The new concept of linear keg filling

Comac R&D department has developed a new technology for keg linear filling that outdoes the traditional machines and combines the advantages of both rotary and in line systems. The new model is called HS6T and has a nominal output of 250 kegs/hour: three different stations for pre-washing, washing and filling, each one equipped with six heads carrying out the same treatment on six kegs at the same time, fed by a special keg introduction-ejection system.

Having a perfect knowledge of keg filling plants and of those production critical stages which require complex procedures in order not to affect the performances in terms of kegs per hour, Comac has introduced many innovative systems. Among the others, a highly effective keg presser mounted onto the washing/filling machines automatically carries out the functions of the former dummy keg. This special device allows quicker CIP, SIP and descaling cycles, thus improving plant performances.

The new HS6T plants are provided with process equipments as CIP and flash pasteurizers able to reach a nominal output up to 500 hl/h. Equipped with high quality components, these process plants are designed according to the user’s specifications, thus making spare parts and maintenance management a lot easier for the customer. The flexibility of Comac staff allows a profitable cooperation with the user, resulting in the customization of the supply. Two HS6T keg plants are currently operational in two of the most important production site of Heineken Spain and Heineken Italia, with an output of 1000 and 750 kegs/hour respectively. They have been designed to produce different types of beer at the same time and to process different types of kegs and spear fitting, thanks to the special layout and the machines conceived, installed and tested by Comac technical staff.

The advantages of the HS6T washers/fillers in comparison with the traditional linear and rotating machines are evident. For example: Optimization of the cycle times; reduced fitting gasket and spring wear and tear, significant reduction of keg fitting maintenance costs; reduced wear and tear of the sliding guide and head components; the duration of the caustic solution holding stage (between pre-washing and washing) can be customized according to the length of the conveyor connecting the two machines; the sterilization period (between washing and filling) can be customized, too; improved flexibility of the line, and also of the washing and filling; the special machine design makes cleaning, control and maintenance operations easier; modular construction of the machines for future enlargements of the plant; the choice of a static fluid distribution system has led to the elimination of all rotating components and resulted in a highly reliable machine.