Container treatment device for treating containers

Abstract

The invention relates to a container treatment device (1) for treating containers (2), at least comprising a filling device (100) and a closing device (200), further comprising a first hygiene chamber region (5.1) for receiving at least the discharge openings of the filling elements and the containers (2) to be filled, and a second hygiene chamber region (5.2) for receiving at least the closing heads of the closing elements and the containers (2) to be closed, wherein the first and second hygiene chamber regions (5.1, 5.2) form a hygiene chamber (5) which is continuous in terms of flow and / or pressure, wherein at least one pressure equalization system (10) is provided which connects the gas chamber (9.2) of the filling material vessel (9) to the hygiene chamber (5), by means of which pressure equalization system (10) is achieved between the hygiene chamber (5) and the gas chamber (9.2) of the filling material vessel (9), and wherein the pressure compensation system (10) is connected to a cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent supply (11, 12) and is designed for cleaning and / or sterilizing the interior of the filling material vessel (9) and at least part of the hygiene space (5).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a container treatment device for treating containers and to a method for operating such a container treatment device.

[0002] Container treatment devices for treating containers often include a filling device, also referred to as a filling machine. Among other things, filling devices designed as constant-pressure or pressureless filling systems are also known in the prior art. In these filling devices, the filling speed at the respective filling element (filling point) results from the static height difference between the product outlet at the filling element, i.e., the discharge opening there, and the filling material level in the filling material vessel (storage container), reduced by pressure losses that occur in the liquid filling material as it flows through the connecting paths between the filling material vessel and the filling element.

[0003] Level fluctuations in the liquid product level in the product vessel, and especially pressure fluctuations in the gas chamber of the product vessel, lead to significant changes in the filling rate at the respective filling element. The consequences include increased and undesirable foam formation due to excessively high filling rates, negative effects on the accuracy of the filling level and / or volume measurements, etc.

[0004] While it is known to supply the respective tank with liquid during filling operations using a level-controlled or level-regulated system, this does not rule out changes, especially sudden changes, in the level of the liquid in the tank. This is especially true if the filling operation is interrupted or the corresponding filling device is "emptied."

[0005] In order to exclude the influence of pressure fluctuations on the filling speed, it is possible to connect the gas space of the filling material vessel to the atmosphere via a cross-section as large as possible, so that in the event of sudden changes in level, there is no compression or expansion of the gas volume in the gas space above the liquid filling material and thus no changes, and in particular no sudden changes, in the filling speed can occur.

[0006] It is particularly important that the pressure of the gas volume in the gas space above the liquid filling material of the filling material vessel corresponds as closely as possible to the pressure of the gas surrounding the discharge opening of the filling material, since this procedure avoids further negative influences on the filling speed.

[0007] For this purpose, EP2307304A1 discloses a constant-pressure or pressureless filling machine of a rotating design for the sterile filling of bottles or similar containers with a liquid filling material. This machine has a pressure equalization connection connecting the gas chamber of the filling material vessel to the sterile chamber. The sterile chamber is simply an annular space surrounding the vertical machine axis, in which all filling elements, at least with their discharge openings, are arranged together. In other words, the sterile chamber is limited to the filling machine.

[0008] The pressure equalization connection between the gas chamber of the product vessel and the sterile chamber of the filling machine is open during filling operations, ensuring constant equal pressure between the product vessel and the sterile chamber of the filling machine, thus eliminating the influence of pressure fluctuations in the gas chamber of the product vessel on the filling rate. The pressure equalization connection is designed to be closable at its junction with the sterile chamber and / or gas chamber to prevent cleaning and / or sterilization media from penetrating the gas chamber of the product vessel and the sterile chamber from the pressure equalization connection.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a container treatment device for treating containers which, with reduced design effort, enables effective pressure equalization between the hygiene space and the gas space of the filling material vessel during a filling operation of the filling device.

[0010] This object is achieved by a container treatment device for treating containers according to the features of independent patent claim 1. A method for operating such a container treatment device is the subject of independent patent claim 14. The dependent patent claims relate to preferred or advantageous developments of the invention.

[0011] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a container treatment device for treating containers. The containers can preferably be cans and / or bottles made of metal, glass, and / or plastic. Particularly advantageously, the containers are plastic containers, in particular PET bottles.

[0012] The container treatment device according to the invention comprises at least one rotating filling device for hygienically and / or sterilely filling the containers with a liquid filling material. The filling device is equipped with a rotor that can be driven to rotate around a vertical machine axis, and with a plurality of filling elements provided on the rotor, each with a discharge opening for discharging the liquid filling material into the respective container.

[0013] Furthermore, the filling device has a filling material vessel which is connected to each filling element via a product line and forms a filling material chamber serving to receive the liquid filling material and, above this, a gas chamber which can be supplied with a sterile gaseous and / or vaporous medium.

[0014] The container treatment device further comprises a closing device with a plurality of closing elements, each with a closing head for hygienically and / or sterilely closing the containers. The closing device is preferably a rotary closing device or a rotating closing device for closing the containers. More specifically, the closing device can have a plurality of closing stations arranged on the circumference of a carousel that can be driven by a motor to rotate around a vertical center axis of the closing device, for closing the containers with a container closure, in particular a screw closure.The carousel can be arranged in a rotating manner on a stationary central column extending along the vertical machine axis. The closing stations rotating around the central column each have at least one closing element that can be lowered and lifted, each with a closing head for hygienic and / or sterile closing of the containers, as well as a container carrier provided below the respective closing element, which is provided for holding a respective container in an upright or suspended position on the central column. The container carrier can also be designed to be lowered and lifted. In particular, the closing device is designed for the hygienic and / or sterile closing of PET containers with a twist lock.

[0015] The container treatment device therefore further comprises a first hygiene chamber for accommodating at least the discharge openings of the filling elements and the containers to be filled, and a second hygiene chamber for accommodating at least the closing heads of the closing elements and the containers to be closed, wherein the first and second hygiene chambers form a continuous hygiene chamber in terms of flow and / or pressure. For example, the first and second hygiene chambers can form a continuous, single hygiene chamber. Alternatively, the first and second hygiene chambers can each form a separate chamber separated from the external environment by an enclosure or wall, which is connected to one another, for example via locks, such that the continuous hygiene chamber in terms of flow and / or pressure is formed.In particular, the first and / or second hygiene room area can form a hygienic and / or sterile, in particular aseptic, isolator or room, for example by means of wall elements or enclosure elements, which is preferably hermetically sealed off from the external environment.

[0016] In addition, at least one pressure equalization system is provided connecting the gas space of the filling material vessel to the hygiene space, by means of which pressure equalization can be established between the hygiene space and the gas space of the filling material vessel during a filling operation of the filling device.

[0017] In the context of the present invention, "pressure equalization" does not necessarily mean that the gas chamber of the product vessel and the hygiene chamber are at exactly the same or identical pressure. Rather, the pressure in the gas chamber and the pressure in the hygiene chamber may differ slightly due to friction losses, for example, in the lines of the pressure equalization system. In the context of the present invention, "pressure equalization" is understood in particular to mean that pressure changes in the gas chamber are also transmitted to the hygiene chamber—and vice versa. The transmission of the pressure change preferably occurs via the pressure equalization system.

[0018] According to the invention, the pressure equalization system is connected to a cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent supply and is designed for cleaning and / or sterilizing the interior of the filling material vessel and at least part of the hygiene room.

[0019] The filling device is particularly advantageously designed as a constant-pressure filling device or a pressureless filling device. The containers can thus be filled using a constant-pressure filling device, in which the filling speed results from the static height difference between the discharge opening of the respective filling element and the level of the liquid or filling material in the filling material vessel, reduced by pressure losses or cleaning losses that arise when flowing through, for example, the product lines, a possibly provided flow meter, or liquid channels within the filling elements. The pressure equalization system ensures constant constant pressure between the filling material vessel and the hygiene chamber, at least during the filling operation of the filling device.

[0020] The inventors of the present invention have recognized that in solutions known from the prior art (cf. EP2307304 A1) for cleaning the filling vessel and at least part of the hygiene chamber, a separate cleaning system with several pipes for cleaning and / or sterilization is necessary, which entails a great deal of design effort, since the filling machine requires two separate pipe systems, namely the pressure equalization connection and the cleaning system.

[0021] The invention provides a container treatment device that does not require a separate cleaning system and thus does not require the associated installation and space requirements of an additional piping system. The inventors recognized that the pressure equalization system is also suitable for cleaning and / or sterilizing the interior of the filling material vessel and at least part of the hygiene chamber. Because the container treatment device according to the invention has both a filling device with a first hygiene chamber area and a closing device with a second hygiene chamber area, and because these hygiene chamber areas form a continuous hygiene chamber in terms of flow and / or pressure, a particularly versatile pressure equalization in different hygiene chamber areas can be established or distributed during filling operation of the filling device.can be switched – not only into a hygienic space area of ​​the filling device, but also into a second hygienic space area of ​​the closing device. This enables particularly versatile and needs-based switching of a wide variety of flow connections of the pressure equalization system during filling operations. Ultimately, this particularly effectively prevents pressure fluctuations in the gas space of the product vessel, which lead to significant changes in the filling rate. The arrangement of the hygienic space areas also enables efficient use of the available space and minimizes the installation and space requirements for additional piping systems. The container treatment device thus offers a reliable, hygienic, and efficient solution for filling and closing containers in various industrial applications in the beverage industry.

[0022] According to an advantageous embodiment, the pressure equalization system can be provided with a switchable line system that fluidically connects the gas space of the product vessel with the hygiene chamber. A switchable line system enables flexible control and monitoring of the pressure equalization between the gas space of the product vessel and the hygiene chamber. This allows pressure equalization to be activated, deactivated, or continuously adjusted as required. The ability to switch the line system allows the operating conditions of the container treatment device to be further optimized. For example, pressure equalization can be activated during filling operations to ensure a consistent filling rate and deactivated during and / or after cleaning and / or sterilization. The switchable line system thus enables the container treatment device to be adapted to different operating conditions.For example, the piping system can be controlled or actuated differently during filling, closing, or cleaning. The piping system can be modular, i.e., multi-part, to enable easy installation, maintenance, and expansion. In particular, the piping system can comprise several fluidically tightly connectable lines, particularly metal pipes, preferably stainless steel. The implementation of a switchable piping system offers an effective way to control the pressure equalization between the product vessel and the hygiene chamber and to optimize the operating conditions of the container treatment device.

[0023] According to an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that at least one controllable and / or regulatable valve device for switching the line system is provided in the pressure equalization system designed as a line system. The controllable and / or regulatable valve device enables precise control and / or regulation of the pressure equalization system. As a result, the operating conditions of the container treatment device can be precisely adapted to the requirements, preferably even during ongoing operation of the container treatment device. The at least one valve device can be a pneumatically, hydraulically, or electrically controlled and / or regulated valve device. In addition, the line system can be designed with at least one sensor device and an automatic control system that monitors the pressure in the gas space and the hygiene space and adjusts it accordingly.The at least one valve device can be coupled to a control system that continuously monitors the pressure and controls the valve devices according to a setpoint control. This ensures that pressure compensation is continuously optimized.

[0024] According to an advantageous embodiment, the container treatment device is characterized by a control device that is connected to the at least one valve device and is further configured to switch the valve device such that, during a cleaning operation of the container treatment device, a cleaning and / or sterilizing agent can be introduced into the product vessel and into the hygiene chamber via the pressure equalization system. The automated control optimizes the cleaning and sterilization process, reducing time and effort. Employees do not need to intervene manually to add cleaning and sterilizing agents or to monitor the process. The automated control also ensures consistent cleaning results, since, for example, the amount and / or time of addition of cleaning and sterilizing agents can be precisely controlled. This contributes to quality assurance.Automated cleaning and sterilization ultimately contributes to improving hygiene and product safety by removing potential sources of contamination and killing bacteria or germs. The control device can be program-controlled and run through predefined cleaning and sterilization cycles, for example, stored in a memory unit. Corresponding setpoints, in particular pressure setpoints, for controlling the valve devices can also be stored in the memory unit. The control device can be connected to sensors to monitor the cleaning progress and adjust the process accordingly. The connection between the sensors and / or the valve devices can be wireless and / or wired.Furthermore, the control device can be operated via interfaces such as touchscreens or software applications or MMI (human-machine interaction) to facilitate the configuration and monitoring of the cleaning and sterilization process. The integration of a control device connected to the valve device enables automated control of the cleaning and sterilization process of the container treatment device via the pressure equalization system, which leads to improved hygiene and safety standards and also forms the pressure equalization system for the interior cleaning and / or sterilization of the product vessel and at least part of the hygiene chamber.

[0025] According to an advantageous embodiment, the pressure equalization system can connect the gas space of the product vessel with the second hygiene space. By connecting the gas space of the product vessel with the second hygiene space, pressure equalization can take place via the closing device, since the second hygiene space opens into the closing device. Since the closing device has a large second hygiene space with a considerable internal volume, connecting the gas space of the product vessel with this hygiene space enables effective pressure equalization. This allows pressure fluctuations during filling operations to be effectively compensated, which increases the stability of the filling process. A stable pressure in the second hygiene space, which extends all the way to the closer, thus effectively contributes to maintaining the sterility of the containers and their contents during closing.This is crucial for the safety and quality of the final product.

[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment, the pressure equalization system can connect the gas chamber of the product vessel with the first hygiene chamber area. Connecting the gas chamber of the product vessel with the first hygiene chamber area can also ensure continuous pressure equalization during the filling process, which also contributes to minimizing pressure fluctuations in the container treatment device and ensuring consistent filling of the containers.

[0027] According to an advantageous embodiment, the pressure equalization system can be equipped with at least one cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening associated with the gas chamber and with at least one cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening leading into the hygiene chamber. By equipping the pressure equalization system with cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet openings for cleaning and sterilizing agents both into the gas chamber and into the hygiene chamber, a uniform distribution of the cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent in the container treatment device can be achieved during the cleaning and sterilization processes.In particular, the cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet openings open into the gas space and the hygiene space, so that the pressure equalization system is fluidically tightly connected to the gas space and the hygiene space via the sterilizing agent outlet openings.

[0028] According to an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening leading into the hygiene chamber is arranged in the second hygiene chamber area. Since the second hygiene chamber area, which is assigned to the closing device, often has a large interior space with a considerable internal volume, the placement of the cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening in this area enables an even distribution of cleaning and sterilizing agents. This allows all relevant components in the second hygiene chamber area to be thoroughly cleaned and sterilized. Since the cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening can be arranged in the area of ​​the large interior space with a considerable internal volume of the closing device, it is easily accessible and can be reached without difficulty during maintenance and cleaning work.This facilitates routine cleaning and maintenance work and helps maintain plant performance.

[0029] According to an advantageous embodiment, the at least one cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening leading into the hygiene room can be designed as a spray nozzle, in particular as a spray ball. By providing a spray ball, the cleaning agent or sterilizing agent can be sprayed evenly in all directions. This ensures uniform distribution across all surfaces in the hygiene room, leading to effective interior cleaning and / or sterilization in the hygiene room.

[0030] According to an advantageous embodiment, the closing device can be arranged downstream of the filling device and / or interlocked with the filling device. By arranging the closing device downstream of the filling device or interlocking it with the filling device, the entire container treatment device can be designed to be particularly space-saving. This is particularly advantageous in environments with limited space, as the two machines, i.e., the closing device and the filling device, can be seamlessly integrated. Advantageously, in this embodiment, the first and second hygiene chamber areas are designed as a common, continuous hygiene chamber, in particular without locks or other intermediate walls.

[0031] According to an advantageous embodiment, the container treatment device is characterized by a sterilization device for sterilizing the containers and a third hygiene chamber for receiving the containers to be sterilized, wherein the sterilization device is arranged upstream of the filling device and / or is interlocked with the filling device, and the third hygiene chamber, together with the first and second hygiene chambers, forms the continuous hygiene chamber in terms of flow and / or pressure. By providing a sterilization device upstream of the filling device, the container treatment device is designed to sterilize the containers before the filling process, thus advantageously minimizing contamination with microorganisms. This ultimately leads to greater product safety and quality, which is particularly important when filling sensitive products such as beverages or food.Placing the sterilization device upstream of the filling device ensures comprehensive sterilization of the containers, including their internal and external surfaces. This ensures that the containers are completely sterile before they come into contact with the liquid contents. Interlocking the sterilization device with the filling device enables a seamless and integrated container handling system. This simplifies material flow and reduces potential sources of contamination that can occur if the sterilization device is operated separately, i.e., not as part of the shared hygiene room. Integrating the sterilization device into the shared hygiene room makes the production process more efficient. Containers do not need to be moved between different machines or parts of the filling line, saving time and reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

[0032] According to an advantageous embodiment, at least one transfer device for transferring the containers from the filling device to the closing device can be provided between the filling device and the closing device, wherein the at least one transfer device is arranged such that the containers can be transferred from the filling device to the closing device within the hygiene chamber. Advantageously, the at least one transfer device can be designed as a transfer star or transfer star. Alternatively or cumulatively, at least one transfer device can be provided which is designed as an endlessly driven conveyor, for example as a conveyor belt or chain conveyor. Since the transfer takes place within the hygiene chamber, the sterility of the containers is maintained throughout the entire transfer from the filling device to the closing device.This minimizes the risk of container contamination from external influences. The placement of the transfer device in the hygiene room ensures that the hygiene room remains continuous throughout the entire process, from filling to closing. This contributes to a consistent sterilization environment and further reduces the risk of cross-contamination. The provision of the transfer device enables seamless container flow or container transfer between the filling device and the closing device. This improves process efficiency, as the containers can be moved continuously through the entire container treatment device without the need for additional handling steps.Placing the transfer device within the hygiene room enables a compact design of the container handling device, as no separate sterilization or cleaning steps are required for container transfer. This contributes to optimizing the available space in the production environment of the container handling device.

[0033] According to an advantageous embodiment, the closing device can be designed to close the containers with screw caps. Screw caps provide a secure seal for the containers, which is particularly important for ensuring the quality and durability of the product. Designing the closing device to close the containers with screw caps allows for a wide variety of containers to be closed efficiently and reliably, regardless of their size or shape.

[0034] According to a further aspect, the present invention relates to a method for operating a container treatment device according to the preceding description, in which, during a filling operation of the filling device, a pressure equalization is established between the hygiene space and the gas space of the filling material vessel via the pressure equalization system, wherein, during a cleaning operation of the container treatment device, the pressure equalization system is used as a cleaning and / or sterilization system for cleaning and / or sterilizing the interior of the filling material vessel and at least part of the hygiene space.

[0035] Particularly advantageously, vaporous H2O2 and / or steam can be used as sterilizing agents. Both substances, vaporous H2O2 and steam, are effective sterilizing agents that can kill a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidative sterilant that decomposes into water and oxygen after application, leaving no residue or harmful byproducts. Steam is also chemically neutral and leaves no residue on the treated surfaces. This makes it particularly suitable for applications where no residue in the container or on the treatment equipment is acceptable.

[0036] Further developments, advantages and possible applications of the invention will also become apparent from the following description of embodiments and from the figures.

[0037] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments and the figures. They show: Fig. 1 shows, by way of example and in a highly schematic manner, an embodiment of a container treatment device according to the invention for treating containers; Fig. 2, likewise by way of example and in a highly schematic manner, shows a further embodiment of a container treatment device according to the invention for treating containers, with a sterilization device for sterilizing the containers, visualized only in block diagram form.

[0038] Where appropriate, identical reference numerals are used in the figures for identical or equivalently functioning elements of the invention. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, only those reference numerals are shown in the individual figures that are necessary or useful for describing the respective figure. Furthermore, the invention is depicted in the figures only as a schematic view to explain its operation. In particular, the representations in the figures serve only to explain the basic principle of the invention.

[0039] The Figure 1 shows, by way of example and in a highly simplified manner, a container treatment device 1 for treating containers 2. In particular, the container treatment device 1 is one which is designed in the beverage industry for treating several thousand containers 2 per hour.

[0040] The container treatment device 1 comprises a filling device 100 of a rotating design for the hygienic and / or sterile filling of the containers 2 with a liquid filling material. A rotor 3, which can be driven in rotation about a vertical machine axis MA1, is provided with a plurality of filling elements FE that rotate with the rotor 3, each with a discharge opening 1.1 for discharging the liquid filling material into the respective container 2.

[0041] The filling element FE, which is provided together with a plurality of similar filling elements FE on the circumference of the rotor 3 rotating around the vertical machine axis MA1, is intended for the hygienic and / or sterile filling of containers 2 designed as bottles, in particular PET bottles, with a liquid filling material.

[0042] From the rotor 3 is in the Figure 1only one rotor element with the wall sections 3.1 and 3.2 is shown. This rotor element, which rotates around the machine axis MA1, together with a shielding element 4 provided on the machine frame and not rotating with the rotor 3 and having the wall sections 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3, forms a first hygiene space area 5.1 or annular insulator concentrically enclosing the vertical machine axis MA1 for accommodating at least the discharge openings 1.1 of the filling elements FE and the containers 2 to be filled. In other words, the wall sections 3.1 and 3.2 are provided as housing elements on the rotor 3, while the wall sections 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3 are arranged as housing elements on the machine frame.

[0043] During the filling process, the containers 2 are completely received, or at least with their mouths, in the first hygiene chamber 5.1. After filling, the containers 2 are slid further to a closing device generally indicated by reference numeral 200.

[0044] Each filling element FE in the first hygiene room area 5.1 is assigned a container carrier 6, on which the respective container 2 is held at a mouth flange 2.1 with its bottle opening below the filling element FE or a discharge opening 1.1 formed by the latter. Each filling element FE is connected via a product line 7 with a flow meter 8 to a filling material vessel 9, which is arranged at a height above the filling elements FE or the discharge openings 1.1 and is partially filled with the liquid filling material during filling operation, i.e. up to a predetermined level N, so that during filling operation the interior of the filling material vessel 9 forms a filling material chamber 9.1 occupied by the liquid filling material and a gas chamber 9.2 located above it. The gas chamber 9.2 is pressurized with a gaseous and / or vaporous medium under a defined overpressure.

[0045] The liquid filling material is fed to the filling material vessel 9 in a controlled manner to maintain the level N via a product line (not shown in detail) with, for example, a rotary coupling.

[0046] As already mentioned, the container treatment device 1 comprises the closing device 200 with several closing elements 201, each with a closing head 202 for hygienic and / or sterile closing of the containers 2. The closing device 200 is in the embodiment shown of the Figure 1as a rotary closing device 200 or a closing device 200 of a rotating design for closing the containers 2. In more detail, the closing device 200 has a plurality of closing stations arranged on the circumference of a carousel 203 that can be driven by a motor to rotate around a vertical center axis MA2 of the closing device 200, for closing the containers 2 with a container closure (not shown in detail), in particular a screw closure.

[0047] The carousel 203 can be arranged in a rotating manner on a stationary central column 204 extending along the vertical machine axis MA2, which is also only roughly schematically indicated. The closing stations rotating around the central column 204 each have at least one lowerable and liftable closing element 201, each with a closing head 202 for hygienically and / or sterilely closing the containers 2, as well as a container carrier 205 associated with the respective closing elements 201.

[0048] The respective container carrier 205 can be provided for the upright or suspended mounting of a respective container 2 on the central column 204. The container carrier 205 can also be designed to be movable both upwards and downwards.

[0049] Rotating with the carousel 203, the closing device 200 has at least one wall section 210, which, for example, via a labyrinth seal 300 with further, non-rotating wall sections 211, 212, and 213, forms a second hygiene chamber region 5.2 for accommodating at least the closing heads 202 of the closing elements 201 and the containers 2 to be closed. According to the invention, the first and second hygiene chamber regions 5.1, 5.2 form a continuous hygiene chamber 5 in terms of flow and / or pressure.

[0050] Furthermore, the container treatment device 1 has at least one pressure equalization system 10 connecting the gas space 9.2 of the filling material vessel 9 to the hygiene space 5, by means of which pressure equalization can be established between the hygiene space 5 and the gas space 9.2 of the filling material vessel 9 during a filling operation of the filling device 100. The filling of the containers 2 can thus take place in a constant-pressure filling system in which the filling speed results from the static height difference between the discharge opening 1.1 of the respective filling element FE and the level N of the liquid level of the filling material in the filling material vessel 9, reduced by pressure losses that arise when flowing through, for example, the product lines 7, the flow meters 8 and liquid channels within the filling elements FE.The pressure equalization system 10 can be used to create a constant equal pressure between the filling material vessel 9 and the continuous flow and / or pressure-related hygiene chamber 5.

[0051] Thus, the pressure equalization system 10 of the container treatment device 1 is connected to a cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent supply 11, 12 and is designed for cleaning and / or sterilizing the interior of the filling material vessel 9 and at least part of the hygiene chamber 5.

[0052] In more detail, the pressure equalization system 10 of the container treatment device 1 comprises a switchable line system 17...23 that fluidically connects the gas chamber 9.2 of the product vessel 9 with the hygiene chamber 5. In more detail, the switchable line system 17...23 connects the gas chamber 9.2 of the product vessel 9 with the hygiene chamber 5 in a fluidically tight manner. The line system 17...23 is preferably designed to be modular, i.e., multi-part, to enable easy installation, maintenance, and expansion. In particular, the line system 17...23 comprises several fluidically tightly connectable lines 17...23, in particular pipes made of metal, preferably stainless steel. As also shown in Figure 1As can be seen, at least one controllable and / or regulatable valve device 26...36 for switching the line system 17...23 is provided in the pressure equalization system 10, which is designed as a line system 17...23. Thus, the pressure equalization system 10 can connect the gas space 9.2 of the product vessel 9 with the second hygiene space area 5.2. Alternatively or cumulatively, the pressure equalization system 10 can also connect the gas space 9.2 of the product vessel 9 with the first hygiene space area 5.1.

[0053] The line system 10 comprises a line 17 which, with the switchable interposition of the valve devices 26, 29 and 34, fluidically tightly connects the gas chamber 9.2 to the hygiene chamber 5, in particular the second hygiene chamber area 5.2. The cleaning agent supply 11 and the sterilizing agent supply 12 open into the line 17. The cleaning agent supply 11 can be switchably connected to the line 17 via the valve device 31, and the sterilizing agent supply 12 can be switchably connected to the line 17 via the valve device 32. Furthermore, lines 18, 20, 21, 22 and 23 branch off from the line 17. The line 18 connects the line 17 to the first hygiene chamber area 5.1 via the valve device 27. The line 23 also connects the line 17 to the first hygiene chamber area 5.1 via the valve device 30. From line 18, line 19 branches off again without the interposition of a valve device and also opens into the gas chamber 9.2.Via line 20 branching from line 17, air, in particular sterile air, can be introduced into the pressure equalization system 10 via the valve device 28, while the pressure equalization system 10, in particular via line 18, can also be supplied with sterilizing agent via the valve device 36, thus being designed as a sterilizing agent supply 12. Via line 22 branching from line 17 with the valve device 33, the line 17 is also connected to the second hygiene chamber area 5.2 of the fluidically and / or pressure-continuous hygiene chamber 5, as well as via line 21 branching from line 17 to the valve device 35.

[0054] For removing the cleaning and / or sterilizing agent, the container treatment device 1 has a removal system 40 which removes the cleaning and / or sterilizing agent from the hygiene room 5 via pipes 41.

[0055] Different from the Figure 1 The version shown is in Figure 2 a container treatment device 1 is shown, which has a sterilization device 500 for sterilizing the containers 2 and a third hygiene space area 5.3 for receiving the containers 2 to be sterilized, wherein the sterilization device 500 is preferably again connected upstream of the filling device 100 with respect to the transport direction A. Alternatively, the filling device 100 can also be designed in a block configuration with the sterilization device 500. Thus, the third hygiene space area 5.3 together with the first and second hygiene space areas 5.1, 5.2 form the continuous hygiene space 5 in terms of flow and / or pressure. In particular, for this purpose, the switchable line system has, in addition to the lines of the Figure 1Line 24, which branches off from line 17, thus fluidly connecting the gas chamber 9.2 of the product vessel 9 with the hygiene chamber 5, in particular its third hygiene chamber area 5.3. Line 24 can be designed to be switchable via the valve device 37.

[0056] As also in connection with the Figure 1 As indicated, the container treatment device 1 has a control device SE which is connected to the valve devices 26...37, preferably to all valve devices 26...37, and is further configured to switch the valve devices 26...37 such that, during a cleaning operation of the container treatment device 1, a cleaning and / or sterilizing agent can be introduced into the filling material vessel 9 and into the hygiene chamber 5 via the pressure compensation system 10.

[0057] The pressure equalization system 10 is equipped with at least one cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening 15 assigned to the gas chamber 9.2 and with at least one cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening 16 opening into the hygiene chamber 5. In particular, the at least one cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening 16 opening into the hygiene chamber 5 is arranged in the second hygiene chamber area 5.2—that is, in the hygiene chamber area assigned to the closing device 200. Particularly advantageously, the at least one cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening 16 opening into the hygiene chamber 5 is designed as a spray nozzle, in particular as a spray ball.

[0058] As can also be seen from the figures, the closing device 200 is arranged downstream of the filling device 100, preferably as seen with respect to a transport direction A of the containers 2. Alternatively, the closing device 200 can also be designed to be integral with the filling device 100.

[0059] At least one transfer device 400 for transferring the containers 2 from the filling device 100 to the closing device 200 can also be provided between the filling device 100 and the closing device 200, wherein the at least one transfer device 400 is arranged such that the containers 2 can be transferred from the filling device 100 to the closing device 200 within the hygiene chamber 5. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the transfer device 400 is a transfer star arranged in the second hygiene chamber area 5.2.

[0060] The invention has been described above using exemplary embodiments. It is understood that numerous changes or modifications are possible without departing from the inventive concept underlying the invention. List of reference symbols

[0061] 1Container treatment device 1.1Discharge opening 2Container 3Rotor 3.1Wall section 3.2Wall section 4Shielding element 4.1...4.3Wall section 5Hygienic chamber 5.1, 5.2Hygienic chamber area 6Container support 7Product line 8Flow meter 9Filling material vessel 9.1Filling material chamber 9.2Gas chamber 10Pressure equalization system 11Detergent supply 12Sterilizing agent supply 16Sterilizing agent outlet opening 17...24Line 26...37Valve supply 40Discharge system 41Piping 100Filling device 200Capping device 201Capping element 202Capping head 203Carousel 204Central column 205Container support 210...213Wall section 300Labyrinth seal 400Transfer device 500Sterilization device MA1Machine axis MA2Machine axis FEFilling element SEControl device

Claims

1. Container treatment device (1) for treating containers (2), at least comprising a filling device (100) of a rotating design for the hygienic and / or sterile filling of the containers with a liquid filling material, with a rotor (3) which can be driven to rotate about a vertical machine axis, with a plurality of filling elements (FE) provided on the rotor (3), each with a discharge opening (1.1) for discharging the liquid filling material into the respective container (2), with a filling material vessel (9) which is connected to each filling element (FE) via a product line (7) and which has a filling material chamber (9.1) serving to receive the liquid filling material and, above this, a gas chamber (9.2), further comprising a closing device (200) with a plurality of closing elements, each with a closing head for the hygienic and / or sterile closing of the containers (2), further comprising a first hygiene space area (5.1) for receiving at least the discharge openings of the filling elements and the containers (2) to be filled, and a second hygiene space area (5.2) for receiving at least the closing heads of the closing elements and the containers (2) to be closed, wherein the first and second hygiene space areas (5.1, 5.2) form a hygiene space (5) that is continuous in terms of flow and / or pressure, wherein at least one pressure equalization system (10) is provided that connects the gas space (9.2) of the filling material vessel (9) to the hygiene space (5), by means of which pressure equalization system is achieved between the hygiene space (5) and the gas space (9.2) of the filling material vessel (9), and wherein the pressure compensation system (10) is connected to a cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent supply (11, 12) and is designed for cleaning and / or sterilizing the interior of the filling material vessel (9) and at least part of the hygiene space (5).

2. Container treatment device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure equalization system (10) has a switchable line system (17...24) which fluidically connects the gas space (9.2) of the filling material vessel (9) with the hygiene space (5).

3. Container treatment device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that in the pressure compensation system (10) designed as a line system (17...24), at least one controllable and / or regulatable valve device (26...37) is provided for switching the line system (17...24).

4. Container treatment device (1) according to claim 3, characterized bya control device (SE) which is connected to the at least one valve device (26...37) and is further configured to switch the valve device (26...37) such that, during a cleaning operation of the container treatment device, a cleaning and / or sterilizing agent can be introduced into the filling material vessel (9) and into the hygiene chamber (5) via the pressure compensation system (10).

5. Container treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pressure equalization system (10) connects the gas space (9.2) of the filling material vessel (9) with the second hygiene space area (5.2).

6. Container treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pressure equalization system (10) connects the gas space (9.2) of the filling material vessel (9) with the first hygiene space area (5.1).

7. Container treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatthe pressure equalization system (10) is equipped with at least one cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening (15) assigned to the gas space (9.2) and with at least one cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening (16) opening into the hygiene space (5).

8. Container treatment device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the at least one cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening (16) opening into the hygiene room (5) is arranged in the second hygiene room area (5.2).

9. Container treatment device (1) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the at least one cleaning agent and / or sterilizing agent outlet opening (16) opening into the hygiene space (5) is designed as a spray nozzle, in particular as a spray ball.

10. Container treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatthe closing device (200) is connected downstream of the filling device (100) and / or is blocked with the filling device (100).

11. Container treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a sterilization device (400) for sterilizing the containers (2) and a third hygiene space area (5.3) for receiving the containers (2) to be sterilized, wherein the sterilization device (400) is connected upstream of the filling device (100) and / or is blocked with the filling device (100) and the third hygiene space area (5.3) together with the first and second hygiene space areas (5.1, 5.2) forms the flow- and / or pressure-continuous hygiene space (5).

12. Container treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatat least one transfer device (300) for transferring the containers (2) from the filling device (100) to the closing device (200) is provided between the filling device (100) and the closing device (200), wherein the at least one transfer device (300) is arranged such that the containers (2) can be transferred from the filling device (100) to the closing device (200) within the hygiene space (5).

13. Container treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the closing device (200) is designed to close the containers (2) with screw caps.

14. Method for operating a container treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, in which during a filling operation of the filling device (100) a pressure equalization between the hygiene space (5) and the gas space (9.2) of the filling material vessel (9) is established via the pressure equalization system (10), wherein during a cleaning operation of the container treatment device (1) the pressure equalization system (10) is used as a cleaning and / or sterilization system for cleaning and / or sterilizing the interior of the filling material vessel (9) and at least part of the hygiene space (5).

Images