Method and apparatus for aseptic pressure-processing of pumpable substances
US6158981A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 18, 1998 |
| Grant date | Dec 12, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 18, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF04B43/00
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Improved methods and apparatus for pressure processing of pumpable substances are shown and described. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes an inlet valve, an outlet valve, and a pressure vessel. The inlet valve has an inlet port, and is coupled to a source of a pumpable substance and to the pressure vessel. The outlet valve has an outlet port and is coupled to the pressure vessel. When the inlet valve is opened and the outlet valve is closed, a volume of pumpable substance may flow into the pressure vessel. The inlet valve is then closed and the outlet valve remains closed, and the pumpable substance within the pressure vessel may be pressurized to a selected pressure for a selected period of time. The outlet valve is then opened, allowing the pumpable substance to be discharged. In an alternate embodiment, the apparatus may include at least one aseptic valve assembly having elements which cooperate to apply cleansing solution to one or more surfaces, the surfaces having the potential of being contaminated. The cleansing solution may be applied to the surface by cleansing chambers or by nozzles.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.