EP3178573B1 - Cleaning facility, transformation method and cleaning method using such a cleaning facility - Google Patents

Cleaning facility, transformation method and cleaning method using such a cleaning facility Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3178573B1
EP3178573B1 EP16203260.1A EP16203260A EP3178573B1 EP 3178573 B1 EP3178573 B1 EP 3178573B1 EP 16203260 A EP16203260 A EP 16203260A EP 3178573 B1 EP3178573 B1 EP 3178573B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
cleaning
transfer
distribution
fluidly connected
equipment
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP16203260.1A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3178573A1 (en
EP3178573C0 (en
Inventor
Philippe GUICHOUX
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.)
Boccard Services SA
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Boccard Services SA
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Publication of EP3178573A1 publication Critical patent/EP3178573A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3178573C0 publication Critical patent/EP3178573C0/en
Publication of EP3178573B1 publication Critical patent/EP3178573B1/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08—CLEANING
    • B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B9/00—Cleaning hollow articles by methods or apparatus specially adapted thereto 
    • B08B9/08—Cleaning containers, e.g. tanks
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08—CLEANING
    • B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B9/00—Cleaning hollow articles by methods or apparatus specially adapted thereto 
    • B08B9/02—Cleaning pipes or tubes or systems of pipes or tubes
    • B08B9/027—Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages
    • B08B9/032—Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing
    • B08B9/0321—Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing using pressurised, pulsating or purging fluid
    • B08B9/0325—Control mechanisms therefor
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08—CLEANING
    • B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B2203/00—Details of cleaning machines or methods involving the use or presence of liquid or steam
    • B08B2203/007—Heating the liquid
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08—CLEANING
    • B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B2203/00—Details of cleaning machines or methods involving the use or presence of liquid or steam
    • B08B2203/02—Details of machines or methods for cleaning by the force of jets or sprays
    • B08B2203/0217—Use of a detergent in high pressure cleaners; arrangements for supplying the same

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a cleaning installation for cleaning equipment to be cleaned in a production plant. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a transformation method intended to improve a conventional cleaning installation.
  • the present invention can be applied to food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical or biotechnology production plants.
  • the present invention can be applied to the production of a milk-based food product, such as yogurt.
  • EP2362008A1 describes a cleaning installation for cleaning containers in a production plant.
  • the cleaning installation EP2362008A1 includes several storage tanks configured to respectively store different cleaning liquids.
  • the cleaning installation EP2362008A1 includes a single supply line that fluidly connects each storage tank directly to the equipment to be cleaned, extending over a great length. In service, all cleaning liquids circulate in this supply line, which is therefore common to all storage tanks. During a cleaning process using the cleaning installation of EP2362008A1 , all the cleaning liquids circulate one after the other to each piece of equipment to be cleaned.
  • the supply line therefore only allows one piece of equipment to be cleaned at a time, which extends the cleaning time of a production plant comprising several pieces of equipment to be cleaned.
  • a cleaning fluid must “push” the previous cleaning fluid until it reaches the concentration necessary to clean the equipment, which requires disposing of the entire mixture of the two down the drain. cleaning liquids until the necessary concentration is reached.
  • Each transition phase induces long cleaning times and high consumption of cleaning liquid.
  • the supply line will be cooled to the temperature of the previous cleaning liquid. Then, when the next cleaning liquid is hot (eg water at 90°C), it must first heat the supply line to reach the equipment. clean at the necessary temperature. This heating of the power line induces high energy consumption.
  • the supply line directly supplies several pieces of equipment to be cleaned, the supply line must be sized to be able to supply the cleaning liquids with sufficient flow rates, pressures and volume for the largest equipment to be cleaned. Therefore the supply line is oversized for all equipment smaller than the large equipment to be cleaned, which results in a high cost for the cleaning installation.
  • the invention relates firstly to a cleaning installation according to claim 1.
  • cleaning fluids circulate through separate transfer lines.
  • each transfer line supplies several pieces of equipment to be cleaned with a single cleaning liquid. Therefore, such a cleaning installation makes it possible to reduce cleaning times and consumption of cleaning liquid.
  • Each transition phase where a cleaning fluid pushes and pushes away the previous cleaning fluid, requires a very short duration and a very small volume of cleaning fluid.
  • the common section where several cleaning liquids circulate successively is much more shorter than the supply line of a conventional cleaning installation, since this common section is limited to one or each distribution module.
  • At least one of the transfer pipes is rigid.
  • the at least one rigid transfer pipe may be composed of tubing.
  • several of the transfer pipes are rigid.
  • all transfer lines can be rigid.
  • At least one of the transfer pipes is flexible.
  • several of the transfer lines are flexible.
  • all transfer lines can be flexible.
  • the cleaning liquids can be selected in particular from detergent solutions, such as more or less hot water (70°C, 90°C etc.), cold water or at room temperature (20°C), acidic solutions, basic solutions.
  • detergent solutions such as more or less hot water (70°C, 90°C etc.), cold water or at room temperature (20°C), acidic solutions, basic solutions.
  • a cleaning fluid may include solid particles, which forms a viscous mixture (sometimes referred to as a slurry).
  • the cleaning installation comprises at least three storage tanks, for example six storage tanks.
  • the storage tanks can store room temperature water, 70°C water, 90°C water, acidic detergent solution and basic detergent solution, respectively.
  • equipment means any component of a production plant that is in contact with the manufactured product and can be cleaned on site.
  • equipment may include containers, heat exchangers, processing machines, packaging, and/or processing machines (example: grinding a powder or incorporating a powder into a cleaning liquid).
  • At least one storage tank has a capacity greater than 40 L, for example greater than 100 L.
  • several storage tanks can have capacities greater than 500 L.
  • At least one transfer line extends from a respective storage tank to said at least one distribution module.
  • several transfer pipes extend from respective storage tanks to said least one distribution module.
  • several transfer lines may extend from respective storage tanks to respective distribution modules.
  • a storage tank and a distribution module can be fluidly connected not only by a transfer line, but also by other intermediate components.
  • At least one transfer pipe has a length greater than 20 meters.
  • several transfer pipes have a length greater than 20 meters.
  • all transfer pipes can have a length greater than 20 meters.
  • a distance between the at least one distribution module and each of the storage tanks is greater than 20 meters.
  • distance we mean here a distance traveled by the cleaning liquid circulating between two elements, sometimes called “fluidic distance”, and not a distance measured in a straight line between these two elements.
  • such a heating module makes it possible to quickly heat the equipment to be cleaned, by means of the heated cleaning liquid, up to the prescribed temperature for cleaning the equipment.
  • the thermal energy is supplied to the distribution module, therefore as close as possible to the equipment to be cleaned.
  • each transfer line can be sized without taking into account the largest equipment to be cleaned, because the distribution module tank fulfills the function of a buffer tank storing a small quantity of liquid just upstream of the equipment to be cleaned. Because of this buffer tank, the supply line makes it possible to clean several pieces of equipment simultaneously, which reduces the cleaning time of a production plant comprising several pieces of equipment to be cleaned.
  • upstream and downstream refer to the direction of flow of the cleaning liquid in the different pipes and pipes when the cleaning installation is in service.
  • each distribution module includes a tank, such a heating member and such a distribution pump.
  • each distribution module may include a tank, such a heating member and such a distribution pump.
  • the cleaning installation further comprises several transfer pumps arranged so that each storage tank is fluidly connected to at least one transfer pump, each transfer pump being fluidly connected to at least one pipe. transfer.
  • each storage tank is fluidly connected to a single transfer pump, and each transfer pump is fluidly connected to a single transfer pipe.
  • each storage tank is fluidly connected to a single respective transfer pipe.
  • several of the distribution modules each include such a distribution pipe, such transfer pipes and such transfer valves.
  • the two openings correspond to an entrance and an exit.
  • several of the storage tanks are each equipped with at least one such recirculation loop and such a heating device.
  • all storage tanks can each be equipped with at least one such recirculation loop and one such heating device.
  • the cleaning installation further comprises at least one loop pipe, said at least one loop pipe fluidly connecting a respective storage tank to a downstream region of a respective transfer pipe, the downstream region being located near or in the at least one distribution module.
  • loop pipes make it possible to form an autonomous fluid network in which cleaning liquid can circulate permanently upstream of the distribution module.
  • Permanent circulation allows, for example, cleaning liquid to be mixed or maintained at a set temperature.
  • the cleaning installation comprises several loop pipes, each loop pipe fluidly connecting a respective storage tank to a downstream region of a respective transfer pipe, this downstream region being located near or in a storage module. respective distribution.
  • loop pipes can be arranged to connect all the storage tanks to respective downstream regions of the transfer pipes.
  • the cleaning installation further comprises several return pipes, each return pipe being fluidly connected to a respective storage tank, the at least one distribution module being fluidly connected to several of the return pipes .
  • Such return pipes make it possible to at least partially recycle the cleaning liquid discharged from the equipment to be cleaned.
  • such return pipes make it possible to circulate the liquid to be cleaned so as to make it immediately available at each distribution module.
  • the transfer pipe is fluidly connected to a lower region of the storage tank.
  • each transfer pump can be fluidly connected to a lower region of the storage tank.
  • the cleaning installation further comprises internal projection members arranged to project each cleaning liquid onto the internal surfaces of at least one piece of equipment to be cleaned.
  • the internal surface of equipment to be cleaned corresponds to all the parts which are in contact with the product manufactured in the production factory.
  • the cleaning installation further comprises external projection members arranged to project each cleaning liquid onto the external surfaces of equipment to be cleaned.
  • the external surface of equipment to be cleaned corresponds to all the parts which are not in contact with the product manufactured in the production factory.
  • the cleaning installation may further comprise a manual projection member configured to allow an operator to project the cleaning liquids onto the internal surfaces or onto the external surfaces.
  • several of the storage tanks are static and assembled so as to form a storage station.
  • all the storage tanks are static and assembled so as to form a storage station.
  • the storage tanks are mobile. According to a variant, all the storage tanks are mobile.
  • the physicochemical quantities include electrical conductivity, temperature and concentration.
  • physicochemical sensors are located in a downstream region of said at least one distribution module.
  • the physico-chemical sensors measure the physico-chemical parameters as close as possible to the equipment to be cleaned, which guarantees that the physico-chemical parameters are at their setpoint values.
  • control unit is configured to control an automatic cleaning cycle including cleaning phases whose circulation durations and circulation rates of the cleaning liquids are predetermined.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a production plant 100 comprising equipment to be cleaned 102 and a cleaning installation 1 for cleaning this equipment to be cleaned 102.
  • the equipment to be cleaned 102 can for example be containers containing food products.
  • the cleaning installation 1 includes several storage tanks 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3.
  • Each storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3 is configured to store a respective cleaning liquid.
  • each storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3 has a capacity approximately equal to 200 L.
  • storage tank 2.1 contains an acidic solution
  • storage tank 2.2 contains hot water at 90°C
  • storage tank 2.3 contains a basic solution.
  • the cleaning installation 1 comprises a distribution module 4.
  • the distribution module 4 comprises two distribution pipes 6.1 and 6.2 which are configured to channel cleaning liquid to two pieces of equipment to be cleaned 102.
  • the distribution module 4 is arranged near each piece of equipment to be cleaned 102.
  • the cleaning installation 1 further comprises several transfer lines 10.1, 10.2, 10.3. Each transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3 is here fluidly connected to a respective storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3.
  • the transfer pipes 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 are rigid and each composed of a tube.
  • each transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3 extends from its respective storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3 to the distribution module 4.
  • Each transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3 here has a length approximately equal to 20 meters. Therefore a distance D1 between the distribution module 4 and each of the storage tanks 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 is here approximately equal to 20 meters.
  • the transfer line 10.1 is fluidly connected to the storage tank 2.1 and therefore conducts the acid solution;
  • the transfer pipe 10.2 is fluidly connected to the storage tank 2.2 and therefore conducts the hot water;
  • the transfer line 10.3 is fluidly connected to the storage tank 2.3 and therefore conducts the basic solution.
  • each transfer line fluidly supplies several pieces of equipment to be cleaned 102 with a single cleaning liquid.
  • the cleaning installation 1 further comprises transfer pumps 18.1, 18.2 and 18.3 which are arranged so that each storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3 is fluidly connected to a respective transfer pump 18.1, 18.2 or 18.3. Conversely, each transfer pump 18.1, 18.2 and 18.3 fluidly connected to a transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3.
  • Each storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3 is here fluidly connected to a single respective transfer pump 18.1, 18.2 or 18.3.
  • each transfer pump 18.1, 18.2 and 18.3 is fluidly connected to a single transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3.
  • the distribution module 4 is fluidly connected to each transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2, 10.3.
  • the distribution module 4 includes three transfer pipes 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3.
  • Each transfer pipe 4.1, 4.2 or 4.3 is fluidly connected to a respective transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3.
  • the transfer pipes 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3 are fluidly connected to the distribution pipes 6.1, 6.2 by a common section 4.6.
  • Distribution module 4 also includes distribution valves 6.11 and 6.21.
  • the distribution valve 6.11 is arranged on the distribution pipe 6.1 so as to selectively allow or prevent the circulation of a cleaning liquid in the distribution pipe 6.1.
  • the distribution valve 6.21 is arranged on the distribution pipe 6.2 so as to selectively allow or prevent the circulation of a cleaning liquid in the distribution pipe 6.2.
  • the physico-chemical sensors 7 and the actuators 9 are located downstream of the equipment to be cleaned 102, in order to verify that the physico-chemical quantity of the cleaning liquid leaving the equipment to be cleaned 102 is close to the set value.
  • the control unit 24 is configured to control the openings and closings of the primary valve 3.11 and the secondary valve 3.12.
  • the primary valve 3.11 When the primary valve 3.11 is open, water is injected into the storage tank 2.2.
  • the secondary valve 3.12 When the secondary valve 3.12 is open, concentrated solution is injected into the storage tank 2.2. Injections of water and concentrated solution make it possible to maintain the concentration of the cleaning liquid at a predetermined setpoint value.
  • the control unit 24 is configured to control an automatic cleaning cycle including cleaning phases whose circulation times and circulation rates of the cleaning liquids are predetermined.
  • the automatic cleaning cycle controlled by the control unit 24 can then end.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a transformation method 500 in accordance with the invention for transforming a conventional cleaning installation intended to clean equipment to be cleaned 102, here containers.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a cleaning installation 1 conforming to a second embodiment.
  • the cleaning installation 1 of the Figure 4 is similar to cleaning installation 1 of the figure 1 , the description of the cleaning installation 1 given above in relation to the figure 1 can be transferred to cleaning installation 1 of the Figure 4 , except for the notable differences mentioned below.
  • the cleaning installation 1 of the Figure 4 differs from cleaning installation 1 of the figure 1 , because the cleaning installation 1 of the Figure 4 further comprises a loop pipe 15.
  • the loop pipe 15 fluidly connects the storage tank 2.1 to a downstream region 10.15 of the transfer pipe 10.1.
  • the downstream region 10.15 is located closest to the distribution module 4.
  • the cleaning installation 1 of the Figure 4 further comprises a loop valve 15.10 arranged on the loop line 15 to allow or prevent the circulation of cleaning liquid in the loop line 15.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a cleaning installation 1 conforming to a second embodiment.
  • the cleaning installation 1 of the figure 5 is similar to cleaning installation 1 of the figure 1
  • the description of the cleaning installation 1 given above in relation to the figure 1 can be transferred to cleaning installation 1 of the figure 5 , except for the notable differences mentioned below.
  • tank 12 contains cleaning liquid.
  • the distribution pump 16 circulates cleaning liquid from the tank 12 to the heating member 14.
  • the heating member 14 heats the cleaning liquid circulating there, which makes it possible to adjust the temperature of this cleaning liquid .
  • the cleaning liquid leaving the equipment to be cleaned 102 can be reinjected into the tank 12, therefore into the heating member 14, when the control unit 24 opens a loopback valve 4.102 belonging to the distribution module 4.
  • the heating member 14 also heats this reinjected cleaning liquid, if necessary.
  • cleaning liquid taken from the storage tank 2.1 circulates in the recirculation loop 20.1.
  • This cleaning liquid circulates in the heating device 22.1, where the cleaning liquid is heated, which makes it possible to adjust the temperature of the storage liquid contained in the storage tank 2.1.
  • cleaning installation 1 of the figure 5 differs from cleaning installation 1 of the figure 1 , because the cleaning plant 1 of there figure 5 further comprises three return pipes 30.1, 30.2 and 30.3 and three return valves 30.11, 30.21 and 30.31.
  • Each return pipe 30.1, 30.2 or 30.3 is fluidly connected to a respective storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3.
  • the distribution module 4 is fluidly connected to the three return lines 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3.
  • the control unit 24 is configured to control (open and close) each return valve 30.11, 30.21 or 30.31 so as to allow or prevent the return of cleaning liquids to the respective storage tanks 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 respectively through return lines 30.1, 30.2 and 30.3.
  • control unit 24 can close the distribution valves 6.11 and 6.21, open the loopback valve 4.102 and open one of the return valves 30.11, 30.21 and 30.31, for example the return valve 30.11.
  • the cleaning liquid arriving from the transfer line 4.1 enters the distribution module 4, circulates in the common section 4.6 and heads towards the return line 30.11.
  • each transfer pipe is connected to a respective return pipe, so as to form a loop in which the cleaning liquid can circulate permanently as long as it does not flow towards the equipment to be cleaned 102.
  • This permanent circulation of a cleaning liquid allows, if necessary, to mix it ( slurry ) and/or heat it.
  • the liquid to be cleaned which is constantly circulating is immediately available at the distribution module 4, since it is not necessary to set it in motion in the corresponding transfer line 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3.
  • control unit 24 of the figure 2 is configured to control an automatic cleaning cycle including cleaning phases whose circulation times and circulation rates of the cleaning liquids are predetermined.
  • the cleaning installation 1 When the cleaning installation 1 is in service, it can operate according to a cleaning process 1000 which is illustrated in the Figure 6 and which conforms to a second embodiment.
  • a cleaning process 1000 of the Figure 6 is similar to a cleaning process 1000 of the figure 2
  • the description of a cleaning process 1000 given above in relation to the figure 2 can be transposed to a cleaning process 1000 of the Figure 6 , except for the notable differences mentioned below.
  • the automatic cleaning cycle controlled by the control unit 24 can then end.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Cleaning By Liquid Or Steam (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne une installation de nettoyage pour nettoyer des équipements à nettoyer dans une usine de production. De plus, la présente invention concerne un procédé de transformation destiné à améliorer une installation de nettoyage conventionnelle.The present invention relates to a cleaning installation for cleaning equipment to be cleaned in a production plant. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a transformation method intended to improve a conventional cleaning installation.

La présente invention peut s'appliquer à des usines de production alimentaire, cosmétique, pharmaceutique ou biotechnologique. En particulier, la présente invention peut s'appliquer à la production d'un produit alimentaire à base de lait, tel que du yaourt.The present invention can be applied to food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical or biotechnology production plants. In particular, the present invention can be applied to the production of a milk-based food product, such as yogurt.

EP2362008A1 décrit une installation de nettoyage pour nettoyer des récipients dans une usine de production. L'installation de nettoyage de EP2362008A1 comprend plusieurs cuves de stockage configurées pour stocker respectivement différents liquides de nettoyage. De plus, l'installation de nettoyage de EP2362008A1 comprend une seule ligne d'alimentation qui relie fluidiquement chaque cuve de stockage directement à l'équipement à nettoyer, en s'étendant sur une grande longueur. En service, tous les liquides de nettoyage circulent dans cette ligne d'alimentation, qui est donc commune à toutes les cuves de stockage. Lors d'un procédé de nettoyage mettant en oeuvre l'installation de nettoyage de EP2362008A1 , tous les liquides de nettoyage circulent l'un après l'autre vers chaque équipement à nettoyer. EP2362008A1 describes a cleaning installation for cleaning containers in a production plant. The cleaning installation EP2362008A1 includes several storage tanks configured to respectively store different cleaning liquids. In addition, the cleaning installation EP2362008A1 includes a single supply line that fluidly connects each storage tank directly to the equipment to be cleaned, extending over a great length. In service, all cleaning liquids circulate in this supply line, which is therefore common to all storage tanks. During a cleaning process using the cleaning installation of EP2362008A1 , all the cleaning liquids circulate one after the other to each piece of equipment to be cleaned.

Cependant, la ligne d'alimentation ne permet donc de ne nettoyer qu'un équipement à la fois, ce qui allonge la durée de nettoyage d'une usine de production comprenant plusieurs équipements à nettoyer.However, the supply line therefore only allows one piece of equipment to be cleaned at a time, which extends the cleaning time of a production plant comprising several pieces of equipment to be cleaned.

En outre, pendant une phase de transition, un liquide de nettoyage doit « pousser » le liquide de nettoyage précédent jusqu'à atteindre la concentration nécessaire au nettoyage de l'équipement, ce qui impose de jeter à l'égout tout le mélange des deux liquides de nettoyage tant que la concentration nécessaire n'est pas atteinte. Chaque phase de transition induit de longues durées de nettoyage et de grandes consommations de liquide de nettoyage.In addition, during a transition phase, a cleaning fluid must “push” the previous cleaning fluid until it reaches the concentration necessary to clean the equipment, which requires disposing of the entire mixture of the two down the drain. cleaning liquids until the necessary concentration is reached. Each transition phase induces long cleaning times and high consumption of cleaning liquid.

Par ailleurs, lorsque le liquide de nettoyage précédent est froid (e.g. solution basique à température ambiante), la ligne d'alimentation sera refroidie jusqu'à la température du liquide de nettoyage précédent. Ensuite, lorsque le liquide de nettoyage suivant est chaud (e.g. eau à 90°C), il doit d'abord réchauffer la ligne d'alimentation pour parvenir dans l'équipement à nettoyer à la température nécessaire. Ce réchauffage de la ligne d'alimentation induit une grande consommation d'énergie.Furthermore, when the previous cleaning liquid is cold (eg basic solution at room temperature), the supply line will be cooled to the temperature of the previous cleaning liquid. Then, when the next cleaning liquid is hot (eg water at 90°C), it must first heat the supply line to reach the equipment. clean at the necessary temperature. This heating of the power line induces high energy consumption.

De plus, comme la ligne d'alimentation alimente directement plusieurs équipements à nettoyer, la ligne d'alimentation doit être dimensionnée pour pouvoir alimenter les liquides de nettoyage avec des débits, pressions et volume suffisants pour le plus gros équipement à nettoyer. Donc la ligne d'alimentation est surdimensionnée pour tous les équipements plus petits que le gros équipement à nettoyer, ce qui induit un coût élevée pour l'installation de nettoyage.In addition, as the supply line directly supplies several pieces of equipment to be cleaned, the supply line must be sized to be able to supply the cleaning liquids with sufficient flow rates, pressures and volume for the largest equipment to be cleaned. Therefore the supply line is oversized for all equipment smaller than the large equipment to be cleaned, which results in a high cost for the cleaning installation.

Le document US 2012/000492 A1 divulgue une installation de nettoyage comprenant :

  • plusieurs cuves de stockage;
  • au moins un module de distribution comprenant au moins une canalisation de distribution l'au moins un module de plusieurs conduites de transfert, chaque conduite de transfert étant reliée fluidiquement à une cuve de stockage respective,
  • un dispositif de régulation comportant des capteurs physico-chimiques
  • des actionneurs configurés pour agir sur la circulation des liquides de nettoyage ou sur des grandeurs physico-chimiques respectives et
  • une unité de commande configurée pour recevoir les signaux des capteurs physico-chimiques et pour commander les actionneurs.
La présente invention a notamment pour but de résoudre, en tout ou partie, les problèmes mentionnés ci-avant.The document US 2012/000492 A1 discloses a cleaning installation comprising:
  • several storage tanks;
  • at least one distribution module comprising at least one distribution pipe, at least one module of several transfer pipes, each transfer pipe being fluidly connected to a respective storage tank,
  • a regulation device comprising physico-chemical sensors
  • actuators configured to act on the circulation of cleaning liquids or on respective physico-chemical quantities and
  • a control unit configured to receive signals from the physicochemical sensors and to control the actuators.
The present invention aims in particular to resolve, in whole or in part, the problems mentioned above.

L'invention se rapporte en premier lieu à une installation de nettoyage selon la revendication 1.The invention relates firstly to a cleaning installation according to claim 1.

En d'autres termes, les liquides de nettoyage circulent dans des conduites de transfert distinctes. Ainsi, chaque conduite de transfert alimente plusieurs équipements à nettoyer avec un seul liquide de nettoyage. Donc une telle installation de nettoyage permet de diminuer les durées de nettoyage et les consommations de liquide de nettoyage.In other words, cleaning fluids circulate through separate transfer lines. Thus, each transfer line supplies several pieces of equipment to be cleaned with a single cleaning liquid. Therefore, such a cleaning installation makes it possible to reduce cleaning times and consumption of cleaning liquid.

Chaque phase de transition, où un liquide de nettoyage pousse et évacue le liquide de nettoyage précédent, nécessite une durée très courte et un volume de liquide de nettoyage très petit. En effet, le tronçon commun où circulent successivement plusieurs liquides de nettoyage est beaucoup plus court que la ligne d'alimentation d'une installation de nettoyage conventionnelle, puisque ce tronçon commun est limité à un ou chaque module de distribution.Each transition phase, where a cleaning fluid pushes and pushes away the previous cleaning fluid, requires a very short duration and a very small volume of cleaning fluid. In fact, the common section where several cleaning liquids circulate successively is much more shorter than the supply line of a conventional cleaning installation, since this common section is limited to one or each distribution module.

De plus, cela permet de diminuer la consommation d'énergie, car chaque conduite de transfert reste à la température du liquide de nettoyage qu'elle transfère.Additionally, this helps reduce energy consumption because each transfer line remains at the temperature of the cleaning fluid it transfers.

Selon une variante, au moins une des conduites de transfert est rigide. L'au moins une conduite de transfert rigide peut être composée d'une tubulure. Selon une variante, plusieurs des conduites de transfert sont rigides. Par exemple, toutes les conduites de transfert peuvent être rigides.According to one variant, at least one of the transfer pipes is rigid. The at least one rigid transfer pipe may be composed of tubing. According to a variant, several of the transfer pipes are rigid. For example, all transfer lines can be rigid.

Alternativement à cette variante, au moins une des conduites de transfert est flexible. Selon une variante, plusieurs des conduites de transfert sont flexibles. Par exemple, toutes les conduites de transfert peuvent être flexibles.Alternatively to this variant, at least one of the transfer pipes is flexible. According to a variant, several of the transfer lines are flexible. For example, all transfer lines can be flexible.

Les liquides de nettoyage peuvent être sélectionnés notamment parmi des solutions détergentes, comme de l'eau plus ou moins chaude (70°C, 90°C etc.), de l'eau froide ou à température ambiante (20°C), des solutions acides, des solutions basiques.The cleaning liquids can be selected in particular from detergent solutions, such as more or less hot water (70°C, 90°C etc.), cold water or at room temperature (20°C), acidic solutions, basic solutions.

Le nombre de cuves de stockage est déterminé par le nombre des solutions détergentes recommandées pour nettoyer les équipements, généralement en fonction du domaine technique (alimentaire, cosmétique, pharmaceutique ou biotechnologique). Un liquide de nettoyage peut comprendre des particules solides, ce qui forme un mélange visqueux (parfois désigné par le terme anglais « slurry »).The number of storage tanks is determined by the number of detergent solutions recommended for cleaning the equipment, generally depending on the technical field (food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical or biotechnology). A cleaning fluid may include solid particles, which forms a viscous mixture (sometimes referred to as a slurry).

Selon une variante, l'installation de nettoyage comprend au moins trois cuves de stockage, par exemple six cuves de stockage. Les cuves de stockage peuvent stocker respectivement de l'eau à température ambiante, de l'eau à 70°C, de l'eau à 90°C, une solution détergente acide et une solution détergente basique.According to one variant, the cleaning installation comprises at least three storage tanks, for example six storage tanks. The storage tanks can store room temperature water, 70°C water, 90°C water, acidic detergent solution and basic detergent solution, respectively.

Dans la présente demande, le terme « équipement » désigne tout composant d'une usine de production qui est en contact avec le produit fabriqué et qui peut être nettoyé sur place. Par exemple, les équipements peuvent inclure des récipients, des échangeurs thermiques, des machines de conditionnement, et/ou des machines de transformation (exemple : broyer une poudre ou incorporer une poudre dans un liquide de nettoyage).In this application, the term "equipment" means any component of a production plant that is in contact with the manufactured product and can be cleaned on site. For example, equipment may include containers, heat exchangers, processing machines, packaging, and/or processing machines (example: grinding a powder or incorporating a powder into a cleaning liquid).

Selon une variante, au moins une cuve de stockage a une capacité supérieure à 40 L, par exemple supérieure à 100 L. Par exemple, plusieurs cuves de stockage peuvent avoir des capacités supérieures à 500 L.According to one variant, at least one storage tank has a capacity greater than 40 L, for example greater than 100 L. For example, several storage tanks can have capacities greater than 500 L.

Selon un mode de réalisation, au moins une conduite de transfert s'étend depuis une cuve de stockage respective jusqu'audit au moins un module de distribution.According to one embodiment, at least one transfer line extends from a respective storage tank to said at least one distribution module.

Selon une variante de ce mode de réalisation, plusieurs conduites de transfert s'étendent depuis des cuves de stockage respectives jusqu'audit moins un module de distribution. Lorsque l'installation de nettoyage comprend plusieurs modules de distribution, plusieurs conduites de transfert peuvent s'étendre depuis des cuves de stockage respectives jusqu'à des modules de distribution respectifs.According to a variant of this embodiment, several transfer pipes extend from respective storage tanks to said least one distribution module. When the cleaning installation includes several distribution modules, several transfer lines may extend from respective storage tanks to respective distribution modules.

Alternativement à cette variante, une cuve de stockage et un module de distribution peuvent être reliés fluidiquement non seulement par une conduite de transfert, mais aussi par d'autres composants intermédiaires.Alternatively to this variant, a storage tank and a distribution module can be fluidly connected not only by a transfer line, but also by other intermediate components.

Selon une variante, au moins une conduite de transfert a une longueur supérieure à 20 mètres. Selon une variante, plusieurs conduites de transfert ont une longueur supérieure à 20 mètres. En particulier, toutes les conduites de transfert peuvent avoir une longueur supérieure à 20 mètres.According to one variant, at least one transfer pipe has a length greater than 20 meters. According to one variant, several transfer pipes have a length greater than 20 meters. In particular, all transfer pipes can have a length greater than 20 meters.

Selon une variante, une distance entre l'au moins un module de distribution et chacune des cuves de stockage est supérieure à 20 mètres.According to one variant, a distance between the at least one distribution module and each of the storage tanks is greater than 20 meters.

Selon une variante, lorsque l'installation de nettoyage est en service, un rapport :

  1. i) de la distance entre le module de distribution et un équipement à nettoyer, c'est-à-dire la longueur fluidique d'une canalisation de distribution,
  2. ii) sur la distance entre le module de distribution et une cuve de stockage est inférieur à 10%.
According to a variant, when the cleaning installation is in service, a report:
  1. i) the distance between the distribution module and equipment to be cleaned, that is to say the fluid length of a distribution pipe,
  2. ii) on the distance between the distribution module and a storage tank is less than 10%.

Par distance, on entend ici une distance parcourue par le liquide de nettoyage circulant entre deux éléments, parfois dénommée « distance fluidique », et pas une distance mesurée en ligne droite entre ces deux éléments.By distance, we mean here a distance traveled by the cleaning liquid circulating between two elements, sometimes called “fluidic distance”, and not a distance measured in a straight line between these two elements.

Selon un mode de réalisation, l'au moins un module de distribution comprend un module de chauffage comportant :

  • un bac configuré pour contenir un liquide de nettoyage,
  • un organe de chauffage relié fluidiquement au bac,
  • une pompe de distribution reliée au bac et à l'organe de chauffage de façon à faire circuler du liquide de nettoyage du bac vers l'organe de chauffage.
According to one embodiment, the at least one distribution module comprises a heating module comprising:
  • a tray configured to contain a cleaning liquid,
  • a heating member fluidly connected to the tank,
  • a distribution pump connected to the tank and to the heater so as to circulate cleaning liquid from the tank to the heater.

Ainsi, un tel module de chauffage permet de chauffer rapidement l'équipement à nettoyer, au moyen du liquide de nettoyage chauffé, jusqu'à la température prescrite pour effectuer le nettoyage de l'équipement. En effet, l'énergie thermique est apportée au module de distribution, donc le plus près possible de l'équipement à nettoyer.Thus, such a heating module makes it possible to quickly heat the equipment to be cleaned, by means of the heated cleaning liquid, up to the prescribed temperature for cleaning the equipment. In fact, the thermal energy is supplied to the distribution module, therefore as close as possible to the equipment to be cleaned.

Par ailleurs, chaque conduite de transfert peut être dimensionnée sans tenir compte du plus gros équipement à nettoyer, car le bac du module de distribution remplit la fonction de réservoir tampon stockant une petite quantité de liquide juste en amont des équipements à nettoyer. En raison de ce réservoir tampon, la ligne d'alimentation permet de nettoyer simultanément plusieurs équipements, ce qui diminue la durée de nettoyage d'une usine de production comprenant plusieurs équipements à nettoyer.Furthermore, each transfer line can be sized without taking into account the largest equipment to be cleaned, because the distribution module tank fulfills the function of a buffer tank storing a small quantity of liquid just upstream of the equipment to be cleaned. Because of this buffer tank, the supply line makes it possible to clean several pieces of equipment simultaneously, which reduces the cleaning time of a production plant comprising several pieces of equipment to be cleaned.

Dans la présente demande, les termes « amont » et « aval » font référence au sens d'écoulement du liquide de nettoyage dans les différentes conduites et canalisations lorsque l'installation de nettoyage est en service.In this application, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the direction of flow of the cleaning liquid in the different pipes and pipes when the cleaning installation is in service.

Selon une variante de ce mode de réalisation, plusieurs modules de distribution comprennent chacun un bac, un tel organe de chauffage et une telle pompe de distribution. En particulier, chaque module de distribution peut comprendre un bac, un tel organe de chauffage et une telle pompe de distribution.According to a variant of this embodiment, several distribution modules each include a tank, such a heating member and such a distribution pump. In particular, each distribution module may include a tank, such a heating member and such a distribution pump.

Selon un mode de réalisation, l'installation de nettoyage comprend en outre plusieurs pompes de transfert agencées de sorte que chaque cuve de stockage est reliée fluidiquement à au moins une pompe de transfert, chaque pompe de transfert étant reliée fluidiquement à au moins une conduite de transfert.According to one embodiment, the cleaning installation further comprises several transfer pumps arranged so that each storage tank is fluidly connected to at least one transfer pump, each transfer pump being fluidly connected to at least one pipe. transfer.

Selon une variante, chaque cuve de stockage est reliée fluidiquement à une seule pompe de transfert, et chaque pompe de transfert est reliée fluidiquement à une seule conduite de transfert.According to a variant, each storage tank is fluidly connected to a single transfer pump, and each transfer pump is fluidly connected to a single transfer pipe.

Selon une variante, chaque cuve de stockage est reliée fluidiquement à une seule conduite de transfert respective.According to a variant, each storage tank is fluidly connected to a single respective transfer pipe.

Selon un mode de réalisation, l'au moins un module de distribution comprend au moins :

  • plusieurs canalisations de transfert, chaque canalisation de transfert étant reliée fluidiquement à une conduite de transfert respective, les canalisations de transfert étant reliées fluidiquement à la canalisation de distribution,
  • plusieurs vannes de transfert agencées respectivement sur les canalisations de transfert, chaque vanne de transfert étant configurée pour être placée au moins : i) dans une configuration de libération, dans laquelle du liquide de nettoyage peut passer vers l'au moins une canalisation de distribution, et ii) dans une configuration d'obturation.
According to one embodiment, the at least one distribution module comprises at least:
  • several transfer pipes, each transfer pipe being fluidly connected to a respective transfer pipe, the transfer pipes being fluidly connected to the distribution pipe,
  • several transfer valves arranged respectively on the transfer pipes, each transfer valve being configured to be placed at least: i) in a release configuration, in which cleaning liquid can pass towards the at least one distribution pipe, and ii) in a shutter configuration.

Selon une variante, plusieurs des modules de distribution comprennent chacun une telle canalisation de distribution, de telles canalisations de transfert et de telles vannes de transfert.According to a variant, several of the distribution modules each include such a distribution pipe, such transfer pipes and such transfer valves.

Selon un mode de réalisation, au moins une des cuves de stockage est équipée au moins :

  • d'une boucle de recirculation agencée pour relier fluidiquement deux ouvertures de ladite au moins une cuve de stockage, et
  • d'un dispositif de chauffage agencé pour chauffer le liquide de nettoyage circulant dans la boucle de recirculation.
According to one embodiment, at least one of the storage tanks is equipped with at least:
  • a recirculation loop arranged to fluidly connect two openings of said at least one storage tank, and
  • a heating device arranged to heat the cleaning liquid circulating in the recirculation loop.

Ainsi, une telle boucle de recirculation et un tel dispositif de chauffage permettent d'ajuster la température du liquide de nettoyage stocké dans une telle cuve de stockage.Thus, such a recirculation loop and such a heating device make it possible to adjust the temperature of the cleaning liquid stored in such a storage tank.

En service, les deux ouvertures correspondent à une entrée et une sortie.In service, the two openings correspond to an entrance and an exit.

Selon une variante, plusieurs des cuves de stockage sont équipées chacune au moins d'une telle boucle de recirculation et d'un tel dispositif de chauffage. En particulier, toutes les cuves de stockage peuvent être équipées chacune au moins d'une telle boucle de recirculation et d'un tel dispositif de chauffage.According to one variant, several of the storage tanks are each equipped with at least one such recirculation loop and such a heating device. In particular, all storage tanks can each be equipped with at least one such recirculation loop and one such heating device.

Selon un mode de réalisation, l'installation de nettoyage comprend en outre au moins une conduite de boucle, ladite au moins une conduite de boucle reliant fluidiquement une cuve de stockage respective à une région aval d'une conduite de transfert respective, la région aval étant située près de ou dans l'au moins un module de distribution.According to one embodiment, the cleaning installation further comprises at least one loop pipe, said at least one loop pipe fluidly connecting a respective storage tank to a downstream region of a respective transfer pipe, the downstream region being located near or in the at least one distribution module.

Ainsi, de telles conduites de boucle permettent de former un réseau fluidique autonome dans lequel du liquide de nettoyage peut circuler en permanence en amont du module de distribution. La circulation permanente permet par exemple de brasser du liquide de nettoyage ou de le maintenir à une température de consigne.Thus, such loop pipes make it possible to form an autonomous fluid network in which cleaning liquid can circulate permanently upstream of the distribution module. Permanent circulation allows, for example, cleaning liquid to be mixed or maintained at a set temperature.

Selon une variante, l'installation de nettoyage comprend plusieurs conduites de boucle, chaque conduite de boucle reliant fluidiquement une cuve de stockage respective à une région aval d'une conduite de transfert respective, cette région aval étant située près de ou dans un module de distribution respectif. En particulier, des conduites de boucle peuvent être agencées pour relier toutes les cuves de stockage à des régions aval respectives des conduites de transfert.According to a variant, the cleaning installation comprises several loop pipes, each loop pipe fluidly connecting a respective storage tank to a downstream region of a respective transfer pipe, this downstream region being located near or in a storage module. respective distribution. In particular, loop pipes can be arranged to connect all the storage tanks to respective downstream regions of the transfer pipes.

Selon un mode de réalisation, l'installation de nettoyage comprend en outre plusieurs conduites de retour, chaque conduite de retour étant reliée fluidiquement à une cuve de stockage respective, l'au moins un module de distribution étant relié fluidiquement à plusieurs des conduites de retour.According to one embodiment, the cleaning installation further comprises several return pipes, each return pipe being fluidly connected to a respective storage tank, the at least one distribution module being fluidly connected to several of the return pipes .

Ainsi, de telles conduites de retour permettent de recycler au moins partiellement le liquide de nettoyage évacué des équipements à nettoyer. De plus, de telles conduites de retour permettent de faire circuler le liquide à nettoyer de façon à le rendre immédiatement disponible au niveau de chaque module de distribution.Thus, such return pipes make it possible to at least partially recycle the cleaning liquid discharged from the equipment to be cleaned. In addition, such return pipes make it possible to circulate the liquid to be cleaned so as to make it immediately available at each distribution module.

Selon une variante, la conduite de transfert est reliée fluidiquement à une région basse de la cuve de stockage. En particulier, chaque pompe de transfert peut être reliée fluidiquement à une région basse de la cuve de stockage.According to a variant, the transfer pipe is fluidly connected to a lower region of the storage tank. In particular, each transfer pump can be fluidly connected to a lower region of the storage tank.

Selon une variante, l'installation de nettoyage comprend en outre des organes de projection internes agencés pour projeter chaque liquide de nettoyage sur les surfaces internes d'au moins un équipement à nettoyer. La surface interne d'un équipement à nettoyer correspond à toutes les parties qui sont en contact avec le produit fabriqué dans l'usine de production.According to a variant, the cleaning installation further comprises internal projection members arranged to project each cleaning liquid onto the internal surfaces of at least one piece of equipment to be cleaned. The internal surface of equipment to be cleaned corresponds to all the parts which are in contact with the product manufactured in the production factory.

Selon une variante, l'installation de nettoyage comprend en outre des organes de projection externes agencés pour projeter chaque liquide de nettoyage sur les surfaces externes d'un équipement à nettoyer. La surface externe d'un équipement à nettoyer correspond à toutes les parties qui ne sont pas en contact avec le produit fabriqué dans l'usine de production.According to a variant, the cleaning installation further comprises external projection members arranged to project each cleaning liquid onto the external surfaces of equipment to be cleaned. The external surface of equipment to be cleaned corresponds to all the parts which are not in contact with the product manufactured in the production factory.

Selon une variante des deux modes de réalisation précédents, l'installation de nettoyage peut en outre comprendre un organe de projection manuel configuré pour permettre à un opérateur de projeter les liquides de nettoyage sur les surfaces internes ou sur les surfaces externes.According to a variant of the two previous embodiments, the cleaning installation may further comprise a manual projection member configured to allow an operator to project the cleaning liquids onto the internal surfaces or onto the external surfaces.

Selon une variante, plusieurs des cuves de stockage sont statiques et assemblées de façon à former une station de stockage.According to a variant, several of the storage tanks are static and assembled so as to form a storage station.

Selon une variante de ce mode de réalisation, toutes les cuves de stockage sont statiques et assemblées de façon à former une station de stockage.According to a variant of this embodiment, all the storage tanks are static and assembled so as to form a storage station.

Alternativement à ce mode de réalisation, plusieurs des cuves de stockage sont mobiles. Selon une variante, toutes les cuves de stockage sont mobiles.Alternatively to this embodiment, several of the storage tanks are mobile. According to a variant, all the storage tanks are mobile.

Selon l'invention, l'installation de nettoyage comprend en outre un dispositif de régulation, le dispositif de régulation comportant :

  • des capteurs physico-chimiques configurés chacun pour générer des signaux représentatifs d'une grandeur physico-chimique respective,
  • des actionneurs configurés pour agir sur la circulation des liquides de nettoyage ou sur des grandeurs physico-chimiques respectives,
  • une unité de commande configurée pour recevoir les signaux des capteurs physico-chimiques et pour commander les actionneurs, de façon à maintenir les grandeurs physico-chimiques des liquides de nettoyage à des valeurs de consignes prédéterminées.
According to the invention, the cleaning installation further comprises a regulation device, the regulation device comprising:
  • physico-chemical sensors each configured to generate signals representative of a respective physico-chemical quantity,
  • actuators configured to act on the circulation of cleaning liquids or on respective physico-chemical quantities,
  • a control unit configured to receive the signals from the physico-chemical sensors and to control the actuators, so as to maintain the physico-chemical quantities of the cleaning liquids at predetermined setpoint values.

Selon une variante, les grandeurs physico-chimiques comprennent la conductivité électrique, la température et la concentration.According to one variant, the physicochemical quantities include electrical conductivity, temperature and concentration.

Selon une variante, des capteurs physico-chimiques sont situés dans une région aval dudit au moins un module de distribution. Ainsi, les capteurs physico-chimiques mesurent les paramètres physico-chimiques au plus près des équipements à nettoyer, ce qui garantit que les paramètres physico-chimiques sont à leurs valeurs de consignes.According to one variant, physicochemical sensors are located in a downstream region of said at least one distribution module. Thus, the physico-chemical sensors measure the physico-chemical parameters as close as possible to the equipment to be cleaned, which guarantees that the physico-chemical parameters are at their setpoint values.

Selon l'invention, au moins une cuve de stockage est équipée :

  • d'une vanne primaire destinée à être reliée fluidiquement à une source d'eau, et
  • d'une vanne secondaire destinée à être reliée fluidiquement à une source de solution concentrée,
et l'unité de commande est configurée pour commander les ouvertures et fermetures de la vanne primaire et de la vanne secondaire de façon à injecter de l'eau et/ou de la solution concentrée dans ladite au moins une cuve de stockage afin de maintenir la concentration du liquide de nettoyage à une valeur de consigne prédéterminée.According to the invention, at least one storage tank is equipped:
  • a primary valve intended to be fluidly connected to a water source, and
  • a secondary valve intended to be fluidly connected to a source of concentrated solution,
and the control unit is configured to control the openings and closings of the primary valve and the secondary valve so as to inject water and/or the concentrated solution into said at least one storage tank in order to maintain the concentration of the cleaning liquid to a predetermined setpoint value.

Selon un mode de réalisation, l'unité de commande est configurée pour commander un cycle de nettoyage automatique incluant des phases de nettoyage dont les durées de circulation et les débits de circulation des liquides de nettoyage sont prédéterminés.According to one embodiment, the control unit is configured to control an automatic cleaning cycle including cleaning phases whose circulation durations and circulation rates of the cleaning liquids are predetermined.

Par ailleurs, la présente invention a pour objet un procédé de transformation, selon la revendication 10, pour transformer une installation de nettoyage conventionnelle destinée à nettoyer des équipements à nettoyer, par exemple des récipients, l'installation de nettoyage conventionnelle comprenant :

  • plusieurs cuves de stockage configurées chacune pour stocker un liquide de nettoyage respectif,
  • une ligne d'alimentation reliée fluidiquement à chaque cuve de stockage, la ligne d'alimentation s'étendant sur une grande longueur de façon à conduire chaque liquide de nettoyage jusqu'à au moins un équipement à nettoyer ;
le procédé de transformation comprenant les étapes :
  • ajouter au moins un module de distribution comprenant au moins une canalisation configurée pour canaliser du liquide de nettoyage vers au moins un équipement à nettoyer, l'au moins un module de distribution étant destiné à être agencé près d'au moins un équipement à nettoyer, et
  • remplacer la ligne d'alimentation par plusieurs conduites de transfert, chaque conduite de transfert étant reliée fluidiquement à une cuve de stockage respective, l'au moins un module de distribution étant relié fluidiquement à plusieurs des conduites de transfert.
Furthermore, the subject of the present invention is a transformation method, according to claim 10, for transforming a conventional cleaning installation intended to clean equipment to be cleaned, for example containers, the conventional cleaning installation comprising:
  • several storage tanks each configured to store a respective cleaning liquid,
  • a supply line fluidly connected to each storage tank, the supply line extending over a great length so as to lead each cleaning liquid to at least one piece of equipment to be cleaned;
the transformation process comprising the steps:
  • add at least one distribution module comprising at least one pipe configured to channel cleaning liquid to at least one piece of equipment to be cleaned, the at least one distribution module being intended to be arranged near at least one piece of equipment to be cleaned, And
  • replacing the supply line with several transfer lines, each transfer line being fluidly connected to a respective storage tank, the at least one distribution module being fluidly connected to several of the transfer lines.

Les modes de réalisation et les variantes mentionnés ci-avant peuvent être pris isolément ou selon toute combinaison techniquement possible.The embodiments and variants mentioned above can be taken individually or in any technically possible combination.

La présente invention sera bien comprise et ses avantages ressortiront aussi à la lumière de la description qui va suivre, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple non limitatif et faite en référence aux figures schématiques annexées, dans lesquelles des signes de références identiques correspondent à des éléments structurellement et/ou fonctionnellement identiques ou similaires. Dans les figures schématiques annexées :

  • la figure 1 est une vue schématique d'une installation de nettoyage conforme à un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
  • la figure 2 illustre un ordinogramme illustrant un procédé de nettoyage mettant en oeuvre l'installation de nettoyage de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 3 est un ordinogramme illustrant un procédé de transformation conforme à l'invention ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue schématique d'une installation de nettoyage conforme à un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
  • la figure 5 est une vue schématique d'une installation de nettoyage conforme à un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention ; et
  • la figure 6 illustre un ordinogramme illustrant un procédé de nettoyage mettant en oeuvre l'installation de nettoyage de la figure 5.
The present invention will be well understood and its advantages will also emerge in the light of the description which follows, given solely by way of non-limiting example and made with reference to the appended schematic figures, in which identical reference signs correspond to elements structurally and/or functionally identical or similar. In the attached schematic figures:
  • there figure 1 is a schematic view of a cleaning installation according to a first embodiment of the invention;
  • there figure 2 illustrates a flowchart illustrating a cleaning process implementing the cleaning installation of the figure 1 ;
  • there Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a transformation process according to the invention;
  • there Figure 4 is a schematic view of a cleaning installation according to a second embodiment of the invention;
  • there figure 5 is a schematic view of a cleaning installation according to a third embodiment of the invention; And
  • there Figure 6 illustrates a flowchart illustrating a cleaning process implementing the cleaning installation of the figure 5 .

La figure 1 illustre une usine de production 100 comprenant des équipements à nettoyer 102 et une installation de nettoyage 1 pour nettoyer ces équipements à nettoyer 102. Les équipements à nettoyer 102 peuvent par exemple être des récipients contenant des produits alimentaires.There figure 1 illustrates a production plant 100 comprising equipment to be cleaned 102 and a cleaning installation 1 for cleaning this equipment to be cleaned 102. The equipment to be cleaned 102 can for example be containers containing food products.

L'installation de nettoyage 1 comprend plusieurs cuves de stockage 2.1, 2.2 et 2.3. Chaque cuve de stockage 2.1, 2.2 ou 2.3 est configurée pour stocker un liquide de nettoyage respectif. Dans l'exemple de la figure 1, chaque cuve de stockage 2.1, 2.2 ou 2.3 a une capacité environ égale à 200 L.The cleaning installation 1 includes several storage tanks 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3. Each storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3 is configured to store a respective cleaning liquid. In the example of the figure 1 , each storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3 has a capacity approximately equal to 200 L.

Par exemple, la cuve de stockage 2.1 contient une solution acide, la cuve de stockage 2.2 contient de l'eau chaude à 90°C et la cuve de stockage 2.3 contient une solution basique.For example, storage tank 2.1 contains an acidic solution, storage tank 2.2 contains hot water at 90°C and storage tank 2.3 contains a basic solution.

De plus, l'installation de nettoyage 1 comprend un module de distribution 4. Le module de distribution 4 comprend deux canalisations de distribution 6.1 et 6.2 qui sont configurées pour canaliser du liquide de nettoyage vers deux équipements à nettoyer 102.In addition, the cleaning installation 1 comprises a distribution module 4. The distribution module 4 comprises two distribution pipes 6.1 and 6.2 which are configured to channel cleaning liquid to two pieces of equipment to be cleaned 102.

Lorsque l'installation de nettoyage 1 est en service dans l'usine de production 100, le module de distribution 4 est agencé près de chaque équipement à nettoyer 102.When the cleaning installation 1 is in service in the production factory 100, the distribution module 4 is arranged near each piece of equipment to be cleaned 102.

L'installation de nettoyage 1 comprend en outre plusieurs conduites de transfert 10.1, 10.2, 10.3. Chaque conduite de transfert 10.1, 10.2 ou 10.3 est ici reliée fluidiquement à une cuve de stockage respective 2.1, 2.2 ou 2.3. Dans l'exemple de la figure 1, les conduites de transfert 2.1, 2.2 et 2.3 sont rigides et chacune composée d'une tubulure.The cleaning installation 1 further comprises several transfer lines 10.1, 10.2, 10.3. Each transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3 is here fluidly connected to a respective storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3. In the example of the figure 1 , the transfer pipes 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 are rigid and each composed of a tube.

En l'occurrence, chaque conduite de transfert 10.1, 10.2 ou 10.3 s'étend depuis sa cuve de stockage respective 2.1, 2.2 ou 2.3 jusqu'au module de distribution 4.In this case, each transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3 extends from its respective storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3 to the distribution module 4.

Chaque conduite de transfert 10.1, 10.2 ou 10.3 a ici une longueur environ égale à 20 mètres. Donc une distance D1 entre le module de distribution 4 et chacune des cuves de stockage 2.1, 2.2 et 2.3 est ici environ égale à 20 mètres.Each transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3 here has a length approximately equal to 20 meters. Therefore a distance D1 between the distribution module 4 and each of the storage tanks 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 is here approximately equal to 20 meters.

Lorsque l'installation de nettoyage 1 est en service, un rapport :

  1. i) de la distance D2 entre le module de distribution 4 et un équipement à nettoyer 102, c'est-à-dire la longueur fluidique des canalisations de distribution 6.1 et 6.2,
  2. ii) sur la distance D1 entre le module de distribution 4 et une cuve de stockage 2.3
est ici environ égal à 5%.When cleaning plant 1 is in operation, a report:
  1. i) the distance D2 between the distribution module 4 and equipment to be cleaned 102, that is to say the fluid length of the distribution pipes 6.1 and 6.2,
  2. ii) on the distance D1 between the distribution module 4 and a storage tank 2.3
is here approximately equal to 5%.

Ainsi, la conduite de transfert 10.1 est reliée fluidiquement à la cuve de stockage 2.1 et conduit donc la solution acide ; la conduite de transfert 10.2 est reliée fluidiquement à la cuve de stockage 2.2 et conduit donc l'eau chaude ; la conduite de transfert 10.3 est reliée fluidiquement à la cuve de stockage 2.3 et conduit donc la solution basique.Thus, the transfer line 10.1 is fluidly connected to the storage tank 2.1 and therefore conducts the acid solution; the transfer pipe 10.2 is fluidly connected to the storage tank 2.2 and therefore conducts the hot water; the transfer line 10.3 is fluidly connected to the storage tank 2.3 and therefore conducts the basic solution.

Donc les liquides de nettoyage circulent dans des conduites de transfert 10.1, 10.2 et 10.3 qui sont distinctes. Lorsque l'installation de nettoyage 1 est en service, chaque conduite de transfert alimente fluidiquement plusieurs équipements à nettoyer 102 avec un seul liquide de nettoyage.Therefore the cleaning liquids circulate in transfer lines 10.1, 10.2 and 10.3 which are separate. When the cleaning installation 1 is in service, each transfer line fluidly supplies several pieces of equipment to be cleaned 102 with a single cleaning liquid.

L'installation de nettoyage 1 comprend en outre des pompes de transfert 18.1, 18.2 et 18.3 qui sont agencées de sorte que chaque cuve de stockage 2.1, 2.2 ou 2.3 est reliée fluidiquement à une pompe de transfert respective 18.1, 18.2 ou 18.3. Inversement, chaque pompe de transfert 18.1, 18.2 et 18.3 reliée fluidiquement à une conduite de transfert 10.1, 10.2 ou 10.3.The cleaning installation 1 further comprises transfer pumps 18.1, 18.2 and 18.3 which are arranged so that each storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3 is fluidly connected to a respective transfer pump 18.1, 18.2 or 18.3. Conversely, each transfer pump 18.1, 18.2 and 18.3 fluidly connected to a transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3.

Chaque cuve de stockage 2.1, 2.2 ou 2.3 est ici reliée fluidiquement à une seule pompe de transfert respective 18.1, 18.2 ou 18.3. Inversement, chaque pompe de transfert 18.1, 18.2 et 18.3 est reliée fluidiquement à une seule conduite de transfert 10.1, 10.2 ou 10.3.Each storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3 is here fluidly connected to a single respective transfer pump 18.1, 18.2 or 18.3. Conversely, each transfer pump 18.1, 18.2 and 18.3 is fluidly connected to a single transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3.

Le module de distribution 4 est relié fluidiquement à chaque conduite de transfert 10.1, 10.2, 10.3. À cet effet, le module de distribution 4 comprend trois canalisations de transfert 4.1, 4.2 et 4.3.The distribution module 4 is fluidly connected to each transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2, 10.3. For this purpose, the distribution module 4 includes three transfer pipes 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3.

Chaque canalisation de transfert 4.1, 4.2 ou 4.3 est reliée fluidiquement à une conduite de transfert respective 10.1, 10.2 ou 10.3. Dans le module de distribution 4, les canalisations de transfert 4.1, 4.2 et 4.3 sont reliées fluidiquement aux canalisations de distribution 6.1, 6.2 par un tronçon commun 4.6.Each transfer pipe 4.1, 4.2 or 4.3 is fluidly connected to a respective transfer pipe 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3. In the distribution module 4, the transfer pipes 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3 are fluidly connected to the distribution pipes 6.1, 6.2 by a common section 4.6.

De plus, le module de distribution 4 comprend trois vannes de transfert 4.11, 4.12 et 4.13 qui sont agencées respectivement sur les canalisations de transfert 4.1, 4.2 et 4.3. Chaque vanne de transfert 4.11, 4.12 ou 4.13 est configurée pour être placée :

  1. i) dans une configuration de libération, dans laquelle du liquide de nettoyage peut passer vers les canalisations de distribution 6.1 et 6.2, et
  2. ii) dans une configuration d'obturation, dans laquelle chaque vanne de transfert 4.11, 4.12 ou 4.13 bloque la circulation des liquides de nettoyage dans les canalisations de transfert 4.1, 4.2 et 4.3.
In addition, the distribution module 4 includes three transfer valves 4.11, 4.12 and 4.13 which are arranged respectively on the transfer pipes 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3. Each transfer valve 4.11, 4.12 or 4.13 is configured to be placed:
  1. i) in a release configuration, in which cleaning liquid can pass to distribution lines 6.1 and 6.2, and
  2. ii) in a blocking configuration, in which each transfer valve 4.11, 4.12 or 4.13 blocks the circulation of cleaning liquids in the transfer pipes 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3.

Le module de distribution 4 comprend aussi des vannes de distribution 6.11 et 6.21. La vanne de distribution 6.11 est agencée sur la canalisation de distribution 6.1 de façon à permettre ou empêcher, sélectivement, la circulation d'un liquide de nettoyage dans la canalisation de distribution 6.1. La vanne de distribution 6.21 est agencée sur la canalisation de distribution 6.2 de façon à permettre ou empêcher, sélectivement, la circulation d'un liquide de nettoyage dans la canalisation de distribution 6.2.Distribution module 4 also includes distribution valves 6.11 and 6.21. The distribution valve 6.11 is arranged on the distribution pipe 6.1 so as to selectively allow or prevent the circulation of a cleaning liquid in the distribution pipe 6.1. The distribution valve 6.21 is arranged on the distribution pipe 6.2 so as to selectively allow or prevent the circulation of a cleaning liquid in the distribution pipe 6.2.

L'installation de nettoyage 1 comprend en outre un dispositif de régulation comportant :

  • des capteurs physico-chimiques 7 et configurés chacun pour générer des signaux représentatifs d'une grandeur physico-chimique respective,
  • des actionneurs 9 configurés pour agir sur la circulation des liquides de nettoyage ou sur des grandeurs physico-chimiques respectives,
  • une unité de commande 24 configurée pour recevoir les signaux des capteurs physico-chimiques et pour commander les actionneurs, de façon à maintenir les grandeurs physico-chimiques des liquides de nettoyage à des valeurs de consignes prédéterminées.
The cleaning installation 1 further comprises a regulation device comprising:
  • physico-chemical sensors 7 and each configured to generate signals representative of a respective physico-chemical quantity,
  • actuators 9 configured to act on the circulation of cleaning liquids or on respective physico-chemical quantities,
  • a control unit 24 configured to receive the signals from the physico-chemical sensors and to control the actuators, so as to maintain the physico-chemical quantities of the cleaning liquids at predetermined setpoint values.

Les capteurs physico-chimiques 7 et les actionneurs 9 sont situés en aval des équipements à nettoyer 102, afin de vérifier que la grandeur physico-chimique du liquide de nettoyage sortant des équipements à nettoyer 102 est proche de la valeur de consigne.The physico-chemical sensors 7 and the actuators 9 are located downstream of the equipment to be cleaned 102, in order to verify that the physico-chemical quantity of the cleaning liquid leaving the equipment to be cleaned 102 is close to the set value.

De plus, la cuve de stockage 2.2 est équipée :

  • d'une vanne primaire 3.11 qui est destinée à être reliée fluidiquement à une source d'eau non représentée, et
  • d'une vanne secondaire 3.12 qui est destinée à être reliée fluidiquement à une source de solution concentrée.
In addition, storage tank 2.2 is equipped:
  • a primary valve 3.11 which is intended to be fluidly connected to a water source not shown, and
  • a secondary valve 3.12 which is intended to be fluidly connected to a source of concentrated solution.

L'unité de commande 24 est configurée pour commander les ouvertures et fermetures de la vanne primaire 3.11 et de la vanne secondaire 3.12. Lorsque la vanne primaire 3.11 est ouverte, de l'eau est injectée dans la cuve de stockage 2.2. Lorsque la vanne secondaire 3.12 est ouverte, de la solution concentrée est injectée dans la cuve de stockage 2.2. Les injections d'eau et de solution concentrée permettent de maintenir la concentration du liquide de nettoyage à une valeur de consigne prédéterminée.The control unit 24 is configured to control the openings and closings of the primary valve 3.11 and the secondary valve 3.12. When the primary valve 3.11 is open, water is injected into the storage tank 2.2. When the secondary valve 3.12 is open, concentrated solution is injected into the storage tank 2.2. Injections of water and concentrated solution make it possible to maintain the concentration of the cleaning liquid at a predetermined setpoint value.

L'unité de commande 24 est configurée pour commander un cycle de nettoyage automatique incluant des phases de nettoyage dont les durées de circulation et les débits de circulation des liquides de nettoyage sont prédéterminés.The control unit 24 is configured to control an automatic cleaning cycle including cleaning phases whose circulation times and circulation rates of the cleaning liquids are predetermined.

Lorsque l'installation de nettoyage 1 est en service, elle peut fonctionner suivant un procédé de nettoyage 1000 conforme à l'invention. La figure 2 illustre le procédé de nettoyage 1000 pour nettoyer des équipements à nettoyer 102, ici des récipients. Le procédé de nettoyage 1000 comprend une étape initiale consistant à mettre en oeuvre l'installation de nettoyage 1. De plus, le procédé de nettoyage 1000 comprend les étapes :

  • 1002) Après l'arrêt de la production des produits alimentaires dans les équipements 102, l'unité de commande 24 ouvre d'abord la vanne de transfert 4.11, puis, successivement, les vannes de distribution 6.11 et 6.21. Le liquide de nettoyage correspondant circule dans la conduite de transfert 10.1, dans la canalisation de transfert 4.1, dans le module de distribution 4, et successivement dans les canalisations de distribution 6.1 et 6.2, puis entre successivement dans les équipements à nettoyer 102. Le liquide de nettoyage sortant des équipements 102 est évacué hors de l'installation de nettoyage 1 vers une collecte des effluents 40.
  • 1004) Après une première durée prédéterminée, l'unité de commande 24 ferme la vanne de transfert 4.11. L'unité de commande 24 ouvre la vanne de transfert 4.12, alors que l'une des vannes de distribution 6.11 et 6.21 reste ouverte. Le liquide de nettoyage correspondant circule dans la conduite de transfert 10.2, dans la canalisation de transfert 4.2, dans le module de distribution 4, les canalisations de distribution 6.1 et 6.2, puis entre successivement dans les équipements à nettoyer 102. Le liquide de nettoyage sortant des équipements 102 est évacué hors de l'installation de nettoyage 1 vers la collecte des effluents 40.
  • 1006) Après une deuxième durée prédéterminée, L'unité de commande 24 ferme la vanne de transfert 4.12. L'unité de commande 24 ouvre la vanne de transfert 4.13, alors que les vannes de distribution 6.11 et 6.21 restent ouvertes. Le liquide de nettoyage correspondant circule dans la conduite de transfert 10.3, dans la canalisation de transfert 4.3, dans le module de distribution 4, les canalisations de distribution 6.1 et 6.2, puis entre dans les équipements à nettoyer 102. Le liquide de nettoyage sortant des équipements 102 est évacué hors de l'installation de nettoyage 1.
When the cleaning installation 1 is in service, it can operate according to a cleaning process 1000 in accordance with the invention. There figure 2 illustrates the cleaning process 1000 for cleaning equipment to be cleaned 102, here containers. The cleaning process 1000 comprises an initial step consisting of implementing the cleaning installation 1. In addition, the cleaning process 1000 comprises the steps:
  • 1002) After stopping the production of food products in the equipment 102, the control unit 24 first opens the valve transfer 4.11, then, successively, the distribution valves 6.11 and 6.21. The corresponding cleaning liquid circulates in the transfer pipe 10.1, in the transfer pipe 4.1, in the distribution module 4, and successively in the distribution pipes 6.1 and 6.2, then successively enters the equipment to be cleaned 102. The liquid cleaning equipment leaving the equipment 102 is evacuated out of the cleaning installation 1 towards an effluent collection 40.
  • 1004) After a first predetermined duration, the control unit 24 closes the transfer valve 4.11. The control unit 24 opens the transfer valve 4.12, while one of the distribution valves 6.11 and 6.21 remains open. The corresponding cleaning liquid circulates in the transfer line 10.2, in the transfer line 4.2, in the distribution module 4, the distribution lines 6.1 and 6.2, and then successively enters the equipment to be cleaned 102. The outgoing cleaning liquid equipment 102 is evacuated out of the cleaning installation 1 towards the collection of effluents 40.
  • 1006) After a second predetermined duration, the control unit 24 closes the transfer valve 4.12. The control unit 24 opens the transfer valve 4.13, while the distribution valves 6.11 and 6.21 remain open. The corresponding cleaning liquid circulates in the transfer line 10.3, in the transfer line 4.3, in the distribution module 4, the distribution lines 6.1 and 6.2, and then enters the equipment to be cleaned 102. The cleaning liquid leaving the equipment 102 is evacuated from the cleaning installation 1.

Le cycle de nettoyage automatique commandé par l'unité de commande 24 peut alors prendre fin.The automatic cleaning cycle controlled by the control unit 24 can then end.

La figure 3 illustre un procédé de transformation 500 conforme à l'invention pour transformer une installation de nettoyage conventionnelle destinée à nettoyer des équipements à nettoyer 102, ici des récipients.There Figure 3 illustrates a transformation method 500 in accordance with the invention for transforming a conventional cleaning installation intended to clean equipment to be cleaned 102, here containers.

Une installation de nettoyage conventionnelle comprend

  • des cuves de stockage 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 configurées chacune pour stocker un liquide de nettoyage respectif, et
  • une ligne d'alimentation non représenté qui est reliée fluidiquement à chaque cuve de stockage 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, la ligne d'alimentation s'étendant sur
une grande longueur de façon à conduire chaque liquide de nettoyage jusqu'à au moins un équipement à nettoyer 102.A conventional cleaning installation includes
  • storage tanks 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 each configured to store a respective cleaning liquid, and
  • a supply line not shown which is fluidly connected to each storage tank 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, the supply line extending over
a great length so as to lead each cleaning liquid to at least one piece of equipment to be cleaned 102.

Le procédé de transformation 500 comprend les étapes :

  • 502) ajouter au moins un module de distribution 4 comprenant au moins une canalisation configurée pour canaliser du liquide de nettoyage vers au moins un équipement à nettoyer 102, l'au moins un module de distribution 4 étant destiné à être agencé près d'au moins un équipement à nettoyer 102, et
  • 504) remplacer la ligne d'alimentation par plusieurs conduites de transfert 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, chaque conduite de transfert 10.1, 10.2, 10.3 étant reliée fluidiquement à une cuve de stockage respective 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, l'au moins un module de distribution 4 étant relié fluidiquement à plusieurs des conduites de transfert 10.1, 10.2, 10.3.
The transformation process 500 includes the steps:
  • 502) add at least one distribution module 4 comprising at least one pipe configured to channel cleaning liquid to at least one piece of equipment to be cleaned 102, the at least one distribution module 4 being intended to be arranged near at least equipment to be cleaned 102, and
  • 504) replace the supply line with several transfer lines 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, each transfer line 10.1, 10.2, 10.3 being fluidly connected to a respective storage tank 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, the at least one storage module distribution 4 being fluidly connected to several of the transfer lines 10.1, 10.2, 10.3.

La figure 4 illustre une installation de nettoyage 1 conforme à un deuxième mode de réalisation. Dans la mesure où l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 4 est similaire à l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 1, la description de l'installation de nettoyage 1 donnée ci-avant en relation avec la figure 1 peut être transposée à l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 4, à l'exception des différences notables mentionnées ci-après.There Figure 4 illustrates a cleaning installation 1 conforming to a second embodiment. To the extent that the cleaning installation 1 of the Figure 4 is similar to cleaning installation 1 of the figure 1 , the description of the cleaning installation 1 given above in relation to the figure 1 can be transferred to cleaning installation 1 of the Figure 4 , except for the notable differences mentioned below.

L'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 4 diffère de l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 1, car l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 4 comprend en outre une conduite de boucle 15. La conduite de boucle 15 relie fluidiquement la cuve de stockage 2.1 à une région aval 10.15 de la conduite de transfert 10.1.The cleaning installation 1 of the Figure 4 differs from cleaning installation 1 of the figure 1 , because the cleaning installation 1 of the Figure 4 further comprises a loop pipe 15. The loop pipe 15 fluidly connects the storage tank 2.1 to a downstream region 10.15 of the transfer pipe 10.1.

La région aval 10.15 est située au plus près du module de distribution 4. L'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 4 comprend en outre une vanne de boucle 15.10 agencée sur la conduite de boucle 15 pour permettre ou empêcher la circulation de liquide de nettoyage dans la conduite de boucle 15.The downstream region 10.15 is located closest to the distribution module 4. The cleaning installation 1 of the Figure 4 further comprises a loop valve 15.10 arranged on the loop line 15 to allow or prevent the circulation of cleaning liquid in the loop line 15.

La figure 5 illustre une installation de nettoyage 1 conforme à un deuxième mode de réalisation. Dans la mesure où l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 5 est similaire à l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 1, la description de l'installation de nettoyage 1 donnée ci-avant en relation avec la figure 1 peut être transposée à l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 5, à l'exception des différences notables mentionnées ci-après.There figure 5 illustrates a cleaning installation 1 conforming to a second embodiment. To the extent that the cleaning installation 1 of the figure 5 is similar to cleaning installation 1 of the figure 1 , the description of the cleaning installation 1 given above in relation to the figure 1 can be transferred to cleaning installation 1 of the figure 5 , except for the notable differences mentioned below.

L'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 5 diffère de l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 1, car le module de distribution 4 de la figure 5 comprend un module de chauffage 11 comportant :

  • un bac 12 qui est configuré pour contenir un liquide de nettoyage,
  • un organe de chauffage 14 qui est relié fluidiquement au bac 12,
  • une pompe de distribution 16 qui est reliée au bac 12 et à l'organe de chauffage 14 de façon à faire circuler du liquide de nettoyage du bac 12 vers l'organe de chauffage 14.
The cleaning installation 1 of the figure 5 differs from cleaning installation 1 of the figure 1 , because the distribution module 4 of the figure 5 comprises a heating module 11 comprising:
  • a tray 12 which is configured to contain a cleaning liquid,
  • a heating member 14 which is fluidly connected to the tank 12,
  • a distribution pump 16 which is connected to the tank 12 and to the heating member 14 so as to circulate cleaning liquid from the tank 12 to the heating member 14.

Lorsque l'installation de nettoyage 1 est en service, le bac 12 contient du liquide de nettoyage. La pompe de distribution 16 fait circuler du liquide de nettoyage du bac 12 vers l'organe de chauffage 14. L'organe de chauffage 14 réchauffe le liquide de nettoyage qui y circule, ce qui permet d'ajuster la température de ce liquide de nettoyage.When cleaning installation 1 is in operation, tank 12 contains cleaning liquid. The distribution pump 16 circulates cleaning liquid from the tank 12 to the heating member 14. The heating member 14 heats the cleaning liquid circulating there, which makes it possible to adjust the temperature of this cleaning liquid .

De plus, le liquide de nettoyage sortant des équipements à nettoyer 102 peut être réinjecté dans le bac 12, donc dans l'organe de chauffage 14, lorsque l'unité de commande 24 ouvre une vanne de bouclage 4.102 appartenant au module de distribution 4. Ainsi, l'organe de chauffage 14 réchauffe aussi ce liquide de nettoyage réinjecté, si besoin.In addition, the cleaning liquid leaving the equipment to be cleaned 102 can be reinjected into the tank 12, therefore into the heating member 14, when the control unit 24 opens a loopback valve 4.102 belonging to the distribution module 4. Thus, the heating member 14 also heats this reinjected cleaning liquid, if necessary.

De plus, l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 5 diffère de l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 1, car la cuve de stockage 2.1 de la figure 5 est équipée :

  • d'une boucle de recirculation 20.1 agencée pour relier fluidiquement deux ouvertures, à savoir une entrée et une sortie, de la cuve de stockage 2.1, et
  • d'un dispositif de chauffage 22.1 agencé pour chauffer le liquide de nettoyage circulant dans la boucle de recirculation 20.1.
In addition, cleaning installation 1 of the figure 5 differs from cleaning installation 1 of the figure 1 , because the storage tank 2.1 of the figure 5 is equipped:
  • a recirculation loop 20.1 arranged to fluidly connect two openings, namely an inlet and an outlet, of the storage tank 2.1, and
  • a heating device 22.1 arranged to heat the cleaning liquid circulating in the recirculation loop 20.1.

Lorsque l'installation de nettoyage 1 est en service, du liquide de nettoyage prélevé dans la cuve de stockage 2.1 circule dans la boucle de recirculation 20.1. Ce liquide de nettoyage circule dans le dispositif de chauffage 22.1, où le liquide de nettoyage est réchauffé, ce qui permet d'ajuster la température du liquide de stockage contenu dans la cuve de stockage 2.1.When the cleaning installation 1 is in service, cleaning liquid taken from the storage tank 2.1 circulates in the recirculation loop 20.1. This cleaning liquid circulates in the heating device 22.1, where the cleaning liquid is heated, which makes it possible to adjust the temperature of the storage liquid contained in the storage tank 2.1.

De plus, l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 5 diffère de l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 1, car l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 5 comprend en outre trois conduites de retour 30.1, 30.2 et 30.3 et trois vannes de retour 30.11, 30.21 et 30.31.In addition, cleaning installation 1 of the figure 5 differs from cleaning installation 1 of the figure 1 , because the cleaning plant 1 of there figure 5 further comprises three return pipes 30.1, 30.2 and 30.3 and three return valves 30.11, 30.21 and 30.31.

Chaque conduite de retour 30.1, 30.2 ou 30.3 est reliée fluidiquement à une cuve de stockage respective 2.1, 2.2 ou 2.3. Le module de distribution 4 est relié fluidiquement aux trois conduites de retour 2.1, 2.2 et 2.3. L'unité de commande 24 est configurée pour piloter (ouvrir et fermer) chaque vanne de retour 30.11, 30.21 ou 30.31 de façon à permettre ou empêcher le retour des liquides de nettoyage vers les cuves de stockage respective 2.1, 2.2 et 2.3 respectivement à travers les conduites de retour 30.1, 30.2 et 30.3.Each return pipe 30.1, 30.2 or 30.3 is fluidly connected to a respective storage tank 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3. The distribution module 4 is fluidly connected to the three return lines 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3. The control unit 24 is configured to control (open and close) each return valve 30.11, 30.21 or 30.31 so as to allow or prevent the return of cleaning liquids to the respective storage tanks 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 respectively through return lines 30.1, 30.2 and 30.3.

Par ailleurs, l'unité de commande 24 peut fermer les vannes de distribution 6.11 et 6.21, ouvrir la vanne de bouclage 4.102 et ouvrir l'une des vannes de retour 30.11, 30.21 et 30.31, par exemple la vanne de retour 30.11. Le liquide de nettoyage arrivant de la conduite de transfert 4.1 entre dans le module de distribution 4, circule dans le tronçon commun 4.6 et se dirige vers la conduite de retour 30.11.Furthermore, the control unit 24 can close the distribution valves 6.11 and 6.21, open the loopback valve 4.102 and open one of the return valves 30.11, 30.21 and 30.31, for example the return valve 30.11. The cleaning liquid arriving from the transfer line 4.1 enters the distribution module 4, circulates in the common section 4.6 and heads towards the return line 30.11.

Ainsi, chaque conduite de transfert est reliée à une conduite de retour respective, de façon à former une boucle dans laquelle le liquide de nettoyage peut circuler en permanence tant qu'il ne s'écoule pas vers les équipements à nettoyer 102. Cette circulation permanente d'un liquide de nettoyage permet, si besoin, de le mélanger (slurry) et/ou de le réchauffer. De plus, le liquide à nettoyer qui circule en permanence est immédiatement disponible au niveau du module de distribution 4, puisqu'il n'est pas nécessaire de le mettre en mouvement dans la conduite de transfert correspondante 10.1, 10.2 ou 10.3.Thus, each transfer pipe is connected to a respective return pipe, so as to form a loop in which the cleaning liquid can circulate permanently as long as it does not flow towards the equipment to be cleaned 102. This permanent circulation of a cleaning liquid allows, if necessary, to mix it ( slurry ) and/or heat it. In addition, the liquid to be cleaned which is constantly circulating is immediately available at the distribution module 4, since it is not necessary to set it in motion in the corresponding transfer line 10.1, 10.2 or 10.3.

Comme pour l'installation de nettoyage 1 de la figure 1, l'unité de commande 24 de la figure 2 est configurée pour commander un cycle de nettoyage automatique incluant des phases de nettoyage dont les durées de circulation et les débits de circulation des liquides de nettoyage sont prédéterminés.As for cleaning installation 1 of the figure 1 , the control unit 24 of the figure 2 is configured to control an automatic cleaning cycle including cleaning phases whose circulation times and circulation rates of the cleaning liquids are predetermined.

Lorsque l'installation de nettoyage 1 est en service, elle peut fonctionner suivant un procédé de nettoyage 1000 qui est illustré à la figure 6 et qui est conforme à un deuxième mode de réalisation. Dans la mesure où le un procédé de nettoyage 1000 de la figure 6 est similaire au un procédé de nettoyage 1000 de la figure 2, la description du un procédé de nettoyage 1000 donnée ci-avant en relation avec la figure 2 peut être transposée au un procédé de nettoyage 1000 de la figure 6, à l'exception des différences notables mentionnées ci-après.When the cleaning installation 1 is in service, it can operate according to a cleaning process 1000 which is illustrated in the Figure 6 and which conforms to a second embodiment. To the extent that the cleaning process 1000 of the Figure 6 is similar to a cleaning process 1000 of the figure 2 , the description of a cleaning process 1000 given above in relation to the figure 2 can be transposed to a cleaning process 1000 of the Figure 6 , except for the notable differences mentioned below.

Comme dans l'exemple de la figure 2, le procédé de nettoyage 1000 de la figure 6 comprend une étape :

  • 1002) Après l'arrêt de la production des produits alimentaires dans les équipements 102, l'unité de commande 24 ouvre d'abord la vanne de transfert 4.11 et, successivement, les vannes de distribution 6.11 et 6.21. Le liquide de nettoyage correspondant circule dans la conduite de transfert 10.1, dans la canalisation de transfert 4.1, dans le module de distribution 4, successivement dans les canalisations de distribution 6.1 et 6.2, puis entre successivement dans les équipements à nettoyer 102.
  • 1003) À la différence du procédé de nettoyage 1000 de la figure 2, où le liquide de nettoyage sortant successivement des équipements 102 est évacué hors de l'installation de nettoyage 1, dans le procédé de nettoyage 1000 de la figure 6, l'unité de commande 24 ouvre la vanne de retour 30.11, de sorte que le liquide de nettoyage sortant successivement des équipements 102 retourne vers la cuve de stockage 2.1.
  • 1004) Après une première durée prédéterminée, l'unité de commande 24 ferme la vanne de transfert 4.11. L'unité de commande 24 ouvre la vanne de transfert 4.12, alors que l'une des vannes de distribution 6.11 et 6.21 reste ouverte. Le liquide de nettoyage correspondant circule dans la conduite de transfert 10.2, dans la canalisation de transfert 4.2, dans le module de distribution 4, successivement dans les canalisations de distribution 6.1 et 6.2, puis entre successivement dans les équipements à nettoyer 102.
  • 1005) À la différence du procédé de nettoyage 1000 de la figure 2, où le liquide de nettoyage sortant successivement des équipements 102 est évacué hors de l'installation de nettoyage 1, dans le procédé de nettoyage 1000 de la figure 6, l'unité de commande 24 ouvre la vanne de retour 30.21, de sorte que le liquide de nettoyage sortant successivement des équipements 102 retourne vers la cuve de stockage 2.2.
  • 1006) Après une deuxième durée prédéterminée, L'unité de commande 24 ferme la vanne de transfert 4.12. L'unité de commande 24 ouvre la vanne de transfert 4.13, alors que l'une des vannes de distribution 6.11 et 6.21 reste ouverte. Le liquide de nettoyage correspondant circule dans la conduite de transfert 10.3, dans la canalisation de transfert 4.3, dans le module de distribution 4, successivement dans les canalisations de distribution 6.1 et 6.2, puis entre successivement dans les équipements à nettoyer 102.
  • 1007) À la différence du procédé de nettoyage 1000 de la figure 2, où le liquide de nettoyage sortant successivement des équipements 102 est évacué hors de l'installation de nettoyage 1, dans le procédé de nettoyage 1000 de la figure 6, l'unité de commande 24 ouvre la vanne de retour 30.31, de sorte que le liquide de nettoyage sortant successivement des équipements 102 retourne vers la cuve de stockage 2.3.
As in the example of figure 2 , the cleaning process 1000 of the Figure 6 includes one step:
  • 1002) After stopping the production of food products in the equipment 102, the control unit 24 first opens the transfer valve 4.11 and, successively, the distribution valves 6.11 and 6.21. The corresponding cleaning liquid circulates in the transfer pipe 10.1, in the transfer pipe 4.1, in the distribution module 4, successively in the distribution pipes 6.1 and 6.2, then successively enters the equipment to be cleaned 102.
  • 1003) Unlike the cleaning process 1000 of the figure 2 , where the cleaning liquid successively leaving the equipment 102 is evacuated out of the cleaning installation 1, in the cleaning process 1000 of the Figure 6 , the control unit 24 opens the return valve 30.11, so that the cleaning liquid exiting successively from the equipment 102 returns to the storage tank 2.1.
  • 1004) After a first predetermined duration, the control unit 24 closes the transfer valve 4.11. The control unit 24 opens the transfer valve 4.12, while one of the distribution valves 6.11 and 6.21 remains open. The corresponding cleaning liquid circulates in the transfer pipe 10.2, in the transfer pipe 4.2, in the distribution module 4, successively in the distribution pipes 6.1 and 6.2, then successively enters the equipment to be cleaned 102.
  • 1005) Unlike the cleaning process 1000 of the figure 2 , where the cleaning liquid successively leaving the equipment 102 is evacuated out of the cleaning installation 1, in the cleaning process 1000 of the Figure 6 , the control unit 24 opens the return valve 30.21, so that the cleaning liquid exiting successively from the equipment 102 returns to the storage tank 2.2.
  • 1006) After a second predetermined duration, the control unit 24 closes the transfer valve 4.12. The control unit 24 opens the transfer valve 4.13, while one of the distribution valves 6.11 and 6.21 remains open. The corresponding cleaning fluid circulates in the cleaning line transfer 10.3, in the transfer pipe 4.3, in the distribution module 4, successively in the distribution pipes 6.1 and 6.2, then successively enters the equipment to be cleaned 102.
  • 1007) Unlike the cleaning process 1000 of the figure 2 , where the cleaning liquid successively leaving the equipment 102 is evacuated out of the cleaning installation 1, in the cleaning process 1000 of the Figure 6 , the control unit 24 opens the return valve 30.31, so that the cleaning liquid exiting successively from the equipment 102 returns to the storage tank 2.3.

Le cycle de nettoyage automatique commandé par l'unité de commande 24 peut alors prendre fin.The automatic cleaning cycle controlled by the control unit 24 can then end.

Bien entendu, la présente invention n'est pas limitée aux modes de réalisation particuliers décrits dans la présente demande de brevet, ni à des modes de réalisation à la portée de l'homme du métier. D'autres modes de réalisation peuvent être envisagés sans sortir du cadre de l'invention, telle que définie par les revendications.Of course, the present invention is not limited to the particular embodiments described in the present patent application, nor to embodiments within the reach of those skilled in the art. Other embodiments can be envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined by the claims.

Claims (10)

  1. A cleaning installation (1), for cleaning equipment to be cleaned (102), for example containers, in a production plant (100), the cleaning installation (1) comprising several storage vessels (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) each configured to store a respective cleaning liquid;
    - at least one distribution module (4) comprising at least one distribution pipe (6.1, 6.2) configured to channel cleaning liquid to at least one equipment to be cleaned (102), the at least one distribution module (4) being intended to be arranged near at least one equipment to be cleaned (102), and
    - several transfer conduits (10.1, 10.2, 10.3), each transfer conduit (10.1, 10.2, 10.3) being fluidly connected to a respective storage vessel (2.1, 2.2, 2.3), the at least one distribution module (4) being fluidly connected to several of the transfer conduits (10.1, 10.2, 10.3),
    - a regulation device, the regulation device including:
    - physico-chemical sensors (7) each configured to generate signals representative of a respective physico-chemical quantity,
    - actuators (9) configured to act on the circulation of cleaning liquids or on respective physico-chemical quantities,
    - a control unit (24) configured to receive the signals from the physico-chemical sensors (7) and to control the actuators (9), so as to maintain the physico-chemical quantities of the cleaning liquids at predetermined setpoint values and at least one storage vessel (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) equipped:
    - with a primary valve (3.11) intended to be fluidly connected to a water source, and
    - with a secondary valve (3.12) intended to be fluidly connected to a source of concentrated solution,
    and wherein the control unit (24) is configured to control the opening and closing of the primary valve (3.11) and the secondary valve (3.12) so as to inject water and/or concentrated solution into said at least one storage vessel (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) in order to maintain the concentration of the cleaning liquid at a predetermined setpoint value.
  2. The cleaning installation (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one of the transfer conduits (10.1, 10.2, 10.3) extends from a respective storage vessel (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) until said at least one distribution module (4).
  3. The cleaning installation (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one distribution module (4) comprises a heating module (11) including:
    - a tank (12) configured to contain a cleaning liquid,
    - a heating member (14) fluidly connected to the tank (12),
    - a distribution pump (16) connected to the tank (12) and to the heating member (14) so as to circulate the cleaning liquid from the tank (12) towards the heating member (14).
  4. The cleaning installation (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising several transfer pumps (18.1, 18.2, 18.3) arranged so that each storage vessel (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) is fluidly connected to at least one transfer pump (18.1, 18.2, 18.3), each transfer pump (18.1, 18.2, 18.3) being fluidly connected to at least one transfer conduit (10.1, 10.2, 10.3).
  5. The cleaning installation (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one distribution module (4) comprises at least:
    - several transfer pipes (4.1, 4.2, 4.3), each transfer pipe (4.1, 4.2, 4.3) being fluidly connected to a respective transfer pipe (10.1, 10.2, 10.3), the transfer pipes (4.1, 4.2, 4.3) being fluidly connected to the distribution pipe (6.1, 6.2),
    - several transfer valves (4.11, 4.12, 4.13) arranged respectively on the transfer pipes (4.1, 4.2, 4.3), each transfer valve (4.11, 4.12, 4.13) being configured to be placed at least:
    i) in a release configuration, in which the cleaning liquid can pass to the at least one distribution pipe (6.1, 6.2), and
    ii) in a shutter configuration.
  6. The cleaning installation (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the storage vessels (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) is equipped with at least:
    - a recirculation loop (20.1) arranged to fluidly connect two openings of said at least one storage vessel (2.1, 2.2, 2.3), and
    - a heating device (22.1) arranged to heat the cleaning liquid circulating in the recirculation loop (20.1).
  7. The cleaning installation (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one loop conduit (15), said at least one loop conduit (15) fluidly connecting a respective storage vessel (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) to a downstream region of a respective transfer conduit (10.1, 10.2, 10.3), the downstream region being located near or in the at least one distribution module (4).
  8. The cleaning installation (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising several return conduits, each return conduit being fluidly connected to a respective storage vessel (2.1, 2.2, 2.3), the at least one distribution module (4) being fluidly connected to several of the return conduits.
  9. The cleaning installation (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (24) is configured to control an automatic cleaning cycle including cleaning phases whose circulation times and the circulation flow rates of cleaning liquids are predetermined.
  10. A transformation method (500), for transforming a conventional cleaning installation intended to clean equipment to be cleaned (102), for example containers, the conventional cleaning installation comprising:
    - several storage vessels (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) each configured to store a respective cleaning liquid,
    - a supply line fluidly connected to each storage vessel (2.1, 2.2, 2.3), the supply line extending over a great length so as to lead each cleaning liquid to at least one equipment to be cleaned (102);
    the transformation method (500) comprising the steps of:
    - 502) adding at least one distribution module (4) comprising at least one pipe configured to channel cleaning liquid towards at least one equipment to be cleaned (102), the at least one distribution module (4) being intended to be arranged near at least one equipment to be cleaned (102), and
    - 504) replacing the supply line with several transfer conduits (10.1, 10.2, 10.3), each transfer conduit (10.1, 10.2, 10.3) being fluidly connected to a respective storage vessel (2.1, 2.2, 2.3),
    the at least one distribution module (4) being fluidly connected to several of the transfer conduits (10.1, 10.2, 10.3).
EP16203260.1A 2015-12-11 2016-12-09 Cleaning facility, transformation method and cleaning method using such a cleaning facility Active EP3178573B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1562182A FR3044939B1 (en) 2015-12-11 2015-12-11 CLEANING INSTALLATION, PROCESSING METHOD AND CLEANING METHOD USING SUCH A CLEANING FACILITY

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EP3178573A1 EP3178573A1 (en) 2017-06-14
EP3178573C0 EP3178573C0 (en) 2024-02-14
EP3178573B1 true EP3178573B1 (en) 2024-02-14

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EP (1) EP3178573B1 (en)
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Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3140828A (en) * 1963-02-26 1964-07-14 Theodore E Ferris & Sons Tank washing system
GB1096440A (en) * 1966-04-25 1967-12-29 Apv Co Ltd Improvements in or relating to arrangements for in-place cleaning of plant and equipment
US20010052355A1 (en) * 1999-02-08 2001-12-20 Herb Hoenisch Multi-container pressure washer
DE102009034693A1 (en) * 2009-07-24 2011-03-17 Khs Gmbh Plant for processing and / or processing liquid products and process for cleaning plant components of such plants
US20110197920A1 (en) * 2010-02-16 2011-08-18 Andy Kenowski Monitoring and Recording Device for Clean-In-Place System
ES2399970T3 (en) * 2010-02-24 2013-04-04 Tamperen Teollisuussähkö Oy Control technique for a multi-stage washing process that uses a plurality of chemicals

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FR3044939B1 (en) 2019-08-09
FR3044939A1 (en) 2017-06-16
US20170165724A1 (en) 2017-06-15
EP3178573A1 (en) 2017-06-14
EP3178573C0 (en) 2024-02-14

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