Rotary distributor for filling device

Abstract

The invention relates, inter alia, to a rotary distributor (10) for a filling device for filling containers. The rotary distributor (10) has a stationary part (12) which has a first filling material path (F1) for guiding a first filling material and a first section of a second filling material path (F2) for guiding a second filling material, separate from the first filling material. The rotary distributor (10) further has a rotatable part (36) which is rotatably connected to the stationary part (12) about an axis of rotation (D) and has a second section of the second filling material path (F2). The rotary distributor (10) further has at least one axial seal (58, 64) which is arranged annularly and coaxially to the axis of rotation (D) and seals a transition between the first section and the second section of the second filling material path (F2).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a rotary distributor for a filling device. The invention further relates to a filling device with the rotary distributor. Technical background

[0002] For filling liquid or pasty products in the food industry, a rotary filling system can be used. For example, the product can be fed from a central inlet to a product tank, which can then supply several filling stations via appropriate lines. From these filling stations, the product can ultimately be filled into the containers to be dispensed. The product can be fed into the product tank via a rotary distributor, which has a stationary part and a rotating part. The rotating part can be connected to the rotating product tank.

[0003] For example, rotary distributors for filling devices are known from DE 10 2020 113 602 A1 and DE 10 2007 041 684 A1.

[0004] DE 10 2020 113 602 A1 discloses a distribution device for feeding a liquid filling product into a product tank in a food filling plant. The distribution device has a product inlet line configured to introduce the filling product into the product tank. The product inlet line comprises several product channels configured such that the flow cross-section of the filling product introduced into the product tank via the product inlet line is variable.

[0005] DE 10 2007 041 684 A1 discloses a distribution device for media, and in particular for beverages, comprising a container suitable for holding the media. The distribution device has a first supply line that supplies a first, liquid medium to the container, and a second supply line that supplies a second, gaseous medium to the container. The first and second supply lines are arranged in a stationary position relative to each other, and the container is rotatably mounted relative to the first and second supply lines. The first and second supply lines terminate in a region of the container that lies above the fill level of the first, liquid medium.

[0006] If the rotary distributor is to have multiple filling paths (product channels) for different products, conventional designs require a comparatively large amount of installation space and complex sealing of each filling path. This complex sealing can also lead to hygiene problems, as residual liquid can remain on the seals.

[0007] The invention is based on the objective of creating an improved rotary distributor for distributing multiple contents. Preferably, the improved rotary distributor should be compact and enable a reliable and space-saving seal. Summary of the invention

[0008] The problem is solved by the features of independent claim 1. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims and the description.

[0009] One aspect concerns a rotary distributor for a filling device used to fill containers. The rotary distributor has a stationary (fixed) part that includes a first filling path for guiding a first filling material and a first section of a second filling path for guiding a second filling material, separate from the first filling material. The rotary distributor also has a rotatable (rotatable) part that is rotatably connected to the stationary part about an axis of rotation and has a second section of the second filling path. The rotary distributor further includes at least one axial seal that is arranged in an annular shape and coaxially with the axis of rotation and seals a transition between the first section and the second section of the second filling path.

[0010] The rotary distributor's use of at least one axial seal allows for a compact design with a comparatively low profile. For example, when multiple axial seals are used, the rotary distributor can be advantageously designed so that the seals are arranged radially inside each other, thus achieving the low profile. This compact design is particularly beneficial compared to a design with multiple radial seals stacked on top of each other. The use of axial seals also allows for fewer sealing elements than radial seals. The compact size and the small number of sealing elements offer further advantages, such as the absence of excessive back space that needs to be condensed during steam sterilization followed by condensation to seal the seals (which, for example, affects...).(Time during which no monitoring for potential leaks can take place). Furthermore, the uppermost sealing elements are only exposed to the steam for a relatively short time during condensation and are therefore not subject to excessive wear from the steam. The following exemplary embodiments, etc., can particularly well exploit these advantages.

[0011] In a first embodiment, the at least one axial seal comprises a (first) axial seal that seals the transition between the first section and the second section of the second material path radially inward from the second material path, preferably toward a material tank of the filling device. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one axial seal can comprise a (second) axial seal that seals the transition between the first section and the second section of the second material path radially outward from the second material path, preferably toward the vicinity of the rotary distributor. Preferably, the first axial seal and the second axial seal are coaxial with each other. For example, the first axial seal is arranged lower than the second axial seal. Preferably, the first axial seal is arranged radially inward from the second axial seal with respect to the axis of rotation.Preferably, the first axial seal and the second axial seal together form a double coaxial seal.

[0012] In a further embodiment, the at least one axial seal comprises a sealing element that is received in the stationary part and a further sealing element that is received in the rotatable part opposite the sealing element and axially sealed to the sealing element. Preferably, the sealing element can be pressed axially against the further sealing element by at least one elastic element (e.g., a spring, e.g., a helical spring), or vice versa. Preferably, the sealing element can be radially supported by at least one O-ring. Preferably, the further sealing element can also be radially supported by at least one O-ring.

[0013] In one embodiment, the sealing element comprises an inner sealing ring, preferably a silicon carbide inner sealing ring, and an outer sealing ring, preferably also made of silicon carbide. Preferably, the inner and outer sealing rings are arranged coaxially with each other. Preferably, the inner and outer sealing rings are movable independently of each other. For example, the inner and outer sealing rings are spaced apart from each other by an annular gap, through which a sterilizing and / or barrier medium can preferably be supplied to the further sealing element.

[0014] In a further embodiment, the additional sealing element has a sealing ring, preferably a single sealing ring, preferably a carbon sealing ring. Preferably, the sealing ring has a sterilizing and / or barrier medium channel (e.g., an axial channel) for draining a sterilizing and / or barrier medium to sterilize and / or barrier the respective axial seal.

[0015] In one embodiment, the stationary part further comprises a cleaning medium path for conveying a cleaning medium. Preferably, the cleaning medium path runs parallel to the first filling material path. More preferably, the cleaning medium path runs within a pipe wall (e.g., of the first filling material line) that delimits the first filling material path.

[0016] In another embodiment, the stationary part also has a sterilization and / or barrier medium path for supplying a sterilization and / or barrier medium to the at least one axial seal for sterilizing and / or barriering the at least one axial seal.

[0017] In one embodiment, the stationary part has a first, preferably central, material line through which the (e.g., complete) first material path runs. Preferably, a central longitudinal axis of the first material line corresponds to the axis of rotation. Preferably, an upper end of the first material line has a connection flange. Optionally, a lower end of the first material line has a diffuser for dispensing the first material into a material tank of the filling device.

[0018] In another embodiment, the stationary part has a second filling line and an annular body with a filling channel, wherein the (e.g. complete) first section of the second filling path runs through the second filling line and the filling channel.

[0019] In one embodiment, an upper end of the second filling line has a connection flange. Alternatively or additionally, a lower end of the second filling line is flanged to an upper surface of the annular body, preferably eccentrically. Alternatively or additionally, the filling channel runs eccentrically through the annular body. Alternatively or additionally, the annular body has at least one recess in which the at least one axial seal is at least partially received. Alternatively or additionally, the annular body has a sterilization and / or barrier medium channel for supplying a sterilization and / or barrier medium to the at least one axial seal for sterilizing and / or barriering the at least one axial seal.

[0020] In another embodiment, the annular body surrounds the first filling line, preferably coaxially to a central longitudinal axis of the first filling line. Alternatively or additionally, the second filling line runs alongside the first filling line.

[0021] In one embodiment, the rotatable part has a housing, preferably sleeve-shaped, with a filling channel, wherein the (e.g. complete) second section of the second filling path runs through the filling channel.

[0022] In another embodiment, the housing's filling channel has several outlet openings arranged (e.g., evenly) around the housing's outer circumference. Alternatively or additionally, the housing has a mounting flange, preferably at the bottom, for rotationally fixed mounting of the housing onto a (e.g., rotatable) filling tank of the filling device. Alternatively or additionally, the housing has at least one annular recess in which the at least one axial seal is at least partially received. Alternatively or additionally, the housing has at least one sterilization and / or barrier medium channel for draining a sterilization and / or barrier medium from the at least one axial seal.

[0023] In one embodiment, the material channel of the annular body opens into the material channel of the housing. Alternatively or additionally, the housing surrounds the annular body. Alternatively or additionally, at least one axial seal seals between the annular body and the housing. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one axial seal is partially integrated into the annular body and partially into the housing.

[0024] Another aspect concerns a filling device (e.g., a rotary filling device) for filling containers with a first and a second material. The filling device has a rotary distributor as disclosed herein. Optionally, the filling device can further have a material tank, preferably central and / or rotatable, into which the first material path leads. Alternatively or additionally, the filling device can have an annular channel, preferably rotatable, which is connected to the second material path for receiving the second material. Advantageously, the same advantages can be achieved with the filling device as have already been explained with reference to the rotary distributor.

[0025] Another aspect concerns a container handling system (e.g., for tempering, manufacturing, cleaning, coating, testing, filling, closing, pasteurizing, labeling, printing, marking, laser marking, and / or packaging containers for liquid or pasty media, preferably beverages, liquid food products, or products from the pharmaceutical or healthcare industries). The container handling system may include the rotary distributor as disclosed herein or the filling device as disclosed herein. The container handling system may, for example, be a beverage filling line.

[0026] For example, the containers can be designed as bottles, cans, canisters, cartons, vials, tubes, etc.

[0027] The previously described preferred embodiments and features of the invention can be combined with one another in any way. Brief description of the characters

[0028] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show: Figure 1 is a side view of a rotary distributor according to an embodiment; and Figure 2 is a sectional view along a line AA in Figure 1 .

[0029] The embodiments shown in the figures are at least partially identical, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and, to avoid repetition, reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures for their explanation. Detailed description of exemplary embodiments

[0030] The Figure 1 and 2 show a rotary distributor 10 for a filling device for filling containers with a first, preferably liquid or pasty, filling material and a second, preferably liquid or pasty, filling material.

[0031] The filling device is preferably designed as a rotary filling device. The filling device can have several container filling stations for the simultaneous or overlapping filling of multiple containers. For example, the container filling stations can be arranged around the circumference of a filling carousel of the rotary filling device.

[0032] The filling device can, for example, be located in a container handling system. The container handling system could, for example, be a beverage bottling plant. The filling device can be located, for instance, downstream of a cleaning device for cleaning the containers and / or upstream of a capping device for capping the containers, relative to the flow of containers.

[0033] The rotary distributor 10 has a stationary (fixed) part 12, a rotatable part 36 and at least one axial seal 58, 64.

[0034] The stationary part 12 has a first filling material path F1 for guiding a first filling material and a first section of a second filling material path F2 for guiding a second filling material, separate from the first filling material path F2. Preferably, the stationary part 12 can further have a cleaning medium path R and / or a sterilizing and / or barrier medium path S.

[0035] Preferably the stationary part 12 has a first filling line 14, a second filling line 26 and an annular body 32 with a filling channel 34.

[0036] The first material path F1 can run through the first material line 14. Preferably, the first material path F1 runs centrally through the first material line 14. Preferably, the first material path F1 runs from an upper end of the first material line 14 to a lower end of the first material line 14. The first material path F1 can preferably extend along a rotation axis D of the rotary distributor 10 or coaxially to the rotation axis D of the rotary distributor 10.

[0037] The first filling line 14 is preferably arranged centrally. A central longitudinal axis of the first filling line 14 preferably corresponds to a rotation axis D of the rotary distributor 10. The first filling line 14 can be vertically oriented. The first filling line 14 preferably extends substantially in a straight line. The first filling line 14 can, for example, be a single piece or multiple pieces.

[0038] The first filling line 14 or the first filling path F1 can be connected to a first filling source (not shown in the figures) for receiving a first filling material, preferably liquid or pasty. The first filling material can be, for example, still or carbonated water.

[0039] For example, the first material line 14 can have a connection flange 16 at its upper end. A pipeline can be connected to the connection flange 16. The first material can preferably be received from the first material source via the connected pipeline. Preferably, the first material path F1 can begin at an inlet opening of the connection flange 16.

[0040] At a lower end, the first filling line 14 or the first filling path F1 can lead into a filling tank 18 (only shown schematically in Figure 2(indicated) the filling device. Preferably, the filling material tank 18 is a central and rotatable filling material tank of the filling device. For example, the filling material tank 18 can be designed as a so-called central tank. From the filling material tank 18, the first filling material can be conveyed to the container filling stations of the filling device.

[0041] For example, a lower end of the first filling line 14 can have a diffuser 20 for dispensing the first filling material into the filling tank 18. The diffuser 20 can have a flow cross-section that widens (e.g., continuously) towards the outlet of the first filling line 14. Preferably, the first filling path F1 can terminate at an outlet opening of the diffuser 20. Preferably, during operation of the filling device, the diffuser 20 is immersed in the first filling material temporarily stored in the filling tank 18. It is possible that instead of the diffuser 20, another line outlet is included, e.g., a line outlet without a change in the flow cross-section.

[0042] Preferably, the stationary part 12 can also include a cleaning medium path R for conveying a cleaning medium. Preferably, a cleaning medium can be supplied via the cleaning medium path R to the filling tank 18 for cleaning the filling tank 18 (and downstream components of the filling device). The cleaning medium path R preferably runs parallel to the first filling path F1.

[0043] Preferably, the cleaning medium path R runs within a pipe wall of the first filling material line 14. This pipe wall can, for example, circumferentially delimit the first filling material path F1. A pipe-in-pipe construction together with the first filling material path F1 is also conceivable.

[0044] For example, cleaning medium can be supplied to the cleaning medium path R via an inlet 22 in the upper section of the first filling line 14. For example, a cleaning medium source (not shown in the figures) can be connected to the inlet 22 for supplying cleaning medium to the inlet 22. The inlet 22 can, for example, be located below the connection flange 16. Preferably, the cleaning medium path R begins at the inlet 22.

[0045] For example, cleaning medium can be discharged from the cleaning medium path R via at least one outlet 24 in the lower section of the first filling line 14. The at least one outlet 24 can, for example, be arranged above the diffuser 20. Preferably, several outlets 24 are included, which are arranged distributed around an outer circumference of the first filling line 14. For example, the at least one outlet 24 can be designed as a nozzle outlet for injecting the cleaning medium into the filling tank 18. Preferably, the cleaning medium path R terminates at the outlet 24.

[0046] The first section of the second material path F2 can run through the second material line 26 and the material channel 34 of the annular body 32. Preferably, the first section of the second material path F2 runs from an upper end of the second material line 26 to a lower side of the annular body 32.

[0047] The second filling line 26 is preferably arranged decentrally. A longitudinal axis of the second filling line 26 can extend at a distance from a rotational axis D of the rotary distributor 10, preferably substantially parallel to it. The second filling line 26 can be arranged next to the first filling line 14. The second filling line 26 and the first filling line 14 can be rigidly connected to each other.

[0048] The second filling line 26 can be vertically oriented. The second filling line 26 preferably extends in a substantially straight line. The second filling line 26 can, for example, be a single piece or multiple pieces.

[0049] The second filling line 26 or the second filling path F2 can be connected to a second filling source (not shown in the figures) for receiving a second filling material, preferably liquid or pasty. The second filling material can differ from the first filling material. The second filling material can be, for example, a syrup, a pasty liquid (e.g., with fruit pieces), milk, or any other liquid that differs from the first filling material.

[0050] For example, the second material line 26 can have a connection flange 28 at its upper end. A pipeline can be connected to the connection flange 28. The second material can preferably be received from the second material source via the connected pipeline. Preferably, the second material path F2, or the first section of the second material path F2, can begin at an inlet opening of the connection flange 28.

[0051] At its lower end, the second material channel 26 can have a further connection flange 30. This further connection flange 30 can be flanged to an upper surface of the annular body 32, e.g., by means of a detachable screw connection. Preferably, the further connection flange 30 is flanged eccentrically to the upper surface of the annular body 32. An outlet opening of the further connection flange 30 can be located opposite an inlet opening of the material channel 34.

[0052] The annular body 32 can surround the first filling line 14. Preferably, the annular body 32 can surround the first filling line 14 coaxially with respect to a central longitudinal axis of the first filling line 14. The annular body 32 can be rigidly connected to the first filling line 14 and the second filling line 26.

[0053] The material channel 34 can run eccentrically through the annular body 32. Preferably, the material channel 34 can be configured as a through-hole through the annular body 32. Preferably, the material channel 34 can extend from a top surface of the annular body 32 to a bottom surface of the annular body 32. An inlet opening of the material channel 34 can be arranged on a top surface of the annular body 32. An outlet opening of the material channel 34 can be arranged on a bottom surface of the annular body 32. It is possible that the outlet opening of the material channel 34 is offset radially outwards relative to the inlet opening of the material channel 34 with respect to the axis of rotation D. Preferably, the first section of the second material path F2 can terminate at the outlet opening of the material channel 34.

[0054] The rotatable part 36 has a second section of the second filling material path F2. Preferably, the second section of the second filling material path F2 can connect directly to the first section of the second filling material path F2.

[0055] The rotatable part 36 (= the part 36 rotatable relative to the stationary part 12) is rotatably connected to the stationary part 12 about an axis of rotation D. For example, the rotatable part 36 can be rotatably connected to the stationary part 12 via a bearing arrangement 38.

[0056] The bearing assembly 38 can be configured in any way to rotatably connect the rotatable part 36 with the stationary part 12. Preferably, the bearing assembly 38 is arranged above the rotatable part 36.

[0057] For example, the bearing assembly 38 can comprise a sleeve 40, a rotary bearing 44, an annular body 46 and / or a disc-shaped body 48.

[0058] The sleeve 40 can be attached to the stationary part 12, e.g., via a disc-shaped body 42. The sleeve 40 and the disc-shaped body 42 can, for example, be screwed together. The disc-shaped body 42 can, for example, be designed as a clamping flange. Preferably, the sleeve 40 can be arranged coaxially with the axis of rotation D. Preferably, the sleeve 40 can surround the first filling line 14.

[0059] The rotary bearing 44 can rotatably connect the sleeve 40 and the annular body 46 about the axis of rotation D. For example, the rotary bearing 44 can be screwed to the sleeve 40. For example, the rotary bearing 44 can be screwed to the annular body 46. Preferably, the rotary bearing 44 can be designed as a crossed roller bearing.

[0060] Preferably, a radial shaft seal can be arranged above the rotary bearing 44. The upper radial shaft seal can seal between the sleeve 40 and the annular body 46.

[0061] The disc-shaped body 48 can be attached to the annular body 46. Accordingly, the disc-shaped body 48 can rotate together with the annular body 46 about the axis of rotation D. Preferably, the disc-shaped body 48 can be attached to the annular body 46 from below. For example, the disc-shaped body 48 can be screwed to the annular body 46. Preferably, the disc-shaped body 48 can be designed as a clamping ring.

[0062] Preferably, a radial shaft seal can be arranged below the rotary bearing 44. The lower radial shaft seal can seal between the sleeve 40 and the disc-shaped body 48.

[0063] The housing 50 can be rotatably mounted about the axis of rotation D via the bearing assembly 38. The housing 50 can be rotatably connected to the stationary part 12 via the bearing assembly 38. Preferably, the housing 50 can be attached to the bearing assembly 38 from below, for example by means of a screw connection. For example, the housing 50 can be attached to a bottom side of the disc-shaped body 48.

[0064] The housing 50 is preferably sleeve-shaped / ring-shaped. For example, the housing 50 can surround the ring-shaped body 32 and / or the first filling line 14. Preferably, the housing 50 has several access openings 52. The access openings 52 can, for example, be arranged distributed around the circumference of the housing 50. The ring-shaped body 32 and / or the further connection flange 30 inside the housing 50 can be accessed via the access openings 52, for example, for assembly or for visual inspection.

[0065] The housing 50 can have a filling channel 54. The second section of the second filling path F2 can run through the filling channel 54.

[0066] The material channel 54 of the housing 50 can have an inlet opening, preferably annular. The annular inlet opening can, for example, extend coaxially to the axis of rotation D. This inlet opening of the material channel 54 can preferably be opposite an outlet opening of the material channel 34 of the annular body 32 of the stationary part 12. The second material can flow from the material channel 34 into the material channel 54. The second section of the second material path F2 can begin at the inlet opening of the material channel 54.

[0067] The material channel 54 of the housing 50 has at least one outlet opening. Preferably, the material channel 54 of the housing 50 has several outlet openings. The outlet openings of the material channel 54 can be offset radially outwards from the inlet opening of the material channel 54 with respect to the axis of rotation D. Preferably, the outlet openings of the material channel 54 are arranged distributed around an outer circumference of the housing 50, preferably at uniform intervals. The second section of the second material path F2 can terminate at the at least one outlet opening of the material channel 54.

[0068] For example, the outlet openings of the filling channel 54 can direct the second filling material towards a rotatable ring channel of the filling device, from which the second filling material can be directed to the container filling stations of the filling device, or otherwise to the container filling stations of the filling device.

[0069] The housing 50 preferably has a mounting flange 56, e.g., annular. The mounting flange 56 is preferably located at a lower end of the housing 50. The housing 50 can be connected to the material tank 18 of the filling device by means of the mounting flange 56. Preferably, an upper portion of the material tank 18 and the mounting flange 56 can be directly attached to one another, for example, by means of a screw connection. Preferably, the mounting flange 56 (and thus the housing 50) and the material tank 18 are connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner. Particularly preferably, the mounting flange 56 can form an uppermost roof portion of the material tank 18.

[0070] The at least one axial seal 58, 64 is annular and arranged coaxially to the axis of rotation D. The at least one axial seal 58, 64 seals a transition between the first section of the second filling material path F2 and the second section of the second filling material path F2. Preferably, the at least one axial seal 58, 64 can seal between the (stationary) annular body 32 and the rotatable housing 50.

[0071] Preferably, a first axial seal 58 and a second axial seal 64 are included. Preferably, the two axial seals 58 and 64 can be arranged coaxially with respect to each other. The first axial seal 58 can, for example, be arranged lower than the second axial seal 64. Preferably, the first axial seal 58 can be arranged radially inside the second axial seal 64 with respect to the axis of rotation D. Together, the two axial seals 58 and 64 can form a double coaxial seal.

[0072] The first axial seal 58 can preferably seal the transition between the first section of the second material path F2 and the second section of the second material path F2 radially inside the second material path F2 (relative to the axis of rotation D). Preferably, the first axial seal 58 can seal the second material path F2 towards the material tank 18.

[0073] Preferably, the first axial seal 58 can have a sealing element 60 and a further sealing element 62. The sealing elements 60, 62 can preferably be designed as sliding rings.

[0074] The sealing element 60 can be received in the stationary part 12. Preferably, the sealing element 60 can be received on an underside of the annular body 32. For example, the sealing element 60 can be received in an annular receptacle, e.g., a groove, of the annular body 32. Preferably, the sealing element 60 can be radially supported in the annular receptacle with respect to the axis of rotation D by at least one O-ring.

[0075] Preferably, the sealing element 60 comprises an inner sealing ring and an outer sealing ring. The inner and outer sealing rings can be arranged coaxially with respect to each other. Preferably, the inner sealing ring is arranged radially inside the outer sealing ring with respect to the axis of rotation D. Preferably, the inner and outer sealing rings can move independently of each other, e.g., rotate. Preferably, the inner and outer sealing rings are spaced apart from each other by a radial gap. The inner and outer sealing rings are preferably each designed as a silicon carbide sealing ring.

[0076] The additional sealing element 62 can be received in the rotatable part 36. The additional sealing element 62 can preferably be received on an inner surface of the housing 50. For example, the additional sealing element 62 can be received in an annular receptacle, e.g., a groove, of the housing 50. Preferably, the additional sealing element 62 can be radially supported in the annular receptacle with respect to the axis of rotation D by at least one O-ring.

[0077] The further sealing element 62 is preferably designed as a single sealing ring. The sealing ring is preferably a carbon sealing ring.

[0078] The additional sealing element 62 is preferably arranged opposite the sealing element 60, e.g., directly below it. The additional sealing element 62 and the sealing element 60 can contact each other axially to seal.

[0079] For example, the sealing element 60, e.g., its inner sealing ring and its outer sealing ring, can be pressed axially against the other sealing element 60 by means of one or more elastic elements, or vice versa (not visible in the figures). The at least one elastic element can, for example, be received in a respective receptacle on a lower side of the annular body 32. The at least one elastic element can, for example, be a spring, e.g., a helical spring. Preferably, several elastic elements are included, which are arranged in a ring-shaped distribution and each press against a top side of the sealing element 60.

[0080] The second axial seal 64 can preferably seal the transition between the first section of the second filling material path F2 and the second section of the second filling material path F2 radially outside of the second filling material path F2 (relative to the axis of rotation D). Preferably, the second axial seal 64 can seal the second filling material path F2 towards the vicinity of the rotary distributor 10.

[0081] Preferably, the second axial seal 64 can be designed like the first axial seal 58. Accordingly, the second axial seal 64 can have a sealing element 66 and a further sealing element 68. The sealing elements 66, 68 can preferably be designed as sliding rings.

[0082] The sealing element 66 can be received in the stationary part 12. Preferably, the sealing element 66 can be received on an underside of the annular body 32. For example, the sealing element 66 can be received in an annular receptacle, e.g., a groove, of the annular body 32. Preferably, the sealing element 66 can be radially supported in the annular receptacle with respect to the axis of rotation D by at least one O-ring.

[0083] Preferably, the sealing element 66 comprises an inner sealing ring and an outer sealing ring. The inner and outer sealing rings can be arranged coaxially with respect to each other. Preferably, the inner sealing ring is arranged radially inside the outer sealing ring with respect to the axis of rotation D. Preferably, the inner and outer sealing rings can move independently of each other, e.g., rotate. Preferably, the inner and outer sealing rings are spaced apart from each other by a radial gap. The inner and outer sealing rings are preferably each designed as a silicon carbide sealing ring.

[0084] The additional sealing element 68 can be received in the rotatable part 36. The additional sealing element 68 can preferably be received on an inner surface of the housing 50. For example, the additional sealing element 68 can be received in an annular receptacle, e.g., a groove, of the housing 50. Preferably, the additional sealing element 68 can be radially supported in the annular receptacle with respect to the axis of rotation D by at least one O-ring.

[0085] Preferably, the sealing element 66 can be arranged higher than the sealing element 60. Preferably, the further sealing element 68 can be arranged higher than the further sealing element 62.

[0086] The further sealing element 68 is preferably designed as a single sealing ring. The sealing ring is preferably a carbon sealing ring.

[0087] The additional sealing element 68 is preferably arranged opposite the sealing element 66, e.g., directly below it. The additional sealing element 68 and the sealing element 66 can contact each other axially to seal against each other.

[0088] For example, the sealing element 66, e.g., its inner and outer sealing rings, can be pressed axially against the further sealing element 68 by means of one or more elastic elements, or vice versa (not visible in the figures). The at least one elastic element can, for example, be received in a respective receptacle on a lower side of the annular body 32. The at least one elastic element can, for example, be a spring, e.g., a helical spring. Preferably, several elastic elements are included, which are arranged in a ring-shaped distribution and each press against a top side of the sealing element 66.

[0089] It is possible that the stationary part 12 further comprises a sterilization and / or barrier medium path S for supplying a sterilization and / or barrier medium to the at least one axial seal 58, 64. The at least one axial seal 58, 64 can be sterilized by means of the sterilization medium. For example, (water) steam can be used as the sterilization medium. The at least one axial seal 58, 64 can be sealed by means of the barrier medium. Liquid water, for example, can be used as the barrier medium. The liquid water can, for example, condense from the steam used as the sterilization medium in path S.

[0090] For example, the stationary part 12 can have an additional line (sterilizing and / or barrier medium line) 70. The annular body 32 can have an additional channel (sterilizing and / or barrier medium channel) 72. The path S can run through the additional line 70 and the additional channel 72.

[0091] The additional line 70 can run alongside the first filling line 14. For example, the additional line 70 can be located on the opposite side of the first filling line 14 from the second filling line 26. For example, the additional line 70 can run between the sleeve 40 and the first filling line 14.

[0092] Preferably, a pipe system can be connected to the further line 70, through which the sterilizing and / or sealing medium can be supplied to an inlet opening of the further line 70. The pipe system can, for example, be connected to a steam source.

[0093] The further channel 72 can run eccentrically through the annular body 32. Preferably, the further channel 72 can be arranged on the side of the annular body 32 opposite the filling channel 34 (with respect to the axis of rotation D). Preferably, the further channel 72 can extend from a top side of the annular body 32 to a bottom side of the annular body 32.

[0094] Preferably, an inlet opening of the further channel 72 can be arranged on an upper surface of the annular body 32. The further line 70 can be connected to this inlet opening.

[0095] Preferably, a first outlet opening of the further channel 72 can be arranged in the receptacle for the sealing element 60 of the first axial seal 58. A second outlet opening of the further channel 72 can preferably be arranged in the receptacle for the sealing element 66 of the second axial seal 64. It is possible that the first outlet opening of the further channel 72 is offset radially inwards relative to the first outlet opening of the further channel 72 with respect to the axis of rotation D.

[0096] For the purpose of draining the sterilizing and / or barrier medium, the sealing elements 62, 68 can each have one (e.g. axial) channel 74, 76, and the housing 50 can have two further channels 78, 80 (only schematically shown in the figure). Figure 2(indicated by the dotted lines). The further channels 78, 80 can extend from an inlet opening in a respective receptacle for the respective sealing element 62, 68 to a respective outlet opening in the outer circumferential surface of the housing 50. A line can be connected to the outlet openings, in which, for example, a valve and a temperature sensor are arranged.

[0097] For operation, the axial seals 58, 64 of the rotary distributor 10 can preferably be sterilized first. Steam can be supplied to the axial seals 58, 64 via path S. The steam can, for example, flow through the respective annular gap between the inner and outer sealing rings of the sealing element 60 or 66 and reach the sealing elements 62, 68. The steam can be discharged through the channels 74-80. As soon as, for example, a temperature sensor located downstream of the channels 74-80 indicates that a predetermined temperature limit has been exceeded for a predetermined period of time, a valve downstream of the channels 74-80 can be closed, preferably automatically (= sterilization complete). The steam can then no longer be discharged and condenses in the channels 74-80 and path S.The liquid level rises in channels 74 - 80 and beyond in path S, so that the axial seals 58, 64 can be blocked by means of the condensed water.

[0098] It is possible that a leak detection system, preferably automatic, upstream of path S includes a temperature sensor positioned below the condensed liquid level. Once the liquid level drops due to a leak, e.g., at the axial seals 58, 64, this can be detected as a temperature change by the temperature sensor. For example, the temperature may then rise because the temperature sensor is again exposed to / surrounded by steam after the liquid level has dropped.

[0099] Alternatively, for example, a leak detection system, preferably automatic, upstream of path S could have two temperature sensors, one positioned below the condensed liquid level and the other above it, still exposed to vapor as the barrier medium. As soon as the liquid level drops due to a leak, e.g., at the axial seals 58, 64, this can be detected as a temperature change by the temperature sensor. For example, the temperature might rise because the temperature sensor is again exposed to vapor after the liquid level drops. The temperature of the lower sensor is compared to the temperature of the upper, vapor-exposed sensor. If the temperature difference between the two sensors approaches a predetermined level, this can be detected as a leak.

[0100] The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, a multitude of variants and modifications are possible, which also make use of the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and the features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are each disclosed independently of one another. In addition, the features of the dependent claims are also disclosed independently of all features of independent claim 1 and, for example, independently of the features relating to the presence and / or configuration of the stationary part, the rotatable part, the first filling path, the second filling path, and / or the at least one axial seal of independent claim 1.All range specifications herein are to be understood as disclosed in such a way that all values ​​falling within the respective range are individually disclosed, e.g., also as preferred narrower outer limits of the respective range. Reference symbol list 10 rotary distributor 60 Sealing element 12 stationary part 62 further sealing element 14 first filling line 64 second axial seal 16 Connection flange 66 Sealing element 18 Filling tank 68 further sealing element 20 Diffuser 70 Sterilization and / or barrier medium line 22 inlet 24 Outlet 72 Sterilization and / or barrier medium channel 26 second filling line 28 Connection flange 74 Sterilization and / or barrier medium channel 30 additional connection flange 32 ring-shaped body 76 Sterilization and / or barrier medium channel 34 Filling channel 36 rotating part 78 Sterilization and / or barrier medium channel 38 Storage facility 40 sleeve 80 Sterilization and / or barrier medium channel 42 disc-shaped body 44 pivot bearing 46 ring-shaped body D axis of rotation 48 disc-shaped body F1 first filling path 50 Housing F2 second filling path 52 Access opening R Cleaning medium path 54 Filling channel 5 Sterilization and / or barrier medium path 56 Mounting flange 58 first axial seal

Claims

1. Rotary distributor (10) for a filling device for filling containers, wherein the rotary distributor (10) comprises: a stationary part (12) having a first filling material path (F1) for guiding a first filling material and a first section of a second filling material path (F2) for guiding a second filling material separately from the first filling material; a rotatable part (36) rotatably connected to the stationary part (12) about an axis of rotation (D) and having a second section of the second filling material path (F2); and at least one axial seal (58, 64) arranged in an annular and coaxial manner to the axis of rotation (D) and sealing a transition between the first section and the second section of the second filling material path (F2).

2. Rotary distributor (10) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one axial seal (58, 64) comprises: a first axial seal (58) that seals the transition between the first section and the second section of the second filling material path (F2) radially inward from the second filling material path (F2), preferably toward a filling material tank (18) of the filling device; and a second axial seal (64) that seals the transition between the first section and the second section of the second filling material path (F2) radially outward from the second filling material path (F2), preferably toward a surrounding area of ​​the rotary distributor (10), wherein preferably at least one of the following is fulfilled: the first axial seal (58) and the second axial seal (64) are coaxial to each other; the first axial seal (58) is arranged lower than the second axial seal (64); the first axial seal (58) is arranged radially inward from the second axial seal (64) with respect to the axis of rotation (D);and the first axial seal (58) and the second axial seal (64) together form a double coaxial seal.; 3. Rotary distributor (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the at least one axial seal (58, 64) each comprises: a sealing element (60, 66) which is received in the stationary part (12); and a further sealing element (62, 68) which is received in the rotatable part (36) opposite the sealing element (60, 66) and is axially sealed to the sealing element (60, 66), wherein preferably at least one of the following is fulfilled: the sealing element (60, 66) is pressed axially against the further sealing element (62, 68) by at least one elastic element or vice versa; the sealing element (60, 66) is radially mounted by at least one O-ring; and the further sealing element (62, 68) is radially mounted by at least one O-ring.

4. Rotary distributor (10) according to claim 3, wherein: the sealing element (60, 66) has an inner sealing ring, preferably a silicon carbide inner sealing ring, and an outer sealing ring, preferably a silicon carbide outer sealing ring, wherein furthermore preferably at least one of the following is fulfilled: the inner sealing ring and the outer sealing ring are arranged coaxially to each other; the inner sealing ring and the outer sealing ring are movable independently of each other; and the inner sealing ring and the outer sealing ring are spaced apart from each other by an annular gap, through which a sterilizing and / or barrier medium can preferably be supplied to the further sealing element (62, 68).

5. Rotary distributor (10) according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein: the further sealing element (62, 68) has a, preferably single, sealing ring, preferably a carbon sealing ring, wherein preferably: the sealing ring has a sterilizing and / or barrier medium channel (74, 76) for draining a sterilizing and / or barrier medium for sterilizing and / or barriering the respective axial seal (58, 64).

6. Rotary distributor (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the stationary part (12) further comprises a cleaning medium path (R) for guiding a cleaning medium, wherein preferably at least one of the following is fulfilled: the cleaning medium path (R) runs parallel to the first filling material path (F1); and the cleaning medium path (R) runs in a conduit wall that limits the first filling material path (F1).

7. Rotary distributor (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the stationary part (12) further comprises a sterilizing and / or barrier medium path (S) for supplying a sterilizing and / or barrier medium to the at least one axial seal (58, 64) for sterilizing and / or barriering the at least one axial seal (58, 64).

8. Rotary distributor (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the stationary part (12) has a first, preferably central, filling line (14) through which the first filling path (F1) runs, wherein preferably at least one of the following is fulfilled: a central longitudinal axis of the first filling line (14) corresponds to the axis of rotation (D); an upper end of the first filling line (14) has a connection flange (16); and a lower end of the first filling line (14) has a diffuser (20) for dispensing the first filling material into a filling tank (18) of the filling device.

9. Rotary distributor (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the stationary part (12) has a second filling line (26) and an annular body (32) with a filling channel (34), wherein the first section of the second filling path (F2) runs through the second filling line (26) and the filling channel (34).

10. Rotary distributor (10) according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: an upper end of the second filling line (26) has a connection flange (28); a lower end of the second filling line (26) is flanged to a top surface of the annular body (32), preferably eccentrically; the filling channel (34) runs eccentrically through the annular body (32); the annular body (32) has at least one recess in which the at least one axial seal (58, 64) is at least partially received, and the annular body (32) has a sterilizing and / or barrier medium channel (72) for supplying a sterilizing and / or barrier medium to the at least one axial seal (58, 64) for sterilizing and / or barriering the at least one axial seal (58, 64).

11. Rotary distributor (10) according to claim 9 or 10 and according to claim 8, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the annular body (32) surrounds the first filling line (14), preferably coaxial to a central longitudinal axis of the first filling line (14); and the second filling line (26) runs alongside the first filling line (14).

12. Rotary distributor (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the rotatable part (36) has a housing (50), preferably sleeve-shaped, with a filling channel (54), wherein the second section of the second filling path (F2) runs through the filling channel (54).

13. Rotary distributor (10) according to claim 12, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the filling material channel (54) has several outlet openings distributed around an outer circumference of the housing (50); the housing (50) has a, preferably lower, mounting flange (56) for rotationally fixed mounting of the housing (50) onto a filling material tank (18) of the filling device; the housing (50) has at least one annular recess in which the at least one axial seal (58, 64) is at least partially received; and the housing (50) has at least one sterilizing and / or barrier medium channel (78, 80) for draining a sterilizing and / or barrier medium from the at least one axial seal (58, 64).

14. Rotary distributor (10) according to claim 12 or 13 and according to one of claims 9 to 11, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the filling channel (34) of the annular body (32) opens into the filling channel (54) of the housing (50); the housing (50) surrounds the annular body (32); the at least one axial seal (58, 64) seals between the annular body (32) and the housing (50); and the at least one axial seal (58, 64) is each partially received in the annular body (32) and partially in the housing (50).

15. Filling device for filling containers with a first filling material and a second filling material, wherein the filling device comprises: a rotary distributor (10) according to one of the preceding claims, and optionally at least one of: a filling material tank (18), preferably central and / or rotatable, into which the first filling material path (F1) opens; and a ring channel, preferably rotatable, which is connected to the second filling material path (F2) for receiving the second filling material (F2).

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