Content filling system and processing method

Abstract

To provide a content filling system and a cleaning treatment method capable of improving washability during a cleaning treatment of the content filling system.SOLUTION: A content filling system 10 comprises: a content sterilizing device 40; a filling device 20; and a control part 60. The content sterilizing device 40 has a heat exchange unit 50 including heat exchangers 51a-51c, and a heating part 52. The heat exchange unit 50 has a first inflow port 50a, a first outflow port 50b, a second inflow port 50c, and a second outflow port 50d. The first outflow port 50b and the second inflow port 50c are connected via the heating part 52. The control part 60 carries out a normal flow treatment that makes a processing fluid pass through, in order, the first inflow port 50a, the first outflow port 50b, the heating part 52, the second inflow port 50c and the second outflow port 50d, and a reverse flow treatment that makes the processing fluid pass through, in order, the second outflow port 50d, the second inflow port 50c, the heating part 52, the first outflow port 50b, and the first inflow port 50a.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to a content filling system and a processing method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a filling machine provided in a content filling system has been used to continuously aseptically fill a large number of plastic bottles conveyed at high speed with contents such as beverages. In such a content filling system, a filling nozzle that fills the contents into the plastic bottles is rotatably arranged in an aseptic chamber (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-302325 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-006429 [Patent Document 3] Publication No. 116337 of Showa 60 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Conventionally, the flow paths through which the contents pass in a content filling system are cleaned periodically or when switching between different types of products. Furthermore, a sterilizing-in-place (SIP) process is also performed to sterilize the flow paths. The CIP process is performed by flowing a cleaning solution containing an acidic agent into the flow path from the beverage supply system piping to the filling nozzle of the filling machine, before or after flowing a cleaning solution containing an alkaline agent into water. Examples of alkaline agents include caustic soda (sodium hydroxide), potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodium silicate, sodium phosphate, and sodium hypochlorite. Examples of acidic agents include nitric acid, phosphoric acid, and organic acids. A surfactant or defoamer may also be added to the cleaning solution. The SIP process is a process for sterilizing the flow path before the product filling operation. For example, heated steam or hot water is flowed into the flow path cleaned by the CIP process to perform a high-temperature sterilization process. Patent Document 3 discloses that in a plate-type heat exchanger for sterilization, a treatment liquid is made to flow in the opposite direction to the flow direction of the product.

[0005] The present disclosure provides a content filling system and a processing method that can improve the cleanability of the content filling system during a cleaning process. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the following [1] to

[14] .

[0007] [1] A content filling system for filling contents, comprising: a content sterilization device for sterilizing the contents; a filling device for filling the contents sterilized in the content sterilization device; and a control unit for controlling the content filling system, wherein the content sterilization device has a heat exchange unit including at least one heat exchanger and a heating unit connected to the heat exchange unit, the heat exchange unit having a first inlet, a first outlet communicating with the first inlet, a second inlet, and a second outlet communicating with the second inlet, the first outlet and the second inlet being connected via the heating unit, and the control unit performs a forward flow process in which a treatment fluid passes through the first inlet, the first outlet, the heating unit, the second inlet, and the second outlet in that order, and a reverse flow process in which the treatment fluid passes through the second outlet, the second inlet, the heating unit, the first outlet, and the first inlet in that order.

[0008] [2] The contents sterilization device is the contents filling system according to [1], having a holding tube.

[0009] [3] A content filling system as described in [1] or [2], further comprising a temperature adjustment unit that adjusts the temperature of the content sterilized in the content sterilization device to a filling temperature.

[0010] [4] The control unit performs the cleaning process in the order of forward flow processing, backflow processing, and forward flow processing, the contents filling system according to any one of [1] to [3].

[0011] [5] A content filling system according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the processing fluid is heated by the heating section during the forward flow processing and the reverse flow processing.

[0012] [6] The contents filling system according to any one of [1] to [5], further comprising a first tank connected to the contents sterilization device.

[0013] [7] The content filling system described in [6], further comprising a circulation pipe connecting a position between the content sterilization device and the filling device to the first tank.

[0014] [8] A content filling system as described in [7], wherein an additional heat exchanger is provided in the circulation piping, the first tank is connected to the content sterilization device via a content supply system piping, and the additional heat exchanger performs heat exchange between the treatment fluid flowing through the content supply system piping and the treatment fluid flowing through the circulation piping.

[0015] [9] A content filling system as described in [2], wherein the liquid supply pressure of the processing fluid passing through the holding tube and beyond within the heat exchange unit is higher than the liquid supply pressure of the processing fluid passing through the holding tube and beyond.

[0016]

[10] A processing method for cleaning or sterilizing a content filling system that fills contents, the content filling system comprising a content sterilization device that sterilizes the contents and a filling device that fills the contents sterilized in the content sterilization device, the content sterilization device having a heat exchange unit including at least one heat exchanger and a heating section connected to the heat exchange unit, the heat exchange unit having a first inlet, a first outlet communicating with the first inlet, a second inlet, and a second outlet communicating with the second inlet, the processing method comprising: a forward flow processing step of passing a processing fluid through the first inlet, the first outlet, the heating section, the second inlet, and the second outlet in that order; and a reverse flow processing step of passing the processing fluid through the second outlet, the second inlet, the heating section, the first outlet, and the first inlet in that order.

[0017]

[11] The treatment method according to

[10] , wherein the cleaning treatment is carried out in the order of the forward flow treatment step, the backflow treatment step, and the forward flow treatment step.

[0018]

[12] The treatment method according to

[10] or

[11] , wherein the final step of the treatment method is the forward flow treatment step.

[0019]

[13] A treatment method according to any one of

[10] to

[12] , comprising: an alkaline cleaning step which is the forward flow treatment step or the reverse flow treatment step; and an acidic cleaning step which is the forward flow treatment step or the reverse flow treatment step, wherein the alkaline cleaning step is performed before or after the acidic cleaning step, and no water rinsing is performed between the alkaline cleaning step and the acidic cleaning step.

[0020]

[14] The treatment method according to

[13] , wherein the alkaline cleaning step is performed immediately after the acidic cleaning step, or the acidic cleaning step is performed immediately after the alkaline cleaning step, and the difference between the pH of the treatment fluid used in the alkaline cleaning step and the pH of the treatment fluid used in the acidic cleaning step is 8 or more and 12 or less. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to this disclosure, the cleanability during the cleaning process of the contents filling system can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic plan view showing a content filling system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a content sterilization device for a content filling system according to one embodiment, and the flow path around it. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the heat exchanger of the heat exchange unit. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of the processed fluid during forward flow treatment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of the processed fluid during backflow treatment. [Figure 6] Figures 6(a)-(e) are tables showing the processing patterns for washing and sterilization treatments. [Figure 7] Figures 7(a)-(c) are tables showing the processing patterns for washing and sterilization treatments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] An embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 7. Figures 1 to 7 are diagrams illustrating an embodiment. In the following figures, the same parts are given the same reference numerals, and some detailed descriptions may be omitted.

[0024] (contents filling system) First, the overall configuration of a content filling system (aseptic filling system) according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0025] The contents filling system 10 shown in Figure 1 is a system for filling a bottle (container) 90 with contents such as a beverage. The bottle 90 can be manufactured by biaxial stretch blow molding a preform 91 made by injection molding of a synthetic resin material. The bottle 90 may also be manufactured by direct blow molding. As the material for the bottle 90, it is preferable to use a thermoplastic resin, especially PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), PET (polyethylene terephthalate), or PEN (polyethylene naphthalate). In addition, the container may be glass, a can, paper, a pouch, a cup, or a composite container thereof. In this embodiment, the case in which a synthetic resin bottle is used as the container will be described as an example.

[0026] As shown in Figure 1, the contents filling system 10 comprises a contents sterilization device 40, a filling device 20, and a control unit 60. The contents sterilization device 40 pre-sterilizes the contents to be filled into the bottle 90. The filling device 20 fills the contents that have been sterilized in the contents sterilization device 40. The control unit 60 controls the contents filling system 10.

[0027] The contents filling system 10 further comprises a bottle forming unit 30, a container sterilization device 11, an air rinsing device 14, the aforementioned filling device 20, a capping device (capper, crimping and sealing machine) 16, and a product bottle discharge unit 19. These bottle forming unit 30, container sterilization device 11, air rinsing device 14, filling device 20, capping device 16, and product bottle discharge unit 19 are arranged in this order from upstream to downstream along the direction of transport of the bottles 90. In addition, multiple transport wheels 12 are provided between the air rinsing device 14, filling device 20, and capping device 16, etc., to transport the bottles 90 between these devices. Here, the bottle forming unit 30, container sterilization device 11, air rinsing device 14, filling device 20, capping device 16, and product bottle discharge unit 19 will be described.

[0028] The bottle molding unit 30 receives the preform 91 from the outside and molds the bottle 90. The bottle molding unit 30 then transports the molded bottle 90 toward the container sterilization device 11. This allows the contents filling system 10 to continuously perform the processes from supplying the preform 91 to molding the bottle 90, filling the bottle 90 with contents, and sealing it. In this case, the preform 91, which has a smaller volume, is transported to the contents filling system 10 from the outside, rather than the larger volume bottle 90. Therefore, transportation costs can be reduced. Alternatively, the bottle molding unit 30 may be connected to an injection molding machine (not shown), and the preform 91 may be manufactured from resin pellets. In this case, transportation costs can be further reduced compared to transporting the preform 91 from the outside.

[0029] The bottle molding unit 30 includes a preform transport unit 31, a blow molding unit (container molding device) 32, and a bottle transport unit 33. The preform transport unit 31 transports the preform 91. The blow molding unit 32 blows the preform 91 that has been sent from the preform transport unit 31 to form a bottle 90 from the preform 91. The bottle transport unit 33 transports the bottle 90 formed in the blow molding unit 32.

[0030] The preform transport section 31 includes a preform receiving section 34, a preform heating section 35, and a preform delivery section 36. Of these, the preform receiving section 34 receives preforms 91 supplied from a preform supply device 37 via a preform supply conveyor 37a. The preform receiving section 34 is provided with a preform sterilizer 34a for sterilizing the preforms 91, and a preform air-rinse device 34b for air-rinsing the preforms 91.

[0031] In the preform receiving section 34, a preform sterilizer 34a sprays gas or mist of an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution onto the preforms 91 to sterilize the preforms 91 (pre-sterilization). The sterilant used to sterilize the preforms 91 may be any sterilant that has the property of inactivating microorganisms, and examples thereof include 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, which may be used alone or in combination of two or more of them.

[0032] In this way, by sterilizing the preforms 91 in advance (pre-sterilization) using the preform sterilization device 34a, it is possible to reduce the amount of bacteria that adhere to the bottles 90 made from the preforms 91. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of hydrogen peroxide used in the container sterilization device 11 that sterilizes the bottles 90, and also shorten the sterilization time. Generally, the amount of sterilant used to sterilize the small-volume preforms 91 can be less than the amount of sterilant used to sterilize the bottles 90. Therefore, by pre-sterilizing the preforms 91, it is possible to reduce the overall amount of sterilant used.

[0033] Furthermore, the amount of hydrogen peroxide used in the container sterilization device 11 can be reduced, and the sterilization time can be shortened, allowing the container sterilization device 11 to be made smaller. In addition, since the sterilization time for sterilizing the bottles 90 can be shortened, the heat load on the bottles 90 can be reduced. As a result, even with lightweight bottles 90 or bottles 90 made from recycled PET, deformation of the bottles 90 due to the heat of the disinfectant can be suppressed.

[0034] Furthermore, this sterilization process may be performed not only in the preform receiving section 34, but also in the preform heating section 35 or the preform transfer section 36. Additionally, the sterilization process may be performed after the bottle 90 has been formed, between the bottle transport section 33 and the filling device 20. Moreover, the sterilization process may be performed at multiple locations. In addition, instead of using a disinfectant, bacteria may be inactivated by ultraviolet irradiation or electron beam irradiation.

[0035] Downstream of the preform sterilization device 34a, the preform air rinsing device 34b described above is provided. The preform 91, to which the disinfectant has been sprayed, is dried with hot air in the preform air rinsing device 34b. At this time, it is preferable that the hot air is supplied to the preform 91 with its opening facing downwards. This effectively removes foreign matter from inside the preform 91. Therefore, the step of washing the preform 91 with sterile water can be omitted, and the amount of carbon dioxide emitted by the contents filling system 10 can be reduced. Note that the preform air rinsing device 34b is not required to be provided in the preform receiving section 34. In addition, a foreign matter removal device (not shown) for removing foreign matter adhering to the preform 91 may be provided upstream of the preform sterilization device 34a in the preform receiving section 34.

[0036] The preform heating unit 35 is configured to receive the preform 91 from the preform receiving unit 34 and heat the preform 91 while transporting it. The preform heating unit 35 is equipped with a heater 35a for heating the preform 91. This heater 35a may be, for example, an infrared heater. The heater 35a heats the preform 91 to, for example, 90°C to 130°C. The temperature of the opening of the preform 91 is kept below 70°C to prevent deformation.

[0037] The preform delivery section 36 is configured to receive the preforms 91 heated by the preform heating section 35 and deliver them to the blow molding section 32 .

[0038] The blow molding unit 32 includes a mold (not shown). The mold is used to blow mold the preform 91, thereby forming a bottle 90. The formed bottle 90 is then transported downstream by the bottle transport unit 33.

[0039] Here, between the bottle molding unit 30 and the container sterilization device 11, there is an adjustment and conveying unit 38 that receives bottles 90 from the bottle conveying unit 33 and delivers the bottles 90 to the container sterilization device 11. At least a portion of this adjustment and conveying unit 38 is housed inside an atmosphere isolation chamber 70c (described later) located upstream of the disinfectant spray chamber 70d (described later). In the illustrated example, the adjustment and conveying unit 38 is positioned to straddle the molding unit chamber 70b (described later) that houses the bottle molding unit 30 and the atmosphere isolation chamber 70c. In this way, at least a portion of the adjustment and conveying unit 38 is housed inside the atmosphere isolation chamber 70c, which prevents disinfectant gas or mist, or mixtures thereof, generated in the disinfectant spray chamber 70d from flowing into the molding unit chamber 70b.

[0040] In the illustrated example, a single conveying wheel 12 is provided between the adjusting and conveying unit 38 and the bottle conveying unit 33. That is, between the blow molding unit 32 of the bottle molding unit 30 and the container sterilization device 11, the bottle conveying unit 33 of the bottle molding unit 30, a single conveying wheel 12, and an adjusting and conveying unit 38 are provided. This allows the content filling system 10 to be more compact than when multiple conveying wheels 12 are provided between the adjusting and conveying unit 38 and the bottle conveying unit 33 of the bottle molding unit 30. Although not shown, only the adjusting and conveying unit 38 may be provided between the blow molding unit 32 of the bottle molding unit 30 and the container sterilization device 11. In this case, the content filling system 10 can be made even more compact. Furthermore, when filling the content while molding in the blow molding unit 32, the content filling system 10 can be made even more compact.

[0041] The container sterilizer 11 is a device that sterilizes the bottles 90 by spraying a sterilant onto the bottles 90. As a result, the bottles 90 are sterilized by the sterilant before filling them with contents. For example, an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution is used as the sterilant. In the container sterilizer 11, gas or mist of the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution is generated and sprayed onto the inner and outer surfaces of the bottles 90. Since the bottles 90 are sterilized with the gas or mist of the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in this way, the inner and outer surfaces of the bottles 90 are sterilized evenly.

[0042] The air rinse device 14 is a device that supplies sterile heated air or sterile room-temperature air to the bottle 90 to activate the hydrogen peroxide while removing foreign matter and hydrogen peroxide from the bottle 90. At this time, it is preferable to supply sterile air to the bottle 90 with the mouth of the bottle 90 facing downward. This effectively removes foreign matter from the bottle 90. This eliminates the need to rinse the bottle 90 with sterile water, thereby saving water. It also reduces the amount of carbon dioxide emitted by the content filling system 10. If necessary, the sterile room-temperature air may be mixed with a condensed mist of low-concentration hydrogen peroxide to gasify the hydrogen peroxide and supply it to the bottle 90.

[0043] The filling device 20 is a device that fills bottles 90 with contents such as beverages. That is, the filling device 20 fills the contents into the bottles 90 from the mouths of the bottles 90. In this way, the contents are filled into empty bottles 90 in the filling device 20. In this filling device 20, the contents are filled into the bottles 90 while the multiple bottles 90 are rotated and transported. The filling device 20 is disposed inside an aseptic chamber 70f, which will be described later. The filling device 20 may be a so-called rotary filler having multiple rotatable filling nozzles 22, or may be a filler that transports bottles 90 in a linear manner. Details of the filling device 20 will be described later.

[0044] The capping device 16 is a device that closes bottles 90 by attaching caps 92 to the bottles 90. In the capping device 16, bottles 90 filled with contents are closed with caps 92. This seals the bottles 90 to prevent outside air and microorganisms from entering. In the capping device 16, the caps 92 are attached to the mouths of multiple bottles 90 filled with contents while rotating (revolving) the caps 92 while gripping the bottles 90. In this way, product bottles 95 are obtained by attaching caps 92 to the bottles 90.

[0045] The caps 92 are sterilized in advance by the cap sterilizer 18. The cap sterilizer 18 is disposed, for example, outside the aseptic chamber 70f and near the cap fitting device 16. In the cap sterilizer 18, a large number of caps 92 brought in from outside the content filling system 10 are collected in advance and transported in a line toward the cap fitting device 16. While the caps 92 are on their way to the cap fitting device 16, hydrogen peroxide gas or mist is sprayed onto the inner and outer surfaces of the caps 92, and then the caps are dried and sterilized with hot air.

[0046] The product bottle carrying section 19 continuously carries out the product bottles 95 to which the caps 92 have been attached by the capping device 16 toward the outside of the content filling system 10.

[0047] The content filling system 10 has a preform sterilization chamber 70a, a molding section chamber 70b, an atmosphere blocker chamber 70c, a sterilant spray chamber 70d, an air rinse chamber 70e, an aseptic chamber 70f, and an exit chamber 70g. The preform sterilization chamber 70a, the molding section chamber 70b, the atmosphere blocker chamber 70c, the sterilant spray chamber 70d, the air rinse chamber 70e, the aseptic chamber 70f, and the exit chamber 70g are arranged in this order from upstream to downstream along the conveyance direction of the preforms 91 and bottles 90.

[0048] Each chamber 70a to 70g is separated by a partition wall. The partition wall prevents the disinfectant or other substances from flowing in unintended directions between each chamber 70a to 70g and stabilizes the pressure within each chamber 70a to 70g. A gap is formed in each partition wall that is large enough for a preform 91 or bottle 90 to pass through. This gap is formed to a minimum size, for example, about the size of one preform 91 or bottle 90, so as not to change the pressure within each chamber 70a to 70g. Furthermore, a shutter may be provided in the partition wall to close the aforementioned gap. This shutter may be configured to open and close automatically, for example, by a signal from the control unit 60.

[0049] Of the chambers 70a to 70g, the preform sterilization chamber 70a houses the preform sterilization device 34a, etc. The molding chamber 70b houses the blow molding section 32 of the bottle molding section 30, etc. At least a part of the adjustment and conveying section 38 is housed inside the atmosphere isolation chamber 70c. The disinfectant spray chamber 70d houses the container sterilization device 11. The air rinsing chamber 70e houses the air rinsing device 14. The sterile chamber 70f houses the filling device 20, the conveying wheel 12, and the capping device 16. Furthermore, the product bottle discharge section 19 is housed inside the outlet chamber 70g.

[0050] As described above, the content filling system 10 includes a control unit 60 that controls the content filling system 10. This control unit 60 is electrically connected to the bottle forming unit 30, the container sterilizer 11, the air rinse unit 14, the filling unit 20, the capping unit 16, the product bottle discharge unit 19, and the cap sterilizer 18, and may control these devices. This control unit 60 may also clean and sterilize the inside of each chamber. In this embodiment, the control unit 60 cleans the inside of the aseptic chamber 70f (cleaning the inside of each chamber is also referred to as COP).

[0051] Such a content filling system 10 may be, for example, a sterile filling system. In this case, the interiors of the sterilant spray chamber 70d, the air rinse chamber 70e, the sterile chamber 70f, and the outlet chamber 70g are maintained in a sterile state. Note that a chamber (not shown) may be provided downstream of the outlet chamber 70g to connect the sterile zone in a sterile state with the non-sterile zone in a non-sterile state.

[0052] Next, the configuration of the content sterilization device 40 and the filling device 20 of the content filling system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a configuration diagram showing the content sterilization device 40, the filling device 20, and their surroundings in the content filling system 10 described above.

[0053] 2, the content filling system 10 includes a content sterilization device 40 and a filling device 20. The content filling system 10 further includes a content blending unit 41, a first tank 42, a temperature adjustment unit 43, and a second tank 44.

[0054] The content preparation unit 41, the first tank 42, the content sterilization device 40, the temperature adjustment unit 43, and the second tank 44 are connected by content supply system piping 45a-45d. During filling, contents such as beverages pass sequentially through the content supply system piping 45a-45d. During cleaning (CIP) treatment, a treatment fluid such as a water rinse, an alkaline cleaning solution, or an acidic cleaning solution is passed through the content supply system piping 45a-45d. During sterilization (SIP) treatment, a treatment fluid such as heated steam or hot water is passed through the content supply system piping 45a-45d that has been cleaned by the CIP treatment, thereby performing a high-temperature sterilization treatment. In this specification, the treatment fluid may be any of a water rinse, an alkaline cleaning solution, an acidic cleaning solution, heated steam, or hot water.

[0055] The content blending unit 41 blends the content from beverage ingredients. Examples of beverage ingredients include sweeteners, fruit juices, plant extracts, dairy products, flavorings, acidity regulators, and vitamins. The content may be prepared by mixing one or more of the above beverage ingredients with drinking water in a predetermined ratio. The content may be a carbonated beverage such as cider or cola, an alcoholic beverage such as beer, tea, a functional beverage, juice, coffee, milk, or a milk-based beverage. The content may also be a food seasoning such as soy sauce. Alternatively, the content may be water, pure water, ion-exchanged water, purified water, ultrapure water, or a non-potable liquid.

[0056] The contents mixing unit 41 is connected to the first tank 42 via the contents supply system piping 45a. The contents from the contents mixing unit 41 are supplied to this first tank 42.

[0057] The first tank 42 is connected to the contents sterilization device 40 via contents supply piping 45b. A pump 46 is provided in the middle of the contents supply piping 45b to send the contents from the first tank 42 to the contents sterilization device 40. The first tank 42 is connected to a processing fluid input section 47 into which the processing fluid described above is introduced.

[0058] The content sterilization device 40 sterilizes contents such as beverages. The content sterilization device 40 has a heat exchange unit 50 and a heating section 52. Of these, the heat exchange unit 50 includes heat exchangers 51a to 51c. The heating section 52 is connected to the heat exchange unit 50. The content sterilization device 40 further has a holding tube 53 connected to the heat exchange unit 50 and the heating section 52.

[0059] In this case, the heat exchange unit 50 includes a plurality of heat exchangers 51a to 51c (three in FIG. 2). That is, the heat exchange unit 50 includes a first heat exchanger 51a, a second heat exchanger 51b, and a third heat exchanger 51c. The heat exchangers 51a to 51c are connected in series within the heat exchange unit 50. The heat exchangers 51a to 51c are each a shell-and-tube heat exchanger, but are not limited to this and may also be a plate-type heat exchanger. It is sufficient that the heat exchange unit 50 includes at least one heat exchanger.

[0060] The heat exchange unit 50 has a first inlet 50a, a first outlet 50b, a second inlet 50c, and a second outlet 50d. The first inlet 50a is connected to the content supply system piping 45b. During filling, the contents sent from the content supply system piping 45b flow into the first inlet 50a. The contents that flow in from the first inlet 50a pass through each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c and are sent to the first outlet 50b. During this time, the contents undergo heat exchange inside each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c and flow out from the first outlet 50b. The contents that flow out from the first outlet 50b are sent to the heating section 52 side.

[0061] The second inlet 50c is connected to the heating unit 52 side. That is, the first outlet 50b and the second inlet 50c are connected via the heating unit 52. During filling, the contents sent from the heating unit 52 side flow into the second inlet 50c. The contents that flow in from the second inlet 50c pass through each of the heat exchangers 51c to 51a and are sent to the second outlet 50d. The contents that flow in from the second inlet 50c are heat exchanged inside each of the heat exchangers 51c to 51a and flow out from the second outlet 50d. The second outlet 50d is connected to the content supply system piping 45c. The contents that flow out from the second outlet 50d are sent to the temperature adjustment unit 43 via the content supply system piping 45c.

[0062] Each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c has a tube-side inlet 54a, a tube-side outlet 54b, a shell-side inlet 54c, and a shell-side outlet 54d. The tube-side inlet 54a is located at one longitudinal end of each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c. The tube-side outlet 54b is located at the other longitudinal end of each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c. In each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c, the tube-side inlet 54a and the tube-side outlet 54b are positioned opposite each other in the longitudinal direction of each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c. The shell-side inlet 54c is located in the shell portion near the other longitudinal end of each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c. The shell-side outlet 54d is located in the shell portion near one longitudinal end of each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c. In each heat exchanger 51a to 51c, the shell-side inlet 54c and shell-side outlet 54d are oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c, but are not limited to this. The shell-side inlet 54c and shell-side outlet 54d may be oriented obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c.

[0063] When filling the contents, the contents sent from the contents supply system piping 45b flow into the tube-side inlet 54a. The tube-side inlet 54a communicates with the tube-side outlet 54b inside each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c. The contents flowing in from the tube-side inlet 54a undergo heat exchange inside each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c and flow out from the tube-side outlet 54b. The contents flowing out from the tube-side outlet 54b are sent to the heating section 52 side. Furthermore, when filling the contents, the contents sent from the heating section 52 flow into the shell-side inlet 54c. The shell-side inlet 54c communicates with the shell-side outlet 54d inside each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c. The contents flowing in from the shell-side inlet 54c undergo heat exchange inside each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c and flow out from the shell-side outlet 54d.

[0064] In the content sterilization device 40, a content supply system piping 45b is connected to a tube-side inlet 54a of a first heat exchanger 51a. A connecting piping 55a connects a tube-side outlet 54b of the first heat exchanger 51a to a tube-side inlet 54a of a second heat exchanger 51b. A connecting piping 55b connects a tube-side outlet 54b of the second heat exchanger 51b to a tube-side inlet 54a of a third heat exchanger 51c. A circulation system piping 56 is connected to the tube-side outlet 54b of the third heat exchanger 51c. The circulation system piping 56 is connected to a body-side inlet 54c of the third heat exchanger 51c. The circulation system piping 56 is provided with the heating unit 52 and the holding tube 53 described above. The shell side outlet 54d of the third heat exchanger 51c and the shell side inlet 54c of the second heat exchanger 51b are connected by a connecting pipe 55c. The shell side outlet 54d of the second heat exchanger 51b and the shell side inlet 54c of the first heat exchanger 51a are connected by a connecting pipe 55d.

[0065] The heating section 52 heats the contents flowing through the circulation pipe 56 to a final sterilization temperature. The heating section 52 may be a heater. For example, a heat exchanger may be used as the heater.

[0066] Holding tube 53 is provided downstream of heating section 52 in circulation system piping 56. Holding tube 53 includes a coiled curved pipe, a straight pipe, a spiral pipe, or the like, and is subjected to heat treatment or sterilization treatment while flowing inside it. The contents are set to pass through holding tube 53 for a predetermined residence time or more. In this way, by retaining the contents or fluid such as a processing fluid in holding tube 53 for a certain residence time (holding time) while maintaining the sterilization temperature, the sterility of the fluid can be ensured.

[0067] The content sterilization device 40 is connected to a temperature adjustment unit 43 via a content supply system piping 45c. The temperature adjustment unit 43 is a device for adjusting the temperature of the contents sterilized in the content sterilization device 40 to the filling temperature. The temperature adjustment unit 43 may be a cooling device that lowers the temperature of the contents. The temperature adjustment unit 43 may also be a heat exchanger. The temperature adjustment unit 43 has a third inlet 43a, a third outlet 43b, a fourth inlet 43c, and a fourth outlet 43d. The contents from the content supply system piping 45c flow into the third inlet 43a. The contents that flow in from the third inlet 43a flow out from the third outlet 43b. A temperature adjustment liquid such as cooling water flows into the fourth inlet 43c. The temperature adjustment liquid that flowed in from the fourth inlet 43c flows out from the fourth outlet 43d. In the temperature adjustment unit 43, heat is exchanged between the contents flowing in through the third inlet 43a and the temperature-adjusting liquid flowing in through the fourth inlet 43c, thereby adjusting the temperature of the contents flowing out through the third outlet 43b. Note that if the filling temperature of the contents filled by the filling device 20 has a wide tolerance range (e.g., 30°C ± 20°C), the temperature adjustment unit 43 may not be provided. In this case, the flow path of the contents from the fifth branch 62e may be switched to the circulation pipe 63c. The temperature of the contents may then be adjusted while circulating the contents until the temperature of the contents at the second outlet 50d falls within the tolerance range for the temperature during manufacturing. Furthermore, if the filling temperature of the contents is medium to high (e.g., 50°C or higher and 100°C or lower), the contents may be directly sent to the filling device 20 from an intermediate heat exchanger (e.g., the third heat exchanger 51c or the second heat exchanger 51b).

[0068] The temperature adjustment unit 43 is connected to the second tank 44 via a content supply system pipe 45d. The second tank 44 stores the content from the content supply system pipe 45d. The second tank 44 temporarily stores the content whose temperature has been adjusted by the temperature adjustment unit 43. The second tank 44 may also be called a filling head tank or a buffer tank. The second tank 44 may be disposed in an upper portion of the filling device 20.

[0069] In the filling device 20, the contents stored in the second tank 44 are filled into empty bottles 90. The filling device 20 has a rotating rotary wheel 21. The rotary wheel 21 rotates (revolves) the multiple bottles 90, filling the bottles 90 with the contents. A multiple number of filling nozzles 22 are arranged along the outer periphery of the rotary wheel 21. A single bottle 90 is attached to each filling nozzle 22, and the contents are injected into the bottles 90 from the filling nozzles 22. A content supply line 23 is connected to the filling nozzle 22. One end of the content supply line 23 is connected to the second tank 44, which is filled with the contents, and the other end is connected to the interior of the bottle 90. The contents supplied from the second tank 44 pass through the content supply line 23 and are injected into the bottles 90.

[0070] The rotating wheel 21 and filling nozzle 22 are covered by a chamber 24 made of, for example, a stainless steel plate. A rotary joint 25 is attached to the top of the chamber 24. This rotary joint 25 seals the rotating bodies (the rotating wheel 21, filling nozzle 22, etc.) and the non-rotating bodies (the chamber 24, etc.) in a sterile state.

[0071] Further, a first branch 62a and a second branch 62b are provided in the middle of the content supply system piping 45b. Of these, a first circulation piping 63a is connected to the first branch 62a. The first circulation piping 63a is connected to a third circulation piping 63c (described later) at a third branch 62c. Further, a second circulation piping 63b is connected to the second branch 62b. The second circulation piping 63b is connected to a third circulation piping 63c (described later) at a fourth branch 62d. Further, a fifth branch 62e is provided in the middle of the content supply system piping 45d. The third circulation piping 63c is connected to the fifth branch 62e. The third circulation piping 63c is connected to the first tank 42.

[0072] A fourth heat exchanger 66 (additional heat exchanger) is provided in the third circulation pipe 63c. The fourth heat exchanger 66 exchanges heat between the treatment fluid flowing through the content supply system pipe 45b and the treatment fluid flowing through the third circulation pipe 63c. The fourth heat exchanger 66 uses the temperature of the treatment fluid flowing out of the content sterilization device 40 during cleaning treatment (CIP treatment) to increase the temperature of the treatment fluid flowing into the content sterilization device 40.

[0073] The fourth heat exchanger 66 has a fifth inlet 66a, a fifth outlet 66b, a sixth inlet 66c, and a sixth outlet 66d. The contents flow into the fifth inlet 66a from the content supply system piping 45b. Alternatively, the fifth inlet 66a allows the processing fluid to flow in or out. The contents that flow in from the fifth inlet 66a flow out from the fifth outlet 66b. Alternatively, the fifth outlet 66b allows the processing fluid to flow in or out. The processing fluid passing through the third circulation piping 63c flows in or out to the sixth inlet 66c. The processing fluid that passes through the sixth inlet 66c flows out or in to the sixth outlet 66d. In the fourth heat exchanger 66, heat exchange occurs between the processing fluid that flows in from the fifth inlet 66a and the processing fluid that flows in from the sixth inlet 66c, and the temperature of the processing fluid that flows out from the fifth outlet 66b is adjusted. Alternatively, in the fourth heat exchanger 66, heat exchange takes place between the processing fluid flowing in from the sixth outlet 66d and the processing fluid flowing in from the fifth outlet 66b, and the temperature of the processing fluid flowing out from the sixth inlet 66c is adjusted.

[0074] A first valve 64a is provided in the content supply system piping 45b, between the first branch portion 62a and the second branch portion 62b. Furthermore, a second valve 64b is provided in the first circulation piping 63a. A third valve 64c is provided in the second circulation piping 63b. A fourth valve 64d is provided in the content supply system piping 45d, between the fifth branch portion 62e and the filling device 20. Furthermore, a fifth valve 64e is provided in the third circulation piping 63c, between the third branch portion 62c and the fourth branch portion 62d. The opening and closing of these first valve 64a to fifth valve 64e is each controlled by the control unit 60.

[0075] A backpressure valve 48 is provided midway along the content supply system piping 45d, between the temperature adjustment unit 43 and the fifth branch 62e. The backpressure valve 48 allows for adjustment of the flow rate and internal pressure of the content supply system piping 45d. This allows the process fluid passing through the holding tube 53 and beyond in the heat exchange unit 50 to maintain a higher pressure than the process fluid passing through the holding tube 53 and beyond during forward flow. Specifically, during forward flow, the process fluid pressure at the body-side outlet 54d in each of the heat exchangers 51c to 51a is made higher than the process fluid pressure at the tube-side outlet 54b. When backpressure is applied when the maximum temperature of the process fluid passing through the content sterilization device 40 is 100°C or higher, the pressure in the piping of the content sterilization device 40 increases. To control the process fluid pressure to maintain the pressure balance under these conditions, one or more booster pumps (not shown) may be installed between the pump 46 and the holding tube 53. It is more preferable to install the booster pump between heating unit 52 and third heat exchanger 51c, or between third heat exchanger 51c and second heat exchanger 51b. That is, by installing one or more back pressure valves 48 and one or more booster pumps, the above-mentioned pressure balance can be achieved while maintaining the flow rate required for cleaning and the temperature required for sterilization.

[0076] For convenience, the thermometer, concentration meter, pressure gauge, flow meter, etc. are omitted from the drawings. These thermometers, concentration meter, pressure gauge, flow meter, etc. may be installed at various locations and used for control by the control unit 60.

[0077] Next, the internal structure of each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c. Note that each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c may have the same structure.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 3, each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c has a shell 71, a pair of tube plates 72a and 72b provided at both ends of the shell 71 in the longitudinal direction, and a plurality of tubes 73 extending within the shell 71.

[0079] Of these, the shell 71 has a cylindrical shape such as a cylinder. A space S through which a fluid such as contents passes is formed inside the shell 71 and around the multiple tubes 73. A body portion of the shell 71 is provided with a body-side inlet 54c and a body-side outlet 54d. The body-side inlet 54c is located at the longitudinal end of the shell 71, near the tube-side outlet 54b. The body-side outlet 54d is located at the longitudinal end of the shell 71, near the tube-side inlet 54a.

[0080] The pair of tube plates 72a, 72b are each disk-shaped and close both longitudinal ends of the shell 71. An opening is formed in each of the tube plates 72a, 72b, and an end of each of the tubes 73 is fixed to each opening. A tube-side inlet 54a is formed on one tube plate 72a side, and a tube-side outlet 54b is formed on the other tube plate 72b side.

[0081] The plurality of tubes 73 each extend from one tube sheet 72a to the other tube sheet 72b. The plurality of tubes 73 are arranged at intervals in the radial direction. A fluid, such as contents, that flows in through the tube-side inlet 54a passes through the plurality of tubes 73 and flows out through the tube-side outlet 54b. On the other hand, a fluid, such as contents, that flows in through the shell-side inlet 54c passes through the space S in the shell 71 and flows out through the shell-side outlet 54d. Inside each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c, the space S and the tubes 73 do not communicate with each other. Inside each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c, heat exchange occurs between the fluid passing through the tubes 73 and the fluid passing through the space S. As a result, the temperature of the fluid passing through the tubes 73 increases (decreases), and the temperature of the fluid passing through the space S decreases (increases).

[0082] (Content filling method) Next, a description will be given of a content filling method using the above-described content filling system 10. Note that the following describes a content filling method under normal circumstances, that is, a content filling method for filling a bottle 90 with content to produce a product bottle 95.

[0083] First, a plurality of preforms 91 are sequentially supplied to the preform receiving section 34 of the preform transport section 31 via the preform supply conveyor 37a by the preform supply device 37 (preform supply step). At this time, the preforms 91 are sterilized in the preform sterilizer 34a by spraying hydrogen peroxide gas or mist onto the preforms 91, and then dried with hot air.

[0084] Next, the preform 91 is sent to the preform heating section 35, where it is heated by the heater 35a to, for example, a temperature of about 90° C. or higher and 130° C. or lower. Next, the preform 91 heated by the preform heating section 35 is sent to the preform delivery section 36. Then, the preform 91 is sent from the preform delivery section 36 to the blow molding section 32.

[0085] Next, the preform 91 sent to the blow molding unit 32 is blow molded using a mold (not shown) to form a bottle 90 (bottle molding process). The blow-molded bottle 90 is then sent to the bottle conveying unit 33.

[0086] Next, in the container sterilization device 11, the bottle 90 is sterilized using a hydrogen peroxide solution as a sterilant (container sterilization process). In this case, the sterilant may be a gas or mist obtained by vaporizing a hydrogen peroxide solution at a temperature above its boiling point. The hydrogen peroxide solution gas or mist adheres to the inner and outer surfaces of the bottle 90, sterilizing the inner and outer surfaces of the bottle 90.

[0087] Next, the bottles 90 are sent to the air rinse device 14. In the air rinse device 14, sterile heated air or sterile room temperature air is supplied to the bottles 90 to activate the hydrogen peroxide and remove foreign matter, hydrogen peroxide, and the like from the bottles 90 (air rinse process). Note that in the air rinse process, a condensed mist of low-concentration hydrogen peroxide may be mixed with the sterile heated air or sterile room temperature air, as needed. In this case, the hydrogen peroxide is gasified by the sterile air. Then, in the air rinse process, the gasified hydrogen peroxide may be supplied to the bottles 90.

[0088] The bottles 90 are then transported to the filling device 20 .

[0089] During this time, the contents are prepared from the beverage ingredients by the contents preparation section 41 (contents preparation process). The contents are sent to the first tank 42 via the contents supply system piping 45a and stored therein. The contents are then sent by the pump 46 via the contents supply system piping 45b and the fourth heat exchanger 66 to the content sterilization device 40. In the content sterilization device 40, the contents flow into the first inlet 50a of the heat exchange unit 50, undergo heat exchange in each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c, and after increasing in temperature, flow out from the first outlet 50b. The contents that flow out from the first outlet 50b are further heated in the heating section 52 and sent to the holding tube 53. It takes the contents at least a certain time (retention time) to pass through the holding tube 53, and during this time the contents are maintained at a predetermined temperature or higher. The contents then flow into the heat exchange unit 50 through the second inlet 50c, undergo heat exchange in the heat exchangers 51a-51c, drop in temperature, and then flow out through the second outlet 50d. In this way, sterilization of the contents is completed. When filling the contents, the first valve 64a and the fourth valve 64d are opened, and the second valve 64b, the third valve 64c, and the fifth valve 64e are closed. Furthermore, the first circulation pipe 63a, the second circulation pipe 63b, and the third circulation pipe 63c are not used.

[0090] The sterilized contents are sent to temperature adjustment section 43 via contents supply system piping 45c. In temperature adjustment section 43, the temperature of the contents is finally adjusted. Specifically, the temperature of the contents is lowered to the filling temperature in filling device 20. The filling temperature may be, for example, from 1°C to 40°C, and preferably from 5°C to 30°C. The contents from temperature adjustment section 43 are sent to second tank 44 and stored.

[0091] In filling device 20, bottle 90 is rotated (revolved) while the contents are filled into bottle 90 from its mouth. In filling device 20, the contents sent from second tank 44 are filled into sterilized bottle 90 at a filling temperature of 1°C or higher and 40°C or lower, preferably 5°C or higher and 30°C or lower.

[0092] Thereafter, the bottles 90 filled with the contents by the filling device 20 are transported by the transport wheel 12 to the capping device 16.

[0093] Meanwhile, the caps 92 are sterilized in advance by the cap sterilizer 18 (cap sterilization process). During this process, the caps 92 are first carried into the cap sterilizer 18 from outside the content filling system 10. Next, in the cap sterilizer 18, hydrogen peroxide gas or mist is sprayed onto the caps 92 to sterilize the inner and outer surfaces thereof, and then the caps are dried with hot air and sent to the cap fitting device 16.

[0094] Next, in the capping device 16, a sterilized cap 92 is attached to the mouth of the bottle 90 conveyed from the filling device 20, thereby closing the bottle 90 and obtaining a product bottle 95 (capping step).

[0095] Thereafter, the product bottles 95 are transported from the capping device 16 to the product bottle transport section 19 and transported to the outside of the content filling system 10 (bottle discharging process).The product bottles 95 are then transported to a packaging line (not shown) and packaged.

[0096] The production (transport) speed of the bottles 90 in the content filling system 10 is preferably 100 bpm or more and 1500 bpm or less. Here, bpm (bottle per minute) refers to the transport speed of the bottles 90 per minute.

[0097] (Cleaning and sterilization methods) Next, we will explain the operation of the cleaning process (CIP process) and the sterilization process (SIP process) performed in the content filling system 10, for example, periodically or when switching the type of beverage. The control of the cleaning process described below is executed by the control unit 60.

[0098] In the following, the treatment fluid may be any of a water rinse, an alkaline cleaning solution, an acidic cleaning solution, heated steam, hot water, etc. The cleaning process (CIP process) includes a water rinse, an alkaline cleaning process, and an acidic cleaning process. Of these, the water rinse process is a process of rinsing the flow paths in the content filling system 10 with a water rinse. The alkaline cleaning process is a process of flowing an alkaline cleaning solution, for example, water to which an alkaline agent such as caustic soda has been added, through the flow paths in the content filling system 10. The acidic cleaning process is a process of flowing an acidic cleaning solution, for example, water to which an acidic agent has been added, through the flow paths in the content filling system 10. The sterilization process (SIP process) is a process of performing a high-temperature sterilization process by flowing heated steam or hot water through the flow paths through which the content passes before the content filling operation begins. In this embodiment, the sterilization process (SIP process) may be performed after the cleaning process (CIP process). Furthermore, a cleaning and sterilization process (CSIP process) may be performed in which cleaning and sterilization are performed simultaneously without separately performing a sterilization process (SIP process).

[0099] (forward flow treatment) First, the forward flow treatment will be described. In the forward flow treatment, the treatment fluid passes in the forward flow direction (the same direction as the flow direction when the contents are filled) or is circulated in the forward flow direction.

[0100] In this case, the first valve 64a and the fifth valve 64e are opened in advance, and the second valve 64b, the third valve 64c, and the fourth valve 64d are closed. In the forward flow process, the third circulation pipe 63c is used, and the first circulation pipe 63a and the second circulation pipe 63b are not used.

[0101] Subsequently, the processing fluid is sent from the processing fluid input section 47 to a piping system formed by the content supply system piping 45a-45d and the third circulation piping 63c. As the processing fluid passes through or circulates, the piping system, the first tank 42, the content sterilization device 40, and the temperature adjustment section 43 are each purified.

[0102] As shown in Fig. 4, for example, a treatment fluid is sent to the first tank 42, and the treatment fluid passes through or circulates, thereby purifying the piping system, the first tank 42, the content sterilization device 40, and the temperature adjustment unit 43. In Fig. 4, the flow path through which the treatment fluid passes is indicated by a thick line.

[0103] During this time, the processing fluid is sent to the content sterilization device 40 via the fourth heat exchanger 66 by the pump 46 located in the content supply system piping 45b. The processing fluid exchanges heat with the high-temperature processing fluid flowing in from the sixth inlet 66c in the fourth heat exchanger 66, thereby increasing its temperature. This processing fluid flows into the content sterilization device 40 from the first inlet 50a of the heat exchange unit 50. The processing fluid flowing in from the first inlet 50a passes sequentially through the first heat exchanger 51a, the second heat exchanger 51b, and the third heat exchanger 51c. The processing fluid exchanges heat with the high-temperature processing fluid flowing in from the second inlet 50c in the first heat exchanger 51a, the second heat exchanger 51b, and the third heat exchanger 51c, thereby increasing its temperature. The processing fluid with the increased temperature flows out from the first outlet 50b.

[0104] The heated processing fluid flows through the circulation system piping 56 and is further heated in the heating section 52. This heated processing fluid reaches the holding tube 53. The processing fluid requires a certain time (residence time) or more to pass through the holding tube 53, during which time it maintains a predetermined temperature or higher. Thereafter, the processing fluid flows from the circulation system piping 56 into the second inlet 50c of the heat exchange unit 50.

[0105] The process fluid flowing in from the second inlet 50c passes through the third heat exchanger 51c, the second heat exchanger 51b, and the first heat exchanger 51a in that order. The process fluid exchanges heat with the low-temperature process fluid flowing in from the first inlet 50a in the third heat exchanger 51c, the second heat exchanger 51b, and the first heat exchanger 51a, causing the temperature of the process fluid to drop. The process fluid with the lowered temperature flows out from the second outlet 50d.

[0106] The processing fluid flowing out from the second outlet 50d of the heat exchange unit 50 reaches the temperature adjustment section 43 via the content supply system piping 45c. Next, the processing fluid reaches the third circulation piping 63c via the content supply system piping 45d and the fifth branch section 62e in this order. In the third circulation piping 63c, the processing fluid passes through the fourth heat exchanger 66. At this time, the processing fluid exchanges heat with the low-temperature processing fluid flowing in from the fifth inlet 66a within the fourth heat exchanger 66, and the temperature of the processing fluid drops.

[0107] When a water rinse solution is used as the treatment fluid (water rinsing process), the treatment fluid is discharged to the outside through the third circulation pipe 63c. When an alkaline cleaning solution, an acidic cleaning solution, or hot water is used as the treatment fluid (alkaline cleaning process, acidic cleaning process, SIP process), the treatment fluid is circulated. Therefore, the treatment fluid reaches the first tank 42 from the third circulation pipe 63c. The treatment fluid is then sent again from the first tank 42 to the heat exchange unit 50 by the pump 46. In this way, the alkaline cleaning solution, the acidic cleaning solution, or the hot water circulates for a predetermined time through the piping system formed by the content supply system pipes 45a-45d and the third circulation pipe 63c, the first tank 42, the content sterilization device 40, and the temperature adjustment unit 43. After circulating for the predetermined time, the alkaline cleaning solution, the acidic cleaning solution, or the hot water is discharged to the outside.

[0108] When the processing fluid is an alkaline or acidic cleaning solution, the processing fluid is heated by the heat exchange unit 50. The heated processing fluid is supplied to the piping system, the first tank 42, the content sterilization device 40, and the temperature adjustment unit 43. This circulation, for example, lasts for 5 to 60 minutes, properly purifies the piping system, the first tank 42, the content sterilization device 40, and the temperature adjustment unit 43. At the same time, the piping system, the first tank 42, the content sterilization device 40, and the temperature adjustment unit 43 are sterilized, allowing for simultaneous SIP processing without the need for a separate SIP process (CSIP process). In this way, by simultaneously cleaning and sterilizing the various components of the content filling system 10 using CIP, the time required for SIP processing can be reduced or even eliminated. This reduces the product changeover time of the content filling system 10 and improves production capacity. During the CSIP process, the temperature of the processing fluid flowing through the first tank 42, the pump 46, and the fourth heat exchanger 66 is lower than that of the processing fluid flowing through the content sterilization device 40 and the temperature adjustment unit 43. For this reason, the first tank 42, the pump 46, and the fourth heat exchanger 66 may be excluded from the SIP process.

[0109] (Backflow treatment) Next, the backflow treatment will be described. In the backflow treatment, the treatment fluid passes in a backflow direction (the direction opposite to the flow direction when the contents are filled) or is circulated in a backflow direction.

[0110] In this case, the second valve 64b and the third valve 64c are opened in advance, and the first valve 64a, the fourth valve 64d, and the fifth valve 64e are closed. In the backflow process, the first circulation pipe 63a, the second circulation pipe 63b, and the third circulation pipe 63c are used.

[0111] At this time, as shown in Fig. 5, the processing fluid is sent from the processing fluid input section 47 to a piping system formed by the content supply system piping 45a-45d and the circulation piping 63a-63c. In the backflow process, the processing fluid circulates in the opposite direction to the forward flow process. This purifies the piping system formed by the content supply system piping 45a-45d and the circulation piping 63a-63c, the temperature adjustment section 43, the content sterilization device 40, and the first tank 42. In Fig. 5, the flow path through which the processing fluid passes is indicated by a thick line.

[0112] During this time, the processing fluid is pumped into the first circulation pipe 63a via the first branch 62a by the pump 46 located in the content supply system pipe 45b. The processing fluid then flows into the temperature adjustment unit 43 via the third branch 62c, the third circulation pipe 63c, the fifth branch 62e, and the content supply system pipe 45d in this order. During this time, the processing fluid passes through the fourth heat exchanger 66 located in the third circulation pipe 63c. Inside the fourth heat exchanger 66, the processing fluid exchanges heat with the high-temperature processing fluid that flows in from the fifth outlet 66b, causing the temperature to rise.

[0113] Next, the processing fluid flows through the contents supply system piping 45c and into the heat exchange unit 50 from the second outlet 50d. The processing fluid that flows in from the second outlet 50d passes through the first heat exchanger 51a, the second heat exchanger 51b, and the third heat exchanger 51c in sequence. The processing fluid exchanges heat with the high-temperature processing fluid that flows in from the first outlet 50b in the first heat exchanger 51a, the second heat exchanger 51b, and the third heat exchanger 51c, and the temperature of the processing fluid increases. The processing fluid with the increased temperature flows out from the second inlet 50c.

[0114] The heated processing fluid reaches the holding tube 53 via the circulation system piping 56. The processing fluid requires at least a certain time (residence time) to pass through the holding tube 53, and during this time, the processing fluid maintains a predetermined temperature or higher. The processing fluid is then further heated in the heating section 52. Thereafter, the processing fluid flows from the circulation system piping 56 into the first outlet 50b of the heat exchange unit 50.

[0115] The process fluid flowing in from the first outlet 50b passes through the third heat exchanger 51c, the second heat exchanger 51b, and the first heat exchanger 51a in that order. The process fluid exchanges heat with the low-temperature process fluid flowing in from the second outlet 50d in the third heat exchanger 51c, the second heat exchanger 51b, and the first heat exchanger 51a, thereby lowering its temperature. The process fluid with its lowered temperature flows out from the first inlet 50a.

[0116] The processing fluid flowing out from the first inlet 50a of the heat exchange unit 50 passes through the content supply system pipe 45b and the second branch portion 62b in this order and reaches the second circulation pipe 63b. During this time, the processing fluid passes through the fourth heat exchanger 66 located in the content supply system pipe 45b. Inside the fourth heat exchanger 66, the processing fluid exchanges heat with the low-temperature processing fluid flowing in from the sixth outlet 66d, and the temperature of the processing fluid drops.

[0117] When a water rinse solution is used as the treatment fluid (water rinsing process), the treatment fluid is discharged to the outside through the second circulation pipe 63b. When an alkaline cleaning solution, an acidic cleaning solution, or hot water is used as the treatment fluid (alkaline cleaning process, acidic cleaning process, SIP process), the treatment fluid is circulated. Therefore, the treatment fluid reaches the first tank 42 via the second circulation pipe 63b and the fourth branch section 62d in this order. The treatment fluid is then sent again from the first tank 42 to the temperature adjustment section 43 by the pump 46. In this way, the alkaline cleaning solution, the acidic cleaning solution, or the hot water circulates and cleans the piping system formed by the content supply system pipes 45a-45d and the circulation pipes 63a-63c, the temperature adjustment section 43, the content sterilization device 40, and the first tank 42 for a predetermined time. After circulating for the predetermined time, the alkaline cleaning solution, the acidic cleaning solution, or the hot water is discharged to the outside.

[0118] In the backflow treatment, the piping system, the first tank 42, the content sterilization device 40, and the temperature adjustment unit 43 may also be appropriately purified and sterilized (CSIP treatment).

[0119] In the above example, forward flow processing is performed first, followed by reverse flow processing. However, this is not limiting; reverse flow processing may be performed first, followed by forward flow processing. This can shorten the cleaning time depending on the nature of the dirt adhering to the heat exchangers 51a to 51c, contributing to energy savings. Alternatively, forward flow processing may be performed first, reverse flow processing may be performed, and then forward flow processing may be performed again. This makes it possible to effectively clean areas of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c that have not been properly cleaned, resulting in shorter cleaning time, reduced steam consumption, reduced carbon dioxide emissions, reduced cleaning liquid, water savings, and reduced wastewater.

[0120] However, when performing the above-described forward flow treatment, it has been found that the treatment fluid does not sufficiently reach some parts of the interior of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c, resulting in insufficient cleaning. In particular, as shown in FIG. 3, the treatment fluid that flows into the space S from the shell-side inlet 54c flows toward the shell-side outlet 54d and one of the tube sheets 72a (solid arrow F1 in FIG. 3). Furthermore, in general, in the heat exchangers 51a to 51c, the shell-side inlet 54c is located somewhat away from the other tube sheet 72b. Therefore, the treatment fluid does not sufficiently enter the region between the other tube sheet 72b and the shell-side inlet 54c (the region indicated by symbol R in FIG. 3) inside the shell 71, resulting in uneven cleaning and the risk of insufficient cleaning of this region R. However, since the treatment fluid flows into the region on the one of the tube sheets 72a side, sufficient cleaning is performed.

[0121] In contrast, according to the present embodiment, as described above, in addition to the forward flow treatment, a backflow treatment is performed. In the backflow treatment, the treatment fluid flows in the direction opposite to that of the forward flow treatment. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3, the treatment fluid that flows into the space S from the shell side outlet 54d flows toward the shell side inlet 54c and the other tube sheet 72b (broken line arrow F2 in FIG. 3). Therefore, the treatment fluid sufficiently flows into the region R between the other tube sheet 72b and the shell side inlet 54c inside the shell 71, and this region R can be sufficiently cleaned.

[0122] The content mixing section 41, the filling device 20 and the second tank 44 are also separately cleaned and sterilized using an alkaline cleaning solution and an acidic cleaning solution.

[0123] After the cleaning and sterilization processes are completed, the contents are stored in the first tank 42, and then the contents pass through the contents sterilization device 40 and reach the filling device 20, where the manufacturing process of filling the contents into the bottles 90 begins.

[0124] (Cleaning and sterilization process patterns) Next, examples of processing patterns for the above-mentioned CIP (cleaning), SIP (sterilization), and CSIP (cleaning and sterilization) processes will be described. In the CIP, SIP, and CSIP processes, a water rinse using a water rinse solution, an alkaline cleaning using an alkaline cleaning solution, an acidic cleaning using an acidic cleaning solution, or a sterilization process using hot water are all or partly performed.

[0125] As shown in Figures 6(a)-(e), for example, after the content filling step (manufacturing step), the CIP treatment and SIP treatment may be performed in that order, and then the next content filling step (manufacturing step) may be performed. Note that the order of the alkaline cleaning treatment and acidic cleaning treatment shown in Figures 6(a)-(e) is just an example, and may be changed as appropriate depending on the cleanability of the target dirt.

[0126] (Pattern 1) As shown in Figure 6(a), the CIP process may include (1) water rinsing, (2) alkaline cleaning, (3) water rinsing, (4) acidic cleaning, and (5) water rinsing, followed by (6) hot water SIP. Of these, (1) water rinsing, (2) alkaline cleaning, (3) water rinsing, and (6) SIP correspond to forward flow processes. (4) acidic cleaning, and (5) water rinsing correspond to reverse flow processes.

[0127] (Pattern 2) As shown in Figure 6(b), the CIP process may include (1) water rinsing, (2) alkaline cleaning, (3) water rinsing, (4) acidic cleaning, and (5) water rinsing, followed by (6) hot water SIP. Of these, (1) water rinsing, (4) acidic cleaning, (5) water rinsing, and (6) SIP correspond to forward flow processes. (2) alkaline cleaning and (3) water rinsing correspond to reverse flow processes.

[0128] (Pattern 3) As shown in Figure 6(c), the CIP process may include (1) water rinsing, (2) acidic cleaning, (3) water rinsing, (4) alkaline cleaning, and (5) water rinsing, followed by (6) hot water SIP. Of these, (1) water rinsing, (3) water rinsing, (5) water rinsing, and (6) SIP correspond to forward flow processes. (2) acidic cleaning and (4) alkaline cleaning correspond to reverse flow processes.

[0129] (Pattern 4) As shown in Figure 6(d), the CIP process may include (1) water rinsing, (2) the first acid cleaning, (3) the second acid cleaning, (4) water rinsing, (5) the first alkaline cleaning, and (6) the second alkaline cleaning, followed by (7) hot water SIP. Among these, (1) water rinsing, (2) the first acid cleaning, (5) the first alkaline cleaning, and (7) SIP correspond to forward flow processes. (3) the second acid cleaning, (4) water rinsing, and (6) the second alkaline cleaning correspond to reverse flow processes.

[0130] (Pattern 5) As shown in Figure 6(e), the CIP process may include (1) water rinsing, (2) the first acid cleaning, (3) the second acid cleaning, (4) the first alkaline cleaning, and (5) the second alkaline cleaning, followed by (6) hot water SIP. Among these, (1) water rinsing, (2) the first acid cleaning, (4) the first alkaline cleaning, and (6) SIP correspond to forward flow processes. (3) the second acid cleaning, and (5) the second alkaline cleaning correspond to reverse flow processes.

[0131] As shown in Figures 7(a)-(c), for example, after the content filling step (manufacturing step), the CIP treatment and the CSIP treatment may be performed in this order, and then the next content filling step (manufacturing step) may be performed. Note that the order of the acidic cleaning treatment and alkaline cleaning treatment shown in Figures 7(a)-(c) is just an example, and may be changed as appropriate depending on the cleanability of the target dirt.

[0132] (Pattern 6) As shown in Figure 7(a), the CIP process may include (1) water rinsing, (2) acid cleaning, and (3) water rinsing, followed by (4) alkaline cleaning and (5) water rinsing in the CSIP process. Of these, (1) water rinsing, (4) alkaline cleaning, and (5) water rinsing correspond to forward flow processes. (2) acid cleaning and (3) water rinsing correspond to reverse flow processes.

[0133] (Pattern 7) As shown in Figure 7(b), the CIP process may include (1) a water rinse, (2) the first acid cleaning, (3) the second acid cleaning, and (4) the first alkaline cleaning. Then, the CSIP process may include (5) the second alkaline cleaning and (6) a water rinse. Among these, (1) the water rinse, (2) the first acid cleaning, (5) the second alkaline cleaning, and (6) the water rinse correspond to forward flow processes. (3) the second acid cleaning, and (4) the first alkaline cleaning correspond to reverse flow processes.

[0134] (Pattern 8) As shown in Figure 7(c), the CIP process may include (1) a water rinse, (2) the first acid cleaning process, (3) the second acid cleaning process, (4) the first alkaline cleaning process, and (5) the second alkaline cleaning process, followed by (6) a water rinse in the CSIP process. Among these, (1) the water rinse, (2) the first acid cleaning process, (5) the second alkaline cleaning process, and (6) the water rinse correspond to forward flow processes. (3) the second acid cleaning process and (4) the first alkaline cleaning process correspond to reverse flow processes.

[0135] As exemplified by the above-mentioned patterns 1 to 8, the final step of the cleaning treatment method and the sterilization treatment method is preferably a forward flow treatment step. This allows the process to transition to a production state while maintaining a sterile state from the heating unit 52 to the holding tube 53 and while the liquid feed pressure of the treatment fluid passing through the heat exchangers 51a to 51c after the holding tube 53 remains higher than the liquid feed pressure of the treatment fluid passing before the holding tube 53 (without reversing the safety back pressure).

[0136] As exemplified by the above-mentioned patterns 5, 7, and 8, a water rinse may not be performed between the acidic cleaning process and the alkaline cleaning process. In this case, the alkaline cleaning process may be performed immediately after the acidic cleaning process. Alternatively, the acidic cleaning process may be performed immediately after the alkaline cleaning process. This shortens the cleaning time, saves water, and contributes to energy conservation. A cleaning effect may also be achieved by a pH attack (a localized, sudden pH change). The pH of an acidic cleaning solution is, for example, 1 to 3, and the pH of an alkaline cleaning solution is, for example, 11 to 13. In other words, the pH range for the pH attack is, for example, 8 to 12. The pH range for the pH attack refers to the difference between the pH of the alkaline cleaning solution and the pH of the acidic cleaning solution.

[0137] The table below shows the temperatures of the processing fluid flowing at each location in the content filling system 10 during the above-mentioned CIP process (cleaning process), SIP process (sterilization process), and CSIP process (cleaning and sterilization process). Specifically, the table shows the temperatures at the first tank 42, content supply system piping 45b, first circulation piping 63a, first inlet 50a, first outlet 50b, second inlet 50c, second outlet 50d, content supply system piping 45c, content supply system piping 45d, sixth inlet 66c, sixth outlet 66d, and second circulation piping 63b of the content filling system 10.

[0138] [Table 1]

[0139] (Method for heating processing fluid) Next, a method for heating the processing fluid during the above-mentioned cleaning and sterilization process (CSIP process) will be described.

[0140] During the cleaning and sterilization process (CSIP process), the processing fluid is sent to the content sterilization device 40 and heated by the heating section 52 of the content sterilization device 40. This heated processing fluid passes through the holding tube 53 and is supplied to the heat exchange unit 50. The processing fluid requires a certain time (retention time) or more to pass through the holding tube 53, and during this time, it maintains a predetermined temperature or higher.

[0141] The degree of sterilization of the processing fluid passing through holding tube 53 may be managed by the F-value. For example, the temperature on the outlet side of holding tube 53 may be measured while the processing fluid is flowing through holding tube 53. In this case, outlet temperature information is sent to control unit 60 at regular time intervals. Control unit 60 calculates the F-value at that time based on this temperature information. Here, the F-value is the heating time required to kill all bacteria when heated for a certain period of time, and is expressed as the lethal time for bacteria at a reference temperature, and is calculated using the following formula.

[0142]

number

[0143] In the above formula, T is the temperature (°C) measured at the outlet side of the holding tube 53, 10^{(T-Tr) / Z} is the lethality rate at the sterilization temperature T, Tr is the reference temperature (°C), and Z is the Z value (°C). t1 (minutes) is the (minimum) residence time required for the processing fluid to pass through the holding tube 53 and is determined in advance as a predetermined value. Alternatively, t1 (minutes) may be determined by measuring the actual time the processing fluid passes through in real time based on the flow rate of the processing fluid in the holding tube 53 and the volume of the holding tube 53. The F value during cleaning and sterilization should be set to a value equal to or higher than the sterilization conditions for the type of contents to be produced next, or F03 or higher (Z=10°C).

[0144] The control unit 60 monitors the F-value calculated based on the outlet temperature, and if this value remains above a predetermined value, continues the cleaning process. That is, the control unit 60 integrates the value of 10^{(T-Tr) / Z} based on the temperature information sent at regular time intervals. The integrated value from the current time to the immediately preceding time t1 (minutes) is set as the F-value at that time. If this F-value remains above a predetermined value, the control unit 60 determines that the sterility of the processing fluid passing through the holding tube 53 is ensured, and continues the cleaning process. On the other hand, if the F-value falls below the predetermined value, the control unit 60 may determine that some kind of trouble has occurred and the sterility of the processing fluid can no longer be ensured, and may stop the cleaning process.

[0145] The sterilization method is not limited to the method of sterilization by calculating the F value as described above, but may be a conventionally known sterilization method using temperature and time, for example.

[0146] As described above, according to this embodiment, the control unit 60 performs a forward flow process and a reverse flow process. In the forward flow process, the processing fluid is passed through the first inlet 50a, the first outlet 50b, the heating unit 52, the second inlet 50c, and the second outlet 50d in this order. In the reverse flow process, the processing fluid is passed through the second outlet 50d, the second inlet 50c, the heating unit 52, the first outlet 50b, and the first inlet 50a in this order. This allows the reverse flow process to clean areas inside the heat exchangers 51a to 51c that are difficult to clean using the forward flow process. For example, the reverse flow process can clean the area R (see FIG. 3) between the other tube sheet 72b and the shell side inlet 54c of each of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c. Conversely, the forward flow process can clean areas inside the heat exchangers 51a to 51c that are difficult to clean using the reverse flow process. This improves the cleanability of the content filling system 10 during the cleaning process.

[0147] 3, the treatment fluid flowing from the tube-side inlet 54a to the tube-side outlet 54b and the treatment fluid flowing from the shell-side inlet 54c to the shell-side outlet 54d may be sent in opposite directions. The direction of the fluids may be changed as appropriate depending on the degree of contamination inside the heat exchangers 51a to 51c.

[0148] As another variation, the backflow treatment may be performed only on heat exchangers 51a to 51c that are heated to 60°C or higher, at which point proteins denature. In this case, a bypass flow path (not shown) may be provided for heat exchangers 51a to 51c. This allows, for example, first heat exchanger 51a to perform only forward flow treatment, while second heat exchanger 51b and third heat exchanger 51c can perform both forward flow treatment and backflow treatment.

[0149] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the first outlet 50b and the second inlet 50c of the heat exchange unit 50 are connected via the heating section 52. In this case, there is no need to prepare a separate medium for heating or cooling the fluid passing through the heat exchange unit 50. This reduces the installation area of ​​the heat exchange unit 50. Furthermore, the heat recovery rate of the heat exchange unit 50 can be increased, resulting in energy savings. Furthermore, the maintenance costs of the heat exchange unit 50 can be reduced.

[0150] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, content sterilization device 40 has holding tube 53. The sterilization of the fluid, such as the content or the processing fluid, is ensured by retaining the fluid in holding tube 53 for a certain retention time (holding time) while maintaining the sterilization temperature.

[0151] In this embodiment, the pressure of the processing fluid in the flow path (space S) of the heat exchangers 51a to 51c after the holding tube 53 may be maintained higher than the pressure of the processing fluid in the flow path (tube 73) with which heat is exchanged. In particular, during the forward flow treatment immediately before the content filling step (manufacturing), it is preferable to make the pressure of the processing fluid satisfy the above relationship. This makes it possible to ensure the sterility of the processing fluid, particularly during the content filling step.

[0152] Moreover, according to the present embodiment, there is further provided a temperature adjusting unit 43 that adjusts the temperature of the contents sterilized in the contents sterilization device 40 to the filling temperature. This allows the filling temperature of the contents by the filling device 20 to be appropriately controlled.

[0153] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the processing fluid is heated by the heating unit 52 during the forward flow process and the reverse flow process. In this case, the flow path through which the contents pass can be cleaned by the CIP process and sterilized at the same time. This reduces the time required for the SIP process or eliminates the SIP process altogether. As a result, the product changeover time of the content filling system 10 can be shortened, and production capacity can be improved.

[0154] The content filling system 10 further includes a third circulation pipe 63c that connects a position between the content sterilization device 40 and the filling device 20 to the first tank 42. This allows the treatment fluid to circulate between the first tank 42 and the content sterilization device 40 in the forward flow treatment and the reverse flow treatment.

[0155] In the above, the content filling system 10 using the aseptic filling method has been described as an example of a content filling system, but the present invention is not limited to this. The content filling system may be a content filling system using a hot filling method in which the content is filled at a high temperature of, for example, 55°C to 95°C. It may also be a content filling system in which the content is filled with chilled beverages or alcoholic beverages that are subjected to SIP treatment (microorganism inactivation) after CIP treatment.

[0156] It is also possible to combine the multiple components disclosed in the above-described embodiments and modifications as needed, or to delete some of the components disclosed in the above-described embodiments and modifications. [Explanation of symbols]

[0157] 10 Content filling system 20 Filling equipment 40 Contents sterilizer 41 Contents Mixing Department 42 First Tank 43 Temperature adjustment section 44 Second Tank 45a~45d Contents supply system piping 50 Heat Exchange Unit 50a First inlet 50b 1st outlet 50c 2nd inlet 50d 2nd outlet 51a~51c Heat exchanger 52 Heating section 53 Holding Tube 60 Control Unit 90 bottles

Claims

1. A content filling system for filling a content, a content sterilization device for sterilizing the content; a filling device that fills the contents sterilized in the contents sterilization device; a control unit that controls the content filling system, The content sterilization device has a heat exchange unit including at least one shell-and-tube heat exchanger, and a heating unit connected to the heat exchange unit, the heat exchange unit has a first inlet, a first outlet communicating with the first inlet, a second inlet, and a second outlet communicating with the second inlet, the first outlet and the second inlet are connected via the heating unit and the holding tube, The control unit a forward flow process in which a treatment fluid is passed through the first inlet, the first outlet, the heating unit, the holding tube, the second inlet, and the second outlet in this order; a backflow treatment in which the treatment fluid is passed through the second outlet, the second inlet, the holding tube, the heating section, the first outlet and the first inlet in that order.

2. The contents filling system according to claim 1, further comprising a temperature adjusting unit that adjusts the temperature of the contents sterilized in the contents sterilization device to a filling temperature.

3. The content filling system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit performs the cleaning process in the order of the forward flow process, the reverse flow process, and the forward flow process.

4. The contents filling system according to claim 1 , wherein the processing fluid is heated by the heating unit during the forward flow processing and the reverse flow processing.

5. The content filling system according to claim 1 , further comprising a first tank connected to the content sterilization device.

6. The contents filling system according to claim 5, further comprising a circulation pipe connecting a position between the contents sterilization device and the filling device to the first tank.

7. A content filling system as described in claim 6, wherein an additional heat exchanger is provided in the circulation piping, the first tank is connected to the content sterilization device via a content supply system piping, and the additional heat exchanger performs heat exchange between the treatment fluid flowing through the content supply system piping and the treatment fluid flowing through the circulation piping.

8. 2. The contents filling system according to claim 1, wherein the liquid supply pressure of the processing fluid passing through the portion after the holding tube in the heat exchange unit is higher than the liquid supply pressure of the processing fluid passing through the portion before the holding tube.

9. A method for cleaning or sterilizing a content filling system that fills a content, comprising: The content filling system includes a content sterilization device that sterilizes the content, and a filling device that fills the content sterilized in the content sterilization device, The content sterilization device has a heat exchange unit including a heat exchanger that is at least one shell-and-tube heat exchanger, and a heating section connected to the heat exchange unit, and the heat exchange unit has a first inlet, a first outlet communicating with the first inlet, a second inlet, and a second outlet communicating with the second inlet, the first outlet and the second inlet are connected via the heating unit and the holding tube, The processing method comprises: a forward flow processing step of passing a processing fluid through the first inlet, the first outlet, the heating unit, the holding tube, the second inlet, and the second outlet in this order; a backflow processing step of passing the processing fluid through the second outlet, the second inlet, the holding tube, the heating section, the first outlet, and the first inlet in that order.

10. The treatment method according to claim 9 , wherein the cleaning treatment is performed in the order of the forward flow treatment step, the backflow treatment step, and the forward flow treatment step.

11. The treatment method according to claim 9 , wherein the final step of the treatment method is the forward flow treatment step.

12. an alkaline cleaning treatment step, which is the forward flow treatment step or the backward flow treatment step; an acidic cleaning treatment step, which is the forward flow treatment step or the backward flow treatment step; The alkaline cleaning treatment step is carried out before or after the acidic cleaning treatment step, The treatment method according to claim 9 , wherein no water rinsing treatment is performed between the alkaline cleaning treatment step and the acidic cleaning treatment step.

13. 13. The treatment method according to claim 12, wherein the alkaline cleaning treatment step is performed immediately after the acidic cleaning treatment step, or the acidic cleaning treatment step is performed immediately after the alkaline cleaning treatment step, and a difference in pH between the treatment fluid used in the alkaline cleaning treatment step and the treatment fluid used in the acidic cleaning treatment step is 8 or more and 12 or less.

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