EP3052386B1 - Apparatus for changing the flow of a flowable material - Google Patents

Apparatus for changing the flow of a flowable material Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3052386B1
EP3052386B1 EP14755389.5A EP14755389A EP3052386B1 EP 3052386 B1 EP3052386 B1 EP 3052386B1 EP 14755389 A EP14755389 A EP 14755389A EP 3052386 B1 EP3052386 B1 EP 3052386B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
channels
sectional area
cross sectional
channel
cross
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Application number
EP14755389.5A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3052386A1 (en
Inventor
Felix KILIAN
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.)
SIG Combibloc Services AG
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SIG Technology AG
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Priority to PL14755389T priority Critical patent/PL3052386T3/en
Publication of EP3052386A1 publication Critical patent/EP3052386A1/en
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Publication of EP3052386B1 publication Critical patent/EP3052386B1/en
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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02—Plumbing installations for fresh water
    • E03C1/08—Jet regulators or jet guides, e.g. anti-splash devices
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B39/00—Nozzles, funnels or guides for introducing articles or materials into containers or wrappers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B1/00—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means
    • B05B1/14—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means with multiple outlet openings; with strainers in or outside the outlet opening
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B1/00—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means
    • B05B1/14—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means with multiple outlet openings; with strainers in or outside the outlet opening
    • B05B1/16—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means with multiple outlet openings; with strainers in or outside the outlet opening having selectively- effective outlets
    • B05B1/1609—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means with multiple outlet openings; with strainers in or outside the outlet opening having selectively- effective outlets with a selecting mechanism comprising a lift valve
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B1/00—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means
    • B05B1/34—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to influence the nature of flow of the liquid or other fluent material, e.g. to produce swirl
    • B05B1/3402—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to influence the nature of flow of the liquid or other fluent material, e.g. to produce swirl to avoid or to reduce turbulencies, e.g. comprising fluid flow straightening means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B3/00—Packaging plastic material, semiliquids, liquids or mixed solids and liquids, in individual containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans, or jars
    • B65B3/04—Methods of, or means for, filling the material into the containers or receptacles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B39/00—Nozzles, funnels or guides for introducing articles or materials into containers or wrappers
    • B65B39/007—Guides or funnels for introducing articles into containers or wrappers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67C—CLEANING, FILLING WITH LIQUIDS OR SEMILIQUIDS, OR EMPTYING, OF BOTTLES, JARS, CANS, CASKS, BARRELS, OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; FUNNELS
    • B67C3/00—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus; Filling casks or barrels with liquids or semiliquids
    • B67C3/02—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus
    • B67C3/22—Details
    • B67C3/26—Filling-heads; Means for engaging filling-heads with bottle necks
    • B67C3/2608—Filling-heads; Means for engaging filling-heads with bottle necks comprising anti-dripping means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67C—CLEANING, FILLING WITH LIQUIDS OR SEMILIQUIDS, OR EMPTYING, OF BOTTLES, JARS, CANS, CASKS, BARRELS, OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; FUNNELS
    • B67C3/00—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus; Filling casks or barrels with liquids or semiliquids
    • B67C3/02—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus
    • B67C3/22—Details
    • B67C3/28—Flow-control devices, e.g. using valves
    • B67C3/281—Profiled valve bodies for smoothing the flow at the outlet of the filling nozzle
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B39/00—Nozzles, funnels or guides for introducing articles or materials into containers or wrappers
    • B65B2039/009—Multiple outlets
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B3/00—Packaging plastic material, semiliquids, liquids or mixed solids and liquids, in individual containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans, or jars
    • B65B3/22—Defoaming liquids in connection with filling
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B55/00—Preserving, protecting or purifying packages or package contents in association with packaging
    • B65B55/02—Sterilising, e.g. of complete packages

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device for changing the jet shape of flowable products, in particular of foods, comprising: an inlet region for the entry of the flowable products, an outlet region for the outlet of the flowable products, and a plurality of channels for the passage of the flowable products, each channel a the inlet region associated inlet and an outlet associated with the outlet region, each inlet of a channel having a first cross-sectional area, and wherein each outlet of a channel has a second cross-sectional area.
  • the invention also relates to the use of such a device for filling food, in particular for the aseptic filling of food.
  • the flowable products may be, for example, foods such as milk, fruit juice, sauces or yoghurt.
  • the flowable products may be, for example, foods such as milk, fruit juice, sauces or yoghurt.
  • composite packaging with layers of cardboard and plastic can be used as packaging.
  • An important step in the filling of the packaging is to fill the flowable products as quickly as possible in the packaging in order to achieve a fast timing and thus high volumes can.
  • the filling should be done largely without spattering and foaming in order to meet the hygienic requirements and to avoid contamination on the packaging or the filling machine.
  • the high requirements can only be met if the filling process is adapted to individual factors such as the properties of the product to be filled and the volume and shape of the packaging.
  • the adjustment regularly includes a setting of the flow rate and the flow rate.
  • the filling nozzle is adapted to the product to be filled and the packaging and optionally replaced. Because the filling nozzle significantly determines the shape and the velocity profile of the filling jet.
  • the filling nozzle is responsible for a drip-free filling. For this purpose, the volume flow before exiting the filling nozzle is often divided into several partial flows, which are passed through individual channels.
  • a filling nozzle for filling food for example, from the EP 2 078 678 A1 known.
  • the filling nozzle shown there has an exchangeable plate with numerous holes.
  • the holes are cylindrically shaped and run parallel to each other in order to produce with the plate a particularly straight filling jet ("flow straightening plate"). While the inlets of the holes lie in a plane, the outlets of the holes are arranged on a curved surface, so that the holes - viewed in the direction of flow - have different lengths.
  • the flow velocity should be influenced. In particular, the flow velocity in the middle of the filling jet should be slowed down more by longer holes and the consequent higher friction than in the edge regions of the filling jet.
  • the from the EP 2 078 678 A1 known filling nozzle has several disadvantages.
  • Another disadvantage is the different length of the holes. Because a curved exit region of the plate causes the partial flows of the product to be filled at different times detach from the underside of the plate and are also exposed to a different size drop height to the bottom of the package. Those partial streams that are passed through shorter holes and earlier detach from the underside of the plate, are earlier exposed to a fall acceleration than those partial streams, which are still in the longer holes at this time.
  • the device according to the invention is initially characterized by an inlet region for the entry of the flowable products and by an outlet region for the outlet of the flowable products. Between the inlet area and the outlet area are several channels for the passage of the flowable products arranged. Each of the channels has an inlet associated with the entrance area. In addition, each of the channels has an outlet associated with the exit area. Each inlet has a first cross-sectional area and each outlet has a second cross-sectional area.
  • the second cross-sectional area of at least one channel is greater than the first cross-sectional area of this channel.
  • the second cross-sectional area of each channel is greater than the first cross-sectional area of that channel.
  • the cross-sectional area of the channels increases in the flow direction, ie from the inlet in the direction of the outlet. According to the laws of fluid mechanics, in particular the law of Bernoulli, an increase in the cross-sectional area leads to a proportional decrease in the flow velocity.
  • the inventive design of the channels thus leads to a slowing down of the flowing part of the channel flow.
  • the quotient of the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area is therefore always smaller than one and represents a measure of the degree of deceleration.
  • This quotient can therefore also be referred to as a "deceleration factor”; its reciprocal can be referred to as "acceleration factor”.
  • the device according to the invention may for example be made of metal, in particular of steel, preferably stainless steel.
  • the channels may be drilled by deep drilling or cut by wire eroding.
  • the enlargement of the cross-sectional area can take place uniformly and in particular steadily and / or monotonously according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • the continuous and / or monotonous enlargement of the cross-sectional area can take place in at least one channel or, preferably, in all channels.
  • a continuous enlargement is understood to mean an enlargement without abrupt changes in the cross-sectional area.
  • a monotone enlargement of the cross-sectional area means that the cross-sectional area in the direction of flow does not shrink at any time, but either remains the same or increases throughout. This can be achieved for example by cone-shaped channel walls.
  • An embodiment of the invention provides that the quotient of the sum of the first cross-sectional areas of all channels and the sum of the second cross-sectional areas of all channels is in the range between 0.35 and 0.75. This means that the total cross-sectional area at the inlet of the channels is only about 35% to 75% of the total cross-sectional area at the outlet of the channels. There is therefore a significant increase in the total cross-sectional area in the flow direction and thus a slowing down of the entire flow. According to an embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the quotient of the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area in each channel is in the range between 0.35 and 0.75.
  • the off-center channels have a distance from the central axis of the device and that the quotient of the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area decreases with increasing distance of the off-center channels to the central axis of the device, in particular decreases steadily or monotonically.
  • an off-center channel is meant any channel which does not run along the central axis of the device.
  • the quotient of the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area - ie the deceleration factor - in the outside lying channels is smaller than in the more inward channels.
  • the flow should therefore be slowed down more in the outer channels than in the more inward channels.
  • the further down the channel the lower the deceleration factor.
  • the inlets and / or the outlets of the off-center channels are arranged in a circle on rings around the central axis of the device.
  • a plurality of channels can be arranged such that their inlets and / or their outlets are equidistant from the central axis.
  • the quotients of the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area are identical for all off-center channels of the same ring. This means that those partial flows which are equidistant from the central axis are also slowed down at the same rate. In this way, a filling jet with a symmetrical velocity profile can be generated.
  • the quotients of the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area decrease with increasing distance of the ring to the central axis of the device, in particular drop steadily or monotonically.
  • the inlets and the outlets of the channels are arranged in one plane.
  • the arrangement of the inlets in a plane has the advantage that all inlets simultaneously through a can be safely sealed particularly simple shaped, in particular by a flat sealing element.
  • the arrangement of the outlets in a plane has the advantage that all partial flows simultaneously detach from the underside of the device and thus at the same time be exposed to the acceleration of gravity.
  • the plane in which the inlets of the channels are arranged is parallel to the plane in which the outlets of the channels are arranged.
  • This has - at least in straight channels - the advantage that the channels are the same length and thus the friction-induced slowdown of the partial flows in all channels is about the same size.
  • the inlets and / or the outlets of the channels are arranged point-symmetrically or axially symmetrically. By a symmetrical distribution of the inlets and / or outlets a uniform, low turbulence distribution of the flow and a symmetrical filling jet are achieved.
  • the invention provides that the number of channels is at least 50 and in particular in the range between 100 and 150.
  • the total flow is to be divided according to this development into a particularly high number of partial flows.
  • This has the advantage that the speed and direction of this partial flow can be set individually for each partial flow, so that even complex shapes and velocity profiles of the filler jet can be achieved.
  • a high number of channels leads to a larger contact area between the flow and the channel, which reduces the risk of dripping if the filling is interrupted due to the capillary action.
  • the channels in the region of their outlets are separated from one another by webs whose thickness is 0.3 mm or less.
  • the thickness of the webs is even 0.2 mm or less.
  • the partial flows After emerging from the device, the partial flows should reunite to form a total flow, the air as possible no air pockets having. This process is assisted by particularly thin webs at the outlets of the channels, since the closely adjacent sub-streams can quickly merge into a total flow due to attractive forces.
  • the central axes of the off-center channels are arranged inclined with respect to the central axis of the device by an inclination angle. Due to the inclination of the off-center channels, the partial flows in these channels can also receive a horizontal pulse in addition to a vertical pulse. This allows a particularly variable design of the shape of the filling jet.
  • the affected channels may be inclined outwards or inwards, viewed in the flow direction. An outward inclination spreads or divides the filling jet and directs it laterally against the walls of the packaging. In this way, the packaging is particularly gentle and largely filled without foaming. An inward inclination, however, allows a particularly sharp, concentrated filling jet.
  • the inclination angle is in the range between 1 ° and 6 °.
  • the angle of inclination is the angle which is established between the central axis of the device and the central axis of the corresponding channel.
  • the specified range may in turn relate to an outward inclination or an inward inclination.
  • the inclination angle of the off-center channels increases with increasing distance of the channels to the central axis of the device, in particular increases steadily or monotonically.
  • the inclination of the channels should therefore be the greater the further out the channel is arranged.
  • the stronger inclination of the outer channels is particularly advantageous when tilting inwards, since in this way a particularly slender, concentrated filling jet can be achieved.
  • the device described above can be used in all illustrated embodiments especially good for filling food, especially for aseptic filling of food.
  • the foods may be, for example, milk, fruit juice, sauces or yoghurt.
  • a filling nozzle 1 known from the prior art is shown in cross-section.
  • the filling nozzle 1 comprises a body 2 and a plate 3 for shaping the flow.
  • the plate 3 can be exchangeably inserted into the body 2 by fitting a circumferential flange 4 provided on the plate 3 on a projection 5 provided on the body 2.
  • the plate 3 has a plurality of holes 6, the one - in Fig. 1a schematically represented by arrows - allow flow through the filling nozzle 1 with flowable products. After emerging from the filling nozzle 1, the flowable products form a jet 7 whose outer contour in Fig. 1 is shown.
  • a central axis eighth Through the body 2 and the plate 3 centrally extends a central axis eighth
  • Fig. 1b shows an enlarged section of the plate 3 of the filling nozzle 1 from Fig. 1a in cross section.
  • the plate 3 has an upper side 9 for the entry of the flowable products and a lower side 10 for the outlet of the flowable products.
  • the top 9 is connected through the holes 6 with the bottom 10.
  • Each of the holes 6 has an inlet 11 and an outlet 12, wherein the inlets 11 of the holes 6 are associated with the top 9 and wherein the outlets 12 of the holes 6 are associated with the bottom 10.
  • Plate 3 shown all run holes 6 parallel to the central axis 8 of the plate 3 and thus have no inclination.
  • the cross-sectional area of all the holes 6 is identical and does not change in the flow direction, that is, from the inlet 11 to the outlet 12.
  • the top 9 is formed by a plane in which the inlets 11 of the holes 6 are located.
  • the bottom 10 is formed by a curved surface in which the outlets 12 of the holes lie.
  • the underside 10 is curved in such a way that those holes 6 which lie in the vicinity of the central axis 8 are longer than those holes 6 which lie in the edge region of the plate 3.
  • circumferential chamfers 13 may be provided.
  • Fig. 1c is the plate 3 of the filling nozzle 1 from Fig. 1a along the in Fig. 1a drawn cutting plane Ic-Ic, so viewed from the bottom, shown. Also in Fig. 1c are already related to Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b described areas of the plate 3 provided with corresponding reference numerals. For the sake of clarity, was in Fig. 1c dispensed with a representation of the body 2. Fig. 1c illustrates that a plurality of holes 6 are arranged close to each other and occupy almost the entire surface of the plate 3. In the Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b and Fig. 1c shown filling nozzle 1 largely corresponds to that of the EP 2 078 678 A1 known filling nozzle.
  • Fig. 2a shows a first embodiment of a device 14 according to the invention for changing the jet shape of flowable products in cross section.
  • the device 14 has an integrally formed housing 15, which comprises an inlet region 16 for the entry of the flowable products and an outlet region 17 for the outlet of the flowable products. Between the inlet region 16 and the outlet region 17, a plurality of channels 18 for the passage of the flowable products in the housing 15 are arranged.
  • the channels 18 each have an inlet 19 assigned to the inlet region 16 and an outlet 20 associated with the outlet region 17.
  • the device 14 are both the inlet region 16 - and thus also the inlets 19 - and the outlet region 17 - and thus also the outlets 20 - arranged in a plane, wherein the two planes are parallel to each other.
  • the device 14 has on its upper side a circumferential flange 21, in which a plurality of bores 22 are introduced.
  • the device 14 can be connected, for example, with a filling machine.
  • a valve rod 23 is shown with a sealing element 24. Although these components are not part of the device 14, but serve to explain their operation.
  • the valve rod 23rd lowered, so that the sealing element 24 is pressed onto the inlet region 16 and closes the inlets 19 of the channels 18 arranged there.
  • the sealing element 24 and the device 14 centrally extends a central axis 25th
  • the ducts 18 may be divided into a central duct 18 'and a plurality of eccentric ducts 18 ", the central axis of the central duct 18' corresponding to the central axis 25 of the apparatus, ie the central duct 18 'is straight downwards and stationary perpendicular to the two planes of the inlet region 16 and the outlet region 17.
  • the central axes of the off-center channels 18 " are inclined relative to the central axis 25 of the device 14 by an inclination angle ⁇ .
  • the inclination angle of the off-center channels 18 increases steadily or monotonically with increasing distance of the channels 18" to the central axis 25 of the device 14.
  • those off-center channels 18 "with the largest distance to the central axis 18" - ie the radially outer channels 18 "- are inclined the most.
  • the off-center channels 18" are inclined in the direction of flow in the direction of the central axis 25, so that the Outlets 20 of the channels 18 "are closer to the central axis 25 than the inlets 19 of the channels 18".
  • the channels 18 of in Fig. 2a The device 14 shown by way of example has a first cross-sectional area 26 and a second cross-sectional area 27, the first cross-sectional area 26 being measured at the inlets 19 and the second cross-sectional area 27 being measured at the outlets 20.
  • the channels 18 of in Fig. 2a The device 14 shown is characterized in that the second cross-sectional area 27 of each channel 18 is greater than the first cross-sectional area 26 of this channel 18. This affects both the central channel 18 'and the off-center channels 18''In other words, increases the cross-sectional area of Channels 18 seen in the flow direction from their inlets 19 to their outlets 20th
  • Fig. 2b shows the device 14 from Fig. 2a in cross-section along the in Fig. 2a Plotted sectional plane IIb-IIb.
  • Fig. 2b Accordingly, a view of the inlet region 16 of the device 14 is shown.
  • Fig. 2b provided with corresponding reference numerals.
  • Fig. 2b it can be seen that the device 14 has a circular cross-section.
  • the circular area of the entrance area 16 may be at the in Fig. 2b are exemplified device 14 divided into sealing regions 28 and four inlet regions 29, each of which covers approximately a range of 90 °.
  • the sealing areas 28 are for sealing installation of - in Fig.
  • the off-center channels 18 are circularly arranged on five concentric rings
  • the first innermost ring has eight channels 18" (two per lead-in area 29).
  • the second ring has sixteen channels 18 "(four per lead-in area 29) .
  • the third ring has twenty-four channels 18" (six per lead-in area 29).
  • the fourth ring has thirty-two channels 18 "(eight per lead-in area 29) and the fifth ring finally has thirty-six channels 18" (nine per lead-in area 29). In total, therefore, one hundred and seventeen channels 18 are present.
  • Fig. 2c shows the device 14 from Fig. 2a in cross-section along the in Fig. 2a Plotted section plane IIc-IIc.
  • Fig. 2c Accordingly, a look at the exit region 17 of the device 14 is shown.
  • Fig. 2c provided with corresponding reference numerals.
  • the surface of the outlet region 17 is no longer subdivided into sealing regions 28 and inlet regions 29, since firstly no surface is required for contacting the sealing element 24 and secondly more surface area is required for the channel cross sections enlarged in this region. Therefore, the channels 18 are in the plane the exit area 17 only separated by very narrow webs 30.
  • the channels 18 are divided into four segments, each covering about 90 ° of the surface and are distributed point-symmetrically about the central channel 18 'around.
  • a second embodiment of a device 14 according to the invention for changing the jet shape of flowable products is shown in cross section.
  • the already in connection with the first embodiment ( Fig. 2a - Fig. 2c ) of the device 14 are described in Fig. 3a provided with corresponding reference numerals.
  • the essential difference between the first and the second embodiment of the device 14 lies in a different arrangement of the channels 18 and their inlets and outlets 19, 20. The differences are described below with reference to Fig. 3b and Fig. 3c clarified.
  • Fig. 3b shows the device 14 from Fig. 3a in cross-section along the in Fig. 3a Plotted sectional plane IIIb-IIIb.
  • Fig. 3b Accordingly, a view of the inlet region 16 of the device 14 is shown.
  • the essential difference between the first and the second embodiment of the device 14 is that in the in Fig. 3b 14, the surface of the inlet region 16 can be subdivided into a sealing region 28 'and into two inlet regions 29', each covering approximately a region of 180 °.
  • the in Fig. 3b shows the device 14 from Fig. 3a in cross-section along the in Fig. 3a Plotted sectional plane IIIb-IIIb.
  • Fig. 3b Accordingly, a view of the inlet region 16 of the device 14 is shown.
  • the surface of the inlet region 16 can be subdivided into a sealing region 28 'and into two inlet regions 29'
  • the inlets 19 of the channels 18 have a specific pattern around the central channel 18 ', the eccentric channels 18 "being arranged in a circle on five concentric rings, the first innermost ring having ten channels 18" (five per inlet area) 29 ').
  • the second ring has eighteen channels 18 "(nine per lead-in area 29 ').
  • the third ring has twenty-four channels 18" (twelve per lead-in area 29).
  • the fourth ring has thirty channels 18 "(fifteen per lead-in area 29 ') and the fifth ring finally has thirty-six channels 18" (eighteen per lead-in area 29). In total, there are one hundred and nineteen channels 18.
  • Fig. 3c shows the device Fig. 3a in cross-section along the in Fig. 3a Plotted sectional plane IIIc-IIIc.
  • Fig. 3c Accordingly, a look at the exit region 17 of the device 14 is shown.
  • the essential difference between the first and the second embodiment of the device 14 is that in the in Fig. 3c shown device 14, the channels 18 are divided into two segments, each cover about 180 ° of the surface and are arranged mirror-symmetrically to each other.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Supply Of Fluid Materials To The Packaging Location (AREA)
  • Nozzles (AREA)
  • Basic Packing Technique (AREA)
  • Formation And Processing Of Food Products (AREA)
  • General Preparation And Processing Of Foods (AREA)
  • Confectionery (AREA)
  • Manufacturing And Processing Devices For Dough (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung zur Veränderung der Strahlform von fließfähigen Produkten, insbesondere von Nahrungsmitteln, umfassend: einen Eintrittsbereich zum Eintritt der fließfähigen Produkte, einen Austrittsbereich zum Austritt der fließfähigen Produkte, und mehrere Kanäle zur Durchleitung der fließfähigen Produkte, wobei jeder Kanal einen dem Eintrittsbereich zugeordneten Einlass und einen dem Austrittsbereich zugeordneten Auslass aufweist, wobei jeder Einlass eines Kanals eine erste Querschnittsfläche aufweist, und wobei jeder Auslass eines Kanals eine zweite Querschnittsfläche aufweist.The invention relates to a device for changing the jet shape of flowable products, in particular of foods, comprising: an inlet region for the entry of the flowable products, an outlet region for the outlet of the flowable products, and a plurality of channels for the passage of the flowable products, each channel a the inlet region associated inlet and an outlet associated with the outlet region, each inlet of a channel having a first cross-sectional area, and wherein each outlet of a channel has a second cross-sectional area.

Die Erfindung betrifft zudem die Verwendung einer derartigen Vorrichtung zur Abfüllung von Nahrungsmitteln, insbesondere zur aseptischen Abfüllung von Nahrungsmitteln.The invention also relates to the use of such a device for filling food, in particular for the aseptic filling of food.

Auf dem Gebiet der Verpackungstechnik sind zahlreiche Möglichkeiten bekannt, fließfähige Produkte in die dafür vorgesehenen Verpackungen zu füllen. Bei den fließfähigen Produkten kann es sich beispielsweise um Nahrungsmittel wie etwa Milch, Fruchtsaft, Saucen oder Joghurt handeln. Als Verpackungen können beispielsweise Verbundverpackungen mit Lagen aus Pappe und Kunststoff eingesetzt werden.Numerous possibilities are known in the field of packaging technology for filling flowable products into the packaging provided for this purpose. The flowable products may be, for example, foods such as milk, fruit juice, sauces or yoghurt. For example, composite packaging with layers of cardboard and plastic can be used as packaging.

Ein wichtiger Schritt bei der Befüllung der Verpackungen besteht darin, die fließfähigen Produkte möglichst schnell in die Verpackungen zu füllen, um eine schnelle Taktung und somit hohe Stückzahlen erreichen zu können. Trotz der hohen Strömungsgeschwindigkeit soll die Befüllung jedoch weitgehend ohne Spritzer und Schaumbildung erfolgen, um die hygienischen Anforderungen erfüllen zu können und Verunreinigungen an der Verpackung oder der Abfüllmaschine zu vermeiden.An important step in the filling of the packaging is to fill the flowable products as quickly as possible in the packaging in order to achieve a fast timing and thus high volumes can. Despite the high flow rate, however, the filling should be done largely without spattering and foaming in order to meet the hygienic requirements and to avoid contamination on the packaging or the filling machine.

Besonders hohe hygienische Anforderungen treten bei Nahrungsmitteln auf, die unter sterilen, also keimfreien Bedingungen abgefüllt werden.Particularly high hygienic requirements occur in foods that are filled under sterile, ie germ-free conditions.

Den hohen Anforderungen kann nur genügt werden, wenn der Befüllvorgang an individuelle Faktoren wie beispielsweise die Eigenschaften des abzufüllenden Produkts und das Volumen sowie die Form der Verpackung angepasst wird. Die Anpassung beinhaltet regelmäßig eine Einstellung der Durchflussmenge und der Durchflussgeschwindigkeit. Darüber hinaus wird oftmals auch die Fülldüse an das abzufüllende Produkt und die Verpackung angepasst und gegebenenfalls ausgetauscht. Denn die Fülldüse bestimmt maßgeblich die Form und das Geschwindigkeitsprofil des Füllstrahls. Zudem ist die Fülldüse für eine tropfenfreie Befüllung verantwortlich. Hierzu wird der Volumenstrom vor dem Austritt aus der Fülldüse häufig in mehrere Teilströme aufgeteilt, die durch einzelne Kanäle geleitet werden. Dies hat den Vorteil, dass das abzufüllende Produkt mit einer größeren Wandfläche in Berührung kommt, wodurch bei einer Unterbrechung der Befüllung die Restmenge des abzufüllenden Produkts sicher in den Kanälen gehalten wird und nicht unkontrolliert auf die Verpackung oder die Abfüllmaschine tropft ("Kapillarwirkung").The high requirements can only be met if the filling process is adapted to individual factors such as the properties of the product to be filled and the volume and shape of the packaging. The adjustment regularly includes a setting of the flow rate and the flow rate. In addition, often the filling nozzle is adapted to the product to be filled and the packaging and optionally replaced. Because the filling nozzle significantly determines the shape and the velocity profile of the filling jet. In addition, the filling nozzle is responsible for a drip-free filling. For this purpose, the volume flow before exiting the filling nozzle is often divided into several partial flows, which are passed through individual channels. This has the advantage that the product to be filled comes into contact with a larger wall surface, whereby the rest of the product to be filled is held securely in the channels at an interruption of the filling and does not drip uncontrollably on the packaging or the filling machine ("capillary action").

Eine Fülldüse für die Abfüllung von Nahrungsmitteln ist beispielsweise aus der EP 2 078 678 A1 bekannt. Zur Aufteilung des Volumenstromes weist die dort gezeigte Fülldüse eine austauschbare Platte mit zahlreichen Löchern auf. Die Löcher sind zylindrisch geformt und verlaufen parallel zueinander, um mit der Platte einen besonders geraden Füllstrahl zu erzeugen ("flow straightening plate"). Während die Einlässe der Löcher in einer Ebene liegen, sind die Auslässe der Löcher auf einer gekrümmten Fläche angeordnet, so dass die Löcher - in Strömungsrichtung betrachtet - unterschiedlich lang sind. Durch die Variation der Länge der Löcher soll die Strömungsgeschwindigkeit beeinflusst werden. Insbesondere soll die Strömungsgeschwindigkeit in der Mitte des Füllstrahls durch längere Löcher und die dadurch bedingte höhere Reibung stärker verlangsamt werden als in den Randbereichen des Füllstrahls.A filling nozzle for filling food, for example, from the EP 2 078 678 A1 known. To divide the volume flow, the filling nozzle shown there has an exchangeable plate with numerous holes. The holes are cylindrically shaped and run parallel to each other in order to produce with the plate a particularly straight filling jet ("flow straightening plate"). While the inlets of the holes lie in a plane, the outlets of the holes are arranged on a curved surface, so that the holes - viewed in the direction of flow - have different lengths. By varying the length of the holes, the flow velocity should be influenced. In particular, the flow velocity in the middle of the filling jet should be slowed down more by longer holes and the consequent higher friction than in the edge regions of the filling jet.

Die aus der EP 2 078 678 A1 bekannte Fülldüse hat mehrere Nachteile. Zunächst muss aufgrund der zweiteiligen Konstruktion die Platte gegenüber dem Körper der Fülldüse abgedichtet werden. In dem abzudichtenden Spalt zwischen Platte und Körper können sich Produktreste ablagern, was hygienisch problematisch ist. Ein weiterer Nachteil liegt in der unterschiedlichen Länge der Löcher. Denn ein gekrümmter Austrittsbereich der Platte führt dazu, dass sich die Teilströme des abzufüllenden Produkts zu unterschiedlichen Zeitpunkten von der Unterseite der Platte ablösen und zudem einer unterschiedlich großen Fallhöhe bis zum Boden der Verpackung ausgesetzt werden. Diejenigen Teilströme, die durch kürzere Löcher geführt werden und sich früher von der Unterseite der Platte ablösen, werden früher einer Fallbeschleunigung ausgesetzt als diejenigen Teilströme, die sich zu diesem Zeitpunkt noch in den längeren Löchern befinden. Aufgrund der unterschiedlichen Fallhöhen der Teilströme werden diese im freien Fall auch unterschiedlich lange beschleunigt und erreichen einen unterschiedlich großen Geschwindigkeitszuwachs. Dies hat zur Folge, dass das an der Unterseite der Platte eingestellte Geschwindigkeitsprofil im freien Fall wieder verändert wird. Das für die Spritzerbildung maßgebliche Geschwindigkeitsprofil beim Aufprall des Füllstrahls auf den Boden der Verpackung lässt sich daher mit der vorgeschlagenen Lösung nur sehr unpräzise einstellen. WO 97/15493 A1 , FR 2511971 , FR2905121 oder EP0919472 A1 offenbaren ähnliche Vorrichtungen. Der Erfindung liegt daher die Aufgabe zugrunde, die eingangs genannte und zuvor näher beschriebene Vorrichtung derart auszugestalten und weiterzubilden, dass sich die Form und das Geschwindigkeitsprofil des Füllstrahls einfach einstellen lassen.The from the EP 2 078 678 A1 known filling nozzle has several disadvantages. First, due to the two-part construction, the plate must be sealed against the body of the filling nozzle. In the gap to be sealed between the plate and the body product residues can deposit, which is hygienically problematic. Another disadvantage is the different length of the holes. Because a curved exit region of the plate causes the partial flows of the product to be filled at different times detach from the underside of the plate and are also exposed to a different size drop height to the bottom of the package. Those partial streams that are passed through shorter holes and earlier detach from the underside of the plate, are earlier exposed to a fall acceleration than those partial streams, which are still in the longer holes at this time. Due to the different fall heights of the partial flows they are accelerated in free fall for different lengths and reach a different rate of increase in speed. This has the consequence that the speed profile set on the underside of the plate is changed again in free fall. The speed profile relevant to the formation of spatter upon impact of the filling jet with the bottom of the package can therefore only be adjusted very imprecisely with the proposed solution. WO 97/15493 A1 . FR 2511971 . FR2905121 or EP0919472 A1 disclose similar devices. The invention is therefore based on the object, the above-mentioned device and previously described in such a way and further develop that can be easily set the shape and the velocity profile of the filling jet.

Diese Aufgabe wird bei einer Vorrichtung nach dem Patentanspruch 1 gelöst. Die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung zeichnet sich zunächst durch einen Eintrittsbereich zum Eintritt der fließfähigen Produkte sowie durch einen Austrittsbereich zum Austritt der fließfähigen Produkte aus. Zwischen dem Eintrittsbereich und dem Austrittsbereich sind mehrere Kanäle zur Durchleitung der fließfähigen Produkte angeordnet. Jeder der Kanäle weist einen Einlass auf, der dem Eintrittsbereich zugeordnet ist. Zudem weist jeder der Kanäle einen Auslass aus, der dem Austrittsbereich zugeordnet ist. Jeder Einlass weist eine erste Querschnittsfläche auf und jeder Auslass weist eine zweite Querschnittsfläche auf.This object is achieved in a device according to claim 1. The device according to the invention is initially characterized by an inlet region for the entry of the flowable products and by an outlet region for the outlet of the flowable products. Between the inlet area and the outlet area are several channels for the passage of the flowable products arranged. Each of the channels has an inlet associated with the entrance area. In addition, each of the channels has an outlet associated with the exit area. Each inlet has a first cross-sectional area and each outlet has a second cross-sectional area.

Gemäß der Erfindung ist die zweite Querschnittsfläche wenigstens eines Kanals größer ist als die erste Querschnittsfläche dieses Kanals. Vorzugsweise ist die zweite Querschnittsfläche jedes Kanals größer ist als die erste Querschnittsfläche dieses Kanals. Mit anderen Worten vergrößert sich die Querschnittsfläche der Kanäle in Strömungsrichtung, also von dem Einlass in Richtung des Auslasses. Nach den Gesetzen der Strömungsmechanik, insbesondere dem Gesetz von Bernoulli führt eine Vergrößerung der Querschnittsfläche zu einer proportionalen Abnahme der Strömungsgeschwindigkeit. Die erfindungsgemäße Ausbildung der Kanäle führt demnach zu einer Verlangsamung der in dem Kanal fließenden Teilströmung. Der Quotient aus der ersten Querschnittsfläche und der zweiten Querschnittsfläche ist daher stets kleiner als eins und stellt ein Maß für den Grad der Verlangsamung dar. Dieser Quotient kann daher auch als "Verlangsamungsfaktor" bezeichnet werden; sein Kehrwert kann demgegenüber als "Beschleunigungsfaktor" bezeichnet werden. Die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung kann beispielsweise aus Metall, insbesondere aus Stahl, vorzugsweise Edelstahl, hergestellt sein. Die Kanäle können beispielsweise durch Tiefbohrverfahren gebohrt oder durch Drahterodieren geschnitten werden.According to the invention, the second cross-sectional area of at least one channel is greater than the first cross-sectional area of this channel. Preferably, the second cross-sectional area of each channel is greater than the first cross-sectional area of that channel. In other words, the cross-sectional area of the channels increases in the flow direction, ie from the inlet in the direction of the outlet. According to the laws of fluid mechanics, in particular the law of Bernoulli, an increase in the cross-sectional area leads to a proportional decrease in the flow velocity. The inventive design of the channels thus leads to a slowing down of the flowing part of the channel flow. The quotient of the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area is therefore always smaller than one and represents a measure of the degree of deceleration. This quotient can therefore also be referred to as a "deceleration factor"; its reciprocal can be referred to as "acceleration factor". The device according to the invention may for example be made of metal, in particular of steel, preferably stainless steel. For example, the channels may be drilled by deep drilling or cut by wire eroding.

Die Vergrößerung der Querschnittsfläche kann nach einer Ausbildung der Erfindung gleichmäßig und insbesondere stetig und/oder monoton erfolgen. Die stetige und/oder monotone Vergrößerung der Querschnittsfläche kann bei wenigstens einem Kanal oder - vorzugsweise - bei allen Kanälen erfolgen. Unter einer stetigen Vergrößerung wird eine Vergrößerung ohne sprunghafte Veränderungen der Querschnittsfläche verstanden. Eine monotone Vergrößerung der Querschnittsfläche bedeutet, dass sich die Querschnittsfläche in Strömungsrichtung zu keiner Zeit wieder verkleinert, sondern durchgehend entweder gleich bleibt oder ansteigt. Dies kann beispielsweise durch kegelmantelförmige Kanalwände erreicht werden.The enlargement of the cross-sectional area can take place uniformly and in particular steadily and / or monotonously according to an embodiment of the invention. The continuous and / or monotonous enlargement of the cross-sectional area can take place in at least one channel or, preferably, in all channels. A continuous enlargement is understood to mean an enlargement without abrupt changes in the cross-sectional area. A monotone enlargement of the cross-sectional area means that the cross-sectional area in the direction of flow does not shrink at any time, but either remains the same or increases throughout. This can be achieved for example by cone-shaped channel walls.

Eine Ausgestaltung der Erfindung sieht vor, dass der Quotient aus der Summe der ersten Querschnittsflächen aller Kanäle und der Summe der zweiten Querschnittsflächen aller Kanäle im Bereich zwischen 0,35 und 0,75 liegt. Dies bedeutet, dass die gesamte Querschnittsfläche am Einlass der Kanäle nur etwa 35% bis 75% der gesamten Querschnittsfläche am Auslass der Kanäle beträgt. Es erfolgt daher eine deutliche Vergrößerung der gesamten Querschnittsfläche in Strömungsrichtung und somit eine Verlangsamung der gesamten Strömung.
Nach einer Ausbildung der Erfindung ist vorgesehen, dass der Quotient aus der ersten Querschnittsfläche und der zweiten Querschnittsfläche bei jedem Kanal im Bereich zwischen 0,35 und 0,75 liegt. Dies bedeutet, dass nicht nur die Summe der Querschnittsflächen, sondern die Querschnittsfläche am Einlass jedes einzelnen Kanals nur etwa 35% bis 75% der Querschnittsfläche am Auslass dieses Kanals beträgt. Jeder einzelne Kanal soll demnach zu einer deutlichen Vergrößerung der Querschnittsfläche und daraus folgenden Verlangsamung der Strömung beitragen, die innerhalb des genannten Bereiches liegt. In der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung ist vorgesehen, dass die außermittigen Kanäle einen Abstand zur Mittelachse der Vorrichtung aufweisen und dass der Quotient aus der ersten Querschnittsfläche und der zweiten Querschnittsfläche mit steigendem Abstand der außermittigen Kanäle zur Mittelachse der Vorrichtung sinkt, insbesondere stetig oder monoton sinkt. Unter einem außermittigen Kanal wird jeder Kanal verstanden, der nicht entlang der Mittelachse der Vorrichtung verläuft. Diese Lehre sieht also vor, dass der Quotient aus der ersten Querschnittsfläche und der zweiten Querschnittsfläche - also der Verlangsamungsfaktor - bei den außen liegenden Kanälen kleiner ist als bei den weiter innen liegenden Kanälen. Die Strömung soll also bei den außen liegenden Kanälen stärker verlangsamt werden als bei den weiter innen liegenden Kanälen. Vorzugsweise ist der Verlangsamungsfaktor umso kleiner, je weiter außen der Kanal angeordnet ist.
In weiterer Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist vorgesehen, dass die Einlässe und/oder die Auslässe der außermittigen Kanäle kreisförmig auf Ringen um die Mittelachse der Vorrichtung angeordnet sind. Nach dieser Ausgestaltung können mehrere Kanäle derart angeordnet werden, dass ihre Einlässe und/oder ihre Auslässe gleich weit von der Mittelachse entfernt sind. Auf diese Weise lässt sich ein gleichmäßiger, symmetrisch geformter Füllstrahl erzeugen.
Zu dieser Ausgestaltung wird weiter vorgeschlagen, dass die Quotienten aus der ersten Querschnittsfläche und der zweiten Querschnittsfläche bei allen außermittigen Kanälen desselben Ringes identisch sind. Dies bedeutet, dass diejenigen Teilströmungen, die gleich weit von der Mittelachse entfernt sind, auch gleich stark verlangsamt werden. Auf diese Weise lässt sich ein Füllstrahl mit einem symmetrischen Geschwindigkeitsprofil erzeugen.
Hierzu wird weiter vorgeschlagen, dass die Quotienten aus der ersten Querschnittsfläche und der zweiten Querschnittsfläche mit steigendem Abstand des Ringes zur Mittelachse der Vorrichtung sinken, insbesondere stetig oder monoton sinken. Dies hat zur Folge, dass die Teilströmungen in den Kanälen der inneren Ringe weniger stark verlangsamt werden als die Teilströmungen in den Kanälen der weiter außen liegenden Ringe. Auf diese Weise lässt sich ein Füllstrahl mit einem stufenförmigen Geschwindigkeitsprofil erzeugen, wobei die Kanäle jedes Ringes eine Stufe darstellen. In der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung ist vorgesehen, dass die Einlässe und die Auslässe der Kanäle in einer Ebene angeordnet sind. Die Anordnung der Einlässe in einer Ebene hat den Vorteil, dass alle Einlässe gleichzeitig durch ein besonders einfach geformtes, insbesondere durch ein ebenes Dichtelement sicher abgedichtet werden können. Die Anordnung der Auslässe in einer Ebene hat den Vorteil, dass sämtliche Teilströmungen sich gleichzeitig von der Unterseite der Vorrichtung ablösen und somit gleichzeitig der Fallbeschleunigung ausgesetzt werden. Vorzugsweise ist die Ebene, in der die Einlässe der Kanäle angeordnet sind, parallel zu der Ebene, in der die Auslässe der Kanäle angeordnet sind. Dies hat - jedenfalls bei gerade verlaufenden Kanälen - den Vorteil, dass die Kanäle gleich lang sind und somit die reibungsbedingte Verlangsamung der Teilströmungen in allen Kanälen etwa gleich groß ist.
Gemäß einer Ausgestaltung der Erfindung wird vorgeschlagen, dass die Einlässe und/oder die Auslässe der Kanäle punktsymmetrisch oder achsensymmetrisch angeordnet sind. Durch eine symmetrische Verteilung der Einlässe und/oder der Auslässe werden eine gleichmäßige, verwirbelungsarme Verteilung der Strömung und ein symmetrischer Füllstrahl erreicht. Die Erfindung sieht vor, dass die Anzahl der Kanäle wenigstens 50 beträgt und insbesondere im Bereich zwischen 100 und 150 liegt. Die Gesamtströmung soll nach dieser Weiterbildung in eine besonders hohe Anzahl von Teilströmungen aufgeteilt werden. Dies hat den Vorteil, dass für jede Teilströmung die Geschwindigkeit und Richtung dieser Teilströmung individuell eingestellt werden kann, so dass sich auch komplexe Formen und Geschwindigkeitsprofile des Füllstrahls erzielen lassen. Zudem führt eine hohe Anzahl von Kanälen zu einer größeren Kontaktfläche zwischen Strömung und Kanal, was aufgrund der Kapillarwirkung die Tropfgefahr bei einer Unterbrechung der Befüllung verringert.
Gemäß einer Ausbildung der Erfindung ist vorgesehen, dass die Kanäle im Bereich ihrer Auslässe durch Stege voneinander getrennt sind, deren Dicke 0,3 mm oder weniger beträgt. Vorzugsweise beträgt die Dicke der Stege sogar 0,2 mm oder weniger. Nach dem Austritt aus der Vorrichtung sollen die Teilströmungen sich wieder zu einer Gesamtströmung vereinigen, die möglichst keine Lufteinschlüsse aufweist. Dieser Vorgang wird durch besonders dünne Stege an den Auslässen der Kanäle unterstützt, da sich die dicht benachbarten Teilströmungen aufgrund von Anziehungskräften schnell zu einer Gesamtströmung zusammenschließen können.An embodiment of the invention provides that the quotient of the sum of the first cross-sectional areas of all channels and the sum of the second cross-sectional areas of all channels is in the range between 0.35 and 0.75. This means that the total cross-sectional area at the inlet of the channels is only about 35% to 75% of the total cross-sectional area at the outlet of the channels. There is therefore a significant increase in the total cross-sectional area in the flow direction and thus a slowing down of the entire flow.
According to an embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the quotient of the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area in each channel is in the range between 0.35 and 0.75. This means that not only the sum of the cross-sectional areas, but the cross-sectional area at the inlet of each individual channel is only about 35% to 75% of the cross-sectional area at the outlet of this channel. Each individual channel should therefore contribute to a significant increase in the cross-sectional area and consequent slowing down of the flow, which lies within the stated range. In the device according to the invention it is provided that the off-center channels have a distance from the central axis of the device and that the quotient of the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area decreases with increasing distance of the off-center channels to the central axis of the device, in particular decreases steadily or monotonically. By an off-center channel is meant any channel which does not run along the central axis of the device. This teaching therefore provides that the quotient of the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area - ie the deceleration factor - in the outside lying channels is smaller than in the more inward channels. The flow should therefore be slowed down more in the outer channels than in the more inward channels. Preferably, the further down the channel the lower the deceleration factor.
In a further embodiment of the invention it is provided that the inlets and / or the outlets of the off-center channels are arranged in a circle on rings around the central axis of the device. According to this embodiment, a plurality of channels can be arranged such that their inlets and / or their outlets are equidistant from the central axis. In this way, a uniform, symmetrically shaped filling jet can be produced.
For this embodiment, it is further proposed that the quotients of the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area are identical for all off-center channels of the same ring. This means that those partial flows which are equidistant from the central axis are also slowed down at the same rate. In this way, a filling jet with a symmetrical velocity profile can be generated.
For this purpose, it is further proposed that the quotients of the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area decrease with increasing distance of the ring to the central axis of the device, in particular drop steadily or monotonically. This has the consequence that the partial flows in the channels of the inner rings are slowed down less than the partial flows in the channels of the outer rings. In this way, a filling jet with a stepped velocity profile can be generated, wherein the channels of each ring represent a step. In the device according to the invention it is provided that the inlets and the outlets of the channels are arranged in one plane. The arrangement of the inlets in a plane has the advantage that all inlets simultaneously through a can be safely sealed particularly simple shaped, in particular by a flat sealing element. The arrangement of the outlets in a plane has the advantage that all partial flows simultaneously detach from the underside of the device and thus at the same time be exposed to the acceleration of gravity. Preferably, the plane in which the inlets of the channels are arranged is parallel to the plane in which the outlets of the channels are arranged. This has - at least in straight channels - the advantage that the channels are the same length and thus the friction-induced slowdown of the partial flows in all channels is about the same size.
According to one embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the inlets and / or the outlets of the channels are arranged point-symmetrically or axially symmetrically. By a symmetrical distribution of the inlets and / or outlets a uniform, low turbulence distribution of the flow and a symmetrical filling jet are achieved. The invention provides that the number of channels is at least 50 and in particular in the range between 100 and 150. The total flow is to be divided according to this development into a particularly high number of partial flows. This has the advantage that the speed and direction of this partial flow can be set individually for each partial flow, so that even complex shapes and velocity profiles of the filler jet can be achieved. In addition, a high number of channels leads to a larger contact area between the flow and the channel, which reduces the risk of dripping if the filling is interrupted due to the capillary action.
According to one embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the channels in the region of their outlets are separated from one another by webs whose thickness is 0.3 mm or less. Preferably, the thickness of the webs is even 0.2 mm or less. After emerging from the device, the partial flows should reunite to form a total flow, the air as possible no air pockets having. This process is assisted by particularly thin webs at the outlets of the channels, since the closely adjacent sub-streams can quickly merge into a total flow due to attractive forces.

Nach einer weiteren Ausgestaltung der Erfindung sind die Mittelachsen der außermittigen Kanäle gegenüber der Mittelachse der Vorrichtung um einen Neigungswinkel geneigt angeordnet. Durch die Neigung der außermittigen Kanäle können die Teilströmungen in diesen Kanälen neben einem vertikalen Impuls auch einen horizontalen Impuls erhalten. Dies erlaubt eine besonders variable Gestaltung der Form des Füllstrahls. Die betroffenen Kanäle können - in Strömungsrichtung gesehen - nach außen oder nach innen geneigt sein. Eine Neigung nach außen spreizt oder teilt den Füllstrahl und lenkt ihn seitlich an die Wände der Verpackung. Auf diese Weise wird die Verpackung besonders schonend und weitgehend ohne Schaumbildung befüllt. Eine Neigung nach innen ermöglicht hingegen einen besonders spitzen, konzentrierten Füllstrahl.According to a further embodiment of the invention, the central axes of the off-center channels are arranged inclined with respect to the central axis of the device by an inclination angle. Due to the inclination of the off-center channels, the partial flows in these channels can also receive a horizontal pulse in addition to a vertical pulse. This allows a particularly variable design of the shape of the filling jet. The affected channels may be inclined outwards or inwards, viewed in the flow direction. An outward inclination spreads or divides the filling jet and directs it laterally against the walls of the packaging. In this way, the packaging is particularly gentle and largely filled without foaming. An inward inclination, however, allows a particularly sharp, concentrated filling jet.

Zu dieser Ausgestaltung wird weiter vorgeschlagen, dass der Neigungswinkel im Bereich zwischen 1° und 6° liegt. Der Neigungswinkel ist derjenige Winkel, der sich zwischen der Mittelachse der Vorrichtung und der Mittelachse des entsprechenden Kanals einstellt. Der angegebene Bereich kann wiederum eine Neigung nach außen oder eine Neigung nach innen betreffen.For this embodiment, it is further proposed that the inclination angle is in the range between 1 ° and 6 °. The angle of inclination is the angle which is established between the central axis of the device and the central axis of the corresponding channel. The specified range may in turn relate to an outward inclination or an inward inclination.

Weiter wird zu diesen beiden Ausgestaltungen vorgeschlagen, dass der Neigungswinkel der außermittigen Kanäle mit steigendem Abstand der Kanäle zur Mittelachse der Vorrichtung ansteigt, insbesondere stetig oder monoton ansteigt. Die Neigung der Kanäle soll also umso größer sein, je weiter außen der Kanal angeordnet ist. Die stärkere Neigung der äußeren Kanäle ist insbesondere bei einer Neigung nach innen vorteilhaft, da auf diese Weise ein besonders schlanker, konzentrierter Füllstrahl erreicht werden kann.It is further proposed to these two embodiments that the inclination angle of the off-center channels increases with increasing distance of the channels to the central axis of the device, in particular increases steadily or monotonically. The inclination of the channels should therefore be the greater the further out the channel is arranged. The stronger inclination of the outer channels is particularly advantageous when tilting inwards, since in this way a particularly slender, concentrated filling jet can be achieved.

Die zuvor beschriebene Vorrichtung kann in allen dargestellten Ausgestaltungen besonders gut zur Abfüllung von Nahrungsmitteln, insbesondere zur aseptischen Abfüllung von Nahrungsmitteln verwendet werden. Bei den Nahrungsmitteln kann es sich beispielsweise um Milch, Fruchtsaft, Saucen oder Joghurt handeln.The device described above can be used in all illustrated embodiments especially good for filling food, especially for aseptic filling of food. The foods may be, for example, milk, fruit juice, sauces or yoghurt.

Die Erfindung wird nachfolgend anhand einer lediglich ein bevorzugtes Ausführungsbeispiel darstellenden Zeichnung näher erläutert. In der Zeichnung zeigen:

Fig. 1a
eine aus dem Stand der Technik bekannte Fülldüse im Querschnitt,
Fig. 1b
einen vergrößerten Ausschnitt der Platte der Fülldüse aus Fig. 1a im Querschnitt,
Fig. 1c
die Platte der Fülldüse aus Fig. 1a entlang der in Fig. 1a eingezeichneten Schnittebene Ic-Ic,
Fig. 2a
eine erste Ausgestaltung einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung zur Veränderung der Strahlform von fließfähigen Produkten im Querschnitt,
Fig. 2b
die Vorrichtung aus Fig. 2a im Querschnitt entlang der in Fig. 2a eingezeichneten Schnittebene IIb-IIb,
Fig. 2c
die Vorrichtung aus Fig. 2a im Querschnitt entlang der in Fig. 2a eingezeichneten Schnittebene IIc-IIc,
Fig. 3a
eine zweite Ausgestaltung einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung zur Veränderung der Strahlform von fließfähigen Produkten im Querschnitt,
Fig. 3b
die Vorrichtung aus Fig. 3a im Querschnitt entlang der in Fig. 3a eingezeichneten Schnittebene IIIb-IIIb, und
Fig. 3c
die Vorrichtung aus Fig. 3a im Querschnitt entlang der in Fig. 3a eingezeichneten Schnittebene IIIc-IIIc.
The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to a drawing showing only a preferred embodiment. In the drawing show:
Fig. 1a
a filling nozzle known from the prior art in cross-section,
Fig. 1b
an enlarged section of the plate of the filling nozzle Fig. 1a in cross section,
Fig. 1c
the plate of the filling nozzle Fig. 1a along the in Fig. 1a Plotted section plane Ic-Ic,
Fig. 2a
A first embodiment of a device according to the invention for changing the jet shape of flowable products in cross section,
Fig. 2b
the device off Fig. 2a in cross-section along the in Fig. 2a drawn section plane IIb-IIb,
Fig. 2c
the device off Fig. 2a in cross-section along the in Fig. 2a Plotted sectional plane IIc-IIc,
Fig. 3a
a second embodiment of a device according to the invention for changing the jet shape of flowable products in cross section,
Fig. 3b
the device off Fig. 3a in cross-section along the in Fig. 3a Plotted sectional plane IIIb-IIIb, and
Fig. 3c
the device off Fig. 3a in cross-section along the in Fig. 3a Plotted sectional plane IIIc-IIIc.

In Fig. 1 ist eine aus dem Stand der Technik bekannte Fülldüse 1 im Querschnitt dargestellt. Die Fülldüse 1 umfasst einen Körper 2 und eine Platte 3 zur Formung der Strömung. Die Platte 3 kann austauschbar in den Körper 2 eingesetzt werden, indem ein umlaufender Flansch 4, der an der Platte 3 vorgesehen ist, auf einen Vorsprung 5, der an dem Körper 2 vorgesehen ist, aufgesetzt wird. Die Platte 3 weist mehrere Löcher 6 auf, die eine - in Fig. 1a schematisch mit Pfeilen dargestellte - Durchströmung der Fülldüse 1 mit fließfähigen Produkten erlauben. Nach dem Austritt aus der Fülldüse 1 bilden die fließfähigen Produkte einen Strahl 7, dessen äußere Kontur in Fig. 1 gezeigt ist. Durch den Körper 2 und die Platte 3 verläuft zentral eine Mittelachse 8.In Fig. 1 a filling nozzle 1 known from the prior art is shown in cross-section. The filling nozzle 1 comprises a body 2 and a plate 3 for shaping the flow. The plate 3 can be exchangeably inserted into the body 2 by fitting a circumferential flange 4 provided on the plate 3 on a projection 5 provided on the body 2. The plate 3 has a plurality of holes 6, the one - in Fig. 1a schematically represented by arrows - allow flow through the filling nozzle 1 with flowable products. After emerging from the filling nozzle 1, the flowable products form a jet 7 whose outer contour in Fig. 1 is shown. Through the body 2 and the plate 3 centrally extends a central axis eighth

Fig. 1b zeigt einen vergrößerten Ausschnitt der Platte 3 der Fülldüse 1 aus Fig. 1a im Querschnitt. Die bereits im Zusammenhang mit Fig. 1a beschriebenen Bereiche der Platte 3 sind in Fig. 1b mit entsprechenden Bezugszeichen versehen. Die Platte 3 weist eine Oberseite 9 zum Eintritt der fließfähigen Produkte und eine Unterseite 10 zum Austritt der fließfähigen Produkte auf. Die Oberseite 9 ist durch die Löcher 6 mit der Unterseite 10 verbunden. Jedes der Löcher 6 weist einen Einlass 11 und einen Auslass 12 auf, wobei die Einlässe 11 der Löcher 6 der Oberseite 9 zugeordnet sind und wobei die Auslässe 12 der Löcher 6 der Unterseite 10 zugeordnet sind. Bei der in Fig. 1b dargestellten Platte 3 verlaufen alle Löcher 6 parallel zur Mittelachse 8 der Platte 3 und weisen somit keine Neigung auf. Zudem ist die Querschnittsfläche aller Löcher 6 identisch und verändert sich in Strömungsrichtung, also von dem Einlass 11 zu dem Auslass 12, nicht. Die Oberseite 9 wird durch eine Ebene gebildet, in der die Einlässe 11 der Löcher 6 liegen. Demgegenüber wird die Unterseite 10 durch eine gekrümmte Fläche gebildet, in der die Auslässe 12 der Löcher liegen. Die Unterseite 10 ist derart gekrümmt, dass diejenigen Löcher 6, die in der Nähe der Mittelachse 8 liegen, länger sind, als diejenigen Löcher 6, die im Randbereich der Platte 3 liegen. An den Rändern der Auslässe 12 können umlaufende Fasen 13 vorgesehen sein. Fig. 1b shows an enlarged section of the plate 3 of the filling nozzle 1 from Fig. 1a in cross section. Already related to Fig. 1a described areas of the plate 3 are in Fig. 1b provided with corresponding reference numerals. The plate 3 has an upper side 9 for the entry of the flowable products and a lower side 10 for the outlet of the flowable products. The top 9 is connected through the holes 6 with the bottom 10. Each of the holes 6 has an inlet 11 and an outlet 12, wherein the inlets 11 of the holes 6 are associated with the top 9 and wherein the outlets 12 of the holes 6 are associated with the bottom 10. At the in Fig. 1b Plate 3 shown all run holes 6 parallel to the central axis 8 of the plate 3 and thus have no inclination. In addition, the cross-sectional area of all the holes 6 is identical and does not change in the flow direction, that is, from the inlet 11 to the outlet 12. The top 9 is formed by a plane in which the inlets 11 of the holes 6 are located. In contrast, the bottom 10 is formed by a curved surface in which the outlets 12 of the holes lie. The underside 10 is curved in such a way that those holes 6 which lie in the vicinity of the central axis 8 are longer than those holes 6 which lie in the edge region of the plate 3. At the edges of the outlets 12 circumferential chamfers 13 may be provided.

In Fig. 1c ist die Platte 3 der Fülldüse 1 aus Fig. 1a entlang der in Fig. 1a eingezeichneten Schnittebene Ic-Ic, also von der Unterseite betrachtet, dargestellt. Auch in Fig. 1c sind die bereits im Zusammenhang mit Fig. 1a und Fig. 1b beschriebenen Bereiche der Platte 3 mit entsprechenden Bezugszeichen versehen. Aus Gründen der besseren Übersichtlichkeit wurde in Fig. 1c auf eine Darstellung des Körpers 2 verzichtet. Fig. 1c verdeutlicht, dass eine Vielzahl von Löchern 6 dicht nebeneinander angeordnet sind und dabei nahezu die gesamte Fläche der Platte 3 einnehmen. Die in Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b und Fig. 1c dargestellte Fülldüse 1 entspricht weitgehend der aus der EP 2 078 678 A1 bekannten Fülldüse.In Fig. 1c is the plate 3 of the filling nozzle 1 from Fig. 1a along the in Fig. 1a drawn cutting plane Ic-Ic, so viewed from the bottom, shown. Also in Fig. 1c are already related to Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b described areas of the plate 3 provided with corresponding reference numerals. For the sake of clarity, was in Fig. 1c dispensed with a representation of the body 2. Fig. 1c illustrates that a plurality of holes 6 are arranged close to each other and occupy almost the entire surface of the plate 3. In the Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b and Fig. 1c shown filling nozzle 1 largely corresponds to that of the EP 2 078 678 A1 known filling nozzle.

Fig. 2a zeigt eine erste Ausgestaltung einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung 14 zur Veränderung der Strahlform von fließfähigen Produkten im Querschnitt. Die Vorrichtung 14 weist ein einteilig ausgebildetes Gehäuse 15 auf, das einen Eintrittsbereich 16 zum Eintritt der fließfähigen Produkte und einen Austrittsbereich 17 zum Austritt der fließfähigen Produkte umfasst. Zwischen dem Eintrittsbereich 16 und dem Austrittsbereich 17 sind eine Vielzahl von Kanälen 18 zur Durchleitung der fließfähigen Produkte in dem Gehäuse 15 angeordnet. Die Kanäle 18 weisen jeweils einen dem Eintrittsbereich 16 zugeordneten Einlass 19 und einem dem Austrittsbereich 17 zugeordneten Auslass 20 auf. Bei der in Fig. 2a gezeigten Vorrichtung 14 sind sowohl der Eintrittsbereich 16 - und somit auch die Einlässe 19 - als auch der Austrittsbereich 17 - und somit auch die Auslässe 20 - in einer Ebene angeordnet, wobei die beiden Ebenen parallel zueinander liegen. Schließlich weist die Vorrichtung 14 an ihrer Oberseite einen umlaufenden Flansch 21 auf, in den mehrere Bohrungen 22 eingebracht sind. Über die Bohrungen 22 kann die Vorrichtung 14 beispielsweise mit einer Abfüllmaschine verbunden werden. Fig. 2a shows a first embodiment of a device 14 according to the invention for changing the jet shape of flowable products in cross section. The device 14 has an integrally formed housing 15, which comprises an inlet region 16 for the entry of the flowable products and an outlet region 17 for the outlet of the flowable products. Between the inlet region 16 and the outlet region 17, a plurality of channels 18 for the passage of the flowable products in the housing 15 are arranged. The channels 18 each have an inlet 19 assigned to the inlet region 16 and an outlet 20 associated with the outlet region 17. At the in Fig. 2a shown device 14 are both the inlet region 16 - and thus also the inlets 19 - and the outlet region 17 - and thus also the outlets 20 - arranged in a plane, wherein the two planes are parallel to each other. Finally, the device 14 has on its upper side a circumferential flange 21, in which a plurality of bores 22 are introduced. About the holes 22, the device 14 can be connected, for example, with a filling machine.

In Fig. 2a ist weiterhin eine Ventilstange 23 mit einem Dichtelement 24 dargestellt. Diese Bauteile gehören zwar nicht zur Vorrichtung 14, dienen jedoch der Erläuterung ihrer Funktionsweise. Um die - in Fig. 2a schematisch mit Pfeilen dargestellte - Durchströmung der Vorrichtung 14 zu unterbrechen, wird die Ventilstange 23 abgesenkt, so dass das Dichtelement 24 auf den Eintrittsbereich 16 gedrückt wird und die dort angeordneten Einlässe 19 der Kanäle 18 verschließt. Durch die Ventilstange 23, das Dichtelement 24 und die Vorrichtung 14 verläuft zentral eine Mittelachse 25.In Fig. 2a Furthermore, a valve rod 23 is shown with a sealing element 24. Although these components are not part of the device 14, but serve to explain their operation. To the - in Fig. 2a schematically illustrated with arrows - to interrupt flow through the device 14, the valve rod 23rd lowered, so that the sealing element 24 is pressed onto the inlet region 16 and closes the inlets 19 of the channels 18 arranged there. Through the valve rod 23, the sealing element 24 and the device 14 centrally extends a central axis 25th

Bei der in Fig. 2a beispielhaft dargestellten Vorrichtung 14 können die Kanäle 18 in einen zentralen Kanal 18' und in mehrere außermittige Kanäle 18" unterteilt werden. Die Mittelachse des zentralen Kanals 18' entspricht der Mittelachse 25 der Vorrichtung; der zentrale Kanal 18' verläuft also gerade nach unten und steht senkrecht auf den beiden Ebenen des Eintrittsbereiches 16 und des Austrittsbereiches 17. Die Mittelachsen der außermittigen Kanäle 18" sind hingegen gegenüber der Mittelachse 25 der Vorrichtung 14 um einen Neigungswinkel α geneigt. Der Neigungswinkel der außermittigen Kanäle 18" steigt mit steigendem Abstand der Kanäle 18" zur Mittelachse 25 der Vorrichtung 14 stetig oder monoton an. Mit anderen Worten sind diejenigen außermittigen Kanäle 18" mit dem größten Abstand zur Mittelachse 18" - also die radial außen liegenden Kanäle 18" - am stärksten geneigt. Die außermittigen Kanäle 18" sind in Strömungsrichtung gesehen in Richtung der Mittelachse 25 geneigt, so dass die Auslässe 20 der Kanäle 18" näher an der Mittelachse 25 liegen als die Einlässe 19 der Kanäle 18".At the in Fig. 2a By way of example, the ducts 18 may be divided into a central duct 18 'and a plurality of eccentric ducts 18 ", the central axis of the central duct 18' corresponding to the central axis 25 of the apparatus, ie the central duct 18 'is straight downwards and stationary perpendicular to the two planes of the inlet region 16 and the outlet region 17. The central axes of the off-center channels 18 ", however, are inclined relative to the central axis 25 of the device 14 by an inclination angle α. The inclination angle of the off-center channels 18 "increases steadily or monotonically with increasing distance of the channels 18" to the central axis 25 of the device 14. In other words, those off-center channels 18 "with the largest distance to the central axis 18" - ie the radially outer channels 18 "- are inclined the most.The off-center channels 18" are inclined in the direction of flow in the direction of the central axis 25, so that the Outlets 20 of the channels 18 "are closer to the central axis 25 than the inlets 19 of the channels 18".

Die Kanäle 18 der in Fig. 2a beispielhaft dargestellten Vorrichtung 14 weisen eine erste Querschnittsfläche 26 und eine zweite Querschnittsfläche 27 auf, wobei die erste Querschnittsfläche 26 an den Einlässen 19 gemessen wird und wobei die zweite Querschnittsfläche 27 an den Auslässen 20 gemessen wird. Die Kanäle 18 der in Fig. 2a gezeigten Vorrichtung 14 zeichnen sich dadurch aus, dass die zweite Querschnittsfläche 27 jedes Kanals 18 größer ist als erste Querschnittsfläche 26 dieses Kanals 18. Dies betrifft sowohl den zentralen Kanal 18' als auch die außermittigen Kanäle 18". Mit anderen Worten vergrößert sich die Querschnittsfläche der Kanäle 18 in Strömungsrichtung gesehen von ihren Einlässen 19 zu ihren Auslässen 20.The channels 18 of in Fig. 2a The device 14 shown by way of example has a first cross-sectional area 26 and a second cross-sectional area 27, the first cross-sectional area 26 being measured at the inlets 19 and the second cross-sectional area 27 being measured at the outlets 20. The channels 18 of in Fig. 2a The device 14 shown is characterized in that the second cross-sectional area 27 of each channel 18 is greater than the first cross-sectional area 26 of this channel 18. This affects both the central channel 18 'and the off-center channels 18''In other words, increases the cross-sectional area of Channels 18 seen in the flow direction from their inlets 19 to their outlets 20th

Fig. 2b zeigt die Vorrichtung 14 aus Fig. 2a im Querschnitt entlang der in Fig. 2a eingezeichneten Schnittebene IIb-IIb. In Fig. 2b ist demnach ein Blick auf den Eintrittsbereich 16 der Vorrichtung 14 dargestellt. Die bereits im Zusammenhang mit Fig. 2a beschriebenen Bereiche der Vorrichtung 14 sind in Fig. 2b mit entsprechenden Bezugszeichen versehen. In Fig. 2b ist erkennbar, dass die Vorrichtung 14 einen kreisförmigen Querschnitt aufweist. Die kreisförmige Fläche des Eintrittsbereiches 16 kann bei der in Fig. 2b beispielhaft dargestellten Vorrichtung 14 in Dichtbereiche 28 und in vier Einlaufbereiche 29 unterteilt werden, von denen jeder etwa einen Bereich von 90° abdeckt. Die Dichtbereiche 28 sind zur abdichtenden Anlage des - in Fig. 2b nicht gezeigten - Dichtelements 24 bestimmt. In jedem der vier Einlaufbereiche 29 sind neunundzwanzig außermittige Kanäle 18" angeordnet, dessen Einlässe 19 erkennbar sind. In der Mitte des Eintrittsbereiches 16 liegt der zentrale Kanal 18'. Die Einlässe 19 der Kanäle 18 der in Fig. 2b dargestellten Vorrichtung 14 weisen ein bestimmtes Muster auf: Um den zentralen Kanal 18' herum sind die außermittigen Kanäle 18" kreisförmig auf fünf konzentrischen Ringen angeordnet. Der erste, innerste Ring weist acht Kanäle 18" auf (zwei pro Einlaufbereich 29). Der zweite Ring weist sechzehn Kanäle 18" auf (vier pro Einlaufbereich 29). Der dritte Ring weist vierundzwanzig Kanäle 18" auf (sechs pro Einlaufbereich 29). Der vierte Ring weist zweiunddreißig Kanäle 18" auf (acht pro Einlaufbereich 29) und der fünfte Ring weist schließlich sechsunddreißig Kanäle 18" auf (neun pro Einlaufbereich 29). Insgesamt sind also einhundertsiebzehn Kanäle 18 vorhanden. Fig. 2b shows the device 14 from Fig. 2a in cross-section along the in Fig. 2a Plotted sectional plane IIb-IIb. In Fig. 2b Accordingly, a view of the inlet region 16 of the device 14 is shown. Already related to Fig. 2a described areas of the device 14 are in Fig. 2b provided with corresponding reference numerals. In Fig. 2b it can be seen that the device 14 has a circular cross-section. The circular area of the entrance area 16 may be at the in Fig. 2b are exemplified device 14 divided into sealing regions 28 and four inlet regions 29, each of which covers approximately a range of 90 °. The sealing areas 28 are for sealing installation of - in Fig. 2b not shown - sealing element 24 determined. Twenty-nine off-center channels 18 "are arranged in each of the four inlet regions 29, the inlets 19 of which are visible, and the central channel 18 'lies in the middle of the inlet region 16. The inlets 19 of the channels 18 of the channels 18 in FIG Fig. 2b Around the central channel 18 ', the off-center channels 18 "are circularly arranged on five concentric rings The first innermost ring has eight channels 18" (two per lead-in area 29). The second ring has sixteen channels 18 "(four per lead-in area 29) .The third ring has twenty-four channels 18" (six per lead-in area 29). The fourth ring has thirty-two channels 18 "(eight per lead-in area 29) and the fifth ring finally has thirty-six channels 18" (nine per lead-in area 29). In total, therefore, one hundred and seventeen channels 18 are present.

Fig. 2c zeigt die Vorrichtung 14 aus Fig. 2a im Querschnitt entlang der in Fig. 2a eingezeichneten Schnittebene IIc-IIc. In Fig. 2c ist demnach ein Blick auf den Austrittsbereich 17 der Vorrichtung 14 dargestellt. Die bereits im Zusammenhang mit Fig. 2a oder Fig. 2b beschriebenen Bereiche der Vorrichtung 14 sind in Fig. 2c mit entsprechenden Bezugszeichen versehen. Die Fläche des Austrittsbereiches 17 ist im Gegensatz zur Fläche des Eintrittsbereiches 16 nicht mehr in Dichtbereiche 28 und Einlaufbereiche 29 unterteilt, da dort erstens keine Fläche zur Anlage des Dichtelements 24 benötigt wird und zweitens mehr Fläche für die in diesem Bereich vergrößerten Kanalquerschnitte benötigt wird. Daher sind die Kanäle 18 in der Ebene des Austrittsbereiches 17 nur noch durch sehr schmale Stege 30 voneinander getrennt. Auch im Austrittsbereich 17 sind die Kanäle 18 in vier Segmente eingeteilt, die jeweils etwa 90° der Fläche abdecken und punktsymmetrisch um den zentralen Kanal 18' herum verteilt sind. Fig. 2c shows the device 14 from Fig. 2a in cross-section along the in Fig. 2a Plotted section plane IIc-IIc. In Fig. 2c Accordingly, a look at the exit region 17 of the device 14 is shown. Already related to Fig. 2a or Fig. 2b described areas of the device 14 are in Fig. 2c provided with corresponding reference numerals. In contrast to the surface of the inlet region 16, the surface of the outlet region 17 is no longer subdivided into sealing regions 28 and inlet regions 29, since firstly no surface is required for contacting the sealing element 24 and secondly more surface area is required for the channel cross sections enlarged in this region. Therefore, the channels 18 are in the plane the exit area 17 only separated by very narrow webs 30. Also in the exit region 17, the channels 18 are divided into four segments, each covering about 90 ° of the surface and are distributed point-symmetrically about the central channel 18 'around.

In Fig. 3a ist eine zweite Ausgestaltung einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung 14 zur Veränderung der Strahlform von fließfähigen Produkten im Querschnitt dargestellt. Die bereits im Zusammenhang mit der ersten Ausgestaltung (Fig. 2a - Fig. 2c) der Vorrichtung 14 beschriebenen Bereiche sind in Fig. 3a mit entsprechenden Bezugszeichen versehen. Der wesentliche Unterschied zwischen der ersten und der zweiten Ausgestaltung der Vorrichtung 14 liegt in einer unterschiedlichen Anordnung der Kanäle 18 und deren Ein- und Auslässe 19, 20. Die Unterschiede werden im Folgenden anhand von Fig. 3b und Fig. 3c verdeutlicht.In Fig. 3a a second embodiment of a device 14 according to the invention for changing the jet shape of flowable products is shown in cross section. The already in connection with the first embodiment ( Fig. 2a - Fig. 2c ) of the device 14 are described in Fig. 3a provided with corresponding reference numerals. The essential difference between the first and the second embodiment of the device 14 lies in a different arrangement of the channels 18 and their inlets and outlets 19, 20. The differences are described below with reference to Fig. 3b and Fig. 3c clarified.

Fig. 3b zeigt die Vorrichtung 14 aus Fig. 3a im Querschnitt entlang der in Fig. 3a eingezeichneten Schnittebene IIIb-IIIb. In Fig. 3b ist demnach ein Blick auf den Eintrittsbereich 16 der Vorrichtung 14 dargestellt. Der wesentliche Unterschied zwischen der ersten und der zweiten Ausgestaltung der Vorrichtung 14 liegt darin, dass bei der in Fig. 3b gezeigten Vorrichtung 14 die Fläche des Eintrittsbereiches 16 in einen Dichtbereich 28' und in zwei Einlaufbereiche 29' unterteilt werden, von denen jeder etwa einen Bereich von 180° abdeckt. Der Dichtbereich 28' trennt die beiden Einlaufbereiche 29'. Auch bei der in Fig. 3b gezeigten Vorrichtung 14 weisen die Einlässe 19 der Kanäle 18 ein bestimmtes Muster auf: Um den zentralen Kanal 18' herum sind die außermittigen Kanäle 18" kreisförmig auf fünf konzentrischen Ringen angeordnet. Der erste, innerste Ring weist zehn Kanäle 18" auf (fünf pro Einlaufbereich 29'). Der zweite Ring weist achtzehn Kanäle 18" auf (neun pro Einlaufbereich 29'). Der dritte Ring weist vierundzwanzig Kanäle 18" auf (zwölf pro Einlaufbereich 29). Der vierte Ring weist dreißig Kanäle 18" auf (fünfzehn pro Einlaufbereich 29') und der fünfte Ring weist schließlich sechsunddreißig Kanäle 18" auf (achtzehn pro Einlaufbereich 29). Insgesamt sind also einhundertneunzehn Kanäle 18 vorhanden. Fig. 3b shows the device 14 from Fig. 3a in cross-section along the in Fig. 3a Plotted sectional plane IIIb-IIIb. In Fig. 3b Accordingly, a view of the inlet region 16 of the device 14 is shown. The essential difference between the first and the second embodiment of the device 14 is that in the in Fig. 3b 14, the surface of the inlet region 16 can be subdivided into a sealing region 28 'and into two inlet regions 29', each covering approximately a region of 180 °. The sealing region 28 'separates the two inlet regions 29'. Also at the in Fig. 3b The inlets 19 of the channels 18 have a specific pattern around the central channel 18 ', the eccentric channels 18 "being arranged in a circle on five concentric rings, the first innermost ring having ten channels 18" (five per inlet area) 29 '). The second ring has eighteen channels 18 "(nine per lead-in area 29 '). The third ring has twenty-four channels 18" (twelve per lead-in area 29). The fourth ring has thirty channels 18 "(fifteen per lead-in area 29 ') and the fifth ring finally has thirty-six channels 18" (eighteen per lead-in area 29). In total, there are one hundred and nineteen channels 18.

Fig. 3c zeigt die Vorrichtung aus Fig. 3a im Querschnitt entlang der in Fig. 3a eingezeichneten Schnittebene IIIc-IIIc. In Fig. 3c ist demnach ein Blick auf den Austrittsbereich 17 der Vorrichtung 14 dargestellt. Der wesentliche Unterschied zwischen der ersten und der zweiten Ausgestaltung der Vorrichtung 14 liegt darin, dass bei der in Fig. 3c gezeigten Vorrichtung 14 die Kanäle 18 in zwei Segmente eingeteilt sind, die jeweils etwa 180° der Fläche abdecken und spiegelsymmetrisch zueinander angeordnet sind. Fig. 3c shows the device Fig. 3a in cross-section along the in Fig. 3a Plotted sectional plane IIIc-IIIc. In Fig. 3c Accordingly, a look at the exit region 17 of the device 14 is shown. The essential difference between the first and the second embodiment of the device 14 is that in the in Fig. 3c shown device 14, the channels 18 are divided into two segments, each cover about 180 ° of the surface and are arranged mirror-symmetrically to each other.

Bezugszeichenliste: List of reference numbers :

1:1:
Fülldüsefilling nozzle
2:2:
Körperbody
3:3:
Platteplate
4:4:
Flanschflange
5:5:
Vorsprunghead Start
6:6:
Lochhole
7:7:
Strahlbeam
8:8th:
Mittelachsecentral axis
9:9:
Oberseitetop
10:10:
Unterseitebottom
11:11:
Einlassinlet
12:12:
Auslassoutlet
13:13:
Fasechamfer
14:14:
Vorrichtungcontraption
15:15:
Gehäusecasing
16:16:
Eintrittsbereichentry area
17:17:
Austrittsbereichexit area
18, 18', 18":18, 18 ', 18 ":
Kanalchannel
19:19:
Einlassinlet
20:20:
Auslassoutlet
21:21:
Flanschflange
22:22:
Bohrungdrilling
23:23:
Ventilstangevalve rod
24:24:
Dichtelementsealing element
25:25:
Mittelachsecentral axis
26:26:
erste Querschnittsflächefirst cross-sectional area
27:27:
zweite Querschnittsflächesecond cross-sectional area
28, 28':28, 28 ':
Dichtbereichsealing area
29, 29':29, 29 ':
Einlaufbereichintake area
30:30:
Stegweb

Claims (13)

  1. A device (14) for changing the jet shape of free-flowing products, in particular of foodstuffs, comprising:
    - an inflow area (16) for the free-flowing products to enter,
    - an outflow area (17) for the free-flowing products to exit, and
    - several channels (18) through which to pass the free-flowing products,
    - wherein each channel (18) comprises an inlet (19) allocated to the inflow area (16) and an outlet (20) allocated to the outflow area (17),
    - wherein each inlet (19) of a channel (18) has a first cross sectional area (26),
    - wherein each outlet (20) of a channel (18) has a second cross sectional area (27),
    - wherein the inlets (19) and the outlets (20) of the channels (18) are arranged in a plane, wherein the plane in which the inlets (19) of the channels (18) are arranged is parallel to the plane in which the outlets (20) of the channels are arranged, and
    - wherein the second cross sectional area (27) of at least one channel (18) is larger than the first cross sectional area (26) of this channel (18),
    characterized in that
    the number of channels (18) measures at least 50 and that the eccentric channels (18") are spaced apart from the middle axis (25) of the device (14), and the quotient comprised of the first cross sectional area (26) and second cross sectional area (27) drops as the distance between the eccentric channels (18") and middle axis (25) of the device (14) rises.
  2. The device according to claim 1,
    characterized in that
    the cross sectional area (26, 27) of at least one channel (18) enlarges continuously and/or monotonously in the direction of flow.
  3. The device according to claim 1 or 2,
    characterized in that
    the quotient comprised of the sum of first cross sectional areas (26) for all channels (18) and the sum of second cross sectional areas (27) for all channels ranges from 0,35 to 0,75.
  4. The device according to one of claims 1 to 3,
    characterized in that
    the quotient comprised of the first cross sectional area (26) and second cross sectional area (27) for each channel (18) ranges from 0,35 to 0,75.
  5. The device according to one of claims 1 to 4,
    characterized in that
    the inlets (19) and/or outlets (20) of the eccentric channels (18") are arranged on circular rings around the middle axis (25) of the device (14).
  6. The device according to claim 5,
    characterized in that
    the quotients comprised of the first cross sectional area (26) and second cross sectional area (27) are identical for all eccentric channels (18") of the same ring.
  7. The device according to claim 6,
    characterized in that
    the quotients comprised of the first cross sectional area (26) and the second cross sectional area (27) drop as the distance between the ring and middle axis (25) of the device (14) rises.
  8. The device according to one of claims 1 to 7,
    characterized in that
    the inlets (19) and/or outlets (20) of the channels (18) are arranged in a point-symmetrical or axially symmetrical manner.
  9. The device according to one of claims 1 to 8,
    characterized in that
    the channels (18) are separated from each other in the area of their outlets (20) by webs (30) with a thickness of 0,3 mm or less.
  10. The device according to one of claims 1 to 9,
    characterized in that
    the middle axes of the eccentric channels (18") are inclined by an angle of inclination (a) relative to the middle axis (25) of the device (14).
  11. The device according to claim 10,
    characterized in that
    the angle of inclination (a) ranges between 1° and 6°.
  12. The device according to claim 10 or 11,
    characterized in that
    the angle of inclination (a) for the eccentric channels (18") rises as the distance between the channels (18") and middle axis (25) of the device (14) increases.
  13. Use of a device (14) according to one of claims 1 to 12 for filling foodstuffs, in particular for aseptically filling foodstuffs.
EP14755389.5A 2013-09-30 2014-08-26 Apparatus for changing the flow of a flowable material Active EP3052386B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PL14755389T PL3052386T3 (en) 2013-09-30 2014-08-26 Apparatus for changing the flow of a flowable material

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE201310110787 DE102013110787A1 (en) 2013-09-30 2013-09-30 Device for changing the jet shape of flowable products
PCT/EP2014/068044 WO2015043853A1 (en) 2013-09-30 2014-08-26 Device for varying the jet form of flowable products

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3052386A1 EP3052386A1 (en) 2016-08-10
EP3052386B1 true EP3052386B1 (en) 2018-04-25

Family

ID=51398632

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP14755389.5A Active EP3052386B1 (en) 2013-09-30 2014-08-26 Apparatus for changing the flow of a flowable material

Country Status (12)

Country Link
US (1) US9909289B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3052386B1 (en)
JP (1) JP6431077B2 (en)
CN (2) CN105593121B (en)
AU (1) AU2014327638A1 (en)
BR (1) BR112016006411A2 (en)
DE (1) DE102013110787A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2670543T3 (en)
MX (1) MX2016003927A (en)
PL (1) PL3052386T3 (en)
RU (1) RU2016117166A (en)
WO (1) WO2015043853A1 (en)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102013220007A1 (en) 2013-10-02 2015-04-02 Robert Bosch Gmbh Filling nozzle for liquid or pasty filling material, metering device with a filling nozzle and use of the filling nozzle
GB2569364B (en) * 2017-12-15 2022-11-30 Elopak Gmbh Improved filling device
CN108391059A (en) 2018-03-23 2018-08-10 华为技术有限公司 A kind of method and apparatus of image procossing
CN109205537B (en) * 2018-10-08 2023-12-15 广州达意隆包装机械股份有限公司 Filling valve and filling equipment
BE1027167B1 (en) * 2019-04-02 2020-11-05 V B S Sprl MULTI-NOZZLE DOSING SYSTEM
CN110950288B (en) * 2019-12-13 2021-05-25 嵊州市雾非雾机械设备商行 Automatic quantitative weighing device for liquid canning
CN111151390A (en) * 2020-01-22 2020-05-15 柯敏兴 Liquid goes out liquid shape controlling means
CN116923770A (en) * 2022-04-07 2023-10-24 康美包（苏州）有限公司 Filling head, filling device and filling method thereof

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FI98354C (en) * 1995-10-27 1997-06-10 Upm Kymmene Oy Device for filling the package
IT1296418B1 (en) * 1997-11-28 1999-06-25 Sasib Food S P A Ora Sasib Pro ANTI-DRIP NOZZLE IN THE FILLING MACHINE OF OILY LIQUID PRODUCTS.
JP2001063708A (en) * 1999-08-26 2001-03-13 Kao Corp Filling nozzle
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FR2905121B1 (en) 2006-08-28 2010-09-24 Pack Realisations SEAT FOR A FILLING NUTS.
ES2322185T3 (en) * 2006-10-06 2009-06-17 Groz-Beckert Kg TOWNS STRIP FOR TEXTILE TREATMENT.
JP4867577B2 (en) 2006-10-27 2012-02-01 東洋製罐株式会社 Filling nozzle
DE102010045176A1 (en) * 2010-09-03 2012-03-08 Michael Hörauf Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co. KG Method for producing a funnel, tool for carrying out the method, funnels and containers with funnels
IT1404244B1 (en) 2011-01-21 2013-11-15 Soremartec Sa METHOD AND DELIVERY HEAD FOR THE SUPPLY OF A LIQUID PRODUCT IN A CONTAINER

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP2016536231A (en) 2016-11-24
EP3052386A1 (en) 2016-08-10
CN107380544A (en) 2017-11-24
CN105593121B (en) 2018-08-03
CN105593121A (en) 2016-05-18
DE102013110787A1 (en) 2015-04-02
CN107380544B (en) 2020-01-10
BR112016006411A2 (en) 2017-08-01
AU2014327638A1 (en) 2016-03-17
PL3052386T3 (en) 2018-08-31
MX2016003927A (en) 2016-06-17
RU2016117166A (en) 2017-11-10
US9909289B2 (en) 2018-03-06
WO2015043853A1 (en) 2015-04-02
ES2670543T3 (en) 2018-05-30
JP6431077B2 (en) 2018-11-28
US20160214750A1 (en) 2016-07-28

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