Abstract: A filling head apparatus for filling a pack aseptically has a steam inlet valve and passage and a steam outlet and emptying valve and passage connected to a filling head space for delivery of sterilizing steam to and for removal of sterilizing steam and residual fluid from the filling head space. The steam inlet and outlet valves and passages are positioned to have longitudinal axes which form an angle of from 70.degree. to 110.degree.. A valve which is displaceable in the filling head controls delivery and regulates the flow of fluid to the filling head space.

Abstract: Bags having a spout opening defined by a spout edge surface affixed within the bags are sealed with a spout closure membrane first by pressing the closure membrane against the spout edge surface with a cooled plate. A heating unit which includes a heating element, which has a surface which corresponds in size and shape with the spout edge surface, then is moved adjacent the cooled plate to heat a portion of the cooled plate for sealing the closure membrane to the spout edge surface. After heating the closure membrane for sealing the spout edge surface to the closure membrane, the heating element is moved away from the plate whereby the heated portion of the plate then cools and cools the seal. After the seal is cooled, the plate then is moved away from the sealed spout and bag.