Method and apparatus for purging air from containers

摘要

A method and apparatus is disclosed for purging air from the headspace of filled flexible containers and from the interstices in the product when the containers are filled with particulates. The method includes the steps of moving the upper open end of the containers through a steam tunnel while directing a flow of low velocity steam within the range of about 0.5 to 5 feet per second into and around the open ends of the containers to purge air therefrom. When air is entrained in a particulate product in the container, the low velocity steam cooperates with a jet of high velocity steam, within the velocity range of about 5 to 20 ft./sec., that is directed into the product for purging both the interstitial air and the headspace air from the container or pouch. In one embodiment of the invention a baffle is disposed above the open end of each particulate filled container to direct the steam-air mixture transversely out of the container for entrainment and flushing to the atmosphere by the low velocity steam. After purging, the open end of the container is closed and sealed while in a steam environment.