Closed cycle edible alcohol continuous fermentation device and fermentation method

Abstract

The present application relates to alcohol fermentation equipment technical field, disclose a kind of closed circulation edible alcohol continuous fermentation device and fermentation method, including fermentation tank, the left side of the fermentation tank outside is provided with conveying pump, the input end of the conveying pump is provided with raw material filtering mechanism, the output end of the conveying pump is fixedly connected with feeding pipe, the feeding pipe top is fixedly connected in the inside of the fermentation tank, the rear side of the fermentation tank outside is provided with fermentation cooling mechanism, the right side of the top of the fermentation tank is provided with alcohol impurity removal mechanism, the raw material filtering mechanism includes mounting block, the input end of the conveying pump is fixedly connected in the mounting block.Before feeding, intercept large particle impurities and agglomerate, prevent solid accumulation in tank, protect equipment from plugging wear, and quick-release structure facilitates separation plate to wash, solve the problem that existing equipment lacks pre-filtering protection and affects continuous production efficiency, improve the service life of fermentation equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of alcohol fermentation equipment technology, specifically to a closed-loop continuous fermentation device and method for edible alcohol. Background Technology

[0002] The production of edible alcohol generally adopts a continuous fermentation process. Its core process is to transport the saccharified mash and yeast into the fermentation tank for biochemical reaction. In actual industrial production, the existing continuous fermentation equipment and processes still have some technical defects.

[0003] During the feeding stage, the saccharification mash inevitably contains large particles such as incompletely gelatinized lumps or raw material husks. Existing fermentation equipment generally lacks a pre-filtration protection structure at the feed end, causing these impurities to be directly drawn into the equipment along with the mash. This easily leads to blockages and wear on the conveying pipelines and pumps. Furthermore, these ineffective solids accumulate in large quantities after entering the fermentation tank, occupying volume and interfering with the fermentation process. Even if some equipment adds conventional filters to the pipelines, the use of traditional fixing methods such as bolts makes daily disassembly and cleaning very laborious, resulting in long downtime for equipment maintenance and reducing the efficiency of continuous production.

[0004] Meanwhile, yeast fermentation is an exothermic process, requiring strict control over the temperature environment inside the tank. Existing fermentation equipment has relatively poor temperature control and low heat dissipation efficiency. During continuous operation, heat cannot be dissipated evenly and promptly, easily leading to localized overheating inside the tank. High temperatures not only cause yeast inactivation and fermentation stagnation but also promote the production of large amounts of byproducts such as fusel oils, resulting in a decline in the quality of the final alcohol product. Furthermore, traditional cooling pipelines often lack a comprehensive shutdown drainage design. When the equipment is not in use, the water remaining inside the pipelines for a long time can easily cause scaling and corrosion on the pipe walls, increasing subsequent maintenance costs and shortening the equipment's lifespan. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a closed-loop continuous fermentation device and method for edible alcohol, which solves the problems of existing fermentation devices lacking feed pre-filtration protection, leading to impurities clogging and damaging the equipment, as well as low temperature control and heat dissipation efficiency causing yeast inactivation and quality degradation, and easy scaling and corrosion of cooling pipes.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: The first aspect of this invention provides a closed-loop continuous fermentation device for edible alcohol, comprising: The fermentation tank has a conveying pump on its outer left side, a raw material filtration mechanism at the input end of the conveying pump, a feeding pipe fixedly connected to the output end of the conveying pump, and the top of the feeding pipe fixedly connected to the inside of the fermentation tank. A fermentation cooling mechanism is provided on the outer rear side of the fermentation tank, and an alcohol removal mechanism is provided on the top right side of the fermentation tank.

[0007] Preferably, the raw material filtration mechanism includes an installation block, which is fixedly connected to the input end of the conveying pump. An arc-shaped block is slidably connected inside the installation block. A protrusion is fixedly connected to the top of the arc-shaped block, a spring is fixedly connected to the bottom of the arc-shaped block, and an insert block is fixedly connected to the top of the arc-shaped block. A positioning block is provided on the right side inside the installation block, and a connector is fixedly connected to the outside of the positioning block. A separation plate is installed inside the connector.

[0008] Preferably, the fermentation cooling mechanism includes a storage tank, which is installed on the rear side of the fermenter. A filling port is fixedly connected to the outside of the storage tank, and a drain port is fixedly connected to the bottom of the storage tank. A cooler is installed on the top of the storage tank, and a circulation pump is fixedly connected to the top of the cooler. The input end of the circulation pump is connected to the cooler, and an annular pipe is fixedly connected to the output end of the circulation pump. The annular pipe is installed inside the fermenter, and a circulation pipe is fixedly connected to the bottom of the annular pipe. The top of the circulation pipe is fixedly connected to the inside of the storage tank.

[0009] Preferably, the alcohol purification mechanism includes a mounting shell, which is fixedly connected to the top right side of the fermenter. A fan is installed inside the mounting shell. A connecting pipe is fixedly connected to the left side of the mounting shell, and the bottom of the connecting pipe is fixedly connected to the inside of the fermenter. A guide pipe is fixedly connected to the right side of the mounting shell, and a processing box is fixedly connected to the bottom of the guide pipe. A stainless steel filter plate is installed inside the processing box, and a microporous filter membrane is provided at the bottom of the stainless steel filter plate. A connecting pipe is fixedly connected to the bottom of the processing box, and a separation box is fixedly connected to the bottom of the connecting pipe. A condenser is installed inside the separation box, and a guide plate is fixedly connected to the bottom of the separation box. A liquid outlet is fixedly connected to the bottom of the separation box.

[0010] Preferably, the mounting block has a sliding hole at its top, and the protrusion is slidably connected inside the sliding hole.

[0011] Preferably, the mounting block has an insertion hole on its right side, the positioning block is inserted into the insertion hole, and the positioning block has a slot inside, the insertion block is inserted into the slot.

[0012] Preferably, a fixing frame is fixedly connected to the outside of the liquid storage tank, and the bottom of the fixing frame is fixedly connected to the rear side of the outside of the fermenter.

[0013] Preferably, a motor is installed at the top of the fermentation tank, a transmission rod is fixedly connected to the output end of the motor, the bottom of the transmission rod is rotatably connected to the inside of the fermentation tank, a fixing block is fixedly connected to both sides of the transmission rod, a scraper is fixedly connected to the outer perimeter of both fixing blocks, stirring blades are fixedly connected to the outer perimeter of multiple scrapers, an installation ring is fixedly connected to the top of the fermentation tank, and the motor is fixedly connected to the inside of the installation ring.

[0014] Preferably, an installation rod is fixedly connected to the left side of the outside of the fermentation tank, an operation display panel is installed on the top of the installation rod, support legs are fixedly connected to all four sides of the bottom of the fermentation tank, and the support legs are all made of stainless steel. A slag outlet is fixedly connected to the bottom of the fermentation tank.

[0015] A second aspect of the present invention provides a closed-loop continuous fermentation method for edible alcohol, comprising the following steps: The connector and separation plate are fixedly installed at the feed end. The alcohol raw material saccharification mash and yeast are sucked in by the suction device. The separation plate is used for screening and filtration to intercept large particles and ungelatinized lumps before the raw material is transported into the fermentation tank. During the fermentation process, the coolant in the storage tank is extracted and forced to cool down by a refrigerator, and then circulated into the annular pipe inside the fermenter to remove the heat generated during fermentation through heat exchange. During fermentation, the stirring blades and scrapers inside the fermentation tank are driven to rotate, stirring the fermentation liquid and scraping off the deposits on the inner wall of the fermentation tank; The carbon dioxide gas carrying alcohol vapor produced during fermentation is extracted and passed through a stainless steel filter plate and a microporous filter membrane for preliminary coarse filtration and deep fine filtration to remove impurities. The purified gas is then sent to a condenser for liquefaction treatment to separate and recover liquid alcohol.

[0016] This invention provides a closed-loop continuous fermentation device and method for edible alcohol. It has the following beneficial effects: 1. This invention requires assembling the connector before fermentation. During operation, moving the protrusion causes the arc-shaped block to compress the spring, causing the insert block to exit the insertion hole. After inserting the positioning block of the connector into the insertion hole, releasing the protrusion allows the spring to return, causing the insert block to snap into the positioning block's slot, completing the quick installation. The connector is then placed in the raw materials, and the conveying pump is started to draw in the mash and yeast. After being screened by the separation plate, it is sent to the fermentation tank. Large particles and clumps are intercepted before feeding, preventing solids from accumulating in the tank, protecting the equipment from clogging and wear. The quick-release structure facilitates the disassembly and cleaning of the separation plate, solving the problem of existing equipment lacking pre-filtration protection, which affects continuous production efficiency.

[0017] 2. After feeding, the present invention adds coolant to the storage tank, starts the circulation pump to extract the coolant, cools it to a constant low temperature by the refrigeration unit, and then delivers it to the inner wall of the fermentation tank. The coolant flows on the inner wall to absorb heat in the tank, and then flows back to the storage tank for repeated circulation. When the equipment is not in use, the residual liquid can be discharged to avoid scaling and corrosion of the pipes. The continuous circulation of coolant removes the heat released during fermentation in a timely manner, maintaining a suitable constant temperature environment in the tank and preventing yeast inactivation or the production of fusel oil due to high temperature. This solves the problems of poor temperature control, low heat dissipation, and easy fermentation stagnation and decline in wine quality caused by local overheating in existing equipment.

[0018] 3. After feeding, the motor drives the stirring blades and scraper to rotate, so that the raw materials are mixed evenly to eliminate temperature and concentration differences, and scrape off the residue on the inner wall to prevent scaling and improve heat exchange efficiency. The alcohol-containing waste gas generated during fermentation is extracted by the fan and passes through the stainless steel filter plate and microporous filter membrane to intercept large foam and small droplets and other impurities. The purified waste gas enters the separation box, where the alcohol is liquefied by the condenser and discharged for recovery. Stirring and scraping the wall ensure uniform heat transfer. Multi-stage impurity removal and condensation recovery of waste gas reduce alcohol loss and solve the problems of easy scaling on the inner wall of traditional equipment, waste gas direct discharge, and easy blockage of pipelines by impurities. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the present invention; Figure 2 The schematic diagram of the connecting pipe structure of the present invention is shown below; Figure 3 To highlight the structural diagram of the processing box of the present invention; Figure 4 To highlight the structural diagram of the separation box of the present invention; Figure 5 The schematic diagram of the transmission rod structure of the present invention is shown below; Figure 6 The schematic diagram of the mounting ring structure of the present invention is shown in the figure. Figure 7 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of the structure at point A in the middle; Figure 8 for Figure 4 Enlarged view of the structure at point B; Figure 9 for Figure 6 Enlarged view of the structure at point C.

[0020] The components include: 1. Fermentation tank; 2. Support legs; 3. Mounting rod; 4. Operation display panel; 5. Feeding pipe; 6. Conveying pump; 7. Raw material filtration mechanism; 701. Mounting block; 702. Arc-shaped block; 703. Spring; 704. Protrusion; 705. Insertion block; 706. Connector; 707. Separation plate; 708. Positioning block; 8. Insertion hole; 9. Slot; 10. Sliding hole; 11. Fermentation cooling mechanism; 1101. Storage tank; 1102. Filling port; 1103. Drain port; 1104. Refrigerator; 1105. Circulation pump; 1106. 1107. Circulating pipe; 12. Fixing frame; 13. Alcohol impurity removal mechanism; 1301. Mounting shell; 1302. Connecting pipe; 1303. Fan; 1304. Guide pipe; 1305. Processing box; 1306. Stainless steel filter plate; 1307. Microporous filter membrane; 1308. Connecting pipe; 1309. Separation box; 1310. Condenser; 1311. Guide plate; 1312. Liquid outlet; 14. Mounting ring; 15. Motor; 16. Slag outlet; 17. Transmission rod; 18. Fixing block; 19. Scraper; 20. Stirring blade. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0022] Example: Please see Figures 1-3 This invention provides a closed-loop continuous fermentation device for edible alcohol, comprising: A closed-loop continuous fermentation device and method for edible alcohol includes a fermentation tank 1. A conveying pump 6 is located on the left side of the fermentation tank 1. A raw material filtration mechanism 7 is located at the input end of the conveying pump 6. A feeding pipe 5 is fixedly connected to the output end of the conveying pump 6. The top of the feeding pipe 5 is fixedly connected to the inside of the fermentation tank 1. A fermentation cooling mechanism 11 is located on the rear side of the fermentation tank 1. An alcohol impurity removal mechanism 13 is located on the top right side of the fermentation tank 1. A motor 15 is located on the top of the fermentation tank 1. A transmission rod 17 is fixedly connected to the output end of the motor 15. The bottom of the transmission rod 17 is rotatably connected to the inside of the fermentation tank 1. Fixing blocks 18 are fixedly connected to both sides of the transmission rod 17. Scrapers 19 are fixedly connected to the outer perimeter of both fixing blocks 18. Agitators are fixedly connected to the outer perimeter of the multiple scrapers 19. The mixing blade 20 is fixedly connected to the top of the fermentation tank 1, and the motor 15 is fixedly connected inside the mounting ring 14. The outside left side of the fermentation tank 1 is fixedly connected to the mounting rod 3, and the top of the mounting rod 3 is equipped with an operation display panel 4, which allows the operator to monitor the various process parameters inside the fermentation tank 1 in real time and intuitively. The bottom of the fermentation tank 1 is fixedly connected to the four sides of the support legs 2, which provide stable multi-point support for the fermentation tank 1, suspending the fermentation tank 1 in the air and isolating it from the ground to prevent moisture. The support legs 2 are all made of stainless steel, which has excellent corrosion resistance, rust prevention and mechanical load-bearing strength. The bottom of the fermentation tank 1 is fixedly connected to the slag outlet 16, which facilitates the discharge of the fermented raw materials.

[0023] See Figures 1-7 The raw material filtration mechanism 7 includes a mounting block 701, which is fixedly connected to the input end of the conveying pump 6. An arc-shaped block 702 is slidably connected inside the mounting block 701. A protrusion 704 is fixedly connected to the top of the arc-shaped block 702, a spring 703 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the arc-shaped block 702, and an insert block 705 is fixedly connected to the top of the arc-shaped block 702. A positioning block 708 is provided on the right side inside the mounting block 701, and a connector 706 is fixedly connected to the outside of the positioning block 708. A separation plate 707 is installed inside the connector 706 to separate large, non-fermentable particles. The object is trapped outside the connector 706 or on the surface of the separator 707, allowing only pure liquid mash and yeast to pass through. The top of the mounting block 701 has a sliding hole 10, and the protrusion 704 is slidably connected inside the sliding hole 10. The sliding hole 10 facilitates the movement of the protrusion 704. The right side of the mounting block 701 has an insertion hole 8, and the positioning block 708 is inserted into the insertion hole 8. The insertion hole 8 facilitates the installation of the positioning block 708. The positioning block 708 has a slot 9 inside, and the insertion block 705 is inserted into the slot 9 to facilitate the fixing of the insertion block 705.

[0024] Specifically, before fermenting alcohol, the feeding component needs to be assembled first. During operation, a force is first applied to the protrusion 704 to move it. After being subjected to force, the protrusion 704 moves synchronously with the arc-shaped block 702 fixedly connected at the bottom. During the movement of the arc-shaped block 702, it will continuously compress the fixedly connected spring 703, forcing the spring 703 to be compressed and undergo elastic deformation. Subsequently, as the arc-shaped block 702 continues to move, it will move synchronously to one side with the top fixedly connected insert 705, so that the insert 705 is completely separated from the internal space of the external insertion hole 8 of the mounting block 701. At this time, the locking mechanism is in the open state.

[0025] Then, the operator aligns the positioning block 708, which is fixedly connected to the outside of the connector 706, with the insertion hole 8 on the outside of the mounting block 701. After alignment, the positioning block 708 is pushed flat and inserted into the insertion hole 8. At this time, the force applied to the protrusion 704 is released. After the spring 703 loses external pressure, it generates a reaction force to restore its original shape. Under the push of this elastic reaction force, the arc-shaped block 702 returns to its original position and moves the insertion block 705 back inward, so that the insertion block 705 is inserted into the slot 9 inside the positioning block 708, forming a locking state. The overall installation of the connector 706 can be completed quickly.

[0026] After assembly, the connector 706 with the separator plate 707 is immersed in the container holding the raw materials. By starting the delivery pump 6 at the rear end, a suction negative pressure is generated inside the pipeline, drawing in the mixture of saccharified mash and yeast through the connector 706. When the mixture passes through the separator plate 707, the separator plate 707 uses its aperture to screen the liquid flow. After screening, the liquid flow is finally guided by the feed pipe 5 and stably transported to the inside of the fermentation tank 1 for fermentation.

[0027] Before the saccharified mash and yeast are transported to fermentation tank 1, large particulate impurities, raw material skins, and incompletely gelatinized starch clumps in the raw material liquid can be intercepted. This prevents these ineffective hard solids from entering fermentation tank 1 and accumulating in large quantities. Filtering out impurities in advance can prevent particulate matter from entering the pump body and pipelines, protecting the subsequent related conveying equipment from friction wear and pipeline blockage. The press-type quick-release structure using spring 703 and insert block 705 facilitates the regular and quick disassembly and cleaning of the separation plate 707, which is prone to the adhesion of impurities.

[0028] This addresses the common problem of existing equipment lacking a pre-filter protection structure at the feed end, which leads to unfiltered impurities easily causing the conveying pump to jam and the pipeline to become clogged. At the same time, traditional filter components mostly use bolts and other fixed connections, and disassembly and cleaning consume a lot of manpower and time, resulting in longer equipment downtime maintenance cycles and thus seriously reducing the overall efficiency of continuous production.

[0029] See Figures 2-8 The fermentation cooling mechanism 11 includes a storage tank 1101, which is installed on the rear side of the fermenter 1. A filling port 1102 is fixedly connected to the outside of the storage tank 1101 for easy filling of coolant. A drain port 1103 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the storage tank 1101 for easy drainage of unused coolant. A cooler 1104 is installed on the top of the storage tank 1101, and a circulation pump 1105 is fixedly connected to the top of the cooler 1104. The input end of 105 is connected to the cooler 1104. The output end of the circulation pump 1105 is fixedly connected to an annular pipe 1106. The annular pipe 1106 is installed inside the fermenter 1. The bottom of the annular pipe 1106 is fixedly connected to a circulation pipe 1107. The top of the circulation pipe 1107 is fixedly connected to the inside of the liquid storage tank 1101. A fixing frame 12 is fixedly connected to the outside of the liquid storage tank 1101. The bottom of the fixing frame 12 is fixedly connected to the rear side of the outside of the fermenter 1. The fixing frame 12 facilitates the fixing of the liquid storage tank 1101.

[0030] Specifically, after the saccharified mash and yeast are transported into the fermentation tank 1, the operator opens the filling port 1102 and adds initial coolant into the storage tank 1101. After the filling is completed, the circulation pump 1105 is started. The circulation pump 1105 generates pipeline suction to draw the coolant, which is at room temperature, out of the storage tank 1101. The drawn coolant first enters the cooler 1104 under pipeline pressure. The cooler 1104 starts working and performs heat exchange cooling on the coolant flowing through it, so that the temperature of the coolant drops and reaches the constant low temperature state preset by the process.

[0031] The cooled liquid is then continuously pumped through the annular pipe 1106 into the inner cavity of the fermenter 1. Inside the fermenter 1, the fermentation reaction of the raw materials and yeast continuously generates heat, which is conducted outward through the metal inner wall of the fermenter 1. The coolant, at a constant low temperature, circulates within the inner cavity of the fermenter 1, directly absorbing the fermentation heat conducted from the metal inner wall during its flow. This lowers the temperature of the mash inside the fermenter 1, while the temperature of the coolant itself rises. The cooled liquid, having absorbed heat, continues to flow and finally returns to the storage tank 1101 through the circulation pipe 1107. The returned liquid is then pumped out again by the circulation pump 1105 and sent to the cooler 1104 for the next round of cooling, thus forming a closed-loop reciprocating circulation water circuit.

[0032] When the fermentation process for that batch is completed or the equipment is shut down and not in use, the staff opens the drain port 1103 at the bottom and uses gravity to drain all the coolant from the storage tank 1101 and the connecting pipes. This draining operation removes the water inside the pipes, preventing scale buildup caused by water remaining in the pipes for extended periods, and also preventing metal oxidation and corrosion of the pipe walls caused by residual liquid, thereby extending the service life of the entire cooling pipeline and the main body of the equipment.

[0033] This technology enables the continuous flow of controlled low-temperature cooling liquid into the enclosed space inside fermenter 1 during the fermentation of alcohol raw materials. This process removes the exothermic biological heat generated during yeast saccharification and fermentation. Through forced circulation cooling, the mash inside fermenter 1 is maintained at a constant temperature range optimal for yeast survival and metabolism. This prevents large-scale yeast inactivation caused by high-temperature environments due to heat accumulation. It also avoids changes in yeast metabolic pathways caused by temperature runaway, which could lead to the production of large amounts of byproducts such as fusel oils, thus ensuring the purity of the produced alcohol.

[0034] This invention addresses the shortcomings of existing fermentation equipment, such as the simplistic temperature control methods and low heat dissipation efficiency. During continuous operation, the fermentation reaction is easily forced to stop due to overheating in the central area or local areas, directly resulting in a decrease in the quality and yield of the wine. In addition, traditional equipment often uses an open direct-discharge cooling water system, in which the cooling water is discharged directly after flowing through the equipment once, and cannot be reused for closed-loop cooling. This results in high consumption of cooling water resources and serious waste of water resources.

[0035] See Figures 3-9The alcohol purification mechanism 13 includes a mounting shell 1301, which is fixedly connected to the top right side of the fermenter 1. A fan 1303 is installed inside the mounting shell 1301. A connecting pipe 1302 is fixedly connected to the left side of the mounting shell 1301, and the bottom of the connecting pipe 1302 is fixedly connected to the inside of the fermenter 1. A guide pipe 1304 is fixedly connected to the right side of the mounting shell 1301, and a processing box 1305 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the guide pipe 1304. A stainless steel filter plate 1306 is installed inside the processing box 1305, mainly used for preliminary interception of large particulate impurities, fermentation droplets, and large foam particles entrained in the gas, completing coarse filtration. A microporous filter membrane 1307 is provided at the bottom of the stainless steel filter plate 1306, mainly used for... After preliminary coarse filtration, the gas containing fine droplets, yeast aerosols, and micro-dust undergoes further deep filtration to ensure the purity of the gas entering subsequent processing stages. A connecting pipe 1308 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the processing chamber 1305, and a separation chamber 1309 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the connecting pipe 1308. A condenser 1310 is installed inside the separation chamber 1309, which causes the gaseous alcohol in the mixed gas to undergo a rapid phase change upon cooling, condensing and liquefying into liquid alcohol. A guide plate 1311 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the separation chamber 1309 to facilitate the flow of the separated liquid alcohol. A liquid outlet 1312 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the separation chamber 1309 to facilitate the discharge of liquid alcohol.

[0036] Specifically, after the saccharified mash and yeast are transported into the fermentation tank 1, the motor 15 is started. When the motor 15 operates, it outputs torque, driving the transmission rod 17, which is fixedly connected to it, to rotate around its own axis. The rotation of the transmission rod 17 causes the fixed blocks 18, fixedly connected to its two outer sides, to move in a circular motion. As the two fixed blocks 18 rotate, they drive the scraper 19 and stirring blades 20, fixedly connected to the outer perimeter, to continuously rotate inside the fermentation tank 1. The stirring blades 20 cause convection in the liquid inside the fermentation tank 1, mixing the raw materials and yeast, preventing differences in substrate concentration at different water layers, and eliminating localized temperature differences within the liquid. The scraper 19, moving in tandem, stays close to the inner wall of the fermentation tank 1, using mechanical friction to continuously scrape away the high-viscosity fermentation residues adhering to the metal inner wall during fermentation. This action prevents solid dirt from depositing on the inner wall surface, ensuring the thermal conductivity of the metal tank wall itself, thus maintaining normal heat exchange efficiency in conjunction with the external cooling structure.

[0037] During the fermentation reaction, a mixture of carbon dioxide and alcohol vapor is generated inside the tank. This gas accumulates in the space at the top of the tank. When the power supply of the ventilation fan 1303 is connected, the fan 1303 generates a suction negative pressure. Under negative pressure, the mixed gas inside the fermenter 1 enters the connecting pipe 1302 and is transported to the interior of the processing box 1305 along the pipeline of the guide pipe 1304. After entering the processing box 1305, the mixed gas is pushed by the airflow pressure and first passes through the stainless steel filter plate 1306 at the front end. The stainless steel filter plate 1306 uses its own mesh to block the gas in the first stage, intercepting the splashes of fermentation mash, large particulate impurities and large foam generated by liquid rolling in the airflow. After the initial coarse filtration, the gas continues to flow backward and then passes through the microporous filter membrane 1307. The microporous filter membrane 1307 has a smaller pore size and blocks the gas in the second stage, intercepting the fine suspended droplets, yeast aerosols and fine dust mixed in the gas, so that the gas output through the filter membrane reaches a state without solids.

[0038] After passing through two stages of filtration, the purified gas flows into the internal space of the separator 1309 through the connecting pipe 1308. At this time, the condenser 1310 inside the separator 1309 is activated. The operation of the condenser 1310 lowers the local ambient temperature. When the gaseous alcohol in the mixed gas comes into contact with the low-temperature area, it undergoes a phase change, condensing from a gaseous state into liquid alcohol droplets. The liquefied liquid alcohol drips down under its own gravity and falls onto the surface of the guide plate 1311 below. The liquid alcohol flows and collects along the inclined surface of the guide plate 1311 and finally flows out of the external collection container from the liquid outlet 1312 at the bottom, completing the liquefaction and separation of the volatile alcohol. The unliquefied carbon dioxide gas is discharged through the exhaust end of the equipment.

[0039] It achieves simultaneous processing of multiple processes in the fermentation operation. By utilizing the synchronous rotation of the stirring blades 20 and the scraper 19, the fermentation liquid is heated and the heat transfer is uniform, ensuring the environment required for the fermentation reaction. The exhaust gas discharged from the fermentation is filtered by setting up double-layer filters with different pore sizes to remove impurities. A condensation phase change structure is added at the end to convert the alcohol components mixed in the gas into liquid for collection, reducing the natural volatilization loss of materials during the fermentation process and improving the overall raw material output conversion rate.

[0040] This solution addresses the problem that traditional equipment lacks a scraping mechanism on the inner metal wall of the tank during long-term operation, making it easy for a thick layer of dirt to accumulate. This dirt layer creates thermal resistance, causing the external cooling temperature control function to fail. In addition, traditional equipment often uses direct air discharge for exhaust gas treatment, resulting in the loss and waste of alcohol vapor. Furthermore, the exhaust pipe does not have a multi-stage gas-liquid separation and filtration structure at the front end, making the subsequent condenser pipe easily clogged by fermentation foam and solid yeast impurities blown out by the airflow.

[0041] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a closed-loop continuous fermentation method for edible alcohol, comprising the following steps: The connector 706 and the separator 707 are fixedly installed at the feed end. The alcohol raw material saccharification mash and yeast are sucked in by the suction device. The separator 707 is used for screening and filtration to intercept large particles and ungelatinized lumps. The raw material is then transported into the fermentation tank 1. During the fermentation process, the coolant in the storage tank 1101 is extracted and forced to cool down by the cooler 1104, and then circulated into the annular pipe 1106 located inside the fermentation tank 1, where the heat generated during fermentation is carried away through heat exchange. During fermentation, the stirring blades 20 and scraper 19 inside the fermentation tank 1 are driven to rotate, stirring the fermentation liquid and scraping off the deposits on the inner wall of the fermentation tank 1. Carbon dioxide gas carrying alcohol vapor produced during fermentation is extracted and passed through a stainless steel filter plate 1306 and a microporous filter membrane 1307 for preliminary coarse filtration and deep fine filtration to remove impurities. The purified gas is then sent to a condenser 1310 for liquefaction treatment, and liquid alcohol is separated and recovered.

[0042] Working principle: Before fermenting alcohol, the protrusion 704 moves, bringing with it the arc-shaped block 702 fixed at the bottom. As the arc-shaped block 702 moves, it compresses the spring 703 fixed at the bottom, causing the spring 703 to deform. Then, as the arc-shaped block 702 moves, it moves synchronously with the insertion block 705 fixed at the top, causing the insertion block 705 to disengage from the insertion hole 8. Then, the positioning block 708 fixedly connected to the outside of the connector 706 is aligned with the insertion hole 8 on the outside of the mounting block 701. The positioning block 708 is then inserted into the insertion hole 8. At this point, the protrusion 704 is released, and under the reaction force of the spring 703, the insertion block 705 is inserted into the slot 9 inside the positioning block 708, thus completing the installation of the connector 706.

[0043] Then, connector 706 is placed into the raw materials. By starting the conveying pump 6, the saccharified mash of alcohol raw materials and yeast are drawn in through connector 706. After being screened by separation plate 707, they are finally conveyed to the interior of fermentation tank 1 through feeding pipe 5. This achieves the effect of filtering and intercepting large particles, shells, and ungelatinized lumps of alcohol raw materials and yeast before they are conveyed to fermentation tank 1 for fermentation. This prevents the accumulation of ineffective solids in fermentation tank 1 and protects subsequent equipment from wear and blockage. At the same time, it facilitates the periodic disassembly and cleaning of separation plate 707. This solves the problem of the lack of pre-filtration protection structure at the feed end of existing continuous fermentation devices for edible alcohol, which reduces the efficiency of continuous production.

[0044] After the saccharified mash and yeast are transported into the fermentation tank 1, coolant is added into the storage tank 1101 through the filling port 1102. Then, the circulation pump 1105 is started to extract the coolant from the storage tank 1101. The extracted coolant first passes through the cooler 1104, which can force the coolant to be cooled to a preset constant low temperature. Then, the coolant is transported to the inner wall of the fermentation tank 1 through the ring pipe 1106. The coolant flowing on the inner wall of the fermentation tank 1 can absorb the heat inside the fermentation tank 1.

[0045] Finally, the coolant returns to the storage tank 1101 through the circulation pipe 1107 for repeated recycling. When not in use, the coolant inside the storage tank 1101 is drained through the drain port 1103 to avoid scaling or corrosion of the pipe walls over a long period of time, thereby extending the service life of the cooling pipes and equipment. This allows for the continuous circulation of coolant into the inner wall of the fermentation tank 1 while the alcohol raw materials are being transported to the fermentation tank 1 for fermentation, which promptly removes the intense heat generated during fermentation and maintains the optimal constant temperature fermentation environment for the yeast. This prevents the yeast from becoming inactive or producing a large amount of fusel oil byproducts due to high temperatures. This solves the problems of poor temperature control and low heat dissipation efficiency in existing continuous fermentation devices for edible alcohol, which are prone to fermentation stagnation or decline in alcohol quality due to local overheating.

[0046] After the saccharified mash and yeast are transported into the fermentation tank 1, the motor 15 is started to rotate the transmission rod 17 fixedly connected to the output end. The rotation of the transmission rod 17 rotates the fixed blocks 18 fixedly connected to the two sides of the outside. When the two fixed blocks 18 rotate, the scraper 19 and stirring blade 20 fixedly connected to the four sides of the outside rotate. The rotation of the scraper 19 and stirring blade 20 can fully mix the raw materials and yeast in the fermentation tank 1 to eliminate local temperature and concentration differences. At the same time, the scraper 19 continuously scrapes off the fermentation residues attached to the inner wall of the fermentation tank 1 to prevent scaling and improve the efficiency of heat exchange in the inner wall cooling.

[0047] During fermentation, carbon dioxide gas carrying alcohol vapor is produced. With the cooperation of fan 1303 and connecting pipe 1302, the carbon dioxide gas carrying alcohol vapor is transported to the interior of processing tank 1305 through guide pipe 1304. The carbon dioxide gas carrying alcohol vapor in processing tank 1305 first passes through stainless steel filter plate 1306, which initially intercepts and coarsely filters large particulate impurities, fermentation droplets, and large foam particles carried in the carbon dioxide gas carrying alcohol vapor. Then, it passes through microporous filter membrane 1307, which deeply filters fine droplets, yeast aerosols, and fine dust particles carried in the carbon dioxide gas carrying alcohol vapor, ensuring the purity of the gas. Finally, it is transported to the interior of separation tank 1309 through connecting pipe 1308. After being transported to the interior of separation tank 1309, the alcohol in the gas is liquefied and separated by starting condenser 1310.

[0048] Finally, with the help of the guide plate 1311, the alcohol can be discharged through the outlet 1312. This achieves the goal of ensuring uniform heat transfer and efficient reaction by utilizing the synergistic effect of stirring and scraping during fermentation. At the same time, it performs multi-stage impurity removal and alcohol recovery on fermentation waste gas, thereby reducing volatilization loss and increasing raw material yield. This solves the problems of easy scaling and failure of the inner wall, direct discharge of waste gas and waste of alcohol, and easy blockage of condensation pipes by foam impurities in traditional continuous fermentation devices.

[0049] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A closed-loop continuous fermentation device for edible alcohol, comprising a fermentation tank (1), characterized in that, A conveying pump (6) is provided on the left side of the outside of the fermentation tank (1). A raw material filtration mechanism (7) is provided at the input end of the conveying pump (6). A feeding pipe (5) is fixedly connected to the output end of the conveying pump (6). The top of the feeding pipe (5) is fixedly connected to the inside of the fermentation tank (1). A fermentation cooling mechanism (11) is provided on the rear side of the outside of the fermentation tank (1). An alcohol removal mechanism (13) is provided on the right side of the top of the fermentation tank (1).

2. The closed-loop continuous fermentation device for edible alcohol according to claim 1, characterized in that, The raw material filtration mechanism (7) includes an installation block (701), which is fixedly connected to the input end of the conveying pump (6). An arc-shaped block (702) is slidably connected inside the installation block (701). A protrusion (704) is fixedly connected to the top of the arc-shaped block (702). A spring (703) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the arc-shaped block (702). An insert (705) is fixedly connected to the top of the arc-shaped block (702). A positioning block (708) is provided on the right side inside the installation block (701). A connector (706) is fixedly connected to the outside of the positioning block (708). A separation plate (707) is installed inside the connector (706).

3. The closed-loop continuous fermentation device for edible alcohol according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fermentation cooling mechanism (11) includes a liquid storage tank (1101), which is installed on the rear side of the fermentation tank (1). A filling port (1102) is fixedly connected to the outside of the liquid storage tank (1101). A drain port (1103) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the liquid storage tank (1101). A cooler (1104) is installed on the top of the liquid storage tank (1101). A circulation pump (1105) is fixedly connected to the top of the cooler (1104). The input end of the circulation pump (1105) is connected to the cooler (1104). An annular pipe (1106) is fixedly connected to the output end of the circulation pump (1105). The annular pipe (1106) is installed inside the fermentation tank (1). A circulation pipe (1107) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the annular pipe (1106). The top of the circulation pipe (1107) is fixedly connected to the inside of the liquid storage tank (1101).

4. The closed-loop continuous fermentation device for edible alcohol according to claim 1, characterized in that, The alcohol purification mechanism (13) includes a mounting shell (1301), which is fixedly connected to the top right side of the fermentation tank (1). A fan (1303) is installed inside the mounting shell (1301). A connecting pipe (1302) is fixedly connected to the left side of the mounting shell (1301). The bottom of the connecting pipe (1302) is fixedly connected to the inside of the fermentation tank (1). A guide pipe (1304) is fixedly connected to the right side of the mounting shell (1301). A processing box (1305) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the guide pipe (1304). The processing box (1305) is equipped with a stainless steel filter plate (1306), and a microporous filter membrane (1307) is provided at the bottom of the stainless steel filter plate (1306). A connecting pipe (1308) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the processing box (1305), and a separation box (1309) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the connecting pipe (1308). A condenser (1310) is installed inside the separation box (1309), and a guide plate (1311) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the separation box (1309). A liquid outlet (1312) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the separation box (1309).

5. A closed-loop continuous fermentation device for edible alcohol according to claim 2, characterized in that, The mounting block (701) has a sliding hole (10) on its top, and the protrusion (704) is slidably connected inside the sliding hole (10).

6. The closed-loop continuous fermentation device for edible alcohol according to claim 2, characterized in that, The mounting block (701) has an insertion hole (8) on the right side inside. The positioning block (708) is inserted into the insertion hole (8). The positioning block (708) has a slot (9) inside. The insertion block (705) is inserted into the slot (9).

7. A closed-loop continuous fermentation device for edible alcohol according to claim 3, characterized in that, The storage tank (1101) is fixedly connected to a fixing frame (12) on the outside, and the bottom of the fixing frame (12) is fixedly connected to the rear side of the fermentation tank (1).

8. The closed-loop continuous fermentation device for edible alcohol according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fermenter (1) is equipped with a motor (15) at the top. The output end of the motor (15) is fixedly connected to a transmission rod (17). The bottom of the transmission rod (17) is rotatably connected to the inside of the fermenter (1). Fixing blocks (18) are fixedly connected to both sides of the transmission rod (17). Scrapers (19) are fixedly connected to the outside of the two fixing blocks (18). Stirring blades (20) are fixedly connected to the outside of the multiple scrapers (19). An installation ring (14) is fixedly connected to the top of the fermenter (1). The motor (15) is fixedly connected to the inside of the installation ring (14).

9. A closed-loop continuous fermentation device for edible alcohol according to claim 1, characterized in that, An installation rod (3) is fixedly connected to the left side of the fermentation tank (1). An operation display panel (4) is installed on the top of the installation rod (3). Support legs (2) are fixedly connected to the bottom of the fermentation tank (1) around the perimeter. The support legs (2) are all made of stainless steel. A slag outlet (16) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the fermentation tank (1).

10. A closed-loop continuous fermentation method for edible alcohol, applied to the closed-loop continuous fermentation apparatus for edible alcohol as described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The connector (706) and the separator (707) are fixedly installed at the feed end. The alcohol raw material saccharification mash and yeast are sucked in by the suction device. The separator (707) is used for screening and filtration to intercept large particles of impurities and ungelatinized lumps. The raw material is then transported into the fermentation tank (1). During the fermentation process, the coolant in the storage tank (1101) is extracted and forced to cool down by the cooler (1104), and then circulated into the annular pipe (1106) located inside the fermentation tank (1) to carry away the heat generated by fermentation through heat exchange. During fermentation, the stirring blades (20) and scrapers (19) inside the fermentation tank (1) are driven to rotate, stirring the fermentation liquid and scraping off the deposits on the inner wall of the fermentation tank (1); Carbon dioxide gas carrying alcohol vapor produced during fermentation is extracted and passed through a stainless steel filter plate (1306) and a microporous filter membrane (1307) for preliminary coarse filtration and deep fine filtration to remove impurities. The purified gas is then sent to a condenser (1310) for liquefaction treatment to separate and recover liquid alcohol.

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