EP1152198A1 - Cooling line apparatus - Google Patents

Cooling line apparatus Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1152198A1
EP1152198A1 EP01400867A EP01400867A EP1152198A1 EP 1152198 A1 EP1152198 A1 EP 1152198A1 EP 01400867 A EP01400867 A EP 01400867A EP 01400867 A EP01400867 A EP 01400867A EP 1152198 A1 EP1152198 A1 EP 1152198A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
carbon dioxide
gaseous
chamber
dioxide snow
dough
Prior art date
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP01400867A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1152198B1 (en
Inventor
José Buil
Hervé Flamant
Séverine Servel
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
Original Assignee
Carboxyque Francaise SA
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Carboxyque Francaise SA filed Critical Carboxyque Francaise SA
Publication of EP1152198A1 publication Critical patent/EP1152198A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1152198B1 publication Critical patent/EP1152198B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C7/00—Methods or apparatus for discharging liquefied, solidified, or compressed gases from pressure vessels, not covered by another subclass
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C7/00—Methods or apparatus for discharging liquefied, solidified, or compressed gases from pressure vessels, not covered by another subclass
    • F17C7/02—Discharging liquefied gases
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D29/00—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
    • F25D29/001—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for cryogenic fluid systems
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D3/00—Devices using other cold materials; Devices using cold-storage bodies
    • F25D3/12—Devices using other cold materials; Devices using cold-storage bodies using solidified gases, e.g. carbon-dioxide snow
    • F25D3/127—Stationary devices with conveyors carrying articles to be cooled through the cooling space
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0323—Valves
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0323—Valves
    • F17C2205/0326—Valves electrically actuated
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
    • F17C2221/01—Pure fluids
    • F17C2221/013—Carbone dioxide
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
    • F17C2223/01—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the phase
    • F17C2223/0107—Single phase
    • F17C2223/0123—Single phase gaseous, e.g. CNG, GNC
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2250/00—Accessories; Control means; Indicating, measuring or monitoring of parameters
    • F17C2250/06—Controlling or regulating of parameters as output values
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2265/00—Effects achieved by gas storage or gas handling
    • F17C2265/01—Purifying the fluid
    • F17C2265/015—Purifying the fluid by separating

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a cooling device in line, in particular of food products, by controlled deposition of snow carbon dioxide, of the type comprising a carbon dioxide snow projection chamber, this chamber comprising an open outlet end, and means for production of carbon dioxide snow connected to the chamber.
  • FR 2 762 190 describes an installation for manufacturing fresh dough which includes a conveyor line along which are arranged pulp processing stations. Treatments include shaping, line cooling and cutting into pieces of the dough. The dough is cooled by the controlled deposit of dry ice on it.
  • This deposition is carried out by a device for the controlled deposition of carbon dioxide snow which comprises solenoid valves for expansion of liquid CO 2 arranged above the conveyor and connected to a source of liquid CO 2 . Cylindrical blows are connected to the solenoid valves in order to guide the carbon dioxide snow jet towards the dough on the conveyor.
  • a protective cover open towards the bottom surrounds the blunderbusses and the solenoid valves in order to channel towards a device for CO 2 extraction, the gaseous CO 2 which is produced.
  • a drawer is provided in order to close the lower opening of the hood, during the non-use phases of the device for depositing controlled dry ice.
  • the spread out dough is transferred by the conveyor below the blast pipe openings, and the production of dry ice is triggered when the dough arrives.
  • the dry ice production rate is mainly regulated depending on the speed of the conveyor and the thickness of the dough to ensure the desired cooling.
  • Pulp production lines are often used in humid environments, which causes the deposition of water drops from condensation on the blunt pipes and solenoid valves. As a result, the snow carbon dioxide becomes wet and no longer falls regularly on the dough, but falls into lumps.
  • the object of the invention is to overcome these drawbacks and to propose a carbon dioxide snow deposition device which allows snow deposition carbon control better and more reliable.
  • the invention relates to a cooling device of the aforementioned type, characterized in that the device further comprises means for the permanent supply of gaseous CO 2 connected to the chamber.
  • Figure 1 shows schematically an installation of production 2 of food products to transform a product pasty 4 in kneaders in pieces or individually conditioned portions 6 before packaging in batches and, if necessary, cooling in the chamber cold. These latter operations, known per se, are not shown on Figure 1.
  • This installation 2 comprises, arranged along a line of conveying 8, mechanical processing stations for the food product.
  • This product meets successively, when it moves in the direction of the boom, a station for shaping the product by spreading, a station for cutting 12 into pieces of the spread product 14, and a individual packaging 16 pieces of cut food product 18.
  • the installation also includes a device for the controlled deposit of dry ice 20 on the spread product 14, disposed above the line of conveying 8 between the shaping station 10 and the cutting station 12.
  • the carbon dioxide snow controlled deposition device 20 includes an enclosure 22 of gaseous CO 2 and liquid CO 2, carried by a height-adjustable support 24, and a row of eight dry ice production devices 26, connected to the distribution cabinet 22.
  • the support 24 comprises two pillars 28, 30 arranged laterally two sides of the conveyor line 8.
  • Each pillar 28, 30 consists of a base body 32, 34, in which a threaded rod 36 is rotatably housed, 38. These rods 36, 38 are screwed into sleeves 40, 42 comprising a thread interior adjustable.
  • Two irons in I 44, 46 extend from the sleeves 40, 42 horizontally and transversely above the conveyor 8 and are integrally connected to the distribution cabinet 22.
  • a wheel 48, 50 fixed on the upper end of each rod 36, 38 allows the training thereof.
  • one of the two base bodies 32, 34 is detachable.
  • the support 24 may include hydraulic cylinders for height adjustment of the distribution cabinet 22.
  • the cabinet 22 is connected by a supply line 52 to a source of liquid CO 2 at 20 bars at -20 ° C represented by the arrow 54.
  • the distribution cabinet 22 also has a CO 2 outlet 100% liquid 56 and a 100% gaseous CO 2 outlet 58.
  • the structure of the distribution cabinet 22 will be described in detail below.
  • the 100% liquid CO 2 outlet 56 is connected, on the underside of the cabinet 22 by an intermediate pipe 60 to a first collecting pipe 62, coated with thermal insulation 64.
  • the gaseous CO 2 outlet 58 is connected to a second collecting pipe 66, the two collecting pipes 62, 66 leading to the eight devices for producing dry ice 26.
  • the second collecting pipe 66 is connected on one side of the cabinet (right side of FIG. 3) to the CO 2 gas outlet 58 of the cabinet. It is substantially U-shaped with two upper ends folded inwards. In order to increase the rigidity, this collecting pipe 66 is also fixed on the other side of the cabinet (left side in Figure 3). This fixing point 70 does not have a gaseous CO 2 connection.
  • the lower part 72 of this collecting pipe 66 extends transversely and perpendicular to the conveyor line 8.
  • Eight leads 74 are stitched on this lower part 72 of the pipe 66.
  • a quick coupling 76 which can be released by simply pressing it.
  • the quick coupling is fixed on a blunderbuss 78 of a device for producing dry ice 26 and emerges in this blunderbuss.
  • this collector pipe 66 forms a support for the blinkers 78.
  • Each blunderbuss 78 is cylindrical in shape with a vertical axis, having a outlet opening 79 directed downwards, closed upwards except for the opening of the quick coupling 76 and a dry ice inlet port (not represented).
  • Each device for producing carbon dioxide snow 26 comprises an expansion solenoid valve 80 fixed to the liquid CO 2 collecting line 62 by a bypass line 82.
  • the expansion solenoid valves 80 are connected by control lines 84 to the distribution cabinet 22.
  • a flow control nozzle is mounted on each solenoid valve and has a calibrated orifice, not visible in the drawings, which opens into the carbon dioxide snow inlet orifice of each blunderbuss 78.
  • the solenoid valve 80 is not integrally connected to the blunderbuss 78. It can be fitted with a gasket in order to seal the slot which exists between the opening of the blunderbuss 78 and the solenoid valve 80.
  • a protective cover 86 of generally parallelepiped shape with a long axis substantially perpendicular to the conveyor line 8 surrounds the lower parts of the blinkers 78 and the conveyor 8. It has on its lateral side a cover 87 in order to allow the mounting of the cover. It has two passage openings 88, 90 in its end surfaces.
  • the protective cover 86 is connected via a gas sheath 92 to an extractor in order to ensure the extraction of the gaseous CO 2 in the direction of arrow 94 in FIG. 2.
  • a sensor 96 for speeds of the conveyor line 8 and / or presence of product 14 is placed above the conveyor and fixed in the cover 86. Alternatively, it can be arranged on the side of the conveyor.
  • the distribution cabinet 22 comprises, on the one hand, means for supplying CO 2 100% liquid, and, on the other hand, means for supplying CO 2 100 % gaseous.
  • the liquid CO 2 supply pipe 52 of the cabinet 22 is connected to a conventional gas vent valve 120.
  • the CO 2 gas outlet 122 from this gas trap 120 is connected to a gas CO 2 discharge pipe 124, by means of a purge authorization solenoid valve 126 connected to a control device 127 by l 'via a wiring box 129.
  • the control device 127 is located outside the cabinet for safety reasons. It controls the various components of the installation.
  • the exhaust pipe 124 leads the gaseous CO 2 out of the production room in order to avoid any danger of asphyxiation.
  • the liquid outlet 128 of the gas trap 120 is connected to a T-connector 130.
  • a first outlet of this T-connector is connected to the liquid CO 2 collecting pipe 62 as described above.
  • the second outlet of the T-connector 130 is connected to the inlet of an electric resistance CO 2 vaporizer 134 which is controlled as a function of a thermostat (not shown).
  • the outlet of this CO 2 vaporizer 134 is connected, via a line 136, a CO 2 regulator 138, a flexible line 140, and a scanning authorization solenoid valve 142, at the exit of CO 2 gas 58.
  • the regulator 138 is further connected to a pressure gauge 144 which is fixed in the outer wall of the cabinet 22 for controlling the pressure of the gaseous CO 2 .
  • a safety valve 150 is tapped on the T-connector 130 and is connected to a safety pipe 152 which opens into the CO 2 discharge pipe 124.
  • the sensor 96 and the expansion valves 80 are also connected to the control device 127.
  • the carbon dioxide snow deposition device according to the invention works as follows.
  • the cabinet 22 When the distribution cabinet 22 is started and before the production of the food product 14 is started by spreading, the cabinet ensures a permanent production of gaseous CO 2 and introduces it via the collecting line 66 of CO 2 gas and quick couplings 76 in the blunt pipes 78.
  • the CO 2 has a temperature markedly below ambient temperature, preferably at most at 0 ° C., and contains no trace of humidity.
  • the gaseous CO 2 fills the blinkers 78 completely and is evacuated through the lower orifices 79 thereof.
  • the orifices of the solenoid valves and the interior space of the blunt-ends are therefore CO 2 inerted and are kept cold.
  • the conveyor 8 and the product spreading station 10 are started.
  • the food product 14 is spread on the conveyor 8 and transported to the in-line cooling device 20.
  • the control device 127 via the sensor 96 detects the presence of the product 14 below the orifices 79 of the blunt clips 78, it activates the expansion solenoid valves 80 and produces dry ice 98 from the liquid CO 2 supplied by the distribution cabinet 22.
  • the injection rate is regulated by the timing of the opening of the solenoid valves. Snow production can be controlled by a delay or injection time timer or by other sensors possibly present in the installation.
  • the snow 98 then falls on the upper surface of the dough and forms a layer 100 thereon.
  • the permanent inerting of the nozzles of the expansion solenoid valves 80 there is no risk of clogging thereof.
  • the interior of blunderbouts 78 being completely free of moisture, the snowflakes carbon dioxide do not agglomerate.
  • the amount of snow carbon dioxide is well controlled and precise, so that it deposits a layer of dry ice 100 regular without lumps on the dough 14.
  • the permanent CO 2 gas sweep prevents the introduction of dust into the blinkers 78 and the orifices of the solenoid valves 80.
  • the gaseous CO 2 has a maximum temperature of 0 ° C, frozen drops of condensed water possibly present on the external surface of the blobs do not thaw. Consequently, a drawer for closing the lower opening of the cover is not necessary, and no dripping occurs.
  • the quick connectors 76 allow quick and easy detachment of 78 blunderbuttons for maintenance and easy cleaning of the device.
  • the actuation of the quick couplings 76 is easily possible and without the need to wait a long time thanks to the gel reduced of the quick couplings 76 compared to an arrangement of the couplings on the solenoid valves. This leads to increased availability of the installation.
  • the in-line cooler 20 can be installed on the production line in any place where a sufficient surface large conveyor is available.
  • the production of carbon dioxide snow is timed so as to deposit a layer of carbon dioxide snow 100 on each cut piece 18.
  • the permanent scanning of CO 2 of the blobs avoids as previously fouling and rising humidity in the expansion solenoid valves.
  • solenoid valves no longer clogging
  • solenoid valves with thinner holes or larger opening angles small ones can be used.
  • the device according to the invention is particularly well suited for cooling dough products or dairy products, it can be applied to the cooling of other products.
  • a food product of any type for example meats, vegetables, cheeses, etc.
  • any preparation for example cooked, raw, .
  • the device according to the invention mounted upstream of a freezer mechanical allows pre-cooling to increase the efficiency of the freezer and ensure material gain of the product by reducing losses of water.
  • the device allows the stiffening of products or layers of products to facilitate their handling without marking or the realization in continuous multi-layer products.
  • Products e.g. cheese
  • Products can be stabilized quickly by using the device.
  • fine products can be cooled by a few degrees and thus be brought to their shipping temperature.

Abstract

A device chills articles on a conveyor using dry ice. The device has a dry ice generator connected to projection chamber whose opposite end is open. A continuous supply of gaseous carbon dioxide is also connected to chamber. An Independent claim is included for the following: (a) Equipment making a fresh creamy or paste like food product has a conveyor, stations forming product, cutting it into separate articles and packaging it and also a chilling device as above. Preferred Features: The gaseous carbon dioxide is produced from liquid carbon dioxide and supplied at about 0 degrees C. The dry ice is also produced from the same liquid. The gas comes via a distributor and a pipe to the chambers. The chambers are supported by the distributor via the pipe.

Description

La présente invention concerne un dispositif de refroidissement en ligne, notamment de produits alimentaires, par dépôt contrôlé de neige carbonique, du type comportant une chambre de projection de neige carbonique, cette chambre comportant une extrémité de sortie ouverte, et des moyens de production de neige carbonique raccordés à la chambre.The present invention relates to a cooling device in line, in particular of food products, by controlled deposition of snow carbon dioxide, of the type comprising a carbon dioxide snow projection chamber, this chamber comprising an open outlet end, and means for production of carbon dioxide snow connected to the chamber.

Le FR 2 762 190 décrit une installation de fabrication de pâte fraíche qui comprend une ligne de convoyage le long de laquelle sont agencées des stations de traitement de pâte. Les traitements comprennent une mise en forme, un refroidissement en ligne et un découpage en morceaux de la pâte. La pâte est refroidie par le dépôt contrôlé de neige carbonique sur celle-ci.FR 2 762 190 describes an installation for manufacturing fresh dough which includes a conveyor line along which are arranged pulp processing stations. Treatments include shaping, line cooling and cutting into pieces of the dough. The dough is cooled by the controlled deposit of dry ice on it.

Ce dépôt est effectué par un dispositif de dépôt contrôlé de neige carbonique qui comprend des électrovannes de détente de CO2 liquide agencées au-dessus du convoyeur et reliées à une source de CO2 liquide. Des tromblons cylindriques sont reliés aux électrovannes afin de guider le jet de neige carbonique vers la pâte se trouvant sur le convoyeur.This deposition is carried out by a device for the controlled deposition of carbon dioxide snow which comprises solenoid valves for expansion of liquid CO 2 arranged above the conveyor and connected to a source of liquid CO 2 . Cylindrical blows are connected to the solenoid valves in order to guide the carbon dioxide snow jet towards the dough on the conveyor.

Un capot de protection ouvert vers le bas entoure les tromblons et les électrovannes afin de canaliser vers un dispositif d'extraction de CO2, le CO2 gazeux qui est produit. Un tiroir est prévu afin d'obturer l'ouverture inférieure du capot, pendant les phases de non-utilisation du dispositif de dépôt contrôlé de neige carbonique.A protective cover open towards the bottom surrounds the blunderbusses and the solenoid valves in order to channel towards a device for CO 2 extraction, the gaseous CO 2 which is produced. A drawer is provided in order to close the lower opening of the hood, during the non-use phases of the device for depositing controlled dry ice.

Le fonctionnement de ce dispositif est le suivant :The operation of this device is as follows:

La pâte étalée est transférée par le convoyeur au-dessous des ouvertures des tromblons, et la production de neige carbonique est déclenchée lors de l'arrivée de la pâte.The spread out dough is transferred by the conveyor below the blast pipe openings, and the production of dry ice is triggered when the dough arrives.

Le débit de production de neige carbonique est réglé essentiellement en fonction de la vitesse du convoyeur et de l'épaisseur de la pâte afin d'assurer le refroidissement souhaité.The dry ice production rate is mainly regulated depending on the speed of the conveyor and the thickness of the dough to ensure the desired cooling.

Les lignes de production de pâte sont souvent utilisées dans des environnements humides, ce qui provoque le dépôt de gouttes d'eau de condensation sur les tromblons et les électrovannes. En conséquence, la neige carbonique devient humide et ne tombe plus de façon régulière sur la pâte, mais tombe en grumeaux.Pulp production lines are often used in humid environments, which causes the deposition of water drops from condensation on the blunt pipes and solenoid valves. As a result, the snow carbon dioxide becomes wet and no longer falls regularly on the dough, but falls into lumps.

De plus, lors du gel de l'eau de condensation qui se trouve sur l'orifice des électrovannes, celles-ci se bouchent. In addition, when the condensed water on the orifice freezes solenoid valves, these clog.

La production est souvent interrompue pour des raisons de perturbation d'une des stations. Dans un tel cas, l'eau de condensation gelée qui se trouve sur les tromblons se dégèle et tombe des tromblons. Afin d'éviter que les gouttes tombent sur le tapis convoyeur ou sur la pâte, il est nécessaire, à chaque fois que la production est arrêtée, de glisser le tiroir au-dessous des tromblons. Ceci est une solution peu efficace.Production is often interrupted for reasons of disruption of one of the stations. In such a case, the frozen condensation water which is on the blobs thaws and falls from the blobs. In order to avoid that the drops fall on the conveyor belt or on the dough, it is necessary, to each time production is stopped, slide the drawer below the blunder. This is an ineffective solution.

En outre, étant donné que les tromblons sont reliés de façon fixe aux électrovannes et que la fixation est difficile à libérer à cause du gifrage de celles-ci, elles sont difficiles à nettoyer. Souvent il est nécessaire d'attendre jusqu'à ce que les fixations soient dégelées.In addition, since the blunderbusses are fixedly connected to the solenoid valves and that the attachment is difficult to release due to the slagging thereof, they are difficult to clean. Often it is necessary to wait until the fasteners are thawed.

L'invention a pour but de pallier ces inconvénients et de proposer un dispositif de dépôt de neige carbonique qui permette un dépôt de neige carbonique mieux maítrisé et plus fiable.The object of the invention is to overcome these drawbacks and to propose a carbon dioxide snow deposition device which allows snow deposition carbon control better and more reliable.

A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet un dispositif de refroidissement du type précité, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif comprend en outre des moyens de fourniture permanente de CO2 gazeux raccordés à la chambre.To this end, the invention relates to a cooling device of the aforementioned type, characterized in that the device further comprises means for the permanent supply of gaseous CO 2 connected to the chamber.

Suivant des modes particuliers de réalisation, l'invention peut comporter une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes :

  • les moyens de fourniture permanent de CO2 gazeux sont agencés au voisinage des moyens de production de neige carbonique ;
  • les moyens de fourniture permanente de CO2 gazeux sont des moyens de fourniture de CO2 gazeux à une température nettement inférieure à la température ambiante, de préférence d'au maximum 0°C ;
  • les moyens de fourniture permanente de CO2 gazeux comprennent une source de CO2 liquide, un vaporiseur de CO2 relié à cette source, la sortie du vaporiseur étant reliée à l'entrée d'un détendeur, et d'une conduite de CO2 gazeux munie d'une électrovanne d'obturation, qui relie le détendeur à la chambre de projection ;
  • les moyens de production de neige carbonique comprennent une source de CO2 liquide reliée à une électrovanne de détente ;
  • la source de CO2 liquide des moyens de fourniture permanente de CO2 gazeux et des moyens de production de neige carbonique est constituée par une source de CO2 liquide cryogénique réfrigéré reliée à un séparateur de CO2 liquide et de CO2 gazeux ;
  • le dispositif comprend en outre une armoire de distribution qui comporte au moins une partie des moyens de fourniture permanente de CO2 gazeux et/ou des moyens de production de neige carbonique, la conduite de CO2 gazeux étant liée rigidement à ladite armoire, l'armoire formant support pour les chambres de projection ;
  • le dispositif comprend des moyens de modification de la distance de l'ouverture de sortie de la chambre de projection à un emplacement sous-jacent de dépôt de neige carbonique ; et
  • la chambre de projection est reliée aux moyens de fourniture de CO2 gazeux permanente par un raccord rapide tandis que les moyens de production de neige carbonique sont raccordés librement à la chambre de projection.
According to particular embodiments, the invention may include one or more of the following characteristics:
  • the means for the permanent supply of gaseous CO 2 are arranged in the vicinity of the means for producing carbon dioxide snow;
  • the means for permanently supplying gaseous CO 2 are means for supplying gaseous CO 2 at a temperature significantly below ambient temperature, preferably at most 0 ° C;
  • the means for permanent supply of gaseous CO 2 comprise a source of liquid CO 2 , a CO 2 vaporizer connected to this source, the outlet of the vaporizer being connected to the inlet of a pressure reducer, and of a CO 2 pipe gaseous provided with a shut-off solenoid valve, which connects the regulator to the projection chamber;
  • the means for producing carbon dioxide snow comprise a source of liquid CO 2 connected to an expansion solenoid valve;
  • the source of liquid CO 2 means a permanent supply of CO 2 gas and dry ice producing means is constituted by a source of refrigerated cryogenic liquid CO 2 connected to a liquid CO 2 separator and gaseous CO 2;
  • the device further comprises a distribution cabinet which comprises at least part of the means for permanent supply of gaseous CO 2 and / or means for producing carbon dioxide snow, the gaseous CO 2 pipe being rigidly connected to said cabinet, the cabinet forming a support for the projection chambers;
  • the device comprises means for modifying the distance from the outlet opening of the projection chamber to an underlying location for depositing dry ice; and
  • the projection chamber is connected to the means for supplying permanent gaseous CO 2 by a quick coupling while the means for producing carbon dioxide snow are freely connected to the projection chamber.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à la lecture de la description qui va suivre, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple et faite en se référant aux dessins annexés, sur lesquels :

  • la Figure 1 est une vue schématique, partiellement en coupe longitudinale d'une installation de production de produits alimentaires selon l'invention ;
  • la Figure 2 est une vue partiellement en coupe longitudinale suivant la ligne II-II de la Figure 3, du dispositif de dépôt contrôlé de neige carbonique ;
  • la Figure 3 est une vue de face, partiellement en coupe transversale, du dispositif de dépôt contrôlé de neige carbonique selon l'invention ;
  • la Figure 4 est une vue schématique des composants de l'armoire de distribution de CO2 liquide et gazeux selon l'invention.
The invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of example and made with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • Figure 1 is a schematic view, partially in longitudinal section of an installation for producing food products according to the invention;
  • Figure 2 is a view partially in longitudinal section along line II-II of Figure 3, of the device for depositing carbon dioxide snow;
  • Figure 3 is a front view, partially in cross section, of the device for depositing carbon dioxide snow according to the invention;
  • Figure 4 is a schematic view of the components of the liquid and gaseous CO 2 distribution cabinet according to the invention.

La Figure 1 représente schématiquement une installation de production 2 de produits alimentaires permettant de transformer un produit pâteux 4 en pétrin en morceaux ou portions conditionnés individuellement 6 avant conditionnement par lot et, si nécessaire, refroidissement en chambre froide. Ces dernières opérations, connues en soi, ne sont pas représentées sur la Figure 1.Figure 1 shows schematically an installation of production 2 of food products to transform a product pasty 4 in kneaders in pieces or individually conditioned portions 6 before packaging in batches and, if necessary, cooling in the chamber cold. These latter operations, known per se, are not shown on Figure 1.

Cette installation 2 comprend, disposées le long d'une ligne de convoyage 8, des stations de traitement mécanique du produit alimentaire. Ce produit rencontre successivement, lors de son déplacement dans le sens de la flèche, une station de mise en forme 10 du produit par étalement, une station de découpage 12 en morceaux du produit étalé 14, et une station de conditionnement individuel 16 des morceaux de produit alimentaire découpé 18.This installation 2 comprises, arranged along a line of conveying 8, mechanical processing stations for the food product. This product meets successively, when it moves in the direction of the boom, a station for shaping the product by spreading, a station for cutting 12 into pieces of the spread product 14, and a individual packaging 16 pieces of cut food product 18.

Pour la description détaillée des stations 1-0, 12, 16, on se réfèrera au brevet FR 2 762 190 précité.For the detailed description of stations 1-0, 12, 16, refer to FR 2 762 190 cited above.

L'installation comprend en outre un dispositif de dépôt contrôlé de neige carbonique 20 sur le produit étalé 14, disposé au-dessus de la ligne de convoyage 8 entre la station de mise en forme 10 et la station de découpage 12.The installation also includes a device for the controlled deposit of dry ice 20 on the spread product 14, disposed above the line of conveying 8 between the shaping station 10 and the cutting station 12.

Sur les Figures 2 et 3, on voit que le dispositif de dépôt contrôlé de neige carbonique 20 comprend une armoire de distribution 22 de CO2 gazeux et de CO2 liquide, portée par un support de hauteur réglable 24, ainsi qu'une rangée de huit dispositifs de production de neige carbonique 26, reliés à l'armoire de distribution 22.Figures 2 and 3, it is seen that the carbon dioxide snow controlled deposition device 20 includes an enclosure 22 of gaseous CO 2 and liquid CO 2, carried by a height-adjustable support 24, and a row of eight dry ice production devices 26, connected to the distribution cabinet 22.

Le support 24 comporte deux piliers 28, 30 disposés latéralement des deux côtés de la ligne de convoyage 8. Chaque pilier 28, 30 est constitué d'un corps de base 32, 34, dans lequel est logé de façon rotative une tige filetée 36, 38. Ces tiges 36, 38 sont vissées dans des manchons 40, 42 comportant un filet intérieur de façon réglable. Deux fers en I 44, 46 s'étendent à partir des manchons 40, 42 horizontalement et transversalement au-dessus du convoyeur 8 et sont reliés solidairement à l'armoire de distribution 22.The support 24 comprises two pillars 28, 30 arranged laterally two sides of the conveyor line 8. Each pillar 28, 30 consists of a base body 32, 34, in which a threaded rod 36 is rotatably housed, 38. These rods 36, 38 are screwed into sleeves 40, 42 comprising a thread interior adjustable. Two irons in I 44, 46 extend from the sleeves 40, 42 horizontally and transversely above the conveyor 8 and are integrally connected to the distribution cabinet 22.

Une roue 48, 50 fixée sur l'extrémité supérieure de chaque tige 36, 38 permet l'entraínement de celle-ci.A wheel 48, 50 fixed on the upper end of each rod 36, 38 allows the training thereof.

Afin de permettre la mise en place du dispositif au-dessus du convoyeur, un des deux corps de base 32, 34 est détachable.In order to allow the installation of the device above the conveyor, one of the two base bodies 32, 34 is detachable.

En variante, le support 24 peut comprendre des vérins hydrauliques pour le réglage en hauteur de l'armoire de distribution 22.Alternatively, the support 24 may include hydraulic cylinders for height adjustment of the distribution cabinet 22.

L'armoire 22 est reliée par une conduite d'alimentation 52 à une source de CO2 liquide sous 20 bars à -20°C représenté par la flèche 54. L'armoire de distribution 22 dispose en outre d'une sortie de CO2 100% liquide 56 et d'une sortie de CO2 100% gazeux 58. La structure de l'armoire de distribution 22 sera décrite en détail ci-après.The cabinet 22 is connected by a supply line 52 to a source of liquid CO 2 at 20 bars at -20 ° C represented by the arrow 54. The distribution cabinet 22 also has a CO 2 outlet 100% liquid 56 and a 100% gaseous CO 2 outlet 58. The structure of the distribution cabinet 22 will be described in detail below.

La sortie de CO2 100% liquide 56 est reliée, sur la face inférieure de l'armoire 22 par une conduite intermédiaire 60 à une première conduite collectrice 62, revêtue d'une isolation thermique 64. La sortie de CO2 gazeux 58 est reliée à une deuxième conduite collectrice 66, les deux conduites collectrices 62, 66 menant aux huit dispositifs de production de neige carbonique 26.The 100% liquid CO 2 outlet 56 is connected, on the underside of the cabinet 22 by an intermediate pipe 60 to a first collecting pipe 62, coated with thermal insulation 64. The gaseous CO 2 outlet 58 is connected to a second collecting pipe 66, the two collecting pipes 62, 66 leading to the eight devices for producing dry ice 26.

La deuxième conduite collectrice 66 est raccordée sur un côté de l'armoire (côté droit de la Figure 3) à la sortie de CO2 gazeux 58 de l'armoire. Elle est sensiblement en forme de U avec deux extrémités supérieures rabattues vers l'intérieur. Afin d'augmenter la rigidité, cette conduite collectrice 66 est fixée également sur l'autre côté de l'armoire (côté gauche sur la Figure 3). Ce point de fixation 70 ne comporte pas de raccord CO2 gazeux.The second collecting pipe 66 is connected on one side of the cabinet (right side of FIG. 3) to the CO 2 gas outlet 58 of the cabinet. It is substantially U-shaped with two upper ends folded inwards. In order to increase the rigidity, this collecting pipe 66 is also fixed on the other side of the cabinet (left side in Figure 3). This fixing point 70 does not have a gaseous CO 2 connection.

La partie inférieure 72 de cette conduite collectrice 66 s'étend transversalement et perpendiculairement à la ligne de convoyage 8.The lower part 72 of this collecting pipe 66 extends transversely and perpendicular to the conveyor line 8.

Huit dérivations 74 sont piquées sur cette partie inférieure 72 de la conduite 66. A chacune des dérivations 74 est relié un raccord rapide 76 qui peut être libéré par simple pression sur celui-ci. Le raccord rapide est fixé sur un tromblon 78 d'un dispositif de production de neige carbonique 26 et débouche dans ce tromblon.Eight leads 74 are stitched on this lower part 72 of the pipe 66. To each of the branches 74 is connected a quick coupling 76 which can be released by simply pressing it. The quick coupling is fixed on a blunderbuss 78 of a device for producing dry ice 26 and emerges in this blunderbuss.

Ainsi, cette conduite collectrice 66 forme un support des tromblons 78.Thus, this collector pipe 66 forms a support for the blinkers 78.

Chaque tromblon 78 est de forme cylindrique à axe vertical, ayant une ouverture de sortie 79 dirigée vers le bas, et fermé vers le haut à l'exception de l'ouverture du raccord rapide 76 et d'un orifice d'entrée de neige carbonique (non représenté).Each blunderbuss 78 is cylindrical in shape with a vertical axis, having a outlet opening 79 directed downwards, closed upwards except for the opening of the quick coupling 76 and a dry ice inlet port (not represented).

Chaque dispositif de production de neige carbonique 26 comprend une électrovanne de détente 80 fixée à la conduite collectrice de CO2 liquide 62 par une conduite de dérivation 82. Les électrovannes de détente 80 sont reliées par des lignes de commande 84 à l'armoire de distribution 22. Une buse de régulation de débit est montée sur chaque électrovanne et comporte un orifice calibré, non visible sur les dessins, qui débouche dans l'orifice d'entrée de neige carbonique de chaque tromblon 78.Each device for producing carbon dioxide snow 26 comprises an expansion solenoid valve 80 fixed to the liquid CO 2 collecting line 62 by a bypass line 82. The expansion solenoid valves 80 are connected by control lines 84 to the distribution cabinet 22. A flow control nozzle is mounted on each solenoid valve and has a calibrated orifice, not visible in the drawings, which opens into the carbon dioxide snow inlet orifice of each blunderbuss 78.

L'électrovanne 80 n'est pas reliée solidairement au tromblon 78. Elle peut être munie d'une garniture d'étanchéité afin de rendre étanche la fente qui existe entre l'ouverture du tromblon 78 et l'électrovanne 80.The solenoid valve 80 is not integrally connected to the blunderbuss 78. It can be fitted with a gasket in order to seal the slot which exists between the opening of the blunderbuss 78 and the solenoid valve 80.

Un capot de protection 86 de forme générale parallélépipédique à grand axe sensiblement perpendiculaire à la ligne de convoyage 8 entoure les parties inférieures des tromblons 78 et le convoyeur 8. Il comporte sur son côté latéral, un couvercle 87 afin de permettre le montage du capot. Il comporte deux ouvertures de passage 88, 90 dans ses surfaces d'extrémité. Le capot de protection 86 est relié par l'intermédiaire d'une gaine de gaz 92 à un extracteur afin d'assurer l'extraction du CO2 gazeux dans la direction de la flèche 94 de la Figure 2.A protective cover 86 of generally parallelepiped shape with a long axis substantially perpendicular to the conveyor line 8 surrounds the lower parts of the blinkers 78 and the conveyor 8. It has on its lateral side a cover 87 in order to allow the mounting of the cover. It has two passage openings 88, 90 in its end surfaces. The protective cover 86 is connected via a gas sheath 92 to an extractor in order to ensure the extraction of the gaseous CO 2 in the direction of arrow 94 in FIG. 2.

Un capteur 96 de vitesses de la ligne de convoyage 8 et/ou de présence de produit 14 est disposé au-dessus du convoyeur et fixé dans le capot 86. En variante, il peut être disposé sur le côté du convoyeur.A sensor 96 for speeds of the conveyor line 8 and / or presence of product 14 is placed above the conveyor and fixed in the cover 86. Alternatively, it can be arranged on the side of the conveyor.

En se référant à la Figure 4, on voit que l'armoire de distribution 22 comprend, d'une part, des moyens de fourniture de CO2 100% liquide, et, d'autre part, des moyens de fourniture de CO2 100% gazeux.Referring to Figure 4, it can be seen that the distribution cabinet 22 comprises, on the one hand, means for supplying CO 2 100% liquid, and, on the other hand, means for supplying CO 2 100 % gaseous.

La conduite d'alimentation en CO2 liquide 52 de l'armoire 22 est raccordée à un purgeur de gaz classique 120.The liquid CO 2 supply pipe 52 of the cabinet 22 is connected to a conventional gas vent valve 120.

La sortie de CO2 gazeux 122 de ce purgeur de gaz 120 est reliée à une conduite d'évacuation de CO2 gazeux 124, par l'intermédiaire d'une électrovanne d'autorisation de purge 126 reliée à un dispositif de commande 127 par l'intermédiaire d'un boítier de câblage 129. Le dispositif de commande 127 se trouve en dehors de l'armoire pour des raisons de sécurité. Il commande les différents composants de l'installation.The CO 2 gas outlet 122 from this gas trap 120 is connected to a gas CO 2 discharge pipe 124, by means of a purge authorization solenoid valve 126 connected to a control device 127 by l 'via a wiring box 129. The control device 127 is located outside the cabinet for safety reasons. It controls the various components of the installation.

La conduite d'évacuation 124 mène le CO2 gazeux hors du local de production afin d'éviter tout danger d'asphyxie.The exhaust pipe 124 leads the gaseous CO 2 out of the production room in order to avoid any danger of asphyxiation.

La sortie de liquide 128 du purgeur de gaz 120 est raccordée à un raccord en T 130. Une première sortie de ce raccord en T est reliée à la conduite collectrice de CO2 liquide 62 comme décrit plus haut. Ainsi, une alimentation en CO2 100% liquide des électrovannes de détente 80 est assurée.The liquid outlet 128 of the gas trap 120 is connected to a T-connector 130. A first outlet of this T-connector is connected to the liquid CO 2 collecting pipe 62 as described above. Thus, a supply of 100% liquid CO 2 of the expansion valves 80 is ensured.

La deuxième sortie du raccord en T 130 est raccordée à l'entrée d'un vaporiseur de CO2 134 à résistance électrique qui est commandé en fonction d'un thermostat (non représenté). La sortie de ce vaporiseur de CO2 134 est reliée, par l'intermédiaire d'une conduite 136, d'un détendeur de CO2 138, d'une conduite souple 140, et d'une électrovanne d'autorisation de balayage 142, à la sortie de CO2 gazeux 58.The second outlet of the T-connector 130 is connected to the inlet of an electric resistance CO 2 vaporizer 134 which is controlled as a function of a thermostat (not shown). The outlet of this CO 2 vaporizer 134 is connected, via a line 136, a CO 2 regulator 138, a flexible line 140, and a scanning authorization solenoid valve 142, at the exit of CO 2 gas 58.

Le détendeur 138 est raccordé en outre à un manomètre 144 qui est fixé dans la paroi extérieure de l'armoire 22 pour le contrôle de la pression du CO2 gazeux. The regulator 138 is further connected to a pressure gauge 144 which is fixed in the outer wall of the cabinet 22 for controlling the pressure of the gaseous CO 2 .

De plus, une soupape de sécurité 150 est piquée sur le raccord en T 130 et est raccordée à une conduite de sécurité 152 qui débouche dans la conduite d'évacuation de CO2 124.In addition, a safety valve 150 is tapped on the T-connector 130 and is connected to a safety pipe 152 which opens into the CO 2 discharge pipe 124.

Le capteur 96 ainsi que les électrovannes de détente 80 sont également reliés au dispositif de commande 127.The sensor 96 and the expansion valves 80 are also connected to the control device 127.

Le dispositif de dépôt de neige carbonique selon l'invention fonctionne de la façon suivante.The carbon dioxide snow deposition device according to the invention works as follows.

Lors de la mise en marche de l'armoire de distribution 22 et avant le démarrage de la production du produit alimentaire 14 par étalement, l'armoire assure une production permanente de CO2 gazeux et l'introduit par la conduite collectrice 66 de CO2 gazeux et les raccords rapides 76 dans les tromblons 78. Le CO2 a une température nettement inférieure à la température ambiante, de préférence au maximum à O°C, et ne contient aucune trace d'humidité. Le CO2 gazeux remplit les tromblons 78 complètement et s'évacue par les orifices inférieures 79 de ceux-ci.When the distribution cabinet 22 is started and before the production of the food product 14 is started by spreading, the cabinet ensures a permanent production of gaseous CO 2 and introduces it via the collecting line 66 of CO 2 gas and quick couplings 76 in the blunt pipes 78. The CO 2 has a temperature markedly below ambient temperature, preferably at most at 0 ° C., and contains no trace of humidity. The gaseous CO 2 fills the blinkers 78 completely and is evacuated through the lower orifices 79 thereof.

Les orifices des électrovannes et l'espace intérieur des tromblons sont donc sous inertage CO2 et sont maintenus en froid.The orifices of the solenoid valves and the interior space of the blunt-ends are therefore CO 2 inerted and are kept cold.

Ensuite, le convoyeur 8 ainsi que la station d'étalement du produit 10 sont démarrés. Le produit alimentaire 14 est étalée sur le convoyeur 8 et transportée vers le dispositif de refroidissement en ligne 20. Lorsque le dispositif de commande 127 par l'intermédiaire du capteur 96 constate la présence du produit 14 en-dessous des orifices 79 des tromblons 78, il actionne les électrovannes de détente 80 et produit de la neige carbonique 98 à partir du CO2 liquide fourni par l'armoire de distribution 22. Le débit d'injection est réglé par le cadencement de l'ouverture des électrovannes. La production de neige peut être asservie en fonction d'une minuterie de retard ou de temps d'injection ou en fonction d'autres capteurs éventuellement présents dans l'installation.Then, the conveyor 8 and the product spreading station 10 are started. The food product 14 is spread on the conveyor 8 and transported to the in-line cooling device 20. When the control device 127 via the sensor 96 detects the presence of the product 14 below the orifices 79 of the blunt clips 78, it activates the expansion solenoid valves 80 and produces dry ice 98 from the liquid CO 2 supplied by the distribution cabinet 22. The injection rate is regulated by the timing of the opening of the solenoid valves. Snow production can be controlled by a delay or injection time timer or by other sensors possibly present in the installation.

La neige 98 tombe alors sur la surface supérieure de la pâte et forme une couche 100 sur celle-ci.The snow 98 then falls on the upper surface of the dough and forms a layer 100 thereon.

Grâce à l'inertage permanent des buses des électrovannes de détente 80 , il n'y a aucun risque de bouchage de celles-ci. En outre, l'intérieur des tromblons 78 étant complètement exempt d'humidité, les flocons de neige carbonique ne s'agglomèrent pas. En conséquence, la quantité de neige carbonique est bien maítrisée et précise, de sorte qu'il se dépose une couche de neige carbonique 100 régulière sans grumeaux sur la pâte 14.Thanks to the permanent inerting of the nozzles of the expansion solenoid valves 80, there is no risk of clogging thereof. In addition, the interior of blunderbouts 78 being completely free of moisture, the snowflakes carbon dioxide do not agglomerate. As a result, the amount of snow carbon dioxide is well controlled and precise, so that it deposits a layer of dry ice 100 regular without lumps on the dough 14.

Etant donné que la neige est déposée seulement sur le dessus de la pâte, il n'y a aucun risque d'acidification de la pâte par le CO2.Since the snow is only deposited on top of the dough, there is no risk of acidification of the dough by CO 2 .

Si, lors d'un défaut dans une des autres stations 10, 12, 16, le convoyeur 8, la production du produit, et la production de neige doivent être arrêtés temporairement, le balayage gazeux CO2 permanent évite une introduction de poussières dans les tromblons 78 et les orifices des électrovannes 80.If, during a fault in one of the other stations 10, 12, 16, the conveyor 8, the production of the product, and the production of snow must be temporarily stopped, the permanent CO 2 gas sweep prevents the introduction of dust into the blinkers 78 and the orifices of the solenoid valves 80.

De plus, étant donné que le CO2 gazeux a une température au maximum de O°C, des gouttes d'eau de condensation gelées éventuellement présentes sur la surface extérieure des tromblons ne se dégèlent pas. En conséquence, un tiroir pour obturer l'ouverture inférieure du capot n'est pas nécessaire, et aucun gouttage ne se produit.In addition, since the gaseous CO 2 has a maximum temperature of 0 ° C, frozen drops of condensed water possibly present on the external surface of the blobs do not thaw. Consequently, a drawer for closing the lower opening of the cover is not necessary, and no dripping occurs.

Lors d'un arrêt complet de l'installation 2, les raccords rapides 76 permettent un détachement facile et rapide des tromblons 78 pour un entretien et un nettoyage faciles du dispositif. L'actionnement des raccords rapides 76 est facilement possible et sans la nécessité d'attendre longtemps grâce au gel diminué des raccords rapides 76 par rapport à un agencement des raccords sur les électrovannes. Ceci mène à une disponibilité augmentée de l'installation.When the installation 2 stops completely, the quick connectors 76 allow quick and easy detachment of 78 blunderbuttons for maintenance and easy cleaning of the device. The actuation of the quick couplings 76 is easily possible and without the need to wait a long time thanks to the gel reduced of the quick couplings 76 compared to an arrangement of the couplings on the solenoid valves. This leads to increased availability of the installation.

En variante, le dispositif de refroidissement en ligne 20 peut être installé sur la chaíne de production à tout endroit où une surface suffisamment grande du convoyeur est disponible.Alternatively, the in-line cooler 20 can be installed on the production line in any place where a sufficient surface large conveyor is available.

Dans le cas où le dispositif est agencé en aval de la station de découpage, la production de neige carbonique est cadencée de façon à déposer une couche de neige carbonique 100 sur chaque morceau découpé 18. Le balayage permanent en CO2 des tromblons évite comme précédemment un encrassement et une remontée de l'humidité dans les électrovannes de détente.In the case where the device is arranged downstream of the cutting station, the production of carbon dioxide snow is timed so as to deposit a layer of carbon dioxide snow 100 on each cut piece 18. The permanent scanning of CO 2 of the blobs avoids as previously fouling and rising humidity in the expansion solenoid valves.

Il est à noter que les orifices des électrovannes ne se bouchant plus, des électrovannes avec des orifices plus fins ou des angles d'ouverture plus petits peuvent être utilisées.It should be noted that the orifices of the solenoid valves no longer clogging, solenoid valves with thinner holes or larger opening angles small ones can be used.

Il est à noter que, bien que le dispositif selon l'invention soit particulièrement bien adapté pour le refroidissement des produits de le pâte ou des produits laitiers, il peut s'appliquer au refroidissement d'autres produits. It should be noted that, although the device according to the invention is particularly well suited for cooling dough products or dairy products, it can be applied to the cooling of other products.

De façon générale, il peut être appliqué à un produit alimentaire de n'importe quel type (par exemple viandes, légumes, fromages,....) ou de n'importe quelle préparation (par exemple cuits, crus,...).In general, it can be applied to a food product of any type (for example meats, vegetables, cheeses, etc.) or any preparation (for example cooked, raw, ...).

On peut citer d'autres domaines d'applications du dispositif.We can cite other fields of application of the device.

Le dispositif selon l'invention monté en amont d'un surgélateur mécanique permet un pré-refroidissement pour augmenter l'efficacité du surgélateur et assurer un gain matière du produit par une diminution des pertes d'eau.The device according to the invention mounted upstream of a freezer mechanical allows pre-cooling to increase the efficiency of the freezer and ensure material gain of the product by reducing losses of water.

Le dispositif permet la rigidification de produits ou de couches de produits pour faciliter leur manipulation sans marquage ou la réalisation en continu de produits multicouches.The device allows the stiffening of products or layers of products to facilitate their handling without marking or the realization in continuous multi-layer products.

Des produits (par exemple du fromage) peuvent être stabilisés rapidement par l'utilisation du dispositif.Products (e.g. cheese) can be stabilized quickly by using the device.

Finalement, des produits fins peuvent être refroidis de quelques degrés et ainsi être amenés à leur température d'expédition.Finally, fine products can be cooled by a few degrees and thus be brought to their shipping temperature.

Claims (13)

Dispositif de refroidissement en ligne (20), notamment de produits alimentaires, par dépôt contrôlé de neige carbonique, du type comportant une chambre de projection de neige carbonique (78), cette chambre comportant une extrémité de sortie ouverte (79), et des moyens de production de neige carbonique (62, 80, 82, 120) raccordés à la chambre, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif comprend en outre des moyens de fourniture permanente de CO2 gazeux (66, 74, 120, 134, 138, 142) raccordés à la chambre (78).In-line cooling device (20), in particular for food products, by controlled deposition of carbon dioxide snow, of the type comprising a chamber for spraying carbon dioxide snow (78), this chamber comprising an open outlet end (79), and means for producing carbon dioxide snow (62, 80, 82, 120) connected to the chamber, characterized in that the device also comprises means for the permanent supply of gaseous CO 2 (66, 74, 120, 134, 138, 142) connected to the chamber (78). Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de fourniture permanent de CO2 gazeux (66, 74, 120, 134, 138, 142) sont agencés au voisinage des moyens de production de neige carbonique (62, 80, 82, 120).Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the means for permanently supplying gaseous CO 2 (66, 74, 120, 134, 138, 142) are arranged in the vicinity of the means for producing carbon dioxide snow (62, 80, 82, 120). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de fourniture permanente de CO2 gazeux (66, 74, 120, 134, 138, 142) sont des moyens de fourniture de CO2 gazeux à une température nettement inférieure à la température ambiante, de préférence d'au maximum 0°C.Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means for permanently supplying gaseous CO 2 (66, 74, 120, 134, 138, 142) are means for supplying gaseous CO 2 at a significantly lower temperature at room temperature, preferably at most 0 ° C. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de fourniture permanente de CO2 gazeux comprennent une source de CO2 liquide (120), un vaporiseur de CO2 (134) relié à cette source (120), la sortie du vaporiseur (134) étant reliée à l'entrée d'un détendeur (138), et d'une conduite de CO2 gazeux (66) munie d'une électrovanne d'obturation (142), qui relie le détendeur (138) à la chambre de projection (78).Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means for permanently supplying gaseous CO 2 comprise a source of liquid CO 2 (120), a CO 2 vaporizer (134) connected to this source (120), the outlet of the vaporizer (134) being connected to the inlet of a regulator (138), and of a gaseous CO 2 line (66) provided with a shut-off solenoid valve (142), which connects the regulator ( 138) to the projection chamber (78). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de production de neige carbonique comprennent une source de CO2 liquide (120) reliée à une électrovanne de détente (80).Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means for producing carbon dioxide snow comprise a source of liquid CO 2 (120) connected to an expansion valve (80). Dispositif selon les revendications 4 et 5 prises ensemble, caractérisé en ce que la source de CO2 liquide des moyens de fourniture permanente de CO2 gazeux et des moyens de production de neige carbonique est constituée par une source de CO2 liquide cryogénique réfrigéré reliée à un séparateur de CO2 liquide et de CO2 gazeux (120).Device according to claims 4 and 5 taken together, characterized in that the source of liquid CO 2 of the means for permanent supply of gaseous CO 2 and of the means for producing carbon dioxide snow is constituted by a source of refrigerated cryogenic liquid CO 2 connected to a separator liquid CO 2 and CO 2 gas (120). Dispositif suivant la revendication 4 ou l'une des revendications dépendantes de la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend en outre une armoire de distribution (22) qui comporte au moins une partie des moyens de fourniture permanente de CO2 gazeux et/ou des moyens de production de neige carbonique, la conduite de CO2 gazeux (66) étant liée rigidement à ladite armoire (22), l'armoire (22) formant support pour les chambres de projection (78).Device according to claim 4 or one of the dependent claims of claim 4, characterized in that it further comprises a distribution cabinet (22) which comprises at least part of the means for the permanent supply of gaseous CO 2 and / or means for producing carbon dioxide snow, the gaseous CO 2 pipe (66) being rigidly linked to said cabinet (22), the cabinet (22) forming a support for the projection chambers (78). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend des moyens de modification de la distance de l'ouverture de sortie (79) de la chambre de projection (78) à un emplacement sous-jacent de dépôt de neige carbonique.Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises means for modifying the distance from the outlet opening (79) of the projection chamber (78) to an underlying location for depositing dry ice. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la chambre de projection (78) est reliée aux moyens de fourniture de CO2 gazeux permanente (66, 74, 120, 134, 138, 142) par un raccord rapide (76) tandis que les moyens de production de neige carbonique (80) sont raccordés librement à la chambre de projection (78).Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the projection chamber (78) is connected to the means for supplying permanent CO 2 gas (66, 74, 120, 134, 138, 142) by a quick coupling ( 76) while the carbon dioxide production means (80) are freely connected to the projection chamber (78). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la chambre de projection est constituée par un tube (78), notamment cylindrique, à axe vertical, fermé à son extrémité supérieure.Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the projection chamber consists of a tube (78), in particular cylindrical, with a vertical axis, closed at its upper end. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend plusieurs chambres de projection (78) de neige carbonique agencées suivant une rangée.Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises several projection chambers (78) of dry ice arranged in a row. Installation de fabrication de pâte fraíche (2), caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend, disposés le long d'une ligne de convoyage de pâte (8), d'une part des stations de traitement mécanique de la pâte comprenant au moins une station de mise en forme (10), une station de découpage de la pâte en portions (12), et au moins une station de conditionnement de la pâte découpée (16), et d'autre part un dispositif de dépôt contrôlé sur la pâte de neige carbonique (20), selon l'une des revendications 1 à 12.Installation for manufacturing fresh dough (2), characterized in that it comprises, arranged along a line for conveying dough (8), on the one hand mechanical dough treatment stations comprising at least one station shaping (10), a station for cutting the dough into portions (12), and at least one station for conditioning the cut dough (16), and on the other hand a controlled depositing device on the dough dry ice (20) according to one of claims 1 to 12. Installation selon la revendication 12, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de dépôt contrôlé de neige carbonique (20)est disposé en amont de la première station de conditionnement (16).Installation according to claim 12, characterized in that the device for depositing carbon dioxide snow (20) is arranged upstream of the first conditioning station (16).
EP01400867A 2000-05-03 2001-04-04 Cooling line apparatus Expired - Lifetime EP1152198B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0005645 2000-05-03
FR0005645A FR2808585B1 (en) 2000-05-03 2000-05-03 ONLINE COOLING DEVICE

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EP1152198A1 true EP1152198A1 (en) 2001-11-07
EP1152198B1 EP1152198B1 (en) 2004-11-10

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EP01400867A Expired - Lifetime EP1152198B1 (en) 2000-05-03 2001-04-04 Cooling line apparatus

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EP (1) EP1152198B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE282183T1 (en)
DE (1) DE60107008T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2231402T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2808585B1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ITMI20131477A1 (en) * 2013-09-09 2015-03-10 Sol Spa PROCEDURE AND EQUIPMENT FOR CLEANING THE SURFACE OF FOOD PRODUCTS.

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3014705A (en) * 1958-08-11 1961-12-26 Fairchild Stratos Corp Cryogenic spray ejector
EP0872563A1 (en) * 1997-04-28 1998-10-21 L'air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude Method and device for heat treating
FR2762190A1 (en) * 1997-04-03 1998-10-23 Carboxyque Francaise Chilling uncooked dough parts

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3014705A (en) * 1958-08-11 1961-12-26 Fairchild Stratos Corp Cryogenic spray ejector
FR2762190A1 (en) * 1997-04-03 1998-10-23 Carboxyque Francaise Chilling uncooked dough parts
EP0872563A1 (en) * 1997-04-28 1998-10-21 L'air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude Method and device for heat treating

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ITMI20131477A1 (en) * 2013-09-09 2015-03-10 Sol Spa PROCEDURE AND EQUIPMENT FOR CLEANING THE SURFACE OF FOOD PRODUCTS.
WO2015033300A1 (en) * 2013-09-09 2015-03-12 Sol S.P.A. Method and apparatus for cleaning the surface of food products

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1152198B1 (en) 2004-11-10
ES2231402T3 (en) 2005-05-16
DE60107008D1 (en) 2004-12-16
ATE282183T1 (en) 2004-11-15
FR2808585A1 (en) 2001-11-09
DE60107008T2 (en) 2006-03-16
FR2808585B1 (en) 2002-06-28

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