Beverage preparation device with in-line scale removal system and descaling method using such system

Abstract

A beverage preparation machine comprises a fluid circuit ( 2 ) comprising a water reservoir ( 4 ), a water pump ( 5 ), a heating means ( 7 ), and a beverage producing module ( 9 ), which are fluidically connected for circulating water from the reservoir to the beverage producing module. An in-line descaling system ( 3 ) is provided in the fluid circuit ( 2 ) comprising a dedicated compartment ( 15 ) intended for receiving a predetermined dose of a water soluble/dispersible descaling agent ( 19 ). The invention also relates to a method for automatically descaling and rinsing the fluid circuit ( 2 ).

1. A beverage preparation device comprising:
 a fluid circuit comprising a water reservoir, a water pump, an in-line heating means designed for heating circulating water, and a beverage producing module, which are fluidically connected for circulating water from the reservoir to the beverage producing module; 
 an in-line descaling system located in the fluid circuit downstream of the water reservoir, the in-line descaling system comprising a dedicated compartment that receives a predetermined dose of a water soluble/dispersible descaling agent and a water inlet and a water outlet allowing water to circulate through the compartment; and 
 a control unit and a control command for controlling the circulation of a predetermined quantity of water from the reservoir, wherein the control unit comprises a descaling program that controls the activation of the pump based on the activation control command, and wherein the predetermined quantity water to be circulated is controlled by the control unit using a control scheme selected from the group consisting of: 
 timing of the pump electrical supply; 
 filling level sensing in the water reservoir; 
 water volume sensing by a flow meter; and 
 sensing the acidity level in the fluid circuit.