APPARATUS AND METHOD

摘要

Apparatus (20) for filling cartons (22) in a sterile, contaminant-free environment comprises an enclosure (26) which at least partially surrounds a carton filler nozzle (24). A carton opening (32) formed in the bottom of the enclosure (26) is shaped to receive an open-ended carton (22) into a position for filling. Guides (44) machined into interior surfaces of the enclosure (26) guide the motion of the carton (22) into the enclosure (26) for filling. A port formed in the enclosure (26) admits sterile fluid to flush the interior of the enclosure (26). The port and the nozzle (24) are connectible into a cleaning solution circuit with the port providing an outlet for cleaning solution that has entered the enclosure (26) through the nozzle (24). The nozzle (24) and the interior of the enclosure (26) may be cleaned by sealing the enclosure (26) from the ambient atmosphere and then flushing the enclosure (26) with the cleaning solution.