Method and apparatus for sterilizing containers

Abstract

This invention relates to a method for molding a preform (1) made of thermoplastic material into a container (2), wherein the preform (1) is guided along a conveying path through a section of a molding apparatus, the method comprising the steps of: applying a sterilizing fluid to the outer surface of the preform (1) and introducing the sterilizing fluid into the internal space of the preform (1) before heating the preform (1) in a heating device; subsequently irradiating only the outer region of the preform (1) with a UV radiation source (101, 101-1, 101-2, 101-3), preferably a UV-C radiation source, to activate the sterilizing fluid on the outer surface of the preform (1), such that the sterilizing fluid on the outer surface substantially evaporates before heating the preform (1) in the heating device; and subsequently heating the preform (1) in the heating device to a molding temperature, wherein the activation of the sterilizing fluid inside the preform is achieved by heating. The invention also relates to a corresponding apparatus.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method and apparatus for molding a preform made of thermoplastic material into a container, wherein the preform is guided along a conveying path through a section of a molding apparatus. In particular, this invention relates to a method and apparatus for sterilizing a preform or container during the process of guiding the preform through a specific section of the molding apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] It is known to manufacture containers by blow molding from preforms of thermoplastic materials, such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate) preforms. Here, the preform is conveyed within a blow molding machine (also referred to herein as equipment for forming the preform) to different processing stations. Typically, the blow molding machine has a heating device for temperature control or thermal conditioning of the preform and a blow molding unit with at least one blow molding station in the area of ​​which the previously temperature-conditioned preform is expanded into a container.

[0003] For example, DE2352926A1 describes the possibility of temperature conditioning of preforms. Here, temperature conditioning or thermal regulation is understood as heating the preform to a temperature suitable for molding, and, if necessary, applying a temperature distribution along the longitudinal and / or circumferential directions on the preform.

[0004] For example, a preform is expanded into a finished container using pressurized gas, particularly compressed air, as a pressure medium. This pressure medium is introduced into the preform to be expanded at a forming pressure. The process of expanding such a preform is described in DE4340291A1. The basic structure of a blow molding station is described in DE4212583A1. According to a typical post-processing procedure, the container produced by blow molding is conveyed to a subsequent filling unit, where a predetermined product or filling material is filled. However, containers can also be manufactured from preforms and simultaneously filled with a filling material, which serves as a hydraulic pressure medium for expanding the preform or for shaping the container, and is conveyed at both forming and filling pressures. Thus, the corresponding preform is formed into a container while being filled. In the art, such methods and equipment for simultaneously forming and filling preforms into containers are known under the names "FormFill" or "LiquiForm". The present invention can be advantageously applied to both molding methods and both types of equipment for forming preforms.

[0005] In this invention, sterilization (also referred to as disinfection) is understood as, for example, sterilization treatment using chemical disinfectant fluids. This disclosure is based on the fact that, for example, beverages susceptible to bacteria must be filled under aseptic or sterilized conditions to achieve the desired shelf life. This, for example, requires that the containers used to fill the beverages meet these aseptic conditions, i.e., are substantially sterile, at least on the surfaces in contact with the filling material. For this purpose, the finished containers can be sterilized before filling, or the preforms can be sterilized before being molded into containers, subsequently preventing recontamination. Thus, both the preforms and the containers subsequently made from them can be sterilized. The advantage of sterilizing preforms compared to sterilizing the containers thus made is that the surface to be sterilized is much smaller, thereby requiring a smaller amount of disinfectant fluid.

[0006] Typically, after the blow molding process, rinsing with a sterile rinsing fluid is prescribed to remove traces of the sterilizing fluid from the finished container. This is described, for example, in WO2014 / 139624A1. The blow molding process itself already produces a rinsing effect, as the blow molding gases used and their emissions help remove the sterilizing fluid, provided that the sterilizing fluid was still present in the preform before molding. Furthermore, sterilizing fluids such as hydrogen peroxide can decompose and thus no longer be present in the preform or container.

[0007] For example, it is known from DE102014010283A1 that the preformed part is rinsed with a sterilizing fluid, for example, after being received in the molding station. It is also known that the preformed part is sterilized before arriving at the molding station (WO2010 / 020530A1), for example, on the path between the heating device and the molding station, or for example, before the preformed part enters the heating device of the blow molding machine, or for example, before the preformed part enters the blow molding machine, for example, in the area of ​​the feed track for the preformed part. Sterilization of the preformed part within the heating device is also known from EP2588295A1.

[0008] One known method for sterilizing preforms involves metering hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) into the preform, heating the preform together with the metered hydrogen peroxide in a heating device, and then blowing it into a finished container. In this method, the majority of the hydrogen peroxide decomposes into oxygen and water. However, it is also known to meter the addition of hydrogen peroxide between the heating device and the molding equipment. When the pressure expands to ambient, the finished container is flushed with gas 25 to 30 times its volume, thereby reducing any potentially residual hydrogen peroxide to a tolerable level. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The aforementioned methods and equipment still have specific drawbacks, and some are complex and costly. The objective of this invention is to provide an efficient and safe method and an equally efficient and safe device, particularly capable of sterilizing the outer surface of preforms.

[0010] This disclosure provides a method for molding a preform made of thermoplastic material into a container. In this method, the preform is guided along a conveying path through a section of a molding apparatus. Here, a sterilizing fluid is first applied to the outer surface of the preform. The sterilizing fluid can also be introduced into the interior of the preform. Both the application and introduction of the sterilizing fluid are performed before the preform is heated in a heating device. After the sterilizing fluid is applied to the outer surface of the preform, the outer surface is irradiated only with UV radiation from one or more UV radiators, preferably UV-C radiators, to activate the sterilizing fluid on the outer surface of the preform. This should be understood as irradiation only on the outer surface, and due to the absorption characteristics of the preform material, the radiation does not penetrate into the interior and therefore does not reach the sterilizing fluid inside the preform. The irradiation with UV or UV-C radiation is such that the sterilizing fluid on the outer surface decomposes substantially according to the reaction equation before the preform is heated in the heating device, i.e., before reaching the heating section with the heating device. Therefore, when the preform enters the heating section of the heating device, the outer side of the preform is essentially free of sterilizing fluid, thus preventing a significant amount of sterilizing fluid residue from being carried into the heating section. Subsequently, the preform is heated to the molding temperature in one or more heating sections within the heating device, where heating activates the sterilizing fluid inside the preform. The presence of sterilizing fluid inside the preform is not a major problem because the preform is typically guided through the heating device by means of delivery mandrels, which clamp into the opening region of the preform, at least partially sealing the opening region and preventing the sterilizing fluid from escaping. The delivery mandrels provide the possibility of sealing the interior of the preform relative to the surrounding heating device. Advantageously, in the method and apparatus, delivery mandrels are used for conveying through the heating device. Preferably, the entire outer surface of the preform is irradiated with UV-C radiation. By the above method, the preform can be sterilized externally before heating in the heating device, and the sterilizing fluid can also be removed from the outside. This reduces or prevents the introduction of sterilizing fluid into the heating device.

[0011] Advantageously, in the application device, the disinfectant fluid is supplied in the form of steam or aerosol. Here, the preform is advantageously at a temperature equal to or below the condensation temperature of the disinfectant fluid in steam or aerosol form. In this way, the disinfectant fluid is deposited as condensate on the outer and inner surfaces of the preform, wherein the supply of steam or aerosol (through a suitable exhaust nozzle arrangement and a suitable steam / aerosol amount) is carried out in such a way that a sufficiently complete condensate film is formed on the inner and outer sides of the preform. This ensures that the surface is reliably covered by the disinfectant fluid, resulting in thorough sterilization.

[0012] When irradiated with ultraviolet radiation, the preform is advantageously rotated about its longitudinal axis relative to the UV radiation source by means of a conveying device. This has the advantage of preventing some areas from receiving less radiation than others. Otherwise, it would be necessary to irradiate as uniformly as possible over the entire circumference (and, of course, the entire height). If the preform is rotated about its longitudinal axis relative to the UV radiation source, this is not necessary. Due to the rotation of the preform, irradiating it from one side, for example, is sufficient.

[0013] According to the first alternative, it can be stipulated that the outer side of the preform is not used at all for gripping by the conveying device. Instead, gripping of the preform can be performed inside the opening region of the preform, as is known for conveying mandrels.

[0014] According to the second alternative, the gripping area on the preform can be variable. Here, the UV radiation source (UV-C radiator) can be arranged, for example, along the circumference, particularly a portion of the circumference, of at least two transfer devices, particularly two transfer wheels (i.e., the first and second transfer wheels). In this configuration, the preform passes through at least a partial circumference (or a portion of the path) on each transfer device or transfer wheel during irradiation. This arrangement allows the UV radiation source to be positioned only on one side of the transport path and follow the curved circumference path of the preform, thereby maintaining a constant distance. Further advantageously, the gripping area is changed between a first partial circumference on the first transfer wheel and a second partial circumference on the second transfer wheel, such that the first transfer wheel releases the preform and the second transfer wheel grips it. For this purpose, the transfer wheels can advantageously have suitable grippers. This achieves the following: areas covered or blocked by the grippers during the first partial circumference are exposed during the second partial circumference on the second transfer wheel, and vice versa. Therefore, the result is that all areas of the preform are at least temporarily freely accessible to the UV radiation from the radiation source.

[0015] The preform can be partially circled around a first transfer wheel and held, for example, above its neck ring in a first gripping area. It is then transferred to a subsequent transfer wheel, where another partial circle is made, where the preform is held, for example, below the neck ring in a second gripping area. Furthermore, in this configuration, the UV radiator can be arranged only on one side of the transport path. By changing the gripping area, the preform is irradiated from a first side during the first partial circle and from the opposite side during the second partial circle. This corresponds to a 180° rotation achieved through the transfer.

[0016] The UV radiators can be arranged in a zigzag shape along the transport path. Specifically, the arrangement of the UV radiators can follow the circumferential path of the first and second transfer wheels (each partially encircling the path). The advantage is that this extends the path length of the UV radiation action and thus the action time, thereby improving the overall sterilization result. This configuration also allows for a reduction in the amount or concentration of sterilizing agent. Furthermore, the length of the transport path during UV-C irradiation can be selected such that the desired near-complete evaporation (decomposition) of the disinfectant fluid applied to the outer surface has already occurred before it enters the heating device.

[0017] Advantageously, UV radiators can also be arranged on both sides of the preform. This can, for example, reduce the irradiation duration and / or irradiation intensity.

[0018] According to another configuration, the UV radiator can be arranged inside the heating device, advantageously before the heating section begins. If the preform is conveyed inside the heating device by means of a conveying mandrel, the preform can be rotated relative to the UV-C radiator about its own longitudinal axis by means of the conveying mandrel, while being moved past the UV-C radiator. Further advantageously, the conveying mandrel is simply clamped into the preform. Thus, the preform is not covered or obstructed on its outer surface, which improves the effect and coverage of the UV-C radiation.

[0019] Advantageously, irradiation with UV or UV-C radiation can be carried out in at least three vertically stacked zones. Thus, at least one radiator can be directed towards the opening section of the preform, at least one radiator towards the apex of the preform, and at least one radiator towards the body of the preform. Having at least this three-zone configuration advantageously avoids "shadow projection." For example, a support ring or neck ring of the preform might cast such a shadow.

[0020] Each radiator can be selectively adjusted in its distance from the preform, for example, to accommodate varying preform geometries. When using longer preforms, for example, the radiation source for the preform's dome can be moved. This is another advantage of the aforementioned three-zone or division into three or more zones.

[0021] Multiple UV radiation sources or UV radiators can be arranged in or on a common carrier. The key lies in the arrangement of the UV radiation sources or UV radiators and their orientation toward the area.

[0022] Advantageously, the UV radiator can be shielded. Shielding of the UV radiation can be achieved by providing a shielding enclosure that extends at least along the area of ​​the delivery path in which the UV radiator is arranged.

[0023] The housing can also be used to prevent the evaporating disinfectant fluid from escaping into the environment. The housing provides a suction area for the disinfectant fluid, extending at least from the application device for the disinfectant fluid to the end of the UV irradiation. Within this suction area, not only can air and evaporating disinfectant fluid from the housing be suctioned out, but sterile air can preferably be actively or passively supplied to compensate for the suctioned air.

[0024] This disclosure also provides an apparatus for molding a preform made of thermoplastic material into a container. The preform is guided downstream within the molding apparatus along a conveying path by means of at least one conveying device. The apparatus, along the conveying path in the downstream direction, includes: a supply device for supplying the preform into the molding apparatus; an application device for applying a disinfecting fluid to the outer surface of the preform and introducing the disinfecting fluid into the interior of the preform; an irradiation device having one or more UV radiation sources for irradiating the outer surface of the preform with ultraviolet radiation; and a heating device having a heating device along a heating section for heating the preform to a molding temperature. Due to the properties of the preform material, UV radiation does not penetrate into the interior of the preform. The application device for the disinfecting fluid, the irradiation device, and the heating device are arranged and coordinated such that, in the irradiation device, the disinfecting fluid on the outer surface substantially evaporates (or decomposes) before heating the preform in the heating section of the heating device, and the disinfecting fluid inside the preform is activated when the preform is subsequently heated to the molding temperature in the heating device.

[0025] Advantageously, the radiation sources can be configured as multi-piece, particularly three-piece. Here, one or more first radiation sources (UV-C radiators) can be directed towards the mouth section, one or more second radiation sources (UV-C radiators) can be directed towards the body section, and one or more radiation sources (UV-C radiators) can be directed towards the apex of the preform. Here, at least one radiation source, advantageously multiple or all radiation sources, can be adjusted in their distance from the preform, particularly their distance from the apex of the preform. This allows for adaptation to different preform geometries or preform forms.

[0026] The conveying device through which the preform moves is advantageously configured such that the preform rotates at least partially relative to the radiation source (UV-C radiator) about its longitudinal axis during its passage through the irradiation device. Thus, irradiation can be performed from only one side.

[0027] The device advantageously includes first and second transfer wheels, wherein the irradiation device is arranged along a first partial circumference of the first transfer wheel and a second partial circumference of the second transfer wheel. Advantageously, the UV radiator is thus arranged along the circumference, particularly a partial circumference, of at least two transfer devices (in particular the transfer wheels, i.e., the first and second transfer wheels), wherein the preform passes through at least a partial circumference on each transfer wheel during irradiation.

[0028] Advantageously, the first transfer device (first transfer wheel) has a first gripper, and the second transfer device (second transfer wheel) has a second gripper, these grippers being configured to grip different areas of the preform. Thus, a shift in gripping occurs between a first partial circumference on the first transfer wheel and a second partial circumference on the second transfer wheel, causing the first transfer wheel to release the preform and the second transfer wheel to grip it. This achieves that areas covered or obscured by the grippers during the first partial circumference are exposed during the second partial circumference on the second transfer wheel, and vice versa. The preform can pass through the first transfer wheel partially, and is held there, for example, above its neck ring. It is then transferred to a subsequent transfer wheel, where another partial circumference is performed, where the preform is held there, for example, below the neck ring.

[0029] The UV radiators can be arranged in a zigzag shape and follow the circumferential path on the first and second transfer wheels. The advantage is that this increases the path length of the UV radiation, thus extending the overall contact time and improving sterilization results. This configuration also allows for a reduction in the amount or concentration of sterilizing agent.

[0030] In another configuration, UV radiators can be arranged on both sides of the preform. This can shorten the path length.

[0031] In one configuration, the UV radiator or UV-C radiator can be arranged inside the heating device but before the heating path, i.e., before the preform is heated. Advantageously, the preform is moved past the UV-C radiator by means of a conveyor mandrel, and further advantageously rotated about its longitudinal axis by means of the conveyor mandrel. The conveyor mandrel is advantageously configured to be clamped into the preform only. Further advantageously, inside the heating device, the UV radiator or UV-C radiator can be arranged along both sides of the conveying path of the preform through the heating device.

[0032] The total exposure time to UV radiation (possibly during the first and second partial circumduction) can be on the order of less than 5 seconds, preferably in the range of 1 to 2 seconds. More advantageously, the exposure duration or exposure time can also be in the range of 0.5 to 1 second.

[0033] Ultraviolet radiation, abbreviated as UV, UV light, is electromagnetic radiation within the optical frequency range (light), with wavelengths shorter than those of visible light. UV radiation is typically categorized into three ranges: UV-A (380 nm to 315 nm), UV-B (315 nm to 280 nm), and UV-C (280 nm to 100 nm). In the context of this disclosure, UV radiation is chosen as particularly suitable for the forced decomposition of H₂O₂ into HO· radicals. For this purpose, the wavelength range of 280 nm to 200 nm is particularly advantageous, as the UV radiator operates within this range. This is particularly advantageous because ozone forms below 200 nm, and if the concentration is too high, it must be drawn away. UV-C radiation is preferred because it is particularly suitable for accelerating or forcing the decomposition of H₂O₂ into HO· radicals. In principle, UV radiation with slightly longer wavelengths is also possible, but the effect will be correspondingly smaller. According to this disclosure, it is particularly recognized that UV radiation in the 254 nm range is not only suitable for directly killing bacteria, but also particularly advantageous for activating disinfectant fluids, such as H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide). This disclosure utilizes this understanding in particular.

[0034] Advantageously, the radiation source can be constructed in at least three parts and configured such that at least one radiator points towards the opening section of the preform, at least one radiator points towards the apex of the preform, and at least one radiator points towards the body of the preform. This avoids obstruction.

[0035] Furthermore advantageously, the UV radiators can be arranged at variable distances relative to the apex and / or mouth region and / or body of the preform.

[0036] The irradiation device may have a housing. The housing may be constructed in the form of a tunnel, wherein the housing may be configured to shield the ultraviolet radiation from the radiation source from a direction away from the preform.

[0037] The housing may have a suction device for the disinfectant fluid. The suction device for the disinfectant fluid may be arranged outside the housing. In this respect, the housing may be configured to prevent the area enclosed by the housing from evaporating the disinfectant fluid, thus preventing it from escaping to the outside.

[0038] Furthermore, the housing can be connected to a sterile air source configured to either supplement or apply sterile air. Here, "supplementary inflow" should be understood as a passive method, where sterile air is supplemented to fill vacated spaces due to the suction action of the suction device. "Applied" refers to actively pumping air towards the housing using overpressure. Attached Figure Description

[0039] The present disclosure is explained in detail below with reference to preferred embodiments and accompanying drawings. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. In the drawings, elements that are the same or substantially the same or similar in function are generally denoted by the same reference numerals. The drawings are as follows.

[0040] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an apparatus for processing containers under aseptic conditions is shown, taking as an example a processing apparatus for manufacturing finished containers from preforms.

[0041] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 A simplified diagram of the segment.

[0042] Figure 3 A and 3B show simplified schematic side views of the preform during its passage through the irradiation device.

[0043] Figure 4 A simplified schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of another possibility for UV irradiating a preform. Detailed Implementation

[0044] exist Figure 1 The illustration schematically shows an apparatus for forming a preform 1 or a container 2. In this specific example, it is an apparatus for manufacturing a container 2 from a heat-conditioned preform 1. The apparatus includes a blow molding device 30, which in the illustrated embodiment is a rotary blow molding device 30, having forming wheels 32 and a plurality of forming stations 31 arranged circumferentially spaced thereon for forming the preform 1 into the container 2. In this embodiment, the blow molding device 30 may be a blow molding device 30 that forms the container 2 from the preform 1 using compressed air, or a blow molding device 30 that forms the container 2 under pressure by introducing a liquid filler, which is delivered as a hydraulic pressure medium to inflate the preform 1 and / or to form the container 2.

[0045] Along a downstream conveying path, preform 1 and container 2 are conveyed as follows: Preform 1 is transferred to sorting wheel 40 via a feeding device 40a, for example configured as a feeding track or air conveyor, which is rotated by a drive (not shown) as indicated by arrow 400. Preform 1 is then transferred by the sorting wheel 40 to heating device 50, which has heating equipment 51 along a heating section for heat conditioning of the preform 1. Preform 1 is guided along heating equipment 51 or a corresponding heating section in the circumferential direction (conveyance direction) indicated by arrow 500, and then transferred to a rotary-driven transfer wheel 60, which rotates in the direction of arrow 600. Preform 1 is transferred from transfer wheel 60 to blow molding device 30. Finished container 2 is formed from preform 1 by means of molding station 31. After the finished container 2 is formed from preform 1, the containers are transferred to output wheel 70, which rotates in the direction of arrow 700. Subsequently, container 2 is transported away by means of discharge device 70a. Container 2 may be further guided to a device for filling container 2, for example, via other conveying devices not shown. Therefore, transport typically involves further guidance to the next process, which may be filling, sealing, inspection, or others.

[0046] The preform 1 and container 2 can be held by means of conveying mandrels or grippers during conveying and various possible processing steps. In a known manner, and therefore not shown, the conveying of the preform 1 through the heating device 50 can advantageously be carried out by a mandrel chain (having conveying mandrels connected in a circular chain). The structure of the heating device 50 is basically known and therefore will not be described in detail here.

[0047] In order to follow Figure 1 The entire conveying path of the equipment continuously conveys the preform 1 or container 2, and the circumferential movements of the wheels 40, 60, 70, blow molding device 30, and heating device 50 are coordinated with each other, for example by synchronization and / or by a common drive. The conveying path of the preform 1 or container 2 is defined here by the following paths: along a portion of the circumference of the transfer wheels 40, 60, 70, a portion of the circumference of the blow molding device 30, and a portion of the circumferential area along the mandrel chain, respectively. Figure 1 The sequence of preforms 1 and containers 2 shown, passing from sorting wheel 40 via heating device 50, then via transfer wheel 60, continuing via blow molding device 30 (whereby the preform 1 is transformed into finished container 2 on forming wheel 32), continuing to output wheel 70, and finally ending at discharge device 70a, corresponds to the conveying path through the overall arrangement shown. In the context of this disclosure, sorting wheel 40, transfer wheel 60, and output wheel 70 are collectively referred to as "transfer device" or "transfer wheel".

[0048] The forming station 31 of the blow molding apparatus 30, for example in a manner known per se and therefore not shown, consists of a multi-part external mold, and the preform 1 expands relative to its internal contour by means of compressed air or filling material. Dotted lines indicate machine housings 37a, 37b.

[0049] There is a control unit 20 for the molding equipment 30. This control unit 20 can also control the heating device 50 or other control functions of the overall device. However, it is also conceivable to set up other control units to perform these other control functions.

[0050] According to one embodiment, in order to sterilize the preform 1, a sterilizing fluid is introduced into the internal space of the preform 1 before or during its entry into the heating device 50. Within the scope of this disclosure, applying the sterilizing fluid to the outer surface of the preform 1 and possibly introducing the sterilizing fluid into the interior can be done, for example, by... Figure 1 The application is performed within the application device 43, which is not shown in more detail elsewhere. This is done within... Figure 2 This is shown in more detail below. After the disinfectant fluid is introduced into the interior, the preform 1 can be at least partially and / or temporarily sealed, for example by guiding the preform through the delivery mandrel of the heating device 50. In any case, the disinfectant fluid is applied to the preform in the application device 43 before the heating device, i.e., before the preform 1 enters the heating device.

[0051] After sterilization, the preform 1 is preferably rinsed with a sterile fluid. The rinsing fluid can be, for example, sterile air. Similarly, inert gases such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide are also suitable as rinsing fluids. Another possibility for the rinsing fluid is water vapor. Advantageously, the rinsing fluid is selected with consideration of the subsequent filling material, which may be used for molding. For carbonated filling materials, carbon dioxide, for example, can be a preferred rinsing fluid. Typically, the rinsing fluid will be gaseous, i.e., a rinsing gas. The rinsing step is preferably performed after leaving the heating device or immediately before or at the time of leaving the heating device.

[0052] Figure 2 yes Figure 1A simplified schematic diagram of the segment. Here, the sorting wheel 40 is divided into a first transfer wheel 40-1 and a second transfer wheel 40-2. Furthermore, an application device for the sterilizing fluid 43 is shown or arranged between the supply device 40a for the preform 1 and the first transfer wheel 40-1. An irradiation device 100 is provided along the transport path of the preform 1 (which is specifically defined by the transfer wheels 40-1 and 40-2). This irradiation device 100 has a plurality of radiation sources 101. These radiation sources 101 emit UV radiation, and particularly preferably UV-C radiation. Furthermore, in the context of this disclosure, radiation source or UV radiator should preferably be understood as a UV-C radiator. In this context, a UV-C radiator is a radiator that has particularly pronounced emission in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 280 nm, and more advantageously, particularly at 254 nm. The term UV-C radiator includes all common types of radiators, such as diodes, i.e., light-emitting diodes (LEDs), mercury vapor lamps, excimer lamps, etc.

[0053] Advantageously, during transport via the irradiation device 100, the preform 1 rotates about its longitudinal axis. This allows UV radiation to be applied as uniformly as possible to the entire outer surface of the preform 1. In some configurations, the radiation source 101 can then be positioned only on one side of the transport path, thereby reducing the number of radiation sources required and the complexity of their arrangement.

[0054] In the embodiment shown with two transfer wheels 40-1 and 40-2, the preform 1 follows the first portion of the first transfer wheel 40-1 around TU1, and then follows the second portion of the second transfer wheel 40-2 around TU2. This results in a tortuous transport path for the preform 1. The length of the transport path of the irradiation device 100, i.e., the time the preform 1 is irradiated, can be selected such that the disinfectant fluid, covering as much of the outer surface as possible, is activated by the radiation source (preferably a UV-C radiator), thereby decomposing or disappearing before entering the heating device 50.

[0055] The radiation source 101 is preferably implemented as a UV-C radiator and distributed along the transport path. Therefore, the irradiation device 100 (and its radiation source 101) follows the preform 1 in a curved manner as it orbits the first portion of the first transfer wheel 40-1 and the second portion of the preform 1 orbits the second transfer wheel 40-2. Here, it is preferable to maintain a constant distance between the radiation source and the preform along which it is guided.

[0056] Along transfer wheels 40-1 and 40-2, the preform is held by grippers 44 (44-1 and 44-2), respectively. These grippers 44-1 and 44-2 may preferably be located at the neck ring 6 (see...). Figure 3The preform 1 is gripped above or below the first transfer wheel 40-1 and the second transfer wheel 40-2. A transfer occurs between the gripper 44-1 of the first transfer wheel 40-1 and the gripper 44-2 of the second transfer wheel 40-2. During the transfer, a gripping change is specified such that the gripper 44-1 of the first transfer wheel 40-1 grips the preform 1 in a first gripping area, and the gripper 44-2 of the second transfer wheel 40-2 grips the preform 1 in a second gripping area, wherein the first gripping area is different from the second gripping area, and the two gripping areas advantageously do not overlap. This ensures that even areas where the outer surface of the preform is covered or obscured by the gripper 44-1 or 44-2 in one of the gripping areas receive sufficient UV-C radiation.

[0057] Alternatively, the preform 1 may be guided along the first and / or second transfer wheels 40-1 and 40-2 and by a transport mandrel via the irradiation device 100, the transport mandrel being used only in the opening region 3 of the preform 1 (see Figure 3 It grips tightly between the fingers.

[0058] A housing 110 is provided along the delivery path between the application device 43 for the disinfecting fluid and the end of the irradiation device 100. Preferably, the housing 110 also extends along the application device 43, i.e., it is also a housing for the application device 43. However, the housing of the application device 43 may also be directly connected to the housing 110. In this regard, in one possible configuration, the irradiation device 100 may also extend slightly into the application device 43, so that UV-C radiation irradiation is performed as early as possible after the disinfecting fluid is applied to the outer surface of the preform 1.

[0059] Figure 3 A and 3B show simplified schematic side views of the preform 1 during its passage through the irradiation device 110. Figure 3 A is shown here of the preform 1 during the first partial circumduction of TU1 on the first transfer wheel 40-1. The preform 1 includes three regions: a mouth region 3, a body 4 (also referred to as a side or lateral region), and a dome 5. Furthermore, the preform 1 has a neck ring 6. During the first partial circumduction of TU1, the preform 1 is held above the neck ring 6 by a first gripper 44-1 (indicated by dashed lines). Additionally, the preform 1 is irradiated from the outside by UV-C radiation from a UV radiation source or UV-C radiators 101-1, 101-2, 101-3, and 101-4. Optionally, other radiators 101-5 and 101-6 may also be provided, irradiating the preform 1 from opposite sides with UV-C radiation. On the outer surface, particularly on the mouth section 3, body 4, and dome 5, and of course also on the neck ring 6, there is a condensed sterilizing fluid activated by UV-C radiation. As the disinfectant fluid passes through the first and second sections surrounding TU1 and TU2, it gradually evaporates (through activation and decomposition). Figure 3 B illustrates the preform 1 during the second partial encirclement of TU2 on the second transfer wheel 40-2. The second gripper 44-2 of the second transfer wheel 40-2 now grips below the neck ring 6. Thus, the area covered and blocked by the first gripper 40-1 in the first partial encirclement of TU1 is released and can be irradiated by UV-C radiation in the second partial encirclement of TU2. The condensing sterilization fluid located there is thus activated. Furthermore, by changing grips (transfers) from the first transfer wheel 40-1 to the second transfer wheel 40-2, the preform 1 rotates approximately 180° relative to the UV-C radiators 101-1, 101-2, and 101-3 about its own longitudinal axis LA (shown below). Thus, the preform 1 now receives UV radiation on the other side. This allows the UV radiation source to be arranged on one side of the transport path. However, preferably, the preform 1 is rotated about its longitudinal axis (LA) on at least one partial encirclement of TU1, TU2, and more preferably on two partial encirclements of TU1, TU2, which has the advantages described in the general description. Optionally, additional UV-C radiators 101-5 and 101-6 may also be provided in the second part surrounding TU2, which irradiate the preform 1 from opposite sides, thereby providing bilateral irradiation with UV-C radiation during one or two parts surrounding.

[0060] The housing 110 can be mounted laterally or circumferentially, and is either enclosed on one side by corresponding transfer wheels 40-1, 40-2, or continues on the side of the corresponding transfer wheels 40-1, 40-2. The housing 110 may also extend at least partially below the preform 1, at least as a carrier for the UV radiator 101-4 for irradiating the dome 5.

[0061] The housing 110 is configured such that it shields UV radiation from the preform 1 and possibly from the transfer wheels 40-1 and 40-2, and is adapted to prevent the escape of volatile disinfectant fluid. The disinfectant fluid is drawn away by the suction device 120 described herein. Sterile air can be passively or actively supplied to the housing 110 by a sterile air source.

[0062] Radiators 101-1, 101-2, 101-3, 101-4, 101-5, and 101-6 are installed at variable distances and positions. This should be indicated by arrow P. This allows for adaptation to different geometries of the preform. Advantageously, radiators 101-1, 101-2, 101-3, 101-4, 101-5, and 101-6 can all be arranged or fixed on a single carrier.

[0063] In one configuration, the preform 1 enters the heating device 50 after being irradiated with UV radiation. Alternatively or additionally, the irradiation can be continued into the heating device, or performed within the heating device 50 but before the heating section 51 or before the heating equipment for heating the preform. A sterilizing fluid film remains on the inner surface of the preform 1. At this time, the outer surface of the preform is essentially free of sterilizing fluid. Because the preform is heated in the heating device or heating section, the sterilizing fluid inside the preform 1 is activated and decomposed, so that sterilization of the internal area of ​​the preform is performed only in the heating device or heating section. UV radiators 101-1, 101-2, 101-3, 101-4, 101-5, and 101-6 cannot reach this internal film because the material of the preform 1 is not penetrated by the UV radiation.

[0064] Figure 4 A simplified illustration of another embodiment for irradiating the preform 1 is shown. In this configuration, besides Figure 3 In addition to or as an alternative to the irradiation shown in A and / or 3B, the preform 1 is irradiated with UV-C radiators 101-1 to 101-7 within the heating device 50, immediately before the heating path 51, i.e., immediately before the actual heating of the preform 1. Here, UV irradiation can advantageously be performed from both sides because the preform 1 moves linearly. This bilateral irradiation... Figure 2 and 3 The diagram is illustrated by the additional radiators 101-5, 101-6, and 101-7, which are shown in dashed lines.

[0065] Inside the heating device 50, the preform 1 can be advantageously conveyed by means of conveying mandrels 45. These conveying mandrels are clamped into the interior (mouth region 3) of the preform 1. With the help of the conveying mandrels 45, the preform 1 can advantageously rotate about its longitudinal axis during UV-C radiation irradiation.

[0066] In some embodiments, the delivery mandrel 45 can be used to aspirate the sterilizing fluid and / or supply sterile air. Advantageously, the delivery mandrel 45 can be configured to remove the sterilizing fluid, for example, at the end of delivery via the heating device 50, and replace it with sterile air or an inert gas, for example, through a rinsing process. In alternative configurations, the delivery mandrel 45 may also be limited to partially or completely enclosing the interior of the preform relative to the environment.

[0067] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 1 Preform 2 Finished Containers 3. Mouth area of ​​the preform 4. Body of the preform 5. Protrusions of preforms 11. Mouth section of the preform 20 control units 30 blow molding unit 31 Molding Station 32 forming wheel 37a, 37b Shell walls 40 transfer wheels / sorting wheels 40-1 First transfer wheel, first transfer device 40-2 Second transfer wheel, second transfer device 40a supply unit 43. Apparatus for applying disinfectant fluids 44 grippers 45 conveyor core rod 50 Heating device / Temperature control device 51 Heating sections or heating equipment along heating sections 60 Third Transfer Wheel 70 Output Wheel (Fourth Transfer Wheel) 100 Irradiation Device 101UV radiation source / UV radiator / UV-C radiator 101-1 UV-C radiator pointing towards the mouth area 101-2 UV-C radiator pointing towards the body 101-3 UV-C radiator pointing towards the dome 101-4 UV-C radiator pointing towards the dome 101-5UV-C radiator 101-6UV-C radiator 110 casing 120 is a suction device for disinfectant fluids. 130 sterile air source Rotation direction of the forming wheel in the 300 blow molding unit Rotation direction of the 400 sorting wheel The circumferential direction of the conveyor chain inside the 500 heating device Rotation direction of the 600 transfer wheel 700 Output Wheel Rotation Direction P is used for the adjustment possibilities of UV-C radiators. ST sterilization begins (disinfection fluid supply).

Claims

1. A method for shaping a preform (1) made of thermoplastic material into a container (2), wherein the preform (1) is guided along a conveying path through sections of a shaping apparatus, wherein the method comprises the following steps: Before heating the preform (1) in the heating device, a disinfectant fluid is applied to the outer surface of the preform (1) and introduced into the internal space (1) of the preform (1); then, a UV radiation source (101, 101-1, 101-2, 101-3), preferably a UV-C radiation source, is used to irradiate only the outer area of ​​the preform (1) to activate the disinfectant fluid on the outer surface of the preform (1), so that the disinfectant fluid on the outer surface substantially evaporates before heating the preform (1) in the heating device; then, the preform (1) is heated to the molding temperature in the heating device, wherein the activation of the disinfectant fluid inside the preform is achieved by heating.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The disinfectant fluid is supplied in the form of steam or aerosol, and the preform (1) is at a temperature below the condensation temperature of the disinfectant fluid in the form of steam or aerosol during the supply, such that the disinfectant fluid is deposited as condensate on the surface of the preform (1), wherein the steam supply is carried out in such a way that a substantially complete condensate film is formed on the outer side and possibly the inner side of the preform (1).

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, When irradiated with ultraviolet radiation, the preform rotates about its longitudinal axis relative to the UV radiation source (101,101-1,101-2,101-3,101-4,101-5,101-6,101-7) by means of a conveying device (40,40-1,40-2,44,45).

4. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The irradiation of the preform (1) with UV radiation sources (101, 101-1, 101-2, 101-3) is carried out along a tortuous transport path, that is, during the first partial circumference (TU1) of the preform around the first transfer wheel (40-1) and during the second partial circumference (TU2) of the second transfer wheel (40-2), wherein preferably the gripping area on the preform (1) is changed between the first partial circumference (TU1) of the first transfer wheel (40-1) and the second partial circumference (TU2) of the second transfer wheel (40-2) so that the first gripping area and the second gripping area on the preform are different, in particular without overlap of gripping surfaces.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Inside the heating device (50), but before the heating section (51), i.e. before heating, the preform (1) is irradiated with UV-C radiation by UV-C radiators (101-1, 101-2, 101-3, 101-4, 101-5, 101-6, 101-7, particularly wherein, while irradiated inside the heating device (50), the preform (1) rotates about its longitudinal axis relative to the UV-C radiators (101-1, 101-2, 101-3, 101-4, 101-5, 101-6, 101-7).

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The UV radiation sources (101, 101-1, 101-2, 101-3) are configured as multiple parts, particularly at least three parts, wherein at least one UV radiator (100-1) is directed toward the opening section (3) of the preform (1), and at least one UV radiator (100-3) is directed toward the top (5) of the preform, and / or at least one UV radiator (100-2) is directed toward the side region of the preform (1), particularly the body (4) of the preform (1).

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The UV radiation is applied within a shielded enclosure (110) that extends at least from the point where the disinfectant fluid is applied to the end of the UV radiation application. The enclosure has a suction device and is configured to shield the UV radiation and suction out the evaporated disinfectant fluid.

8. An apparatus for molding a preform (1) made of thermoplastic material into a container (2), wherein the preform (1) is guided downstream within the molding apparatus along a conveying path by means of at least one conveying device (40-1, 40-2, 44-1, 44-2, 45), and wherein the device comprises, along the conveying path in the downstream direction: A feeding device (40a) for feeding a preform (1) into a molding equipment. An application device (43) for applying disinfectant fluid to the outer surface (3,4,5) of the preform (1) and introducing the disinfectant fluid into the interior of the preform (1); an irradiation device (100) having one or more UV radiation sources (101,101-1,101-2,101-3,101-4,101-5,101-6,101-7), particularly UV-C radiation sources, for irradiating the outer surface (3,4,5) of the preform (1) with UV radiation; and a device for irradiating the outer surface (3,4,5) of the preform (1) along the heating section. A heating device (50) for heating equipment (51) to heat the preform (1) to the molding temperature, wherein the application device (43), the irradiation device (100) and the heating device (50) are arranged and coordinated to such that the disinfectant fluid located only on the outer surface (3,4,5) of the preform (1) in the irradiation device (100) is activated and substantially evaporates before the preform (1) enters the heating device (50), and the disinfectant fluid inside the preform (1) is activated in the heating device (50).

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein, The conveying device is configured such that the preform (1) rotates about its own longitudinal axis (LA) relative to the UV radiation source (101,101-1,101-2,101-3,101-4,101-5,101-6,101-7) during irradiation with the UV radiation source (101,101-1,101-2,101-3,101-4,101-5,101-6,101-7).

10. The device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, The device includes first and second conveying devices (40-1, 40-2), and in particular first and second transfer wheels, wherein UV radiation sources (101, 101-1, 101-2, 101-3, 101-4, 101-5, 101-6) are arranged along a zigzag conveying track, specifically following a first section (TU1) along the first conveying device (40-1) and a second section (TU2) along the second conveying device (40-2), such that the distance between the UV radiation sources (101, 101-1, 101-2, 101-3, 101-4, 101-5, 101-6) and the preform remains substantially constant.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein, The first conveying device (40-1) has a first gripper (44-1) and is configured to grip a preform (1) in a first gripping area with the first gripper (44-1) during a first section (TU1), and the second conveying device (40-2) has a second gripper (44-2) and is configured to grip a preform (1) in a second gripping area with the second gripper (44-2) during a second section (TU2), wherein the first gripping area is different from the second gripping area, and in particular, the gripping areas do not overlap.

12. The device according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein, UV-C radiators (101-1, 101-2, 101-3, 101-4, 101-5, 101-6, 101-7) are arranged inside the heating device (50) and before entering the heating section (51), especially on both sides of the preform (1).

13. The device according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein, The UV radiation sources (101, 101-1, 101-2, 101-3) of the irradiation device (100) are configured in multiple parts and include at least one UV radiation source (101-1) pointing to the mouth section (3) of the preform (1), at least one UV radiation source (101-3) pointing to the protrusion (5) of the preform (1), and at least one UV radiation source (101-2) pointing to the body (4) of the preform (1). In particular, at least one of the radiation sources (101-1, 101-2, 101-3) can be adjusted in terms of its distance from the preform (1), especially in terms of its distance from the protrusion (5) of the preform (1).

14. The device according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein, The irradiation device (100) has a housing (110), particularly a housing (110) configured as a tunnel, wherein the housing (100) is configured to shield the ultraviolet radiation from the UV radiation sources (101, 101-1, 101-2, 101-3) from the direction away from the preform (1).

15. The device according to claim 14, wherein, The housing (110) includes a suction device (120) for evaporating disinfectant fluid, which is configured to draw the evaporating disinfectant fluid away from the housing (110).

16. The device according to claim 15, wherein, The device includes a sterile air source (130) connected to the housing (110) and configured to allow sterile air to be replenished or applied.

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