Thermal preconditioning unit for caps sterilizer with distribution along feeding direction

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a caps sterilization apparatus (1) for sterilizing caps (W). The apparatus comprises a caps sterilizer (3) configured to sterilize caps (W) as they advance along an advancement direction (M) within a sterilization chamber (31) using a sterilizing agent. A caps feeding module (2) feeds caps (W) into the caps sterilizer (3) along a feeding direction (F) and thermally preconditions the caps (W) using a preconditioning fluid (H). The feeding module (2) includes a supply line (21) that applies the preconditioning fluid (H) to the caps (W) by distributing the fluid along the feeding direction (F).

Description

THERMAL PRECONDITIONING UNIT FOR CAPS STERILIZER WITH DISTRIBUTION ALONG FEEDING DIRECTION FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to sterilization of caps for containers, and more particularly to a caps sterilization apparatus and method for thermally preconditioning caps prior to sterilization using a distributed fluid application along a feeding direction.BACKGROUND

[0002] Caps sterilization is a critical process in the packaging industry, particularly for containers used to hold food, beverages, and other consumable products. The sterilization of caps ensures that harmful microorganisms are eliminated, thereby maintaining product safety and extending shelf life. Traditionally, caps sterilization has been performed using various methods such as chemical treatments, heat applications, or radiation exposure.

[0003] In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards more efficient and environmentally friendly sterilization techniques. One such method involves the use of vaporized hydrogen peroxide that can effectively eliminate microorganisms while leaving minimal residue on the caps. This process typically involves exposing the caps to the sterilizing agent within a controlled environment, followed by an activation period and a subsequent drying phase.

[0004] However, the effectiveness of the sterilization process can be influenced by several factors, including the initial temperature of the caps entering the sterilization chamber. Caps that are too cold or have inconsistent temperatures may lead to uneven condensation of the sterilizing agent, potentially resulting in inadequate sterilization or excessive use of the sterilizing agent. Additionally, temperature variations among caps can affect the drying process, leading to inconsistent results.

[0005] Another challenge in caps sterilization is maintaining a consistent and efficient flow of caps through the sterilization apparatus. The feeding mechanism must be capable of handling various cap sizes and shapes while ensuring a steady supply to the sterilization chamber. Inconsistencies in the feeding process can lead to bottlenecks, reduced productivity, and potential damage to the caps.

[0006] Furthermore, the energy consumption of sterilization equipment is a concern for many manufacturers. The need to rapidly heat and maintain specific temperatures within the sterilization chamber can result in significant energy usage, particularly during the initial startup phase or when processing large volumes of caps.

[0007] It has been appreciated that a system is needed that overcomes one or more of these problems.SUMMARY

[0008] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description.

[0009] In a first aspect, a caps sterilization apparatus for the sterilization of caps is provided. The caps sterilization apparatus includes a caps sterilizer for sterilizing the caps, the caps sterilizer being configured for sterilizing the caps while the caps advance according to an advancement direction within a sterilization chamber, and by means of a sterilizing agent. The apparatus also includes a caps feeding module for feeding the caps into the caps sterilizer and configured for thermally preconditioning the caps being fed, the caps feeding module being configured for feeding the caps along a feeding direction. The feeding module is configured for thermally preconditioning the caps being fed by means of a preconditioning fluid, and comprises a supply line for applying the fluid on the caps being fed by distributing along the feeding direction the fluid being applied.

[0010] This configuration allows for thermal preconditioning of the caps, which helps to equalize their temperature. This temperature equalization improves the uniformity of sterilizing agent condensation on the caps and enhances the uniformity of the drying effect, resulting in more predictable sterilization outcomes. Additionally, by raising the temperature of the caps before they enter the sterilizer, the initial cooling effect of the caps on the sterilizer is reduced, leading to more efficient and cost-effective operation.

[0011] The supply line may comprise a plurality of fluid application nozzles for applying the fluid on the caps being fed, said application nozzles being distributed along the feeding direction.

[0012] Distributing the application nozzles along the feeding direction allows for improved preconditioning effect on the caps at constant preconditioning power, minimizing energy consumption by the preconditioning module.

[0013] The application nozzles may be inclined in the feeding direction.

[0014] Inclining the nozzles in the feeding direction can contribute to pushing the caps into the caps sterilizer, improving accuracy in cap delivery and maintaining the required level of productivity with consistent production quality.

[0015] The supply unit may comprise a temperature influencing unit for influencing the temperature of the fluid being fed along the supply line, said temperature influencing unit operating along the supply line and being preferably a temperature regulator for regulating the temperature of the preconditioning fluid.

[0016] The temperature influencing unit allows for variation of the preconditioning fluid temperature, enabling adjustment of the thermal preconditioning effect based on the specific features of the caps sterilizer and / or based on the specific environmental situation in which the caps sterilizer operates. This flexibility improves the adaptability of the apparatus to different sterilization requirements.

[0017] The supply unit may comprise a downstream temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the fluid downstream of the temperature influencing unit, with respect to the supply direction of the preconditioning fluid along the supply line.

[0018] The downstream temperature sensor enables feedback control of the preconditioning fluid temperature, improving the accuracy of the thermal preconditioning unit.

[0019] The supply line may comprise a manifold for allocating the fluid to the application nozzles, the nozzles being in fluid communication with the manifold to receive the fluid from the manifold, for distributing the fluid along the feeding direction. The supply line may also comprise a test nozzle which is in fluid communication with the manifold to receive the fluid from the manifold, said downstream temperature sensor being configured for detecting the temperature of the fluid at the output of the test nozzle.

[0020] This configuration allows for better feedback control of the thermal action of the preconditioning fluid on the caps being fed, as the detected downstream temperature is closely correlated with and highly representative of the actual thermal action of the fluid on the caps.

[0021] The test nozzle may be located on the opposite side of the manifold with respect to the application nozzles.

[0022] Positioning the test nozzle on the opposite side of the manifold enhances the accuracy of feedback control by reducing the risk of structural interference between the downstream temperature sensor and the application nozzles.

[0023] The supply unit may comprise an automatic control system for automatically controlling the temperature influencing effect of the temperature influencing unit on the fluid, as a function of the detected downstream temperature.

[0024] Automatic control of the temperature influencing effect based on the detected downstream temperature allows for precise and responsive adjustment of the preconditioning process, ensuring consistent and optimal thermal preconditioning of the caps.

[0025] The supply unit may comprise an environment temperature sensor for detecting the environment temperature, and the control system may be configured for automatically controlling the temperature influencing effect of the temperature influencing unit on the fluid, as a function of the detected downstream temperature and of the detected environment temperature.

[0026] By considering both the downstream temperature and the environment temperature, the control system can more accurately adjust the preconditioning process to account for variations in ambient conditions, leading to more consistent sterilization results.

[0027] The feeding module may comprise a pressure influencing unit for influencing the pressure of the preconditioning fluid being supplied along the supply line, the pressure influencing unit operating along the supply line and being preferably a pressure regulator for regulating the pressure of the preconditioning fluid.

[0028] The pressure influencing unit allows for fine-tuning of the preconditioning fluid flow rate, providing an additional means of regulating the preconditioning effect and improving the flexibility of the preconditioning unit.

[0029] The pressure influencing unit may operate upstream of the temperature influencing unit, with respect to the supply direction.

[0030] This arrangement allows for pressure adjustment before temperature regulation, potentially improving the overall control and efficiency of the preconditioning process.

[0031] The feeding module may comprise a downstream pressure sensor for detecting a downstream pressure of the fluid downstream of the temperature influencing unit and downstream of the pressure influencing unit, according to the supply direction, wherein the control system is configured for automatically controlling the pressure influencing effect of the pressure influencing unit on the preconditioning fluid, as a function of the detected downstream pressure.

[0032] The addition of a downstream pressure sensor and automatic pressure control further enhances the precision and adaptability of the preconditioning process, allowing for real-time adjustments based on actual fluid conditions.

[0033] The caps sterilizer may define, along said advancement direction and within the sterilization chamber: an injection zone, the caps sterilizer being configured for injecting the sterilizing agent in the injection zone; an activation zone which is located downstream of the injection zone, with respect to the advancement direction of the caps, and in which the sterilizing agent resides on the caps; and a drying zone which is located downstream of the activation zone, with respect to the advancement direction of the caps, the caps sterilizer being configured for at least partially drying the caps in the drying zone, to at least reduce the residual of sterilizing agent on the caps, preferably by introducing heated air in said drying zone. The caps sterilizer may be configured so that the contact between each cap and the sterilizing agent, in the injection zone and also possibly in the activation zone, occurs by means of condensation.

[0034] This configuration of the caps sterilizer with distinct zones for injection, activation, and drying, along with the use of condensation for sterilizing agent contact, allows for a comprehensive and efficient sterilization process. The thermal preconditioning of the caps is particularly beneficial for this condensationbased sterilization method, as it helps ensure uniform condensation and subsequent drying.

[0035] The sterilizing agent may comprise hydrogen peroxide and / or ozone and / or ozonized water and / or air plasma, preferably hydrogen peroxide, ozone and air plasma, or hydrogen peroxide, ozonized water, and air plasma, wherein the caps sterilizer is preferably configured so that the sterilization agent is injected in a vapour state or in a spray form.

[0036] The use of these sterilizing agents in vapor or spray form, combined with the thermal preconditioning of the caps, can lead to more effective and efficient sterilization, as the preconditioning helps ensure optimal interaction between the caps and the sterilizing agent.

[0037] The caps sterilizer may be configured for advancing the caps within the chamber by means of carriages transporting the caps in rows which are transversal with respect to the advancement direction, the caps sterilizer comprising the carriages.

[0038] This configuration for advancing the caps allows for efficient use of space and minimizes axial pushing forces between caps, helping to maintain high production quality while increasing productivity.

[0039] In a second aspect, a packaging machine configured to be used for the packaging of a pourable product by means of containers is provided. The packaging machine comprises a caps sterilization apparatus according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the sterilized caps are configured for capping the containers having been filled with the pourable product.

[0040] Integrating the caps sterilization apparatus into a packaging machine for pourable products ensures that the containers are sealed with sterilized caps, enhancing the overall hygiene and safety of the packaging process. The thermal preconditioning of the caps contributes to more consistent and reliable sterilization, which is crucial for maintaining the quality and shelf life of the packaged product.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0041] Embodiments of the invention will be described, by way of example, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0042] FIG. 1 illustrates schematically the layout of the caps sterilization apparatus;

[0043] FIG. 2 shows a side schematic view of a portion of the caps sterilization apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0044] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 illustrate perspective views of a possible embodiment of a caps feeding module which is part of the caps sterilization apparatus.

[0045] Common reference numerals are used throughout the figures to indicate similar features.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] A caps sterilization apparatus 1 includes a caps sterilizer 3 and a caps feeding module 2. The caps sterilization apparatus 1 is configured for sterilizing caps W. FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of the caps sterilization apparatus 1.

[0047] The caps sterilizer 3 is configured for sterilizing the caps W while the caps W advance according to an advancement direction M within a sterilization chamber 31. The caps sterilizer 3 uses a sterilizing agent to perform the sterilization process on the caps W as they move through the sterilization chamber 31.

[0048] The caps feeding module 2 is configured for feeding the caps W into the caps sterilizer 3 along a feeding direction F. The caps feeding module 2 is arranged upstream of the caps sterilizer 3 with respect to the feeding direction F. The caps feeding module 2 thermally prepares and delivers the caps W to the caps sterilizer 3 for the subsequent sterilization process.

[0049] A caps sterilization apparatus 1 includes a caps sterilizer 3 and a caps feeding module 2. The caps sterilization apparatus 1 is configured for sterilizing caps W. FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of the caps sterilization apparatus 1.

[0050] The caps sterilizer 3 is configured for sterilizing the caps W while the caps W advance according to an advancement direction M within a sterilization chamber 31. The caps sterilizer 3 uses a sterilizing agent to perform the sterilization process on the caps W as they move through the sterilization chamber 31.

[0051] The caps feeding module 2 is configured for feeding the caps W into the caps sterilizer 3 along a feeding direction F. The caps feeding module 2 is arranged upstream of the caps sterilizer 3 with respect to the feeding direction F. The caps feeding module 2 thermally prepares and delivers the caps W to the caps sterilizer 3 for the subsequent sterilization process.

[0052] The caps feeding module 2 is configured for thermally preconditioning the caps W being fed. The thermal preconditioning is performed by means of a preconditioning fluid H. The caps feeding module 2 comprises a supply line 21 for applying the preconditioning fluid H on the caps W being fed. The supply line 21 is configured to distribute the preconditioning fluid H along the feeding direction F as the fluid H is applied to the caps W.

[0053] The thermal preconditioning of the caps W helps to equalize their temperature. This temperature equalization enhances the uniformity of the sterilizing agent's effect on the caps W within the caps sterilizer 3. The caps feeding module 2 can raise the temperature of the caps W to minimize the cooling effect the caps W may have on the caps sterilizer 3 when entering the sterilization chamber 31, in particular during the stat up phase of the caps sterilizer 3, allowing a save of energy for reestablishing the proper thermal condition within the sterilization chamber 31.

[0054] The thermal preconditioning action on the caps W being fed which is performed by the preconditioning fluid may be a cooling action or a heating action, depending on the specific circumstances.

[0055] The caps sterilizer 3 operates with a specific temperature distribution along the advancement direction M. In a first region of the caps sterilizer 3, which includes an injection zone and a portion of an activation zone, the temperature is maintained at approximately 60 degrees. In a second region, which includes the remaining portion of the activation zone and a drying zone, the temperature ranges from 60 to 100 degrees, depending on the type of caps W being sterilized.

[0056] By thermally preconditioning the caps W, the caps sterilization apparatus 1 can achieve more predictable sterilization outcomes. The preconditioning process also reduces the initial cooling effect of the caps W on the sterilization chamber 31, leading to a more efficient transition to the proper operating temperatures within the caps sterilizer 3.

[0057] A supply line 21 of the caps feeding module 2 comprises a plurality of fluid application nozzles 28 for applying the thermal preconditioning fluid H on the caps W being fed. The fluid application nozzles 28 are distributed along a feeding direction F. This distribution of fluid application nozzles 28 along the feeding direction F allows for a more uniform and controlled application of the preconditioning fluid H to the caps W as they move through the caps feeding module 2.

[0058] The fluid application nozzles 28 are inclined in the feeding direction F. This inclination of the fluid application nozzles 28 provides several advantages. First, the inclined orientation helps to direct the preconditioning fluid H onto the caps W in a manner that follows their movement along the feeding direction F. This can improve the efficiency of the preconditioning process by ensuring that the fluid H is applied to the caps W for an optimal duration as they pass by each nozzle 28. Additionally, the inclined orientation of thefluid application nozzles 28 may contribute to pushing the caps W in the feeding direction F, which can enhance the accuracy and consistency of cap delivery into the caps sterilizer 3.

[0059] The supply line 21 includes a rail 29 for guiding the caps W being fed.

[0060] The arrangement of multiple fluid application nozzles 28 distributed along the rail 29 and therefore along the feeding direction F allows for a more gradual and controlled preconditioning process. As the caps W move through the caps feeding module 2, they encounter multiple points of fluid application, which can lead to more uniform temperature distribution across the caps W. This improved uniformity in preconditioning can enhance the subsequent sterilization process by ensuring that all caps W enter the caps sterilizer 3 at a more consistent temperature.

[0061] The caps feeding module 2 includes a supply unit with a temperature influencing unit 23 for influencing the temperature of the preconditioning fluid H along the supply line 21. FIG. 1 illustrates the arrangement of the temperature influencing unit 23 within the caps feeding module 2. The temperature influencing unit 23 operates along the supply line 21 and may be a temperature regulator for regulating the temperature of the preconditioning fluid H.

[0062] A downstream temperature sensor 25 is included in the supply unit for detecting the temperature of the preconditioning fluid H downstream of the temperature influencing unit 23, with respect to the supply direction S of the preconditioning fluid. The downstream temperature sensor 25 provides feedback on the actual temperature of the preconditioning fluid H after it has been influenced by the temperature influencing unit 23.

[0063] The supply line 21 comprises a manifold 27 for allocating the preconditioning fluid H to the fluid application nozzles 28. The fluid application nozzles 28 are in fluid communication with the manifold 27 to receive the preconditioning fluid H from the manifold 27, allowing for distribution of the preconditioning fluid H along the feeding direction F.

[0064] A test nozzle 30 is also in fluid communication with the manifold 27 to receive the preconditioning fluid H. The test nozzle 30 is located on the opposite side of the manifold 27 with respect to the fluid application nozzles 28. This arrangement allows the downstream temperature sensor 25 to be configured for detecting the temperature of the preconditioning fluid H at the output of the test nozzle 30.

[0065] The temperature influencing unit 23 can vary the temperature of the preconditioning fluid H to obtain a variation of the thermal preconditioning effect. This variation can be adjusted depending on the specific features of the caps sterilizer 3, allowing for customization of the preconditioning process based on the requirements of different sterilization configurations.

[0066] An automatic control system 5 is included in the supply unit for automatically controlling the temperature influencing effect of the temperature influencing unit 23 on the preconditioning fluid H. The automatic control system 5 operates as a function of the temperature detected by the downstream temperature sensor 25, enabling precise regulation of the preconditioning fluid temperature.

[0067] The positioning of the test nozzle 30 on the opposite side of the manifold 27 from the fluid application nozzles 28 provides an additional benefit. This arrangement allows the downstream temperature sensor 25 to be positioned more freely, as there is reduced risk of structural interference between the downstream temperature sensor 25 and the fluid application nozzles 28.

[0068] An environment temperature sensor 24 is also included in the supply unit for detecting the ambient temperature. The automatic control system 5 is configured to consider at least both the temperature detected by the downstream temperature sensor 25 and the temperature detected by the environment temperature sensor 24 when controlling the temperature influencing unit 23. This dual -input control strategy allows for more accurate and responsive regulation of the the thermal effect of the preconditioning fluid H on the caps W being fed, taking into account both the fluid temperature and the surrounding environmental conditions.

[0069] The combination of the temperature influencing unit 23, downstream temperature sensor 25, test nozzle 30, environment temperature sensor 24, and automatic control system 5 works together to provide precise and adaptive control over the temperature of the preconditioning fluid H. This system enhances the accuracy and effectiveness of the thermal preconditioning process for the caps W as they are fed into the caps sterilizer 3.

[0070] The caps feeding module 2 includes a pressure influencing unit 22 for influencing the pressure of the preconditioning fluid H being supplied along the supply line 21. FIG. 1 illustrates the arrangement of the pressure influencing unit 22 within the caps feeding module 2. The pressure influencing unit 22 operates along the supply line 21 and may be a pressure regulator for regulating the pressure of the preconditioning fluid H.

[0071] The pressure influencing unit 22 allows for fine tuning of the flow rate of the preconditioning fluid H which impacts the caps W being fed. By adjusting the pressure of the preconditioning fluid H, the pressure influencing unit 22 can control the volume and velocity of fluid applied to the caps W, enhancing the flexibility of the caps feeding module 2 to accommodate different cap types or sterilization requirements.

[0072] In the arrangement shown in FIG. 1, the pressure influencing unit 22 operates upstream of the temperature influencing unit 23, with respect to a supply direction S of the preconditioning fluid H. This configuration allows the pressure of the preconditioning fluid H to be adjusted before the fluid temperature is modified, ensuring consistent pressure control regardless of subsequent temperature changes.

[0073] The caps feeding module 2 also includes a downstream pressure sensor 26 for detecting a downstream pressure of the preconditioning fluid H. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the downstream pressure sensor 26 is positioned downstream of both the pressure influencing unit 22 and the temperature influencing unit 23, according to the supply direction S. This arrangement allows for accurate measurement of the fluid pressure after both pressure and temperature adjustments have been made.

[0074] The automatic control system 5 is configured to consider the pressure detected by the downstream pressure sensor 26 when controlling the pressure influencing effect of the pressure influencing unit 22 on the preconditioning fluid H. This feedback control mechanism enables precise regulation of the preconditioningfluid pressure, ensuring consistent and appropriate fluid application to the caps W throughout the preconditioning process.

[0075] The combination of the pressure influencing unit 22, downstream pressure sensor 26, and automatic control system 5 works in conjunction with the previously described temperature control components to provide comprehensive control over the preconditioning fluid H parameters. This integrated system enhances the accuracy and adaptability of the thermal preconditioning process for the caps W as they are fed into the caps sterilizer 3.

[0076] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of a caps sterilization apparatus 1, including a caps sterilizer 3. The caps sterilizer 3 comprises a sterilization chamber 31 configured for sterilizing caps W as the caps W advance through the sterilization chamber 31 according to an advancement direction M.

[0077] The sterilization chamber 31 defines into itself multiple zones along the advancement direction M of the caps. These zones include an injection zone 311, an activation zone 312, and a drying zone 313. The injection zone 311 is configured for injecting a sterilizing agent into the sterilization chamber 31. The activation zone 312 is located downstream of the injection zone 311 with respect to the advancement direction M of the caps W. In the activation zone 312, the sterilizing agent resides on the caps W. The drying zone 313 is positioned downstream of the activation zone 312 with respect to the advancement direction M of the caps W.

[0078] The caps sterilizer 3 is configured to apply the sterilizing agent to the caps W through a condensation process. The contact between each cap W and the sterilizing agent occurs by means of condensation in the injection zone 311 and may also occur in the activation zone 312. This condensation-based application method allows for efficient and uniform coverage of the sterilizing agent on the caps W.

[0079] The sterilizing agent used in the caps sterilizer 3 may comprise one or more of hydrogen peroxide, ozone, ozonized water, or air plasma. The caps sterilizer 3 may be configured to inject the sterilization agent in a vapor state or in a spray form, depending on the specific sterilization requirements and the type of sterilizing agent used.

[0080] In the drying zone 313, the caps sterilizer 3 is configured to at least partially dry the caps W. This drying process reduces the residual sterilizing agent on the caps W. The drying may be accomplished by introducing heated air into the drying zone 313.

[0081] To facilitate the movement of caps W through the sterilization chamber 31, the caps sterilizer 3 includes a transport carriage 32. The transport carriage 32 is configured for advancing the caps W within the sterilization chamber 31. The transport carriage 32 moves the caps W in rows which are transversal with respect to the advancement direction M. This arrangement allows for efficient processing of multiple caps W simultaneously as they progress through the injection zone 311, activation zone 312, and drying zone 313.

[0082] The use of the transport carriage 32 for cap advancement provides controlled and consistent movement of the caps W through the various zones of the sterilization chamber 31. This controlled movement contributes to uniform exposure of the caps W to the sterilizing agent and subsequent drying processes.

[0083] The caps sterilization apparatus may be integrated into a packaging machine configured for packaging a pourable product in containers. This integration allows for a seamless and efficient packaging process that maintains high standards of hygiene and product safety.

[0084] In an example, the packaging machine incorporates the caps sterilization apparatus as a component within its overall system. The caps sterilization apparatus may be positioned upstream of the container filling and capping stations within the packaging machine. This arrangement ensures that the caps are sterilized immediately before they are used to seal or cap the filled containers.

[0085] The integration of the caps sterilization apparatus into the packaging machine provides several benefits. First, it minimizes the risk of contamination between the sterilization process and the capping process. By reducing the distance and time between sterilization and capping, the likelihood of environmental contaminants coming into contact with the sterilized caps is decreased.

[0086] Additionally, the integrated system allows for better synchronization between the caps sterilization process and the overall packaging operation. The rate of cap sterilization may be adjusted to match the speed of the packaging line, ensuring a continuous supply of sterilized caps without creating bottlenecks or delays in the packaging process.

[0087] The integration also contributes to a more compact and space-efficient packaging system. By incorporating the caps sterilization apparatus directly into the packaging machine, the overall footprint of the production line may be reduced compared to having separate sterilization and packaging units.

[0088] Furthermore, the integrated system facilitates easier monitoring and control of the entire packaging process. The caps sterilization parameters may be coordinated with other packaging machine settings to optimize overall performance and maintain consistent product quality.

[0089] In some examples, the packaging machine may include additional sterilization or sanitization components for other elements of the packaging process, such as container sterilization or filling nozzle sanitization. The integration of the caps sterilization apparatus allows for a comprehensive approach to maintaining hygiene throughout the entire packaging operation.

[0090] The combination of sterilized caps with aseptic or hygienic filling processes in the packaging machine contributes to extended shelf life and improved safety of the packaged pourable product. This integrated approach to packaging and sterilization is particularly beneficial for sensitive products such as dairy, juices, or other perishable liquids that require stringent hygiene standards.

[0091] Features of any of the examples or embodiments outlined above may be combined to create additional examples or embodiments without losing the intended effect. It should be understood that the description of an embodiment or example provided above is by way of example only, and various modifications could be made by one skilled in the art. Furthermore, one skilled in the art will recognise that numerous further modifications and combinations of various aspects are possible. Accordingly, the described aspects are intended to encompass all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Caps sterilization apparatus (1) for the sterilization of caps (W) comprising:- a caps sterilizer (3) for sterilizing the caps (W), the caps sterilizer (3) being configured for sterilizing the caps (W) while the caps advance according to an advancement direction (M) within a sterilization chamber (31), and by means of a sterilizing agent;- a caps feeding module (2) for feeding the caps (W) into the caps sterilizer (3) and configured for thermally preconditioning the caps (W) being fed, the caps feeding module (2) being configured for feeding the caps (W) along a feeding direction (F);wherein the feeding module (2) is configured for thermally preconditioning the caps (W) being fed by means of a preconditioning fluid (H), and comprises a supply line (21) for apply the fluid on the caps (W) being fed by distributing along the feeding direction (F) the fluid (H) being applied, the feeding module (2) being configured for example for selectively heating or cooling the caps (W) being fed by means of said preconditioning fluid (H).

2. Caps sterilization apparatus (1) according to Claim 1, wherein the supply line (21) comprises a plurality of fluid application nozzles (28) for applying the fluid on the caps (W) being fed, said application nozzles (28) being distributed along the feeding direction (F).

3. Caps sterilization apparatus (1) according to Claim 2, wherein the application nozzles (28) are inclined in the feeding direction (F).

4. Caps sterilization apparatus (1) according to any one or more of the previous Claims, wherein the supply unit (2) comprises a temperature influencing unit (23) for influencing the temperature of the fluid (H) being fed along the supply line (21), said temperature influencing unit (23) operating along the supply line (21) and being preferably a temperature regulator for regulating the temperature of the preconditioning fluid (H).

5. Caps sterilization apparatus (1) according to Claim 4, wherein the supply unit (2) comprises a downstream temperature sensor (25) for detecting the temperature of the fluid downstream of the temperature influencing unit (23), with respect to a supply direction (S) of the preconditioning fluid along the supply line (21).

6. Caps sterilization apparatus (1) according to Claims 2 and 5, wherein the supply line (21) comprises: a manifold (27) for allocating the fluid (H) to the application nozzles (28), the nozzles (28) being in fluid communication with the manifold (27) to receive the fluid (H) from the manifold (27), for distributing the fluid (H) along the feeding direction (F);a test nozzle (30) which is in fluid communication with the manifold (27) to receive the fluid (H) from the manifold (27), said downstream temperature sensor (25) being configured for detecting the temperature of the fluid (H) at the output of the test nozzle (30).

7. Caps sterilization apparatus (1) according to Claim 6, wherein the test nozzle (30) is located on the opposite side of the manifold (27) with respect to the application nozzles (28).

7. Caps sterilization apparatus (1) according to any one or more of Claims from 4 to 6, wherein the supply unit (2) comprises an automatic control system (5) for automatically controlling the temperature influencing effect of the temperature influencing unit (23) on the fluid (H), as a function of the detected downstream temperature.

8. Caps sterilization apparatus (1) according to Claim 7, wherein the supply unit (2) comprises an environment temperature sensor (24) for detecting the environment temperature, and the control system (5) is configured for automatically controlling the temperature influencing effect of the temperature influencing unit (23) on the fluid (H), as a function of the detected downstream temperature and of the detected environment temperature.

9. Caps sterilization apparatus (1) according any one ore more of Claims from 4 to 8, wherein the feeding module (2) comprises a pressure influencing unit (22) for influencing the pressure of the preconditioning fluid (H) being supplied along the supply line (21), the pressure influencing unit (23) operating along the supply line (21) and being preferably a pressure regulator for regulating the pressure of the preconditioning fluid (H).

10. Caps sterilization apparatus (1) according to Claim 9, wherein the pressure influencing unit (22) operates upstream of the temperature influencing unit (23), with respect to a supply direction (S) of the preconditioning fluid along the supply line (21).

11. Caps sterilization apparatus according to any one or more of Claims 7 and 8 and according to any one or more of Claims 9 and 10, wherein the feeding module (2) comprises a downstream pressure sensor (26) for detecting a downstream pressure of the fluid downstream of the temperature influencing unit (22) and downstream of the pressure influencing unit (23), according to the supply direction (S) of the preconditioning fluid along the supply line (21), wherein the control system (5) is configured for automatically controlling the pressure influencing effect of the pressure influencing unit (23) on the fluid (H), as a function of the detected downstream pressure.

12. Caps sterilization apparatus (1) according to any one or more of the previous Claims,wherein the caps sterilizer (3) defines, along said advancement direction (M) and within the sterilization chamber (31):- an injection zone (311), the caps sterilizer (3) being configured for injecting the sterilizing agent in the injection zone (311);- an activation zone (312) which is located downstream of the injection zone (311), with respect to the advancement direction (M) of the caps (W), and in which the sterilizing agent resides on the caps (W); - a drying zone (313) which is located downstream of the activation zone (312) , with respect to the advancement direction (M) of the caps (W), the caps sterilizer (3) being configured for at least partially drying the caps (W) in the drying zone (313), to at least reduce the residual of sterilizing agent on the caps (W), preferably by introducing heated air in said drying zone (313);wherein the caps sterilizer (3) is configured so that the contact between each cap (W) and the sterilizing agent, in the injection zone (311) and also possibly in the activation zone (312), occurs by means of condensation.

13. Apparatus according to Claim 12, wherein the sterilizing agent comprises hydrogen peroxide and / or ozone and / or ozonized water and / or air plasma, preferably hydrogen peroxide, ozone and air plasma, or hydrogen peroxide, ozonized water, and air plasma, wherein the caps sterilizer (3) is preferably configured so that the sterilization agent is injected in a vapour state or in a spray form.

14. Apparatus according to Claim 12 or 13, wherein the caps sterilizer (3) is configured for advancing thecaps (W) within the chamber (31) by means of carriages (32) transporting the caps (W) in rows which are transversal with respect to the advancement direction (M), the caps sterilizer (3) comprising the carriages (32).

15. Packaging machine configured to be used for the packaging of a pourable product by means of containers, comprising a caps sterilization apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the caps (W) are configured for capping the containers having been filled with the pourable product.

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