EP0818390B1 - Apparatus for sterilising webs of packaging material - Google Patents

Apparatus for sterilising webs of packaging material Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0818390B1
EP0818390B1 EP97111225A EP97111225A EP0818390B1 EP 0818390 B1 EP0818390 B1 EP 0818390B1 EP 97111225 A EP97111225 A EP 97111225A EP 97111225 A EP97111225 A EP 97111225A EP 0818390 B1 EP0818390 B1 EP 0818390B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
discharge tube
packaging material
temperature
packing material
web
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Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
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EP97111225A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0818390A1 (en
Inventor
Gunter Kurth
Ingo Sabotka
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Hassia Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH
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Hassia Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH
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    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65BMACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B55/00Preserving, protecting or purifying packages or package contents in association with packaging
    • B65B55/02Sterilising, e.g. of complete packages
    • B65B55/04Sterilising wrappers or receptacles prior to, or during, packaging
    • B65B55/08Sterilising wrappers or receptacles prior to, or during, packaging by irradiation

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device for sterilizing Packaging material webs, especially under wet room conditions, which in of an FFS machine can be further processed, whereby the sterilization of at least the surface of the product Packaging material web with a barrier discharge by means of at least a discharge tube through which a fluid medium flows is caused by a counter electrode with little Distance is arranged, which supports the packaging material web Wing forms.
  • WO 95/09256 is a method for cleaning surfaces, especially foils with the help of a so-called barrier discharge have been proposed, including sterilization or disinfection of packaging material webs are also taken into account is.
  • This process which is also the starting point here uses the physical associated with electrical discharges Phenomena up to exposure to UV light, to clean surfaces of grease or oil films for what this method has also proven useful and the principle also for sterilization or disinfection purposes from Packaging material webs, provided that they are for germ-sensitive filling goods, ie
  • the invention is accordingly based on the object, since The barrier discharge process itself does not change anything device used so far (is essentially the flow-through discharge tube with guide elements for the foil guide) to improve in particular under wet room conditions and taking safety requirements into account a largely uniform application of the each continuous packaging material area takes place and thus a correspondingly uniform sterilization or disinfection who was immediately transported to the next station under sterile conditions Packaging material web is guaranteed.
  • the Wing is sensor-controlled and with means for keeping the temperature constant on a compatible one for the packaging material web Temperature level is provided, and that in or on the Feed line of the fluid medium to the respective at least a discharge tube a sensor-controlled temperature control device arranged to maintain the temperature somewhat above the dew point temperature is.
  • the device with a packaging material tensioning device and this in the direction of travel of the packaging material web arranged in front of the at least one discharge tube is.
  • a tensioning device e.g. weight lever-loaded Packaging material guide roll or dancer roll
  • packaging material guides generally known, but wins in the present context of particular importance to the required exact Keep the gap distance safely.
  • Such a tensioning device is suitable for cases in which the wing for the Packaging material is designed in the form of a rotatable cylinder around in a partial area, for example, several discharge tubes are arranged. If the wing is stationary, flat plate, it is from the same Basically provided with suction holes distributed over the entire surface when the packaging material does not obstruct the suction Keep the packaging material close to the wing and therefore for a constant gap distance between the packaging material and the discharge tube to care. Such suction openings can also additionally to the tensioning device on one of the wings Cylinders can be provided if this is the material of the packaging material demands.
  • thermoforming machine explained as an FFS machine.
  • thermoforming machine shown as a thermoforming machine
  • tubular bag packaging machines whereby at the latter usually only a packaging material web over a form shoulder guided and connected to a hose on the associated filling tube shaped and filled this intermittently with transverse sealing becomes.
  • the device for sterile treatment of the packaging material webs at the latest is assigned to the respective packaging machine where in Direction of flow the filling follows and the packaging material still is not deformed, i.e., the packaging material web is flat the machine is running or is being fed to it.
  • deep-drawing machine of the type shown in FIG.
  • Fig. 2 essential that the counter electrode forming Airfoil 2 with the at least one discharge tube 1 faces short distance, is sensor-controlled and with Means 3 for keeping the temperature constant on one for the Packaging material web is provided compatible temperature level and that in or on the feed line 4 of the fluid medium to the respective at least one discharge tube 1 a controllable Temperature control device 5 (TG ') for keeping the temperature slightly above Dew point temperature is arranged.
  • TG ' controllable Temperature control device 5
  • the wing 2 is, as mentioned and in 1 shows a rotatable cylinder or a drum, but it can also be a flat surface or one Act table, as shown in Fig. 2. Both drum and table 3 can be tempered with suitable means 3 trained, i.e. the respective wing 2 is sensor-controlled from a temperature control unit TG for each Packaging material kept at a suitable temperature to keep it in the irradiation area the device does not cause deformation of the packaging material let come, i.e., the wing 2, no matter which Form has this, is constantly below in terms of its temperature Kept control.
  • a sensor-controlled Temperature control device TG ' is provided, through which the discharge tubes 1 flowing fluid is passed.
  • the discharge tube 1 As illustrated schematically, with suitable flow and return connections 8, 9 provided by which also from special Reason for the energy supply lines 10 for the radiation causing Element 11 is inserted into the discharge tube 1.
  • the wing 2 in the form of a table (see Fig. 2) is formed, it is uniform over the entire surface distributed suction holes 7 and a not particularly shown here Provide suction connection, the suction of which is set in this way must be that on the one hand the packaging material in a flat area held on the wing 2, on the other hand the clocked Passage of the packaging material over the wing 2 but not hindered becomes.
  • a cylindrical wing can also be used 2 are provided with such suction holes according to FIG. 1.
  • connections 1 ' advantageous in the temperature controlled via liquid Flow and return connections 8, 9 integrated. If in Connection area at the ends of the discharge tube hood covers are provided, they are designed so that condensation on the hoods does not accumulate the connections can arrive, or the hoods are even in the Trained in terms of temperature control and control.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Toxicology (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Containers And Plastic Fillers For Packaging (AREA)
  • Cleaning Implements For Floors, Carpets, Furniture, Walls, And The Like (AREA)
  • Treatments For Attaching Organic Compounds To Fibrous Goods (AREA)
  • Package Closures (AREA)

Abstract

The device uses a barrier discharge acting on the side of the packaging web (PB) which faces the packaged food, provided by a discharge tube (1) through which a fluid medium is passed and a cooperating counter-electrode. The latter is provided by a support surface (2) with a sensor-controlled device (3) for holding it at the required temperature for the packaging web. The temperature of the fluid medium fed through the discharge tube is detected for controlling a heating device (5) holding the discharge tube at above the dew point temperature.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung zum Sterilisieren von Packstoffbahnen, insbesondere unter Naßraumbedingungen, die in einer FFS-Maschine im Durchlauf weiterverarbeitet werden, wobei die Sterilisation mindestens der füllgutseitigen Oberfläche der Packstoffbahn mit einer Barriereentladung mittels mindestens einer, von einem fluiden Medium durchströmten Entladungsröhre bewirkt wird, der gegenüber eine Gegenelektrode mit geringem Abstand angeordnet ist, die eine die Packstoffbahn unterstützende Tragfläche bildet.The invention relates to a device for sterilizing Packaging material webs, especially under wet room conditions, which in of an FFS machine can be further processed, whereby the sterilization of at least the surface of the product Packaging material web with a barrier discharge by means of at least a discharge tube through which a fluid medium flows is caused by a counter electrode with little Distance is arranged, which supports the packaging material web Wing forms.

Nach der WO 95/09256 ist ein Verfahren zur Reinigung von Oberflächen, insbesondere Folien mit Hilfe einer sogenannten Barriereentladung vorgeschlagen worden, wobei auch die Sterilisation bzw. Desinfektion von Packstoffbahnen mit in Betracht gezogen ist. Dieses Verfahren, von dem auch hier ausgegangen wird, nutzt die mit elektrischen Entladungen verbundenen physikalischen Erscheinungen bis hin zur UV-Lichteinwirkung aus, um Oberflächen von Fett- oder Ölfilmen zu reinigen, wofür sich dieses Verfahren auch als brauchbar erwiesen hat und dem Prinzip nach auch für Sterilistations- bzw. Desinfektionszwecke von Packstoffbahnen, sofern diese für keimanfälliges Füllgut, also bspw. insbsondere Lebensmittel oder auch Kosmetika als Verpackung benutzt werden, in welchen Verpackungsbereichen praktisch immer Naßraumbedingungen herrschen, bedingt entweder durch per se hohe Luftfeuchtigkeit und/oder ständiges Reinigungserfordernis der benutzten Verpackungsmaschinen, bei denen es sich in der Regel um sogenannte FFS-Maschinen handelt, worunter in besondere Tiefziehmaschinen, aber auch sogenannte Schlauchbeutelmaschinen zu verstehen sind, die die beteiligten Packstoffbahnen formen, füllen und schließen, wobei bei Tiefziehmaschinen unter Packstoffbahn hier auch die zusätzlich zuzuführende Deckfolienbahn zu verstehen ist.According to WO 95/09256 is a method for cleaning surfaces, especially foils with the help of a so-called barrier discharge have been proposed, including sterilization or disinfection of packaging material webs are also taken into account is. This process, which is also the starting point here uses the physical associated with electrical discharges Phenomena up to exposure to UV light, to clean surfaces of grease or oil films for what this method has also proven useful and the principle also for sterilization or disinfection purposes from Packaging material webs, provided that they are for germ-sensitive filling goods, ie For example, especially food or cosmetics as packaging in which packaging areas are practical wet room conditions always prevail, either due to high humidity and / or constant cleaning requirements the packaging machines used, where it is usually so-called FFS machines, including in special deep-drawing machines, but also so-called Tubular bag machines are to be understood by those involved Form, fill and close packaging material webs, whereby at Thermoforming machines under the packaging material web here also the additional cover sheet to be fed is to be understood.

Die "nackte" Anwendung des vorbekannten Verfahrens, wie in der WO 95/09256 offenbart, also dem Prinzip nach, hat sich für praktisch kommerziellen Bedingungen und insbesondere Naßraumbedingungen im Verpackungsbereich tatsächlich als nicht machbar erwiesen, obgleich die Entladungsröhren während ihres Betriebes mit Wasser durchströmt werden, um die Beaufschlagung der bestrahlten Packstoffbahnen mit hoch energetisch geladenen Teilchen und durch Einwirkung von Photonen aus dem UV-Spektralbereich so gleichmäßig wie möglich zu gestalten. Abgesehen und in Abhängigkeit vom Material des Packstoffes, der das Dielektrikum für die Barriereentladung darstellt, zeigten sich an diesem offenbar temperaturbedingte, den Spalt zwischen Packstoff und Entladungsröhre differentiell verändernde Verformungen bzw. Verwerfungen, die vermutlich mit einen Grund für eine ungleichmäßige Beaufschlagung der Packstoffbahn bilden, die ja glatt in die Formstation einlaufen muß. Nur vermutet werden konnte außerdem, daß die Strahlung ebenfalls differentiell gesehen, trotz der Flüssigkeitsdurchleitung die Entladungsröhre per se ungleichmäßig verläßt. Es zeigten sich also Schwierigkeiten und Umstände, die bei groben Reinigungsvorgängen zur Entfernung von Fett- oder Ölfilmen unbeachtlich sind, die aber bislang die Anwendung des Barriereentladungsverfahrens, das in Bezug auf bislang im Verpackungsbereich angewendete Sterilisationsmethoden auf chemischer Basis oder auf Dampfbasis natürlich beachtliche Vorteile hätte, unter praktisch kommerziellen Bedingungen, also Naßraumbedingungen, wie oben erwähnt, verhindert haben.The "naked" application of the known method, as in the WO 95/09256 discloses, ie according to the principle, has for practically commercial conditions and especially wet room conditions actually not feasible in the packaging area proven, although the discharge tubes during their operation be flowed through with water to act upon the irradiated Packaging material webs with highly energetically charged particles and by the action of photons from the UV spectral range to make it as even as possible. Aside and in Dependence on the material of the packaging material, which is the dielectric for the barrier discharge were shown on this apparently temperature-related, the gap between packaging material and Discharge tube differentially changing deformations or Warps that are believed to have a reason for uneven Formation of the packaging material web, yes must run smoothly into the forming station. Just to be suspected could also see that the radiation was also seen differentially, the discharge tube despite the passage of liquid leaves unevenly per se. So there were difficulties and circumstances that occur during rough cleaning processes Removal of fat or oil films are irrelevant, but they are hitherto the application of the barrier discharge process, which in Relation to sterilization methods previously used in the packaging sector chemical-based or steam-based, of course would have considerable advantages, under practically commercial ones Conditions, i.e. wet room conditions, as mentioned above, prevented to have.

So verlockend der Aspekt auch war, das Verfahren nach der WO 95/09256 einfach auch für Packstoffbahnen anzuwenden, um so geringer war die Aussicht, dies tatsächlich tun zu können, denn Versuchsanwendungen dieses Verfahrens an Packstoffbahnen unter Naßraumbedingungen machten deutlich, daß durch Funkenschläge bis hin zu Lichtbogenbildungen das Bedienungspersonal für entsprechende Verpackungsmaschinen und deren unmittelbare Umgebung in hohem Maße gefährdet sein würden.As tempting as the aspect was, the process according to WO 95/09256 easy to use for packaging material, so much the less was the prospect of actually being able to do this because Trial applications of this process on packaging material webs Wet room conditions made it clear that by sparking up to arcing the operating personnel for appropriate Packaging machines and their immediate surroundings would be at high risk.

Der Erfindung liegt demgemäß die Aufgabe zugrunde, da sich am Verfahren der Barriereentladung selbst nichts ändern läßt, die dafür bislang benutzte Vorrichtung (ist im wesentlichen die durchströmbare Entladungsröhre mit Leitelementen für die Folienführung) dahingehend zu verbessern, daß insbesondere auch unter Naßraumbedingungen und unter Beachtung von Sicherheitserfordernissen eine weitestgehend gleichmäßige Beaufschlagung des jeweils durchlaufenden Packstoffbahnbereiches erfolgt und damit eine entsprechend gleichmäßige Sterilisation bzw. Entkeimung der sofort unter Sterilbedingungen zur nächsten Station weitergeförderten Packstoffbahn gewährleistet ist.The invention is accordingly based on the object, since The barrier discharge process itself does not change anything device used so far (is essentially the flow-through discharge tube with guide elements for the foil guide) to improve in particular under wet room conditions and taking safety requirements into account a largely uniform application of the each continuous packaging material area takes place and thus a correspondingly uniform sterilization or disinfection who was immediately transported to the next station under sterile conditions Packaging material web is guaranteed.

Gelöst ist diese Aufgabe nach der Erfindung dadurch, daß die Tragfläche sensorgesteuert ist und mit Mitteln zur Temperatur-Konstanthaltung auf einem für die Packstoffbahn verträglichen Temperaturniveau versehen ist, und daß in bzw. an der Zufuhrleitung des fluiden Mediums zur jeweiligen mindestens einen Entladungsröhre eine sensorgesteuerte Temperiereinrichtung zur Temperaturhaltung etwas über Taupunktstemperatur angeordnet ist. Vorteilhafte und noch näher zu erläuternde Weiterbildungen ergeben sich nach den Unteransprüchen.This object is achieved according to the invention in that the Wing is sensor-controlled and with means for keeping the temperature constant on a compatible one for the packaging material web Temperature level is provided, and that in or on the Feed line of the fluid medium to the respective at least a discharge tube a sensor-controlled temperature control device arranged to maintain the temperature somewhat above the dew point temperature is. Advantageous and to be explained in more detail Further training results from the subclaims.

Gemäß dieser erfindungsgemäßen Lösung haben sich also im wesentlichen zwei Maßnahmen als zum Ziele führend erwiesen, wobei unter "verträglichem Temperaturniveau" in bezug auf den Packstoff die Temperatur zu verstehen ist, die noch nicht zu Wärmeverformungen, wie oben erläutert, führt. Die sich auch bis zu einem gewissen Grade durch die Bestrahlung ergebende Erwärmung des Packstoffes als Dielektrikum, insbesondere aber die sich ebenfalls durch die Bestrahlung ergebende und von dieser Seite her auf den Packstoff einwirkende Erwärmung der Tragfläche (Gegenpol zur Entladungsröhre) wird durch die sensorgesteuerte Temperatur-Konstanthaltung der Tragfläche unter Kontrolle gehalten. Die zweite Maßnahme, nämlich Temperaturhaltung des durchströmenden fluiden Mediums durch die Entladungsröhre etwas über der Taupunktstemperatur, sorgt dafür, daß sich je nach Luftfeuchtigkeit im Umgebungsraum an der Entladungsröhre kein Kondensat niederschlägt, was sonst, wie vermutet, negative Auswirkungen auf die von der Entladungsröhre ausgehende Entladungsstrahlung hat. According to this solution according to the invention essentially have two measures proved to be leading to the goal, whereby below "compatible temperature level" with respect to the Packaging material to understand the temperature, which is not yet too Thermal deformation, as explained above, leads. Which also up heating to some extent by radiation of the packaging material as a dielectric, but especially the also resulting from and from the radiation Side heating on the packaging material (Opposite pole to the discharge tube) is controlled by the sensor Constant temperature control of the wing held. The second measure, namely temperature maintenance of the fluid medium flowing through the discharge tube somewhat above the dew point temperature, ensures that ever after humidity in the surrounding area at the discharge tube no condensate precipitates, which, as assumed, is negative Effects on the discharge tube Has discharge radiation.

Um auch rein von der mechanischen Seite her für eine gleichbleibende Spaltdistanz zwischen Packstoff und Entladungsröhre zu sorgen - Abweichungen von nur > 0,2 mm führen zu bereits zu ungleichmäßig über die zu entkeimende Packstoffoberfläche verteilten Entladungserscheinungen - besteht eine vorteilhafte Weiterbildung darin, daß die Vorrichtung mit einer Packstoffspanneinrichtung und diese in Durchlaufrichtung der Packstoffbahn vor der mindestens einen Entladungsröhre angeordnet ist. Eine solche Spanneinrichtung (bspw. gewichtshebelbelastete Packstofführungsrolle oder Tänzerrolle) ist zwar für Packstofführungen allgemein bekannt, gewinnt aber im vorliegenden Zusammenhang an besonderer Bedeutung, um die erforderlich genaue Spaltdistanz sicher einzuhalten. Eine derartige Spanneinrichtung kommt für Fälle infrage, bei denen die Tragfläche für den Packstoff in Form eines drehbaren Zylinders ausgebildet ist, um den herum in einem Teilbereich bspw. mehrere Entladungsröhre angeordnet sind. Falls es sich bei der Tragfläche um eine stationäre, ebene Platte handelt, so ist diese aus dem gleichen Grunde mit ganzflächig verteilten Saugbohrungen versehen, die bei das Übergleiten des Packstoffes nicht behindernden Sog den Packstoff dennoch dicht an der Tragfläche halten und damit für eine gleichbleibende Spaltdistanz zwischen Packstoff und Entladungsröhre sorgen. Solche Saugöffnungen können aber auch zusätzlich zur Spanneinrichtung an einem die Tragfläche bildenden Zylinder vorgesehen werden, wenn dies das Material des Packstoffes verlangt.To also purely from the mechanical side for a constant Gap distance between packaging material and discharge tube to worry - deviations of only> 0.2 mm already lead to distributed unevenly over the packaging material surface to be sterilized Discharge symptoms - there is an advantageous one Further training in that the device with a packaging material tensioning device and this in the direction of travel of the packaging material web arranged in front of the at least one discharge tube is. Such a tensioning device (e.g. weight lever-loaded Packaging material guide roll or dancer roll) is for packaging material guides generally known, but wins in the present context of particular importance to the required exact Keep the gap distance safely. Such a tensioning device is suitable for cases in which the wing for the Packaging material is designed in the form of a rotatable cylinder around in a partial area, for example, several discharge tubes are arranged. If the wing is stationary, flat plate, it is from the same Basically provided with suction holes distributed over the entire surface when the packaging material does not obstruct the suction Keep the packaging material close to the wing and therefore for a constant gap distance between the packaging material and the discharge tube to care. Such suction openings can also additionally to the tensioning device on one of the wings Cylinders can be provided if this is the material of the packaging material demands.

Die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung wird nachfolgend am Ausführungsbeispiel einer Tiefziehmaschine als FFS-Maschine näher erläutert.The device according to the invention is described below using the exemplary embodiment a thermoforming machine explained as an FFS machine.

Es zeigt stark schematisiert

Fig. 1
in Seitenansicht eine Tiefziehmaschine mit zwei erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtungen in Anordnung einerseits am Einlaufbereich der sogenannten Bocenfolie und andererseits am Zufuhrbereich der Deckelfolie und
Fig. 2
einen Schnitt durch eine Entladungsröhre in Zuordnung zur Tragfläche.
It shows highly schematic
Fig. 1
in side view a thermoforming machine with two devices according to the invention arranged on the one hand at the inlet area of the so-called Bocen film and on the other hand at the feed area of the cover film and
Fig. 2
a section through a discharge tube in association with the wing.

Einer näheren Erläuterung der in Fig. 1 stark schematisiert dargestellten FFS-Maschine als Tiefziehmaschine bedarf es nicht, da solche Maschinen hinlänglich bekannt sind. Gleiches gilt auch für Schlauchbeutelverpackungsmaschinen, wobei bei letzteren in der Regel nur eine Packstoffbahn über eine Formschulter geführt und am zugehörigen Füllrohr zu einem Schlauch geformt und dieser unter Querversiegelung taktweise gefüllt wird. Wesentlich ist im vorliegenden Fall nur, daß die Vorrichtung zur Sterilbehandlung der Packstoffbahnen spätestens dort der jeweiligen Verpackungsmaschine zugeordnet wird, wo in Durchlaufrichtung die Befüllung folgt und der Packstoff noch nicht verformt ist, d.h., die Packstoffbahn ebenflächig durch die Maschine läuft bzw. dieser zugeführt wird. Bei einer Tiefziehmaschine der in Fig. 1 dargestellten Art erfolgt dies zum einen an der drehend zylindrischen Tragfläche 2, über die die Packstoffbahn PB als sogenannte Bodenfolie in die Maschine einläuft. Möglich wäre eine Anordnung der Vorrichtung auch zwischen Vorwärmstation VS und Tiefziehstation TS, einfacher jedoch ist die Anordnung der Vorrichtung wie dargestellt. Zum zweiten wird Packstoff als sogenannte Deckelfolie hinter der Tiefziehstation TZ zugeführt (die Füllstation hinter der Tiefziehstation TZ ist nicht dargestellt), d.h., dort wird ebenfalls eine entsprechende Sterilisationsvorrichtung angeordnet und zwar beim dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel zur Behandlung beider Packstoffbahnflächen, um keine Keime in den vom die gesamte Durchlaufstrecke umhüllenden Steriltunnel ST abgeschirmten Raum einzutragen.A more detailed explanation of the highly schematic in Fig. 1 FFS machine shown as a thermoforming machine is required not because such machines are well known. Same thing also applies to tubular bag packaging machines, whereby at the latter usually only a packaging material web over a form shoulder guided and connected to a hose on the associated filling tube shaped and filled this intermittently with transverse sealing becomes. It is only essential in the present case that the device for sterile treatment of the packaging material webs at the latest is assigned to the respective packaging machine where in Direction of flow the filling follows and the packaging material still is not deformed, i.e., the packaging material web is flat the machine is running or is being fed to it. At a This is done by deep-drawing machine of the type shown in FIG. 1 on the one hand on the rotating cylindrical wing 2, on the the packaging material web PB into the machine as a so-called base film comes in. It would also be possible to arrange the device between Preheating station VS and deep drawing station TS, however simpler the arrangement of the device is as shown. To the the second is packaging material as a so-called cover film behind the Thermoforming station TZ fed (the filling station behind the Thermoforming station TZ is not shown), i.e., there is a corresponding sterilization device is also arranged namely in the illustrated embodiment for treatment of both packaging material surfaces in order to avoid germs in the from the shielded entire throughput path enveloping sterile tunnel ST Enter space.

Für diese Vorrichtung bzw. Vorrichtungen ist nun unter Verweis auf Fig. 2 wesentlich, daß die die Gegenelektrode bildende Tragfläche 2, die der mindestens einen Entladungsröhre 1 mit geringem Abstand gegenübersteht, sensorgesteuert ist und mit Mitteln 3 zur Temperatur-Konstanthaltung auf einem für die Packstoffbahn verträglichen Temperaturniveau versehen ist und daß in bzw. an der Zufuhrleitung 4 des fluiden Mediums zur jeweiligen mindestens einen Entladungsröhre 1 eine regelbare Temperiereinrichtung 5 (TG') zur Temperaturhaltung etwas über Taupunktstemperatur angeordnet ist.For this device or devices is now under reference on Fig. 2 essential that the counter electrode forming Airfoil 2 with the at least one discharge tube 1 faces short distance, is sensor-controlled and with Means 3 for keeping the temperature constant on one for the Packaging material web is provided compatible temperature level and that in or on the feed line 4 of the fluid medium to the respective at least one discharge tube 1 a controllable Temperature control device 5 (TG ') for keeping the temperature slightly above Dew point temperature is arranged.

Bei der Tragfläche 2 handelt es sich, wie vorerwähnt und in Fig. 1 dargestellt, um einen drehbaren Zylinder bzw. eine Trommel, es kann sich aber auch um eine ebene Fläche bzw. einen Tisch handeln, wie dies in Fig. 2 dargestellt ist. Sowohl Trommel als auch Tisch sind mit geeigneten Mitteln 3 temperierbar ausgebildet, d.h., die jeweilige Tragfläche 2 wird sensorgesteuert von einem Temperiergerät TG auf für den jeweiligen Packstoff geeigneter Temperatur gehalten, um es im Bestrahlungsbereich der Vorrichtung nicht zu Verformungen des Packstoffes kommen zu lassen, d.h., die Tragfläche 2, egal welche Form diese hat, wird hinsichtlich ihrer Temperatur ständig unter Kontrolle gehalten.The wing 2 is, as mentioned and in 1 shows a rotatable cylinder or a drum, but it can also be a flat surface or one Act table, as shown in Fig. 2. Both drum and table 3 can be tempered with suitable means 3 trained, i.e. the respective wing 2 is sensor-controlled from a temperature control unit TG for each Packaging material kept at a suitable temperature to keep it in the irradiation area the device does not cause deformation of the packaging material let come, i.e., the wing 2, no matter which Form has this, is constantly below in terms of its temperature Kept control.

Gleiches gilt auch für die Entladungsröhre 1 bzw. Entladungsröhren der Vorrichtung, deren Temperatur ständig etwas über Taupunktstemperatur gehalten wird, um bei hoher Luftfeuchte im Aufstellraum der jeweiligen Maschine Kondensatbildung an den Entladungsröhren zu unterbinden. Dafür ist, wie ebenfalls in Fig. 2 schematisch dargestellt und vorerwähnt, ein sensorgesteuertes Temperiergerät TG' vorgesehen, durch das die die Entladungsröhren 1 durchströmende Flüssigkeit geleitet wird. Für die Durchleitung der Flüssigkeit sind die Entladungsröhre 1, wie schematisch verdeutlicht, mit geeigneten Vor- und Rücklaufanschlüssen 8, 9 versehen, durch die auch aus besonderem Grund die Energiezuleitungen 10 für das die Strahlung bewirkende Element 11 in die Entladungsröhre 1 eingeführt wird.The same also applies to the discharge tube 1 or discharge tubes the device, the temperature of which is constantly slightly above Dew point temperature is kept to at high humidity in the Installation room of the respective machine To prevent discharge tubes. For this, as also in Fig. 2 is shown schematically and mentioned, a sensor-controlled Temperature control device TG 'is provided, through which the discharge tubes 1 flowing fluid is passed. For the passage of the liquid is the discharge tube 1, as illustrated schematically, with suitable flow and return connections 8, 9 provided by which also from special Reason for the energy supply lines 10 for the radiation causing Element 11 is inserted into the discharge tube 1.

Was nun die aus vorgenannten Gründen (genaue differentielle Spaltdistanzeinhaltung zwischen Packstoff und Entladungsröhre 1) erforderliche glatte Anlage des Packstoffes an der Tragfläche 2 betrifft, so ist die Vorrichtung mit einer Packstoffspanneinrichtung 6 versehen, die in Durchlaufrichtung der Packstoffbahn PB vor der mindestens einen Entladungsröhre 1 angeordnet ist. Sofern es sich bei der Tragfläche 2 um eine Trommel (Fig. 1) handelt, ist dieser die Spanneinrichtung 6 in Form einer Tänzerrolle 6' vorgeschaltet, über die die Packstoffbahn PB, von einer nicht dargestellten Vorratsrolle kommend, als Schlaufe der zylindrischen Tragfläche 2 zuläuft.What now for the aforementioned reasons (exact differential Compliance of gap distance between packaging material and discharge tube 1) Required smooth contact of the packaging material on the wing 2 relates to the device with a packaging material tensioning device 6 provided in the direction of the Packing material web PB arranged in front of the at least one discharge tube 1 is. If the wing 2 is a drum (Fig. 1), this is the clamping device 6 in shape upstream of a dancer roll 6 ', via which the packaging material web PB, coming from a supply roll, not shown, as Loop of the cylindrical wing 2 runs.

Falls die Tragfläche 2 in Form eines Tisches (siehe Fig. 2) ausgebildet ist, so ist dieser mit ganzflächig gleichmäßig verteilten Saugbohrungen 7 und einem hier nicht besonders dargestellten Sauganschluß versehen, dessen Sog so eingestellt sein muß, daß einerseits der Packstoff in ebenflächiger Anlage an der Tragfläche 2 gehalten, andererseits der getaktete Durchzug des Packstoffes über die Tragfläche 2 aber nicht behindert wird. Wie vorerwähnt, kann auch eine zylindrische Tragfläche 2 gemäß Fig. 1 mit solchen Saugbohrungen versehen werden.If the wing 2 in the form of a table (see Fig. 2) is formed, it is uniform over the entire surface distributed suction holes 7 and a not particularly shown here Provide suction connection, the suction of which is set in this way must be that on the one hand the packaging material in a flat area held on the wing 2, on the other hand the clocked Passage of the packaging material over the wing 2 but not hindered becomes. As mentioned above, a cylindrical wing can also be used 2 are provided with such suction holes according to FIG. 1.

Bei Versuchen hat sich ergeben, daß die erforderliche Konstanz der von den Entladungsröhren 1 ausgehenden Strahlung unter ungünstigen Bedingungen auch eine gewisse negative Beeinflussung von den elektrischen Anschlüssen 1' der Entladungsröhre 1 her erfahren kann, die aufgrund der bei solchen Entladungsröhren zu beachtenden Spannungsverhältnisse natürlich entsprechend isoliert oder mit geeigneten Haubenabdeckungen 12 (gestrichelt in Fig. 2 angedeutet) versehen sein müssen.Experiments have shown that the required consistency the radiation emitted by the discharge tubes 1 under unfavorable Conditions also have some negative influence from the electrical connections 1 'of the discharge tube 1 can experience that due to such discharge tubes of course, the corresponding voltage relationships are insulated accordingly or with suitable hood covers 12 (dashed in Fig. 2 indicated) must be provided.

Um zu vermeiden, daß sich an den Anschlüssen 1' bei hoher Luftfeuchte (bspw. höher als 70%) ebenfalls Kondensat bildet, das zu Kriechströmen oder elektrischen Überschlägen führen kann, sind die Anschlüsse 1', wie in Fig. 2 schematisch angedeutet, vorteilhaft mit in die via Flüssigkeit temperaturkontrollierten Vor- und Rücklaufanschlüsse 8, 9 mit eingebunden. Sofern im Anschlußbereich an den Enden der Entladungsröhren Haubenabdeckungen vorgesehen werden, so sind diese so gestaltet, daß sich an den Hauben etwa niederschlagendes Kondensat nicht an die Anschlüsse gelangen kann, oder die Hauben werden selbst im Sinne einer Temperaturkontrolle und -steuerung ausgebildet. To avoid that at the connections 1 'in high humidity (e.g. higher than 70%) also forms condensate can lead to leakage currents or electrical flashovers, are the connections 1 ', as indicated schematically in FIG. 2, advantageous in the temperature controlled via liquid Flow and return connections 8, 9 integrated. If in Connection area at the ends of the discharge tube hood covers are provided, they are designed so that condensation on the hoods does not accumulate the connections can arrive, or the hoods are even in the Trained in terms of temperature control and control.

Vorteilhaft und um evtl. dennoch auftretenden Feuchtigkeitsniederschlägen begegnen bzw. um die Steuerung des Ganzen am Feuchtigkeitsgehalt des Umgebungsraumes orientieren zu können, sind mindestens an den Vor- und Rücklaufanschlüssen 8, 9 und den Tragflächen 2 Feuchtigkeitssensoren 13 angeordnet, die mit auf die Temperiereinrichtungen TG, TG' geschaltet sind.Advantageous and to avoid any precipitation of moisture counter or to control the whole on the moisture content to be able to orient the surrounding area at least on the flow and return connections 8, 9 and Wings 2 moisture sensors 13 arranged with the temperature control devices TG, TG 'are connected.

Claims (6)

  1. An apparatus for sterilising webs of packing material, in particular under wet-cell conditions, that are re-processed, in continuous flow, on an FFS machine, wherein at least the surface of the web of packing material (PB) facing the side of the material to be loaded is sterilised through a barrier discharge by at least one discharge tube (1) swept by a fluid medium, with a counter-electrode being arranged opposite the discharge tube (1), at a close distance, forming a bearing face (2) to support the web of packing material,
    characterised in
    that the bearing face (2) is sensor-controlled and is provided with means (3) for keeping the temperature constant at a level compatible with the web of packing material, and that adjustable temperature control means (5) holding the temperature at a level slightly higher than the dew point temperature are located in or on the feed-in line (4) supplying the fluid to the at least one discharge tube (1) concerned.
  2. An apparatus according to claim 1,
    characterised in
    that the apparatus is provided with means (6) for clamping the packing material, and that the said means (6), viewed in the passage direction of the web of packing material, are arranged ahead of the at least one discharge tube (1).
  3. An apparatus according to claims 1 or 2,
    characterised in
    that the support face (2) is provided with suctions bores (7) distributed throughout the face.
  4. An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 through 3,
    characterised in
    that the electric connections (1') of the at least one discharge tube (1) are integrated into the forward and return flow connections (8, 9) thereof.
  5. An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 through 4,
    characterised in
    that the covers (12) protecting the connections (1') of the discharge tube (1) are provided with a sensor and with means to adjust the temperature to a level slightly higher than the dew point temperature.
  6. An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 through 5,
    characterised in
    that moisture sensors (13) are provided at least on the forward and return flow connections (8, 9) and on support faces (2).
EP97111225A 1996-07-05 1997-07-03 Apparatus for sterilising webs of packaging material Expired - Lifetime EP0818390B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE19627119 1996-07-05
DE19627119A DE19627119A1 (en) 1996-07-05 1996-07-05 Device for sterilizing and / or sterilizing packaging material webs

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0818390A1 EP0818390A1 (en) 1998-01-14
EP0818390B1 true EP0818390B1 (en) 2000-12-20

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EP97111225A Expired - Lifetime EP0818390B1 (en) 1996-07-05 1997-07-03 Apparatus for sterilising webs of packaging material

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EP (1) EP0818390B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE198180T1 (en)
DE (2) DE19627119A1 (en)
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Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19903259C1 (en) * 1999-01-28 2000-07-13 Hassia Verpackung Ag Process and assembly to sterilize a plastic web of food packaging material using ultra violet light
DE19925969A1 (en) * 1999-05-31 2000-12-21 Gerhard Heinrich Bergmann Stable tubular bags, process for their manufacture and device for carrying out the process

Family Cites Families (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH361636A (en) * 1958-02-25 1962-04-30 Alpura Ag Process for sterilizing heat-sensitive packaging material
CH558660A (en) * 1972-12-13 1975-02-14 Tetra Pak Dev PROCEDURE AND STERILE CHAMBER FOR STERILIZING OBJECTS.
CH572415A5 (en) * 1974-04-10 1976-02-13 Aluminiumwerke Ag Rorschach
DE2530096A1 (en) * 1975-07-05 1977-01-27 Bosch Gmbh Robert Production of sterilised packages on conveyor - uses ultra violet sterilising unit arranged in transfer unit
FR2473888A1 (en) * 1980-01-17 1981-07-24 Erca METHOD AND DEVICE FOR STERILIZING A THERMOPLASTIC STRIP FOR THE THERMOFORMING OF STERILE CONTAINERS AND STERILE PACKAGING INSTALLATION USING SAID METHOD AND DEVICE
CA1161741A (en) * 1981-05-11 1984-02-07 Derek V. Mancini Ultraviolet sterilization system
EP0236575B1 (en) * 1986-02-12 1989-11-15 BBC Brown Boveri AG Apparatus for the disinfection of liquids
CH670171A5 (en) * 1986-07-22 1989-05-12 Bbc Brown Boveri & Cie
DE3644486A1 (en) * 1986-12-24 1988-07-07 Kolbus Gmbh & Co Kg DEVICE FOR DISinfecting FOOD CONTAINERS
DE3923539A1 (en) * 1989-07-15 1991-01-24 Karl Fabricius ASEPTIC FILLING MACHINE FOR FOOD
DE4304220C2 (en) * 1993-02-12 1997-09-18 Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance Process for sterilizing and filling plasticizer packs, device therefor and use for a special pack
DE4332866C2 (en) * 1993-09-27 1997-12-18 Fraunhofer Ges Forschung Direct surface treatment with barrier discharge

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ATE198180T1 (en) 2001-01-15
DE59702777D1 (en) 2001-01-25
ES2152599T3 (en) 2001-02-01
EP0818390A1 (en) 1998-01-14
DE19627119A1 (en) 1998-01-15

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