Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems, method and program associated thereto

Abstract

Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems of industrial equipment, comprising: piping lines (6001) connected to a purified water network suitable for water distribution; purified water storage tank (T910), with level sensor (LT9112), safety valve (PSV9111), sanitary pressure gauge (PI9101); centrifugal pump (P910) with integrated pressure regulator (PIC9103), inverter (SC9103) and pressure transmitter (PT9103); heat exchanger (E910); - thermal control system (21) comprising means for monitoring and regulating the temperature of the water inside said tank and in said piping (6001); - breathing filter (F910) adapted to maintain a constant atmospheric pressure in the tank (T910); means for regulating each functionality of the system (100) including a control panel (400) connected to a programmable logic controller (300); recirculation circuit (6002).

Description

[0001] Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems, method and program associated thereto

[0002] Description

[0003] Field of the invention

[0004] The present invention relates to the field of cleaning-in-place (CIP) systems and plants. In more detail, the object described and claimed below concerns a new system particularly suitable for sterilization and washing processes. The invention is based on a stainless steel storage tank with a system for monitoring and controlling the operating conditions.

[0005] Prior art

[0006] In the context of cleaning in place systems, also known as CIP, the effectiveness of the sterilization and washing processes is strictly dependent on the ability to maintain a constant temperature and pressure of the water used during operations. Traditionally, heating systems for such systems have been subject to critical issues related to precise thermal control and pressure stability, factors which may compromise the effectiveness of sterilization and washing. Furthermore, most of these systems do not offer adequate protection against the ingress of external contaminants, such as unfiltered air, which may negatively affect water quality and, consequently, the entire cleaning process.

[0007] Among the patents in this field one may mention CA3235449A1 which discloses an automatic or semi-automatic Clean-In-Place system which involves the use of ozonated water and an electronic control system for cleaning the distribution lines. However, this system does not comprehensively address the need to maintain constant water temperature and pressure in CIP processes to ensure effective sterilization and cleaning. While the use of ozonated water may contribute to effective cleaning, the cited patent does not provide technical solutions to ensure precise thermal control and pressure stability, nor does it address protection against the ingress of external contaminants into the system. As for patent AU2022327701A1, it describes a clean-in-place (CIP) system which focuses on optimizing the treatment and recycling of water and cleaning agents, with the goal of minimizing or eliminating wastewater. Despite the importance of such aspect for environmental sustainability, the patent just cited does not address the crucial need for accurate temperature and pressure control, nor the prevention of the introduction of contaminated air. Furthermore, despite the presence of multiple tanks to store water and detergents, there is no evidence of an advanced management system that includes monitoring and control of operating conditions such as the one proposed by the present invention.

[0008] There do not currently appear to be any water heating systems with temperature and pressure control for in-place cleaning systems which, by comprising at least one stainless steel storage tank and a plurality of sensors and valves, allow for monitoring and control of operating conditions, precise control, and advanced management of the CIP process, overcoming the limitations of current systems that do not guarantee the stability of the operating conditions essential for effective cleaning.

[0009] Description of the invention

[0010] The object of the present invention is to present a new clean in place system which allows the on-site washing of equipment, systems and machines used within industrial plants and, in particular, in sectors such as the pharmaceutical, food and chemical ones.

[0011] The core of the idea which is the subject of the invention comprises a thermal control system which constantly maintains the fluid used at a temperature desired by the user, by drawing and spraying water in a loop, simultaneously through a recirculation circuit.

[0012] The entire system consists of a set of draining piping lines, a tank for the storage of purified water, at least one centrifugal pump, for recirculation and pressurization, a heat exchanger and a series of valves which allow a plurality of different functions.

[0013] The system is connected to the purified water network installed in the facility of each service user, which constitutes the main supply of the fluid managed within the system, which will regulate the temperature, circulation and pressure thereof. The water distribution network consists of pipes (preferably in AISI 316L stainless steel) which, by virtue of the presence of a heat exchanger, allow a control cycle which maintains the water temperature constant, adapting it to the needs of each user. Upon delivery, a portion of the regulated water is directed to the receiving water cleaning system, ensuring it is received at the desired temperature.

[0014] The aforementioned tank, preferably oriented vertically, is provided with an ultrasonic level sensor for monitoring the water level and is maintained at atmospheric pressure by means of a breathing filter while the tank pressure is indicated locally by a sanitary pressure gauge. Furthermore, the tank is protected by at least one safety valve set at 3 barg.

[0015] In a preferred version, the tank has a usable capacity of 1000 liters with a design pressure ranging from 3 barg (bar gauge) to full vacuum and a design temperature of 160°C.

[0016] Even the said tank, in a preferred version, is made of stainless steel (so-called. AISI 316L), belonging to the austenitic steel family. The acronym “316L” refers to its chemical composition and specific properties. In particular, the number “316” indicates a capacity to contain approximately 16-18% chromium, 10-14% nickel and approximately 2-3% molybdenum. The “L” stands for “Low Carbon”, indicating that the amount of carbon has been reduced to improve corrosion resistance and weldability for applications requiring high corrosion resistance, such as in the marine, chemical, and medical industries. Internally, the aforementioned tank has a preferably mirror-polished internal finish, with a surface roughness Ra less than 0.3 pm; it is insulated with glass wool and externally covered with a welded shell preferably in AISI 304 stainless steel, which has a satin external finish obtained using the Scotch Brite satin finishing technique.

[0017] The aforementioned purified water tank is provided with a local recirculation system which uses the aforementioned centrifugal pump to recirculate and pressurize the purified water. The drainable centrifugal pump is built with sanitary materials, with a body preferably made of AISI 316L, an open impeller and a single mechanical seal, preferably SiC / tungC with barrier system. Its rotation speed is regulated by an inverter based on the delivery pressure detected by a pressure transmitter, to maintain said pressure at a desired value. Furthermore, the pump delivery pressure is displayed locally via the sanitary pressure gauge. The presence of the exchanger plays a crucial role in the heating or cooling process of the purified water in the aforementioned tank. Such exchanger is powered by both steam, which acts as a heat source, and chilled water, which provides the necessary heat exchange for the process. The two power modes are alternative: when heating is needed, steam comes into play, while when cooling is needed, chilled water comes into play.

[0018] As mentioned, the tank is provided with a breathing filter, preferably made of stainless steel and provided with a hydrophobic Teflon cartridge with a nominal capacity of retaining particles up to 0.2 pm, in order to prevent the entry of contaminated air. The filter housing is provided with a heating jacket to prevent condensation from forming on the filter cartridge. The heating process is monitored and regulated by:

[0019] - thermoprobes are temperature sensors which use a resistor to measure the temperature of the water or fluid within the system. They may vary their resistance based on the temperature, allowing even minimal temperature changes to be accurately detected.

[0020] - electronic thermostats, responsible for the actual control of the desired temperature and programmed to maintain the temperature of the water or fluid at a specific level set by the user. When the temperature sensors detect a temperature below or above a desired value, each electronic thermostat activates or deactivates the heating to regulate the temperature to the desired level.

[0021] A further configuration includes a detergent dosing pump and a storage tank, which acts as a reserve for the detergent, to be used during wash cycles that require its use.

[0022] In this tank, the detergent is stored in a concentrated solution or ready -to-use liquid form. Tank capacity varies depending on application requirements and frequency of use.

[0023] The detergent dosing pump is responsible for drawing the detergent from the storage tank and distributing it into the usage system. The aforementioned dosing pump is designed to precisely dispense a certain amount of detergent each time it is activated. The amount of detergent dispensed is adjusted to the specific needs of the application, allowing for precise control over the concentration of detergent used.

[0024] A further version includes an intelligent dosing system for detergents which may dynamically adapt to changes in cleaning or process requirements. Using sensors or intelligent control systems, the system constantly monitors environmental or process conditions and automatically adjusts the amount of detergent dispensed in response to these changes. For example, if increased contamination or a greater cleaning requirement is detected, the system increases the amount of detergent dispensed to ensure optimal performance. Conversely, if conditions require less detergent, the system will automatically reduce the dosed amount to avoid waste and save on material costs.

[0025] The control panel, an element that has all the effects of an electrical panel, is divided into three sections:

[0026] - a section dedicated to power, preferably including a double-door column;

[0027] - a section for a programmable logic controller, which manages the entire system, carrying out control, monitoring and regulation tasks of the various process steps;

[0028] - and a section for the interface terminal blocks with the field and pneumatic circuits (including reduction filter, solenoid valves and I / P converters).

[0029] The system operates continuously by virtue of the aforementioned centrifugal pump which recirculates the water in the central tank. The latter is fed with cold or heated purified water and maintained at a temperature of 75°C by the aforementioned exchanger which uses low- pressure industrial steam as the heating fluid.

[0030] The water used for washing is used at an adjustable and variable temperature, cooling is carried out in line by the exchanger fed with chilled water at 7-12°C.

[0031] The aforementioned exchanger is managed by a proportional-integral-derivative temperature regulator set at 75°C and is supplied with low-pressure industrial steam via a control valve.

[0032] During heating and maintenance of the sterilization temperature, a temperature probe and a related digital thermostat check that the temperature does not rise above a preset limit of 95°. In this case, the steam on / off shut-off valve cuts off the steam supply.

[0033] The industrial steam and chilled water lines serving the exchanger, when not in use, are intercepted by a plurality of automatic valves. When the exchanger switches from cooling to heating, the water or condensate contained in the exchanger shell is drained by the timed opening of the vent and drain valves. The vent valve remains open for a few seconds even during the initial step of filling said jacket with chilled water.

[0034] In a preferred configuration, the system operation is designed to be fully automated, with operations controlled and monitored by a centralized computer system, replacing manual operator intervention. This management method ensures greater efficiency, precision and reliability in the overall operation of the system. The control of the system is entrusted to the aforementioned control panel, which constitutes the coordination and control center of operational activities. The heart of automation is a programmable logic controller, which is the main processing unit responsible for analyzing input signals, executing predefined control logic, and generating the output signals necessary to implement the prescribed actions. In order to allow an operator to interact with the system, an operator panel was installed which acts as a user interface device used to monitor and control the entire system. This user interface, featuring a backlit semi-graphic display, numeric keys, function keys and arrow keys for navigation, allows an operator to view the operating status of the system, issue commands, monitor operating parameters and define the desired operating parameters and times. To ensure data integrity and operational security, access to the system's various functions is restricted by authentication. While navigation and data and command entry are freely permitted for most operations, access to the pages relating to wash cycle types is limited and requires authentication.

[0035] The programmable logic controller regulates the speed of the pump motors preferably within a range of between 20 and 55 Hz. The minimum frequency of 20 Hz is necessary to avoid overheating of the motor due to insufficient ventilation, while the maximum value of 55 Hz may be adjusted depending on the power absorbed by the motor.

[0036] The programmable logic controller acquires and displays on the operator interface panel the motor speed feedback signal, obtained through the acquisition by the programmable logic controller of the 4-20 mA analog signal coming from the inverter. The instantaneous speed may be displayed in Hz quantification on a panel included in the aforementioned inverter installed on the aforementioned control panel. The management of the purified water level integration in the tank is managed by a recirculation circuit: a safety valve opens, allowing the water to enter, this function is controlled by the aforementioned control panel, following a logic based on the water levels detected by the ultrasonic level sensor. Activation of the safety valve requires flow approval from the recirculation circuit from the recirculation monitoring system integrated into the programmable logic controller.

[0037] Furthermore, the following programming thresholds are set on said programmable logic controller with respect to the level signal, by way of non-limiting example:

[0038] - in the event of a very low water level being detected, the centrifugal pump is blocked and an alarm is triggered on the control panel and on the local panels located at the points of use of the system;

[0039] - in case of low water level detection, an alarm is triggered on the control panel and on the local panels of the points of use at the same time as the interruption of the washing cycle in progress;

[0040] - in case of detection of an intermediate water level, the aforementioned clean in place is enabled;

[0041] - if a medium-high water level is detected, a water refill request is activated;

[0042] - if a high water level is detected, the water request is interrupted;

[0043] - if a very high water level is detected, an alarm is triggered on the control panel and water is discharged up to the high level through the drain valve.

[0044] As a result of the above, the system in standby conditions will draw water from the recirculation circuit until the high level threshold is reached.

[0045] In a preferred version, the aforementioned filter, positioned on top of the tank, is managed by an electronic thermostat. Inside the heating jacket, a first temperature probe constantly monitors the temperature while a second thermostat activates the heating resistor based on the setpoint, generally between 85 and 90°C.

[0046] Always in a preferred version, the automatic shut-off valve, installed at the base of the breathing filter: - it closes in the absence of air;

[0047] - it remains open during regular operation of the system;

[0048] - while during the sterilization step, it closes;

[0049] - it remains closed during plant shutdown.

[0050] The system has the following operating modes:

[0051] - plant stopped;

[0052] - plant starting up;

[0053] - plant restarting;

[0054] - system on standby (in case of an anomaly or while waiting for a request);

[0055] - plant undergoing sterilization.

[0056] As regards water pressure, the system has three basic operating modes:

[0057] - system in standby, during recirculation without withdrawal at the points of use the system is kept in circulation with a pressure sufficient to guarantee the minimum speed in the local recirculation loop of the piping lines, the centrifugal pump is managed in proportional-integral-derivative regulation according to the pressure setpoint set on the pressure regulator;

[0058] - system in washing step, during the washing step the pressure regulator setpoint is increased to 5 bar (constant value for each requested washing flow rate), to achieve this the sanitary modulating valve is closed at a pre-established opening while the centrifugal pump is managed in proportional -integral-derivative regulation according to the setpoint of said pressure regulator;

[0059] - system in sterilization, during the sterilization step the pressure in the tank will increase due to the increase in temperature, for this reason the centrifugal pump will be set to fixed speed at a frequency similar to the standby one and the pressure regulator setpoint will be set to the established value.

[0060] To control the water temperature in the tank, a double temperature probe system was adopted: a first temperature probe is located at the inlet of the centrifugal pump, while the aforementioned third temperature probe is located after the heat exchanger. As for heating, it is powered by low-pressure industrial steam inside the exchanger, which is activated when the centrifugal pump is running. Temperature regulation is done via automatic valves (on / off chilled water, modulating chilled water, modulating steam, on / off condensation), which allow the steam valve to adapt to the desired setpoint, commonly at 75°C for standby mode and at 125°C for the sterilization step. It should be noted that the term automatic valves refers to a type of valve consisting of a body plus an actuator that allows the valves to actually open between 0% and 100%. They are managed by the programmable logic controller and allow the temperature of the fluid to be regulated. For cooling, the on / off valve and the chilled water modulating valve will be armed, while for heating, the steam modulating and condensation on / off valves will be activated. All additional automatic valves always open and close the entire circuit. For cooling, after sterilization or in washing cycles that require pre-cooling of the water, the process begins only when the temperature in the tank reaches a predetermined desired level. In this step, the centrifugal pump is activated, while, if the temperature detected by the said thermoprobes drops below 95°C, the water level in the central storage tank is replenished, if necessary, to facilitate reaching the desired temperature for the standby step. It should be noted that during the transition from heating to cooling and vice versa, the exchanger is drained, with the drain and vent valves opening to allow the fluids to pass. Initially, the vent valve is opened, followed after a few seconds by the drain valve opening. In this way, the chilled water contained in the jacket is discharged into a generic sewer system. If the conductivity meter measures an excess of the conductivity limit threshold at the operating temperature, the supply to the points of use for water outside the specification is disabled. The system remains in operation with the centrifugal pump running (standby due to anomaly) and at the same time an alarm message is sent to the control panel and to the local panels at the points of use. The programmable logic controller program, to set the out-of-limit, refers to the following table, classified USP25 of the Pharmacopoeia; therefore, the setting varies according to the temperature. USP 25 table Conductivity finite of the water at a defined temperature

[0061] The operating method associated with said system and applicable to each washing cycle requires some preliminary preparations, including leveling the tank, pre-cooling or heating, which will then be followed by the step of warming up the line performed with the exchanger and, subsequently, the pre-wash, washing and rinsing steps.

[0062] Schematically the steps are divided as follows:

[0063] A. Tank level setting;

[0064] B. Preheating the tank (in case of hot washing);

[0065] C. Line temperature adjustment;

[0066] D. Prewash (hot or cold);

[0067] E. Washing with or without detergent (hot or cold);

[0068] F. Final rinse (hot or cold);

[0069] G. Completion and system standby.

[0070] The aforementioned method requires at least a preliminary step A. of preparing the water level inside the central tank to enable the execution of each washing cycle.

[0071] In general, it will be necessary to replenish the tank level by adding purified water until the tank reaches a high level. The level control will remain enabled throughout the various wash steps, with the exception of hot wash cycles during which refilling will be disabled to avoid disturbing temperature regulation.

[0072] A second preliminary step B. of warming up the aforementioned tank (in the case of hot washing) during which the tank will heat up to the temperature required for hot washes immediately following cold wash cycles.

[0073] In some cases, a possible pre-cooling step of water inside the tank is contemplated here, dedicated to some of the cold wash recipes. If pre-cooling is activated, the water in the tank is cooled at the beginning of each cold wash cycle, thus activating the cold regulation on the exchanger (the fluids are exchanged and the jacket is drained).

[0074] Once the temperature set provided by the recipe has been reached, the root valve of the tank, step C, opens and the pre-wash step D, which may be either hot or cold, proceeds, preceding the actual washing step E. This may take place with or without the use of detergent at a temperature which may be adjusted independently of the pre-wash temperature, preferably between, in the case of cold washing at a temperature lower than or equal to 40°C and in the case of hot washing at a temperature of 75°C preset by the programmable logic controller and with water delivered at a temperature higher than 60°C.

[0075] Finally, a final rinse step F. Each cycle ends with a step G. of conclusion of the washing cycle and consequent closing of the tank valves and the disconnection, until the stand-by mode is put.

[0076] At the completion of each flush cycle, the tank root valve and the shut-off root valve close and the system goes into standby.

[0077] In a further step, a sterilization cycle of the system may be activated which includes:

[0078] - setting the expected level by refilling or draining the tank;

[0079] - heating up to the set temperature;

[0080] - maintaining the temperature for the expected time (60 minutes);

[0081] - cooling down to operating temperature of 75 °C.

[0082] The tank level is adjusted to the value required for an adequate level of sterilization by means of the excess water drain valve or the missing water top-up valve, while keeping the centrifugal pump running.

[0083] Once this level is reached, the setpoint of the second thermostat is changed from 75°C to 125°C. When 95°C is reached, the vent line shut-off valve is closed to allow the tank to be pressurized and the expected temperature to be reached. Once the temperature set on the thermoprobes is reached, the countdown of the time set for sterilization is performed only when both probes detect a temperature higher than 121.1°C. If one or more of the readings drop, the countdown is paused and restarted once the threshold is exceeded again.

[0084] Once the scheduled sterilization time has elapsed (or if the step is canceled due to any anomalies), the heat exchanger switches to cooling mode (with draining and unloading of the jacket and fluid exchange) and the water temperature is brought to 75°C.

[0085] At the end of the cooling step, the heat exchanger switches to heating (fluid exchange and jacket drainage) and the thermostat setpoint changes to 75°C. As soon as 75°C is reached for both temperature probe temperatures, a temperature stabilization step begins, which ends when the two temperatures are in the 75±2°C range for at least four minutes. At the end of the stabilization step, the system goes into standby mode. Temperature stabilization also occurs in the event of a sterilization “Stop” or time-out intervention.

[0086] It should be noted that all valves mentioned are diaphragm valves for use with purified water. Possible further advantageous variants of the system in question include:

[0087] - a module provided with UV lamps to sterilize the water inside the circuit, positioned at the root of the storage tank return, preferably housed in a cylindrical container, made of 316L stainless steel, including UV-transparent quartz windows; this variant always includes a water recirculation function even when the system is in standby;

[0088] - a heat recovery system which uses the waste heat of the water leaving the heat exchanger to preheat the water entering the central storage tank via a secondary circuit that crosses the main flow, provided with an additional smaller heat exchanger;

[0089] - a microfiltration or ultrafiltration system using polysulfone membranes and / or any other type of membrane designed to remove fine particles and potential microbiological contaminants from recirculated water, increasing the effectiveness of each wash cycle;

[0090] - a water quality sensor which measures conductivity, pH, and residual chlorine parameters, accurately monitoring water purity. List of reference numerals

[0091] - system 100,

[0092] - storage tank T910,

[0093] - ultrasonic level sensor LT9112,

[0094] - breathing filter F910,

[0095] - sanitary pressure gauge PI-9101,

[0096] - sanitary pressure gauge PI-9104,

[0097] - safety valve PSV9111,

[0098] - piping line set 6001,

[0099] - recirculation circuit (6002).

[0100] - centrifugal pump P910,

[0101] - inverter SC9103,

[0102] - integrated pressure regulator PIC 9103,

[0103] - pressure transmitter PT9103,

[0104] - heat exchanger E910,

[0105] - control panel 400,

[0106] - programmable logic controller 300,

[0107] - thermal control system 21,

[0108] - first temperature probe TE9109,

[0109] - second temperature prob e TE9115,

[0110] - third temperature probe TE9156,

[0111] - fourth thermoprobe TE9157,

[0112] - thermometer TE9115,

[0113] - temperature transmitter TT9115,

[0114] - digital thermostat TISH9157,

[0115] - a first electronic thermostat TT9102,

[0116] - a second thermostat TIC9109,

[0117] - exhaust valve XV9107, - automatic shut-off valve XV9110,

[0118] - tank root valve XV 9114,

[0119] - circuit start valve XV9115,

[0120] - water access valve XV9113

[0121] - solenoid valve EV9157

[0122] - vent valve XV 9161

[0123] - drai n valve XV 9162

[0124] - automatic modulating steam valve XV9158,

[0125] - automatic chilled water on / off valve XV9159,

[0126] - automatic modulating refrigerant water valve XV9163 ,

[0127] - automatic on / off condensate valve XV9160,

[0128] - steam valves TV9156A / B,

[0129] - sanitary modulating valve P V9108,

[0130] - conductivity meter CE9105,

[0131] - conductivity transmitter CT9105.

[0132] Description of the figures

[0133] The invention will hereinafter be described in at least a preferred embodiment thereof by way of non-limiting example with the aid of the accompanying figures, in which:

[0134] - FIGURE 1 shows a schematic representation of the entire in-place cleaning system comprising a piping line set 6001 connected to a vertically oriented purified water storage tank T910, on which a ultrasonic level sensor LT9112 and a breathing filter F910 are installed. The pressure inside the tank is monitored by the first sanitary pressure gauge PI9101 and regulated by the safety valve PSV9111. Next to the tank T910 is the centrifugal pump P910 comprising the inverter SC9103 for speed regulation, the pressure regulator PIC9103 and the pressure transmitter PT9103 for monitoring the delivery pressure. The water is heated or cooled by the heat exchanger E910. Also indicated are a conductivity meter CE9105 and a conductivity transmitter CT9105. - FIGURE 1A shows the recirculation circuit 6002, the first sanitary pressure gauge PI9101 and the second sanitary pressure gauge PI9104, and the valve assembly part of the piping lines 6001 including the drain valve XV9107, the automatic shut-off valve XV9110, the tank root valve XV9114, the circuit start valve XV9115, the water access valve XV9113, the solenoid valve EV9157, the vent valve XV9161, the drain valve XV9162, the steam modulating valve XV9158, the automatic steam modulating valve XV9158, the automatic chilled water on / off valve XV9159, the automatic modulating refrigerant water valve XV9163, the automatic condensate on / off valve XV9160, the sanitary modulating valve PV9108.

[0135] - FIGURE 2 highlights the thermal control system 21 comprising steam valves TV9156A, TV9156B for temperature regulation, a first temperature probe TE9102, a second temperature probe TE9109, a third temperature probe TE9115, a fourth temperature probe TE9156, a fourth temperature probe TE9157, suitable for measuring the temperature of the water or fluid, each of which is connected to a related first electronic thermostat TT9102, a second thermostat TIC9109, a temperature transmitter TT9115, a third electronic thermostat TT9156, a digital thermostat TISH9157, suitable for maintaining the temperature of the water or fluid at a specific level and verifying effective compliance with a desired value.

[0136] - FIGURE 3 schematically illustrates the control and automation system of the system 100 comprising the core of the operating system consisting of the electrical control panel 400, connected to at least one operator interface panel and to a programmable logic controller 300. The connection lines indicate the flow of signals and data between the components, highlighting the central role of the logic controller 300 in managing the system automation.

[0137] - FIGURE 4 shows a block diagram of the method steps A to G.

[0138] Detailed description of the invention

[0139] The present invention will now be illustrated by way of a purely non-limiting or binding example, resorting to the figures which illustrate some embodiments related to the present inventive concept. With reference to Figs. 1, 1A and 2, they show the structural components of the cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for so-called clean in place systems, which provides washing cycles dedicated to industrial equipment.

[0140] The aforementioned system 100 is mainly structured with a storage tank T910 connected to a set of draining piping lines 6001, which are in turn connected to a purified water distribution network. System 100 is designed to circulate said water under pressure by virtue of the presence of a centrifugal pump P910 which allows the pressurization and consequent circulation of the water in said piping line circuit 6001. This functionality is activated via at least one integrated pressure regulator PIC9103, a pressure transmitter PT9103 and an inverter SC9103 which allows the regulation of the circulation speed. The delivery pressure of the aforementioned pump P910 is indicated locally by a sanitary pressure gauge PI9104.

[0141] As shown in Fig. 1, the aforementioned tank T910 also includes a sanitary pressure gauge PI9101 capable of indicating the tank pressure locally as well as at least one ultrasonic level sensor LT9112 and / or any other type of sensor capable of detecting the water level in the tank. Finally, a safety valve PSV9111 is placed at the top of the tank and receives water following an initial passage through an access valve XV9113, both of which allow controlled water entry from the outside to the inside of the tank T910.

[0142] Again according to Fig. 1, a heat exchanger E910 is provided which alternatively heats and / or cools the purified water used during the washing cycles.

[0143] The thermal control system 21 is illustrated in Fig. 2 and allows the monitoring and regulation of the water temperature inside the aforementioned tank and the piping lines 6001. In particular, said system includes a breathing filter F910 and a set of steam valves TV9156A, TV9156B which perform temperature regulation, a plurality of thermoprobes TE9102, TE9109, TE9115, TE9156, TE9157, which measure the temperature of the water or fluid in the tank and at the locations of the piping lines 6001. Each of the temperature probes is connected to a relative electronic thermostat TT9102, TIC9109, TT9115, TT9156, TISH9157 to maintain the temperature of the water or fluid at a specific level and verify that said temperature actually corresponds to a desired value. The breathing filter F910, installed on top of said tank T910, is designed to maintain a constant atmospheric pressure inside said tank T910 and includes a cartridge and a heating jacket, and is managed by at least one electronic thermostat, the TIC-9109, located in a position behind a control panel 400. Said F910 filter includes, inside the said heating jacket, at least one said TE9109 temperature probe suitable for constantly monitoring the water temperature by constantly communicating with said thermostat which activates a heating resistor based on the temperature setpoint and generally between 85° and 90°C.

[0144] Fig. 4 shows a control panel 400 connected to a programmable logic controller 300, which provides an authentication system for access and to at least one panel for automated control. These are the means that enable the operation of the operations and washing cycles contemplated for the entire system 100, including monitoring and regulation of each function. Fig. 1 A shows the recirculation circuit 6002 which, through a loop mechanism, manages the purified water supply level in the tank T910 by opening said automatic safety valve XV9113, installed at the base of said breathing filter F910 to allow the introduction of water following a logic based on the levels detected by said ultrasonic level sensor LT9112.

[0145] There is also an automatic shut-off valve XV9110 installed at the base of the breathing filter F910 which automatically closes in the absence of air flow to the tank T910. This valve remains open during the regular washing cycle steps of the system, while during a sterilization step it closes when the measured temperature reaches 95 °C, reopening only when the temperatures detected by the temperature probes TE9102 and TE9156 are lower than 95 °C; said valve is designed to remain closed during system shutdowns.

[0146] Also included are at least one storage tank for a concentrated or liquid solution of ready-to- use detergent, connected to a detergent dosing pump that precisely dispenses a specified amount of detergent each time it is activated in a wash cycle.

[0147] The operating method of the said system illustrated schematically in Fig. 4 comprises:

[0148] A. a preliminary step of preparing the water level in the central tank T910;

[0149] B. a second preliminary step of warming up the aforementioned tank T910;

[0150] C. a step of opening said root valve XV9114 of the tank T910 and reaching a temperature provided for by a specific recipe relating to a washing cycle;

[0151] D. a pre-wash step alternatively hot or cold at an adjustable temperature;

[0152] E. a washing step, alternatively hot or cold, at an adjustable temperature;

[0153] F. a final rinse step. Each cycle ends with a step G. of conclusion of the washing cycle and consequent closing of the tank valves and the disconnection, until the stand-by mode is put.

[0154] A sterilization step of the entire system 100 is optionally contemplated.

[0155] Furthermore, a computer network program is provided which may be executed, among other things, by said programmable logic controller 300, by said automated control panel and / or any other electronic device connected to said system 100 which, based on the method connected thereto, allows the actions contemplated for the operation of the washing cycles to be performed via a plurality of operating modules.

[0156] Finally, it is clear that modifications, additions or variations that are obvious to a person skilled in the art may be made to the invention described so far, without thereby departing from the scope of protection provided by the appended claims.

Claims

Claims1. Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems of industrial equipment characterized in that it comprises at least:- draining piping lines (6001), connected to a purified water network and suitable for the distribution of water; said piping lines (6001) comprising valves among which: at least one excess water discharge valve (XV9107); a root valve (XV9114) of a tank; a circuit start valve (XV9115) placed at the start of the circuit; a water access valve (XV9113) in a tank (T910); a plurality of root valves of the cut-off; at least one solenoid valve (EV9157); avent valve (XV9161); a drain valve (XV9162); automatic modulating steam valve (XV9158), automatic on / off chilled water valve (XV9159), automatic modulating refrigerant water valve (XV9163), automatic on / off condensate valve (XV9160);- at least one said purified water storage tank (T910), connected to said piping lines (6001), comprising at least one ultrasonic level sensor (LT9112) and / or any other type of sensor capable of detecting a water level; said tank (T910) comprising at least one safety valve (PSV9111), a sanitary pressure gauge (PI9101) capable of indicating the pressure of the tank (T910) locally;- at least one centrifugal pump (P910), drained, capable of allowing recirculation and pressurization of the water inside said piping lines (6001) via an integrated pressure regulator (PIC9103); said centrifugal pump (P910) being equipped with speed regulation via inverter (SC9103) and pressure transmitter (PT9103); said centrifugal pump (P910) comprising at least one second sanitary pressure gauge (PI9104) capable of indicating the delivery pressure locally;- a heat exchanger (E910) capable of alternatively heating or cooling said purified water;- a thermal control system (21) comprising means capable of monitoring and regulating the temperature of the water inside said tank (T910) and once circulating in said piping lines (6001); said system comprising steam valves (TV9156A, TV9156B)capable of allowing a regulation of the temperature, a plurality of the temperature probes (TE9102, TE9109, TE9115, TE9156, TE9157), capable of measuring the temperature of the water or fluid inside said tank (T910), each connected to a relative electronic thermostat (TT9102, TIC9109, TT9115, TT9156, TISH9157); said thermostats being adapted to maintain the temperature of the water or fluid at a specific level and verify an effective compliance of said temperature with a desired value;- a breathing filter (F910), installed on the top of said tank (T910) adapted to maintain constant the atmospheric pressure inside said tank (T910); said filter (F910) comprising at least one cartridge and a heating jacket, appropriately sized;- means for the automatic or manual regulation of the complex of control, monitoring and regulation operations of each functionality of said system (100) including at least one control panel (400) connected to a programmable logic controller (300) and to at least one panel for the automated control of said system;- a recirculation circuit (6002) adapted to manage, through a loop mechanism, the level of purified water supply in said tank (T910) by opening at least one automatic safety valve (XV9113), installed at the base of said breathing filter (F910); said valve (XV9113) being adapted to allow an admission of water into said tank (T910); said admission being controlled by said control panel (400), following a logic based on the water levels detected by said ultrasonic level sensor (LT9112).

2. Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems, according to the previous claim 1, wherein said breathing filter (F910) comprises an electrical resistance and at least one electronic thermostat (TIC-9109); said filter (F910) comprising, inside said heating jacket, at least one temperature probe (TE9109) suitable for constantly monitoring the water temperature by constantly communicating with said thermostat (TIC9109) which activates a heating resistance based on the set temperature setpoint, generally between 85° and 90°C.

3. Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems, according to any of the previous claims 1 or 2, wherein said safety valve (PSV9111) is preferably calibrated at 3 barg.

4. Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said programmable logic controller (300) provides an authentication system for access to the functions of a management system of the system (100).

5. Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein an automatic shut-off valve (XV9110) installed at the base of said breathing filter (F910) is included, capable of closing automatically in the absence of air flow to said tank (T910); said valve (XV9110) being capable, during the regular cleaning cycle of the system (100), of remaining open; said automatic shut-off valve (XV9110) being able, during a sterilization step, to close when the temperature measured by said temperature probe (TE9156) exceeds 95°C, reopening only when both temperatures detected by said temperature probes (TE9102, TE9156) are lower than 95°C; said automatic shut-off valve (XV9110) being able to remain closed during the shutdown of the system.

6. Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a dosing system for detergents is included comprising:- at least one detergent storage tank, capable of storing said detergent in a concentrated solution or in ready -to-use liquid form;- at least one detergent dosing pump capable of drawing from said tank and dispensing with precision a given quantity of detergent each time it is activated by means of a relative washing cycle.

7. Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a heat recovery system is included that uses residual heat of the water exiting said heat exchanger (E910) to preheat the water entering said tank (T910) via a secondary circuit that crosses the main flow, equipped with an additional smaller heat exchanger.

8. Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a module equipped with UV lamps suitable for sterilizing the water inside the circuit is provided, positioned at the root of the return in said storage tank (T910); said UV lamps being housed in a container, preferably cylindrical and made of 316L stainless steel, comprising quartz windows transparent to UV rays.

9. Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a microfiltration or ultrafiltration system is included using polysulfide or similar membranes, suitable for removing fine particles and potential microbiological contaminants from the recirculated water, increasing the effectiveness of the process of each washing cycle.

10. Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one water quality sensor is provided that measures parameters such as conductivity, pH and presence of residual chlorine, allowing accurate control of the purity of the water and timely intervention in the event of deviations from the established parameters.

11. Cleaning in place system with temperature and pressure control for cleaning in place systems, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein an intelligent detergent dosing system is included, capable of calculating the optimal quantity to be injected basedon the volume of water, the temperature and the data detected by said water quality sensor, optimizing the use of detergents and reducing waste.

12. Method of operation of said system according to the previous steps from 1 to 11, characterized in that it includes the following steps:(A), a preliminary step of preparing the water level inside said central tank (T910) to enable the execution of each washing cycle; in said step the purified water is replenished until the desired level is reached in the central tank;(B). a second preliminary step of warming up said tank (T910) provided for hot washing cycles, during which the water temperature is heated to a required degree;(C). a step of opening said root valve (XV9114) of the tank (T910) and reaching a temperature inside the complex of piping lines (6001) provided for by a specific recipe relating to a washing cycle;(D). a pre-wash step (alternatively hot or cold) at an adjustable temperature;(E). a central washing step (alternatively hot or cold) at an adjustable temperature;(F). a final rinse step;(G). a step of conclusion of the washing cycle and consequent closing of the tank valves and the disconnection, until the stand-by mode is put.

13. Method, according to the previous claim 12, wherein following said step B. an optional step of pre-cooling of water inside said tank is provided in the case of cold washing.

14. Method, according to the previous claim 13, wherein a sterilization step is provided which provides for setting the water level and heating up to the set temperature, maintaining the temperature for the expected time and cooling down to the operating temperature of 75°C.

15. Computer network program comprising instructions which, when said program is executed by said programmable logic controller (300), by said automated control paneland / or any other electronic device connected to said system (100), based on the method connected thereto, allows the execution of the actions envisaged for the operation of said system according to the previous claims from 1 to 14, wherein a plurality of operating modules are comprised, abled to allow the execution of each functionality of said components and of said washing cycles according to the aforementioned steps from (A) to (G).

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