InnoPET BloFill ACF-R aseptic block for bottle sterilisation

The new KHS rotary aseptic filler for higher capacities is focused on bottle sterilisation that — unlike preform sterilisation — can also be combined with the KHS FreshSafe PET coating system that provides additional product protection for sensitive beverages. This procedure is claimed to remove all potential germs from the containers directly prior to filling. It is designed to provide bottlers with more flexibility and greater availability during format changeovers than with preform sterilisation, where changing the stretch blow moulds disturbs the sterile state of the block

The rotary Innofill PET ACF-R filler has been combined with the energy-efficient InnoPET Blomax Series V stretch blow moulder. The resulting InnoPET BloFill ACF-R aseptic block for bottle sterilisation currently has a capacity of up to 36,000 1.0 L bph as opposed to the linear fillers that work at a maximum rate of 14,000 bph. In the future, the block will be available with an output of up to 48,000 500 mL bottles every 60 min. In addition, the new plant engineering achieves a sterility of log 6 inside the bottles, which is equivalent to a reduction in germs of 99.9999%.

The system is spread out over two levels: at ground level are the stretch blow moulder, sterilisation module, filler carousel and two-way servocapper. The process technology with the service module, H₂O₂ preparation, sterile compressed air production, cap sterilisation unit and valve manifold are up on the platform.

Thanks to its flexibility, the modular aseptic filler is suitable for use with various KHS PET filling systems that have also been modified. These vary their speed according to the respective filling phase and determine the fill level using flow metering. The current standard comprises valves with a free-flow system for the still beverages normally filled on aseptic equipment. Alternatively, systems can be used that are able to process fibres and pulp. In the future, the machinery is also to be capable of the sterile filling of carbonated products such as fruit juice spritzers.