Abstract: A method and system for aseptic filling of containers. The flexible containers (1) are presterilized and a rupturable membrane (41) covers the inlet to the container. The filling head (20) includes a recess (46) below the outlet valve (24) and this recess is closed by the rupturable membrane (41) when the container inlet is aligned with the filling head. After alignment sterilizing fluid is introduced into the recess to sterilize the outer surface of the membrane and the internal surfaces of the recess. Following sterilization the valve membrane (22) moves towards the rupturable membrane (41) allowing the piercing tool (25) to rupture said membrane. The outlet valve (24) of the filling head is opened and the liquid is allowed to flow into the container. Subsequent to completion of the filling cycle the inlet to the container is sealed and the sealed and filled container (1) is then removed from the filling head (20).

Abstract: A dispensing spigot for a container in which the spigot 15 is mounted on a spout 10 and a portion 18 of the deformable diaphragm wall 19 sealingly engages the internal surface of the spout wall 12. To improve sealing a groove 21 is provided in the diaphragm wall and a flange 14 projects from the spout wall 12 into the groove 21 to sealingly engage the surface 23 of groove 21. This arrangement of the flange 14 and groove 21 restricts leakage between the spout 12 and the deformable wall 18.

Abstract: A flexible container for the storage of liquids which incorporates a resealable opening. A flap is temporarily sealed over the opening of the unfilled flexible container. When the container is filled this temporary seal is broken and after filling a permanent heat seal is formed by applying heat externally to the flexible container. The flap is heat sealable on the surface contacting the opening in the container wall but non-heat-sealable on its opposite surface. The temporary seal is preferably a heat activated or pressure sensitive coating which has a low cohesion with the opening of the flexible container wall.

Abstract: A filling station for filling flexible containers with liquid. The filling head is fixed. The container is gripped and brought into abutment with the filling head outlet. The container is filled and subsequently while the container is still in abutment with the filling head it is heat sealed. The container is then removed.