Two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic drinks

Abstract

The utility model provides two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic drinks. The equipment comprises a feeding module, an enhanced heat transfer sterilization module and a cooling module which are connected in sequence, the enhanced heat transfer sterilization module comprises a fluid oscillation treatment section, a rapid heating section and a heating maintaining section; the fluid oscillation treatment section comprises a first chamber for accommodating raw materials to be treated and an oscillation element for driving the first chamber to generate mechanical oscillation with preset frequency and amplitude; the rapid heating section comprises a first heat exchange pipe and a first heating channel, the inner wall of the first heat exchange pipe is in a specific geometrical shape, and the specific geometrical shape comprises a continuous corrugated structure extending in the axial direction of the first heat exchange pipe, a spiral groove-shaped structure formed along the inner wall of the first heat exchange pipe and a static mixing structure fixedly arranged in the first heat exchange pipe. And a higher heating rate and more uniform temperature distribution can be realized in the rapid heating section, so that thermosensitive components in the natural acid beverage can be better protected while the sterilization effect is ensured, and the product quality is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of beverage processing equipment technology, and in particular to a two-stage sterilization device for bagged acidic beverages. Background Technology

[0002] With the increasing consumer demand for healthy and natural foods, acidic beverages containing natural ingredients and without added preservatives have become widely popular. To extend the shelf life of these beverages and ensure food safety, effective sterilization is typically required. Ultra-high temperature (UHT) or high-temperature short-time (HTST) sterilization combined with aseptic packaging is a commonly used technique. Two-stage sterilization, in particular, has gained attention for its potential to better balance sterilization effectiveness with product quality maintenance, especially for products containing heat-sensitive natural ingredients.

[0003] However, when processing naturally acidic beverages, existing beverage sterilization equipment, such as plate heat exchangers (PHE) or smooth tube heat exchangers (THE), exhibits uneven temperature distribution due to differences in heating between the fluid core area and the area near the tube wall. This results in some materials being under-sterilized, or materials near the heat exchange surface being overheated in an effort to ensure the coldest point meets sterilization requirements.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to improve the existing sterilization technology for raw materials before packaging acidic beverages in order to overcome the shortcomings of the existing technology. Utility Model Content

[0005] To overcome the problems existing in related technologies, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a two-stage sterilization device for bagged acidic beverages. This two-stage sterilization device for bagged acidic beverages uses a structure combination that applies preset oscillation to the raw material flow by setting a fluid oscillation treatment section, and makes the oscillating raw material flow pass through a first heat exchange tube with a specific geometric shape on the inner wall for rapid heating. This enhances heat transfer efficiency and promotes radial mixing of the fluid, improves the uniformity of temperature distribution inside the tube, thereby more reliably achieving sterilization requirements, while reducing the quality deterioration of materials caused by overheating.

[0006] A two-stage sterilization device for bagged acidic beverages, used for processing natural acidic beverages, the sterilization device includes a feeding module, an enhanced heat transfer sterilization module and a cooling module connected in sequence;

[0007] The feeding module is used to provide the raw material stream to be processed;

[0008] The cooling module is used to cool the processed raw material stream;

[0009] The enhanced heat transfer sterilization module includes:

[0010] The fluid oscillation processing section is connected to the outlet of the feeding module and is used to apply a preset oscillation to the raw material flow to be processed to obtain a fluctuating raw material flow. The fluid oscillation processing section includes a first chamber for containing the raw material to be processed and an oscillation element for driving the first chamber to generate mechanical oscillations of a predetermined frequency and amplitude.

[0011] The rapid heating section includes a first heat exchange tube and a first heating channel. The first heat exchange tube is connected to the outlet of the fluid oscillation processing section. The inner wall of the first heat exchange tube has a specific geometric shape, which includes a continuous corrugated structure extending along the axial direction of the first heat exchange tube, a spiral groove structure formed along the inner wall of the first heat exchange tube, and a static mixing structure fixedly disposed inside the first heat exchange tube. The static mixing structure includes a plurality of twisted blade units. The structure of the first heating channel covers the outer surface of the first heat exchange tube to form a second chamber. The second chamber is used to contain and circulate a first heating medium, so that the first heating medium exchanges heat with the oscillating raw material flow inside the first heat exchange tube, and heats the oscillating raw material flow to a first preset temperature.

[0012] The heating and holding section includes a second heat exchange tube and a second heating channel. The second heat exchange tube is connected to the outlet of the first heat exchange tube. The structure of the second heating channel covers the outer surface of the second heat exchange tube to form a third chamber. The third chamber is used to contain and circulate a second heating medium, so that the raw material flow in the second heat exchange tube is heated to a second preset temperature and maintained for a predetermined time to complete sterilization.

[0013] Furthermore, the outlet of the fluid oscillation treatment section is connected to the inlet of the first heat exchange tube by a quick-connect clamp, and an elastic sealing gasket is provided at the connection.

[0014] By using quick-release clamps to connect the outlet of the fluid oscillation treatment section to the inlet of the first heat exchange tube, and by setting up vibration-resistant and high-temperature-resistant elastic sealing gaskets, a quick, reliable, and hygienic detachable connection between these two core components is achieved. This facilitates equipment maintenance, cleaning, and inspection, while effectively absorbing and isolating vibrations generated by the oscillation source.

[0015] Furthermore, at least a portion of the wall surface of the first chamber is provided with a first flexible diaphragm;

[0016] The oscillation element includes a piezoelectric ceramic stack and a driving power supply. The driving power supply is a power supply with adjustable frequency and voltage. The vibrating end of the piezoelectric ceramic stack is mechanically connected to the first flexible diaphragm. The driving power supply drives the vibrating end of the piezoelectric ceramic stack to vibrate. The vibrating end of the piezoelectric ceramic stack drives the first flexible diaphragm to generate reciprocating motion to apply the preset oscillation to the raw material flow to be processed.

[0017] Piezoelectric ceramic stacks are characterized by fast response speed and high displacement control precision. With an adjustable frequency and voltage driving power supply, the frequency and amplitude of oscillation can be easily and precisely adjusted to adapt to different material properties or process requirements, thereby optimizing and enhancing heat transfer. Using a flexible diaphragm as the driving interface allows the first chamber in contact with the material to be completely sealed and highly clean, making it ideal for food products with strict hygiene requirements, especially aseptic processing. This structure is relatively simple, with fewer moving parts, resulting in lower maintenance requirements and a longer service life.

[0018] Furthermore, the fluid oscillation processing section includes a generator housing, one end of which is connected to the feed module and the other end is connected to the first heat exchange tube. An oscillation window is provided on the generator housing, and the edge of the first flexible diaphragm is sealed and fixed to the oscillation window by a pressure ring structure or welding. The inner side of the generator housing and the inner side of the first flexible diaphragm form the first chamber.

[0019] The fixed end of the piezoelectric ceramic stack is mounted on the generator housing by a fastener, and the vibrating end of the piezoelectric ceramic stack is connected to the first flexible diaphragm by a rigid connector. The piezoelectric ceramic stack drives the first flexible diaphragm to reciprocate in a direction perpendicular to its surface through the rigid connector, thereby applying the preset oscillation to the raw material flow to be processed.

[0020] Placing the piezoelectric ceramic stack (driving source) outside the housing, preventing it from directly contacting the material, simplifies the hygiene protection requirements of the driving source and facilitates maintenance or replacement without the need to empty or disassemble the material pipeline. The flexible diaphragm is firmly and sealed to the oscillation window of the housing through a pressure ring structure or welding, ensuring the airtightness of the material chamber. The use of rigid connectors ensures that the vibration generated by the piezoelectric ceramic stack can be efficiently and stably transmitted to the flexible diaphragm, thereby acting on the material flow. This "external driving, internal action" structural design takes into account driving efficiency, sealing reliability, hygiene requirements, and ease of maintenance.

[0021] Furthermore, the fluid oscillation processing section includes a cylindrical tube, in which the first chamber is formed. One end of the cylindrical tube is connected to the first heat exchange tube, and the other end is provided with the oscillation element. The side of the cylindrical tube near the oscillation element is connected to the feeding module.

[0022] The oscillating element includes a reciprocating piston and a piston motor; a piston channel is provided on the end face of the cylindrical tube, and the reciprocating piston is slidably and sealingly installed in the piston channel.

[0023] The piston motor is installed outside the cylindrical tube. The piston motor is used to drive the reciprocating piston to reciprocate along the axial direction of the piston channel, thereby generating the preset oscillation in the continuously flowing raw material stream to be processed, so that the oscillating raw material stream flows out from the outlet of the cylindrical tube.

[0024] Compared to diaphragm-driven piezoelectric ceramic stacks, motor-driven piston mechanisms can achieve greater stroke and thrust, and can apply stronger and more impactful pulsation effects to fluids. This stronger pulsation is more effective in disrupting the laminar flow structure of viscous fluids and promoting their internal mixing. The smooth movement of the piston and the sealing of the chamber are ensured by a sliding seal, thereby achieving the application of preset mechanical oscillations to continuously flowing materials.

[0025] Furthermore, the continuous corrugated structure is a sinusoidal corrugation, the ratio of the wave height of the sinusoidal corrugation to the inner diameter of the first heat exchange tube is between 0.05 and 0.2, and the ratio of the wave pitch of the sinusoidal corrugation to the inner diameter of the first heat exchange tube is between 0.5 and 2.

[0026] Furthermore, the spiral groove structure consists of at least two parallel, continuous spiral grooves with U-shaped or V-shaped cross-sections formed on the inner wall of the first heat exchange tube.

[0027] The spiral groove structure itself guides the fluid to generate a spiral forward motion (rotational flow), and the presence of the groove also increases wall disturbance. Multiple parallel spiral grooves make this rotation and disturbance effect more uniformly distributed along the circumference. The U-shaped or V-shaped groove cross-sectional shape affects the morphology of the vortex within the groove and its interaction with the mainstream. When this structure is combined with externally applied axial or radial oscillations, the energy of the oscillations more easily excites and maintains the complex turbulent structure and secondary flow within the groove and the mainstream region, resulting in more thorough fluid mixing and faster heat exchange surface renewal. Therefore, this specific spiral groove structure design can work in conjunction with oscillations to achieve a stronger heat transfer enhancement effect than ordinary corrugated or smooth pipes.

[0028] Furthermore, the static hybrid structure consists of a plurality of twisted blade units arranged perpendicularly and alternately to each other, the blade units being arranged sequentially along the length of the first heat exchange tube.

[0029] The static mixing structure, through its internal twisted blade units, forces the fluid to continuously split, merge, and change direction, thus generating a strong radial mixing effect. Arranging these units sequentially along the axial direction allows the mixing effect to accumulate. When upstream fluid oscillations are introduced, the pulsating energy of these oscillations acts on the fluid, which is constantly changing direction, further intensifying the turbulence intensity and micro-mixing degree within the fluid. This dual effect of "active oscillation + forced path mixing" can achieve very high mixing efficiency, resulting in extremely uniform velocity and temperature distribution of the fluid in the radial direction, thereby achieving extremely high heat transfer efficiency and precise sterilization control.

[0030] Furthermore, a second flexible diaphragm is installed at one end of the piston channel near the first chamber. The second flexible diaphragm is fixedly and sealingly connected to the cylindrical tube. Hydraulic fluid is provided between the second flexible diaphragm and the reciprocating piston. The reciprocating piston drives the hydraulic fluid to move, thereby driving the second flexible diaphragm to cause the raw material flow to be processed to generate a predetermined oscillation.

[0031] The motor-driven piston no longer directly contacts the material; instead, motion and force are transmitted to a second flexible diaphragm via incompressible hydraulic fluid. The second flexible diaphragm becomes the interface that ultimately contacts the material and generates oscillations. This completely isolates the piston's dynamic seal, potential wear particles, and lubrication requirements from the material flow, eliminating related contamination risks. The second flexible diaphragm can be made of materials that highly meet food hygiene and aseptic requirements and is statically sealed to the pipe wall. Therefore, this indirect hydraulic drive structure provides a higher level of hygiene assurance and is an ideal structural choice for achieving strictly aseptic oscillation processing, while also protecting the piston drive mechanism.

[0032] Furthermore, both the first heating medium and the second heating medium are superheated water. The temperature of the first heating medium is higher than the first preset temperature, and the temperature of the second heating medium is equal to the second preset temperature. The first heating medium and the second heating medium are supplied through independent pressurized hot water circulation systems.

[0033] Superheated water is selected as the uniform heating medium. Its excellent heat transfer characteristics and ability to achieve precise temperature control through flow rate or mixing adjustment facilitate a stable and reliable heating process, while maintaining relatively low system pressure compared to steam. The first heating medium temperature is specified to be higher than the target temperature, using a large temperature difference to drive rapid heating. The second heating medium temperature is specified to be equal to (or very close to) the target holding temperature, using a minimal temperature difference to achieve precise temperature maintenance and prevent overheating. The key is the use of two completely independent circulation systems. This ensures that the high-temperature supply in the first stage does not interfere with the precise temperature control in the second stage, and vice versa. This allows the two core steps of the two-stage sterilization process to operate independently, stably, and precisely according to preset parameters, thereby guaranteeing the final sterilization effect and product quality.

[0034] The beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows:

[0035] This invention provides a two-stage sterilization device for bagged acidic beverages. This device applies preset oscillations to the raw material flow in the fluid oscillation treatment section. When the raw material enters the first heat exchange tube with a special inner wall shape, the disturbance effect is further amplified and guided by the tube's geometry, forcibly generating strong secondary flow and turbulent vortices. This enhanced mixing continuously exchanges the hot fluid near the tube wall with the cold fluid at the tube center, breaking the stable laminar boundary layer or core flow in traditional smooth tubes. This allows heat to be transferred to the entire fluid cross-section more quickly and evenly. Therefore, compared to existing technologies, this device achieves a faster heating rate and more uniform temperature distribution in the rapid heating section. This ensures that the core area of ​​the fluid reaches the required sterilization temperature while preventing the material near the tube wall from being overheated due to uneven heat transfer. Thus, while ensuring sterilization effectiveness, it better protects the heat-sensitive components in the natural acidic beverage, improving product quality. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages provided in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0037] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the enhanced heat transfer sterilization module provided in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0038] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages provided in Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0039] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the fluid oscillation processing section provided in Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0040] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first heat exchange tube with a continuously corrugated structure provided in this application;

[0041] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first heat exchange tube with a threaded groove structure provided in this application;

[0042] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first heat exchange tube with a static mixing structure provided in this application.

[0043] Figure label:

[0044] 100. Feeding module;

[0045] 200. Enhanced heat transfer sterilization module;

[0046] 210. Fluid oscillation processing section; 211. First chamber; 212. Oscillating element; 213. First flexible diaphragm; 214a. Generator housing; 215a. Oscillating window; 216a. Piezoelectric ceramic stack; 214b. Cylindrical tube; 215b. Piston channel; 216b. Reciprocating piston; 217. Second flexible diaphragm;

[0047] 220. Rapid heating section; 221. First heat exchange tube; 222. First heating channel; 223. Second chamber; 224a. Continuous corrugated structure; 224b. Spiral groove structure; 224c. Twisted blade unit;

[0048] 230. Heating and holding section; 231. Second heat exchange tube; 232. Second heating channel; 233. Third chamber;

[0049] 300. Cooling module. Detailed Implementation

[0050] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present invention may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the present invention will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0051] Example 1

[0052] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, this embodiment provides a two-stage sterilization device for bagged acidic beverages. The two-stage sterilization device for bagged acidic beverages includes a feeding module 100, an enhanced heat transfer sterilization module 200, and a cooling module 300 connected in sequence.

[0053] The feeding module 100 includes a raw material buffer tank with level control and a sanitary feed pump (e.g., a screw pump or rotary pump) for pumping natural acidic beverage raw materials from upstream processes (such as batching, pretreatment) into the downstream module at a stable flow rate.

[0054] The enhanced heat transfer sterilization module 200 is the core component of this equipment, and its structure is as follows: Figure 2 As shown, it includes a fluid oscillation processing section 210, a rapid heating section 220, and a heating holding section 230.

[0055] In this embodiment, the fluid oscillation processing section 210 employs an indirect hydraulic drive structure combining a reciprocating piston 216b and a flexible diaphragm. Specifically, it includes a cylindrical tube 214b, within which a first chamber 211 for accommodating the raw material to be processed is formed. The raw material flows into the first chamber 211 through a side inlet of the cylindrical tube 214b. One end of the cylindrical tube 214b is closed and has a piston channel 215b, within which the reciprocating piston 216b is slidably and sealingly mounted. A second flexible diaphragm 217 is installed at the end of the piston channel 215b near the first chamber 211, completely isolating the piston mechanism from the raw material flow within the first chamber 211. The space between the piston and the second flexible diaphragm 217 is filled with food-grade or medical-grade hydraulic fluid. A piston motor (such as a crank-connecting rod mechanism driven by a servo motor or frequency converter motor) is mounted outside the cylindrical tube 214b, driving the reciprocating piston 216b to reciprocate axially along the piston channel 215b. The piston's motion is transmitted to the second flexible diaphragm 217 via hydraulic medium, causing the diaphragm to generate reciprocating vibrations with controlled frequency and amplitude, thereby applying mechanical oscillations to the raw material flow through the first chamber 211, forming a wavy raw material flow. This wavy raw material flow exits from the other end of the cylindrical tube 214b. The cylindrical tube 214b, piston, diaphragm, and all components in contact with the raw material are made of stainless steel or polymer materials that meet food hygiene standards.

[0056] The outlet of the fluid oscillation treatment section 210 is connected to the inlet of the rapid heating section 220 via a sanitary quick-release clamp. An elastic sealing gasket that can withstand the temperature and vibration conditions during equipment operation is installed at the connection to ensure the sealing of the connection and facilitate disassembly and maintenance.

[0057] The rapid heating section 220 includes a first heat exchange tube 221 and a first heating channel 222 covering the first heat exchange tube 221, forming a second chamber 223 between them. In this embodiment, the first heat exchange tube 221 is provided with a static mixing structure (such as...). Figure 7 The twisted blade unit 224c shown is called a static mixing structure because the structure itself is fixed and does not actively move to mix the flowing liquid. Instead, it achieves mixing by dividing, redirecting, and recombining the liquid through its own flow characteristics. The twisted blade units 224c are arranged sequentially along the length of the pipe, forcing the undulating raw material flow to undergo intense cutting, rotation, and radial mixing. The first heating channel 222 is used to circulate a first heating medium (e.g., superheated water), which comes from an independent pressurized hot water circulation system. The superheated water temperature is set higher than the first preset temperature required for the raw material. When the undulating raw material flow passes through the first heat exchange tube 221 filled with the static mixing structure, its oscillation effect combined with the forced mixing effect of the static mixing structure greatly enhances heat transfer, rapidly and uniformly heating it to the first preset temperature.

[0058] The heating and holding section 230 includes a second heat exchange tube 231 and a second heating channel 232 covering it, forming a third chamber 233 between them. The second heat exchange tube 231 is connected to the outlet of the first heat exchange tube 221. In this embodiment, a straight tube or a serpentine coil with a smooth inner wall can be used, and its length is designed according to the raw material flow rate and the required sterilization holding time. The second heating channel 232 is used for the flow of hot water, which comes from another independent, precisely temperature-controlled pressurized hot water circulation system. The temperature of the second heating medium is controlled at the second preset temperature (sterilization temperature) that the raw material needs to reach. When the raw material flows through the second heat exchange tube 231, it is maintained at this temperature for a predetermined time to complete the sterilization process.

[0059] The cooling module 300 is connected to the outlet of the heating and holding section 230 and includes one or more heat exchange units (such as plate heat exchangers or tube heat exchangers; tube heat exchangers may also adopt a special geometry such as the first heat exchange tube 221) to rapidly cool the sterilized high-temperature raw material stream to a temperature suitable for aseptic filling using a cooling medium (such as cooling water or chilled water).

[0060] The entire equipment is controlled by a PLC system, which can set and monitor feed flow rate, oscillation parameters (such as frequency and amplitude, which are achieved by controlling the piston motor), temperature and flow rate of heating medium in each section, and temperature and pressure of material at key points, ensuring the stability and reliability of the sterilization process.

[0061] The working process of the two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages in this embodiment is as follows:

[0062] 1. Natural acidic beverage raw materials are stably pumped into the enhanced heat transfer sterilization module 200 from the feeding module 100.

[0063] 2. The raw material first enters the first chamber 211 of the fluid oscillation processing section 210. Here, the reciprocating piston 216b driven by an external motor indirectly drives the second flexible diaphragm 217 to generate reciprocating vibration through the hydraulic medium, applying mechanical oscillation to the raw material flow and forming a fluctuating raw material flow.

[0064] 3. The fluctuating raw material flow enters the first heat exchange tube 221 of the rapid heating section 220, which is equipped with a static mixing structure inside. Under the action of high-temperature superheated water, the oscillation effect combined with the forced mixing action of the static mixer enables the raw material flow to be rapidly and uniformly heated to the first preset temperature.

[0065] 4. The raw material flows into the second heat exchange tube 231 of the heating and holding section 230, and is maintained at the second preset temperature for a predetermined time under the action of superheated water to complete sterilization.

[0066] 5. The sterilized high-temperature raw materials flow through the cooling module 300 and are cooled to a suitable filling temperature.

[0067] 6. The contents are then placed into the bagging and canning equipment for canning.

[0068] The two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages provided in this embodiment generates fluid oscillation by indirectly driving a flexible diaphragm via a reciprocating piston 216b using a hydraulic medium. This not only effectively applies pulsation to the raw materials but also achieves complete physical isolation between the driving mechanism and the materials, improving the hygiene level and safety of the equipment. Simultaneously, this oscillating raw material flow is introduced into the first heat exchange tube 221 with its built-in static mixing structure for heating. Utilizing the dual enhancement effect of active oscillation and forced path mixing, the radial mixing and heat transfer efficiency of the fluid are greatly enhanced, significantly improving the uniformity of temperature distribution within the tube. This effectively avoids overheating of the materials while ensuring reliable sterilization, better protecting the quality of natural beverages and meeting high hygiene standards.

[0069] Example 2

[0070] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 ,and Figure 5 As shown, this embodiment provides a two-stage sterilization device for bagged acidic beverages. The two-stage sterilization device for bagged acidic beverages includes a feeding module 100, an enhanced heat transfer sterilization module 200, and a cooling module 300 connected in sequence.

[0071] The enhanced heat transfer sterilization module 200 includes a fluid oscillation processing section 210, a rapid heating section 220, and a heating holding section 230.

[0072] In this embodiment, the fluid oscillation processing section 210 adopts a structure based on a piezoelectric ceramic stack 216a driving a flexible diaphragm. Specifically, it includes a generator housing 214a, one end of which is connected to the outlet of the feeding module 100, and the other end is connected to the inlet of the rapid heating section 220. Multiple oscillation windows 215a are provided on the generator housing 214a. The edge of the first flexible diaphragm 213 is securely and sealingly fixed to the oscillation window 215a by a pressure ring structure or sanitary welding. The inner side of the generator housing 214a and the inner side of the first flexible diaphragm 213 together form a first chamber 211 for accommodating the raw material to be processed. The oscillation element 212 is a piezoelectric ceramic stack 216a, and its fixed end is mounted on the outside of the generator housing 214a by a fastener. The vibrating end of the piezoelectric ceramic stack 216a is mechanically connected to the central region of the first flexible diaphragm 213 by a rigid connector. The driving power supply provides an adjustable frequency and voltage driving signal to the piezoelectric ceramic stack 216a, driving the piezoelectric ceramic stack 216a to generate high-frequency, minute stretching and contracting vibrations. This vibration is transmitted to the first flexible diaphragm 213 through a rigid connector, causing it to reciprocate in a direction perpendicular to the diaphragm surface, thereby applying controllable mechanical oscillations to the raw material flow through the first chamber 211, forming a fluctuating raw material flow. All parts in contact with the material, such as the generator housing 214a, diaphragm, and connectors, are made of stainless steel, polymer materials, or special alloys that meet food hygiene standards.

[0073] The outlet of the fluid oscillation treatment section 210 is connected to the inlet of the rapid heating section 220 via a sanitary quick-connect clamp, and the connection is equipped with a vibration-resistant and high-temperature-resistant elastic sealing gasket.

[0074] The rapid heating section 220 includes a first heat exchange tube 221 and a first heating channel 222 covering the first heat exchange tube 221, forming a second chamber 223. In this embodiment, the inner wall of the first heat exchange tube 221 has a continuous corrugated structure, specifically a sinusoidal corrugation. The ratio of its wave height to the inner diameter of the tube and the ratio of its wave pitch to the inner diameter of the tube are within a range that can effectively enhance heat transfer. The first heating channel 222 is used to circulate the first heating medium from the independent pressurized hot water circulation system, i.e., superheated water, whose temperature is higher than a first preset temperature. When the oscillating raw material flow from the fluid oscillation treatment section 210 enters the first heat exchange tube 221 with a sinusoidal corrugated inner wall, the oscillation energy interacts with the corrugated structure, promoting the generation of strong secondary flow and turbulence in the fluid, destroying the thermal boundary layer, so that the heat from the first heating medium can be quickly and uniformly transferred to the raw material flow, heating it to the first preset temperature.

[0075] The heating and holding section 230 includes a second heat exchange tube 231 and a second heating channel 232, forming a third chamber 233. The second heating channel 232 circulates a second heating medium, i.e., superheated water, from a separate, precisely temperature-controlled pressurized hot water circulation system, with its temperature controlled at a second preset temperature. The raw material flow is maintained at this temperature for a predetermined time in this section to complete sterilization.

[0076] The working process of the two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages in this embodiment is as follows:

[0077] 1. Natural acidic beverage raw materials are stably pumped into the enhanced heat transfer sterilization module 200 from the feeding module 100.

[0078] 2. The raw material enters the first chamber 211 of the fluid oscillation treatment section 210. The piezoelectric ceramic stack 216a installed outside the shell drives the first flexible diaphragm 213 fixed on the oscillation window 215a through a rigid connector to generate high-frequency micro-amplitude vibration, which applies controllable mechanical oscillation to the raw material flow and forms a fluctuating raw material flow.

[0079] 3. The fluctuating raw material flow enters the first heat exchange tube 221 of the rapid heating section 220. Under the action of high-temperature superheated water, the interaction between the oscillating energy and the sinusoidal corrugated structure promotes strong secondary flow and turbulence, destroys the thermal boundary layer, and makes the raw material flow rapidly and uniformly heated to the first preset temperature.

[0080] 4. The raw material flows into the second heat exchange tube 231 of the heating and holding section 230, and is maintained at the second preset temperature for a predetermined time under the action of superheated water to complete sterilization.

[0081] 5. The sterilized high-temperature raw materials flow through the cooling module 300 and are cooled to a suitable filling temperature.

[0082] 6. The contents are then placed into the bagging and canning equipment for canning.

[0083] The two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages provided in this embodiment uses a piezoelectric ceramic stack 216a to directly drive a flexible diaphragm to generate fluid oscillations. This method offers fast response, eliminates the need for dynamic sealing, and is suitable for high-cleanliness food processing. Utilizing the synergistic effect of active oscillation and optimized geometry, it effectively stimulates turbulence within the tube, enhancing boundary layer heat transfer. This significantly improves heating rate and temperature distribution uniformity, solving the problem of insufficient sterilization or quality damage caused by uneven heat transfer in existing technologies. It can better preserve the flavor and nutrients of natural beverages while ensuring sterilization effectiveness.

[0084] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of this application. Any specific values ​​in all examples shown and discussed herein should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it need not be further discussed in subsequent figures.

[0085] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" is merely for ease of distinction, and unless otherwise stated, these terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this application.

[0086] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this utility model and is not intended to limit the utility model. Various modifications and variations can be made to this utility model by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A two-stage sterilization device for packaged acidic beverages, characterized in that, For processing natural acidic beverages, the sterilization equipment includes a feeding module (100), an enhanced heat transfer sterilization module (200), and a cooling module (300) connected in sequence; The enhanced heat transfer sterilization module (200) includes: The fluid oscillation processing section (210) is connected to the outlet of the feeding module (100) and is used to apply a preset oscillation to the raw material flow to be processed to obtain a fluctuating raw material flow. The fluid oscillation processing section (210) includes a first chamber (211) for containing the raw material to be processed, and an oscillation element (212) for driving the first chamber (211) to generate mechanical oscillations of a predetermined frequency and amplitude. The rapid heating section (220) includes a first heat exchange tube (221) and a first heating channel (222). The first heat exchange tube (221) is connected to the outlet of the fluid oscillation treatment section (210). The inner wall of the first heat exchange tube (221) has a specific geometric shape, which includes a continuous corrugated structure (224a) extending along the axial direction of the first heat exchange tube (221), a spiral groove structure (224b) formed along the inner wall of the first heat exchange tube (221), and a static mixing structure fixedly disposed inside the first heat exchange tube (221). The static mixing structure includes a plurality of twisted blade units (224c). The structure of the first heating channel (222) covers the outer surface of the first heat exchange tube (221) to form a second chamber (223). The second chamber (223) is used to contain and circulate a first heating medium, so that the first heating medium exchanges heat with the oscillating raw material flow inside the first heat exchange tube (221) and heats the oscillating raw material flow to a first preset temperature. The heating and holding section (230) includes a second heat exchange tube (231) and a second heating channel (232). The second heat exchange tube (231) is connected to the outlet of the first heat exchange tube (221). The structure of the second heating channel (232) covers the outer surface of the second heat exchange tube (231) to form a third chamber (233). The third chamber (233) is used to contain and circulate a second heating medium, so that the raw material flow in the second heat exchange tube (231) is heated to a second preset temperature and maintained for a predetermined time to complete sterilization.

2. The two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages according to claim 1, characterized in that: The outlet of the fluid oscillation treatment section (210) is connected to the inlet of the first heat exchange tube (221) by a quick-connect clamp, and an elastic sealing gasket is provided at the connection.

3. The two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages according to claim 1, characterized in that: At least a portion of the wall surface of the first chamber (211) is provided with a first flexible diaphragm; The oscillation element (212) includes a piezoelectric ceramic stack (216a) and a driving power supply. The driving power supply is a power supply with adjustable frequency and voltage. The vibrating end of the piezoelectric ceramic stack (216a) is mechanically connected to the first flexible diaphragm (213). The driving power supply drives the vibrating end of the piezoelectric ceramic stack (216a) to vibrate. The vibrating end of the piezoelectric ceramic stack (216a) drives the first flexible diaphragm (213) to generate reciprocating motion to apply the preset oscillation to the raw material flow to be processed.

4. The two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages according to claim 3, characterized in that: The fluid oscillation processing section (210) includes a generator housing (214a), one end of which is connected to the feed module (100) and the other end is connected to the first heat exchange tube (221). An oscillation window (215a) is provided on the generator housing (214a). The edge of the first flexible diaphragm (213) is sealed and fixed to the oscillation window (215a) by a pressure ring structure or welding. The inner side of the generator housing (214a) and the inner side of the first flexible diaphragm (213) form the first chamber (211). The fixed end of the piezoelectric ceramic stack (216a) is mounted on the generator housing (214a) by a fastener. The vibrating end of the piezoelectric ceramic stack (216a) is connected to the first flexible diaphragm (213) by a rigid connector. The piezoelectric ceramic stack (216a) drives the first flexible diaphragm (213) to reciprocate in a direction perpendicular to its surface through the rigid connector, thereby applying the preset oscillation to the raw material flow to be processed.

5. The two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages according to claim 2, characterized in that: The fluid oscillation processing section (210) includes a cylindrical tube (214b), in which the first chamber (211) is formed. One end of the cylindrical tube (214b) is connected to the first heat exchange tube (221), and the other end is provided with the oscillation element (212). The side of the cylindrical tube (214b) near the oscillation element (212) is connected to the feeding module (100). The oscillating element (212) includes a reciprocating piston (216b) and a piston motor; a piston channel (215b) is provided on the end face of the cylindrical tube (214b), and the reciprocating piston (216b) is slidably and sealingly installed in the piston channel (215b). The piston motor is installed outside the cylindrical tube (214b). The piston motor is used to drive the reciprocating piston (216b) to reciprocate along the axial direction of the piston channel (215b), thereby generating the preset oscillation in the continuously flowing raw material stream to be processed, so that the oscillating raw material stream flows out from the outlet of the cylindrical tube (214b) after forming the oscillating raw material stream.

6. The two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages according to claim 1, characterized in that: The continuous corrugated structure (224a) is a sinusoidal corrugation.

7. The two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages according to claim 1, characterized in that: The spiral groove structure (224b) is at least two parallel, continuous spiral grooves with U-shaped or V-shaped cross-sections formed on the inner wall of the first heat exchange tube (221).

8. The two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages according to claim 1, characterized in that: The static hybrid structure consists of a plurality of twisted blade units (224c) arranged perpendicularly to each other, with the blade units arranged sequentially along the length of the first heat exchange tube (221).

9. The two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages according to claim 5, characterized in that: A second flexible diaphragm (217) is installed at one end of the piston channel (215b) near the first chamber (211). The second flexible diaphragm (217) is fixedly and sealed to the cylindrical tube (214b). Hydraulic fluid is provided between the second flexible diaphragm (217) and the reciprocating piston (216b). The reciprocating piston (216b) drives the hydraulic fluid to move, thereby driving the second flexible diaphragm (217) to cause the raw material flow to be processed to generate a predetermined oscillation.

10. The two-stage sterilization equipment for bagged acidic beverages according to claim 1, characterized in that: Both the first heating medium and the second heating medium are superheated water. The temperature of the first heating medium is higher than the first preset temperature, and the temperature of the second heating medium is equal to the second preset temperature. The first heating medium and the second heating medium are supplied through independent pressurized hot water circulation systems.

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