EP2763915A1 - Closing assembly for a vessel and method for transporting foods - Google Patents

Closing assembly for a vessel and method for transporting foods

Info

Publication number
EP2763915A1
EP2763915A1 EP12766681.6A EP12766681A EP2763915A1 EP 2763915 A1 EP2763915 A1 EP 2763915A1 EP 12766681 A EP12766681 A EP 12766681A EP 2763915 A1 EP2763915 A1 EP 2763915A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
container
transport
sealing
closure
tank
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
EP12766681.6A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2763915B1 (en
Inventor
Patrick BOS
Timothy Neil McLAREN
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.)
Buhold Management Ltd
Original Assignee
Buhold Management Ltd
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Buhold Management Ltd filed Critical Buhold Management Ltd
Publication of EP2763915A1 publication Critical patent/EP2763915A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2763915B1 publication Critical patent/EP2763915B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F23/00—Mixing according to the phases to be mixed, e.g. dispersing or emulsifying
    • B01F23/20—Mixing gases with liquids
    • B01F23/23—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids
    • B01F23/233—Mixing gases with liquids by introducing gases into liquid media, e.g. for producing aerated liquids using driven stirrers with completely immersed stirring elements
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D90/00—Component parts, details or accessories for large containers
    • B65D90/10—Manholes; Inspection openings; Covers therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/02—Bathing devices for use with gas-containing liquid, or liquid in which gas is led or generated, e.g. carbon dioxide baths
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/60—Components specifically designed for the therapeutic baths of groups A61H33/00
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D88/00—Large containers
    • B65D88/02—Large containers rigid
    • B65D88/12—Large containers rigid specially adapted for transport
    • B65D88/128—Large containers rigid specially adapted for transport tank containers, i.e. containers provided with supporting devices for handling
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D88/00—Large containers
    • B65D88/74—Large containers having means for heating, cooling, aerating or other conditioning of contents
    • B65D88/744—Large containers having means for heating, cooling, aerating or other conditioning of contents heating or cooling through the walls or internal parts of the container, e.g. circulation of fluid inside the walls
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D88/00—Large containers
    • B65D88/74—Large containers having means for heating, cooling, aerating or other conditioning of contents
    • B65D88/745—Large containers having means for heating, cooling, aerating or other conditioning of contents blowing or injecting heating, cooling or other conditioning fluid inside the container
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D88/00—Large containers
    • B65D88/74—Large containers having means for heating, cooling, aerating or other conditioning of contents
    • B65D88/748—Large containers having means for heating, cooling, aerating or other conditioning of contents for tank containers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D90/00—Component parts, details or accessories for large containers
    • B65D90/54—Gates or closures
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2588/00—Large container
    • B65D2588/74—Large container having means for heating, cooling, aerating or other conditioning of contents
    • B65D2588/743—Large container having means for heating, cooling, aerating or other conditioning of contents blowing or injecting heating, cooling or other conditioning fluid inside the container
    • B65D2588/746—Large container having means for heating, cooling, aerating or other conditioning of contents blowing or injecting heating, cooling or other conditioning fluid inside the container with additional treatment function
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2590/00—Component parts, details or accessories for large containers
    • B65D2590/0083—Computer or electronic system, e.g. GPS systems
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2590/00—Component parts, details or accessories for large containers
    • B65D2590/0091—Ladders

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a closure arrangement for a transport container, in particular a tank container, and a method for the aseptic transport of
  • Liquids and bulk goods in particular food, medicines or similar
  • Tank containers are used to transport liquids and gases over long distances.
  • Tank containers are used in particular in intermodal transport, in which the tank containers are transported on different modes of transport (rail, road, sea) without the need to transfer the cargo.
  • Tank containers are also used to transport sensitive, perishable cargo such as food and medicine over long distances. This can e.g. Be milk, fruit juices or medicines.
  • Orange juice is concentrated in the growing areas. The juice is deprived of water by cold and or heat treatments. This orange juice concentrate is then transported frozen in specially designed tankers. At the bottling site, the orange juice concentrate is then diluted again with water, optionally with "pulp" and other additives and bottled.This process is energetically complicated by the necessary dehydration .. In addition, the taste quality of the orange juice suffers in this process.
  • NFC juice is perishable and its quality suffers from microbial attack.
  • the intended for juice concentrate tanker transport is indeed possible for NFC juice in principle. The tankers are cooled, and the juice is transported in largely germ-free and sterilizable containers in which the germ growth on the surface of the cargo is additionally minimized by a nitrogen blanket (oxygen deprivation). Before bottling, however, the juice must first pass from the ship to another
  • Transport containers are transferred, with which it can then be transported to the filling plants.
  • the cargo is contaminated with germs.
  • a transport chain can be formed in which the juice - or another cargo - from the producer to the end user (bottler) can be transported without Um colllvortician.
  • a special sealing arrangement is provided, specifically between the first sealing area surrounding a container opening and a lid covering this container opening, which has a correspondingly extending second sealing area on its circumference.
  • Seal assembly includes an outer and an inner seal ring. These form a likewise annular gap which comprises a germ barrier.
  • Germ barrier can be fixed between the two sealing rings; At the same time, the sealing rings define the maximum extent of the germ barrier. In a further embodiment, this germ barrier is formed as a fluid which is between the two sealing rings and between the first and second
  • Sealing area runs.
  • a fluid gas, vapor or liquid
  • the intermediate space can thereby form or have a chamber which is provided with an inlet and / or a drain through which the sterilizing fluid is supplied and / or discharged.
  • This can also be used active ingredients whose germicidal effect diminish over time.
  • Germicidal gases can be replaced via the feed. It is thus also possible to pressurize the chamber with a suitable gas, for example nitrogen, so that only the overpressure ensures that no germs can penetrate from the outside into the intermediate space or further into the interior of the tank.
  • the gas supply can be done via a separate gas storage (pressure bottle, gas generator).
  • this intermediate space or the chamber can be flushed with a supply and / or circulation device. In such an embodiment, the corresponding fluid can then circulate in the intermediate space or in the chamber, thus flushing any infiltrating germs.
  • Another embodiment provides to introduce into the space an insert, which receives the sterilizing fluid and possibly binds.
  • an insert may be a nonwoven, braid, fabric or foam material which is impregnated with a sterilizing fluid prior to sealing the container and then inserted into the space.
  • lamellae or grooves are provided on the container-side first and on the lid-side second sealing region, which, when the lid is attached
  • the present invention further relates to a method for the aseptic transport of foods, in particular of orange juice, with the steps:
  • the quality of surveillance can be further increased by constantly or
  • monitoring station transport control center
  • the tempering devices e.g., a refrigeration system
  • the tempering devices may be controlled by means of the acquired data.
  • the method can be refined to the effect that automatically carried out during transport germ analyzes of the cargo and a required cooling temperature is determined depending on the measured number of nuclei.
  • the cooling temperature may be raised. This can save energy and ultimately reduce transportation costs.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a tank container, which is suitable for the use of a closure assembly according to the invention
  • FIG. 2 shows a detail of the tank container shown in Figure 1 with a
  • FIG. 3 shows the lower discharge area of the container shown in FIG. 1;
  • Figure 5 is a schematic representation of a for data transmission and for
  • Figure 6 is a top view of a manhole cover assembly
  • Figure 7 is a sectional view (section B-B) of the illustrated in Figure 6
  • FIG. 8 shows a further sectional view (C-C) of the one shown in FIG.
  • Figure 9 is an enlarged view of the detail D of Figure 8; 10 shows a second embodiment of an inventive
  • Figure 11 shows a third embodiment of an inventive
  • Figure 12 shows a fourth embodiment of an inventive
  • the tank container 1 shown in FIG. 1 has a cylindrical container 2, optionally insulated and provided with cooling channels on its outside, which is held in a framework 3.
  • a hood box 4 is arranged with vertex connections.
  • a valve chamber 5 is arranged with further connections and a
  • Data acquisition and transmission device 6 is arranged.
  • Figure 2 shows the other side of the tank container 1 to which a cooling unit 7 is mounted, with the cooling vessel and a coolant, the container wall and thus the charge located in the interior of the container 2 can be cooled.
  • FIG. 3 shows the connections arranged in the valve chamber 5. Shown is a bottom discharge 8 with a suitable for sterile operation valve 9, which is formed for example as a sterilizable diaphragm valve.
  • valves are also so-called leakage valves, in which two media (product / load, cleaning / shielding medium) in a product and a
  • Leakage space are separated from each other.
  • the leakage space can be cleaned, rinsed or filled with a germ barrier fluid (alcohol) independently of the product space.
  • a germ barrier fluid alcohol
  • leakage valves which are additionally provided with a separately flushable sampling.
  • an additional reservoir is provided for the germ barrier fluid.
  • Such valves are then with the appropriate connections to Product removal and for flushing with steam / water and / or for covering with a gas (eg nitrogen) provided.
  • a gas connection 10 which opens in the apex region of the container 2 and over which the free space above the filling level of the cargo with a gas, for example nitrogen, can be filled. This gas shields the cargo against ambient air or oxygen and inhibits or prevents possible germ growth.
  • a sampling valve 11 is provided.
  • Figure 4 shows further in the hood box 4 disordered connections, namely a
  • FIG. 5 shows the tank container 1 provided with a transmitting device 15, the data acquired by the data acquisition and transmission device 6 (e.g., pressure, temperature,
  • Setting variables of the cooling unit) by radio or radio data transmission to a remote control station 16 can be monitored via the functions of the container and / or remotely controlled.
  • the respective whereabouts of the tank container 1 is about
  • Satellite navigation system 17 GPS or other suitable system and also transmitted to the control room.
  • FIGS 6-9 show an embodiment of an inventive
  • Closure arrangement which is designed as a manhole arrangement 12.
  • the manhole assembly 12 includes a manhole cover 20 having a domed disc 21 and a sealing flange 22.
  • the lid is seated on a tubular nozzle 23 which surrounds the manhole opening 24 in the container 2 and is welded at its edge thereto.
  • the lid 20 is disposed on a flange collar 25 of the nozzle 22 and over
  • a centering collar 33 is worked on the sealing flange 22, which engages over a corresponding recess 34 on the flange collar 25 and the second sealing portion 28 on the first sealing portion 27 (end face) centered so that the outer and inner sealing ring 31, 32 on the Rest face 27.
  • the groove 35 forms a germ barrier, which prevents entering from the outside germs through the seal assembly into the interior of the container 2.
  • connections 36, 37 it is possible to supply and / or remove a sterilizing fluid or to constantly flush the intermediate space or to apply a vacuum.
  • a fluid reservoir may be provided (for example, a nitrogen trap) via the connections 36, 37
  • Interspace 35 constantly fills with a fluid.
  • the fluid reservoir can also serve to keep the intermediate space 35 under overpressure, so that in the case of leaks in the outer sealing ring 31, the outflowing fluid prevents germs from penetrating.
  • Figure 10 shows a second embodiment of an inventive
  • Figure 11 shows a third embodiment in which in the space an insert 39 is inserted, which is impregnated with a sterilizing fluid and thus forms an effective germ barrier.
  • insert 39 For positioning this insert 39 corresponding grooves in the end face 27 and between the sealing rings 31, 32 are provided.
  • the surfaces between the sealing rings 31 and 32 and the end face 27 are made plan; the insert 39 is then positioned only by the protruding sealing rings 31, 32.
  • FIG. 12 shows a further exemplary embodiment in which the groove 35 is accessible via the connecting piece 22.
  • the nozzle 22 is formed as a thick-walled flange 26, in which the terminals 36, 37 are formed.
  • a threaded connection 41 protrudes radially from the outside into the flange 26 thereof approximately branching off at right angles opens a bore 42 upwardly through the end face 27, the gap (groove 35).
  • the lid 20 has a second, inner curved disc 21 ', which is curved convexly inwards.
  • the intermediate space 40 between the curved disks 21 and 21 ' improves the thermal insulation of the container 2 or the tank container 1.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Pain & Pain Management (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Therapy (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Apparatus For Disinfection Or Sterilisation (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)
  • Filling Of Jars Or Cans And Processes For Cleaning And Sealing Jars (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a closing assembly for a vessel, in particular for a tank container (1), comprising a first sealing region (27) that surrounds a vessel opening (24) and a lid (20) that covers the vessel opening. The lid has a second sealing region (28) that corresponds to the first sealing region (27). A sealing assembly (29, 30, 31, 32) that extends between the first and second sealing regions is provided. The sealing assembly has an outer and an inner sealing ring (31, 32), which rings form an intermediate space that comprises a germ barrier (35, 38, 39). The invention further relates to a method for aseptically transporting foods, in particular orange juice, comprising the following steps: providing a transport vessel, in particular a tank container (1) having a closing assembly according to the invention; filling the transport vessel with liquid food; transporting the transport vessel; and draining the transport vessel.

Description

VERSCHLUSSANORDNUNG FÜR EINEN BEHÄLTER  CLOSURE ASSEMBLY FOR A CONTAINER
UND VERFAHREN ZUM TRANSPORT VON LEBENSMITTELN  AND METHOD FOR TRANSPORTING FOODSTUFFS
Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft eine Verschlussanordnung für einen Transportbehälter, insbesondere ein Tankcontainer, sowie ein Verfahren zum aseptischen Transport von The present invention relates to a closure arrangement for a transport container, in particular a tank container, and a method for the aseptic transport of
Flüssigkeiten und Schüttgütern, insbesondere Lebensmittel, Medikamente o.Ä. Liquids and bulk goods, in particular food, medicines or similar
Transportbehälter und insbesondere auch Tankcontainer dienen dazu, Flüssigkeiten und Gase über lange Strecken zu transportieren. Tankcontainer werden insbesondere in intermodalen Verkehren eingesetzt, bei denen die Tankcontainer auf unterschiedlichen Verkehrsträgern (Schiene, Straße, See) transportiert werden, ohne dass dazu ein Umfüllen der Ladung erforderlich wäre. Transport containers and in particular tank containers are used to transport liquids and gases over long distances. Tank containers are used in particular in intermodal transport, in which the tank containers are transported on different modes of transport (rail, road, sea) without the need to transfer the cargo.
Tankcontainer werden auch eingesetzt, um empfindliche, verderbliche Ladegüter wie Lebensmittel und Medikamente über weite Distanzen zu befördern. Dies können z.B. Milch, Fruchtsäfte oder Medikamente sein. Tank containers are also used to transport sensitive, perishable cargo such as food and medicine over long distances. This can e.g. Be milk, fruit juices or medicines.
Ein besonders hoher Transportbedarf besteht für Orangensaft, der beispielsweise aus Süd- und Mittelamerika nach Nordeuropa transportiert wird. Der überwiegende Anteil vom A particularly high demand for transport exists for orange juice, which is transported to northern Europe, for example, from South and Central America. The overwhelming share of
Orangensaft wird in den Anbaugebieten aufkonzentriert. Dabei wird dem Saft durch Kälte- und oder Wärmebehandlungen Wasser entzogen. Dieses Orangensaftkonzentrat wird dann tiefgekühlt in eigens dafür vorgesehenen Tankschiffen transportiert. Am Abfüllort wird dann das Orangensaftkonzentrat wieder mit Wasser verdünnt, gegebenenfalls mit„Fruchtfleisch" und anderen Zusätzen versehen und abgefüllt. Dieses Verfahren ist durch den notwendigen Wasserentzug energetisch aufwändig. Darüber hinaus leidet die Geschmacksqualität des Orangensafts bei diesem Verfahren. Orange juice is concentrated in the growing areas. The juice is deprived of water by cold and or heat treatments. This orange juice concentrate is then transported frozen in specially designed tankers. At the bottling site, the orange juice concentrate is then diluted again with water, optionally with "pulp" and other additives and bottled.This process is energetically complicated by the necessary dehydration .. In addition, the taste quality of the orange juice suffers in this process.
Es besteht auf den großen Orangensaftmärkten ein zunehmender Bedarf an frischem, weit gehend unbehandeltem Orangensaft, der nicht aus Konzentrat hergestellt wird, sondern direkt nach dem Auspressen abgefüllt und konsumiert werden kann, so genannter NFC (NOT- FROM-CONCENTRATE) Orangensaft. NFC-Saft ist leicht verderblich und seine Qualität leidet bei Keimbefall. Der für Saftkonzentrat vorgesehene Tankschifftransport ist zwar für NFC-Saft im Prinzip auch möglich. Die Tankschiffe werden gekühlt, und der Saft wird in weitgehend keimfreien und sterilisierbaren Behältern transportiert, bei denen das Keimwachstum an der Oberfläche des Ladeguts zusätzlich durch eine Stickstoffdecke (Sauerstoffentzug) minimiert wird. Vor dem Abfüllen muss der Saft jedoch zunächst aus dem Schiff in einen weiteren There is an increasing demand on the large orange juice markets for fresh, largely untreated orange juice, which is not made from concentrate but can be bottled and consumed directly after pressing, so-called NFC (NOT-FROM-CONCENTRATE) orange juice. NFC juice is perishable and its quality suffers from microbial attack. The intended for juice concentrate tanker transport is indeed possible for NFC juice in principle. The tankers are cooled, and the juice is transported in largely germ-free and sterilizable containers in which the germ growth on the surface of the cargo is additionally minimized by a nitrogen blanket (oxygen deprivation). Before bottling, however, the juice must first pass from the ship to another
Transportbehälter umgefüllt werden, mit dem er dann zu den Abfüllanlagen transportiert werden kann. Bei jedem Umfüllvorgang besteht jedoch das Risiko, dass das Ladegut mit Keimen verunreinigt wird. Transport containers are transferred, with which it can then be transported to the filling plants. However, there is a risk with each transfer process that the cargo is contaminated with germs.
Die Anzahl der Umfüllvorgänge und damit die Anzahl potentieller Verunreinigungspunkte kann mit dem Transport in Tankcontainern erheblich reduziert werden. Mit geeigneten Tankcontainern kann eine Transportkette gebildet werden, bei denen der Saft - oder ein anderes Transportgut - vom Erzeuger zum Endverbraucher (Abfüller) ohne Umfüllvorgänge transportiert werden kann. The number of transfer operations and thus the number of potential contamination points can be significantly reduced by transport in tank containers. With suitable tank containers, a transport chain can be formed in which the juice - or another cargo - from the producer to the end user (bottler) can be transported without Umfüllvorgänge.
Der Transport im Tankcontainer muss jedoch weit gehend aseptisch erfolgen, da jede Keimbelastung die Saftqualität erheblich mindern kann. Ein Problem besteht dabei darin die Anschlüsse (Oben-, Untenentleerung, Belüftung, Sicherheitsventil. Reinigungsköpfe, Mannloch, etc.) so auszuführen, dass während des Transports auch bei wechselnden Transport in the tank container, however, must be largely aseptic, as any germ load can significantly reduce the quality of the juice. One problem is that the connections (top, bottom drainage, ventilation, safety valve, cleaning heads, manhole, etc.) are to be designed in such a way that during transport even when changing
Umweltbedingungen (Temperaturschwankungen, Wind und Wetter, Umschlag und andere Einflüsse während des Transportes) keine Keime durch die Anschlüsse eindringen können.  Environmental conditions (temperature fluctuations, wind and weather, handling and other influences during transport) can not penetrate germs through the connections.
Dieses Problem stellt sich insbesondere bei Tanköffnungen mit großem Durchmesser wie zum Beispiel Mannlochanordnungen, die zur Wartung und Inspektion solcher Tankcontainer erforderlich sind. Übliche Mannlochdichtungen bestehen aus lebensmittelverträglichen Gummi- bzw. PTFE- Werkstoffen, die jedoch eine gewisse Porosität aufweisen und vor allem bei längeren Transporten keinen sicheren Schutz gegen das Eindringen von Keimen bilden. Eine weitgehend dauerhafte aseptische Abdichtung von Anschlüssen und insbesondere von Mannlochanordnungen ist bei herkömmlichen Tankcontainern nicht bekannt. Es besteht daher die Aufgabe eine Verschlussanordnung bereitzustellen, die auch bei langen Transporten unter widrigen Bedingungen zuverlässig und kontrollierbar das Eindringen von Keimen in den Laderaum, den Tankinnenraum, verhindert und dessen aseptischen bzw. This problem is particularly acute in large diameter tank openings, such as manhole assemblies, which are required for servicing and inspecting such tank containers. Conventional manhole seals are made of food-compatible rubber or PTFE materials, however, have a certain porosity and, especially during longer transports do not form a safe protection against the ingress of germs. A largely permanent aseptic sealing of connections and in particular of manhole arrangements is not known in conventional tank containers. It is therefore an object to provide a closure assembly that reliably and controllably prevents the entry of germs into the cargo space, the tank interior, even with long transports under adverse conditions and its aseptic or
sterilisierten Zustand weitgehend erhält. sterilized state largely preserves.
Diese Aufgabe löst die Verschlussanordnung gemäß Anspruch 1. Dabei ist eine besondere Dichtungsanordnung vorgesehen, und zwar zwischen dem eine Behälteröffnung umgebenden ersten Dichtbereich und einem diese Behälteröffnung abdeckenden Deckel, der an seinem Umfang einen entsprechend verlaufenden zweiten Dichtbereich aufweist. Die This object is achieved by the closure arrangement according to claim 1. A special sealing arrangement is provided, specifically between the first sealing area surrounding a container opening and a lid covering this container opening, which has a correspondingly extending second sealing area on its circumference. The
Dichtungsanordnung umfasst einen äußeren und einen inneren Dichtungsring. Diese bilden einen ebenfalls ringförmigen Zwischenraum, der eine Keimbarriere umfasst. Diese Seal assembly includes an outer and an inner seal ring. These form a likewise annular gap which comprises a germ barrier. These
Keimbarriere kann zwischen den beiden Dichtungsringen fixiert werden; gleichzeitig definieren die Dichtungsringe die maximale Ausdehnung der Keimbarriere. In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel ist diese Keimbarriere als Fluid ausgebildet, das zwischen den beiden Dichtungsringen und zwischen dem ersten und zweiten Germ barrier can be fixed between the two sealing rings; At the same time, the sealing rings define the maximum extent of the germ barrier. In a further embodiment, this germ barrier is formed as a fluid which is between the two sealing rings and between the first and second
Dichtungsbereich verläuft. So ein Fluid (Gas, Dampf oder Flüssigkeit) neutralisiert beispielsweise von außen durch Druckschwankungen oder Undichtigkeiten eintretende Keime und verhindert, dass diese ins Tankinnere und damit ans Ladegut gelangen. Sealing area runs. Such a fluid (gas, vapor or liquid) neutralizes, for example, germs entering from the outside due to pressure fluctuations or leaks and prevents them from reaching the interior of the tank and therefore the cargo.
Der Zwischenraum kann dabei eine Kammer bilden oder aufweisen, die mit einem Zu- und/oder einem Ablauf versehen ist, durch die das sterilisierende Fluid zu- und/oder abführbar ist. Damit können auch Wirkstoffe verwendet werden, deren keimabtötende Wirkung mit der Zeit nachlassen. The intermediate space can thereby form or have a chamber which is provided with an inlet and / or a drain through which the sterilizing fluid is supplied and / or discharged. This can also be used active ingredients whose germicidal effect diminish over time.
Keimabtötende Gase können über den Zulauf ersetzt werden. Es ist so auch möglich die Kammer mit einem geeigneten Gas - z.B. Stickstoff - unter Überdruck zu setzen, so dass allein der Überdruck dafür sorgt, dass keine Keime von außen in den Zwischenraum bzw. weiter ins Tankinnere eindringen können. Die Gasversorgung kann dabei über einen gesonderten Gasspeicher (Druckflasche, Gaserzeuger) erfolgen. Es gibt auch Ausführungen, bei denen dieser Zwischenraum bzw. die Kammer mit einer Zufuhr-und/oder Umwälzeinrichtung spülbar ist. Bei so einer Ausführung kann dann das entsprechende Fluid in dem Zwischenraum bzw. in der Kammer zirkulieren und spült damit eventuell eindringende Keime hinaus. Germicidal gases can be replaced via the feed. It is thus also possible to pressurize the chamber with a suitable gas, for example nitrogen, so that only the overpressure ensures that no germs can penetrate from the outside into the intermediate space or further into the interior of the tank. The gas supply can be done via a separate gas storage (pressure bottle, gas generator). There are also embodiments in which this intermediate space or the chamber can be flushed with a supply and / or circulation device. In such an embodiment, the corresponding fluid can then circulate in the intermediate space or in the chamber, thus flushing any infiltrating germs.
Eine andere Ausführung sieht vor, in den Zwischenraum eine Einlage einzubringen, die das sterilisierende Fluid aufnimmt und ggf. bindet. So eine Einlage kann ein Vlies, Geflecht, Gewebe oder ein Schaumstoffwerkstoff sein, der vor dem Verschließen des Behälters mit einem sterilisierenden Fluid getränkt wird und dann in den Zwischenraum eingelegt wird. Another embodiment provides to introduce into the space an insert, which receives the sterilizing fluid and possibly binds. Such an insert may be a nonwoven, braid, fabric or foam material which is impregnated with a sterilizing fluid prior to sealing the container and then inserted into the space.
In einer weiteren Ausführung sind am behälterseitigen ersten und am deckelseitigen zweiten Dichtbereich Lamellen bzw. Nuten vorgesehen, die bei aufgesetztem Deckel In a further embodiment, lamellae or grooves are provided on the container-side first and on the lid-side second sealing region, which, when the lid is attached
ineinandergreifen und einen Labyrinth artigen Querschnitt bilden. Damit wird die Passage von eindringenden Keimen durch die Keimbarriere zusätzlich erschwert bzw. verlängert. Dies erhöht die Einwirkzeit eines sterilisierenden Fluids, so dass eindringende Keime noch zuverlässiger abgetötet werden können. interlock and form a labyrinth-like cross-section. This makes the passage of penetrating germs through the germ barrier even more difficult or prolonged. This increases the exposure time of a sterilizing fluid, so that penetrating germs can be killed even more reliable.
Es gibt auch Ausführungen, bei denen mehrere Verschlussanordnungen mit den oben beschriebenen Eigenschaften an einem Behälter vorgesehen sind und diese gemeinsam über eine zentrale Versorgungseinheit mit einem entsprechenden sterilisierenden Fluid versorgt werden. There are also embodiments in which a plurality of closure assemblies are provided with the properties described above on a container and these are supplied together via a central supply unit with a corresponding sterilizing fluid.
Da die Dichtfläche an Mannlochanordnungen besonders groß ist, bietet sich die Verwendung einer erfindungsgemäßen Verschlussanordnung insbesondere für solche Mannloch- oder Inspektionsöffnungen an. Since the sealing surface is particularly large at Mannlochanordnungen, the use of a closure arrangement according to the invention is particularly suitable for such manhole or inspection openings.
Wie oben beschrieben ist der aseptische Transport in Tankcontainern besonders schwierig. Daher ist die Verwendung dieser erfindungsgemäßen Verschlussanordnungen insbesondere für Tankcontainer besonders vorteilhaft, und bildet einen wichtigen Baustein, um auch mit Tankcontainern aseptische Transporte zu ermöglichen. Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft weiterhin ein Verfahren zum aseptischen Transport von Lebensmitteln, insbesondere von Orangensaft, mit den Schritten: As described above, aseptic transport in tank containers is particularly difficult. Therefore, the use of these closure arrangements according to the invention in particular for tank containers is particularly advantageous, and forms an important element to enable aseptic transport even with tank containers. The present invention further relates to a method for the aseptic transport of foods, in particular of orange juice, with the steps:
- Bereitstellen eines Transportbehälters insbesondere eines Tankcontainers, mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Verschlussanordnung (so wird ein aseptischer Transport zuverlässig unterstützt), Providing a transport container, in particular a tank container, with a closure arrangement according to the invention (thus aseptic transport is reliably supported),
- Befüllen des Transportbehälters mit flüssigen Lebensmitteln,  Filling the transport container with liquid food,
- Transport des Transportbehälters und  - Transport of the transport container and
- Entleeren des Transportbehälters.  - emptying the transport container.
Neben den von außen eindringenden Keimen spielt beim Transport von empfindlichen Ladegütern auch die Keimarmut des Ladeguts selbst eine wichtige Rolle. Insbesondere bei natürlichen Produkten (z.B. Säfte oder Milch) ist ohne geschmacksverändernde In addition to germs that penetrate from the outside, the germ reduction of the cargo itself also plays an important role in the transport of sensitive cargo. In particular with natural products (for example juices or milk) is without tasting
Temperaturbehandlungen eine völlige Keimfreiheit oftmals nicht möglich. Um diese vorhandenen Keime inaktiv zu halten bzw. deren Vermehrung zu behindern oder zu stoppen, sind weitere Schritte vorzusehen: Temperature treatments a complete sterility often not possible. In order to keep these existing germs inactive or to hinder or stop their multiplication, further steps have to be taken:
- das Temperieren des Tankcontainers (in der Regel Kühlen auf Temperaturen nahe 0°),- the temperature of the tank container (usually cooling to temperatures close to 0 °),
- Transportbedinungen (-daten) erfassen und zu dokumentieren (dazu können zusätzlich die Temperatur und der Ort erfasst und gespeichert werden), - record and document transport conditions (data can additionally be recorded and stored for temperature and location),
- die Überwachungsqualität kann weiter gesteigert werden, indem ständig oder  - The quality of surveillance can be further increased by constantly or
regelmäßig Ort und Temperatur an eine Überwachungsstelle (Transportleitstand) übermittelt werden,  the location and temperature are regularly transmitted to a monitoring station (transport control center),
- in einem weiteren Schritt können die Temperiereinrichtungen (z.B. eine Kühlanlage) mittels der erfassten Daten gesteuert werden.  in a further step, the tempering devices (e.g., a refrigeration system) may be controlled by means of the acquired data.
Die Aufzeichnung, Speicherung, Übermittlung und/oder die Auswertung der Daten lässt Rückschlüsse darauf zu, welchen Einflüssen des Ladegut während des Transportes ausgesetzt war. So kann die Produktqualität bestimmt und klassifiziert werden (z.B. die weitere The recording, storage, transmission and / or analysis of the data allows conclusions to be drawn as to which influences the cargo was subjected to during transport. Thus product quality can be determined and classified (e.g., the others
Haltbarkeit nach dem Transport). Es gibt auch Ausführungen bei denen das Verfahren dahingehend verfeinert werden kann, dass während des Transports automatisiert Keimanalysen des Ladeguts vorgenommen werden und in Abhängigkeit von der gemessenen Keimanzahl eine erforderliche Kühltemperatur bestimmt wird. So kann beispielsweise bei besonders niedriger Keimanzahl im Ladegut die Kühltemperatur unter Umständen angehoben werden. So kann Energie gespart werden, und letztlich können Transportkosten gesenkt werden. Durability after transport). There are also embodiments in which the method can be refined to the effect that automatically carried out during transport germ analyzes of the cargo and a required cooling temperature is determined depending on the measured number of nuclei. Thus, for example, with a particularly low number of germs in the load, the cooling temperature may be raised. This can save energy and ultimately reduce transportation costs.
Ausführungsbeispiele der vorliegenden Erfindung werden anhand der Zeichnungen erläutert. Dabei zeigt: Embodiments of the present invention will be explained with reference to the drawings. Showing:
Figur 1 eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Tankcontainers, der für die Verwendung einer erfindungsgemäßen Verschlussanordnung geeignet ist; Figure 1 is a perspective view of a tank container, which is suitable for the use of a closure assembly according to the invention;
Figur 2 einen Ausschnitt des in Figur 1 dargestellten Tankcontainers mit einem  2 shows a detail of the tank container shown in Figure 1 with a
Kühlaggregat;  Cooling unit;
Figur 3 den Untenentleerungsbereich des in Figur 1 dargestellten Containers;  FIG. 3 shows the lower discharge area of the container shown in FIG. 1;
Figur 4 die Scheitelanschlüsse im Mannlochbereich des in Figur 1 dargestellten 4 shows the vertex connections in the manhole area of the illustrated in Figure 1
Tankcontainers;  Tank container;
Figur 5 eine schematische Darstellung eines zur Datenübermittlung und zur Figure 5 is a schematic representation of a for data transmission and for
Ortsbestimmung geeigneten Tankcontainers;  Location of suitable tank container;
Figur 6 eine Ansicht von oben einer Mannlochdeckelanordnung; Figure 6 is a top view of a manhole cover assembly;
Figur 7 eine Schnittdarstellung (Schnitt B-B) des in Figur 6 dargestellten Figure 7 is a sectional view (section B-B) of the illustrated in Figure 6
Mannlochbereichs;  Manhole area;
Figur 8 eine weitere Schnittdarstellung (C-C) des in Figur 6 dargestellten FIG. 8 shows a further sectional view (C-C) of the one shown in FIG
Mannlochbereichs;  Manhole area;
Figur 9 eine vergrößerte Darstellung des Details D aus Figur 8; Figur 10 ein zweites Ausführungsbeispiele einer erfindungsgemäßen Figure 9 is an enlarged view of the detail D of Figure 8; 10 shows a second embodiment of an inventive
Verschlussanordnung;  Closure assembly;
Figur 11 ein drittes Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Figure 11 shows a third embodiment of an inventive
Verschlussanordnung;  Closure assembly;
Figur 12 ein viertes Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Figure 12 shows a fourth embodiment of an inventive
Verschlussanordnung Der in Figur 1 dargestellten Tankcontainer 1 weist einen zylindrischen, gegebenenfalls isolierten und an seiner Außenseite mit Kühlkanälen versehenen Behälter 2 auf, der in einem Rahmenwerk 3 gehalten wird.  Closure Arrangement The tank container 1 shown in FIG. 1 has a cylindrical container 2, optionally insulated and provided with cooling channels on its outside, which is held in a framework 3.
Im Scheitel des Behälters ist ein Haubenkasten 4 mit Scheitelanschlüssen angeordnet. An seinem hinteren Ende ist eine Ventilkammer 5 mit weiteren Anschlüssen sowie ein At the top of the container, a hood box 4 is arranged with vertex connections. At its rear end is a valve chamber 5 with further connections and a
Datenerfassungs- und Übertragungsgerät 6 angeordnet. Data acquisition and transmission device 6 is arranged.
Figur 2 zeigt die andere Seite des Tankcontainers 1 an der ein Kühlaggregat 7 angebracht ist, mit dem über Kühlkanäle und einen Kühlmittel die Behälterwand und damit die im Innern des Behälters 2 befindliche Ladung gekühlt werden kann. Figure 2 shows the other side of the tank container 1 to which a cooling unit 7 is mounted, with the cooling vessel and a coolant, the container wall and thus the charge located in the interior of the container 2 can be cooled.
Figur 3 zeigt die in der Ventilkammer 5 angeordneten Anschlüsse. Dargestellt ist eine Untenentleerung 8 mit einem für den Sterilbetrieb geeigneten Ventil 9, das beispielsweise als sterilisierbares Diaphragma- Ventil ausgebildet ist. FIG. 3 shows the connections arranged in the valve chamber 5. Shown is a bottom discharge 8 with a suitable for sterile operation valve 9, which is formed for example as a sterilizable diaphragm valve.
Andere geeignete Ventile sind auch sogenannte Leckageventile, bei denen zwei Medien (Produkt/Ladegut, Reinigungs-/ Abschirmmedium) in einem Produkt- und einem Other suitable valves are also so-called leakage valves, in which two media (product / load, cleaning / shielding medium) in a product and a
Leckageraum voneinander abgetrennt werden. Der Leckageraum kann dabei unabhängig vom Produktraum gereinigt, gespült oder mit einem Keimbarrierefluid (Alkohol) gefüllt werden. Es gibt Ausführungen solcher Leckageventile, die zusätzlich mit einer getrennt spülbaren Probeentnahme versehen sind. Für das Keimbarrierefluid ist ein zusätzliches Reservoir vorgesehen. Solche Ventile sind dann mit den entsprechenden Anschlüssen zur Produktentnahme und zum Spülen mit Dampf/Wasser und/oder zum Belegen mit einem Gas (z.B. Stickstoff) versehen. Leakage space are separated from each other. The leakage space can be cleaned, rinsed or filled with a germ barrier fluid (alcohol) independently of the product space. There are versions of such leakage valves, which are additionally provided with a separately flushable sampling. For the germ barrier fluid, an additional reservoir is provided. Such valves are then with the appropriate connections to Product removal and for flushing with steam / water and / or for covering with a gas (eg nitrogen) provided.
Weiter ist ein Gasanschluss 10 vorgesehen, der im Scheitelbereich des Behälters 2 mündet und über den der freie Raum über dem Füllspiegel des Ladeguts mit einem Gas, zum Beispiel Stickstoff, gefüllt werden kann. Dieses Gas schirmt das Ladegut gegen Umgebungsluft bzw. Sauerstoff ab und hemmt oder verhindert so mögliches Keimwachstum. Weiter ist eine Probenentnahmearmatur 11 vorgesehen. Figur 4 zeigt weitere im Haubenkasten 4 ungeordnete Anschlüsse, nämlich eine Further, a gas connection 10 is provided, which opens in the apex region of the container 2 and over which the free space above the filling level of the cargo with a gas, for example nitrogen, can be filled. This gas shields the cargo against ambient air or oxygen and inhibits or prevents possible germ growth. Further, a sampling valve 11 is provided. Figure 4 shows further in the hood box 4 disordered connections, namely a
Mannlochanordnung 12, ein kombiniertes Druckvakuumventil 13, dass gegebenenfalls mit einem Sterilfilter ausgestattet ist. Sowie den in den Behälter 2 mündenden Gasanschluss 14, der mit dem Gasanschluss 10 im Untenentleerungsbereich verbunden ist. Figur 5 zeigt den Tankcontainer 1, der mit einer Sendeeinrichtungen 15 versehen ist, die vom Datenerfassungs- und Übertragungsgerät 6 erfasste Daten (z.B. Druck, Temperatur,  Mannlochanordnung 12, a combined pressure vacuum valve 13, which is optionally equipped with a sterile filter. As well as the opening into the container 2 gas connection 14 which is connected to the gas connection 10 in the bottom discharge area. FIG. 5 shows the tank container 1 provided with a transmitting device 15, the data acquired by the data acquisition and transmission device 6 (e.g., pressure, temperature,
Einstellgrößen des Kühlaggregat) per Funk oder Datenfunk an einen entfernten Leitstand 16 übermittelt, über den Funktionen des Containers überwacht und/oder ferngesteuert werden können. Der jeweilige Aufenthaltsort des Tankcontainers 1 wird über ein Setting variables of the cooling unit) by radio or radio data transmission to a remote control station 16 can be monitored via the functions of the container and / or remotely controlled. The respective whereabouts of the tank container 1 is about
Satellitennavigationssystem 17 (GPS) oder ein anderes geeignetes System bestimmt und ebenfalls an den Leitstand übermittelt. Satellite navigation system 17 (GPS) or other suitable system and also transmitted to the control room.
Die Figuren 6-9 zeigen ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Figures 6-9 show an embodiment of an inventive
Verschlussanordnung, die als Mannlochanordnung 12 ausgebildet ist. Closure arrangement, which is designed as a manhole arrangement 12.
Die Mannlochanordnung 12 umfasst einen Mannlochdeckel 20 mit einer gewölbten Scheibe 21 und einem Dichtungsflansch 22. Der Deckel sitzt auf einem rohrförmigen Stutzen 23, der die Mannlochöffnung 24 im Behälter 2 umgibt und an seinem Rand mit diesem verschweißt ist. The manhole assembly 12 includes a manhole cover 20 having a domed disc 21 and a sealing flange 22. The lid is seated on a tubular nozzle 23 which surrounds the manhole opening 24 in the container 2 and is welded at its edge thereto.
Der Deckel 20 ist auf einem Flanschkragen 25 des Stutzens 22 angeordnet und über The lid 20 is disposed on a flange collar 25 of the nozzle 22 and over
Klappschrauben 26 fixierbar. Dabei bildet die Stirnfläche 27 des Flanschkragens 25 einen ersten Dichtbereich. Am äußeren Rand des Dichtungsfiansches 22 ist ein der Stirnfläche 27 entsprechender zweiter Dichtbereich 28 ausgebildet. Dieser umfasst eine äußere und innere Ringnut 29 und 30, in die jeweils ein äußerer und innerer Dichtungsring 31 und 32 eingelegt ist. Fastening screws 26 fixable. In this case, the end face 27 of the flange collar 25 forms a first sealing area. At the outer edge of Dichtungsfiansches 22 a of the end face 27 corresponding second sealing portion 28 is formed. This comprises an outer and inner annular groove 29 and 30, in each of which an outer and inner sealing ring 31 and 32 is inserted.
Außerhalb des äußeren Dichtungsrings 31 ist am Dichtungsfiansch 22 eine Zentrierkragen 33 angearbeitet, der einen entsprechenden Rücksprung 34 am Flanschkragen 25 übergreift und den zweiten Dichtbereich 28 auf dem ersten Dichtbereich 27 (Stirnfläche) so zentriert, dass der äußere und innere Dichtungsring 31, 32 auf der Stirnfläche 27 aufliegen. Outside the outer sealing ring 31, a centering collar 33 is worked on the sealing flange 22, which engages over a corresponding recess 34 on the flange collar 25 and the second sealing portion 28 on the first sealing portion 27 (end face) centered so that the outer and inner sealing ring 31, 32 on the Rest face 27.
Zwischen den beiden Dichtungsringen 31 , 32 ist eine Nut 35 ausgearbeitet, die auch bei fest aufsitzenden Dichtungsflansch 22, und bei zusammengequetschten Dichtungsringen 31, 32 einen von der Stirnfläche 27 begrenzten Zwischenraum bildet. Dieser Zwischenraum ist über zwei Anschlüsse 36 und 37 zugänglich. Wird dieser Between the two sealing rings 31, 32, a groove 35 is worked out, which forms a limited by the end face 27 even with firmly seated sealing flange 22, and squeezed together sealing rings 31, 32. This space is accessible via two ports 36 and 37. Will this
Zwischenraum (Nut 35) mit einem sterilisierenden Fluids gefüllt oder evakuiert, so bildet die Nut 35 eine Keimbarriere, die verhindert, dass von außen eindringende Keime durch die Dichtungsanordnung in das Innere des Behälters 2 gelangen. Über die Anschlüsse 36, 37 ist es möglich ein sterilisierendes Fluids zu- und/oder abzuführen bzw. den Zwischenraum ständig zu spülen oder ein Vakuum anzulegen. Beim Spülen werden über den äußeren Interspace (groove 35) filled with a sterilizing fluid or evacuated, the groove 35 forms a germ barrier, which prevents entering from the outside germs through the seal assembly into the interior of the container 2. Via the connections 36, 37 it is possible to supply and / or remove a sterilizing fluid or to constantly flush the intermediate space or to apply a vacuum. When rinsing be over the outer
Dichtungsringen 31 eintretende Keime aus dem Zwischenraum 35 herausgespült, bevor sie den inneren Dichtungsring 32 passieren können. Dazu kann ein Fluidspeicher vorgesehen werden (zum Beispiel eine Stickstofffiasche) die über die Anschlüsse 36, 37 den Sealing rings 31 entering germs rinsed out of the gap 35 before they can pass the inner sealing ring 32. For this purpose, a fluid reservoir may be provided (for example, a nitrogen trap) via the connections 36, 37
Zwischenraum 35 ständig mit einem Fluids auffüllt. Der Fluidspeicher kann auch dazu dienen, den Zwischenraum 35 unter Überdruck zu halten, so dass bei Undichtigkeiten des äußeren Dichtungsringes 31 das herausströmende Fluid verhindert, dass Keime eindringen können. Interspace 35 constantly fills with a fluid. The fluid reservoir can also serve to keep the intermediate space 35 under overpressure, so that in the case of leaks in the outer sealing ring 31, the outflowing fluid prevents germs from penetrating.
Figur 10 zeigt ein zweites Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Figure 10 shows a second embodiment of an inventive
Verschlussanordnung, bei welcher aus der Stirnfläche 27 eine Lamelle 38 in die Nut 35 hineinragt. Damit erhält der Zwischenraum einen labyrinthartigen Querschnitt, der die Passage zwischen äußerem Dichtring 31 und inneren Dichtring 32 verlängert und so die Funktion der Keimkarriere verbessern kann. Eintretende Keime müssen einen längeren Weg zurücklegen, bzw. wird deren Weg behindert, und können so besser neutralisiert werden. Closure arrangement in which from the end face 27 a lamella 38 projects into the groove 35. This gives the gap a labyrinth-like cross-section, which extends the passage between the outer sealing ring 31 and inner sealing ring 32 and so the Function of germination can improve. Entering germs must cover a longer path, or their path is obstructed and can be better neutralized.
Figur 11 zeigt ein drittes Ausführungsbeispiel, bei der in den Zwischenraum eine Einlage 39 eingelegt ist, die mit einem sterilisieren Fluids getränkt ist und so eine wirksame Keimbarriere bildet. Zur Positionierung dieser Einlage 39 sind entsprechende Nuten in der Stirnfläche 27 und zwischen den Dichtungsringen 31 , 32 vorgesehen. In einer anderen Ausführung sind die Flächen zwischen den Dichtungsringen 31 und 32 bzw. die Stirnfläche 27 plan ausgeführt; die Einlage 39 wird dann lediglich durch die hervorstehenden Dichtungsringe 31, 32 positioniert. Figure 11 shows a third embodiment in which in the space an insert 39 is inserted, which is impregnated with a sterilizing fluid and thus forms an effective germ barrier. For positioning this insert 39 corresponding grooves in the end face 27 and between the sealing rings 31, 32 are provided. In another embodiment, the surfaces between the sealing rings 31 and 32 and the end face 27 are made plan; the insert 39 is then positioned only by the protruding sealing rings 31, 32.
Figur 12 zeigt ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel, bei welchem die Nut 35 über den Stutzen 22 zugänglich ist. Der Stutzen 22 ist als dickwandiger Flansch 26 ausgebildet, in dem die Anschlüsse 36, 37 ausgebildet sind. Dabei ragt ein Gewindeanschluss 41 radial von außen in den Flansch 26. Davon etwa rechtwinklig abzweigend mündet eine Bohrung 42 nach oben durch die Stirnfläche 27 den Zwischenraum (Nut 35). Der Deckel 20 weist eine zweite, innere gewölbte Scheibe 21 ' auf, die konvex nach inne gewölbt ist. Der Zwischenraum 40 zwischen den gewölbten Scheiben 21 und 21 ' verbessert die thermische Isolierung des Behälters 2 bzw. des Tankcontainers 1. FIG. 12 shows a further exemplary embodiment in which the groove 35 is accessible via the connecting piece 22. The nozzle 22 is formed as a thick-walled flange 26, in which the terminals 36, 37 are formed. In this case, a threaded connection 41 protrudes radially from the outside into the flange 26 thereof approximately branching off at right angles opens a bore 42 upwardly through the end face 27, the gap (groove 35). The lid 20 has a second, inner curved disc 21 ', which is curved convexly inwards. The intermediate space 40 between the curved disks 21 and 21 'improves the thermal insulation of the container 2 or the tank container 1.
Weitere Ausführungen und Abwandlungen der Erfindung ergeben sich für den Fachmann im Rahmen der Ansprüche. Further embodiments and modifications of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the scope of the claims.

Claims

Ansprüche claims
1. Verschlussanordnung für einen Behälter, insbesondere für einen Tankcontainer (1), mit 1. closure arrangement for a container, in particular for a tank container (1), with
einem eine Behälteröffnung (24) umgebenden ersten Dichtbereich (27)  a first sealing region (27) surrounding a container opening (24)
einem die Behälteröffnung abdeckenden Deckel (20) mit einem dem ersten  a lid (20) covering the container opening with one of the first
Dichtbereich (27) entsprechenden zweiten Dichtbereich (28) und Sealing region (27) corresponding second sealing region (28) and
einer zwischen dem ersten und zweiten Dichtbereich verlaufenden  one extending between the first and second sealing area
Dichtungsanordnung (29, 30, 31, 32), Sealing arrangement (29, 30, 31, 32),
wobei die Dichtungsanordnung (29, 30, 31, 31) einen äußeren und einen inneren Dichtungsring (31, 32) aufweist, die einen Zwischenraum bilden, der eine Keimbarriere (35, 38, 39) umfasst.  said seal assembly (29, 30, 31, 31) having outer and inner seal rings (31, 32) forming a gap comprising a germ barrier (35, 38, 39).
2. Verschlussanordnung nach Anspruch 1, bei welcher die Keimbarriere (35, 38, 39) ein sterilisierendes Fluid, insbesondere Alkohol, aufweist. 2. A closure assembly according to claim 1, wherein the germ barrier (35, 38, 39) comprises a sterilizing fluid, in particular alcohol.
3. Verschlussanordnung nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, bei welcher der Zwischenraum eine Kammer (35) aufweist, die mit einem Zulauf (36, 37) und/oder einem Ablauf (36, 37) versehen ist, durch die das sterilisierende Fluid zu- und/oder abführbar ist. 3. A closure assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the intermediate space comprises a chamber (35) which is provided with an inlet (36, 37) and / or a drain (36, 37) through which the sterilizing fluid and / or is deductible.
4. Verschlussanordnung nach Anspruch 3, bei welcher Zu- und/oder Ablauf jeweils mit Anschlüssen versehen sind, über die der Zwischenraum mit einer Zufuhr- und/oder 4. A closure assembly according to claim 3, wherein the inlet and / or outlet are respectively provided with terminals through which the intermediate space with a supply and / or
Umwälzeinrichtung koppelbar ist. Circulating device can be coupled.
5. Verschlussanordnung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, bei welcher der Zwischenraum eine Einlage (39) aufweist, welche das sterilisierende Fluid aufnimmt. A closure assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gap comprises a liner (39) which receives the sterilizing fluid.
6. Verschlussanordnung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche , bei welcher der erste und zweite Dichtbereich mit ineinandergreifenden Lamellen (38) und/oder Nuten (35) versehen sind, so dass der Zwischenraum einen Labyrinth artigen Querschnitt aufweist. 6. Closure arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second sealing region with interlocking lamellae (38) and / or grooves (35) are provided, so that the intermediate space has a labyrinth-like cross-section.
7. Mannlochanordnung (12) mit einer Verschlussanordnung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche. 7. Manhole arrangement (12) with a closure arrangement according to one of the preceding claims.
8. Tankcontainer (1) mit einer Verschlussanordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 6. 8. Tank container (1) with a closure arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 6.
9. Verfahren zum aseptischen Transport von Lebensmitteln, insbesondere von 9. Aseptic transport of food, in particular of
Orangensaft mit: Orange juice with:
Bereitstellen eines Transportbehälter, insbesondere eines Tankcontainers (1) mit einer Verschlussanordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 6,  Providing a transport container, in particular a tank container (1) with a closure arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 6,
Befüllen des Transportbehälters mit flüssigem Lebensmittel  Fill the transport container with liquid food
Transport des Transportbehälters  Transport of the transport container
Entleeren des Transportbehälters  Emptying the transport container
10. Verfahren nach Anspruch 9, welches zusätzlich wenigstens einen der folgenden Schritte umfasst: 10. The method according to claim 9, which additionally comprises at least one of the following steps:
Temperieren des Tankcontainers,  Tempering the tank container,
Erfassen der Temperatur,  Detecting the temperature,
Erfassen des Aufenthaltsortes,  Recording the whereabouts,
Speichern der Temperatur- und/oder Ortsdaten ,  Storing the temperature and / or location data,
Übermitteln von Orts- und/oder Temperaturdaten an eine  Transfer of location and / or temperature data to one
Transportüberwachungsstelle,  Transport monitoring point,
Steuern einer Temperiereinrichtungen (Kühleinrichtung) mittels der erfassten Daten, Auswerten der Daten,  Controlling a tempering device (cooling device) by means of the acquired data, evaluating the data,
Klassifizieren der Produktqualität anhand der ausgewerteten Daten.  Classify the product quality based on the evaluated data.
EP12766681.6A 2011-10-03 2012-10-02 Closing assembly for a vessel, manhole, tank and method for transporting foods therewith Active EP2763915B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102011054137A DE102011054137A1 (en) 2011-10-03 2011-10-03 Device and method for the aseptic transport of food
PCT/EP2012/069448 WO2013050362A1 (en) 2011-10-03 2012-10-02 Closing assembly for a vessel and method for transporting foods

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2763915A1 true EP2763915A1 (en) 2014-08-13
EP2763915B1 EP2763915B1 (en) 2016-04-06

Family

ID=46963748

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP12766681.6A Active EP2763915B1 (en) 2011-10-03 2012-10-02 Closing assembly for a vessel, manhole, tank and method for transporting foods therewith

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP2763915B1 (en)
DE (2) DE202011110930U1 (en)
ES (1) ES2581504T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2013050362A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH713940B1 (en) 2017-06-23 2021-01-15 Gea Aseptomag Ag Connection head and valve node for filling or emptying a container.
CN111332637A (en) * 2018-12-18 2020-06-26 南通中集安瑞科食品装备有限公司 Container and manhole sealing structure thereof
RU204547U1 (en) * 2021-02-18 2021-05-31 Акционерное общество "Рузаевский завод химического машиностроения" (АО "Рузхиммаш") Tank container

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS59128428A (en) * 1983-01-13 1984-07-24 Toshiba Corp Leak detecting apparatus for bulkhead manhole in atomic reactor equipment
JPS63178958A (en) * 1986-12-27 1988-07-23 キヤノン株式会社 Dustproof vessel
DE4425396A1 (en) * 1994-07-19 1996-01-25 Mueller Umwelttechnik Tank for harmful material needing monitoring
JP2916679B2 (en) * 1995-11-08 1999-07-05 株式会社共立物流システム Tank with inner lid

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See references of WO2013050362A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ES2581504T3 (en) 2016-09-06
DE202011110930U1 (en) 2017-05-04
DE102011054137A1 (en) 2013-04-04
WO2013050362A1 (en) 2013-04-11
EP2763915B1 (en) 2016-04-06

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