Method for filling at least one package with flowable product

Abstract

The invention illustrates and describes a method of filling at least one package (2) with a flowable product (26), comprising the following steps: a) providing a flowable product (26); b) adding particles (27) to the flowable product (26), the particles (27) having a diameter of 1 to 2000 microns, preferably 50 to 500 microns, in particular 50 to 200 microns, the particles (27) preferably being microcapsules; c) providing a filling machine (1), said filling machine (1) comprising a storage container (33) for storing the flowable product (26) to be filled, at least one filling device (25, 25 ', 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, 25e), in particular a first filling device (25) and / or a second filling device (25'), for filling the flowable product (26) into the at least one package (2), and at least one conveying line (34, 34 ') for conveying the flowable product (26) from the storage container (33) to the at least one filling device (25, 25', 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, 25e), in particular the first filling device (25) and / or the second filling device (25 '); d) filling the flowable product (26) into the at least one package (2) using the filling machine (1) provided in step c). In order to provide a filling method capable of satisfactorily processing a flowable product (26) added with very small particles (27), the invention proposes the above method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for filling a flowable product into at least one package, comprising the following steps: a) providing a flowable product; b) adding particulate matter to the flowable product, the particulate matter having a diameter of 1 to 2000 micrometers, preferably 50 to 500 micrometers, particularly 50 to 200 micrometers, wherein the particulate matter is preferably microcapsules; c) providing a filling machine comprising a storage container for storing the flowable product to be filled, at least one filling device (particularly a first filling device and / or a second filling device) for filling the flowable product into at least one package, and at least one delivery line for conveying the flowable product from the storage container to at least one filling device (particularly the first filling device and / or the second filling device); d) filling the flowable product into at least one package using the filling machine provided in step c). Background Technology

[0002] Filling flowable products into packaging is a crucial step in packaging technology, such as in the food industry. Therefore, various known methods exist for filling flowable products into specified packaging. Flowable products can be, for example, food products such as milk, juice, sauce, or yogurt. Packaging can be, for example, a composite package consisting of multiple thin layers of paper, cardboard, plastic, and / or metal.

[0003] During the filling and packaging process, the characteristics of the flowable product to be filled have a significant impact on the filling step and other preceding process steps. On one hand, process parameters need to be adjusted for each flowable product to be filled; on the other hand, the machinery used must also be suitable for processing flowable products (especially filling). Flowable products containing particulate matter have different requirements for different process steps compared to those without. Furthermore, high-viscosity flowable products also have different requirements for different process steps compared to low-viscosity flowable products.

[0004] In recent years, there has been a need to process (especially fill) flowable products containing particles with smaller diameters than ever before (particularly so-called microcapsules). The diameter of each particle (especially microcapsules) can reach hundreds of micrometers. Unlike particles that are typically a few millimeters in diameter and do not easily get stuck in tiny edges or grooves, these particles, due to their extremely small diameter, easily deposit on the edges or grooves of the processing machine, regardless of how small they are. Therefore, the design of the processing machine and process parameters (such as the pressure or flow rate the flowable product is subjected to) need to be specifically designed to prevent the deposition of these tiny particles during the processing of both high-viscosity and low-viscosity flowable products. Furthermore, microcapsules typically contain a sensitive core encapsulated in a coating. While the coating provides some protection to the core from external influences, its protective capacity is limited. Therefore, it is necessary to limit external influences on the microcapsules, such as high forces, high pressures, or high temperatures. However, these requirements often conflict with other requirements, such as the aforementioned need to prevent the deposition of tiny particles, food regulatory requirements (especially heat treatment requirements), or high throughput requirements during processing (especially heat treatment and filling of flowable products). Summary of the Invention

[0005] In this context, the object of the present invention is to provide a method for filling flowable products that satisfactorily processes flowable products with added microparticles.

[0006] The present invention achieves the above objective by a method for filling a flowable product into at least one package, the method comprising the following steps: a) providing a flowable product; b) adding particulate matter to the flowable product, the particulate matter having a diameter of 1 to 2000 micrometers, preferably 50 to 500 micrometers, particularly 50 to 200 micrometers, wherein the particulate matter is preferably microcapsules; c) providing a filling machine comprising a storage container for storing the flowable product to be filled, at least one filling device (particularly a first filling device and / or a second filling device) for filling the flowable product into at least one package, and at least one delivery conduit for conveying the flowable product from the storage container to the at least one filling device (particularly the first filling device and / or the second filling device); d) filling the flowable product into at least one package using the filling machine provided in step c). The diameter of the particulate matter may also be 80 to 200 micrometers, preferably 80 to 150 micrometers. The term "microcapsule" as used herein is preferably understood to refer to particles containing active ingredients encapsulated within a hydrolyzed protein shell. The particulate matter (particularly microcapsules) may alternatively or additionally have a diameter of less than 100 mm, preferably less than 90 mm, more preferably less than 80 mm, more preferably less than 70 mm, more preferably less than 60 mm, more preferably less than 50 mm, more preferably less than 40 mm, more preferably less than 30 mm, and particularly less than 20 mm. The diameter (also called average diameter) and D(v, 0.9) (particle size at 90% of the total volume) of the microcapsules are preferably measured using a laser diffractometer (Mastersizer 2000, Stable Micro Systems, Surrey, UK) in the range of 0.2–2000 mm. For particle size analysis, batches of microcapsules are resuspended in Milli-Q water, and the size distribution is calculated based on the intensity distribution data of the scattered light. The microcapsules are preferably generally spherical components, particularly particles. The microcapsules are preferably coated microcapsules. The coating of the microcapsules may be a fusible coating composition comprising wax and, preferably, oil, wherein the coating composition, wax, and / or oil are solid at room temperature. In one embodiment, the coating composition may comprise carnauba wax, beeswax, and oil (preferably coconut oil). In another embodiment, the coating composition may comprise carnauba wax, beeswax, coconut oil, and one or more of palm oil (optionally hydrogenated), sunflower oil (optionally hydrogenated), and cocoa butter. The microcapsules may comprise a gelled polymer, such as denatured protein. The microcapsules may comprise a cross-linked (denatured or hydrolyzed) protein matrix containing an encapsulated and protected active agent. Some active agents (e.g., probiotics) are susceptible to heat damage. The microcapsules may have a mononuclear morphology (where the active agent is provided by a single core encapsulated within a protein shell) or a multinuclear morphology (where discrete vesicles of the active agent are uniformly distributed throughout the protein matrix).The protein matrix of the microcapsules preferably has gastric resistance and is easily ruptured in the ileum, thereby enabling the active agent to pass intact through the acidic gastric environment and be released in the proximal ileum. The at least one filling device (particularly the first filling device and / or the second filling device) may comprise a filling nozzle or be a filling nozzle. This simplifies the filling process of at least one package. The filling machine may comprise two or more filling devices, for example, at least three filling devices, preferably at least four filling devices, particularly comprising the first filling device and / or the second filling device. At least one side of the at least one package is open during step d). The open side of the at least one package may particularly be the side where the flowable product is filled in step d). The filling machine may include a conveying device for conveying the at least one package. Preferably, the at least one package is conveyed by the filling machine (particularly during step d) and / or in a stepwise manner, preferably by a conveying device. Advantageously, the at least one package is conveyed below and / or beside the at least one filling device (particularly the first filling device and / or the second filling device) during step d. The diameter of the at least one delivery conduit may be at least 20 mm, preferably at least 30 mm, particularly at least 40 mm, and / or at most 75 mm, preferably at most 70 mm, particularly at most 70 mm. This ensures that the flowable product (especially during the filling process in step d) has sufficient flow rate and pressure. In step d), the flowable product preferably contains the particulate matter added in step b).

[0007] The terms “first” and “second” as used in this disclosure are used only to distinguish different features (e.g., first filling device and second filling device) and should not be construed as limiting unless otherwise stated in this disclosure.

[0008] Various embodiments of the method are described below. Each embodiment can be applied to the method individually, and the embodiments can be combined arbitrarily.

[0009] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that the flowable product has a viscosity of at least 400 mPa·s. The flowable product is either a high-viscosity flowable product (s) or a low-viscosity flowable product with a viscosity less than 400 mPa·s; and / or the flowable product is a low-acid flowable product with a pH of at least 4.5, or a high-acid flowable product with a pH of less than 4.5. Using a high-viscosity flowable product helps to keep particulate matter in suspension and to distribute it evenly within the flowable product, and also reduces the risk of particulate matter depositing on the edges or grooves of the processing machine. However, high viscosity also increases the difficulty of achieving high flow rates in the flowable product. Using a low-viscosity flowable product makes it easier to achieve high flow rates, which prevent particulate matter from depositing on the edges or grooves of the processing machine because the particulate matter is carried away by the rapidly flowing flowable product. However, low-viscosity flowable products (especially without high flow rates) are difficult to keep particulate matter in suspension and to distribute it evenly. Viscosity is determined using a cylindrical rotational viscometer and a measuring geometry according to German Industrial Standard (DIN) 53019-1:2008-09, preferably according to point 9.2.4 of DIN, at a shear rate γ = 10 s. -1 The experiment was conducted at a temperature of 20°C. The pH value can be measured using a commercially available pH meter.

[0010] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that, in step d), the at least one package is conveyed (particularly progressively conveyed) through a filling machine, and a flowable product is filled into the at least one package at at least one processing location (preferably multiple processing locations arranged sequentially); and / or, in step d), the flowable product is introduced into the at least one package from above (preferably through at least one filling device, particularly a first filling device and / or a second filling device). This simplifies the filling process of the at least one package. Preferably, at least three, particularly at least four processing locations arranged sequentially may be provided. Increasing the number of processing locations, especially the number of processing locations for filling the at least one package, reduces the risk of spillage and bubbling, as each processing location can allocate more time for filling the at least one package. In step d), the at least one package may stop at at least one processing location (preferably multiple processing locations arranged sequentially) to be filled with the flowable product. This reduces the risk of spillage and simplifies the process. Along the conveying direction of the at least one package, the first filling device is preferably arranged before the second filling device.

[0011] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that, in step d), the flowable product (preferably at a first processing position and / or via a first filling device) is poured onto the sidewall of at least one package; and / or, in step d), the flowable product (preferably at a second processing position and / or via a second filling device) is poured over the flowable product already filled in at least one package. Pouring the flowable product onto the sidewall of the package reduces the risk of foaming (especially when the package has not yet been filled with any flowable product). However, pouring the flowable product onto the sidewall requires a more complex filling device. The first processing position is preferably located before the second processing position along the transport direction of the at least one package. The first filling device is preferably located before the second filling device along the transport direction of the at least one package. Pouring the flowable product over the filled flowable product allows for the use of a simpler filling device because the risk of foaming is lower when filling into a filled package.

[0012] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that, in step d), the filling time for filling the flowable product into at least one package (particularly the filling time for each processing location and / or filling device) is at least 400 milliseconds, preferably at least 450 milliseconds, particularly at least 500 milliseconds, and / or at most 900 milliseconds, preferably at most 850 milliseconds, particularly at most 825 milliseconds. Using these filling durations allows sufficient filling time, thereby reducing the risk of overflow or foaming. Simultaneously, these filling times are short enough to ensure a sufficiently high flow rate of the flowable product, which helps to carry or retain particulate matter in suspension and distribute it evenly within the flowable product, while preventing particulate matter from depositing on the edges or grooves of the processing machine. The filling time for filling at least one package specifically refers to the filling time for filling the flowable product into each individual package to be filled, especially in step d). The filling process does not necessarily have to be continuous; for example, the filling time can be divided into at least two parts. Preferably, the first part of the filling time is completed at the first processing location and / or via the first filling device, and the second part of the filling time is completed at the second processing location and / or via the second filling device. Of particular advantage is that, in conjunction with the foregoing description, the aforementioned filling time is configured for each processing location and / or filling device, which further reduces the risk of overflow or bubbling because more time is allocated for filling.

[0013] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that the at least one filling device (particularly a first filling device and / or a second filling device) includes an inflow area for the entry of the flowable product, an outflow area for the exit of the flowable product, and at least one (particularly multiple) channels for the passage of the flowable product, and preferably each channel includes an inlet configured for the inflow area and an outlet configured for the outflow area. The at least one channel (particularly multiple channels) is located between the inflow area and the outflow area. The outflow area is specifically designed for the flowable product to flow toward at least one package. Along the flow direction of the flowable product, the inflow area and / or the inlet is preferably located before the outflow area and / or the outlet. The inlets of the at least one channel (particularly multiple channels) may be arranged on a plane, and / or the outlets of the at least one channel (particularly multiple channels) may be arranged on a plane. The advantage of arranging the outlets on a plane is that all diversions simultaneously exit from the underside of at least one filling device and are therefore simultaneously subjected to gravitational acceleration. The plane containing the inlet is preferably parallel to the plane containing the outlet. Especially for straight-lined channels, this arrangement ensures that all channels are of the same length, resulting in roughly the same deceleration due to friction in all channels. This helps reduce the risk of particulate matter depositing in the filling device.

[0014] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that the at least one filling device (particularly a first filling device and / or a second filling device) includes a movable sealing element, the first end of which is designed to seal at least one channel in a sealing area; preferably, the first end of the sealing element is at least partially tapered, and preferably, the first end of the sealing element tapers at least partially in the direction toward the outflow area, and / or the end of the first end of the sealing element is pointed. The sealing element helps reduce spillage because the flow of the flowable product can be easily controlled through the sealing element. On the other hand, the shape of the sealing element helps reduce the risk of particulate matter deposition in the filling device. With the above-mentioned shapes, particulate matter is less likely to deposit on the sealing device and / or is easily carried away by the flow of the flowable product. Furthermore, this shape helps to generate turbulence in the flowable product, further reducing the risk of particulate matter deposition in the filling device and keeping the particulate matter in suspension. The sealing element is particularly used to seal and isolate the inflow area from the outflow area. The second end of the sealing element may include or be formed as a valve stem for moving (particularly lowering and raising) the sealing element, particularly the tapered first end of the sealing element. This simplifies the movement of the sealing element. The sealing element (preferably at least when in contact with the sealing area) is at least partially spaced from the (particularly internal) sidewalls of the filling device, preferably spaced in front of and / or behind the sealing area along the flow direction of the flowable product. A first portion (particularly the end portion) of the first end of the sealing element may be provided to taper gradually (particularly cone-shaped) in the direction toward the outflow area, and / or a second portion of the first end of the sealing element may taper gradually (particularly arc-shaped) in the opposite direction to the outflow area. Due to the tapering shape of the sealing element, particulate matter is less likely to deposit on the sealing element and / or is easily carried away by the flow of the flowable product. The second portion of the first end of the sealing element may be located ahead of the first portion of the first end of the sealing element along the flow direction, and / or the second portion of the first end of the sealing element may be adjacent to the first portion of the first end of the sealing element.

[0015] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that the at least one channel tapers gradually in a first portion toward the outflow region, and / or the at least one channel widens (particularly arcuate) in a second portion away from (particularly opposite to) the inflow region. This helps reduce the risk of particulate matter deposition in the filling device. With these shapes, particulate matter is less likely to deposit on the channel and / or is easily carried away by the flow of the flowable product, particularly because these shapes generate turbulence in the flowable product. This also helps to keep the particulate matter in suspension. The first portion of the at least one channel may be located ahead of the second portion of the at least one channel in the flow direction, and / or the first portion of the at least one channel may be adjacent to the second portion of the at least one channel. The first portion of the at least one channel may be adjacent to a sealing region and / or be part of a sealing region. The second portion of the channel may be adjacent to the sealing region and / or the outflow region.

[0016] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that, for at least some channels, the inlets and / or outlets of the channels are arranged on a ring around the central axis of at least one filling device (particularly a first filling device and / or a second filling device); and / or for at least some channels, the central axis of the channel is inclined at an angle relative to the central axis of at least one filling device (particularly a first filling device and / or a second filling device), and preferably the angle of inclination of the eccentric channels increases with the increase of the distance between the channel and the central axis of at least one filling device (particularly a first filling device and / or a second filling device). Arranging the channels on a ring produces a uniform, symmetrical filling jet, which helps to generate uniform flow in the channels, thereby making it easier to uniformly remove particulate matter through the flow of the flowable product. Inclining the channels imparts not only vertical momentum to the split flow in these channels but also horizontal momentum, thereby enabling particularly flexible modification of the filling jet. Viewed along the flow direction of the flowable product, each channel can be inclined outward or inward. Inclining outward allows the filling jet to diffuse or split and be guided laterally along the sidewalls of the package, thereby filling the package in a particularly gentle and substantially non-bubbly manner. Conversely, inward tilting creates a particularly concentrated filling jet and reduces the risk of overflow. The tilt angle increases with the distance between the channel and the central axis of at least one filling device, resulting in a larger tilt angle the channel is positioned further out. Larger tilt angles for outer channels (especially when tilted inward) are advantageous because they allow for a particularly fine and concentrated filling jet.

[0017] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that, for at least some channels, in a first portion, the central axis of the channel is tilted at an angle relative to the central axis of at least one filling device (particularly a first filling device and / or a second filling device), or the central axis of the channel is substantially parallel to the central axis of at least one filling device (particularly a first filling device and / or a second filling device); and / or, for at least some channels, in a second portion, the central axis of the channel is tilted at an angle relative to the central axis of at least one filling device (particularly a first filling device and / or a second filling device), or the central axis of the channel is substantially parallel to the central axis of at least one filling device (particularly a first filling device and / or a second filling device). If the central axis of a portion of the channel is parallel to the central axis of at least one filling device, particles are less likely to deposit on the sidewalls of the channel. By tilting the central axis of a portion of the channel relative to the central axis of at least one filling device, for example, the filling jet can be guided laterally along the sidewalls of the packaging, thereby reducing the risk of foaming, or turbulence can be generated, which helps to evenly distribute particles in a flowable product and keep particles in suspension. The first portion of the at least one channel may be located ahead of the second portion of the at least one channel along the flow direction, and / or the first portion of the at least one channel may be adjacent to the second portion of the at least one channel. The first portion of the at least one channel and / or the second portion of the at least one channel may be, in particular, identical to the first portion of the at least one channel and / or the second portion of the at least one channel described in the previous embodiment.

[0018] In one embodiment, the method is characterized by comprising the following steps: e) storing the flowable product in a storage container. The storage container holds sufficient flowable product for filling and is also a suitable location for uniformly distributing particulate matter within the flowable product before filling. Step e) may be performed prior to step d).

[0019] In one embodiment, the method is characterized by comprising the following steps: f) agitating the flowable product, preferably to distribute particulate matter (particularly substantially uniformly) in the flowable product and / or to generate turbulence in the flowable product, wherein step f) preferably occurs at least temporarily concurrently with step e). This ensures that, upon filling at least one package, the particulate matter is uniformly distributed in the flowable product, guaranteeing uniform particulate matter distribution in all filled packages. In particular, it prevents or at least reduces the floating and / or settling of particulate matter (preferably before filling). Step f) may alternatively or additionally occur at least before step d), before step e), and / or after step g). In step f), the flowable product (particularly depending on the agitator used) may be agitated to the right and / or left.

[0020] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that the filling machine (particularly the storage container) includes a stirring device, and preferably the flowable product is agitated by the stirring device in steps e) and / or f). This ensures that when filling at least one package, the particulate matter is uniformly distributed in the flowable product, guaranteeing uniform particulate matter distribution in all filled packages. In particular, it prevents or at least reduces the floating and / or settling of particulate matter (preferably before filling). In steps e) and / or f), the flowable product (particularly depending on the stirring device used) may be agitated to the right and / or left.

[0021] In one embodiment, the method is characterized by comprising the following steps: g) heat-treating the flowable product, particularly in a continuous heat treatment apparatus, wherein the heat treatment of the flowable product preferably includes a preheating stage, a main heating stage, and / or a cooling stage. Heat treatment can extend the shelf life of the filled package. Step g) is preferably performed before steps d), e), and / or f).

[0022] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that, in step g), the flowable product is heated to at least 50°C, preferably at least 60°C, particularly at least 70°C, and / or at most 100°C, particularly at most 90°C, particularly at most 80°C, during the preheating stage; and in step g), (particularly when the flowable product is a low-acid flowable product) the flowable product is heated to at least 100°C, preferably at least 110°C, particularly at least 120°C, and / or at most 160°C, particularly at most 150°C, particularly during the main heating stage. The temperature is at most 140°C; and / or, in step g), (especially when the flowable product is a high-acid flowable product) the flowable product is heated to at least 70°C, preferably at least 75°C, particularly at least 80°C, and / or at most 105°C, particularly at most 100°C, particularly at most 95°C, during the main heating phase; and / or, in step g), the flowable product is cooled to at most 45°C, particularly at most 35°C, particularly at most 25°C, and / or at least 5°C, preferably at least 10°C, particularly at least 15°C, during the cooling phase. Heating the flowable product and / or the particles to the corresponding minimum ensures adequate heat treatment, while heating to the corresponding maximum reduces the risk of damage to the particles (especially microcapsules) due to overheating. The different temperature ranges in the main heating phase are primarily due to differences in acidity, as high-acid flowable products tend to react adversely to high temperatures. If the flowable product in step g) is a high-acid flowable product, the preheating stage can last for at least 20 seconds, preferably at least 25 seconds, particularly at least 30 seconds, and / or up to 130 seconds, preferably up to 125 seconds, particularly up to 120 seconds. In this way, the flowable product is adequately heat-treated while the particulate matter is not unnecessarily exposed to high temperatures for an extended period.

[0023] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that, in step d), the flow rate of the flowable product (particularly in the delivery line and / or at least one filling device) is at least temporarily at least 50 ml / s, preferably at least 75 ml / s, particularly at least 100 ml / s, and / or at most 1700 ml / s, preferably at most 1600 ml / s, particularly at most 1500 ml / s; and in steps e) and / or f), the flow rate of the flowable product (particularly in the storage container) is at least temporarily at least 600 ml / s. Preferably at least 700 ml / s, particularly at least 800 ml / s, and / or at most 7000 ml / s, preferably at most 6500 ml / s, particularly at most 6000 ml / s; and / or, in step g), the flow rate of the flowable product (especially in a heat treatment apparatus) is at least temporarily at least 100 ml / s, preferably at least 500 ml / s, particularly at least 1000 ml / s, and / or at most 12000 ml / s, preferably at most 11000 ml / s, particularly at most 10000 ml / s. By using the corresponding minimum flow rate, the risk of particulate matter deposition in different process steps and / or different processing machines is reduced. Furthermore, uniform distribution of particulate matter in the flowable product is ensured because a sufficiently high flow rate is provided. By using the corresponding maximum flow rate, the risk of damage to particulate matter (especially microcapsules) is reduced because the forces acting on the particulate matter in the flowable product (e.g., forces arising from contact with processing machines) are kept at a sufficiently low level.

[0024] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that, in step d), the pressure exerted on the flowable product (particularly in the delivery line and / or at least one filling device) is at least temporarily at least 0.5 bar, preferably at least 0.6 bar, particularly at least 0.7 bar, and / or at most 4 bar, preferably at most 3.5 bar, particularly at most 3 bar; in steps e) and / or f), the pressure exerted on the flowable product (particularly in the storage container) is at least temporarily at least 0.1 bar, preferably at least 0.2 bar, particularly at least 0.3 bar, and / or at most 5 bar, preferably at most 4 bar, particularly at most 3 bar; and / or, in step g), the pressure exerted on the flowable product (particularly in the heat treatment apparatus) is at least temporarily at least 0.5 bar, preferably at least 0.75 bar, particularly at least 1 bar, and / or at most 60 bar, preferably at most 55 bar, particularly at most 50 bar. By using the corresponding minimum pressure, on the one hand, it is ensured that the flowable product can flow smoothly through the processing machine, particularly through the narrow gaps in the heat exchanger. Furthermore, the minimum pressure ensures that the flowable product does not boil at higher temperatures (e.g., in step g). Moreover, the minimum pressure ensures that the flowable product is not subject to external contamination by providing sufficient overpressure. The corresponding maximum pressure reduces the risk of damage to particulate matter (especially microcapsules) because the forces acting on the particles in the flowable product are kept at a sufficiently low level. For example, heat treatment of flowable products without such small particles is typically carried out at pressures up to 250 bar. However, such high pressures can damage small particles (especially microcapsules).

[0025] In one embodiment, the method is characterized in that step b) is performed before steps d), e), f), and / or g); step b) is performed after steps d), e), f), and / or g); and / or the proportion of particulate matter in the flowable product (particulate matter in particular, at least in steps d), e), f), and / or g) is 0.05 to 20% by weight, particularly 0.1 to 10% by weight. Adding particulate matter before each of the other process steps above simplifies the heat treatment, mixing, storage, and / or filling processes because a separate process step for the particulate matter is not required. Adding particulate matter after each of the other process steps above allows for separate processing of the particulate matter from the flowable product, resulting in gentler handling of the particulate matter. A proportion of particulate matter in the flowable product within the above ranges reduces the risk of clogging in different processing machines.

[0026] In one embodiment, the method is characterized by comprising the following steps: h) sealing at least one package, particularly by means of a sealing device, wherein, preferably, at least one package is completely sealed. Step h) may be performed after steps a), b), c), d), e), f), and / or g). In step h), the upper region of at least one package may be folded and / or sealed. After step h), at least one package is preferably completely sealed to facilitate easy and spill-free handling of at least one package. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Other features and advantages of this method will be further demonstrated in the following description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0028] Figure 1 The filling machine and other processing machinery are shown schematically.

[0029] Figures 2a to 2c A first embodiment of the filling device is shown;

[0030] Figures 3a to 3c A second embodiment of the filling device is shown;

[0031] Figures 4a to 4c A third embodiment of the filling device is shown;

[0032] Figures 5a to 5c A fourth embodiment of the filling device is shown; and

[0033] Figures 6a to 6c A fifth embodiment of the filling device is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Figure 1 A filling machine 1 is shown for filling flowable products into packages 2 (preferably cardboard containers). The filling machine 1 may include means 3 for forming the packages 2. However, alternatively, these or other packages 2 may also be produced elsewhere and conveyed to the filling machine 1. The filling machine 1 shown has multiple parallel processing lines. Figure 1 Only one is shown in the diagram. Each processing line corresponds to a bundle 4 of packaging blanks 5 (in the form of packaging material blanks), the longitudinal edges of the packaging blanks are sealed to each other to form a folded packaging sleeve 6. The feeding device 7 unfolds the packaging sleeve 6, and if necessary, an application device for applying a tipping element (not shown) to the packaging sleeve 6 can also be provided.

[0035] The apparatus 3 for forming package 2 has a mandrel wheel 8, which, in the case shown, comprises six mandrels 9 and rotates cyclically (i.e., counterclockwise in stages). At the first mandrel wheel position I, a packaging blank 5 in the form of a packaging sleeve 6 is pushed onto the mandrels 9. The mandrel wheel 8 then rotates further to the next position II, where the end region 10 of the packaging sleeve 6, protruding relative to the mandrels 9, is heated with hot air by a heating unit 11. At the next position III, the heated end region 10 of the packaging sleeve 6 is pre-folded by a press 12, and at the next position IV, it is tightly sealed in the folded position by a sealing device (not shown), particularly sealing the bottom. Thus, a single-sided sealed package is obtained, which is removed from the mandrels 9 at the next position V and transferred to cell 13 of a continuously circulating conveyor 14. At the next position VI, the mandrels 9 do not perform any operation. The mandrel wheel positions and the number of mandrels, as well as the processing steps provided therein, can be adjusted as needed. Figure 1 The embodiments shown and their related descriptions differ.

[0036] Package 2, with its open side facing upwards, is conveyed through the filling machine 1 in the corresponding cell 13 of the conveying device 14 (in the form of a conveyor chain). If necessary, package 2 can also be filled through the upward-facing bottom area, in which case the downward-facing top area is closed. Package 2 enters the sterile chamber 15, which includes a sterilization area 16 and a filling and sealing area 17. Package 2 passes through the sterile chamber 15 from left to right in the conveying direction indicated by the arrow. Package 2 does not need to be conveyed in a straight line; it can also be conveyed along at least a curve or even a circle.

[0037] The sterile chamber 15 is supplied with sterile air via a suitable sterile air connector 20. The package 2 is preheated sequentially by a preheating device 21, which blows hot sterile air onto the package 2. The package 2 is then sterilized by a sterilization device 22 (preferably using hydrogen peroxide), dried by a drying device 23 with sterile air, and after entering the filling and sealing zone 17 from the sterilization zone 16, it is conveyed to multiple processing positions 24, 24' below multiple filling devices 25, 25', wherein each processing position 24, 24' preferably corresponds to one filling device 25, 25'. In the illustrated embodiment, the first processing position 24 corresponds to the first filling device 25, and the second processing position 24' corresponds to the second filling device 25'. However, fewer or more processing positions and / or filling devices may be provided, for example, four processing positions and / or four filling devices. At processing positions 24, 24', the package 2 is sequentially filled with a flowable product 26 (particulate product 27). Then, the upper area of ​​the package 2 is folded and sealed by the sealing device 18, thereby sealing the filled package 2. Afterward, the package 2 is removed from cell 13 of the conveyor 14. The now empty cell 13 is moved further towards the mandrel wheel 8 by the conveyor 14 to receive more packages 2 from the mandrel wheel 8.

[0038] However, the flowable product 26 needs to be provided before it is filled into the package 2. The flowable product can be a high-viscosity flowable product with a viscosity of at least 400 mPa·s, or a low-viscosity flowable product with a viscosity less than 400 mPa·s. Particulate matter 27, with a diameter of 1 to 2000 micrometers, is added to the flowable product 26, and is particularly microcapsules. For example, the particulate matter 27 can be added to the flowable product 26 after it has been filled into the package 2. However, it is preferable to add the particulate matter 27 to the flowable product 26 before it undergoes the heat treatment described below.

[0039] In the embodiments described herein, a flowable product 26 containing particulate matter 27 is heat-treated in a continuous heat treatment apparatus 28. In the embodiments explained herein, the heat treatment comprises three steps. First, a preheating stage is performed in a preheater 29. The preheating stage heats the flowable product 26 and particulate matter 27 to at least 50°C and at most 100°C. Next, a main heating stage is performed in a main heater 30. In the main heating stage, for low-acid flowable products, the flowable product 26 and particulate matter 27 are heated to at least 100°C and at most 160°C; for high-acid flowable products, they are heated to at least 70°C and at most 105°C, particularly to eliminate bacteria while preventing damage to the particulate matter due to overheating. Finally, a cooling stage is performed in a cooler 31. The cooling stage cools the flowable product 26 and particulate matter 27 to at most 45°C. The flow rate of the flowable product 26 during heat treatment can reach 12,000 ml / s to ensure sufficient throughput. During heat treatment, the flowable product 26 can be subjected to pressures ranging from 0.5 bar to 60 bar to ensure that the flowable product does not boil and can be conveyed even through narrow gaps without subjecting the particles to excessive stress. After heat treatment, the flowable product 26 containing the particles 27 is conveyed to the storage container 33 through the feed line 32.

[0040] Storage container 33 is used to temporarily store the flowable product 26 containing particulate matter 27 before filling into package 2. During storage of the flowable product 26 in storage container 33, the flowable product 26 may be agitated (as indicated by the arrows in storage container 33) to uniformly distribute the particulate matter 27 within the flowable product 26, particularly by creating turbulence within the flowable product 26. The flowable product 26 may be agitated to the right and / or left. In the illustrated embodiment, agitation is performed by a stirring device 19 disposed in storage container 33. Agitation is particularly preferred for low-viscosity flowable products 26 because if the flowable product 26 is not adequately agitated, the particulate matter 27 may float to the top of the flowable product 26 and / or settle, depending on the viscosity of the flowable product 26 and / or the density of the particulate matter 27. However, for high-viscosity flowable products 26, agitation is generally omitted. During storage and / or agitation, the flow rate of the flowable product 26 can be from 600 mL / s to 7000 mL / s to ensure that the particles 27 are uniformly distributed and remain in suspension without damaging the particles 27. During storage and / or agitation, the pressure that the flowable product 26 is subjected to can be from 0.1 bar to 5 bar to ensure that the flowable product is not subject to external contamination without damaging the particles 27.

[0041] A flowable product 26 containing particulate matter 27 is conveyed from storage container 33 through delivery lines 34, 34' to filling devices 25, 25'. In the embodiment described herein, at a first processing position 24, the flowable product 26 is poured onto the sidewall of package 2, thereby reducing the risk of foaming. At a second processing position 24', a second filling device 25' pours the flowable product 26 over the flowable product 26 already filled in package 2 at the first processing position 24. This allows for rapid filling of package 2. Since package 2 is already filled with flowable product 26, the risk of foaming is also quite low. During filling (particularly in delivery lines 34, 34' and / or filling devices 25, 25'), the flow rate of the flowable product 26 can be from 50 ml / s to 1700 ml / s to ensure sufficiently fast filling while reducing the risk of particulate matter 27 deposition and preventing damage to the particulate matter 27. During filling (particularly within the delivery lines 34, 34' and / or filling devices 25, 25'), the flowable product 26 is subjected to pressures ranging from 0.5 bar to 4 bar to ensure that the particles 27 are uniformly distributed and remain in suspension without damaging them. This also facilitates the delivery of the flowable product 26 even through narrow gaps. As previously described, the filled package 2 is then sealed and removed from the delivery device 14.

[0042] Figures 2a to 2c A first embodiment of the filling device 25a is shown. Figure 2a A cross-section of the corresponding filling device 25a is shown. The filling device 25a shown can be used as... Figure 1 The first filling device 25 and / or the second filling device 25' described herein. Figure 2a The filling device 25a shown includes (particularly a one-piece) housing 35, which has an inflow region 36 for the entry of a flowable product 26 and an outflow region 37 for the exit of the flowable product 26. A channel 38 is provided between the inflow region 36 and the outflow region 37 for guiding the flowable product 26 (particularly through the housing 35). The channel 38 includes an inlet 39 configured for the inflow region 36 and an outlet 40 configured for the outflow region 37. Figure 2a In the filling device 25a shown, the inflow region 36 and its inlet 39 are arranged on a plane, and the outflow region 37 and its outlet 40 are arranged on a plane, with the two planes being parallel to each other. Finally, the upper side of the filling device 25a includes a continuous flange 41 with a plurality of drilled holes 42. The filling device 25a can be connected to the filling machine 1 through the drilled holes 42.

[0043] Figure 2a A sealing element 43 is also presented. This is to interrupt the flow of the flowable product 26 through the filling device 25a ( Figure 2a(Illustrated by arrows) Lower the sealing element 43 so that the sealing element 43 (especially the first end 44 of the sealing element 43) presses against the sealing region 45, sealing and isolating the inflow region 36 from the outflow region 37. The central axis M of the filling device 25a passes through the sealing element 43 and the center of the filling device 25a.

[0044] In the filling device 25a, the first end 44 of the sealing element 43 is tapered and gradually tapers in the direction toward the outflow region 37. The end of the first end 44 of the sealing element 43 is pointed. The first portion 46 of the channel 38 gradually tapers in the direction toward the outflow region, and the second portion 47 of the channel 38 widens in an arc shape away from (especially opposite to) the inflow region 36.

[0045] Figure 2b Presented Figure 2a Top view of filling device 25a (e.g.) Figure 2a (As shown by marker IIb in the text). However, Figure 2b Sealing element 43 is not shown. Figure 2b The image shows the use of Figure 2a The intersecting plane of the cross sections is IIa-IIa. As can be seen from the figure, Figure 2a The filling device 25a contains only one channel 38. In addition, the tapering shape of the channel 38 (particularly the sealing region 45 and the first portion 46 of the channel 38) can be seen.

[0046] Figure 2c Presented Figure 2a Bottom view of filling device 25a (e.g.) Figure 2a (as shown by the mark IIc in the text). Figure 2c The sealing element 43 is not shown in the figure. The widened shape of the channel 38 (especially the second part 47 of the channel 38) can be seen from the figure.

[0047] Figures 3a to 3c A second embodiment of the filling device 25b is shown. Figure 3a A cross-section of the corresponding filling device 25b is shown. The filling device 25a shown can be used as... Figure 1 The first filling device 25 and / or the second filling device 25' described herein. Figures 3a to 3c The filling device 25b and Figures 2a to 2c The filling device 25a is similar to that of the filling device, therefore the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and only the differences are discussed below.

[0048] and Figures 2a to 2c The filling device 25a is different. Figures 3a to 3cThe filling device 25b includes multiple channels 38, each including an inlet 39 and an outlet 40. For some channels 38 (particularly the eccentric channel 38''), the central axis MC of the channel 38 is inclined at an angle α relative to the central axis M of the filling device 25b. Furthermore, the angle α of the eccentric channel 38'' increases with the increase of the distance between the channel 38 and the central axis M of the filling device 25b. A channel 38' is also provided at the center of the filling device 25b, which is approximately parallel to the central axis M of the filling device 25b.

[0049] Figure 3b It shows along Figure 3a The intersecting planes IIIb-IIIb marked in the middle Figure 3a The cross-section of device 25b shows that, for eccentric channel 38'', the inlet 39 of eccentric channel 38'' is arranged on a ring around the central axis M of filling device 25b. The central channel 38' is located at the center of the inflow region 36. Figure 3b In the filling device 25b shown, the entrances 39 of the channels 38 present a specific pattern: eccentric channels 38'' are arranged around the central channel 38' on three concentric rings. The first (innermost) ring has 10 channels 38'' (two channels 38'' each in two sections, and three channels 38'' each in two sections). The second ring has 18 channels 38'' (four channels 38'' each in two sections, and five channels 38'' each in two sections), and the third (not fully occupied) ring has 12 channels 38'' (three channels 38'' each in four sections). Different sections of the same ring are spaced apart from each other.

[0050] Figure 3c Presented Figure 3a Bottom view of filling device 25b (e.g.) Figure 3a (As indicated by reference numeral IIIc). The outlet 40 of channel 38 is also arranged on an annulus around the central axis M of the filling device 25b. The eccentric channels 38'' of the outflow region 37 are arranged on three concentric annulus around the central channel 38', with the outermost annulus not fully occupied. Due to the inclination angle α of the eccentric channels 38'', the outlets 40 of channels 38 are closer to each other than those on the inflow region 36 side, and are separated only by a very narrow web 48.

[0051] Figures 4a to 4c A third embodiment of the filling device 25c is shown. Figure 4a A cross-section of the corresponding filling device 25c is shown. The filling device 25c shown can be used as... Figure 1 The first filling device 25 and / or the second filling device 25' described herein. Figures 4a to 4c The filling device 25c and Figures 2a to 2c The filling device 25a is similar to that of the filling device, therefore the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and only the differences are discussed below. Figures 4a to 4c Sealing element 43 is not shown.

[0052] and Figures 2a to 2c The filling device 25a is different. Figures 4a to 4c The filling device 25c includes multiple channels 38, each channel including an inlet 39 and an outlet 40. In the first portion 49 of the channel 38, the central axis MC of the channel 38 is approximately parallel to the central axis M of the filling device 25c, while in the second portion 50 of the channel 38, the central axis MC of the channel 38 is inclined at an angle α relative to the central axis M of the filling device 25c. This allows the flowable product 26 to be poured onto the sidewall of the package 2 to be filled.

[0053] Figure 4b Presented Figure 4a Top view of filling device 25c (e.g.) Figure 4a (as shown by the marker IVb in the diagram). Figure 4b The image shows the use of Figure 4a The intersecting planes of the cross sections are IVa-IVa. As can be seen from the figure, Figure 4a The filling device 25c contains six channels 38. Depending on the viewing angle, the channels 38 can be arranged in two columns (three channels 38 per column) or three columns (two channels 38 per column).

[0054] Figure 4c Presented Figure 4a Bottom view of filling device 25c (e.g.) Figure 4a (As indicated by the mark IVc in the figure). As can be seen from the figure, the central axis MC of channel 38 is inclined relative to the central axis M of filling device 25c in the second part 50 of channel 38.

[0055] Figures 5a to 5c A fourth embodiment of the filling device 25d is shown. Figure 5a A cross-section of the corresponding filling device 25d is shown. The filling device 25d shown can be used as... Figure 1 The first filling device 25 and / or the second filling device 25' described herein. Figures 5a to 5c The filling device 25d and Figures 2a to 2c The filling device 25a is similar to that of the filling device, therefore the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and only the differences are discussed below. Figures 5a to 5c Sealing element 43 is not shown.

[0056] and Figures 2a to 2c The filling device 25a is different. Figures 4a to 4c The filling device 25c includes multiple channels 38, each channel including an inlet 39 and an outlet 40. The central axis MC of all channels 38 is inclined at an angle α relative to the central axis M of the filling device 25d.

[0057] Figure 5b Presented Figure 5a Top view of the filling device 25d (e.g.) Figure 5a (As indicated by the mark Vb in Figure 5d). As can be seen from the figure, the inlets 39 of channel 38 are arranged on a ring around the central axis M of the filling device 25d. The inlets 39 of channel 38 in the filling device 25d shown in Figure 5d exhibit a specific pattern: the channels 38 are arranged cyclically on two concentric rings. The first (innermost) ring has three channels. The second (outermost) ring has nine channels 38 (three channels 38 in each of the three sections). The different sections of the outermost ring are spaced apart from each other.

[0058] Figure 5c Presented Figure 5a A bottom view of the filling device at 25d (e.g.) Figure 5a (as indicated by the label Vc in the diagram). Due to the inclination angle α of channel 38, the outlet 40 of channel 38 is closer to each other than the side of the inflow region 36, and is separated only by a very narrow web 48.

[0059] Figures 6a to 6c A fifth embodiment of the filling device 25e is shown. Figure 6a A cross-section of the corresponding filling device 25e is shown. The filling device 25e shown can be used as... Figure 1 The first filling device 25 and / or the second filling device 25' described herein. Figures 6a to 6c The filling device 25e and Figures 2a to 2c The filling device 25a is similar to that of the filling device, therefore the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and only the differences are discussed below. Figures 6a to 6c Sealing element 43 is not shown.

[0060] and Figures 2a to 2c The filling device 25a is different. Figures 6a to 6c The filling device 25e includes a plurality of channels 38, each channel including an inlet 39 and an outlet 40. In the first portion 49 of the channel 38, the central axis MC of the channel 38 is inclined at an angle α relative to the central axis M of the filling device 25e, while in the second portion 50 of the channel 38, the central axis MC of the channel 38 is approximately parallel to the central axis M of the filling device 25e.

[0061] Figure 6b Presented Figure 6a Top view of filling device 25e (e.g.) Figure 6a(As shown by VIb in the figure). As can be seen from the figure, the entrances 39 of channel 38 are arranged on (particularly circular) annexes around the central axis M of the filling device 25e. In the filling device 25d, the entrances 39 of channel 38 exhibit a specific pattern: the channels 38 (particularly circular) are arranged on two concentric annexes. The first (innermost) annulus has four channels. The second (outermost) annulus has eight channels 38 (four channels 38 in each of the two sections). The different sections of the outermost annulus are spaced apart from each other.

[0062] Figure 6c Presented Figure 5a Bottom view of filling device 25e (e.g.) Figure 5a (as indicated by VIc in the diagram). Due to the inclination angle α of channel 38, the outlets 40 of channel 38 are closer to each other and now form a relatively elongated arrangement of outlets 40.

[0063] Reference tag list

[0064] 1. Filling machine

[0065] 2 Packaging

[0066] 3 Packaging Forming Apparatus

[0067] 4 bundles

[0068] 5 Packaging blanks

[0069] 6 Packaging sleeves

[0070] 7 Feeding device

[0071] 8 spindle wheels

[0072] 9 spindles

[0073] 10 End Region

[0074] 11 Heating Units

[0075] 12 Press

[0076] Cell 13

[0077] 14 Conveying device

[0078] 15. Sterile Room

[0079] 16 Sterilization Area

[0080] 17 Sealed Area

[0081] 18 Sealing device

[0082] 19. Stirring device

[0083] 20 Sterile Air Connections

[0084] 21 Preheating device

[0085] 22 Sterilization equipment

[0086] 23 Drying device

[0087] 24 First processing position

[0088] 24' Second processing position

[0089] 25 First filling device

[0090] 25' Second filling device

[0091] Filling devices 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, 25e

[0092] 26. Flowable products

[0093] 27 Particulate Matter

[0094] 28 Heat treatment apparatus

[0095] 29 Preheater

[0096] 30 Main heater

[0097] 31 Cooler

[0098] 32 Feed line

[0099] 33 Storage containers

[0100] 34, 34' delivery pipeline

[0101] 35 Housing

[0102] 36 Inflow Area

[0103] 37 Outflow Area

[0104] 38 channels

[0105] 38' Center Passage

[0106] 38'' Eccentric channel

[0107] Entrance 39

[0108] 40 Exports

[0109] 41 Flange

[0110] 42 Drilling

[0111] 43 Sealing elements

[0112] 44. First end of the sealing element

[0113] 45 Sealed area

[0114] The first part of channel 46

[0115] The second part of channel 47

[0116] 48. Web

[0117] The first part of channel 49

[0118] The second part of the 50-channel system

[0119] Positions I, II, III, IV, V, VI

[0120] M filling device central axis

[0121] The central axis of the MC channel

[0122] α Angle of inclination

Claims

1. A method for filling a flowable product (26) into at least one package (2), comprising the steps of: a) Provide mobile products (26). b) Add particulate matter (27) to the flowable product (26). The diameter of the particulate matter (27) is 1 to 2000 micrometers, preferably 50 to 500 micrometers, and particularly 50 to 200 micrometers. Preferably, the particulate matter (27) is a microcapsule. c) Provide a filling machine (1). The filling machine (1) includes a storage container (33) for storing the flowable product (26) to be filled, at least one filling device (25, 25', 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, 25e) for filling the flowable product (26) into the at least one package (2), particularly a first filling device (25) and / or a second filling device (25'), and at least one conveying line (34, 34') for conveying the flowable product (26) from the storage container (33) to the at least one filling device (25, 25', 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, 25e), particularly the first filling device (25) and / or the second filling device (25'). d) Using the filling machine (1) provided in step c), the flowable product (26) is filled into the at least one package (2).

2. The method according to claim 1, Its features are, The flowable product (26) is a high-viscosity flowable product (26) with a viscosity of at least 400 mPa·s, or a low-viscosity flowable product (26) with a viscosity of less than 400 mPa·s; and / or, the flowable product (26) is a low-acid flowable product (26) with a pH of at least 4.5, or a high-acid flowable product (26) with a pH of less than 4.

5.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, In step d), the at least one package (2) is conveyed, particularly stepwise, through the filling machine (1), and the flowable product (26) is filled into the at least one package (2) at at least one processing position (24, 24'), preferably multiple processing positions (24, 24') arranged in sequence; and / or, in step d), the flowable product (26) is introduced into the at least one package (2) from above, preferably via the at least one filling device (25, 25', 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, 25e), particularly the first filling device (25) and / or the second filling device (25').

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Its features are, In step d), the flowable product (26), preferably at the first processing position (24) and / or via the first filling device (25), is poured onto the side wall of the at least one package (2); and / or in step d), the flowable product (26), preferably at the second processing position (24') and / or via the second filling device (25'), is poured onto the flowable product (26) already filled in the at least one package (2).

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, Its features are, In step d), the filling time for filling the at least one package (2) with the flowable product (26), particularly the filling time for each processing position (24, 24') and / or filling device (25, 25', 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, 25e), is at least 400 milliseconds, preferably at least 450 milliseconds, particularly at least 500 milliseconds, and / or at most 900 milliseconds, preferably at most 850 milliseconds, particularly at most 825 milliseconds.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, Its features are, The at least one filling device (25, 25', 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, 25e), particularly the first filling device (25) and / or the second filling device (25'), includes an inflow area (36) for the flowable product (26) to enter, an outflow area (37) for the flowable product (26) to exit, and at least one channel (38, 38', 38'') for the flowable product (26) to pass through, particularly multiple channels (38, 38', 38''), and preferably each channel (38, 38', 38'') includes an inlet (39) configured for the inflow area (36) and an outlet (40) configured for the outflow area (37).

7. The method according to claim 6, Its features are, The at least one filling device (25, 25', 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, 25e), particularly the first filling device (25) and / or the second filling device (25'), includes a movable sealing element (43), wherein a first end (44) of the sealing element (43) is designed to seal the at least one channel (38, 38', 38'') in a sealing region (45); preferably, the first end (44) of the sealing element (43) is at least partially tapered, and preferably, the first end (44) of the sealing element (43) tapers at least partially in the direction toward the outflow region (37), and / or the end of the first end (44) of the sealing element (43) is pointed.

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7, Its features are, The at least one channel (38) gradually tapers in the first portion (46) toward the outflow area (37), and / or the at least one channel (38) widens in the second portion (47) away from, and particularly opposite to, the inflow area (36), particularly in an arc shape.

9. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, Its features are, For at least some channels (38, 38''), the inlet (39) and / or outlet (40) of the channels (38, 38'') are arranged on an annulus around the central axis (M) of the at least one filling device (25, 25', 25b, 25d, 25e), particularly the first filling device (25) and / or the second filling device (25'); and / or, for at least some channels (38, 38''), the central axis (MC) of the channels (38, 38'') is relative to the at least one filling device. The central axis (M) of (25, 25', 25b, 25d), particularly the first filling device (25) and / or the second filling device (25'), is tilted by an angle (α), and preferably, the angle (α) of the eccentric channel (38'') increases with the increase of the distance between the channel (38, 38', 38'') and the central axis (M) of the at least one filling device (25, 25', 25b, 25d), particularly the first filling device (25) and / or the second filling device (25').

10. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 9, Its features are, For at least some channels (38, 38', 38''), in the first part (49), the central axis (MC) of the channel (38, 38', 38'') is tilted at an angle (α) relative to the central axis (M) of the at least one filling device (25, 25', 25b, 25d, 25e), in particular the first filling device (25) and / or the second filling device (25'), or the central axis (MC) of the channel (38) is substantially parallel to the central axis (M) of the at least one filling device (25, 25', 25a, 25b, 25c), in particular the first filling device (25) and / or the second filling device (25'); And / or, for at least some channels (38, 38', 38''), in the second part (50), the central axis (MC) of the channel (38, 38', 38'') is tilted at an angle (α) relative to the central axis (M) of the at least one filling device (25, 25', 25b, 25c, 25d), in particular the first filling device (25) and / or the second filling device (25'), or the central axis (MC) of the channel (38) is substantially parallel to the central axis (M) of the at least one filling device (25, 25', 25a, 25b), in particular the first filling device (25) and / or the second filling device (25').

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, Its features are, The method includes the following steps: e) Store the flowable product (26) in the storage container (33).

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, Its features are, The method includes the following steps: f) Stirring the flowable product (26), preferably to distribute, in particular to a substantially uniform distribution, the particulate matter (27) in the flowable product (26) and / or to generate turbulence in the flowable product (26), Preferably, step f) is performed at least temporarily concurrently with step e).

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, Its features are, The filling machine (1), particularly the storage container (33), includes a stirring device (19), and preferably, the flowable product (26) is stirred by the stirring device (19) in step e) and / or step f).

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, Its features are, The method includes the following steps: g) The flowable product (26) is subjected to heat treatment, particularly in a continuous heat treatment apparatus (28). Preferably, the heat treatment of the flowable product (26) includes a preheating stage, a main heating stage and / or a cooling stage.

15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, Its features are, In step g), the flowable product (26) is heated to at least 50°C, preferably at least 60°C, particularly at least 70°C, and / or at most 100°C, particularly at most 90°C, particularly at most 80°C, during the preheating stage; in step g), the flowable product (26), particularly wherein the flowable product (26) is a low-acid flowable product (26), is heated to at least 100°C, preferably at least 110°C, particularly at least 120°C, and / or at most 160°C, particularly at most 150°C, particularly at most 140°C, during the main heating stage. In step g), the flowable product (26), particularly the high-acid flowable product (26), is heated to at least 70°C, preferably at least 75°C, particularly at least 80°C, and / or at most 105°C, particularly at most 100°C, particularly at most 95°C, during the main heating phase; and / or, in step g), the flowable product (26) is cooled to at most 45°C, particularly at most 35°C, particularly at most 25°C, and / or at least 5°C, preferably at least 10°C, particularly at least 15°C, during the cooling phase.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15, Its features are, In step d), the flow rate of the flowable product (26), particularly in the delivery lines (34, 34') and / or the at least one filling device (25, 25', 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, 25e), is at least temporarily at least 50 ml / s, preferably at least 75 ml / s, particularly at least 100 ml / s, and / or at most 1700 ml / s, preferably at most 1600 ml / s, particularly at most 1500 ml / s; in steps e) and / or f), the flow rate of the flowable product (26), particularly in the storage container (33), is... The flow rate is at least temporarily at least 600 ml / s, preferably at least 700 ml / s, particularly at least 800 ml / s, and / or at most 7000 ml / s, preferably at most 6500 ml / s, particularly at most 6000 ml / s; and / or, in step g), the flow rate of the flowable product (26), particularly in the heat treatment apparatus (28), is at least temporarily at least 100 ml / s, preferably at least 500 ml / s, particularly at least 1000 ml / s, and / or at most 12000 ml / s, preferably at most 11000 ml / s, particularly at most 10000 ml / s.

17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16, Its features are, In step d), the pressure exerted on the flowable product (26), particularly in the delivery lines (34, 34') and / or in the at least one filling device (25, 25', 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, 25e), is at least temporarily at least 0.5 bar, preferably at least 0.6 bar, particularly at least 0.7 bar, and / or at most 4 bar, preferably at most 3.5 bar, particularly at most 3 bar; in step e) and / or step f), the pressure exerted on the flowable product (26), particularly The pressure exerted in the storage container (33) is at least temporarily at least 0.1 bar, preferably at least 0.2 bar, particularly at least 0.3 bar, and / or at most 5 bar, preferably at most 4 bar, particularly at most 3 bar; and / or, in step g), the pressure exerted on the flowable product (26), particularly in the heat treatment apparatus (28), is at least temporarily at least 0.5 bar, preferably at least 0.75 bar, particularly at least 1 bar, and / or at most 60 bar, preferably at most 55 bar, particularly at most 50 bar.

18. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 17, Its features are, Step b) is performed before steps d), e), f), and / or g); step b) is performed after steps d), e), f), and / or g); and / or the proportion of the particulate matter (27) in the flowable product (26), particularly at least in steps d), e), f), and / or g), is 0.05 to 20% by weight, particularly 0.1 to 10% by weight.

19. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 18, Its features are, The method includes the following steps: h) Seal the at least one package (2), in particular by means of a sealing device (18), Preferably, at least one package (2) is completely sealed.

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