WO2001014625A2

WO2001014625A2 - Washing method and dishwasher

Info

Publication number: WO2001014625A2
Application number: PCT/EP2000/008030
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Werz; Gerold Carlhoff
Original assignee: Henkel Ecolab Gmbh & Co. Ohg
Priority date: 1999-08-26
Filing date: 2000-08-17
Publication date: 2001-03-01
Also published as: WO2001014625A3; AU7410000A; DE19940645A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a washing method. A first means (7) and a second means (8) are stored separately and are directly and separately supplied to the same washing device (9) in such a way that the means (7, 8) can be applied subsequently or simultaneously to the matter to be washed (2) in one washing step or washing zone, during one or several washing programmes that have to be completed. The invention also relates to a dishwasher (1) with a spraying device (9). Container (13, 14) for separately storing a first means (7) and a second means (8) are directly allocated to said spraying device. The invention further relates to the use of means that are incompatible with each other in the inventive method.

Description

"Dishwashing method and dishwasher"

The invention relates to a washing method and a dishwasher.

In the catering trade, wash ware accumulates with very different soiling; Cooking and baking utensils, on the one hand, and glasses, on the other hand, have other soiling (types, starches). Commercial dishwashers tailored to the specific types of soiling and degrees of soiling are available for the different items and are operated using different cleaning methods. The main influencing factors for the cleaning performance are the type and concentration of the cleaning agents used, the temperature of the cleaning agent, mechanical factors such as washing pressure or circulation rate, and the duration of the cleaning. In known dishwashers, it is not possible to change the above-mentioned influencing factors arbitrarily, since on the one hand economic and on the other ecological factors have to be taken into account. An increase in the detergent concentration and thus the dosage leads to an improvement in the cleaning result, but usually has a disadvantageous increase in fresh water consumption, since more detergent has to be removed from the wash ware again after rinsing / rinsing in order to meet the legal maximum loads according to food and consumer goods - Comply with the law and food hygiene regulation. The sensible limit for detergent dosing therefore results from legal regulations as well as economic / ecological requirements. The temperature of the washing liquid is usually between 50 and 65 ° C and is limited by the design of the usual dishwashers. An increase in the cleaning result by increasing the mechanical influencing factors is also ruled out, since these are limited by the sensitivity of the wash items. Of course, the cleaning result could be extended by Contact time of the detergent / cleaning agent with the wash ware can be improved, since an extension is proportional to a reduction in the deposits and the contamination. However, long program runtimes are not acceptable for economic reasons; a maximum of 7 minutes is assumed.

In order to achieve a satisfactory cleaning result, several different dishwashers are therefore regularly required. In addition to the standard dishwashers with various washing programs for glasses, plates, cups or cutlery, so-called "utensil dishwashers" are used, with which extremely stubborn dirt such as on cooking or baking utensils can be removed.

In conventional dishwashers, there is still the problem that the cleaning effect of normal concentrated washing liquor is not sufficient, but over time deposits that are not immediately optically recognizable, in particular from water-insoluble starch, build up on the dishes, which are then cleaned manually with a high dose Cleaning liquid must be removed. Manual cleaning of the dishes is time-consuming and therefore expensive.

Especially in smaller companies, the purchase of several different types of dishwashers is often not worthwhile for economic and ecological reasons.

The object of the invention is therefore to provide a simple and economical washing method in which dirty dishes are cleaned and treated in accordance with individual requirements.

Furthermore, it is an object of the invention to provide a dishwasher in which dirty dishes are cleaned and treated with a reduced outlay on equipment in order to achieve a better cleaning result. The procedural problem is solved according to the invention by the features of claim 1, namely that a first means and a second means are stored separately and fed directly to the same spraying device. The constructive object is achieved by the features of claim 38. The dishwasher according to the invention has a spray device to which containers for separate storage of a first and a second agent are directly assigned.

According to the present invention, rinsing process is also understood to mean removal of residues by mechanical and chemical action, such as cleaning, rinsing, or other special treatment.

Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the subclaims.

In the washing method according to the invention, either the same or different agents are applied to the dirty items to be washed in one or more washing steps or zones (washing steps) by means of a common spraying device. This has the advantage that, compared to conventional rinsing processes, there is greater flexibility with regard to the process management. In one process step, such as pre-rinsing, main rinsing, rinsing, rinsing, advantageous properties of two agents are used in a targeted manner without the rinsing process being complex. It is easy because the outlay on equipment is low. On the one hand, it is possible to apply the agents to the items to be cleaned at the same time in one rinsing step, so that several active substances can be combined with one another, for example pre-treatment and post-treatment agents, both of which need not be chemically compatible with one another, in particular cleaners with decalcifiers, cleaners with Bleach, rinse aid with disinfectant or bleach with starch loosener. On the other hand, in a rinsing step with the simultaneous introduction of a mixture of two agents containing the same substances, but with different concentrations, a medium one Concentration can be adjusted. The agents can also be applied to the items to be washed in successive rinsing steps using the same spray device. This procedure is preferably used in rinsing processes that allow a choice between rinsing programs with one or multi-stage cleaning.

It was found that when using at least two agents according to the invention, a spontaneous chemical reaction leads to a better cleaning result than when the respective agents are applied via separate spray devices.

The device according to the invention makes it possible to produce an agent in situ shortly before application, which has a higher stability than agents that are already stored as a ready-made solution.

Very good cleaning results are achieved, since in a rinsing process a one-stage or multi-stage cleaning, each with an agent that is optimal for soiling, or a mixture of different active substances, such as cleaners, cleaning enhancers, and / or a one- or multi-stage aftertreatment of the cleaned items with agents in the form of rinse aid, bleaching or descaling. If the dishes are lightly soiled, they are cleaned with a normally concentrated washing liquid. In the case of heavily soiled items, a concentrated washing liquid, such as dishes, cooking and baking utensils or the like, is expediently applied to the items to be cleaned. At least one normally concentrated rinsing liquid with a concentration of 0.01 to 6.0 g / l of cleaning-active substance, in particular 0.05 to 3.0 g / l, and a highly concentrated rinsing liquid (hereinafter rinsing concentrate) with a concentration of 0 are advantageous , 1 to 500 g / l of cleaning-active substance, in particular 0.5 to 100 g / l. For different types of detergents, a normally concentrated liquid or concentrate is preferably used with the following target concentrations: alkaline cleaner from 0.1 to 6.0 g / l or from 6.0 to 500 g / l, enzymatic cleaner from 0.01 to 0.5 g / l or from 0.5 to 150 g / l, acidic decalcifying agents from 0.1 to 6.0 g / l or from 6.0 to 500 g / l or / and bleaching agents from 0.01 to 1.0 g / l or from 1.0 to 300 g / l Some of these substances are mixed together or contained in other agents.

In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, depending on the selection of the washing program, either a one-step cleaning with the first, preferably normally concentrated washing liquid or a multi-step cleaning with the first, preferably normally concentrated washing liquid and a second washing liquid, preferably a washing concentrate, is carried out , With this rinsing process, the liquids are circulated, temporarily stored, so that they can be used again later in a rinsing step or rinsing program. According to the invention, both the normally concentrated rinsing liquid and the rinsing concentrate are then sprayed into the washing area via a common washing system with a spray device on the outlet side. The amount of liquid introduced is only time-dependent, since the nozzles of the spray devices deliver a constant volume per unit of time. Consumption occurs both during the individual washing program and during an operating cycle consisting of a plurality of washing programs running in succession, so that a corresponding amount is expediently topped up. In addition to the loss of quantity, active substance is also consumed, especially when using differently concentrated liquids, part of the highly concentrated agent is carried off into the normally concentrated agent because both agents are introduced into the wash cabinet via a common washing system. As a result, the target concentrations are fallen short of or exceeded. There is a regular increase in concentration in the first mean during the operating cycle. In order to lower the concentration or keep it constant, it is advisable to add a third agent, such as water or part of a rinse aid.

When using the same agents with different concentrations, it is advantageous to add the less concentrated agent via the System of the higher concentrated agent made by a shut-off device in the drain from the washing room or the washing zone is switched so that excess registered higher concentrated agent is temporarily returned to the container for the lower concentrated agent instead of in the associated container. As a result, the installation effort in the dishwasher is also reduced.

According to the invention, the dishwasher has a washing system with a common spray device for the separately stored agents. By arranging a further container according to the invention for a spray device, such as spray bows, spray arms or the like, installed in a washing area or washing zone, in the dishwasher it is achieved that a single dishwasher can be operated with different washing programs, with different means being stored at the same time. Several means are stored in one operating cycle, so that no retrofitting of the dishwasher is required and several identical or different washing programs can be carried out in succession without loss of time. This has the advantage that dishwashing programs can be run in the dishwasher with a special cut to the requirements of the different types and degrees of soiling. Therefore, a dishwasher with the features of the invention can be used universally; in particular, because of the large number of washing programs with very short throughput times, it is suitable for use as a commercial dishwasher. The integration of several types of dishwashers in one housing means that there is no need to purchase several dishwashers, which means that there are no acquisition costs and lower operating costs. The machine savings advantageously involve less installation effort and a smaller space requirement.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention there is at least one fitting, such as a valve, slide or flap, in the discharge from the washing area or the washing zone for returning the agents either to one or the other Containers arranged so as to enable the agent to be returned to a circulatory system. This helps to save at least the same cleaning performance of products such as cleaners, cleaning boosters or the like, and, if necessary, water. This has a positive impact on operating costs. Furthermore, the dishwasher works according to an environmentally friendly method, because less environmentally harmful substances are released into the wastewater and the resources are conserved.

The capacity of the containers is expediently smaller than the volume of a wash tank in commercially available dishwashers, since fewer means are used because of the inventive washing method, in particular when the latter is recycled. In the case of a circulation system, the circulation capacity of the pump must also be selected such that the return is not too low. The containers preferably have at least the volume of the washing system and an amount to be sprayed in order to prevent the circulation pump from running dry. The small container size has a positive effect on the space required within the housing, even with an external arrangement. In order to monitor the fill level in the containers, sensors are arranged in the containers, preferably the fill level is measured by means of a conductivity electrode arranged in the range of the target value. The concentrations in the containers are also measured with the aid of a sensor, so that, depending on the measurement result, the rinsing liquid is replenished via a metering unit assigned to the container.

Exemplary embodiments of the dishwasher according to the invention and of the method according to the invention are shown in the drawings and described in more detail below. It shows:

Fig. 1 is a dishwasher with a spray device and two separate

Containers for a first and second means, Fig. 2 a dishwasher with a spray device and two separate

Containers for a first and second circulating agent, Fig. 3 is a schematic flow diagram of a washing process in a dishwasher according. 1, Fig. 4 is a schematic flow diagram of a washing method in a dishwasher according to. Fig. 2.

1 and 2 show two different exemplary embodiments of a commercial dishwasher (1) for carrying out a rinsing process of items to be cleaned (2) which can be varied depending on the type and degree of soiling. 1 is a cross section through a rinsing zone (3) in a belt-conveying dishwasher (1), rinsing zones, such as pre-rinsing, main rinsing, rinsing, main rinsing or rinsing, being provided one after the other in the conveying direction (not shown). 2 shows a cross section through a washing compartment (3) in a single-chamber dishwasher (1) with a discontinuous cleaning, wherein in the washing compartment (3), according to the selected washing program, different rinsing cycles in succession, such as pre-rinsing, main rinsing, rinsing, main rinsing or Rinse off.

Program-controlled dishwashers can be used in the catering industry for the continuous or discontinuous cleaning of the dishes, whereby under this term “dishes” all items to be cleaned in a dishwasher, in particular both heavily soiled cooking and baking utensils and less soiled dishes, such as glasses, plates, cutlery or cups. The dishwashers (1) shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 have a washing area or a washing zone (3) in which a spray device (9) consisting of one below and one above a removable crockery basket or conveyor belt (4) is arranged , rotatable spray arm (5) with nozzles (6) for introducing a first (7) and a second (8) means into the washing compartment or the washing zone (3). The first spraying device (9) is assigned two containers (13, 14) for the first (7) and second (8) means directly in terms of line, without the interposition of further containers or devices. The containers (13, 14) are integrated into a pipe system (12) as part of a washing system via a feed line (11). Each container (13, 14) has a drain so that after the end of an operating cycle (100) the used liquids (7, 8, 20) can be removed from the dishwasher (1) and replaced with new, unused washing liquid (7, 8).

In addition to the washing system, the dishwasher (1) according to FIG. 2 has a further piping system (19) with its own spray device (10), such as a rinse system known from commercial dishwashers. Therefore, in addition to the first spray device (9), a second rotatable or fixed spray device (10) is provided in the wash chamber (3) or wash zone for the application of a third means (20), which is connected in line with the washing system with the first spray device (9). is separated and connected to the second piping system (19). A rinse aid system (19) usually has a boiler with heating in order to heat the rinse aid liquid. A second pipe system with its own spray device can also be used for the targeted introduction of special cleaners, disinfectants, decalcifying agents, softeners or mixtures into a rinse cycle or zone. Furthermore, if chemically compatible, these agents can be introduced together with the first (7) or second (8) agent via the first spray device (9). The first (7) and second (8) agents in the dishwashers (1) shown are washing liquids preferably containing cleaning-active substances of different concentrations in the associated containers (13, 14) and applied with the aid of the first spray device (9), the first Flushing liquid (7) is normally concentrated and the second flushing liquid (8) is highly concentrated. The container volume of the container (13) for the first rinsing liquid (7) or the mixture is approximately 15 l and the container (14) for the second rinsing liquid (8) is approximately 6 l, the volume of the concentrate container is smaller, since less means are required to achieve a comparable cleaning performance. When choosing other container sizes, it should be noted that the minimum volume takes up the sum of the volume of the washing system and a transfer volume that corresponds to the volume of liquid introduced into the spray chamber (3), so that the pump (s) (15) run dry prevent. 2, a rinse aid is used as the third means (20), which is sprayed into the washing compartment (3) by means of a second spray device (10). Detergent and / or detergent residues adhering to the cleaned items (2) are removed with the rinse aid liquid (20). Hot fresh water with a temperature of at least 60 ° C., preferably about 85 ° C., is used as the rinse aid liquid (20) in order to promote drying of the items to be washed (2) before / upon removal after the end of a washing program. The fresh water is regularly mixed with rinse aid, which enhances the shine of the clean dishes. In contrast to the first (7) and second (8) rinsing liquid, the rinsing liquid (20) is not circulated in a separate closed circuit by being returned to a separate storage container, but is instead discharged via the drain (17) of the washing chamber (3). fed into the circuit of the first rinsing liquid (7) and diluted this.

The arrangement of the various devices of the dishwasher with respect to one another is described below with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2: With a one-pump system acc. Fig. 1 is arranged in the piping system (12) of the washing system of the first spray device (9) only one circulation pump (15). The rinsing zone (3) has a drain (17) for the excess amount of liquid introduced into the rinsing zone (3), the liquids are not circulated in a closed circuit, but are either used in another rinsing zone or are disposed of. However, constructive adaptation of the dishwasher for a circular operation is easily possible by providing a branched discharge from the washing zone into the container with a fitting assigned to the spray device. A separate dosing unit (22) and possibly a filling unit are assigned to each container (13, 14).

In Fig. 2, a two-pump system and a two-circuit system for conveying the liquids in a separate, closed circuit is shown, for which purpose in the piping system (12) each have a circulation pump (15) on the outlet side in a discharge from the container (13:14), is arranged before their union. The bottom (16) of the washing compartment (2) has a drain (17) with a branched return section to the different containers (13, 14), a fitting (18) arranged in the return outlet being in the form of a valve, a flap, a slide or the like. Activates the return flow of the first rinsing liquid (7R), the second rinsing liquid (8R) or the rinsing liquid (20R) into one of the containers while the discharge into the other container is interrupted. A filter is arranged in the drain (17) so that coarse particles are removed from the circulated liquid. In order to support the drainage of the liquid dripping from the wash ware (2) and of the overspray, the base (16) preferably has the shape of a trough or a funnel with a drain (17) arranged at the lowest point. In this dishwasher (1), the circulation pumps (15) are switched in such a way that only one of the circulation pumps (15) is always in operation in order to dispense the first washing liquid (7) or a mixture of the first washing liquid (7) and the rinse aid liquid ( 20) or to convey the second rinsing liquid (8) in the circuit from the containers (13, 14) (9) directly assigned to the first spray device (9). The circulated liquids are the corresponding containers (13, 14) and temporarily stored for later use. An overflow system (21) is arranged in the container (13) for receiving the first rinsing liquid (7) and the rinse liquid (20), so that a maximum of the rinse liquid (20) in the container (13) even when it returns (20R) Level is not exceeded.

The level in the containers (13, 14) is determined with the aid of a sensor, in particular a conductivity measuring electrode, which is arranged in the range of the predetermined target level. In addition, the conductivity measuring electrode has the task of determining the concentration of the circulated liquids and, if necessary, arranging for further dosing, either by means of a separate metering unit (22) assigned to the respective container (13, 14) or in the case of the first rinsing liquid (7 ) a targeted introduction of the second rinsing liquid as rinsing concentrate (8) is carried out via the washing system.

In this way, the expenditure on equipment in the dishwasher can be reduced further, since a separate metering unit associated with the first container (13) is saved.

3 shows a washing method for a continuously operated dishwasher with a washing system consisting of two containers (13, 14) connected upstream of a first spraying device and a rinse aid system (19), the dirty dishes (2) being conveyed through the dishwasher by means of a conveyor belt for cleaning ,

The machine manufacturer specifies various washing programs (120), in which the items to be washed (2) are even used in different rinsing zones / rinsing steps or in individual process steps, such as pre-rinsing (101), main rinsing (102), rinsing (103) or rinsing (104) is not treated once or repeatedly. The control (120) is carried out by the washing program (105, 106) selected before a batch is put into the dishwasher (1), ie each batch runs individually through the selected washing program (105, 106), with in the dishwasher (1) simultaneously run several washing programs (120) in parallel. Depending on the selection of the washing program (120), during the program run (105, 106) the first agent (7), preferably a first washing liquid in normal concentration, and / or the second agent (8), preferably a washing liquid in higher concentration than Rinse concentrate, applied to the wash ware (2) via a common spray device (9) in a first rinse zone with pre-rinse (101) and, if necessary, main rinse (102) and rinse (103). In a second rinsing zone, a third agent (20), preferably a rinse aid liquid, is applied to the cleaned items (2) during rinsing (104). The excess agent (7, 8, 20) applied is removed from the rinsing zone (3) via a discharge line (17).

Before the dishwasher is operated, the containers (13, 14) are filled (90) for the first time, so that several washing programs (120) can be run through in one operating cycle (100) without refilling the containers (13, 14). Sensors arranged in the containers (13, 14) for measuring the fill level are operatively connected to a switch which signals the end of an operating cycle (100). Refilling can also be carried out during operation or the flushing process is interrupted in order to refill (90). If the means (7,8) are to be exchanged, the remaining amount can be drained from the corresponding containers (13, 14) via the drains (23, 24).

3 has basically two different washing programs (105, 106), namely a washing program (105) with a one-step cleaning and another washing program (106) with a multi-step cleaning. After the selection (120) of the washing program (106) with a multi-stage cleaning, the batch of items to be washed (2) is in the first washing zone, first with a normally concentrated washing liquid (7) in a pre-washing step (101), then with one concentrated rinsing liquid (8) in a main rinsing step (102) and again with the normally concentrated rinsing liquid (7) in a rinsing Treated step (103), the agents are introduced into the rinsing zone with the same volume via the same spray device. In comparison, the batch of wash ware (2) is selected (120) of the wash program (105) with one-step cleaning in the first washing zone only in a process step corresponding to pre-washing (101) with the normally concentrated washing liquid. In the two wash programs (105, 106), the wash items freed from dirt are finally treated with the rinse aid liquid (20) in a rinse step (104); beforehand, the conveyor belt conveys the wash items (2) into a next washing zone with a separate spray device. If the selection of the washing program has been made, only individual parameters such as the duration of the individual process steps can be freely selected within a washing program (105, 106).

In principle, the rinsing process shown in Fig. 3 also allows the use of rinsing liquids conveyed in the circuit in the rinsing program (105) with one-stage cleaning and the rinsing program (106) with multi-stage cleaning, but only one of the two circuits is in the first rinsing zone closed by the rinsing liquids (7,8) while the other circuit is interrupted. In the first washing zone, two agents could also be applied to the items to be washed simultaneously or in succession, such as an agent containing a special cleaner. Other chemically compatible combinations of agents are cleaners with softeners, cleaners with bleach, bleach with starch solvents or cleaners with acidic neutralizers.

4 shows a commercial rinsing method for a discontinuously operated single-chamber dishwasher with a first spray device for the rinsing liquids and a second spray device for a rinse liquid. The machine manufacturer provides a selection of special rinse programs (105, 106) tailored to the commercial sector, with individual program steps / rinse cycles, such as pre-rinse (101), main rinse (102), rinse (103) and rinse (104) individually according to the needs of the User can be combined with each other and a corresponding programming can be carried out. Before the start of the washing program (120), the dirty items to be washed (2) are placed in one or more crockery baskets in a closable washing area of the dishwasher.

An operating cycle (100) is composed of the duration of successive program runs of washing programs (120), the dishwasher (1) being operated with identical or different washing programs. During an operating cycle (100), the rinsing liquids (7,8) are not exchanged, but circulated in a closed circuit system. Depending on the selection of the washing program (120), a normally concentrated washing liquid as the first agent (7) and / or a highly concentrated washing liquid (washing concentrate) as the second agent (8) is applied to the items to be washed (2) via the first spray device during the runs brought the washroom. The excess rinsing liquid (7) or rinsing concentrate (8) is returned to the circuit as a return (7R, 8R). Between individual rinsing steps in a program run, the previously applied rinsing liquid (7, 8) drips from the items to be washed (2), the devices in the wash cabinet and the walls of the wash cabinet, collects on the bottom side and flows through a drain with one between the containers - And forth switchable fitting in the associated container (13, 14) back. In each wash cycle, the wash liquid (7, 8) used is conveyed in a separate circuit, the other wash liquid (7, 8) being simultaneously stored for later use in the container (13, 14) assigned to the spraying device. In the case of a one-step cleaning with the normally concentrated rinsing liquid (7), the fitting only closes the circuit for the normally concentrated rinsing liquid, while the flushing concentrate circuit is interrupted due to its position. In the case of a multi-stage cleaning, both rinsing liquids (7, 8) are applied in succession via the first spraying device which is directly assigned to the containers (13, 14), for which purpose one of the two circuits is closed while the other is interrupted. With both wash programs (105, 106), the cleaned wash ware - 16 -

(2) rinsed, for which purpose in a rinse cycle (104) the cleaned items (2) are wetted with the rinse liquid (20) sprayed by the second spray device as a third agent.

When selecting a wash program (120) for lightly soiled dishes (2), such as a glass program (105), cleaning is only one step, i.e. Only normally concentrated rinsing liquid (7) is used during cleaning. The cleaning time is between 60 to 120 seconds, after which the clean dishes (2) are rinsed with preferably demineralized fresh water (20) from the rinse aid system (19). An improved cleaning result is achieved by using demineralized water in the glass program (105). A quantity of 3.5 l is sprayed during rinsing (104). For heavily soiled washware (2) there is a choice between several different wash programs (120), such as a cutlery, plate, cup or utensil program (106), which are matched to the washware (2) to be cleaned. All of the above-mentioned washing programs (106) have a cleaning in several steps, in which the normally concentrated washing liquid (7) and the washing concentrate (8) are applied to the soiled items (2) one after the other. If a dishwasher is equipped with more than two containers, both liquids of different concentrations and agents or mixtures containing different active substances can be used in the washing process. This means that the rinsing process can be supplemented by special process steps such as descaling, softening, disinfecting, bleaching. In principle, these agents, together with the agents or rinse aids containing cleaning-active substances, could be introduced into the wash cabinet via the first spray device, without the need for a second spray device.

The procedure during a washing program depends on the type of soiling and the degree of soiling, so the duration of the pre-rinse, main rinse, rinse and rinse step varies as well as individual Properties of the rinsing liquids (7,8) in the form of type, temperature or also the amount of rinsing liquid (7,8) entered in the washing compartment (3).

The procedure for the cutlery program (106) is as follows: pre-rinsing (101) with normally concentrated rinsing liquid (7) for 30 to 60 seconds, main rinsing (102) with rinsing concentrate (8) for 30 to 180 seconds, rinsing (103 ) with normal concentrated rinsing liquid (7) for 15 to 30 seconds. and final rinsing (104) with hot fresh water (20) at a temperature of approximately 85 ° C. as rinsing liquid (20) for 7 to 10 seconds. When selecting the plate or cup program (106), the duration of the individual Rinse cycles are comparatively longer because of the heavier soiling, namely up to 120 seconds. during pre-rinsing (101), up to 300 sec. main wash (102) and up to 60 sec. Rinse (103). The utensil program (106) is characterized by comparatively long washing cycles due to the strongly adhering dirt on the utensils, so the main wash (102) can last for up to 600 seconds. take in. The main wash cycle (102) regularly consists of different, repeating phases, with wash concentrate (8) wetting the surface of the wash ware (2) and then acting on the soiling, so that the soiling is loosened in order to be more easily rinsed off in the rinse cycle (103) become.

In addition to changing the time parameter, the amount of rinse aid liquid (20) introduced in the rinse aid (104) is also changed in the different rinse programs (120) and thereby increased by up to 8 liters.

The duration of a cycle of a washing program (120) in a commercial dishwasher is significantly lower than that in a dishwasher used in households. For economic reasons, the throughput times are as short as possible in order to shorten the distance between successive uses of the dishes. Before each operating cycle (100), the washing system is filled (90) with the normally concentrated rinsing liquid (7) and / or the rinsing concentrate (8) because the liquids (7,8) are not changed during the operating cycles (100). The end of an operating cycle (100) is defined by a predetermined number of program runs. This value is either specified by the machine manufacturer or a value determined by the user

Average value that depends on the specific purpose and the associated framework. In these cases the number stands for

Program runs before the start of the operating cycle (100) and is determined by

User entered. The number of program runs of one

Operating cycle (100) could also be variable, especially if the value is determined by a point evaluation. With such an evaluation everyone is

Wash program assigned a certain score. During the operating cycle

(100) the respective number of points is summed up by the washing programs run. When a predetermined maximum value is reached, the operating cycle

(100) ended. Then the rinsing liquid (7) and / or the rinsing concentrate (8) is exchanged for unused rinsing liquid (7) or rinsing concentrate (8). In this way, one that is dependent on the quality of the rinsing liquid (7,8)

Change can be realized, then the maximum value for the rinsing liquids is set differently. The value for the normally concentrated rinsing liquid (7) is preferably lower than for the rinsing concentrate (8), for example it is one third. Regardless of the programming, the

Users carry out manual control of the dishwasher, for example an interruption or abort of a washing program (120) and therefore possibly. initiate the operating cycle (100). There is also a possibility if that

End of the operating cycle (100) has not yet been reached, from the outside in the

Intervention cycle (100) to intervene, for example, the liquids (7,8) on

Be drained at the end of a working day, so at the beginning of the next

Working day a new filling (90) of the washing system can be made. Filling (90) the dishwasher with rinsing liquid (7) or rinsing concentrate (8) proceeds as follows: First, the first container (13) with normally concentrated rinsing liquid (7) is filled with fresh water via the rinse aid system (20), the water heated in batches in the boiler and cleaning-active substance (s) is added via a metering unit. When filling (90) this first container (13), the connection to the second container (14), the concentrate container (14), is interrupted by the fitting (18). The second container (14) is filled separately, for which purpose the second container (14) is assigned its own filling unit with metering unit. In an alternative, the active substance of the first container is filled and dosed via the washing system with the associated second container with dosing unit. The cleaning active substance is liquid, pasty, powdery or solid, any application form can be used.

In order to monitor the filling (109) and the program run, the concentration of the rinsing liquid (7) or the rinsing concentrate (8) is measured in the container (13, 14) by means of a sensor, preferably a conductivity measuring electrode, the result of the measurement being used to regulate the Concentration and / or fill level in the containers (13, 14) is used.

After filling (90), i.e. at the beginning of an operating cycle (100), for example when cleaning with an alkaline cleaner, the normally concentrated rinsing liquid has a target concentration of approx. 1 g cleaning-active substance / I and the rinsing concentrate of approx. 30 g / l cleaning-active substance / I. When cleaning with other cleaning-active substances, acidic cleaners with preferably a normal concentration of 1 to 3 g / l and a concentrate preferably from 20 to 80 g / l, enzymatic cleaners with a normal concentration preferably from 0.1 to 0.5 g / l and a concentrate of 1.0 to 5.0 g / l, a bleaching agent of a normal concentration of preferably 0.1 to 1.0 g / l and 1.0 to 10 g / l or mixtures containing these agents. A carryover of the cleaning-active substance during the program runs leads to a lowering of the target concentration in the rinsing concentrate (8) and an increase in the target concentration in the normally concentrated rinsing liquid (7), so that a replenishment (110) is required during the operating cycle (100) is. The respective target concentration is approximately maintained by replenishing (110) the cleaning substance or fresh water. Volume losses can also be compensated for by adding liquid.

The following is an example of a program run of a washing program for heavily soiled dishes (2) with multi-stage cleaning:

1. In the pre-cleaning (pre-rinse cycle) (101), the items to be washed (2) are pretreated under conventional conditions with a normally concentrated washing liquid (7) at normal temperature in order to remove the coarse dirt and to wet the surface of the items to be washed (2) almost completely , For this purpose, the rinsing liquid (7) is removed from the first rinsing liquid container (13) and applied via the first spray device. The excess amount applied flows back as a return (7R) via the drain between the containers (13, 14) and the wash cabinet with an integrated fitting into the closed wash liquid circuit, namely into the first container (13). In the washing system (12) that has remained in the washing system (12) through which both washing liquids (7, 8) flow, the active cleaning substance from previous program runs causes an increase in the concentration of the washing liquid (7) in the first container (13), which may be caused by a clear rinse (110) Fresh water (20) is lowered. By switching the valve, the discharge into the second container (14) is released and the next rinse cycle is initiated, i.e. the previously closed rinsing liquid circuit is interrupted and the previously open rinsing concentrate circuit is closed.

2. In the case of intensive cleaning during the main wash cycle (102), wash concentrate (8) is sprayed onto the pre-cleaned wash ware (2), which then acts on the soiling. Repeating the treatment additionally supports the dissolving process of the soiling. In this step Rinsing concentrate (8) is removed from the second container (concentrate container) (14) with the circulation pump which promotes circulation in the pre-rinsing cycle and the items to be washed (2) are wetted over the entire surface. The excess amount (8R) flows back into the second container (14) via the closed rinse concentrate circuit, the concentration regularly decreasing, since cleaning-active substance adheres to the surfaces and is thus carried over. The next rinse cycle is initiated by switching the valve again.

3. The items to be washed (2), which are subjected to intensive cleaning, are treated again in a post-cleaning step (rinse cycle) (103) with the normally concentrated washing liquid (7) under conventional conditions as in 1.) in order to remove the loosened soiling and the concentration on the surface the items to be washed (2) to prepare the rinse cycle. When the rinse cycle (103) ends, the circulation of rinsing liquid (7,8) in the washing system (12) is stopped.

4. For rinsing (104), as in conventional methods, between 4 to 8 liters of fresh water at about 82 ° C. are brought to the cleaned items (2) as rinsing liquid (20). Excess rinse liquid (20) runs through the open drain from the wash cabinet into the first container (13) and dilutes the rinse liquid (7) stored there for the next program run. When the capacity of the container (13) is exceeded, liquid is discharged from the system via the overflow system (21) and released into the environment.

The idea of the invention of applying a plurality of separately stored means by means of a common spraying device, to which the containers are directly upstream, is not limited to rinsing methods using two means in one / one rinse cycle or zone, but can be expanded as desired. In principle, it is possible to create dishwashers with a washing system with several containers for different agents, preferably adapted to the pollution, the individual method steps corresponding to the washing method are program-controlled in rinse cycles or zones. The liquids are stored separately and preferably circulated in separate circuits.

Claims

claims

1. Flushing process, in which a first agent (7) and a second agent (8) are stored separately and fed directly to the same spraying device.

2. Rinsing method according to claim 1, characterized in that the first agent and the second agent as a mixture in a / a rinse cycle or zone, such as pre-rinsing, main rinsing, rinsing or rinsing, are sprayed simultaneously.

3. Rinsing method according to claim 1, characterized in that the first means (7) and the second means (8) are sprayed in succession in a / a rinse cycle or zone.

4. Flushing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that first one of the means (7,8) and later a mixture containing the first (7) and / or second (8) means are sprayed on or vice versa.

5. Rinsing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one agent (7,8) or a mixture containing the first (7) and / or second (8) agent are collected.

6. Flushing method according to claim 5, characterized in that this (s) are / will be collected separately.

7. Flushing method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that a collected agent (7,8) and / or the collected mixture is fed again to a spray device (9).

8. Flushing method according to claim 7, characterized in that this (s) are / are returned in the circuit to the same spray device (9).

9. Rinsing method according to claim 8, characterized in that the first (7) and / or second (8) agent and / or a mixture containing the first (7) and / or second (8) agent in one / one rinse cycle or - zone, such as pre-rinsing (101), main rinsing (102), rinsing (103), rinsing (104), are circulated.

10. Flushing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first means (7) and the second means (8) are identical.

11. Flushing method according to claim 10, characterized in that the first agent and the second agent are supplied with the same concentration.

12. Flushing method according to claim 10, characterized in that the first means (7) and the second means (8) are supplied at very different concentrations.

13. Flushing method according to one or more of the preceding claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the first means and the second means are different.

14. Flushing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first (7) and / or second (8) agent at least one cleaning-active substance, such as enzymes, acids, bleaching agents, complexing agents, surfactants, oxidizing agents, active halogen compounds, disinfectants or Contain alkali carriers or mixtures thereof.

15. Flushing method according to claim 15, characterized in that the first and second agents contain different cleaning-active substances.

16. Rinsing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that an agent contains at least one rinsing agent, such as nonionic surfactants.

17. Rinsing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that an agent contains a decalcifying substance, such as acid.

18. Flushing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that an agent contains a softening substance such as phosphate.

19. Flushing process according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that an agent contains a bleaching substance, such as peroxide, chlorine-based bleaching agents.

20. Rinsing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that a third, separately stored agent (20) in a / a rinse cycle or zone, such as pre-rinsing (101), main rinsing (102), rinsing (103), rinsing (104), the same (9) or a further (10) spraying device.

21. Flushing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the case of chemical incompatibility of two agents, a neutral agent is fed to the same spraying device before / after the feed.

22. Flushing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that in an operating cycle (100), the duration of which corresponds to the sum of several program runs of flushing programs (120), the first (7) and / or second (8) means and / or a mixture containing the first (7) and / or second (8) agent is circulated.

23. Flushing method according to claim 22, characterized in that the operating cycle (100) is ended after a predetermined number of program runs and the first (7) and / or second means (8) and / or the first (7) and / or second (8) agent-containing mixture is exchanged for new, unused agent (7,8) or other agent.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that the duration of the operating cycle (100) is predetermined according to a number of program runs.

25. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that the duration of the operating cycle (100) is variable in accordance with a number of program runs and is determined by means of a point evaluation, each washing program being assigned a specific number of points, and during the operating cycle (100 ) the respective scores for the individual washing programs are added up and the operating cycle (100) is ended when a predetermined maximum value is reached.

26. Rinsing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that when selecting a rinsing program with a one-step cleaning (105) in a / a rinsing cycle or zone (101) only the first means (7) and when selecting a rinsing program In a multi-stage cleaning (106) in several rinse cycles or zones (101, 102, 103), both the first agent (7) and the second agent (8) are fed in succession.

27. Rinsing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first (7) and / or second (8) agent is supplied in the form of a rinsing liquid containing liquid, preferably cleaning-active substances.

28. Rinsing method according to claim 27, characterized in that the first means (7) is a normally concentrated rinsing liquid with a target concentration of 0.01 to 6 g / l, preferably 0.05 to 3.0 g / l, cleaning-active substance, in particular with 0.1 to 6.0 g / l alkaline cleaning substance, with 0.01 to 0.5 g / l enzymatic cleaning substance, with 0.1 to 6.0 g / l acid cleaning substance or these substances in the aforementioned Mixtures containing concentration.

29. Rinsing method according to claim 27, characterized in that the second means (8) is a highly concentrated rinsing liquid (rinsing concentrate) with a target concentration of 0.1 to 500 g / l, preferably from 0.5 to 100 g / l, cleaning-active substance , in particular with 6 to 500 g / l alkaline cleaning substance, with 0.5 to 150 g / l enzymatic cleaning substance, with 6 to 500 g / l acid cleaning substance or mixture containing these substances in the aforementioned concentration.

30. Rinsing method according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that the target concentration of the rinsing liquids (7,8) is approximately maintained by a subsequent metering (110) with cleaning-active substance and / or water.

31. Rinsing method according to one or more of the preceding claims 27 to 30, characterized in that the electrical conductivity of a liquid containing the first means (7) or a liquid (8) containing the second means (8) is measured, the measurement result to regulate the Concentration and / or level in the spray device (9) upstream containers (13, 14) is used.

32. Rinsing method according to one or more of claims 27 to 31, characterized in that in one / a rinse cycle or zone, such as pre-rinse cycle or zone (101), main rinse cycle or zone (102), rinse cycle or zone (103) , in each case only one of the rinsing liquids (7, 8) is fed to the common spraying device (9), each rinsing liquid (7, 8) being circulated in a separate, closed circuit.

33. Rinsing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that in a / a rinse aid zone or zone (104) a rinse aid liquid (20) is fed as a third means and the rinse aid liquid (20R) as a return flow into the circuit of a, preferably the rinsing liquid (7) containing the first agent is returned.

34. Rinsing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the case of slightly soiled items (2), such as glasses, a rinsing program (120) with one-stage cleaning (105) is selected, in one / one rinsing cycle or zone (101) only the first agent (7) in the form of a normally concentrated rinsing liquid and, if appropriate, a rinsing liquid (20) is applied in a rinse cycle or zone (104).

35. Rinsing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that a wash program (120) with multi-stage cleaning (106) is selected for items which are not lightly soiled (2), such as cutlery, plates, cups, utensils or the like. in which the first means (7) in the form of a normally concentrated rinsing liquid in a pre-rinse cycle or zone (101), the second means (8) in the form of a highly concentrated rinsing liquid in a main rinsing cycle or zone (102) and in a rinse cycle or zone (103) again with the first agent (7) and if necessary, a rinse aid liquid (20) is applied in a rinse cycle or zone (104).

36. Rinsing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and the second means are applied in liquid form, the volume corresponding at least to the line volume plus a liquid volume sprayed in a / a rinse cycle or zone, preferably 15 1 a liquid containing the first agent or 6 1 of a liquid comprising the second agent.

37. Rinsing method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by an implementation in a commercial dishwasher.

38. Dishwasher with a spray device (9), the containers (13, 14) for separate storage of a first means (7) and a second means (8) are directly assigned.

39. Dishwasher according to claim 38, characterized in that a second spray device (10) is arranged in a wash chamber (3) or a wash zone in addition to the first spray device (9).

40. Dishwasher according to claim 38 or 39, characterized in that the first (9) or the second (10) spray device is assigned a feed line or a container for a third means (20) directly.

41. Dishwasher according to one or more of claims 38 to 40, characterized in that each container has a separate line to the associated spray device.

42. Dishwasher according to one or more of claims 38 to 40, characterized in that the containers (7, 8) assigned to the first spray device (9) have a common feed line (11).

43. Dishwasher according to one or more of claims 38 to 42, characterized in that a circulation pump (15) for conveying the first (7) and / or second (8) means is arranged in a piping system (12) for the first spraying device (9) is.

44. Dishwasher according to one or more of claims 38 to 42, characterized in that in a discharge line from the container (13, 14) to the first spraying device (9) each have a circulation pump (15) for conveying the respective agent (7, 8). is arranged.

45. Dishwasher according to one or more of claims 38 to 44, characterized in that the containers (13, 14) assigned to the first spraying device (9) have different volumes.

46. Dishwasher according to one or more of claims 38 to 45, characterized in that a fitting (18) for returning the means (7R, 8R, 20R) into the in a discharge line (17) from a washing area (3) or a washing zone various containers (13, 14) is arranged.

47. Dishwasher according to claim 46, characterized in that the fitting (18) is an on-off fitting, preferably a flap or a slide.

48. Dishwasher according to claim 46, characterized in that the fitting is a multi-way valve, preferably a 3/2-way valve.

49. Dishwasher according to one or more of claims 38 to 48, characterized in that one of the containers (13) assigned to the first spraying device (9) has an overflow system (21).

50. Dishwasher according to one or more of claims 38 to 49, characterized in that one of the containers (13) assigned to the first spraying device (9) forms a return container for the third means (20).

51. Dishwasher according to one or more of the preceding claims 38 to 50, characterized in that one or more container (s) (13, 14) is assigned a metering unit (22)

52. Dishwasher according to one or more of the preceding claims 38 to 51, characterized in that it has a filling unit.

53. Dishwasher according to one or more of the preceding claims 38 to 52, characterized in that a measuring transducer, preferably a conductivity measuring electrode, is arranged in one or more containers for measuring the concentration and / or the level.

54. Dishwasher according to one or more of the preceding claims 38 to 53, characterized in that the same is a commercial dishwasher.

55. Dishwasher according to one or more of the preceding claims 38 to 54, characterized by several locally and / or temporally successive washing zones, such as pre-washing (101), main washing (102), rinsing (103) and rinsing (104) for carrying out a continuous rinsing process (120).

56. Dishwasher according to one or more of the preceding claims 38 to 54, characterized in that several rinsing cycles, such as pre-rinsing (101), main rinsing (102), rinsing (103) and rinsing (104), are carried out in the same time one after the other for carrying out a discontinuous rinsing process (120) are arranged.

57. Dishwasher according to one or more of the preceding claims 38 to 54, characterized by a selection of washing programs (120) with program runs of different lengths and different washing steps, such as glass, cutlery, plates, cups or utensils program.

58. Use of at least two chemically reacting agents in a rinsing process according to one of claims 1 to 37.

59. Use according to claim 58, wherein the agents are incompatible with one another.