Ultraviolet assembly for use in irradiating containers in a packaging

Abstract

A sterilization system for sterilizing surface areas of a packaging material in a packaging machine is set forth. The sterilization system comprises an ultraviolet lamp including a housing and an ultraviolet light transmission portion. A support assembly is connected to support the ultraviolet lamp. The ultraviolet lamp is connected to the support assembly so that it is pivotable with respect to the support assembly from a first operating position in which the ultraviolet transmission portion of the ultraviolet lamp is disposed to irradiate the surface areas of the packaging material and a second position in which the ultraviolet transmission portion of the ultraviolet lamp is disposed at an angle for cleaning or service. A latching mechanism may be used to secure the ultraviolet lamp in the second cleaning position. Alternatively, the ultraviolet lamp assembly may be automatically moved between the first and second positions using an automatic drive. In accordance with a still further enhancement of the apparatus, a linear drive mechanism may be used to drive the ultraviolet lamp, including at least a portion of the support assembly, between a raised and lowered position. Such movement of the ultraviolet lamp facilitates easy access for cleaning and service.