via the impingement gas line 74.

[0051] An impact gas valve 67 is provided at the connection between the beverage filling tank 75 and the impact gas line 74. The impact gas valve 67 is directly connected to the beverage filling tank 75. The impact gas valve 67 is open when the beverage being filled is a carbonated beverage and closed when the beverage being filled is a non-carbonated beverage.

[0052] In the beverage filling machine 20, beverage that has been filled into the beverage filling tank 75 is filled into the empty bottle 30. The beverage filling machine 20 has a conveyor roller 71 that rotates about an axis parallel to the vertical direction. Multiple bottles 30 are rotated (revolved) by the conveyor roller 71 while being filled with beverage. Furthermore, multiple filling nozzles 72 are arranged along the outer periphery of the conveyor roller 71. A bottle 30 is mounted on each filling nozzle 72, and beverage is injected into the bottle 30 through the filling nozzle 72. The structure of the filling nozzle 72 will be described later.

[0053] At least a portion of the conveyor roller 71, filling nozzle 72, beverage supply line 73, and impingement gas line 74 are surrounded by a cover 76 that forms part of the sterile chamber 13. A rotary joint 77 is mounted on the upper part of the cover 76. The beverage supply line 73 and impingement gas line 74 are mounted to the cover 76 of the sterile chamber 13 via the rotary joint 77. The rotary joint 77 seals the rotating parts (rotating piping of the conveyor roller 71, filling nozzle 72, beverage supply line 73, and impingement gas line 74, etc.) and the non-rotating parts (cover 76, fixed piping of the beverage supply line 73, and impingement gas line 74, etc.) in a sterile state.

[0054] Each filling nozzle 72 is connected to a beverage supply line 73 and an impingement gas line 74. During filling, one end of the beverage supply line 73 is connected to the beverage filling tank 75, which is already filled with beverage, and the other end communicates with the interior of the bottle 30. Beverage supplied from the beverage filling tank 75 is injected into the interior of the bottle 30 through the beverage supply line 73.

[0055] The impingement gas line 74 is connected at one end to the beverage filling tank 75 and at the other end to the interior of the bottle 30 during beverage filling. Gas supplied from the beverage filling tank 75, providing impingement pressure, is passed through the impingement gas line 74 to fill the interior of the bottle 30. An impingement manifold (impingement gas branch) 53 is located midway along the impingement gas line 74. The impingement gas line 74 from the beverage filling tank 75 branches into multiple branches at the impingement manifold 53 and extends to various filling nozzles 72.

[0056] Furthermore, each filling nozzle 72 is connected to a sniftline 78. The sniftline 78 is used when the beverage being filled is a carbonated beverage. One end of the sniftline 78 is connected to the impingement gas line 74, and the other end extends outward toward the outside of the sterile chamber 13. Gas inside the bottle 30 can be discharged via the sniftline 78. A snift manifold (sniftline branch) 56 is provided midway through the sniftline 78. Carbon dioxide from the sniftline 78 collects at the snift manifold 56 and is discharged into the sterile chamber 13. The sniftline 78 inside the sterile chamber 13 is equipped with a discharge valve 79. Carbon dioxide from the sniftline 78 is discharged into the sterile chamber 13 through the discharge valve 79. In this way, carbon dioxide from the sniftline 78 is discharged into the sterile chamber 13, which serves as a sterile space, using the discharge valve 79. Thus, carbon dioxide inside the bottle 30 can be discharged into the sterile chamber 13, which serves as a sterile space, without bacterial contamination. It should be noted that the exhaust manifold 56 and the impact manifold 53 are connected via a first bypass line 54. A first valve 55 is provided on the first bypass line 54, which is normally closed. Alternatively, the exhaust valve 79 may not be provided on the exhaust line 78, and the exhaust line 78 may be connected to the rotary joint 77, allowing carbon dioxide to be discharged from the rotary joint 77 to the outside of the sterile chamber 13. Furthermore, the illustration shows the rotary joint 77 positioned at the upper part of the beverage filling machine 20. However, this is not a limitation; the rotary joint 77 may also be positioned at the lower part of the beverage filling machine 20. Furthermore, the rotary joint may be positioned at both the upper and lower parts of the beverage filling machine 20.

[0057] Furthermore, for the flow path through which beverages pass in the beverage filling system 10, it is preferable to perform CIP (Cleaning in Place) treatment periodically or when changing beverage types. CIP treatment is performed by flowing an acidic cleaning solution into the flow path after or before the alkaline cleaning solution flows through it. The alkaline cleaning solution is a liquid containing a mixture of alkaline agents such as caustic soda (sodium hydroxide), potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodium silicate, sodium phosphate, sodium hypochlorite, surfactants, and chelating agents added to water. The acidic cleaning solution is a liquid containing an acidic agent based on nitric acid or phosphoric acid added to water. It should be noted that the alkaline cleaning process using the alkaline cleaning solution and the acidic cleaning process using the acidic cleaning solution can be freely combined. This removes residues from the previous beverage adhering to the flow path through which the beverages pass. Furthermore, SIP (Sterilizing in Place) treatment can also be performed arbitrarily. SIP (Self-Installation Processing) is a pre-treatment used to sterilize the flow path through which the beverage passes before the filling process. This is done, for example, by passing heated steam or hot water through the flow path cleaned in the CIP (Clean-Installation Processing) described above. This sterilizes the flow path through which the beverage passes, making it sterile.

[0058] For the aforementioned CIP process, a CIP cup 82 is provided near the filling nozzle 72 to receive the cleaning fluid from the filling nozzle 72. A CIP line 83 is connected to this CIP cup 82. One end of the CIP line 83 is connected to the CIP cup 82, and the other end is connected to a CIP tank 85 disposed outside the sterile chamber 13. The cleaning fluid from the filling nozzle 72 can be discharged to the CIP tank 85 via the CIP line 83. The CIP line 83 is connected to a CIP manifold (CIP line branch) 59, which is connected to a CIP circulation system piping 81. The cleaning fluid from the CIP line 83 is collected and recovered at the CIP manifold 59 and discharged to the CIP tank 85 via the CIP circulation system piping 81. It should be noted that the CIP manifold 59 and the exhaust manifold 56 are connected via a second bypass line 57. A second valve 58 is provided on the second bypass line 57. Normally, this second valve 58 is closed.

[0059] An exhaust line 89 is provided at the top of the CIP tank 85 to discharge the gas inside the CIP tank 85. A scrubber (not shown) for treating the gas is connected to the exhaust line 89.

[0060] A sterile air supply device 70 is provided on the cover 76 of the sterile chamber 13 to supply a large volume of sterile air into the sterile chamber 13. This sterile air supply device 70 introduces sterile air into the sterile chamber 13. As a result, the sterile chamber 13 and the sterile area of ​​the beverage filling machine 20 are maintained at positive pressure, inhibiting the intrusion of external gases into the sterile chamber 13. Furthermore, a large volume of sterile air is supplied to the sterile chamber 13 by the sterile air supply device 70. Therefore, even when carbon dioxide is discharged into the sterile chamber 13 from the discharge valve 79 as described above, the carbon dioxide concentration in the sterile chamber 13 will not rise excessively. The supply volume of sterile air to achieve the above objectives is 5 mg / L. 3 / min or more and 100m 3 / min or less, preferably 10m 3 / min or more and 50m 3 / min or less.

[0061] (filler nozzle)

[0062] Next, use Figure 3 The configuration of the filling nozzle 72 of the beverage filling machine 20 described above will be explained. It should be noted that... Figure 3 The middle part indicates the filling nozzle 72 during CIP processing, and the CIP cup 82 is arranged below the filling nozzle 72.

[0063] like Figure 3As shown, the filling nozzle 72 has a main body 72a. A beverage supply line 73 and an impingement gas line 74 are connected to the main body 72a. The beverage supply line 73 and the impingement gas line 74 are connected via a rotary joint 77 provided in the cover 76.

[0064] The upper end of the beverage supply line 73 is connected to the beverage filling tank 75, and the lower end opens towards the CIP cup 82. Cleaning fluid supplied from the beverage filling tank 75 flows into the interior of the CIP cup 82 through the beverage supply line 73. The cleaning fluid flowing into the interior of the CIP cup 82 flows into the CIP manifold 59 via the CIP line 83. Then, the cleaning fluid is discharged from the CIP manifold 59 to the outside of the beverage filling machine 20.

[0065] The impingement gas line 74 is used when the beverage being filled is a carbonated beverage. The upper end of the impingement gas line 74 is connected to the beverage filling tank 75, and the lower end opens towards the CIP cup 82. An exhaust line 78 is connected midway along the impingement gas line 74. Cleaning fluid supplied from the beverage filling tank 75 flows into the interior of the CIP cup 82 through the impingement gas line 74. Alternatively, cleaning fluid supplied from the beverage filling tank 75 flows into the exhaust manifold 56 via the exhaust line 78. Then, after passing through the exhaust line 78 from the exhaust manifold 56, the cleaning fluid is discharged from the discharge valve 79 into the sterile chamber 13. The exhaust line 78 can also be discharged to the outside of the beverage filling machine 20 from a rotary joint 77 located at the upper part of the beverage filling machine 20 (not shown). Furthermore, a rotary joint can also be provided at the lower part of the beverage filling machine 20 to discharge cleaning fluid from the exhaust line 78 to the outside of the beverage filling machine 20 (not shown).

[0066] (Aseptic Carbonated Beverage Filling Method)

[0067] Next, the aseptic carbonated beverage filling method using the beverage filling system 10 described above will be explained. It should be noted that the following explanation is for the aseptic carbonated beverage filling method in the general case, that is, the aseptic carbonated beverage filling method for manufacturing product bottles by filling the bottle 30 with aseptic carbonated beverage.

[0068] First, the sterilized empty bottle 30 is fed into the beverage filling machine 20. In the beverage filling machine 20, the bottle 30 is rotated (revolved) while being filled with aseptic carbonated beverage from its opening. In the beverage filling machine 20, the aseptic carbonated beverage from the beverage filling tank 75 is filled into the sterilized bottle 30 at a filling temperature of 1°C to 40°C, preferably 5°C to 10°C.

[0069] During this period, in the beverage filling machine 20, the filling nozzle 72 is in close contact with the opening of the bottle 30, and the impact gas line 74 is connected to the bottle 30. It should be noted that the exhaust line 78 is closed at this time. Next, sterile carbon dioxide for impact pressure is supplied from the beverage filling tank 75 to the interior of the bottle 30 via the impact gas line 74. This causes the internal pressure of the bottle 30 to be higher than atmospheric pressure, making the internal pressure of the bottle 30 the same as the internal pressure of the beverage filling tank 75.

[0070] Next, sterile carbonated beverage is filled into the bottle 30 from the beverage supply line 73. In this case, the sterile carbonated beverage is injected from the beverage filling tank 75 into the bottle 30 through the beverage supply line 73.

[0071] Next, the supply of aseptic carbonated beverage from beverage supply line 73 is stopped. Then, beverage supply line 73 and impingement gas line 74 are closed, and exhaust line 78 is opened to expel gas from inside bottle 30. This brings the pressure inside bottle 30 to atmospheric pressure, completing the filling of bottle 30 with aseptic carbonated beverage. At this point, gas from bottle 30, after passing through exhaust line 78, is discharged into aseptic chamber 13 through exhaust valve 79. Next, filling nozzle 72 exits from the opening of bottle 30, and bottle 30 is conveyed to a capping machine (not shown).

[0072] Then, a cap (not shown) is fitted onto a bottle 30 that has been filled with aseptic carbonated beverage by the beverage filling machine 20, thereby obtaining a product bottle.

[0073] It should be noted that the production (conveyoring) speed of bottles 30 in the beverage filling system 10 is preferably above 100 bpm and below 1500 bpm. Here, bpm (bottle per minute) refers to the conveying speed of bottles 30 per minute.

[0074] (Aseptic non-carbonated beverage filling method)

[0075] Next, the aseptic non-carbonated beverage filling method using the beverage filling system 10 will be described. It should be noted that the following description refers to the normal aseptic non-carbonated beverage filling method, which involves filling the bottle 30 with aseptic non-carbonated beverage to manufacture the product bottle.

[0076] First, an empty, sterilized bottle 30 is fed into the beverage filling machine 20. Next, in the beverage filling machine 20, sterile non-carbonated beverage is filled into the bottle 30 through the beverage supply line 73 with the filling nozzle 72 not in close contact with the opening of the bottle 30. The sterile non-carbonated beverage is injected into the bottle 30 from the beverage filling tank 75 through the beverage supply line 73. Then, the supply of sterile non-carbonated beverage from the beverage supply line 73 is stopped. It should be noted that at this time, the impact gas line 74 and the exhaust line 78 are closed by the impact gas valve 67 and a valve (not shown), respectively.

[0077] A product bottle is obtained by attaching a cap (not shown) to a bottle 30 that has been filled with a sterile, non-carbonated beverage by a beverage filling machine 20.

[0078] (CIP processing method)

[0079] Next, the function of the beverage filling system 10 when performing CIP (Cleaning in Place) processing, for example, periodically or when changing beverage types, will be explained. It should be noted that the control of the CIP processing described below is controlled by the control unit 60.

[0080] First, water is supplied from the inlet flow path 61a of the heat exchanger 61 to the CIP circulation system piping 81. Through this water circulation, the CIP circulation system piping 81, the beverage supply system piping 65, and the beverage filling machine 20 are purified respectively.

[0081] Next, as Figure 4 As shown, alkaline cleaning solution is supplied by cleaning solution supply source 63. This alkaline cleaning solution circulates to purify the CIP circulation system piping 81, the beverage supply system piping 65, and the beverage filling machine 20. It should be noted that... Figure 4 The flow path through which the alkaline cleaning solution passes is represented by thick lines and shadows.

[0082] During this period, the alkaline cleaning solution is fed into the heater 93 via the third pump 91 located in the CIP circulation system piping 81. The alkaline cleaning solution is heated in the heater 93 to, for example, 85°C or higher and 100°C or lower, preferably 90°C or higher and 100°C or lower, more preferably 95°C or higher and 100°C or lower. This heated alkaline cleaning solution reaches the beverage supply system piping 65 via the insulated pipe 62. Then, the heated alkaline cleaning solution sequentially reaches the beverage filling machine 20 via the aseptic tank 42, the first pump 51, and the beverage filling tank 75. The alkaline cleaning solution then flows out of the beverage filling machine 20 into the CIP circulation system piping 81, and is sequentially pumped back to the heater 93 via the second pump 52, the CIP tank 85, and the third pump 91. Thus, after the alkaline cleaning solution has circulated and cleaned within the CIP circulation system piping 81, the beverage supply system piping 65, and the beverage filling machine 20 for a predetermined time, the alkaline cleaning solution is discharged to the outside from the outlet flow path 61b of the heat exchanger 61.

[0083] When using a cleaning solution containing 0.1% to 10% by mass of sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide as an alkaline cleaning solution, the alkaline cleaning solution is heated to the aforementioned temperature by a heater 93 installed in the CIP circulation system piping 81. The heated alkaline cleaning solution is supplied to the CIP circulation system piping 81, the beverage supply system piping 65, and the beverage filling machine 20, respectively. After the circulation has been running for, for example, 5 minutes to 60 minutes, the CIP circulation system piping 81, the beverage supply system piping 65, and the beverage filling machine 20 are appropriately purified. Furthermore, the CIP circulation system piping 81, the beverage supply system piping 65, and the beverage filling machine 20 are simultaneously sterilized, and SIP treatment (CSIP treatment) is performed simultaneously without the need for separate SIP treatment. In this way, the various devices of the beverage filling system 10 are cleaned and sterilized at the same time through CIP treatment. As a result, the time required for SIP treatment can be shortened or the SIP treatment itself can be eliminated. As a result, the changeover time of the beverage filling system 10 can be shortened, and the production capacity can be increased.

[0084] Next, the acidic cleaning solution is similarly circulated within the CIP circulation system piping 81, the beverage supply system piping 65, and the beverage filling machine 20 to perform acid washing on the entire CIP circulation system piping 81, beverage supply system piping 65, and beverage filling machine 20. Then, sterile water is circulated relative to the CIP circulation system piping 81, beverage supply system piping 65, and beverage filling machine 20 to wash the entire CIP circulation system piping 81, beverage supply system piping 65, and beverage filling machine 20. In this way, residues of the previous beverage adhering to the flow path through which the beverage passes are removed. The acidic cleaning solution is heated to, for example, 85°C or higher and 100°C or lower, preferably 90°C or higher and less than 100°C, and more preferably 95°C or higher and less than 100°C by a heater 93 provided in the CIP circulation system piping 81. The heated acidic cleaning solution is supplied to the CIP circulation system piping 81, the beverage supply system piping 65, and the beverage filling machine 20, respectively. When the cycle has been running for, for example, more than 5 minutes but less than 30 minutes, the CIP circulation system piping 81, the beverage supply system piping 65, and the beverage filling machine 20 are each appropriately purified. Furthermore, the CIP circulation system piping 81, the beverage supply system piping 65, and the beverage filling machine 20 are simultaneously sterilized, without requiring separate SIP treatment (CSIP treatment). It should be noted that the order of using acidic and alkaline cleaning solutions can be appropriately determined by observing the cleaning performance; for example, acid washing can be performed first, followed by alkaline washing. Alternatively, only alkaline washing or only acid washing can be performed.

[0085] After CIP processing is completed, the cleaning solution used in CIP processing is discharged from CIP circulation system piping 81, and residual cleaning solution in beverage supply system piping 65 and CIP circulation system piping 81 is flushed away with sterile water. Once the cleaning solution in the filling nozzle 72 of the beverage filling machine 20 has been completely replaced with sterile water, the supply of sterile water to beverage supply system piping 65 and CIP circulation system piping 81 is stopped. Simultaneously or subsequently, residual sterile water in aseptic tank 42 and beverage filling tank 75 is removed, and sterile air is supplied to beverage supply system piping 65, which includes aseptic tank 42 and beverage filling tank 75. This maintains positive pressure and sterility within the CIP-processed aseptic tank 42, beverage filling tank 75, beverage supply system piping 65, and CIP circulation system piping 81. Then, while maintaining positive pressure, sterile air can be directly blown into the sterile water retained in the sterile tank 42, beverage supply system piping 65, beverage filling tank 75, and beverage filling machine 20 to remove the sterile water from the drainage lines (not shown) installed at various locations. This eliminates the risk of the filled beverage becoming diluted at the start of production.

[0086] After washing, the following manufacturing process begins: the beverage is stored in the aseptic tank 42, and then the beverage is delivered to the beverage filling machine 20 through the beverage supply system piping 65, where the beverage is filled into the bottle 30.

[0087] (Heating method for CIP cleaning fluid)

[0088] Next, the heating method of the CIP cleaning solution, which involves heating the alkaline or acidic cleaning solution (hereinafter also referred to as CIP cleaning solution) during the above-mentioned CIP process, will be described.

[0089] As described above, the CIP cleaning solution is fed into the heater 93 of the CIP circulation system piping 81, where it is heated to, for example, 85°C or higher and less than 100°C, preferably 90°C or higher and less than 100°C, and more preferably 95°C or higher and less than 100°C. This heated CIP cleaning solution is supplied to the beverage supply system piping 65 via an insulated pipe 62. The CIP cleaning solution needs a certain time (retention time) to pass through the insulated pipe 62, during which a specified temperature is maintained.

[0090] The degree of sterilization of the CIP cleaning solution flowing through the insulation tube 62 can be managed using the F-value. For example, the CIP cleaning solution can flow within the insulation tube 62, and the temperature of the CIP cleaning solution can be measured using a thermometer 68b located at the outlet side of the insulation tube 62. In this case, temperature information from the thermometer 68b is sent to the control unit 60 at regular time intervals. The control unit 60 calculates the F-value for that moment based on the temperature information from the thermometer 68b. Here, the F-value refers to the heating time required to kill all bacteria when heated for a certain period. The F-value is expressed as the lethal time of bacteria at a reference temperature and is calculated using the following formula.

[0091] [Formula 1]

[0092]

[0093] In the above formula, T represents the temperature (°C) measured by thermometer 68b, 10^{(T-Tr) / Z} represents the lethality at sterilization temperature T, Tr represents the reference temperature (°C), and Z represents the Z value (°C). Furthermore, t1 (minutes) is the (minimum) residence time required for the CIP cleaning solution to pass through the insulation tube 62, which is predetermined as a specified value. Alternatively, t1 (minutes) can be the value of the actual time it takes for the cleaning solution to pass through, measured in real-time by the volume of the flow meter 69 and the insulation tube 62.

[0094] The control unit 60 monitors the F-value calculated based on the temperature of the thermometer 68b on the outlet side. If the value remains above a predetermined value, CIP processing continues. That is, the control unit 60 accumulates the value of 10^{(T-Tr) / Z} based on temperature information sent from the thermometer 68b at regular time intervals. Furthermore, this accumulated value over the period immediately preceding t1 (minutes) from the current moment is set as the F-value at that moment. If the F-value remains above the predetermined value, the control unit 60 continues CIP processing to ensure the sterility of the CIP cleaning solution passing through the insulation pipe 62. On the other hand, if the F-value is below the predetermined value, the control unit 60 determines that some malfunction has occurred and the sterility of the CIP cleaning solution cannot be guaranteed, and can stop CIP processing. Alternatively, if the F-value is below the predetermined value, the poorly sterilized cleaning solution can be withheld from the beverage supply system piping 65, and the solution can be drained through the vent valve not shown. Then, after the F-value recovers to the predetermined value, the solution can be supplied to the beverage supply system piping 65.

[0095] As an example, when the pH of the beverage filled in bottle 30 is above 4 and below 4.6, the sterilization temperature conditions can be determined by setting a reference temperature Tr = 85°C and a Z value = 5°C. That is, the sterilization value required for sterilizing beverages with a pH above 4 and below 4.6 is specified in the Food Sanitation Law as being equivalent to or higher than heating at 85°C for 30 minutes (F...). 85 ≥30). When using Z=5℃, if it is 95℃, the same sterilization value can be achieved with heating for 0.3 minutes (18 seconds). Therefore, it can be considered that if the required (minimum) residence time t1 (min) of the CIP cleaning solution in the heat-insulating tube 62 is set to 0.3 minutes (18 seconds) and the temperature T of the thermometer 68b on the outlet side is maintained above 95℃, then the F value is maintained above 30, ensuring the sterility of the CIP cleaning solution. In order to further improve the sterilization effect, when using Z=8℃ and 10℃, the required (minimum) residence time t1 (min) of the CIP cleaning solution in the heat-insulating tube 62 can be set to 1.7 minutes (101 seconds) and 3 minutes (180 seconds), respectively. In this case, if the temperature T of the thermometer 68b on the outlet side is maintained above 95℃, then the F value is considered to be maintained above 30, ensuring the sterility of the CIP cleaning solution. Thus, the sterile CIP cleaning solution can be supplied to the beverage supply system piping 65.

[0096] Furthermore, in this case, it is not necessary to heat the CIP cleaning fluid through the CIP circulation system piping 81 to above 100°C. Therefore, the tanks and other equipment configured in the CIP circulation system piping 81 can be treated as Class II pressure vessels as defined in the Occupational Safety and Health Law Enforcement Order. Thus, compared to treating the tanks and other equipment configured in the CIP circulation system piping 81 as Class I pressure vessels as defined in the Occupational Safety and Health Law Enforcement Order, the various equipment required for CIP treatment can be implemented at a lower cost. It should be noted that, although this would be more costly, for more efficient CIP treatment, the tanks and other equipment could be converted to Class I pressure vessels, and CIP treatment could be performed using water at 100°C or higher.

[0097] In this way, the required (minimum) residence time t1 (minutes) of the CIP cleaning solution within the insulated pipe 62 can be predetermined based on the F value, Z value, and reference temperature Tr required for beverage sterilization. For example, the residence time t1 is preferably set to 0.05 minutes or more and 10 minutes or less, more preferably 0.1 minutes or more and 3 minutes or less. Since the tanks and the like configured in the CIP circulation system piping 81 are Class II pressure vessels, the reference temperature Tr is preferably set to less than 100°C, more preferably 97°C or less. Furthermore, to avoid the residence time t1 becoming excessively long, the reference temperature Tr is preferably set to 87°C or more, more preferably 90°C or more.

[0098] In the above formula for calculating the F value, the reference temperature Tr and Z values ​​can be changed according to the type of beverage used as the product liquid. For example, when the pH of the product liquid is less than 4, the reference temperature Tr can be set to 65°C and the Z value to 5°C. That is, the values ​​substituted into the above formula can also be appropriately changed according to the microbial development characteristics and circulation temperature of product liquids such as green tea beverages, mineral water, and refrigerated beverages.

[0099] It should be noted that the sterilization method is not limited to the method described above, which calculates the F value and then performs sterilization. Sterilization methods using temperature and time, as previously known, can also be used.

[0100] (CIP processing method for beverage filling machines)

[0101] Next, the CIP processing method of the beverage filling machine 20 during the above-mentioned CIP processing will be specifically explained.

[0102] In this embodiment, for the beverage filling machine 20, a first CIP process of CIP processing on the first piping system and a second CIP process of CIP processing on the second piping system are performed sequentially. Alternatively, a third CIP process of CIP processing on the third piping system may also be performed. The first, second, and third piping systems are different piping systems, but they may also include a common flow path. The first, second, and third piping systems can be either flow paths for liquid flow during beverage filling or flow paths for gas flow.

[0103] The first piping system is the piping system within the beverage filling machine 20, and includes at least a beverage supply line 73. The second piping system is the piping system within the beverage filling machine 20, and includes at least an impact gas line 74. The third piping system is the piping system within the beverage filling machine 20, and includes at least an exhaust line 78.

[0104] Figures 5 to 7 These respectively represent the flow of CIP cleaning fluid during the first CIP treatment (first CIP treatment step), the second CIP treatment (second CIP treatment step), and the third CIP treatment (third CIP treatment step). Figures 5 to 7 In the diagram, thick lines represent the flow paths through which the CIP cleaning fluid passes, and thin lines represent the flow paths through which the CIP cleaning fluid does not pass.

[0105] like Figure 5 As shown, during the first CIP process, the CIP cleaning fluid flows in from the beverage supply system piping 65 and into the beverage filling machine 20 via the beverage filling tank 75. In the beverage filling machine 20, the CIP cleaning fluid flows out via the beverage supply line 73, filling nozzle 72, CIP cup 82, CIP line 83, and CIP manifold 59. Then, the CIP cleaning fluid flows into the CIP tank 85 via the CIP circulation system piping 81. In this case, the first piping system includes the beverage supply line 73, filling nozzle 72, CIP cup 82, CIP line 83, and CIP manifold 59 of the beverage filling machine 20. It should be noted that during the first CIP process, the CIP cleaning fluid does not flow in the impact gas line 74 and the exhaust line 78, but this is not a limitation; the CIP cleaning fluid may flow in a portion of the impact gas line 74 or a portion of the exhaust line 78.

[0106] like Figure 6As shown, during the second CIP process, the CIP cleaning fluid flows in from the beverage supply system piping 65 and then into the beverage filling machine 20 via the beverage filling tank 75. In the beverage filling machine 20, the CIP cleaning fluid flows out via the impingement gas line 74, impingement manifold 53, filling nozzle 72, CIP cup 82, CIP line 83, and CIP manifold 59. Then, the CIP cleaning fluid flows into the CIP tank 85 via the CIP circulation system piping 81. In this case, the second piping system includes the impingement manifold 53, impingement gas line 74, filling nozzle 72, CIP cup 82, CIP line 83, and CIP manifold 59 of the beverage filling machine 20. It should be noted that during the second CIP process, the CIP cleaning fluid does not flow in the beverage supply line 73 and the exhaust line 78, but this is not a limitation; the CIP cleaning fluid may also flow in a portion of the beverage supply line 73 or a portion of the exhaust line 78.

[0107] like Figure 7 As shown, during the third CIP process, CIP cleaning fluid flows in from the beverage supply system piping 65, and then flows into the beverage filling machine 20 via the beverage filling tank 75 and a portion of the impact gas line 74. In the beverage filling machine 20, the CIP cleaning fluid flows out from the beverage filling machine 20 via the impact manifold 53, the first bypass line 54, the exhaust manifold 56, the exhaust line 78, the filling nozzle 72, the CIP cup 82, the CIP line 83, and the CIP manifold 59. Then, the CIP cleaning fluid flows into the CIP tank 85 via the CIP circulation system piping 81. It should be noted that in the beverage filling machine 20, the CIP cleaning fluid also flows from the exhaust manifold 56 into the CIP manifold 59 via the second bypass line 57. In this configuration, the third piping system includes the impact manifold 53 of the beverage filling machine 20, a first bypass line 54, a second bypass line 57, an exhaust manifold 56, an exhaust line 78, a filling nozzle 72, a CIP cup 82, a CIP line 83, and a CIP manifold 59. It should be noted that during the second CIP process, the CIP cleaning fluid does not flow in the beverage supply line 73, but this is not a limitation; the CIP cleaning fluid may flow in a portion of the beverage supply line 73.

[0108] The switching between the first, second, and third CIP processes is achieved by the control unit 60 appropriately opening / closing valves (not shown) in each flow path. In this case, the first, second, and third CIP processes are performed relative to all filling nozzles 72. This results in the ability to completely sterilize all flow paths without changing the flow paths or pumps.

[0109] It should be noted that the first, second, and third CIP processes described above can be performed in either this order or a different order. Furthermore, the first, second, and third CIP processes can each be performed for the same amount of time or at different times. It should also be noted that the second piping system may include both the impingement gas line 74 and the exhaust line 78. In this case, the third CIP process can be omitted, and only the first CIP process (CIP processing of the first piping system) and the second CIP process (CIP processing of the second piping system including the impingement gas line 74 and the exhaust line 78) can be performed.

[0110] The flow paths included in the first, second, and third piping systems are not limited to those described above and can be any combination of flow paths within the beverage filling machine 20. Furthermore, in addition to the first, second, and third piping systems, one or more other piping systems different from them can be provided. In this case, one or more CIP processes can be performed besides the first, second, and third CIP processes. It should be noted that, preferably, all flow paths within the beverage filling machine 20 are included in at least one of the multiple piping systems, including the first, second, and third piping systems.

[0111] The flow rates of CIP cleaning fluid flowing in the first, second, and third piping systems are preferably set appropriately based on the pump capacity and the diameter of each pipe. Specifically, the flow rate (L / min) of the CIP cleaning fluid flowing in the piping system with the lowest flow rate among the first, second, and third piping systems can be at least 10% of the flow rate (L / min) of the CIP cleaning fluid flowing in the piping system with the highest flow rate, preferably at least 20%. Furthermore, the flow rate (L / min) of the CIP cleaning fluid flowing in the piping system with the lowest flow rate among the first, second, and third piping systems can be less than 100% of the flow rate (L / min) of the CIP cleaning fluid flowing in the piping system with the highest flow rate, and can also be less than 90%.

[0112] During the sequential CIP processing within the beverage filling machine 20 in this manner, the control unit 60 monitors the inlet temperature Ta and outlet temperature Tb of the beverage filling machine 20. Specifically, the inlet temperature Ta of the beverage filling machine 20 can be monitored using thermometer 68b, and the outlet temperature Tb can be monitored using thermometer 68c. As described above, during CIP processing, only one of the first, second, and third piping systems undergoes CIP processing; the other piping systems do not. That is, during CIP processing, there are lines within the beverage filling machine 20 where the CIP cleaning fluid is not flowing. In contrast, if the temperatures Ta and Tb remain above a predetermined threshold temperature during CIP processing, the control unit 60 determines that the lines where the CIP cleaning fluid is not flowing at that moment remain sterile, and CIP processing can continue. Assuming the aforementioned pipeline is opened, if sterilization is completed in the sterile chamber 13, the temperature of the pipeline where the CIP cleaning fluid is not flowing drops, and a negative pressure is created within the piping. Theoretically, this pipeline can be considered to maintain a sterile state. That is, although there are pipelines in the beverage filling machine 20 where the CIP cleaning fluid is not flowing and the temperature is below the threshold temperature, these pipelines are not opened to a non-sterile environment. Therefore, bacterial contamination into these pipelines can be inhibited, and it can be determined that a sterile state is maintained. It should be noted that if the temperatures Ta and Tb during CIP processing are below the specified threshold temperatures, the control unit 60 can stop the CIP processing. The threshold temperature can be set to a specified temperature of 85°C or higher and less than 100°C; for example, it can be set to 90°C. Furthermore, sometimes the CIP cleaning fluid dissipates heat through secondary (downstream) areas (exhaust line 78, exhaust manifold 56, CIP manifold 59, CIP circulation system piping 81) beyond the filling nozzle 72, and the temperature Tb at the outlet side of the beverage filling machine 20 is lower than the specified threshold temperature. In this case, a thermometer 68e (refer to) can also be used, which is located at the filling nozzle 72. Figure 2 The temperature of the CIP cleaning fluid measured can be used as the outlet temperature Tb. Specifically, the lowest temperature of the CIP cleaning fluid measured by the thermometer 68e installed in all the filling nozzles 72 can be used as the temperature Tb. Furthermore, the thermometer 68e is not limited to the filling nozzle 72, but can also be installed in at least one of the exhaust line 78, exhaust manifold 56, CIP manifold 59, and CIP circulation system piping 81.

[0113] Thus, according to this embodiment, a first CIP process is performed on the first piping system including the beverage supply line 73 to perform CIP processing. Figure 5 ), and a second CIP process for the second piping system including the impingement gas line 74. Figure 6 ), and third CIP treatment for the third piping system including exhaust line 78. Figure 7 Therefore, CIP processing can be performed efficiently and quickly on the beverage filling machine 20 for carbonated beverages. Specifically, the beverage filling machine 20 for carbonated beverages has a more complex structure around the filling nozzle 72 compared to filling nozzles for non-carbonated beverages, resulting in more flow paths. Therefore, it is difficult to fill all the flow paths around the filling nozzle 72 with CIP cleaning fluid in one go. This is because when attempting to fill all the flow paths around the filling nozzle 72 with CIP cleaning fluid, the pumps 51, 52, 91, etc., in the beverage supply system piping 65 and the CIP circulation system piping 81 have insufficient capacity or are affected by pressure losses in each piping. In this case, modifications to the equipment, such as strengthening the pumps, thickening the piping, or enlarging the valves, are considered, but this is impractical from a cost perspective. According to this embodiment, during CIP processing, the piping within the beverage filling machine 20 is divided into multiple piping systems, and these piping systems are CIP processed sequentially. Therefore, CIP processing of the beverage filling machine 20 for carbonated beverages can be performed efficiently without requiring significant equipment modifications to the beverage filling system 10.

[0114] The above explanation uses the example of performing both CIP and SIP processes simultaneously without additional SIP treatment (CSIP treatment). However, it is not limited to this; SIP treatment can also be performed after CIP treatment. This SIP treatment is used to pre-sterilize the flow path through which the beverage passes before the filling process. SIP treatment is performed, for example, by flowing heated steam or hot water through the flow path cleaned in the aforementioned CIP cleaning. This sterilizes the flow path through which the beverage passes, achieving a sterile state.

[0115] Furthermore, in the above description, the CIP treatment was described as an example of CSIP treatment in which cleaning and sterilization are performed simultaneously while circulating alkaline or acidic cleaning solutions. However, it is also possible to supply sterile water to the beverage supply system piping 65 in the washing process after circulating the CIP cleaning solution, and perform SIP treatment while rinsing the CIP cleaning solution.

[0116] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, a heater 93 and an insulation pipe 62 are provided in the CIP circulation system piping 81, and the CIP cleaning solution heated by the heater 93 is configured to remain in the insulation pipe 62 for a predetermined residence time or longer. This ensures the sterility of the CIP cleaning solution and allows the sterile CIP cleaning solution to be supplied to the beverage supply system piping 65.

[0117] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, a thermometer 68b is installed at the outlet side of the insulated pipe 62 of the CIP circulation system piping 81, and the control unit 60 monitors the F-value calculated based on the temperature of the thermometer 68b. Therefore, if the F-value remains above a predetermined value, the control unit 60 can determine that the sterility of the CIP cleaning fluid passing through the insulated pipe 62 is guaranteed. Moreover, by managing the sterility of the CIP cleaning fluid based on the F-value, the CIP treatment does not need to be performed for more than necessary, thus shortening the product changeover time of the beverage filling system 10 and improving production capacity.

[0118] The above description uses beverage filling system 10, which employs aseptic filling, as an example, but it is not limited to this. Beverage filling systems can also be, for example, hot-filling systems that fill beverages at temperatures above 55°C and below 95°C. Any beverage filling system that performs SIP (microbial inactivation) treatment after CIP processing, such as for refrigerated beverages or alcoholic beverages, is applicable.

[0119] The constituent elements disclosed in the above embodiments and modifications can also be appropriately combined as needed. Alternatively, some constituent elements can be deleted from all the constituent elements shown in the above embodiments and modifications.

Claims

1. A beverage filling system for filling carbonated beverages, characterized in that, have: A beverage supply system piping that supplies the carbonated beverage; A beverage filling machine, which is connected to the beverage supply system via piping; The control unit controls the beverage filling system; First piping system; Second piping system; The beverage filling machine includes a filling nozzle and a beverage supply line, an impact gas line, and an exhaust line, all connected to the filling nozzle. The first piping system includes the beverage supply line, the filling nozzle, and the CIP line, but does not include the impingement gas line. The second piping system includes the impingement gas line, the filling nozzle, and the CIP line, but does not include the beverage supply line. The control unit performs a first CIP process to cause the first piping system to undergo CIP processing. A second CIP process is performed, either after or before the first CIP process, to cause the second piping system to undergo CIP processing. During the first CIP process, the cleaning fluid flows from the beverage supply system piping into the beverage filling machine, and then flows out of the beverage filling machine sequentially via the beverage supply line, the filling nozzle, and the CIP line, without flowing through the impact gas line. During the second CIP process, the cleaning fluid flows from the beverage supply system piping into the beverage filling machine, and then flows out of the beverage filling machine sequentially via the impact gas line, the filling nozzle, and the CIP line without flowing through the beverage supply line.

2. The beverage filling system according to claim 1, wherein, The control unit causes the third piping system, which includes the exhaust line, to undergo CIP processing.

3. The beverage filling system according to claim 2, wherein, The flow rate of the cleaning fluid in the piping system with the smallest flow rate in the first piping system, the second piping system, and the third piping system is more than 10% and less than 100% of the flow rate of the cleaning fluid in the piping system with the largest flow rate.

4. The beverage filling system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, It also features a CIP (Clean-in-Place) circulation system piping connected to the beverage filling machine. During CIP processing, the cleaning solution flowing from the beverage filling machine is circulated to the beverage supply system piping. The cleaning fluid is heated to a temperature above 85°C but below 100°C.

5. The beverage filling system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, During CIP processing, the control unit monitors whether the temperature at the inlet side and the outlet side of the beverage filling machine are maintained above a predetermined threshold temperature.

6. A CIP processing method for performing CIP processing on a beverage filling system for filling carbonated beverages, the beverage filling system comprising a beverage supply system piping for supplying the carbonated beverage, a beverage filling machine connected to the beverage supply system piping, a first piping system, and a second piping system. The beverage filling machine includes a filling nozzle and a beverage supply line, an impact gas line, and an exhaust line, all connected to the filling nozzle. The first piping system includes the beverage supply line, the filling nozzle, and the CIP line, but does not include the impingement gas line. The second piping system includes the impingement gas line, the filling nozzle, and the CIP line, but does not include the beverage supply line. The CIP processing method includes: The first CIP processing step involves performing a first CIP process on the first piping system. The second CIP processing step involves performing a second CIP process on the second piping system, either after or before the first CIP process. In the first CIP processing step, the cleaning solution flows from the beverage supply system piping into the beverage filling machine, and then flows out of the beverage filling machine sequentially via the beverage supply line, the filling nozzle, and the CIP line, without flowing through the impact gas line. In the second CIP processing step, the cleaning fluid flows from the beverage supply system piping into the beverage filling machine, and then flows out of the beverage filling machine sequentially via the impact gas line, the filling nozzle, and the CIP line without flowing through the beverage supply line.

7. The CIP processing method according to claim 6, wherein, It also includes a third CIP processing step for performing CIP processing on a third piping system that includes the exhaust line.

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