Abstract: In cleaning plate-type filter elements in a tank filter, the tank is opened and a cleaning tube is placed upwardly around one of the downwardly extending filter elements providing an annular flow space along the length of the element. A seal member is located in the upper end of the cleaning tube to close off the upper end of the annular flow space. Pressurized cleaning fluid is supplied into the lower end of the tube where it flows upwardly through the annular space and then into the filter element to dislodge any contamination. The material displaced continues its flow through the filter element in the same direction as is taken by the fluid being filtered.

Abstract: A filling machine for filling of liquids into a container has a vessel and filling elements operatively connected with the liquid vessel and including a liquid input conduit, an advance and return gas conduit, and a pressure relief conduit. Elements for establishing a pressure difference between the interior of the container and the interior of the liquid vessel are provided, including a channel adapted to be maintained at a pressure which is lower than that in the liquid vessel and higher than that of the outer atmosphere, and a branch conduit communicating the interior of the container with the interior of this channel. A one-way valve is arranged in the branch conduit and is operative for closing the same when the pressure in the channel increases and opening the same when the pressure in the channel decreases relative to the pressure in the interior of the container.

Abstract: A filling unit without filling pipe has a siphon closure for defining the level of the liquid charge in the bottle being filled. The siphon closure includes a stopper bell projecting into an annular channel for retaining sealing liquid, the stopper bell has in the range above the annular channel apertures in the form of radially and vertically directed slits extending downwardly to the edge of the bell-shaped jacket so that the lower part of the stopper bell has a comb-like configuration.