DEVICE AND METHOD FOR BREWING SLAUGHTERED POULTRY

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device designed and equipped for scalding slaughtered poultry, comprising an elongated scalding tank, laterally enclosed by side walls and end walls and at the bottom by a base wall, and open at the top, for receiving and holding a liquid scalding medium; a transport means arranged above the scalding tank for transporting the poultry suspended within the scalding tank along a scalding channel formed from an input area to an output area, wherein at least two transport sections for the poultry are formed within the scalding tank, each extending from one end of the scalding tank to the opposite end of the scalding tank, and the transport sections are connected to each other by means of curved connecting sections for a 180-degree deflection.wherein each transport section and each connecting section is bounded by two partition walls arranged transversely to the transport direction and a bottom wall to form upwardly open linear brewing channel sections and upwardly open curved brewing channel sections, wherein partition walls of adjacent brewing channel sections as well as partition walls adjacent to outer walls of the brewing tank are arranged at a distance from each other to form a free space for the brewing medium, wherein at least the free spaces of adjacent brewing channel sections are assigned means for supplying and / or heating the brewing medium, and wherein a receiving space for brewing medium is formed below at least parts of the brewing channel, namely at least between the bottom walls of the linear brewing channel sections and the bottom wall of the brewing tank, which together with the free spaces forms a common chamber,which includes at least one vortex generator for generating vortex and / or flow of the brewing medium in the brewing tank.

[0002] The invention further relates to a method for scalding slaughtered poultry, comprising the steps of: transporting the poultry hanging by its feet through a scalding tank at least partially filled with liquid scalding medium by means of a transport means in transport direction T from an input area to an output area along a scalding channel comprising linear and curved scalding channel sections, heating and / or supplying the scalding medium by means of heating and / or supplying the scalding medium, and swirling the scalding medium within the scalding tank by means of at least one swirling body, whereby the scalding medium is directed section by section from above from a receiving space below the scalding channel back into the scalding channel.

[0003] Such devices and processes are used in the poultry processing industry. To prepare the plumage of poultry, which includes chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese, and other birds and waterfowl used in the food industry, for the actual defeathering or plucking process, the feathers are softened or loosened by the heated scalding medium in the area of ​​the quills. For this purpose, the poultry is exposed to the scalding medium, such as hot steam or hot water, along a scalding channel. During transport, the poultry, suspended by its feet and / or legs, is moved along the scalding channel in the direction of travel T. The poultry is either not immersed at all, only partially immersed, or completely immersed in the scalding medium in the scalding tank, so that it is more or less bathed in it.Especially in devices and processes where the poultry is completely or at least partially immersed in the scalding medium, meaning the scalding medium is so high in the scalding tank that it extends not only into the receiving area below the scalding channel but also along and within the entire scalding channel, the poultry is pulled through the scalding medium during transport. This causes it to float to the surface, suspended by its feet / legs, due to the speed of transport. In other words, the scalding medium creates resistance and "brakes" the poultry, causing it to be pulled into an inclined position by the onward transport and, in the worst case, rising to the surface – a phenomenon known as floating.

[0004] To create a sufficiently long brewing section, the brewing channel has at least two transport sections. Each transport section extends linearly from one end wall to the opposite end wall and runs essentially parallel to the side walls. Connecting sections for a 180-degree bend are provided to link the linear transport sections. Linear transport sections, like curved connecting sections, are formed from two spaced-apart partition walls and a bottom wall, resulting in U-shaped, linear, or curved brewing channel sections in cross-section. In a device with two transport sections, two linear brewing channel sections are formed, each connected and bent by one curved brewing channel section. In a device with three transport sections, three linear brewing channel sections are formed, each connected and bent by two curved brewing channel sections.In known devices with two or more transport sections, these are routed through the scalding tank in a meandering pattern, resulting in deflections to transport the poultry from the infeed to the outfeed area. Depending on the transport direction, the infeed area can also be the outfeed area and vice versa. The infeed and outfeed areas can be located on the same end wall or on opposite end walls.

[0005] In addition to immersing the poultry in the scalding medium, the poultry is also exposed to scalding medium circulating within the scalding tank. This is achieved by swirling the liquid scalding medium, causing it to flow back into the scalding channel from the receiving chamber below the channel, over free edges, and from the partitions bordering the channel. This ensures that the poultry is supplied with or exposed to the scalding medium, especially if it is not immersed at all or only partially.

[0006] The brewing medium is typically heated water, which is either supplied already heated and / or heated within the brewing tank. However, the brewing medium can also be water containing additives or any other flowable medium. The brewing medium is located at least in the area of ​​the bottom wall of the brewing tank in a receiving chamber below the brewing channel. The spaces formed between the partitions of adjacent brewing channel sections, as well as between partitions and the side and end walls of the brewing tank, and the receiving chamber are in fluid communication with each other and form a single chamber.The scalding medium is swirled by the vortex generator(s) and flows upwards from the receiving chamber, which in known devices is located exclusively below the linear scalding channel sections, through the free spaces. From above, it flows back into the scalding channel over the free edges of the partitions that define the channel, but only within the linear scalding channel sections below which the receiving chamber is located. This overflow exposes the poultry to the scalding medium along the linear scalding channel sections. The flow generated in the receiving chamber effectively draws the scalding medium out of the scalding channel in the area of ​​the linear scalding channel sections and directs it upwards along the free spaces, where it flows back into the scalding channel over the free edges of the partitions in a waterfall-like fashion.The suction effect at the bottom wall of the linear scalding channel sections, if the poultry is at least partially submerged in the scalding medium, causes the poultry transported in the channel to be pulled downwards by a vertically directed pulling force and stabilized in a hanging, vertical position, preventing it from floating. In the curved scalding channel sections, both the flow of the scalding medium from above into the channel and the suction effect that stabilizes the poultry's vertically downward position are absent. Particularly in the curved sections, the scalding process is at least partially interrupted or reduced, leading to uneven and inadequate scalding results.

[0007] There are increasingly higher demands on the performance of such devices and processes. In other words, higher throughput rates are required, which are achieved by increasing the transport speed through the scalding tank. However, an increased transport speed amplifies the aforementioned undesirable effects, further impairing the scalding result. Existing devices and processes have accordingly reached or even exceeded their performance limits for an acceptable scalding result. Patent specification U4947518A discloses a device designed and configured for scalding slaughtered poultry,

[0008] The invention is therefore based on the objective of creating a device that, on the one hand, ensures a high transport speed of the poultry through the scalding tank and, on the other hand, delivers an optimal scalding result. The further objective is to propose a corresponding method.

[0009] This task is solved by a device with the aforementioned features in that the receiving space extends below the entire brewing channel, i.e., between the bottom walls of the linear and curved brewing channel sections on the one hand and the bottom wall of the brewing tank on the other, wherein at least one pump device is arranged in the receiving space, which extends into the area of ​​the curved brewing channel sections, as a turbulence body to form a pressure chamber acting along the entire brewing channel.By forming a pressure chamber that encompasses the entire brewing tank, thus exerting its suction and pumping effect continuously along the entire length of the brewing channel, regardless of the position of the pump(s) along the brewing channel, the liquid brewing medium is drawn downwards from the brewing channel near the bottom wall by the pump(s) and pumped back upwards into the brewing channel via the receiving chamber and the free spaces, such that the liquid brewing medium flows over the free edges of the partitions on both sides, along the linear and curved sections of the brewing channel. This inventive design of the device achieves a dual effect in a surprisingly simple and effective manner.Firstly, each pump creates a suction effect in and along the entire brewing channel, both in the linear and curved sections. This pulls the poultry downwards, aligning it and stabilizing it in a vertical position if it is at least partially submerged in the brewing medium. This effectively counteracts the tendency to float, particularly in the curved sections of the brewing channel, even at higher transport speeds. As a result, the poultry is reliably held wholly or partially below the surface of the brewing medium for maximum exposure.In other words, the suction effect acting along the entire length of the scalding channel allows for a higher transport speed of the poultry through the device while maintaining or even improving the scalding result. Furthermore, the double-sided flow across the partitions along the entire length of the scalding channel, both in the linear and curved sections, ensures that even if the poultry is not fully or only partially immersed in the scalding medium due to a low fill level in the scalding tank, it is still exposed to sufficient, uniform, and continuous contact with the scalding medium along its entire length. The fact that the scalding medium flows onto the poultry from above on both sides also exerts downward pressure on the poultry.The constant, double-sided jet of water acting on the poultry from above positions the poultry vertically downwards and also transversely to the transport direction T, consistently in the center of the brewing channel, regardless of the fill level of the brewing medium in the brewing tank, i.e., in a "low level" state, a "high level" state, or any intermediate state. The combination of features of the inventive embodiment of the device leads to an improved brewing result with higher throughput.

[0010] Another advantage is that the continuous flow of liquid over the partitions on both sides lowers the level of the scalding medium in the scalding tank. This allows for an increase in the transport speed of the poultry without negative effects. The lower level reduces the "braking effect" on the poultry, thus reducing the risk of it floating, while the continuous flow ensures that the poultry is still completely, evenly, and consistently coated with the scalding medium. Furthermore, at least some of the overflowing scalding medium can be filtered through a sieve or similar device.

[0011] A particularly preferred embodiment of the device is characterized in that at least two pump units are arranged along each transport section, and each pump unit comprises a pump body with a vertically oriented drive shaft with a rotatably driven impeller and a drive mechanism, wherein at least the impeller is located in the region of the bottom wall of the brewing channel section(s) inside the brewing tank and the drive mechanism is located outside the brewing tank. A vertically oriented drive shaft means that it is oriented essentially perpendicular to the bottom wall. The drive shaft extends upwards from the bottom wall of the brewing tank towards the bottom wall of the brewing channel. This ensures, firstly, a high suction effect over the entire length of each transport section, even into the deflection area.Secondly, placing the drives outside the brewing tank ensures that they are effectively protected against the ingress of brewing medium. The variable number and positioning of the pump units creates an embodiment that generates overpressure below the entire brewing channel in the chamber. This overpressure is sufficient to draw the brewing medium from the entire length of the brewing channel and pump it vertically upwards through the free spaces, past the heating elements, so that the (re)heated brewing medium flows back into the brewing channel from above on both sides. The preferred orientation of the drive shaft naturally also applies to embodiments with at least one pump unit.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, each linear brewing channel section is assigned at least one separate pump unit. In other words, at least one pump unit, preferably two, and depending on the length of the transport section, even more than two pump units, are arranged along a transport section. Each of these pump units acts exclusively on one transport section. This means, in particular, that the diameter of the impeller preferably corresponds substantially to the width of the transport section and is assigned to only one transport section in the area of ​​the bottom wall. The number of pump units for each transport section depends on its length. Depending on the performance of the pump unit—generally, a maximum impeller reach of approximately 3.5 m in diameter is assumed—the distance between the pump units should not exceed 3.5 m.A smaller distance can be chosen if performance is lower.

[0013] In a further, particularly preferred embodiment, at least two adjacent and parallel brewing channel sections are assigned at least one common pump unit. Each pump unit is thus preferably arranged centrally between two transport sections in the area of ​​the bottom wall, so that the impeller is operatively connected to at least two transport sections. In other words, two or more adjacent transport sections are connected to a common pump unit. The impeller extends in the bottom area of ​​the brewing channel sections transversely to the transport direction over portions of at least two transport sections. Several such pump units can be arranged one behind the other along the transport sections in the transport direction T. The above applies accordingly with regard to the distances between them and to the curved brewing channel sections.

[0014] Advantageously, at least one row, preferably two rows, of pump units is / are formed and arranged transversely to the longitudinal extent of the linear brewing channel sections, with the maximum distance of the pump units to the curved brewing channel sections being approximately 3.5 m. A row comprises at least two, and in other embodiments also three or more, pump units, which are preferably arranged in a line transverse to the transport direction. The individual pump units of a row can also be arranged offset from one another. The pump units of a row form a pump module. Preferably, several such pump modules are provided. The associated drives for the impellers of each pump unit can be arranged on one side or on opposite sides of the pump module. Preferably, a belt drive is used to transmit the drive torque to the vertically oriented drive axes.Other drive concepts can also be used.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, two or more pump units in a series form a pump module, which, together with intermediate modules with linear brewing channel sections and end modules with linear and curved brewing channel sections, forms a modular device with a continuous brewing channel. The modular design of the device allows for easy adaptation to different requirements. In particular, the simple replacement and / or addition of pump modules is advantageous, as the device can be adapted, for example, to different lengths and / or different performance levels.

[0016] A particularly advantageous embodiment is characterized in that adjacent partitions defining a section of the scalding channel have different heights, such that a partition facing the back of the poultry is lower than an opposing partition facing the breast. This difference in partition height applies to both the linear and curved sections of the scalding channel, so that this effect can extend over the entire length of the channel. The transport mechanism and the scalding tank are arranged and configured such that the poultry is transported laterally through the scalding channel, with the back and breast facing the two partitions defining the channel. The application of different volumes to the back and breast can optionally be achieved, for example, by targeted pump control.The different heights of the two partitions that define the scalding channel are particularly simple and effective. This ensures that the scalding medium reaches the back of the bird earlier and in greater volume when the partition is shorter than the breast. This allows for targeted treatment of poultry with more feathers, and often more difficult-to-remove feathers, on the back than on the breast. Therefore, a more intensive scalding process with a larger volume of scalding is targeted on the back than on the breast.

[0017] Preferably, the partition facing the back is at least one centimeter, optionally at least two centimeters, and further optionally at least three centimeters lower than the partition facing the front. With a one-centimeter height difference between the partitions of a brewing channel section, the total volume flow is divided approximately in the ratio 40:60 (front / back), with two centimeters approximately in the ratio 30:70 (front / back), and with three centimeters approximately in the ratio 20:80 (front / back).

[0018] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the height of at least one of the partitions in each section of the scalding channel is variably adjustable. For example, a partition, preferably the one facing the back, can be telescopically extended in height, at least in certain sections. Alternatively, the height difference can be varied using simple plug-in elements. Further options include, for example, motorized adjustment. Regardless of the technical implementation of the adjustability of one or both partitions, this allows for individual adjustment of the volumes flowing to the back or breast side, for example, depending on the size of the poultry being scalded, thus improving the scalding result.

[0019] A preferred embodiment of the device is characterized in that at least one of the partition walls of a scalding channel section has a shape adapted to the contour of the poultry, at least partially, on at least one inner surface facing the transport path. In principle, the partition walls of a scalding channel section, which are spaced apart from one another, can be, for example, flat. The partition walls can be arranged parallel or converging towards the bottom wall. However, it is particularly preferred that both partition walls are contoured, at least on the inner surface facing inwards towards the poultry to be scalded. The shape of the contour can vary.A preferred contour provides that the width of the scalding channel is reduced, at least in sections, such that the overflowing scalding medium is directed towards the poultry. This results in the scalding medium being directed at and impacting the poultry with greater force and velocity. This effect allows the scalding medium to penetrate the firmer outer feathers more efficiently towards the skin, softening the feathers at the skin-to-feather transition and thus improving the scalding result. It is also possible that only one of the partitions, preferably the partition facing the back, has a corresponding shape.

[0020] A particularly preferred embodiment is characterized in that, to create a counterflow directed against the direction of transport of the poultry, at least one nozzle assembly for introducing preferably heated, clean water is arranged in the poultry discharge area from the scalding tank, while at least one outlet for draining the contaminated water is provided in the poultry input area into the scalding tank. This provides a so-called "true counterflow." Preferably, a single nozzle is arranged in the discharge area, e.g., in the area of ​​an end wall of the scalding tank, by means of which fresh water is pumped, preferably with adjustable pressure, towards the input area and in any case against the direction of transport of the poultry. However, the nozzle assembly can also have several nozzles in the discharge area.It is also possible for the nozzle assembly to include multiple nozzles positioned on opposite end walls of the scalding tank to create a counterflow in each transport section, against the direction of travel. The fresh water flows against the direction of travel at all times, at least partially removing dirt and loose feathers from the poultry, which are then carried away by the current towards the inlet area. Consequently, the counterflow becomes increasingly dirty towards the inlet area, while the poultry and the scalding medium become progressively cleaner towards the outlet area. To facilitate the flow of fresh water towards the inlet area, the nozzle or any other input element in the outlet area is positioned higher on the scalding tank than the outlet(s) in the inlet area.In addition to the "cleaning function" of the supplied fresh water as a countercurrent, the supplied fresh water can also be used to compensate for water loss, especially due to the fact that the poultry extracts this water during the scalding process by absorbing it into its plumage.

[0021] Since the poultry ingests scalding medium during transport along the scalding channel—that is, scalding water is partially absorbed by the poultry, particularly through their plumage—compensation for water loss is optionally achieved solely via the nozzle system. This also compensates for water loss resulting from the discharge of contaminated water in the inlet area. The pumps arranged along the scalding channel primarily and preferably exclusively serve to circulate the scalding medium internally within the scalding tank and preferably have no influence on the water volume in the tank. Ultimately, the water circuit circulating within the pressure chamber is thus effectively decoupled or isolated from the "true counterflow" system.

[0022] As mentioned, a pump unit can be exclusively assigned to a transport section or a brewing channel section. Advantageously, for this purpose, an impeller of each pump unit is arranged in the area of ​​an opening in the bottom wall of the brewing channel section to create a flow connection between the brewing channel section and the receiving chamber, wherein the impeller is at least partially shielded from the brewing channel section by a cover arranged and designed at a distance from the impeller. The cover can be a grid. However, the cover can also be a ramp-like hood or the like, which preferably extends over the entire width of the brewing channel and runs in the transport direction from the bottom wall, closed and inclined upwards, while an opening is formed on the side of the hood facing away from the transport direction, through which the flow connection to the receiving chamber is established.Other training and arrangements are of course possible.

[0023] In other embodiments, the pump assembly, as described above, supplies at least two transport sections or brewing channel sections. Preferably, an impeller of each pump assembly is arranged in the area of ​​an opening in a bottom wall and / or a partition wall of at least two brewing channel sections to establish a flow connection between at least two adjacent brewing channel sections and the receiving chamber, wherein the impeller is completely shielded from the free space formed between adjacent partition walls of neighboring brewing channel sections. A preferred embodiment establishes the connection between the brewing channel section and the receiving chamber by means of partial openings in the respective bottom wall and partial openings in both partition walls that delimit the free space.The free space itself is closed off from the impeller and thus the pump assembly by a hood or similar structure, such that the hood has three wall sections, each extending from partition wall to partition wall. Within the area of ​​these hoods, the pumping of the brewing medium vertically upwards is effectively prevented. In the transport direction, both in front of and behind the hoods, the pumping of the brewing medium vertically upwards is possible. This ensures continuous flow across both partition walls, even in the area where the impellers are located. Other designs and arrangements are, of course, possible. For example, the free space in the area of ​​the pump assembly could be interrupted or...The recess is designed such that wall sections oriented perpendicular to the direction of transport extend from partition wall to partition wall, thereby closing the free space over the entire height of the partition walls and shielding it from the impeller.

[0024] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one vortex generator is arranged along the scalding channel to generate turbulence and / or flow of the scalding medium. This generator is rotatably driven by a horizontally oriented drive shaft that is perpendicular to the transport direction T of the poultry. Preferably, the vortex generator comprises an impeller, propeller, or the like. A vortex turbine is particularly preferred as the vortex generator. At a low rotational speed (e.g., 300 rpm), it achieves a very high pumping capacity, thus ensuring energy-efficient generation of turbulence and / or flow to support the pumping capacity of the pumping unit. This further enhances the advantages described above, especially when the vortex turbine is located in the area of ​​the deflections.

[0025] Advantageously, at least one closable opening for access to the pressure chamber is provided in the side walls of the brewing tank, preferably in the area of ​​the inlet on external transport sections. For example, lockable doors, flaps, or the like may be provided, which, in addition to access to the brewing tank from above, allow access to the brewing tank or directly to the pressure chamber via the bottom wall. Such a cleaning flap is particularly preferably located in the inlet area.

[0026] Advantageously, the brewing tank is equipped with at least one drain valve. The drain valve(s) are preferably located in the inlet area. However, the number and positioning of the drain valves can vary.

[0027] Advantageously, the device is equipped with a control unit for controlling and / or regulating the means for heating the brewing medium. Optionally, a means for determining the fill level of the brewing medium within the brewing tank and / or the drain valve(s) can also be connected to the control unit. Further connections to the control unit and its network integration are also possible.

[0028] The task is also solved by a method with the steps mentioned at the beginning, whereby the brewing medium is sucked from below out of the brewing channel by means of at least one pump device and pumped back into the brewing channel from above on both sides of the entire length of the brewing channel, i.e. in the area of ​​the linear and curved brewing channel sections.

[0029] Preferably, the poultry is transported laterally through the scalding channel, which is bounded by opposing partitions, such that during transport the poultry is oriented with one back side towards a partition and with one breast side towards the opposite partition, whereby a larger volume of scalding medium is returned from above into the scalding channel via the partition facing the back side than via the partition facing the breast side.

[0030] Advantageously, fresh water is supplied from the output area towards the input area to generate a counter-current against the transport direction T of the poultry, so that the poultry is transported against the current of fresh water and contaminated scalding medium collects in the input area and the poultry is transported towards the output area through increasingly clean scalding medium.

[0031] Optionally, the poultry can be fully, partially, or not at all immersed in the scalding medium during transport through the scalding channel. If the poultry is not immersed in the scalding medium at all, the fill level is "low level." If the poultry is fully immersed in the scalding medium (preferably with the exception of the feet / legs), the fill level is "high level." Any fill level between "low level" and "high level" is possible, with the resistance created by the scalding medium against the poultry during transport through the scalding channel decreasing as the fill level drops and being eliminated at "low level."

[0032] It is advisable to clean the brewing medium using a filter system. Cleaning can be carried out during operation of the device and / or during an interruption of operation.

[0033] A preferred further development is characterized by the fact that the brewing medium itself circulates within the brewing tank, namely is drawn from the brewing channel and returned to the brewing channel as a double-sided overflow, and preheated fresh water is pumped into the brewing channel in the dispensing area against the transport direction T under pressure.

[0034] Advantageously, the brewing medium is drawn from the brewing channel in the area of ​​the bottom walls by several pump devices and pumped upwards to both sides of the brewing channel, so that it flows back into the brewing channel from above on both sides, with at least one pump device selectively supplying either one brewing channel section or at least two brewing channel sections.

[0035] The method is particularly preferably carried out with a device according to one or more of claims 1 to 17.

[0036] The advantages arising from the method according to the invention have already been described in detail in connection with the device, so that reference is made to the relevant passages to avoid repetition.

[0037] Further expedient and / or advantageous features and developments of the device, as well as corresponding steps of the method, are described in the dependent claims and the description. Particularly preferred embodiments of the device and the method are explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a device according to the invention in perspective view without a cover, Fig. 2 the device according to Figure 1 in side view, Fig. 3 the device according to Figure 1 Top view, Fig. 4 the device according to Figure 1 In front view with cover in a first sectional view, Fig. 5 the device according to Figure 1 In front view with cover, in a further sectional view Fig. 6 a bottom view of a first embodiment of a pump module of the device according to Figure 3 , Fig. 7 an end module of the device according to Figure 1 with cover in perspective view, Fig. 8 the end module according to Figure 7 without cover, Fig. 9 another embodiment of a pump module in perspective view from oblique front and top, Fig. 10 the pump module according to Figure 9 Front view, Fig. 11, the pump module according to Figure 9 In a perspective view from an oblique front and below, Fig. 12, another embodiment of the pump module in a front view, Fig. 13, the pump module along section BB according to Figure 12 , Fig. 14 a top view of the pump module according to Figure 12 Fig. 15 is an enlarged side view of a pump assembly, Fig. 16 is a sectional view of the pump assembly along section CC according to Figure 15, and Fig. 17 a schematic representation of two connected brewing devices in modular construction in perspective view.

[0038] The device shown in the drawing is used for scalding chickens upside down, which are transported within the scalding tank through a scalding medium. The chickens are positioned such that they are at least partially submerged in the scalding medium, allowing them to be exposed to both the scalding medium in the transport channels and the scalding medium flowing from the ends and top of the channel. Naturally, the level of the scalding medium can also be lower, so that the chickens do not submerge in it at all and are exposed solely to the scalding medium flowing into the scalding channel from above. Alternatively, the level can be higher, so that the chickens are fully submerged, allowing them to be exposed to both the scalding medium in the transport channels and the scalding medium flowing into the scalding channel from above.The invention can also be used in a similar way for turkeys, ducks, geese and other birds and waterfowl.

[0039] The device 10 is designed and configured for scalding slaughtered poultry 11 and comprises an elongated scalding tank 17, enclosed laterally by side walls 12, 13 and end walls 14, 15 and at the bottom by a base wall 16, and open at the top, for receiving and holding a liquid scalding medium 18, as well as a transport means 19 arranged above the scalding tank 17 for transporting the poultry 11 suspended within the scalding tank 17 along a scalding channel 20 formed from an input area E to an output area A, wherein at least two transport sections 21, 22, 23 for the poultry 11 are formed within the scalding tank 17, each from one end of the scalding tank 17 to the opposite end of the scalding tank 17, and the transport sections 21 to 23 are connected by means of curved connecting sections 24, 25 to are connected by a 180-degree deflection,wherein each transport section 21 to 23 and each connecting section 24, 25 is bounded by two partition walls 26, 27 spaced apart from each other transversely to the transport direction and a bottom wall 28 to form upwardly open linear brewing channel sections and upwardly open curved brewing channel sections, wherein partition walls 26, 27 of adjacent brewing channel sections as well as partition walls 26, 27 that are adjacent to outer walls of the brewing tank are spaced apart from each other to form a free space 29 for the brewing medium 18, wherein means 30 for supplying and / or heating the brewing medium 18 are assigned to at least the free spaces 29 of adjacent brewing channel sections, and wherein below at least parts of the brewing channel 20, namely at least between the bottom walls 28 of the linear brewing channel sections and the bottom wall 16 of the brewing tank 17, a receiving space 31 for brewing medium is provided. 18 is formed, which together with the free spaces 29 forms a common chamber 32,which is assigned at least one vortex body 33 for generating vortex and / or flow of the brewing medium 18 in the brewing tank 17.

[0040] According to the invention, this device 10 is characterized in that the receiving space 31 extends below the entire brewing channel 20, i.e. between the bottom walls 28 of the linear and curved brewing channel sections on the one hand and the bottom wall 16 of the brewing tank 17 on the other hand, wherein at least one pump device 34 is arranged in the receiving space 31, which thereby extends into the area of ​​the curved brewing channel sections, as a turbulence body 33 for forming a pressure chamber 35 acting along the entire brewing channel 20.

[0041] The features and further developments described below represent preferred embodiments, both individually and in combination. It is expressly pointed out that features summarized in the claims and / or the description and / or the drawing, or described in a common embodiment, can also functionally and independently further develop the device 10 described above.

[0042] The brewing tank 17 is a trough-like body bounded below by the bottom wall 16 and laterally / externally by the side walls 12, 13 and the end walls 14, 15. The brewing tank 17 extends longitudinally in the transport direction T of the transport means 19. The end walls 14, 15, which are significantly shorter than the side walls 12, 13, define the brewing tank 17 to form the receiving volume for the brewing medium 18, allowing it to be received, retained, and stored. The brewing medium 18 can be water or another fluid, for example, water enriched with at least one additive or the like. The bottom wall 16 can be horizontal and flat, V-shaped, or otherwise shaped. The brewing tank 17 can be a single piece or modular / segmented and, in the illustrated embodiment, preferably has a total length of approximately 8–10 m. However, the dimensions of the brewing tank 17 can vary.

[0043] In the device 10 shown in the drawing, three parallel transport sections 21 to 23 are formed in the scalding tank 17, which are at least partially separated from each other along their longitudinal extent by partitions 26, 27. The input area E and the output area A are arranged on opposite sides of the scalding tank 17. Particularly with an even number of transport sections 21 to 23, the input area E and the output area A can also be arranged on the same side of the scalding tank 17. In the preferred embodiment, the transport means 19 is an overhead conveyor, on which the poultry 11 is conveyed along the transport sections 21 to 23, suspended by its feet in shackles 36. The overhead conveyor, orThe conveyor rail is guided in a meandering shape parallel to the bottom wall 16 of the scalding tank 17, such that the conveyor rail is deflected by 180 degrees at the end walls 14, 15 of the scalding tank 17 to allow the poultry 11 to move from one transport section 21 or 22 to the other transport section 22 or 23. In the input area E and the output area A, the conveyor rail is adapted to run perpendicular to the bottom wall 16 in order to lift the poultry 11 over the free edges of the end walls 14, 15 of the scalding tank 17 and to lower the poultry 11 into the scalding channel 20 within the scalding tank 17, and vice versa. The scalding tank 17 may optionally have a cover 37 that essentially encloses the transport means 19.To avoid collisions between the transport means 19 and the cover hood 37, an opening is provided in the cover hood 37 in the input area E and in the output area A, through which the conveyor rail can enter and exit the brewing tank 17.

[0044] The means 30 for supplying and / or heating the brewing medium 18 can optionally supply steam or hot water to the brewing tank 17. However, the primary function of the means 30 is to heat the brewing medium 18, which flows vertically upwards in the free spaces 29 towards the free edges of the partitions 26, 27. The means 30 can be a simple heat exchanger. Other heating media or heating elements can also be used. Because the means 30 is arranged in the free spaces 29, shielded from the transport sections 21 to 23 of the brewing channel 20, the poultry 11 is protected from direct heat radiation.

[0045] Along each transport section 21 to 23, at least two pump units 34 are arranged, and each pump unit 34 comprises a pump body 38 with a vertically oriented drive shaft 39 with a rotatably driven impeller 40, as well as a drive 41, wherein at least the impeller 40 is arranged in the region of the bottom wall 28 of the brewing channel section or sections within the brewing tank 17, and the drive 41 is arranged outside the brewing tank 17. In this embodiment, the vertical orientation of the drive shaft 39 means perpendicular to the bottom wall 16 of the brewing tank 17. The impeller 40 can, for example, be designed as an impeller or propeller. A detailed description of the pump unit 34 follows below. Preferably, each pump unit 34 comprises its own drive 41. However, it is also possible for two or more pump units 34 to use a common drive 41.In the illustrated embodiment, the transmission of the drive torque from the drive 41 to the drive shaft 39 is realized via belt drives (see e.g. ). Figure 6 Other common drive concepts can also be used.

[0046] Preferably, each linear brewing channel section is assigned at least one separate pump unit 34. In other words, each transport section 21 to 23 has at least one pump unit 34. In the example according to the Figures 3 to 6Each of the three transport sections 21 to 23 is assigned two pump units 34. Each pump unit 34 acts only on one transport section 21 to 23. This means that the suction and pumping action of each pump unit 34 is essentially limited to a single transport section 21 to 23. For this purpose, the impeller 40 is located centrally below the bottom wall 28 of the brewing channel 20. The number of pump units 34 can vary and may also differ between the individual transport sections 21 to 23. Preferably, however, the pump units 34 of adjacent transport sections 21 to 23 are arranged side by side transversely to the transport direction T.

[0047] In another preferred embodiment (see e.g. Figures 9 to 14At least one common pump unit 34 is assigned to at least two adjacent and parallel brewing channel sections. Each pump unit 34 acts on two transport sections 21, 22 or 22, 23. This means that one pump unit 34 draws brewing medium 18 from two transport sections 21, 22 or 22, 23 and pumps it back through free spaces 29 into two adjacent transport sections 21, 22 or 22, 23 of the brewing channel 20, by arranging the impeller 40 centrally between two transport sections 21, 22 or 22, 23, i.e., essentially centrally below a free space 29 separating the two transport sections 21, 22 or 22, 23. It is also possible for one pump unit 34 to be assigned to three or more transport sections 21 to 23.

[0048] Preferably, at least one row, preferably two rows, of pump units 34 are formed and arranged transversely to the longitudinal extent of the linear brewing channel sections, wherein the maximum distance of the pump units 34 to the curved brewing channel sections is approximately 3.5 m. Regardless of whether a pump unit 34 is assigned to a single transport section 21, 22, 23 or to two or more transport sections 21 to 23, a series arrangement of the pump units 34 to form a pump module 42 is preferred. The drives 41 of the pump units 34 can be arranged on one side or on both sides of the pump module 42. Such a pump module 42, together with intermediate modules 43 with linear brewing channel section sections and end modules 44 with linear brewing channel section sections and curved brewing channel sections, forms a modularly constructed device 10 with the continuous brewing channel 20.Such a device 10, formed from modules 42, 43, 44, can be used as a single brewing device. Optionally, however, two or more such single brewing devices can also be connected to each other to form a brewing line 45 (see e.g. ). Figure 17The number of modules 42 to 44 can be variable and individually adjusted. As described above, the maximum distance between the pump units 34 should be 3.5 m not only to the curved brewing channel sections, i.e., to the curved connecting sections 24, 25, in the deflection area, but also between the individual pump units 34 in the transport direction T, in order to provide sufficient suction and pumping capacity along the entire length of the brewing channel 20 in all areas of the brewing tank 17. This distance can, of course, be reduced. Depending on the pump capacity, a greater distance between the pump units 34 and / or to the curved connecting sections 24, 25 is also possible in principle.

[0049] The partitions 26, 27, which laterally delimit the scalding channel 20 in each transport section 21 to 23 and each connecting section 24, 25, have free edges at the open end of the scalding channel 20. Guide elements 46, 47 are preferably arranged on these edges to direct the scalding medium 18 as it flows over the partitions 26, 27 from both sides into the scalding channel 20. The design of the guide elements 46, 47 is variable. In the embodiment shown, the guide elements 46, 47 are shaped such that the scalding medium 18 flows into the scalding channel 20 substantially transversely to the transport direction T of the poultry 11.In other embodiments, the guide elements 46, 47 can also be shaped and / or oriented differently, for example, such that the overflowing scalding medium 18 is directed essentially in the transport direction T into the scalding channel, particularly at a particularly high transport speed of the poultry 11, in order to additionally push the poultry 11 in the transport direction T through the scalding medium 18 located in the scalding channel 20. The partitions 26, 27 can have the same height starting from the bottom wall 28, which connects the partitions 26, 27. Preferably, adjacent partitions 26, 27 that delimit a section of the scalding channel have different heights, such that a partition 27 facing the back of the poultry 11 is lower than an opposite partition 26 facing the breast of the poultry 11.The different heights of the partitions 26, 27 can be continuous along the entire brewing channel 20, i.e., along the linear transport sections 21 to 23 and the curved connecting sections 24, 25. The height difference can optionally be implemented only in sections. Regarding the magnitude of the height difference, the partition 27 facing the rear can be at least one centimeter, optionally at least two centimeters, and optionally at least three centimeters lower than the partition 26 facing the front. Naturally, the difference can also be greater than three centimeters and less than one centimeter. Furthermore, it is possible to have different height differences between the partitions 26, 27 along the brewing channel 20, for example, one centimeter in the area of ​​the linear transport sections 21 to 23 and three centimeters in the area of ​​the curved connecting sections 24, 25.It is particularly preferred that the height of at least one of the partitions 26, 27 of each brewing channel section be variably adjustable. This can be, for example, a mechanical and / or motor-driven adjustment of the partition 27 facing the rear. Optionally, both partitions 26, 27 can also be height-adjustable.

[0050] The partition walls 26, 27 can extend vertically upwards from the floor wall 28 and be planar. As described above, the partition walls 26, 27 have guide elements 46, 47 at their free edges, which are, for example, an extension of the partition walls 26, 27 (see in particular Figure 10) or are designed separately. Particularly preferably, at least one of the partitions 26, 27 of a scalding channel section has a shape adapted to the contour of the poultry 11, at least partially, on at least one inner side facing the transport path 21 to 23. This does not necessarily describe a representation of the exact body shape of the poultry 11. Rather, the adaptation to the contour refers to a design that directs the scalding medium 18 to the positions of the poultry 11 where it is particularly needed. In an embodiment not shown, for example, only the inner side of the partition 27 facing the back is designed accordingly. Preferably, however, both partitions 26, 27 are designed such that the scalding channel 20 is partially narrowed.For this purpose, the partitions 26, 27 are unevenly formed and, starting from the free edges and initially running perpendicular to the bottom wall 28, have an inward curve that first directs the scalding medium 18 inwards towards the poultry 11 to be scalded, then, at the level of the poultry 11, is aligned perpendicular to the bottom wall 28 to narrow the scalding channel 20, before running outwards again to the original width of the scalding channel 20, finally ending again perpendicular to the bottom wall 28. Other shapes and contours of the partitions 26, 27 are also possible. A shape that is actually adapted to the external geometry of the poultry 11 to be scalded can also be implemented in one or 27 partition, or in both partitions 26, 27.

[0051] The brewing tank 17 can be filled with brewing medium 18 in any way. Optionally, filling using the medium 30 is also possible. Preferably, at least one nozzle assembly (not explicitly shown) is arranged in the outlet area A of the poultry 11 from the brewing tank 17 to introduce the (fresh) brewing medium 18 and to create a countercurrent directed against the transport direction T of the poultry 11, for introducing preferably heated, clean water. At the same time, at least one outlet (not explicitly shown) is provided in the inlet area E of the poultry 11 into the brewing tank 17 for draining the contaminated water. The position of the nozzle assembly and / or each outlet can vary and is not limited to the end walls 14, 15 of the brewing tank 17.Regardless of the nozzle arrangement and the outlet for generating the countercurrent and draining at least some of the supplied water, the brewing tank 17 is equipped with at least one drain valve 48 for draining brewing medium 18 and / or for changing the fill level of the brewing tank 17. The number and positioning of the drain valves 48 can vary. Optionally, a filter device (not explicitly shown) is provided for cleaning the brewing medium 18. This device allows contaminated brewing medium 18 to be removed from the brewing tank 17 and, if necessary, returned after cleaning. The filter device can, for example, be a simple sieve. In other embodiments, it can also include, for example, pumps with corresponding filters.

[0052] The embodiment in which each pump unit 34 is assigned to only one transport section 21 to 23 has already been described above. For this purpose, an impeller 40 of each pump unit 34 is arranged in a region of an opening 49 in the bottom wall 28 of the brewing channel section to establish a flow connection between a brewing channel section and the receiving chamber 31, wherein the impeller 40 is at least partially shielded from the brewing channel section by a hood or cover 50 arranged and designed at a distance from the impeller 40 (see in particular Figures 4 and 5The cover 50 can have various configurations and includes at least one opening 51. The brewing medium 18 located in the brewing channel 20, as well as the brewing medium 18 flowing over the partitions 26, 27 on both sides, are drawn from the brewing channel 20 into the receiving chamber 31 in the area of ​​the bottom wall 28 via the opening 51 and the opening 49, and returned to the brewing channel 20 from above via the free spaces 29, thus ensuring brewing medium circulation. The previously described counterflow of fresh water from the dispensing area A towards the inlet area E can be used in addition to this circulation.

[0053] In the embodiment in which each pump assembly 34 is assigned to at least two transport sections 21 to 23, an impeller 40 of each pump assembly 34 is arranged in a region of an opening 52 in a bottom wall 28 and / or a partition wall 26 or 27 of at least two brewing channel sections to establish a flow connection between at least two adjacent brewing channel sections and the receiving chamber 31, wherein the impeller 40 is completely shielded from the free space 29 formed between adjacent partition walls 26, 27 of adjacent brewing channel sections. In the embodiment, particularly according to the Figures 9 to 11A simple cover 53 is arranged or formed to shield the brewing channel 20 from the free space 29. The brewing medium 18 located in the brewing channel 20, as well as the brewing medium 18 flowing over the partitions 26 and 27 on both sides, are drawn out of the brewing channel 20 into the receiving chamber 31 in the area of ​​the bottom wall 28 and through the partitions 26 and 27 via the opening 52, and returned to the brewing channel 20 from above via the free spaces 29, thus ensuring brewing medium circulation. The previously described counterflow of fresh water from the dispensing area A towards the inlet area E can be used in addition to this circulation.

[0054] Alternatively or preferably in addition to the pump assembly 34 described above, at least one (not explicitly shown) vortex generator is arranged along the brewing channel 20 as a means of generating vortex and / or flow of the brewing medium 18, which can be driven by means of a horizontally oriented drive shaft directed transversely to the transport direction T of the poultry 11. Such a so-called vortex water turbine is arranged in particular in the area of ​​the curved connecting sections 24, 25, but can ultimately be positioned at any position along the brewing channel 20.

[0055] In the area of ​​the side walls 12, 13 of the brewing tank 17, at least one closable opening 54 for access to the pressure chamber 35 is provided, preferably in the area of ​​the inlet area E. The closable opening 54 is, for example, a flap or door. Several of these flaps / doors can be provided along the side walls 12, 13 and, of course, also on the end walls 14, 15.

[0056] The device 10 is associated with a control unit 55 for controlling and / or regulating the means 30 for heating the brewing medium 18. In addition to the means 30, other components, such as the drain valve 48, the nozzle unit, the drives 41 of the pump units 34, potential actuators (e.g., for changing the height of the partition wall 26, 27), and other components, may also be connected to the control unit.

[0057] As described above, the brewing tank 17 can have different levels of the brewing medium, for example, a low level (LL) and a high level (HL). At the low level (LL), there is so little brewing medium 18 in the brewing tank 17 that the poultry 11 is transported freely and downwards by gravity above the surface of the brewing medium 18, which is located in the brewing tank 17, particularly in the receiving chamber 31 below the brewing channel 20. The poultry 11 is then exposed exclusively to the overflowing brewing medium 18, which enters the brewing channel 20 from above on both sides along its entire length. At the high level (HL), the poultry 11 is completely immersed in the brewing medium 18, especially up to its feet, so that its entire body is pulled through the brewing medium 18.Regardless, brewing medium 18 can also flow into the brewing channel 20 from above on both sides. The brewing medium 18 can also be at any height between "low level" LL and "high level" HL, so that the poultry 11 is transported through the brewing channel 20 partially submerged. The suction action of the pump(s) 34 not only draws the brewing medium 18 downwards from the brewing channel 20, but the suction effect also causes the poultry 11 to be "pulled" from its floating, suspended position into a essentially downward-hanging position, thus stabilizing it. The brewing medium 18 flowing from above then encounters the evenly aligned poultry 11, or supports its alignment for an efficient brewing process.

[0058] The device 10 is not limited to 180-degree bends. Naturally, there are also embodiments in which two or more than two transport sections 21 to 23 are connected, for example, by a 90-degree bend. The inventive implementation of the double-sided overflow and the other embodiments for the 180-degree bend also applies accordingly to the 90-degree bend and any other bend. It is also possible that a pump unit 34 is arranged in the curved brewing channel section or each curved section.

[0059] Each pump assembly 34 is arranged for drawing the brewing medium 18 from the brewing channel 20 and pumping it back into the brewing channel 20 via the free spaces 29 in the receiving chamber 31. This ensures that the pump assembly is permanently immersed in the brewing medium 18, which then acts upon the pump body 38. The vertically oriented drive shaft 39 is mounted in a bearing sleeve 56, which extends through and is connected to the bottom wall 16 of the brewing tank 17 via a conical cover 57. The drive shaft 39 is sealed against the bearing sleeve 56 at its exit point by a first seal 58. Optionally, an additional labyrinth seal 59 is provided, extending from the impeller 40 within the bearing sleeve 56 behind the seal 58, protecting the bearing rings 60 and 61 against water ingress.Approximately at the level of the labyrinth seal 59, an opening 62 is provided in the bearing sleeve 56, which directs any water penetrating the bearing sleeve 56 out of the bearing sleeve 56 before it reaches the labyrinth seal 59 and the bearing rings 60, 61. However, other designs regarding the bearing arrangement and / or the fastening of the pump body 38 and the drive shaft 39 are also possible.

[0060] The procedure is explained in more detail below using the drawing as an example.

[0061] The invention relates to a method for scalding slaughtered poultry 11. For this purpose, the poultry 11 is suspended by its feet (the term "by its legs" is synonymous) through a scalding tank 17, which is at least partially filled with liquid scalding medium 18, by means of a transport means 19 in the transport direction T from an input area E to an output area A along a scalding channel 20 comprising linear and curved scalding channel sections. Heated scalding medium 18 is supplied to the scalding tank 20, and / or existing scalding medium 18 is heated by means 30 for heating and / or supplying the scalding medium 18. The scalding medium 18 is swirled within the scalding tank 20 by means of at least one vortex element 33, whereby the scalding medium 18 is directed section by section from above from a receiving chamber 31 below the scalding channel 20 back into the scalding channel 20. The scalding process is carried out by transporting the poultry 11 along the scalding channel 20.

[0062] According to the invention, this method is characterized in that the brewing medium 18 is drawn from below out of the brewing channel 20 by means of at least one pump device 34 and pumped back into the brewing channel 20 from above on both sides along its entire length, i.e., in the area of ​​the linear and curved brewing channel sections. The brewing medium 18 thus flows from above into the brewing channel 20 on both sides along the transport sections 21 to 23 and the connecting sections 24, 25 and comes into uniform contact with the suspended and preferably continuously transported poultry 11. At a "low level" (LL) fill level, the poultry 11 is brewed exclusively by the brewing medium 18 flowing over it on both sides.When the fill level is between "low level" LL and "high level" HL, as well as when the fill level is "high level" HL, brewing takes place in combination by the brewing medium 18 standing in the brewing channel 20 and the brewing medium 18 flowing from above into the brewing channel 20 on both sides along the transport sections 21 to 23 and the connecting sections 24, 25.

[0063] Preferably, the poultry 11 is transported laterally through the scalding channel 20, which is bounded by opposing partitions 26, 27, such that during transport the poultry 11 faces one partition 27 with its back and the other partition 26 with its breast, whereby a larger volume of scalding medium is returned from above into the scalding channel 20 via the partition 27 facing the back than via the partition 26 facing the breast. This option is available for both the linear transport sections 21 to 23 and the curved connecting sections 24, 25.In addition to the internally circulating brewing medium 18, it is also possible to supply fresh water from the output area A towards the input area E to create a counter-current against the transport direction T of the poultry 11. This means the poultry 11 is transported against the flow of fresh water, causing contaminated brewing medium 18 to collect in the input area E, while the poultry 11 is transported towards the output area A through increasingly clean brewing medium 18. The brewing medium 18 can be partially or completely cleaned by a filter system during the brewing process or during a break in operation.

[0064] For internal circulation of the brewing medium 18, it is drawn from the brewing channel 20 and returned to the brewing channel 20 as a bilateral overflow. For this purpose, brewing medium 18 is drawn from the brewing channel 20 in the area of ​​bottom walls 28 by several pump units 34 and pumped upwards on both sides of the brewing channel 20 – through free spaces 29 – so that it flows back into the brewing channel 20 from above on both sides, with at least one pump unit 34 selectively supplying either one brewing channel section or at least two brewing channel sections. To additionally introduce a "true counterflow" into the brewing tank 17, preferably preheated fresh water is pumped into the brewing channel 20 at pressure in the dispensing area A, against the direction of transport T. The fresh water supplied in dispensing area A via a (fresh) water inlet flows downwards towards the lower (dirty) water outlet.

[0065] Finally, there is also the option that the overflowing scalding medium 18, which flows from above over the free edges of the partitions 26, 27 into the scalding channel 20, is not only directed transversely to the transport direction T into the scalding channel 20, but especially also in the transport direction T of the poultry 11. For this purpose, guide elements 46, 47 are shaped and / or arranged accordingly to direct the scalding medium 18 individually and ultimately from all sides or in all directions into the scalding channel 20.

[0066] A preferred setting of the pump assembly 34 with regard to the drive speed of the impellers 40 is approximately 900 rpm when the brewing tank 17 is filled with brewing medium 18 at a level between "low level" LL and a level between "low level" LL and "high level" HL. At a level of "high level" HL, a drive speed of the impellers of approximately 540 rpm is preferred (see in particular...). Figure 10Of course, other drive speeds can also be implemented.

[0067] The method is particularly preferred when carried out with a device according to one or more of claims 1 to 17, as described above.

Claims

1. Apparatus (10), configured and adapted for scalding slaughtered poultry (11), comprising an elongate scalding tank (17), which is closed on all sides by side walls (12, 13) and end walls (14, 15) and at the bottom by a base wall (16) and which is open at the top, for receiving and for holding a liquid scalding medium (18), a transport means (19), arranged above the scalding tank (17), for transporting the poultry (11) in a hanging manner within the scalding tank (17) along a scalding channel (20) formed of a plurality of scalding channel sections from an input region (E) to an output region (A), wherein at least two transport lines (21, 22, 23) for the poultry (11) are formed within the scalding tank (17), each from one end wall of the scalding tank (17) to the opposite end wall of the scalding tank (17), and the transport lines (21, 22, 23) are connected to one another by means of curved connecting lines (24, 25) for 180-degree deflection, wherein each transport line (21 to 23) and each connecting line (24, 25) is delimited by two partition walls (26, 27), which are arranged spaced apart from one another transversely to the transport direction T, and a base wall (28) to form linear scalding channel sections which are open at the top and curved scalding channel sections which are open at the top, wherein partition walls (26, 27) of adjacent scalding channel sections and partition walls (26, 27) that are situated adjacent to outside walls of the scalding tank (17) are arranged spaced apart from one another to form a free space (29) for the scalding medium (18), wherein means (30) for supplying and / or warming the scalding medium (18) are associated at least with the free spaces (29) of adjacent scalding channel sections, and wherein there is formed beneath at least parts of the scalding channel (20), namely at least between the base walls (28) of the linear scalding channel sections and the base wall (16) of the scalding tank (17), a receiving compartment (31) for scalding medium (18) which, together with the free spaces (29), forms a common chamber (32) with which there is associated at least one turbulence-generating body (33) for generating turbulence and / or flow of the scalding medium (18) in the scalding tank (20), characterised in that the receiving compartment (31) extends beneath the entire scalding channel (20), that is to say between the base walls (28) of the linear and of the curved scalding channel sections on the one hand and the base wall (16) of the scalding tank (17) on the other hand, wherein there is arranged in the receiving compartment (31), which as a result extends into the region of the curved scalding channel sections, at least one pump device (34) as a turbulence-generating body (33) for forming a pressure chamber (35) which acts along the entire scalding channel (20).

2. Apparatus (10) according to claim 1, characterised in that at least two pump devices (34) are arranged along each transport line (21 to 23) and each pump device (34) comprises a pump body (38) having a vertically oriented drive shaft (39) with a rotationally driveable turbine (40) and a drive (41), wherein at least the turbine (40) in the region of the base wall (28) of the or each scalding channel section is arranged inside the scalding tank (17) and the drive (41) is arranged outside the scalding tank (17).

3. Apparatus (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that at least one separate pump device (34) is associated with each linear scalding channel section.

4. Apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that at least one common pump device (34) is associated with at least two scalding channel sections running adjacent and parallel to one another.

5. Apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that at least one row, preferably two rows, of pump devices (34) is / are formed and arranged transversely to the longitudinal extent of the linear scalding channel sections, wherein the maximum distance of the pump devices (34) from the curved scalding channel sections is about 3.5 m.

6. Apparatus (10) according to claim 5, characterised in that two or more pump devices (34) of a row form a pump unit (42) which, together with centre units (43) with linear scalding channel section portions and end units (44) with linear scalding channel section portions and curved scalding channel section portions, forms an apparatus (10) of modular construction having the continuous scalding channel (20) throughout.

7. Apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that adjacent partition walls (26, 27) delimiting a scalding channel section have different heights, such that a partition wall (27) facing the dorsal side of the poultry (11) is lower than an opposite partition wall (26) facing the breast side of the poultry (11).

8. Apparatus (10) according to claim 7, characterised in that the partition wall (27) facing the dorsal side is at least one centimetre, optionally also at least two centimetres and further optionally also at least three centimetres lower than the partition wall (26) facing the breast side.

9. Apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the height of at least one of the partition walls (26, 27) of each scalding channel section is configured so as to be variably adjustable.

10. Apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that at least one of the partition walls (26, 27) of a scalding channel section has, at least on an inner side facing the transport line (21 to 23), a shape which is adapted at least in some regions to the contour of the poultry (11).

11. Apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that, in order to form a counterflow oriented contrary to the transport direction of the poultry (11), there is arranged in the output region (A) of the poultry from the scalding tank (17) at least one nozzle device for introducing clean, preferably warmed water, while in the input region (E) of the poultry (11) into the scalding tank (17) there is formed at least one outlet for discharging the contaminated water.

12. Apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 3 and 5 to 11, characterised in that a turbine (40) of each pump device (34) is arranged in a region of a breakthrough (49) of the base wall (28) of the scalding channel section in order to establish a flow connection between a scalding channel section and the receiving compartment (31), wherein the turbine (40) is shielded at least partially with respect to the scalding channel section by a cover (50) which is arranged and formed spaced apart from the turbine (40).

13. Apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 4 to 11, characterised in that a turbine (40) of each pump device (34) is arranged in a region of a breakthrough (52) of a base wall (28) and / or partition wall (26, 27) of at least two scalding channel sections in order to establish a flow connection between at least two adjacent scalding channel sections and the receiving compartment (31), wherein the turbine (40) is shielded completely with respect to the free space (29) formed between adjacent partition walls (26, 27) of adjacent scalding channel sections.

14. Apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 13, characterised in that there is arranged along the scalding channel (20) at least one turbulence-generating body as the means for generating turbulence and / or flow of the scalding medium (18), which turbulence-generating body can be driven in rotation by means of a drive shaft which is oriented horizontally and is oriented transversely to the transport direction T of the poultry (11).

15. Apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 14, characterised in that at least one closable opening (54) for accessing the pressure chamber (35) is formed in the region of the side walls (12, 13) of the scalding tank (17), preferably in the region of the input region (E).

16. Apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 15, characterised in that at least one outlet valve (48) is associated with the scalding tank (17).

17. Apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 16, characterised in that a control device at least for controlling and / or regulating the means (30) for warming the scalding medium (18) is associated with the apparatus (10).

18. Method for scalding slaughtered poultry (11), comprising the steps: - transporting the poultry (11), hanging by the feet, through a scalding tank (17), which is at least partially filled with liquid scalding medium (18), by means of a transport means (19) in a transport direction T from an input region (E) to an output region (A) along a scalding channel (20), wherein the scalding channel (20) comprises linear and curved scalding channel sections, - warming and / or supplying the scalding medium (18) by means of means (30) for warming and / or supplying the scalding medium (18), and - generating turbulence in the scalding medium (18) within the scalding tank (17) by means of at least one turbulence-generating body (33), whereby the scalding medium (18) is guided from a receiving compartment (31) beneath the scalding channel (20) in some regions back into the scalding channel (20) from above, characterised in that the scalding medium (18), by means of at least one pump device (34), is drawn by suction out of the scalding channel (20) from beneath and pumped back into the scalding channel (20) on both sides thereof from above over the entire length of the scalding channel (20), that is to say in the region of the linear and of the curved scalding channel sections.

19. Method according to claim 18, characterised in that the poultry (11) is transported sideways through the scalding channel (20) delimited by mutually opposite partition walls (26, 27), such that the poultry (11), as it is transported, is oriented with a dorsal side facing one partition wall (27) and with a breast side facing the opposite partition wall (26), wherein a larger volume of scalding medium is fed back into the scalding channel (20) from above over the partition wall (27) facing the dorsal side than over the partition wall (26) facing the breast side.

20. Method according to claim 18 or 19, characterised in that fresh water is supplied, starting from the output region (A) in the direction towards the input region (E), in order to generate a counterflow contrary to the transport direction T of the poultry (11), so that the poultry (11) is transported against the flow of the fresh water and contaminated scalding medium (18) collects in the input region (E) and the poultry (11) is transported in the direction towards the output region (A) through increasingly clean scalding medium (18).

21. Method according to one or more of claims 18 to 20, characterised in that, as the poultry (11) is transported through the scalding channel (20), it is immersed in the scalding medium (18) either completely, partially or not at all.

22. Method according to one or more of claims 18 to 21, characterised in that the scalding medium (18) is cleaned by means of a filter device.

23. Method according to one or more of claims 18 to 22, characterised in that the scalding medium (18) itself circulates within the scalding tank (17), namely is drawn by suction out of the scalding channel (20) and fed back into the scalding channel (20) as an overflow on both sides, and prewarmed fresh water is pumped under pressure into the scalding channel (20) in the output region (A) contrary to the transport direction T.

24. Method according to one or more of claims 18 to 23, characterised in that the scalding medium (18), by means of a plurality of pump devices (34), is drawn by suction out of the scalding channel (20) in the region of base walls (28) and pumped upwards on both sides of the scalding channel (20), so that it flows back into the scalding channel (20) from above on both sides, wherein at least one pump device (34) serves either one scalding channel section or at least two scalding channel sections.

25. Method according to one or more of claims 18 to 24, characterised in that it is carried out with an apparatus (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 17.