Sterilization method

Abstract

To provide a sterilization method capable of suppressing a decrease in the sterilization effect of a sterilizing agent. [Solution] A circulating process circulates a sterilant through a circulation line (53) while heating it with a heater (H), and the sterilant heated by the heater (H) is supplied to the filling chamber (42), thereby sterilizing the filling chamber (42).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a sterilization method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, as a system for filling beverages into containers such as bottles, a content filling system has been known that sterilizes the beverage itself and also sterilizes a surge tank, piping, filling nozzle, etc. to make them sterile. In such a content filling system, for example, when switching the type of beverage, CIP (Cleaning in Place) is performed, and further SIP (Sterilization in Place) is performed (e.g., Patent Documents 1 to 3).

[0003] CIP is intended to remove residues from the previous beverage that have adhered to the beverage flow path and tanks, and is carried out by first flushing the beverage flow path with a cleaning solution made of water with an alkaline agent such as caustic soda added, and then flushing the beverage flow path with a cleaning solution made of water with an acidic agent added.

[0004] SIP is a process for sterilizing beverage lines and tanks to make them germ-free, for example by running heated steam or hot water through lines that have been cleaned with CIP.

[0005] In addition, cleaning out of place (COP) and sterilizing out of place (SOP) are also performed for purification inside a filling chamber in which a filling device for filling contents is disposed (for example, Patent Documents 4 to 7).

[0006] Various spray nozzles are placed inside the filling chamber, and when COP and SOP are performed, these nozzles spray disinfectants such as alkaline cleaners, peracetic acid cleaners, and hydrogen peroxide water, as well as sterile water, in succession in the form of a mist or shower into the filling chamber. The inner wall surface of the filling chamber and the surfaces of equipment such as the filling device (filler) are cleaned and sterilized by the mist or shower of disinfectants and sterile water.

[0007] Incidentally, the disinfectant sprayed into the filling chamber may be prepared by adding water to a disinfectant concentrate. However, there is a possibility that bacteria may already be present in the water added to the disinfectant concentrate. In this case, there is a risk that bacteria may remain in the disinfectant. In this way, if bacteria already remain in the disinfectant, there is a possibility that the bacteria remaining in the disinfectant may remain in the filling chamber even when the disinfectant is sprayed into the filling chamber. For this reason, there is a risk that the disinfecting effect of the disinfectant may be reduced, and there is a possibility that the disinfection in the filling chamber may be insufficient. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] JP 2007-331801 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2000-153245 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2007-22600 A [Patent Document 4] Patent No. 3315918 [Patent Document 5] JP 2004-299723 A [Patent Document 6] JP 2010-189034 A [Patent Document 7] JP 2018-135134 A

[0009] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of these points, and aims to provide a sterilization method capable of suppressing a decrease in the sterilization effect of a germicide. DISCLOSURE OF THEINVENTION

[0010] A sterilization method according to one embodiment is a sterilization method in a sterilization system including a circulation line having a heater for heating a sterilant and a main chamber connected to the circulation line, the sterilization method including a circulation step of circulating the sterilant through the circulation line while heating it with the heater, and a sterilization step of sterilizing the main chamber by supplying the sterilant heated by the heater to the main chamber.

[0011] In one embodiment of the sterilization method, the sterilization system further includes a tank connected to the circulation line and storing a sterilant made from water and a sterilant concentrate, a water supply unit supplying the water to the tank, a sterilant concentrate supply unit supplying the sterilant concentrate to the tank, and a supply line provided between the circulation line and the tank, wherein the main chamber is interposed in the supply line and a filling device for filling contents into bottles is disposed in the main chamber, and in the circulation step, the sterilant in the tank is circulated through the circulation line while being heated by the heater, and in the sterilization step, the sterilant heated by the heater is supplied to the main chamber through the supply line.

[0012] The sterilization method according to one embodiment may further comprise a recovery step of returning the sterilant supplied to the main chamber to the tank.

[0013] In one embodiment of the sterilization method, the sterilization system further includes a tank connected to the circulation line for storing a sterilant prepared from water and a sterilant concentrate, a water supply unit for supplying the water to the tank, and a sterilant concentrate supply unit for supplying the sterilant concentrate to the tank, the heater and a sterile chamber are sequentially interposed in the circulation line, the sterile chamber has the main chamber and a sub-chamber provided on at least one of the inlet side and the outlet side of the main chamber, a filling device for filling contents into bottles is disposed in the main chamber, and in the circulation step, the sterilant in the tank is circulated through the circulation line via the sub-chamber while being heated by the heater, and in the sterilization step, the sterilant heated by the heater is supplied to the main chamber through the circulation line.

[0014] The sterilization method according to one embodiment may further comprise a recovery step of returning the sterilant supplied to the main chamber to the tank.

[0015] In a sterilization method according to one embodiment, the sterilization system further comprises a water supply unit which supplies water to the circulation line, and a sterilant concentrate supply unit which supplies a sterilant concentrate to the circulation line, the heater and a sterile chamber are sequentially interposed in the circulation line, the sterilant is prepared from the water and the sterilant concentrate, the sterile chamber has the main chamber and a sub-chamber provided on at least one of the inlet side or the outlet side of the main chamber, a filling device is disposed in the main chamber for filling contents into bottles, and in the circulation step, the sterilant is circulated by the circulation line through the sub-chamber while being heated by the heater, and in the sterilization step, the sterilant heated by the heater is supplied to the main chamber by the circulation line.

[0016] In one embodiment of the sterilization method, when the volume of the main chamber is x1, the volume of the flow path of the sterilant in the circulation line is x2, and the amount of the sterilant circulated through the circulation line in the circulation step is y, 2×(x1+x2)≦y≦100×(x1+x2) The following relationship may be satisfied.

[0017] In one embodiment of the sterilization method, in the sterilization step, a temperature of the sterilizing agent may be 40°C or higher and 90°C or lower.

[0018] In one embodiment of the sterilization method, in the circulation step, a circulation time during which the sterilant is circulated through the circulation line may be 5 minutes or more and 60 minutes or less.

[0019] In one embodiment of the sterilization method, the sterilizing agent may include peracetic acid or hydrogen peroxide.

[0020] In one embodiment of the sterilization method, the sterilizing step may further include heating the sterilizing agent by the heater.

[0021] The sterilization method according to one embodiment may further include a cleaning step of cleaning the main chamber by supplying an alkaline cleaning agent to the main chamber before the sterilization step.

[0022] A sterilization system according to one embodiment includes a circulation line having a heater for heating a sterilant, a main chamber connected to the circulation line, and a control device connected to the circulation line. The control device circulates the sterilant through the circulation line while heating it with the heater, and supplies the sterilant heated by the heater to the main chamber.

[0023] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the bactericidal effect of a bactericide. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A is a schematic plan view showing a content filling system to be sterilized by a sterilization method according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a schematic plan view showing a modified example of a content filling system to be sterilized by the sterilization method according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a sterilization system that performs the sterilization method according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a sterilization method according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a sterilization method according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a sterilization method according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a block diagram showing a modified example of the sterilization method according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a block diagram showing a modified example of the sterilization method according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6C is a block diagram showing a modified example of the sterilization method according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a sterilization system for performing a sterilization method according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a sterilization method according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a sterilization method according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a sterilization method according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a sterilization system that performs a sterilization method according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a sterilization method according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a sterilization method according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a sterilization method according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0025] First embodiment The first embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIGS. 1A to 5 are diagrams showing the first embodiment. Each of the figures shown below is a schematic diagram. Therefore, the size and shape of each part are appropriately exaggerated to facilitate understanding. In addition, it is possible to carry out appropriate modifications within the scope of the technical idea. In each of the figures shown below, the same parts are given the same reference numerals, and some detailed explanations may be omitted. In addition, the numerical values ​​such as the dimensions of each member and the material names described in this specification are examples of the embodiment, and are not limited to these, and can be appropriately selected and used. In this specification, terms that specify shapes and geometric conditions, such as parallel, orthogonal, and vertical, are intended to include substantially the same state in addition to their strict meanings.

[0026] (Contents filling system) First, a content filling system (sterile filling system, aseptic filling system) having a filling chamber (main chamber) that is sterilized by the sterilization method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1A.

[0027] The content filling system 10 shown in FIG. 1A is a system for filling a bottle 30 with a content such as a beverage. The bottle 30 can be produced by biaxially stretching and blow molding a preform produced by injection molding a synthetic resin material. The material of the bottle 30 is preferably a thermoplastic resin, particularly PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), PET (polyethylene terephthalate), or PEN (polyethylene naphthalate). In addition, the container may be glass, a can, paper, a pouch, or a composite container of these. In this embodiment, a case where a synthetic resin bottle is used as the container will be described as an example.

[0028] As shown in Fig. 1A, the content filling system 10 includes a bottle supplying section 21, a bottle sterilizing device 11, an air rinsing device 14, a sterile water rinsing device 15, a filling device (filler) 20, a capping device (capper, seaming and stoppering machine) 16, and a product bottle carrying section 22. The bottle supplying section 21, the bottle sterilizing device 11, the air rinsing device 14, the sterile water rinsing device 15, the filling device 20, the capping device 16, and the product bottle carrying section 22 are arranged in this order from the upstream side to the downstream side along the conveying direction of the bottles 30. In addition, a plurality of conveying wheels 12 are provided between the bottle sterilizing device 11, the air rinsing device 14, the sterile water rinsing device 15, the filling device 20, and the capping device 16 to convey the bottles 30 between these devices.

[0029] The bottle supplying section 21 sequentially receives empty bottles 30 from the outside into the content filling system 10 and transports the received bottles 30 toward the bottle sterilizing device 11.

[0030] The bottle sterilizer 11 is for sterilizing the bottle 30 before the contents are filled therein, and sterilizes the inside of the bottle 30 by spraying a sterilizing agent into the bottle 30. For example, an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution is used as the sterilizing agent. In the bottle sterilizer 11, an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution having a concentration of 1% by weight or more, preferably 35% by weight, is vaporized once, and then condensed to generate mist or gas, which is sprayed onto the inner and outer surfaces of the bottle 30. Since the inside of the bottle 30 is sterilized with the mist or gas of the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in this manner, the inner surface of the bottle 30 is sterilized evenly.

[0031] The air rinse device 14 supplies sterile heated air or room temperature air to the bottle 30 to activate the hydrogen peroxide while removing foreign matter, hydrogen peroxide, and the like from within the bottle 30.

[0032] The sterile water rinsing device 15 rinses the bottles 30, which have been sterilized with hydrogen peroxide as a sterilizing agent, with sterile water at a temperature between 15° C. and 85° C. This washes away the hydrogen peroxide adhering to the bottles 30 and removes foreign matter.

[0033] The filling device 20 fills the bottles 30 from the mouths of the bottles 30 with pre-sterilized contents. In this filling device 20, the contents are filled into the empty bottles 30. In this filling device 20, the contents are filled into the bottles 30 while the multiple bottles 30 are rotated (revolved). The contents may be filled into the bottles 30 at room temperature. The contents are sterilized in advance by heating or the like, and cooled to room temperature of 3° C. or higher and 40° C. or lower before being filled into the bottles 30. Note that examples of the contents filled by the filling device 20 include beverages such as tea-based beverages and milk-based beverages.

[0034] The capping device 16 caps the bottles 30 by attaching caps 33 to the mouths of the bottles 30 filled with the contents by the filling device 20. In the capping device 16, the mouths of the bottles 30 are closed with the caps 33, sealing the bottles 30 so that outside air and microorganisms do not enter the bottles 30. In the capping device 16, the caps 33 are attached to the mouths of multiple bottles 30 filled with the contents while they rotate (revolve). In this manner, the caps 33 are attached to the mouths of the bottles 30, and product bottles 35 are obtained.

[0035] The caps 33 are sterilized in advance by the cap sterilizer 17. The cap sterilizer 17 is disposed, for example, outside the aseptic chamber 40 (described later) and in the vicinity of the cap fitting device 16. In the cap sterilizer 17, the caps 33 brought in from the outside are transported in order toward the cap fitting device 16. On the way to the cap fitting device 16, the caps 33 are sprayed with a mist or gas of hydrogen peroxide toward the inner and outer surfaces of the caps 33, and then dried and sterilized with hot air.

[0036] The product bottle unloading section 22 continuously unloads the product bottles 35 to which the caps 33 have been attached by the capping device 16 toward the outside of the content filling system 10 .

[0037] Such a content filling system 10 includes an aseptic chamber 40. The aseptic chamber 40 includes a sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber), a filling chamber 42 (main chamber), and an outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber). The sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) is provided on the inlet side of the filling chamber 42 (main chamber), and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) is provided on the outlet side of the filling chamber 42 (main chamber). Therefore, the sterilization chamber 41, the filling chamber 42, and the outlet chamber 43 are arranged in this order from the upstream side to the downstream side along the conveying direction of the bottle 30. In addition, the bottle sterilization device 11, the air rinse device 14, and the sterile water rinse device 15 are arranged in the sterilization chamber 41, and the filling device 20 and the capping device 16 are arranged in the filling chamber 42. Furthermore, the product bottle conveying section 22 is arranged in the outlet chamber 43. The sterilization chamber 41, the filling chamber 42 and the exit chamber 43 are provided with spray nozzles 41a, 42a, 43a (see FIG. 2) for spraying a sterilant or the like in a mist or shower form when the content filling system 10 is put into COP and / or SOP. Such a content filling system 10 may be, for example, an aseptic filling system. In this case, the inside of the aseptic chamber 40 is kept in a sterile state.

[0038] Alternatively, the content filling system 10 may be a high-temperature filling system that fills the content at a high temperature of 85° C. or more and less than 100° C. Also, it may be a medium-temperature filling system that fills the content at a medium temperature of 55° C. or more and less than 85° C.

[0039] 1B, a bottle molding section 100 for molding the bottle 30 by biaxially stretching and blow molding the preform 30a may be provided upstream of the bottle sterilizer 11. In this manner, the bottle molding section 100 is configured to receive the preform 30a and mold the bottle 30, so that the contents filling system 10 can continuously perform the steps from supplying the preform 30a through molding the bottle 30, filling the bottle 30 with the contents, and capping. In this case, the small-volume preform 30a can be transported from the outside to the contents filling system 10, instead of the large-volume bottle 30, so that transportation costs can be reduced and the equipment constituting the contents filling system 10 can be made compact.

[0040] In the example shown in FIG. 1B, the bottle molding section 100 sequentially receives preforms 30a from the outside, molds the bottles 30, and conveys the molded bottles 30 to the bottle sterilization device 11 to supply them.

[0041] The bottle molding section 100 has a preform conveying section 101 that conveys the preform 30a, a blow molding section 102 that molds the bottle 30 by blow molding the preform, and a bottle conveying section 103 that conveys the molded bottle 30.

[0042] Of these, the preform transport section 101 includes a receiving section 104 that receives preforms supplied from a preform supplying device 110 via a preform supplying conveyor 111, a heating section 105 that receives the preforms from the receiving section 104 and heats the preforms while transporting them, and a delivery section 106 that receives the preforms heated by the heating section 105 and delivers them to the blow molding section 102. Of these, the receiving section 104 is provided with a preform sterilizing device 104a for sterilizing the preforms 30a. The preform sterilizing device 104a sprays a mist or gas of an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution onto the preforms 30a, sterilizing the preforms 30a (pre-sterilization). The disinfectant for sterilizing the preform 30a may be any disinfectant having the property of inactivating microorganisms. For example, in addition to hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, acetic acid, pernitric acid, nitric acid, chlorine-based chemicals, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, alcohols such as ethyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol, chlorine dioxide, ozone water, acidic water, and surfactants may be used alone or in combination of two or more of these.

[0043] The heating section 105 is provided with a heater 105a for heating the preform 30a. The heater 105a may be, for example, an infrared heater. The heater 105a heats the preform 30a to, for example, about 90°C or higher and 130°C or lower. The temperature of the mouth of the preform 30a is kept at 70°C or lower to prevent deformation, etc.

[0044] The blow molding section 102 includes a metal mold (not shown), and the preform 30a is blow molded using this metal mold to form the bottle 30. The blow molding section 102 is disposed within the molding chamber 120.

[0045] In addition, an adjusting and conveying section 130 is provided between the bottle molding section 100 and the bottle sterilization device 11, which receives the bottles 30 from the bottle conveying section 103 of the bottle molding section 100 and transfers the bottles 30 to the bottle sterilization device 11. This adjusting and conveying section 130 is disposed within the atmosphere blockage chamber 131. By disposing the adjusting and conveying section 130 within the atmosphere blockage chamber 131 in this manner, it is possible to prevent the problem of sterilant gas or mist, or a mixture thereof, generated within the sterilization chamber 41 of the aseptic chamber 40 flowing into the molding section chamber 120 in which the bottle molding section 100 is disposed.

[0046] (Sterilization system) Next, a sterilization system for carrying out the sterilization method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0047] 2, the sterilization system 50 includes a circulation line 53 having a heater H for heating a sterilant interposed therein, a filling chamber (main chamber) 42 connected to the circulation line 53, and a control device 50A connected to the circulation line 53. The sterilization system 50 also includes a tank T connected to the circulation line 53 and storing a sterilant, a water supply unit 51 for supplying water to the tank T, a sterilant concentrate supply unit 52 for supplying a sterilant concentrate to the tank T, and a supply line 54 provided between the circulation line 53 and the tank T.

[0048] As described above, the tank T is for storing the sterilant. By storing the sterilant in the tank T, the sterilant can be prepared in advance during the manufacturing of products, etc., and downtime can be reduced. The sterilant stored in the tank T is prepared from water and a sterilant concentrate, and may be an alkaline cleaner, a peracetic acid cleaner, hydrogen peroxide water, etc., as described below.

[0049] The volume of the tank T is preferably 2 to 100 times the volume of the filling chamber 42 to be sterilized. By making the volume of the tank T 2 or more times the volume of the filling chamber 42, it is possible to prevent the sterilizing agent from running short when sterilizing the filling chamber 42. This makes it possible to prevent the sterilizing of the filling chamber 42 from being interrupted by having to prepare the shortage of sterilizing agent again. This makes it possible to shorten the sterilizing time of the filling chamber 42. In addition, by making the volume of the tank T 100 times or less the volume of the filling chamber 42, it is possible to prevent the preparation of more sterilizing agent than necessary. This makes it possible to save energy. The volume of the tank T depends on the volume of the filling chamber 42 to be sterilized, but is, for example, 0.1 m 3 More than 5.0m 3 Less than or equal to 1.5m, preferably 3 More than 3.0m 3 It may be about the same or less.

[0050] The water supply unit 51 is for supplying water for diluting the sterilant stock solution into the tank T. The water supplied from the water supply unit 51 does not have to be sterile water. By not supplying the water supplied from the water supply unit 51 as sterile water, the cost of producing the sterilant can be reduced. The water supplied from the water supply unit 51 may be, for example, RO water, pure water, ion-exchanged water, general water (tap water), etc. In addition, the temperature of the water supplied from the water supply unit 51 may be about 10°C or higher and 30°C or lower, for example, about 15°C.

[0051] The sterilant stock solution supply unit 52 is for supplying the sterilant stock solution for preparing the sterilant to the tank T. The sterilant stock solution supplied from the sterilant stock solution supply unit 52 may be an alkaline aqueous solution containing sodium hydroxide or the like as an alkaline component, or may be an aqueous solution of peracetic acid, hydrogen peroxide, or the like. For example, when the sterilant stock solution is an alkaline aqueous solution containing sodium hydroxide, it may be an alkaline aqueous solution containing about 20% by weight to 50% by weight of sodium hydroxide. When the sterilant stock solution is an aqueous solution of peracetic acid, it may be an aqueous solution of peracetic acid containing about 10% by weight to 15% by weight. When the sterilant stock solution is an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide, it may be an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide containing about 0.5% by weight to 35% by weight of hydrogen peroxide. In addition, any other substance that inactivates microorganisms, such as potassium hydroxide or sodium hypochlorite, may be used as the sterilant stock solution.

[0052] A disinfectant prepared from such a disinfectant concentrate may contain, for example, sodium hydroxide in an amount of about 0.5% by weight to about 5% by weight, peracetic acid in an amount of about 0.15% by weight to about 0.4% by weight, and hydrogen peroxide in an amount of about 0.5% by weight to about 35% by weight.

[0053] The circulation line 53 is for circulating the sterilant stored in the tank T and for heating the sterilant to a desired temperature. A heater H for heating the sterilant is interposed in the circulation line 53. Specifically, the circulation line 53 includes a first supply pipe 53a connected to the tank T and a first return pipe 53b connected to the first supply pipe 53a. The first supply pipe 53a is a pipe through which the sterilant is supplied from the tank T. The above-mentioned heater H and a pump P1 for circulating the sterilant are interposed in the first supply pipe 53a. On the other hand, the first return pipe 53b is a pipe for returning the sterilant that has passed through the first supply pipe 53a into the tank T. The first return pipe 53b is connected to the tank T. The above-mentioned heater H may be interposed in the first return pipe 53b.

[0054] The supply line 54 is for sending the sterilant heated by the circulation line 53 to the downstream side. The sterile chamber 40 (sterilization chamber 41, filling chamber 42, and outlet chamber 43) is interposed in this supply line 54. Specifically, the supply line 54 includes a second supply pipe 54a connected to the first supply pipe 53a and the first return pipe 53b of the circulation line 53 and provided on the upstream side of the sterile chamber 40, a second return pipe 54b connected to the sterile chamber 40 and provided on the downstream side of the sterile chamber 40, and a drain pipe 54c connected to the second return pipe 54b. Among these, the second supply pipe 54a branches into a plurality of pipes on the upstream side of the sterile chamber 40, and is configured to be able to supply the sterilant to the sterilization chamber 41, the filling chamber 42, and the outlet chamber 43 of the sterile chamber 40 independently of each other. The second return pipe 54b is a pipe for discharging the sterilant from the sterile chamber 40 and returning the sterilant that has passed through the sterile chamber 40 into the tank T. This second return pipe 54b is connected to the tank T. In addition, a pump P2 for returning the sterilant to the tank T is interposed in the second return pipe 54b. The drain pipe 54c is for discharging the sterilant to the outside as a waste liquid after the sterile chamber 40 has been sterilized.

[0055] The control device 50A controls the content filling system 10. The control device 50A is configured to control the water supply unit 51, the sterilant concentrate supply unit 52, and the pumps P1 and P2 described above. The control device 50A circulates the sterilant through the circulation line 53 while heating it with the heater H. The control device 50A also supplies the sterilant heated by the heater H to the filling chamber (main chamber) 42.

[0056] Although not shown, the circulation line 53 and the supply line 54 (hereinafter simply referred to as the circulation line 53, etc.) are provided with valves and the like for switching the flow paths. Although not shown, the circulation line 53, etc. are each provided with a thermometer, and information on the temperature measured by these thermometers is transmitted to the control device 50A. In addition to the above-mentioned valves and thermometers and actuators (not shown), the circulation line 53, etc. are provided with various instruments such as flow meters or concentration meters, various switching valves, filters, etc., and these are also controlled by signals from the control device 50A.

[0057] (sterilization method) Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described. Here, a sterilization method using the sterilization system 50 will be described with reference to Figs. 3 to 5. The sterilization method according to this embodiment can be suitably applied to the COP and SOP of the content filling system 10, which may be performed after the CIP and SIP of the content filling system 10. In Figs. 3 to 5, the pipes through which the water, the sterilizing agent concentrate, or the sterilizing agent pass are indicated by thick lines.

[0058] First, the operation button of the control device 50A is operated. As a result, water is supplied from the water supply unit 51 to the tank T. Also, the sterilant concentrate is supplied from the sterilant concentrate supply unit 52 to the tank T. As a result, the sterilant concentrate is diluted in the tank T to prepare a sterilant. In this case, the sterilant may be an alkaline aqueous solution containing about 0.5% to 5% by weight of sodium hydroxide, or an aqueous peracetic acid solution containing about 0.15% to 0.4% by weight of peracetic acid. Also, the sterilant may be hydrogen peroxide solution containing about 0.5% to 35% by weight of hydrogen peroxide.

[0059] (circulation process) Next, the sterilant is circulated through the circulation line 53 while being heated by the heater H. At this time, the sterilant in the tank T is circulated through the circulation line 53 while being heated by the heater H. In this case, the pump P1 of the circulation line 53 is driven, and the sterilant supplied to the tank T circulates through the circulation line 53 (see FIG. 3). At this time, the first supply pipe 53a and the first return pipe 53b are communicated with each other by a valve not shown. On the other hand, the first supply pipe 53a and the second supply pipe 54a of the supply line 54 are not communicated with each other. In this way, the sterilant is not supplied to the filling chamber 42 until the sterilant is heated to a desired temperature. For this reason, as described later, even if bacteria remain in the sterilant prepared in the tank T, the sterilant in which the bacteria remain is prevented from being supplied to the filling chamber 42.

[0060] When the sterilant circulates through the circulation line 53, the heater H of the circulation line 53 is driven, and the sterilant is heated by the heater H. The sterilant is heated to a temperature of, for example, 40°C or more and 90°C or less, preferably 50°C or more and 80°C or less, more preferably 60°C or more and 80°C or less. Here, the circulation time during which the sterilant circulates through the circulation line 53 may be 5 minutes or more and 60 minutes or less. By setting the circulation time of the sterilant to 5 minutes or more, the sterilant can be easily heated to a desired temperature without installing a large heater or multiple heaters. In addition, by setting the circulation time of the sterilant to 60 minutes or less, the sterilization time can be prevented from becoming too long, and downtime can be shortened.

[0061] The timing of supplying water and sterilant stock solution to the tank T and circulating the sterilant in the circulation line 53 may vary depending on the capacity of the heater H and the capacity of the tank T, but may be performed during the filling of the beverage in the content filling system 10, or during the CIP or SIP of the content filling system 10. Here, after the production of the beverage is completed, cleaning preparation may be performed to recover packaging materials (bottles 30 and caps 33) remaining in the filling chamber 42, etc., before starting the COP or SOP of the filling chamber 42. In this case, it is preferable to adjust the sterilant to a predetermined concentration and circulate and heat it during the cleaning preparation. Thus, in this embodiment, the sterilant in the tank T can be heated to a desired temperature in advance during the CIP or SIP of the content filling system 10, so that the downtime in the sterilization process can be shortened.

[0062] (sterilization process) Next, the sterilant heated by the heater H is supplied to the filling chamber (main chamber) 42 to sterilize the filling chamber (main chamber) 42. At this time, the sterilant heated by the heater H is supplied to the filling chamber 42 through the supply line 54. In this case, first, the operation button of the control device 50A is operated. This switches a valve (not shown) so that the first supply pipe 53a and the second supply pipe 54a communicate with each other. Next, as shown in FIG. 4, the sterilant is supplied from the tank T to the second supply pipe 54a of the supply line 54 via the first supply pipe 53a of the circulation line 53. At this time, the sterilant may be further heated by the heater H.

[0063] Next, the sterilant supplied to the second supply pipe 54a passes through the second supply pipe 54a and is supplied to the filling chamber 42 of the aseptic chamber 40. At this time, the sterilant is sprayed into the filling chamber 42 by a spray nozzle 42a provided in the filling chamber 42. The amount of the sterilant to be supplied is, for example, 10 m 3 More than 170m 3 If it is less than 10m 3 / h or more 50m 3 / h or less, preferably 15 m 3 / h or more 30m 3 / h or less. In this case, the sterilizing agent may also be supplied to the sterilizing chamber 41 and the exit chamber 43 of the aseptic chamber 40.

[0064] However, there is a possibility that bacteria may already be present in the water supplied from the water supply unit 51. Some of these bacteria may be resistant to the components of the disinfectant. For example, when the disinfectant contains peracetic acid, bacteria resistant to peracetic acid include Bacillus cereus ( Bacillus cereus ), Bacillus polymyxa ( B. polymyxa ), Bacillus megaterium ( B. megaterium ), Paenibacillus chivensis ( Paenibacillus chibensis ), Paenibacillus favisporus ( P. favisporus ), Ketonium globosum ( Chaetomium globosum ) and the like. When bacteria are resistant to the components of the sterilant, like these bacteria, the bacteria may survive in the sterilant prepared in tank T, and even if filling chamber 42 is sterilized with the sterilant, the bacteria in the sterilant may remain in filling chamber 42. In particular, when the temperature or concentration of the sterilant is low or the sterilization time is short, it becomes difficult to kill bacteria that are resistant to the components of the sterilant, and there is a high possibility that the bacteria will survive in the sterilant.

[0065] In contrast, in the present embodiment, the sterilant supplied to the filling chamber 42 is heated by a heater H provided in the circulation line 53, and the sterilant is at a desired temperature. By heating the sterilant to a desired temperature in this manner, even if bacteria resistant to the components of the sterilant are already present in the water supplied to the tank T, the bacteria can be killed.

[0066] When the sterilant is supplied to the filling chamber 42, the temperature of the sterilant may be 40° C. or higher and 90° C. or lower, preferably 50° C. or higher and 80° C. or lower, and more preferably 60° C. or higher and 70° C. or lower. By setting the temperature of the sterilant at 40° C. or higher, even if bacteria resistant to the components of the sterilant are present in the water supplied to the tank T, the bacteria can be efficiently killed. In particular, by setting the temperature of the sterilant at 60° C. or higher, even if the sterilant contains peracetic acid and bacteria resistant to peracetic acid are present in the water supplied to the tank T, the bacteria can be efficiently killed. In addition, by setting the temperature of the sterilant at 90° C. or lower, energy saving and cost reduction can be achieved. Furthermore, by setting the temperature of the sterilant at 80° C. or lower, decomposition of the components (e.g., peracetic acid) contained in the sterilant can be suppressed. On the other hand, in some cases where the decomposition of the components contained in the disinfectant can be suppressed by additives or depending on the disinfectant used, the temperature of the disinfectant may be from 70° C. to 90° C., and preferably from 75° C. to 90° C. By setting the temperature of the disinfectant at 70° C. or higher, particularly at 75° C. or higher, even if bacteria resistant to the components of the disinfectant are already present in the water supplied to the tank T, the bacteria can be efficiently killed.

[0067] (Recovery process) Next, the sterilant supplied to the filling chamber 42 is returned to the tank T. At this time, pump P2 of the supply line 54 is driven, and the sterilant supplied to the filling chamber 42 is supplied to the second return pipe 54b as shown in FIG. 4. Then, the sterilant supplied to the second return pipe 54b passes through the second return pipe 54b and is returned to the tank T. In this way, the heated sterilant circulates through the first supply pipe 53a of the circulation line 53 and the supply line 54 for a predetermined time.

[0068] 5, the sterilant is discharged to the outside as a waste liquid from drain pipe 54c provided in second return pipe 54b of supply line 54. Note that the sterilant supplied from filling chamber 42 to second return pipe 54b may be discharged to the outside as a waste liquid from drain pipe 54c without performing the above-mentioned recovery step. In other words, the sterilant supplied from filling chamber 42 to second return pipe 54b does not have to be returned to tank T.

[0069] As described above, according to this embodiment, the sterilization method includes a circulation step of circulating the sterilant through the circulation line 53 while heating it with the heater H, and a sterilization step of sterilizing the filling chamber (main chamber) 42 by supplying the sterilant heated by the heater H to the filling chamber 42. This makes it possible to supply the sterilant heated to a desired temperature to the filling chamber 42. Therefore, even if bacteria resistant to the components of the sterilant are already present in the sterilant, the bacteria can be killed. As a result, even if bacteria resistant to the components of the sterilant are already present in the sterilant, it is possible to prevent the sterilization effect of the sterilant from decreasing.

[0070] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, in the circulation step, the sterilant in the tank T is circulated through the circulation line 53 while being heated by the heater H, and in the sterilization step, the sterilant heated by the heater H is supplied to the filling chamber 42 through the supply line 54. This makes it possible to supply the sterilant heated to a desired temperature to the filling chamber 42. Therefore, even if bacteria resistant to the components of the sterilant are already present in the water supplied to the tank T, the bacteria can be killed. As a result, even if bacteria resistant to the components of the sterilant are already present in the water supplied to the tank T, it is possible to prevent the sterilization effect of the sterilant from decreasing.

[0071] Moreover, according to this embodiment, the sterilization method further includes a recovery step of returning the sterilant supplied to the filling chamber 42 to the tank T. That is, the filling chamber 42 can be sterilized while circulating the sterilant in the tank T through the first supply pipe 53a of the circulation line 53 and the supply line 54. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of sterilant used and the cost of sterilizing the filling chamber 42.

[0072] In addition, according to the present embodiment, the disinfectant contains peracetic acid. In this way, even if the disinfectant is an aqueous solution of peracetic acid, the present embodiment can efficiently kill bacteria that are resistant to peracetic acid. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the disinfectant's disinfecting effect from decreasing.

[0073] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, in the sterilization step, the sterilizing agent is further heated by the heater H. This makes it possible to prevent the temperature of the sterilizing agent from decreasing when the sterilizing agent is supplied to the filling chamber 42. That is, the sterilizing agent can be supplied to the filling chamber 42 at a high temperature. This makes it possible to improve the sterilizing effect of the sterilizing agent.

[0074] In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example has been described in which the aseptic chamber 40 has a filling chamber 42 (main chamber) in which a filling device for filling the contents into a bottle is disposed, a sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) provided on the inlet side of the filling chamber 42, and an outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) provided on the outlet side, but this is not limited thereto. For example, although not shown, the aseptic chamber 40 may have only one of the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) provided on the inlet side of the filling chamber 42 and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) provided on the outlet side.

[0075] In addition, other steps may be performed between each step in the above-described embodiment. For example, a rinsing step may be provided between the circulation step and the sterilization step, in which the inside of the second supply pipe 54a of the supply line 54 is rinsed with a sterilizing agent heated by the heater H. Here, the inside of the second supply pipe 54a may not be maintained in a sterile state. Therefore, after the previous SOP, bacteria may be mixed into the water remaining in the second supply pipe 54a, and the bacteria may grow in the second supply pipe 54a during the production of the beverage after the previous SOP. In response to this, by rinsing the inside of the second supply pipe 54a before the sterilization step, it is possible to prevent the bacteria from being mixed into the filling chamber 42 or the like.

[0076] When the rinsing step is performed, the operation button of the control device 50A is operated after the circulation step. This switches a valve (not shown) to connect the first supply pipe 53a and the second supply pipe 54a. At this time, the valve (not shown) installed in the second supply pipe 54a closest to the sterile chamber 40 is switched so that the sterile chamber 40 and the second supply pipe 54a are not connected to each other. Next, as shown in FIG. 6A, a sterilizing agent is supplied from the tank T to the second supply pipe 54a of the supply line 54 through the first supply pipe 53a of the circulation line 53. At this time, the sterilizing agent may be further heated by the heater H.

[0077] Next, the sterilizing agent supplied to the second supply pipe 54a passes through the second supply pipe 54a and is discharged to the outside as a waste liquid from a drain pipe 54d connected to the second supply pipe 54a.

[0078] In this rinsing step, the volume of the sterilant used for rinsing the second supply pipe 54a is preferably at least 1 to 5 times the volume of the sterilant flow path in the second supply pipe 54a. By using a volume of the sterilant that is 1 or more times the volume of the sterilant flow path in the second supply pipe 54a, water that was used in the previous SOP and remains in the second supply pipe 54a can be effectively removed. In addition, by using a volume of the sterilant that is 5 or less times the volume of the sterilant flow path in the second supply pipe 54a, the amount of sterilant used can be reduced, and the cost of the rinsing step can be reduced.

[0079] In this way, by performing the rinsing process between the circulation process and the sterilization process, it is possible to prevent bacteria remaining in the second supply pipe 54a from being mixed into the filling chamber 42, etc. In addition, by performing the rinsing process between the circulation process and the sterilization process, it is also possible to heat the second supply pipe 54a with the sterilant heated by the heater H. This makes it possible to prevent the temperature of the sterilant in the second supply pipe 54a from decreasing when the sterilant passes through the second supply pipe 54a in the sterilization process.

[0080] The sterilization method may further include a cleaning step of cleaning the filling chamber (main chamber) 42 by supplying an alkaline cleaning agent to the filling chamber 42 before the above-mentioned sterilization step.

[0081] In this case, as shown in FIG. 6B, the sterilization system 50 may further include an alkaline cleaning agent supply 52A that supplies an alkaline cleaning agent to the supply line 54.

[0082] The alkaline cleaning agent supplied from the alkaline cleaning agent supply unit 52A may be an alkaline aqueous solution containing about 0.5% by weight to 5% by weight of sodium hydroxide.

[0083] When the cleaning process is performed, the operation button of the control device 50A is operated during or before the circulation process. This switches a valve (not shown) so that the first supply pipe 53a and the second supply pipe 54a do not communicate with each other. Next, the alkaline cleaning agent is supplied from the alkaline cleaning agent supply unit 52A to the second supply pipe 54a of the supply line 54.

[0084] Next, the alkaline cleaner supplied to the second supply pipe 54a passes through the second supply pipe 54a and is supplied to the filling chamber 42 of the sterile chamber 40. At this time, the alkaline cleaner is sprayed into the filling chamber 42 by a spray nozzle 42a provided in the filling chamber 42. The supply amount of the alkaline cleaner is, for example, 100 ml. 3 More than 170m 3 If it is less than 10m 3 / h or more 50m 3 / h or less, preferably 15 m 3 / h or more 40m 3 / h or less. In this case, the alkaline cleaner may also be supplied to the sterilization chamber 41 and the exit chamber 43 of the aseptic chamber 40.

[0085] When the alkaline cleaning agent is supplied to the filling chamber 42, the temperature of the alkaline cleaning agent may be 15°C or higher and 99°C or lower, and preferably 40°C or higher and 80°C or lower.

[0086] Next, the pump P2 of the supply line 54 is driven, and the alkaline cleaning agent supplied to the filling chamber 42 is supplied to the second return pipe 54b. The alkaline cleaning agent supplied to the second return pipe 54b is then discharged to the outside as waste liquid from the drain pipe 54c provided in the second return pipe 54b.

[0087] In this way, by supplying an alkaline cleaner to the filling chamber (main chamber) 42 prior to the sterilization step, a cleaning step is performed to clean the filling chamber 42, thereby purifying the filling chamber 42 prior to the sterilization step. This improves the sterilization effect of the sterilizing agent.

[0088] Although the example in which the alkaline cleaning agent supply unit 52A of the sterilization system 50 supplies the alkaline cleaning agent to the supply line 54 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Fig. 6C, the alkaline cleaning agent supply unit 52A may supply the alkaline cleaning agent to the first supply pipe 53a of the circulation line 53. In this case, the cleaning step is preferably performed before the circulation step.

[0089] In the above embodiment, a new sterilant is prepared by diluting the sterilant concentrate supplied from the sterilant concentrate supply unit 52 with the water supplied from the water supply unit 51, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, although not shown, the sterilant used in the previous sterilization of the sterilization system 50 may be reused (multiple use) by storing the sterilant in the tank T or another recovery tank without being discharged.

[0090] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the content filling system 10 is described as including the bottle supply unit 21, the bottle sterilizer 11, the air rinse unit 14, the sterile water rinse unit 15, the filling unit 20, the capping unit 16, and the product bottle discharge unit 22, but is not limited thereto. For example, although not shown, the content filling system 10 does not have to include the sterile water rinse unit 15.

[0091] Second embodiment Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 10. The second embodiment shown in Figures 7 to 10 differs from the first embodiment mainly in that in the circulation step, the sterilizing agent in the tank T is circulated through the sterilizing chamber 41 and the outlet chamber 43. In Figures 7 to 10, the same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0092] (Sterilization system) First, a sterilization system for carrying out the sterilization method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 7, sterilization system 50 is connected to circulation line 55 and includes tank T for storing a sterilant, a water supply unit 51 for supplying water to tank T, and a sterilant concentrate supply unit 52 for supplying a sterilant concentrate to tank T.

[0094] The circulation line 55 is for circulating the sterilant stored in the tank T and for heating the sterilant to a desired temperature. A heater H for heating the sterilant and a sterile chamber 40 are sequentially interposed in the circulation line 55. Specifically, the circulation line 55 includes a supply pipe 55a connected to the tank T and provided on the upstream side of the sterile chamber 40, a return pipe 55b connected to the sterile chamber 40 and provided on the downstream side of the sterile chamber 40, and a drain pipe 55c connected to the return pipe 55b. Among these, the supply pipe 55a branches into a plurality of pipes on the upstream side of the sterile chamber 40, and is configured to be able to supply the sterilant independently to the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber), the filling chamber 42 (main chamber), and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) of the sterile chamber 40. The return pipe 55b is a pipe for discharging the sterilant from the sterile chamber 40 and returning the sterilant that has passed through the sterile chamber 40 to the tank T. The return pipe 55b is connected to the tank T. A pump P2 for returning the sterilizing agent to the tank T is interposed in the return pipe 55b. The drain pipe 55c is for discharging the sterilizing agent after the sterile chamber 40 has been sterilized.

[0095] Although not shown, the circulation line 55 is also provided with valves, thermometers, and actuators for switching the flow path, as well as various instruments such as flow meters and concentration meters, various switching valves, and filters, etc., and these are also controlled by signals from the control device 50A.

[0096] (sterilization method) Next, the sterilization method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0097] First, the operation button of the control device 50A is operated. As a result, water is supplied from the water supply unit 51 to the tank T. Also, the sterilant concentrate is supplied from the sterilant concentrate supply unit 52 to the tank T. As a result, the sterilant concentrate is diluted in the tank T, and a sterilant is prepared.

[0098] (circulation process) Next, the sterilant is circulated through the circulation line 55 while being heated by the heater H. At this time, the sterilant in the tank T is circulated through the circulation line 55 via the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) while being heated by the heater H. In this case, the pumps P1 and P2 of the circulation line 55 are driven, and the sterilant supplied to the tank T circulates through the circulation line 55 (see FIG. 8). At this time, the supply pipe 55a communicates with the sterilization chamber 41 and the outlet chamber 43 by a valve not shown. Then, the sterilant supplied to the supply pipe 55a of the circulation line 55 passes through the supply pipe 55a and is supplied to the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) of the sterile chamber 40. At this time, the sterilant is sprayed into the sterilization chamber 41 and the outlet chamber 43 by the spray nozzles 41a and 43a provided in the sterilization chamber 41 and the outlet chamber 43, respectively. On the other hand, the supply pipe 55a does not communicate with the filling chamber 42. In this way, the sterilant is not supplied to the charging chamber 42 until the sterilant is heated to a desired temperature. Therefore, even if bacteria remain in the sterilant prepared in the tank T, the sterilant in which the bacteria remain is prevented from being supplied to the charging chamber 42.

[0099] (sterilization process) Next, the sterilizing agent heated by the heater H is supplied to the filling chamber (main chamber) 42 to sterilize the filling chamber (main chamber) 42. At this time, the sterilizing agent heated by the heater H is supplied to the filling chamber 42 (main chamber) through the circulation line 55. In this case, first, the operation button of the control device 50A is operated. This switches a valve (not shown), and the supply pipe 55a of the circulation line 55 and the filling chamber 42 communicate with each other.

[0100] 9, the sterilizing agent is supplied from the tank T to the supply pipe 55a of the circulation line 55, and is then supplied to the filling chamber 42 (main chamber) of the sterile chamber 40. In this case, the sterilizing agent may also be supplied to the sterilizing chamber 41 and the outlet chamber 43 of the sterile chamber 40.

[0101] (Recovery process) Next, the sterilant supplied to the filling chamber 42 is returned to the tank T. At this time, pump P2 of the circulation line 55 is driven, and the sterilant supplied to the filling chamber 42 is supplied to the return pipe 55b as shown in Fig. 9. Then, the sterilant supplied to the return pipe 55b passes through the return pipe 55b and is returned to the tank T. In this way, the heated sterilant circulates through the circulation line 55 via the filling chamber 42 for a predetermined time.

[0102] 10, the sterilant is discharged to the outside as a waste liquid from drain pipe 55c provided in return pipe 55b of circulation line 55. Note that the sterilant supplied to return pipe 55b from filling chamber 42 may be discharged to the outside as a waste liquid from drain pipe 55c without performing the above-mentioned recovery step. In other words, the sterilant supplied to return pipe 55b from filling chamber 42 does not have to be returned to tank T.

[0103] As described above, according to this embodiment, in the circulation step, the sterilant in the tank T is circulated through the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) by the circulation line 55 while being heated by the heater H, and in the sterilization step, the sterilant heated by the heater H is supplied to the filling chamber 42 (main chamber) by the circulation line 55. Even in this case, the sterilant heated to a desired temperature can be supplied to the filling chamber 42. Therefore, even if bacteria resistant to the components of the sterilant are already present in the water supplied to the tank T, the bacteria can be killed. As a result, even if bacteria resistant to the components of the sterilant are already present in the water supplied to the tank T, the sterilization effect of the sterilant can be prevented from decreasing.

[0104] In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the sterilization system 50 includes the circulation line 55 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, although not shown, the sterilization system 50 may be configured to include the circulation line 53 and the supply line 54, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2. In this case, for example, in the above-described circulation step, the sterilant in the tank T may be circulated through the first supply pipe 53a of the circulation line 53 (see FIG. 2), the second supply pipe 54a of the supply line 54, the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) and / or the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber), and the second return pipe 54b of the supply line 54. That is, in the circulation step, the first return pipe 53b of the circulation line 53 may not be used.

[0105] In the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the sterilant in the tank T is circulated through the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) by the circulation line 55 while being heated by the heater H in the circulation process, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, although not shown, in the circulation process, the sterilant in the tank T may be circulated through only one of the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) by the circulation line 55.

[0106] In the circulation step, the sterilizing agent in the tank T may be circulated through the circulation line 55 via the cap sterilizing device 17. In this case, by configuring the cap sterilizing device 17 to be interposed in the circulation line 55, the sterilizing agent in the tank T can be circulated through the circulation line 55 via the cap sterilizing device 17.

[0107] Furthermore, when the content filling system 10 is provided with a bottle molding section 100 (see FIG. 1B ), in the circulation step, the sterilant in the tank T may be circulated by the circulation line 55, for example, via at least one of the molding section chamber 120 and the atmospheric blocking chamber 131 of the bottle molding section 100. In this case, by configuring the molding section chamber 120 and the atmospheric blocking chamber 131 to be interposed in the circulation line 55, the sterilant in the tank T can be circulated by the circulation line 55 via at least one of the molding section chamber 120 and the atmospheric blocking chamber 131.

[0108] Third embodiment Next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 11 to 14. The third embodiment shown in Figures 11 to 14 is different from the first embodiment mainly in that the sterilization system 50 does not include a tank T. In Figures 11 to 14, the same parts as those in the first or second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0109] (Sterilization system) First, a sterilization system for carrying out the sterilization method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0110] As shown in Fig. 11, the sterilization system 50 according to this embodiment does not include a tank T. In this embodiment, the sterilization system 50 includes a heater H for heating a sterilant and a sterile chamber 40, which are sequentially interposed, and includes a circulation line 56 for circulating the sterilant. The sterilization system 50 also includes a water supply unit 51 for supplying water to the circulation line 56, and a sterilant concentrate supply unit 52 for supplying a sterilant concentrate to the circulation line 56. That is, in this embodiment, the water supply unit 51 and the sterilant concentrate supply unit 52 are configured to supply water and a sterilant concentrate to the circulation line 56, respectively.

[0111] The circulation line 56 is for circulating the sterilant and heating the sterilant to a desired temperature. As described above, the heater H for heating the sterilant and the sterile chamber 40 are sequentially interposed in the circulation line 56. Specifically, the circulation line 56 includes a supply pipe 56a provided upstream of the sterile chamber 40, a return pipe 56b connected to the sterile chamber 40 and provided downstream of the sterile chamber 40, and a drain pipe 56c connected to the return pipe 56b. Of these, the supply pipe 56a is supplied with water from the water supply unit 51 and with a sterilant concentrate from the sterilant concentrate supply unit 52. The supply pipe 56a is branched into a plurality of pipes upstream of the sterile chamber 40, and is configured to supply the sterilant independently to the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber), the filling chamber 42 (main chamber), and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) of the sterile chamber 40. The return pipe 56b is a pipe for discharging the sterilizing agent from the sterile chamber 40 and for supplying the sterilizing agent that has passed through the sterile chamber 40 to the supply pipe 56a. The return pipe 56b is connected to the supply pipe 56a. A pump P2 for circulating the sterilizing agent is interposed in the return pipe 56b. The drain pipe 56c is for discharging the sterilizing agent after the sterile chamber 40 has been sterilized.

[0112] Although not shown, the circulation line 56 is also provided with valves, thermometers, and actuators for switching the flow path, as well as various instruments such as flow meters and concentration meters, various switching valves, and filters, etc., all of which are controlled by signals from the control device 50A.

[0113] (sterilization method) Next, the sterilization method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs.

[0114] First, the operation button of the control device 50A is operated. As a result, water and the sterilant concentrate are supplied to the circulation line 56 from the water supply unit 51 and the sterilant concentrate supply unit 52. As a result, the sterilant concentrate is diluted in the circulation line 56 to prepare a sterilant. In this case, the flow rates of the water and the sterilant concentrate are measured by a flow meter (not shown). Then, the flow rates of the water and the sterilant concentrate are adjusted by a signal from the control device 50A so that the prepared sterilant has a predetermined concentration.

[0115] (circulation process) Next, the sterilant is circulated through the circulation line 56 while being heated by the heater H. At this time, the sterilant in the circulation line 56 is circulated through the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) by the circulation line 56 while being heated by the heater H. In this case, the pumps P1 and P2 of the circulation line 56 are driven, and the sterilant circulates through the circulation line 56 (see FIG. 12). At this time, the supply pipe 56a communicates with the sterilization chamber 41 and the outlet chamber 43 by a valve (not shown). Then, the sterilant in the supply pipe 56a of the circulation line 56 is supplied to the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) of the sterile chamber 40. On the other hand, the supply pipe 56a does not communicate with the filling chamber 42. This prevents the sterilant from being supplied to the filling chamber 42 until the sterilant is heated to a desired temperature. Therefore, even if bacteria remain in the sterilant prepared in the tank T, the sterilant in which the bacteria remain is prevented from being supplied to the filling chamber 42.

[0116] Here, assuming that the volume of the filling chamber 42 (main chamber) is x1, the volume of the flow path of the sterilant in the circulation line 56 is x2, and the amount of sterilant circulated through the circulation line 56 in the circulation step is y, 2×(x1+x2)≦y≦100×(x1+x2) It is preferable that the following relationship is satisfied: 3×(x1+x2)≦y≦50×(x1+x2) It is more preferable that the above relationship is satisfied. This makes it possible to prevent the sterilizing chamber 42 from running out of sterilizing agent when sterilizing the filling chamber 42. This makes it possible to prevent the sterilizing of the filling chamber 42 from being interrupted in order to re-prepare the sterilizing agent that has run out. As a result, the sterilizing time of the filling chamber 42 can be shortened. In addition, it is possible to prevent the production of more sterilizing agent than necessary. This makes it possible to save energy.

[0117] (sterilization process) Next, the filling chamber (main chamber) 42 is sterilized by supplying the sterilant heated by the heater H to the filling chamber (main chamber) 42. At this time, the sterilant heated by the heater H is supplied to the filling chamber 42 (main chamber) through the circulation line 56. In this case, first, the operation button of the control device 50A is operated. This switches a valve (not shown), and the supply pipe 56a of the circulation line 56 and the filling chamber 42 communicate with each other.

[0118] 13, the sterilant that has passed through the supply pipe 56a of the circulation line 56 is supplied to the filling chamber 42 (main chamber) of the sterile chamber 40. In this case, the sterilant may also be supplied to the sterilization chamber 41 and the outlet chamber 43 of the sterile chamber 40.

[0119] The sterilant is then circulated by circulation line 56 through the loading chamber 42 for a predetermined period of time.

[0120] 14, the sterilant is discharged to the outside as a waste liquid from drain pipe 56c provided in return pipe 56b of circulation line 56. Note that the sterilant supplied to return pipe 56b from the filling chamber 42 may be discharged to the outside as a waste liquid from drain pipe 56c without circulating through circulation line 56 via filling chamber 42.

[0121] As described above, in this embodiment as well, the sterilant heated to a desired temperature can be supplied to the filling chamber 42. Therefore, even if bacteria resistant to the components of the sterilant are present in the water supplied to the circulation line 56, the bacteria can be killed. As a result, even if bacteria resistant to the components of the sterilant are present in the water supplied to the circulation line 56, the sterilization effect of the sterilant can be prevented from decreasing.

[0122] In the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the sterilant is circulated through the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) by the circulation line 56 while being heated by the heater H in the circulation process, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, although not shown, in the circulation process, the sterilant may be circulated through only one of the sterilization chamber 41 (sub-chamber) and the outlet chamber 43 (sub-chamber) by the circulation line 56.

[0123] In the circulation step, the sterilizing agent in the tank T may be circulated through the circulation line 55 via the cap sterilizing device 17. In this case, by configuring the cap sterilizing device 17 to be interposed in the circulation line 55, the sterilizing agent in the tank T can be circulated through the circulation line 55 via the cap sterilizing device 17.

[0124] Furthermore, when the content filling system 10 is provided with a bottle molding section 100 (see FIG. 1B ), in the circulation step, the sterilant in the tank T may be circulated by the circulation line 55, for example, via at least one of the molding section chamber 120 and the atmospheric blocking chamber 131 of the bottle molding section 100. In this case, by configuring the molding section chamber 120 and the atmospheric blocking chamber 131 to be interposed in the circulation line 55, the sterilant in the tank T can be circulated by the circulation line 55 via at least one of the molding section chamber 120 and the atmospheric blocking chamber 131.

[0125] It is also possible to combine the multiple components disclosed in each of the above embodiments and modifications as necessary, or to delete some of the components disclosed in each of the above embodiments and modifications.

Claims

1. A circulation line having a heater for heating the sterilant; a supply line connected to the circulation line; A sterilization method for a sterilization system comprising a main chamber interposed in the supply line, a circulation step of circulating the sterilant through the circulation line without supplying the sterilant to the main chamber while heating the sterilant with the heater; a rinsing step of rinsing a pipe constituting a part of the circulation line and a pipe constituting a part of the supply line with the sterilant heated by the heater without supplying the sterilant to the main chamber; a sterilization step of sterilizing the main chamber by supplying the sterilant heated by the heater through the supply line to the main chamber after the rinsing step.

2. The sterilization system comprises: A tank connected to the circulation line for storing a disinfectant made from water and a disinfectant concentrate; a water supply unit that supplies the water to the tank; A disinfectant concentrate supply unit that supplies the disinfectant concentrate to the tank, a filling device is disposed in the main chamber for filling the bottle with contents; The sterilization method according to claim 1, wherein in the circulation step, the sterilant in the tank is circulated through the circulation line while being heated by the heater.

3. 3. The sterilization method according to claim 1, wherein the sterilizing agent is the sterilizing agent used the previous time the sterilization system was sterilized.

4. A circulation line having a heater for heating the sterilant; a supply line connected to the circulation line; a main chamber interposed in the supply line; A sterilization system comprising: a control device connected to the circulation line, The control device circulates the sterilant through the circulation line while heating it with the heater without supplying it to the main chamber, rinses piping that constitutes part of the circulation line and piping that constitutes part of the supply line with the sterilant heated by the heater without supplying the sterilant to the main chamber, and then supplies the sterilant heated by the heater to the main chamber.

5. A sterilization system as described in claim 4, wherein the disinfectant is the disinfectant used the last time the sterilization system was sterilized.

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