In the previous tweets, we introduced the beer sterilization process. Today, let’s discuss the beer filling process with you.
Beer filling refers to the filling of beer into different containers, mainly including the following methods:
- Glass bottle filling
Glass bottle filling is the most common way of beer filling. The main processes include:
1. Bottle cleaning and disinfection
2. Vacuuming
3. Filling beer
4. Capping
Glass bottle filling machines usually use annular liquid cylinders and beer-specific valves to achieve isobaric filling and avoid carbon dioxide gushing and oxidation. Some filling machines are also equipped with anti-splash devices to prevent detergent residues from contaminating beer. - Can filling
The can filling process is similar to that of glass bottles, but requires additional canning links. The advantages of cans are that they are easy to carry and protect beer from light oxidation. - Barrel filling
Barrel beer is usually loaded in 20-liter or 30-liter stainless steel barrels, which are suitable for restaurants and bars. Barrel beer has a shorter shelf life, but is fresher.
Regardless of the filling method, the key is to ensure that the container is clean and hygienic, and to minimize the contact between beer and air, avoid oxidation and carbon dioxide loss, so as to maintain the fresh taste of beer.
After understanding the types of filling, let’s discuss the process of the production line.
The beer filling production line mainly consists of the following parts:
- Filling machine
The filling machine is developed around the filling process. Its working principle is: the clean bottles from the bottle washing are sent to the bottle feeding screw of the filling machine by the bottle feeding star wheel, and are sent to the bottle supporting cylinder of the turntable and raised. The bottle mouth is pressed against the discharge port of the filling valve under the guidance of the centering device to form a seal. After the bottle is evacuated, the back pressure gas (CO2) in the liquid storage cylinder is flushed into the bottle. When the gas pressure in the bottle is equal to the gas pressure in the liquid storage cylinder, the liquid valve is opened under the action of the liquid valve spring. At this time, the beer is automatically poured into the glass bottle along the bottle wall through the guidance of the umbrella-shaped reflection ring on the return air pipe. The CO2 in the glass bottle is replaced back into the liquid storage cylinder through the return air pipe. When the beer rises to a certain height and the return air pipe mouth is closed, the beer is automatically stopped. Then the liquid valve and gas regulator are closed, and the pressure gas at the bottleneck is discharged to prevent the gas-carrying beer from gushing when the glass bottle descends, thus completing the entire filling process. - Capping machine
The capping machine is used to cover the lid on the container filled with beer to ensure sealing. It is usually composed of components such as a capping head and a capping mechanism. - Conveyor
The conveyor is used to feed empty bottles/cans into the filling machine and to transport containers filled with beer to the next process. Including chain conveyors, belt conveyors, etc. - Cleaning and disinfection system
The cleaning and disinfection system is used to clean and disinfect empty bottles/cans to ensure that the containers are clean and hygienic. Usually includes spray devices, dryers, etc. - Detection system
The detection system is used to detect whether there are leaks, defects, etc. in the container filled with beer to ensure product quality. Including weight detection, sealing detection, etc. - Palletizing system
The palletizing system organizes the packed beer products into pallets or pallets for easy storage and transportation.
In addition, it may also include auxiliary equipment such as central control systems and recycling systems to achieve automated and environmentally friendly production.