FR2640527A1 - PROCESS FOR WASHING THE OUTER SURFACE OF CYLINDRICAL OBJECTS, ESPECIALLY GAS BOTTLES, AND DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT SAID METHOD - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and a device for washing the outer surface of cylindrical objects conveyed in continuous movement, said objects being arranged with their vertical axis. In accordance with the invention, the following steps are carried out:. spraying at a station I a detergent agent on a unitary object held stationary, by actuating a rotary spray means; . transfer of the object in the open air to a rinsing station III, the duration of the transfer corresponding to the duration of chemical action of the sprayed detergent agent; . rinsing of the unitary object again kept fixed at the rinsing station III by spraying water under high pressure, by actuating a rotary spray means. Two additional brushing stations II are advantageously provided between the spraying station I and the rinsing station III, as well as a drying station IV downstream of the rinsing station III. Application in particular to washing the outer surface of LPG cylinders.

Description

The present invention relates to the washing of the outer surface of objects

  cylindrical, in particular but not exclusively

  bottles of liquefied petroleum gas or LPG.

  The washing techniques currently in use are based on a continuous tunnel type design, in which continuous scrolling

the objects to wash.

  The tunnel then generally comprises several successive zones of treatment, but all these zones are arranged in the

single casing of the tunnel.

  It has thus been proposed to wash the outside of the LPG bottles in a tunnel comprising an upstream wash zone by detergent solution, and a downstream zone for rinsing with hot water. The washing is carried out by means of transverse U-shaped spray booms, between the branches of which the bottles conveyed by chains pass; the detergent solution sprayed is pumped in closed circuit by a pump, and filtered before pumping, a recovery tank being provided in the lower part of the tunnel. The hot water rinsing is carried out in a similar manner, by means of spray booms, the hot water used being recycled without however being purified.

  Such a principle has many disadvantages.

  First of all, the installations have an important dimensioning making their implementation sometimes very difficult, and imply a

  high energy cost due to the continuous watering of the conveyed objects.

  Then, this type of installation makes it very difficult for

  the passage times of the objects in the tunnel, which requires the use of spacers and / or means to avoid stuffing the queue of objects. It must be understood that an efficient washing requires regular passage times: if the object remains too long in an area of the tunnel, it may be faded or deteriorated in the case of a particularly aggressive detergent solution, and if the object does not stay

  for a long time, the washing may not be enough.

  Finally, the design in successive ramps for the sprinkler means does not allow to perform a homogeneous and regular projection on the objects. It is indeed easy to understand that the distances of the sprayed jets coming from the lateral ramps differ according to the areas concerned of the cylindrical outer surface of the objects to be washed, which induces a maximum action for short jets, and minimum or even zero for jets long (the areas of the generators located on the central axis of scrolling are practically not concerned): this forces then to

  oversize the equipment, which is also more expensive.

  Continuous washing and drying machines have also been proposed, based on the same principle of continuous tunneling, and also using transverse spray bars carried out in the form of a

rectangular frame.

  In order to avoid excessive dimensioning of such machines, attempts have been made to bring the washing and rinsing zones closer together. In addition to the aforementioned drawbacks, the additional disadvantage is that washing product can pass into the rinsing zone. and so mix with the rinsing circuit, which is obviously

  harmful to the quality of the treatment.

  It has also been proposed to add a washing-bros-

  Tunnel wise to improve the quality of LPG bottle washing: each bottle of gas was then passed on a lifting plate rotating freely around a vertical axis, the brushing then taking place by direct drive of the bottle by the brushing elements organized according to a vertical tangential column. This design was likely to improve the efficiency of the system, but the brushing elements would wear out very quickly, and the problem of recycling the wash water was even greater.

delicate to solve.

  - It should also be mentioned for the record of other

  techniques already proposed for washing large cylindrical cans.

  It has thus been proposed to organize a conveyance, in a washing tunnel, of cans arranged in a lying position (horizontal axis) on horizontal drive rollers: the rollers rotate the can about its axis, which makes it possible to predict fixed injectors producing jets more or less regular directed towards the axis of the can. However, this technique has the additional disadvantage of having to protect the drive mechanisms on which the washing liquid is discharged.

loaded with dirt.

  Another way to improve the homogeneity of the spray on each drum has been to provide a set of fixed vertical ramps forming the four vertical edges of a rectangular parallelepiped. The series of jets are then for each edge, directed towards the vertical axis of the can, said can being lowered from the top to be arranged between the ramps, being suspended by a lifting hook, which makes it possible to make turn the can on itself if it does not rest on the

ground.

  This technique may be suitable for a decontamination treatment of cans, but it is unthinkable for a series washing, since the cans must be washed one by one, by actuating each time the associated lifting system. In addition, this technique remains limited to very specific types of cylindrical objects, and in particular

  difficult to transpose to the washing of LPG bottles.

  The object of the invention is to provide a method and a device for performing an efficient washing of the outer surface of cylindrical objects, in particular LPG bottles (it could of course be other objects, for example food metal cans), the process can further be completely automated. The invention also aims to implement a washing process with a liquid projection that is both

  homogeneous and regular, on the walls of the object.

  The invention also aims to implement an easy implantation washing process, thanks to a reduced dimensioning, and the absence of bulky equipment and / or requiring a

important source of energy.

  The invention finally aims to implement a washing process that can avoid having to provide a recycling system, thanks to a low water consumption that can be all

  simply discharged into the wastewater system after settling.

  It is more particularly a method of washing the outer surface of cylindrical objects, in particular gas bottles

  liquefied petroleum or LPG, conveyed in continuous

  diaire conveying means on which said objects are arranged so that their axis is substantially vertical, characterized in that it comprises the following successive steps: is sprayed at a spray station a detergent on a unitary object, actuating rotary spraying means, said object being held stationary in a position such that its vertical axis coincides substantially with the axis of said spraying means; the unit object is transferred to the open air via the conveying means to a rinsing station, the duration of the transfer being at least equal to the duration of chemical action of the pulverized detergent agent; the unitary object is rinsed at the rinsing station by spraying water under high pressure, by actuating a rotary spraying means, said object being again held stationary in a position such that its axis

  vertical substantially coincides with the axis of said sprinkler means.

  According to a characteristic advantageously provided, the unitary object is transferred, downstream of the spraying station and upstream of the rinsing station, to a brushing station provided upstream of the rinsing station, where a rotary brushing means is actuated, object being held stationary in a position such that its vertical axis substantially coincides with the axis of said brushing means, the transfer of the object

  unitary upstream and downstream of the brushing station being in the open air.

  According to another advantageous characteristic, the unitary object is transferred, downstream from the rinsing station, to a drying station by blowing compressed air, the object being rotated about its vertical axis held fixed in front of the blowing means. disposed laterally to remove residual water on the walls of said object, the transfer of the unitary object upstream and downstream of the drying station is

doing in the open air.

  It is thus possible to implement a unit washing process which is particularly effective, easily automatable, and perfectly combines the chemical detergent action and the mechanical action exerted.

  on objects that scroll continuously.

  Preferably, the spraying of the detergent on the unitary object at the spraying station is carried out by rotating the rotary spraying means at a constant speed, and / or by rotating the rotary spraying means for one revolution. , the direction of rotation reversing for the next unitary object; the spraying is advantageously carried out at low pressure, in particular under a

  pressure of the order of 3000 to 4000 HPa.

  Also preferably, the brushing of the unitary object at the brushing station is performed by rotating at constant speed the rotating brushing means previously lowered vertically to be in contact with said object; the brushing is advantageously carried out with simultaneous water injection, at low pressure, in the rotary brushing means. Also preferably, the spraying of water under high pressure on the unitary object at the rinsing station is carried out by rotating the rotary spraying means at a constant speed, the spraying is advantageously carried out by flat jets, under a pressure

  at least equal to 100,000 HPa, and preferably close to 130,000 HPa.

  More preferably, the drying of the unitary object by blowing air at the drying station is carried out in two stages, with a predrying of the upper part of said object being transferred, followed by drying itself. during which the unitary object

  is rotated about its axis.

  Advantageously, in this case, the unitary object is maintained, during the actual drying, between a rotary drive plate and a coaxial upper centering head previously lowered vertically to be in contact with said object; in particular, the upper centering head is lowered on the unitary object before it rests on the turntable, after which said head and

  said plateau are reassembled in synchronism.

  Also preferably, two unitary objects can be simultaneously at the drying station, the upstream object being waiting for transfer for a pre-drying and the downstream object undergoing drying.

  well said; in particular, the blowing air is performed alternately

  on one or the other unitary object, by means of blowing means actuated permanently to perform either a pre-drying or a

drying itself.

  Advantageously finally, the air blowing is carried out, during the

  drying itself, by flat air slats and inclined.

  The invention also relates to a device for carrying out the aforementioned washing process, characterized in that it comprises, in addition to conveying means on which are disposed the cylindrical objects concerned: a spray module consisting of a housing that crosses the line of scrolling objects, and in which are arranged a rotatable spraying means, rotatable about a vertical axis for spraying a detergent on the unitary object inside said housing, and a stop means for stopping a unitary object conveyed such that its axis coincides substantially with said vertical axis 20. a rinsing module, independent of the spray module and disposed downstream thereof, said rinsing module being constituted by a housing that passes through the line of scrolling objects, and in which are arranged a rotating spraying means, rotatable about a vertical axis to project from the water under high pressure on the unitary object inside said casing, and a stop means for stopping a unitary object conveyed so that its axis substantially coincides with

said vertical axis.

  According to a characteristic advantageously provided, the device further comprises, between the spray module and the rinsing module, an independent brushing module, consisting of a casing through which the scroll line of the objects passes, and in which are arranged a means of rotary brushing, rotatable from a vertical axis for brushing the unitary object inside said housing, and a stop means for stopping a unitary object conveyed so that its axis coincides with

  substantially with said vertical axis.

  According to another advantageous characteristic, the device further comprises, downstream of the rinsing module, an independent drying module, consisting of a casing through which the scroll line of the objects passes, and in which are arranged fixed blowing means, and a rotational drive means capable of rotating the inner unitary object to said housing in front of said blowing means to remove residual water from its walls, the vertical axis of said object remaining fixed during

this rotation.

  It is thus possible to realize a space-saving installation

  and very efficient, thanks to its modular design.

  Preferably, the rotary spray means is essentially constituted by a horizontal support rotated, and at least one spray gun suspended cantilevered to said support; in particular, the horizontal support is driven by a rotary cylinder whose rack-and-pinion is coupled to a vertical shaft integral with said support, the stroke of said rack-and-pinion corresponding to a complete revolution for the rotation of the horizontal support. Advantageously, a spray gun is suspended at each end of the horizontal support, with different vertical positions for said spray guns.

spray.

  Also preferably, the inclination and / or the position of the spray gun or spray guns is adjustable, to suit the type of cylindrical object concerned; advantageously in addition, the spray gun or spray guns are fed by means external to the spray module frame, said means comprising a detergent agent tank and

a dispensing pump.

  According to a particular embodiment, the stop means is essentially constituted by telescopic fingers controlled by

  cylinder, and preferably a set of two fingers arranged horizontally

  downstream of the vertical axis of rotation of the rotating spray means

  and in directions substantially intersecting with said vertical axis.

  It is also interesting that the frame of the spray module comprises an inlet tunnel and an exit tunnel, stop means, preferably of the telescopic finger type, being

  further provided at said entrance tunnel.

  Preferably, the rotary brushing means is essential

  consisting of a horizontal support rotated by an associated motor, and at least one brush element suspended cantilever to the support, said support being movable vertically to bring said brush element into contact with the unitary object concerned. Also preferably, the horizontal support has the form of a cross support supporting four brush elements; in particular, the brush elements have the shape of a brush sector, whose conformation is adapted to the shape of the upper part of the object

unit concerned.

  Also preferably, the horizontal support is suspended from a plate carrying a drive motor in rotation and connected to the frame of the brushing module by means of a positional jack; in particular, the plate supports a rotary joint connected to a source of water at low pressure, and at least one of the brush elements for a

simultaneous water injection.

  According to a particular embodiment, the stop means essentially consists of telescopic fingers controlled by

  cylinder, and preferably a set of two fingers arranged horizontally

  downstream of the vertical axis of rotation of the rotary brushing means and in substantially intersecting directions with said vertical axis advantageously then, additional holding means is further provided, preferably in a set of two opposite pads each controlled by an associated jack, in order to maintain in position the unitary object

concerned.

  Preferably, the rotary spraying means is essential

  it consists of a horizontal support rotated by an associated motor, and at least one spray nozzle suspended in said holder; in particular, at least one spray nozzle, and preferably two, is suspended at each end of the horizontal support,

  with different vertical positions for said nozzles. advantageously

  Then, the inclination and / or position of the spray nozzle or nozzles is adjustable to suit the type of cylindrical object concerned; in addition, the spray nozzle or nozzles are preferably supplied by means external to the rinsing module frame, and comprising a booster

  delivering high pressure water.

  Also preferably, the stopping means is essential

  lement constituted by telescopic fingers controlled by jack, and preferably an assembly of two fingers disposed horizontally downstream of the vertical axis of rotation of the rotating spray means and in directions substantially intersecting with said vertical axis; in addition, the frame of the sprinkler module comprises an inlet tunnel and an outlet tunnel, stop means, preferably of the telescopic finger type, being in

  further provided at said entrance tunnel.

  Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment, the fixed blowing means comprise first blowing means performing a pre-drying of the upper part of the object in question during transfer, and second blowing means, downstream of the blowing means. first, performing a proper drying of the object then driven into

rotation around its axis.

  Advantageously, in this case, the first blowing means are essentially constituted by at least one pre-drying nozzle connected to an air distribution box, and the second blowing means by at least one drying nozzle whose orifice outlet defines a thin air gap, said drying nozzle being connected to an air distribution housing. In particular, the drying nozzle or nozzles terminate in a box having at least one exit slot, preferably with a main slot inclined relative to the vertical; the pre-drying and / or drying nozzle or nozzles are advantageously adjustable

  vertically, preferably by means of associated jacks.

  Preferably, the air distribution box is common to the first and second blowing means arranged at the top of the drying module frame, and comprises closure members for directing the air coming from an external blower to said frame. either to

  pre-drying nozzles, either to the drying nozzles.

  Also preferably, the rotational drive means is essentially constituted by a turntable driven by an associated motor, said plate being movable vertically by means of an associated jack, a stop means, preferably of the telescopic stop type , further being provided for stopping the unitary object conveyed such that its axis coincides substantially with the vertical axis of said turntable; in particular, the device further comprises an upper centering head coaxial with the turntable, said head of

  centering being movable vertically by means of an associated cylinder.

  Preferably, finally, the frame of the drying module comprises an inlet tunnel and an outlet tunnel, stop means, preferably of the telescopic finger type, being further provided at said tunnel

input.

  Other features and advantages of the invention disclosed

  The following description and the accompanying drawings will be more clearly

  FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic representation of the unit washing process according to the invention, implemented in a modular manner, with spray modules, and rinsing modules, but with a view to a particular embodiment, with reference to FIGS. also optional brushing and drying modules; FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the spray module in action on a LPG unit bottle; FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the spray module, the section plane passing through the vertical axis of the injection means; rotating spray; - Figure 4 is a schematic view illustrating the operating cycle of the spray module; FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating the brushing module in action on a LPG unit bottle; FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the brushing module, the section plane passing through the vertical axis of the brushing means; rotary; FIG. 7 is a schematic view illustrating the operating cycle of the brushing module; Figure 8 is a perspective view illustrating the rinsing module in action on a LPG unit bottle; FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the rinsing module, the section plane passing through the vertical axis of the rotary spraying means II.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic view illustrating the function cycle.

  rinse module; FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating the drying module, here produced to allow a predrying followed by a drying proper, the LPG unit bottle being in the first case simply stopped under first blowing means, then, in a second case, driven in rotation on itself in front of second blowing means air blades; - Figure 12 is a longitudinal sectional view of the drying module, in fact along the line XII-XII of Figure 14; - Figure 13 illustrates a detail of Figure 12, to better distinguish the organization of the blowing means; Figure 14 is a section on XIV-XIV of Figure 12; Figure 15 is a section on XV-XV of Figure 12;

  FIG. 16 is a schematic view illustrating the function cycle

drying module.

  Figure I illustrates by a very schematic representation the unit washing process according to the invention, implemented in a modular manner. The cylindrical objects whose outer surface must be washed are conveyed in continuous movement by means of conveying means schematized in 1, on which these objects are arranged so that their axis is essentially vertical, the conveying being effected in the

direction of the arrow 2.

  In accordance with an essential aspect of the invention, a detergent agent on a unitary object is sprayed at a sputtering station I by actuating a rotary spraying means (described in detail hereinafter with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4), object being held stationary in a position such that its vertical axis coincides substantially with the axis of said rotary spraying means. Then, the unitary object is transferred to the air by means of the conveying means I to a rinsing station III, the duration of the transfer being at least equal to the duration of chemical action of the agent. sprayed detergent. Finally, the unitary object is rinsed at the aforementioned rinsing station III by spraying water under high pressure, by actuating a rotary spraying means (described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10), object being again held stationary in a position such that its vertical axis coincides substantially with the axis of said rotary spray means.

  In Figure 1, two additional items have been illustrated.

  11, IV, respectively corresponding to a brushing station and a drying station. These two additional stations, although optional, are nevertheless advantageously integrated in the line of the spraying station I and rinse III. In this case, the transfer to the open air of the unitary object from the spray station 1, transfer whose duration must be at least equal to the duration of chemical action of the pulverized detergent agent as indicated above , is first to the brushing station II, which is symbolized in the schematic figure I by a

more spacing.

  According to this advantageous design of the process, the unitary object is transferred, downstream from the spraying station I and upstream of the rinsing station III, to the brushing station II provided upstream of said rinsing station, where a brushing means is actuated rotary device (described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7), said object being held stationary in a position such that its vertical axis substantially coincides with the axis of said rotary brushing means, the transfer of the unitary object upstream

  and downstream of the brushing station II being in the open air.

  Similarly, at the end of the line, the unitary object is transferred, downstream from the rinsing station III, to the station IV for drying by blowing compressed air, the object being driven in rotation about its vertical axis held fixed in front of blowing means (described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 1 1 to 16) arranged laterally to eliminate the residual water on the walls of said object, the transfer of the unitary object into

  upstream and downstream of the drying station IV is in the open air.

  Before even proceeding to the detailed description of

  functional modules provided for each of the items 1, II, III, IV above the modular organization of the washing process according to the invention appears already extremely advantageous for its ease of implantation and its small footprint: it is understood that the conveyor line does not necessarily have to be straight between

  two successive positions, which allows a great flexibility of implementation.

  The size of the appliances used and the energy sources will be de facto lower, and this design naturally implies a low consumption of water that can be discharged into the wastewater network after settling: such a unit washing process thus represents a considerable progress compared to conventional techniques using a tunnel in which objects scroll. Such a design makes it easy to implement an efficient washing installation, especially for washing LPG bottles, to remove grease and dust, and to clean their outer surface, to improve the presentation and / or allow required the application of a paint

maintenance.

  We will now describe the successive functional stations I,

  II, III, IV, in each of which there is provided an associated functional module.

  The structure and operation of the spray module

  provided at the spraying station I are illustrated in Figures 2 to 4.

  There is thus a spray module 100 constituted by a casing 101 through which the scroll line of the objects 10 passes (the conveying line 1 is shown schematically by a continuous arrow in FIG. 2 and by a dashed line in FIG. 4). housing in which are disposed rotatable spray means 102 rotatable about a vertical axis 103 for spraying a detergent on the unitary object 10 within said housing, and a stop means 104 for stopping a unitary object conveyed 10 such that its axis coincides substantially with said vertical axis. The rotary spraying means 102 is here essentially constituted by a horizontal support 105 rotated, and at least one spray gun 106 suspended cantilevered to said support. The support 105 is organized in the form of a crosspiece suspended from a shaft 107 passing in a rolling cage 108 itself mounted on a support plate 109 fixed to the frame 101 of the spray module 100. The rotary spraying means 102 could be driven in continuous rotation by an associated engine, but there is provided here a slightly different arrangement giving excellent results for the washing of LPG bottles. The horizontal support 105 is in fact driven by a rotary jack 110 whose rack piston 111 (visible only in FIG. 4) is coupled to the vertical shaft 107 integral with said support, via an internal screw to a housing central 112 cooperating with the rack 111, and a coupling 113 of the coupling type

  an elastic coupling (such a known coupling comprises transmission elements

  torque ratio of polyurethane elastomer such as the material sold under the name VULKOLLAN). In this case, the race of the rack piston 111 corresponds to a complete revolution for the rotation of the horizontal support 105, and therefore of the rotary spraying means 102. This arrangement makes it possible to spray the detergent agent on the unitary object 10 at the spraying station I by rotating the rotary spraying means 102 at a constant speed, and this on a lathe

  complete, the direction of rotation reversing for the next unitary object.

  The arrangement described hereinafter of the spray guns makes it possible to perform a correct spraying of a detergent agent on the unitary object with only one turn, which avoids having to provide a rotary joint with a central feed at the top of the detergent agent, which would be more complicated because of the presence of the two necessary circuits (the detergent agent circuit, and the pneumatic control circuit). As can be seen in FIGS. 2 to 4, a spray gun 106 is suspended at each end of the horizontal support 105, with different vertical positions for said spray guns. Naturally, the inclination and / or the position of the spray guns 106 may be provided adjustable to suit the type of cylindrical object concerned. For this, each gun 106 is pivotally mounted on an associated support 114 integral with a threaded rod 115 fixed to the horizontal support 105. Oblong slots (not shown here) may be provided in the horizontal support 105, in order to adjust the distance vertical rods 115 to the axis of rotation 103 of the rotary spraying means 102. Thus, each gun 106 can be properly positioned, so as to direct a jet on the one hand towards the upper part of the unitary object (c '). that is to say in particular towards the dome and the cap of a LPG bottle), and on the other hand towards the lower part

said object.

  This arrangement makes it possible to ensure that the spray guns 106 are fed by means external to the frame 101 of the spray module 100, as can be seen in FIG. 2. A detergent agent tank 116, comprising a cold or hot solution composed of water containing biodegradable detergent, connected by a pipe 117 to a dispensing pump 118, from which a pipe 119 supplying each of the spray guns 106. As an indication, the detergent agent will be sprayed under a pressure of the order of 3 to 4000 HPa. There will also be provided pipes (not shown here) bringing the air used for the pneumatic opening / closing control, for each of the spray guns, the connection being preferably between each spray gun 106 and the associated support 114 The frame 101 of the spray module 100 further includes a protective cover, and here also a tunnel

  120, and output 121, and an access side door 122.

  As has been said above, the spray module includes stop means 104 for stopping a unitary object at the spray station so that its axis coincides substantially with the axis 103 of the rotary spray means 102 These stop means 104 are preferably essentially constituted by telescopic fingers 123, each controlled by an associated cylinder 124: here there is an assembly of two fingers 123 disposed horizontally, downstream from the vertical axis of rotation 103 of the means rotating spray 102, and in directions substantially intersecting with said vertical axis. It is also advantageous to provide analog stopping means 125 upstream of the previous ones, in order to precenter the object upstream of the spraying station, that is to say for example under the entrance tunnel.

of the spray module 100.

  Referring to FIG. 3, it will be observed that two different sizes of LPG bottles have been illustrated at the spray station, to remind that the process can be applied to different types of cylindrical unitary objects. also on this section a lower recovery hopper 126, as well as elements of the conveyor chain constituting the means 1, that is to say here the strands

  upper 127 and lower 128 of said conveyor chain.

  Advantageously, provision will be made for a series of sensors associated on the one hand with the unitary objects passing to the spray station, and on the other hand with certain members of the spray module, these sensors being part of the pneumatic logic of the set of automated installation. A distinction is thus made between bar sensors 129 (better visible in FIG. 4) arranged at the level of the scroll line of the unitary objects, making it possible to check the presence of an object under the input tunnel 120, then in the module of FIG. spraying 100 itself under the axis of the rotary spray means 102, and finally downstream of said spray module. A similar sensor 130 is also provided here at the means for driving the horizontal support in rotation: for this purpose, in FIG. 4, a disk 131 secured to the rotation shaft 107 and having a projecting lug 132 is distinguished. cooperating with the information sensor 130. A similar sensor will also be provided as security with regard to the opening of the door 122 of the frame 101, such as a sensor 133. Finally, in FIG. 134 and 135 associated with the rotary jack 110, to stop immediately the movement of the means of

  rotating spray 102 as soon as the door 122 is opened.

  The operating cycle is for its part extremely simple: the three stages of this cycle comprise first the admission of a unitary object 10 to the spraying station, with a precise centering of the vertical axis of said object, then the setting in rotation of the rotary spraying means with spraying on the object of a detergent agent, and finally

  evacuation of the object to the next station.

  We will now describe, with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7, the

  structure and operation of the brushing module 200.

  The brushing module 200 is constituted by a housing 201 through which the scroll line of the objects, in which are arranged a rotary brushing means 202 rotatable about a vertical axis 203 to brush the unitary object 10 inside said housing, and stop means 204 for stopping a conveyed unit object 10 so that

  its axis coincides substantially with said vertical axis.

  More specifically, the rotary brushing means 202 consists essentially of a horizontal support 205 rotated by an associated motor 206 (for example a pneumatic motor), with at least one brush element 207 suspended cantilevered at this end. support. The horizontal support 205 is also vertically movable to bring said brush elements into contact with the unit object concerned.

10.

  The mounting of the rotary brushing means is obtained for example by providing a support plate 208, above which is arranged the pneumatic drive motor 206, said plate being itself suspended on a support plate 211 via two guide rods 209 passing through associated ball bushings 210 which are fixed to the support plate 211. A jack 212, whose body is mounted on the support plate 211, thus ensures the vertical displacement of the rotary brushing means 202, to lower said brushing means on the unitary object 10 when it has been properly centered in the brushing module by means of stop 204. As previously, it will also be possible to use a resilient coupling 213 interposed between the shaft of the pneumatic drive motor 206 and the shaft supporting the means of

rotary brushing 202.

  Furthermore, it is interesting that the plate 208 supports a rotary joint 214 connected to a source of water at low pressure, and to one at

  less brush elements 207, for simultaneous water injection.

  FIG. 5 makes it possible to distinguish here a low-pressure water supply pipe 215 up to a control valve 216 fixed on the support plate 208. The water thus admitted leaves the rotary joint 214 via a flexible duct 217 leading to the various brush elements 207. The horizontal support 205 here has the shape of a crosspiece supporting four brush elements 207, via threaded rods 219. The mounting of the threaded rods will naturally be provided by such that it is possible to adjust both the vertical position and the radial position of the brush elements 207 (oblong slots not shown will for example be provided at the ends of the spider). Furthermore, each brush element 207 preferably has the shape of a brush sector, the active conformation of which is adapted to the external shape of the upper part of the respective unitary object 10. More specifically, each brush element 207 is formed by a main body 218 secured to the suspension rods 219, and a brush sector

  proper 220, for example made of polyethylene lined with nylon.

  The brushing of the unitary element 10 at the brushing station II can thus be easily performed by rotating at constant speed the rotary brushing means 202 previously lowered vertically to be in contact with said object, this brushing being carried out with injection of simultaneous water, at low pressure, in the medium

rotary brushing.

  As previously for the spray module 100, there is provided a stop means 204 for stopping the unitary object 10 so that its vertical axis substantially coincides with the axis 203 of the rotating brushing means 202. This means of stop 204 may be identical to the previous means 104, thus essentially consisting of telescopic fingers controlled by an associated jack, according to a set of two fingers arranged horizontally downstream of the vertical axis of rotation 203 of the rotary brushing means 202, and according to directions substantially

secants with said vertical axis.

  However, in view of the effective frictional action of the rotary brushing means, it is advantageous to provide additional means for holding the unitary objects at the brushing station: such additional means is illustrated here, referenced 221, preferably in a manner set of two opposed pads 222 each controlled by an associated jack 223, which allows to maintain perfectly in position

  the unitary object concerned during the brushing.

  As for the spray module 100, there is also provided a set of sensors 224 at the scroll line of the objects 10, preferably identical to the sensors 129 above. It will also be possible to provide a stop means 228 with telescopic fingers, identical to the aforementioned means 125, making it possible to pre-center the unitary element 10 on arrival at the brushing module 200. Finally, a sensor 225 associated with the door 226 of the frame

  201 of the brushing module, as for the spray module.

  FIG. 7 makes it possible to distinguish a piston-controlled valve 227 for controlling the supply of low-pressure water arriving via the pipe 215 with a view to the injection of water carried out

  simultaneously with mechanical brushing.

  The operating cycle of the brushing module 200 takes place as follows: a unitary object is first admitted to the brushing station, then correctly centered and held under the rotary brushing means by the stop means and the additional means holding, after which a rotating brushing means is rotated and then lowered on the unitary object, the opening of the low pressure water valve being triggered simultaneously; once the actual brushing is done, the rotating brushing means is reassembled, and the valve controlling the injection of water at low pressure is closed again, and finally the unitary object can be evacuated to the next station as soon as he was released

  its stop means and its additional means of maintenance.

  We will now describe the flushing module 300 provided for in

  station III, with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10.

  The flushing module 300 is constituted by a casing 301 through which the scroll line of the objects, in which are arranged a rotating spraying means 302 rotatable about a vertical axis 303 for projecting water under high pressure on the unitary object 10 interior said casing, and a stop means 304 for stopping a conveyed unitary object 10 such that its axis coincides substantially with said vertical axis. More specifically, the rotary spraying means 302 consists essentially of a horizontal support 305 rotated by an associated motor 306, with at least one spray nozzle 307 suspended cantilevered to said support. Preferably, two spray nozzles 307 are suspended at each end of the horizontal support

  305, with different vertical positions for said nozzles.

  The inclination and / or the position of the spray nozzles 307 will preferably be adjustable, to suit the type of cylindrical object concerned 10, as was the case for spraying. There may be provided lower inclined spray nozzles 307, mounted directly on associated support rods 309, and upper spray nozzles 307 pivotally mounted on a yoke 308 attached in the lower part of an associated threaded suspension rod 309. For effective spraying, it is advantageous to provide flat jet nozzles, for example with an opening angle of 600 for the lower nozzles, while for the upper nozzles, a flat jet of 30 can be provided. on one side, and 60 opening on the other side. The mounting of the rotary spraying means 302 on the frame 301 of the rinsing module 300 is similar to the mounting of the aforementioned rotary brushing means. There is thus a support plate 313 fixed to the frame 301, and, below the pneumatic motor 306, an elastic coupling 312, as well as a lower rotary joint 310

  allowing the distribution of water under high pressure to each channel.

  311 associated with spray nozzles -307.

  The spray nozzles 307 can thus be fed by means external to the frame 301 of the rinsing module 300, these means comprising a booster 316 supplying water at high pressure through a supply line 314 arriving on a control valve 315. The spraying of water under high pressure on the uriitary object 10 located in the rinsing module 300 can thus be easily performed by rotating the rotary spraying means 302 at a constant speed, this spraying being made by flat jets, under a pressure at least equal to

  000 HPa, and preferably close to 130 000 HPa.

  As before, there will be provided a succession of sensors 321 disposed at the line of scrolling objects, as well as stop means 304 identical to those previously used to the spray modules and brushing, and an identical means of pre-centering by 326. A sensor 322 will also be associated with the door 320 of the frame 301 of the rinsing module. Finally, a sensor 323 will be provided for the information relating to the rotation of the rotary spray means 302, by cooperation with a lug 325 secured to a disk 324, in a manner similar to that described previously for the module of FIG. spraying, except that, in this case, it will be possible to perform several laps for the rotating spray means 302. The frame 301 may also be equipped with an inlet tunnel 317 and a tunnel exit 318; the stop means 326 of the telescopic finger type then ensure the pre-centering of a unitary object under said input tunnel. Finally, a recovery hopper 319 similar to the hopper can be seen in FIG.

126 above.

  The operating cycle at the rinsing station is as follows: the unitary object is admitted into the rinsing module, and correctly positioned by the associated stopping means; the rotary spraying means is then rotated, and performs an energetic rinsing of the unitary object. The pneumatic inlet water valve is then closed, and the rotation of the sprinkler means stopped in a

  position such that the object can be transferred to the next station.

  We will now describe the drying module provided at the station

  IV, with reference to Figures I1 to 16.

  The drying module 400 is constituted by a housing 401 through which the scroll line of the objects, in which are arranged fixed blowing means 410, 420, and a rotational drive means 430 capable of rotating the unitary object 10 inside said casing in front of said blowing means, in order to eliminate water from its walls

  residual, the vertical axis of said object remaining fixed during this rotation.

  Although it is only optional, the drying of the unitary object 10 by blowing air is here carried out in two stages, with a pre-drying of the upper part of said object being transferred, followed by drying. itself during which the unitary object 10 is rotated about its axis by an associated means 430. One could of course, as appropriate, consider a unitary drying carried out in a single time, but it is often interesting to provide a pre-drying, especially for LPG bottles, which allows a proper drying in a second time much more energetic, using air knife systems. Another advantage of the two-stage drying is the possibility of performing a rough pre-drying while the unitary object is being transferred, which avoids a part of the projection of the liquid removed on the drive means. rotation that

  only intervene in drying proper.

  Thus, in FIG. 11, there are first blowing means 410 effecting a pre-drying of the upper part of the object concerned 10 during transfer, and second blowing means 420, downstream of the first, performing a proper drying of the object 10

  then rotated around its axis.

  The first blowing means 410 consist essentially of at least one pre-drying nozzle 411 (here two nozzles are provided) connected to an air distribution box 440. The pre-drying nozzle or nozzles 411 terminate with a lower blowing sleeve 412, preferably adjustable in position and / or inclination, for effecting a predrying of the object 10 during transfer, that is to say free of associated stop means 413, advantageously made in the form of telescopic fingers actuated by cylinder, as the stop means previously described. The pre-drying can thus be carried out according to a scanning in

  path, whose action is very effective.

  The second blowing means 420 are in turn essentially constituted by at least one drying nozzle 421 (here two lateral drying nozzles 421 are provided), whose outlet orifice defines a thin air gap, said drying nozzles being connected via upper sheaths 422 to a distribution box which is advantageously the distribution box 440 above. The drying nozzles 421 preferably end in a box having at least one exit slot: here there is a substantially vertical box 423, having a main slot 425 which is preferably inclined with respect to the vertical to improve the effect of repulsion of liquid on the wall of the unitary object, and surmounted by a box upper portion 424 having a slot 426, thereby directing two blades of air directly on the upper part of the unitary object. The detail of FIG. 13 makes it possible to better distinguish the particular structure of these blowing means, and in particular the main slot 425 of a drying nozzle 421, said slot itself being made in two inclined sections to take account of the particular form of the unitary object concerned which is here a LPG bottle. It goes without saying that adjustment means will be provided to position the first and / or second blowing means 410, 420 in several directions, and in particular in the vertical direction. FIG. 13 thus makes it possible to distinguish the support bracket 414. associated with a pre-drying nozzle 412 connected via a jack 415 to a support plate 427; the jack 415 thus allows a positional adjustment in height, but it will be further provided a mounting of the pre-drying nozzle 412 on its support bracket 414 also allowing an angular adjustment. Similarly, there will be guiding and adjusting means for the first blowing means, and one thus distinguishes in FIG 13 a ball bushing 428 mounted on the plate 427, and receiving a guide rod 429 connected to a jack of

  associated positional setting (not visible here).

  Referring back to FIG. 11, it can be seen that the air distribution box 440, which is here common to the first 410 and second 420 blowing means, and arranged at the top of the frame 401 of the drying module 400, is connected to a fan assembly 441 outside the frame 401 of the drying module by an associated pipe 442. The air distribution box 440 further comprises here a movable flap 443, connected to an actuating cylinder 444 by a linkage 445 associated movable flap which acts as a closure member cooperating with the orifices 446 associated with the first blowing means. A similar system can be provided for the second blowing means 420, so that air can be directed from the blower 441 either to the pre-drying nozzles 412 or to the drying nozzles 421. D Other systems may naturally be provided, and there is illustrated in Figure 16 a variant of the air distribution means. There are indeed a set of four cylinders 451, 451, 461, 461: the two cylinders 451 have at the end of their rod a shutter member 452 which can cooperate, in the extension position of the cylinders, with the orifice 453 d a sleeve 454 associated with the sheath 411. In the same way, the rod of the cylinders 461 carries a closure member 462, able to cooperate, in extended position, with the orifice 463 of a sleeve 464 associated with the sheaths 422, and thus to the second blowing means. The control will naturally be such that the movement of the rods of the cylinders 451 and 461 is reversed, so as to distribute the pulsed air either to the pre-drying nozzles 412 or to the

drying boxes 421.

  As has been said above, the unitary object is rotated during the actual drying. It is then preferably maintained between a rotary drive plate 433 and a top centering head 435 coaxial previously lowered vertically to be in contact with the unitary object 10. There is thus seen in Figure 11 a turntable 433 driven by a associated motor 434, said plate being movable vertically by means of an associated jack 432 whose rod acts directly on the plate 431 supporting the turntable and the associated motor. A stop means 437, preferably of the telescopic stop type 438, is further provided for stopping the conveyed unitary object 10 so that its axis substantially coincides with the vertical axis of the turntable 433. There is also a difference between 11I an upper centering head 435, coaxial with the turntable 433, said centering head being movable vertically by means of an associated cylinder 436 via the rod thereof 439. In practice, it will begin lowering the upper centering head 435 to the unitary object 10 before it rests on the drive turntable 433, whereupon said head and said platen will be remounted in synchronism until the unitary object is correctly positioned relative to the second blowing means 420, which can then direct flat and inclined air blades acting optimally to dry

perfectly the unitary object.

  The sections of FIGS. 12, 14, 15 make it possible to distinguish other structural members that will be rapidly described, since these members only constitute secondary equipment of the module of FIGS.

Drying 400. Figure 12 firstly makes it possible to better distinguish the structure of

  rotating drive and lifting means associated with the second blowing means 420: there is thus a fixed plate 484 integral with the lower frame 500 of the drying module, and comprising ball guide bushings 485 receiving rods 486 integral with a mobile support frame 487 which supports the turntable 433 and its associated pneumatic drive motor 434. The actuator actuator body 432, for lifting the movable platen 433, is mounted on the fixed platen 484, while its rod is integral with the movable plate 487. Note the presence of elements 488 in the upper part of the movable plate 433, these elements 488 preferably being magnetized pads ensuring stable maintenance of the unitary object. The elements 489 and 490, parallel to the ground, correspond to rails serving as a guide for the conveying chain, respectively rails for guiding the lower and upper strands 128. In the upper part of FIG. distribution 440 to the source of blowing via a central cone 480 on which is connected the pipe 442. There is also an inlet tunnel 482 and an outlet tunnel 483 equipping the frame 401 of the drying module 400, as for the previously described modules. The sections of Figures 14 and 15

  associates allow a perfect understanding of these different organs.

  Finally, there is an additional mechanism for stopping the objects, upstream of the entry tunnel 482, according to a stopping foot 491 carrying a jack 492 whose stem ends with a shoe 493. In correspondence, we find, fixed on the lower part of the frame 500, a stop 495 equipped with a friction pad 496. Finally, there is the door 497 of the frame 401 of the drying module, articulated around its hinge 498, door which allows easy access to the various organs which are housed inside said frame. It should be noted that such an additional arrangement for stopping objects may advantageously be provided upstream of at least some of the other aforementioned modules. FIG. 16 also makes it possible to distinguish a certain number of sensors analogous to those previously described: a plurality of sensors 470 arranged at the level of the scroll line of the unitary objects are thus found, as well as a sensor 471 associated with the vertical movement of the plate 431 supporting the turntable 433 and its associated motor 434, other not shown sensors may also be advantageously provided in association with different members adjustable in position (including the centering head 435, and the

  pre-drying 412 and drying nozzles 421).

  The cycle of operation of the drying module 400 will proceed as follows: starting the ventilation, and admission of a unitary object in the drying module to its standby position against the stop means 413; pre-drying the unitary object being transferred by the slot 413 'of the pre-drying nozzles 412; continuing the transfer in the drying module of the unitary object, until the vertical axis thereof coincides substantially with that of the turntable 433, with the aid of the stop means 437 descent of the pre-centering head 435 via the associated jack 436 until it comes into contact with the upper part of the unitary object, and opening of the drying nozzles 421 (which implies the closing of the pre-drying nozzles 412); raising the turntable 433, in synchronism with the centering and holding head 435, which has the effect of rotating the unitary object about its axis, to the position intended to perform the drying itself drying of the unitary object through the slots 425, 426 of the drying nozzles 421; stopping the rotation of the unitary object, then backing off the turntable 433 until the unitary object rests again on the conveying means 1, which makes it possible to evacuate said object towards the exit

of the installation.

  The process and the implementation device which have just been described allow a maximum cleaning efficiency, thanks to: a homogeneous and perfectly even automatic spray on the walls of the object, with speeds and distances of spray, of constant spraying and blowing with respect to the walls (which was not possible in known installations); a chemical action of the detergent agent during transfer whose operating time can be defined according to the distance between modules and the speed of the conveying means; an effective mechanical action obtained by the brushes of shape adapted to the profile of the unitary object and rotating about a vertical axis on said object held fixed to a very efficient rinsing by high pressure water spraying from a device rotary automatic on the unitary object held fixed; a thorough drying carried out by blades of air blowing at a distance

  optimal walls of the unitary object.

  Among the many advantages, we note the ease of implementation, the possible combination of different modules, the small size of the installation, ease of intervention, low water and energy consumption (one liter of water) per LPG cylinder appears sufficient), this water can also be discharged into the water network

used after settling).

  The invention is not limited to the embodiment which has just been described, but on the contrary covers any variant with

  means, the essential features of the

cations.

Claims (49)

  1. A method of washing the outer surface of cylindrical objects, in particular bottles of liquefied petroleum gas or LPG, conveyed in continuous movement by means of conveying means on which said objects are arranged so that their axis is essentially vertical, characterized in that it comprises the following successive stages is sprayed at a spray station (I) a detergent on a unitary object (10), by actuating a rotating spray means (102), said object being fixedly held in a position such that its vertical axis coincides substantially with the axis (103) of said spraying means; the unitary object (10) is transferred to the outside air via the conveying means (1) to a rinsing station (III), the duration of the transfer being at least equal to the duration of action chemical detergent spray; the unitary object (10) is rinsed at the flushing station (III) by spraying water under high pressure, by actuating a rotary spraying means (302), said object being again held stationary in a position such that its vertical axis coincides substantially with the axis (303) of said sprinkler means. 2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the unitary object (10) is transferred, downstream of the spray station (I) and upstream of the flushing station (III), to a brushing station (II). ) provided upstream of the rinsing station (III), o is operated a rotating brushing means (202), said object being held stationary in a position such that its vertical axis coincides substantially with the axis (203) of said brushing means the transfer of the unitary object (10) upstream and downstream of the brushing station (II) being in the open air.   3. Method according to one of claims I and 2, characterized   in that the unitary object (10) is transferred downstream of the flushing station (III) to a drying station (IV) by blowing compressed air, the object (10) being rotated around it its vertical axis held fixed in front of the blowing means (410, 420) arranged laterally to remove the residual water on the walls of said object, the transfer of the unitary object (10) upstream and downstream of the drying station ( IV) being in the open air. 4. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the spraying of the detergent on the unitary object (10) at the spray station (I) is carried out by rotating at a speed   constant the rotating spray means (102).   5. Method according to claim I or 4, characterized in that the spraying of the detergent on the unitary object (10) is carried out by rotating on a complete revolution the spraying means   rotary (102), the direction of rotation reversing for the next unitary object.   6. Method according to one of claims 1, 4 and 5, characterized   in that the spraying of the detergent on the unitary object (10) is carried out at low pressure, in particular under a pressure of the order from 3,000 to 4,000 HPa.   7. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that the brushing of the unitary object (10) at the brushing station (II) is performed by rotating at constant speed the rotating brushing means (202) previously lowered vertically to be in contact said object.   8. Method according to claim 2 or 7, characterized in that the brushing of the unitary object (10) is performed with injection   simultaneous water, at low pressure, in the rotating brush means (202).   9. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the spraying water under high pressure on the unitary object (10) at the flushing station (III) is carried out by rotating at a constant speed. rotary spraying means (302).   10. Method according to claim I or 9, characterized in that the water spraying on the unitary object (10) is carried out by flat jets, at a pressure of at least 100,000 HPa, and preferably close to 130,000 HPa.   11. A method according to claim 3, characterized in that the drying of the unitary object (10) by blowing air at the drying station (IV) is carried out in two stages, with a pre-drying of the upper part of said object being transferred, followed by a drying itself during which the unitary object (10) is rotated   around its axis by an associated means (430).   12. The method of claim 11, characterized in that the unitary object (10) is maintained, during the actual drying, between a rotary drive plate (433) and a coaxial upper centering head (435) previously lowered vertically to be at contact of said object.   13. The method of claim 12, characterized in that the upper centering head (435) is lowered on the unitary object (10) before it rests on the rotating turntable   (433), after which said head and said plate are brought up in synchro- ism.   14. Method according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized   in that the two unitary objects (10) can be simultaneously   at the drying station (IV), the upstream object being awaiting transfer   for a pre-drying and the downstream object undergoing drying proper.   15. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that the air blowing is performed alternately on one or the other unitary object (10), by means of blowing means (410, 420) actuated by permanence to perform either a pre-drying or a clean drying said.   16. Method according to one of claims 11 to 15, characterized   in that the air blowing is carried out, during the clean drying   said, by flat and inclined airblades.   17. Device for implementing the washing method according to   any of the preceding claims characterized by the fact that   it comprises, in addition to conveying means (1) on which are disposed the cylindrical objects concerned (10): a spray module (100) consisting of a housing (101) through which the scroll line objects (10) and in which are disposed rotatable spray means (102) rotatable about a vertical axis (103) for spraying a detergent on the unitary article (10) within said housing, and a stopping means ( 104) for stopping a conveyed unitary object (10) so that its axis substantially coincides with said vertical axis a rinsing module (300), independent of the spray module (100) and disposed downstream thereof, said module rinsing device consisting of a casing (301) through which the line of scrolling of the objects passes, and in which there is arranged a rotary spraying means (302) rotatable about a vertical axis (303) for projecting water under high pressure on the unitary object (1 0) interior to said housing, and stop means (304) for stopping a conveyed unitary object (10) such that its   axis coincides substantially with said vertical axis.   18. Device according to claim 17, characterized in that it further comprises, between the spray module (100) and the flushing module (300), an independent brushing module (200) constituted by a housing ( 201) traversed by the scroll line of the objects, and in which there are arranged a rotatable brushing means (202) rotatable about a vertical axis (203) for brushing the unitary article (10) inside said housing, and stopping means (204) for stopping a   conveyed unit object (10) so that its axis coincides with with the vertical axis.   19. Device according to one of claims 17 and 18,   characterized in that it further comprises, downstream of the rinsing module (300), an independent drying module (400) constituted by a casing (401) through which the scroll line of the objects passes, and in which are arranged fixed blowing means (410, 420), and rotational driving means (430) rotatable inside said housing (10) in front of said blowing means for removing residual water from its walls; , the vertical axis of said object remaining fixed during this rotation.   20. Device according to claim 17, characterized in that the rotary spraying means (102) consists essentially of a horizontal support (105) driven in rotation, and at least one   spray gun (106) suspended cantilevered to said support.   21. Device according to claim 20, characterized in that the horizontal support (105) is driven by a rotary jack (110) whose rack-piston (111) is coupled to a vertical shaft (107) integral with said support, the stroke of said piston-and-rack corresponding to one turn   complete for the rotation of the horizontal support (105).   22. Device according to one of claims 20 and 21,   characterized in that a spray gun (106) is suspended at each end of the horizontal support (105), with vertical positions   different for said spray guns.   Device according to one of Claims 20 to 22, characterized   in that the inclination and / or the position of the spray guns (106) is adjustable to suit the type of cylindrical object concerned.   24. Device according to one of claims 20 to 23, characterized   in that the one or more spray guns (106) are fed by means external to the frame (101) of the spray module (100), and comprising a detergent agent tank (116) and a dispensing pump (118).   25. Device according to claim 17, characterized in that the stop means (104) consists essentially of telescopic fingers (123) actuated by jack (124), and preferably a set of two fingers (123, 123 ) disposed horizontally downstream of the vertical axis of rotation (103) of the rotary spraying means (102) and   in substantially intersecting directions with said vertical axis.   26. Device according to claim 17, characterized in that the frame (101) of the spray module (100) comprises an inlet tunnel (120) and an outlet tunnel (121), stop means (104). ), preferably of the telescopic finger type, being furthermore provided at the level of said entrance tunnel.   27. Device according to claim 18, characterized in that the rotary brushing means (202) consists essentially of a horizontal support (205) rotated by an associated motor (206), and at least one brush element ( 207) suspended cantilevered to said support, said support being movable vertically to bring said   brush element in contact with the relevant unit object (10).   28. Device according to claim 27, characterized in that the horizontal support (205) has the shape of a cross supporting four brush elements (207).   Device according to one of claims 27 and 28,   characterized in that the brush elements (207) are in the form of a brush sector, the shape of which is adapted to the shape of the part   superior of the unit object concerned (10).   30. Device according to one of claims 27 to 29, characterized   in that the horizontal support (205) is suspended from a plate (208) carrying a rotation drive motor (206) and connected to the frame (201) of the brushing module (200) via a positional cylinder (212).   31. Device according to claim 30, characterized in that the plate (208) supports a rotary joint (214) connected to a source of water at low pressure, and at least one of the brush elements (207). in sight simultaneous water injection.   32. Device according to claim 18, characterized in that the stop means (204) consists essentially of telescopic fingers controlled by jack, and preferably a set of two fingers arranged horizontally downstream of the vertical axis of rotating (203) the rotary brushing means (202) and in directions substantially secants with said vertical axis.   33. Device according to claim 32, characterized in that additional holding means (221) is further provided, preferably in a set of two opposite pads (222) each controlled by an associated jack (223), so to hold in position the object unit concerned (10).   34. Device according to claim 17, characterized in that the rotary spraying means (302) consists essentially of a horizontal support (305) rotated by an associated motor (306), and at least one nozzle of spray (307) suspended cantilevered to said support. 35. Device according to claim 34, characterized in that at least one spray nozzle (307), and preferably two, is suspended at each end of the horizontal support (305), with   different vertical positions for said nozzles.   36. Device according to claim 34 or 35, characterized in that the inclination and / or the position of the spray nozzle or nozzles (307)   are adjustable, to adapt to the type of cylindrical object concerned.   37. Device according to one of claims 34 to 36, characterized   in that the one or more spray nozzles (307) are fed by means external to the frame (301) of the rinsing module (300), and comprising   a booster (316) delivering water at high pressure.   38. Device according to claim 17, characterized in that the stop means (304) consists essentially of telescopic fingers controlled by jack, and preferably a set of two fingers arranged horizontally downstream of the vertical axis of rotating (303) the rotary spraying means (302) tt in directions substantially secants with said vertical axis.   39. Device according to claim 17, characterized in that the frame (301) of the sprinkler module (300) comprises an inlet tunnel (317) and an outlet tunnel (318), stopping means ( 326), preferably of the telescopic finger type, being further provided at said inlet tunnel. 40. Device according to claim 19, characterized in that the fixed blowing means comprise first blowing means (410) performing a pre-drying of the upper part of the object concerned (10) during transfer, and second blowing means (420), downstream of the first, performing a proper drying of the object   (10) then driven in rotation about its axis.   41. Device according to claim 40, characterized in that the first blowing means (410) consist essentially of at least one pre-drying nozzle (412) connected to a housing of air distribution (440).   42. Device according to claim 40, characterized in that the second blowing means (420) consist essentially of at least one drying nozzle (421) whose outlet orifice defines a thin air gap, said nozzle dryer being connected to a housing of air distribution (440).   43. Device according to claim 42, characterized in that the drying nozzle or nozzles (421) terminate in a box (423, 424) having at least one exit slot (425, 426), preferably with a   main slot (425) inclined relative to the vertical.   44. Device according to one of claims 41 to 43, characterized   in that the pre-drying (412) and / or drying (421) nozzle (s) can be adjusted vertically, preferably by means of associated jacks (415; 429).   45. Device according to claims 41 and 42, and one of   43 and 44, characterized in that the housing of   air distribution (440) is common to the first (410) and second (420) blowing means arranged at the top of the frame (401) of the drying module (400), and comprises closure members (443; 462) for directing air from a blower (441) outside said frame to either   the pre-drying nozzles (412) or to the drying nozzles (421).   46. Device according to claim 19, characterized in that the rotary drive means (430) is essentially constituted by a turntable (433) driven by an associated motor (434), said plate being movable vertically by means of an associated jack (432), a stop means (437), preferably of the telescopic stop type, being further provided for stopping the conveyed unitary object (10) so that its axis substantially coincides with the vertical axis of said turntable.   47. Device according to claim 46, characterized in that it further comprises an upper centering head (435) coaxial with   turntable (433), said centering head being movable vertically   by means of an associated jack (436).   48. Device according to claim 19, characterized in that the frame (401) of the drying module (400) comprises an inlet tunnel (482) and a tunnel outlet (483), stop means (413) , preferably of the telescopic finger type, being further provided at said inlet tunnel. 49. Washing device as described and shown on the Figures 2 to 16.