Continuous fermentation equipment

Abstract

The utility model provides continuous fermentation equipment, which comprises at least one fermentation tank, a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet and a liquid outlet, the fermentation tank is internally provided with an inner cavity for storing liquid, the fermentation tank is provided with a liquid outlet and a liquid inlet, the liquid outlet is positioned at the bottom of the fermentation tank, and the liquid inlet is higher than the liquid outlet; the cooling device comprises a cooling inlet and a cooling outlet, the cooling inlet is communicated with the liquid outlet, the cooling outlet is communicated with the liquid inlet, and the cooling device is configured to be used for cooling liquid; the delivery pump is connected between the cooling device and the fermentation tank and is configured to pump liquid from the inner cavity of the fermentation tank to the cooling device; the gas distribution structure is arranged in the inner cavity of the fermentation tank and is configured to adjust the flowing direction of gas in the liquid and uniformly distribute the gas in the inner cavity of the fermentation tank; fermentation liquid is conveyed to the cooling device from the liquid outlet to be cooled and then flows back to the inner cavity of the fermentation tank from the liquid inlet, cooling circulation is formed, materials can be rapidly cooled, the fermentation liquid in the fermentation tank can be stirred through the gas distribution structure and the cooling circulation effect, and the fermentation efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of continuous fermentation production of wine, in particular to a continuous fermentation device. Background Art

[0002] Currently, domestic whiskey manufacturers use a batch process to produce a spirit with a sharp, pungent character. The new whiskey before barreling is considered the essence of whiskey's quality, containing various alcohols, acids, esters, and other compounds that influence the flavor. The new whiskey produced through conventional distillation is generally quite pungent. To achieve a whiskey with a good flavor and texture, distillation is used at high energy consumption to separate flavor compounds (such as acids). A certain proportion of these compounds are then added later for blending to achieve the desired finished whiskey flavor.

[0003] It is not only the distillation system that determines the quality of whiskey and vodka; the fermentation system is also crucial. The most common method at present is the intermittent static fermentation method, which is to transfer the saccharified wort to the fermentation tank, let it stand for about 96 hours of fermentation, and then transfer the fermentation liquid to the distillation equipment for distillation. However, the above process can only meet the requirements of the intermittent distillation process to obtain low-concentration whiskey spirits. If you need to obtain higher concentration and purer spirits such as vodka and rum, the entire system needs to maintain continuous fermentation for a long time. In existing continuous fermentation production technologies, a stirrer is often used in the fermentation tank to stir the fermentation liquid to promote the full mixing of yeast and materials, but there is a risk that the yeast will be sheared by the stirrer, affecting the fermentation efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of the utility model is to provide a continuous fermentation device to solve the problems in the prior art.

[0005] In order to solve the above technical problems, the present invention provides a continuous fermentation device, comprising: at least one fermentation tank, wherein the fermentation tank has an inner cavity for storing liquid, and the fermentation tank is provided with a liquid outlet and a liquid inlet, wherein the liquid outlet is located at the bottom of the fermentation tank, and the liquid inlet is higher than the liquid outlet;

[0006] a cooling device comprising a cooling inlet and a cooling outlet, wherein the cooling inlet is connected to the liquid outlet, the cooling outlet is connected to the liquid inlet, and the cooling device is configured to cool the liquid;

[0007] a delivery pump connected between the cooling device and the fermentation tank, configured to pump liquid from the inner cavity of the fermentation tank to the cooling device;

[0008] A gas distribution structure is disposed in the inner cavity of the fermentation tank, and the gas distribution structure is configured to adjust the flow direction of the gas in the liquid.

[0009] In one embodiment, the gas distribution structure includes at least one sieve plate, which is separated from the inner cavity of the fermenter and has a plurality of sieve holes arranged at intervals.

[0010] In one embodiment, a plurality of sieve plates are provided, and the plurality of sieve plates are sequentially spaced apart in the inner cavity of the fermenter; and the sieve holes on any two adjacent sieve plates are staggered with each other.

[0011] In one embodiment, the plurality of sieve holes include a plurality of first sieve holes and a plurality of second sieve holes;

[0012] A plurality of the first sieve holes are spaced and distributed in the middle of the sieve plate;

[0013] The plurality of second sieve holes are distributed at intervals on the outer edge of the sieve plate and surround the outer periphery of the plurality of first sieve holes; the second sieve holes are polygonal with at least two inner angles of different angles.

[0014] In one embodiment, the size of the second sieve holes along the circumferential direction of the sieve plate gradually decreases toward the direction away from the center of the sieve plate; and / or

[0015] Any two adjacent side edges in the second sieve hole are connected by rounded corners.

[0016] In one embodiment, the second sieve holes are trapezoidal; or the second sieve holes are rhombus-shaped; or the second sieve holes are kite-shaped.

[0017] In one embodiment, the continuous fermentation equipment further comprises a liquid outlet pipe, a first end of the liquid outlet pipe is connected to the cooling outlet of the cooling device or the inner cavity of the fermentation tank, and a second end of the liquid outlet pipe extends out of the fermentation tank;

[0018] The liquid outlet pipe is provided with a first valve component.

[0019] In one embodiment, the continuous fermentation equipment further comprises a liquid return pipe, a first end of the liquid return pipe is connected to the cooling outlet of the cooling device, and a second end of the liquid return pipe is connected to the liquid inlet;

[0020] A second valve component is provided on the liquid return pipeline.

[0021] In one embodiment, the outer wall of the liquid return pipe is covered with a heat-insulating material;

[0022] The outer wall of the liquid outlet pipe is covered with heat-insulating material.

[0023] In one embodiment, the fermentation tank includes a tank body, an upper head and a lower head, the upper head cover is provided at the top opening of the tank body, and the lower head cover is provided at the bottom opening of the tank body; the tank body, the upper head and the lower head constitute an inner cavity of the fermentation tank;

[0024] The liquid outlet is arranged on the side wall of the lower head; the liquid inlet is arranged on the side wall of the tank body; and the gas distribution structure is connected to the inner wall of the tank body.

[0025] In one embodiment, a cooling jacket is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the tank body, the cooling jacket and the outer peripheral wall of the tank body form a closed annular cavity, a refrigerant inlet communicating with the annular cavity is provided at the bottom of the cooling jacket, and a refrigerant outlet communicating with the annular cavity is provided at the top of the cooling jacket; and / or

[0026] The inner wall of the tank body is provided with a support member, and the gas distribution structure is detachably connected to the support member by bolts.

[0027] In one embodiment, there are multiple fermentation tanks, which are arranged in parallel; and the cooling device is configured to be able to communicate with the multiple fermentation tanks in sequence.

[0028] It can be seen from the above technical solution that the advantages and positive effects of the utility model are:

[0029] In the continuous fermentation equipment of the present invention, after the liquid material in the fermentation tank is fermented to form gas, the gas in the liquid moves from bottom to top and tends to be evenly distributed in the inner cavity of the fermentation tank under the action of the gas distribution structure. The gas is evenly distributed and floats in the fermentation liquid of the fermentation tank, which can have a stirring effect on the liquid material in the fermentation tank. By transporting the material in the fermentation tank from the bottom liquid outlet to the cooling device for cooling, and then returning it to the inner cavity of the fermentation tank from the liquid inlet located above the liquid outlet, a cooling cycle is formed. Not only can the material be quickly cooled to ensure that the fermentation process is carried out within an appropriate temperature range, but the above-mentioned cooling cycle can also have a stirring effect on the liquid material in the fermentation tank, so that the yeast and the material are fully in contact, fermentation is promoted, and fermentation efficiency is improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1 It is a structural schematic diagram of the continuous fermentation equipment of the present invention including a fermentation tank.

[0031] Figure 2 It is a structural schematic diagram of a fermentation tank in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the gas distribution structure in the fermentation tank in one embodiment of the present utility model.

[0033] Figure 4 It is a structural schematic diagram of a sieve plate in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 5 It is a structural schematic diagram of a sieve plate in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 6 It is a structural schematic diagram of a sieve plate in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A partial enlarged view of area A in the middle.

[0037] Figure 8 It is a schematic structural diagram of the second sieve hole in the utility model under four embodiments (a), (b), (c) and (d).

[0038] Figure 9 It is a structural schematic diagram of a continuous fermentation device including multiple fermentation tanks in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] The following are the descriptions of the reference numerals:

[0040] 1-fermentation tank; 11-inner cavity; 12-liquid outlet; 13-liquid inlet; 14-tank body; 141-support member; 142-flow avoidance ring; 15-upper head; 151-manhole; 16-lower head; 17-cooling jacket; 171-annular cavity; 172-refrigerant inlet; 173-refrigerant outlet; 2-cooling device; 21-cooling inlet; 22-cooling outlet; 23-refrigerant liquid inlet; 24-refrigerant liquid outlet; 3-liquid outlet pipeline; 31-first valve component; 4-return liquid pipeline; 41-second valve component; 5-liquid delivery pipeline; 51-third valve component; 6-insulation material; 7-delivery pump; 8-gas distribution structure; 81-sieve plate; 82-sieve hole; 821-first sieve hole; 822-second sieve hole. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Although the present invention can be easily embodied as embodiments of different forms, only some of the specific embodiments are shown in the drawings and will be described in detail in this specification. It should be understood that this description should be regarded as an exemplary illustration of the principles of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention to that described herein.

[0042] Thus, a feature indicated in this specification is intended to illustrate one of the features of one embodiment of the present invention, rather than implying that every embodiment of the present invention must have the described feature. Furthermore, it should be noted that this specification describes many features. Although certain features can be combined together to illustrate possible system designs, these features can also be used in other, not explicitly described, combinations. Thus, unless otherwise noted, the described combinations are not intended to be limiting.

[0043] In the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, and back) used to explain the structure and movement of various components of the present invention are not absolute but relative. These descriptions are applicable when these components are in the positions shown in the accompanying drawings. If the descriptions of the positions of these components are changed, these directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0044] The utility model provides a continuous fermentation device, which is used for a continuous fermentation process. In the continuous fermentation device, after the liquid material in the fermentation tank 1 is fermented to form gas, the gas in the liquid moves from bottom to top and tends to be evenly distributed in the inner cavity 11 of the fermentation tank 1 under the action of the gas distribution structure 8; the material in the fermentation tank 1 is transported from the bottom liquid outlet 12 to the cooling device 2 for cooling, and then returned to the inner cavity 11 of the fermentation tank 1 from the liquid inlet 13 located above the liquid outlet 12, forming a cooling cycle, which can not only quickly cool the material and ensure that the fermentation process is carried out within an appropriate temperature range, but also the gas distribution structure 8 and the above-mentioned cooling cycle can both have a stirring effect on the liquid material in the fermentation tank 1, so that the yeast and the material are fully in contact, promoting fermentation and improving fermentation efficiency.

[0045] Figure 1 The figure shows a schematic structural diagram of a continuous fermentation device including a fermentation tank 1. Figure 2 A schematic structural diagram of a fermentation tank 1 is shown.

[0046] Combine Figure 1 and Figure 2 The fermenter 1 has an inner cavity 11 for storing liquid materials, that is, it can store fermentation liquid. The fermenter 1 is provided with a liquid outlet 12 and a liquid inlet 13. The liquid outlet 12 is located at the bottom of the fermenter 1. The liquid outlet 12 is connected to the clear liquid layer at the bottom of the inner cavity 11 of the fermenter 1, which has relatively less solid matter, so as to draw out the fermentation liquid with less solid matter content. The liquid inlet 13 is higher than the liquid outlet 12. The liquid inlet 13 is arranged above the liquid outlet 12. In fact, the position of the liquid inlet 13 is below the liquid level of the liquid material in the fermenter 1, and is about 150 mm below the highest liquid layer.

[0047] Specifically, the fermentation liquid enters from the top and exits from the bottom, so that the cooled fermentation liquid entering from the liquid inlet 13 can stir the liquid material in the fermentation tank 1, and can have a stirring effect on the liquid material in the fermentation tank 1, greatly shortening the fermentation efficiency. Specifically, it can shorten the fermentation time of the fermentation tank 1 from 3 to 4 days in the past to only 1.5 hours to half a day in the current fermentation tank 1. In addition, the fermentation liquid enters from the top and exits from the bottom can replace the side stirring equipment of the fermentation tank 1, avoiding excessive mechanical stirring intensity, thereby causing serious foaming, affecting fermentation efficiency, and reducing production costs. At the same time, the side stirring inspection manhole 151 and the inspection platform can be eliminated, which can reduce leakage points on the fermentation tank 1. In addition, the side stirring equipment can also be provided in conjunction with the fermentation tank 1. This embodiment does not make a rigid provision on whether to install the side stirring equipment.

[0048] Furthermore, the fermentation tank 1 includes a tank body 14, an upper head 15 and a lower head 16. The tank body 14 is cylindrical and has a through middle portion with upper and lower openings. The liquid inlet 13 is arranged on the side wall of the tank body 14. The upper head 15 covers the top opening of the tank body 14. A manhole 151 is provided on the upper head 15, and the manhole 151 can be used for observation, maintenance, installation and feeding, etc. The lower head 16 covers the bottom opening of the tank body 14. The tank body 14, the upper head 15 and the lower head 16 constitute the inner cavity 11 of the fermentation tank 1. The liquid outlet 12 is arranged on the side wall of the lower head 16. In addition, the liquid outlet 12 can also be arranged on the side wall of the tank body 14.

[0049] Figure 1 The continuous fermentation equipment shown includes a fermentation tank 1. In practice, the staff can set up one or more fermentation tanks 1 according to the production capacity requirements. Figure 9 The number of fermentation tanks 1 is set to multiple, and multiple fermentation tanks 1 are arranged in parallel. The cooling device 2 is configured to be connected to multiple fermentation tanks 1 in sequence. Specifically, the cooling device 2 can circulate and cool the fermentation liquid in one of the fermentation tanks 1 separately. After the fermentation of the fermentation liquid in the fermentation tank 1 is completed, the fermentation liquid can be transported to the next fermentation tank 1 for further fermentation. At the same time, the cooling device 2 can cool the above-mentioned next fermentation tank 1, so that multiple fermentation tanks 1 form a cycle in sequence and output the fermentation liquid to the tank of the next step, realizing a continuous cycle. The staff can control the corresponding input and output flow rates and flow rates of the fermentation liquid in the multiple fermentation tanks 1, reducing the waiting time for fermentation and increasing production capacity. In addition, multiple fermentation tanks 1 can share a set of cooling devices 2. By simply switching the corresponding pipeline valves connected to the cooling device 2, multiple fermentation tanks 1 can be connected in sequence, so that the cooling device 2 is always running without stopping, completing continuous fermentation, and meeting the annual working time of 7200 hours to 8000 hours of continuous production of the entire system. In addition, the number of fermentation tanks 1 can be two, three, or more.

[0050] To improve the cooling effect on the fermentation liquid, a cooling jacket 17 is provided on the outer circumferential wall of the tank body 14. A gap is formed between the inner circumferential wall of the cooling jacket 17 and the outer circumferential wall of the tank body 14, forming a sealed annular cavity 171 between the cooling jacket 17 and the outer circumferential wall of the tank body 14. A refrigerant inlet 172 is provided at the bottom of the cooling jacket 17, communicating with the annular cavity 171. A refrigerant outlet 173 is provided at the top of the cooling jacket 17, also communicating with the annular cavity 171. The refrigerant flows through the annular cavity 171 between the cooling jacket 17 and the tank body 14, thereby cooling the fermentation liquid inside the tank body 14. Furthermore, the combined effect of the cooling of the tank body 14 by the cooling jacket 17 and the recirculation of the cooled fermentation liquid into the fermenter 1 through the liquid inlet 13 further improves the cooling effect on the fermentation liquid.

[0051] The continuous fermentation apparatus also includes a cooling device 2 having a cooling inlet 21 and a cooling outlet 22. The cooling inlet 21 is connected to the liquid outlet 12, and the cooling outlet 22 is connected to the liquid inlet 13. The fermentation liquid in the fermenter 1 can flow through the cooling device 2 through the liquid outlet 12 for cooling. The cooled fermentation liquid then flows back into the fermenter 1 through the liquid inlet 13. The connection of the cooling device 2 allows the fermentation liquid in the fermenter 1 to be circulated and stirred while also being cooled by the cooling device 2, thereby improving cooling efficiency.

[0052] In this embodiment, cooling device 2 can cool the fermentation liquid through the principle of heat exchange. Specifically, cooling device 2 has a fermentation liquid pipeline and a refrigerant pipeline. A cooling inlet 21 and a cooling outlet 22 are respectively located at the two ends of the fermentation liquid pipeline. One end of the refrigerant pipeline is opened as a refrigerant inlet 2313, and the other end of the refrigerant pipeline is opened as a refrigerant outlet 2412. Refrigerant flows through the refrigerant pipeline, and the refrigerant pipeline can cool the fermentation liquid in the fermentation liquid pipeline. In practice, cooling device 2 can be a heat exchanger. Cooling inlet 21 and cooling outlet 22 can be connection ports on cooling device 2, or connecting pipelines extending from cooling device 2, which can be used for pipeline connection.

[0053] The fermentation liquid releases heat during the fermentation process, and the temperature must be below 35°C during the spirit brewing process. The cooling device 2 can quickly cool the fermentation liquid, and then the cooling jacket 17 provided on the fermentation tank 1 is used to maintain the temperature, ensuring low-temperature fermentation in the fermentation tank 1. The provision of the cooling device 2 and the connection between the cooling device 2 and the fermentation tank 1 enable the present application to simultaneously achieve stirring and cooling of the fermentation liquid, allowing the yeast to fully contact the material, maintaining a suitable fermentation environment temperature, and improving fermentation efficiency.

[0054] Furthermore, the continuous fermentation apparatus includes a liquid outlet pipe 3. A first end of the liquid outlet pipe 3 is connected to the cooling outlet 22 of the cooling device 2 or the inner cavity 11 of the fermentation tank 1, and a second end of the liquid outlet pipe 3 extends outside the fermentation tank 1. After the fermentation liquid in the fermentation tank 1 is completed, it can be discharged from the fermentation tank 1 through the liquid outlet pipe 3. The discharged fermentation liquid can flow into the next fermentation tank 1 for continuous fermentation, or flow into the distillation process for the next work process.

[0055] The liquid outlet pipe 3 is provided with a first valve member 31 capable of opening and closing the liquid outlet pipe 3. When the fermentation tank 1 is in a cooling cycle, the first valve member 31 closes the liquid outlet pipe 3 to prevent leakage of liquid materials that have not been fermented.

[0056] In this embodiment, the liquid outlet pipe 3 is connected to the cooling outlet 22 of the cooling device 2. The fermented liquid can be cooled and then directly output to the next fermentation tank 1 or the distillation system to cool the material of the next process.

[0057] Furthermore, the outer wall of the liquid outlet pipe 3 can be covered with insulation material 6. This insulation material 6 provides a cooling effect, reduces heat exchange between the liquid outlet pipe 3 and the air, and ensures that the cooling device 2 effectively cools the material in the next process step. In fact, the insulation material 6 can cover the entire outer wall of the liquid outlet pipe 3, the connection port of the liquid outlet pipe 3, and the first valve member 31, further improving the cooling effect of the cooling device 2 on the system.

[0058] A liquid return pipe 4 is connected between the cooling outlet 22 and the liquid inlet 13. A second valve 41 is provided on the liquid return pipe 4 to open and close the pipe. During the cooling cycle of the fermenter 1, the second valve 41 is open and the first valve 31 is closed. After fermentation in the fermenter 1 is complete, the second valve 41 is closed and the first valve 31 is opened.

[0059] The end of the liquid return pipe 4 and the end of the liquid outlet pipe 3 can be connected to the cooling outlet 22 through a three-way pipe connector. Either the end of the liquid return pipe 4 is connected to the liquid outlet pipe 3 through a three-way pipe connector, or the end of the liquid outlet pipe 3 is connected to the liquid return pipe 4 through a three-way pipe connector.

[0060] Furthermore, the outer wall of the liquid return pipe 4 can be covered with insulation material 6. This insulation material 6 provides a cooling effect, reduces heat exchange between the liquid return pipe 4 and the air, and ensures that the cooling device 2 effectively cools the material in the fermenter 1. In fact, the insulation material 6 can cover the entire outer wall of the liquid return pipe 4, the connection port of the liquid return pipe 4, and the second valve member 41, further enhancing the cooling effect of the cooling device 2 on the system.

[0061] In fact, the heat-insulating material 6 covering the liquid return pipe 4 and the liquid outlet pipe 3 can be a polyurethane foam cold-insulating material. Moreover, the pipe connected to the cooling outlet 22 is also covered with the heat-insulating material 6.

[0062] Reference Figure 1 This embodiment further includes a liquid delivery pipe 5, which connects the liquid outlet 12 and the cooling inlet 21. A third valve 51 is provided on the liquid delivery pipe 5 for opening and closing the liquid delivery pipe 5. The outer wall of the liquid delivery pipe 5 can be covered with a thermal insulation material 6. In this embodiment, the fermentation liquid circulates sequentially through the liquid outlet 12, the liquid delivery pipe 5, the cooling inlet 21, the cooling outlet 22, the liquid return pipe 4, and the liquid inlet 13. After fermentation is complete, the fermentation liquid is discharged from the fermenter 1 through the cooling outlet 22 and the liquid outlet pipe 3.

[0063] The continuous fermentation equipment also includes a delivery pump 7. The delivery pump 7 is connected between the cooling device 2 and the fermenter 1. The delivery pump 7 is configured to pump liquid from the inner cavity 11 of the fermenter 1 to the cooling device 2. Specifically, the delivery pump 7 enables the fermentation liquid to be continuously circulated and transported from the liquid outlet 12 of the fermenter 1, the cooling device 2, and the liquid inlet 13 of the fermenter 1. The delivery pump 7 can be connected to the cooling inlet 21 or the cooling outlet 22 of the cooling device 2, or the delivery pump 7 can be connected to the liquid delivery pipe 5, as long as the fermentation liquid can be pumped between the fermenter 1 and the cooling device 2.

[0064] Figures 3 to 5 The structure diagrams of the sieve plate 81 in three different embodiments are shown. Figure 6 for Figure 4 The partial enlarged view of area A in the middle shows the structure of the sieve hole 82. Figure 7 The structure diagrams of the sieve holes 82 in four different embodiments are shown.

[0065] Reference Figure 2 The continuous fermentation equipment also includes a gas distribution structure 8, which is arranged in the inner cavity 11 of the fermenter 1. The gas distribution structure 8 includes three sieve plates 81. The sieve plate 81 is arranged across the inner cavity 11 of the fermenter 1. The three sieve plates 81 are arranged in sequence from top to bottom. In other embodiments, there can be only one sieve plate 81, or two or even more than three sieve plates 81 can be provided. The specific number of sieve plates 81 and the spacing between adjacent sieve plates 81 can be set according to the size of the fermenter 1. The sieve plates 81 of this embodiment cover the horizontal cross-section of the inner cavity 11 of the fermenter 1, and the three sieve plates 81 are positioned vertically opposite each other, and the outer peripheral shape of the sieve plates 81 conforms to the shape of the inner circumferential wall of the fermenter 1. In other embodiments, only one side of the sieve plate 81 can be fixed to the inner wall of the fermenter 1, and at least one side of the sieve plate 81 is spaced apart from the sieve plate 81. Adjacent sieve plates 81 can be arranged vertically opposite each other, or staggered vertically, etc.

[0066] Reference Figure 3 Furthermore, the gas distribution structure 8 is connected to the inner wall of the tank body 14. Specifically, a support member 141 is provided on the inner wall of the tank body 14, and the sieve plate 81 is detachably connected to the upper or lower end surface of the support member 141 via bolts. In this embodiment, a flow avoidance ring 142 is also provided on the inner wall of the tank body 14 at a position corresponding to the sieve plate 81 to reduce the amount of liquid passing over the edge of the sieve plate 81. Alternatively, the sieve plate 81 can be welded to the inner wall of the tank body 14.

[0067] Combine Figure 2 、 Figures 4 to 6 The sieve plate 81 is a circular plate. Furthermore, the sieve plate 81 is provided with a plurality of spaced sieve holes 82. The sieve holes 82 allow gas in the fermentation liquid to pass through. The plurality of sieve holes 82 are relatively evenly distributed on the sieve plate 81, allowing the gas in the fermentation liquid to pass through the sieve holes 82 and be evenly distributed within the fermenter 1.

[0068] Furthermore, the plurality of sieve holes 82 include a plurality of first sieve holes 821 and a plurality of second sieve holes 822 .

[0069] In some embodiments, the first sieve hole 821 is a circular hole, and the second sieve hole 822 is a polygon having at least two different internal angles.

[0070] Specifically, the second sieve hole 822 is a polygonal hole, and the second sieve hole 822 has at least two internal angles of different angles. The second sieve hole 822 has a tendency to gradually narrow in at least any direction along the plane of the sieve plate 81, so that the second sieve plate 81 has a narrowed end and a wider end opposite to the narrowed end. When the gas in the liquid passes through the second sieve hole 822, the gas passing through the narrowed end can pass through relatively accelerated, and the gas passing through the wider end can pass through relatively decelerated. The second sieve hole 822 can pressurize the gas, provide greater power for the liquid to pass through, and reduce the accumulation time. In addition, the speed of the gas passing through the second sieve hole 822 is fast and slow. The gas with different flow rates can promote further mixing of the fermentation liquid in the fermenter 1, which can have a stirring effect and improve the fermentation effect. In fact, this embodiment does not specifically limit the narrowing direction of the second sieve hole 822.

[0071] Furthermore, the plurality of first sieve holes 821 are distributed at intervals in the middle of the sieve plate 81 . The plurality of second sieve holes 822 are distributed at intervals on the outer edge of the sieve plate 81 and surround the outer periphery of the plurality of first sieve holes 821 .

[0072] Specifically, multiple first sieve holes 821 are spaced apart in the middle of the sieve plate 81, which can evenly distribute the gas in the fermentation liquid passing through the first sieve holes 821 in the middle of the fermentor 1. It should be noted that the first sieve holes 821 are distributed in the middle of the sieve plate 81, which can be understood as the distribution of the first sieve holes 821 in the middle of the sieve plate 81. This means that the first sieve holes 821 are distributed in a certain width range in the middle of the sieve plate 81, rather than just in the center of the sieve plate 81. Similarly, the middle of the fermentor 1 can refer to the area within the fermentor 1 other than the area near the inner wall of the fermentor 1, rather than just the center of the fermentor 1.

[0073] Because the side close to the inner wall of the fermentation tank 1 has viscous resistance to the fluid, it will reduce the movement speed of the liquid and gas close to the inner wall of the fermentation tank 1. In this embodiment, the second sieve hole 822 is set at the outer edge of the sieve plate 81. When the liquid containing gas passes through the second sieve hole 822, the second sieve hole 822 can pressurize the gas close to the inner wall of the tank body 14, increase the speed of the gas, and promote the passage of gas and liquid.

[0074] like Figure 4 As shown in the embodiment, a plurality of first sieve holes 821 are spaced apart in the middle of the sieve plate 81. The first sieve holes 821 are in the shape of circular holes. A plurality of second sieve holes 822 are spaced apart at the outer edge of the sieve plate 81 and surround the outer periphery of the plurality of first sieve holes 821. The axial directions of the plurality of second sieve holes 822 are parallel to each other. The second sieve holes 822 are in a trapezoidal structure. The direction in which the waistlines on the two opposite sides of the second sieve hole 822 gradually approach each other is the narrowing end of the second sieve hole 822, and the direction in which the waistlines on both sides gradually move away from each other is the wider end of the second sieve hole 822.

[0075] like Figure 5 As shown in the embodiment, the first sieve hole 821 is in the shape of a circular hole. The second sieve hole 822 is in a trapezoidal structure. The structure of the sieve plate 81 in this embodiment is similar to Figure 4 The difference between the embodiments is that the size of the multiple second sieve holes 822 along the circumferential direction of the sieve plate 81 gradually decreases toward the direction away from the center of the sieve plate 81. The multiple second sieve holes 822 are radially arranged with the center of the sieve plate 81 in the axial direction, and the size of the second sieve holes 822 away from the center of the sieve plate 81 gradually decreases. Specifically, the opening surrounded by the waist edges on both sides and the shorter upper top edge of the second sieve holes 822 is the narrowing end. This embodiment can make the narrowing end of the second sieve hole 822 be located on the side away from the center of the sieve plate 81. It can further increase the power of the gas close to the inner wall of the fermentation tank 1 and reduce the accumulation of gas in the fermentation tank 1. In some other embodiments, the second sieve hole 822 can be an isosceles triangle hole, and correspondingly, the top angle of the second sieve hole 822 is the narrowing end, such as Figure 6 As shown in Example (b).

[0076] like Figure 6 As shown, the first sieve hole 821 is in the shape of a circular hole. The second sieve hole 822 is in a trapezoidal structure. The structure of the sieve plate 81 in this embodiment is similar to Figure 4 The difference between the embodiments is that between two adjacent second sieve holes 822, the narrowed end of one second sieve hole 822 faces the wider end of another second sieve hole 822, and multiple second sieve holes 822 are sequentially spaced along the outer periphery of the sieve plate 81. The narrower end and the wider end of any two adjacent second sieve holes 822 face each other, forming a sequentially spaced arrangement of the narrower ends and the wider ends. This embodiment promotes different flow rates of gas passing through the second sieve holes 822, further mixing the fermentation liquid within the fermenter 1, providing a stirring effect and improving the fermentation efficiency.

[0077] Further, such as Figure 7 As shown, the second sieve hole 822 is in the shape of an isosceles trapezoid, and the upper base of the second sieve hole 822 is relatively close to the outer edge of the sieve plate 81 .

[0078] Reference Figure 8 In practice, the second sieve holes 822 may also be formed with two narrow ends on opposite sides of the wider end in the middle, narrowing away from the wider end. For example, the second sieve holes 822 in embodiment (a) may be kite-shaped. Alternatively, the second sieve holes 822 in embodiment (c) may be hexagonal. Alternatively, the second sieve holes 822 in embodiment (d) may be diamond-shaped. Furthermore, the second sieve holes 822 may also be holes with curved edges, such as semicircular, spindle-shaped, or fan-shaped.

[0079] In practice, the size of the second sieve holes 822 along the circumferential direction of the sieve plate 81 may be gradually reduced from the middle portion of the second sieve holes 822 toward the back and toward the center of the sieve plate 81, forming two narrowed ends on opposite sides of the wider end of the middle portion. Specifically, the narrowed ends of the second sieve holes 822 are located on the side farthest from or closest to the center of the sieve plate 81.

[0080] Furthermore, any two adjacent sides of the second sieve holes 822 are connected by rounded corners. Adjacent sides of the second sieve holes 822 form an angle, and each angle is connected by rounded corners. This reduces shear forces on the yeast as the fermentation liquid passes through the second sieve holes 822. It also reduces liquid residue in the second sieve holes 822, facilitating cleaning and improving hygiene.

[0081] Reference Figure 9In some specific embodiments, there are three fermenters 1, each of which is provided with a gas distribution structure 8. The gas distribution structure 8 includes three sieve plates 81 spaced vertically along the inner cavity 11 of the fermenter 1, each of which is provided with a plurality of sieve holes 82. The three fermenters 1 are respectively a first fermenter 1, a second fermenter 1, and a third fermenter 1. Each of the three fermenters 1 is connected to a liquid supply pipe 5 and a liquid return pipe 4. The liquid supply pipe 5 is provided with a third valve 51 capable of opening and closing the liquid supply pipe 5, and the liquid return pipe 4 is provided with a second valve 41 capable of opening and closing the liquid return pipe 4. The liquid supply pipe 5 of the three fermenters 1 is connected to the cooling inlet 21 of the cooling device 2, which is provided with a delivery pump 7. The liquid return pipes 4 of the three fermenters 1 are connected to the cooling outlet 22 of the cooling device 2. The cooling outlet 22 is also connected to a liquid outlet pipe 3, which is provided with a first valve 31 capable of opening and closing the liquid outlet pipe 3.

[0082] When the continuous fermentation equipment is working, the liquid delivery pipe 5 and the liquid return pipe 4 on the first fermentation tank 1 are opened, the liquid delivery pipes 5 and the liquid return pipes 4 on the other fermentation tanks 1 are disconnected, and the liquid outlet pipe 3 is closed. The fermentation liquid in the first fermentation tank 1 is pumped in a circulation manner by the delivery pump 7, thereby promoting the fermentation of the material and yeast in the first fermentation tank 1. In addition, during the circulation process of the fermentation liquid, the cooling device 2 can cool the fermentation liquid to improve the fermentation efficiency.

[0083] After the fermentation of the fermentation liquid in the first fermentation tank 1 is completed, the liquid supply pipe 5 of the first fermentation tank 1 and the liquid return pipe 4 on the second fermentation tank 1 are opened, and the liquid return pipes 4 of the first fermentation tank 1 and the third fermentation tank 1 are closed, the liquid supply pipes 5 of the second fermentation tank 1 and the third fermentation tank 1 are closed, and the liquid outlet pipe 3 is closed, so that the fermentation liquid in the first fermentation tank 1 can pass through the cooling device 2 and be transported to the second fermentation tank 1. After the fermentation liquid is transported to the second fermentation tank 1, the liquid supply pipe 5 of the first fermentation tank 1 is closed, the liquid supply pipe 5 and the liquid return pipe 4 of the second fermentation tank 1 are opened, and the liquid return pipe 4 of the first fermentation tank 1 and the liquid supply pipe 5 and the liquid return pipe 4 of the third fermentation tank 1 remain closed. The fermentation liquid in the second fermentation tank 1 is circulated between the second fermentation tank 1 and the pipe under the pumping action of the delivery pump 7 to promote fermentation.

[0084] After the fermentation of the fermentation liquid in the second fermentation tank 1 is completed, the liquid supply pipe 5 of the second fermentation tank 1 and the liquid return pipe 4 on the third fermentation tank 1 are opened, and the liquid return pipe 4 of the first fermentation tank 1 and the second fermentation tank 1 are closed, the liquid supply pipe 5 of the third fermentation tank 1 and the first fermentation tank 1 are closed, and the liquid outlet pipe 3 is closed, so that the fermentation liquid in the second fermentation tank 1 can pass through the cooling device 2 and be transported to the third fermentation tank 1. After the fermentation liquid is transported to the third fermentation tank 1, the liquid supply pipe 5 of the second fermentation tank 1 is closed, the liquid supply pipe 5 and the liquid return pipe 4 of the third fermentation tank 1 are opened, and the liquid return pipe 4 of the second fermentation tank 1, the liquid supply pipe 5 and the liquid return pipe 4 of the first fermentation tank 1 remain closed. The fermentation liquid in the third fermentation tank 1 is circulated between the third fermentation tank 1 and the pipe under the pumping action of the delivery pump 7 to promote fermentation.

[0085] After the fermentation of the fermentation liquid in the third fermentation tank 1 is completed, the liquid delivery pipe 5 of the third fermentation tank 1 remains open, the return liquid pipes 4 of the third fermentation tank 1, the first fermentation tank 1 and the second fermentation tank 1 are all closed, the return liquid pipes 4 of the first fermentation tank 1 and the second fermentation tank 1 are all closed, and the liquid outlet pipe 3 is opened, so that the fermentation liquid in the third fermentation tank 1 can pass through the cooling device 2 and be transported to the next process. In specific production, it is transported to the distillation process to continue working.

[0086] Three fermentation tanks 1 can share a set of cooling devices 2. It is only necessary to switch the corresponding pipeline valves of the cooling device 2 (the first valve 31 and the second valve 41 corresponding to the connecting pipelines of different fermentation tanks 1, and the third valve 51 on the liquid outlet pipeline 3) to complete the connection of multiple fermentation tanks 1 in sequence, so that the cooling device 2 is always running without stopping, and continuous fermentation is completed, meeting the annual working time of 7200 hours to 8000 hours of continuous production of the entire system, avoiding frequent start-up and shutdown of the equipment. In some other embodiments, the fermentation tank 1 can be provided with four or more, and the pipeline connection method refers to the above Figure 9 The embodiment shown is shown.

[0087] While the present invention has been described with reference to several exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the terms used are illustrative and exemplary rather than restrictive. Since the present invention can be embodied in a variety of forms without departing from the spirit or essence of the invention, it should be understood that the above-described embodiments are not limited to any of the foregoing details, but should be interpreted broadly within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Therefore, all changes and modifications that fall within the scope of the claims or their equivalents are intended to be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A continuous fermentation device, characterized in that: include: At least one fermentation tank, wherein the fermentation tank has an inner cavity for storing liquid, and the fermentation tank is provided with a liquid outlet and a liquid inlet, wherein the liquid outlet is located at the bottom of the fermentation tank, and the liquid inlet is higher than the liquid outlet; a cooling device comprising a cooling inlet and a cooling outlet, wherein the cooling inlet is connected to the liquid outlet, the cooling outlet is connected to the liquid inlet, and the cooling device is configured to cool the liquid; a delivery pump connected between the cooling device and the fermentation tank, configured to pump liquid from the inner cavity of the fermentation tank to the cooling device; A gas distribution structure is disposed in the inner cavity of the fermentation tank, and the gas distribution structure is configured to adjust the flow direction of the gas in the liquid.

2. The continuous fermentation equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that The gas distribution structure includes at least one sieve plate, which is arranged across the inner cavity of the fermenter and has a plurality of sieve holes arranged at intervals.

3. The continuous fermentation equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that There are multiple sieve plates, and the multiple sieve plates are sequentially spaced up and down in the inner cavity of the fermentation tank; the sieve holes on any two adjacent sieve plates are staggered with each other.

4. The continuous fermentation equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that The plurality of sieve holes include a plurality of first sieve holes and a plurality of second sieve holes; A plurality of the first sieve holes are spaced and distributed in the middle of the sieve plate; The plurality of second sieve holes are distributed at intervals on the outer edge of the sieve plate and surround the outer periphery of the plurality of first sieve holes; the second sieve holes are polygonal with at least two inner angles of different angles.

5. The continuous fermentation equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that The size of the second sieve holes along the circumferential direction of the sieve plate gradually decreases toward the direction away from the center of the sieve plate; and / or Any two adjacent side edges in the second sieve hole are connected by rounded corners.

6. The continuous fermentation equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that The second sieve hole is trapezoidal; or The second sieve holes are rhombus-shaped; or The second sieve hole is kite-shaped.

7. The continuous fermentation equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that The continuous fermentation equipment further includes a liquid outlet pipe, a first end of the liquid outlet pipe is connected to the cooling outlet of the cooling device or the inner cavity of the fermentation tank, and a second end of the liquid outlet pipe extends out of the fermentation tank; The liquid outlet pipe is provided with a first valve component.

8. The continuous fermentation equipment according to claim 7, characterized in that The continuous fermentation equipment further comprises a liquid return pipe, a first end of the liquid return pipe being connected to the cooling outlet of the cooling device, and a second end of the liquid return pipe being connected to the liquid inlet; A second valve component is provided on the liquid return pipeline.

9. The continuous fermentation equipment according to claim 8, characterized in that The outer wall of the liquid return pipe is covered with a heat-insulating material; The outer wall of the liquid outlet pipe is covered with heat-insulating material.

10. The continuous fermentation equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fermentation tank comprises a tank body, an upper head and a lower head, wherein the upper head cover is provided at the top opening of the tank body, and the lower head cover is provided at the bottom opening of the tank body; the tank body, the upper head and the lower head constitute an inner cavity of the fermentation tank; The liquid outlet is arranged on the side wall of the lower head; the liquid inlet is arranged on the side wall of the tank body; and the gas distribution structure is connected to the inner wall of the tank body.

11. The continuous fermentation equipment according to claim 10, characterized in that: A cooling jacket is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the tank body, the cooling jacket and the outer peripheral wall of the tank body form a closed annular cavity, a refrigerant inlet is provided at the bottom of the cooling jacket and communicates with the annular cavity, and a refrigerant outlet is provided at the top of the cooling jacket and communicates with the annular cavity; and / or The inner wall of the tank body is provided with a support member, and the gas distribution structure is detachably connected to the support member by bolts.

12. The continuous fermentation equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that There are multiple fermentation tanks, which are arranged in parallel; and the cooling device is configured to be able to communicate with the multiple fermentation tanks in sequence.

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