AU2015101824A4 - Beverage system cleaning apparatus and method - Google Patents

Abstract

In one form, the present invention provides apparatus for maintenance cleaning of fluid dispensing lines of a fluid dispensing system, comprising a fluid circuit having: a first inlet in use coupled to mains supply water through a backflow prevention device, a first user operable isolation valve, and a pressure reduction valve; a proportional mixing device coupled to receive mains supply water through said pressure reduction valve, and having a suction conduit in operative fluid communication with a chemical cleaning agent source; and a second user operable three-way valve having a first inlet coupled to receive output from the proportional mixing device, and a second inlet coupled to receive mains supply water through said pressure reduction valve; wherein an outlet of said three-way valve is adapted for coupling to one or more of said fluid dispensing lines of the fluid dispensing system. Figure 3 -122- 116 1ai 18a It18b It 1114 It 112 --z- 18 13 4 104 102 -138- -140- -142

Description

1 BEVERAGE SYSTEM CLEANING APPARATUS AND METHOD RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority to Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2015905183 in the name of 888 Tripe Eight Chemical Pty Ltd, which was filed on 15 December 2015, entitled "Beverage System Cleaning Apparatus and Method " and the specification thereof is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes. FIELD OF INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to the field of beverage dispensing systems. [0003] In one form, the invention relates to an apparatus for cleaning beverage dispensing systems. [0004] It will be convenient to hereinafter describe the invention in relation to draught beer dispensing systems as may be found in pubs, bars, hotels and the like, however it should be appreciated that the present invention is not necessarily limited to that application only. BACKGROUND ART [0005] Many restaurants, bars, taverns, entertainment venues and the like provide refreshments including beverages such as draught beer or soft drinks for purchase and consumption by their customers. Often these beverages are supplied to the business in bulk and dispensed through an appropriate beverage dispensing system into a cup or glass for consumption by the customer. Draught beer, for example, is proved by the brewery in a bulk container, such as a beer barrel or keg. Normally a line, such as a PVC tube, runs from the pressurized barrel to the dispensing tap. The server opens the tap and the beer under pressure flows out into a glass or other container. Likewise, soft drinks are provided in canisters and served through a gas-pressurized system. [0006] In addition to alcohol and carbon dioxide, finished beer contains proteins, carbohydrates and hundreds of other organic compounds. Yeast and bacteria 2 routinely enter draught systems where they feed on beer and attach to draught lines. Minerals also precipitate from beer, leaving deposits in lines and fixtures. [0007] To maintain the freshness and purity of the dispensed beverages, the lines require periodic cleaning. For example, it is recommended that draught beer lines be cleaned on a regular basis, in the order of every fourteen days. The cleaning process includes two general steps: 1) injection and circulation of cleaning solution through the draught lines to remove organic soils, protein, deposits and bacteria; and 2) rinsing of the lines, usually with plain water, to ensure that all cleaning solution has been flushed from the lines. [0008] Despite the importance of the function, beer line cleaning is sometimes neglected by publicans and staff, perhaps due to complicated procedures and/or the hazardous cleaning chemicals involved. The chemicals used to clean and disinfect the lines are manufactured in concentrated form and typically diluted at the time of use. The cleaning chemicals used to clean beverage flow lines generally are harsh, being caustic, having a relatively high pH. In other applications, harsh acidic cleaning solutions may be used. In any event, it is imperative that the cleaning chemicals be handled carefully, and that all cleaning solution is flushed and purged from the lines before the lines are reconnected to consumable product. If there is residual harsh or caustic cleaning solution left in the lines, it can be dispensed along with the next beverage and inadvertently be consumed, causing a health and safety risk. Before handling cleaning fluid it is recommended that the operator don the necessary protective gear - gauntlet-type PVC gloves, goggles or other eye protection, and a PVC apron. [0009] In a recent incident considered by WorkCover NSW, a worker received burns to the face, permanent loss of vision in one eye, and significant impairment in the other, after being splashed with beer line cleaning chemicals. [0010] In that case, the process for cleaning the beer lines was to de-gas an empty keg and fill it with a mixture of commercial beer line cleaner, which had been diluted in water. The keg was then connected to the beer delivery system and used to flush the lines clean. The worker attempted to pour undiluted beer line cleaner into a keg using a funnel connected to a keg coupler. The keg was still pressurised and as the worker 3 depressed the coupler handle, the beer line cleaner was blown back out of the funnel, splashing onto the worker's face and eyes. Although experienced in beer line cleaning, the worker was not wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and may not have understood the potential risks of working with beer line cleaning chemicals. [0011] It is to be appreciated that any discussion of documents, devices, acts or knowledge in this specification is included to explain the context of the present invention. Further, the discussion throughout this specification comes about due to the realisation of the inventor and/or the identification of certain related art problems by the inventor. Moreover, any discussion of material such as documents, devices, acts or knowledge in this specification is included to explain the context of the invention in terms of the inventor's knowledge and experience and, accordingly, any such discussion should not be taken as an admission that any of the material forms part of the prior art base or the common general knowledge in the relevant art in Australia, or elsewhere, on or before the priority date of the disclosure and claims herein. SUMMARY OF INVENTION [0012] Embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a system for beer line cleaning that is simple to operate and entails reduced hazard to the operator in handling cleaning chemicals. [0013] In accordance with the present invention there is provided apparatus for maintenance cleaning of fluid dispensing lines of a fluid dispensing system, comprising a fluid circuit having: a first inlet in use coupled to mains supply water through a backflow prevention device, a first user operable isolation valve, and a pressure reduction valve; a proportional mixing device coupled to receive mains supply water through said pressure reduction valve, and having a suction conduit in operative fluid communication with a chemical cleaning agent source; and a second user operable three-way valve having a first inlet coupled to receive output from the proportional mixing device, and a second inlet coupled to receive mains supply water through said pressure reduction valve; wherein an outlet of said three-way valve is adapted for coupling to one or more of said fluid dispensing lines of the fluid dispensing system.

4 [0014] The apparatus is particularly suited to cleaning of beer dispensing lines and the like in a draught beer dispensing system. Through manipulation of the first and second user operable valves the apparatus may be controlled to selectively introduce proportionally diluted chemical cleaning agent into the fluid dispensing lines, and flush the chemical cleaning agent out of the fluid dispensing lines with mains supply water. [0015] In an embodiment of the invention the proportional mixing device comprises a proportional injector dispenser. The proportional injector dispenser may have means for adjusting the proportional mixing ratio of chemical cleaning agent to water. [0016] The apparatus may also include a second proportional mixing device coupled to receive mains supply water through said pressure reduction valve, and having a suction conduit in operative fluid communication with an auxiliary cleaning agent source. The second proportional mixing device may have a user operable output control selector and an auxiliary output conduit for providing diluted auxiliary cleaning agent into a container. In one form of the invention the second proportional mixing device comprises a venturi dispenser. [0017] The present invention also provides an integrated cleaning station for installation in a cellar or the like and adapted for use in cleaning beer and other beverage dispensing lines, comprising an enclosure in use mounted to a surface of the cellar, the enclosure containing apparatus as defined above and including first and second user operable control means, such as handles, coupled to control the first and second user operable valves. [0018] Other aspects and preferred forms are disclosed in the specification and/or defined in the appended claims, forming a part of the description of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0019] Further disclosure, objects, advantages and aspects of preferred and other embodiments of the present application may be better understood by those skilled in the relevant art by reference to the following description of embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not limitative of the disclosure herein, and in which: 5 Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a basic draught beer dispensing system; Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating a prior art arrangement for line cleaning of a draught beer system; Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating a draught beer system including apparatus for line cleaning according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 4 is an isolated plan view of a control cabinet of line cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a line cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention; and Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating componentry of a line cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0020] A basic draught beer dispensing system 10 is diagrammatically illustrated in Figure 1. Fresh beer is delivered from the brewery to a venue such as a pub or hotel contained in a beer keg 12, is typically stored in a cellar. The top of the keg accommodates attachment of a coupler 14 having a gas inlet port and a liquid outlet port. Compressed carbon dioxide gas is supplied to the keg through a C02 gas line 16 connected to the inlet port. The coupler outlet port is connected by a first transfer lead 18 to a beer pump 20. The outlet of the beer pump 20 is connected by a second transfer lead 22 to an FOB detector 24. The FOB detector 24 is coupled to a beer tap 28 through a beer line 26. In use, when the tap 26 is opened, beer flows from the keg to the tap for dispensing under gas pressure within the keg and by action of the beer pump 20. Refrigeration and/or cooling components are not shown. [0021] Depending on the size and configuration of the venue the beer lines 26 may be of considerable length. The beer lines and transfer leads are tubular conduits, typically PVC plastic tubes. Over time the tubes and other components develop deposits of organic and inorganic materials from the beer being dispensed, which can negatively affect the taste of the delivered product, and can impede flow in the beer lines. This necessitates periodic cleaning of the beer dispensing system.

6 [0022] The cleaning process involves introducing a chemical agent into the beer dispensing system in order to effect removal of the deposits therein. This is usually accompanied by soaking of removable components in a cleaning solution and general surface cleaning of the cellar. Once the cleaning has been accomplished the system must be flushed with clean water to remove the chemical agent. [0023] A common way of beer line cleaning in the prior art is described hereinbelow with reference to Figure 2, which is a diagrammatic illustration of a system 30 arranged for beer line cleaning. In the system 30 there is no pump or fob detector shown, and in normal operation the keg coupler 14 would be connected to the beer keg 12 to dispense beer through beer line 26 directly to the tap 28. In this case, however, the coupler 14 has been disconnected from the keg and is mounted to a manifold 36 for the line cleaning process. The manifold 36 is supplied from a hose 34 connected to a cleaning container 32. The cleaning container 32 is also connected by a gas line 16 so that it may be pressurized using C02 gas from the supply cylinder 15. A recommended beer system cleaning procedure from the prior art is outlined below. a. Rinse out any water that is in the cleaning container, water that has been in there a day or so becomes stagnant (I have seen cleaning containers with algae before now). Then fill the container with clean cold water. Use cold water for two reasons: hot water will freeze quicker than cold, because there is less oxygen in the water and if you use a pressure container, hot water increases the pressure within that container so it then becomes a safety issue. b. Most cleaning systems now have a gas or air operated pump to power the cleaning solution/water through the lines. Making sure the pump inlet pipe is inserted in the cleaning container. Switch on the gas pump and bleed any air/gas bubbles that is in the cleaning main through any one of the cellar-buoy / fob detectors - doesn't matter if you set all the fobs to the clean setting, there always seem to be a couple of fobs where the float drops and you have to go back down the cellar to bleed them again. c. Placing a bucket under the taps, remove the sparklers and diffusers. Then flush the lines with water till all traces of beer are removed. By 7 clearing all beer and debris from the line first you won't waste any cleaning fluid, if not, you could use twice as much. d. Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions mixing the right amount for the size of your container. e. The cleaning solution can now be drawn through the lines if you are using a clear, line cleaning solution you will be able to tell when the line cleaning solution has reached the tap by using litmus paper. When all lines are full of cleaning solution, return to the cellar and bleed cleaning solution, through the fob detectors. This makes sure the top of the fob is also getting cleaned. If you have electrical pumps you should bleed them as well. f. After about 15 minutes repeat the process drawing fresh cleaning solution through the lines. You will be able to tell when clean, cleaning solution is in the line by using a glass; the solution will be of a milky appearance until the fresh solution comes through. Or if you are using a dye based cleaner until the cleaner retains a purple or blue colour (the same colour that is in the container, before it is used). g. When you are happy that all the lines are clean, you can now begin flushing the cleaning solution out of the lines taking any yeast debris that is left. h. Thoroughly rinse out the cleaning container a few times until all traces of cleaning fluid have been removed, and fill with clean water. i. Now flush out the system with water, drawing at least two gallon (10 litres) through each tap. Cleaning solution breaks up and loosens the yeast that is attached to the walls of the pipes; it doesn't dissolve the yeast like a lot of people think. That is why it is a good idea to remove the sparklers and diffusers before cleaning as they could get blocked. j. Don't forget to bleed water through the fob detectors and the bleed points on the pumps if you have any. When you have thoroughly flushed out the 8 system, check with litmus paper to make sure there is no cleaning solution residue in the lines. Now you can drain the cleaning container and switch off the cleaning pump. k. Connect the keg coupler back on to the beer container, not forgetting to switch the gas back on to the container; I like to draw beer through the fob detector first. This way I know water is not getting trapped in the system, while at the same time setting the fob detector to the serve position. L Then replace the sparklers etc. Turn on the tap and until beer comes through. Now you can switch the coolers back on. [0024] Embodiments of the present invention, as described hereinbelow, provide an apparatus and associated method, the use of which enables considerable simplification of the beer line cleaning process, as well as other benefits which will become apparent. [0025] Figure 3 is a diagrammatic illustration of a draught beer system including apparatus 100 for beer line cleaning according to an embodiment of the invention. A beer dispensing system 10 is shown that is similar in structure to that described in connection with Figure 1, with like reference numerals denoting like components. In particular, beer line 26 is shown that provides beer to one or more dispensing taps in a venue. The beer line 26 is connected to a fob detector 24 which in turn is connected by a transfer lead 22 to a beer pump 20. The beer pump 20 has a transfer lead 18 connected to keg coupler 14 which, during ordinary operation, is connected to beer keg 12. The beer keg 12 is also supplied with compressed carbon dioxide through a C02 gas supply line 16 from gas cylinder 15. [0026] When it comes time to clean out the beer line and associated components it is advantageous to first 'trade out' the beer remaining in the line before the cleaning process commences. This avoids wasting the beer already in the line, and can save considerable money over time. For this purpose a trade-out manifold 102 is provided, having an inlet connection 104 to the C02 gas supply cylinder 15. The trade-out manifold has a plurality of outlets 106 adapted for coupling to the beer transfer lead 18. Prior to cleaning the transfer lead 18 may be disconnected from the beer keg and 9 coupled to the trade-out manifold outlet 106, as indicated at 18a in Figure 3. Then, when beer is dispensed from a tap through the line 26, the liquid is forced by the gas pressure applied through the manifold 102, and the system does not draw more beer from the keg. Adjustments may be required to the beer fob detector and/or beer pump for this operation. Once all of the remaining beer has been dispensed from the line (some foam may remain) the line is ready for cleaning. [0027] For the cleaning procedure a cleaning manifold 110 is provided having a plurality of outlet couplings 112. Each outlet coupling is adapted to connect with a transfer lead 18, as indicated at 18b in Figure 3. When the trade-out is complete the transfer lead is disconnected from the trade-out manifold 102 and connected to the cleaning manifold 110. The inlet 114 of the cleaning manifold is coupled to a cleaning apparatus 100, described in detail hereinbelow. [0028] In a preferred implementation the cleaning apparatus includes a control unit 120 housed in an enclosure, such as a cabinet 122, mounted in the cellar nearby the beverage dispensing system 10. The control unit comprises a number of operative components of the cleaning system, and includes several inlet and outlet conduits, as well as several user operable controls. A primary outlet conduit 116 couples to the inlet 114 of the cleaning manifold 110. The outlet 116 in use supplies both cleaning solution and clean rinsing water to the dispensing system. [0029] Figure 4 illustrates the control unit 120 in isolated plan view. The control unit has two primary inlets 124, 126 and one primary outlet 116. Inlet 124 is in use connected to a mains water supply which supplies clean water at mains pressure. The inlet 126 comprises a conduit that is in use coupled to a container of concentrated chemical cleaning agent. [0030] The control unit includes first and second user operable control handles 128, 130 accessible on the front of the cabinet 122. The control handles are each moveable between first and second positions. As seen in Figure 4, control handle 128 is moveable between a first position (128a) and a second position (128b). Likewise, control handle 130 can be moved between a first position (1 30a) and a second position (1 30b).

10 [0031] The control unit 120 also has a secondary control button 136 which relates to function of secondary inlet 132 and outlet 134. [0032] A schematic diagram of the line cleaning apparatus 150 is shown in Figure 5. The primary inlet 124 is connected to mains pressure water supply and couples to the apparatus 150 through an isolation valve 152, Y-strainer 154 and barrel union 156. The mains water input to the hydraulic circuit of the apparatus 150 passes through a reduced pressure zone detector 158 for the purpose of high-hazard backflow prevention. This ensures that no hazardous cleaning chemicals are able to flow back into the water supply. [0033] A barrel union couples the backflow prevention device to a ball valve 162. The flow condition of the ball valve 162 is determined by the position of the first control handle 128. When the control handle 128 is in position 128a (first position), the valve 162 is closed. When the control handle 128 is in position 128b (second position), the valve 162 is open. [0034] The output of ball valve 162 is coupled to a pressure reduction valve 164. This regulates the water pressure to the downstream components of the hydraulic circuit. A 350kPa pressure has been found to be suitable for general application, to protect the beer lines and components from high water pressure. [0035] The output of the pressure reduction valve 164 is coupled to three separate conduits 165, 167, 170. Conduit 170 leads directly to a first inlet of an L-port ball valve 180. Conduit 165 leads to the water inlet of a proportional injector dispenser 166. The third water conduit 167 leads to the water inlet of a venturi dispenser 168. [0036] The proportional injector dispenser 166 is a water driven proportioning injector for pumping an additive into a water line at a consistent induction rate over varying water pressure and flow rates. In this case the proportional injector dispenser 166 is used to mix a chemical cleaning agent into flowing water at a predetermined proportional rate. A suction hose 126 couples the dispenser 166 to a container of concentrated chemical cleaning agent. Proportional injector dispensers are available from several sources including DEMA Engineering Company of St Louis, MO, U.S.A. For the purposes of the present application, a DEMA MixRite T M water driven injector 11 part # 573CL is a suitable component. This component is capable of use with harsh chemicals and has a selectable proportional mixing rate between 0.4% and 4% (chemical agent to water). The outlet of the proportional injector dispenser 166 is coupled to a second inlet of the L-port ball valve 180 by conduit 172. [0037] The outlet of the L-port ball valve 180 is connected to primary outlet conduit 116 which, in use, is coupled to the inlet of the cleaning manifold 110. The flow condition of the ball valve 180 is determined by the position of the second control handle 130 of the control unit. When the control handle 130 is in position 130a (first position), the valve outlet 116 is coupled to the first inlet 170. When the control handle 130 is in position 130b (second position), the valve outlet is coupled to the second inlet 172. [0038] Venturi dispenser 168 is provided for the purpose of dispensing accurately mixed chemical cleaning solution for soaking beer system components and fittings as well as general surface cleaning. The venturi dispenser may comprise, for example, a DEMA Blend Center model 633 which provides for a dilution range between 500:1 and 5:1. A suction hose 132 couples the venturi dispenser 168 to a container of detergent solution or the like, and an outlet conduit 134 allows diluted solution to be dispensed into another container. The venturi dispenser is user operable by means of a pushbutton 136. [0039] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the physical form of major components of the line cleaning apparatus, arranged and illustrated with schematic interconnection lines therebetween. [0040] The use of the cleaning apparatus is described hereinbelow with reference to Figures 3, 4 and 5. [0041] When it comes time to clean one or more beer lines, first the normal precautions are observed, such as turning off beer chilling units and hanging warning signs on the respective beer taps. Then, the coupler of the beer line to be cleaned is connected to an outlet 112 of the cleaning manifold 110, as illustrated at 18b in Figure 3. The inlet 114 of the cleaning manifold may ordinarily be permanently coupled to the primary outlet conduit 116 of the cleaning apparatus.

12 [0042] The initial stage of the cleaning process involves rinsing the beer lines with plain water. This is particularly important when beer in the lines has been 'traded out'. Trading out the beer leaves a mixture of gas and beer foam in the lines which is liable to froth and spit out at the tap. If a hazardous chemical were mixed with the foam it could inadvertently splash on the operator. [0043] To rinse the line with water the operator first ensures that the second control handle 130 is in the first position (130a). This configures the L-port ball valve 180 so that the conduit 170 is in communication with the outlet 116. The operator may then rotate the first control handle 128 from the first position (128a) to the second position (128b). This opens the ball valve 162 and allows mains water into the cleaning apparatus hydraulic circuit. Then, when the beer tap is opened, any remaining beer, gas and foam in the line is flushed out with plain water that is supplied into the line through the cleaning manifold 110 from the conduit 170 through outlet 116. The beer foam and rinsing water flushed from the tap is typically collected in a bucket for disposal. [0044] Once the beer line has been rinsed, the next stage in the procedure is introducing the chemical cleaning agent into the beer lines. In preparation the operator should check that the suction hose 126 is inserted in the cleaning chemical container 138 (Figure 3), and that there is sufficient level of cleaning chemical in the container. This opens the ball valve 162 and allows mains water into the cleaning apparatus hydraulic circuit. For chemical cleaning of the beer lines the operator places the second control handle 130 also in the second position (130b). This controls the L-port ball valve 180 so that conduit 172 is in communication with outlet 116. The first control handle 128 remains in the second position (128b). The control unit is thus in condition for chemical cleaning of the beer lines connected to the cleaning manifold. [0045] The operator then places a bucket or the like under the respective beer tap, and opens the tap to allow fluid to flow into the bucket. This permits fluid to flow from the mains water supply, through the cleaning apparatus hydraulic circuit, the cleaning manifold, the beer line, and out of the tap. As water from the supply inlet passes through the proportional injector dispenser 166 it is mixed with chemical cleaning agent drawn from the container 138 according to the predetermined proportional flow rate. The diluted cleaning fluid solution passes into the beer line and in turn reaches the tap.

13 The cleaning chemical agent preferably contains a colouring that enables the operator to visually confirm as the solution passes through the transfer leads in the cellar, and into the bucket at the tap. Once several litres of cleaning fluid have collected in the bucket, the tap may be closed in the knowledge that the beer line and in-line components in the cellar are filled with cleaning solution. The cleaning solution is preferably left in the beer line for at least two hours. [0046] Meanwhile, the operator may commence auxiliary cleaning functions, which may include soaking removable beer system components and wiping down surfaces in the cellar. For this purpose a different, secondary cleaning agent may be employed that is not as harsh and/or hazardous as that used in the beer line. The secondary cleaning agent is stored in concentrated form in container 140, into which suction hose 132 is immersed. The operator places the end of secondary outlet 134 into an empty container 142, and depresses secondary control button 136. This allows water to flow into the venturi dispenser 168 where is it mixed with secondary cleaning agent from the container 140 in proportional amount according to predetermined setting. The mixed secondary cleaning fluid is deposited directly in container 142 which may be, for example, a mop bucket or pump spray bottle. [0047] After the cleaning fluid in the beer line has been left to soak for the prescribed period, it is then necessary to rinse the chemicals out of the beer dispensing system. In order to do so the operator manipulates the second control handle 130 into the first position (130a). This reconfigures the hydraulic circuit so that conduit 170 is coupled in fluid communication with outlet 116. The operator then again opens the respective tap, which allows cleaning fluid from the beer line to drain into the bucket for disposal. The draining cleaning fluid also contains debris and other material cleansed from inside the beer dispensing system. As the cleaning fluid drains it is replaced in the beer line by clean water supplied through conduit 170 of the cleaning apparatus. When the cleaning fluid has finished draining from the beer line the operator will note the fluid exiting the tap will change from coloured to clear, indicating plain water. Several litres of water may be allowed to run through the beer line to ensure that all remnants of cleaning fluid are flushed out. A litmus test paper or the like may be used on the fluid exiting the tap to detect if any chemical agent is still present.

14 [0048] When the beer line has been fully rinsed, the operator manipulates the first handle 128 to its first position (128a), which closes off the hydraulic circuit from the mains water supply by action of the ball valve 162. The transfer lead 18 is then disconnected from the cleaning manifold and reconnected to the beer keg. The tap is opened until beer water flowing out is replaced by beer, and the dispensing line is again ready for use. [0049] Although the forgoing description is in the context of cleaning a single beer line, multiple lines may be cleaned at the same time by connecting them to separate outlet couplings 112 of the cleaning manifold. Indeed, if only a single beer line is to be cleaned at one time the cleaning manifold is not necessary, and the transfer lead 118 may be coupled directly to the cleaning apparatus outlet 116 if desired. [0050] The apparatus described herein provides a simple to operate and effective system for regular maintenance cleaning of beverage dispensing systems and the like. It allows for cleaning of the dispensing lines with chemical cleaning agent that is accurately dosed without requiring the operator to mix or otherwise handle hazardous chemicals. The primary cleaning function is controlled by two user operable control handles. [0051] The L-port three-way ball valve enables a change from cleaning to rinsing of beer lines with one action, taking away the need to disconnect and reconnect pipework as may be the case with prior art cleaning arrangements. This is advantageous for the operator because, when reconnecting pipework with prior art systems in preparation for rinsing it has been known for small amounts of chemical to spit out from the fitting onto the operator. [0052] The apparatus includes safety components including a high-hazard backflow prevention device to ensure that no chemicals are able to inadvertently enter the water supply. Also, a pressure reduction valve ensures that mains water pressure cannot damage the beverage dispensing system. [0053] The apparatus addresses many of the problems encountered in the use of prior art systems by providing: 15 * accurate mixing of cleaning chemicals is predetermined correct proportion for best cleaning results without wastage * no manual mixing of chemicals by operator * simple single-lever operation to change from cleaning lines to rinsing lines * operation on water pressure rather than gas pressure which allows for a greater number of lines to be cleaned at one time. [0054] The apparatus further provides a secondary cleaning fluid mix and dispenser for soaking components and general surface cleaning. [0055] Whilst an embodiment of the invention has been described above in the context of a beer dispensing system, those skilled in the art will recognise that the cleaning system may be equally applied to other beverage and fluid dispensing systems that require regular maintenance cleaning. The following sections I - III provide a guide to interpreting the present specification. 1. Terms [0056] The term "product" means any machine, manufacture and/or composition of matter, unless expressly specified otherwise. [0057] The term "process" means any process, algorithm, method or the like, unless expressly specified otherwise. [0058] Each process (whether called a method, algorithm, procedure or otherwise) inherently includes one or more steps, and therefore all references to a "step" or "steps" of a process have an inherent antecedent basis in the mere recitation of the term 'process' or a like term. Accordingly, any reference in a claim to a 'step' or 'steps' of a process has sufficient antecedent basis. [0059] The term "invention" and the like mean "the one or more inventions disclosed in this specification", unless expressly specified otherwise. [0060] The terms "an embodiment", "embodiment", "embodiments", "the embodiment", "the embodiments", "one or more embodiments", "some embodiments", "certain embodiments", "one embodiment", "another embodiment" and the like mean 16 "one or more (but not all) embodiments of the disclosed invention(s)", unless expressly specified otherwise. [0061] The term "variation" of an invention means an embodiment of the invention, unless expressly specified otherwise. [0062] A reference to "another embodiment" in describing an embodiment does not imply that the referenced embodiment is mutually exclusive with another embodiment (e.g., an embodiment described before the referenced embodiment), unless expressly specified otherwise. [0063] The terms "including", "comprising" and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to", unless expressly specified otherwise. [0064] The terms "a", "an" and "the" mean "one or more", unless expressly specified otherwise. [0065] The term "plurality" means "two or more", unless expressly specified otherwise. [0066] The term "herein" means "in the present specification, including anything which may be incorporated by reference", unless expressly specified otherwise. [0067] The phrase "at least one of', when such phrase modifies a plurality of things (such as an enumerated list of things), means any combination of one or more of those things, unless expressly specified otherwise. For example, the phrase "at least one of a widget, a car and a wheel" means either (i) a widget, (ii) a car, (iii) a wheel, (iv) a widget and a car, (v) a widget and a wheel, (vi) a car and a wheel, or (vii) a widget, a car and a wheel. The phrase "at least one of', when such phrase modifies a plurality of things, does not mean "one of each of' the plurality of things. [0068] Numerical terms such as "one", "two", etc. when used as cardinal numbers to indicate quantity of something (e.g., one widget, two widgets), mean the quantity indicated by that numerical term, but do not mean at least the quantity indicated by that numerical term. For example, the phrase "one widget" does not mean "at least one widget", and therefore the phrase "one widget" does not cover, e.g., two widgets.

17 [0069] The phrase "based on" does not mean "based only on", unless expressly specified otherwise. In other words, the phrase "based on" describes both "based only on" and "based at least on". The phrase "based at least on" is equivalent to the phrase "based at least in part on". [0070] The term "represent" and like terms are not exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. For example, the term "represents" do not mean "represents only", unless expressly specified otherwise. In other words, the phrase "the data represents a credit card number" describes both "the data represents only a credit card number" and "the data represents a credit card number and the data also represents something else". [0071] The term "whereby" is used herein only to precede a clause or other set of words that express only the intended result, objective or consequence of something that is previously and explicitly recited. Thus, when the term "whereby" is used in a claim, the clause or other words that the term "whereby" modifies do not establish specific further limitations of the claim or otherwise restricts the meaning or scope of the claim. [0072] The term "e.g." and like terms mean "for example", and thus does not limit the term or phrase it explains. For example, in the sentence "the computer sends data (e.g., instructions, a data structure) over the Internet", the term "e.g." explains that "instructions" are an example of "data" that the computer may send over the Internet, and also explains that "a data structure" is an example of "data" that the computer may send over the Internet. However, both "instructions" and "a data structure" are merely examples of "data", and other things besides "instructions" and "a data structure" can be "data". [0073] The term "i.e." and like terms mean "that is", and thus limits the term or phrase it explains. For example, in the sentence "the computer sends data (i.e., instructions) over the Internet", the term "i.e." explains that "instructions" are the "data" that the computer sends over the Internet. [0074] Any given numerical range shall include whole and fractions of numbers within the range. For example, the range "1 to 10" shall be interpreted to specifically 18 include whole numbers between 1 and 10 (e.g., 2, 3, 4, . . . 9) and non-whole numbers (e.g., 1.1, 1.2, . . . 1.9). II. Forms of Sentences [0075] Where a limitation of a first claim would cover one of a feature as well as more than one of a feature (e.g., a limitation such as "at least one widget" covers one widget as well as more than one widget), and where in a second claim that depends on the first claim, the second claim uses a definite article "the" to refer to the limitation (e.g., "the widget"), this does not imply that the first claim covers only one of the feature, and this does not imply that the second claim covers only one of the feature (e.g., "the widget" can cover both one widget and more than one widget). [0076] When an ordinal number (such as "first", "second", "third" and so on) is used as an adjective before a term, that ordinal number is used (unless expressly specified otherwise) merely to indicate a particular feature, such as to distinguish that particular feature from another feature that is described by the same term or by a similar term. For example, a "first widget" may be so named merely to distinguish it from, e.g., a "second widget". Thus, the mere usage of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "widget" does not indicate any other relationship between the two widgets, and likewise does not indicate any other characteristics of either or both widgets. For example, the mere usage of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "widget" (1) does not indicate that either widget comes before or after any other in order or location; (2) does not indicate that either widget occurs or acts before or after any other in time; and (3) does not indicate that either widget ranks above or below any other, as in importance or quality. In addition, the mere usage of ordinal numbers does not define a numerical limit to the features identified with the ordinal numbers. For example, the mere usage of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "widget" does not indicate that there must be no more than two widgets. Ill. Disclosed Examples and Terminology Are Not Limiting [0077] Neither the Title nor the Abstract in this specification is intended to be taken as limiting in any way as the scope of the disclosed invention(s). The title and 19 headings of sections provided in the specification are for convenience only, and are not to be taken as limiting the disclosure in any way. [0078] Numerous embodiments may be described in the present application, and are presented for illustrative purposes only. The described embodiments are not, and are not intended to be, limiting in any sense. The presently disclosed invention(s) are widely applicable to numerous embodiments, as is readily apparent from the disclosure. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the disclosed invention(s) may be practiced with various modifications and alterations, such as structural, logical, software, and electrical modifications. Although particular features of the disclosed invention(s) may be described with reference to one or more particular embodiments and/or drawings, it should be understood that such features are not limited to usage in the one or more particular embodiments or drawings with reference to which they are described, unless expressly specified otherwise. [0079] The present disclosure is not a literal description of all embodiments of the invention(s). Also, the present disclosure is not a listing of features of the invention(s) which must be present in all embodiments. [0080] A description of an embodiment with several components or features does not imply that all or even any of such components/features are required. On the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the present invention(s). Unless otherwise specified explicitly, no component/feature is essential or required. [0081] Although process steps, algorithms or the like may be described in a particular sequential order, such processes may be configured to work in different orders. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be explicitly described does not necessarily indicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. The steps of processes described herein may be performed in any order practical. Further, some steps may be performed simultaneously despite being described or implied as occurring non-simultaneously (e.g., because one step is described after the other step). Moreover, the illustration of a process by its depiction in a drawing does not imply that the illustrated process is exclusive of other variations and modifications 20 thereto, does not imply that the illustrated process or any of its steps are necessary to the invention(s), and does not imply that the illustrated process is preferred. [0082] Although a process may be described as including a plurality of steps, that does not imply that all or any of the steps are preferred, essential or required. Various other embodiments within the scope of the described invention(s) include other processes that omit some or all of the described steps. Unless otherwise specified explicitly, no step is essential or required. [0083] Although a product may be described as including a plurality of components, aspects, qualities, characteristics and/or features, that does not indicate that any or all of the plurality are preferred, essential or required. Various other embodiments within the scope of the described invention(s) include other products that omit some or all of the described plurality. [0084] While this invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that it is capable of further modification(s). This application is intended to cover any variations uses or adaptations of the invention following in general, the principles of the invention and including such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice within the art to which the invention pertains and as may be applied to the essential features hereinbefore set forth.

Claims (4)

1. Apparatus for maintenance cleaning of fluid dispensing lines of a fluid dispensing system, comprising a fluid circuit having: a first inlet in use coupled to mains supply water through a backflow prevention device, a first user operable isolation valve, and a pressure reduction valve; a proportional mixing device coupled to receive mains supply water through said pressure reduction valve, and having a suction conduit in operative fluid communication with a chemical cleaning agent source; and a second user operable three-way valve having a first inlet coupled to receive output from the proportional mixing device, and a second inlet coupled to receive mains supply water through said pressure reduction valve; wherein an outlet of said three-way valve is adapted for coupling to one or more of said fluid dispensing lines of the fluid dispensing system.

2. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, further including a manifold with a common inlet coupled, in use, to the outlet of the three-way valve, and a plurality of manifold outlets that may be selectively coupled to said one or more fluid dispensing lines of the fluid dispensing system.

3. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or 2, further including a flow-mixing device coupled to receive mains supply water through said pressure reduction valve, the flow mixing device having a suction conduit in operative fluid communication with a secondary cleaning agent source, a secondary outlet, and a user operable control to effect dispensing of diluted secondary cleaning agent through said secondary outlet.

4. An integrated cleaning station for installation in a cellar or the like and adapted for use in cleaning beer and other beverage dispensing lines, comprising an enclosure in use mounted to a surface of the cellar, the enclosure containing apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 and including first and second user operable control means, such as handles, coupled to control the first and second user operable valves.